It’s Turtle Time

Written by Turtle • Published on May 17, 2023 • Updating Currently

New York City has been one of those places I’ve seen countless times in movies and television, but standing in Manhattan for the first time is an experience that took my breath away.

The noise, the pace and the endless rows of buildings made it feel larger than life.  My 2022 trip to New York City was one of those experiences where something new was waiting to be unveiled at every corner.

Snapshot of the Journey Ahead

• Timeline: 5-day Itinerary
• Location: New York City, New York
• Utilizing the Subway to navigate
• Exploring famous landmarks and experiencing New York City for the First Time
• Landmarks on this Itinerary:
  • Central Park
  • Times Square
  • Statue of Liberty
  • Empire State Building
  • One World Observatory
  • American Museum of Natural History

Cost Breakdown of Visiting New York City

A trip to New York City can definitely get expensive, but with a little research it is still possible to enjoy the city while keeping the budget somewhat under control. For this breakdown, I am not including the cost of airfare since flights can vary widely depending on where you are traveling from.

I will admit that I was not searching for the absolute cheapest option during this trip. Instead, I tried to find a balance between the best experience and the best price.

For my stay, I booked a room at Arlo Midtown. For the week, the hotel cost about $950.

Several of the attractions I wanted to visit required admission tickets as well. Going to the top of the Empire State Building cost $86, and visiting One World Observatory cost $49. I also spent some time exploring the American Museum of Natural History, which had an admission price of $28.

Getting around the city turned out to be fairly affordable. A week-long pass for the New York City Subway cost $33, which made traveling between different parts of the city much easier.

For food, I planned a budget of about $80 per day. Some days I spent less than that, while other days were a little more expensive. I did not focus on fine dining during this trip. Instead, I stuck mostly with mid-tier restaurants, food carts, and casual spots so I could try a variety of meals without spending too much.

Of course, I also picked up a few souvenirs while I was there.

When everything was added together — excluding airfare — the total cost of the trip came out to about $1,550.

If you include flights, a realistic budget for a similar trip to New York City would likely fall somewhere in the range of $2,500 to $3,000, depending on where you are traveling from and how you choose to spend your time in the city.

Item	Costs	Notes
Accomodation	~$950	Stay for 4 Nights
Attractions	$163
Food	$400	Budget at $80/day
Transportation	$33	Rail Pass for Subway
Total	~$1,550

Planning the Trip to New York City

This trip to New York City came together rather quickly. I began planning it about two weeks before the flight, which for some trips might feel rushed, but in this case it worked out well. I already had a good idea of the major places I wanted to visit, and the rest of the trip would be about figuring things out along the way.

Timing was the most important factor when deciding when to go. At the time I was still in college, and winter break gave me the perfect opportunity to travel without worrying about classes or assignments. I scheduled the trip for a few days before Christmas. This timing was selected to avoid some of the higher travel prices that tend to appear closer to the holiday itself while still allowing me to experience New York City during the festive winter season.

I hardly ever stick to an itinerary, so I focused on identifying a few major highlights I wanted to see during my first visit. Places like Central Park, the views from the Empire State Building, and the skyline observation deck at One World Observatory were high on my list. Beyond that, much of the trip was intentionally left open so I could explore, wander, and experience the city as it unfolded.

This approach made the trip feel more adventurous for me. Instead of trying to see everything in one visit, the goal was simply to experience New York City for the first time! My major points on this trip were seeing or experiencing these landmarks, having a hotel with a window view to look over the city, and everything else just happens!

With the plans in place and the flight booked, the only thing left to do was actually take the journey. Before long, travel day arrived, and I was on my way to experience New York City for the very first time. A short flight later, I landed at LaGuardia Airport, stepping into one of the busiest cities in the United States and beginning my first real adventure exploring the city.

Arriving in New York City – LaGuardia

Stepping off the plane at LaGuardia Airport for the first time, I was overflowing with excitement. The airport was busy, but not overwhelming, and I was finally there able to enjoy the city of New York!

Navigating LaGuardia was quite easy to do. One of the best tips I discovered before the trip was the free airport bus — the Q70 LaGuardia Link. This shuttle connects the terminals to major subway and train stations, making it a FREE and stress-free way to start your journey into the city. I hopped on the bus, grabbed a window seat, and enjoyed seeing the city in person for the first time! A quick tip, make note of what station is best for you to get off at so you can have an easy time connecting to the train you need for your trip!

Once the bus dropped me off, it was time to tackle the New York City Subway. I’d be lying if I said I knew exactly what I was doing at first, but with Google Maps and signage about the stations, getting where I needed to was easy. The subway is a great way to get around, and after my first ride, I felt like I had unlocked a key part of the city.

By the time I left the station, I was officially in the city, ready to explore. Every street corner, towering building, and bustling intersection hinted at the adventure to come — my first real taste of New York City was just beginning.

Getting Around: Subways, Buses, and OMNY

Top Attractions and Experiences in New York City

New York City is full of iconic sights, and on my first trip, I wanted to make the most of it. From sprawling parks to towering skyscrapers, the city offers a mix of experiences that feel both classic and uniquely New York.

