Boasting the largest population in the country, New York City is considered the heartbeat of this nation and a major influence and contributor towards global economic affairs. A post-911 era transformed this grand city into a patriotic mecca, bringing tourists eager to see its shining landmarks. Sightseeing in New York City is as diverse as its rich ethnic and cultural heritage, making this a top travel destination worldwide. New York offers not just a vacation, but a celebration of the tenacity of the human spirit and an opportunity to pay homage to heroes forged out of great adversity. Whether the focus is recreational, educational, or cultural, New York City hosts unlimited supplies of pleasing and memorable venues and attractions.
Sightseeing Tours
Sightseeing tours in New York City come in a wide range of options and costs. A New York Pass, offers discounts on self-guided tours accessing 55 of New York's main attractions in economical 1 to 7 day packages. Gray Line Tours, in operation since 1926, features London-style double decker tour buses, luxury motorcoach, ferry cruises or even adventurous helicopter tours over the Statue of Liberty and The Ellis Island Museum and Liberty Island. In the city that never sleeps, you may opt for a glamorous bus tour through the abundant night attractions of Midtown New York and Times Square.
Things to Do
Many have seen the outside of the Statue of Liberty, but imagine climbing through the inner staircase and looking out into the harbor through the Crown! Take a free ride on the Staten Ferry as you observe the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island, open to the public. For a small fee you also gain access to the Crown and/or select the audio tour. Get a breathtaking view from the observation deck of the Empire State Building or be captivated by the New York Sky Ride, a virtual city tour simulator. Rockefeller Center offers a host of inner and outer attractions, including the world-famous skating rink and the Top of the Rock Observation Deck, even the opportunity to become an audience member in your favorite taped productions of NBC Studios. Enjoy a meal in Grand Central Station. Experience Broadway productions or shopping like you've never seen before.
Patriotic Tribute
However you chart your journey, sightseeing of New York City would not be complete without a visit to the Ground Zero Museum and future site of the 9/11 Memorial, aka World Trade Center Memorial, with plans for its dedication on September 11, 2011 and the museum opening in 2012. Acquire a free visitors pass through the organization's website, www.national911memorial.org beginning this summer.
No matter your interest, Sightseeing in New York City offers it all, and many at a reasonable cost. Be sure to check out the best places to stay in New York City and other things to do in New York.
