Friends have asked me “Where should I visit when I’m in New York City?” several times over the past month or so, it seemed appropriate to write a blog post on it. I’ve spent almost three of the past twelve months in NYC, and I have come to the conclusion that it is one of the favorite places which I have had the pleasure to visit - one which even I haven’t fully explored. So, brace yourselves for my six places to visit in New York City.
- The Statue of LibertyI’ve gone and done it, turned the chance to make an interesting list into the stereotypical ‘Places to visit in New York’ list! I promise it will get more interesting! I’d recommend visiting the statue on the ferry from Battery Park, allowing you to retrace the steps of many immigrants to the United States, sailing down the Hudson River, past the statue and onto Ellis Island. Although a Brit, I couldn’t help feeling just a bit patriotic as I looked up at the statue on a summers day (obviously it feels less patriotic … and colder in the winter!).
- Helicopter TourI had the fortune to be sat on the left-hand side of my plane when I first flew in to JFK, and was treated to a spectacular view of lower Manhattan. My mind was blown by the scale of the place - eight million people, god knows how much concrete. As I travelled to my hotel, I watched the sun set behind the skyscrapers, I was speechless! A helicopter tour is a perfect way to appreciate the magnificent scale of the city, and at $120, its fairly decent value.
- Union SquareAfter a day’s shopping on Broadway this is the perfect place to chill out. Aside from numerous cafe’s, restaurants and even a microbrewery; the square is often host to a farmers market, selling fresh fruit, vegetables and crafts. You can watch a magic show, play a ball game or just chill in the shade. Also, in the evenings, it becomes a nice hub for your evenings entertainment.
- Coney IslandA short subway journey from the city, and also the location of one of the worlds best hotdogs!
- Chumley’sOne of the better bar’s in the West Village, and also one of the hardest to find. Located on Bedford Street, it has no signs or markings, but is always a source of great atmosphere.
- McSorley’s Old Ale HouseQuite literally, my favorite bar on the planet! Its also one of New York’s oldest - opened in 1854 and probably not redecorated since. In a place which only serves two drinks - light and dark - its definitely not about the alcohol but more about the atmosphere. McSorley’s has an Irish charm about it which is hard to describe, which should be experienced!
If anyone is reading this, feel free to add your own suggestions in the comments! (more…)
