5 suggestions for sightseeing in NYC
Getting your NYC bucket list just right
Guest post by Lizz Riggs
New York City is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, and people come here for all sorts of things. Whether you’re here for the shopping, the sightseeing, the glitz and glamour or the great food, there are some things that are probably on everyone’s bucket list this trip. It’s hard to choose between the things that you have to do and the things you just want to do, but some attractions give you a great compromise. Places like Central Park and Times Square really have no alternative, and there’s no reason not to see them at least once. Here are a few suggestions to help guide your decisions when looking to discover other things that NYC has to offer.
An awesome view of NYC
Most people head to the iconic Empire State Building when they go to New York City, then wait 1-2 hours in line before they get to the top. While the Empire State Building is one of the most famous buildings in New York, you can get just as good of a view of the city (and the Empire State Building) from Top of the Rock. As a bonus, the wait to get to the Top of the Rock is also substantially shorter. We’re talking half the time, if not more. The crowds don’t pack you into the observatory quite as tight at the Top of the Rock, and you get to pose with your beloved Empire State Building in the background while you’re up there!
Famous museums
New York is famous for museums like the Guggenheim, Museum of Modern Art, the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Natural History Museum. At least one of these should be on your bucket list, but paying full price should not be part of that. Check their websites before you go to find out when the museum of your choice is having their free museum day or “pay what you wish” day. If you’re not in town for these, check out New York City deals that get you discounted admission to tons of top attractions that are probably on your list!
Enjoy some street food
The city is famous for their great food, well-known restaurants and worldly chefs. While there are probably quite a few restaurants you will want to check out, definitely dedicate one meal of your trip to one of New York’s food trucks. The food truck scene has taken off in this city, and you can find a variety of foods on the side of the street to satisfy any craving!
Get some shopping done
Many people come to NYC just for this one activity, and while you’re going to love walking up and down Fifth Avenue and Madison Avenue and Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s, something that can help you save a lot and go home with more new stuff is by checking out the sample sales in NYC. There are phone apps and websites that can help you find the current sample sales going on in the city, and you might find some great stuff for half the price you would have paid in the department stores.
Walk around, but don’t get lost
When you’re in New York City ready for some sightseeing, there are some places that you’re not going to want to miss, but remember: this is not a small city. The best way to get around and see all the great sights is on one of the tours of New York City. Tours come in all sorts, from walking tours to fancy dinner cruises and everything in between. These tours take you to all the best places, but also give you an insiders perspective from your professional guide. You’ll see more on your tour in a few hours than you would have been able to on your own, leaving you with more time to get a closer look at the good stuff afterwards.
Have you guys been to NYC? What are your must-sees while in the city?
Lizz Riggs is the editor of NYCTourist.com.