During my visit, I focused on a few must-see landmarks that gave me a real sense of the city’s energy. I explored the greenery of Central Park, took in sweeping city views from the Empire State Building, enjoyed a free perspective of the Statue of Liberty from the Staten Island Ferry, and soaked up the lights and buzz of Times Square.

Below, I’ll walk you through each attraction, sharing highlights, tips, and the moments that made them memorable.

Exploring Central Park: New York’s Iconic Green Space

I enjoyed Central Park more than I expected. On my first day in New York City, I wandered through the lights and energy of Times Square and eventually made my way to Central Park — and I immediately fell in love. Around Christmas, the park was extra festive, with a holiday market offering crafts, tasty food, and some of the best hot chocolate I’ve had.

I started with a small walk through the park and quickly set myself a personal goal: I wanted to walk the entire park before flying back home. I began at Columbus Circle, made way north to the pond at the top of the park — a stunning view — and then made my way back south to complete the loop. Every step revealed new sights: statues tucked into corners, baseball fields, and plenty of birds and squirrels enjoying the park alongside me.

Even at night, the park had its surprises (hello, big city rats!), but that only added to its character. I went in expecting to enjoy the park mildly, but it quickly became a favorite spot — peaceful, beautiful, and perfect for strolling at any time of day. Central Park became a place I returned to regularly throughout my trip, and I highly recommend seeing it for yourself. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, there’s always something new to discover in this iconic New York City landmark.

Times Square: The Bright Lights Of New York City

Times Square is a must-see for first-time visitors to New York City, and it’s easy to see why. The massive digital billboards light up the streets with dazzling displays, and the area is packed with shops and attractions. Disney fans will enjoy the Disney Store, and for those who love marketing and advertising, the ever-changing displays are fascinating — I could have spent an entire day just watching the ads cycle through.

For me, Times Square was more of a “one-and-done” spot for most. If shopping isn’t your thing, there’s not much else to linger on besides the sights and energy of the area. My recommendation: take a stroll through on your first visit to soak it all in. After that, focus your time on other parts of the city unless a specific store, display, or experience catches your eye. Granted, I know I’ll stroll through to see the ads on the boards surrounding the area.

An important tip: Times Square is full of hustlers and performers looking to make a quick buck. On every corner, you’ll find people selling jewelry, bags, clothing, or posing in costume. Most of these items are likely not authentic, and it’s best to watch from a distance. Avoid taking pictures of costumed characters — they often expect payment afterward. The locals handle it by simply ignoring them, and the best way to stay safe is to do the same. Blend in with the crowd, ignore aggressive sellers, and focus on enjoying the spectacle around you.

It’s an iconic part of New York City. The lights, energy, and sheer scale of the area make it a must-see at least once, and it’s a fun way to feel the city’s vibrant pulse firsthand. I enjoyed walking through for sure, and will stroll through on future visits to enjoy this area!

Seeing the Statue of Liberty:
Free Views from the Staten Island Ferry

The Statue of Liberty is arguably the most iconic symbol of the United States, and seeing it in person is a must on any New York City trip. While many visitors choose to pay for a boat ride to Liberty Island, I found the Staten Island Ferry to be the perfect way to get a close view — and it’s completely free! From the ferry, you get a fantastic photo opportunity of Lady Liberty without spending a fortune, making it a great option for families, groups, or budget-conscious travelers.

To catch the ferry, take the train to Whitehall St – South Ferry Station. Once you exit the station and head up the escalators, the ferry terminal is right in front of you. When the ferry departs, the Statue of Liberty will be on your right-hand side, perfect for photos. On the return trip, it appears on the left side. You can stay inside or step outside in front or back of the ferry for a clear, unobstructed view of this iconic landmark.

For those who prefer to visit the island, tickets start at $29, with additional fees to go up to the crown. Personally, I loved saving the extra money while still getting amazing photos from the ferry. But if standing atop Liberty herself is a priority, the island trip is worth considering.

Traveler Tip: Be careful of scammers near the ferry — some try to sell tickets for the Statue of Liberty or even admittance to the ferry, which is FREE. Stick to the official ferry and enjoy your ride without hassle.

Empire State Building:
Iconic Views from New York City’s Iconic Building

The Empire State Building has been at the top of my must-see list for as long as I can remember, and it did not disappoint. I decided to get tickets for both the 86th and 102nd floor observation decks, and the experience was nothing short of breathtaking. From the top deck, you can see the entire city laid out below, and the building even has a small museum showcasing movies, comics, and celebrities that reference or have visited this iconic landmark. For me, it easily ranks in the top two attractions of my trip — maybe even first!

If you plan to visit, tickets are required, and I highly recommend purchasing them in advance. Tickets sell quickly, and prices rise significantly around sunset. Booking ahead saves you the stress of last-minute availability — I personally struggled trying to secure same-day tickets, only to see options vanish within SECONDS!

While the 86th floor alone provides amazing views, the 102nd floor top deck takes it to another level. Whether you choose one or both, the experience is absolutely worth the cost. Tickets start at $44, with additional fees for the top deck and peak times like sunset. Make sure to arrive for your assigned entry time, as early access is not allowed for pre-purchased tickets. If you wait to buy tickets at the door, expect VERY long lines.

