Headed to NYC for the first time for two whole weeks - what MUST I see and do that's beyond the typical tourist traps? Any local experiences and hidden gems? No restaurants necessary as my food intolerances mean no dining out! Thanks in advance

Liz Larsen
My daughter and I strolled through Central Park - took us two whole days, packed lunches, snacks, water, and comfortable runners to wear. We also took the subway to Ground Zero - just walking around the area was impressive. We were on a tight budget, so did lots of free tourist things. China Town and Little Italy were great little places to check out, and stop for a snack and beverage. Enjoy your trip, and stay safe!

Start with the double decker bus tour! I recommend this to every first timer as someone who spent 5 years in Manhattan. It gives you your bearings and you will understand how small the borough really is and how to get around based on landmarks. And buy theatre tix at TKTS in the square to save big $$ & rent a bike in Central Park.

Apollo Theatre if there is a show going on. Strand Bookstore, Union Square Green Market, wander around Central Park. Brooklyn has some nice areas for strolling around. Some great little bars in Hell’s Kitchen

Natural History Museum is one of the best in the world. Don't forget the free Staten Island ferry ride, and pick up a Metro card with the unlimited ride week pass. The transit system is quite good and pretty easy to use. Brooklyn Botanical Garden, Brooklyn Museum and MOMA were great too. Wear great shoes because there's lots of history in that city.

The Highline

If you can get a copy of The New Yorker just before you go they will have a list of things going on. Check trip advisor Travel Forums for the City a lot of times locals will post events that are coming up many of which are low cost or free. We have found some great non touristy things that way. If travelling with children check out Mommy Poppins blogger great ideas for kids in New York

Shaheen Nasseri awesome ideas thanks

If you plan on doing any touring of NYC, I suggest you buy a New York City Pass. Its worth every penny

Cony Island in Brooklyn was neat, also strolling through Central Park

Go to Hoboken in New Jersey. Revitalized port area and at night you can see the beautiful skyline of New York.

If you do a hop on hop off your get the night one too. It’s great to see the city at night. You cannot get off at that point but it’s great to see the city lite up.

The highlight of my trip was the metro museum of art and I’m not a huge museum fan. I would skip the Statue of Liberty in my opinion

free tours by foot ..amazing...

Agree!

Also agree. Last time I was there we went in three of their tours. 2 food tours (lower East side, Greenwich village) and a great informative walking tour through Harlem.

Go see the show 'Come From Away'. It is amazing!

If you like (clothes) shopping, check out Century 21

Check out the Iridium Jazz club. We saw Les Paul there before he died, Still one of my favourite NY memories.
http://www.iridiumjazzclub.com/les_paul_iridium.html
IRIDIUMJAZZCLUB.COM
Iridium Jazz Club – New York City's best music venue featuring Jazz and Rock