New York City, the largest and most populous city in the United States, is a global cultural hub with a rich history. Founded in 1624 as a Dutch trading colony, it has grown into one of the most significant urban centers in history. Renowned for its iconic landmarks and artistic grandeur, NYC is a top destination for tourists from around the world. While the city offers countless attractions, there are three that no visitor should miss: the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and Central Park. These landmarks represent the essence of New York’s cultural and historical heritage.
The Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty, officially known as Liberty Enlightening the World, is a massive sculpture that symbolizes freedom and the friendship between the United States and France. Designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, it depicts the Roman goddess of freedom, Libertas. She holds a torch in her right hand and a tablet with the date of the Declaration of Independence, July 4, 1776, in Roman numerals, in her left hand.
This famous statue, a landmark in New York Harbor, was closed to the public after Hurricane Sandy caused damage. It reopened on October 28, 2013. Visiting the statue is free, but you will need to pay for the ferry ride to Liberty Island and to climb the inner staircase.
The Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is a 102-story skyscraper in Manhattan, named after New York’s nickname, “The Empire State.” Situated at the corner of West 34th Street and Fifth Avenue, it stands out in a city full of iconic buildings. Designed by William F. Lamb, the building opened to the public on May 1, 1931. Its Art Deco style is a hallmark of early 20th-century architecture.
Once the tallest building in the world until the World Trade Center was completed in 1972, the Empire State Building is now a major tourist attraction. It generates more revenue from ticket sales to its observatory than from renting office space. Visitors often face long lines for the observatory, but they can avoid the wait by paying an additional $20 fee.
Central Park
Central Park, the largest urban park in the United States, attracts over 37 million visitors annually. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, it was completed in 1873. The park features more than four million trees and around 1,500 plant species, making it a lush and vibrant green space in the heart of New York City.
Over the years, private organizations have donated 29 sculptures to Central Park, each with its own unique significance. Located in the heart of Manhattan, the park offers stunning views of the surrounding skyscrapers, adding to its visual appeal. Managed by the nonprofit Central Park Conservancy, the park is free to visit, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
