It is difficult even to think that New York’s landmarks could be named. Everyone will find something to their liking in this city, as it is fitted for all tastes and likings. We picked out some of its attractions that we consider should be on everyone’s list in order to make your stay in New York truly unforgettable.
Manhattan was first visited by Giovanni da Verrazzano; at the time it was inhabited by the Lenape tribe. European settled in Manhattan by the beginning of the 17th century, when Dutch fur commerce was established. Manhattan was named New Amsterdam in 1613 for the reason that the Dutch expanded their trade and that Europeans kept settling down. As early as 1626, Peter Minuit bought Staten Island from Indians for only 24$ at the time. The purchase of Manhattan is proclaimed the most successful real estate transaction in the world.
Statue of Liberty is one of New York’s landmarks, internationally recognized statue located on Ellis island, one kilometer away from Manhattan. It is 46.5 meters high and it represents the symbol of friendship between France and the USA that was gifted to the US in 1886. It was designed by Frederic Bartholdi and its interior metal framework was built by Gustave Eiffel, the architect of the Eiffel Tower. France gifted the statue to American settlers who fought for independence from the Great Britain, and it was seen as a symbol of support.
Empire State Building is a famous New York skyscraper 443 meters high with 102 floors. It was designed by Shreve, Lamb & Harmon, and it was finished in 1931. New York City’s nickname is Empire State, and the building was named after it. In the period between 1931 and 1972, the Empire State Building was the world’s highest building. Currently it’s at 28th place. This skyscraper can be seen from any part of New York, and it is the most famous landmark in the city.
Times Square is an important intersection formed by the junction of Broadway, Seventh Avenue, and it stretches from 42nd and 47th Streets. Times Square is a must when visiting New York, and it is famous for bright and shiny advertisements. The world famous Broadway Theatre is located nearby. Times Square is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world, with 39 million tourists annually. It was named in the beginning of the 20th century when “The New York Times” daily moved to the “One Times Square” building that was located there. It used to be called Longacre Square. In the 70s, Times Square was a place where mostly the homeless gathered. However, after mayor Giuliani’s arrival, New York became a city with significantly lower crime percentages where people could feel safe and secure.
Central Park is a modern urban park in the heart of Manhattan, the best known New York park – about 25 million tourist visit the park annually. The construction began in 1859 and it was finished in 1873. The park is completely arranged, with natural lakes, fishponds, pedestrian and running lanes, with picnic areas, riding tracks, ice rinks, a zoo and a greenhouse. Besides natural attractions, there are also sights to see in Central Park, such as the famous bridges that adorn the park, one of them being the Proposal Bridge which you must have seen in some Hollywood movies.
