For a New Yorker, it is a lot of adrenaline, but for a guest, it can be both pleasant and overwhelming. The city is a colorful mosaic of history, culture, and awesome energy, but efficient use of streets and attractions can be a big challenge. Here are some advice and the best places we have listed for you.
Before you go
- Choose the right time
Think of the seasons you are partial to. Fresh air and fewer crowds in spring and autumn are just a few benefits of them. There is a sign of vibrant and heat in summer while it also has a cold and snowy winter.
- Book your stay early
The hotels in New York City are the first to run out of rooms, especially, when it`s peak season. This will give you peace of mind knowing that you’ll have a place to stay, regardless of your budget situation.
- Consider a travel pass
If you are likely to visit many of them such as the iconic attractions, buy a pass like the CityPASS. It can facilitate you with saving money as well as time by providing access to a number of attractions and sites.
- Plan your itinerary
When you find yourself overwhelmed with all the places you want to visit and the activities you want to take part in, it is most helpful to know what your priorities are. Make certain that you have a good idea of the places you really want to go to and all the activities you wish to engage in.
Upon arrival
- Get familiar with the subway
Probably, a subway will be the fastest way to travel in NYC. You’ll need a Metro Card, which can be bought at any station on the subway line.
- Prepare for crowds
New York City is full of people, particularly in popular and cultural places which are prominent places of attraction.
- Don’t hesitate to ask for help
New Yorkers, as a general rule, are hospitable persons; they are ready to give directions and recommendations.
- Take it all in
Sit back and relax with the city’s atmosphere. Lose yourself into the thrill and variation of NYC.
Additional tips
- Wear comfortable shoes
You will be walking a lot, therefore, ensure your boots are up for it.
- Stay aware of your surroundings
Although NYC is principally a safe place, be sure to pay attention to your belongings so as to prevent them from being stolen.
- Stay hydrated
Take a water bottle that can be reused with you so that you can remain replenished during the whole day.
- Be adventurous
New York City is a city of infinite opportunities. Don’t be hesitant about eating new foods, visiting new neighborhoods, and being a part of the urban culture that is so dynamic and diverse.
Take a moment to appreciate your stay in the Big Apple and the unpredictable nature of living in this great city.
Here’s an overview of 15 must-visit destinations in New York City.
- Central Park: Stretching over the 843-acre expanse, this metropolitan refuge teems with different attractions, including peaceful gardens, gorgeous lakes, and prominent monuments such as the Belvedere castle and the Loeb boathouse. Whether it’s through strolling down the curved paths, renting a bike, or just having a picnic on the Great Lawn, Central Park has something for everyone to enjoy.
Location: Central Manhattan
Highlights: Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, Strawberry Fields, Sheep Meadow, The Mall, and Wollman Rink.
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met): The Met primordially owns about two million artworks gathered across civilizations and epochs, trying to maintain its status among the world’s leading museums. Be it those of Egyptian antiquity, European masters, Islamic art, or otherwise, it is a cultural ‘decathlon’ to explore.
Location: Upper East Side
Highlights: The Egyptian Tomb Room, John Paul Getty Museum, The Charles Engelhard Court of European Decorative Arts, Arms and Armor, and The Costume Institute.
- The Statue of Liberty: Representing liberty and cheerfulness, Lady Liberty is standing at top of the Liberty Island. Come aboard the ferry to get close to her splendour and explore the vast history and culture.
Location: Liberty Island
Highlights: Ferry, the skyline of Manhattan, historical moment.
- Times Square: A bright hub full of sparkling lights, Broadway Theaters together with the hustle and bustle of crowds, Times Square stands for the city’s energy and life. Fully entering its life, take some pictures either in the shade of high billboards or while the artists entertain you with their amazing acts.
Location: Midtown Manhattan
Highlights: The Broadway theaters, Madame Tussauds’s Wax Museum, Ripley’s Believe it or Not!, The Shops at Columbus Circle.
- The Empire State Building: As a distinguished feature of the city’s skyline, this stylish Art Deco structure draws bystanders to its 86th and 102nd-floor lookouts where they get to enjoy magnificent views of the metropolitan area.
Location: Midtown Manhattan
Highlights: The observation deck, displays the building’s history, and State Bar & Grill.
- The High Line: The High Line, which was originally an old freight line and now turned into a public park hanging in the air, has become the local green area in the jungle city, where you can enjoy panoramic views and various kinds of decorations.
Location: Chelsea and Meatpacking District
Highlights: The Spur, The Vessel, The Chelsea Market, Hudson Yards.
- The 9/11 Memorial & Museum: In this piece of memorial art and museum, the victims of the September 11th attacks are well honored as their names are inscribed on the pools with mirrors alongside the visual of some artifacts from the terrible incident.
Location: Lower Manhattan
Highlights: Immense fountains, manifestations of the September 11th attacks, and the power of resilience.
- Grand Central Terminal: Apart from playing a pivotal role as a bustling transportation center, Grand Central Terminal astounds with its amazing architecture through the breathtaking celestial ceiling in the Main Concourse and the mystical whispering gallery.
Location: Midtown Manhattan
Highlights: Starry Ceiling, Nouvelle Vague, (whispering gallery).
- Brooklyn Bridge: Spanning from the East River is the historic suspension bridge that helps pedestrians and cyclists transverse its arches while they take in the amazing skyline view of Manhattan and the Brooklyn waterfront.
Location: Linking up Manhattan with Brooklyn
Highlights: One can catch iconic skyline views and pedestrian walkways.
- Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): An abode for modern and contemporary art connoisseurs, MoMA is a treasure trove of masterpieces made by the giants of art such as Picasso, Van Gogh, Warhol among others, representing different schools of arts.
Location: Midtown Manhattan
Highlights: Picasso, Van Gogh, Warhol, artistic movements of the XXth and XXIst centuries.
- Top of the Rock Observation Deck: Located at the heart of Rockefeller Center, this observation point from where visitors can witness panoramic views of the imposing city skyline including Central Park and the Empire State Building, and enjoy a visual treat for the eyes.
Location: Rockefeller Center
Highlights: 360 views of the entire city, Central Park, and the Empire State Building.
- Bryant Park: Deep in the flurry of Midtown Manhattan, the sanctuary of Bryant Park is an oasis amidst lush greenery. The park turns into a fairy where one can skate on ice or browse through the holiday market.
Location: Midtown Manhattan
Highlights: Peaceful environment, ice skating rink, Christmas market.
- Chinatown: Chinatown, New York’s lively collage of sights, sounds, and tastes, reflects the Grandeur and color with a riot of markets, authentic restaurants, and ornate temples.
Location: Lower Manhattan
Highlights: Colourful markets, fascinating cuisine, and ornamental temples.
14. The Frick Collection: The intimate experience of great European masterpieces housed in a mansion from the Gilded Age permeates the entire Frick collection, including the palace interiors and peaceful gardens.
Location: Upper East Side
Highlights: European art, townhouses, garden greenery.
15. Museum of Natural History: Discover the beauty of mother nature at this world-class museum which has iconic exhibits of dinosaur fossils, mummies from ancient times, and exhibitions on how man evolved and about space travel.
Location: Upper West Side
Highlights: Dinosaur skeletons, mummies, exhibits on humans’ evolution, space exploration.
Experience New York by visiting the different areas of the city each with a unique character of the city. No matter what you’re looking for, whether a museum, well-known buildings, or lively communities, consider your trip a time to fuel your curiosity.
