The American Museum Of Natural History
First opened in 1869, this museum currently boasts a collection of a whopping 30 million artifacts including complete dinosaur skeletons, a state of the art planetarium and even a seasonal butterfly house. There are 600 fossil skeletons on display including a mammoth and t-rex. The Rose Centre in the museum provides space theater shows that are both informative and spectacular to watch.
Sightseeing In New York
In a city that never sleeps, its no surprise that you will find limitless activities and attractions in NYC. While in the Bronx visiting the New York Botanical Garden, you may as well stop by the Bronx Zoo or grab a slice of world-renowned pizza. Of course, walking through Time Square is a must-do for first time visitors, but dont spend too much time here when there is so much more to see. You can spend days in Central Park, where activities range from biking and jogging to playing a baseball game. Sightseeing in New York City can be overwhelming, but fortunately New York tours make it easy to navigate the boroughs and make the most of your time in the city.
Sleepy Hollow And Tarrytown: Colonial
Sleepy Hollow is a colonial-era village on the Hudson River , an area that was historically a center of farming and milling. It’s easy to arrive here by car or the Metro North Railroad .
Sleepy Hollow was the setting of Washington Irving’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, the story about a headless horseman, and is famous for its Halloween festivities throughout the month of October, when the town comes to life with haunted hayrides, glowing pumpkins, live music, literary events, street fairs, and parades. Of course, the Headless Horseman is sure to make an appearance.
The Sleepy Hollow Cemetery is considered a must-see sight during Halloween or any time of year. Daytime and evening cemetery walking tours are offered from April through October. For the evening tours, the cemetery is illuminated by kerosene lanterns.
Other tourist highlights in Sleepy Hollow are the 17th-century Old Dutch Church and the Philipsburg Manor, both mentioned in Irving’s short story.
Visitors can also try to find the Headless Horseman Bridge, although it’s unknown which of the rustic bridges spanning the Pocantico River is the one that Irving described in his story.
Another top attraction is Kykuit, a landmark registered by the National Trust for Historic Preservation that is open to the public for guided tours. Four generations of Rockefellers lived in this stately mansion, which is perched on a hilltop surrounded by magnificent gardens overlooking the Hudson River.
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Spot Celebrities In Nyc
Where to find celebrities in NYC or which celebrities are living in NYC today are common questions by all, but celebrity sightings in NYC are way easier than you may think and happen all the time. You will, of course, see them on the subway, in Central Park, at the gym, in restaurants, at all the current hotspots, at shows and more. But here are some unique ways to see celebrities all over the city.
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Best Things To Do In New York
Despite the natural beauty and charm of New York State, it remains firmly in the shadow of the city with which it shares its name. When somebody says the words New York it conjures images of skyscrapers, shopping, busy streets and yellow cabs but the state of New York has so much to offer in addition. Canyons, lakes, mountains, creeks, rivers and waterfalls provide some of the most beautiful terrain mother earth has to offer. The vast Adirondack Mountains offer some of the United States most tantalizing scenery.
The city of New York certainly has a lot to offer but there is also so much to see and experience in New York State. Our list of the top 25 things to do in New York combines the best of nature and urban sights to provide a definitive list of activities in The Empire State.
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Where To Stay In Nyc
This is a difficult question to answer and really depends on your budget, personal taste and where you plan to spend most time. Each borough, or neighborhood, has pros and cons. Want more info?This guide describes the best neighborhoods in NYC and explains what type of traveler they are most suited for.
This list is by no means comprehensive, but were explaining the vibe of 3 different neighborhoods we think make a great base for your first trip to New York City.
Things To See In New York
Things to do in New York City include more than trekking through the streets all day. You can certainly relax, be entertained, and take break from the hustle and bustle while you enjoy some of the best sights and sounds. Start by taking in a show in the theater district. Once you give your regards to Broadway, walk through the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and stop to smell the roses at the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx. Of course, you should always bring your camera to New York so you can snap pictures of the architecture, landmarks, and community gardens.
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Ice Cream At Ample Hills Creamery
There is always room for ice cream. This is my life motto and I stick by it, especially when there are as many ice cream options as there are in New York City.
Before our trip, we got messages from several readers with recommendations for NYC, and one place we kept seeing over and over again was Ample Hills Creamery.
There are a few locations around the city one being conveniently located right next to one of the entrances to the High Line. And let me tell you, it was every bit as delicious as people told us. So good, in fact, that we returned the next day and ordered the same exact flavors. A big thanks to Carmela from No Wrong Turns for the awesome recommendation.
