Discovering the True History and Beauty of the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island With Ferry Ride in New York City

New York City is a vibrant and captivating gateway to the world’s most powerful nation: the United States. From cutting-edge art galleries to breathtaking historical sights, there are so many great things to see in this cosmopolitan city. But in the harbor, a few kilometers from the city center, lie two of the most well-known symbols of America itself: the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. This iconic landmark and its accompanying immigration museum are a must-see for travelers visiting New York City, and the best way to enjoy the experience is on an exhilarating ferry ride across New York harbor.

The History Behind the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

The first thing any tourist needs to understand is the incredible history of these two iconic landmarks. The Statue of Liberty is an inspiring symbol of democracy, given as a gift to the United States in 1886 by the people of France as a token of their friendship. Its French designer, Frédéric Bartholdi, crafted a majestic figure based on anti-tyranny icons from classical antiquity. The model is of a woman carrying a torch, representing the liberation of man from oppressive governments. On the other side of New York harbor lies Ellis Island, once a hub for immigration into America. For over sixty years, scores of immigrants traveled to these shores in search of freedom and opportunity, only to be greeted by the inspiring view of the “Lady in the Harbor”.

Exploring the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island on a Ferry Ride

Nothing quite compares to seeing the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island up close. The first step for getting started is to book a ferry ticket from one of the many available providers, like GetYourGuide. This reputable travel company offers convenient and affordable tickets for ferry boats departing from Battery Park in Lower Manhattan, close to many of New York City’s main attractions. Once on board, get ready for a truly mesmerizing journey through New York’s harbor. Glide past the skyline of Financial District, spotting the Freedom Tower and other members of the city’s striking skyline. Then take in Manhattan’s greenery and waterfront beauty as you traverse towards Governor’s Island before pushing on towards historic Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. The sight of Lady Liberty is something that will truly stay with you forever. As you get closer and closer, marvel at the magnificent bronze beacon – built with copper donated by numerous countries around the world – and listen to knowledgeable guides talk about her creation. Afterward disembark onto Ellis Island before exploring this well-preserved museum dedicated to American immigration. Trace your family history or take a tour investigating some of the 12 million immigrants who once journeyed across this gateway into America’s “Promised Land”.

Discover a Unique New York City Experience With GetYourGuide

Sailing across New York Harbor on board a vessel with your family or friends is an immensely rewarding experience that it’s impossible to forget. Not only will you witness some of America’s most inspiring symbols up close but you’ll also gain an insight into the country’s vibrant history by exploring Ellis Island. Ultimately, it’s this exclusivity – coupled with GetYourGuide’s affordable ticket packages – that makes ferry rides between Battery Park and both sides of New York Harbor so special. For more information on how to explore New York City with GetYourGuide, click here to book your ferry ride today or read more about our customer experiences!

An Insider’s Guide to Discovering New York City

New York City stands out as the melting pot of the globe. From the busy streets of Broadway to the peacefulness of Central Park, there’s something for everyone. Unfortunately, with the overwhelming number of places to visit and things to do, it’s easy to get lost amidst the crowds and miss out on the hidden gems of the city. In this insider’s guide, we’ll discover some off-the-beaten-path attractions, delicious dining spots, cultural experiences, stories from the city’s past, and recommendations for unique experiences that you won’t forget.

Local Attractions

Most visitors know about Central Park and Times Square, but there are some lesser-known destinations to discover. Start by wandering through the charming cobblestone streets of the West Village, with its cafes and picture-perfect townhouses. Visit the historic Astoria neighborhood in Queens, and be sure to walk the streets between 31st and 35th streets, also known as Steinway Street, to have a taste of Greek culture and cuisine. In Brooklyn, head to the Brooklyn Heights Promenade to view Manhattan’s skyline from an exclusive perspective.

Dining Spots

New York City is well-known for its street food and famous pizzas, but those aren’t the only ones. If you’re looking to taste an authentic New York bagel, head to Ess-a-Bagel on 3rd Ave. The Chelsea Market is also an excellent spot for a variety of food options from unique ice cream flavors to Venezuelan arepas. The history behind these places is fascinating, especially the stories about them serving some of the most important government officials, and locals who have frequented them for generations.

Cultural Experiences

New York City’s cultural scene is one of the best in the world. To get the most out of it, a visit to the Brooklyn Museum and the MoMA is a must. The Apollo Theatre has been iconic throughout history as the Harlem home of African American music and performance. Music lovers won’t want to miss the chance to visit the Music Hall of Williamsburg in Brooklyn, a crucial landmark for indie rock and electronic music. Lastly, catch a show at the historic and luxurious Radio City Music Hall.

Local History

The city’s history is rich and exciting, and it’s easy to explore some of it even as a visitor. Take a walk along the High Line, an elevated park created out of an old railway line. Another option is to explore the Tenement Museum, which highlights the rich immigrant history of New York City. Visit the Hamilton Grange National Memorial to learn about the life of Alexander Hamilton, one of the founding fathers of America. To further delve into the city’s past, hop on a guided historical walking tour.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a unique activity, visit the Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn. It is home to some prominent historical figures including Jean-Michel Basquiat, Leonard Bernstein, and Louis Comfort Tiffany. Another excellent spot for a great view of New York City is in Roosevelt Island Tram. The ten-minute tramway ride offers an excellent opportunity to capture breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. Finally, cool down with a beverage at the NYC Hell’s Kitchen Flea Market, a destination with a unique mix of various vendors and bazaar styles.

In summary, these are some of the top local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, stories from the city’s past, and unique experiences to experience in New York City. As an insider, I know that New York City offers endless possibilities and experiences. Embrace the city and try something new each time you visit. Welcome to the Big Apple!