Wanderlust World Wanderlust World The Empire State Building at 350 Fifth Avenue casts a long shadow over Manhattan, drawing millions of visitors each year. The views from its 86th and 102nd floor observation decks are well worth the wait in what may appear to be an infinite line. There's another way, however, for you to soar above Manhattan's concrete canyons during your visit. Take the virtual Skyride tour.
As you sit in a dynamic seat before the second-floor theater's 20-foot screen, Kevin Bacon will guide you through a 22-minute simulated flight over Manhattan and the city's major attractions, including the Brooklyn Bridge, United Nations and the Statue of Liberty. You'll also zip along the aisles of the FAO Schwartz toy store and take a comparatively leisurely trip through Central Park.
The George Washington Bridge is another of Manhattan's iconic attractions. Visit the 159-acre Fort Washington Park, between West 155th and 179th, and you'll come as close as it's possible to get to the bridge without actually driving on it.
Look for the last functioning lighthouse in Manhattan, made famous in the classic children's book The Little Red Lighthouse and The Great Gray Bridge. This view of the bridge's underside is one of Manhattan's hidden treasures.
See another one by heading along the Hudson River Greenway from Fort Washington Park to West 190th St and the Inspiration Point Shelter. Stop a while to drink in the river view from this 1925 neoclassical Greek structure on a bluff 136 feet above the Hudson. You'll be sharing a vista once beloved by Sunday drivers from all over New York.
Ellis Island, where millions of immigrants first set foot on American soil, and Liberty Island, with the Statue of Liberty, should be on your list of things to see in New York.
There's a lesser-known island, however, worth your attention. Take either the Bruckner Expressway or the Bronx and Pelham Parkway to Interstate 95 North, Exit 8B, the City Island exit. Follow City Island Road past the roundabout and over the bridge to City Island. Belonging to the Bronx, it's surrounded by the waters of Long Island Sound and Eastchester Bay.
Soak in the Island's atmosphere, reminiscent of a simpler time in New York. Wander to your heart's content, taking in the many Victorian gems among its private homes.
Learn about the Island's past at the Nautical Museum at 190 Fordham St. Open on weekends, the Museum has an outstanding collection of artwork, documents, photos and other items dating back to the 17h century, when the first European settlers arrived.
Walk along the shores for a glimpse of the marinas where magnificent private yachts are berthed. They're right at home here, where the Island's yacht builders have produced seven America's Cup winners. If you arrive in the summer, you'll be treated to the sight of many of them under sail, scudding across the waters of Long Island Sound.