Come To New York City
What can be said about New York City? It is one of the most famous cities in the world, home to some of the most famous places and attractions in the world. There is nothing that can be said about New York that is bad enough to still keep people from visiting. It is a place full of people and excitement. There is something new to discover everyday. This is just a peek into the wonderful world of New York City, five boroughs and all, to create an understanding of how so much diversity is in one city. Come see for yourself if this sounds unbelievable.
Let’s begin the journey at the beginning, Ellis Island. After the United States as it is known today was established, immigrants had to go through Ellis Island to enter the country. What significance does this have to a tourist? Between 1892 and 1954, more that 12 million immigrants passed through this immigration center, all of the people in search of freedom of speech and religion as well as economic opportunity. The point is almost everyone in this country has a relative or an ancestor that passed through to get to America. Imagine finding a great-uncle who came here over 100 years ago. It is now part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument meaning it is once again open to the public. Considered a museum, a person could spend hours upon hours just exploring all of the people who have come to America.
To continue, it was just mentioned that Ellis Island is part of another internationally famous monument, the Statue of Liberty. Be before discussion begins on the wonders of the statue, something else must be understood. A person can neither drive to any of these locations, nor take a subway to them. So how are they to be visited? This is just another reason to visit New York. A simple ferry ride can bring tourists to both locations. The ferry is one the most popular modes of transportation in New York City. Besides going around the beautiful New York Harbor, a ferry can help you visit other cities such as Jersey City and Long Island. They are cozy, inexpensive, and very convenient. Not to toot the Big Apple’s horn once again, but this is just one other reason to visit New York City.
To broaden the understanding on a topic that was merely touched upon, let’s get back to the Statue of Liberty. It is located on the 12 beautiful acres of Liberty Island in New York Harbor. It was a gift of friendship from the people of France and is one of the most universal symbols of freedom and democracy. It was dedicated on October 28, 1886 and was designated a national monument on October 15, 1924. Visitors can view inside the statue through a glass ceiling with not a regular tour guide, but a park ranger as a guide. A visitor can also walk onto the statue’s observation deck and promenade for unbelievable views of New York City and the harbor.
In transition to these grand historical places, New York is full of fun. Known as “the city that never sleeps,” why would one spend all the time at museums? My point exactly, so take a detour from the statue, take the ferry back to the city, and hop on a bus to the world famous Times Square. Times Square has got it all. I mean shopping, hotels, restaurants, movie theaters, the nightlife, and of course, Broadway. Times Square was not always the spectacle we see today. It once was full of sex shops and had the highest crime rate in the country. But NYC, refusing to be held back, made a drastic change for the better. It was formerly Longacre Square until the erection of the New York Times building. Now it is the booming area we see today full of spectacular billboards and surprising sites, such as the Naked Cowboy. The Naked Cowboy is a Cincinnati native who stands on the streets of Manhattan in Times Square posing for pictures and playing guitar in nothing but cowboy boots and underwear. Yes, it can become quite a spectacle, constantly turning heads.
But people come to NYC to see real shows, performances. That is why there is Broadway. Broadway has been home to some of the most famous and memorable plays. These include Aida, the Lion King, Rent, and the Producers just to name a few. Now Broadway is not just one little building. No Broadway is an entire avenue that spans the entire Manhattan through Times Square, the heart of the theater district. The so-called theater district is from 42nd Street to 53rd Street between 6th Avenue and 8th Avenue. This small strip of land contains about 38 theaters. I think with 38 theaters, there is something for just about everyone.
But for those visitors who aren’t into the theater seen, don’t fret, in New York City, everyone is taken care of. I am talking about Madison Square Garden or just MSG to New Yorkers. This one place consists of so much. From music to sports, it’s got everything. MSG is home to basketball games, music award shows, concerts, and sometimes, yes even here, plays. But these are places like Sesame Street Live! Madison Square Garden always has something going on and something playing. Just take a look.
On another chance of pace, let’s venture into one of NYC’s most surprisingly famous areas: Chinatown. New York’s Chinatown is the largest in the United States. It is located in one of the oldest neighborhoods in Manhattan, and was founded in the late 1870’s by Chinese immigrants. The most prominent part of Chinatown is Canal Street. This may be an exaggeration, but almost anything can be bought on Canal Street. Yes Chinatown has real stores, which include an excessive amount of Chinese restaurants, but it is famous for its little stands and boutiques. Guest, visitors, and tourists spend time bargaining with the owners trying to reduce prices and make deals. From jewelry to money to even furniture, anything can be bought. In Chinatown, there is no need for a real gift shop because they litter the streets.
