New York City is so enigmatic. It draws in visitors from all over the world and those who are lucky enough to call it home are lucky enough. The streets hold millions of secrets and offer countless opportunities to enjoy gourmet meals, Broadway shows, and some of the world’s most perfectly manicured parks.
Although New York City spans five different boroughs, we’ll mostly focus on the isle of Manhattan while quietly dipping our toes into the waters of Brooklyn. Gear up! Put on your favorite walking shoes, and let’s go see why this is consistently considered to be the greatest city in the world.
Enjoy a Meal at Grand Central Oyster Bar
If you’re coming into the city through Grand Central, consider a stop at the Oyster Bar. It’s an iconic eatery right in Grand Central that serves the most delicious raw oysters, pan roasts, and chowders. It could be a nice way to fuel up before taking on the Big Apple and seeking out a hotspot for dinner later in the evening.
Visit the Museum of Modern Art
You have so many options when it comes to museums, especially in Midtown Manhattan. But, if you had to go with just one, you might try the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).
It contains over 200,000 pieces spanning 150 years. The art here is, perhaps, the most accessible, containing modern pieces from the 1880s all the way up to today’s films. Plus, their gift shop is fab. To help you decide if MoMA is truly the one for you, this guide outlines a few of its contemporaries that you might like, as well.
Stay a Night at The Library Hotel
If you’re a book lover, you simply must make room in your budget for at least one night’s stay at The Library Hotel. It’s an easy walk from Grand Central and is, of course, close to the New York Public Library, one of the most beautiful libraries – and buildings – in the city.
In the hotel, all the art and decor have a literary theme. Their rooftop bar is a splendid way to end the evening as you gaze out over the city. And, of course, you’ll be in a position to head over to the New York Public Library and explore another fascinating building.
Visit the Christmas Shops at Bryant Park
If you happen to come to New York during the holiday season – when everything is dazzling and bright – you simply must visit the Christmas Shops at Bryant Park. Located right behind the New York Public Library, this gorgeous park turns into a European Christmas market for New Yorkers and visitors alike.
You’ll find plenty of handmade trinkets, delicious cups of hot chocolate, and plenty of great meals to sit down and enjoy whenever you’re ready for a break. Of course, the Christmas tree on display also cuts a fine figure.
Wander Around Rockefeller Center
Speaking of Christmas time and glorious trees, there’s another hotspot you simply must see for yourself. We’ve all seen the Rockefeller Christmas Tree on TV, but how about in real life? There’s so much magic in the air during this time of year, and you simply must drink it up, especially if you pair it with a delicious treat from Dean & Deluca.
Head Up to the Top of the Rock
The Empire State Building may be the most obvious choice for panoramic views of the city, but don’t overlook the Top of the Rock in Rockefeller Center. After you’ve fueled up with a muffin from Dean & Deluca’s, you can make your way to any one of three indoor/outdoor observation decks for unobstructed views of the New York City skyline.
Step Into Saks Fifth Avenue
Whether or not you’re a fashionista, it’s nice to see a luxury department store that’s been around for so many years. And, again, if we’re talking about Christmastime, it’s sure to be a delight because their window displays are always so festive.
Step inside, smell the fragrances, touch the cashmere and silk, and just enjoy the beauty of a perfectly appointed store where the cream of the crop comes to update their wardrobes.
Light a Candle In St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Sticking with this general area, let’s pop into St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Built in 1879, this Neo-Gothic Catholic Cathedral has so much to see from an art standpoint. Savor the stained glass windows; admire the art around each of the statues of the saints; get a close look at how ornate the altar is.
If you’re able to, weave your way all the way around to the back of the cathedral. There’s a quiet little chapel tucked away back there, The Lady Chapel, and it’s a lovely way to enjoy some of the peace and serenity floating through the air.
Have Afternoon Tea at The Plaza Hotel
Whether Eloise or Macaulay Culkin’s adventures in Home Alone left a mark on your childhood, it’s worth stepping inside the lobby of the Plaza Hotel. But you can go beyond that and enjoy afternoon tea at The Palm Court before you continue your adventures.
There’s a beautiful stained glass ceiling made of opal glass that lets the most glorious light stream in. Surrounded by palm trees, potted plants, an oval trellis bar, and mirrored tables, every scone and sip of tea will be twice as nice.
Stroll Through Central Park
When you’re done with The Plaza, all you have to do is pop across the street to make your way into Central Park. There are so many things to do in this 843-acre expanse of land, so you’ll have to pick and choose what you want to see.
You can gaze into the mirrored waters of The Pond in the southeast corner of the park. Walk along The Mall for a seat at those iconic green benches that have featured in so many movies and TV shows.
Find the Bethesda Fountain, also known as The Angel of the Waters, for a little more beauty and grace. O,r try to find the mini sailboats at Conservatory Water. Either way, there’s lots to see and do in here, whether you take a formal guided tour or just wander around.
Walk Through Times Square
If you want to feel the electricity in the air, stroll over to Times Square from Midtown. Keep your purse close to your body as you look up at all the billboards and lights. Things are quite touristy here, with popular chains on every corner, like Applebees.
So, we wouldn’t recommend eating or shopping here when there are so many authentic restaurants throughout the city. But, it is worth a stroll just to say you were there.
Enjoy a Broadway Play
Whether or not you’re a theater buff, there’s likely a play on Broadway that you’d enjoy. Consider the classics like The Lion King, Wicked, or The Phantom of the Opera if you’re not sure. Whether you snag some seats for an afternoon matinee or make this a part of your night out on the town, you’ll be glad you got to see that kind of talent on stage.
Dine at Del Frisco’s
After your Broadway play, you might want to walk over to Del Frisco’s on 6th Avenue or Avenue of the Americas. Never again will you taste a prime rib the likes of this steakhouse. Their seafood is also out of this world.
