Exploring
While iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty are must-visit destinations for first-time visitors, the city's 5 boroughs are filled with hidden gems worth discovering. For those seeking guidance in planning their upcoming trip, we've prepared an ultimate first-timer's guide to navigating the wonders of New York City. Let's dive in!
So what are the secret gems in NYC that a newcomer should discover?
The Cloisters
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New York City is home to some of the world's most prestigious and breathtaking museums, from the renowned Metropolitan Museum of Art to the captivating Museum of Modern Art. However, tucked away at the northern tip of Manhattan lies a less-explored institution, The Cloisters. This somewhat hidden gem is unique in its status as the only museum in America dedicated solely to art and architecture from the Middle Ages.
The Cloisters, first opened in 1938 under the management of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, offers a New York City experience unlike any other. Architect Charles Collens has created a building straight out of the Middle Ages, featuring Gothic design that's further enhanced by the presence of 3 medieval chapels and several gardens throughout the property. This intentional design aims to evoke a stronger emotional response to the artistic works contained within, some of which date back to around 800 CE. The museum's collection also includes an ivory cross from the 12th century, stained glass from an Austrian castle, and 15th-century French books. By providing an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, The Cloisters truly captures the more simplistic feel of life during the Middle Ages.
Katz's Deli
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If you're familiar with the classic 1989 romantic comedy 'When Harry Met Sally', then you've likely seen the iconic scene that takes place at Katz's Delicatessen. But this Lower East Side institution is much more than just a movie set – it's been serving up cured meats and other mouthwatering Jewish delicacies since an earlier version of the establishment was founded in 1888. For decades, celebrities and tourists alike have been drawn to this bustling cafeteria-style space to indulge in the famed pastrami and corned beef sandwiches. Upon arrival, each visitor is given a ticket that must be carefully guarded, as all orders are paid for at the end of the meal using this little slip of paper, with a fine imposed for any lost tickets.
While the pastrami on rye is undoubtedly the star of the show – especially when paired with a generous helping of spicy mustard – the menu at Katz's is brimming with a variety of scrumptious, albeit hearty, dishes to explore. From classic knishes and chopped liver to the comforting matzo ball soup, dining at Katz's Delicatessen is akin to stepping into the kitchen of a beloved Jewish grandmother. And, of course, no meal at this iconic establishment would be complete without washing it all down with a refreshing can of the iconic Dr. Brown's soda.
NYC Ferry
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People all over the world are familiar with New York City's renowned subway system, but fewer have the chance to experience the city's incredible commuter ferry service, which operates primarily along the East River. The NYC Ferry is undoubtedly one of the most scenic ways to travel around the city, connecting all 5 boroughs. Instead of traveling underground, you can pay a few dollars to stand on the deck of a boat cruising down the East Side, with the wind blowing through your hair.
The various NYC Ferry routes offer several highlights, including stops at DUMBO's waterfront park, which features the historic Jane's Carousel. You can also take the ferry to the Battery in southern Manhattan where you can enjoy stunning views of the Statue of Liberty. In addition, passengers can ride all the way out to Rockaway Beach for a day of sunbathing and a refreshing dip in the ocean. While the NYC Ferry was built as a commuter service, it's undoubtedly one of the most scenic and enjoyable ways to travel throughout the city.
Coney Island's iconic coaster
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Thrill-seekers and history enthusiasts alike would find a visit to Coney Island in Brooklyn worthwhile, as it's home to the historic wooden-track roller coaster known as the Cyclone. The Cyclone has been delighting people since its grand opening on June 26th, 1927, and was even described by aviator Charles Lindbergh as "a greater thrill than flying an airplane at top speed." As the world's second-steepest wooden roller coaster, amusement park fans will have a hard time finding an experience as exhilarating as the Cyclone.
While the Cyclone may be the highlight of Coney Island, there are numerous other attractions to explore in this southern Brooklyn neighborhood. From the New York Aquarium to the Brooklyn Cyclones minor league baseball team, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy. Coney Island is also home to the original Nathan's hot dog stand, the site of the iconic Independence Day hot dog eating contest. Nathan's has been serving up their classic franks in the neighborhood since 1916, providing visitors with the opportunity to experience over a century of hot dog history.
The Ramble in Central Park
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Central Park is a renowned natural landmark in New York City but its expansive size means there are numerous areas that tourists may not be aware of. One such hidden gem is the Ramble, a woodland landscape featuring winding trails and natural stone features. The Ramble was designed to emulate the forests of upstate New York and covers an area of 36 acres, making it easy to become lost in its captivating beauty. The Ramble's meandering path makes it challenging to navigate in a straight and efficient manner, encouraging visitors to fully immerse themselves in the stunning scenic landscape instead of rushing to their next destination.
