It’s nearly impossible to squeeze all there is to see and do in a city like New York into one trip, let alone one post! Below are a few more FREE must sees for your next trip to NYC continued from the previous post.
NYCPL
Just up from there you’ll find the New York City Public Library. As far as libraries go, I have to say this one is a beaut. From grand stairwells to noteworthy works of art displayed throughout to the gorgeous ceiling in the main reading room, a visit to this landmark can be a peaceful respite from the crazy hustle and bustle that’s unavoidable on the streets.
BRYANT PARK
When you step outside the library, you’ll find yourself smack dab in the middle of Bryant Park, a little oasis where you’ll find vendors selling one of a kind handmade treasures. You can grab a craft cocktail, some freshly made doughnuts and many other mouthwatering treats! In the winter, the center of the park transforms into an open air ice rink. It is particularly beautiful at night watching the skaters under the glittering lights illuminating the trees while you’re surrounded by the glowing New York sky scrapers. It is a special place and one I love!
UNITED NATIONS
If you’re up to it, a few blocks east sits the United Nations building. Typically not much is happening outside, but it is an impressive building with white limestone rising high above the colorful display of flags from every nation. And should you need to visit a particular country’s embassy, this square block is where you’ll find it. A word of caution, on days when the President or other dignitaries are in town this area becomes quite frenzied and difficult to access.
TIMES SQUARE
Next up, a popular stop, Time’s Square! Most locals avoid this areas like the plague, but every now and then it is fun to pass through just for a jolt of energy. Here you’ll find street performers, endless souvenir shops and some of Broadway’s main theatres, museums and attractions. Every now and then a surprise concert will pop up. Crazy things happen on 42nd!
This is also where you can snag discount tickets to Broadway shows. Just visit the TKTS booth located at 47th between 7th & Broadway OR go directly to the will call office of your desired show’s theatre and ask if they have any last minute deals! I’ve done this before and it works!
ROCKEFELLER CENTER
A few blocks up and east you’ll arrive at Radio City Music Hall, home of the Rockettes! Snap some selfies in front of the sign then head over to Rockefeller Plaza. If you’re an early riser, you can join the crowd that gathers daily for the Today Show taping. During the holidays, you can marvel at the world’s most famous Christmas tree and enjoy the skaters on the rink down below.
Those of you interested in viewing a television show taping are in luck. Tickets to ALL shows are FREE!!! That’s right, Jimmy Fallon, Kelly and Michael, The View, Wendy Williams, etc. all free and they all film in the Midtown area! The trick is getting a ticket. You can sign up in advance on each show’s individual website OR if you’re flexible, try standing by for tickets. Info on this can also be found on each show’s site. You can also sign up with 1iota.com, which is GREAT (and free) and allows you to snag tickets to shows that have last minute availability.
CENTRAL PARK
Just up from Rock Center is Central Park. You could spend an entire day here wandering along the many trails, taking a paddle boat ride, exploring the Belvedere Castle and even visiting the zoo! There’s literally something for everyone here and it should definitely be on your to do list!
This area is also home to “Museum Mile” where you’ll find some of New York’s most famous museums. To the east, the MET and the Guggenheim, to the west the American Museum of Natural History (to name a few) all there for your enjoyment. Although an admission fee is recommended, there are discounts available to students with valid ID and children under age 12 (I still use my law school ID 3 years later, is that wrong?!)
HARLEM
Take a short train ride uptown to 125th Street and you’ll find yourself in the heart of Harlem. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, shops and nightclubs to enjoy here. Stop by the famed Apollo Theatre where many of the greats got their start, enjoy the street performers and absorb the vibe. Although this neighborhood has changed over the years, the rich history and culture can still be felt and should definitely be part of your New York experience.
YANKEE’S STADIUM
Baseball fans willing to trek a little farther north may be interested in venturing to the Bronx to marvel at the cathedral that is Yankee Stadium. This is an impressive venue that comes to life on game day. It is also surrounded by plenty of bars and restaurants where you can grab a cold one if you don’t have tickets to the game.
As you can see, this city has A-LOT to offer!!! This list barely scratches the surface of the many attractions NYC has to explore. While it would be easy to spend a fortune and have an amazing time, I hope your eyes have now been opened to the fact that you can also pack in plenty of sightseeing and check a lot of to-dos off your list without ever opening your wallet! Have fun, stay open minded and just let the city guide you…happy wending!
What are favorite New York hot spots? If you’ve never visited before, what have you always wanted to see? Leave your feedback below!
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