Suggestions for what to see in NYC?

[bjk0908]

I'm taking a solo trip to NYC for a week and would like recommendations for "must see and do" attractions. I will study all the websites and get a travel book to build an intinerary, but personal suggestions count for a lot, so what are yours?

#1 priority is the 9/11 museum and surrounding area. Major interests are museums and cultural sites. Eating at fine restaurants and going to the tops of skyscrapers is NOT a priority, although finding good street food and visiting markets is. I've been to the Statue and Ellis Island. I'd also like hints on how to find a reasonably priced ticket to a Broadway play, preferably a musical.

Is buying the New York Pass worth the money? I prefer to take my time, immerse myself and really SEE sites rather than run from one to another just to say I was there.

Finally, I'm female and have traveled solo without incident to major European cities for years, but not to NYC. What's are the safety concerns regarding subways and walking after dark that I should be aware of (other than the obvious)? I'll be staying at The Leo House, a Catholic Guesthouse at 323 West 23rd Street. Has anyone ever stayed there?

Thanks!

[laceylady]

I was born in Brooklyn and still have relatives there. As far as NYC, I have been there many times. My top three in order are:
1. Ellis Island - it just moves me to be there and realize my grandparents actually came through there and may have sat on the same bench I am. Their signatures are in the books there and their names are engraved on the plaques outside on the railings.
2. Statue of Liberty. Climb up to the top if you can while you think about the history of it. Another amazing and moving place.
3. Metropolitan Museum of Art. What an amazing place. I 'very been their twice and really want to go back now that I have more appreciation for art and artists.

As far as how to get there--hotels usually have tours to all these places or you can take a taxi. I don't know the geography of NYC much so don't know if your hotel is close to any of these places. When we lived in NJ, we would just drive in to the place we were going.

Oh--you should also see a Broadway show. ANY One of them will be fantastic and above and beyond any other show you have seen. The last one we saw was Jersey Boys. Off Broadway shows just don't compare.

Have a great trip!

[bjk0908]

OK, thanks for the input. You've made me think twice about going back to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. I visited before Sandy and was sickened to hear about the damage it left. It probably is worth going back to see what changes have been made. And MOMA is also on my list. Along with the 9/11 museum, it looks like I already have plans for 3 of my days there!

[Cathy H]

you can get same day show tickets at kiosks on broadway at 44 st after noon time +/-; avoid the 9-11 museum-it is very scary & depressing; do a ferry ride to staten island (round trip); walk 5th ave in daytime & good weather; see Met museum (its sooo great); walk over Brooklyn bridge in daytime; the city is a walkers dream; area near 23 st not so nice.

[applesoffh]

Look into on/off trolley tours. This would allow you to get around the city on a trolley tour, which is narrated, and get on and off wherever you choose. Chinatown is a madhouse but, if you go, Wo Hop on Mott Street (downstairs Wo Hop, not upstairs) is an institution. There are many different museums - the Museumm of the American Indian on Bowling Green & Broadway is one. The Museum of the City of New York is uptown and fascinating. They used to have one of the largest dollhouse collections in the country (in addition to being a NYC history museum); there's also The Frick Collection, Guggenheim and MOMA. Stay away from all the touristy chain restaurants in Times Square as they are overpriced and generally awful. You can have a nice lunch overlooking Rockefeller Plaza, which is acoss the street from St. Patrick's Cathedral. I'm a Queens Girl, but I love Manhattan.

[Bonanza]

Ellis Island is a must-see. I get goose-bumps just thinking about all the history they crammed into the place . . .
it's a very moving experience.

West 23rd St., eh? Going in and out during the day is fine, but after dark,
I would only take a cab door-to-door.
I would consider walking alone at night a no-no.

People may appear to be very aloof, but if you need to get directions
or ask a question, they are usually very helpful.

Avenue of the Americas is never called that; it's 6th Avenue.
Just about all even number streets go east and west;
there are a few exceptions; just remember even-east.

Subways are great during the day but obviously, if you take a bus you will see more.

No matter what, be careful how you carry your purse. A money belt or equivalent is a good idea.

[shcisamax]

Gee I lived in the city for 15 years and heard it called both Ave of the Americas and 6th Ave. Just know they are both the same.

Metropolitan Museum is one of the greats in the world. If you are a museum goer, you don't want to miss it.

Definitely take in a Broadway show.

Ferry to Ellis even if you don't go up the Statue of Liberty; it is a wonderful experience.

Pick one extraordinary restaurant (it will be pricey) and treat yourself.

There is just so much to do and see, it would be helpful if you stated what interests you have. Might help with suggestions.

[jojo]

I've traveled there for work twice a month for eight years. My favorite thing that I just did last week again is to go to Chelsea Market and walk the High Line. The architecture, views, and landscaping are amazing. I stay in the theater district and am most comfortable walking late at night. I take the subways everywhere during the day but not at night. I like to eat at the ethnic restaurants in Hells Kitchen on 9th Ave. There are "free" walking tours that are great. Google them. You give a gratuity to the guide. I've done the mansions of the Museum Mile, Midtown, Times Square, Greenwich Village food tour and many others. So much better than the hop on hop off bus for getting to know the city.

