New York, New York. It’s a helluva’ town…
The Big Apple is, undisputedly, one of the greatest cities in the world – and deservedly so. A buzzing mecca of culture, art, food, business, architecture, music and dazzling sights that will ensnare your attention and steal your heart.
From the moment I stepped off the train in Grand Central I instantly fell in love with New York. The city is a never-ending dichotomy of features: simple nature and grand metropolis; dizzying highs and subway lows; bright lights at the end of dark alleyways; tough talkers with big smiles and soft hearts.
If you could only spend a day in the city that never sleeps, you wouldn’t snooze either. And trust me; sleep deprivation never felt so damn good.
Here’s how to make the most out of your New York experience in just 24 hours!
Climb the Empire State Building
Sounds touristy and clichéd, but the view is worth it. Take my word on this peeps: Just. Do. It.
See a Show on Broadway
Even if you don’t have a ton of cash you can still spring for a ticket to a show on what is arguably the world’s most famous street for theatre talent.
At any given time there can be over forty different plays and musicals showing on Broadway; from theatre classics like Les Mis and Chicago, to modern hits such as Rock of Ages, The Lion King and The Book of Mormon. Tickets are generally cheaper for matinee showings or for shows that have been running for some time.
I saw Mamma Mia! during my whirlwind stay in New York and I was blown away by how amazing the production was. And I don’t even like ABBA.
Pay Your Respects at the World Trade Center Memorial
Shed a tear and take a moment to pause at the site of where so many innocent people lost their lives in one of the most horrific atrocities against humanity in the 21st century.
Have Breakfast at Tiffany’s
Channel your inner Audrey and have your Holly Golightly moment with a croissant and coffee outside Tiffany’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue.
Even if you don’t have your Givenchy gown and tiara handy, you’re sure to feel like a superstar. Big dark sunnies are a must.
Eat NY Pizza…and Hot Dogs…and Cannoli.
Leave your calorie-controlled diet behind and indulge in some good ol’ New York street food. Head to Little Italy and treat yo’self to a cheesy slice that’s the size of your head and a heavenly cannoli that’s guaranteed to please any sweet tooth.
Sit Under the Bright Lights of Times Square
Bright lights, big city. Possibly the cheapest entertainment you’ll find in the Big Apple. Find a spot on one of Duffy Square’s 27 glowing red glass steps and just watch the world hustle past you.
Whether it’s 1pm or 1am, you’ll be swept up in the energy of the place I like to think of as the heartbeat of Manhattan.
Play with Squirrels in Central Park.
Wander the leafy pathways and beautifully crafted stone bridges of one of the world’s most famous parks.
Nuff’ said.
Featured image by Anthony Quintano
