Why All Tourists Should Make an Effort to Visit New York City

Regardless of whether you live in an international country or are located in the United States, choosing a destination can be a challenge. Dependent upon your budget, there are a number of options you have to choose from around the world. However, all tourists should visit New York City at some point in their life due to its rich culture, fantastic food, and amazing sightseeing opportunities.

As of the latest estimations, New York City is expecting over 60 million visitors this year. Learn everything there is to know about the Big Apple along with some of the most famous activities that draw travelers from all over the world.

Where is New York City Located?

For those who may not know, New York City is located within the state of New York on the east coast of the United States. Specifically, the city itself is situated in the Northeast of the country at the mouth of the Hudson river, which is in the southeastern part of New York state. Currently, New York City is the most populous city in the United States with a population of over 8.5 million people as of the latest census.

Known by many nicknames, but most prominently The City That Never Sleeps and The Big Apple, New York City has been home to famous shows, movies, and so much more.

How Many Visitors Does New York City Get Yearly?

While over 60 million visitors are expected to visit New York City in 2023, this isn’t anything new. This city is one of the most common tourist destinations around the world, with that same number of visitors serving as the yearly average for the past decade. People from all around the world choose to fly to New York City due to everything this large city has to offer.

What Makes New York City a Great Vacation Location?

It’s only natural to wonder what makes New York City such a popular destination for visitors, especially if you have never been before and have no idea what this city holds in store. The primary reason NYC is such a great destination is due to the fact that it offers something for everybody who visits.

There are towering structures that are a dream for those coming to sightsee, excellent food options for foodie’s from around the world, and plenty of adventure-based activities that can get your adrenaline pumping in no time. This versatility, along with the fame that comes with the name New York City, is the primary driver for tourism.

What is There to Do In New York City?

It’s one thing to hear about the versatility New York City offers, but it’s another to actually read about the common things tourists do in this great city. Below are five of the most popular activities tourists consider:

1. Take a stroll through central park

Whether you are traveling with family or on your own, walking through central park can take an entire day in and of itself due to how much there is to see. At over 1.3 square miles, this is one of the largest parks in the city coming in fifth. What is particularly unique about it, however, is its location in the heart of the city. Visitors can find activities to do at any point of the year in this park, which makes it both a great day activity or brief activity.

2. Gawk at the glory of the Statue of Liberty

Gifted to the Americans by the French, this token of friendship between the two countries became a symbol of freedom and liberty over the years. Consider taking a ferry out to see the surprising size of this statue or simply enjoy it from afar near one of the harbor docks. 

3. Remember the fallen at the 9/11 Memorial Museum

September 11th, 2011 was a difficult day for America and the world as a whole. With so many lives lost due to the terrorist attacks of 9/11, the haunting memorial created to honor those fallen individuals is absolutely something to be seen. For those interested, consider touring through the museum that is on-site to learn a little more about the tragic event.

4. Go shopping in Grand Central Terminal

This commuter railway is famous around the world and is located at 42nd Street and Park Avenue just inside Midtown Manhattan. With shops, dining options, and plenty of culture to absorb, Grand Central Terminal is a great stop for any group. Having been open for over a century, this train station is one of the most traveled to destinations in the city.

5. Take in the surrounding views from the Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is perhaps the most famous building in New York City and for good reason. Consider taking in the views from the observation tower on this building. Those without a fear of heights could also see the Empire State Building during luxury helicopter tours of New York City from above.

How Much Money Should be Budgeted for a New York City Vacation?

Naturally, with so much to do on a New York City vacation building a budget can be difficult. The average price of a solo traveler one-week vacation is over $1,500, with family vacations coming with an even higher price tag. For a one-week vacation to this city, a person should expect to drop around $3,000-$4,000 when they are traveling with their family. Alternative accommodation options such as vacation rentals can reduce this cost, and travelers can also consider using the public transportation system to reduce this cost even further.

Plan your next vacation today

Even if you have already been to New York City, a second or third vacation to the city can be helpful considering how much this destination offers to travelers. Regardless of whether you are an adventurous soul or are simply looking for leisure, taking a trip to the Big Apple can give you memories for years to come.