[chachacha]

if the Museum of Natural History is still open, it was always my favorite...it is huge, so give it about three hours at least! have fun! if you are a fox news fan you will enjoy seeing the building across from radio city music hall! :)

[shcisamax]

i've traveled there for work twice a month for eight years. My favorite thing that i just did last week again is to go to chelsea market and walk the high line. The architecture, views, and landscaping are amazing. I stay in the theater district and am most comfortable walking late at night. I take the subways everywhere during the day but not at night. I like to eat at the ethnic restaurants in hells kitchen on 9th ave. There are "free" walking tours that are great. Google them. You give a gratuity to the guide. I've done the mansions of the museum mile, midtown, times square, greenwich village food tour and many others. So much better than the hop on hop off bus for getting to know the city.

i am so glad you mentioned that jojo. I was thinking of that too but opted for the traditional...great suggestion.

[Patty55]

Get the best tickets you can afford to a great play, something like Phantom-I'd get them in advance.

St Patrick's Cathedral.

I like to walk around, depending on when you go... I enjoy sitting in an outdoor restaurant drinking wine, having a caprese salad and people watching.

If you plan ahead you can get tickets to TV taping, back in the day I took the kids in my family to see the taping of Cosby and Kate & Ally. A lot of them are in Queens, you can't get there.

I really don't do public transportation, but if you get in a cab make sure they reset the meter-LOL. It might be a good idea to stay away from 3 card monty on the street. :22yikes::22yikes:

Try to blend and not look like a tourist, people are great about answering questions, just not stupid ones.

Get coffee and a bagel, eat some really good Italian food, have a drink at the Mariott Marquis at night and see the architecture-the Chrysler building will take your breath away from up there.

Have fun.

[onslowe]

I grew up in the West Eighties in Manhattan in the 50's and 60's. We lived in the museums in the neighborhood, especially on rainy days. Good thing no one told us how much we were learning!

To echo some thoughts above, do not miss the Natural History Museum, The New-York Historical Society (the carriages collection is great, but the whole place is a pure simple delight, and of course, the must see Metropolitan Museum of Art on the other side of Central Park. Set aside at least three days for the museums - your trip will be memorable and 'non-touristy.'

I have known people in past years who stayed at the little gem called Leo House. Couldn't say enough good things about it. Keep your pocketbook in front and do not stare up at the tall buildings as you walk along. I envy you your trip. Have a safe and fun one. :)

[boomerbaby]

As a new Yorker for 56 yrs. I agree with all of the above, there is so much to do and once you get there it is easier to figure out what you want to do. Get a map. The main suggestion I have is not to walk around alone at night. Get a cab. If your on the subways during the day keep your items close to you as the subways are packed especially this time of year. Frescos is a great restaurant. Have fun.

[anarick]

Check out the following:

A) 911 Memorial at ground zero. It's amazing.
B) Take a boat ride around Manhattan on the Circle Line
C) Take in a Broadway show - many to choose
D). Go to China Town
E). Eat dinner in Little Italy
F). Go to the top of the Empire State Building
G). Take a ride on the hop on hop off bus around the city.

[Yung Dum]

Pizza, pizza, pizza!!!

[DouglasMo]

You have a hotel on West 23 St. Reasonable restaurants on Third Ave which is East--between 23rd and 34-38th Street -- get a Zagat's for NYC and check it out. Another museum is on Madison and 38th street with restaurant -J.P. Morgan Museum--Fire Dept Museum is downtown, google it--quick museum plus 9/11 section -- See Grand Central on 42nd St between Lex and Vanderbilt--outstanding--they have free tours (fascinating), restaurants, shops on the entrance aisles -- entrances to subways, tourist booth with maps

[DouglasMo]

Also, South Street Seaport and Battery Park City, World Financial Center--Park outside, places to eat there, beautiful tribute to 9/11 in American Express Building Lobby,

[CFrance]

indoor markets: Zabaar's, Eataly , Balduccis

[chachacha]

this poor lady is going to need three months in new york to do all these great things! a good reason to go back again!

[KathieI]

You're all making me very homesick for Manhattan. Maybe its time for a visit.?

[CFrance]

this poor lady is going to need three months in new york to do all these great things! a good reason to go back again!

But better to have too many to choose from than not enough, n'est-ce pas?

[Patty55]

You're all making me very homesick for Manhattan. Maybe its time for a visit.?

I know, right now I'm craving a DWD.

[onslowe]

I know, right now I'm craving a DWD.

Oh yeah, the 'tube steak' that cracks when you bite into it. Love 'em :) Sold them at the West 79th St boat basin and at the Cloisters while in high school. "Green side down" some days… our boss told us to sell 'em!

