IWalkedAudioTours

Tips to backpacking in iceland on a budget

2017-08-01T05:22:00.001-06:00

Tips to backpacking in iceland on a budget - Iceland is a backpackers paradise, however this paradise can continually be an area of looming threat and probably in this lies the terribly essence of its attraction: the barren calls to USA, providing beauty, serenity and unbound freedom, asking just for admire and responsibility in return.

Iceland is a country excessive up on many a bucket listing however its remoted area makes it relatively difficult to suit into any other ride. The horrific information for shoestring visitors is that iceland is getting high priced again after a quick hiatus when the us of a’s three main banks all went bust during the financial disaster and iceland suddenly became somewhat more low cost.

backpacking in iceland on a budget | Pic by Pixabay

Iceland is that the dream country for a journey trip. whether or not it's light hikes, active sports treks, ski tours, mountain biking, horseback riding, super landrover visits in winter, we are able to give you a visit to Iceland that matches utterly along with your expectations. you'll be able to register for our Icelandic tours at the departure date and at mounted costs, or prefer to kind a group along with your family or friends by developing the program of your dreams that we have a tendency to adapt to your talents. you may forever be target-hunting by skilled guides from Iceland, French or English World Health Organization can cause you to discover Iceland like nobody else. No ought to add that it's not necessary to be a seasoned traveler to get Iceland on foot.

It’s supposedly one of the least price range-pleasant countries inside the international — which made touring even more attractive to me. I always view high-priced international locations as a assignment. Figuring out the way to go to a country on the cheap is like solving a puzzle to me, and that i relished the undertaking of identifying if iceland will be visited on a budget.

To peer the exceptional of iceland, you truly want to be dealing your very own vehicle for a few days, that really in case you're a solo any person goes to be luxurious. Several of the only places to go to square measure a manner off the most avenue and no longer joined by delivery. On a price range of $100/day even a solo someone, ought to be geared up to manage to pay for to attempt to to that for some days not less than to explore the extra far off components of the island so maybe pay a trifle longer based totally in reykjavíok even as no longer a car and doing trips to the close to locations of hobby that rectangular measure extra accessible.

5 Extra Large Backpacks For College

2017-06-23T03:26:00.005-06:00

Do you find Extra Large Backpacks For College ? You can choose 5 option below

Extra Large Backpacks For College

Dakine – Campus 33L

This bag has all of the tendencies of a perfect pupil backpack: numerous cubicles, computer-ready and spacious. What i especially like approximately the campus is the insulated cooler pocket inside the the front, designed to slip in some snacks and maintain them glowing in the route of the day.

Jansport – Big Student

This bag gives many booths, permitting you to transport several binders and all of the necessities from domestic to highschool with none problem. within the call of practicality, the wallet also resource in corporation. The massive student backpack is obtainable in many colours and patterns, and is certain to please all.

Thule – Commuter

The commuter is a lightweight bag this is satisfactory for cycle commuting. With its water-evidence, roll-pinnacle layout, your items could be included against rain and poor climate situations. moreover, the helmet internet function comes out from the lowest and allows you to secure your helmet at the exterior of the bag. The facet safety pocket is best to insert a cellphone and sun shades without them being overwhelmed via way of the burden of the gadgets inside the bag.

Jansport – Hatchet

The hatchet is bendy due to the fact, in addition to being the nice accent for faculty days, this backpack can even work with a 3l hydration system making it best for small out of doors excursions. every the returned and shoulder straps are padded so that you can beautify consolation. I for my part am attracted to the hatchet because of its retro attraction and floral patterns inside the multi navy mountain meadow.

Herschel Supply Co. – Little America

if you pick a less complicated bag with a whole lot less booths, the little america is an exceptional asset. the principle compartment, closed by using manner of straps, consists of a smaller pc pocket. The smaller pocket within the the front allows you to slide in objects which includes a mobile smartphone, keys or pocket coins. The bag is in particular beautiful and handy in all patterns.

Best Backpack For Grad School

2017-06-23T02:54:00.002-06:00

Best Backpack For Grad School - The college is an severe period of your academic profession and for that you'll must transport many textbooks fundamental to all subjects. For this we suggest you are taking a strong backpack which could with out trouble bring up to 10 kilos or maybe extra. this can also depend upon your repute, whether or no longer you devour on the canteen or now not at midday for instance and the wide variety of topics throughout the day. you may then change your business business enterprise lunch at home to not take too many books, so that it will assist you to take a lot much less weight and no longer destroy your again!

No greater wheeled fashions that allows you to be an excessive amount of associated with number one college children. it's miles approximately taking your teenagers to hands and sporting on your decrease again all the notebooks and other books of diverse subjects. And for all this, we recommend you take Best Backpack For Grad School with padded shoulder straps which includes tann’s fashions for example. this is very critical to mitigate the heavy weight of your every day organisation.

Best Backpack For Grad School

you will have understood, to answer exactly this question, it's going to depend upon your degree in studies and your habits. earlier than choosing your backpack from a sensible point of view, remember that it's also the most critical style accent of your college course and that it is going to distinguish you out of your comrades. For this, there are a large number of Best Backpack For Grad School brands and you'll be spoiled for choice of colours and sizes. The style of the children is very critical for their accurate development and it's going to strongly effect their tastes and alternatives in their destiny expert lifestyles. should no longer the start of an first-rate college three hundred and sixty five days begin with the selection of an incredible bag?

I Walked New York City's Eldorado

2017-06-22T07:23:00.000-06:00

Situated at 300 Central Park West is the most northern of the famous twin-towered luxury apartments along Central Park West—The Eldorado. The Eldorado translates from Spanish into “the golden one.” Its name derives from an old Spanish legend from the 1530s about a South American Indian chief would cover himself in gold dust and dive into a mountain lake. The name also later derived into representing the name of the famous lost city of gold for which many explorers would fruitlessly attempt to discover.

New York City’s Eldorado is a 30-story Art Deco structure that is quite cube-like in appearance up until near the twin-towers where you may begin to note a series of terraced set-backs. Those twin-towers actually light up to a golden brilliance in the evenings, perhaps in recognition of their former namesake. The building was constructed from 1929-1931 and replaced a former eight-story apartment from 1902 by the same name which used to reside at this address. That former apartment was actually about a century ahead of its time in that it offered on the first garages with vehicle chargers for electric cars.

New York City's Eldorado

Tenants of the 216-unit Eldorado tend to have slightly less space than some of the other complexes along Central Park West. Of the little bit we do know about these apartments is their tenants are able to enjoy are the space’s 10-foot-high ceilings and decorative fireplaces. Also, tenants within each of the towers do maintain a single unit to themselves on each floor.

The less spacious co-op (at least in celebrity terms) has not deterred a healthy list of notable current and former tenants. Residents at the Eldorado have included Grouch Marx, Alex Baldwin, Marilyn Monroe, Richard Dreyfus, Faye Dunaway, Michael J. Fox, Carrie Fisher and Moby.

Musical artist Moby’s former 2 bedroom-2.5 bath penthouse atop the south tower has surprisingly proven to be a difficult sell in recent years. Moby originally acquired the four-story apartment in 2005 for $4.5 million, however, when he attempted to sell the property in 2007 for $7.5 million he drew little to no interest. He had to undertake an aggressive promotion strategy to unload the property which included self-recording a video of the property and even offering a $75,000 referral fee to anyone who may help move the property. One deterring factor many people figure is the property’s relatively inconvenient access. To get to the unit individuals must take the elevator to the 29th floor before having to exit and walk up two additional flights of stairs.

