1. Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge
Located in Manhattan’s lower east side, the Brooklyn Bridge connects Manhattan to Brooklyn. Although crowded during the middle of the day and on weekends, it is truly worth the experience. I walked across it for the first time a few years ago, and the view of the skyline is absolutely breathtaking! Because the bridge is a little over a mile long, it takes some time to cross it, primarily taking around 30 minutes without stopping for too many pictures. It’s free to visit (which, as a broke college student, is always appreciated!) and has amazing photo opportunities no matter what time of year you visit. Plus, it’s a great way to get your steps in!
2. Get educated at a museum
No matter what your interest, I can guarantee you that there is a museum in NYC that will suit your needs. There are numerous museums all over the city that you’re bound to stumble upon. Whether it be the Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Illusions, or even the Museum of Sex, there is a multitude of museums to explore. Although some of them can be pricey, most have “suggested” admissions, where the admission price is not set in stone and you can pay whatever you want. Most also offer student discounts if you present a student ID. There are even certain days, whether it be certain days of the week or specific dates during the month, where museums have free days where you pay nothing. Definitely worth looking into if you don’t know what to do.
3. Conquer an observation deck
If you don’t have a fear of heights and want to see an amazing view of the city, I would suggest going up to one of the many available observation decks in the city. Although I myself have yet to conquer one (although I seriously want to!), I’ve heard that the view is indescribable. There are multiple observation decks to visit, such as the Empire State Building, One World Observatory, or the Top of the Rock. The price for the decks are a bit steep, you won’t be able to get a view like that anywhere else. Just make sure you go on a clear and sunny day!
4. Indulge in some good food
NYC is known for a plethora of good food, such as bagels, pizza, and cultural cuisine. No matter what you’re in the mood for, good food is never too far away. You could stop by Chelsea Markets for food ranging from lobsters, to tacos, to jerk chicken, or visit Chinatown or Little Italy for some international cuisine. Even the street vendors have delicious (and cheap) eats!
5. Walk along the High Line
Previously used as a rail line, the High Line is a wonderful place to visit if you’d like to spot some greenery amongst the urban setting. The elevated park is about 1 ½ miles long and runs from Gansevoort Street to 34th Street along the Hudson River. It’s a great place to walk if you’d like a break from all the madness from the streets below. You also get a wonderful view of New Jersey, including the Jersey City skyline and Hoboken.
6. Explore Coney Island
If you’re looking for an exciting and unique escape from the city, this is the place to be. Who would have thought a beach in Brooklyn would be so popular! Whether you just want to relax and sunbathe, or you want to catch a thrill on a wooden roller coaster, Coney Island has it all. You can visit a classic sideshow, ride a Ferris wheel, and even eat an original Nathan’s hotdog (which was founded here in 1916). There’s so much to do that you may need more than one visit to see everything!
7. See some exotic animals at a zoo
If you want to see an actual jungle within the concrete jungle, NYC has got you covered. The most notable zoos include the Central Park Zoo and the Bronx Zoo, both of which have a high focus on conservation. Both zoos have a large selection of animals to observe, including gorillas, bears, snow leopards, and many more. The zoos are also open year-round, with the Central Park Zoo being open 365 days and the Bronx Zoo only being closed on select holidays. If zoos aren’t your thing, NYC also boasts the New York Aquarium. These places are great to visit if you want a break from only seeing pigeons and squirrels (and the occasional pizza rat!).
8. Take a stroll through Central Park
Central Park is a beautiful place to stroll through year-round! This urban park is so big that it has its own zip code! There are always events going on within the park, and there are always areas to explore. You can jog around the reservoir, navigate through the Belvedere Castle, or reminisce at Strawberry Fields. You can even enjoy a ride in a horse-drawn carriage. I especially enjoy visiting the park in the fall when all of the leaves are changing colors! Needless to say, there are plenty of outdoor activities available in the park.
9. Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
Although technically in NJ waters, the Statue of Liberty is likely the most notable NYC monument. A huge aspect of
Although technically in NJ waters, the Statue of Liberty is likely the most notable NYC monument. A huge aspect of American history, the Statue of Liberty has been a spectacle in the New York harbor since 1885. You can purchase tickets to visit both the statue and Ellis Island, another amazing visit. I visited both about 3 or 4 years ago and learning the history behind both was extremely interesting. You have to go through extensive security, so plan accordingly. Overall, one of my favorite things to see in NYC!
10. Attend a Broadway show
Broadway shows seem all the rave nowadays. Although many people assume tickets to popular shows are always expensive, this is not the case. There are many vendors around NYC as well as multiple websites that sell tickets for far less than the theatres sell them for. Many even sell tickets very cheap last minute for shows that day. So if you’re dying to see Dear Evan Hansen, Mean Girls, or Chicago, there is hope! Seeing these shows are great, especially for rainy days in the city!