Raising the Torch: The Statue of Liberty Museum

By Suz Pathmanathan

Since she was unveiled in 1886, the Statue of Liberty has been a source of inspiration worldwide. American poets such as Henry van Dyke observed her symbolic importance to the values of the nation. And as of today, she's sure to be a muse to many more. The Statue of Liberty Museum opened its doors to the public today, allowing visitors to see and learn about this iconic attraction first-hand through an immersive, multi-sensory experience.

What is The Statue of Liberty Museum?

Five years in the making, the new museum offers sightseers the convenience of being able to bypass crowds at the pedestal. Around 4.3 million people visited the attraction in 2018 - that can equal a lot of congestion! What's more, visiting the crown requires advance planning, tickets sell fast and being 305 feet in the air doesn't appeal to every visitor.

So what's inside?

A relatively short exhibition - a length chosen due to high footfall - allows sightseers to view the Statue of Liberty in an entirely different way. Guests can stop by a model of French artist Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi's Parisian studio - the creator of the Statue. Visitors can also reach out and touch a copper replica of the Statue's face. They can even see the original torch, which has been in storage since the 1980s.

Image courtesy of Liberty Ellis Foundation

The brand-new museum allows its visitors to literally walk through the Statue's history in a three-part video. This is before emerging into the proclamation that formally ended slavery. This poignant multimedia experience depicts the events that inspired Bartholdi to create what now stands as a globally-recognised symbol of freedom in America.

Who's the museum for?

To make this museum as accessible as possible to its visitors, it features kiosks. As well as being a place where visitors can share their ideas about liberty, the kiosks have been placed at a level that makes it easier for wheelchair users. This has been combined with a wide turning radius throughout the space. Custom headsets feature videos with audio narration for blind visitors. Deaf and hard-of-hearing guests can use hand-held devices to watch an ASL tour throughout the museum.

With accessibility at the forefront of their design, the museum has also ensured that you don't even need to be there to experience the Statue!

The launch of The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation's iOS app, named the Statue of Liberty app, uses augmented reality to open the experience up globally. See what she sees through a time-lapse view of the city. Watch media about her signature green tinge - the result of being buffeted by wind, pelted by rain and warmed by the sun for decades. Then look at her in all her stunning, three-dimensional glory, courtesy of high-resolution, helicopter photography. And if you haven't had your fill of all things Miss Liberty, tune in to Raising the Torch. This podcast features historians discussing the Statue's history and her continued impact on the collective imagination.

Why not complete your day out with a free ferry ticket and entry to the Ellis Island Immigration Museum?

Location: 1 Liberty Island - Ellis Island, New York, NY 10004, USA
Opening hours: 8.30am – 6pm daily

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Things To Do In NYC For Families On Vacation

