New York Travel Guide – Tourist attractions and useful tips

Getting to know New York

The city that never sleeps, where if you make it, you make it anywhere, New York has something to offer to everyone: architecture, Broadway entertainment, rap music, world finance center and a mix of world cultures.

What you can do for free in New York

1. Central Park
   This is the largest park of NYC, found in the middle of Manhattan and it offers beautiful natural landscapes, trails, with numerous festivals and events organized all year long.
2. Rockefeller Center
   Home to many pieces of art and beautiful gardens. Free to visit, although a paid tour with a guide would offer you better insights and appreciation into Rockefeller Center art.
3. St. Patrick’s Cathedral
   St. Patrick’s Cathedral was built in neo-gothic architecture with impressive interiors which stun over 5 million visitors each year. Located in Manhattan, the cathedral’s architecture is in contrast with sky-scrapers surrounding it.

These are just few of New York’s free places to visit, but there are many more like New York Public Library, Governors Island, the Bronx Museum, Pier 6 at Brooklyn Bridge Park and many more.

Top spots to visit

1. The Empire State Building
   Empire State Building is one of NYC landmark buildings and tourist attractions. At 381 meters tall, it features two observation decks on top, both offering astounding views.
2. The Statue of Liberty
   Built in 1886, it is an American iconic landmark and a symbol of freedom. With good views from the south-western side of Manhattan, it is still recommended a short boat trip from Battery park to Liberty Island.
3. Times Square
   This is a place to go to in the evening as it is lined with brilliantly lit billboards and screens. It is also the location of the “ball drop” on New Year Eve. It was named so in 1904 after the Times tower.

Hidden spots to visit

1. The Rooftop Gardens at Rockefeller Center
   Hidden at the top of Rockefeller Center is a lesser known visiting spot — the rooftop garden, a beautiful oasis with flowers and a reflective pool and garden.
2. Fragment of Berlin Wall
   If you don’t have time to visit Berlin, New York has a piece of the the Berlin Wall, the wall which split West of East Berlin during the Cold War period. The wall is located at 520 Madison Avenue.
3. Old City Hall Subway Station
   One of the nicest subway stations, the Old City Hall Subway Station is a remnant of historic New York, with stained glass window and beautiful arches.

Restaurants

New York is famous for its multi-cultural heritage, and cuisine-wise it does not disappoint. Residents and tourists alike will find here restaurants preparing from the regular American burger to the most exotic dishes. Food is also with prices for all pockets. Hot dogs from street vendors or a slice of pizza are among the most New York style and cheapest dishes.

If you fancy something nicer, we recommend the Trinity Place restaurant, an American eatery set in a converted bank vault with original vault doors dating to 1904. It is well rated by users and with menus which are not too pricier either.

Recommended time for visiting

New York has heavy winters and hot summers, so the best period of visiting this vibrant city is either spring or autumn. Look for flights during April-May period or October-November.