If you are planning to visit New York, let me start by saying that you have made a great choice. New York is, in my opinion, one of the country’s jewels, known for its contrast and variety. Its rich and fascinating history has made it one of the finest places to visit today and its numerous New York lodging alternatives that include New York vacation rentals, New York apartments and New York vacation condos among others, make it an ideal place to visit suitable for almost any budget.
Unofficially the “Empire State” is divided into “upstate” and “downstate.” Its varied and interesting geography includes lakes, an ocean and mountains that are home to many exciting outdoor activities and events. When visiting New York you can count on a varied vacation. From the spectacular Niagara Falls, the amazing mountains of Adirondacks, the mysterious Hudson River and the delightful Catskills to the breathtaking and magnificent New York City this state will never disappoint you.
When visiting Upstate, you will find natural state parks, Hudson valley wineries, Lake George, a series of caves of Howe Caverns and endless monuments and sightseeing. You can also head to the famous Niagara Falls. You can take a fun ride on the “Maid of the Mist” and feel the tremendous force of the water while admiring the falls from the underneath and behind. Stay at your NY hotel until the dusk and you will be delighted by the spectacular colorful lights that illuminate the falls.
The Howe Caverns are a must see if you enjoy adventure. You can explore the caverns by taking an hour guided tour. Most of the tour is by foot, but there is also a small boat trip through the enchanting Lake Venus. Be sure to take a warm sweater and a jacket as the temperature in the caves does not exceed 52 degrees year round.
If you are visiting with the family you can Plan an exciting weekend at Lake George while staying at a charming log cabin or lake cottage. Clear waters and mountain views are said to be some of the most beautiful in the country. You and your kids will enjoy boating, canoeing, movie watching in the park and river rafting among many other family activities.
If you rather experience the hassles of the city then New York City should be your destination. Featured in countless movies and photographs, New York City’s skyline is without doubt the most famous and breathtaking panorama of the world. The heart of New York City, the island of Manhattan, is the most populated and diverse area in the country. Starting at the busy financial district with its famous Wall Street, going through enchanting Little Italy and trendy Greenwich Village, hectic and always crowded bright Times Square and finishing with the relaxing lush nature of Central Park, New York City will provide you with all kinds of emotions and experiences in one day. World famous monuments, high skyscrapers, little charming parks, one of the best shopping scenes and the most famous restaurants in the world are all waiting for you in the Big Apple.
There is no better way to explore New York City than walking. Start your tour at downtown Manhattan and visit Wall Street with its famous New York City Stock Exchange. Just around the corner, on Broadway you will see the beautiful gothic Trinity Church with its surrounding churchyard full of monuments from American history. On your way out, take a look at the famous Wall Street Bull which symbolizes prosperity and financial optimism. Going south you will find leafy Battery Park, a perfect place to sit down and relax while looking at the Hudson River. You can also take a ferry and visit popular tourist sites – Staten and Ellis Islands featuring The Statue of Liberty and The Immigration Museum – once “a gate to freedom”.
Continuing your walk through Manhattan, do not miss the powerful Empire State building located at midtown. This 1250 feet tall legendary building will provide you with breathtaking views on the whole city and neighbor states. Roughly 10 blocks away towards uptown, you will find the biggest intersection in New York, Times Square. Bright animated commercials, huge television screens and numerous restaurants and brand stores have made this place an icon of New York City. Nearby Broadway theatres are a must see on your list. Pick from a wide variety of Broadway live shows and enjoy the fun of world famous musicals.
After a whole day of sightseeing, Central Park will be the perfect place to relax. Nestled in the middle of Manhattan, lush Central Park is home to unlimited activities, sports and events. Regardless of the season, you will always see people jogging, walking and having lunch on the Central Park’s hospitable grounds. While in the park, make sure to visit “The Met”, Metropolitan Museum of Art, home to world’s art masterpieces and spectacular exhibitions. Located around the Central Park you will also find The Guggenheim and The Museum of Natural history, although it is better to devote one full day for visiting those.
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