Are you looking to do a whistle stop tour of New York City but have allocated the majority of your budget to be spent on Fifth Avenue or Madison? We got you. Check out insider tips to experience the gems of the city, off the tourist trail without breaking the bank.
ROCKEFELLER CENTER:
Rather than paying and queuing for an expensive and touristy observation deck, book a table at the divine Bar SixtyFive at the Rainbow Room. Bar SixtyFive is New York’s highest terrace bar and is the perfect spot to take in breathtaking views of the city during sunset on the 65th floor of the Rockefeller. The cocktails are pricey but enjoying the city views amongst actual New Yorkers is something money can’t buy – just remember to book a window table! Try the classic Manhattan (naturally), sample the Rosé Royale or the Champagne Cocktail fit with vintage Tattinger, sit back and watch the sun go down on the city that never sleeps. If you do find that you want to spend a little more, the observation deck is a part of the attractions listed on the New York pass, along with many others.
MUSEUMS:
Channel your inner Blair Waldorf or Serena van der Woodsen at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and get that snap on the steps. Head to the American Museum of Natural History directly opposite through Central Park, stopping off at Shakespeare Garden and Turtle Pond en route. You can get into the museum for free in the last hour everyday (normally a $25 suggested donation) and so it is the perfect thrifty option to get the ‘must do’ museums done.
SIGHTS:
St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Manhattan is free to get into and is completely spectacular with tall spires, choral music and thousands of candles that are constantly flickering. St. Patrick’s was built and paid for by thousands of immigrants who fled religious persecution and started a new life in the city. The feeling of perseverance and grit is emphasised when you turn off Fifth Avenue and see the neo-gothic style Cathedral stand in stark contrast to the epic sky scrapers that surround it.
BROOKLYN BRIDGE:
The subway is a great way to get around in the city. Hop on from Manhattan to Clark Street in edgy Brooklyn and walk across the Brooklyn Bridge back to the island, taking in the city in all its glory. Make sure you look left for Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.
WHERE TO EAT:
The Red Flame Diner in midtown (right by some amazing street art) doesn’t look like much from the outside but if you want unbelievable American fare, think fluffy pancakes with bacon and maple syrup, French Toast and Belgian Waffles, this is the place for you. Even better – the coffee is never ending. Perfect for when you are trying to sightsee, and shop, till you drop.
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