If you dig a hole to China…..

New York’s Central Park was the first urban landscaped park in the United States. Thought up in the 1850s, this concept was 10 years in the making. Wealthy New Yorkers were on a mission to prove to Europe that Americans did have a sense of civic duty and appreciation for cultural refinement. More importantly, this vast 840 acres in the middle of Manhattan would be a place where the wealthy could “be seen” parading in their carriages, socializing on the lawns, and partaking in clean, unpolluted air.

Built among rocky vistas and over swampland, this land was transformed into a beautiful oasis amongst the busy city life. Upon entering the park, you will be greeted with trees, benches, statues and sculptures, lakes, ponds, a zoo, numerous sporting venues, and so much more. The park is also home to many free performances throughout the year, including Shakespeare in the Park.

This U.S. National Historic landmark was originally constructed in 1698 after the parish received its charter from King William the III of England. According to the historical records, the hoisting stones were lent from the runners and tackle of the infamous privateer, Captain William Kidd.

This church has seen much turmoil and strife in its life. Involved in the American Revolution, the members had to choose sides as either loyalists or members of the First and Second Continental Congresses. As you can imagine, these two viewpoints did not see eye to eye. During the Battle of Long Island, this church caught fire in the Great New York City Fire of 1776. The church was rebuild during the late 1780s, only to be weakened by severe snow storms during the winter of 1838-1839. Finally, in 1846, the structure represented in my picture, was built and still stands at the intersection of Broadway and Wall Street in downtown Manhattan.

For as long as I can remember, bridges have enthralled me. Is it their ability to withstand so much pressure or could it be their unique design and support structure? Whatever it is, I was very fortunate to view three great bridges during my trip to the city.

Brooklyn Bridge: One of the oldest suspension bridges in the world, this bridge spans 5,989 feet across the East River to connect the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn. It took just over 13 years to build, and it was opened for use in 1883. The total cost of the bridge was $15.1 million, and it was the first steel-wire suspension bridge in the world.

Verrazano-Narrows Bridge: Named after the famous Italian explorer, Giovanni da Verrazano, this double-decker bridge connects Staten Island to Brooklyn. It is the longest suspension bridge in the world, and it has two massive towers that each are home to 1,000,000 bolts and 3,000,000 rivets. Due to thermal expansion/contraction of steel, the bridge roadway is 12′ lower in summer than its winter elevation.

Hell Gate Bridge: Known for its distinctive arch and natural, deep, red color, this bridge was completed in 1918 as a freight bridge to connect New York to New England and the New Haven Railroad. It originally housed four tracks, two for passengers and two for freight. The bridge now has 3 operating tracks and is owned by Amtrak.

Built in 1848, The Church of the Transfiguration, is now on the National Register of Historic Places for its position as a shrine of the American church and theater. Founded “to embrace all races and classes”, this church is a popular spot to find New Yorkers of all races and religions praying in the chapel, relaxing in the gardens, or enjoying a free workday concert in the main building.

It comes as a surprise to those who are walking by because it is not common to see an English garden setting right in the middle of Manhattan! Complete with flowers, shrubbery, and a fountain, it is no wonder that this is also known as “The Wedding Church.”

A visit to this historic landmark is sure to transport you back to the mid-1800s in downtown Manhattan. Cobblestones along Fulton Street lead to shops, restaurants, and bars, as well as a few historical sailing vessels that are docked at the port. Don’t forget to visit the South Street Seaport Museum.

If you allow yourself the time, perhaps your imagination will depict what commercial maritime trading was like in the 19^th century. As you look over the East River, be sure to see the breathtaking view of the Brooklyn Bridge. This is also a perfect spot to take in a beautiful sunset over the city.

Named as one of the Seven Marvels of the Modern World, this building is certain to take your breath away the first time your eyes see it towering above the New York City skyline. Standing at 1,453 feet tall, this Art Deco skyscraper not only has its own zip code, but it houses 73 elevators, 6,500 windows, and is home to over 1,000 businesses.

Construction began on March 17, 1930. Over 3,400 workers, namely European immigrants, worked diligently to see the project to its completion and opening day, May 1, 1931. In 1964, flood lights were added to the structure. One can see red, white, and blue lights on various patriotic holidays, and red and green lights during the Christmas season.

Even if you have never seen The Empire State Building in person, it has made numerous appearances in today’s pop culture scene. You are certain to catch a glimpse of this famous skyscraper while watching I Love Lucy, Godzilla, King Kong, Independence Day, James Bond, and Inspector Gadget, just to name a few!