Four Days in New York

By Alex Birungi

Planning to spend four days in New York City and wondering whether it’s enough time to see everything? One of the world’s most intense and invigorating, energetic, and ever-changing cities in the world, the sprawling metropolis has so much to offer, you could live there for a year without seeing and experiencing everything.

However, four days in New York is enough to see all the top attractions and get a feel for the city. While you’ll have your work cut out for you and will end up walking a good few miles, it’s just enough time for you to take a bite out of the Big Apple and fall in love.

So, what to see and where to go? This four-day itinerary will guide you through the top sights and food spots you simply can’t miss on a visit to New York City.

Top Tips for First-Time Visitors to New York City

With just four days in New York, time is of the essence, so here are a few tips to help make the most of your stay.

Comfortable shoes are essential!

New York City is best explored on foot, and you’ll spend a lot of time walking around. It’s essential to bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes for your four-day adventure.

Expect long lines at popular places

New York City is one of the most visited cities in the world and is busy year-round. Prepare for long lines at the top attractions.

Get the 7-Day Unlimited Ride Metro Card

New York City has an outstanding public transportation system that provides a quick way of getting around the city. The 7-Day Unlimited Ride Metro Card is worthwhile if you plan on using the subway. For only $33 you’ll have unlimited access to the metro for seven days.

Now that you’re prepped, let’s hit the streets!

Four-Day Itinerary for New York City

Day 1

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Morning in Central Park

Your first stop on your Big Apple adventure must be Central Park. One of New York’s most recognized attributes, Central Park is the lush green heart of Manhattan. Designed by the award-winning landscape architect team, Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, the park spans 843 acres and is home to everything from a lake to an ice-skating rink.

You could spend the entire day in the park and not see everything, so why not use your pass to rent a bike from Central Park Full Day Bike Rental on two wheels!

Visit the most popular attractions in the park like the picturesque Loeb Boathouse, the historic Belvedere Castle, Sheep's Meadow, and the rolling Strawberry Fields.

When you’re done exploring, head to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, one of New York’s top museums. Founded in 1870, the MET is home to over two million pieces of art spanning 5,000 years. Don’t miss Monet’s Bridge over a Pond of Water Lilies and Vincent van Gogh’s Self Portrait with a Straw Hat.

If you prefer archeology over art, head to the American Museum of Natural History on the border of Central Park in the Upper West Side. Use your pass to gain access to the museum and marvel at the incredible collection of natural wonders. Don’t miss the life-size model of a 94-foot blue whale in the Hall of Ocean Life.

Afternoon in Midtown

After lunch, it’s time for a bit of retail therapy on one of the best shopping streets in the world! Head down Fifth Avenue to browse the stunning window displays of the top luxury brands in the world and do some shopping if your credit card will allow it.

Make a stop at the Saint Patrick’s Cathedral along the way. Hailed as one of the most beautiful churches in the world, the Neo-Gothic style cathedral took 21 years to complete due to the Civil War. Use your pass to enjoy express entry into the cathedral where you can wander around in awe of the breathtaking architecture.

Evening in Times Square

Times Square is one of New York’s most visited attractions and can’t be missed during your NYC sojourn. Brace yourself for the massive screens and neon lights lighting up the night sky. Be prepared for crowds – Times Square heaves with tourists, especially at night, but it’s an experience of a lifetime that will leave lasting memories.

Another must-do when in New York is to catch a Broadway Show if you can afford it. Broadway Shows are an integral part of New York and even if you’re not the greatest theater fan, watching a show like The Lion King or Wicked on Broadway is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Use your pass to enjoy a Broadway and Time Square Walking Tour. Walk in the footsteps of stars as you visit legendary Broadway locations like the Edison Hotel and Shubert Alley.

Day 2

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Morning in Greenwich Village

When in New York, do as New Yorkers do and grab a bagel for breakfast. You’ll find plenty of bakeries and cafés selling mouthwatering versions – try salmon and cream cheese if you really want to be a New Yorker.

The best way to explore this charming neighborhood is on a walking tour. Use your pass to join a Greenwich Village Walking Tour and enjoy a two-hour guided tour of the ‘birthplace of American Counter-Culture.’

Visit Washington Square Park, the symbolic heart of Greenwich Village and a gathering place for avant-garde artists and students from NYU. Eat your bagel on the steps of the fountain and watch street art performers and musicians ply their trade.

Discover film locations (Friends and Mozart in the Jungle) and learn about the area's famous residents like Edgar Allan Poe and John Wilkes Booth. Visit the birthplace of the LGBTQ+ Movement in America, the Stonewall Inn.

