7 things to do on your first trip to New York

We all have destinations that are at the top of our ‘travel bucket list’. For as long as I can remember New York has held that top spot for me. I pictured grabbing my ESTA Visa and jetting off! I’m not sure whether it’s the vibrancy, the bustle or the fact that I’ve seen parts of New York on so many TV shows, but I’ve always wanted to go. 

This year for our wedding anniversary, good old hubby surprised me with a trip to New York. I can’t believe it! We’re going at the end of November, so the decorations will be up and we’ll be feeling festive.

I wanted to share with you 7 things I can’t wait to see.  I’ll then report back when I’ve seen them! 

SUPER IMPORTANT! REMEMBER YOUR ESTA

One thing to bear in mind when travelling to the US is that you will need an ESTA visa.  An ESTA USA is a digital mandatory travel authorisation which allows you to travel to the US without a visa. It is really easy to apply online and it will cost £29.95 per person. Your children will also be expected to possess their own ESTA too. Make sure you apply as soon as possible to make sure there are no hitches before your trip.

7 things to do on your first trip to New York

1. Visit the Statue of Liberty

Landmarks don’t get much more iconic than the Statue of Liberty, one of the most popular attractions in New York City. I’ve heard the view from the observation deck is better than climbing right to the top – thankfully! 

2. Explore Times Square

As a major commercial intersection, tourist destination and entertainment centre Times Square is the perfect place to people-watch, which I love to do.  

We will be spoilt for choice of things to do. Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, M&M’s World (where they have every kind, AND color of M&M you want. You can also go on a scale where a machine can tell you what M&M you are!), Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odditorium, Dave and Buster’s, Hershey’s Times Square, Discovery Times Square, Bowlmor, Hard Rock Cafe and so much more.

3. Wander around Central Park

An oasis of greenery in the concrete jungle Central Park is a must-visit for us. We plan to make a wish at Bethesda Fountain and I know Ava will love to ride the old carousel.  We both love Sea Lions, so we’ll be heading to the Central Park Zoo for feeding time. I also want to see the Alice in Wonderland statue on the East Side at 75th Street.

4. Take a trip on the Staten Island Ferry 

Take a ride on the Staten Island Ferry for free and you get to see phenomenal views of the Statue of Liberty, the Lower Manhattan skyline, and Ellis Island during the 25-minute ride across New York Harbour.

5. The Empire State Building

As one of the most famous buildings in the world a visit to the Empire State building is a must visit for us. The observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors provide unforgettable 360° views of New York City and beyond. I can’t imagine being 102 floors up!

6. Visit Ground Zero

After the events of September 11th, the American landscape was changed forever. Visiting “Ground Zero” is a way to reflect on those tragic events and pay our respects to the people who lost their lives.

The reflective pools and a memorial wall inscribed with the names of the 2,983 victims sits where the old World Trade Center once stood. 

7. Eat amazing food from all around the world

New York is a melting pot of different cultures. It may be synonymous with bagels and pizza, but you can try so many authentic dishes, especially if you head to the outer boroughs. 

Whether you feel like hot pot at Mister HotPot in Sunset Park, Ethiopian food at Bushwick’s Bunna Café, Szechuan cuisine at Hot Kitchen, Afghan cuisine at Khyber Pass or Georgian food at Old Tblisi Garden, you are sure to find something to tickle your taste buds and I can’t wait to get stuck in! 

So if you’re planning a trip to New York, don’t forget your ESTA Visa and I’d love to know in the comments where you would visit in New York? 

Disclosure: This is a collaborative post