If you're ever contemplating paying to take the ferry to see the Statue of Liberty, DON'T. I mean if you have the option of touring the Statue of Liberty, do that I guess. But if you can't do the tour because it is sold out just take the FREE Staten Island Ferry. You get a great view and it's FREE.
And if you are ever wondering if you should go to the 9/11 Memorial, GO. You will cry and it's fine, even if you're an ugly crier. That is hands down the best museum I have ever been to. I spent a good two or three hours in this museum and could have easily spent a few more but my belly was longing for some Lombardi's pizza.