Afternoon in Soho, Little Italy, and Chinatown

Your next stop is the neighboring areas of SoHo (South of Houston Street), Little Italy, and Chinatown. Save some time by using your pass to enjoy a SoHo, Little Italy & Chinatown Walking Tour and dive right into the heart of Manhattan.

Enjoythe ritzy shops and their museum-worthy window displays in SoHo and shop until you drop. Venture into Little Italy and be prepared to salivate as you wander around NYC’s tastiest neighborhood. Discover the rich history of Chinatown and explore its secret underground tunnels.

Evening in Chelsea

As the sun begins to set , head to the unique High Line Park to take in some spectacular city views. The once-disused railroad track was converted into a verdant floating garden that now passes through some of New York City's most historic neighborhoods.

Wander along the elevated park on a High Line, Chelsea & Meatpacking District Walking Tour with your pass. Take in the art installations and admire some of New York's most famous buildings, including the Empire State Building and Frank Gehry’s IAC Building.

When you’re done walking the High Line, pop into Chelsea Market for something to eat. The world-famous food hall is home to a mix of restaurants and shops selling an array of mouthwatering gourmet goodies.

Day 3

Morning at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum and One World Trade Center

Visiting New York City without spending a few hours in the 9/11 Memorial and Museum would be remiss.

Based next to the overwhelming might of the monolithic One World Trade Center, the museum details the horrific events that took place on that day and honors the almost 3,000 victims of these attacks and all those who risked their lives to save others. Use your pass to gain entrance to the museum and be prepared for a deeply moving and reflective experience.

Join a 9/11 Museum Workshop with your pass where you’ll learn about the nine-month recovery period after the events of 9/11 and the people involved.

Don’t miss the never-ending waterfall that cascades into twin reflecting pools where the Twin Towers once stood. The names of victims of both the 1993 and 2001 attacks are engraved in stone around the waterfall.

Afternoon in Wall Street and Brooklyn

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As you wander towards Wall Street and the Financial District, be sure to check out the architecturally significant and rather curious design of the Oculus Mall, which is like the spine of a long-forgotten fish.

Walk around the Financial District and see the iconic New York Stock Exchange. Have a photo taken with the famous Charging Bull and admire the historic Trinity Church.

Next stop, the famous Brooklyn Bridge and the charming neighborhood of DUMBO. Connecting Manhattan to Brooklyn, the Brooklyn Bridge is one of the oldest bridges in the country and one of New York’s most iconic attractions.

A lovely way to explore this area is on a Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO Walking Tour. Stroll across the architectural icon and be sure to take tons of photos – it’s one of the most photographed landmarks in NYC. Learn the history of the bridge from your guide as you soak up spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline.

Stroll around the trendy Brooklyn neighborhood called DUMBO which is famous for its art galleries, high-end boutiques, and scenic waterfront views. This is the place for out-of-this-world New York pizza, so find a spot for dinner!

Day 4

Morning at in the Diamond District

Your first stop today should be the beautiful Grand Central Station. Take in the breathtaking design and the grandeur of the celestial ceiling of the central terminal. Grab breakfast and a coffee in the food hall downstairs.

A short walk from Grand Central Station is the Museum of Modern Art. Fondly known as MoMA, the striking Yoshio Taniguchi-designed building houses one of the most significant collections of modern art in the world, with works by world-renowned, such as Van Gogh, Picasso, Cézanne, Magritte, Pollock, Matisse, and Warhol.

Use your pass for free access to the Museum of Modern Art and spend the morning marveling at masterpieces.

Afternoon at the Empire State Building

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You can’t leave New York without visiting the Empire State Building. This world-renowned building is a short walk from Bryant Park and is the perfect place to see the sunset over Manhattan.

Built during The Great Depression, Empire State Building is a glorious example of Art Deco design with a magnificent lobby boasting 24-karat gold and aluminum leaf ceiling murals. Use your pass to gain access to the Empire State Building and head up to the 86th floor to get a 360-degree panoramic view of the city.

Take in the city from the observatory deck and see Connecticut and Pennsylvania more than 80 miles away on a clear day or watch the city lights begin to twinkle as it gets darker.

Evening at Madison Square Garden

Spend your last evening in New York watching a Knicks basketball game or the New York Rangers on the ice at Madison Square Garden. The 20,000-seat venue in the heart of Herald Square witnessed Marilyn singing ‘Happy Birthday’ to JFK and hosted two Ali-Frazier fights.

