By Claire Taylor
Things to Do in Manhattan, New York
Manhattan is a big place. The city of all cities in America,
New York draws huge numbers of visitors to a metropolitan area that already has over 8,000,000 residents. With this many people bumping into each other there has to be something to do to keep them from screaming at each other. Fortunately, Manhattan does offer much to do.
Central Park
Central Park is a massive green space right in the middle of the city and offers many opportunities to get away for awhile regardless of season. There are two massive lawn areas to sprawl out, play Frisbee, or have a picnic. Both Sheep's Meadow (in the southern section of the park) and The Great Lawn (in the northern section) offer a great atmosphere to practice the art of lounging. Bike enthusiasts will find miles of trails and a park loop to cycle on. Ice skaters will find rinks at the north and south portions of the park. Theater goers are represented as well, as the New York Shakespeare Festival stages productions for free. Concerts throughout the summer occur at Rumsey Playfield, which are also often free. There are playgrounds galore for the little ones as well as the Central Park Zoo.
Broadway
Coming to New York without seeing a Broadway show should be a crime. This is an enduring legacy of Manhattan. The current theater district lies right in the heart of Times Square. New, well-written works as well as old, cheesy musicals are always being staged on multiple theaters. Many of the theaters are architecturally astounding and well worth the visit alone. On 42nd Street, The New Victory Theater (which stages a fair amount of children's theater) is a recently renovated theater and impressive to behold. Orchestra seats are over $100 usually, but balcony seats are much cheaper. Also, cheap tickets can be purchased the day of the perfomance at the TKTS Booth, on the north side of Times Square.
The Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is the tallest building in Manhattan and the place where King Kong battled it out with the military. It offers sweeping views of the entire New York City area, the Hudson River and even eastern New Jersey. Lines can be monstrous, so visit early or in the evening to avoid the rush. Located at the top is a gift shop offering the obvious kitschy souvenirs, which miraculously get more expensive at this altitude than in nearby Times Square.
The Empire State Building
350 Fifth Avenue
Telephone: (212-736-3100)
Madison Square Garden
Madison Square Garden, within walking distance of Times Square in midtown, is the home of the NY Rangers hockey team and the the NBA Knicks. Games here tend to be noisy affairs and rarely dull, as New Yorkers can sometimes be passionate about their teams. Off season, the garden produces numerous national touring acts and often has specific events for the holidays.
Madison Square Garden
7th Ave & 32nd St.
Telephone: (212-465-MSG1)
About the Author:
Claire Taylor is a health, wellness and travel writer with credits in publications such as "Woman's Day," "Marie Claire," "Adirondack Life" and "Self." Taylor is also a seasoned independent traveler, as well as a certified personal trainer and nutrition consultant.
Photo Credits:
Christian Ferrari
