Everyone who hasn't even been to New York has some sort of vision of how this city looks like: it's in so many songs, movies, TV shows and books that it's hard not to.
The best thing about NY is that exceeds all expectations. It simply swipes you off your feet.
New Yorkers know how to turn something old and crappy into something new and exciting. The High Line: a park built on old tracks is a perfect place to feel like you're currently in the greatest city on the planet.
Don't be fooled by the rocks that I got, I'm still, I'm still Jenny from the block If you have more time in NY: head to the Bronx! ZOO and the Botanical Garden make for a fun day trip
4h long free walking tour organised by http://www.freetoursbyfoot.com/central-park-walking-tours/ Super tiring, but good for the beginning of your trip, so that later you won't have any problems navigating around NY + good lesson on most important parts of lower Manhattan: 9/11 memorial, Wall St, Little Italy, Meatpacking district etc.
A place to be in Brooklyn. Make sure to pay attention to street art.
Go on the ferry. See the Statue of Liberty. Don't think about actually spending time on Staten Island cause there isn't much to do there.
Surprisingly, has a very cool collection of art. Guided tour is definitely worth the money (if you're interested in UN's work)
Fun Fact: Prospect Park was designed by the same guy who designed Central Park (apparently he used to say PP is way better). Super cool thing: turtle island. With actual tiny turtles.
An obvious must-see. Pay attention to the benches: all are dedicated to someone and I spent half a day reading all the dedications. Some of them are real heart-breakers.
Must-see. If you decide to go on a free day expect to have an awful day due to the crowds.
Perfect for fans of modern art.
Must-see. Look out for a huge whale.
Wanna get a taste of New York? Walk up Broadway: start on the south and make your way up north. Perfect people-watching activity.
I don't think I have to tell you why Little Italy is a must. FOOD!
Walk around Robert De Niro's home
We all know that Philly stays jiggy (as Will Smith says). Philly is a cool place for a weekend getaway from NY, especially if you're there for longer and you want to see the US outside of NY (because it's a completely different thing). Philly cheesesteak sandwiches are worth the trip by themselves. In between meals you might also want to go see the National Museum, Independence Hall and Liberty Bell.