If you aren’t lucky enough to get tickets, you’ll find plenty of top-notch restaurants in and around the square for your last NYC dinner.

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New York City Family Vacation Ideas - Attractions, Activities & Things to Do for Vacation

New York City has been a top family vacation destination for some time now. It’s filled with informative and entertaining attractions, tons of arts and culture, and a great food scene that will delight even the pickiest eaters. For those of you traveling to NYC with kids this, we’ve put together a list of our favorite New York attractions for families. Our top New York family vacation ideas include: Empire State Building Big Bus New York Sightseeing Tour Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island American Museum of Natural History Intrepid Sea, Air, & Space Museum Yankee Stadium Tour Clipper City Tall Ship Sail Central Park and much more! Empire State Building The perfect way to start your family vacation to NYC is with a trip to the top of one of her most legendary buildings. Head to the 86th floor of the Empire State Building where you’ll get amazing panoramic views of the cityscape around you from heights of over 1,000 feet in the air. It’s the perfect place for those inimitable Instagram photos. Don’t forget to get some snaps of the stunning Art Deco lobby on your way up! Big Bus New York Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour For first-time visitors, a tour aboard a Big Bus is a great way to get acclimated to the city. They’re also ideal for families because they provide engaging narration of all the sites and landmarks you’ll pass by. Choose a hop-on hop-off option like this one from Big Bus to maximize your flexibility. If the kids are interested in something, hop off and explore. When they get tired, hop back on and relax! Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island You simply can’t visit NYC without paying your respects to Lady Liberty. Take the ferry out to Liberty Island to see this iconic statue, and explore the grounds. You can also opt to upgrade to see the pedestal and crown (only with advance ticket purchase directly from the National Park). Then, continue on to Ellis Island to check out the fascinating and thought-provoking Immigration Museum. American Museum of Natural History One of the most expansive natural history museums in the world, the American Museum of Natural History in NYC is a must-visit for families. It’s a field-trip favorite for local schools and offers an abundance of educational opportunities alongside awe-inspiring exhibits. They’re particularly known for their dinosaur fossils and the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life, although they also have an impressive collection of minerals and gemstones, animal dioramas, and more. Madame Tussauds New York While NYC is on the other side of the country from Hollywood, Madame Tussauds brings Hollywood to New York! Visit this iconic wax works institution for a chance to encounter stunningly realistic replicas of many famous figures, from history to pop culture to music and beyond. NYC has some special exhibits you won’t find elsewhere, too, like “Kong: Skull Island” and “The Ghostbusters Experience.” The Metropolitan Museum of Art One of the world’s greatest art museums, period. The Met is an amazing place to take a family interested in art, architecture, design, and history. It’s filled with beautiful and inspiring pieces from across the globe and across the millennia. Begin with their stellar collection of Ancient Egyptian art and artifacts. Scope out their medieval art. Marvel at their European sculpture and decorative arts. And don’t forget about the expansive collection of American paintings! Intrepid Sea, Air, & Space Museum Another popular attraction with families is the Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum. This comprehensive institution focuses on a few things, but they do them extraordinarily well. Learn all about the history of American travel by sea, by air, and in space at this amazing place. It’s both educational and entertaining and is perfect for visitors of all ages. Now, your pass also includes admission to the Space Shuttle Pavilion, which hosts the Enterprise, a vessel that pioneered NASA’s early space flight programs. Yankee Stadium Tour & Ball Game Even if you’re not a fan of the pinstripes, you have to admit that touring Yankee Stadium is a great opportunity for sports fans everywhere. Although it’s not the original historic stadium, this new construction is pretty impressive on the ballpark scene. See behind the scenes and explore the most significant areas of the park, from the luxury suites to the Yankees Museum. Although the stadium is new it still contains some homages to past Yankee's greats and the heritage of the organization. Why not pick up tickets to a game? Keep an eye out for deals on resale sites for the best value. Clipper City Tall Ship Sail While NYC’s not a beach town in the same way as, say, Santa Monica, she’s certainly more than qualified on the waterfront scene to offer you an amazing marine adventure. Board the historic Clipper City Tall Ship for a distinctive experience that’s sure to make memories of a lifetime. This majestic schooner has been restored to replicate the design and feel of the 1854 original vessel, and today it’s a wonder to sail out onto New York waterways aboard this amazing ship. Central Park Of course, you can’t visit New York without spending sometime in her heart – Central Park. One of the world’s most famous parks, Central Park offers plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy, whether you want to lounge like a local, join up with a walking tour, or rent a bike to explore this massive expanse on two wheels. Whatever you opt to do, know that you’re truly experiencing an NYC with some time spent in this popular urban greenspace. Times Square We know that it may be a cliché but if you don't frequent the city that never sleeps then seeing Times Square is a must. There is always something going on in NYC and especially Times Square, you'll be overwhelmed at first but once you get your bearings you will fit right in. There is no shortage of shopping or dining options in Times Square and when you add in the people watching, you can spend tons of time. Save on Family Vacation Attraction Ideas There you go. A few suggestions for attractions and activities for your upcoming New York City family vacation. Regular admission to a number of these family friendly attractions are available on the pass. Choose as you go from top visited attractions and save on combined admission vs paying at the gate.

