There are so many amazing things to see in New York City! I literally don’t think it’s possible to ever see everything that the city has to offer, so I will share my personal favorites to help you plan your next trip.

NYC was the first big city I ever visited, and it was MAGICAL. I’ve since been back many times, including the time I spent living there for a full month!

Keep reading for 8 cool things I loved visiting in NYC. And don’t forget to click the button below to save all these spots and more to your Google Maps!

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1. Little Island NYC

The Little Island Park is a relaxing oasis located in the West Village, and is truly my favorite hidden gem in the city. it’s so peaceful and a nice escape from the concrete jungle when you need one. There’s a lot of grassy sitting areas, benches, and tables so you can sit and spend a while here, or just walk through! You can read more details here!

2. The Vessel

The Vessel is located along the High Line in Hudson Yards. The High Line is a 1.5 mile long park; I highly recommend walking through the park. It’s a great way to see the westside of the city!

As of now in 2023, you are still not able to go up to the top like you used to be able to. However, you can walk through for free and check out that view through the middle.

3. Oculus NYC

Oculus was built after 9/11 in the World Trade Center as a representation of the city’s strength and resilience. It is very stunning and also doubles as a transportation hub and shopping mall. You can spend a few hours here, or just come in for a quick photo!

4. Grand Banks Restaurant

Grand Banks is an amazing oyster bar with delicious food and drinks! Plus if you couldn’t tell, it’s located on a historic wooden ship, docked at Pier 25 in Tribeca.

You’ll get unreal views of both the New Jersey and NYC skylines while dining – it’s tough to beat! Be sure to make your reservation in advance – they’re open for booking each summer!

5. DUMBO

DUMBO stands for “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass” and refers to this cute neighborhood! There are cobblestone streets, views of the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan Bridge, and tons of trendy restaurants and shops to explore. 

I recommend spending a full day or at least half-day in this area! If you want to just chill; you can have a picnic and sit at the Brooklyn Bridge Park! Or to make it more active, you can walk across the bridge and all around the neighborhood!

6. Ama Raw Bar

Ama Raw Bar was my FAVORITE restaurant to go to when I was living here for a month! There are two locations; one in the East Village and one in the West Village. Yes, I have been to both and both are fantastic.

It is, as the name suggests, a raw bar that has delicious oysters (featured), fun cocktails, and really yummy appetizers and main courses! I have this obsession with bao buns, and they have some of the best bao buns I’ve ever had there.

7. Bryant Park

Bryant Park is another little escape from the hustle and bustle of the big city!

Whether you live here or are planning your trip to NYC, I recommend checking out these spots! For more ideas, you can check out the Go City New York pass which will give you discounted access to a ton of tourist attractions. 

Please let me know if you have any questions, and be sure to follow along on my journey on Instagram!

💙mariss