As the name suggests, the island is best known for being the home of the Statue of Liberty, an icon that is synonymous with New York. The statue was actually a gift from the French in 1876, to celebrate the United States' 100th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The copper statue represents Libertas, a Roman liberty goddess, as the renowned robed woman, holding the torch above her head. In her left hand, she carries the tabula ansata (tablet with dovetail handles), inscribed in Roman numerals to represent the date of the U.S. Declaration of Independence. It's hard to imagine that the statue once faced problems with fundraising, threatening work on the pedestal by 1885, until the publisher of the New York World started a drive for donations. In 1984, the magnificent Statue of Liberty was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, describing the statue as a "masterpiece of human spirit".

Of course, the statue is not the only attraction on the island. Liberty Island Museum tells the tale of the difficulties and victories of France and the United States, and how they overcame trials to build the famous symbol of liberty. It includes the original torch display as well! Note that a pedestal or crown ticket is required if you want to visit the museum.