US Experience [NY2] Statue of Liberty (Status of Liberty, NY)
Status of Liberty National Monument (the Statue of Liberty) is located in New York (State of New York) and is managed by the National Park Service. It is recognized as a World Cultural Heritage site. When people mention iconic landmarks in New York or America, many immediately think of the Statue of Liberty. Its architectural significance is undeniable, as it symbolizes American independence and the preciousness of freedom.
To visit the Statue of Liberty, you need to take a boat. For instance, consider a New York Statue of Liberty boat tour booking for a memorable experience.
Personally, I have little interest in cultural architecture, so my visit was rather incidental—a fleeting glance amid the hustle and bustle of New York. Yet, seeing the Statue of Liberty towering on an isolated island with no other tall structures around left me deeply moved.
US Experience [NY3] Niagara Falls (Niagara Falls, NY)
Niagara Falls National Heritage Area, located in New York (State of New York), is managed by the National Park Service. Visiting Niagara Falls was one of the few times I traveled with a tour group in America. Fortunately, we were not taken to any small shops along the way, and with no other major attractions on the itinerary, I simply let the tour lead the way.
Thousands Island (Thousand Islands)
Our coach first took us to Thousand Islands—likely just to tick off a sightseeing spot. Since it was only a brief stop, we took a boat for a quick look. Personally, I found it unremarkable and not very memorable.
Niagara Falls (American Side)
We visited the American side of Niagara Falls, even though the Canadian side is more spectacular. On a day with exceptional weather, I witnessed what might have been my first double rainbow—a rare and breathtaking sight captured with my modest camera. In fact, the Niagara Falls American side boat ride experience offered a once-in-a-lifetime view of the falls.
Onshore Viewing
Standing on the shore, a gentle breeze felt like a soft mist brushing against your face.
Boat Ride Under the Falls
Sitting on the boat in blue raincoats, we anxiously and excitedly awaited the moment it would approach the base of the falls.
Spotting the Small Blue Dot
At one point, I noticed a small blue dot at the lower left—a subtle detail that added to the overall charm. Across from the falls, the view of Canada completes the magnificent panorama.
US Experience [PA] Philadelphia (PA)
Philadelphia, located in Pennsylvania, has always held a special allure for me—largely due to NBA 76ers’ Allen Iverson. His superb skills and relentless spirit on the court captivated me from the start, igniting my curiosity about the city he once called home. On a self-drive trip from New York to Washington, we passed through Philadelphia, and I couldn’t resist a brief half-day tour to fulfill a long-held wish. Although Iverson was no longer with the team and I missed the chance to see him play live, the experience remained unforgettable.
The “US Experience Guide” once mentioned a combined ticket for city sightseeing that includes Philadelphia, which might be useful for those interested in exploring the city.
Philadelphia doesn’t boast many attractions; the most notable is Independence National Historical Park, managed by the National Park Service. Often referred to as the most historically significant square mile in America, this park houses the Liberty Bell—a symbol of freedom and justice—and Independence Hall, which once served as the meeting place of the U.S. Congress when Philadelphia was the nation’s capital.
We also passed through Chinatown, whose quaint, old-world charm evoked the image of ancient China as seen through American eyes.
US Experience [MD] Baltimore (MD)
On our journey from New York to Washington, we also passed through Baltimore. Located in Maryland, Baltimore is one of America’s major port cities. Although our stop was brief—just enough for dinner—we naturally chose a harbor restaurant. By the time we arrived, evening had set in, and we indulged in an all-you-can-eat seafood buffet. A unique touch was that each table was provided with a small metal bucket for discarding leftover crab shells and similar items; once filled, a waiter would exchange it, underscoring how much we had enjoyed our meal.
Later, strolling along the Baltimore harbor at night, the cool and peaceful atmosphere, combined with the sight of various boats on the water, created a spectacular scene. Although it was only a short stop, my impression of Baltimore was overwhelmingly positive, and I would gladly visit again if given the opportunity.