Moby was eventually able to sell the property for $6.7 million, however, the stairwell must’ve gotten to the new tenant as well as the penthouse was on the market just two years later for just under $6 million. Now fast forward to the present and that price has continued to decline and was most recently listed for just under $5 million. So if you are in the market for a $5 million stair-master, please send all $75,000 referral fees to IWalked Audio Tours.

Website: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Eldorado
Address: 300 Central Park West, New York City
Cost: Free.

I Walked New York City's 1840s Semi-Suburban Home

2017-06-21T07:19:00.000-06:00

Outside of the three-story home at number 152 East 38th Street you will no doubt notice a historical plaque that identifies this house, that is pushed back from the street a bit, was originally built in the 1840s. Famous residents have included the widow of the former eighth President of the United States, Martin Van Buren.

The building was remodeled from a period of 1934-1936 in the Federal Revival Style and during that time the property was subdivided into a home and office space (hence the two addresses on the low cement wall exterior). In addition, a one-story wall was built to divide the front yard, an ornate iron fence added (complete with sea shell ornamentation atop it), and the owner also had his grandchildren add their handprints in the sidewalk.

Sadly the most drastic of these alterations though was the erection of a gateway to hide the offices from street view. This home is a rare example of properties that are actually pushed back from the street within this area. It is unfortunate that we’re unable to have more insight as to other subtle differences, but it still warrants some of our attention for the variety it offers within the side streets of Midtown.

Website: http://www.nytimes.com/2001/08/12/realestate/streetscapes-152-east-38th-street-1857-row-house-stood-back-its-neighbors.html?pagewanted=all&src=pm
Address: 152 East 38th Street, New York City, NY
Cost: Free.

I Walked Boston's Boston Athenaeum

2017-06-20T07:14:00.000-06:00

An athenaeum, if you are unfamiliar, is an institution for the promotion of learning. The word derives from a reference to the Greek goddess of wisdom, Athena.

The Boston Athenaeum began as a reading room in 1807. It began by renting rooms near Kings Chapel Burying Ground and later on Pearl Street downtown before finally moving to Beacon Street location when this building was completed in 1849. It is currently only one of sixteen libraries in the country that require membership for usage of services.

Public access to the library is available for free on first floor. This level contains many historic statues and busts and affords an excellent view of the backside of the Old Granary Burying Ground (the burial site of Samuel Adams, Paul Revere, John Hancock and Mother Goose).

Boston Athenaeum

Members receive exclusive privileges to the private libraries of George Washington and The Narrative of the Life of James Allen, The Highway Man. This later was written by a convict who while on his deathbed in prison, requested that the book he wrote containing the confessions and stories of his crimes be bound in his own skin. The skin used to bind his autobiography reportedly came from his back and was treated in a process similar to leather for preservation. The process was supposedly so secretive or nonchalant that the bookbinder was not even aware of the material he was using. Perhaps the sickest part of this tale, however, was that one copy (of which there were reportedly two) was bequeathed to an alleged victim who escaped Mr. Allen and whom he held in such esteem.

Website: http://www.bostonathenaeum.org/
Address: 10 ½ Beacon Street, Boston, MA
Cost: Free.

Louisburg Square Apartments in Boston

2017-06-19T00:57:00.003-06:00

Louisburg Square Apartments is considered one of most elite neighborhoods in all of Boston and is the last private square within the city. Current famous residents include Senator John Kerry and his wife Teresa Heinz Kerry, the current heir to the Heinz family fortune.

Most of the homes within the square were built in 1835. Upon their completion, the square was named for the 1745 Battle of Louisbourg. A battle fought between the “British” and “French” in “Canada”. How does this relate to Massachusetts? Well, the Battle of Louisbourg was a part of the King George’s War fought between England and France. In this battle (fought in Nova Scotia) the Massachusetts militia actually fought alongside the English who were still allies in the Pre-Revolutionary period of this clash.

Fans of the children’s novel, Make Way For Ducklings by Robert McCloskey, may recognize the name of Louisburg Square Apartments as the site where Mrs. Mallard and her family did some home shopping before settling within the Boston Public Garden. A popular sculpture commemorating the book resides in this garden.

It may be best that Mrs. Mallard decided to relocate to the Public Garden because it likely saved her substantial living expenses. Louisburg Square was the first neighborhood to create a home owners association within the United States to help pay for its upkeep. On the other hand, having decided not to relocate here Mrs. Mallard and her family would not have been able to partake in the first Christmas caroling in the United States which also occurred here in the late 19th century.

Louisburg Square

Situated in the center of Louisburg Square Apartments is a fenced in green space. This fence was erected in 1929, approximately one-hundred years after the square was initially developer. Located within the fenced off area are two statues. On the south side is a statue of Aristides the Just (530 B.C. – 486 B.C.). Aristides was known to always do the right thing for Athens even at his own expense. On the north side is a statue of Christopher Columbus. Both statues were presented as gifts in 1850 by a former Turkish consul member who used to reside at 3 Louisburg Square.

Gazing around the home surrounding the square you will notice near perfect symmetry in the architectural styles of the buildings. On the side with even numbered addresses all of the buildings have flat facades. While the odd numbered addresses are a bit more elaborate with bow front, cast-iron balconies and flagpole holders with serpents.

The address at 10 Louisburg Square Apartments was the final home of Louisa May Alcott, author of Little Women. Louisa passed away here at the age of 55 of what was guessed to be mercury poisoning. Louisa likely contracted the poisoning while working as a nurse during the Civil War. Mercury was used often as a treatment for many ailments. Mercury was typically combined with honey and chalk into a mixture called calomel and this, in turn, was used to kill bacteria. The substance’s ill effects of teeth loss and brain damage were not yet recognized.

Website: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Louisburg_Square
Address: Louisburg Square, Boston, MA

The Lever House NYC, Landmark Modernist Structure

2017-06-19T00:49:00.001-06:00

Nearby the celebrated Seagram House is another landmark Modernist structure at 390 Park Avenue known as the Lever House NYC. This slender green-tinted glass tower stands at only twenty-one stories and appears as an inverted L from street-level. The building features an extended lobby floor that contains an art gallery and also a Sculpture Garden that was added in 1998. In the Sculpture Garden you can view works from Isamu Noguchi who also created the Red Cube which resides outside of 140 Broadway.

The glass curtain design by Gordon Bunshaft of the firm Skidmore, Owings and Merrill was relatively new and innovative at the time. Similar to the added bronze beams on the Seagram House for aesthetic purposes, the glass curtain design contained an added outer wall of glass that was not structural. Although the glass was not operational, it did serve as a low-cost material to keep out the elements and allow for a high degree of natural lighting within the building. Lever House NYC was the second significant structure within the city to make use of the glass curtain design. The first was the U.N. Secretariat Building which had also been built in 1952.

The Lever House NYC was built as the American headquarters for the British soap company Lever Brothers. Lever Brothers president, Charles Luckman, expressed to Bunshaft that he wish for a “sparkling” design that would align with the company’s image. Bunshaft, in turn, responded with a shiny glass tower that would reflect the ideal image for a soap manufacturer.

Lever House NYC

As to the Lever Brothers, it would go on to merge into Unilever in 1930. The Lever Brothers division remained in the building until 1997 when it relocated to Greenwich,CT. The parent company, Unilever, does still maintain a small presence in the building though. Lever Brother’s former president, Charles Luckman, who many labeled the “Boy Wonder of Business” would go on to architect some magnificent buildings of his own including the existing Madison Square Garden.

