By J.D. Wollf
Going to
New York for the first time? Get your cameras out and fasten your fanny packs, for some of the most deservedly popular tourist spots in New York City. Return home with photos and souvenirs of these three favorite Big Apple sites.
Times Square
Times Square is New York's tourist haven. Located where 42nd Street crosses Broadway, it's home to several TV studios and contains plenty of souvenir shops and theme restaurants. Some visitors may find that many of the eating options are bigger versions of chain restaurants back home. You may want to skip the restaurants and just take a look at the amazing amount of advertising that covers every inch of surrounding skyscrapers. Broadway's theaters are close by, so Times Square is a great place to hit before or after a show.
Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is now fully open to tourists. You can climb the stairs all the way to the top of Lady Liberty's crown and enjoy a panoramic view of New York. If you don't want to go up all the stairs, you can tour the base of the statue, which also offers a great view. See the original torch, and learn about the statue's history. Strapped-for-time tourists can get a good view of the Statue of Liberty on the free Staten Island ferry, which passes by Liberty Island.
Empire State Building
The Empire State Building consists of 103 floors and is New York icon. Visitors can take an elevator to the 86th floor to look out over the New York skyline from an indoor/outdoor observatory. Height buffs can go up to the 102th floor observatory for an extra fee. Since the Empire State Building is so popular, lines for the elevator can be long, and it's a good idea to purchase a ticket ahead of time to skip having to also stand in line for tickets.
About the Author:
J.D. Wollf has been a writer since 1999 and has been published in a variety of newspapers and newsletters. She has covered everything from local sports to computer accessory reviews and specializes in articles about health issues, particularly in the elderly.
