Things I’d do in NEW YORK CITY 🤍

Hey fellow city-lover! I totally get your excitement about visiting New York City – it’s truly a magical concrete jungle, especially coming from another vibrant city like Chicago. Your dream list of places like the Empire State Building, Central Park, Times Square, Brooklyn Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty is fantastic, and I’d love to share some tips and recommendations to make your trip even more incredible! Since you're asking for dining ideas, and mentioned a place like Bubba Gump, let's talk food! Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. is definitely a fun, themed experience, especially if you're in the Times Square area and a fan of Forrest Gump. It’s a great spot for families or a casual, lively meal. However, NYC has such an incredible culinary scene that I'd also encourage you to explore other unique options. For a truly iconic New York experience, you absolutely have to try a classic New York-style pizza slice – places like Joe’s Pizza in Greenwich Village or Lombardi’s (America's first pizzeria!) offer a taste of history. If you're near Times Square, grab some delicious street food from a vendor or explore the diverse eateries in Hell's Kitchen for a pre- or post-Broadway show bite. For a more upscale but still classic experience, a steakhouse is quintessential NYC. Now, for those incredible places you want to visit! Planning ahead is key for spots like the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty. I highly recommend booking tickets online in advance to save time. For the Empire State Building, consider going early in the morning or later in the evening for fewer crowds and stunning views of the NYC skyline. For the Statue of Liberty, taking the ferry from Battery Park to Liberty Island and Ellis Island is a full experience; again, aim for an early departure. If you’re just after a glimpse and a great photo, the Staten Island Ferry is free and offers fantastic views as it passes by Lady Liberty. Times Square is an absolute sensory overload in the best way possible! My advice is to embrace the chaos. It’s particularly breathtaking at night when all the digital billboards are shining bright. Just be prepared for crowds! For a more serene experience, Central Park is your sanctuary. It’s huge, so pick a few areas you want to explore like Bethesda Terrace, the Bow Bridge, or Sheep Meadow. Renting a bike or just wandering its paths is a fantastic way to spend an afternoon, especially in the autumn with those vibrant fall foliage colors. Don't forget to look up and see the skyscrapers peeking through the trees – it's a beautiful contrast. Walking the Brooklyn Bridge is another must-do. I suggest going early in the morning, perhaps around sunrise, to catch incredible views of the Manhattan skyline without too many people. You can walk from Manhattan to Brooklyn, grab a bagel or pizza in DUMBO, and then take the subway back. It’s a great way to experience a different borough. My biggest tip for exploring NYC is to wear comfortable shoes – you'll be doing a lot of walking! Also, don't be afraid to use the subway; it's efficient and will get you almost anywhere. New York is full of hidden gems, so while hitting the big landmarks is a must, also allow yourself time to wander and discover unexpected delights. I'm so excited for you to experience the city; I hope these tips help make your dream trip a reality!