Flavor Tip: Sample em all, and order whichever you like best. But if you want a recommendation, our very favorite was Ooey Gooey Butter Cookie. It was DIVINE. Like, Im drooling as I type. And we loved it paired with Oatmeal Lace Cookie. But honestly, I dont think you can go wrong here.
Cost: $4.35 for a single | $5.75 for a double
Statue Of Liberty And Ellis Island
The Statue of Liberty is the nation’s most iconic monument, a symbol of hope to millions of immigrants on their way to Ellis Island. Tourists can visit both attractions via a ferry operated by the National Park Service that meets passengers at Battery Park and runs continuous loops throughout the day.
The first stop is the statue, where visitors can enjoy views of both the monument and the New York City skyline at no charge. You can also purchase tickets to access the pedestal or crown, although crown passes sell out at least six months in advance. Be sure to wander through the museum in the base of the statue and check out the extensive educational signs, statues, and historic markers.
The ferry stops next at Ellis Island, where there is a museum on the first floor of the main building, an architectural masterpiece that once served as the main processing center and hospital from 1892 to 1954. On the upper level, tourists can wander the rooms of the quarantine wing and see some of the original bunks and facilities used by those hoping to start new lives.
Inside are poignant exhibits, with walls of photos, documents, and personal stories that capture defining moments in American history, one person at a time. Tourists should plan at least a half-day to enjoy sightseeing at both attractions, or if pressed for time consider hopping aboard the ferry and using the ride to get phenomenal views of these historic landmarks from many angles.
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New York City Attractions
Your heart beats a little faster in New York City. Whether its a first visit or youve been here a hundred times, its always exciting. From Broadway theaters to the Bronx Zoo, this city packs more to see and do into one compact area than any other place on earth. All five boroughs feature must-see attractions, amazing restaurants, and cultural hotspots. Find unforgettable experiences, from high tea at the Plaza Hotel to high-flying at the Trapeze School New York.
With stunning architecture and lush parks, New York is one of the worlds most beautiful cities. Take a double-decker bus tour, stroll the Brooklyn Bridge, or see the spectacular skyline with a free ride on the Staten Island Ferry. Catch sky-high views from a rooftop bar, the Empire State Building or One World Observatory, the Western Hemispheres tallest building.
Remember to social distance and wear a mask as required by state guidelines. Call ahead and check websites and social media to make sure attractions are open and available. Be advised that New York has a travel advisory in effect.
Historic New York Attractions
New York City is one of America’s most historic cities – in fact, it was the first capital of the United States! In a city filled with so much historical significance, it’s no wonder that NYC boasts some of the best historic attractions in the country.
- Ellis Island: Ellis Island in NYC is famous for being the home to the great European immigration of the 19th and 20th centuries. Visit the free Ellis Island Immigration Museum and check out the history of America’s most significant immigration island. You might even see a familiar name or two in their massive collection of records!
- Statue of Liberty: The Statue of Liberty is one of the most recognizable New York City landmarks. Offered as a gift to the United States from the people of France, the statue, which was designed by Frederic Bartholdi, depicts a robed female figure representing Libertas, the Roman goddess of freedom. Now one of the most popular tourist attractions in NYC, with an annual attendance of just over three million, the Statue of Liberty has long stood as a symbol of welcome to those immigrants bound for “The Land of the Free.”
- : The site of one of America’s most tragic days, Ground Zero is the site of the former World Trade Center, which was the victim of terrorist attacks on September 11th, 2001. Remember the heroes of that dark day in American history at this New York City memorial.
Times Square NY
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/11 Memorial And Museum*
Visiting Ground Zero is, in our opinions, a must when you visit New York City. The museum is incredibly well-done and very powerful. It gets busy, so wed recommend going as early as possible to avoid the rush.
Oh, and on your way there, be sure to stop inside the Oculus, the train station adjacent to Ground Zero is meant to look like a dove taking flight.
At the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, you can rent audio guides for $7, but if youre on a budget , heres a tip download the 9/11 Museum Audio Guide app . This is actually the exact same as the audio guide, and was recommended to us by staff since all the audio guides were already rented when we visited.
Robert De Niro is the narrator and does a very good job. We got a lot more out of this experience than we would have had we forgone the audio guide.
Tip: Be sure to bring headphones!
Cost: $24 for adults or FREE with NYC CityPASS.
Are you already feeling overwhelmed with planning a trip to New York? Check out ViaHeroa trip planning platform that will connect you with a local in New York to recommend museums, restaurants, and more based on your unique travel style.
