If you’re planning a trip to New York City, you’ll soon discover why it’s one of the most thriving and dynamic cities in the United States. With iconic architecture, endless attractions and a vibrant culture, there’s plenty to keep you occupied if you’re looking to the stars for help.
And if you’re not a star tracker by heart, don’t worry; the city has everything you need even if you’re a beginner. Here are five reasons why you should consider visiting New York City this year.
Check Out The Metropolitan Museum Of Art
With more than 1.5 million works, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is the largest in the United States. And with a collection that spans more than 5,000 years, you’ll find works from almost every period and region. The Guggenheim may be famous, but the Metropolitan Museum of Art is larger and boasts a better collection.
With admission fees of $25 ($20 for students), it’s not the cheapest attraction in New York but you’ll get your money’s worth with a trip through the many halls and exhibits. Whether you’re into art, history or culture in general, a visit to the Metropolitan Museum of Art is a must.
Explore The Sights Of Central Park
Just a stone’s throw from some of the most expensive real estate in the world, Central Park is one of the New York City’s hidden gems. With more than 800 acres of land, it’s a must-visit if you’re visiting New York in the spring or the fall (when the trees start changing colors and the gardens bloom). With attractions like the Cherry Blossom Festival in April or the Halloween Parade in October, Central Park is a attraction that changes with the seasons.
Whether you stroll through the North Woods or take a turn along the 60-foot width Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, you’ll soon see why Central Park is an instant favorite for locals and tourists alike. Admission is free.
Be Wowed By The Stellar Architecture
Once you look at the towering skyscrapers and you’ll understand why the city that never sleeps is one of the world’s leading centers of business. Though some buildings have been featured in The Towering Inferno and Transformers, New York City is known for its awe-inspiring architecture.
Whether you’re a fan of gothic structures or modern marvels, there’s a building in New York for you. Sure, the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building are popular attractions, but if you dig a little deeper, you’ll find that plenty of other gems are awaiting your visit. Take a trip to the Metrolpolis Building (also known as the Fuller Building) or give the crystalline structure of the Bosco Chiesa Outlet Shop a visit: two gems that stand out from the rest.
Shop ‘til You Drop
With more than 600 luxury retailers and more millionaires than any other city in the world, New York is a shopper’s paradise. If you’re in the market for fashion, there’s no better place to shop than Fifth Avenue between 43rd and 55th streets. Though there are plenty of budget-friendly shopping destinations around the world, few can beat the glamour of designer finds in New York.
Think Tiffany & Co., Burberry, Carolina Herrera, Lanvin, Phillips (the oldest watchmaker in the world), Versace—the list goes on. You could spend weeks shopping along this one-of-a-kind street. If you’re looking for something more downtown and edgy, seek out Sliver Street in SoHo (again, one of New York’s famous boroughs). You’ll find brands like Roberto Cavalli and Alexander McQueen.
Taste The Best Cheese In The World
Not a big fan of shopping? Then you’ll perhaps love New York for its many cheese shops — and the unbelievable varieties that have earned the city the title of Cheese Capital of the World™. From sublime soft cheeses to aged cheddars that melt in your mouth, you’ll find that no other city boasts such a wide variety of cheeses.
So where can you sample these cheese gems? In SoHo (again, a borough of New York) you’ll find Murray’s Cheese Shop, a gem with 2,000 cheese options that’s been in business since 1987. Or head to Citarella, a gourmet supermarket with a superior cheese section. Plus, you can sample wines to pair with your selections at the shop’s tasting bar.
If you want to stand behind the counter and learn how cheese is made, tour Di Bruno Bros. Distilleries & Grocery in the old wine and cheese capital of America—Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This family-owned business has been making cheese for over 130 years and offers multi-day cheese-making classes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, I highly recommend you visit New York City at least once in your lifetime. It’s a truly unique place with so much to offer in terms of culture, food, architecture, and history. You’ll never be bored in New York City and you’ll always find something new to explore. Even if you’re not a fan of big cities, I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how much you enjoy your time in New York City.