In the 1990s the Lever House NYC fell into a period of decline when nearly all of its original glass, so meticulously selected for a uniform appearance, had been haphazardly replaced over the years. Forty years after its unveiling, ninety-nine percent of the glass had already been replaced at least once, giving it the appearance of a patchwork quilt. In 1998, though building’s owners began an extensive renovation which has since restored the building to its original luster of uniformity and elegance along Park Avenue.

I Walked New York City's Cartier Building

2017-06-17T07:40:00.000-06:00

The Cartier Building is a former mansion that is now home to the French jeweler and watch manufacturer. The building was constructed in 1904 and designed by English-born architect Robert W. Gibson (who is also known for his All Saints Cathedral in Albany, NY) as the home to millionaire Morton Freeman Plant. Plant acquired the land for his mansion from William K. Vanderbilt under the condition that the property not be used for commercial purposes for at least twenty-five years. The resulting mansion was a six-story Neo-Italian-Renaissance palazzo that features an exterior of marble and granite.

Plant resided in this building for just over ten years with his wife, Mae Cadwell Manwaring (aka Maisie). At the time of their union, Plant was sixty-one years old while Maisie was thirty years younger. In 1917, the Plants began to consider moving uptown as were many of their notable neighbors including the Vanderbilts. It was during this time that Maisie discovered an object of her desire and of considerable cost. On a visit to the Cartier store of the time, Maisie fell in love with a pearl necklace that was being showcased and estimated to have been valued at $1.2 million. Feeling it to have been a wise investment at the time, the Plants sold their six-story mansion to the Cartier store for the strand of pearls along with $100 in cash. The Plants, in turn, moved to a new home located near 86th Street.

Unfortunately for the Plants, the value of pearls declined in the ensuing years by a significant amount due to the commercialization of cultured pearls. When the necklace was sold the year after Maisie’s death (in 1957) it sold for a paltry $170,000. Sadly, the whereabouts of the necklace today have been lost to time, although Ms. Maisie is said to still to obsess over its existence. Supposedly within a hotel in Clearwater, Florida that was formerly built by Morton’s father, there resides a disturbed female ghost who appears to be looking as though she lost her most prized possession.

Upon acquisition of the former mansion in 1917, the Cartier Corporation transformed the building into what some now refer to as the House of Cartier. The interior was reportedly completely redone by architect William Welles Bosworth, less the second floor music room. Cartier was founded in 1847 in Paris by Louis Francois Cartier. The family became well known in 1902 when it was hired to design a series of twenty-seven tiaras for the coronation of King Edward VII. A New York location was opened in 1909 by Louis’ son, Pierre who would eventually move the store to this locale in 1917.

Website: http://www.hmdb.org/marker.asp?marker=14047
Address: 651 Fifth Avenue, New York City, NY
Cost: Free.

I Walked Boston's Common Parkman Plaza

2017-06-16T07:28:00.000-06:00

Parkman Plaza is a second dedication to Dr. George Parkman within the Boston Common (the Parkman Bandstand being the first). Parkman Plaza was officially dedicated in 1960. The plaza consists of a cement semi-circular space that contains three statues and is also the home to the Visitor Center where the Boston Freedom Trail begins.

You may read more about the Boston Freedom Trail and the Visitor Center which provides free maps for the trail here. In regards to the statues which surround the plaza, each was dedicated in 1961. Each statue is said to celebrate a different aspect of Boston.

Parkman Plaza

The statue on the south side of the plaza is said to celebrate Boston’s Religious energy. The statue consists of a boy kneeling with outstretched arms, palms up and looking up to the sky as if in prayer or in search of spiritual guidance.

The statue on the west side of the plaza (and nearest the Visitor Center) is a figure celebrating Industry. Here there appears to be a man drilling into some object which he has straddled between his legs.

The statue on the north side of the plaza has the name of Learning across the bottom of it. Here we see another young man sitting atop a globe while reading a book.

Website: http://www.waymarking.com/waymarks/WM3MT2_Parkman_Plaza_Boston_MA
Address: Boston Common, Boston, MA. Near the intersection of Tremont Street and West Street.
Cost: Free.

I Walked New York City's Soldiers and Sailors Monument

2017-06-15T09:07:00.000-06:00

The 95 foot tall white marble Soldiers and Sailors Monument was an addition to this area in 1902. It was dedicated on Memorial Day in honor of those New Yorkers who had dedicated their lives and fought so gallantly as part of the US Civil War. Originally New York did not have any serious plans or consideration for a Civil War monument until 1893 when it formed an association to begin to research the possibility. The committee held a public competition for the design of a memorial to be erected at the site of the Pulitzer Fountain over on the southeast corner of Central Park. This plan was later abandoned and the site was reconsidered to the current locale on the edge of Riverside Park. The winning design which was selected was titled, “Temple of Fame” and by Charles and Arthur Stoughton. The ornamentation which is so rich across the monument was actually done by the same man who designed the Ansonia hotel over on Broadway.

To describe the monument it largely resembles the famous Choragic Monument of Lysicrates in Athens. This original Athens monument was created in approximately 355 B.C. and funded by a choregos (or public sponsor of theater) to award to the top performer. If you are familiar with the San Remo on Central Park West you may also recognize the shape and design as that situated atop each of its twin towers.

The rounded marble structure consists of twelve Corinthian pillars atop a large base and with a highly ornamented crown atop it. On this crown are a number of intricately carved eagles. Each of the pillars below contains the names of the New York regiments which fought in the Civl War and the battles they fought in.

Entrance to the interior of the monument is guarded via a large bronze door protected by a sculpted Gryffindor or monkey with wings. Visitors used to be able to enter the monument at all times but are now only open once annually at the Open house New York.

Website: http://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/riversidepark/highlights/12871
Address: Intersection of Riverside Drive & West 89th Street (on the west side of Riverside Drive just inside of Riverside Park), New York City
Cost: Free

I Walked New York City's 15 Central Park West

2017-06-15T05:58:00.000-06:00

The building at number 15 Central Park West is a 2007 addition to this area, making it one of the newest additions. It consists of two limestone towers situated one in front of the other. The shorter 20-story tower and taller 43-story tower, although appearing to be attached, are actually separated via a courtyard.

Apartments for this building currently run from about $6 million for a 2-bedroom to $55 million for a 5-bedroom. Amenities include a 75-foot swimming pool and 20-person theater. Tenants for this locale have included Alex Rodriguez, Sting, Bob Costas and Denzel Washington.

Prior to construction of this latest structure this site was formerly occupied by a 1926 Neo-Renaissance building known as the Mayflower Hotel. Movie buffs may have recalled this address from the 1994 film Wolf starring Jack Nicholson. The Mayflower was where Jack’s character, Will Randall, checked into after his job demotion.
The Mayflower was shut down and eventually demolished in 2004.

Website: http://www.15cpw.com/home.html
Address: 15 Central Park West, New York City, NY
Cost: Free.

The Falconer Central Park New York City

2017-06-14T08:49:00.000-06:00

Located just south of Strawberry Fields is a bronze sculpture perched atop a rocky cliff known as The Falconer. The male figure holds his right arm in a crook while his left arm extends for the graceful falcon with extended wings to land atop his fingers.