Of course, this won’t be the most affordable stop along your way. However, Del Frisco’s is an institution when it comes to steakhouses and fine wine selections. It’s well worth going light on lunch for a day or two to make room in the budget for a table at this jaw-dropping eatery.
Visit Chelsea Market
Okay! We’re going to have to hop on a subway to get down to Chelsea, a lovely neighborhood on the West Side. Right in the heart of the famous Meatpacking District, you’ll find a wonderful array of stalls selling fresh food, meats, cheeses, and more. You can set aside a few delights for your Airbnb or hotel or just enjoy a midday snack here. Either way, it’s definitely worth exploring.
Walk Along the High Line
Not far from Chelsea Market, you’ll find another glorious greenscape right in the heart of one of the world’s most bustling cities. This park is particularly fascinating because it was built on an elevated freight rail line.
Instead of demolishing the old rail line, a few bright architects turned it into a beautiful 1.45-mile park where people come for a casual stroll or to sit down and chat with friends. This is a nice place to stop for a rest when you’re on the West Side as you savor the sweetness of this sprawling metropolis.
Visit Washington Square Park
Another iconic park, this time in the Lower West Side, is Washington Square Park. Located in Greenwich Village, this is a lovely meeting place for locals and tourists alike.
You’ll also find artists and chess masters putting their skills to the test as you make your way to the centerpiece – the fountain. At only nine acres, it’s no Central Park, but certainly another photo-worthy spot throughout your tour of Manhattan.
Spend a Night at Smalls Jazz Club
Can you imagine New York in the 20s, à la Great Gatsby? The flappers, the jazz clubs, the cold glasses of whiskey. Smalls Jazz Club has the ability to transport its visitors back to that glorious time. Whether or not you’re a jazz lover, the ambiance will more than compensate for that. It’s a simple, no-frills kind of place that hosts some of the finest musicians in this genre.
Sip on Some Wine at Amelie Bistro & Wine Bar
After Washington Park – and before Smalls – stop by the beautiful Amelie Bistro and Wine Bar for the full wine bar experience that only New York City can deliver. Whether you snag a table inside or out, you’ll quickly note that the ambiance is on point.
With all the gold and red decor, you’ll probably find yourself in the mood for a robust Cabernet, but you never know. Not only is their wine selection out of this world but so is their food. And, if you can’t make it in the evening, they also have a splendid brunch menu.
Visit the Tenement Museum
Moving over to the Lower East Side, the Tenement Museum offers a few more fascinating pieces of history. As you’re guided through two historic tenement buildings, you’ll learn about the brave men and women who migrated to the city in search of a better life. These historically recreated homes tell quite a story.
Ferry Over to Governors Island
From the Battery Maritime Building, you can hop on a ferry and sail over to Governors Island, a 172-acre island in the heart of New York Harbor. Once you’re there, the look back on the island of Manhattan will make it feel even more surreal. How can so much be packed into that one little island? This might be a nice place to picnic with your treats from Chelsea Market, as well.
9/11 Memorial & Museum
It’s hard not to be in lower Manhattan without thinking about 9/11. The city built a beautiful memorial and museum to honor the precious souls who were lost that day.
The 9/11 Memorial & Museum has a far more harrowing feel than MoMA or the Tenement Museum. But, for 90 minutes, you can book a guided tour to learn more about everything that led up to the attacks and hear some of the stories of those affected by the attack.
Walk Along The Battery
The Battery, formerly known as Battery Park, is a wonderful place to stroll when you’re in Lower Manhattan, as well. Like Governors Island, it cuts a fine picture of the New York City Skyline. You can also watch the boats and ferries sail along the Hudson River.
Wave to the ferry-goers heading to the Statue of Liberty or Governors Island. Simply put, it’s just another nice place to sit with a sandwich and watch the world go by when your feet need a little bit of rest after all the walking you’ve done.
Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge
Few photos in life are more quintessential than a shot of the Brooklyn Bridge. It’s a lovely walk when the weather’s nice. You’ll have to head to Lower Manhattan to access it. But, when you do, you’ll have a lovely windswept walk, taking in views of South Street Seaport, the Manhattan Bridge, and parts of DUMBO – a lively neighborhood in between the two bridges.
Since we’re about to step outside the borough of Manhattan, here are a few more unforgettable experiences in New York City and beyond!
Stop By Prospect Park
Okay, this is cheating because we’re no longer in Manhattan. But, if you walked across the Brooklyn Bridge, you might as well check out one of the finest parks in this beautiful borough!
Nestled between some of the most stunning neighborhoods in Brooklyn, particularly Park Slope, with its gorgeous brownstones and tree-lined streets, you’ll enjoy the peace that this space has to offer. People will be playing frisbee, bird watching, picnicking, and more. There are also plenty of events taking place all throughout the year.
Visit the Brooklyn Botanic Garden
We’ll close out with one more cheat because, again, if you’ve walked across the Brooklyn Bridge, you might as well get acquainted with this eclectic borough. Both the Bronx and Brooklyn have botanic gardens.
But Brooklyn’s is really special, with its Japanese Garden and famous rose garden that bursts into life in late May or early June. It’s another magnificent feat – that something so lush and lovely can exist in the midst of the chaos of a big city. This, too, is another place to heal your soul when you need to sit still and hit the reset button.
Enjoy All the Sights You’ll See
Indeed, New York City is worth every ounce of hype it receives. Whether you plan to shop, window shop, take in a Broadway play or a jazz show, New York City will deliver – time and time again.
We hope you make the most of your time here and see everything you’d like to see! And, of course, this isn’t the only destination guide dedicated to the city that never sleeps. Here’s hoping we get to raise a glass to you one fine day in Del Frisco’s or Amelie’s!