The Statute of Liberty is a national landmark presented to the US in 1886 as a gift from France to commemorate the centennial of the United States. It stands as a welcoming gesture to those coming to the US, either as visitors from foreign countries or for returning Americans. The Statue of Liberty is constructed mostly of copper and the tablet she is holding represents the Declaration of Independence. The Statue of Liberty is 151 feet tall, not including the pedestal on which it rests.

The Statue of Liberty is one of the most recognizable icons of America across the world. Many books have been written about the experience of immigrants coming to the United States and going through Ellis Island. It is a symbol of American freedom from oppression and freedom to seek opportunity. In the aftermath of 9/11, the Statue of Liberty has been closed to visitors, not because of a terrorism threat, but because of the lack of a good evacuation plan in case of fire. Visitors can still view the platform, but entrance into the statue is not permitted anymore.