New York, New York: An Incentive Travel Featured Destination

The “Big Apple” is one of the most populated and famous metropolitan areas in the United States. As the center focal point of this extensive region, it houses one of the largest harbors in the world and offers plenty of famous attractions.  New York, home to the United Nations Headquarters, has greatly impacted commerce, technology, entertainment, and education. While English is the main language of the densely populated area, approximately eight-hundred languages can be heard throughout New York City. It was originally a trading post area found in 1624; however, today the metropolis is a booming location consisting of a diverse culture and abundant opportunities.

The Empire State Building

This one-hundred two story skyscraper spans over fourteen hundred feet in height and is a notable piece of architecture throughout the world. The Empire State Building remained as the tallest building on the planet for almost forty-one years. It now ranks third in height among all skyscrapers within the United States. Seen as an icon of the American culture, the marvelous sight consists of Art Deco style architecture and was made a preserved historic landmark in 1986. It is an architectural wonder every visitor must see as they make their way to this exciting location.

Statue of Liberty

One of the most famous landmarks of New York City, the Statue of Liberty is a sculpture of neoclassical nature that can be found on Liberty Island as part of the harbor. It was given as a gift by the French in 1886 after Frederic Bartholdi completed the design. The robed figure was meant to represent the Roman goddess, Libertas, who stood for freedom. It is not only an iconic landmark to those living in the United States, but also a welcoming statue to those arriving from abroad to enjoy the freedom offered by America.

Times Square

This iconic visitor attraction of New York City is located in Midtown Manhattan at the intersection of Broadway and 7th Avenue. Stretching across five streets, this portion of the city is sometimes referred to as “The Crossroads of the World.” This section of the city is known as the Broadway theatre district and as one of the busiest intersections for pedestrians. The heavily visited tourist location is also an important contributor to the entertainment industry. Notable landmarks in this busy portion of the city include the TKTS booth, the Coca-Cola sign, Times Square Studios, MTV Studio, The Hard Rock Café, and Planet Hollywood.

Coney Island

Coney Island sits on a peninsula next to the Atlantic Ocean in the southern part of Brooklyn. It was originally a barrier island not connected to the main land; however, a land fill caused a partial connection to form. Coney Island is well known for its amusement parks, which were popular at the beginning of the twentieth century prior to World War II. New additions to the area include the MCU Park and a minor league baseball team. Visitors come to the island every year to have a day of fun at the amusement park and see the much depicted sight of the famous Wonder Wheel overlooking the ocean.