I’ve heard much about New York, but the adage “seeing is believing” resonates when I visit the Big Apple. It’s the weekend, and upon arriving at New York’s JFK, I am standing with throngs patiently waiting for a cab to Manhattan. It’s not just the thrill of being in a big city that excites me most, but the moment I approach Manhattan, from a distance I gaze in awe at the towering skyline of skyscrapers.
New York is packed with things to see and do; it might not be the capital of the United States, but it is by all means the world’s corporate hub. As soon as I get off, I am astounded by this city’s limitless energy; it is virtually buzzing from every corner. From the hustle and bustle of Fifth Avenue to the iconic beauty of its skyline, one can never tire out from this sublime yet raucous city.
New York State is divided into five boroughs; these include Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island, Manhattan is by far the most densely populated of the five. There is a lot to explore in the sheer dynamism of the sprawling Manhattan avenues. With so much to do, covering the Manhattan diaspora might be challenging, so I handpick a few venues.
Exploring Manhattan
My day begins with a brisk walk; along the way, I cross paths with several all-time favourite landmarks, including the Empire State building, which was once among the world’s tallest buildings. I start my journey from Midtown which is as close as possible to the city’s centre. Midtown stretches from 34th Street, where the Empire State Building is, to 59th Street. Rising to 102 stories, this iconic building was completed in 1931. Its high-speed elevators get you to its observation deck for panoramic city views.
Next, I head to 51st street in Midtown. I came here to see the iconic Rockefeller Centre, a marvel of design and urban planning. Built in 1939, this iconic area was founded by John D. Rockefeller. The Rockefeller Centre boasts cafes and a rooftop garden. Crowds usually gather in the holidays to snap photos of the brilliantly lit tree, a tradition dating back to 1933; the Rockefeller skating rink becomes a beehive of activity as well.
Afterward, I head to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, known as the MET. This mega museum can hardly be completed in a day’s visit. It would take weeks to explore the vast treasures of this gigantic museum. With thousands of paintings and sculptures, the MET is considered one of the largest museums in the United States. White steps and marble floors complement the museum, along with an enticing view of Central Park. An enchanting and fascinating venue for history fans, the MET hosts several exhibits with different themes each season. Guided tours begin at 10:15 am to 4:00 pm each day. Plenty of sunlit courtyards and cafes are scattered throughout the museum, providing ample opportunities to relax.
After spending the day at the MET, I set my sight on exploring Central Park, which is practically the MET’s backyard. Central Park is located on East 59th street and 5th avenue, I am tempted to indulge in a bit of window-shopping on the upscale shops of Fifth Avenue, but that doesn’t distract me from visiting Central Park, home to more than 840 acres of lush green gardens with meadows and lakes nestled amid Manhattan’s towering skyscrapers. The best way to explore Central Park is to rent a bike or, as tradition has it, hop on one of the pricey yet feasible horse-drawn carriages. The mega-sized park has a zoo, bustling during the summer with families and children eager to catch sight of various animals, including snow leopards, penguins, and even polar bears.
On my way back, I cross paths with Grand Central, New York’s main station. Built in 1913, it is part of the daily commute for thousands of New York upstate residents living in Connecticut, Eastchester, and Westchester counties. I stand in awe under the gigantic clock in the station’s main concourse and take in my surroundings. This is my chance to see and hear the beating pulse of the city. Then I head to the station’s lower concourse, with its many shops and restaurants, to grab a bite at the Grand Central Market.
Times Square & Macy’s
Having done my share of activities for the day, I plan to relax before spending the evening at Times Square. Times Square took its name from the New York Times paper, which had offices here in 1904. The area buzzes with activity; its most appealing charms are its mega-sized billboards and attractive theatres. An array of restaurants, hotels, bars, cafes, and shopping venues complement the sprawling street; other attractions include the Madame Tussaud’s museum and several Broadway theatres. Times Square is an all-time favourite venue to ring in the New Year. New York’s revelers won’t miss a chance to camp out in the frigid temperatures for the renowned countdown, no matter how cold it gets in the city.
A trip wouldn’t be complete without shopping, and for many New Yorkers shopping at Macy’s is a rite of passage. The department store is an all-time New York favourite dating back to 1902. Considered among the largest department stores in the US, Macy’s is famous for its holiday sales. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade takes place every November to the delight of thousands of onlookers. It features open-air floats along with marching bands, music, and giant helium balloons flying in mid-air. TV stations in the US regularly broadcast the live event from Herald Square each year.
Lady Liberty
Next on my trip is a much anticipated stopover at the iconic Statue of Liberty. The only way to get to Lady Liberty is by ferry. I hop on a ferry taxi from South Street Seaport to explore Manhattan’s skyline and the iconic statue from the water’s edge. Sculpted by renowned French Sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi, this iconic statue is a gift from France to the United States to commemorate the friendship and solidarity between the two countries.
Lady Liberty has become an icon symbolizing the United States and the embodiment of the American Dream. It was officially unveiled in 1886 after being dismantled and shipped from France. While you are here, don’t miss out on a chance to tour Ellis Island, the entry point for immigrants arriving in the United States. The Ellis Island Museum houses a treasure trove of artefacts, photographs, and maps showcasing the unique heritage of America’s immigrants.
As the sun slowly sets over Manhattan’s skyline, I hop back on the ferry. With my trip drawing to an end, I can by all means say that I am fascinated by this pulsating metropolis and what it offers. With its monumental architecture, definitive art museums, abundant shopping, and urban appeal, I only sampled a bite, not a mouthful, of the Big Apple!
