1.Empire State Building
The Empire State Building, a 103-story skyscraper, was the world’s tallest building for almost 40 years. While it has been surpassed many times since, it still boasts some of the best views of New York City.
Standing at 1,454 feet tall, the Empire State Building offers some of the most spectacular views in New York City. From the 86th-floor open-air observation deck and the 102nd-floor indoor observatory, you can see the city’s sprawling skyline, the Hudson and East Rivers, Central Park, and even neighboring states on a clear day.
Completed in 1931, its construction was a marvel of modern engineering, completed in a record-breaking 13 months during the Great Depression. The building’s history is filled with fascinating stories, from its early days as an office building to its role in popular culture. The Art Deco design, with its elegant lines and iconic spire, adds to its timeless appeal.
The Empire State Building is located at 350 Fifth Avenue, between 33rd and 34th Streets with several lines stopping nearby at the 34th Street-Herald Square station.
Tips for Visitors
- Download the App: The Empire State Building offers a free app that provides a guided tour, with information about the building and the views from the observation decks. It’s a great way to enhance your visit.
- Plan for Security: Like many major attractions, the Empire State Building has security screenings. Arrive a bit earlier to account for this, and avoid bringing large bags to speed up the process.
- Combine with Other Attractions: If you’re planning a full day of sightseeing, consider purchasing a New York City Pass, which includes entry to the Empire State Building and other major attractions at a discounted rate.
2.Carnegie Hall
Carnegie Hall is a concert venue and it often plays host to classical performances. Located just two blocks south of Central Park between 56th street and west 57 street, it is considered one of the most prestigious venues for classical and popular music.
Carnegie Hall is synonymous with musical excellence. It has been graced by legendary performers such as Tchaikovsky, Louis Armstrong, and The Beatles. Attending a performance here means witnessing world-class artistry in a venue renowned for its acoustics and grandeur.
The Italian Renaissance design, with its ornate moldings, plush red seating, and grand chandeliers, creates an ambiance of elegance and sophistication. The hall’s three distinct performance spaces – the Stern Auditorium/Perelman Stage, Zankel Hall, and Weill Recital Hall – each offer a unique and intimate concert experience.
It is accessible via several subway lines, including the N, Q, R, W, and F trains.
Tips for Visitors
- Check the Calendar: Carnegie Hall’s schedule is packed with diverse performances. Look for special events, premieres, or rare appearances that might align with your visit.
- Plan Your Evening: Make a night of it by dining at one of the many excellent restaurants near Carnegie Hall before or after the performance.
- Explore Nearby Attractions: Take advantage of Carnegie Hall’s central location to explore nearby attractions like Central Park, Times Square, and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).
3.Central Park
Central Park, also known as the lungs of New York City, is massive public park located in Manhattan with a plethora of different entrances. It is almost like a bit of a maze. If you really want to see the park properly you’ve got to come several times and you’ve got to enter from different entrance points.
We managed to visit Belvedere Castle, the Great Lawn, Shakespeare Garden, The Ramble, The Jackie Onassis Reservoir, the Alice in Wonderland Statue, and we still left feeling like we barely scratched the surface.
Spanning over 840 acres, this urban oasis offers a serene escape from the bustling streets of Manhattan. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, the park boasts lush meadows, wooded paths, and tranquil bodies of water.
Central Park is also home to iconic landmarks. The Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, with its stunning views and intricate carvings, is a popular gathering spot. The Central Park Zoo offers a delightful experience for families. Other notable attractions include the Conservatory Garden, Belvedere Castle, and the Great Lawn.
Central Park stretches from 59th Street to 110th Street and from Fifth Avenue to Central Park West. It’s easily accessible from various points in Manhattan. The subway is a convenient option, with several lines stopping near the park. Major entrances include Columbus Circle at 59th Street, the entrance near the Metropolitan Museum of Art at 81st Street, and the Harlem Meer entrance at 110th Street.
Tips for Visitors
- Download a Map: Central Park is vast, and having a map can help you navigate its many paths and attractions. The official Central Park app is also a useful tool for exploring.
- Join a Guided Tour: Several guided tours, including walking, biking, and even horse-drawn carriage tours, are available. These tours offer interesting insights into the park’s history and landmarks.
- Check Event Schedules: Central Park hosts numerous events throughout the year. Check the official website for schedules of concerts, theater performances, and special events to enhance your visit.
