New York City, one of the most fascinating places on earth, offers a wide range of activities and adventures for everyone. Even if you’re lucky enough to visit New York more than a few times, you still won’t even come close to seeing all the secrets the city has to offer. Deciding exactly where to go and what to do is definitely a fun process, but it can also be a bit overwhelming, especially if you’ve never been to the city before. Here is a summary of the 5 top things to do in New York City:
1. Lady Liberty and Ellis Island
The ever unique and widely diverse history of our country can be found at Ellis Island, where years ago so many of our ancestors set foot on American soil for the very first time looking for freedom and prosperity. If you’re a genealogy buff, look through the registry for names of relatives who may have stepped off a boat here before heading on to visit the Statue of Liberty, fondly known as Lady Liberty. If you’ve never seen the statue in person, she is definitely a sight to behold with her strong, majestic presence and watchful eyes overlooking the ocean. To visit Ellis Island from the city, or from New Jersey, take a ferry for $12, which also goes to Liberty Island where the statue is situated. Tickets often sell out, so buy yours early if at all possible, either online or from the site where the ferry departs. You can also tour the crown of the statue, but this might entail an extra cost. These tickets sell out fast as well, so reserve them quickly.
2. Exciting Times Square
Unless you’re intent on buying souvenirs, it won’t cost you a thing to explore exciting Times Square, one of the most visited spots in New York City, where the country watches the ball drop every New Year’s Eve. Pay a visit to the tourist center located on 7th Avenue near 46th Street for information about where to dine, the best places to shop, and of course, for buying tickets to any of the Broadway shows.
3. Gorgeous Central Park
Central Park is a favorite place of many a native New Yorker as well as those who visit the expansive park to experience its many wonders. The park is free to visit, except for the giant carousel and the Central Park Zoo, and one of the most beloved places in the whole wooded area is Strawberry Fields, a monument in honor of the late and great John Lennon. Situated across from the Dakota, the New York apartment where Lennon was gunned down, the site consists of a stone circle with the words “Imagine,” the title of one of his most recognizable hits. Prepare to spend an entire day in Central Park exploring New York City’s most beautiful spots.
4. Ellen’s Stardust Diner
Ellen’s Stardust Diner is a 50′s diner style restaurant. It’s not far from Times Square, on Broadway and 51st Street. The waiters and waitresses all sing Broadway show tunes and songs from musicals. It’s very entertaining. Quite a few performers on Broadway today have gotten their start at Ellen’s. It’s a great place for children and adults. If you sit in the upper seating area, you get a really great view of the entire dining area. The food is delicious. A tad bit on the pricey side, but not completely unreasonable. The line is usually pretty long, so again plan accordingly. No reservations are needed.
5. The Empire State Building
And finally, be sure to see New York’s tallest building, the Empire State Building, with its spectacular, breathtaking views. This famous building has appeared in many classic films including King Kong. Venture to the top of the building where there are binoculars for tourists to use at look-out points that provide a panoramic vista of all the surrounding states. The lights atop the Empire State Building are changed according to season or holiday. They are red and green during Christmas time. Admission to the building is $19 for adults and patrons with a military ID will receive a two dollar discount. Entertainment and coupon books as well as AAA also often have discounts on tickets for the Empire State Building, which is visited by literally thousands of people each day.
In the city that truly never sleeps, there are so many different things to see and do, but hopefully, this list will give you a few ideas to narrow down your quest for some of New York City’s best attractions. Enjoy yourself while exploring this glorious city!
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