New York: City Guide
Beccy Miller
Everything is big in the Big Apple, the city that never sleeps. There is so much to see and do which can change depending on what season you choose to visit, but here is a guide to some of the most iconic things a trip to New York has to offer.
Things to do
There are so many things to do in New York for every taste. Theatre lovers can catch dinner then a show on Broadway, shoppers can get their fix on the famous 5th Avenue and culture vultures can take in over 5,000 years of art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
No visit to New York is complete without a trip to either the Empire State Building or the Top of the Rock for sweeping 360-degree views across the city. If you are heading up in the day, we'd recommend The Empire State Building. For nighttime head to the Top of the Rock as you get to see the Empire State Building lit up in all its glory.
Wander across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge for that perfect Insta-worthy photo and then make your way over to Central Park. Grab lunch and relax on the great lawn, catch a free concert or wander around the many winding paths in this huge green oasis.
The Freedom Tower and 9/11 memorial offer a poignant moment of reflection, with the names of those who lost their lives on that tragic day inscribed in gold panels. Then sail out on the Hudson River to Ellis Island Museum and step back into the shoes of all those immigrants who sailed past Lady Liberty on their way to discover the American dream.
If you want to explore out of Manhattan, then a trip to the cute seaside spot of Coney Island is one to visit, especially if you are travelling with children and a ride on the vintage style Ferris wheel is a must-do.
Shopping
From huge department stores like Macy's to the thrift stores and vintage markets of Bushwick, there are several places to get some retail therapy whilst in New York.
Bushwick is a vibrant area which has some of the best vintage and second-hand shops in the city. Shops like The Lion's Den offer great jewellery pieces. Chelsea Market is also another amazing place for vintage and original pop-ups and they have some amazing street food here too.
Designer fans will find themselves well-catered for on 5th Avenue, where department stores like Saks can be found as well as a range of designer stores like Gucci, Armani, Louis Vuitton and Valentino.
Eating Out
When it comes to food, the melting pot of cultures that came to New York to settle have all had an influence and every palette is catered for.
Head to the famous Katz Deli, home of the NYC hotdog, as well as the classic scene in the film 'When Harry Met Sally.' It's been serving food to the people of New York for over 100 years. It's also famed for its homemade corned beef and dill pickles. A sandwich here doesn't get more New York.
There are several food tours you can take across the city - Greenwich Village or Chelsea Market are both great areas to explore for classic New York treats. Pizza fans should head to Joe's Pizza, loved by celebrities and some of the best pizza in New York - be sure to try the square Sicilian.
The Gramercy Tavern offers something fancier, whether you want to dress up or down. They have an incredible tasting menu in the dining room which you can splurge on, serving dishes like lobster and monkfish, or if you’re looking for a more relaxed vibe, head to the tavern side for good eats for a more reasonable cost and a more relaxed vibe.
Want to find a cruise that stops or sails from New York? You can find a selection here. Remember, our team can tailor-make any cruise to suit your requirements, giving you plenty of time to explore this amazing city.
