New York City: Your Ultimate Guide to the Big Apple
Welcome to the city that never sleeps! NYC is a vibrant metropolis bursting with culture, history, and endless possibilities. This guide is your go-to resource for navigating the hustle and bustle of New York City. Let me help you make the most of your New York adventure!
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Where to stay

I highly recommend you stay in Manhattan as it will make it way easier for you to explore as opposed to staying in New Jersey.

The Element New York

Located in Midtown near Times Square, I loved the fact that the breakfast buffet was included. This hotel was perfect and came at an affordable price.

Element New York Times Square West
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The Hudson New York

The location was great, right by Central Park close to Columbus Circle. The rooms are not huge by very clean and trendy. This hotel is gorgeous and has a nice rooftop. 

Hudson New York
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The Millenium Times Square

It’s located in the centre of Times Square and close to a subway station. Rooms are spacious with a great view!

Millennium Hotel Broadway Times Square
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How to get around

The cheapest way to visit is on foot. But if you plan on visiting different boroughs, I recommend you take the subway as it is the cheapest and fastest way to get around. They also have taxis (typical yellow cabs!) and ride shares, such as Uber and Lyft.

Where to eat

Eataly

Eataly houses several restaurants, cafes, and counters where visitors can enjoy freshly prepared dishes, including handmade pasta, Neapolitan-style pizza, and gelato. 

Eataly NYC Flatiron
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SERRA

This restaurant  encompasses a lively and welcoming ambiance reminiscent of the lush Italian countryside, placing an emphasis on evergreen botanicals and pops of colour throughout.

SERRA by Birreria
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The Cauldron

Harry Potter fans, brew your own potions at the Cauldron!

The Cauldron NYC Flatiron
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Serendipity 3

Serendipity 3 is a legendary restaurant and dessert spot located in the heart of New York City. Famous for its whimsical decor and extravagant desserts, it has been a favourite among locals and celebrities alike since its founding in 1954. Visitors flock to Serendipity 3 to indulge in its iconic Frozen Hot Chocolate, a rich and decadent treat that has become a signature dish. You may recognize the restaurant from the Holiday movie: Serendipity.

Serendipity 3
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Rolf's

A magical restaurant where the decorations are up year round. Try their pumpkin martini if you're visiting in the Fall season.

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MarieBelle

MarieBelle New York is a luxury chocolate shop and boutique located in SoHo. Known for its exquisite artisan chocolates and European-style decor, MarieBelle offers a decadent experience for chocolate lovers. MarieBelle New York provides a sophisticated ambiance, blending Old World charm with modern elegance.

MarieBelle
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Ralph's Coffee

Great aesthetics and coffee/tea menu.

Ralph's Coffee
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Twenty Three Grand SoHo

For a lovely brunch with live jazz music on Sundays.

Twenty Three Grand
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Glace

Try their out of this world hot chocolates!

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Activities by neighbourhoods

Chelsea

The High Line

The High Line, which opened in 2009, is a 2.33 km-long elevated linear park, greenway and rail trail created on a former abandoned railroad viaduct spur on the West side of the city in the Meatpacking District through Chelsea.

The High Line
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Starbucks Reserve

At ground level, the cobblestone streets are filled with trendy restaurants and shops. I strongly suggest you visit the Starbucks Reserve Roastery located on the 9th Avenue across the Chelsea Market East entrance, it’s incredible!

Starbucks Reserve
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Chelsea Market

The Chelsea Market is an indoor marketplace renowned for its wide range of grocers, shops & eateries. I love shopping and eating there as I always find little treasures to bring back home.

Chelsea Market
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The Vessel

The Vessel is a newer attraction in New York as it was inaugurated in March of 2019. It’s a structure and visitor attraction built as part of the Hudson Yards Redevelopment Project. The honeycomb-like structure rises 16 stories high and consists of 154 flights of stairs. 

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Dylan's Candy Bar

Did you know that Ralph Lauren’s granddaughter had a candy bar in New York?

Dylan Lauren was inspired to create the largest unique candy store in the world. Most of her inspiration came from the story of Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. The shop stocks more than 7 000 candies from around the world.

Dylan's Candy Bar
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Midtown & Times Square

New York Public Library

A great free activity is to visit the emblematic Public Library. You may have seen it in many movies such as: The Day After Tomorrow.

