Iconic landmarks, rich history and scenic adventures await
By Tessa Winn
Midtown New York City is known as the heart of NYC for a good reason. It offers a variety of fun, entertainment, shopping and amazing restaurants that will impress any member of your group. A trip to Midtown will leave you with a host of thrilling experiences from its beautiful parks to its famed landmarks.
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Empire State Building. Photo courtesy of Evan Joseph
Historical Tours: Entertainment Future and Past
Whether you are a history buff or a sports fanatic, you can appreciate one of New York’s most popular attractions with The Madison Square Garden Tour Experience. Take a 60-minute guided tour where you can follow in the footsteps of legends and learn about more than a century of incredible sports and entertainment that have happened in the Garden.
Those looking for a different historical experience can take part in the St. Patrick’s Cathedral Tour, or explore the Empire State Building. On the St. Patrick’s tour, groups can discover the history of the Cathedral and its impeccable architecture through your choice of an audio guide or exclusive guided tour.
At the Empire State Building, you can visit the famous 86th floor for an all-inclusive view of NYC from a 360-degree viewpoint. You can also ascend even higher to the 102nd floor by purchasing a tour combo.
Scenic Adventures in New York City
If you grow weary of walking, you can enjoy a tour of the city by horse or boat. For an unforgettable adventure, groups can take a Central Park Carriage ride (where you can see Central Park’s incredible scenic beauty) or relax on the Downtown and Statue of Liberty Sightseeing Cruise (where you can witness NYC’s landmarks from the water).
At the Empire State Building, you can visit the famous 86th floor for an all-inclusive view of NYC from a 360-degree viewpoint. Photo courtesy of Evan Joseph
New York’s Landmark Leap
Pay a visit to the stunning Rockefeller Center and ascend to the Top of the Rock for unmatched views. Top of the Rock’s three levels of indoor and outdoor observation decks deliver spectacular, unobstructed views of the city skyline. With terraces facing east, west, north and south, Top of the Rock’s panoramic sights make it the ultimate observation deck.
Rockefeller Center is known as one of New York City’s most iconic attractions—it’s where that famous Christmas tree is illuminated, where Saturday Night Live and the Today show are taped and where ice-skaters make the rounds on a rink surrounded by hundreds of international flags.
Dining and Shopping Recommendations for NYC
Midtown New York City also offers a multitude of cultural foods that will satisfy your cravings. Fuel up before you start your day, with an amazing bagel breakfast at Ess-A-Bagel, or consume a hearty breakfast at the iconic Ellen’s Stardust Diner, where tasty food and singing servers fuel your morning frenzy.
Breakfast is not all New York City has to offer. After a morning of shopping, grab a slice of New York Pizza from the legendary Joe’s Pizza. For dinner, enjoy American cuisine at The Modern (which features French/New American fare in a modernist space) or experience a nice dinner with city views at The Roof (a glassed-in rooftop bar with sweeping views).
With an endless array of stores that offer virtually anything, your group can shop until they drop. Stop by Fifth Avenue, where you can find stores like Louis Vuitton and Zara as well as smaller retail chains. You can also take younger group members to The Lego Store, or Disney Stores, on your way to Macy’s, H&M, or Sephora.
Occupying more than 840 acres and set in the middle of Manhattan, Central Park is a popular visiting spot for groups
New York’s Iconic Central Park
Arguably one of the most famous parks in the world, Central Park is a manmade wonder. Not only is it the first public park built in America, but it is also one of the most frequently visited, with more than 25 million visitors per year.
Occupying more than 840 acres and set in the middle of Manhattan, Central Park has so much to offer.
One can spend an entire peaceful day roaming its grounds, gazing upon nearly 50 fountains, monuments, and sculptures or admiring its 36 bridges and arches. From its zoo, monuments and lakes to its sports fields and playgrounds, there is fun for everyone.
For more travel tips and ideas for groups, be sure to Download the June edition of Leisure Group Travel and Subscribe for FREE