With so many attractions and activities, an NYC family vacation is bound to be a memorable trip. Seeing the Big Apple is an unforgettable experience that children of all ages can appreciate regardless of their interests. It's also an educational experience allowing sightseers to tour some of the most iconic landmarks in American history. NYC has something for everyone in the family. If you're planning a family vacation to New York, you'll make the most of your trip for you and your family if you put some research into which sights you'll see. We've put together a list of some of the best places in NYC to bring the whole family. Free Entry with The New York Pass® Free entry to many of these popular New York attractions and activities are included on The New York Pass®. Used by over 3.5 million travelers, the New York Pass is the ultimate sightseeing pass, which includes admission to 90+ attractions, Fast Track Entry at select attractions, a free guidebook, & much more. Learn more about the New York Pass benefits & how to save up to 70% off attractions. The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Immigration Museum A New York City must for all visitors. The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are located at the southern tip of Manhattan. This site is one of the most important historical sights that kids visiting New York for the first time will want to see to get a greater understanding of not only New York history, but American history as well. From Battery Park, sightseers can take a free ferry to Ellis Island. The ferry ride itself is an interesting experience that gives passengers panoramic views of New York harbor. Once at Ellis Island, visitors can learn about New York's long history as a hub of immigration and the 12 million immigrants who first arrived in New York via Ellis Island. Admission: Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island tickets are included with the New York Pass. Rockefeller Center and Radio City Music Hall Centrally located in Midtown Manhattan below Central Park, Rockefeller Center and Radio City Music Hall offer history, art, culture, and entertainment. Rockefeller Center is an iconic landmark that was originally commissioned by the wealthy Rockefeller family in the 1930's. Nowadays, Rockefeller Center is a National Historic Landmark. It's also a significant building architecturally as it showcases the Art Deco style of the early 20th century at its peak. Inside the Rockefeller Center, there is shopping, dining, and the Top of the Rock which offers birds-eye views of Midtown. Outside Rockefeller Center, there is a skating rink that young visitors can take advantage of during the winter months for some exercise. Visitors during the holiday season can also catch a glimpse of the famous Christmas tree that is put up each year in Rockefeller Plaza. The Radio City Music Hall serves as a venue for concerts throughout the year and is home to the famous Rockettes. This dancing troupe puts on a Christmas Spectacular each year that never fails to put the audience in the holiday spirit. Admission: Rockefeller Center Tour tickets are included with the New York Pass. Admission: Radio City Music Hall Stage Door Tour tickets are included with the New York Pass. The 9/11 Memorial & Museum Although a newer addition to NYC's tourist offerings, this has quickly become one of the biggest attractions in the city. The 9/11 Memorial & Museum was constructed as a tribute to the victims of the World Trade Center attack in 2001. The museum details the history of the event and shows different types of artifacts related to the attack. Set some time aside to get the full experience from this unforgettable landmark. The museum itself contains more than 10,000 artifacts, and the memorial contains two reflecting pools for sightseers. Admission: 9/11 Memorial & Museum tickets are included with the New York Pass. Central Park With The Family Central Park is one of the most scenic destinations in New York and offers a variety of activities for families, making it the perfect NYC family vacation thing to do. Make unforgettable memories with your family on a group bicycle or walking tour that explores Central Park sights you'll recognize from some of your favorite films. Even New York natives can get lost in the extensive grounds of Central Park. Among the many family activities in the park are boat rides, touring Central Park zoo or exploring Belvedere Castle. A day in Central Park will tire out even the most energetic kids. The park also provides great photo opportunities thanks to some of the beautiful scenery. Admission: Central Park Sightseeing Bike Tour tickets are included with the New York Pass. Yankee Stadium For sports-loving families, Yankee Stadium is an interesting sight to visit both during and outside of the baseball season. Yankee Stadium is open for tours throughout the year, and the stadium has artifacts from baseball history on display. Yankee Stadium is a good destination for families wishing to get out of Manhattan and see some other boroughs. Located in the Concourse neighborhood of the Bronx, Yankee Stadium gives New York visitors a chance to ride the subway and experience everyday life for a typical New Yorker. Admission: Yankee Stadium Classic Tour tickets are included with the New York Pass. Remember To Save On Attraction Admission Many of the great attractions in New York City have something special in store for the entire family. Whether you're interested in sightseeing, taking a tour or enjoying art at a museum, an NYC family vacation is easy to plan with The New York Pass. If you plan on visiting multiple attractions, you'll be paying the admission price for your entire family at the door for each venue. Consider using the New York Pass which grants you free entry to over 90 attractions in New York City. That way you can save more and see more. For more information on the New York Pass, click here.
Casey Makovich
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Things to do in Flushing New York