The Library is a public library has nearly 53 million items and is the second largest public library in the United States and the third largest in the world.

New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building
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Chrysler Building

A striking symbol of Art Deco architecture and New York City's skyline. Completed in 1930, it stands as an enduring icon of innovation and design, with its distinctive spire and stainless steel crown. Admired for its elegance and detailed ornamentation, the Chrysler Building remains a testament to the city's architectural prowess and cultural legacy, captivating both residents and tourists alike with its timeless beauty and historical significance.

Chrysler Building
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Go on Broadway

The Lion King 

Based on the 1994 Disney movie, the musical debuted on Broadway in 1997. It is Broadway’s third longest-running show in history, and has grossed more than $1 billion, making it the highest grossing Broadway production of all time!

The Lion King
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Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is a captivating theatrical experience that continues J.K. Rowling's beloved Harry Potter saga. Set 19 years after the events of the final book, it follows Harry Potter, now a Ministry of Magic employee, and his son Albus Severus Potter as they navigate challenges both magical and personal. The play's spellbinding narrative and imaginative stagecraft have enchanted audiences worldwide, bringing the magic of Hogwarts to life on stage in an unforgettable theatrical production.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
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Grand Central Terminal

Opened in 1913, the iconic Grand Central is a commuter rail terminal located in Midtown. The terminal is the third-busiest train station in North America and has 44 platforms! 

The main concourse is often featured in films and television. Grand Central Terminal contains a variety of stores and food vendors, including a food court and the renowned Oyster Bar.

There’s also an indoor Christmas Market during the Holiday Season. It’s located on the main concourse.

Grand Central Terminal
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A Hidden Gem:

The concourses are connected by two ramps. They intersect a slight slope from the Dining Concourse just outside the Oyster Bar. The arch creates a whispering gallery which means that someone standing in one corner can hear the other speaking softly in the opposite corner. 

Whispering Gallery in Grand Central Terminal
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Empire State Building

For an amazing view of New York, you must go to the Empire State Building observatory deck. The skyscraper is 102-story-high. It was completed in 1931 and stands a total of 1,454 feet tall.

Empire State Building
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Rockefeller Center

A must visit if you are in NYC during the Holiday Season.

The tradition of lighting a big Christmas tree began in 1931 during the Great Depression and has since become an iconic part of Christmas celebrations in NYC. The tree is usually a Norway Spruce and is donated by a private individual or family. Lighting the tree is a major event, broadcasted nationally, and the tree remains on display throughout the holiday season, spreading festive cheer to all who visit Rockefeller Center.

Rockefeller Center
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Opened in 1932, Radio City Music Hall was designed as part of Rockefeller Center during the Great Depression. It was intended to be a grand theater that combined art, entertainment, and technology to lift spirits during tough times.

Radio City Music Hall
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Madison Square Garden

Madison Square Garden is a renowned multi-purpose indoor arena. It's considered one of the world's most famous venues and has a rich history spanning over 140 years. 

It hosts a wide range of events including concerts, sports events, circuses, and other live performances. It's home to the New York Knicks (NBA) and the New York Rangers (NHL).

Madison Square Garden
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Times Square

Times Square is the epicenter of Manhattan. It’s a major entertainment center and commercial intersection lit by numerous billboards and advertisements. You’ll find great stores for shopping and various restaurants. 

Times Square
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Harry Potter New York Store

This enchanting store immerses visitors in the magic of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts with themed merchandise, interactive experiences, and exclusive collectibles. From wands and wizarding apparel to magical creatures and potions, every corner of the store invites fans to explore and indulge in their love for all things magical.

Harry Potter New York
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Flatiron Building

This iconic landmark in New York City, is renowned for its distinctive triangular shape and historical significance. Completed in 1902, it stands as one of the city's earliest skyscrapers and is admired for its innovative architectural design. Located at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Broadway, the Flatiron Building has become a symbol of New York's architectural prowess and urban landscape.

Flatiron Building
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Macy's

Macy's began as a dry goods store in New York City and quickly grew into one of the nation's largest and most well-known retail chains. Its flagship store, Macy's Herald Square, opened in 1902 and remains a prominent landmark in NYC.

It is one of the largest department stores in the world, spanning multiple floors and offering a wide range of merchandise including clothing, accessories, cosmetics and home goods.

