New York City is a vibrant tapestry of green spaces, monumental art, and delicious fare. In this article we explore three beloved icons: Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and the humble yet famous New York bagel.

Central Park – Urban Oasis

Central Park is a huge urban park in Manhattan and was the first park in the United States to be designed with a specific landscape plan. Covering about 843 acres, it stretches 2.5 miles long between 59th Street and 110th Street and 0.5 miles wide between Fifth Avenue and Central Park West. Landscape architects Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux won a competition in 1857 to design the Greensward Plan; construction began that year and the first parts of the park opened in late 1858, with work completed in 1873. Today around 42 million people visit every year. The park offers meadows, woodlands, lakes, the Central Park Zoo and cultural events like Shakespeare in the Park. Strolling along the Mall or renting a rowboat at the Lake offers a moment of calm amidst the city's bustle.

Statue of Liberty – Beacon of Freedom

Standing proudly on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty was a gift from the people of France and was dedicated on October 28, 1886. Officially named “Liberty Enlightening the World”, the statue symbolizes freedom and democracy. The copper statue alone is 151 feet tall, and including its pedestal it rises 305 feet – about the height of a 30‑story building. It was designed by sculptor Frédéric Bartholdi, with Gustave Eiffel engineering its iron framework. Visitors can take a ferry to the island to explore the museum and climb 354 steps to the crown. Around four million people visit each year, making it one of the most popular attractions in the US.

New York Bagels – A Delicious Heritage

Bagels have their origins in 17th‑century Poland and were brought to North America by Jewish immigrants in the 19th century. In New York City they quickly became a staple food in both Jewish and non‑Jewish communities, with a dedicated bagel bakers’ union forming in the early 1900s. A classic New York bagel is hand‑rolled, boiled, and baked, resulting in a chewy interior and a glossy crust. Enjoy it with cream cheese and lox, or try modern variations like rainbow bagels and inventive spreads – it’s a beloved part of the city’s food culture and a perfect snack while exploring Manhattan.

Conclusion

These icons exemplify the spirit of New York City: open spaces to breathe, monuments celebrating freedom, and foods that tell stories of immigration and tradition. Whether you’re rowing across the Lake in Central Park, gazing up at Lady Liberty’s torch, or biting into a warm, chewy bagel, you’re tasting the heart of the city. Share this story with fellow travellers and start planning your own NYC adventure!