NYC’s tourist attractions are not to be missed!
Visitor or life-long city slicker, the Empire State Building is an iconic member of New York City’s skyline and an endless source of awe.
For now the tallest building in New York City (it is slated to be overtaken by the Freedom Tower in 2013), the 102-storyskyscraper was the product of a fierce competition of the major construction companies of the day (the Chrysler building was the runner-up).
Beloved for its architecture, legendary observation decks, and themed colored floodlights, the city’s most famous resident attracts hoards eager to experience the 1,250-foot view. Buy tickets in advance.
350 5th Ave, (212) 736-3100, www.esbnyc.com
When The Chrysler Building was first constructed in 1931, it held the record for tallest building in the world – only to be overpowered by the Empire State Building.
Standing at an impressive 1,046 feet, the Chrysler Building continues to draw accolades for its unique architectural style, completed in Art Deco, that is particularly notable for its iconic “terraced crowns” topping the upper edge of the structure.
Most upper floors are closed out to the businesses that rent the building, but the public has free access to the lobby.
405 Lexington Ave, (212) 682-3070
After the destruction of the Twin Towers in 2001, the renovations in the World Trade Center Site have crept towards their conclusion.
In addition to seven “World Trade Center” that will be devoted to primarily commercial purposes, tourists can visit the National September 11 Memorial, which opened in 2011. Although admission is free, you must obtain passes online through the website listed below. The memorial will be accompanied by the 9/11 museum.
20 Vesey Street New York, www.wtc.com; www.911memorial.org (212) 266-5211
The historic Brooklyn Bridge, stretches nearly 6,000 feet was constructed in 1883, connecting lower Manhattan to the borough of Brooklyn.
The length of the structure allows for easy access for a variety of transportation medium; many people choose to bike, walk, run, or drive through the bridge. Entering from the lower tip of Manhattan, you will be dropped off near downtown Brooklyn, Dumbo.
The New York Water Taxi www.nywatertaxi.com) offers an easy and scenic method to get back to Manhattan (and see the bridge from a different view) for a relatively affordable price – for only $26, you can get unlimited rides to trips throughout the Hudson River.
www.brooklynbridgepark.org, (718) 222-9939