New York City is one of the largest, most renowned cities in the world. It represents hope, the American dream, and endless possibility. Thousands upon thousands of people from every corner of the world visit as tourists each year to see the amazing city with their own eyes and experience its thrill. I've been fortunate enough to visit the city dozens of times and every time is just as magical as the last. There are so many destinations to choose from when exploring the Big Apple, so here are of a few of the must-sees; in no particular order.
1) The Statue of Liberty
Lady Liberty stands tall and proud on an island right off the coast of Manhattan, welcoming all people to the land of the free. My own great-grandparents came to America on Ellis Island and I'm sure I feel just as proud as they did every time I look up at this symbol of freedom. It's one thing to see the statue in pictures and quite another to be there or even climb to the inside.
2) 9/11 Memorial & Museum/Freedom Tower
The terrorist attacks in 2001 shocked not only the USA, but every nation. Seeing the twin towers crumble was devastating and horrifying. However, now stands the Freedom Tower, towering over all other buildings in NYC and representing the hope that we have as a nation and that nothing can shake us from who we are. The building is remarkable, and the museum and monuments are moving and give a real understanding of the impact of the terrorist attacks and how the community strung together to maintain peace and hope. (Disclaimer: be prepared to cry in the museum)
3) Empire State Building
The name is recognizable anywhere, and the view completely lives up to the hype!
4) Times Square
Times Square is truly unlike anywhere else. Stepping into Times Square is like stepping to another world and definitely is something to see firsthand.
5) Central Park
It's crazy to think that 842 acres of green space are fitted into the center of one of the world's busiest cities and there are places in it that feel like you've left the city. Take a walk, hop on a horse-drawn carriage, or maybe even rent bikes to explore this one-of-a-kind park. I recommend entering the lower tip at 59th Street. There's a carousel, gorgeous views of the Upper East & West Sides, and the Central Park Zoo!
6) Rockefeller Center
In the winter, ice skating is NOT overrated here. In the summer, Rockefeller Center is still a regal, beautiful place to see. It has a rich history, having had many famous movies and shows filmed here.
7) NBC Studios
Definitely go on an NBC tour! I've been on the tour twice and the second time may have been even better than the first! Tours are available of Jimmy Fallon's studio, the "SNL" studio , sound rooms, and all kinds of other production elements. Celebs have been seen by tour groups before, as you will be walking around their usual areas in the building.
8) UCB Comedy Club
There are countless comedy clubs and shows to go see in New York, however this is a gem. Broadway is cool experience, however seeing improv up close and personal is fun and intimate and requires a different kind of talent. Many TV actors got their start here or are currently still performing at this comedy club. Last time I was here, I got to see Gretchen from "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt" perform!
9) Macy's Herald Square
You have not done shopping until you've set foot into this monstrous department store. It's known worldwide for its 11 floors of things galore. Anything you could ever need lives here.
10) Subway
This one isn't a destination, but definitely a must-do experience in New York. Yes, you may see rats.
11) Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
The MoMA has classic masterpieces as well as some pieces that are very out of the box. The building itself is neat and the art even cooler. It's definitely worth the excursion.
