While tourism remains a booming economic force in many parts of the United States, its implications aren’t wholly positive. As tourists continually flock to historic sites and carefully preserved attractions, these destinations face threats of damage and overcrowding. This downside to tourism has reared its ugly head at one of America’s most beloved spots, sparking a recent shift in protocol and a marked effort to reduce the negative effects of so-called “overtourism.”
Flickr/Jiuguang Wang The Statue of Liberty has long stood as an icon of the American Dream, boasting a storied and fascinating history as part of New York City’s immigration heritage. The statue, which stretches upward for 305 feet, has been managed by the National Park Service as part of a broader monument site since 1933.
Facebook/Statue of Liberty National Monument For generations, the towering statue and Liberty Island as a whole have drawn in countless visitors seeking a chance to see this one-of-a-kind piece in person. This constant stream of tourists has created unforeseen issues at the Statue of Liberty, forcing the National Park Service to update its visitation policies.
Flickr/schizoform As of May 2019, private commercial tour groups have been banned from visiting the statue’s observation deck and accompanying museum. This regulation comes in response to a 600% increase in such tours over the past decade, which heavily contributes to the issue of overcrowding at the Statue of Liberty and similar monuments. Officials point to blocked walkways, inaccessible exhibits, and congested public spaces as evidence of “overtourism” throughout Liberty Island.
Flickr/A. Strakey Don’t let these new rules prevent you from adding a Statue of Liberty visit to your bucket list, though: visitors who arrange to peruse the site on their own are still encouraged to explore this utterly breathtaking spot.
To read more about the recent changes to tour policies at the Statue of Liberty, click here. What are your thoughts on the issue of overcrowding at America’s most famous places? Should tourism be limited or more heavily regulated to help maintain these destinations? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
Flickr/Jiuguang Wang
The Statue of Liberty has long stood as an icon of the American Dream, boasting a storied and fascinating history as part of New York City’s immigration heritage. The statue, which stretches upward for 305 feet, has been managed by the National Park Service as part of a broader monument site since 1933.
Facebook/Statue of Liberty National Monument
For generations, the towering statue and Liberty Island as a whole have drawn in countless visitors seeking a chance to see this one-of-a-kind piece in person. This constant stream of tourists has created unforeseen issues at the Statue of Liberty, forcing the National Park Service to update its visitation policies.
Flickr/schizoform
As of May 2019, private commercial tour groups have been banned from visiting the statue’s observation deck and accompanying museum. This regulation comes in response to a 600% increase in such tours over the past decade, which heavily contributes to the issue of overcrowding at the Statue of Liberty and similar monuments. Officials point to blocked walkways, inaccessible exhibits, and congested public spaces as evidence of “overtourism” throughout Liberty Island.
Flickr/A. Strakey
Don’t let these new rules prevent you from adding a Statue of Liberty visit to your bucket list, though: visitors who arrange to peruse the site on their own are still encouraged to explore this utterly breathtaking spot.
To read about another amazing American attraction, click here.
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