Iconic Spots & Hidden Gems in New York City
New York City is commonly referred to as the city that never sleeps, and once you visit you’ll quickly understand why. Mixed with iconic destinations such as Central Park and the Metropolitan Museum of Art to name a few, and hidden gems on every corner, a trip to NYC will undoubtedly be an experience you won’t soon forget.
Iconic NYC
When you think of New York City, New York whether you’ve been there or not, there are a few iconic destinations that stand out. Times Square is one of those places. Home to street performers, family-friendly restaurants and of course famous plays and musicals on Broadway. The moment you step foot in Times Square you quickly understand how New York City received its nickname “The City that Never Sleeps.”
No matter the time of year Central Park offers fun activities for people of all ages. Occupying 840 acres, it is the largest public park in Manhattan and was one of the first American parks to be developed using landscape architecture techniques. Here you can experience outdoor concerts in the summer, boating in the fall at The Boathouse and ice-skating at Wollman Rink in the wintertime. There are plenty of year-round activities for people of all ages.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, commonly known as the Met, is one of the most famous art museums in the world. Visiting the Met is a must-do, and a quintessential New York experience. Walk through the Temple of Dendur and you’ll instantly feel as if you’ve been transported back in time to Ancient Egypt. This incredible exhibit is definitely worth seeing, and has been on display at the Met for an impressive 50 years.
If you’re looking for one of the best panoramic views in New York City head to The Empire State Building. One of New York City’s most iconic skyscraper is also home to perhaps its most popular observation deck. The Empire State Building’s 86th-floor and 102nd-floor spaces are open to the public, offering lovely views over Midtown, Central Park, and other iconic locations.
Hidden Gems
The ambiance of the West Village makes this area a must-visit when you’re in New York City. The cobblestone streets, quaint boutiques and tree-lined blocks add to the local feel of the neighborhood. But just as enticing as its charm is the neighborhood’s historical significance. In the 1960s the West Village was at the center of some of the most influential cultural movements surrounding LGBT rights, and many of the sites where these historic moments took place are still around today. The Stonewall Inn, in particular, is a must-visit, as the riots that took place in 1969 helped launch the gay rights movement in the United States and around the world.
Hungry for ice cream? Big Gay Ice Cream Shop started off as a seasonal truck in 2009, and has quickly become a favorite spot with a loyal fan base in the city. Known for its delicious soft serve and playful exterior adorning rainbow colors, this is one ice cream place you don’t want to miss out on!
Foodie Finds
Recently risen on top of all the must-go places in New York City, Adda Indian Canteen is the equivalent of what you could eat in a typical student canteen in India. From basic homestyle dishes like biryani to sought out dishes like Bhatti da murgh (a perfectly crunchy mustard/coriander covered red chicken thigh), this is the place to go to satisfy your craving for Indian and break from the stereotypical paneer and chicken tikka dishes. Head to Fiaschetteria Pistoia for fresh pasta made right behind your eyes. You can also find organic wines from local small Italian producers and ancient dishes like Tonno del chianti, brought back directly from the Medici family cookbook.
When a passionate chef takes his Italian origins seriously at Otto Pizzeria you finally discover what it means to eat dishes that use real ingredients with honest backgrounds. Try the smoky octopus salad with nduja! This is the place you need to go to understand the importance of seasonal ingredients. Achilles Heel is the perfect evening spot after a walk around Brooklyn’s neighborhood of Williamsburg. Right near the water, you can enjoy some of the most refreshing selection of wines along with freshly shucked oysters. The menu is mostly small bites but each dish is a perfectly balanced mixture of flavor and color. And most importantly it’s off the tourist path.
"If You Go" Hit List
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