David Brodosi- NYC, a city forever in flux, is impossible to “see” in one visit. We had to resign yourself to that fact, unless we move here (and maybe not even then), we would only barely scratch the surface! By the time we left, new places already cropped up. This city is home to thousands of restaurants, hundreds of museums, attractions, plays, and quirky things to do.
David Brodosi
Although the line for the ferry from Battery Park is normally long, we got there early, so we could avoid most of it. The Statue of Liberty is spectacular to see up close (she’s as big as we imagined), but the real highlight of this combo is Ellis Island, where you can learn about the immigrant experience and get a sense of the people who helped build NYC. There’s such a great sense of history there that we couldn't help but be impressed.
Named Battery Park for the old batteries (cannons) that defended the city, we stopped to listen to the music and street performers, people-watching, relaxing, and all other park-related activities. You can also explore the ruins of the old fort that kept watch over New York City. Battery Park is large and hectic, but I still love walking through here. There are tremendous views of the harbor, too.
The family and I took a long walk down Wall Street. Took a photo with the famous bull and then walk to Wall Street and see where all those bankers destroyed the economy. There’s heavy security in the area, but we did sit for a while and and watch people whiz in and out of buildings on their way.
After we finished with lower Manhattan, we walked up to this historic landmark in New York City, the Empire State Building. The 1930s art deco interior is beautiful, and the view from the top is breathtaking. You can get a real feel for how densely populated New York is as you stare out at the city. Get here early or during lunchtime to avoid the lines and tour groups.
Of course no trip would be complete without a trip to Times Square. It will be packed with people (tourists like us). There are pedestrian areas where we found a seat and hung out. It’s a fabulous place to people-watch for a few minutes from the top of the red steps of the TKTS kiosk.
The new World Trade Center and 9/11 Memorial are living tributes that honor the lives lost and celebrate New York City’s resilience. The place was amazing. What wonderful place to remember the ones we lost on that day.
David Brodosi
