New York City is commonly known as the hub of America. With countless things to do and experiences to be had, it can be overwhelming for any first-time visitors. Consider traveling an off-peak season which are primarily January, February, July and August. You’ll find it easier to get around with the usual beautiful chaos of the city’s peak season. Here is a list of top ten experiences to try when visiting New York City!
1. Visiting during Thanksgiving? Make sure you watch the colorful floats and larger than life balloons of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. As this can be a heavily populated event, consider booking a private parade view party at a restaurant or hotel along the route. These will usually include your breakfast and even entertainment!
2. If traveling during the holidays you must check out the spectacular Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. You can even plan to be a special guest during the lightening of the famous tree in a restaurant located in the center of Rockefeller Plaza! You can even spend a few hours ice skating as you gaze up at that beautiful tree.
3. Of course, when you think of Christmas in the city your mind probably drifts to those famous Rockettes. Make sure you reserve your tickets early for The Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular early as they do sell out.
4. If you’re a sports fan head over to Madison Square Garden where you can tour the world’s most famous arena. Tours are almost daily beginning at 9:30 am.
5. For that true tourist experience take a New York Sightseeing Tour. You’ll be escorted through either Manhattan or Brooklyn on a double-decker bus where tour guides will give you all sorts of historical and interesting information of the city.
6. You simply can’t visit New York without seeing a Broadway show when there is something for everyone! The kids will love The Lion King, Aladdin and Wicked. Planning on some adult only time? Get your tickets for Hamilton or Blue Man Group.
7. New York is home to over 18,000 restaurants. Of course, you’ll need to eat during your visit so make the most of it. Check out the newly reopened Tavern on the Green where you can dine in NYC’s world-renowned Central Park for dinner. Or make a reservation at The View, NYC’s only revolving rooftop restaurant where you can enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree view from the middle of Times Square Theatre District.
8. New York has one of the most eye-catching landmarks in the world, the Statue of Liberty! As they sell out quickly, reserve your tickets to spend a day touring the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. They both have ongoing programs, as well as special exhibits and tours that may be offered on the day you visit.
9. The new World Trade Center and 9/11 Memorial are living tributes to honor the lives lost on September 11, 2001, in NYC and celebrate New York City’s resilience. You can take a 90-minute tour of Ground Zero, led by New Yorkers with personal connections to the events of 9/11. There are limited tickets available and they do sell out quickly.
10. A must do to really experience the enormous amount of hubbub there is to be had is by visiting the Top of the Rock Observation Deck. The views are unparalleled and the experience of ascending 70 floors into the sky and taking in the sweeping 360-degree city views is an experience you’ll never forget.
Jade Monzo is the owner of Rope Drop Travel, a full-service travel agency specializing in Disney destinations. She lives with her husband and six little ones ages 8 and under. She enjoys helping with her children’s school PTO’s and all things Disney.
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