Guide to NYC

I am one of 10 million lucky to call themselves a New Yorker, born and raised. So, I’m going to give you a glimpse at what I show my friends when they’re visiting New York City for the first time!

The Bethesda Fountain: Easily one of my favorite places to visit. During the summer swans, dancers, and bubbles surround the area. Just behind the fountain is Bethesda Terrace that spreads out onto the famous Literary Walk full of artists and great souvenirs! If you’re a Gossip Girl fanatic, this is the place to see some of the familiar scenery.

Ellen’s Stardust Diner: If you’re travelling on a shoestring but still want the full Broadway experience, try Ellen’s Stardust Diner. The staff are all performers and Broadway hopefuls who break into song every few minutes!

Chelsea Market and the High Line: Chelsea Market is the international food market of NYC. One stall has hundreds of spices while another has every creature from the sea! Just a block away from this is the New York High Line – a 2-mile long “park” built along repurposed train tracks from the 1930s almost one story above the street! There are artists, snacks, and even pools of water people can put their feet in.

Top of the Rock: In my opinion this is the best view of Manhattan you can ever hope to get. Situated on top of Rockerfeller Center is a viewing platform that looks out to midtown, downtown, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens, Central Park, and even New Jersey!

Katz Deli: If you’re a meat lover like me, this is a must. Taking a number and shouting your order is how you’ll be served, making for a classic New York experience. However, the real challenge is eating your way through layer after layer of meat!

9/11 Memorial: The 9/11 Memorial is one of the most humbling places in the world. Every time I visit my heart amplifies with love and gratitude for those lost.

Brooklyn Bridge: The place where Sex and the City’s Miranda and Steve made amends – this walk is perfect for couples, as well as families and individuals who just want a nice view of New York.

Washington Square: This is my favorite park in Manhattan, second to Central Park. Situated close to NYU, the square has a young, student vibe. The perfect place for ‘people watching’, listening to musicians, and feeding pigeons, as well as indulging in the plethora of restaurants around Washington Square.

Free Kayaking: You’d be surprised how many free museums, parks, and excursions one can see in New York, but did you know you could kayak the Hudson for free? The Downtown Boathouse offer free sit-on-top kayaks for anyone to use!

Staten Island Ferry: Speaking of free, the Staten Island Ferry runs every half hour. When boarding from downtown Manhattan, stand on the right of the ferry to get the best views of Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. The round trip will take only an hour and costs nothing!