The Falconer was dedicated on May 31, 1875 after being commissioned by an Irish merchant who lived in New York City, George Kemp. Kemp commissioned British sculptor George Blackall Simonds to create a replica of a similar statue that Simonds had done that resided in Trieste, Italy. Simonds, an avid falconer himself, hailed from Reading, England where he was declared by the Reading Borough Library system as the winner of their 2005 ‘Great People of Reading’ poll. Simonds had this statue cast in Florence, Italy by Clemente Papi and a second replica was later cast to reside in Lynch Park (Beverly, Massachusetts).

Despite its rather isolated location atop a series of rocks, the Falconer has been the subject of multiple incidents of vandalism and wear-and-tear over the years. In 1937, the sculpture was feared to possibly fall off its perch and had to be restabilized. Twenty years later in 1957, the sculpture was the victim of vandalism inclusive of its falcon being stolen. A replacement falcon was added that year. Then, in 1982, another falcon had to be recast along with The Falconer’s left arm for replacement. Since then, the statue has thankfully had a more peaceful existence in the park. The sculpture was most recently restored and cleaned in 1995.

Website: http://www.centralparknyc.org/visit/things-to-see/south-end/the-falconer.html
Address: Central Park, New York City, NY (Mid-Park, South of 72nd Street)
Cost: Free

I Walked Restaurant Pick - Legal Sea Food

2017-06-14T06:42:00.003-06:00

Ironically located across the street from the New England Aquarium is one of the most popular seafood restaurant chains in Boston—Legal Sea Food. Legal is the de facto standard for seafood recommendations by locals, perhaps because of its central proximity downtown, or perhaps for its well known clam chowder. It is said that their clam chowder has been served at every presidential inauguration since 1981.

legalseafoods.com

Legal’s roots actually began in nearby Inman Square in Cambridge in 1950. It was during this time that George Berkowitz began running a fish market next door to his father’s grocery store, Legal Cash Market. The store derived its name because it provided customers with green stamps with every purchase which were called “Legal Stamps.” The seafood market took off and a restaurant was later added in 1968 at the same location. Fast forward to the present and the restaurant has now spawned to approximately 30 locations across New England where it continues to serve customers with a wide-selection of fresh fish. After all, as their slogan attests, “If it isn’t fresh, it isn’t Legal.”

Website: http://www.legalseafoods.com
Address/Phone: 255 State Street, Boston. (617) 742-5300
Hours: Mon-Thu, Sun 11am-10pm; Fri-Sat 11am-11pm

The Gates in Central Park New York City

2017-06-12T17:41:00.001-06:00

When Central Park was being designed, much debate occurred as to the appearance of the entrances leading into and out of the park. A large series of proponents encouraged highly ornate gates such as those common to the grand parks of European cities like Paris and London. One vocal advocate for the European-style gates was the man who designed the pedestal for the Statue of Liberty, Richard M. Hunt. Hunt proposed ornate gates along the park’s southern edge that would lead into a landscaped plaza with a decorative fountain and curved stairway (similar to that of Bethesda Terrace).

Central Park designers Olmsted and Vaux fought the arguments for ornate gates and instead implemented a series of low sandstone walls. The walls would stand on each side of the park’s eighteen original entrances and be given a name descriptive of the city of New York and its citizens. Although many of the entrances would not carry their formal names etched into the walled entrances, this was rectified in the 1990s when the city added names to all park entrances.

The eighteen original gates that led into and out of Central Park (and their general location) were:

Artisans’ Gate – Central Park South / Sixth Avenue
Artists’ Gate – Central Park South / Seventh Avenue
Boys’ Gate – Central Park West / W. 100th Street
Childrens’ Gate – Fifth Avenue / E. 64th Street
Engineers’ Gate – Fifth Avenue / E. 90th Street
Farmers’ Gate – Central Park North / Malcolm X Boulevard
Girls’ Gate – Fifth Avenue / E. 102nd Street
The Gate of All Saints – Central Park West / W. 96th Street
Hunters’ Gate – Central Park West / W. 81st Street
Mariners’ Gate – Central Park West / W. 85th Street
Merchants’ Gate – Columbus Circle
Miners’ Gate – Fifth Avenue / E. 79th Street
Pioneers’ Gate – Fifth Avenue / E. 110th Street
Scholars’ Gate – Fifth Avenue / E. 60th Street
Strangers’ Gate – Central Park West / W. 106th Street
Warriors’ Gate – Central Park North / Adam Clayton Powell Boulevard
Women’s Gate – Central Park West / W. 72nd Street
Woodmen’s Gate – Fifth Avenue / E. 96th Street

Three later gates were added that were not named as per Vaux and Olmsted’s original naming convention. One of these is Naturalist Gate which is located near Central Park West and W. 77th Street. Another is the aptly named 76th Street Gate located along Fifth Avenue. This was a later addition by Park Commissioner Robert Moses who chose not to follow the proviso laid by Vaux and Olmsted in adhering to their naming convention. Lastly the Inventors’ Gate at Fifth Avenue and E. 72nd Street was oddly named Children’s Gate (one of the original names), and then later redubbed to its current name in the 1950s.

Website: http://www.nytimes.com/2003/02/02/nyregion/02GATE.html
Address: Central Park, New York City, NY
Cost: Free

Golf Courses in South Dakota and History of Dakota

2017-06-12T17:32:00.002-06:00

If you are looking for a golf course in south dakota, below are some of the best recommendations for you. Golf is very fun especially if the weather is very good

Sutton Bay G. Cse.,
The G.C. At Red Rock, Rapid City
Dakota Dunes C.C.
Minnehaha C.C., Sioux Falls
Hart Ranch G. Cse., Rapid City

History of Dakota

The Dakota was the vision of a developer by the name of Edward Clarke, founder of the Singer Sewing Machine Company. When Mr. Clarke expressed his interest and desire to construct a high-end luxury apartment as far north as 72nd Street in 1880, many mocked him and claimed the no one would want to live in the outskirts of New York City at the time. Reportedly these mocking jests included the comment, “he might as well build it in the Dakotas.” Clarke took the criticism in stride, however, and in response even named his new project, The Dakota.

The Dakota was designed by architect Henry J. Hardenberg, who was well known already for his designs of the Plaza Hotel located along the south side of Central Park and the original Waldorf-Astoria building. Construction began on the nine-story hotel on October 25, 1880 was completed almost four years later to the day (October 27). The completed structure was castle-like in appearance with walls that could have sustained a battering ram attack (seeing as they were built 28 inches thick). The façade is covered in a beige brick highlighted via darker stones around the corners and windows and features high gables. When the building opened in 1884 it featured 65 apartments of four to twenty rooms each, all of which were built to be unique and were rented immediately. In addition, one other element the newly unveiled Dakota contained was a stable. Ironically, the sales deed for the neighboring Langham (sold by the aforementioned Mr. Clarke) forbid one. This stable has since been transformed into a more modern stable which now houses parked cars.

Long considered the most prestigious address along Central Park West, the Dakota has obviously had its share of famous residents both past and present. Well known tenants have included the likes of Leonard Bernstein, Connie Chung, Paul Simon, John Madden, Lauren Bacall, Judy Garland and Boris Karloff. Boris, who passed away in 1969, is said to still frequent the hotel as his ghost continues to appear on occasion.

The Dakota is known as having the strictest of all approval boards and has frequently rejected celebrity tenants. Gene Simmons of Kiss was rejected in the late 1970s as was Billy Joel in 1977. More recently Melanie Griffith and Antonio Banderas were politely turned away.

