Many individuals are making plans to travel in the near future. Why not start with finally planning that trip of a lifetime to New York City? For lots of people, New York City is one of the top spots on their travel bucket lists. And why should it not? This iconic city that never sleeps has something to offer everybody. In fact, there's so much to offer that it would feel almost impossible to see everything that this iconic city is famous for in just one trip. So whether you're planning a long weekend away, or a 2 week adventure, here are some of the best things to do and see in New York City in 2021.
Take a Walk Across the Famous Brooklyn Bridge
Make your way downtown and ascend over that famous wooden walkway that has been the backdrop for thousands of Instagram shots, has hosted wedding photo shoots and engagements aplenty. Take in all of the sights of the city skyline. Take a glimpse over at the grandeur of the Statue of Liberty. Then you'll be in Brooklyn, ready to refuel with a slice of pizza and a coffee, ready for you to turn back and do it all again.
See a Broadway Show
Whether you consider yourself an avid musical theater fan or not, taking the time to see a show on Broadway is a must-do during any trip to NYC for a fun trip or as part of a date night. From shows written in honor of the world's most influential musicians to new and upcoming best-sellers, there will be something for everybody. You can find tickets that are reasonably priced online, but you can also bet your bottom dollar that theaters will be able to offer you last-minute entry to some of the best shows.
Go on a Tour of Some of NYC's Famous Foods
New York is known for some of America's most famous foods—it will be impossible to eat everything while you're there, but there are some must-try places for you to consider.
Bleecker Street Pizza: no frills NYC style pizza sold by the slice. Always freshly baked and rolls thin slices that will leave you wanting more.
Absolute Bagels: get in line to sample one of NYC best bagels. This place is so popular that lines go way out of the door.
Nathan's Hot Dogs: Have a hotdog and a fountain drink bigger than your face on Coney Island's original hot dog joint. Go for the simple pleasures or load up on fries and sides. Do this one well.
Eileen's Special Cheesecake: because a trip to NYC without sampling the cheesecake would be criminal. Best news is that she ships, too- so if you miss out you don't have to be in the city to sample the cheesecake taste sensation.
Take a Stroll in the City's Parks
When you're all done with eating, you'll want to walk off some of the calories to make room for your next meal. One thing that New York City is not lacking in is green spaces. The most commonly known are Central and Prospect Parks. Both of these large parks have their charms and could be a great day out on their own. Central park zoo is home to hundreds of species of animals, and is a trip that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. New York Parks are rife with buskers, artists, actors, dancers and interesting wildlife. Along with Washington Square Park, all of the city's green spaces offer somewhat of a sanctuary from the mad buzz of the city. If walking is not what you're after, consider seeing the parks from different perspectives by hiring a boat or a bike.
Visit Some of the City's Most Famous Works of Art
New York City is home to some of the most iconic paintings in the world and milling around for a few hours of getting lost in the world of art should be something on your NYC travel bucket list. Like traditional art? Spend a day at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Craving something modern and conceptual? MoMA is for you. At $25 per person for entry, it's definitely worth slowly making your way through, particularly on a rainy day.
Take a Ride on Coney Island's Roller Coasters
With sandy beaches stretching for miles and located just an hour's subway ride from Manhattan, Coney Island is famous for its old fashioned amusement parks with some of the state's oldest rides, traditional hotdog stands and frozen custard in cones. When you need to settle your stomach take a walk along the traditional promenade, enjoy the attractions along the way, and think about catching a game of baseball at the arena next to the island. All in all, Coney Island is a great day out away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Visit the 9/11 Memorial
For a deeply moving, uniquely New York City experience, the 9/11 memorial is well worth the visit. Learn about the events of the day of one of the biggest fatalities to strike New York city on September 11 2001. The memorial itself is built on the site of the twin towers and you can read all of the names of those who lost their lives as a result of the attacks. The 9/11 Memorial Museum teaches its visitors about the history of the 9/11 attacks. Its blend of history, memorial and historical documents laced with testimony creates an unforgettable encounter with the story of the attacks.