4.Strawberry Fields
Strawberry Fields is a section of Central Park dedicated to the memory of John Lennon. This was a place Lennon used to frequent, and travelers from far and wide stop by to leave a rose and pay their respects.
Named after The Beatles’ song “Strawberry Fields Forever,” this serene area offers a peaceful retreat and a place of reflection amidst the hustle and bustle of New York City. Located near West 72nd Street, close to the Dakota Apartments where Lennon lived and tragically died, Strawberry Fields is an essential stop for fans and visitors alike.
Designed as a “quiet zone” within Central Park, Strawberry Fields provides a serene and contemplative environment. The area is beautifully landscaped with elm trees, flowers, and shrubs, creating a natural sanctuary where visitors can relax and reflect.
Strawberry Fields is located near the West 72nd Street entrance to Central Park with the 72nd Street station (served by the B and C lines) just a short walk away.
Tips for Visitors
- Respect the Quiet Zone: Strawberry Fields is designated as a quiet zone. While music and conversations are welcome, be mindful of maintaining the peaceful atmosphere.
- Combine with a Park Visit: Make the most of your visit by exploring other nearby attractions in Central Park, such as the Bow Bridge, Bethesda Terrace, and the Central Park Zoo.
- Join a Walking Tour: Consider joining a guided walking tour that includes Strawberry Fields. These tours often provide interesting insights into John Lennon’s life and the history of the area.
5.Street Food
For a quick bite grab some street food in New York City. It’s easy to find especially outside of major tourist attractions such as the MET. My personal favorite was the giant pretzel!
You can find anything from classic New York hot dogs and soft pretzels to authentic tacos, falafel, dumplings, and even gourmet lobster rolls. Each food truck and cart offers a unique slice of the city’s culinary landscape, making every bite an adventure. You can enjoy a Korean BBQ taco, followed by a Belgian waffle, and finish with an Italian cannoli, all within a few blocks.
Some street food vendors have become NYC legends. From the Halal Guys on 53rd and 6th to the Wafels & Dinges trucks scattered across the city, these vendors have built loyal followings and critical acclaim.
Tips for Visitors
- Go Early or Late: To avoid long lines, try to visit popular food trucks and carts either early or late in the meal periods. This also ensures the freshest food.
- Be Adventurous: Don’t stick to familiar foods. Street food is all about trying new things, so be adventurous and sample dishes from different cultures.
- Follow the Crowds: A long line is usually a good sign. Popular vendors attract crowds for a reason, and the wait is often worth it.
6.Catch a Broadway Theatre Performance
You can’t come to New York without taking in a musical. There are so many different ones to consider you can choose from Mama Mia to Phantom of the Opera.
Stretching through the heart of Manhattan, the Broadway Theatre District is home to more than 40 theatres showcasing some of the finest productions in the world. From dazzling musicals to powerful dramas, catching a Broadway show is a quintessential New York experience.
Broadway is the pinnacle of theatrical excellence. The performances are top-notch, featuring talented actors, breathtaking set designs, and captivating storylines. Whether you’re watching a long-running classic like “The Phantom of the Opera” or a contemporary hit like “Hamilton,” the sheer quality of Broadway productions is unmatched.
Broadway theatres are centrally located in Midtown Manhattan, making them easily accessible from anywhere in the city. Many theatres are within walking distance of each other, Times Square, and other major attractions, allowing you to combine a show with dining, shopping, and sightseeing.
Tips for Visitors
- Matinee Performances: Consider attending a matinee performance if you prefer a daytime show or want to save some money on tickets.
- Explore the Theatre District: Arrive early to explore the vibrant Theatre District. There are plenty of restaurants and bars where you can grab a pre-show meal or drink.
- Stay for the Curtain Call: Don’t rush out as soon as the show ends. Stay for the curtain call to show your appreciation for the performers and enjoy the final moments of the Broadway experience.
7.Madison Square Garden
Madison Square Garden is home to the New York Rangers NHL hockey team. This building is one of the most famous in the whole world for sports, entertainment, concerts, shows, performances and other events.
Often referred to as “The Garden,” is one of the most iconic venues in the world. It has been a cultural and entertainment hub since it first opened in 1879. The Garden’s versatility is one of its biggest draws. You can catch a New York Knicks basketball game, cheer on the New York Rangers hockey team, or be part of a sold-out concert by a world-famous artist.