We can’t quite explain it, but there’s just something about Flushing. Located just across the East River, the neighborhood is home to some of the most exciting activities and attractions in the city. Whether you’re looking to check out the interesting historical landmarks, taste some incredible Chinese food, or have your mind blown by an entirely unique museum exhibit, you’ll find countless reasons to love the area. Boredom is something you won’t experience here for sure. So, if you’re planning to make the visit, have a read through our list of the best things to do in the area and then see how The New York Pass® can make your experience even better! Whatever you choose to do, we promise you won’t leave disappointed! Explore the Area Recognized for its vibrancy and diversity in culture, New York is home to the biggest Chinese population outside of Asia. Though many tourists flock to Manhattan Chinatown, the city has nine whole iterations within its state boundaries! We love Flushing’s version of this high-energy ethnic enclave for its lower price points and an endless array of enticing restaurants. Seriously, as the largest Chinatown in New York, this place is the prime dining destination in the area. You’ll find everything from Peking duck puns, lychee bubble tea, and mooncakes in every flavor right here. Don’t mind if we do! Originally created as part of the 1939 New York World’s Fair, the garden continues to inspire and delight visitors with its colorful dazzling displays. Open all year round, this stunning urban oasis offers 39 acres of greenery to be discovered – we couldn’t think of a better way to spend a sunny New York afternoon! Whether you’re a nature lover, or just simply a lover of pretty things, this is the place to be. Before planning your visit, we recommend checking the website for any traditional festivities, special events, or interesting programs being held. If you’re looking for artistry and culture in Flushing, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! Adapted from the New York State Pavilion, Queens Theatre has been quenching the community’s thirst for the performed arts for quite some time. These days, you can catch everything from classic plays and side-splitting comedians to musical and dance performances, all under the same roof. With so much choice, you could go every night if you wanted to! Learn Something New Those looking to learn more about the background of the area should appreciate the next item on our list. Situated at 137th Street, the Lewis Latimer House Museum once served as a home to the African-American inventor until the very time of his passing. Today, the site is open to all visitors, presenting exhibitions about his greatest achievements and fascinating life and ancestry. A total delight for history buffs and science geeks alike, this place presents a great educational experience for those of all ages. Don’t miss out! Looking for a great day out that’s both fun and educational? Well, look no further. Located in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, the New York Hall of Science seeks to cultivate curiosity and wonder in the world around us. Breaking away from the typical museum experience, the institute presents more than 450 immersive displays which work to bring visitors into the learning process. Fan favorites include Rocket Park mini golf, the Design Lab, and the award-winning 60, 000 square-foot Science playground. Perfect for those traveling with family, this place makes for the ultimate day trip. Another one of our favorite things to do in Flushing is visiting the Queens Museum of Art. Founded in 1972, the gallery offers an interesting cultural experience to remember. Though it isn’t quite a household name, this place is well worth the visit for its iconic Panorama of the City - a scale model of New York that was built for the 1964 World’s Fair, and is continuously updated since then. Other Highlights include its huge map of the city's water supply system and a collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany stained glass. Hey, whilst you’re there, why not try to place yourself on the Panorama? Visit Some Interesting Landmarks You don’t have to travel to India to be captivated by beautiful Hindu temples. In fact, the Hindu Temple Society of North America is recognized as one of the very formations of its kind in the Western Hemisphere. Thankfully for us, this unique historical gem welcomes visitors to view its intricately carved stone columns and religious shrines. Whilst you’re there, we also suggest checking out its canteen basement, which is known for serving delicious South Indian cuisine. This place feeds a whopping 4, 000 people a week – and who are we to question that many people? Flushing is dotted with historic structures dating way back to the 17th and 18th centuries – you just need to know where to look. One of our favorite hidden gems in the area is the Flushing Quaker Meeting House for its long, storied history. Built in 1694, the building is recognized as the oldest house of worship in NYC, and a rare remaining example of ecclesiastical architecture. Visitors can take tours to view its timeworn floorboards, wooden benches and handcrafted ceiling beams. Since the Meeting House still serves as a house of worship, we recommend modest dress. We love this place because it’s impossible to leave without having learned something new! Ready to explore? Enjoy the best of NYC with the The New York Pass®. You’ll also be able to visit attractions all over New York for one low price.
Sarah Harris
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Things to Do Near the Empire State Building

