Why visit New York
Landmarks
There’s no shortage of iconic landmarks in New York City. The Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and the Charging Bull of Wall Street are images we’re all familiar with even if we’ve never set foot on a New York street. Our local experts tell us that these are some of the top iconic sights you shouldn’t miss.
9/11 Memorial and Museum
A powerful tribute to the day the United States changed forever, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum sits at the site of the former Twin Towers. The Memorial is the outline of the “footprints” of the two buildings turned into fountains. The Museum holds the story of that fateful day, told in stunning visuals and powerful exhibits.
Ellis Island & Liberty Island
These two islands in New York Harbor were often the first things the New World immigrants saw when they came to this country in the early 1900s. Now, Ellis Island holds a museum to tell the proud history of U.S. immigration. On tour, the iconic Lady Liberty, standing with her torch held high on her own island, can’t be missed.
The Empire State Building
Standing over the skyline at a staggering 102-stories, the Empire State Building is an Art Deco work of art, and a must-see on your travels. It was named as one of the “seven wonders of the modern world,” and the view from the observation deck is something to behold. It will literally change your perspective on New York City.
Times Square
Seeing Times Square in countless movies and TV shows can’t even begin to compare to the real thing. The electric heart of New York City is a neon-lit wonderland. A few blocks away, we suggest visiting Rockefeller Center, Madame Tussauds famous wax museum, and the Museum of Modern Art.
Neighborhoods
New York is densely packed and sprawling, so every neighborhood tends to be named, guiding you roughly to where something is located. Each neighborhood has its own flavor and culture, and each has something special for visitors there. Be sure to wander, explore, and sample a little bit of what these neighborhoods have to offer. We can’t recommend them enough.
Greenwich Village
Sometimes just called “The Village,” Greenwich Village is the neighborhood that dominates the western part of Lower Manhattan. Once known as New York’s counter-culture capital, the Village is now the place to eat, stroll through the parks, or take in a comedy show at a club.
Wall Street
Wall Street needs no introduction. The lifeblood of the American economy, this street is home to big-time financial dealings. But it’s also home to a great deal of museums. We love to visit the Alexander Hamilton U.S. Customs House, and the Charging Bull statue with its new addition of the Fearless Girl statue standing in front of it.
Little Italy
New York City’s Little Italy is where generations of Italian immigrants made their home. Here, there are wall-to-wall bakeries, restaurants, and delis, all serving world-class Italian fare. Locals “in the know” are always raving about eating a cannoli from a Little Italy bakery. These tasty treats are a can’t-miss experience.
Chinatown
Like Little Italy, Chinatown was shaped by the immigrants that came to the U.S. and settled down in the city. You can see the Chinese influence in the art and architecture everywhere, and of course, the cuisine here can’t be beat. On tour, try to be adventurous and try some Chinese candy while you’re here.
Entertainment
New York City is the live entertainment capital of the world, and that’s never more obvious than when you’re on tour. While most movies and TV shows are produced on the west coast, New York boasts a theater scene that no one else can compete with. Combine that with live music and stand-up comedy, and you have an unbeatably entertaining city.
Ellen’s Stardust Diner
This 50s-themed eatery has a reputation for great food and great times. Located in New York City’s theater district, Ellen’s Stardust Diner is consistently named the best themed restaurant in NYC. It features a singing waitstaff, many of whom go on to illustrious careers in musicals both on and off Broadway.
Broadway Shows
Broadway, the legendary street that’s the epicenter of the American Musical Theater world, never disappoints travelers in New York. Every day of the week, there is a Broadway show happening that will completely blow audiences away. There are 41 theaters packed into this area, so take your pick.
Radio City Music Hall
Radio City Music Hall, declared a New York City landmark in 1978, has been entertaining New Yorkers for generations. Take in a concert if you can. But, we recommend stopping by at night to see the world-famous neon signs lit up bright, and to take a stroll through the public areas of the Hall to see the art deco architecture.
Madison Square Garden
In midtown Manhattan, the legendary Madison Square Garden waits for the next big event to happen within its walls. You can see hockey and basketball games here, as well as massive, audience-stunning concerts. Stopping by MSG is as easy as taking the train to Penn Station.