My wife suggested '5 Napkin Burger' 43rd and 9th in the Theatre District. Has a website you can look at.

[KathieI]

I know, right now I'm craving a DWD.

Patty, what's a DWD??? Was a NYawker for 37 years, never heard of it??? LOL.

[Patty55]

Patty, what's a DWD??? Was a NYawker for 37 years, never heard of it??? LOL.


Dirty Water Dog, the ones you get from the street vendors.

[Patty55]

Oh yeah, the 'tube steak' that cracks when you bite into it. Love 'em :) Sold them at the West 79th St boat basin and at the Cloisters while in high school. "Green side down" some days… our boss told us to sell 'em!

My wife suggested '5 Napkin Burger' 43rd and 9th in the Theatre District. Has a website you can look at.

I've never had a 5 napkin burger. I've always been drawn to the Pig 'n The Whistle-the real one on w48. Such ambiance, the floors were uneven, plastic tablecloths, good burgers and a kicking bar.

[CFrance]

The Cloisters...that's another neat place to visit. Not exactly downtown, though. Take the A train to 190th & walk 10 minutes. It's part of the Met. Very beautiful.

Hours and Admission | The Metropolitan Museum of Art (http://www.metmuseum.org/visit/visit-the-cloisters/hours-and-admission)

[KathieI]

The Cloisters...that's another neat place to visit. Not exactly downtown, though. Take the A train to 190th & walk 10 minutes. It's part of the Met. Very beautiful.

Hours and Admission | The Metropolitan Museum of Art (http://www.metmuseum.org/visit/visit-the-cloisters/hours-and-admission)

Just to clarify, the Cloisters is actually located in upper west side of New York (Manhattan) north of the George Washington Bridge. Its a distance away from the Museum of Art which is in midtown Manhattan. Just an FYI

[KathieI]

Dirty Water Dog, the ones you get from the street vendors.

LOL,, never heard that expression. Actually I always thought the Sabrett dogs from the street vendors were the very best. But what do I know??

[CFrance]

Just to clarify, the Cloisters is actually located in upper west side of New York (Manhattan) north of the George Washington Bridge. Its a distance away from the Museum of Art which is in midtown Manhattan. Just an FYI


It is a branch of the Met, devoted to art & architecture of medieval Europe, but it's not exactly close in. It's considered a museum now, and I mentioned because OP said she likes museums, and this one is different. Being up around 190th St., you wouldn't dash up and dash back, exactly, if you were trying to fit a lot of other things in.

I love how peaceful it is.

[bluedog103]

LOL,, never heard that expression. Actually I always thought the Sabrett dogs from the street vendors were the very best. But what do I know??
I like the dirty water dogs too but I really liked the Gray's Papaya dogs. I used to go to the location in the Village but they closed down. I understand that the uptown location is still open. I think it's on Broadway up in the 70s. There are other Papaya places too and they're all good but there was something about the Gray's.

[Patty55]

LOL,, never heard that expression. Actually I always thought the Sabrett dogs from the street vendors were the very best. But what do I know??

You obviously have a very discerning palate:thumbup:, how about the big doughy pretzels from the vendors?

[applesoffh]

I've never had a 5 napkin burger. I've always been drawn to the Pig 'n The Whistle-the real one on w48. Such ambiance, the floors were uneven, plastic tablecloths, good burgers and a kicking bar.

Spent many a St. Patrick's Day evening there when I worked in Rockefeller Center! Great Place!

[Happinow]

Since I am a fan of the show Project Runway with Tim Gunn, we went to the sewing district and saw Parsons School of Design and to Mood where the designers shop for their fabric. I actually picked a tag up off the floor which had "Mood" on it. Also see a show. the Lion King is the best show I've ever seen and if you like the Beatles, check to see if "Rain" is playing. It's off broadway. It was wonderful! You can't miss with restaurants. We always frequent Juniors....it's a good place for breakfast and lunch and they are known for their cheesecake! Yum, yum. Most of all...have fun!

[Patty55]

Is any trip to NY complete without seeing the cowboy in his underwear. Is he still out there?

[CFrance]

Is any trip to NY complete without seeing the cowboy in his underwear. Is he still out there?

Yes! But he's succumbed to materialism, so to speak--cut a deal with Fruit of the Loom to model their underwear NYC’s Naked Cowboy Will Don Fruit of the Loom Underwear - TIME (http://time.com/86406/nyc-naked-cowboy-fruit-of-the-loom-underwear/)

[2newyorkers]

I agree with all the above suggestions, except the street pretzels are pretty expensive and not as good as they use to be. See a Broadway show, my suggestion is Wicked. For breakfast, just got to a local diner, deli or bakery. Have a bagel. I also like the food on 9th and 10th Ave. The people standing on the sidewalk and dressed in a uniform but are not carrying guns are there to help and answer any questions you have. They carry tourist street maps. I walk everywhere with no problems but as in all major cities you must be aware of your surroundings.