New York City, the bustling metropolis known as “The Big Apple,” is a global hub of culture, finance, and entertainment. Situated on the northeastern coast of the United States, New York City is famed for its iconic skyline, diverse population, and endless array of attractions. From the bright lights of Times Square to the historic landmarks of Central Park, NYC offers something for everyone. Visitors can explore world-class museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art, catch a Broadway show in the Theater District, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the High Line. The city’s culinary scene is equally diverse, with a melting pot of flavors from around the world. Whether it’s grabbing a slice of pizza in Brooklyn, indulging in gourmet cuisine in Manhattan, or sampling street food from a food truck, New York City promises a culinary adventure. With its vibrant energy and endless possibilities, NYC remains a must-visit destination for travelers from all walks of life.
Boroughs
New York City, often referred to simply as “the City,” is the most populous city in the United States and serves as a global center for finance, culture, and entertainment. When I think of the different boroughs, I always think about the Beasty Boys lyrics, “Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens and Staten. From the Battery to the top of Manhattan.”
- Manhattan: The heart of New York City, Manhattan is known for its iconic landmarks such as Times Square, Central Park, the Empire State Building, and Broadway theaters. It’s a cultural hub with world-class museums, art galleries, and diverse neighborhoods.
- Brooklyn: Located southwest of Manhattan, Brooklyn is known for its vibrant arts scene, ethnic diversity, and trendy neighborhoods like Williamsburg, DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass), and Park Slope. It offers cultural institutions, waterfront parks, and a thriving culinary scene.
- Queens: Situated east of Manhattan, Queens is the most ethnically diverse urban area in the world. It’s home to attractions such as Flushing Meadows-Corona Park (site of the 1964 World’s Fair), Citi Field (home of the New York Mets), and cultural enclaves like Astoria and Jackson Heights.
- The Bronx: Located north of Manhattan, the Bronx is known for its rich history, Yankee Stadium (home of the New York Yankees), and cultural institutions like the Bronx Zoo and the New York Botanical Garden. It offers parks, waterfronts, and vibrant neighborhoods like Fordham and City Island.
- Staten Island: Located southwest of Manhattan, Staten Island is known for its suburban feel, parks such as the Staten Island Greenbelt, and attractions like the Staten Island Ferry and the Staten Island Zoo. It provides a quieter pace compared to the other boroughs.
The Same
Growing up just three hours away from the bustling metropolis of New York City, we have had the privilege of experiencing the city’s magic time and time again. While we’ve checked off all the classic tourist attractions – from the Statue of Liberty to the Empire State Building to One World Trade Center, and of course, eating #AllThePizza. – our approach to exploring the city has evolved over the years. Now we’ve traded the typical tourist trail for our favorite activities.
Central Park
No visit to NYC would be complete without a stroll through Central Park, a timeless oasis in the heart of the city that never sleeps. We’ve pedaled our way around the park’s winding paths, picnicked on its lush lawns, and even caught a Shakespearean performance at the Delacorte Theater during the summer months.
Brooklyn Bridge
Venturing beyond Manhattan, we’ve marveled at the architectural marvels of the Brooklyn Bridge and savored the panoramic views of the city skyline from its iconic promenade. We’ve wandered through the historic streets of Brooklyn, sampling artisanal treats at local markets and soaking in the vibrant arts scene of neighborhoods like Williamsburg and DUMBO. We have even walked a crossed it one very hot summer.
One World Trade Center
In Lower Manhattan, we’ve paid our respects at the solemn grounds of One World Trade Center, a poignant reminder of resilience in the face of tragedy. And while Wall Street may evoke images of suits and skyscrapers, we’ve discovered hidden gems in the form of hole-in-the-wall eateries and underground speakeasies tucked away in the Financial District.
Local Cuisine
New York City’s culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors and influences, reflecting its diverse population and rich history. Here are some iconic dishes and cuisines that define local dining in NYC:
- New York-style Pizza: Known for its thin crust that’s crisp yet foldable, New York-style pizza is a must-try. We always indulge in #AllThePizza. From classic New York-style slices to gourmet pies with innovative toppings, we’ve embarked on a culinary journey through the city’s pizza scene, savoring each cheesy bite along the way. Grab a slice from a neighborhood pizzeria or opt for a whole pie topped with classic toppings like pepperoni or mushrooms.
- Bagels and Lox: NYC is famous for its bagels, particularly the chewy, boiled-then-baked variety. Enjoy them with cream cheese and lox (smoked salmon), along with capers, onions, and tomatoes for a classic breakfast or brunch.
- Pastrami on Rye: Deli culture is alive and well in NYC, and a pastrami sandwich on rye bread with mustard is a quintessential choice. Katz’s Delicatessen in Lower East Side is renowned for its pastrami sandwiches.
- New York Cheesecake: Creamy and dense, New York-style cheesecake is a decadent dessert made with cream cheese, eggs, and sugar on a graham cracker crust. Enjoy it plain or with fruit toppings.
- Hot Dogs: Whether from a street vendor or a classic hot dog stand like Gray’s Papaya, NYC’s hot dogs are renowned for their snap and are typically topped with mustard, sauerkraut, or onions.
