Happy National Skyscraper Day everyone! In honor of this day, I will be posting some photos from one of my absolute favorite cities of all time that is just covered with skyscrapers: New York City. 

When I think of New York City, I think of freedom. Not the typical freedom you're probably thinking. The first time I went to NYC was back in the Summer of 2013 and it was my very first trip being on my own, without either of my parents. Thankfully it wasn't my last time there. I ended up going back that same year in the Fall (my first experience with Fall, which began my obsession with the season) for a photo conference, and then again in the Summer of 2015. Many of the photos below are scattered throughout these years. 

New York City is the city of skyscrapers not only in buildings but in amazingly beautiful bridges. The obvious and most famous bridge of the city is the Brooklyn Bridge. To finally see it in person was absolutely stunning. The intricate details the architects and engineers did for this bridge back in 1869 is impressive. They opened the bridge to the public in 1883 and now 138 years later it is still standing intact. Truly remarkable. The photo I took looking up at the archway of the bricks is hanging up on my wall and I smile everytime I look at it, knowing I was able to walk on history. 

Before walking the Brooklyn Bridge, I had the honor of visiting the original JW Watchtower headquarters in Brooklyn, NY. I knew someone who worked inside the Brooklyn Bethel facilities and he was able to take me up to the roof of the building. The views were beyond spectacular. You could overlook the East River towards the Financial District of NYC and even see the One World Trade Center. The panorama from the beginning of this post is a photo I captured while on the roof of this historical building. Unfortunately, the buildings have been sold and the headquarters of the Jehovah's Witnesses have since moved upstate, which made this visit extra special. 

While staying in New York in the Summer of 2013, I stayed at the Ravel Hotel in Long Island City right next to another magnificent bridge: the Queensboro Bridge. As beautiful as the Brooklyn Bridge is, the Queensboro Bridge is so intricate in detail that it took my breath away when I saw it. Nothing could compare to the sights I saw from this hotel when sunset came around. If you ever want to see a great sunset view of the city, especially with a backdrop of this bridge, stay at the Ravel Hotel and ask for a balcony room. Even if you don't stay in this hotel, go up to the top floor and admire the view at the rooftop restaurant called Penthouse808 or "The Penthouse." This is what I did one evening and I was beyond thrilled to see this view. 

You will be able to see the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building from the rooftop of this hotel. Again, if you're ever in the city make sure to check out this view one evening. 

When I stayed at the Ravel Hotel they had a shuttle service that would take you to and from the subway station near the hotel. The area is a bit sketchy but with the shuttle service it made it easier and safer. 

One of my favorite architectural buildings of all time will always be the flatiron building. I made it my mission to capture photos of this building and it has forever resided as my background wallpaper on my phone lol. 

While visiting NYC you absolutely must visit Central Park. It wouldn't be called a New York trip without the experience of this beautiful and massive park. This is probably one of my favorite places to be. This is the perfect spot to go when you just need a breather away from the city, despite being in the heart of Manhattan. One of my favorite things about Central Park are the buildings that peak through the foliage and above the lakes to remind you that you're still in New York City. I was able to see quite a few skyscrapers around the edges of Central Park, especially at the Jacqueline Onassis Reservoir (last photo below), and the architecture of these buildings are ones to be admired.