When you’re on vacation in a place like New York, one of the first things you need to do is make a list of intended excursions. There are so many things to do there, that it’s easy to become overwhelmed. There are museums, parks, zoos, fantastic restaurants and much shopping to be had; in fact, a sightseeing bus New York itinerary might be one of the better decisions you can make with regards to taking it all in. From the elevated viewpoint of a tour bus, you can take pictures and navigate the best routes to the popular places, while staying above the crowds below and avoiding taxis that move at a snail’s pace. While you’re in NYC, here are a few of the must-see places.
Grand Central Terminal
Also called Grand Central Station, this extremely popular transit station sees nearly 22 million tourists every single year. It has more platforms than any railroad on Earth, and the numerous restaurants and attractions within its 48-acres make it a place where people who aren’t even taking the Metro visit. There’s a gourmet and fresh food market, as well as delectable bakeries and electronic stores for shopping. The terminal, itself, is a work of art; there’s an astronomical ceiling in the Main Concourse, and sculpture of the Roman gods Mercury, Hercules and Minerva (Greek Hermes, Heracles, and Athena) at the front entrance of the terminal.
The Frick Collection
This museum houses the art collection of one of the wealthiest men who ever lived in the United States: Henry Clay Frick. The coal and steel magnate gave away much of his considerable wealth before he passed on; the Frick Museum is one of his many philanthropic efforts. It has programs, exhibitions, and a pay-what-you-wish mandate every Wednesday so that the underprivileged can gain admission. Internationally-acclaimed musicians play there regularly, and there’s a free admission for three hours on the first Friday of each month. Plan to go between 6 pm and 9 pm; but also plan for the crowds. If you don’t mind spending a bit, visit on a day when you can walk around and admire the eclectic pieces of art.
The Staten Island Ferry
If you want to see New York Harbor, there’s no better tourist stop than the Staten Island Ferry. It’ll take you across the entire 5-mile expanse to either Manhattan or Staten Island; depending on the direction from which you’re coming. It runs around-the-clock, every 20 minutes or so, and takes less than a half-hour to get to your destination. At night, under the bright city lights in the distance and the stars immediately overhead, it can be quite the romantic trip for two. One of the best things about it is that the Ferry is free!
Radio City Music Hall
Right in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, the Radio Music City Hall is an icon of art deco creations and entertainment. At any given point in time, you could see acts such as comedy Trevor Noah’s standup, a dazzling Christmas Time performance by the Radio City Rockettes, or the transformative Winter Wonderland spectacle on the main stage. The Radio City Music Hall dominates the Sixth Avenue and is sometimes referred to as the Showplace of the Nation, as it once led NYC in tourist destinations – beating out all the other grand venues.
The Statue of Liberty
This 300+ foot exemplar of neoclassical architecture is a rousing symbol of freedom, liberty, and refuge; ever since France gave it to the United States as a gift. Standing guard over New York Harbor, its continued operation is safeguarded by the National Park Service and is open to tourists via ticket purchase for a tour. It can be difficult to get a ticket to the pedestal, itself, as they are often sold out – but a grounds ticket is usually available. If you want to see the view from the lofty crown, then you’ll most likely have to book a ticket up to half-a-year in advance. Should you make it, the sights and accompanying feelings are worth it.
