When it comes to things to do in New York City, it is tough to know where to begin. This place is massive. What may be brilliant for one person may not necessarily be good for another person. However, we are ready to give it a bash. This is what we believe are the things you absolutely must do if you are staying in this fantastic place.

1. Times Square

Times Square
Flickr: rogersg /Creative Commons /

When it comes to what to do in New York, there is no place that is more iconic than Times Square. Flashing lights will overwhelm you. There is something to look at in every direction. This is a part of the city which never really sleeps. Most people who get to NYC for the first time will make a beeline for here.

2. Empire State Building

Empire State Building
Flickr: longitudelatitude /Creative Commons /

This is probably one of the most recognizable buildings in the world. Sure, you can see it from afar, but if you really want to experience the best of what the Empire State Building offers, you are going to need to venture to the 86th floor. You will be able to see for miles around the city. Make sure you bring your camera up here!

3. Statue of Liberty

New York Statue of Liberty
Flickr: celso/ /Creative Commons /

Again, probably one of the most iconic buildings in the world. Over a century ago, the Statue of Liberty was the first thing that millions of immigrants saw when they entered America for the first time. It is a quick boat trip to the island. It is completely worth it too!

4. American Museum of Natural History

American Museum of Natural History
Flickr: pahudson /Creative Commons /

This is the largest natural history museum in the world. All eras are represented. This includes some fascinating dinosaur fossils. You will lose hours exploring the 45 exhibition halls and taking in over 30 million artifacts (no, you don’t have to look at all of them!)

5. Central Park

Central Park
Flickr: pahudson /Creative Commons /

You can’t really head to New York without a trip to Central Park. This place, right in the heart of the city, provides a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the rest of New York. There is so much space here, you will never be short of places to just ‘chill out’. This is a great place to bring a picnic on one of your off days.

6. 9/11 Memorial

9/11 Memorial
Flickr: jschauma /Creative Commons /

In 2001, tragedy struck America. The World Trade Center towers which once dominated the skyline of NYC were brought to the ground by one of the worst terrorist attacks in American history. The 9/11 memorial pools are there to remember the thousands of people who died that day.

7. Coney Island

Coney Island
Flickr: vagueonthehow /Creative Commons /

While may ‘amusement parks’ have sprung up over the years which have overtaken Coney Island in terms of popularity and attraction, you should always pay a visit here. Coney Island is a delightful place to explore. It has been going through a period of rejuvenation as of late too, which dozens of shops and attractions for you to take it. It really is a marvelous place to head!

For more great travel tips, see Food-Wine-Travel with Roberta!

BONUS TIP: find a great local photographer in New York with Localgrapher!

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