By Liza Hollis
Day or night, New York City offers visitors a wide array of attractions.
Exploring
New York alone does not have to be overwhelming or intimidating. Rather, it can be a great opportunity to see the city without being distracted by being with a big group. There are numerous museums, zoos, aquariums and planetariums that will allow you to get a dose of culture while exploring the city alone. Or there are a number of parks to explore on your own with daily tours and events going on every day. Here are five popular activities to try out if you find yourself alone in the Big Apple.
Museum of Modern Art
Located in midtown Manhattan, this museum is a must-see for any art lover. Within the walls of the museum are innumerable works of great creativity and inspiration. These masterpieces take a variety of forms, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, ceramics and much more. Even if you have never been to an art museum before, MoMA is an attraction that should not be passed up by any New York visitor. Seeing it alone is even more of an opportunity to experience the art for yourself, without the influence of friends or family
Museum of Modern Art
11 W. 53rd St.
New York, NY 10019
212-708-9400
moma.org
Ziegfeld Theatre
There are movie theaters all over the world, and New York City is certainly no exception. But there is only one sensational movie palace in the world like the Ziegfeld. This single-screen theater still shows films every day, though check ahead, as they have been known to cancel some showings due to poor ticket sales. Ziegfeld Theatre gives you a moviegoing experience you won't find anywhere else on the silver screen.
Ziegfeld Theatre
141 W. 54th St.
New York, NY 10019
212-307-1862
clearviewcinemas.com
Central Park Walking Tours
Whether you're by yourself or with a group, there are numerous Central Park walking tours you can take. You can choose to plug in with a mobile podcast or simply follow a guided map to explore on your own. Central Park is unlike any other park you have ever experienced, and over the whole of the park are acres and acres of sights and events to explore. There is always something different going on to see and explore. The website of the Central Park Conservancy offers information on a wide variety of park tours.
Central Park Conservancy
14 E. 60th St.
New York, NY 10022
212-310-6600
centralparknyc.org
Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden
This Astoria beer hall is a staple of the New York City borough of Queens, but it is also a favorite for even the most devoted Manhattanites. Sip on a wide variety of authentic imported beers, enjoy a meal of sausages and relax in the outdoor beer garden. You can strike up a conversation or simply bury your nose in a good book from a local used book shop. Either way, you will be comfortable alone in this fabulous beer garden. The hall is accessible from Manhattan by the N train
Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden
29-19 24th Ave.
Astoria, NY 11102
718-274-4925
bohemianhall.com
Staten Island Ferry
Operated by the New York City Department of Transportation to ferry Staten Island residents to and from Manhattan, the Staten Island Ferry offers visitors a wonderful opportunity to explore the waters that surround New York. Get an up-close look at Lady Liberty and Ellis Island, without suffering from any long lines or crowded staircases on the actual tour. The ferry ride is free and offers you some top-notch views of New York City.
Staten Island Ferry
Whitehall Ferry Terminal (South Ferry)
Whitehall Street
New York, NY 10004
718-876-8441
siferry.com
Resources
About the Author:
Liza Hollis has been writing for print and online publications since 2003. Her work has appeared on various websites, including PropPrint.com and OandP.com. Hollis earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and mass communication from the University of Florida.
Photo Credits:
New York City image by paolobenne from
Fotolia.com