There's so much to do in the Big Apple, it can be hard to make a choice. Perhaps one of these favorites will make it onto your agenda when you have extra time to spend in New York City.
Have a Real Bagel
Start your day the New York way, with a hand-rolled bagel and coffee from Ess-a-Bagel, on 3rd Avenue between 50 and 51st streets. Established in 1976, the longtime favorite has a loyal following who rush over first thing in the morning, so go early or plan to wait in line. Along with the large assortment of bagels, the menu of breakfast sandwiches and coffees will give you the energy you need for a day of exploring NYC the best style: on foot.
Art Break
Skip the crowds at the Met and visit the Whitney Museum of American Art. Wander through exhibits like “Women and Abstraction” and “Jasper Johns: Mind/Mirror.” Then step outside to see the permanent outdoor public art project “Day’s End” (above).
Budgeted Broadway
Not every NYC activity has to break the bank. Less expensive off-Broadway shows are no less entertaining and offer an intimate small-theater experience. Current productions include “Little Shop of Horrors,” “Jersey Boys” and “Judy Garland Live in Concert.”
Get Out
Enjoy one of the concrete jungle’s green spaces at Pier 63 at Hudson River Park. Go for a walk along the Hudson or bring a book and relax after a long day of walking around the city. Check the park’s calendar of events for movie screenings, dance classes and live music.
Sipping & Sightseeing
Stop by Summit One Vanderbilt's new Après for bites, drinks and views. Opened on Oct. 21, the indoor/outdoor bar and café serves signature cocktails and small plates 1,100 feet above Midtown. For an even better view of the Manhattan skyline, take the all-glass elevator that ascends the outside of the building. (Note: It’s not for the faint of heart.)