New York City is one of those destinations that most people dream of visiting once during their lifetime. Featured in countless films, television shows and even music lyrics, here at Door2Tour we think it’s a must do. Our guest blogger Katie has just returned from a week exploring this vibrant city and has compiled a top ten guide of things you must do!
New York City – My Top 10
I am fortunate enough to have just arrived back in the UK after an amazing trip to New York City. Having been twice before, we didn’t visit all of the key tourist attractions, though we still managed to see quite a few. Therefore this is what I would call an alternative guide to New York City.
10 – Madame Tussauds
We went to Madame Tussauds (just off Times Square) thinking it would be largely full of American Celebrities of whom we thought we would know very few. A picture with Will and Kate later, we left having enjoyed our whistle-stop visit.
9 – Semi Circle City Boat Cruise
We boarded a 2 hour City Cruise on the West side of Manhattan at 42nd Street; you sail southwards towards the World
Trade Center site before turning and visiting the Statue of Liberty. The boat then continues to the other side of Manhattan under the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, you then sail northwards and take in the sites of the Chrysler Building and United Nations before turning back for home. The Tour Guide is sure to give you some history of New York City on the way.
8 – Dialog in the Dark
This exhibit shocked us all, located just off South Street Seaport and armed with just a cane (and a very helpful guide) you are thrown into a pitch black mini New York City. The exhibition is designed to raise awareness about life when partially or completely blind. Our guide was Pedro completely blind from the age of 13, he was so inspiring. He knew exactly where all six of my group were when we had no idea. I would recommend to everyone without a doubt.
7 – Brooklyn Bridge
Iconic and quintessentially New York, it is definitely a must do. The walk to the first tower may seem like the longest walk in the world, but it is well worth it when you finally get there!
6 – Empire State Building
What would a trip to New York be without a visit to the Empire State Building. This is the attraction that we found had the biggest queues so be prepared to wait a while, but it’s well worth it. The standard ticket allows you to the outdoor Observation Deck on the 86th floor. For an additional fee you can then catch another elevator to the 102nd Floor. (N.B this higher observation deck is not outside!)
5 – Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum
Found on the USS Intrepid, a decommissioned aircraft carrier, this museum has many fascinating exhibits; including a
British Airways Concorde, a Blackbird spy plane and the recently retired Harrier Jump Jet. The Hangar has further exhibits about life on the Intrepid during World War II and other missions when the ship was in full operation.
4 – Times Square
Times Square is world renowned and it will not disappoint, the number of screens seems to double every time I have been. You can sit and watch the world go by on the big red steps and also don’t forget to have your big moment on the massive screen which films the crowds on the sidewalk every couple of minutes.
3 – Twilight Boat Cruise
Our Twilight Cruise set off just after 7.30pm, when the sun had just set, the boat tour went around the Southern half of Manhattan. By the time we were on the way back it was almost complete darkness, the New York Skyline is stunning by night. The Freedom Tower, (the new tower on the World Trade Center site) has recently overtaken the Empire State Building as the tallest tower on the skyline. As it is still in construction the tower is lit up with red lights and stands out prominently.
2 – Top of the Rock at Night
We went to the top of the Rockfeller Centre at 10pm, the view from the top is stunning. The Empire State Building seems really close, and it is astounding the amount of light emitting from Times Square. Also, a benefit of the Rock is the Observation Deck is set back and so the railings aren’t in the way of your photos! Be sure to watch the ceiling of the lift on the way up and down, you will feel like you are on a rollercoaster… Well almost!
1 – One Man Two Guv’nors
To summarise this play in one word I would simply use: Hilarious. We
brought day seats from TKTS booth in South Street Seaport , it is always quieter than the Times Square branch. Having not had a chance to see James Corden in the play in the West End we were all keen to get tickets if possible. Despite there not being many English people in the Theatre when he came on the stage the crowd erupted. The play is packed with English humour, but we enjoyed every minute, the actors interact with the audience and are sharp with their improv. My one regret is that I didn’t buy the T-shirt from the gift shop ‘The Cricketers Arms – The Pub that does food’ (Though unless you have seen the play this will probably remain a private joke!) Please note: the play has finished its first run on Broadway/West End – however, will soon be touring the UK with Rufus Hound playing the lead role. If you are lucky enough to get tickets GO!
Would you agree that these are the Top 10 Must-see’s when holidaying in The Big Apple? If you can think of something else then get in touch so first-timers to the city know what not to miss from their to-do list.