Statue of Liberty New York
No other symbol more immediately identifies the United States of America than the lady who has serenely gazed across New York harbor, lifting her torch of freedom to welcome newcomers for the past century. Officially named "Liberty Enlighting the World", the enormous statue was sculpted by Auguste Bartholdi, who needed 10 years to complete the task. The Statue of Liberty was given to the US as a gift of international friendship from the people of France in 1884. Two years later, she was set in place on the pedestal specifically constructed for her on the former Bedloe's Island in New York harbor.

Today "Liberty Island" receives thousands of visitors who arrive by ferry to get an "up-close" look at the famed icon. The torch is 300 feet (90 meters) above the water. Although Lady Liberty had a major facelift for the celebration of her 100th birthday, the statue itself now remains closed for security reasons. However there is a museum which displays information about the history, construction and maintenance of the landmark; and the view of the New York City skyline is worth ride into the harbor.

Ferries depart throughout the day from Battery Park, and your fare includes a visit to Ellis Island, the arrival point for hundreds of thousands of immigrants who came to America from Europe.