New York City offers a mix of affordability and opulence. Discover free sights, must-see landmarks, and unforgettable stays with my comprehensive guide. From iconic Times Square to Summit One Vanderbilt, these top tips for New York ensure an unforgettable journey
New York is one of my favourite cities, you could spend weeks exploring and still not get everything covered.
Top Free Sights in NYC:
Grand Central Station:
Grand Central Station, offers more than transportation—it’s a hub for shops, restaurants, and vibrant markets. It has also been featured in many popular movies and TV shows. Even if you’re not catching a train, it’s easy to spend a few hours at Grand Central Station
The High Line:
The High Line is a stunning and unique park built on an abandoned elevated railroad above Manhattans West Side with a stunning view of the Hudson.
Times Square:
No trip to New York would be complete without experiencing the neon lights and flashing billboards of Times Square. There are plenty of dining options available from hot dogs to high-end restaurants, and an abundance of theatres to catch award-winning Broadway shows
Brooklyn Bridge:
The Brooklyn Bridge opened in 1883 and connects the Boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn. You can walk or cycle across the bridge and take in the spectacular views of the Manhattans skyline, this is a must do top tip for New York. You may also want to consider booking a photo tour to capture the moment.
Staten Island Ferry:
My expert advice? Take the Staten Island Ferry for a free way to see the Statue of Liberty, operating 24/7.
Must-See Landmarks:
Summit One Vanderbilt:
Summit One Vanderbilt is New York’s newest 1,401-foot-high skyscraper, with a mirrored room that reflects the sky and city views, making you feel like you’re walking in the sky. Step into the levitation sky boxes 1,063 feet above Midtown, with just glass between you and the ground. Tickets start at $39 per person
Top of the Rock:
Top of the Rock is one of the best ways to see New York and one of my favourite top tips for New York. With views from the 70th-floor, 3-tiered observation deck you’ll get to see all New York’s world-famous landmarks. Tickets start at $34 per person with different ticket options available.
9/11 Memorial & Museum
The Museum tells the story of 9/11 through imagery, personal stories, and multimedia displays. Museum tickets are $26 per person. Outside the focal point of the memorial are the twin reflecting pools and Survivor Tree.
Where to stay
Located in Midtown just a few minutes’ walk from Times Square, with an all-season rooftop oasis with breath-taking panoramic views of Manhattan and Times Square
Perfect location on Broadway with views of the Empire State building, featuring a swimming pool and roof top bar
Featuring a heated year-round rooftop pool and is only 250 yards from the High Line
Cocktails with a view
30 stories high, with floor-to-ceiling windows, and a rooftop terrace showing amazing views of the Empire State Building and other iconic locales.
18 Floors above the city, Magic Hour boasts five distinct environments and is known as an ‘urban amusement park’ serving vibrant & colourful cocktails and sweets plates to share.
Named after its location on 5th Avenue, 230 fifth is one of the largest rooftop bars in New York. Separated over the 20th and 21st Floors offering both an indoor lounge and rooftop terrace and hosting live music events.
