Arguably one of, if not the most famous city in the world, New York truly has something to offer for everyone. From its breathtaking skyscrapers and bustling Times Square to its mesmerizing Broadway shows and stunning Central Park, the big apple welcomes millions of tourists from all four corners of the globe every year.
As you descend onto New York soil, prepare to have a jam-packed adventure like no other. Whether you want to take in the sights, get in touch with nature, or sample some of the tastiest cuisines in the world, here are several reasons why New York remains a firm favorite with holidaymakers in 2022 and beyond.
Accessibility: A City That Welcomes the World
One of the main reasons why New York draws so many holidaymakers from around the world is how easily accessible the city is. All you need to do is take a direct flight from one of the many airports in the country and you’ll be in the big apple before you know it. If you book early enough, you can score cheap flights to JFK New York. Once you’ve got your ticket to New York, all the planning, packing, and fun can begin!
Getting Around Like a Local
When you land in NYC, you’ll be happy to know the city prides itself on its public transportation. You can catch the subway with ease to all five boroughs, allowing you to take in the stunning sights and soak up the atmosphere.
Forget the stress of renting a car! NYC’s public transportation system is your best friend. The subway operates 24/7, covering all five boroughs. For just $2.90, you can ride anywhere. Prefer something iconic? Hop into a yellow cab or a ride-share for a true New York experience.
| Transportation Mode | Average Cost | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Subway | $2.90/ride | Everyday commuting |
| Yellow Cab | ~$15 (short ride) | Quick city trips |
| Ride-Sharing (Uber/Lyft) | ~$20-40 | Longer distances |
What’s more, their subway system operates 24/7. While a ride in a yellow cab is great, it’s definitely cheaper to ride the subway to get around.
Skyscrapers That Touch the Sky
We briefly touched on it at the start but prepare to be amazed at the humongous skyscrapers across New York.
Empire State Building
When you stroll through the city, you can’t possibly miss the Empire State Building.
Standing at 1,454 feet, the Empire State Building is a must-visit. Its observation deck offers breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. As long as you don’t have a fear of heights, you can take some fantastic snapshots of down below!
Pro tip: Visit at sunset for the most Instagram-worthy shots.
One World Trade Center
This modern marvel stands even taller at 1,776 feet. The One World Observatory provides an interactive digital experience alongside jaw-dropping views. Tickets start at $38.
Comparison of Skyscrapers:
| Skyscraper | Height | Observation Deck Cost |
| Empire State Building | 1,454 feet | $44 |
| One World Trade Center | 1,776 feet | $38 |
| Rockefeller Center | 850 feet | $40 |
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Dive into History: Museums and Galleries
To really get the most out of your NYC experience, learning about the city and its origins can be a real eye-opener. New York is home to a wide array of historic museums that can take you back in time and give you a better understanding of how the city has got to where it has today. Museums you must check out include The National 9/11 Memorial & Museum, New York Public Library, and New York Historical Society Museum.
Top Historical Spots
- The National 9/11 Memorial & Museum: A moving tribute to resilience and hope.
- New York Historical Society Museum: Learn about NYC’s role in shaping American history.
Art Lover’s Paradise
For the art fanatics, we’re confident The Metropolitan Museum of Art has you covered. This establishment is by far the most famous of New York’s selection of artistic displays. The building itself is a masterpiece. As you arrive at the museum, you’ll be greeted with a magnificent towering set of stairs to the entrance. To get the best experience, it’s wise to visit early in the morning, rather than being surrounded by huge crowds at peak times.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art houses over 2 million works, including Van Gogh’s “Starry Night” and Monet’s “Water Lilies.” Visit early to avoid crowds.
Brooklyn Bridge: A Walk to Remember
Have you really been to New York if you’ve not taken a walk on Brooklyn Bridge? Many would argue no! Known as one of the classic sights of the city, Brooklyn Bridge isn’t just a journey from one borough to the next. Instead, it’s a landmark that’s been featured in tons of films and media and is an instantly recognizable part of New York’s skyline.
Brooklyn Bridge also connects the center of the big apple’s tourism, Manhattan, with Brooklyn. When you arrive at the bridge, you’ll be wowed by the great views of the city. If you don’t mind a bit of walking and want to fully immerse yourself in all things NYC, we guarantee you’ll enjoy a trip to Brooklyn Bridge.
