As one of the world’s most exciting cities, New York is a vibrant creative hub which has produced some of America’s best-known artists and performers. After only a few hours sightseeing New York it is easy to see how the city can inspire one to greatness. There’s never a dull moment and it truly is the city where you can get anything, do anything and be anyone. As you explore New York, sightseeing on foot, bus or boat here are a few names you may recognise who have trodden the path before you…

Lucille Ball

Funny-girl Lucille Ball was America’s best-loved redhead up until her death in 1989. She dominated television screens for over a decade in “I Love Lucy”, and her slapstick humour made her popular the world over. She made her scatterbrained housewife persona into an art form and her brilliant comedic style has been much-imitated but never quite equalled. Although ending up a huge star in Hollywood, Lucille Ball began her career on Broadway under a different name and had moderate success before he bright lights beckoned.

George Gershwin

Born in Brooklyn in 1898, George Gershwin came to fame with his unique ability to create music by blending many different styles. Probably the most memorable tune he composed is Rhapsody in Blue, but his best-known musical “Porgy and Bess” was received with only moderate success when it opened. Now however, it is one of America’s most celebrated musical works. Together with his brother Ira, George Gershwin became responsible for many of the most recognisable musicals you may see on Broadway, one of your must-see destinations when sightseeing New York.

Eddie Murphy

If your sightseeing New York tour takes you to Brooklyn, you may feel the presence of another of its famous sons; actor-comedian Eddie Murphy. Beginning his career as a stand-up, Murphy served his apprenticeship on Saturday Night Live straight out of school. Shooting to fame in the films like 48 Hours, Beverly Hills Cop and Coming to America, he has continued to delight his fans with his raucous humour and the comedic brilliance he brings to his acting roles. He became the first actor ever to earn $1,000,000 for a film role, and most recently became famous with a whole new legion of young fans for his portrayal as the voice of the donkey in the Shrek movies.

Ed Sullivan

Anyone who had a television in America between the years of 1948 and 1971 will know the name Ed Sullivan. Through his work in the medium he became one of the most recognised faces in the country. He was credited with exposing the middle-class viewing public of America to the arts and entertainment culture. Never before or since has any one presenter/producer had such an effect on the general viewing public; and his commitment to exploring the diversity of the arts has been much-admired. On a tour sightseeing New York, you may pass the Ed Sullivan Theatre (formerly CBS Studio 50) renamed in his honour and now the home of the “David Letterman Late Show”.

Author Bio: Marta Sanders-Cooper is the New York Destination Expert for Shorex, specialising in unique and unmissable, expert-led tours & excursions in major cities around the world, for the best in city sightseeing. New York tours are custom made and constructed from an extensive menu of activities, attractions and excursions, many of which are unique to Shorex.com

Category: Travel
Keywords: sightseeing New York