New York

1. Central Park

Central Park is not only New York’s most famous; it is also the most visited park in America. Park Drive, a 6-mile loop around the park is a great place to talk a walk, jog, or bicycle ride. Other facilities at the park include tennis, basketball, and volleyball courts, and Lasker Rink, an ice skating rink which doubles as a swimming pool in the summertime. Warmer weather is also synonymous with free open-air concerts in the park’s Public Theater.
Central Park’s zoo and 21 playgrounds make it a popular spot for parents to bring their children. The park is located between West 59th (AKA Central Park South) and West 110th (AKA Central Park North) streets, and Fifth Avenue on the East.

2. Empire State Building

The Empire State Building, named after New York States nickname, was the tallest building in the world from 1931 to 1972, when the first World Trade Center building was completed. One of the most popular tourist destinations in New York City, it has been visited by over 110 million people since its completion. The best observation deck is on the 86th floor, where you can see a breath-taking 360-degree view of the city. There is also a much smaller observation deck on the 102nd floor, though it may be closed on days with lots of visitors. The Empire State Building is located at 350 5th Avenue.

3. Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty was given to the United States by France in 1886 as a token of friendship between the two countries. Admission to Liberty State Park is free but you have to take a ferry to get Liberty Island where the statue is located. There are several tours available so make sure to check out what each one includes before getting a ticket.

4. Times Square

Times Square is a world icon and has become a symbol of New York City. Time Square is THE place to be on New Years and some 750,000 revelers come to celebrate and watch the ball drop every year. There are plenty of attractions found around Times Square, though its most interesting asset is probably all of the people that gather there and pass by every day. Some of the famous buildings include the New York Times Tower, 1 Times Square, Times Square Tower, and the Bank of America Tower. Of course, there are also many shops and restaurants around that cater to the daily hoards of people. Times Square is located at the intersection of Broadway and 7th Avenue, and stretches from West 42nd to West 47th Streets.

5. West Village Stroll

This neighborhood of quaint brownstones clustered along tree-lined cobblestone streets remains virtually unchanged since the 19th century. You'll need a map to navigate the puzzling geography — how does West 4th Street intersectwith West 10th Street, exactly? — as it's one of the few areas in Manhattan that strays from the orderly street grid. Better, though, to just wander aimlessly. Highlights include the Jefferson Market Courthouse, a former women's detention center that once held Mae West, and the shops along Bleecker St. and Commerce St. — the most beautiful block-long side street in NYC. Ignore the temptation to join the curiously long line outside Magnolia Bakery (they're queuing for cupcakes — repeat, cupcakes). Head two blocks west instead to the Spotted Pig, a bustling gastropub where you can recharge your batteries with a cask-conditioned ale.

6. The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

Founded in 1929 as the first museum dedicated entirely to contemporary art, the MoMA is host to an impressive collection of modern artistic efforts. From painting and sculpture to film and architecture, the Museum of Modern Art's diverse collection has something for everyone, including kids.

7. Staten Island Ferry

The Staten Island Ferry is an attraction fit for young and old, New York first-timers and those who have lived here for years.But it's a real treat for those on a budget.

The ferry, which runs frequently enough that if you just show up, one is probably not far off, offers a wonderful view of the harbor and all it has to offer. Among the sights to take in from either side of the vessel, are Governors Island, the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, lower Manhattan and Wall Street's skyscrapers, Ellis Island, and the Verrazano Narrows Bridge connecting Staten Island to Brooklyn.

8. Fifth Avenue

If you're a fashion-focused, shopping at the New York stores on Fifth Avenue is a definite must during your stay in the Big Apple. NY shopping is an entirely different experience than shopping in another city, especially along this historical road. Located in the center of Manhattan, the best Fifth Avenue shopping takes place between 39th and 60th Street at NYC flagship stores. Whether you are searching for the latest fashions, NY souvenirs, or useful housewares, New York outlets on Fifth Ave cater to every taste and budget.