The Best Things to See New in York City

The Statue of Liberty

• The Statue of Liberty has welcomed millions of people, and she serves as a symbol of democracy and peace for the entire country. Visitors to the Statue of Liberty arrive by ferry, and tickets are $12 for adults and $5 for children ages 4 to 12 as of 2009. In 2009, the crown was once again opened to visitors, for an additional charge of $3. Tickets are available up to one year in advance, restricted to four per purchaser and are extremely limited.
  
  When you visit Ellis Island, you can search the database for your family name to see if and when your ancestors were welcomed to the country. This is included on your basic ticket.
  
  

Ground Zero

• Most Americans remember the horror of September 11, 2001, when an unprecedented act of terrorism felled the Twin Towers in the middle of lower Manhattan. Those interested in seeing Ground Zero can see a Viewing Wall on Church Street, which displays the names of the thousands who died there. The spectacle of an empty sky in the middle of a concrete jungle is unsettling, but this is nonetheless a must see in New York. Visitors should remember that this is a site of anguish for many and respectful behavior is a must.
  
  

Empire State Building

• For those wondering what it would like to have a bird's eye view of the city, this is your chance. Open every day from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m., the 86th floor observation level of the Empire State Building is not for the faint of heart. Visitors can actually feel the building sway beneath them when the breeze is strong. As of 2009, tickets are $12.92 for kids ages 6 to 12 and $18.45 for adults. Visitors can also buy a separate ticket to go up to the less-popular 102nd floor Observation Deck.
  
  

Times Square

• Millions of lights grace this crazy square, and everywhere you turn, your senses are assaulted by something new. Shops, restaurants, theaters and billboards compete for your attention, while the giant screens on either end of the square display news and commercials. You are likely to see everything from a bended knee proposal to a giant costumed ape handing out flyers. Nearly anything goes in Times Square, and it is overwhelming, tacky and wonderful all at once.
  
  Berret's Restaurant-Raw Bar is a little known find in Times Square for great food and incredible cheesecake. It is not on the popular travel lists, but that means there is rarely a wait.
  
  

Wall Street

• Affecting markets and economies around the the world, Wall Street is located at the in the Financial District at Broadway and Wall Street. Home to the New York Stock Exchange, a visit to Wall Street brings a heady feeling of importance and the magnitude of the fortunes that are earned and lost here every day.