This self-guided audio and GPS tour of NYC’s Battery Park begins at the Netherlands Monument, where you’ll hear about the critical impact of the Dutch in early New York (did you know the city used to be called New Amsterdam?).
Next, those with any Italian heritage will definitely want to stop by the Alberti Marker and the statue of Giovanni de Verrazzano! The former was the first Italian to set foot in New York, while Verrazzano was an important explorer.
After that, visit the lovely pier, where you’ll hear the fascinating story behind the war memorials here, from the clock which serves as the earliest World War I memorial to the Korean War Memorial.
Then it’s on to the main event! Look across the waters to the world-famous Statue of Liberty. Learn the details of the statue’s hugely difficult construction, the symbolism behind it, and the man who made it all possible. Then turn to Ellis Island just beneath it to get a glimpse into the lives of New York’s early immigrants, all of whom landed on that very island before stepping into the New World.
Continuing on, you’ll get to visit an actual castle which once served as an important military fortress. On your way to the poignant World War II Memorial, learn more about how immigration transformed New York, and how New York transformed its new arrivals. Afterwards, find Staten Island on the horizon and hear the wild tale of how it was won in a boat race!
Finally, visit the unique, shining SeaGlass Carousel, a perfect place for the little ones to blow off some steam, and the perfect spot to pick up a boat to Staten Island or the Statue of Liberty.
