Attractions in New York near Columbia University
Ulysses S. Grant was a great military leader and a two-term President of the United States. Near the Hudson River, the General Grant National Memorial is located in Riverside Park. The memorial is the final resting place of President Grant and his wife, Julia. According to the National Park Service, the General Grant Memorial is the largest mausoleum in North America. The monument is noted for its fine architecture that includes a columned entrance and a large domed roof. The monument and visitor's center are open daily. Guided tours are available.
Those interested in the history of the American Revolutionary War and the War of 1812 will certainly want to visit the monuments concerning these two conflicts located in the north end of Central Park. During the Revolutionary War, General Washington attempted to hold back the advancing British forces at this site. He was defeated, and the British built a system of fortifications all through the area around the Hudson River. Later, during the War of 1812, the American forces built Fort Clinton and Nutter's Battery to protect the city in case of a British invasion. Monuments of these fortifications are preserved for visitors.
While in Central Park, why not see what else this fantastic oasis in the midst of skyscrapers has to offer. Central Park is a wonderful place to take a stroll and observe the natural beauty of the trees and wildlife. While in Central Park, visit the statue of the famous dog, Balto or visit Cleopatra's Needle. Central Park also has a nice zoo, and there are numerous water recreations available on the Lake and Resevoir.
The Children's Museum of Manhattan was opened in 1973 in order to provide a place for childhood education through exploration of culture and science. One of the museum's highlight exhibitions is the Discover Ancient Greece exhibit. This exhibit explores the way of life of the ancient Greeks and includes hands on activities like weaving and answering questions posed by an animatronic version of the famous philosopher, Aristotle. Guided tours of the museum are available. The Children's Museum operates on a limited schedule during the summer.
Riverside Church is an architectural gem built in the 1930's. It is one of the tallest churches in the world. Riverside church is well known as the setting for a famous speech delivered by Martin Luther King Jr. in which he expressed his opposition to the Vietnam War.