New York City is one of the most spectacular and iconic cities in the world. Boasting iconic sites such as yellow cabs, the neon lights of Times Square and towering skyscrapers, the buzzing metropolis feels as if you’re a celebrity walking onto a movie set. I couldn’t get enough of one of the best cities to visit in the whole USA. However, world- class cities can be expensive, so here’s my tips of exploring NYC on a budget.
1. Explore Central Park
Central Park is a New York icon that is often featured in our favourite movies; Wall Street, Spiderman, home alone and how to be single, just to name a few. There’s something to do every season, so here’s a list of my favourite things to experience in Central Park;
Rent a boat: Hiring an old fashioned row boat is the perfect way to view 20 acres of Central Park. It costs $20 an hour and $5 a person additional to the original cost to hire a boat. Get to the park early to avoid waiting as It is first in, best dressed.
Wander the gardens: The gardens are scenic all year round, from Autumns orange hues to springs lush blooms that dapple every garden and field, it’s the perfect place to get out and admire
Ice skating: Okay, this one is rather iconic! If you have seen those picture perfect post card photos of ice skating in New York than it’s most likely located in Central Park. During the winter months, you can find the ice rink within the North of Central Park, engulfed by greenery and skyscrapers which makes for a mesmerising experience.
Picnic: the resovir offers a perfect combination of nature and metropolitan. Here you can sit down watching the row boats in the midst of nature with a scenic city skyline which makes for some pretty perfect photos.
2. Sight seeing
Brooklyn Bridge: The scenic bridge was built in 1883 and homes a walk way that offers picturesque views of the Manhattan skyline. Although the view is incredible at all times of the day, sunset is absolutely breathtaking.
Rockefeller building: Famous for its grand underground plaza, Christmas tree, ice rink, art gallery and of course, it’s sweeping views of New York City, this destination should be on the top of any travellers list when visiting New York. If you’re wanting a view with the Empire State Building, than this is the best option.
Empire State Building: Arguably one of the most iconic landmarks in NYC, the empire state building is characterised by its Art Deco themed architecture that offers views all over the whole city.
Statue of Liberty: The iconic colossal neoclassical sculpture can be found in New York harbour. Built by Gustave Eiffel – yes the same guy who built the Eiffel Tower – this magnificent structure was gifted to the USA from France in 1886.
Times Square: This commercial intersection is famed for its vibrant televised advertisements and also acts as an entertainment hub and attracts 50 million visitors each year. Surrounded by museums, its a great place to visit whilst taking in the city surroundings.
Washington Square park: Located in Greenwich village, South of Manhatten, this is one of New Yorks best known parks. A cultural place of meeting, completed with bustling market stalls of all kinds, here you can sit back and relax.
High line: Located in West Chelsea, the high line is a walkway that takes you up from the ground onto an elevated, traffic free platform which weaves between buildings. It’s also a hub for art and public installations. You can also view the statue of liberty from afar.
Grand central station: Known for its beaux- arts architecture and breathtaking interior design, Grand central station is arguably one of the biggest icons in America. Whether you’re taking a train or not, Grand central station is free to access.
The MET: Ranking 3rd in the world of most visited museums, the MET is the largest art museum in the Americas. It also plays host to the MET gala, an evening in which the most influential figures in the world will gather.
5th Avenue: Also known as millionaires row, the famous street homes the most expensive stores and realestate in Manhattan. Additionally, there picturesque homes lining the street in which make quiet the photograph.
3. Walk across Brooklyn bridge
As previously mentioned, Brooklyn Bridge is an absolute icon which links Brooklyn to Manhattan. With views of either skylines and even the Statue of Liberty, its a must visit location. The best time to visit is at sunset when the skies melt into the horizon making a mesmerising scene. If you’re looking for quite times to avoid crowds of people or to snap a shot, then opt for early morning at sunrise.
4. Immerse yourself into the food scene
New york is known for its incredible food scene in which can come at a pretty penny when you consider American tipping culture and city prices. However, you don’t have to dine at Breakfast at Tiffanys to indulge in the full experience. From famous $1 pizza slices to food vendors on the street, there are so many inexpensive places to get the full food experience without breaking the bank.
5. Take the subway
There are multiple subway stations dotted around the city and I the fastest way to commute around each neighbourhood. You can purchase a prepaid ticket at the subway station or use your debit/ credit card upon entering the gates.
Central station also has access to various other cities and towns around the region such as New Jersey and Connecticut if you’re wanting to explore outside the city for a day. You can purchase non local tickets from the ticket stalls / machines or use the online app.
6. Watch sunset in Brooklyn
Strolling around Brooklyn in itself is an incredible way to absorb the cities atmosphere and take it some breathtaking views. It’s also home to Brooklyn Bridge park in which overlooks the harbour and the Statue of Liberty. The Statue can be expensive and difficult to get to at times and despite not being able to get close and personal, watching the silhouette pop against the vibrant orange sunset and Manhattan skyline is quiet a spectacular and memorable experience in itself.
Wander Mak 
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