Katie Sagal

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Things to do in Harlem

Steeped in African American history and culture, Harlem has much to offer for the inquisitive traveler. Today, the area thrives with fantastic museums, world-renowned theaters and amazing little hidden gems. Whether you’re an artsy type, a foodie, or a music lover, you’ll find that there are many reasons to love the neighborhood. With so many things to see and do in the area, we’ve put together a list of our favorite attractions. Keep scrolling to read about the best things to do in Harlem! Get to Know the Area Whilst other neighborhoods are noted for their towering buildings and modern structures, Harlem is home to many important historical landmarks. Founded in 1808, the Abyssinian Baptist Church is one of the oldest African American Baptist churches in the United States and an unmissable stop if exploring Harlem. Visitors can come to enjoy beautiful sermons and admire the building’s striking interiors. The church welcomes guests from all walks of life, though we recommend wearing modest clothes as a mark of respect. Another one of our favorite things to do in Harlem is visit the Hamilton Grange National Memorial. Situated at St. Nicholas Park, the property is recognized as the only home that founding father Alexander Hamilton ever owned. Today, the National Historic Site offers an inside look into Hamilton’s extraordinary lifestyle and career which foregrounded the United States as it is known today. Visitors can take guided tours to view the well-preserved interiors, interesting films, and a small museum exhibiting the American patriot’s greatest achievements. A total must-see, this historic site provides fantastic insight into the establishment and early development of the United States. New York City has always been recognized for its powerful sway within the art world, with Harlem presenting some fantastic hidden treasures. For those interested in art history and Harlem street culture, the Graffiti Hall of Fame showcases impressive pieces which changed the landscape of the urban art scene forever. In particular, these bright, expressive murals display the development of graffiti writing from the 1980s up until today. Don’t forget to take your phone or a camera to capture some shots of this fascinating historic site! Get Cultured Looking for a world-class entertainment experience right in the center of Harlem? Well, look no further. Giving status to some of the East Coast’s top entertainers for decades, the Apollo Theater is recognized as one of Harlem’s most notable attractions. The venue is well known for hosting Showtime at the Apollo and its legendary Amateur Night, featuring undiscovered artists performing across all art forms. But if that’s not quite your cup of tea, there’s no need to worry; you can see everything from live jazz to classical music performances here. With its interesting history and lively atmosphere, there’s no better place to catch a show. A well-recognized cultural and creative hub, Harlem presents some of the best art galleries in the city. Founded in 1968, The Studio Museum in Harlem seeks to display, preserve, and interpret art created by African Americans. Though the repository is smaller than say, that of MoMA, it works to paint a profound and accurate portrayal of a community which sees less focus in the mainstream art world. Upon entrance, you’ll be able to enjoy a captivating collection spanning over 200 years of history and across all disciplines. Presenting beautiful and historically-relevant pieces within an intimate space, this place makes for the perfect quiet afternoon out. Those looking to learn more about the background of the area should consider checking out the National Jazz Museum in Harlem. A great stop for music lovers and history buffs alike, the institute offers a deep dive into the East Coast artists who contributed to the genre. Amongst its holdings, you’ll find Duke Ellington’s piano and Eddie ‘Lockjaw’ Davis’ sax, along with old photos, letters and recordings. In addition, the facility holds regular live performances – so don’t miss out! Take in the Atmosphere One of the best ways to experience the local culture of a neighborhood is through its markets. Located just off of Malcolm X Boulevard (and named after the famous activist’s grandson), the Malcolm Shabazz Harlem Market reflects the community it's in through presenting a fantastic array of local vendors. Open daily, the market is known for purveying everything from traditional African clothing and jewelry to streetwear and original artwork. Dive into the crowds, pick up a souvenir, and take it all in. We couldn't think of a better way to spend a lazy New York afternoon! Do you want to meander through fantastical botanical displays and draping foliage right in the middle of the concrete jungle? Well, as it turns out, you can! Situated near the East Harlem district of Manhattan, Central Park’s Conservatory Garden offers the perfect retreat from the city. Constructed in 1937, the garden is made up of three separate areas, each with a unique design: the French-style Garden, the Italianate Garden, and the English-style Garden. Enjoy the fresh air, have a picnic, and watch the sunset – what could be better than that? Anybody who comes to Harlem looking for great eateries will not be disappointed! Whether you’re craving fresh grilled catfish or creamy lobster risotto, the area presents the perfect bite for every occasion. Those who are interested in fine dining should look into Renaissance Harlem for its creative menu and laid-back atmosphere. If soul food is more your style, head to Sylvia’s for the perfect chicken and waffles. We also recommend checking out Harlem’s restaurant row, for those who just cannot make the final decision! Diverse and bustling with life, Harlem is one of the most interesting neighborhoods in New York to explore. It doesn’t matter if you’re a first-timer or a returning visitor, you’re sure to find something to pique your interest. Whether you’re looking to taste some of the best soul food in the city, catch a first-class performance at the Apollo Theater, or get in touch with your spiritual side, it’s impossible to be bored here. To find out how to save money on your trip, check out our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass. For more details, make sure to connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.

