The lady with a flaming beacon, stone book and a stunning crown – Statue of Liberty is the freedom and democracy symbol for the American nation. It is an everlasting gift from the French that is passed on from generations to generations, years after years, making the French and American relationship stronger for years to come.

The Statue of Liberty is the memory of international friendship between the people of France and America during the American Revolution. Here are some interesting facts about “Lady America” that make it the most extraordinary possession close to the heart of every American.

1. The Statue of Liberty is located perfectly in the heart of the country, at Liberty Island in the New York Harbor. The location provides just perfect scenery that complements this superb piece of art and symbol of proud friendship.
2. The journey to the Statue of Liberty starts with a ferry ride form the Battery Park City or New Jersey to the Liberty Island. The ferry ticket has to be purchased while there is no entrance fee to see the statue.
3. The Statue was designed by Frederic Auguste Bartholdi.
4. The pedestal of the Statue was designed by Alexandre Gustave Eiffel.
5. The French Government had to face severe financial challenges during the completion of the statue. After many delays the Statue of Liberty was dedicated on October 28, 1886. It was about ten years late for the Centennial celebration for which it was intended.
6. The Statue of Liberty was shipped from France in 350 pieces.
7. The Statue was put together and completed for display on October 28, 1886, four months after delivered.
8. It takes about 354 steps to walk up to the crown of the statue.
9. The Statue of Liberty was closed to visitors only once, after the September 11, 200. However the Island was reopened on December 20, 2001 only three months later. It took three more years to allow access to the Promenade and another eight years to reopen the Crown access for visitors on July 04, 2009.
10. The Statue of Liberty, with a flaming beacon in one hand and a book in the other, symbolizes revolution, democracy and freedom. The facial expressions of the status are said to be inspired by the designer’s own mother.

Kids are welcomed at the Statue of Liberty and there is plenty of room for running around however, strollers are not allowed on the Promenade or Observatory Tours. Also, one must pay attention to the ferry timings and recheck the schedule before leaving. Usually, ferries from the Island depart from 08:30 a.m. to 04:30 p.m. and the Island closes at 06:00 pm. There is a last ferry laving to Battery Park at around 06:30 pm.

International travelers must stay conscious of the busy New York summers. Early flight reservations are recommended to get cheap flights to New York City. Thousands of tourists from round the world destinations, gather around this fantastic monument each year, the view of the Island, harbor and sky scrapers in the background make statue of Liberty the iconic symbol of USA.