Travel to New York

About New York City

New York City is known for being one of the most popular places in the world to vacation, drawing nearly 55 million visitors annually.  This energetic city offers endless entertainment, giving many reasons why New York should top your list in travel destinations.

One of the greatest things about New York is that you don’t need to spend a lot of money to enjoy your time there.  Tourists, who want to save their cash to splurge on that one special event, can find ample adventures in New York that do not cost a dime.  Some of the greatest free deals include riding the Staten Island Ferry for iconic views of the skyline, highlighting the Statue of Liberty and the Harbor, or walking on the Brooklyn Bridge for another perspective of the city.  For those that love to learn,  many museums like the Museum of Modern Art, are free on Friday afternoons and evenings.  Some of the larger museums such as the Metropolitan Museum, the Brooklyn Museum and the American Museum of Natural History have a suggested donation box; so guests can donate anywhere from 15 cents to $15 per person.  These museums have some of the greatest collections on earth; so plan to make the most out of your trip and spend at least a day getting lost in the splendor of these archives.

Vacationers enjoy the outdoors by kayaking down the Hudson River during the summer season of May through October, since the Downtown Boathouse company gives lessons and rents boats for free.  This is a thrilling way to experience the raw landscapes of New York.  Another ideal way to soak up the city vibe is to simply venture out on foot.  Walking will give visitors a good lay of the land and an appreciation for the feel of the city and its diverse inhabitants.  One of the striking aspects of Manhattan is the district is structured like a grid, having streets stretch straight forward for miles on end.

Among the cost-free pleasures of the city are the lush parks which wait ready to receive you for an afternoon of respite and retreat.  Central Park, Madison Square and Prospect Park are all spacious havens often hosting free culture festivals.  Central Park gives summertime performances of Shakespeare in the Park, the free annual Central Park Film Festival and the plethora of seasonal art shows, movie screenings, and free concerts.  Since New York City is home to nearly 1,700 parks–whether you want to rent a row boat, go for a brisk jog, toss a frisbee or simply stroll in an emerald escape–there is always a stunning patch of green in close proximity.

One of the most defining aspects of New York is that it is home to world-class entertainment, be it theater, dance, opera, art galleries, etc.  At the Lincoln Center for Performing Arts, there are 12 art organizations including the Metropolitan Opera, the New York City Opera and the New York City Ballet. Beyond this prestigious art center, to fully experience the artistic delights of New York City, one would be well-advised to attend a show on Broadway.  As one of the world’s most celebrated theater districts, Broadway performances set the standard for excellence in theatrical achievement.  The 39 theaters, most of which are packed in an area referred to as Great White Way, feature either timeless classics or daring new artistic ventures.  Whether you enjoy stage performances or not, spending and evening on Broadway will be something you do not regret.

Enjoy some of the most breathtaking views of the city, from the highest heights of the Empire State Building, where you can view up to 80 miles surrounding New York City.  Take an afternoon trip to the Statue of Liberty where you can view the world from the crown head of the glorious monument, and experience Ellis Island where over 12 million immigrants arrived in America.  To get a glimpse of the rapid movement of New York, stand in the middle of Time Square and soak in the hustle and bustle of people chasing their dreams, surrounded by enormously blazing billboards, busy restaurants and museums in the epicenter of the city.

Other major reasons why New York is an ideal vacation destination, is that the nightlife is as dynamic and varied as anyone could imagine.  From high-end lounges, to kitschy clubs or the increasingly popular roof-top bars, guests can party in every region of the city until the early hours of the morning.  Public transportation is another plus for late night outings on the town since most subway stations run 24 hours a day.

The economy in New York is a global metropolis of international business and commerce,  and is considered one of the top three world economy centers followed by London and Tokyo.  New York is home to the largest number of the world’s billionaires, hosting more than the 5 largest American cities combined.  From the wealthiest financiers to the starving artists, New Yorkers are known for their great tenacity and resilience.

In the “Big Apple,” there is always something new to do, with fresh places to explore and opportunities to discover.  Art and culture hang in the very atmosphere, creating a city that promises to inspire and invigorate any guest fortunate enough to visit.  At Pandaonline we would love to help you experience the incomparable New York City first hand; so start planning your trip with us today!

Awards & Affiliations

Hawaii's Best 2023
American Society of Travel Agents
Authorized Disney Vacation Planner
CLIA