Paley Park

Paley Park

One of Manhattan’s first “pocket parks”—”a tiny, elegant space, an oasis tucked between tall buildings, with trees, plantings, and a waterfall. Also food and moveable chairs, both important elements in a successful public place.”—Lynden B. Miller, New York City public garden designer.

Mount Vernon Hotel Museum & Garden

Mount Vernon Hotel Museum & Garden

An 18th-century carriage house erected on the banks of the East River “when it was farmland; became a hotel in 1826.”—Arthur Marks, who has led New York walking tours for decades.

Central Park

Central Park

Jog or walk the path around the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir. “Take in the beauty of the park, Central Park West, Fifth Avenue, the skyline.”—Brian Silverman.

Empire State Building Observatory

Empire State Building Observatory

Arrive at dusk; get your ticket at the second-floor box office. Head up to the 102nd floor to “witness magic as the lights of the city come on.”—Brian Silverman, Frommer’s New York author.

Rubin Museum of Art

Rubin Museum of Art

one could spend months—years—at great art’s New York bastions (the Metropolitan Museum of Art, MoMA, the Frick, Guggenheim, Whitney), but this relatively new kid on the block is an exciting trove of works from the Himalayas and surrounding regions.

Ferry to Governors Island

Ferry to Governors Island

Governors Island, in the heart of New York Harbor, is only 800 yards from Lower Manhattan, and even closer to Brooklyn. It is a world unto itself, unique and full of promise. With 172 acres (70 hectares) of quiet in the center of New York Harbor. “Part of the island is a national [...]

Mary’s Fish Camp

Mary’s Fish Camp

This tiny, sunny spot in the West Village is hugely popular for its world-class lobster rolls and other delicious dishes like oysters and Canadian steamers- well worth waiting the long time to be seated!