Back
New York is arguably the ultimate city. The likes of the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building and Central Park are so famous in their own right that it’s amazing to think they all live within a few miles of each other. Bundled up on its own little island this legend of a city boasts some of the most iconic sights of our time. But this is a city with a lot more to offer than landmarks. Shop ‘til you drop, let your hair down and let the good times roll because this is the real “city that never sleeps”.
1) Empire State Building: New York is the kind of towering city you can’t walk around without ogling straight up. So why not give your neck a rest by enjoying New York’s skyline from above - from 102 floors above, to be precise. On a clear day the views stretch out for up to 80 miles and let’s face it, who can say they’ve really been to New York if they haven’t been up King Kong’s favourite haunt?
2) The Metropolitan Museum of Art: Over 5 million visitors a year can’t be wrong, and this world famous museum is well worth a visit. Choose between Rembrandt paintings, Roman statues and ancient Egyptian vases or simply take in the whole lot with a guided highlights tour.
3) Ellis Island Immigration Museum: The history of New York is inextricably tied up with Ellis Island. As such this museum makes for a fascinating look at the experience many immigrants faced when entering the US, including Cary Grant and the Trapp Family Singers. The Museum’s location on the island itself makes it a bit of an adventure and the exhibitions include a historic video that should appeal to fans of films such as The Godfather and Titanic.
TOP TIP: Looking to visit all of New York’s main sights? A CityPass gives you access to the most famous attractions, including the Statue of Liberty, Metropolitan Museum of Art, and Ellis Island, and you have nine days to use your tickets.
Passion for fashion If Sex and the City taught us anything it was that New York is a great city for shopping. The city’s major department stores include Bloomingdales, Macy’s and Barneys and any one of them could swallow up a whole day in the Big Apple. Besides those there are the designer boutiques on Madison Avenue, and if you’re feeling particularly flush, head to Fifth Avenue for classic labels and jewellery. After all that spend, spend, spending, fabulous fake handbags from Chinatown might help to get your budget back in check.
New York is a real melting pot of different cuisines and of course the home of the archetypal ‘cup of Joe’. For jars of good quality coffee, try one of the great food stores on the Upper West Side.
The most famous of New York’s parks is undoubtedly Central Park, which is a haven for parents with prams, joggers and roller skaters. Enjoy the model sail boats gliding across the Conservatory Water, visit the Imagine Mosaic tribute to John Lennon, cross the iconic Bow Bridge, take a spin on the carousel or even visit the Polar Bears at Central Park Zoo. Alternatively why not catch one of the free shows held at Bryant Park, or head to the southern tip of Manhattan to admire the Hudson River from Battery Park.
Close to JFK Airport and tucked into the shadow of the city’s skyscrapers you’ll find Jamaica Bay, a lagoon that’s popular with birds and birdwatchers alike. The Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge is comprised of 155 acres of natural habitat and is a great place to escape New York’s notorious hubbub. If you’re more into beaches than birds why not head to the "Bronx Riviera"? This crescent-shaped strip of sand is officially called Orchard Beach and features an attractive promenade, picnic areas, playgrounds and basketball, volleyball, and handball courts.
Where better to hit the theatre than Broadway itself? Check the listing when you’re in New York to find out about the latest musicals and plays. The Nokia Theatre meanwhile is a popular destination for pop music fans, while jazz enthusiasts will want to make a beeline for the Blue Note and Lenox Lounge. Anyone looking for a little bit of soul will not be disappointed by Harlem's legendary Apollo Theatre, which has launched many careers including those of Ella Fitzgerald, Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder.
While it also occasionally features contemporary concerts, Carnegie Hall is legendary as a venue for live classical music. Meanwhile the Lincoln Center will not disappoint as America's largest performing arts venue - it also happens to be home to the world famous Metropolitan Opera House.
4 nights 4*
Le Parker Meridien New York
from £1057