BROOKLYN BRIDGE – A New York icon, Brooklyn Bridge was the world’s first steel suspension bridge. When it opened in 1883, the 486-metre spa n between its two support towers was the longest in history. Although its construction was fraught with disaster, the bridge became an inspiring example of urban design. Today, its pedestrian walkway delivers a soul-stirring view of lower Manhattan.
STATUE OF LIBERTY – Conceived in 1865 by French intellectual Edouard de Laboulaye to honour the shared republican values of France and the USA, the Statue of Liberty wasn’t unveiled until 1886. It’s an iron skeleton, designed by Gustave Eiffel, with a copper skin. Reserve tickets online up to six months ahead to access Lady Liberty’s crown.
FLATIRON BUILDING – Until 1909, the Flatiron was the world’s tallest building. Designed by Daniel Burnham and built in 1902, this 20-storey skyscraper has a uniquely narrow triangular footprint that resembles the prow of a massive ship. It also features a traditional Beaux Arts limestone and terracotta facade that gets increasingly beautiful as you admire it.
NATIONAL SEPTEMBER 11 MEMORIAL – Rising from the ashes of Ground Zero, the 9/11 memorial is a beautiful response to the city’s darkest chapter. The focal point is Reflecting Absence, two cascading pools occupying the footprints of the ill-fated Twin Towers. Deep below lies the powerful Memorial Museum.
EMPIRE STATE – This striking Art Deco skyscraper may no longer be New York’s tallest building, but it remains one of its most recognisable icons. It was built in just 410 days, using 7 million hours of labour during the Great Depression. Views from its 86th-floor open-air deck and 102nd-floor indoor deck are heavenly. Queues to the top are notorious; book online ahead of time.
ONE WORLD OBSERVATORY – New York’s tallest skyscraper is a soaring 104-storey landmark that looms like a beacon above Lower Manhattan. Take a highspeed ‘sky pod’ ride to the top for astounding views over the city and surrounding states. There’s also a virtual time-lapse documenting the skyline’s evolution from the 1600s.