Stretching 1.1 miles, the Brooklyn Bridge connects Manhattan and Brooklyn. Walking across it offers stunning views of the New York Harbor. Did you know the bridge was completed in 1883 and remains a marvel of engineering?
| Distance Walked | Average Time |
| Full Bridge (1.1 miles) | 20-30 minutes |
The Electrifying Times Square
When many of us think of New York, Times Square tends to be the first area that springs to mind. Bursting with shops, exciting billboards, and entertainment, Times Square truly has all it all going on. There is a magnitude of bars, restaurants, and museums to check out there too. When the sun goes down, the lights of Times Square illuminate NYC.
For the shopaholics, Times Square is home to a variety of bustling shops. These include Hershey’s Chocolate World, the Disney Store, and many more. Times Square is a hit with tourists, so if you like to people watch and want to really take in the atmosphere, you can spend many an hour sitting on their iconic red steps doing just that.
Why It’s a Must-See
With its bright billboards and vibrant energy, Times Square is the heartbeat of NYC. Here, you can shop, eat, and enjoy street performances all in one place.
Best Spots
- Disney Store: Perfect for family souvenirs.
- Hershey’s Chocolate World: Satisfy your sweet tooth.
Culinary Delights: Taste NYC
Whatever your culinary tastes are, New York has you covered (and then some!). Even the fussiest of eaters are bound to find something they like in the city, especially thanks to worldwide chains like McDonald’s and Starbucks seeming to be on every other block. However, for those who want the ultimate NYC foodie experience, you must sample New York pizza, pretzels, hotdogs, and burgers.
For those jetting off on a luxury NYC trip, you’ll be pleased to know there are Michelin Star restaurants dotted across the city, like Chinatown and Little Italy. Wherever you decide on dining, just make sure you bring extra cash to tip!
Famous Eats
- New York-Style Pizza: Thin, crispy, and foldable.
- Bagels with Lox: A Sunday morning tradition.
- Street Hotdogs: Cheap and cheerful at $3 a pop.
High-End Options
For a luxe dining experience, visit Le Bernardin or explore the vibrant flavors in Chinatown and Little Italy.
| Dish | Average Price | Best Spot |
| Pizza Slice | $3-5 | Joe’s Pizza |
| Bagel with Lox | $12-15 | Russ & Daughters |
| Michelin Dinner | $200+ | Per Se |
Central Park: Nature in the Concrete Jungle
If you’re heading to New York during the spring and summer months, we don’t blame you if you want to spend time outdoors and be in touch with nature. Central Park is a must-visit for any tourist. This iconic landmark is full to the brim with attractions. From sprawling waters to green meadows, music, and performance centers to glorious gardens, you can spend hour after hour in Central Park without getting bored.
Central Park is also home to playgrounds for the kids, jogging trails, outdoor movies, and live music. You can go on a guided tour too as you explore its 843 acres of carefully designed and planned outdoor space. Attractions include:
- Belvedere Castle: Stunning views of the park.
- Strawberry Fields: A tribute to John Lennon.
- Boat Rentals: Row your way to peace.
| Activity | Average Cost |
| Rowboat Rental | $20/hour |
| Horse Carriage Ride | $60-100 |
| Guided Park Tour | $25/person |
Many tourists need a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of the city, so what better way to do that than by heading to Central Park?
Broadway: The Heart of Entertainment
The razzle and dazzle of Broadway is like nothing else on this planet. For the theatre lovers, Broadway has 43 of them to check out, which house some of the best spectacles you’ll ever witness! Sure, London’s West End is marvelous, but it’s safe to say Broadway is one level up from it.
All of Broadway’s theatres constantly change their variety of productions, meaning there’s always a new play and musical to feast your eyes on. Some of the best Broadway shows to check out in 2022 include Company, Hamilton, Dear Evan Hansen, and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. To get the best seats in the house, make sure to book your tickets well in advance.
New York City is a dream destination for a reason. From its iconic landmarks to its diverse food scene and rich history, the Big Apple truly has it all. Whether you’re strolling through Central Park, enjoying a Broadway show, or savoring a slice of New York pizza, the memories you make here will last a lifetime.
So, pack your bags, grab your MetroCard, and get ready for an adventure like no other. The Big Apple is waiting!