People are currently reading this guide.
The Big Apple: A Guide to Stuff You WON'T Regret (Unless You Eat Too Many Pastrami Sandwiches)
Ah, New York City. The city that never sleeps (except for that time everyone collectively decided to take a nap during the Great Blizzard of '88). It's a place brimming with energy, history, enough pizza to feed a small army, and enough pigeons to make Alfred Hitchcock have a panic attack. But what exactly is there to do in this concrete jungle? Fear not, intrepid traveler, for this here guide will be your compass through the chaotic (and totally awesome) streets of NYC!
Must-See Tourist Traps (But Totally Worth It)
- Statue of Liberty: You can't exactly come to New York and NOT see Lady Liberty, can you? Just try explaining that to your grandma. Word to the wise: buy your tickets online beforehand, unless you fancy reenacting the queue from Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.
- The Empire State Building: Ascend to the top and pretend you're king (or queen) of the world! Just don't reenact that King Kong scene unless you want a stern talking to from security. Pro tip: go at night for the sparkly city lights.
- Central Park: Escape the urban madness and find your inner peace (or at least a decent patch of grass for a picnic) in this sprawling green oasis. Rent a rowboat, wander through the Shakespeare Garden, or just people-watch and soak up the atmosphere.
Off the Beaten Path (But Still Pretty darn Cool)
- The Met Cloisters: Take a trip to medieval Europe (well, sort of) by exploring this hidden gem perched atop a hill overlooking the Hudson River. Suit of armor selfies are highly encouraged.
- The Tenement Museum: Step back in time and explore the lives of immigrants who called New York home over the past century. A humbling and fascinating experience.
- Smorgasburg: Calling all foodies! This massive open-air market boasts an incredible array of international eats, from Venezuelan arepas to melt-in-your-mouth lobster rolls. Come hungry (and with a plan of attack, because those decisions will NOT be easy).
Activities That Won't Break the Bank (Because Let's Be Honest, New York Ain't Cheap)
- Free Walking Tours: Explore different neighborhoods and learn a thing or two (or ten) with one of the many free walking tours offered throughout the city. Just remember to tip your guide if you enjoyed the tour!
- Catch a Free Concert: Central Park hosts a plethora of free concerts throughout the summer. Spread out a blanket, pack a picnic, and enjoy some tunes under the NYC sky.
- The Staten Island Ferry: Who needs a fancy cruise when you can enjoy a (free!) scenic ferry ride with stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the city skyline? Just don't expect a buffet.
Important Side Note:
- Broadway Tickets: Scoring cheap Broadway tickets is like finding a unicorn. Your best bet is to try the lottery system for deeply discounted seats, or look into TKTS booth options in person the day of the show.
FAQ: How to Conquer the Concrete Jungle
- How to Get Around: The NYC subway system is extensive and (mostly) reliable. Invest in a MetroCard and brush up on your map-reading skills. Taxis are readily available, but be prepared for some serious sticker shock.
- How to Avoid Tourist Traps (But Still Have Fun): Do some research on the neighborhoods you want to explore and seek out local recommendations. There are hidden gems around every corner!
- How to Pack Like a Pro: Layers are your friend! New York weather can be unpredictable. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, and don't forget an umbrella (because pop-up showers are a thing).
- How to Eat Like a Local: Skip the chain restaurants and delve into the city's diverse culinary scene. From hole-in-the-wall delis to Michelin-starred restaurants, there's something for every taste bud (and budget).
- How to Pace Yourself: New York is a whirlwind. Don't try to cram too much into your itinerary. Schedule some downtime to relax, recharge, and soak up the atmosphere.
So there you have it! Your one-stop guide to conquering the Big Apple. Now get out there, explore, and make some memories that will last a lifetime (or at least until your next visit). Just remember, no matter what crazy thing happens (and trust us, something crazy will happen), embrace the chaos – that's the beauty of New York
