Day 1
Explore the ICONIC Landmarks Everyone loves the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island for a reason: they represent the ideals of freedom and opportunity that have long attracted immigrants to the United States. Go early to avoid crowds. Visit Times Square in the early morning hours to see it at its best– when there are fewer people, and it’s not quite as bright outside (an AMAZING photo opportunity!). Walk through Central Park– Sarah Marshall called it “the city’s lungs” in The New York City Guidebook because it gives such a PEACEFUL contrast to the busy streets around it. If you’ve time, go up to the Top of the Rock or the Empire State Building for memorable views, too.
Day 2
Visit Museums and Culture The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met for short) has lots of amazing artwork from lots of different times and places (it’s one of the world’s largest museums). If you like art, also go to the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). Afterwards, eat somewhere CHEAP but tasty in Chinatown or Little Italy– Dim Sum is great according to Jeff!
Day 3
The Brooklyn Adventure Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge– it’s FANTASTIC views of Manhattan. Explore Brooklyn Heights and DUMBO– they both have great places to take pictures (and eat!!). You could also go to the Brooklyn Museum or Coney Island. Mark recommended riding the Cyclone roller coaster (it’s been there since 1927) when he visited!
Day 4
Go to Fifth Avenue if you want expensive shops; go to SoHo if you want clothes that are FASHIONABLE but may not be very expensive at all. Visit the 9 Memorial & Museum– it’s very MOVING. You’ll get to see how brave people were during one of the worst terrorist attacks ever (it made a huge difference). Take some time out to look around Wall Street: don’t forget to have your picture taken with the Charging Bull! Day 5
Relax and Enjoy. Take it easy on your last day. Go to High Line Park– it’s an elevated park with green areas and some works of art, plus great views (a good way to end any trip!). Finally, take a boat tour of New York Harbor. You’ll get up close to the Statue of Liberty and see the whole city skyline from the water– perfect! Comfortable shoes. New York has many incredible sights, so wear comfortable shoes! Rank your main interests. There’s so much to do and see in New York City that 5 days is simply not long enough to experience it all. Concentrate on what excites you most, but don’t be afraid to leave some stuff out and then just go with the flow! Use a MetroCard. The subway system in New York is EFFICIENT– once you get the hang of it. Buy a MetroCard because it’s easier than cash each time you get on (and maybe cheaper too).
Leave a Reply