An emerald expanse in the thriving, concrete jungle that is New York City, Central Park lies in the heartland of the Manhattan borough. It commences its labyrinthine stretch from Midtown, all the way to Harlem. It was created in 1857 by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, who envisioned a sprawling green space in the center of the island. The park spans 843 acres (341.15 hectares) and bustles with life throughout the day, even as the layered, multi-hued fold of the city's skyline unfolds at its hem. The park's 21 playgrounds are speckled with ornate fountains, sculptures, myriad bridges and arches, together forming an urbane respite where several come to find peace from the city's chaotic pace. Attractions within the park include the Bethesda Fountain, the Conservatory Garden, Belvedere Castle and Central Park Zoo.
The High Line is an urban oasis filled with beautifully manicured landscapes. It sits above the city on old train tracks that were installed as part of the West Side Improvement Project back in 1929. The line was primarily used to transport goods along the Lower West Side, but with the advent of vehicles in the 1950s and more accessible routes elsewhere, the last train eventually ran in 1980. Thereafter, the elevated tracks fell into disrepair, and the whole structure was nearly demolished. It was instead converted into an innovative public park, delighting locals and visitors alike. Today, the High Line is a cherished sanctuary away from the bustle of city life.
This small but beautiful botanic garden features a Japanese garden, as well as the Cranford Rose Garden, herb garden, the Children's Garden, and the Steinhard Conservatory of indoor flowers and plants. In all, there are 52 acres and 12,000 varieties of botanicals, ranging from the tiny bonsai to the towering oak. Self-guided tours, individual classes and certificate programs are all available. Students come with your valid id cards, if you want to avail of a discount.
The National September 11 Memorial & Museum is a stunning memorial that was created to honor the people who lost their lives during the dreaded September 11, 2001 attacks.The memorial consists of two pools set in the original site as well as a beautiful plaza. The names of the victims are engraved on paneling along with the pools. Visitors can also explore the 9/11 Memorial Museum that features artifacts and stories about the event. The various exhibits on display at this underground museum educates the visitors.
Stretching across the East River, the Brooklyn Bridge is an architectural wonder. Connecting the island of Manhattan to Brooklyn, the suspension bridge with its Gothic towers and steel cables adds a unique silhouette to the city's iconic skyline. Completed in 1883, the bridge was the longest of its kind, measuring almost 1600 feet (487.68 meters). One of the city's most enduringly popular attractions, Brooklyn Bridge offers visitors some of the best views of the cityscape above the river's shimmering waters.
Resting behind an opulent French-Gothic Revival visage, the cathedral is rightly situated in the heart of the city. Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart was constructed over the course of nearly a century, specifically built to feature views of the mountains to the west and downtown Manhattan to the east. First proposed in 1859, the cathedral's cornerstone was finally set forty years later. It wasn't until 1954 that the church was completed and consecrated. Pope John Paul II visited this gargantuan cathedral in 1995, performing an evening prayer that earned the cathedral the rank of basilica. Rightly dubbed as the Monument of Faith, this elegant basilica is adorned with sharp arches and glorious chandeliers giving way to the stunning altar. The Cathedral Basilica regularly holds concerts that are open to the public, played on the largest pipe organ ever created by the Schantz Organ Company. Commanding Newark's beautiful landscape, the basilica is one of the most treasured edifices of the city.
This recreational center is a treat for visitors with its modern and state of the art facilities. The pools and diving facilities go by the standard Olympic size, and there are also indoor tennis courts and a track available for students to use. Some areas are also convertible from their original courts to intramural facilities, allowing for multi-purpose use of many venues around the Yanitellie Center
This historic brick building was built in 1785 by Edward Mooney, a wealthy butcher. Mooney left his home behind when he died in 1800, and since then, the building has been used as a hotel, a pool parlor, a store, a brothel, a restaurant, and is now used as a bank. New York City designated the building as a landmark in 1966. It is the only remaining townhouse from the American Revolutionary period.
Leland Castle was built as a home to Mr. Simeon Leland in 1855. In 1980, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This castle boasts stunning Gothic Revival architecture on sweeping grounds of 2.6 acres (1.05 hectares). Guests will find plenty to marvel at, from the architecture to the contemporary art inside the Castle Art Gallery.
Eberhardt Hall is one of the oldest buildings on the New Jersey Institute of Technology campus. This mansion-like structure is a rare example of Gothic Victorian architecture in Newark. Some of the most evident features include the lavish staircase, gaslight fixtures and Victorian furnishings. This building is well-equipped with modern amenities, and its detailed architecture makes it a stand out.