Once capital of the United States, now considered capital of the world, New York City is a wonderful place to visit. Tourists find themselves dizzy when trying to decide just what to do first in this city of abundant activities. Here are the top 10 tourist attractions as I see it.

The Statue of Liberty is the most recognisable icon of New York. She stands on Liberty Island in New York Harbour and is a universal symbol of freedom and democracy. She was a gift from the French government for the 100th birthday of America’s Independence and was dedicated in October 1886. She stands 305 feet from torch to ground. To get to the statue you need to take a ferry. You buy your ticket in Battery Park, Lower Manhattan. If you want to go inside the statue you need to book a ticket in advance (see below). I recommend the Observatory Tour.

Your ferry will also make a stop at Ellis Island. Ellis Island is the site of America’s immigration between 1892 and 1954. Nearly 12 million people entered America through this island. The Island is now a museum dedicated to the immigration process. The three storey building takes you through the steps an immigrant went through to be allowed to enter the USA.

Address: Liberty Island
Phone: (212) 363-3200
Directions: South Ferry at Battery Park - Take the #5 train to Bowling Green or #1 to South Ferry
Website: nps.gov/stli/
www.stateuereservations.com to book a ticket to go inside statue