With countless restaurants, stores, galleries, museums and attractions, there’s no shortage of things to do and places to go in New York City. Considered “The City That Never Sleeps,” New York offers more than you can handle in a day or two.
The must-see list for a few-days visit to New York is simply mind-boggling, especially for a first-timer. But don’t fret, you’ll return. Assuming that you already know the big attractions: Statue of Liberty, the HighLine, Times Square, Museum of Modern Art and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, we’re going to give you the top places that you should visit.
Empire State Building
This is one of the ultra-attractions for every visitor. The view alone from the 86th-floor observation deck is simply breathtaking. With its stately decor and architecture, you’ll love it. As a major attraction, you will not be alone.
Avoid the throngs by visiting early at 8:30 am or during lunch and dinner hours, Monday to Wednesday. Tickets are $22 for adults and $45 for the express pass to avoid the lines.
Central Park
New York’s beloved natural gem is a must see. Home to 843 acres of amazing views, hidden nooks and vibrant flora, there is a lot to enjoy. Rent a bike from $20 and see it all. Bike tours are also available from $47 a person.
With well-marked routes, cycle through hilly terrain, stop by the Alice of Wonderland sculpture, the Bow Bridge, the Conservatory Water and take in the views of the park’s Bethesda Fountain.
New York City Streets
I know it may sound odd, but New York is unlike any other city. Fascinating, frenetic, and enchanting in many ways, the city’s streets offer newcomers an unforgettable energy. One of the best ways to take it all in is through the Go New York Tours hop on/hop off experience.
Bus tours let you see it all, from Chinatown, to Theater District, to the World Trade Center and everything in between. Call it the best way to peruse the city’s streets while sightseeing the most interesting spots.
Bowery Ballroom
No doubt the best music spot in the city, Bowery Ballroom is for the music lovers. Considered home of New York’s best sound system, this is where up-and-coming indie rock artists perfect their skills. Warm up for the show at the bar downstairs and enjoy local band music.
Grimaldi’s Pizzeria
New Yorkers will always argue about the best pizzas, with many top contenders. We can’t argue about that here but Grimaldi’s Pizzeria is a must visit. Located under the shadow of the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, Grimaldi’s is the ultimate pizza joint, not to mention the music classics played from a jukebox.
As Forbes notes, Grimaldi’s Pizzeria has for long been rated as one of New York City’s best pizzerias. The coal-fired pizzeria still maintains its prestige.
West Village Stroll
If you’re looking for a bit of history in an old neighborhood, you’ll love the West Village. The clustered quaint brownstones set along the tree-lined streets, give it a 19th-century look and feel. Wander around or see highlights like the shops along beautiful Bleecker Street and Commerce Street. Or visit the former women’s detention center, the Jefferson Market Courthouse.
Grand Central Terminal
Take a ride back through New York City’s illustrious past. Share some secrets at the Whispering Gallery, meet new faces in the gourmet culinary market, explore elevated passageways and enjoy spectacular views of the concourse or gaze at the celestial ceiling mural just above the main concourse.
Wondering when to visit New York city? Like New Yorkers put it, the best time to visit New York city is anytime. Each season offers visitors plenty of reasons to visit. Give yourself a head start!
Author bio: Shawn Barton is a New York native and an avid travel writer. He’s easily distracted by dogs and is always on the search for the best offbeat attractions in and around big cities. When he’s not writing, he loves hiking, cycling around New York or networking.
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