The Dakota has been a celebrity itself on a few occasions, making appearances in some major films. In 1968, it served as the home to Mia Farrow’s character in the film Rosemary’s Baby. In 2001, the Dakota also played a prominent role in the Cameron Crowe thriller starring Tom Cruise and Penelope Cruz, Vanilla Sky.

Obviously, the most famous tenant to have lived and died here was former Beatle, John Lennon. John moved to the United States in 1971 and moved into a seven-floor apartment with his wife Yoko Ono (who still resides here). John and Yoko were known as protective parents who attempted to isolate themselves and five-year-old son, Sean. They, in fact, acquired a number of surrounding units from their apartment. In total they owned 2 units on the seventh floor and three others, primarily used for storage. One of these latter units sold in 2008 for $801,000.

Website: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Dakota
Address: 1 West 72nd Street, New York City, NY
Cost: Free.

A Guide to Plan Your First Trip to Iceland

2017-06-10T21:40:00.002-06:00

Icelandic is the reliable language of Iceland. But, English is extensively understood and spoken inside the USA. So, first-time vacationers need not fear as a long manner as speech is worried. Located just south of the Arctic Circle, inside the North Atlantic Ocean, is Europe's maximum moderately populated nation, Iceland. Rightly termed as 'the island of fire and ice', america functions a cute symphony of elemental powers.

Despite the fact that nearly one-third of Iceland is protected thru ice, pretty some volcanic pastime nonetheless continues there to create herbal geysers and warm springs in abundance. But no matter such effective oddities of nature, the beauty of the island with no manner ceases to call forth the souls of visitors. Ask Lonely Planet has stated, Iceland has that impact on humans―it turns brutes into pots, and skeptics into believers, and the gracious and secure and alluring nature of the Icelanders is a bonus of the magic that the area creates.

Carrying the rich bags of their extraordinary Viking past, the current-day generation of Icelanders have superior into an impartial and nationalistic creed, and have helped transform Iceland proper right into a more social and technologically advancecountryte.
The current excessive requirements of living inside the u . S . A . Do make it a high priced vacation spot for tourists, however, whilst you are there, Iceland will maintain you longing for extra capital.

Iceland for First-timers

Be it actually relaxing in a geothermal lagoon, an adventurous glacial trek, or tenting out in a quiet night time to revel in the magic of the Aurora Borealis or the Midnight Sun, Iceland will overwhelm you on lots of social features. If you are planning to tour to this Nordic paradise for the number one time, this Buzzle guide will assist you endorse a trouble-free adventure.

The Icelandic Climate

The weather in Iceland is unusually risky and unpredictable, so much in order that a beautiful, colourful, sunny day may additionally moreover turn out to be stupid, wet, and depressing in only a be counted of hours. Weather shifts seem so abruptly and all of a sudden that one may additionally get to experience all four seasons in most effective a unmarried day.

Iceland receives constant rainfall at somphasege in the yr; but, from September to May as temperatures drop underneath freezing, rain falls inside the shape of snow.
It rains the most among October and February, and the least in the months of May and June.

The areas that acquire most rainfall are located within the america of the united states's southern and western coasts. On the other hand, the northern and the japanese coasts are drier, or maybe masses chilly all through wintry weather.

Neighborhoodsns, which enjoy geothermal activity are manifestly a great deal hotter than those which might be extra hills and are surrounded by way of ice caps.

Spring is the best time to go to

Off-season Travelers, watch out! !Only those people, who can stick out the chill of the northern European wintry climate should choose to excursion in the low season. While it's far an extraordinary time to tour for price range travelers, do no longer underestimate the Icelandic iciness for saving a couple of dollars. ✦ The pinnacle tourist season falls amongst past due May to early September. This is the summer time within the USA, and sooner or later of the primary half of of this era, as lots as mid-July, the phenomenon of the Midnight Sun may be witnessed. This technique that the Sun does no longer seem to sit down in any respect, and there may be a harmonious and subtle interaction of light and coloration at the usa's numerous landscapes.

From midsummer time onwards, temperatures begin tdischargeop slowly, and the sky begins getting cloudy. Moreover, the nights moreover start getting chillier and more retentive. Winter lasts from about early August to early late March, and it's far the so-referred to as low season to visit Iceland. Characterized by means of pretty lengthy nights with handiest 4 to 5 hours of daylight, the Icelandic wintry weather boasts of large frozen expanses of stable floor and water, and the dramatic show of the Aurora Borealis within the smooth skies.

The months of April, May, September, and October represent the shoulder season travel tote Iceland.
For the ones looking to get away the crowds, however no longer wishing to compromise masses with the weather, this is the quality time to excursion; but, it desires to be adverted to that Iceland may be inaccessible at some point of this period.

It is vain to say that Iceland, like most exclusive locations, is crowded with tourists inside the height season, way to which, resorts and airfares additionally have a tendency to be high priced in the course of this time. So, if you plan to visit throughout the excessive season, it is recommended to e book properly earlier to advantage the super feasible gives.

In the off-season, many vacationer centers, outdoor Reykjavík, Iceland's capital, shut the shop, resulting from oppose weather. The vacationer influx also tends to vanish out, with a few opting to excursion for the duration of this fourth measurement. Airlines, lodges, car rental organizations, and subsequently on., cut returned their commissions, and there aren't any crowds at famous points of hobby.

Despite the hard climatic situations, people from thglobeld over are an growing quantity of choosing to excursion to Iceland inside the low season.
While maximum sports at a few degree at some point of this time are focused around Reykjavík, numerous different sports are also coming to the forefront of late, which include argon-united states of america snowboarding, glacier snowmobiling, canine sledding, and aurora tours.

Mission Trips to Africa, Alternative Holiday Destination

2017-06-07T11:06:00.000-06:00

Mission Trips to Africa is mostly done by travelers who love to circumnavigate the world to look for holiday destinations and new experiences. They love new challenges and the atmosphere of other countries or regions to satisfy themselves. Mission Trips to Africa many travelers selected. They really enjoy their Mission Trips to Africa because of them, a holiday in Africa gives its own impression compared to other countries.

Mission Trips to Africa is something that many travelers from various ends of the world want to dream about. They greatly admire Africa because the area is known as the majority of blacks, but the people are friendly and the cost is very cheap. In the discussion in this article, we will review about Mission trips to Africa, so for you travelers, we hope this article can provide input for you to place your next vacation destination.

Mission Trips to Africa | image : pixabay

Mission Trips to Africa cost

Mission Trips to Africa cost - In our opinion, what we get from various reviews and sources of internet in doing Mission Trips to Africa does not cost much as if you are on holiday to a country other than Africa. The price of goods there is relatively cheap. In fact, we had read a review from someone that the price of wine, there is only 10$ per bottle, but the quality is not inferior to the quality of wine in Europe. That's very cheap, is not it? You can enjoy Mission Trips to Africa while shopping for souvenirs of your family and friends in your hometown. It is inappropriate if you do not bring a lot of gifts for them. Various products sold in Africa are cheap, but you need to remember that cheap is not necessarily cheap. In fact, Mission Trips to Africa cost to travel to Cradle of Civilization's most expensive tour costs only about 3000 $.

Unlike travel to Europe, the most expensive cost can reach 50 million rupiah. On Mission trips to Africa, you can visit various holiday destinations in Africa such as Alamo Rock, Freedom Park Lagos, Fort Jesus in Mombasa (Jesus' largest castle in the world), Masai Mara National Reserv (national park contains elephants, white tigers, and African specialties), and Fes (the most complete and cheapest souvenirs of the original works of the Fes people), etc.