One of the iconic destinations for travelers is a trip to the Empire State Building (ESB), a historic landmark in the city. Make the most of your time at this NYC landmark by adding some of these things to do near the Empire State Building to your itinerary before and after your visit. The building itself is close to some other terrific attractions that you can visit with the New York Pass to help you make the most of your trip whether it's for a week or a weekend. If visiting New York and looking for other fun things to do near the Empire State Building, be sure to check out these other landmarks and attractions located nearby. They include: Central Park Rockefeller Center Madame Tussauds Times Square Greenwich Village and more! Free Entry with The New York Pass® Free entry to many of these popular New York attractions and activities are included on The New York Pass®. Used by over 3.5 million travelers, the New York Pass is the ultimate sightseeing pass, which includes admission to 90+ attractions, Fast Track Entry at select attractions, a free guidebook, & much more. Learn more about the New York Pass benefits & how to save up to 70% off attractions. Here's a closer look at attractions near the Empire State Building and why you may want to include them on your trip to New York City. Empire State Building Of course, if you're looking for things to do near the Empire State Building, visiting the Empire State Building itself should be at the top of your list. Taking in the views from the building's 86th floor observation deck is an iconic New York City experience. You'll get 360-degree views of the surrounding cityscape from 1,050 feet above ground and learn all about the buildings history and significance as you make your way to the top and pass through the exhibits on disply. Admission: Empire State Building tickets are included with the New York Pass. Rockefeller Center A trip to “The Top of the Rock” at Rockefeller Center provides stunning views of the New York City skyline, Manhattan Island, and Central Park. The art deco style building soars 800 feet above ground level and offers an amazing three stories of indoor and outdoor observatory space. Even the ride to the top is a light-show filled adventure that the kids will love. A trip to Rockefeller Center should also include a visit through the building and the exceptional neighborhood surrounding it. Admission: Top of the Rock observation deck tickets and guided Rockefeller Center Tour tickets are included with The New York Pass. Central Park Activities in the 843 acre Central Park can keep you busy for days! Rent some bicycles and take a bike tour in the park. Alternatively, you can visit the Central Park Zoo, and see sites where famous TV shows and movies were filmed. Partake in a walking tour or hop on an unforgettable horse and buggy or pedicab ride. No trip to New York City would be complete without at least a stroll through Central Park. Admission: Central Park is free and open to the public; certain activities and things to do within the park such as guided Central Park Bike Rentals and Tour tickets, or if you prefer to explore by foot the Central Park Sightseeing Walking Tour tickets, or if you want to get to know the Central Park you recognize from blockbuster hits the Central Park TV & Movie Sites Walking Tour tickets are all included with The New York Pass. Museum of Modern Art (MoMa) A visit to the Museum of Modern Art gives you an opportunity to see works by Van Gogh, Claude Monet, Andy Warhol, and Pablo Picasso up close and personal. Impressive works of art abound around every corner and MoMA visitors are welcome to stop in the museum's garden to relax while you take in the world-class art that is on display here. Admission: Museum of Modern Art tickets are included with The New York Pass. St. Patrick's Cathedral A visit to New York's St. Patrick's Cathedral is an awe-inspiring experience that celebrates the human spirit. It is also an incredible example of Neo-Gothic architecture. The cornerstone for the cathedral was laid in 1858 but it didn't open its doors until 21 years later in 1879. Today, the ornate structure stands proudly among soaring skyscrapers, providing an almost surreal setting for the structure. Admission: guided public tours are offered depending on volunteer availability - check availability online - and though not required, a donation of $5 is requested to support "America's Parish Church." Times Square If your only reference to Times Square is New Year's Eve on television, you have yet to really appreciate what this area of Manhattan has to offer. A visit to Times Square is one of the most exciting things to do near the Empire State Building - the energy from the crowds is palpable and its larger-than-life billboards are a NYC landmark. One of the best ways to see Times Square is through a variety of bus and walking tours that are available. Of course, if you want to be dazzled, visit Times Square after dark. Admission: admission to Times Square is free and open to the public; some activities and attractions, like Madame Tussauds Times Square tickets or the NFL Experience tickets are available with The New York Pass. Greenwich Village To get a real feel of what New York City is about, take a trip to Greenwich Village (you can read about a fun, guided walking tour of the neighborhood here), home of the lively Washington Square Park. Here, you'll find some of New York's best dining and entertainment options. This is the home of New York's cultural revolution in the 1960's and of New York University. This is the artistic capital of the Big Apple and serves as a Bohemian Capital that is always interesting. Discover the area on your own or take advantage of one of the area's organized tours. Admission: admission to Greenwich Village and Washington Square Park is free; guided Greenwich Village Walking Tour tickets are included with The New York Pass. Madame Tussauds Times Square Located in the heart of Times Square, get up close and personal with wax figures of the most famous people on the planet. You'll find figures ranging from the world of entertainment, sports, and politics. Madame Tussauds is the ultimate “selfie” destination and you'll want to share every one! Pose next to Lady Gaga, Morgan Freeman, and more. You'll be amazed at the detail of the figures inside. Especially once you know that each takes about six months to create using over 2,000 lbs of wax. Enjoy the Marvel 4D and Ghostbusters Experience, Kong: Skull Island, and more! Admission: Madame Tussauds Times Square tickets are included with The New York Pass. Remember to Save on Attraction Admission Plus, the Empire State Building is surrounded by many of NYC's greatest landmarks. There is so much to see and do and you know friends and family will want to know what you saw. That's why you'll want to make the most of each of your adventures while in the Big Apple. If you're interested in visiting the Empire State Building during your trip to NYC then get your New York Pass today! The pass will allow grant you access to over 90 of New York's most popular attractions and guided tours. Click here for more information.
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