Chinatown is of course full of Chinese culture like on Mott Street where there is Buddhist Temple, a Chinese Community Center, and the Church of the Transfiguration, one of the oldest churches in Manhattan. Off Mott Street, running between Pell Street and Chatham Square, this street features an unusual 90-degree turn. The merchants built it crooked, according to legend, so that the straight-flying ghosts couldn't move through it.
Continuing on the wonderful entertainment to be seen by visiting New York, take a stroll down to Madam Tussaud’s Wax Museum, another great addition to Times Square. This place is in a league of its own, featuring the most realistic looking wax figures you will ever see. From Neil Armstrong to Michael Jordan to Princess Diana, this museum features some of the most recognizable faces in the world. Any visitor will be astounded, thinking at times that what stand before his eyes is the real deal and not just a replica. One word of advice if this shall be a stop on a tour: bring a camera. Nobody would believe these figures without photographic proof. Madame Tussaud’s is a must see.
In another shift of direction, New York City is full of parks. But the most popular and famous has to be to Central Park. People try to down talk Central Park, but it really is a beautiful place. Central Park used to be 843 acres of swampy, muddy terrain. But now the park is referred to as “a green oasis in the great concrete, high-rise landscape of New York City.” What people don’t know is that the entire park is man-made. But after one visit, all thoughts of the fact that the park was constructed are forgotten after becoming lost in its splendor. After a long day of exploring the city, this is a place just to sit on a bench and kick back, watch kids play, watch birds and ducks, or just take a nap. What a park!
Into business, stocks, or commerce? Well then once again, New York does it all. Visit Wall Street to see the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). Just don’t try to talk to anyone because the people in this building are always hustling and bustling. Some scream with excitement over gaining riches, while others cry over their losses. It’s really an amazing sight. Plus there are plenty of records to explore; the building is over 200 years old.
For those future scientist out there, come visit the American Museum of Natural History. It has anthropology, zoology, paleontology, and physical science. The exhibits look like masterpieces. But it’s the diversity that makes the place wonderful. How many museums are there that have culture and dinosaur fossils? And since the museum has been in the city since 1869, there is more than enough history to occupy any visitor for days.
Now during Christmas season, there are two places that the whole world wants to visit. First would be Rockefeller Center to see the lighting of the Rockefeller tree. Now of course there is much more to see there, but the tree is phenomenal. Standing almost 100 feet tall and almost 40 feet wide, it is truly a grandiose sight. Also, bring ice skates because Rockefeller Center has one of the best rinks in the world. I guarantee it.
The second place to visit is Radio City Music Hall. The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is just what is says, spectacular. The Rockettes and Santa help put on a stupendous show. There are people who come to see the show every year. It’s just that good. Many other events go on at Radio City throughout the year of course such as music award shows, but Christmas is when the real party begins.
Now everyone knows that New York City is full of huge buildings we call skyscrapers. They are absolutely everywhere. But besides the precious twin towers that NYC lost, there is also the Empire State Building. Now a name like that cannot be forgotten because it shares the name of the nickname of the State. The building shall always remain a part of history because it was built during the Great Depression. The building stands 102 stories high, which in my opinion, is pretty big.
Now, the topic of utmost importance: the nightlife. How can someone visit New York and not go out and night? It is called the city that never sleeps for a reason. There are plenty of clubs to visit. I am not just talking about dance clubs either. There are comedy clubs, poetry clubs, jazz clubs, lounges, pool halls, and much more. But the best clubs without a doubt are the dance clubs. The people in these clubs could be visiting from anywhere possible. New York has the best night life in the world.
But if going to a club is not on the roster, then just walk through the boroughs at night. Contrary to popular belief, it is really quite pleasant. Plus, people are always performing on the street. There might be break dancers, or singers. There could be a random guitarist or someone doing freestyle. The artists are fantastic. The caricatures that they can create leave people breathless. Now besides going to specific places, there are plenty of communities to just explore. Chinatown is not the only one of its kind. There is also Little Italy. For everything Italian, it’s a must see. Following suit there is also Harlem, Spanish Harlem, and other little communities as such. Take a trip down to SoHo, the Village, or Hell’s Kitchen. Words cannot describe what can be seen. People are not afraid to be themselves, whatever that may be.
I’m sorry I can’t explain all New York City has to offer. If I did, this would become a non-fiction novel. But I hope I have convinced whoever is concerned to come visit NYC if for nothing else, at least curiosity. It really is a beautiful, wonderful place that is on its own plateau.
But the last thing that needs to be known is to take a bus into the city. This may seem random but it is actually very important. Taking a bus is probably the cheapest way to get to New York. It is also a way to see various things to build up the anticipation of seeing the city. But the best part is all of the different kinds of people that will be encountered during the bus rides. So many languages will be spoken all at once. It’s amazing. Driving is just a horrible idea because of tolls, gas, and all kinds of other issues. PATH trains may be fast, but they are dull and dirty. Buses are just so much cozier for the money. After relaxing on the best ride, all of one’s energy can be used on exploring the previously mentioned places as well as many more. So I don’t know how loud I have be scream it, but the point is…COME TO NEW YORK CITY!