Macy's is famous for its annual events, most notably the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade ever since 1924. The parade features giant balloons, floats, marching bands, and performances, culminating in the arrival of Santa Claus.

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Bryant Park

Bryant Park is a public park located between 5th Avenue and Avenue of the Americas and between 40th and 42nd Streets in Midtown Manhattan. It’s right next to the New York Public Library. The park hosts many merchants in the summer and in the winter there’s a skating rink and a Holiday Market.

Bryant Park
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FAO Schwarz

FAO Schwarz is an iconic toy store known for its vast selection of toys, games, and interactive experiences. Founded in 1862, FAO Schwarz has a rich history and is celebrated for its unique and whimsical atmosphere. One of the highlights of FAO Schwarz is the famous piano mat, where visitors can recreate the iconic scene from the movie "Big" by playing music with their feet.

FAO Schwarz
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The Guggenheim

This museum is an architectural masterpiece and a renowned cultural institution dedicated to modern and contemporary art. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and completed in 1959, the museum's distinctive spiral structure is a work of art in itself, 

Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
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Upper Manhattan

Central Park

Central Park
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Here are the must do activities in Central Park:

Ice Skate on the iconic Wollman Rink (just like in the Christmas movie: Serendipity).

Wollman Rink
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Visit John Lennon's tribute at Strawberry Fields.

Strawberry Fields
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Do a Horse Carriage ride - in the winter it is truly magical.

NYC Adventures - Central Park Horse Carriage Rides
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Adorned with the Angel of the Waters sculpture, the historic landmark of Bethesda Fountain offers a peaceful retreat amidst the park's bustling energy.

Bethesda Fountain
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Built in the late 19th century, the picturesque Belvedere Castle serves as a popular spot for visitors to enjoy breathtaking vistas of the park and beyond.

Belvedere Castle
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And finally, step into the imaginative world of Alice in Wonderland while enjoying the beauty of Central Park.

Alice in Wonderland
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The MET

Located on Fifth Avenue at the edge of Central Park, The Met is one of the largest and most prestigious art museums in the world.

Founded in 1870, The Met's vast collection spans over 5,000 years of art history, featuring masterpieces from ancient civilizations to contemporary works. 

The Metropolitan Museum of Art
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The Lincoln Center

During the holiday period, you can catch The Nutcracker. The Ballet with live musicians is simply whimsical!

Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
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Roosevelt Island Tramway

The Roosevelt Island Tramway offers a unique and scenic mode of transportation in New York City, connecting Manhattan with Roosevelt Island across the East River. Originally built in 1976, the tramway provides stunning aerial views of the city skyline and the East River, making it a popular attraction.

Roosevelt Island Tramway
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The MoMA

MoMA houses an extensive collection of modern and contemporary artworks, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and multimedia installations.

The Museum of Modern Art
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The American Museum of Natural History

Located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan in New York City, the AMNH is a renowned institution dedicated to the exploration of nature, science, and human culture. Founded in 1869, the museum's vast collection spans millions of artifacts, specimens, and exhibitions that showcase the diversity of life on Earth and the cosmos.

American Museum of Natural History
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Colombus Circle

If you're lucky enough to visit New York around the Holiday season, you must visit this Christmas Market.

Columbus Circle Holiday Market
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Lower Manhattan

Tip: I recommend booking a boat tour that goes to both Ellis Island and Liberty Island.

Ellis Island - Museum of Immigration

Ellis Island is a 27.5-acre island located in the New York Harbour next to Liberty Island. From 1892 to 1954, it was the country’s busiest immigration station. It processed nearly 12 millions immigrants to the US. If you’re a History buff, this place is definitely for you!

It now contains a museum and it’s not to be missed! The South side of the island, includes the Immigrant Hospital which is abandoned but accessible to the public through guided tours. 

Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration
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Liberty Island: Statue of Liberty

Since 1886, the Statue has been known to be a welcoming sight to immigrants arriving from abroad. Did you know that the Statue was a gift from France to the people of the US and that you could see her little sister, which is quarter-scale replica, in Paris by the Seine?!

Statue of Liberty
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The Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge stands as a timeless marvel of engineering and a cherished symbol of New York City's skyline. Completed in 1883, it spans the East River, connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn with its distinctive Gothic towers and elegant suspension cables. Walking across the bridge offers breathtaking views of the cityscape, including the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building.

