Southern New York Map

Introduction

Southern New York is a fascinating region that attracts tourists from all over the world. The area is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you are a nature lover, history enthusiast, or a foodie, there is something for everyone in this part of the state. In this travel guide, we will take you on a journey to explore the top attractions, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path experiences that Southern New York has to offer.

Top Attractions

Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world and is a must-visit attraction when in Southern New York. The statue is located on Liberty Island and is accessible by ferry. Visitors can climb to the top of the statue and enjoy stunning views of the city skyline.

Central Park

Central Park is a massive park located in the heart of Manhattan. The park is home to several attractions, including the Central Park Zoo, the Central Park Conservatory Garden, and the Central Park Lake. Visitors can also enjoy horse and carriage rides, bike tours, and picnics in the park.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the most famous museums in the world and is a must-visit attraction for art lovers. The museum is home to over 2 million works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and artifacts from around the world.

Hidden Gems

The High Line

The High Line is a unique park located on an old elevated railroad track that runs through the Chelsea neighborhood. The park offers stunning views of the city and is home to several art installations and sculptures.

The Cloisters

The Cloisters is a museum located in Upper Manhattan that is dedicated to medieval art and architecture. The museum is located in a stunning building that is modeled after a medieval monastery and offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere.

Green-Wood Cemetery

The Green-Wood Cemetery is a historic cemetery located in Brooklyn that is home to several famous people, including Leonard Bernstein, Boss Tweed, and Jean-Michel Basquiat. The cemetery offers stunning views of the city skyline and is a peaceful and serene place to visit.

Food Scene

Pizza

New York is famous for its pizza, and Southern New York is no exception. Some of the best pizza places in the city include Di Fara Pizza in Brooklyn, Patsy’s Pizzeria in Harlem, and Lombardi’s Pizza in Manhattan.

Burgers

If you’re in the mood for a burger, there are plenty of great options in Southern New York. Some of the best burger places in the city include Shake Shack, Peter Luger Steak House, and JG Melon.

Bagels

New York is also famous for its bagels, and Southern New York has some of the best bagel places in the city. Some of the best bagel places include Russ & Daughters, H&H Bagels, and Ess-a-Bagel.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Free Museums

Many of the museums in Southern New York offer free admission on certain days of the week. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, for example, offers free admission on Saturdays.

Happy Hour

Many bars and restaurants in the city offer happy hour specials where you can get discounted drinks and food. This is a great way to save money while still enjoying the city’s nightlife.

Walk or Bike

The city is very walkable and bike-friendly, so consider walking or biking instead of taking a taxi or subway. This is a great way to save money and see the city up close.

Outdoor Adventures

Hiking

There are several great hiking trails in Southern New York, including the Appalachian Trail and the Catskill Mountains. These trails offer stunning views of the surrounding nature and are a great way to get away from the city.

Kayaking

Kayaking is a great way to explore the city’s waterways and see the city from a different perspective. There are several kayak rental places in the city, including the Downtown Boathouse.

Camping

There are several great camping sites in Southern New York, including the Catskill Mountains and the Adirondack Mountains. These sites offer a peaceful and serene atmosphere and are a great way to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.

Family-Friendly Activities

Coney Island

Coney Island is a classic amusement park located in Brooklyn that is fun for the whole family. The park offers several rides, including roller coasters and Ferris wheels, as well as a boardwalk and beach.

The Bronx Zoo

The Bronx Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the world and is a great place to take the family. The zoo is home to over 4,000 animals and offers several exhibits and attractions.

The Children’s Museum of Manhattan

The Children’s Museum of Manhattan is a great place to take young children. The museum offers several interactive exhibits and activities that are designed to educate and entertain children.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Staten Island Ferry

The Staten Island Ferry is a free ferry that runs between Manhattan and Staten Island. The ferry offers stunning views of the city skyline and is a great way to see the city from a different perspective.

The Tenement Museum

The Tenement Museum is a museum located on the Lower East Side that is dedicated to the history of immigration in New York City. The museum offers several interactive exhibits and tours that are designed to educate visitors about the lives of immigrants in the city.

City Island

City Island is a small island located in the Bronx that is known for its seafood restaurants and quaint atmosphere. The island is a great place to escape the city’s hustle and bustle and enjoy a peaceful and relaxing day.

Natural Wonders

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a stunning natural wonder located on the border between the United States and Canada. The falls are a must-visit attraction when in Southern New York and offer stunning views and photo opportunities.

The Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes is a stunning region in Southern New York that is known for its natural beauty and wine country. The area offers several hiking trails, waterfalls, and wineries that are worth exploring.

The Adirondack Mountains

The Adirondack Mountains are a stunning mountain range located in Upstate New York that offers several great hiking trails and natural attractions. The area is home to several lakes and waterfalls and is a great place to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.

Vibrant Nightlife

Times Square

Times Square is the heart of the city’s nightlife and is home to several bars, clubs, and restaurants. The area is known for its bright lights and lively atmosphere, and is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the city’s nightlife.

The Meatpacking District

The Meatpacking District is a trendy neighborhood in Manhattan that is home to several bars and clubs. The area is known for its lively atmosphere and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Brooklyn Bowl

Brooklyn Bowl is a unique venue located in Williamsburg that offers live music, bowling, and food. The venue is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike and is a great place to spend an evening.

Local Markets

The Union Square Greenmarket

The Union Square Greenmarket is a farmers’ market located in Manhattan that is open four days a week. The market offers fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products from local vendors.

Smorgasburg

Smorgasburg is a food market located in Brooklyn that is open on weekends. The market offers a variety of food options, including tacos, burgers, and ice cream, from local vendors.

The Bronx Night Market

The Bronx Night Market is a food market located in the Bronx that is open on weekends. The market offers a variety of food options, including tacos, burgers, and ice cream, from local vendors.

Beaches and Mountains

The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a popular destination in Southern New York that is known for its beaches and luxury homes. The area offers several great beaches, including Cooper’s Beach and Main Beach, that are worth visiting.

The Catskill Mountains

The Catskill Mountains offer several great hiking trails and natural attractions, including Kaaterskill Falls and North-South Lake. The area is a great place