Central Park: The Urban Oasis
Come for the greenery, stay because you got lost in its vastness. Central Park is the champion of size among New York’s other parks and a prime staple of any NYC itinerary. This sprawling, 843-acre gem is not only ideal for people watching, but it’s a haven for tourists and locals alike. With 58 miles of paths, there are plenty of walks in New York awaiting your eager feet. Pack some bagels and coffee for a scenic picnic, but keep an eye out for squirrels that have no concept of personal boundaries.
The Statue of Liberty: The Ultimate Beacon of Freedom
The Statue of Liberty is a must-see monument for history buffs, freedom lovers, and anyone who thinks hats are overrated. With a ferry ride to Liberty Island, you can currently view it up close and even ascend its pedestal for panoramic views. Pro tip: The statue is best photographed while trying not to drop your phone in the Hudson. Also, skip the seven-hour line by booking your torch-viewing tickets in advance.
Times Square: The Epicenter of Neon
Whether you’re in the mood to feel like a sardine in a very brightly-lit can or want to experience the rush of New York City’s hustle and bustle, Times Square has got you covered. Known for its giant electronic billboards and costumed characters with questionable photo policies, Times Square is both kitschy and quintessentially New York. Be warned: It’s also the place where time goes to inexplicably disappear.
Empire State Building: Reach for the Sky
King Kong climbed it, but you can take the elevator. The Empire State Building offers a compelling 360-degree view of New York and beyond, best accompanied by compulsory photos where you pretend to scale its walls. Visit at sunset for an experience that’s less “giant skyscraper” and more “wow, New York really does glow in the evening, doesn’t it?”
The Metropolitan Museum Of Art: A Whirlwind Cultural Tour
As you wander through the vast halls of the Met, remember that it’s impossible to see it all in one day. Located on the Museum Mile, it offers everything from priceless antiquities to a comprehensive collection of American decorative arts. Perfect for those days you want to feel smarter and classier than usual. Plus, saying “I’m visiting the Met” makes you sound like an intellectual.
Broadway: A Showstopper
Life’s a drama, so why not indulge properly? Catch a timeless musical or the hottest new play. Broadway gives you a perfect excuse to don your fanciest attire and enjoy a spectacle worthy of double jazz hands. But remember, buying tickets for a sold-out show is a game of wits, requiring a dash of luck and potentially a second mortgage.
The High Line: A Walk on the Wild Side
What do you get when you take a historic freight rail line and elevate it above Manhattan streets? Apparently, an incredible green space that’s now known as the High Line. This 1.45-mile-long park offers striking views of the Hudson River and the Meatpacking District. Just resist the urge to run dramatically down the path singing a ballad from “Rent.”
American Museum Of Natural History: Dinosaurs, Please!
Whether you prefer decoding the mysteries of the universe or staring in awe at gigantic dinosaur skeletons, the American Museum of Natural History has your back. Explore space, the oceans, and ancient civilizations—ideal for a rainy day or a family visit. It’s more fun when you pretend those skeletons are still alive, adding a thrilling risk to your visit.
Brooklyn Bridge: The Iconic Connection
Take a walk across this architectural marvel and watch as Manhattan meets Brooklyn under a canopy of steel cables. It’s one of the only places where you can enjoy views of both boroughs—plus, you can finally check “walked on a bridge that doubles as a gym class rope swing for giants” off your bucket list!
9/11 Memorial And Museum: A Place of Reflection
No tour of New York is complete without paying respects at the 9/11 Memorial. The somber yet powerful tribute honors the lives lost on September 11, 2001. The accompanying museum offers a poignant journey through the events of that day and its aftermath. Prepare tissues as you are led through a deeply moving experience that carries significant historical importance.