Sarah Harris

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New York Bus Tour Discount Tickets & Tips for Visiting

New York is a city meant to be savored. Even if you did nothing but walk the streets for 365 days straight, you couldn’t experience all the sights, sounds and historic tales the Big Apple has to tell. Helping you see everything, plus navigate the ins and outs of the city’s most eclectic neighborhoods and go-to attractions, is the Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour, the highest rated hop-on hop-off bus tour in New York City. Visitors can disembark and rejoin the tour as often as they like with over 20 convenient stops, creating unending opportunities to experience specific locations in-depth and breeze through others. Check out our helpful guide for taking a New York Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour, packed full of ways to save on admission, tips for visiting, other nearby attractions, and much more. Looking for New York Bus Tour Discount Tickets? We’ve got you covered – Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour Classic Ticket is available with the below money-saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that’s right for you: 1. Explorer Pass – Choose as you go. Includes admission to up to 10 attractions. 2. Build Your Own Pass – Select the attractions you want to visit prior to visiting. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. Tips for Enjoying the Day Your Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Classic Tour Ticket includes access to 2 routes: Downtown and Uptown. Familiarize yourself with the route maps to make the most of your day. Buses for the Downtown Route leave from Times Square from 8:00 a.m. till 6:00 p.m. daily. Buses for the Uptown Route leave from the Broadway Theater District at 8:40 a.m. till 5:00 p.m. daily. Each tour, not including hop-offs, takes around 1.5-2 hours to complete, depending on traffic. Both routes offer pre-recorded narration in 10 languages in addition to a live English-speaking tour guide on every bus. Every bus seat is located on the top deck for optimum views, which means being immersed in current weather conditions. A quick check of the forecast and dressing for it is a good idea. There is the option of sitting under a see-through glass dome in the front of the bus, but either way, visitors should gear up with sunscreen on sunny days. Rain ponchos are given to bus riders as needed. All guests are required to remain seated when the bus is moving and no seat belts are provided, so very little guests may be most comfortable sharing their seat with an adult. There’s a lot to see, so starting your day early is a very good idea, particularly if you are visiting during high peak tourist times, like Christmas or summer, when lines can get long at certain destinations. Exhibits like the Top of the Rock and Statue of Liberty get crowded fast, so make a point of getting to those as early as possible, to reserve your ticket times and map out the rest of your day. How It Works Powered by personality and in-depth knowledge, each bus is led by a tour guide, well-versed in New York’s nooks and crannies and able to tell a good story. Historical legends about Wall Street’s infamous beginnings, famous and infamous Revolutionary War heroes, music and fashion business moguls and the early immigrants who populated Manhattan are relayed with humor and combined with in-the-know tidbits of tantalizing, insider information. Every seat on the bus is a good one, providing bird’s eye views of larger-than-life locations from Times Square to Battery Park. Complimentary headsets are provided to all visitors, so you don’t have to worry about missing a thing. If you’re most comfortable listening and learning in your native tongue, no worries. In addition to the tour guide, recorded commentary is available in English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Hebrew, Portuguese, Mandarin Chinese, Korean and Russian. What You Should Bring A camera with backup batteries is an absolute must. Many guests also enjoy bringing a selfie stick so they can get great shots of themselves with amazing New York City backdrops. Buses don't have electrical outlet access, so use your phone to take pictures sparingly. Many locations, such as the Statue of Liberty, require photo ID’s for admittance with no exceptions. You may want to save your dancing shoes for later that evening. Comfy walking shoes are your best bet. Gearing up with bottled water and light snacks to munch on, like protein bars, are a good idea but don’t overdo it! New York’s restaurant choices are unending, varied and astonishing. No matter