Tourist attractions shut down as Sandy closes in

Tourist attractions throughout the mid-Atlantic region were closed Monday, with public transportation shutting down and officials imploring residents and travelers to stay off the roads as Hurricane Sandy makes its approach.

The Smithsonian Institution closed the National Zoo and all its museums in Washington, D.C. In New York City, Sandy's impending arrival shuttered Broadway theaters and delayed the much-anticipated reopening of the Statue of Liberty to the public. The National Park Service announced last month that Lady Liberty would reopen Sunday to celebrate its 126th anniversary, but says the statue will be closed today and Tuesday.

In Virginia, the Colonial Williamsburg historic area, visitor center and retail stores are closed, though nearby hotels including the Williamsburg Inn remain open.

Part of the fishing pier in the resort destination of Ocean City, Md., fell to the strong currents unleashed by Sandy. According to the Associated Press, Ocean city police report "significant damage" to the pier.

Meanwhile, the tall ship HMS Bounty, seen in Mutiny on the Bounty and in the Pirates of the Caribbean series and often open to visitors, sank south of Cape Hatteras. Most of the crew was rescued early Monday, but two crew members were missing. For more information, see USA TODAY's report.