- My Forums
- Tiger Rant
- LSU Recruiting
- SEC Rant
- Saints Talk
- Pelicans Talk
- More Sports Board
- Fantasy Sports
- Golf Board
- Soccer Board
- O-T Lounge
- Tech Board
- Home/Garden Board
- Outdoor Board
- Health/Fitness Board
- Movie/TV Board
- Book Board
- Music Board
- Political Talk
- Money Talk
- Fark Board
- Gaming Board
- Travel Board
- Food/Drink Board
- Ticket Exchange
- TD Help Board
Customize My Forums- View All Forums
- Show Left Links
- Topic Sort Options
- Trending Topics
- Recent Topics
- Active Topics
Started By
Message
NYC questions and advice
Posted on 4/20/22 at 10:20 pm
Posted on 4/20/22 at 10:20 pm
I'm thinking about going solo to Manhattan at the end of May or beginning of June from Tuesday and returning to NOLA on Sunday. It will be my first time in NYC. I read the the NYC thread from March and got some useful info, like the idea of the sightseeing coach on the first day.
I've been looking on Expedia, Priceline, etc for hotels and the prices are all over the place, and what's with the resort fees? I thought I'd stay in the Times Square/ Theater District as that seems to be more centrally located. Anybody got any tips on best way to search for rooms or packages?
From my research, I plan to fly into JFK, and take the train to Penn Station. Being by myself, traveling light and not lugging around a wife and kids, it shouldn't be a problem.
The attractions I'd like to visit for sure are the 9/11 Memorial (which can be accomplished on the sightseeing tour, not interested in the museum), the Intrepid, and the Natural History Museum. Which brings me to a question about the observation decks like The Rock, Empire State Building, The Edge. I don't see the excitement of spending $40 to go stand around and look at the same views I can Google or find on You Tube. Am I missing something here?
I don’t want to rum myself ragged on visiting every possible attraction I can. I would also like to be able to walk around and immerse myself in the local culture, walking around and having breakfast, lunch, and dinner at local diners and restaurants, and a beer or two at local bars in the evenings.
Any suggestions, advice, or rebuttals are welcome.
I've been looking on Expedia, Priceline, etc for hotels and the prices are all over the place, and what's with the resort fees? I thought I'd stay in the Times Square/ Theater District as that seems to be more centrally located. Anybody got any tips on best way to search for rooms or packages?
From my research, I plan to fly into JFK, and take the train to Penn Station. Being by myself, traveling light and not lugging around a wife and kids, it shouldn't be a problem.
The attractions I'd like to visit for sure are the 9/11 Memorial (which can be accomplished on the sightseeing tour, not interested in the museum), the Intrepid, and the Natural History Museum. Which brings me to a question about the observation decks like The Rock, Empire State Building, The Edge. I don't see the excitement of spending $40 to go stand around and look at the same views I can Google or find on You Tube. Am I missing something here?
I don’t want to rum myself ragged on visiting every possible attraction I can. I would also like to be able to walk around and immerse myself in the local culture, walking around and having breakfast, lunch, and dinner at local diners and restaurants, and a beer or two at local bars in the evenings.
Any suggestions, advice, or rebuttals are welcome.
14
Posted on 4/20/22 at 10:46 pm to doublecutter
Headed there tomorrow so I'll have some additional input after this weekend. Your plans sound good at a first glance and I'm sure others will be here to help soon.
For flying, LaGuardia has a bunch of construction right now and I've heard Jfk is the better bet. Super easy to take the Air train to Jamaica, then LIRR or I think it's the E to Penn Station. LIRR is a bit more for the ticket but well worth not having to deal with the subway the entire time plus it's quicker.
9/11 museum and Natural History Museum are requirements for any visitor imo. Id recommend going into the 9/11 museum and not just from the sightseeing tour. It's terrifying, heartbreaking, and honestly one of the most memorable museum experiences I've ever had.
Other areas to walk around- Little Italy and grab some pizza, Chinatown for some cheap knockoff products, Times Square to see the area, Central Park. You'll do more walking than normal so agreed on your plan to stick to a few areas and go all in on those spots.
Check to see if the Mets or Yankees are home, usually a fun time.
I'm headed to the Upper East side which is more local than touristy, but I'll see what more I can add here later
For flying, LaGuardia has a bunch of construction right now and I've heard Jfk is the better bet. Super easy to take the Air train to Jamaica, then LIRR or I think it's the E to Penn Station. LIRR is a bit more for the ticket but well worth not having to deal with the subway the entire time plus it's quicker.
9/11 museum and Natural History Museum are requirements for any visitor imo. Id recommend going into the 9/11 museum and not just from the sightseeing tour. It's terrifying, heartbreaking, and honestly one of the most memorable museum experiences I've ever had.
Other areas to walk around- Little Italy and grab some pizza, Chinatown for some cheap knockoff products, Times Square to see the area, Central Park. You'll do more walking than normal so agreed on your plan to stick to a few areas and go all in on those spots.
