It's been almost eight years since visitors had the opportunity to ascend the 168 spiral stairs into Lady Liberty's headwear, but on July 4 the Statue of Liberty crown reopened to the public after being closed since September 11, 2001. Nothing can emulate the feeling of gazing out across New York Harbor from the top of the Miss Liberty, who has come to be recognized as one of the quintessential symbols of freedom.
Unfortunately for those hearing this news for the first time, access to the crown is already sold out through early September, and tickets are still going fast—understandably so, since only 30 people per hour can make the special journey, allowing room for only 240 people each day. But this trip is not for the faint of heart—be prepared for a workout. And in the summer, the temperature inside the statue can be up to 20 degrees hotter than the outside air (translation: don't forget to bring water). In two years, the crown will close again for renovations. At the rate the spots are selling out, it's probably best not to hesitate in making your reservations, which can be done online at statuecruises.com or by phone at 877-LADY-TIX.