This city, of course, does not really need any introduction – even for tourists from overseas. Most already probably have their list of top New York things to do.
Featuring in so many movies and TV shows alone so that many folks all over have a good idea of what the Big Apple is like and what is there to capture the attention of even the most jaded traveller.
What does New York conjure up for you in your mind and imagination? Musicals (Broadway), songs (“New York, New York”), tragedy (ground zero), money (Wall St and the Stock Exchange), the gateway to the States for millions of immigrants (Ellis Island), Manhattan itself and so much more.
Things you don’t want to miss
Whatever your interests, there will be an abundance of sights and activities to fill up many days of a vacation trip to this famous city.
View Of the City
Either from the Rockefeller Center (Top of the Rock) or the Empire Sate Building.
While the ESB is more famous and higher – partly due to King Kong (LOL), you can see more Central Park from the Top of the Rock.
Central Park
Best place to start is at the southern end (59th & 5th avenue) where you can begin a walk or even better hire a horse carriage for a 30 minute trip
The Statue of Liberty
Naturally! Located on a tiny island in New York Harbor you can either take a free ferry ride that goes past it or take the Liberty Island ferry to actually go there.
You can no longer climb up the internal stairs to the crown, but you can walk around it. The Staten Island ferry is free and gives you great views as it goes past. It’s free and takes about an hour – and you just grab the return trip back when you arrive at Staten Island.
Brooklyn Bridge
The top level is open to visitors and the view encompasses downtown. To get there take the subway to City Hall and then just follow the signs that lead to the bridge.
Downtown
As it is a relatively compact area it is an easy walk. Sights include the Stock Exchange, City Hall, Ground Zero – where the World Trade Center stood, Wall Street and Federal Hall where the first President, George Washington, was sworn in.
Times Square
It’s a hustle and bustle intersection – and probably best seen at night when all the neon is lit up. Also there is Madame Tussauds wax museum (like in London) and the huge Toys R Us store – but don’t take the kids to that unless you take your credit card too!
5th Avenue
THE street to walk along – for the Rockefeller Center, St Patrick’s cathedral, FAO Schwarz toy store. Start at 42nd Street at the library. Or even go a block or two down and first visit Grand Central station. Then there are some famous mansions and apartments to ogle at.
Broadway
If your budget allows you have to experience a show here – so check well ahead of your trip and see what’s playing and if you can get tickets before you leave. The shows aren’t cheap, but you may get discount tickets for day of the performance only (after 3pm) at TKTS
The Museums Of New York
New York can be rightly proud of its cultural heritage as demonstrated by some of the best museums and art galleries in the world. The “Met”, the Museum of Modern Art, The Guggenheim, The Museum of Natural History are places where you can spend hours and hours.
Some Alternatives
If you have kids with you consider visiting the “Intrepid” – an aircraft carrier permanently docked and used as a sea, air and space museum.
Last, but not least “THE” Shopping in New York
New York is the center of world fashion and there are the famous stores such as Macy’s, Bloomingdales, Tiffany & Co, Saks Fifth Avenue – plus the Virgin Megastore and the Strans Book Store (massive second hand books)
Some Tips For New York
Get A CITY PASS for a real Savings
Get a City Pass – gains you entrance to the Empire State Building as well as four of the famous museums (from around $79) – works out at about a discount of $65. You have a choice of options that allows you to customise your vacation sightseeing
See 5th Ave Shops When Visiting New York
Explore the great 5th Ave shops on your next New York vacation
See The Best New York Attractions
Get a city pass to see the New York Attractions and save money
Experience Broadway Shows In New York
Book before you travel for Broadway shows in New York
