Skyscrapers
From one of the most famous early skyscrapers, the FlatIron building, at a mere 22 storeys to the iconic Empire State Building at 102. My favourite is the Chrysler for sheer art deco beauty but if you’re going to make the trip to the top, I would recommend the Rockefeller Centre (Top of the Rock) for a great view of uptown in one direction and the Empire State Building in the other.
Statue of Liberty
Who could resist this symbol of New York and the free world. It’s hard to believe that this was the first sight immigrants saw on reaching America. You can either hop on the Statten Island Ferry for a free view of Lady Liberty or get a tour boat from Battery Park if you want to stop off at Liberty Island for a closer view and a climb. The museum at Ellis Island (also covered by the tour) provides an interesting history of the mass immigration to the USA from the end of the 19th century.
Brooklyn Bridge
Brooklyn Bridge
The architecture of the Brooklyn Bridge is truly stunning. Walk across and you’ll be rewarded with those classic, amazing views of the skyscrapers of downtown Manhattan.
The Financial district
There’s a lot to see here! The Financial District covers the southern tip of Manhattan and is well worth a visit. Wander down Wall Street for a view of the New York Stock Exchange building and Trinity Church. At the same time, marvel at skyscraper after skyscraper, showing the diversity of architecture in this area, where old really does meet new. If you have time, South Street Seaport, on the East side of the tip provides a mix of history, shopping and dining. With its museum and tall ships, it’s a pleasant place to wander around and grab a bite to eat or a drink.
9/11 Memorial
To the northwest of the Financial District you’ll find the 9/11 memorial, a moving tribute to those who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks of 2001. It is a stunning memorial and there is certainly a sombre, reflective atmosphere on entering the site. Currently you will need to obtain a pass whilst work on the site continues, passes are free but it is best to book in advance if you want to visit. http://www.911memorial.org/
Grand Central Terminus, NYC
Grand Central Terminal
The architecture of the cavernous central concourse is absolutely beautiful, pay for a guided tour, download an audio tour to your mobile, or just admire the elegant surroundings by exploring it yourself
Times Square
Personally, Times Square is not on my hit list, although it does provide one of those cinematic views of NYC that we all feel we know so it’s a great photo opportunity and I suppose does have a kind of larger than life appeal.
The Marriott at Times Square has a great bar with revolving floor for that 360° view of the city so escape the crowds and head here for a calming cocktail.
Central Park
Calling Central Park the largest green space in the city doesn’t do this wonder of urban planning justice. Unless you stay very close to the edge, you will need a map to navigate this enormous expanse in the heart of uptown NYC. Even then, every time I go there, I get lost, but that’s half the fun.
The High Line
The conversion of this former elevated freight railway line into a beautiful public park and walkway typifies the creativity and ingenuity of New York for me. This is an extraordinary space to take a walk along. Chelsea Market at one end provides a great pit stop for refuelling.
The West Village (Greenwich Village)
With its leafy streets and great cafes and restaurants. The West Village is that archetypal New York image of brownstone houses and fire escapes that we all know from watching far too many episodes of Sex and the City. Washington Square is also worth visit, check out the built in chess tables and cool off in the fountain on a hot day.