Lady Liberty

Yesterday Brett and I made our way to the southern point of the island. The 4 train is our friend because we were back on it yesterday morning to get to The Battery. We came out of the subway, started in one direction and then had the quintessential tourist moment of “where do we go?” There was an awesome girl who noticed and reassured us we were actually headed in the correct direction. She said to me “Trust your intuition girl, follow your instincts.” Just a great reminder to walk with confidence through the world, even if the city is unknown to you.

Despite going on a Monday when most schools are in session there were so many people on their way to see the Statue of Liberty. The facilities are run and managed by the National Parks Service however the Department of Interior requires you to go through airport grade security before you board the ferry and also when you enter the Statue of Liberty. It’s the ultimate cattle drive getting so many people on the ferry but pretty efficient.

When we arrived on the island we were wowed by the size. It’s really difficult to imagine that it was originally constructed in Paris, deconstructed, shipped to NY and then put back together again. There were again some great views back to the city as well.

We got tickets to climb up to the pedestal of the statue. When we entered there was immediately a line which we were initially waiting in until we found out it was for the elevator. About 95% of the people going to see the statue waited in line for the elevator rather than taking the 197 steps to the top. Brett and I climbed the steps without hesitation and our workouts have really been paying off. The climb was relatively easy for us, we were passing the few other people who decided to brave the stairs. I’m proud of both of us for the investment we’ve made in our health. We have noticed it throughout our trip.

The pedestal offered some unique views and perspectives of the statue.

After we descended we checked out the museum which was really well done. There were some interesting artifacts, dissections of the statue, progress photos and more.

I really liked this quote from the artist and designer: “My only ambition has been to engrave my name at the feet of great men and in service of grand ideas.” – Auguste Bartholdi

It’s really hard to capture all of the things we saw and experienced. It was a really fun day to just be in the moment and take in the history around us. We had such a fun day and we are glad for the experience!