New York City, also known as the “Big Apple” is one of those locations often at the top of the list for many visitors to the United States. New York is classified as the most densely populated city in the United States, home to almost nine-million people. As a global power city, New York has been described as the cultural, financial and media Capital of the world. It is home to many iconic landmarks and we were lucky enough to visit a fair few of them.
Accommodation
Accommodation in New York as you are probably aware, is quite expensive, so if you are hoping to stay within the New York City limits I would recommend booking as early as possible and taking advantage of specials and discounted rates.
As an alternative, a short train ride under the river is Jersey City. A great location that is close to public transport and easy access to the centre of New York City. We decided to rent an apartment through AirBnb which we got at great price within a 5 minute walk to a subway station. A great, cheaper alternative but still in close proximity to New York City.
Activities and Attractions
Times Square
Once we made it to New York City the first thing Mya and I checked out was Times Square. We shared a New York hot dog, met plenty of NYC’s finest and did a little shopping. It was a little colder than I had expected, extra layers are recommended.
Although it was a little busy (as expected!) and Mya wasn’t a fan of the drums getting played, we both had an amazing time experiencing it together and she attracted quite a few fans. I think anyone can tell that from the look on our faces.
Central Park
Another attraction we visited was New York’s Famous Central Park, where we spent a significant part of our day. Dogs are welcome in most areas of Central Park as long as they are on a leash. There are also off leash areas in use between 6-9am and 9pm-1am. The park is huge and Mya and I loved taking in the surrounds there. You also have the option of hiring a bicycle to explore the park via the designated bicycle trails or take a Horse drawn Carriage ride.
Staten Island Ferry and the Statue of Liberty
Mya was lucky enough to be able to join me on the Staten Island Ferry. I picked up Mya from day care and we caught an Uber to the Staten Island Ferry. The ferry only costs $3 and allows dogs onboard the lower deck if they are in a carrier or muzzled. I hated having to put the muzzle on Mya, but it meant we could hang out together and see the Statue of Liberty, so I think it was worth it and I’m grateful that the ferry service allowed her onboard. Seeing the Statue of Liberty was pretty amazing, I wish I had more time to go back and see it closer
Brooklyn Bridge
We took the subway to Brooklyn, where we watched the sunset behind the Brooklyn Bridge and the city. The Brooklyn Bridge connects Brooklyn to Manhattan and is easy to access via the the New York Subway system. We recommend you allow at least half and hour to walk the length of the bridge to give yourself plenty of opportunity for photos and to take in the city views. It is a very popular and safe attraction with the most popular times been between sunrise and sunset.
911 Memorial and Museum
During our visit to the 911 Museum I wasn’t really sure what to expect. All those years ago I was up late and watched those shocking events unfold live on tv. I actually think the memorial and museum couldn’t be more perfect. I was only planning on spending an hour there and ended up spending three hours. I’d put aside at least half a day. It is a very popular attraction so pre-booking tickets is also recommended. I don’t think anything else I could say about it would do it justice so I’ll leave it at that, I suggest if you visit NYC make sure you check it out.
Empire State Building
The Empire State Building not only has spectacular views of New York City, it’s a world Famous Landmark. It is a very popular attraction in New York as has timed ticketing so make sure you get this attraction locked into your schedule early to avoid missing out. Your ticket will give you access to the main deck on the 86th floor but it is an additional cost for viewing on the 102nd top deck floor.
The Rockefeller Centre “Top of the Rock”
The “Top of The Rock” observation deck offers some of the best uninterrupted views of the New York City Skyline. The open air observation deck is located on the 70th Floor of the Rockefeller Centre with viewing behind glass panels available on the 67th and 69th floors. This is a very popular attraction and like the Empire State Building has timed ticketing. So make sure you purchase or tickets in advance to ensure you get your preferred time. It is open daily from 8am-12am.
New York City Pass
Whilst exploring NYC we utilized the CityPASS to gain access to all the attractions. It was definitely the cheaper way to go if you plan on visiting multiple attractions and want to skip ticket lines. If you’re planning on visiting NYC I’d allow at least four full days as there is so much to see and do here.
Dog Sitting Services
Scottie’s Dog Walking & Services took care of Mya whilst I took in the view at The Top of The Rock, at the Rockefeller Centre which is the best place to see the city skyline. Mya was however lucky enough to be able to check out the Rockefeller Centre in the LEGO store across the way though. The LEGO store is well worth a visit if you’re a fan!
Unfortunately the 911 Memorial and Museum and Empire State Building are not pet friendly attractions, understandably so, but we were able to find a pet sitter for Mya on rover.com. The pet sitter that we had was good but we didn’t find them exceptional and would recommend the over anyone else.
Mya’s Mates:
Tourism: NYCgo Tourism Information Centre| @NYCgo
Stay: Airbnb | @airbnb
Play: New York City Pass | @CityPass
Helpful links:
https://www.citypass.com/new-york?mrkgcl=628&mrkgadid=3308976678&mv_source=rkg&adpos=1t2&creative=311560351610&device=t&matchtype=e&network=g&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIs_Gkm6KH4AIVAdVkCh3D3A09EAAYAiAAEgJzM_D_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
http://www.esbnyc.com
https://www.topoftherocknyc.com
http://www.centralparknyc.org
https://www.911memorial.org
https://www.siferry.com
https://www.nycgo.com/things-to-do/attractions
https://www.rover.com/ca/