Let’s begin the journey at the beginning, Ellis Island. After the United States as it is known today was established, immigrants had to go through Ellis Island to enter the country. What significance does this have to a tourist? Between 1892 and 1954, more that 12 million immigrants passed through this immigration center, all of the people in search of freedom of speech and religion as well as economic opportunity. The point is almost everyone in this country has a relative or an ancestor that passed through to get to America. Imagine finding a great-uncle who came here over 100 years ago. It is now part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument meaning it is once again open to the public. Considered a museum, a person could spend hours upon hours just exploring all of the people who have come to America.
To continue, it was just mentioned that Ellis Island is part of another internationally famous monument, the Statue of Liberty. Be before discussion begins on the wonders of the statue, something else must be understood. A person can neither drive to any of these locations, nor take a subway to them. So how are they to be visited? This is just another reason to visit New York. A simple ferry ride can bring tourists to both locations. The ferry is one the most popular modes of transportation in New York City. Besides going around the beautiful New York Harbor, a ferry can help you visit other cities such as Jersey City and Long Island. They are cozy, inexpensive, and very convenient. Not to toot the Big Apple’s horn once again, but this is just one other reason to visit New York City.
To broaden the understanding on a topic that was merely touched upon, let’s get back to the Statue of Liberty. It is located on the 12 beautiful acres of Liberty Island in New York Harbor. It was a gift of friendship from the people of France and is one of the most universal symbols of freedom and democracy. It was dedicated on October 28, 1886 and was designated a national monument on October 15, 1924. Visitors can view inside the statue through a glass ceiling with not a regular tour guide, but a park ranger as a guide. A visitor can also walk onto the statue’s observation deck and promenade for unbelievable views of New York City and the harbor.
In transition to these grand historical places, New York is full of fun. Known as “the city that never sleeps,” why would one spend all the time at museums? My point exactly, so take a detour from the statue, take the ferry back to the city, and hop on a bus to the world famous Times Square. Times Square has got it all. I mean shopping, hotels, restaurants, movie theaters, the nightlife, and of course, Broadway. Times Square was not always the spectacle we see today. It once was full of sex shops and had the highest crime rate in the country. But NYC, refusing to be held back, made a drastic change for the better. It was formerly Longacre Square until the erection of the New York Times building. Now it is the booming area we see today full of spectacular billboards and surprising sites, such as the Naked Cowboy. The Naked Cowboy is a Cincinnati native who stands on the streets of Manhattan in Times Square posing for pictures and playing guitar in nothing but cowboy boots and underwear. Yes, it can become quite a spectacle, constantly turning heads.
But people come to NYC to see real shows, performances. That is why there is Broadway. Broadway has been home to some of the most famous and memorable plays. These include Aida, the Lion King, Rent, and the Producers just to name a few. Now Broadway is not just one little building. No Broadway is an entire avenue that spans the entire Manhattan through Times Square, the heart of the theater district. The so-called theater district is from 42nd Street to 53rd Street between 6th Avenue and 8th Avenue. This small strip of land contains about 38 theaters. I think with 38 theaters, there is something for just about everyone.
But for those visitors who aren’t into the theater seen, don’t fret, in New York City, everyone is taken care of. I am talking about Madison Square Garden or just MSG to New Yorkers. This one place consists of so much. From music to sports, it’s got everything. MSG is home to basketball games, music award shows, concerts, and sometimes, yes even here, plays. But these are places like Sesame Street Live! Madison Square Garden always has something going on and something playing. Just take a look.
On another chance of pace, let’s venture into one of NYC’s most surprisingly famous areas: Chinatown. New York’s Chinatown is the largest in the United States. It is located in one of the oldest neighborhoods in Manhattan, and was founded in the late 1870’s by Chinese immigrants. The most prominent part of Chinatown is Canal Street. This may be an exaggeration, but almost anything can be bought on Canal Street. Yes Chinatown has real stores, which include an excessive amount of Chinese restaurants, but it is famous for its little stands and boutiques. Guest, visitors, and tourists spend time bargaining with the owners trying to reduce prices and make deals. From jewelry to money to even furniture, anything can be bought. In Chinatown, there is no need for a real gift shop because they litter the streets.
Chinatown is of course full of Chinese culture like on Mott Street where there is Buddhist Temple, a Chinese Community Center, and the Church of the Transfiguration, one of the oldest churches in Manhattan. Off Mott Street, running between Pell Street and Chatham Square, this street features an unusual 90-degree turn. The merchants built it crooked, according to legend, so that the straight-flying ghosts couldn't move through it.
