Off-the Rails Adventure

Since the terrorist attacks on September 11, the Statue of Liberty has been closed to tourists, but fret not. An alternative (and more exciting) way to get up close to the 116-year-old lady of the Hudson is by sea kayak. Plying the busy waters of the Hudson River, kayakers weave in and out of water traffic that can include jet skis, ferries, yachts, and the occasional surfacing fish. Leave your shopping behind and embark from the skyscraper-fringed perimeter of Manhattan toward the greener shoreline of New Jersey. Whichever direction you choose to look, there's plenty to gawk at on your way around Ellis Island and Liberty's outstretched arm. This is truly the best way to experience the full majesty of Manhattan and its world-famous landmarks: inches from the water, free from gridlock, and with the freedom to roam.

Activity Info
OUTFITTER: Manhattan Kayak Company: (212) 924-1788; www.manhattankayak.com
WHAT TO BRING: Water-wicking clothes, synthetic fabric (no cotton), water shoes
DURATION: approximately 3.5 hours
PRICE: $100
DIFFICULTY RATING: Moderate
WHEN TO GO: Spring or fall