New York

‘New York is always a good idea’

I never really thought of New York as somewhere I really wanted to go, don’t get me wrong it’s on my list but wasn’t anywhere near the top! I’m no city girl, I live in a small town in Wales.

When the opportunity came up, I took it and got researching all the different places, things and food I had to try.

What I wasn’t prepared for was the minute I stepped out the taxi... WOW is this New York?

My breath was literally taken away by how tall everything was, how busy the streets were and all the delicious smells that drifted through the air... what an incredible place! I was in love and couldn’t wait to explore.

Here are my top places to see in New York and what not to miss...

Empire State Building

This tall skyscraper is a famous landmark in New York and known for its spectacular views. You can visit in the day or at night; we went at 3 o’clock in the afternoon and the queues weren’t too bad. It cost $38 to go to the observational deck or $58 to go to the very top of the building and the observational deck. The views are worth it!

Rockafella

Besides just walking around this iconic area of the city, you can grab a free map from the lobby to take a self-guided tour and find out more information. In the winter you can ice skate on the rink below and at Christmas the most beautiful tree is displayed right at the centre. If you wanted to explore the top of the rock then it will cost you $36 but offers amazing views. I recommend going at night when the city is lit up.

Brooklyn Bridge 

You can walk across the bridge for free anytime and definitely worth it. Just make sure you stick to the walkers side, bikes don’t take it well if you’re in their path stopping them from passing (you may get a mouthful!)

Parks

Central Park is the main park in New York. There is no way this beautiful park could be left off the list. This park is a mile and a half long, full of different landscapes, a skating rink in the winter, ponds, lakes, babbling brooks, and artwork. You will see families relaxing and playing, people exploring or having a tour on a horse and carriage or bike...or if you’re like me, sat people watching.

Bryant Park is a small park in the middle of the city. This park was right by our hotel so we used to go grab breakfast from one of the cafe nearby and take it to the park to sit and eat in the sunshine. I loved this park because it is a small quaint area in the middle of the madness. Located between 40th and 42nd Streets in Midtown

Battery Park is on the south side of Manhattan which overlooks New York harbour. This is the perfect area to relax and take in the views looking out to the Statue of Liberty.

Flat Iron

One of New York City's oldest, and most unique buildings that you shouldn’t miss. The triangular-shaped structure sits on an entire block, bounded by Fifth Avenue, 23rd Street, and Broadway. It faces Madison Square park which is a small park but lovely to sit and chill in with food from a cafe or to have a break from all the exploring. 

Greenwich

This is a lovely area to explore but make sure you visit Magnolia Bakery. There are a few around New York but the one situated in Greenwich was the first one built in 1996. A variety of flavours and one of the best cupcakes I have tasted. Located on 401 Bleecker Street, on the corner of West 11th Street. 

Staten Island Ferry (Statue of Liberty)

This ferry runs 24/7 with service every 15-20 minutes on weekdays, and 30-60 minutes on the weekends. This free ferry ride is a great way to see a panoramic view of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty. Once you arrive in Staten Island, you can either stay a while or walk around to the other side and hop right back onto the ferry. It’s best to avoid the morning or afternoon rush hour and head there around 2pm. 

Tip -  unless you really want to go up the Statue of Liberty I wouldn’t bother, the queues are very long and you get a great view from the ferry so why waste time and money 

The High Line

A old railroad turned into a walking path through the city with art and plants in every direction. The High Line is the perfect place to escape the busy roads of New York. It is almost 2 miles long and worth a visit. The walkway runs from Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District to W 34th street. 

Grand Central Station 

The beauty and design of this building is incredible, and it’s worth a visit! Also a great place to people watch and find hidden secrets like the whispering wall. Located at 89 E 42nd Street.

Ground Zero and One World Observatory Tower

The area around the One World Observatory Tower has been transformed into a memorial park for all of those affected during 9/11, this area is called Ground Zero also known as Memorial Plaza and it’s free. One World Observatory Tower costs $34 to go to the top but the views are spectacular. Be prepared to get emotional and have a tissue spare, such a lovely place to remember the awful events that took place. 

Times Square 

This is where you can stand in the center of New York and take it all in. The huge stores, the crowds of people, the mega, mega screens, and at night the bright lights. You can get onto one of the mega screens yourself if you want to. Check out the M&M store here if you love them like me, the variety of flavours, colours and souvenirs will blow your socks off!

Little Italy

This little area is where you can browse souvenir shops and taste traditional Italian food at a variety of restaurants and bakeries. I recommend grabbing a pizza whilst exploring here.

Fifth Avenue

There is no better place to shop! I love window shopping at the high-end stores that I will never be able to buy from (but I can dream.) You will also find Bloomingdales here which is worth a visit.

Make sure you also visit Macy’s located off 5th Avenue at 151 W 34th Street. It was built over 110 years ago and it sure does capture the beauty of architecture from another age. From the inside out, this location is beautiful.

Shows

Make sure you go see a show! There’s always a variety of options and you can’t go to New York without visiting a show on Broadway! Make sure you buy your tickets online before you go, they’re more expensive at the box offices in the city.  

Extras

If you have a spare morning like we did then I recommend exploring Coney Island. From roller-coasters to go-karts, to live entertainment and boardwalk games, beachfront Coney Island has it all! Coney Island is home to an Aquarium, Action-Packed Rides, Restaurants, Shops and Sideshows, Coney Island has something for everyone. 

We got there by using the subway and was worth a visit to have some time out from the big city.

New York is like a jungle and absolutely somewhere everyone should go in their lifetime.

This is just some of the main attractions in New York that you must not miss but I can promise you every street you walk down offers something new. 

Try to walk lots because things can be missed when taking the subway or catching a tour bus. 

Get your walking shoes on and get exploring... remember this is the city that never sleeps!