- Diverse Ethnic Cuisine: NYC offers a wide range of ethnic foods, from Chinatown’s dim sum to Little Italy’s pasta dishes, to the vibrant flavors of Harlem’s soul food and Queens’ diverse offerings like authentic Greek cuisine in Astoria or Indian dishes in Jackson Heights.
- Food Trucks and Halal Carts: Look out for food trucks and halal carts scattered throughout the city, serving everything from falafel sandwiches to chicken and rice platters with fiery hot sauce.
Bronx Zoo
The Bronx Zoo, located in New York City, stands as one of the largest and most renowned zoos in the world, spanning 265 acres of parklands. Established in 1899, it holds a rich history of conservation, education, and wildlife preservation. The zoo is home to over 6,000 animals representing nearly 700 species, making it a prominent hub for both entertainment and scientific research. Visitors can explore diverse habitats ranging from the African Plains to the Himalayan Highlands, encountering iconic species like lions, gorillas, and snow leopards along the way. Beyond its extensive animal exhibits, the Bronx Zoo is committed to conservation efforts and educating the public about wildlife and environmental stewardship. It remains a beloved destination for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and conservation advocates alike, offering a captivating blend of education, entertainment, and appreciation for the natural world.
As lifelong adventurers in the city that never sleeps, our journey through New York City has been a tapestry of experiences – from the iconic landmarks to the hidden gems tucked away in its eclectic neighborhoods. And while we may have seen #AllThePizza, there’s always something new to discover in the city that endlessly surprises and delights.
The Family
Our favorite time of year to visit the city is during the holidays. There is so much to see and do but there is nothing like the city being all dressed up for Christmas.
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is a cherished holiday tradition that captures the spirit of the season with its breathtaking choreography, intricate set designs, and a cast of talented performers. The Rockettes, renowned for their precision and synchronized dance routines, take center stage in a dazzling display of festive cheer. From the mesmerizing Parade of the Wooden Soldiers to the magical Living Nativity, the show weaves together a tapestry of holiday moments that leave audiences of all ages in awe and wonder, making it a must-see experience for families and visitors during the most wonderful time of the year.
Visit Holiday store displays
The city’s iconic department stores transform their windows into captivating scenes of festive joy, each more imaginative than the last. Elaborate decorations, intricate details, and whimsical themes come to life, capturing the essence of the season.
NYC Ferry to Staten Island
Enjoy the stunning views of iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. While it is not free, like the Staten Island Ferry, we like the NYC Ferry better because the top deck is open and is significantly less crowded. (Maybe save the open-top deck for a spring or summer trip.)
Visit the Harry Potter NY and have a butter beer
At Harry Potter New York, visitors have the opportunity to savor a frothy mug of this beloved wizarding beverage within the enchanting confines of the Butterbeer Bar. The options are diverse, ranging from freshly tapped draft Butterbeer to bottled variations, and even the indulgence of Butterbeer-infused ice cream.
The Dinks
Our favorite time is late spring into early Fall.
All the Sports
We skip the butter beers, and head out for the real thing at Yankee Stadium. Nothing like an ice-cold beer at a game and there is no trip to New York without seeing the Yankees play. Maybe you prefer the Mets or maybe you don’t like baseball, no worries, there is a sport in the city during every season from Basketball(Knicks), Hockey(Rangers), and football (Giants & Jets), to Tennis (The US Open) and Belmont Stakes (Horse Racing.)
Broadway
Its iconic marquees, diverse genres, and electric synergy between artists and audience define its allure. From musical extravaganzas to thought-provoking plays, Broadway’s stages house unforgettable narratives. You can find discount tickets at the TKTS Booth or check ticket broker websites.
Film Locations
The opportunities to see something being filmed or where something was filmed is endless in the city. There are talk shows and late night shows that you can attend a live filming by checking their taping schedule and getting tickets in advance. There is probably a current movie or TV show being filmed at any given time though this will take a little more digging on your part.
Summary
In exploring New York City, both the Family and the DINKs have embraced the city’s timeless attractions and unique experiences, from strolling through the expansive Central Park and marveling at wildlife in the Bronx Zoo, to crossing the iconic Brooklyn Bridge and taking in the breathtaking views from One World Trade Center. They’ve savored the diverse flavors of local cuisine that make NYC a culinary paradise.
The Family has embraced the magic of the holiday season, delighting in traditions like the Radio City Christmas Spectacular and exploring festive store displays. They’ve also enjoyed a unique perspective of the city via the NYC Ferry to Staten Island, capping off their adventures with a visit to the enchanting Harry Potter exhibit and indulging in a butterbeer. Meanwhile, the DINKs have immersed themselves in the city’s vibrant sports culture, caught Broadway shows that define the city’s theater scene, and sought out iconic TV and movie filming locations that bring their favorite stories to life.
Both perspectives highlight the diversity and richness of experiences that New York City offers, catering to a wide range of interests and passions. Whether enjoying the holiday cheer or diving into the city’s sports and entertainment scene, NYC’s allure as a global cultural capital remains undeniable, promising unforgettable memories for all who visit.
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