Famous Buildings and Other Attractions to Visit in New York City
World Trade Center Site
The World Trade Center Site is a memorial to the September 11th terrorist attacks that toppled The World Trade Center. If you were in New York prior to 9/11 and saw the towers, you will be astounded at the emptiness that now encompasses the area. Beautiful memorial pools and numerous plaques stand as monuments to the Twin Towers and those who lost their lives during and after 9/11.
Central Park
Central Park is the stuff of American legend one of the most famous locations in New York City. Central park is highly popular with outdoor enthusiasts and concert goers with its lovely greenery, open lawns, and small lakes. It is home to the Central Park Zoo and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. In addition, it also hosts a number of venues and events.
Times Square
As another piece of American history, Times Square is impressive, but it is also highly commercialized and caters mostly to tourists. A “new” times square has arisen several blocks from the “old” Times Square, located near the Port Authority Bus Terminal and Broadway. The “new” Times Square, located blocks away from the old Times Square, has emerged that is a family-friendly, highly commercialized area of themed restaurants, theaters and hotels. They created the “new” Times Square because the “old” Times Square got too seedy, and tourism dropped in the area.
The Statue of Liberty
Because of security issues, visitors are no longer allowed to the top of the Statue of Liberty. If you do go, expect to be thoroughly frisked by security and to reserve a visiting time in advance. You would be better off seeing the Statue of Liberty from the ferry that takes you to Ellis Island. The Statue of Liberty is another must see in New York, but don’t bother going into the museum unless you really want to. The Immigration Museum at Ellis Island is worth a visit, and it is free. A ferry that costs ten dollars leaves every 25 minutes from Battery Park and stops at Ellis Island and Liberty Island.
Chrysler Building
Personifying Art Deco culture, the Chrysler Building is one of the most stylized, beautiful buildings in the world. Now home to commercial enterprise, the Chrysler Building is a must-see if you’re visiting New York
Empire State Building
The Empire State Building sits on Fifth Avenue and was at one time the tallest building in America. Embodying the spirit of New York, this building, more than any other, personifies the sleek, urban culture of New York.
Cathedral of St. John the Divine
The Cathedral of Saint John the Divine is constructed of beautiful Gothic architecture and exquisite stained glass windows. If you’re in New York, don’t miss this cathedral. It is an incredible sight, and one that rivals the European churches it emulates. The Cathedral of St. John the Divine has been a work-in-progress for over a century, and is one of the world’s largest Gothic cathedrals.