Continuing on the wonderful entertainment to be seen by visiting New York, take a stroll down to Madam Tussaud’s Wax Museum, another great addition to Times Square. This place is in a league of its own, featuring the most realistic looking wax figures you will ever see. From Neil Armstrong to Michael Jordan to Princess Diana, this museum features some of the most recognizable faces in the world. Any visitor will be astounded, thinking at times that what stand before his eyes is the real deal and not just a replica. One word of advice if this shall be a stop on a tour: bring a camera. Nobody would believe these figures without photographic proof. Madame Tussaud’s is a must see.
In another shift of direction, New York City is full of parks. But the most popular and famous has to be to Central Park. People try to down talk Central Park, but it really is a beautiful place. Central Park used to be 843 acres of swampy, muddy terrain. But now the park is referred to as “a green oasis in the great concrete, high-rise landscape of New York City.” What people don’t know is that the entire park is man-made. But after one visit, all thoughts of the fact that the park was constructed are forgotten after becoming lost in its splendor. After a long day of exploring the city, this is a place just to sit on a bench and kick back, watch kids play, watch birds and ducks, or just take a nap. What a park!
Into business, stocks, or commerce? Well then once again, New York does it all. Visit Wall Street to see the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). Just don’t try to talk to anyone because the people in this building are always hustling and bustling. Some scream with excitement over gaining riches, while others cry over their losses. It’s really an amazing sight. Plus there are plenty of records to explore; the building is over 200 years old.
For those future scientist out there, come visit the American Museum of Natural History. It has anthropology, zoology, paleontology, and physical science. The exhibits look like masterpieces. But it’s the diversity that makes the place wonderful. How many museums are there that have culture and dinosaur fossils? And since the museum has been in the city since 1869, there is more than enough history to occupy any visitor for days.
Now during Christmas season, there are two places that the whole world wants to visit. First would be Rockefeller Center to see the lighting of the Rockefeller tree. Now of course there is much more to see there, but the tree is phenomenal. Standing almost 100 feet tall and almost 40 feet wide, it is truly a grandiose sight. Also, bring ice skates because Rockefeller Center has one of the best rinks in the world. I guarantee it.
The second place to visit is Radio City Music Hall. The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is just what is says, spectacular. The Rockettes and Santa help put on a stupendous show. There are people who come to see the show every year. It’s just that good. Many other events go on at Radio City throughout the year of course such as music award shows, but Christmas is when the real party begins.
Now everyone knows that New York City is full of huge buildings we call skyscrapers. They are absolutely everywhere. But besides the precious twin towers that NYC lost, there is also the Empire State Building. Now a name like that cannot be forgotten because it shares the name of the nickname of the State. The building shall always remain a part of history because it was built during the Great Depression. The building stands 102 stories high, which in my opinion, is pretty big.
Now, the topic of utmost importance: the nightlife. How can someone visit New York and not go out and night? It is called the city that never sleeps for a reason. There are plenty of clubs to visit. I am not just talking about dance clubs either. There are comedy clubs, poetry clubs, jazz clubs, lounges, pool halls, and much more. But the best clubs without a doubt are the dance clubs. The people in these clubs could be visiting from anywhere possible. New York has the best night life in the world.
But if going to a club is not on the roster, then just walk through the boroughs at night. Contrary to popular belief, it is really quite pleasant. Plus, people are always performing on the street. There might be break dancers, or singers. There could be a random guitarist or someone doing freestyle. The artists are fantastic. The caricatures that they can create leave people breathless. Now besides going to specific places, there are plenty of communities to just explore. Chinatown is not the only one of its kind. There is also Little Italy. For everything Italian, it’s a must see. Following suit there is also Harlem, Spanish Harlem, and other little communities as such. Take a trip down to SoHo, the Village, or Hell’s Kitchen. Words cannot describe what can be seen. People are not afraid to be themselves, whatever that may be.
I’m sorry I can’t explain all New York City has to offer. If I did, this would become a non-fiction novel. But I hope I have convinced whoever is concerned to come visit NYC if for nothing else, at least curiosity. It really is a beautiful, wonderful place that is on its own plateau.
But the last thing that needs to be known is to take a bus into the city. This may seem random but it is actually very important. Taking a bus is probably the cheapest way to get to New York. It is also a way to see various things to build up the anticipation of seeing the city. But the best part is all of the different kinds of people that will be encountered during the bus rides. So many languages will be spoken all at once. It’s amazing. Driving is just a horrible idea because of tolls, gas, and all kinds of other issues. PATH trains may be fast, but they are dull and dirty. Buses are just so much cozier for the money. After relaxing on the best ride, all of one’s energy can be used on exploring the previously mentioned places as well as many more. So I don’t know how loud I have be scream it, but the point is…COME TO NEW YORK CITY!
