The Statue of Liberty is the crowned lady with a torch as a universal symbol of freedom and democracy. The Statue was given as a gift from France to the United States in 1886. It has 354 steps to reach the crown, but is not currently accessible to the public. Student groups will find a museum located on the second floor of the pedestal that explains the Statue's history with photographs, videos and oral histories. The exhibit includes the original 1886 torch and much altered flame.

Another do not miss is Ellis Island where you will find the Museum of Immigration. The Museum tells the story of immigrants with a collection of over 1300 taped interviews as well as photographic archives. Student and adult groups can walk through the same rooms as the immigrants did. Many like to view the museum on their own, so there are Self Guided Tours, Ranger Guided Tours, and Audio Tours accessible.

Other than the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building is probably the other site most well known. It was built in just 30 months during the economic depression in the 1930s. It rises more than a quarter of a mile. Your group will definitely want to experience the Observatory on the 86th and the 102nd floor to see the panoramic view of the city. The New York Sky-ride, a simulated helicopter ride in a virtual-reality movie theater, is a must see too!

Whether you are an individual, a student group or an adult group, Central Park is the place to go. Since the 1860s, the park offers something for everyone. Tennis courts, a small zoo, baseball diamonds, horse drawn buggies, playgrounds, an ice skating rink, statues, boating and walkways. Park rangers offer nature tours for adults and students. You can also go on a Central Park Movie Walking Tour!

Want to see an aircraft carrier? Well you will find one in Manhattan at the Intrepid Sea-Air-Space Museum! The 37,000-ton Intrepid, which sailed in World War II is anchored at West 46th Street and welcomes visitors of all ages onto its flight deck to view fighter jets, helicopters and all sorts of war machinery. Experience the life of the members on the ship during that time!!!

South Street Seaport and Museum is another do not miss for its souvenir shops, fashion boutiques, eateries, and musical entertainment. The port is in a restored neighborhood with many pre-19th Century buildings. You will have a great view of the Brooklyn Bridge from the pier and access to riverboat cruises. Easy bus parking is very convenient for a group stop.

As you can see there are so many sites to see including the World Financial Center, United Nations, the New York Stock Exchange, etc? Some would love to see NBC Studios or Rockefeller Center too. NY is also known for the famous Times Square, where so much happens. Please make your next trip to New York worth while, and view all of the great sites it has to offer!

Lindsey Lindquist