A Weekend Getaway to NYC!

New York City is one of the Top 10 Destination Spots to visit in your lifetime; and for many good reasons! All the sights and sounds of the Big Apple attract over 61 million visitors a year, so trying to visit all the attractions can be a bit overwhelming without some tips and tricks to the city. My first trip was a short, little weekend getaway that included lots of shopping, entertainment, and plenty of exploring. Here’s how you can plan your own adventure on a budget!

This itinerary includes:
– Big Bus New York City SightSeeing Tour
– Top of the Rock Observation Deck
– Central Park
– Broadway/Times Square
– Greenwich Village

THE MUST-SEES
Start your trip with one of the easiest ways to see the best parts of New York City; a bus tour! This option not only takes you to the best landmarks, but it also includes a guide that tells you the stories of the city. Use this time to also get acquainted with the different neighborhoods so that you won’t be completely lost when you explore in the next couple of days. Many tours include a “hop on/hop off” aspect that allow you to take your time at the different sights including the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, Wall Street, and many other destinations. There’s even an option to include a cruise to the Statue of Liberty on Ellis Island! (Cost: $35-$100)

 THE BEST VIEW OF THE CITY
It’s impossible to visit NYC without getting the iconic photo from the Top of the Rock, so be sure to do that on your first morning in the city. Check the light calendar for your specific date to get the picture perfect sunrise view of Manhattan and Central Park from the three available observation decks. When selecting your time, be sure to include the additional “Sun and Stars” option to get a second entry in the evening. (Cost: $35-$90)

GET LOST IN THE PARK
The rest of the day can be spent enjoying all that Central Park has to offer. In the Southern half of the park, get captivated by the Strawberry Fields, Central Park Zoo, Belvedere Castle, and Bethesda Fountain (my personal favorite). The Northern half has the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Conservatory Garden, and the Lasker Rink, but the best part about Central Park is that most of these things are free. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to hear musical ensembles perform in the terrace right next to the Bethesda Fountain! (Cost: Mostly Free)

FOLLOW THE LIGHTS TO BROADWAY
One thing I advise you to splurge on is a ticket to a popular broadway musical. Don’t break the bank, but you’ll never forgive yourself if you don’t take the opportunity to get orchestra seats to the latest shows featured in that summer’s Tony Awards. I was lucky enough to order my tickets to “Waitress the Musical” the night before the Tony’s so the price wasn’t too steep, but any show will do! Most of the theaters are a short walking distance from Times Square, so be sure to get some night photos on your way back to your hotel. (Cost: $50-$300)

FOCUS ON YOU
By the third day, you should already be accustomed to the subway routes, the native slang, and the fact that no one pays attention to pedestrian crosswalk lights (I’m serious! Just look both ways before you cross) so take the time to cross something off your bucket list. Greenwich Village was a priority of mine to see because not only does it have a quaint atmosphere, but it’s also home to the “FRIENDS” apartment complex and the Stonewall Inn. (Cost: It’s up to you!)

Visiting New York has its many challenges, and sometimes you might feel overwhelmed, but with the right planning and preparation, you’ll definitely enjoy every minute of it. I’m even sure you’ll be back for more!