While the Ramble can be enjoyed on its own for hours, it's situated close to other must-see locations within Central Park. Just to the south of the Ramble is a massive 20-acre lake where visitors can hop on a rowboat and paddle across the waters. In addition, the Ramble is located just south of Belvedere Castle, a structure dating back to 1872 that offers breathtaking views of the park as a whole.
Forest Hills' performance venue
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The neighborhood of Forest Hills, Queens, is distinct from the towering skyscrapers of midtown Manhattan. One of its most appealing features is its unique outdoor performance venue, Forest Hills Stadium. This site was initially used by tennis players in the 1920s, and it hosted the US Open tennis tournament from 1968 to 1978 before the event moved to its current location in Flushing. A tennis club remains on the premises today.
Forest Hills Stadium began booking major acts like Frank Sinatra and Barbra Streisand in the 1960s, and even the Beatles performed there in 1964, arriving by helicopter. The concert space underwent renovations in 2013 to include modern amenities, allowing it to welcome even larger crowds. Since these upgrades, the stadium has hosted performances by contemporary music legends, such as Drake, Ed Sheeran, and Dolly Parton. The concert schedule at Forest Hills Stadium kicks into high gear during the warmer months, so visitors to New York City in the summer should check the lineup and plan a trip to catch a show.
Arthur Avenue's delights
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While the Bronx may not be as widely visited as other parts of New York City, it boasts a beloved neighborhood called Arthur Avenue, which serves as the "True Little Italy" for the borough. This area has a fascinating history that traces back to the 1700s, when it was home to a tobacco company, and later became a hub for Italian immigrants in the 20th century, transforming it into a destination renowned for its authentic and delectable Italian culinary offerings.
In 1940, Mayor Fiorella LaGuardia designated the Arthur Avenue Retail Market as a place for vendors to sell their culinary offerings, solidifying the neighborhood's reputation as the "True Little Italy." Today, Arthur Avenue boasts a number of iconic culinary institutions, such as Teitel Brothers, which has been in business since 1915, and Casa Della Mozzarella, where visitors can enjoy freshly hand-pulled mozzarella. For those seeking a delectable Italian sandwich, complete with marinara sauce and melted cheese, Arthur Avenue is the perfect destination.
Travel worry-free: guaranteed parking awaits with ParkingNearAirports.io!
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By the way, we would also like to give you one helpful tip. Such information will be handy for those who prefer traveling by air and getting to the airport by their own car.
There is no question that a safe parking space must be arranged for your vehicle during a trip. However, in most cases, people aren't ready to spend a lot of money on this. It's a common problem among travelers, as they know that on-site parking (it may seem that it's the best option for this case) is pretty costly. So what can we do then?
We are glad to inform you that our booking platform, ParkingNearAirports.io, offers travelers online reservations for parking just outside airports that are convenient and affordable. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing travelers parking options at over 100 airports in the US and Canada. In addition, the app allows customers to search and compare parking rates at up to 70 percent savings compared to the cost of on-site parking at all major airports.
Being nearby doesn't always mean convenience when it comes to airport parking. Being in terminal parking is not convenient at all. Travelers have to find a spot in a crowded lot, carry their luggage throughout the parking lot, and pay high fees without great service. The off-airport parking provides excellent service with their award-winning customer service representatives available 24/7. In addition, the app looks for lots that offer baggage assistance and 24-hour security for peace of mind.
With our platform, it only takes a few clicks in the app to reserve a parking spot. Guests receive a booking confirmation and a guaranteed parking space upon arrival at the off-airport parking. In addition, the app helps customers locate the most convenient lots to the airport. Cancellations are easy if plans change with hassle-free, refundable cancellations.
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Off-airport parking lots often provide free shuttle going back and forth between the parking lot and the airport, removing any worry of traveling to and from the airport or getting stuck in traffic on the way to the airport during peak hours. Arrive on time for flights and receive significant savings with airport parking.
Besides this, we also offer services for top cruise ports in Florida, Louisiana, Maryland, New Jersey, and Texas.
Let's take a good example. Imagine that you live in NYC, New York, USA. If you're planning a trip to Europe, you can choose cheap parking near JFK Airport with shuttle. If you're coming from any other state or city, the situation is the same. So it depends just on where you are flying from.
Also, please don't forget about the airport coupons. Such a coupon can easily help you save money at the beginning of your trip, making the price for parking almost two times less. So if we talk about the John F. Kennedy International Airport, you can use a special JFK parking coupon.
You can find the best deals, JFK Airport parking prices, and other information connected with parking near US and Canadian airports on our official website.