your budget, you’re bound to find your heart’s (and taste bud's) desire. Double Decker Bus Tour Stops Include Times Square The Downtown Manhattan bus starts its journey from New York’s iconic Times Square, the home of the best New Year’s Eve party in the world and attractions like Madame Tussauds Wax Museum. Buses load in front of 777 8th Avenue, between 47th and 48th Streets every 20-to-25 minutes. Empire State Building. Empire State Building Thrilling New Yorkers and visitors since 1931, the Empire State Building is 102 stories of Art Deco magnificence, breathtaking views, and colorful, symbolic tower lights. (p.s. Empire State Building tickets are an included attraction option with the Explorer Pass) The building’s lobby is one of the few in New York to achieve landmark status. Lovingly restored ceiling murals, originally designed in 1930, feature homage to the planets, stars and mechanical age, in magnificent renderings fashioned from 24-karat gold and aluminum leaf. The 86th floor Main Deck is the highest, open-air observatory in the city. Wrapped around the building’s spire, the Observatory Deck offers panoramic, 360-degree views of the city and surrounding area. Visitors can see the Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty, Times Square and so much more. Educational, multi-media hand-held devices and high-powered binoculars are available for visitor use. South Street Seaport Steeped in maritime history and filled with some of New York’s finest (and most fun) shops and restaurants, the South Street Seaport boasts ongoing events and special exhibits, Seaport Studios and a vibrant atmosphere. Lovers of salt air and wide open water can transfer here for the Hop-on/Hop-off Ferry Tour. Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island Ferry, and Battery Park Visitors can enjoy views of the Statue from fun-filled, 25-acre Battery Park or ferry over to Liberty Island for a tour. An undeniable symbol of freedom and France’s most famous gift to the American people, the Statue of Liberty weighs 225 tons and stands at 305 feet. An event onto itself, Battery Park is filled with monuments honoring war heroes, famous immigrants and inventors. A kid-friendly destination, the Park also houses the whimsical Seaglass Carousel, Castle Clinton and the Labyrinth. Included in the Liberty Island Tour is nearby Ellis Island, the way station for immigrants coming to America from 1892 through 1924 and current home of the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, recently reopened after Hurricane Sandy’s devastation. Here, visitors can explore their family’s history, by searching through passenger records in the interactive American Family Immigration History Center. 9/11 Tribute Center and Guided Tour Dedicated to remembering and honoring those lost on one of history’s darkest days, the 9/11 Tribute Center Tour is led by survivors of the attack on the World Trade Center. Stories of courage, triumph, healing and resilience are told with knowledge and understanding. Visitors can also stop by the newly-built Freedom Tower, located nearby at One World Trade Center. Other Hop-On/Hop-Off Destinations Include Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall and the Top of the Rock Macy’s and Madison Square Garden Central Park Park Central Hotel Winter Garden Theater Waldorf Astoria Hotel City Hall and the Brooklyn Bridge Flatiron Building and Madison Square Park United Nations Wall Street and the Financial District Chelsea Union Square Greenwich Village SoHo The Lower East Side, Little Italy and Chinatown Places to Eat Nearby New York is home to hundreds of amazing restaurants. Some downtown favorites include: Katz’s Delicatessen – Katz’s, the home of meat, made famous by legendary, overstuffed pastrami and corned beef sandwiches, took on even more notoriety after the release of the movie, “When Harry met Sally,” and the hilarious scene shot within its interior. Wo Hop – A haunt of NYU college students, this Chinatown institution is open 20 hours on most days and arguably serves the best pork congee in the city. Jane – A Greenwich Village favorite for lunch or brunch, a trip to Jane practically guarantees a celebrity sighting or two. Save on Tickets with a New York City Explorer Pass Remember, the New York City Explorer Pass® is the best choice for maximum savings and flexibility, which includes Hop On Hop Off New York bus tours, plus admission to your choice of other top attractions. Save up to 50% on top museums, tours, and activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple New York City attractions for one low price.

Lindsay Eagan

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