Part of Gateway National Recreation Area, Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge in New York is a great place for hiking, biking, boating and birding. Within sight of New York City skyscrapers, the refuge is one of the most significant bird sanctuaries in the Northeast. Over 300 species have been spotted in the last 25 years on the refuge’s 9,000 acres of woods, fields, marshes and open bay. It looks particularly lovely in the spring. Photo by Micael Fano (www.sharetheexperience.org).

Sunlight shines on the face of Lady Liberty as she proudly stands before the New York City skyline. “The Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World” was a gift of friendship from the people of France to the United States and is recognized as a universal symbol of freedom and democracy. The Statue of Liberty was dedicated in 1886 and was designated as Statue of Liberty National Monument in 1924. Photo by Eric Magayne (www.sharetheexperience.org).

Here are some spring flowers for Lady Liberty. Visiting Statue of Liberty National Monument is one of the most rewarding experiences of any trip to New York City. The size and artistry of the massive sculpture is only surpassed by the incredible inspiration this iconic symbol has had on generations. Don’t forget to get tickets ahead of time. Photo by National Park Service.

Within sight of the New York City skyline, Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge is an 18,000-acre wetland estuary bordered by Brooklyn and Queens. An area almost equal to the size of Manhattan, this stunning getaway consists of numerous islands, a labyrinth of waterways, meadowlands and two freshwater ponds. Part of Gateway National Recreation Area, the refuge provides an accessible and unique environment for both wildlife and urban recreation. Photo by Micael Fano (www.sharetheexperience.org).

On this day in 1886, the Statue of Liberty was officially dedicated, becoming a universal symbol of freedom and democracy. In 1924, it was designated as a National Monument and the National Park Service has been caring for the colossal copper statue since 1933. Happy birthday, Lady Liberty! Photo courtesy of Michael Bissel. 

Within sight of New York City skyscrapers, Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge is a great place for hiking, biking, boating and birding. With numerous islands, a labyrinth of waterways, meadowlands and two freshwater ponds, the wetlands provide a unique environment for both wildlife preservation and urban recreation. In every season, there’s beauty to be found. Fall photo by Micael Fano (www.sharetheexperience.org).

Within sight of New York City skyscrapers, Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge is an 18,000-acre wetland estuary surrounded by the Rockaway Peninsula to the south, Brooklyn to the west, and Queens to the east. An area almost equal to the size of Manhattan, the bay consists of numerous islands, a labyrinth of waterways, meadowlands and two freshwater ponds. The refuge provides an accessible and unique environment for both wildlife and urban recreation. Photo by Micael Fano (www.sharetheexperience.org).

You don’t have to travel far and wide to experience the beauty of the world – sometimes it can be found not far from home. Located only 60 miles away from the hustle and bustle of New York City is the endless coastline of #FireIsland National Seashore. Containing New York state’s only wilderness area, Fire Island has much to offer including an 150+ year old lighthouse, a shipwreck from 1922 and almost 20,000 protected acres of marine and terrestrial habitat. Photo courtesy of Ian Barin.

Happy 130th birthday to Lady Liberty! On this day in 1886, the Statue of Liberty was officially dedicated, becoming a universal symbol of freedom and democracy. In 1924, it was designated as a National Monument. 305 feet above the ground, her torch has been a shining beacon on our greatest days and our darkest nights. Photo courtesy of Michael Bissel.

Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge in New York is one of the most significant bird sanctuaries in the Northeast. Over 300 species have been spotted in the last 25 years on the refuge’s 9,000 acres of woods, fields, marshes and open bay. Perhaps the most amazing thing about this tranquil place is its location – within the limits of New York City, less than 12 miles from Manhattan. Photo by Micael Fano (www.sharetheexperience.org).