Brooklyn Bridge
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Trinity Church

If you've seen the movie National Treasure with Nicholas Cage you will recognize Trinity Church.

Established in 1697, it stands as one of the oldest churches in the United States, with its current Neo-Gothic structure dating back to the mid-19th century.

Trinity Church
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Museum of Ice Cream

Unique and interactive museum dedicated to all things related to ice cream and sweets. The museum is more of an interactive art installation than a traditional museum. It features various themed rooms and exhibits centered around ice cream, candy, and other sweet treats.

MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM
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Washington Square Park

Urban oasis steeped in history and cultural significance. Nestled in Greenwich Village, its origins trace back to the early 19th century, evolving from a marshland to a burial ground and eventually a bustling public space. At its heart stands the iconic Washington Square Arch.

Washington Square Park
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Wall Street

Synonymous with global finance and economic power. As the heart of New York City's Financial District, it serves as the headquarters for major financial institutions, including the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

Wall Street
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Charging Bull Statue

The iconic bull statue symbolizes optimism and prosperity in the stock market, as well as its role in shaping global markets and economies.

Charging Bull
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Ground Zero & One World Trade Center

The former World Trade Center site, referred to as Ground Zero is an area in Lower Manhattan. I recommend you get tickets to visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum and the view from the top of the One World Trade Center tower is beautiful.

Ground Zero
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One World Trade Center - Observatory
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Chinatown

Established in the mid-19th century, it is one of the oldest and largest Chinatowns outside of Asia, offering visitors a vibrant mosaic of Asian culture, traditions, and flavours.

Chinatown
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Little Italy

Once a bustling enclave for Italian immigrants, it retains its charm with narrow cobblestone streets, authentic trattorias, and charming cafes. Visitors flock to Little Italy to savour traditional Italian cuisine, from hearty pasta dishes and pizza to cannoli and gelato.

Little Italy
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Have a glorious time in the city that never sleeps!

Marie - Mlle Wanderlust

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New York City: Your Ultimate Guide to the Big Apple
Welcome to the city that never sleeps! NYC is a vibrant metropolis bursting with culture, history, and endless possibilities. This guide is your go-to resource for navigating the hustle and bustle of New York City. Let me help you make the most of your New York adventure!
59 Places • 1 Save • ago
Free

Where to stay

I highly recommend you stay in Manhattan as it will make it way easier for you to explore as opposed to staying in New Jersey.

The Element New York

Located in Midtown near Times Square, I loved the fact that the breakfast buffet was included. This hotel was perfect and came at an affordable price.

Element New York Times Square West
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The Hudson New York

The location was great, right by Central Park close to Columbus Circle. The rooms are not huge by very clean and trendy. This hotel is gorgeous and has a nice rooftop. 

Hudson New York
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The Millenium Times Square

It’s located in the centre of Times Square and close to a subway station. Rooms are spacious with a great view!

Millennium Hotel Broadway Times Square
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How to get around

The cheapest way to visit is on foot. But if you plan on visiting different boroughs, I recommend you take the subway as it is the cheapest and fastest way to get around. They also have taxis (typical yellow cabs!) and ride shares, such as Uber and Lyft.

Where to eat

Eataly

Eataly houses several restaurants, cafes, and counters where visitors can enjoy freshly prepared dishes, including handmade pasta, Neapolitan-style pizza, and gelato. 

Eataly NYC Flatiron
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SERRA

This restaurant  encompasses a lively and welcoming ambiance reminiscent of the lush Italian countryside, placing an emphasis on evergreen botanicals and pops of colour throughout.

SERRA by Birreria
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The Cauldron

Harry Potter fans, brew your own potions at the Cauldron!

The Cauldron NYC Flatiron
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Serendipity 3

Serendipity 3 is a legendary restaurant and dessert spot located in the heart of New York City. Famous for its whimsical decor and extravagant desserts, it has been a favourite among locals and celebrities alike since its founding in 1954. Visitors flock to Serendipity 3 to indulge in its iconic Frozen Hot Chocolate, a rich and decadent treat that has become a signature dish. You may recognize the restaurant from the Holiday movie: Serendipity.

Serendipity 3
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Rolf's

A magical restaurant where the decorations are up year round. Try their pumpkin martini if you're visiting in the Fall season.

