This post is all about my trip to New York last month, its a bit different but I couldn't resist sharing it with you. So here are 10 things to see and do.
We only went for 5 days, quite a good amount time to see all of the sights without having to rush, although of course I really didn't want to leave. We stayed in a hotel on Murray Hill in Manhattan which is a central but quiet location. Here are a few photos from my trip and some of the things that I visited.
1. Grand Central Station
This photo really doesn't do the stunning architecture justice - I could of easily stayed for hours, transfixed by the busy workers travelling in and out, framed by the astonishing pillars and the ceiling which is dotted with golden constellations.
2. The Empire State Building Observatory
The views from 82 floors above the hustle and bustle of the city are breathtaking. The panoramic observatory offers views of the whole city. Inside, the art-deco interior is truly beautiful, take a glance upwards and you will spot the stunning goldleaf-coated ceilings. It opens at 8am, a great time to visit if you are want to avoid the worst of the queues.
3. The High Line
The High Line is a stretch of disused railroad which has been transformed into a beautiful park. Here you will find great views of West Village and the Hudson river. Stalls selling a variety of food, art and keepsakes are dotted across the park.
4. West Village, Greenwich Village and Soho
A stroll around these charming neighbourhoods should not be missed. The streets are lined with small, independent shops and amazing architecture. It is a quiet retreat from the busy, tourist packed central Manhattan.
5. Big Daddy's Diner
Big Daddy's Diner (located in Greenwich Village) is home to many classic American foods. The milkshakes are delicious and they offer a huge variety. Click here to access their website and menu.
6. New York Public Library
The library is definitely worth a visit. It is incredible inside and out. Also, it is directly next to Bryant park which is home to an ice-skating rink in the colder months.
7. Central Park
Central Park is a lively oasis of colour and people. Autumn is a great time to visit as the leaves turn a crisp orange and the last of the summer sun filters through the towering trees. It takes up 843 acres so a great way to explore is on two wheels. Around the entrances of the park there are countless bicycle rental companies which allow you to see most of the park, including the reservoir, Betheseda Terrace, the lake, statues and museums.
8. Brooklyn Bridge
We visited Brooklyn Bridge on the way to South-street Seaport and had a wander outside City Hall and the surrounding buildings. It is worth a visit and there are lots of great photo opportunities too.
9. Statue of Liberty
The iconic Statue of Liberty can be viewed from the Staten Island ferry, which is free. It has a great view of Downtown so is definitely worth a visit.
10. Ground 0/The World Trade Centre Memorial
The World Trade Centre Memorial and Museum are truly inspiring and thought-provoking. Two fountains are placed in the exact spot of the towers and the museum is underneath. Also on the site is the Freedom Tower, the tallest Building in New York. People in their thousands are silenced by the devastating yet incredible stories of 9/11.
Thank you for reading this blog post. I hope I have inspired you to visit the wonderful city that is New York.
