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There are few places in the US that speak to the soul of the country like the Statue of Liberty. It must be one of the most recognizable statues in the world and American citizens are proud of what the statue stands for.

Located on a 12 acre island, the Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World was a gift of friendship from the people of France to the people of the United States and is a universal symbol of freedom and democracy. The Statue of Liberty was dedicated on October 28, 1886, designated as a National Monument in 1924 and restored for her centennial on July 4, 1986.

Visiting the island where Miss Liberty stands is a very enjoyable boat ride from New York City. Once there, you can walk around the island and take some beautiful pictures. The security personnel (a sad reality of life in this age), is quite friendly and you may be able to convince them to take a photo of your entire group for you. If none are around, don’t hesitate to ask another tourist but make sure to return the favor for them.

For years, you could not enter the old statue as it was being refurbished so if you haven’t made this trip lately, it is time to go again on your next trip to New York City. You will have to register for tickets in advance by going to www.statuereservations.com or by calling 866-STATUE4. You need to do this at least 48 hours in advance so plan ahead! You will still not be able to go up to the torch as in decades past but you can at least go to the top of the statue’s pedestal. (Warning: you will have to pass additional security screening to take this part of the tour).

It probably should be required memorization in every American classroom for this famous sonnet that is inscribed in bronze at the base of the statue.

Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame
With conquering limbs astride from land to land;
Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand
A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame
Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name
Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand
Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command
The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame,
"Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!" cries she
With silent lips. "Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore,
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"
by Emma Lazarus, New York City, 1883

A trip to New York City is not complete without a visit to the Statue of Liberty. Budget 4-5 hours for this activity and your family will remember it for a lifetime.

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