10 Fun Things to do in New York
New York: A Busy City With a Lot to Offer
I can't believe that it took me 25 years to get to New York! When I was younger, I was scared of big cities; there seemed to be just too much commotion. But after traveling for a year solo, I was ready to explore the big city. And boy was I pleasantly surprised. I even loved it! There is so much history, so much pop culture, just so much going on, there is something to do for everyone. And after finally visiting New York, I have to say, this city is a must-see when visiting the US. Picking ten great things is hard, to do, maybe even twenty is hard, but nevertheless, here is my best try.
10. Times Square: maybe this is the most famous square in the world. This busy square takes center stage every year on New Year's Eve, but it is always busy every day of the year. While there is not much to do here other than shopping and hoping to catch a glance at a radio show or TV show, many people still make the trip to see this famous square. And it made the list because it is worth it to go and decide for yourself. |
| The Charging Bull |
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| New York by Boat |
9. Rockefeller Center: this center also includes Radio City Music Hall which was once the most popular tourist destination of the city. When we think of this complex today, we think of ice skating around a Christmas tree, the Thanksgiving Day Parade, and the Rockettes. So visiting this place, no matter the time of year, brings memories alive.
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| Times Square |
8. The National 9/11 Memorial and Museum: this was the event that changed a nation and set us on a course that we are still reeling from today. For my generation, it was as impactful as the assassination of JFK for my parents' generation. So visiting this memorial and museum, no matter how terrifying and sad, is important to understand what happened, our responses, and the lasting effects today.
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| Outside the UN |
7. Empire State Building: while I prefer the look of the Chrysler Building better, the Empire State Building gives an amazing view of the city, and you can see the Chrysler Building from it, so even better! The observation deck is world famous. But hopefully you don't have a fear of heights, this skyscraper is one of the tallest in New York!
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| 9/11 Memorial |
6. The High Line: this park is so unique because it stretches for a mile above the streets of New York. Using the leftover platform of a train, the High Line adds beautiful greenery up above downtown Manhattan. Taking a stroll along this path is a great escape from the busy city streets while still enjoying the sights of the city. It's a win-win!
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| New York by Boat |
5. The Brooklyn Bridge: known as one of the oldest bridges in the United States, the Brooklyn Bridge has become one of the icons of New York. From the bridge, you get some great views of Manhattan. And if you can tune out the cars whizzing by on the bridge, you can have quite the pleasant walk across the water to Brooklyn.
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| The Statue of Liberty |
4. The Statue of Liberty: this icon of New York City, and to some, the symbol of America, is worth the boat trip for many reasons. Seeing the Statue of Liberty for yourself is a great experience, especially since it symbolizes liberty, freedom, and the never-ending beacon of hope. But it also gives on of the best views of the city from the boat and from Liberty Island.
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| View from Liberty Island |
3. The Metropolitan Museum of Art: known as one of the world's best art collections, the Met doesn't disappoint. It has a variety of masterpieces from different periods throughout history. There is such an assortment that there is something for any type of art lover. You could easily spend an entire day in the museum.
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| Central Park |
2. Central Park: there is so much to do in this large park! Surrounded by museums, complete with lakes, paths, and even a zoo, Central Park is a great place to take a break from the city that never sleeps and enjoy nature as much as you can. You can picnic on the grass, hang out by the lake, or take a stroll on the many different paths. And every sight is equally beautiful.
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| The Main Hall in Ellis Island |
1. Ellis Island: we all come from somewhere in the US, all of us, other than Native Americans, have had ancestors who have immigrated to the US, meaning that so much of our history, and our identity as Americans, is represented through this island. This museum complex is so important, especially today where we would rather deny people entry, and basic human rights, than let more immigrants into the country. Hopefully it reminds us that we have all struggled to get to the US and that people continue to do so.
But...
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| The UN |
It's a tie!!
1. The United Nations: I think that you can't go to New York without visiting the UN. It is so important and affects so much of our daily lives around the world. And the idea behind it is kinda great. Nations coming together to work together and work towards peace. What an amazing idea! So why not go to check out the place that promotes so much peace and learn how it works?
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| A Conference Room in the UN |
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