Check to see if the Mets or Yankees are home, usually a fun time.
I'm headed to the Upper East side which is more local than touristy, but I'll see what more I can add here later
Posted on 4/21/22 at 4:43 am to doublecutter
If you skip the 9/11 museum then you have skipped the best thing in NYC. It’s the best museum I’ve ever been to
Posted on 4/21/22 at 8:19 am to CuseTiger
I feel like the Natural History Museum needs some serious upgrades. I was there last year, and it was a disappointment.
The Metropolitan Museum is great. Frick Collection is as well.
Everyone raves about the 9/11 Museum, but I’ve never been and never will to be honest. Just have no interest.
The Metropolitan Museum is great. Frick Collection is as well.
Everyone raves about the 9/11 Museum, but I’ve never been and never will to be honest. Just have no interest.
Posted on 4/21/22 at 8:39 am to Mo Jeaux
quote:
I feel like the Natural History Museum needs some serious upgrades. I was there last year, and it was a disappointment
Dang that's a shame, was my favorite museum as a kid by far. It's been at least 5 years since I've been though.
Forgot about the Met, is that the one that's free but they encourage donations?
Posted on 4/21/22 at 10:40 am to CuseTiger
quote:
I'm headed to the Upper East side which is more local than touristy, but I'll see what more I can add here later
I'd appreciate it.
Posted on 4/21/22 at 10:55 am to CuseTiger
I don't think you can possibly compare a google image to standing at the top of the rock and actually seeing the city before your eyes. I loved it.
The 9/11 museum is definitely worth visiting even if you don't spend a lot of time there.
Metropolitan Museum is great!!!
The 9/11 museum is definitely worth visiting even if you don't spend a lot of time there.
Metropolitan Museum is great!!!
Posted on 4/21/22 at 12:34 pm to doublecutter
Posted on 4/21/22 at 1:48 pm to doublecutter
quote:
Which brings me to a question about the observation decks like The Rock, Empire State Building, The Edge. I don't see the excitement of spending $40 to go stand around and look at the same views I can Google or find on You Tube. Am I missing something here?
They are what they are, which is a great view of the city and can be a great way to spend some time. I’d skip all 3 of these and go to SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. It is the newest observation deck in the city and by far the most unique experience. Google it and check it out.
Posted on 4/21/22 at 1:56 pm to CuseTiger
quote:
LaGuardia has a bunch of construction right now and I've heard Jfk is the better bet
Was there last week and this is accurate. LaGuardia wasn't terrible or anything but I had to walk the equivalent of a couple of city blocks dragging luggage to get to the temporary cab line. That part was a cluster.
Posted on 4/21/22 at 2:58 pm to doublecutter
quote:
place, and what's with the resort fees?
We went a few months ago and stayed at Hotel Indigo on the lower east side. They charged resort fees but you could use the amount of the resort fee for items in the mini bar so if the fee was $20 you just take $20 of stuff from there. At least that’s how it was at Indigo.
Don’t skip the 9/11 museum whatever you do but one of the city tours isn’t a bad idea to get your bearings of the city. You can also take the Staten Island ferry for free and get a real nice view of the Statue of Liberty and of Manhattan. Take a ferry over to Brooklyn and hang around there for a bit if you have time too. Oh and get a pass for the subway, it’s quick and easy and cheap.
Posted on 4/21/22 at 9:06 pm to doublecutter
Flew into LaGuardia today and gotta say, the construction sucks/finding your way to the Uber pickup wasn't great either but once there it was super quick into the city as compared to JFK. Can't really go wrong with either airport.
For dinner, went to midtown east and got Italian at La Pecora Bianca. Excellent dinner, got whipped ricotta and some homemade Italian pasta along with a bottle of wine
For dinner, went to midtown east and got Italian at La Pecora Bianca. Excellent dinner, got whipped ricotta and some homemade Italian pasta along with a bottle of wine
Posted on 4/22/22 at 1:38 am to doublecutter
quote:
Which brings me to a question about the observation decks like The Rock, Empire State Building, The Edge. I don't see the excitement of spending $40 to go stand around and look at the same views I can Google or find on You Tube. Am I missing something here?
I think there’s a clear difference between google pics/YouTube videos and your own personal viewing experience. But that’s up to you.
If you do choose to do one, Top of the Rock is the best view I’ve experienced (on several occasions). You have full complete view of downtown and Empire State Building (fantastic and totally different views day vs night) and provides an awesome overhead view of Central Park on the uptown side.
It’s the perfect place to visit first for a first trip to New York. I’ve taken my kids, parents, and other family members there for first official stops. It’s pretty incredible for those who have never seen or witnessed it. Empire State Building is sort of a waste because it’s busier and you can’t see the Empire State Building while you’re on it. Top of the Rock is the way to go.
I do have many other recs that are usually touched on by others on NYC threads. But I will say… my last trip pre-Covid, I did the full walk through Highline Park. I thought that was very worthwhile. It can be as quick as you want or need it to be.