Sightsee From The Sky
Top of the Rock, Empire State Building, One World Observatory, Edge or Summit? Which is best and, if we have to choose, which should we visit? There is no easy answer, but here are some facts to help guide your choice.
- Empire State Building – Best for patient movie and history buffs who need to check it off their bucket list. Recently redone indoor 102nd Floor Observatory
- Top of the Rock – Best for sweeping 360° vista views, including of the Empire State Building and Central Park. Shorter lines and cheaper than the ESB.
- One World Observatory – Best for homage to the Twin Towers. Modern and high tech, with phenomenal views
- Edge – Highest outdoor observation deck, glass bottom floor, deck extends 80 feet away from building
- Summit One Vanderbilt – Opens Oct 2021, all glass elevator, indoor and outdoor decks and glass terraces off the side of the building
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Hotel Highlight: Kimpton Muse Hotel Nyc
As we mentioned earlier, we disliked Times Square, however, we stayed just a few blocks away and found this location to be ultra convenient for visiting all the top sights.
This sleek and comfortable hotel is everything you need for a great stay in NYC. From a fitness center to free bike rentals to free wine happy hour, there are lots of perks! Check out what we thought of staying at the Kimpton Muse Hotel.
If you are going to stay near Times Square, this is a fantastic choice. Check availability on Booking.com.
*We were guests of Kimpton Muse NYC. As always, all opinions are our own.
New York Public Library
The New York Public Library’s main branch was designed by architects, Carrere & Hastings, in the Beaux Arts style. The library, with its impressive rooms, is a prominent city attraction that has been featured in many movies and TV shows over the years.
Although colloquially known as the main branch, the proper name is actually the Stephen A. Schwarzman building. It opened in 1911 to immediate acclaim. An enormous library, the Main Reading Room alone stretches two city blocks, and the Periodicals Room holds 10,000 current magazines. The collection at this location is vast, to say the least.
Location: Fifth Avenue at 42nd Street, New York, New York
Stretching for eight city blocks from Broadway to South Street is the world famous Wall Street. This street and the surrounding area are home to some of the most important exchanges in the world, including the New York Stock Exchange, the NASDAQ, and the New York Mercantile Exchange.
Also located nearby are the impressive Trinity Church and Federal Hall. Look for the bronze statue of Charging Bull at Bowling Green, on Broadway. This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Financial District and a popular photo opportunity for visitors.
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Save Big On Things To Do In New York In December
There are New York City Coupons and Discounts available for almost everything one can do in NYC, except for a few exclusive events, shows and restaurants. This time of year, there are huge savings on shows, tours, attractions and other fun things to do in December.
Examples include Elf The Musical, the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall, The Big Apple Circus, Museums, Holiday Lights Tours, New Years Eve Parties and lots more. For updates and details, check the NYC Insider Guide to ALL our local steals and deals.
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Madison Square Garden All
Madison Square Garden is home to some of the best pro sports teams in New York. The arena also holds major events, such as concerts and boxing matches. When you visit The Garden for a tour, youll go behind the scenes and learn about the venues 150-year history.Guests will get to immerse themselves in a virtual reality experience to feel what its like to be in the middle of an event at the arena. Tours last about 75 minutes.
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Midtown New York Attractions
Midtown Manhattan is the mecca for the best attractions in NYC. Midtown NYC is a toptravel destination for tourists each year who can’t wait to see top NYC landmarks and the best Broadway shows offered everyday in New York City!
- Times Square: Nothing says “New York” like the spectacle of Times Square. Perhaps the most popular attraction in NYC, “The Great White Way” is famous for its bright lights and annual events – including the traditional New Year’s Eve Ball Drop at Times Square – and is also home to the best Broadway shows and theaters in NYC.
- Rockefeller Center: The famous Rockefeller Center has been a famous New York City landmark since it was first built in the 1930s. Featuring 17 buildings stretching nearly three blocks, this famous NYC attraction is the home of NBC Studios and famous shows like Saturday Night Live and The Today Show.
- Top of the Rock: Featured on the 70th floor of Rockfeller Center NYC is a hidden gem in Manhattan – the Top of the Rock NY. Enjoy stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and Central Park high above the streets of New York at this top attraction in NYC!
Not only is it easy to see and extensive list of all the top attractions you should see, but we also have a list of NYC hotels and NYC deals to make finding the ideal place to stay easier than ever!
FAO Schwarz Toy Store New York City