New York, New York. The city that never sleeps. The Big Apple. If you’ve ever been to this remarkable city, you’ll know how impossible it is to shake the empire state of mind once you leave. A trip to NYC is like none other you will take. This enthralling and culturally diverse city is so enchanting and unparalleled to anything like it.

Whether you’re there for a week, a month or a year, New York has so much to offer; from the smorgasbord of culinary hotspots, to its eclectic art scene, the bars and brunch spots where you leisurely spend an entire Sunday and, of course, all the trend-setting fashion.

If you can imagine it, New York has it. So, in no particular order, here are the top 10 things to do in NYC.

 1. Smorgasburg

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 Held in Williamsburg, Brooklyn every Saturday and Sunday, Smorgasburg is every foodie’s dream turned into a scrumptious reality. With over 100 food vendors, your taste-buds will be awakened to all kinds of cuisines. For example? A grand serving of sweet and crunchy buttermilk fried chicken and waffles.

 2. Empire State Building

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If you go during peak hours, visiting the Empire State Building would be a total nightmare. However, early on a weekday morning is definitely the time to do it. Whilst some people think it’s a major tourist attraction and therefore a waste of time and money, the view you get from the top really makes you realise what a concrete jungle the city of New York is, and a beautiful one at that.

3. Statue of Liberty

There’s some indescribable feeling that overcomes you as Lady Liberty starts growing larger and larger as the ferry approaches Liberty Island. It’s one of New York’s biggest icons and she truly is a remarkable statue. Again, morning time is best to visit as the Island isn’t too crowded and you can get some alone time with the Lady.

4. Smalls Jazz Bar

Located in the East Village, Smalls Jazz Bar is an escape from NYC’s hustle and bustle into a world of woody saxophones and brassy trumpets. Playing jazz all night, it’s best to go on a Monday because that’s when it really kicks off.

 5. Central Park

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Perhaps one of New York’s most iconic tourist spots, it’s popular for a reason. One can’t understand the sheer size of Central Park until they spend the day riding or walking around its beautiful grounds. From brilliant buskers to some sensational artists, Central Park is a cultural hotpot. As you wander, don’t be surprised if you hear every language of the world in one day. Everybody goes to Central Park and I mean everybody.

6. West Village

Forget the Upper East Side, the West Village is where everyone who is anyone hangs out. With quaint cafes and plenty of boutique shops, the West Village is another quiet escape and a place to grab a cup of coffee and a good feed. Don’t forget to try the chocolate chip and sea salt cookies from the Sweet Corner Bakeshop – mind-blowing doesn’t even come close to explaining how good they are.

7. Washington Square Park

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One of the best things to do in New York is to read in Washington Square Park. One of New York’s smaller parks, Washington Square Park is the perfect place to relax, cool off in the fountain or just listen to some fantastic jazz music that’s always echoing throughout the park. Or, try your luck at a chess game. There’s always a local willing to play.

8. Williamsburg Flea 

Every Sunday in Williamsburg is the artist’s flea markets. You’ll find anything from paintings and furniture to jewellery and knick-knacks. Then, spend the day exploring Brooklyn – why New Yorker’s tend to snub this borough doesn’t make sense! Maybe because it’s more ‘suburban’ than Manhattan. Nonetheless, Brooklyn if filled with quintessential charm and loads of things to explore.

9. Times Square

Why New York is dubbed the City of Lights is blindingly (literally) obvious when you visit Times Square at night. Neon lights and colours burst in every direction and the buzz is palpable. Grab a hotdog, sit on the Times Square steps and let sheer craziness of it wash over you.

 10. Brooklyn Night Bazaar 

Another Brooklyn beauty – Brooklyn Night Bazaar offers artisan products of all kinds, food vendors and great live performances. Find a nice dinner spot in Brooklyn and then wander over to the Bazaar – its free entry and definitely worth a gander.

Feeling inspired?

If you think New York is already full of life, imagine the incredible buzz and palpable energy that courses through the city in November during the TCS New York City Marathon. Even if you’re not a runner and are just there for support, there’s plenty of things for you to do too! Think: the Ceremony of Nations, the Dash to the Finish Line and a whole range of other incredible experiences!

Find out more about running the New York Marathon and the amazing causes you could support by visiting our calendar here.

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