There are so many things to do and places to see in New York that it can be difficult to know where to start, so I’m going to provide a short guide to some of the top attractions in this amazing city. I will write about food and lodging at a later date.
I guess the obvious starting point has to be …
1. The empire state building. A place where you can look down on the skyscrapers of New York for a change. Head to the corner of Fifth Avenue and 34th Street, which is actually in the middle of Manhattan. Here you can have great views of the city and my advice is to make an advance purchase of tickets to reduce the waiting time.
two. The statue of Liberty. A gift from France found on Liberty Island in the port of NY. A symbol of American freedom that proudly looks out over the bay, saluting all ships. Access is by ferry that also goes to nearby Ellis Island. While it is possible to visit and explore these two attractions in one day, it is recommended that you allow one day for each.
3. Ellis Island.This island offers a visit to the Immigration Museum with an interesting look at the immigrant experience. Movies, tours, and interactive exhibits provide great insight into the challenges and hardships immigrants face when passing through this island.
Four. Rockefeller Center. A year-round destination that is also located in the center of Manhattan. Perhaps most famous for the Christmas tree and outdoor ice skating rink featured in various Holywood movies, but it also offers many shops and restaurants.
5. Great Central Terminal. Also called Grand Central Station, which is inaccurate, it is not just another train station. Shops and restaurants feature prominently, as does Beaux-Arts architecture. You can also take one of the guided tours that are available to get details of the history of this magnificent location.
6. Staten Island Ferry. A great attraction where you can see the New York Harbor up close. There are ferries serving travelers between Lower Manhattan and Staten Island and visitors who want to see the New York City Boardwalk can enjoy a free crossing. You will also get another different view of the Statue of Liberty.
You can say that these are the top vacation attractions and getaways in New York, but there is really so much more to see, Central Park is an obvious candidate. Also in Manhattan, this huge park is a very welcome break from the rest of a city that is littered with so many tall buildings.