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New York City, the Big Apple, the City that Never Sleeps, is the most visited city in the United States, so it’s no wonder that visitors get overwhelmed when they plan their visit. There are so many classic attractions, and it can be extremely difficult to decide what is worth your time during your visit to the city. Previously a tour guide in New York, I can tell you what I enjoyed the most, as well as what those who I toured enjoyed the most. 

New York City is also a great stop on your road trip to New England!

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

Cost: $20

Take the approximately $20 ferry that takes you to both Liberty Island and Ellis Island to see the most iconic symbol of New York City. She’s gorgeous and just imagining the symbol of freedom she was to immigrants moving to the US raises goosebumps on my arms. Getting a closeup view of her is even more amazing. Not to mention, you also get access to the free Ellis Island Museum where you can search relatives’ names and learn about the hard journeys immigrants took for a second chance in America. 

9/11 Memorial and Museum

Cost: $30

A beautiful testament to the lives lost during 9/11, the memorial is made up of two gorgeous waterfalls that stand in the places of the twin towers. There is even a tree that stands between the two which stayed in place and lived through the tragic day. The museum is a moving and beautiful tribute to the lives lost during the attack. Across the street is the Oculus, a modern and striking building which houses shops and is also a transportation hub. If you take the subway to the memorial, the Oculus should be your final stop.  

Times Square, New York

Cost: $0

Such an iconic site, I really don’t think you can go to the city for the first time without just stopping to take it all in. While it might be smelly and crowded, there’s nothing like absorbing all the sights and sounds it has to offer. There are food vendors and all kinds of shopping, including the giant Disney store and the ever popular Hershey store.  

Brooklyn Bridge

Cost: $0

Seriously, and one hundred percent worth it. I love the Brooklyn Bridge. It provides a great view of the city and has the most gorgeous architecture. It’s about 1.1 miles across (so approximately 2.2 miles round trip), but if you’re feet are tired, there’s a beautiful view of the Manhattan skyline from the mid point. Fun fact: the elephants of P.T. Barnum’s circus once crossed the Brooklyn Bridge to prove the strength of the structure (and also to promote the circus).

Rockefeller Center

Cost: $0

I have to say that Rockefeller Center is mainly on this list because of the famed Christmas tree and its ice skating. It is a must-see if you are visiting during that season. However, during other seasons, it’s still a nice place to gather yourself and have a moment to take in the sights. There are shops all around and inside of the Rockefeller Building, also making it a nice place to cool off or warm up. 

Central Park, New York

Cost: $0

Honestly, Central Park is my favorite part of New York City. Some say it’s overrated but I think it’s gorgeous. While it’s quiet, it still holds the energy that the rest of the city has. There is always something going on, street vendors (my favorite place to get souvenirs), and musicians line the walkways. Some popular stops are Bow Bridge, the Alice & Wonderland Statue, the John Lennon Memorial, and, of course, the Central Park Zoo. 

St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Cost: $0-20

Whether you are a religious person or not, St Patrick’s Cathedral is a gorgeous piece of 19^thcentury architecture in the middle of an otherwise modern city. Walk inside and you will be awed by the gorgeous marble structures, and the statues of multiple saints. They offer a self guided tour for your phone that costs $20. I have not purchased it before, but if you want a more in depth history of the building, then it would be a good option for you. 

Empire State Building 

Cost: $42+

The Empire State building which was once the tallest building in the world for many years, offers expansive views from two different observatory decks.  It is a famous landmark, which represents the engineering advancements that the US once made famous. Ride the elevator up to the top (mind your ears-they will likely pop), and view the gorgeous skyline of the most famous city in the United States.

Bryant Park and the New York Public LIbrary 

Cost: $0

Although these are technically two separate spaces, they are so close together that visiting one makes seeing the other very easy. Bryant Park has a fantastic Christmas market, but is an otherwise very lovely park during the rest of the year. Right behind the park you will find the New York Public Library—the perfect spot for any book lovers. Outside of the entrance you will see the famed lions guarding the knowledge within. Inside you can admire the gorgeous architecture and the various exhibitions throughout the main floors of the library. 

Head on back to your Airbnb or hotel after visiting all of your favorite spots. As an Airbnb Associate, I earn when you book through this link.

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