Mission Trips to Africa Summer

Mission Trips to Africa Summer is the most fun holiday, but you need to get ready because Africa is a very hot area. Mission Trips to Africa Summer You may need plenty of sunscreen if you do not want your quiz to black. However, the hot sun in Africa is perfect for you the Caucasians who want to blacken the skin to look exotic without the need to wear sunscreen.

What do you think? Are you going to do Mission Trips to Africa Summer with your family? You have to think again so that later not regret. You do not underestimate the African country, although there is known as a hot country, dusty and rarely exposed to rain let alone snow, but there is a very enjoyable destination, especially for those of you who like nature tours or outdoor tours that are able to test the adrenaline and physical strength of your body

Illinois River Float Trip : Give You A Special Trip

2017-06-05T23:54:00.003-06:00

Are you interested in the Illinois river float trip? But, did you know about Illinois River? The Illinois River is a river located in the United States, more precisely in the state of Illinois. It is an important tributary of the Mississippi River. The length of the river is about 439 km.

The upstream of this river is in northeastern Illinois, near the city of Joliet. The current flows east across Illinois, then southeast. Across the town of Peoria, the largest city that the river has crossed. It flows to southwest of Illinois. Then join the Mississippi River 40 km north of Saint Louis, Missouri.

You need to know, this river is used as a means of transport by Native Americans and is also used by early French trappers. An important route between the Mississippi River and the Great Lakes. In the 19th century, a canal was built that connects Lake Michigan. Now the big ship used the canal to go from the big lakes to the Mississippi River.

Available channels can penetrate the city of Chicago. That is one of the reasons why Chicago is a big city. The winding Illinois River through Cookson Ridge in northeastern Oklahoma and is the 60 miles high waterway, is very beautiful. The Ilinois River cuts off steep and rocky cliffs, creating a stunning sight for visitors to the Ilinois river float trip. Illinois river float trip Oklahoma is a very pleasant travel destination and test your adrenaline.

How not, the Illinois River that cut the steep and rocky cliffs create a very challenging and amazing sight for visitors. Short pine trees, hickory trees, sycamore, dogwood and Redbud also surround the Illinois river. Illinois river float trip Oklahoma provides a very beautiful natural attractions, a shady habitat for wildlife such as deer, foxes and all kinds of birds.

You have the opportunity to enjoy the Ilinois river float trip with your family. The opportunity to enjoy the Ilinois river float trip into this very beautiful landscape, especially in the part of the river that flows parallel to the SH-10 of the Northeast Tahlequah. The Illinois river float trip is the most popular way to experience the flow of the Illinois River.

You should enjoy the Ilinois river float trip Oklahoma by following the cool stream of water and just enjoying all that the Illinois River has to offer.

Illinois River Float Trip | Flickr.com

Planning your Ilinois river float trip Oklahoma

There are various ways to enjoy the Ilinois river float trip Oklahoma. There are three options to make the trip, namely by using a canoe, kayak, or rubber rack. Generally, kayak more maneuverable and can accommodate one to two people. Kano is also easy to control and idea of three people. While the raft can be up to nine passengers.

As you know, the Memorial Day to Labor day is a busy and busy season for the Illinois River, when families and travelers flock to the Ilinois river float trip to cool off and escape the summer. If you have prepared your Ilinois river float trip Oklahoma, you should also prepare clothes that suit you. Most outfitters are along the river to offer lodging.

Includes Ilinois river float trip cabins. Illinois river float trip cabins that they offer fairly comfortable, has a campsite as well, as well as other facilities such as emergency health and swimming pool space. Illinois river float trip cabins are provided by outfitters to meet travelers' needs. Illinois river float trip you can use as a place to rest for a moment. You have to know about Ilinois river float trip cost

Rafts Ilinois river float trip cost

Trip A for 2-4 Hours - $25.00 per person Trip B for 3-6 hours - $29.00 per person

Canoes Ilinois river float trip cost

Trip A for 2-4 Hours - $22.00 per person Trip B for 3-6 hours - $25.00 per person

Kayaks Ilinois river float trip cost

Trip A for 2-3 Hours - $26.00 per person Trip B fo 3-5 hours - $29.00 per person

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Historic National Academy of Science Building

2017-05-29T21:00:00.000-06:00

Historic National Academy of Science Building - The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) was established in 1863 via a charter signed by President Abraham Lincoln, “to investigate, examine, experiment, and report upon any subject of science or art.” This not-for-profit organization is said to conduct over two hundred studies a year on various subjects. The first study that was undertaken by the organization on April 22, 1863 was the riveting task of measuring the “uniformity of weights, measures, and coins, considered in relation to domestic and international commerce.”

National Academy of Science

Past and current members have included more than one hundred twenty Nobel Peace Prize winners and famed scientists such as Noam Chomsky (“Father of Modern Linguistics”), Jacques Cousteau (famous oceanographer and explorer), Thomas Edison (noted inventor of 1,093 patented devices including the light bulb), and Albert Einstein. Members of NAS must be voted in and it is considered one of the highest honors of achievement for a scientist to be nominated.

If accepted, scientists are initiated for life. A full listing of past and present members is available on the NAS website and provides a fascinating insight as to the amount of genius that graces the hall of this building on occasion (http://www.nndb.com/org/692/000054530/).

The National Academy of Sciences is housed within a neoclassical building that stands three-stories tall and is constructed of a white New York Dover marble. The building was designed by architect Bertram Grosvenor Goodhue who sadly died just a few days before the building’s unveiling in 1924. If you glance amongst the windows of the building along its front façade you will notice a series of eight-foot low-relief bronze panels.

These were sculpted by Lee Lawrie (who also sculpted the magnificent reredos within St. Thomas Church in New York City) and are said to represent the likes of Aristotle, Galileo, Descartes, and Benjamin Franklin amongst others. The most eye-catching element outside of the National Academy of sciences, however, is a twenty-one foot bronze statue hidden slightly away by a grove of elm and holly trees. The statue dedicated to Albert Einstein was sculpted by Robert Berks and weighs nearly four tons.

Website: http://www.nasonline.org/
Address:2101 Constitution Avenue, NW,Washington,DC
Cost: Free to view

I Walked Decatur House, Washington DC

2017-05-18T04:33:00.000-06:00

Decatur house Washington, DC was constructed in 1818 as the first private residence, and a third building overall (after the White House and St. John’s Episcopal Church), built along Lafayette Square. The original building had three stories (currently four) and is a square-shaped red-brick structure designed in the popular Federal style.

Decatur House, Washington DC

The Decatur house Washington, DC was designed by famed architect Benjamin Henry Latrobe for Naval Commodore Stephen Decatur, Jr. And wife, Susan Wheeler. Decatur was a naval hero who was the youngest captain ever commissioned in the United States Navy at the age of 25 (a distinction he still holds today).

Stephen had won numerous battles during his command of the USS Constitution as part of the Barbary Wars and later aboard the USS United States in the War of 1812. When Decatur and his young bride moved to Washington in 1816, Stephen used monies awarded to him for his conquests to build a home along the northwest corner of Lafayette Square. His one request of Latrobe was that the home be constructed of hearty material and be “sturdy as a ship.’

