The iconic Statue of Liberty is one of the most famous structures in the world and she lives on Liberty Island in New York harbor overlooking the ‘city that never sleeps’.

Given as a gift to to the United States by France on the 100th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence, she is a symbol not only of freedom and liberty but was also one of the first glimpses of the US seen by over 12 million european migrants who moved to the United States during the 1800’s. Since then the statue has gone on to play parts in countless movies and is easily one of the must see sights for anyone who travels to the USA and it’s ‘Big Apple’.

The interior of the statue was designed by Gustaf Eiffel, the same man who designed the Eiffel Tower, and there is also a replica of the statue near the Tower in Paris. In another French-US liberty link there is also a gold replica of the statues flame above the Pont de l’Alma tunnel in Paris, the same tunnel where the ‘accident’ that killed Princes Dianna occurred. This replica flame was a gift from the US to France but it has now become known as the Diana Memorial.

Ferries to Liberty Island travel from the southern tip of Manhattan at Battery Park (the also leave from New Jersey) and it’s worth the ferry ride over the to island to get up close and personal with this very famous lady. You may also want to book your ticket in advance during summer as visiting the statue is very popular while if you have the time you can visit Ellis Island on the return journey. See Statue Cruises for more information or to book.

Other New York highlights in the area of Southern Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty include Wall Street, the New York Stock Exchange and the World Trade Center site as well as Century 21 discount department store.