The venue also hosts boxing matches, wrestling events, and special shows like the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. No matter your interests, there’s always something happening at Madison Square Garden that will captivate and entertain you.
Tips for Visitors
- Arrive Early: Arriving early not only allows you to avoid long lines but also gives you time to explore the venue and soak in the pre-event atmosphere.
- Explore Nearby: Take advantage of The Garden’s central location by exploring nearby attractions, dining spots, and shops before or after the event.
- Check the Schedule: Make sure to check the event schedule and any specific entry requirements or restrictions ahead of time to ensure a smooth experience.
8.African Burial Ground
This is a memorial site to the unnamed free and enslaved Africans who were buried here. It was only rediscovered in 1991.
It is the final resting place for over 15,000 Africans who lived and worked in the city during the 17th and 18th centuries. Visiting this monument offers a deeply moving experience and an important historical perspective.
The visitor center features exhibits that delve into the history, archaeology, and anthropology of the site. Through artifacts, interactive displays, and informative panels, visitors can learn about the daily lives, struggles, and achievements of the African community in early New York.
The African Burial Ground is located at 290 Broadway, close to several subway stations including Chambers Street, Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall, and Foley Square. It’s easy to reach by subway, bus, or on foot if you’re exploring the nearby area.
Tips for Visitors
- Respect the Space: Remember that the African Burial Ground is a sacred site. Maintain a respectful demeanor and consider the significance of the space and those interred there.
- Guided Tours: Take advantage of the guided tours offered by park rangers. These tours provide invaluable insights and a richer understanding of the site’s history.
- Plan Ahead: If you’re interested in attending a specific program or event, check the schedule in advance and plan your visit accordingly.
9.Columbus Circle
The cool thing about this intersection is that it’s the point from which all official distances from New York City are measured.
Columbus Circle is one of the most recognizable landmarks in New York City. The towering statue of Christopher Columbus at its center, perched atop a grand pedestal, is an impressive sight. This historic monument, erected in 1892, commemorates the 400th anniversary of Columbus’s voyage to America, adding a touch of historical significance to your visit.
Reaching Columbus Circle is simple. Take any of the A, B, C, D, or 1 subway lines to the 59th Street – Columbus Circle station.
Tips for Visitors
- Time Your Visit: Consider visiting Columbus Circle in the late afternoon. This allows you to enjoy shopping and dining before taking a leisurely evening stroll through Central Park.
- Explore Beyond: Don’t just stop at the Circle. Venture into the surrounding areas like the Upper West Side or Midtown to get a broader sense of the city.
- Check for Events: Keep an eye out for any events or performances happening at the Circle or in Central Park. There’s often something exciting going on that can add an extra layer of enjoyment to your visit.
10.Take the Subway Metro
One of the best ways to get around New York City is of course by Metro. If you want to really explore New York City, we recommend picking up a MetroCard so that you can zip around the city with no restrictions. It’s cheap and it’s efficient.
With over 472 stations and 665 miles of track, it’s the lifeline of the city, connecting all five boroughs and bustling with energy day and night. Riding the subway is an essential New York experience. It offers a glimpse into the daily lives of New Yorkers and the vibrant culture of the city.
The NYC Subway is iconic. From its historic stations and famous subway maps to its distinctive trains and the characteristic “stand clear of the closing doors, please” announcement, the subway is embedded in the city’s identity. It’s also one of the most efficient ways to get around, allowing you to explore vast parts of the city quickly and affordably.
Tips for Visitors
- Mind the Rush Hour: Try to avoid traveling during rush hours (8-10 AM and 5-7 PM) if you want a more relaxed ride. The trains can get very crowded during these times.
- Stay Alert: Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings. The subway is generally safe, but it’s always good to stay vigilant.
- Enjoy the Performances: Many stations feature live music and performances by talented artists. Take a moment to enjoy these mini-concerts—they’re a delightful part of the subway experience.
- Explore the Art: Many stations are home to impressive public art installations. Stations like 14th Street/Eighth Avenue and 81st Street/Museum of Natural History have stunning artworks worth checking out.
Final Thoughts: New York City
And that concludes a look at our very busy week in New York City. I’m still shocked we managed to cover so many attractions, but the great thing about this city is that distances aren’t very long and there’s always something really cool worth checking out around each corner.
Have you been to New York? What are your favorite things about this city? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below.
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