Unfortunately, the Decaturs lived in, their blissful home for just over a year (fifteen months to be exact) before Stephen succumb to the challenges of a gentleman’s duel on March 22, 1820. The challenger was Commodore James Barron, who had felt slighted by a sentence bestowed upon him by Decatur. Barron held command of the American frigate Chesapeake in 1807 when it was attacked by a British warship, the HMS Leopard. After a single warning shot was fired upon the Chesapeake, Barron surrendered his ship without question. The British then boarded the Chesapeake and took four members of the Barron’s crew hostage after charging them as deserters of the Royal Navy. Barron, upon return, was reprimanded for his cowardice and was suspended for five years by a naval board that included Stephen Decatur. Seeking revenge for his now tarnished his image; Barron continued to challenge Decatur to a duel until the man agreed.

The duel amongst Decatur and Barron took place at 9 a.m. In Bladensburg, Maryland in a field adjacent to the town’s tavern. The men agreed to a face-to-face challenge that would be set at only eight paces. Each man got off a single shot. Decatur’s shot deflected off of Barron’s hip into his thigh and sent him sprawling to the ground, injured yet not mortally wounded. Barron’s shot, however, rang true and entered the pelvic area of Decatur. Decatur would be carried back to his home where he would pass away later that evening. At his funeral, it is said that over 10,000 people attended to pay their respects, including President James Monroe.

After Stephen’s death, Susan decided to move to a smaller home in nearby Georgetown and she began to rent out the Decatur House to visiting dignitaries over the course of the next fifteen years. Despite have left a sizeable inheritance, Susan found herself in mounting debt and she was forced to sell the home in 1836. Susan led a sad life after her husband’s death despite having numerous suitors including Aaron Burr. She would pass away in 1860, both childless and penniless.

The Decatur house Washington, DC was acquired in 1836 by a wealthy tavern owner named John Gadsby. Gadsby was also the proprietor of the well-known Gadsby’s Tavern located in Alexandria, VA and the former National Hotel located on Pennsylvania Avenue. Gadsby moved into the home with his wife Providence. During their residency, John constructed a two-story building directly behind his home. This building would serve as quarters for the slaves, which served his home. The structure still exists today and is a rare example of former slave quarters, which still reside within Washington.

The Federal Government seized the property during the Civil War for usage as storage space. After the war, in 1872, the home was acquired by General Edward Fitzgerald Beale. Beale had amassed his fortune during the California Gold Rush and was most famous for his failed efforts to establish a Camel Corps for the United States Army in the deserts of Arizona and New Mexico (the animals proved both slow and stubborn). The home remained in the Beale family for 84 years until 1956 when Marie Beale bequeathed the property to the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The home was opened as a museum beginning in the early 1960s.

The museum offers perspective into eight period rooms across two stories. In addition, the museum is currently in the process of being redesigned to serve as an educational center on the history of the nearby White House. During this renovation, the museum is temporarily closed. Continue to check the Decatur House website for updates as to its reopening. (And we will be sure to post hours and admission prices as soon as available.)

While passing by the Decatur house Washington, DC take a moment to glance up along the north side of the building along H Street, NW. Here you will see what appears to be a series of walled up windows. Legends tell of how upon Stephen Decatur’s death, his housekeepers would see his ghostly apparition on occasion looking out one of these windows. Supposedly upon hearing the tales, Susan immediately required that the relevant windows be walled up. As with all legends and tales, though, a fact usually trumps fiction.

It just so happens that the windows that appear as if they were walled up were never really windows. When Benjamin Latrobe was designing the Decatur House and he was installing a series of fireplaces, he was challenged with maintaining to his symmetrical Federal-style design. He could not likely install windows behind the fireplaces and thus the best he could do was to maintain the impression by carving out their ideal locales.

Website: http://www.whitehousehistory.org/decatur-house/
Address: 1610 H Street, NW, Washington, DC
Cost: Free

I Walked Pomander Walk NYC

2017-05-17T03:15:00.000-06:00

Pomander Walk NYC is a tiny private cooperative apartment complex that is unfortunately gated off, however, we are afforded a well worthwhile vantage from the street. This series of town houses is often described as a tiny Tudor village that is reminiscent of old London mews.

Pomander Walk NYC

The two-story buildings are a true throwback with their mix of brick, stucco and half-timbering. They were conceptualized by developer Thomas Healy, who hired the firm of King & Campbell to recreate the homes within the early 20th century play, Pomander Walk NYC. In 1921 a series of twenty-seven buildings were built around a romantic courtyard accessible only by the gated entrances on both West 95th and West 94th. Now, Healy had really only meant these structures to be a temporary construction which he would later raze and construct a more economically advantageous hotel. However, Healy passed away in 1927 and fortunately for us, never had a chance to fulfill that desire.

Because of its unique charm the Tudor style block has been a popular destination sought for by many New Yorkers. In 2005 and 2006 a series of two-bedroom units sold for $610,000 and $725,000 each. While these apartments have some obvious time-preserved charm such as exterior dumbwaiters used for garbage, they have been documented as dark and tiny with tenants face challenges such as antiquated plumbing. In addition, to get out of owning a property within Pomander Walk NYC, individuals are also required to forfeit a 15 percent flip tax as part of the sale.
As mentioned before, however, these aspects have not deterred a long list of persons anxiously awaiting for the next moment that one of these properties goes on sale. One famous tenant who used to reside here for a period was none other than Humphrey Bogart.

Website: http://www.amny.com/urbanite-1.812039/pomander-walk-the-cutest-street-you-never-heard-of-1.2831138
Address: 261-267 West 94th Street or 260-274 West 95th Street, New York City
Cost: Free.

I Walked Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

2017-05-16T01:56:00.000-06:00

The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum the second most popular of all Smithsonian Museums, got its start on August 12, 1946 when it approved by President Harry S. Truman. It was initially recognized as the National Air Museum, and it was not until the space race was ramping up in the 1960s that the museum was rechristened to its current name. The museum was originally housed in a number of disparate buildings across the city, including the Arts and Industries Building; and it wasn’t until 1976 that a home solely dedicated to the museum was constructed.

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum opened at its current location on July 1, 1976. Prior to the erection of the museum at this site, a number of other buildings and attractions found their home here, including the Washington Armory (which stored weapons for the D.C. Militia), a movie studio, and the U.S. Fish Commission. The existing building was designed by the St. Louis architectural firm of Hellmuth, Obata and Kassabaum. It is a three-story structure of nearly 200,000 square feet that is constructed of pink Tennessee marble interspersed with bits of glass including a massive glass wall on the west side of the building (that also functions as a door for loading/unloading aircraft into the museum). An annex to the museum was constructed in 2003 at Dulles International Airport and named for its benefactor, Steven F. Udvar-Hazy.

Located within the museum is, not surprisingly, a vast collection of some 50,000 objects related to air and spacecraft from a variety of eras. One of the most noted exhibits is the 1903 aircraft that was flown by the Wright Brothers at Kitty Hawk, in what is recognized as the first powered flight. While admiring the plane, you may learn such obscure facts such as that it is composed of wood and fabric held together by steel wire. Noted spacecraft include the Apollo 11 space capsule that flew Michael Collins, Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong to the moon on July 20, 1969. It was on this historic flight that Neil Armstrong would become the first man to walk on the moon. And although it is not a real spaceship, people still flock to the wooden model of the Enterprise that was used in filming the television series Star Trek.

In total there are twenty-galleries for visitation across two floors of exhibits (the third level is left for administrative offices). In addition to the multiple aircrafts that may be admired hanging from the ceiling, a museum store and IMAX theater also exist on the first floor. Another popular attraction is the Albert Einstein Planetarium where visitors may view projected stars and planets across the seventy foot dome.

Visitation of the museum is free and it is open every day of the year less Christmas. Hours are typically from 10:00 am 5:30 pm. Free guided tours are also offered twice daily at 10:30 am and 1 pm. All tours depart from the Welcome Center near the front entrance.