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MarieBelle

MarieBelle New York is a luxury chocolate shop and boutique located in SoHo. Known for its exquisite artisan chocolates and European-style decor, MarieBelle offers a decadent experience for chocolate lovers. MarieBelle New York provides a sophisticated ambiance, blending Old World charm with modern elegance.

MarieBelle
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Ralph's Coffee

Great aesthetics and coffee/tea menu.

Ralph's Coffee
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Twenty Three Grand SoHo

For a lovely brunch with live jazz music on Sundays.

Twenty Three Grand
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Glace

Try their out of this world hot chocolates!

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Activities by neighbourhoods

Chelsea

The High Line

The High Line, which opened in 2009, is a 2.33 km-long elevated linear park, greenway and rail trail created on a former abandoned railroad viaduct spur on the West side of the city in the Meatpacking District through Chelsea.

The High Line
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Starbucks Reserve

At ground level, the cobblestone streets are filled with trendy restaurants and shops. I strongly suggest you visit the Starbucks Reserve Roastery located on the 9th Avenue across the Chelsea Market East entrance, it’s incredible!

Starbucks Reserve
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Chelsea Market

The Chelsea Market is an indoor marketplace renowned for its wide range of grocers, shops & eateries. I love shopping and eating there as I always find little treasures to bring back home.

Chelsea Market
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The Vessel

The Vessel is a newer attraction in New York as it was inaugurated in March of 2019. It’s a structure and visitor attraction built as part of the Hudson Yards Redevelopment Project. The honeycomb-like structure rises 16 stories high and consists of 154 flights of stairs. 

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Dylan's Candy Bar

Did you know that Ralph Lauren’s granddaughter had a candy bar in New York?

Dylan Lauren was inspired to create the largest unique candy store in the world. Most of her inspiration came from the story of Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. The shop stocks more than 7 000 candies from around the world.

Dylan's Candy Bar
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Midtown & Times Square

New York Public Library

A great free activity is to visit the emblematic Public Library. You may have seen it in many movies such as: The Day After Tomorrow.

The Library is a public library has nearly 53 million items and is the second largest public library in the United States and the third largest in the world.

New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building
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Chrysler Building

A striking symbol of Art Deco architecture and New York City's skyline. Completed in 1930, it stands as an enduring icon of innovation and design, with its distinctive spire and stainless steel crown. Admired for its elegance and detailed ornamentation, the Chrysler Building remains a testament to the city's architectural prowess and cultural legacy, captivating both residents and tourists alike with its timeless beauty and historical significance.

Chrysler Building
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Go on Broadway

The Lion King 

Based on the 1994 Disney movie, the musical debuted on Broadway in 1997. It is Broadway’s third longest-running show in history, and has grossed more than $1 billion, making it the highest grossing Broadway production of all time!

The Lion King
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Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is a captivating theatrical experience that continues J.K. Rowling's beloved Harry Potter saga. Set 19 years after the events of the final book, it follows Harry Potter, now a Ministry of Magic employee, and his son Albus Severus Potter as they navigate challenges both magical and personal. The play's spellbinding narrative and imaginative stagecraft have enchanted audiences worldwide, bringing the magic of Hogwarts to life on stage in an unforgettable theatrical production.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
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Grand Central Terminal

Opened in 1913, the iconic Grand Central is a commuter rail terminal located in Midtown. The terminal is the third-busiest train station in North America and has 44 platforms! 

The main concourse is often featured in films and television. Grand Central Terminal contains a variety of stores and food vendors, including a food court and the renowned Oyster Bar.

There’s also an indoor Christmas Market during the Holiday Season. It’s located on the main concourse.

Grand Central Terminal
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A Hidden Gem:

The concourses are connected by two ramps. They intersect a slight slope from the Dining Concourse just outside the Oyster Bar. The arch creates a whispering gallery which means that someone standing in one corner can hear the other speaking softly in the opposite corner. 

Whispering Gallery in Grand Central Terminal
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Empire State Building

For an amazing view of New York, you must go to the Empire State Building observatory deck. The skyscraper is 102-story-high. It was completed in 1931 and stands a total of 1,454 feet tall.

Empire State Building
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Rockefeller Center

A must visit if you are in NYC during the Holiday Season.