A fun tip: check the Empire State Building’s website before your visit to see if it will be lit up in your favorite colors — it adds a special touch to the experience and makes for some incredible photos. This landmark is truly a must-do on any New York City itinerary.

To see information and get tickets go to:  https://www.esbnyc.com/

One World Observatory:
Stunning Views Above New York City

The One World Observatory was one of the highlights of my trip — easily in my top two favorite experiences in New York City. From the moment I stepped inside, I knew this attraction was something special. Like many iconic NYC landmarks, tickets are required, and I highly recommend purchasing them online in advance, especially for morning entry to avoid the largest crowds.

After passing through security, you’ll take an elevator with a video playing above you, showing the growth of New York City over time and the construction of the building itself. It’s a captivating introduction that sets the stage for the breathtaking views to come.

Once you step out of the elevator, the city opens up in every direction. The Observatory provides unparalleled 360-degree views of New York City and the surrounding area, stretching all the way to the horizon. Whether you’re into skyline photography, spotting landmarks, or just soaking in the scale of the city, this experience is mesmerizing.

For me, the One World Observatory is a must-do on any New York City itinerary. It exceeded my expectations in every way, offering a combination of history, technology, and views that will leave you in awe.

Get tickets for The One World Observatory at: https://www.oneworldobservatory.com/

American Museum of Natural History:
Exploring the Fascinating Exhibits

New York City is home to countless world-class museums, but if there’s one I highly recommend, it’s the American Museum of Natural History. With five levels of exhibits, the museum offers something for everyone, from dinosaurs and reptiles to aquatic animals and cultural displays. You could easily spend an entire day here, but I recommend at least 4–6 hours to truly experience the museum, especially if you enjoy reading and exploring every exhibit. I arrived as soon as it opened and spent around six hours wandering through — and still felt like there was more to discover!

The museum also hosts special exhibits that require an additional ticket. During my visit, there was a shark exhibit on display. Before your trip, check the museum’s website to see which special exhibits might interest you, and decide if you want to include them in your visit. For convenience, it’s best to purchase tickets online with a specific entry time — this helps avoid long lines and makes the most of your day.

For me, the dinosaur halls, reptile exhibits, and aquatic animal displays were standout favorites. Whether you’re a lifelong museum enthusiast or just looking for a fascinating way to spend the day, the American Museum of Natural History is a must-see attraction in New York City.

To find more information on the American Museum of Natural History visit the link here: https://www.amnh.org/

Other Items of Interest:
Plans for the Next New York City Trip

New York City is a place where one trip is never enough — there’s always more to see and do. On this visit, I didn’t have time to explore everything on my list. Some attractions I plan to enjoy next time include the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), which was closed for maintenance during my visit, as well as Wall Street and a full stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge.

I did manage to see glimpses of the Brooklyn Bridge and Rockefeller Center, but I didn’t have enough time to truly experience them. There’s so much to do in this city that even a week can feel short! I also took a little time to visit Yankee Stadium, and a future trip will definitely include a full tour there.

New York City has left me with a list of sights to return for, and that’s part of the fun — knowing there’s something new to discover on the next adventure.

Food, Favorites, and Wrap-Up:
Experiencing New York City

New York City is full of food options, and my culinary experience was a mix of hits and misses. The pizza was definitely a highlight — big slices at reasonable prices, perfect for a quick bite on the go. Street food stalls also impressed me, offering some of the tastiest meals I found in the city. Coffee was consistently good everywhere I went, but my breakfast experiences were less memorable. Some eggs, bacon, and pancakes arrived cold, and the mid-tier restaurants I tried didn’t live up to expectations. On a college student’s budget, I avoided pricier spots like Little Italy’s restaurants, which I plan to explore on my next visit. Overall, eating in New York felt like a hit-or-miss adventure — there was rarely a middle ground of “just okay.”

Aside from the ups and downs in dining, my favorite experiences in New York were The Empire State Building and One World Observatory — both were phenomenal. I also loved Central Park and the American Museum of Natural History. Some areas, like Chinatown and Little Italy, were underwhelming for me this trip, though I did enjoy Chinatown’s market. Next time, I plan to explore more restaurants in Little Italy and try other culinary spots across the city.

New York City is a destination full of energy, sights, and activities. Whether it’s iconic attractions, bustling streets, or unique food experiences, there’s something for everyone. On your visit, I highly recommend:

• Empire State Building – Iconic City Views
• One World Observatory – Breathtaking 360-City Views
• Central Park – Serenity Within The City That Never Sleeps
• American Museum of Natural Science – Great Exhibits to Enjoy for All
• Street Food Carts – Tasty Bites Around the City

On my next trip, I hope to enjoy more food experiences while revisiting these amazing attractions. New York City is truly a place worth exploring, and no matter your interests, there’s always something new to see, taste, and experience.

Thank you for joining me for this adventure, if you’d like to follow along for more stories, hit that button below. And as always – It’s Turtle Time!