Website: http://airandspace.si.edu/
Address: Intersection of 4th Street, SW and Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC
Cost: Free

I Walked National Gallery of art Washington, DC

2017-05-15T03:46:00.000-06:00

The National Gallery of art Washington, DC is an art museum that features work from as early as the 13th Century up until the present. The Gallery grew so expansive at one point (with currently over 100,000 objects), that the collection had to be spread across two buildings. Since 1978 all work that pre-dates the 20th Century has been located within the West Building, while the East Building contains more modern art. Amongst the best known artists whose work is featured within the National Gallery of Art includes Degas, Monet, Renoir and Van Gogh. In addition, the only work by Leonardo DA Vinci physically located within the United States is located here. This work, titled Generva de’ Benci, depicts the famous 15th century aristocrat from Florence, Italy and was painted by DA Vinci around 1474.

National Gallery of art Washington

The origins of the National Gallery of art Washington, DC began in January 1937 when banker and philanthropist Andrew W. Mellon agreed to help finance a new art gallery in Washington D.C. Congress agreed to formally accept Mellon’s gift on his birthday just two months later (March 24) and construction began on the new facility in June. The museum would receive its largest gift of paintings and sculptures from Mellon himself, who would sadly pass away later that same year and never live to see the opening. Amongst the works within the Mellon’s collection was Raphael’s Alba Madonna, for which he was reportedly the first person to pay more than $1 million for such a painting.

The museum was formally dedicated by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt on March 17, 1941. At its opening the museum consisted of 130 galleries, of which only five actually contained works of art.

The building was constructed in a Neoclassical style of Tennessee marble and in the designs of John Russell Pope (best known for his work on the Jefferson Memorial, and who also would not sadly live to see the building’s opening). At the time it was built the National Gallery consisted of the most marbles ever used within the construction of a single building. In fact, the amount of marble required was deemed so substantial that there was an insufficient amount of single-tone marble and thus multiple tones may be seen throughout the facade. The most noted features of the building are its eight Ionic columns which grace the front entrance along with its central domed rotunda.

For construction of the neighboring East Building in 1978, the original marble quarries used in the West Building were re-opened. The building from street-view appears as a large letter H but is actually shaped as a triangle. It was designed by architect I.M. Pei (best known for his pyramidal additions to the Louvre Museum in Paris) who was forced to create a similar triangular design based upon the allotted land for the project. The East Building was officially dedicated on June 1, 1978 by President Jimmy Carter.

Another addition to the museum was added just one year later, although this was a part of the building’s exterior. On May 23, 1999 a 6.1 acre sculpture garden was unveiled after having been planned for more than thirty years. Included within this garden (outside of the obvious statues) are a fountain and reflecting pool near the center. During the winter months, this pool is transformed into an ice skating rink for the public to enjoy. The Sculpture Garden’s hours vary slightly based upon time of the year, but typically align with the hours of the Museum itself, which is open Monday through Saturday 10 am 5 pm and Sunday 11 am 6 pm.

The National Gallery of art Washington, DC is open 363 days of the year (closed only on Christmas Day and New Years Day) and offers various tour options. Information on all available tours is available at the Art Information Desk near the front entrance, or you may also preview tour dates/times online at www.nga.gov. It is recommended that if you desire a guided tour that you plan in advance as times of tours do vary. Some sample guided tour options include the Introduction to the West Building Collection or a similar offering of the East Building Collection. Each of these tours is free. For self-guided tour options, visitors may listen to the Acoustiguide Audio Tour, which is also free and even includes a children’s version.

Prior to the construction of the National Gallery of art Washington, DC, this was the site of the Sixth Street rail station along the Baltimore & the Potomac (B&P) Railroad. It was at this station that the assassination of President James Garfield would occur on July 2, 1881.

Website: http://www.nga.gov/
Address: Intersection of 4th Street, NW and Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC
Cost: Free

I Walked Jefferson National Expansion Memorial

2017-05-14T08:39:00.000-06:00

Jefferson National Expansion Memorial is one of the top 10 tourist attractions in Washington DC - One of the most significant attractions along the Tidal Basin actually drew scorn when it was first proposed on this site as it meant the removal of numerous cherry trees. This monument, further mocked via its nickname of “Jefferson’s muffin,” was dedicated to the third president of the United States who was also an avid architect, philosopher, inventor and intellect (speaking five languages) —Thomas Jefferson.

Jefferson National Expansion Memorial

The Jefferson National Expansion Memorial is a domed shape building that is actually based upon a structure of Jefferson’s own design. The architect, John Russell Pope, paid the ultimate tribute to Jefferson by integrating a similar rotunda in his design to the one Jefferson had created at the University of Virginia. The rotunda rests atop a rounded colonnade that features tall Ionic columns gracing its front façade. The building is largely constructed of white marble that was quarried from mines in Vermont along with Georgia granite, Tennessee marble and Indiana limestone.

The pope has designed a number of other buildings of note within Washington, D.C., but less for a weak stomach, may have entered another field of study. Planning to attend John Hopkins University in Baltimore to study medicine, he decided he didn’t have the stomach for it after sitting in on a medical procedure. He shifted his focus to architecture where he would later get a degree from Columbia University in 1894. His other well recognized buildings in D.C. Include the House of the Temple (1915), the National Archives Building (1935) and the West Building of the National Gallery of Art (1941).

Unfortunately, the Pope passed away in 1937, just two years prior to construction beginning on the Jefferson Memorial. Oversight would fall onto the shoulders of Daniel P. Higgins and Otto R. Eggers to ensure the Pope’s design was faithfully implemented. The cornerstone for the building (an eleven-ton piece of Vermont marble) was laid on November 15, 1939 with a copy of some of Jefferson’s most famous writings including the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. The monument was formally dedicated on April 13, 1943, Jefferson’s two-hundredth birthday. Leading the dedication was President Franklin Delano Roosevelt.

One member, or element, that was missing at the dedication is the famous nineteen foot, five ton bronze statue that currently graces the interior of the monument. The statue by Rudolph Evans had not been fully completed and thus a plaster version (painted as if to look like bronze) had to be installed temporarily. The delay had been largely driven by a material shortage due to World War II.

Rudolph was awarded the commission for the statue of Thomas Jefferson in 1941. His design was selected out of one-hundred one entries. The final statue, which Rudolph designed was cast in New York by the Roman Bronze Company and installed in 1947.

The statue features Jefferson stands stoically with a copy of the Declaration of Independence clutched within his left hand. The long jacket he appears to be wearing was supposedly a gift from his dear friend and fellow patriot Tadeusz Kosciuszko.

Surrounding Jefferson is five quotations from some of his most memorable writings. In 1972 a transcript error was noted by a professor from Northwestern University on a quotation taken from the Declaration of Independence. This quote located along the southwestern wall contains the word “inalienable” in lieu of “unalienable” as drafted on the Declaration of Independence.

Also worthy of note around the memorial is a marble pediment that resides just above the main entryway on the north side. The pediment is titled The Drafting of the Declaration of Independence and was sculpted by Adolph A. Weinman in 1943. Amongst the famous faces you will see include the likes of Mr. Jefferson, along with Benjamin Franklin and John Adams.

Info Jefferson National Expansion Memorial

Website: http://www.nps.gov/thje/index.htm
Address: Intersection of E Basin Drive, SW and Ohio Drive, SW, Washington, DC
Cost: Free