Explore the rich history and dynamic energy of one of the most exciting cities in the world. Whether you’re a history buff, fashion lover or Broadway bonanza, New York City has something for everyone.
Explore the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, where millions of immigrants came to America during the late 1800s and early 1900s. Then journey to Greenwich Village and the High Line.
Grand Central Station
Grand Central Terminal is the world’s largest train station and one of New York City’s most famous landmarks. It is often referred to as “GCT” and it’s located on 42nd Street at Park Avenue in Midtown Manhattan. But GCT is so much more than just a train station, it’s a cavernous space that pulses with life during the day as commuters rush in and out and at night when visitors flock to re-enact their favorite movie scenes and dine in world-famous eateries.
If you’re a fan of spooky stories then head over to the Biltmore Room inside Grand Central. The room was where passengers, including celebrities and politicians reunited with friends and family after long distance train travel back in the day. Now the room is a popular restaurant but it is still full of spooky secrets such as a hidden passageway that can only be accessed by an elevator and a mysterious painting on the ceiling.
There are many ways to explore Grand Central and a great way to do this is with a free tour of the facility. These tours are offered by the MTA and run throughout the day. The best part is that you can listen to the guide on your smartphone and go at your own pace. There are also paid tours that offer more in-depth information about the history of the building and its famous occupants.
The famous GCT clock is one of the most iconic symbols of the building and a must-see for all visitors. But if you look closely at the ceiling you’ll notice that the celestial images are painted backwards, a mistake that was left intentionally by Cornelius Vanderbilt who wanted to view his masterpiece from a divine perspective.
Grand Central is a stunning historic landmark that’s packed with incredible facts and details. Whether you take a guided tour or do a self-guided tour of the facility make sure to look out for these 11 secrets. This is a must-see for all train and architecture lovers! For a super affordable option try this free Tours by Foot audio tour with GPS that you can download on your phone.
Ground Zero
The most emotional visit you can make in NYC is to Ground Zero, the memorial that pays tribute to all those who died in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. Visiting this monument and the 9/11 Museum will leave your emotions running high. Two large pools are set into the exact footprints where the Twin Towers once stood and are lined with bronze panels engraved with the names of all victims. Seeing them at twilight or at night is an even more powerful experience and it’s almost impossible to not feel the emotion that rises from within.
Another site that is a must-see is One World Trade Center, the skyscraper that stands tall at 1776 feet and has become an iconic symbol of New York City. You can take a guided tour of this building and the memorial and learn more about its tragic history. During the tour, you’ll also see the Callery pear tree that survived the attacks and is now a beautiful part of the Memorial, the FDNY Ladder 3 firetruck, the memorial wall and floor-to-ceiling photos and artifacts of all the victims.
One of the most fascinating discoveries made during the cleanup of Ground Zero was a beam in the wreckage that unmistakably resembled a Christian cross. This cross was transferred to the Museum, and you can see it in person during your tour.
You can purchase tickets to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum online or at the entrance. Tickets are “timed-entry” so be sure to reserve your visit in advance, especially during busy seasons. Several tour companies offer tours of the Memorial and 9/11 Museum. You can also buy a combined package that includes a walking tour of Ground Zero, the museum and entrance to One World Observatory for $109 per adult.
After visiting the monuments at Ground Zero, you can cross the Brooklyn Bridge to explore the borough of Brooklyn. This is a trendy area with many hipster cafes and great food. From here, you can also take a ferry ride to Liberty Island and visit the famous Statue of Liberty. It’s best to book your tickets for the ferry ahead of time as well.
Federal Hall National Monument
Located directly across from the New York Stock Exchange on Wall Street, the imposing Federal Hall National Monument is not only a reminder of our city’s past but also a symbol of our nation’s founding ideals. It was here that George Washington took the oath of office, the Bill of Rights was adopted, and the First Federal Congress met. Today, the site serves as a museum and memorial to Washington and early American government.
Although this isn’t the original Federal Hall that stood on the site in 1700, it is a worthy heir and is considered one of America’s best conserved historic sites. The present building is an excellent example of Greek Revival architecture and reflects the democratic ideals of America’s young democracy. Its exterior resembles the Parthenon in Athens, which honors Greece as the birthplace of democracy, while its domed interior evokes Roman ideas of republican governance.
The current building, constructed in 1842, was a customs house for most of its life until it became a national monument and tourist destination in 1939. It has since been restored and is open daily to the public as a museum and monument to early American government and culture. Visitors can view exhibits on George Washington’s inauguration and the first freedom of the press trial, where John Peter Zenger was acquitted of seditious libel in 1735. They can also check out the heavy vault doors that were used to secure millions of dollars in precious metals when the building was one of America’s six sub-treasury buildings.
The site is also home to an impressive statue of George Washington, which adorns the steps that lead to the entrance. For an added dose of history, climb the sweeping steps and take a photo with the Washington statue (you can’t miss it). There are also several informational signs scattered throughout the hall that explain the history of the site and the significance of the various landmarks within the structure. In addition, there is a small gift shop that offers Colonial and early American items for purchase. The National Park Service also hosts a range of educational programs and special events at the site.
One World Trade Center
Ask a New Yorker what draws them to the city, and you’re likely to get a wide variety of answers: the breathtaking views from soaring skyscrapers, captivating Broadway shows, or strolling along 5th Avenue laden with purchases. But while many visitors come to New York to experience the present, a growing number are also drawn by the opportunity to explore the city’s rich history.
One World Trade Center, also known as the Freedom Tower, opened its doors on November 3, 2014. The building replaced the Twin Towers and other buildings destroyed by terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, and stands 1,776 feet tall to honor those who lost their lives.
Designed by Daniel Libeskind, the building is a monument to the victims of 9/11 and serves as a reminder of America’s strength and resilience. It is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, and its spire is topped with a lantern symbolizing the rebirth of New York City. The 102-story building’s name is a reference to the original World Trade Center complex, and its iconic design is inspired by the Statue of Liberty.
A visit to One World Trade Center is a powerful and emotionally moving experience. The museum and memorial commemorate the lives that were lost on September 11, 2001, and offers a glimpse into the events that led up to that tragic day. Inside you’ll find a large collection of photographs and artifacts related to the event as well as two beautiful memorial pools.
You can visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum from 9AM – 8PM daily. If you’d like to see the view from One World Trade Center, you can purchase tickets for the observatory. The elevator takes 47 seconds to reach the top, and you’ll be able to enjoy floor-to-ceiling windows and stunning views of Manhattan and the surrounding areas. Guests can also dine at ONE Dine, which is open from 12PM – 9PM daily.
One World Trade Center is a unique and important addition to the city’s historical landmarks. It is a living tribute to those who were lost, and it has helped to restore the dignity of the area after the tragedy.
