New York offers many attractions sure to dazzle first-time visitors, such as the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Broadway shows and Intrepid Sea-Air-Space Museum – to name but a few!
Discover thrills on the Brooklyn Bridge or admire Madame Tussaud’s wax figures at Madame Tussauds; or take a flight tour and witness NYC landmark buildings and monuments from above! Hong Kong to New York Cathay Pacific flights are now available.
The Statue of Liberty
Frederic Auguste Bartholdi had a clear vision when creating the Statue of Liberty. Although many are misinformed about what the statue symbolizes today, its design should remind everyone that freedom and democracy form the cornerstones of America’s heritage. Her broken chains symbolize liberation from oppression while her torch symbolizes its role as an indicator for future progress.
Lady Liberty stands 305 feet, and her gilded copper skin has become covered by a natural green patina over time due to weathering. Her torch, made of one piece of copper fashioned into flame shape by artists in New York Harbor, was originally intended as a light guide; however, due to fears that encouraging violence or chaos might be encouraged by light guideships entering New York Harbor; therefore its designers decided instead to make her into an emblem for progress instead. Rays emanating from its top are intended as symbols representing wisdom or illumination emanating from within; such rays signifying that Lady Liberty represents wisdom or illumination of sorts – fittingly so for an icon as big as the Statue!
Statue City Cruises’ guided tours provide an enriching experience that makes visiting these two popular New York sites even more unforgettable, providing local insight and historical context that makes for an enjoyable visit.
But New York offers so much more. Discover Central Park on a stroll through The Ramble or go skating at Wollman Rink during winter months; or take an elevator ride up to One World Trade Center’s observation deck for breathtaking vistas that will leave you speechless!
The Empire State Building
The iconic Empire State Building stands as a beloved icon in New York. Representing both spirit and innovation of New York, its skyscraper has inspired millions of visitors over its existence.
Built in 1931, the Empire State is an iconic Art Deco building standing 102 stories (1,454 feet if including its television antenna). Considered one of the world’s most significant structures, its Art Deco style makes it one of the world’s most beloved structures.
Many are familiar with the Empire State building thanks to its frequent appearances in film and television, particularly “King Kong”, where an enormous ape climbs its heights. Yet this iconic structure has played an essential role in numerous other films and TV shows — even topping poll results when asked what their favorite building in America was!
Visit this iconic structure and take in breathtaking views of Manhattan and its surroundings from its open-air observation deck on the 86th floor – an experience not to be missed!
There are plenty of other attractions you’ll enjoy when you visit New York City. Explore its founding settlers at Liberty or Ellis Islands; or see Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum which boasts an incredible collection of technologically advanced aircraft and vessels; or experience modern art galleries and special exhibits at world-renowned Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum; learn about 9/11 at 9/11 Memorial & Museum which pays a fitting tribute to victims; there is even the 9/11 Memorial and Museum which pays a moving remembrance tribute.
The World Trade Center
New York’s World Trade Center stands as an iconic symbol of both its city and global influence, linking Tribeca with Financial District via innovative architecture, celebrated public art and vast open spaces.
Santiago Calatrava designed a complex that features an expansive central atrium and two skyscrapers resembling tweezers, while One World Observatory –formerly One World Trade Center–serves as a tribute to those lost on 9/11 while providing stunning views of NYC day or night.
At its height, the World Trade Center was an international center of culture and commerce with iconic sculpture installations and art studios that attracted artists from around the globe. When its towers were destroyed on September 11th 2001, more than one million irreplaceable historical artifacts were also lost forever; but its subsequent redevelopment has provided hope and healing for New York City by offering visitors an opportunity to walk among their footprints while paying their respects at Memorial.
The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum provides an unforgettable educational experience by letting visitors board and explore legendary aircrafts and ships such as the USS Intrepid, Enterprise space shuttle, guided missile submarines, guided missile destroyers and guided missile dreadnoughts. Additionally, American Museum of Natural History celebrates scientific achievement and innovation with its exhibits. Additionally, Broadway shows can’t be missed when visiting NYC – there are over 40 world-class theaters located within Theater District where you can catch either an up-and-coming Broadway performance that will take you out of yourself and into another dimension of time and place!
The High Line
The 1.45-mile elevated park constructed on an old industrial railroad is one of New York City’s premier attractions, serving as an inspiration to other cities looking to revitalize obsolete infrastructure into attractive public spaces. Since it opened its doors in 2009, more than 5 million visitors have enjoyed its offerings.
Designed to recall New York’s industrial past, the High Line features various plant species growing along its original tracks and offering views of bustling city streets below. Additionally, this park serves as a platform for art installations and exhibits throughout its length.
While strolling along the High Line, you’ll experience stunning panoramic views of Hudson River, Chelsea and Meatpacking District. Furthermore, its park serves as an opportunity for reflection and contemplation; art meets nature for an unparalleled immersive experience that stands apart from anything else out there.
The High Line design was inspired by Paris’ Promenade Plantee, a tree-lined walkway reminiscent of an abandoned railway. Friends of the High Line, an organization supporting this park, selected four finalist teams through an open invitation-only design competition that were chosen based on their ability to transform this park into both functional and inspiring spaces.
Be sure to leave yourself plenty of time when visiting the High Line to take in all its sights and sounds, whether on your own or through guided tours led by knowledgeable guides. Tours run throughout the year on a first-come first-serve basis; to maximize your visit make a plan before setting out – if shopping Hudson Yards or dining out in Meatpacking District begin your walk from Gansevoort Avenue heading North toward their respective endpoints.
Times Square
Time Square, perhaps the world’s most well-known intersection, serves as a major center of entertainment and commerce in New York City. This vibrant area can be seen anywhere from neon lights, massive billboards, restaurants, shops, to the New Year’s Eve ball drop taking place nightly at midnight – and best seen from One Times Square’s Observation Deck!
Times Square is also home to numerous Broadway theaters that draw in visitors from around the globe, particularly musical shows that feature lavish sets, creative costumes, and spectacular production numbers. There are over 40 Broadway theaters within close proximity of Times Square; tickets are easily available.
Times Square offers visitors from around the globe numerous hotels to stay at. Larger properties may demand higher room rates; examples include Marriott Marquis Hotel and W Times Square; however if budget travel is your goal there are smaller hotels or bed and breakfasts in the area that may offer more affordable lodging.
Radio City Music Hall in Rockefeller Center is another must-visit attraction of Times Square. This Art Deco building houses the world-famous Rockettes dance troupe; you can take a tour to learn their history. Additionally, its Great Stage hosts some of the greatest performers throughout time.