The tradition of lighting a big Christmas tree began in 1931 during the Great Depression and has since become an iconic part of Christmas celebrations in NYC. The tree is usually a Norway Spruce and is donated by a private individual or family. Lighting the tree is a major event, broadcasted nationally, and the tree remains on display throughout the holiday season, spreading festive cheer to all who visit Rockefeller Center.

Rockefeller Center
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Opened in 1932, Radio City Music Hall was designed as part of Rockefeller Center during the Great Depression. It was intended to be a grand theater that combined art, entertainment, and technology to lift spirits during tough times.

Radio City Music Hall
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Madison Square Garden

Madison Square Garden is a renowned multi-purpose indoor arena. It's considered one of the world's most famous venues and has a rich history spanning over 140 years. 

It hosts a wide range of events including concerts, sports events, circuses, and other live performances. It's home to the New York Knicks (NBA) and the New York Rangers (NHL).

Madison Square Garden
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Times Square

Times Square is the epicenter of Manhattan. It’s a major entertainment center and commercial intersection lit by numerous billboards and advertisements. You’ll find great stores for shopping and various restaurants. 

Times Square
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Harry Potter New York Store

This enchanting store immerses visitors in the magic of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts with themed merchandise, interactive experiences, and exclusive collectibles. From wands and wizarding apparel to magical creatures and potions, every corner of the store invites fans to explore and indulge in their love for all things magical.

Harry Potter New York
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Flatiron Building

This iconic landmark in New York City, is renowned for its distinctive triangular shape and historical significance. Completed in 1902, it stands as one of the city's earliest skyscrapers and is admired for its innovative architectural design. Located at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Broadway, the Flatiron Building has become a symbol of New York's architectural prowess and urban landscape.

Flatiron Building
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Macy's

Macy's began as a dry goods store in New York City and quickly grew into one of the nation's largest and most well-known retail chains. Its flagship store, Macy's Herald Square, opened in 1902 and remains a prominent landmark in NYC.

It is one of the largest department stores in the world, spanning multiple floors and offering a wide range of merchandise including clothing, accessories, cosmetics and home goods.

Macy's is famous for its annual events, most notably the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade ever since 1924. The parade features giant balloons, floats, marching bands, and performances, culminating in the arrival of Santa Claus.

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Bryant Park

Bryant Park is a public park located between 5th Avenue and Avenue of the Americas and between 40th and 42nd Streets in Midtown Manhattan. It’s right next to the New York Public Library. The park hosts many merchants in the summer and in the winter there’s a skating rink and a Holiday Market.

Bryant Park
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FAO Schwarz

FAO Schwarz is an iconic toy store known for its vast selection of toys, games, and interactive experiences. Founded in 1862, FAO Schwarz has a rich history and is celebrated for its unique and whimsical atmosphere. One of the highlights of FAO Schwarz is the famous piano mat, where visitors can recreate the iconic scene from the movie "Big" by playing music with their feet.

FAO Schwarz
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The Guggenheim

This museum is an architectural masterpiece and a renowned cultural institution dedicated to modern and contemporary art. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and completed in 1959, the museum's distinctive spiral structure is a work of art in itself, 

Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
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Upper Manhattan

Central Park

Central Park
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Here are the must do activities in Central Park:

Ice Skate on the iconic Wollman Rink (just like in the Christmas movie: Serendipity).

Wollman Rink
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Visit John Lennon's tribute at Strawberry Fields.

Strawberry Fields
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Do a Horse Carriage ride - in the winter it is truly magical.

NYC Adventures - Central Park Horse Carriage Rides
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Adorned with the Angel of the Waters sculpture, the historic landmark of Bethesda Fountain offers a peaceful retreat amidst the park's bustling energy.

Bethesda Fountain
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Built in the late 19th century, the picturesque Belvedere Castle serves as a popular spot for visitors to enjoy breathtaking vistas of the park and beyond.

Belvedere Castle
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And finally, step into the imaginative world of Alice in Wonderland while enjoying the beauty of Central Park.

Alice in Wonderland
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The MET

Located on Fifth Avenue at the edge of Central Park, The Met is one of the largest and most prestigious art museums in the world.

Founded in 1870, The Met's vast collection spans over 5,000 years of art history, featuring masterpieces from ancient civilizations to contemporary works. 

The Metropolitan Museum of Art
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The Lincoln Center

During the holiday period, you can catch The Nutcracker. The Ballet with live musicians is simply whimsical!

Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
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Roosevelt Island Tramway

The Roosevelt Island Tramway offers a unique and scenic mode of transportation in New York City, connecting Manhattan with Roosevelt Island across the East River. Originally built in 1976, the tramway provides stunning aerial views of the city skyline and the East River, making it a popular attraction.

Roosevelt Island Tramway
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The MoMA

MoMA houses an extensive collection of modern and contemporary artworks, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and multimedia installations.

The Museum of Modern Art
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The American Museum of Natural History

Located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan in New York City, the AMNH is a renowned institution dedicated to the exploration of nature, science, and human culture. Founded in 1869, the museum's vast collection spans millions of artifacts, specimens, and exhibitions that showcase the diversity of life on Earth and the cosmos.

American Museum of Natural History
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Colombus Circle

If you're lucky enough to visit New York around the Holiday season, you must visit this Christmas Market.

Columbus Circle Holiday Market
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Lower Manhattan

Tip: I recommend booking a boat tour that goes to both Ellis Island and Liberty Island.

Ellis Island - Museum of Immigration

Ellis Island is a 27.5-acre island located in the New York Harbour next to Liberty Island. From 1892 to 1954, it was the country’s busiest immigration station. It processed nearly 12 millions immigrants to the US. If you’re a History buff, this place is definitely for you!

It now contains a museum and it’s not to be missed! The South side of the island, includes the Immigrant Hospital which is abandoned but accessible to the public through guided tours. 

Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration
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Liberty Island: Statue of Liberty

Since 1886, the Statue has been known to be a welcoming sight to immigrants arriving from abroad. Did you know that the Statue was a gift from France to the people of the US and that you could see her little sister, which is quarter-scale replica, in Paris by the Seine?!

Statue of Liberty
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The Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge stands as a timeless marvel of engineering and a cherished symbol of New York City's skyline. Completed in 1883, it spans the East River, connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn with its distinctive Gothic towers and elegant suspension cables. Walking across the bridge offers breathtaking views of the cityscape, including the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building.

Brooklyn Bridge
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Trinity Church

If you've seen the movie National Treasure with Nicholas Cage you will recognize Trinity Church.

Established in 1697, it stands as one of the oldest churches in the United States, with its current Neo-Gothic structure dating back to the mid-19th century.

Trinity Church
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Museum of Ice Cream

Unique and interactive museum dedicated to all things related to ice cream and sweets. The museum is more of an interactive art installation than a traditional museum. It features various themed rooms and exhibits centered around ice cream, candy, and other sweet treats.

MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM
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Washington Square Park

Urban oasis steeped in history and cultural significance. Nestled in Greenwich Village, its origins trace back to the early 19th century, evolving from a marshland to a burial ground and eventually a bustling public space. At its heart stands the iconic Washington Square Arch.

Washington Square Park
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Wall Street

Synonymous with global finance and economic power. As the heart of New York City's Financial District, it serves as the headquarters for major financial institutions, including the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

Wall Street
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Charging Bull Statue

The iconic bull statue symbolizes optimism and prosperity in the stock market, as well as its role in shaping global markets and economies.

Charging Bull
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Ground Zero & One World Trade Center

The former World Trade Center site, referred to as Ground Zero is an area in Lower Manhattan. I recommend you get tickets to visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum and the view from the top of the One World Trade Center tower is beautiful.

Ground Zero
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One World Trade Center - Observatory
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Chinatown

Established in the mid-19th century, it is one of the oldest and largest Chinatowns outside of Asia, offering visitors a vibrant mosaic of Asian culture, traditions, and flavours.

Chinatown
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Little Italy

Once a bustling enclave for Italian immigrants, it retains its charm with narrow cobblestone streets, authentic trattorias, and charming cafes. Visitors flock to Little Italy to savour traditional Italian cuisine, from hearty pasta dishes and pizza to cannoli and gelato.

Little Italy
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Have a glorious time in the city that never sleeps!

Marie - Mlle Wanderlust

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CURATED BY
Hello everyone, I'm Marie, a Canadian in her 30's who’s excited to share her travel knowledge! Let me help you plan your upcoming trips! I have travelled to more than 30 different countries...and counting and I have been viewed over 230 000 times on YouTube. Welcome to my Thatch Shop where I hope you’ll be inspired to discover the world!
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