Posted on 4/22/22 at 6:59 am to doublecutter
quote:
. I don't see the excitement of spending $40 to go stand around and look at the same views I can Google or find on You Tube. Am I missing something here?
I enjoyed the Empire State Building deck and views. It's such a famous place, featured in many movies and TV shows, so it's cool to actually be there and experience it.
Tip. We went early on Friday, just as it opened at 9. I bought tickets online and decided to chance it on not paying extra for expedited entry. Good decision. By getting there early, we walked right through and were up there quickly. By the time we came down, around 10 am, the line was out the door.
Posted on 4/22/22 at 7:53 pm to doublecutter
Staten Island ferry round trip. I think it is free.
Posted on 4/23/22 at 7:54 am to doublecutter
quote:
observation decks like The Rock, Empire State Building, The Edge. I don't see the excitement of spending $40 to go stand around and look at the same views I can Google or find on You Tube. Am I missing something here?
Yes. Pictures on the Internet don’t do justice and can’t compare to real life. And you’re going to NYC, you won’t miss an extra $40
Top of the Rock is my favorite, although I hear the new one at the Vanderbilt is pretty awesome.Posted on 4/23/22 at 10:35 am to doublecutter
Def walk across Brooklyn Bridge for lunch one morning. Ellis Island was particularly interesting for me as my great grandfather was listed in the rolls. Spend an entire day exploring Central Park. Hit a few museums half way up to break it up .
Posted on 4/24/22 at 8:43 am to doublecutter
Usually there are a lot of free events around that time—philharmonic orchestra on the great lawn in Central Park, Movies under the stars at Bryant Park, other festivals/free things. Not sure if any of this is back post Covid.
As far as exploring neighborhoods, take the train to West 4th street and watch a few minutes of high level streetball basketball, then walk around the West Village, check out Washington Square Park/NYU, grab pizza at Joe’s (slice) or John’s on Bleeker (only whole pies).
Would recommend a full day between the Met museum and Central Park. As someone mentioned, the Met “tickets” are 20 bucks or whatever, but that is just a suggested donation. If on a budget, don’t feel guilty throwing them five bucks.
As far as exploring neighborhoods, take the train to West 4th street and watch a few minutes of high level streetball basketball, then walk around the West Village, check out Washington Square Park/NYU, grab pizza at Joe’s (slice) or John’s on Bleeker (only whole pies).
Would recommend a full day between the Met museum and Central Park. As someone mentioned, the Met “tickets” are 20 bucks or whatever, but that is just a suggested donation. If on a budget, don’t feel guilty throwing them five bucks.
Posted on 4/24/22 at 9:25 am to Ric Flair
Buy a touring book for just over 100. This gives you access to like 6 of 8 things and each thing cost 40-60 dollars so more than worth it
Posted on 4/24/22 at 11:09 am to tigerbacon
Just finished up my NYC weekend and had a great time. Friday was 70* and sunny so went on a nice walk over by the Met and the reservoir in Central Park
Saw a tour bus that might suit your needs to explore the city to begin with?
Ended up at the Stumble Inn and boy was that a hot mess. Had 5 pitchers of Truly then ColdSnap and Budlight
Yesterday made our way over to Brooklyn off 7th Ave. Hit up a few bars and restaurants and saw this gem on the street
Needed some food so went to the Union St Dinosaur BBQ (a Syracuse gem that has branched out to several NYC locations). Got brisket and ribs, so full at the end of the meal
From there ended up hitting up a few bars in that Park Slope area. Reminded me of some hipster Seattle areas with the street blocked off and outdoor patio space on the street.
Wrapped up in that area and made my way back to the UES. Took NJ transit this morning and all is well.
Notes- Most NYC people are over masks. I'd say only half were wearing on the subways and in the airports. Only found one bar that asked for proof of vaccination and our group immediately walked out, every other bar was chill.
Saw a tour bus that might suit your needs to explore the city to begin with?
Ended up at the Stumble Inn and boy was that a hot mess. Had 5 pitchers of Truly then ColdSnap and Budlight
Yesterday made our way over to Brooklyn off 7th Ave. Hit up a few bars and restaurants and saw this gem on the street
Needed some food so went to the Union St Dinosaur BBQ (a Syracuse gem that has branched out to several NYC locations). Got brisket and ribs, so full at the end of the meal
From there ended up hitting up a few bars in that Park Slope area. Reminded me of some hipster Seattle areas with the street blocked off and outdoor patio space on the street.
Wrapped up in that area and made my way back to the UES. Took NJ transit this morning and all is well.
Notes- Most NYC people are over masks. I'd say only half were wearing on the subways and in the airports. Only found one bar that asked for proof of vaccination and our group immediately walked out, every other bar was chill.
This post was edited on 4/24/22 at 11:10 am
Page 1 of 2
Popular
Back to top
Follow TigerDroppings for LSU Football News