New York has this reputation for bleeding your wallet dry faster than you can put on an “I love NY” T-shirt, but that’s only if you fall into the tourist traps. Between the $30 observation decks and overpriced museum tickets, there’s a whole other New York that won’t cost you a penny to experience.

Here I’ve put together some free adventures that combine those iconic must-sees with lesser-known spots that the locals actually use. Doing these things will help you experience authentic New York without the eye-watering price tag.

Iconic Parks and Outdoor Adventures

Central Park: The Heart of NYC

Central Park is an 843-acre slice of paradise in the middle of Manhattan’s concrete jungle. I easily and very happily spent an entire day here, and it doesn’t cost a thing to be there (unless you want to purchase a coffee, maybe).

The Conservatory Garden on the north end was an absolute revelation. I stumbled upon it completely by accident while trying to escape the crowds near Bethesda Fountain. It was remarkably quiet for a Saturday afternoon, with formal European-style gardens that you wouldn’t expect to see.

One morning, I woke up stupidly early (jet lag is sometimes a blessing) and reached the park just after sunrise. The light was so beautiful, hitting the lake just so, and I had Bow Bridge pretty much all to myself for about 20 minutes. Brilliant for photos without tourists photobombing your every shot, or just to soak it all in in peace.

Skip those overpriced boat rentals (£30 for 30 minutes? No, thank you) and instead pack a simple picnic to enjoy on the Great Lawn. That’s what the locals do. I spent hours people-watching – from elderly chess players to amateur acrobats practicing by the bandshell.

The High Line: Urban Nature with a View

The High Line feels like something from the future – an elevated park built on an abandoned railway line with stunning views of the Hudson River and Manhattan skyline. Walking this 1.5-mile stretch is simply wonderful.

Once I visited on a sunny Saturday afternoon in July, and it was absolutely heaving with people. Learn from my error and go on a weekday if you can. When I returned on a Tuesday morning, it was so, so much quieter and more enjoyable.

A local tip I discovered by chance: there are free stargazing sessions on Tuesday evenings during summer. I joined one and watched Jupiter through a telescope while a volunteer astronomer explained what we were seeing. It felt rather special, standing there with strangers, looking at planets while surrounded by skyscrapers.

Pair your High Line visit with the nearby Little Island – that futuristic-looking park on stilts in the Hudson River. I wandered through both in the same morning and got amazing skyline photos without spending anything.

Brooklyn Bridge Park and Beyond

After walking across the Brooklyn Bridge (another free must-do), I stumbled upon Brooklyn Bridge Park stretching along the East River. The Manhattan skyline view from here is absolutely postcard-worthy.

During summer months, they host free movie screenings with the skyline as a backdrop. I caught a classic film one balmy August evening and it was so good – though I should’ve arrived earlier as the best spots fill up quickly.

I hired one of those Citi Bikes (okay, this cost a fiver for a day pass) and cycled from the Brooklyn Bridge all the way to DUMBO and beyond. The path hugs the waterfront, and I discovered so many lovely little spots I’d never have found otherwise.

Bring your own snacks though – the food vendors in the park are ridiculously expensive. We’re talking $8 for a tiny ice cream.

Cultural and Historical Gems

Grand Central Terminal: Architectural Marvel

Grand Central isn’t just a transport hub – it’s an architectural wonder filled with secrets hiding in plain sight. That celestial ceiling in the main concourse is actually painted backwards! A local pointed this out to me, and now I can’t unsee it.

I spent ages in the whispering gallery – that archway in front of the Oyster Bar restaurant. Standing in one corner, you can whisper into the wall and someone in the opposite corner can hear you perfectly. I didn’t try it, but I saw two friends spending a good 15 minutes acting like excited children testing it out, which made me giggle to myself.

The Transit Museum Gallery often has free exhibitions. When I visited, they had a fascinating display about the history of New York’s subway system. If you’re a transit nerd, this will be brilliant.

Avoid visiting during rush hour though (around 8-9am and 5-6pm on weekdays) unless you enjoy being swept along in a sea of commuters.

New York Public Library: A Literary Haven

The New York Public Library on Fifth Avenue is absolutely stunning – Beaux-Arts architecture at its finest. I popped in to escape a sudden downpour and ended up spending three hours exploring.

The Rose Main Reading Room took my breath away. The ceiling is 52 feet high with painted clouds and the room stretches the length of a football field. I felt like I’d wandered onto a film set.

If you’ve got time, grab a library card – it’s free even for visitors staying more than a month, and it gives you access to the Culture Pass program for free museum entries. A librarian tipped me off about this, and I managed to get into the Whitney Museum without paying the usual $25 entry fee.

9/11 Memorial: A Place of Reflection

The 9/11 Memorial pools are deeply moving. The solemnity of the space – with water endlessly falling into the void where the Twin Towers once stood -was profoundly affecting.

While the museum charges admission, the outdoor memorial is free and open to the public. I spent nearly an hour just sitting, reflecting, and watching the water cascade down the sides of the enormous pools.

Afterwards, I walked to nearby Brookfield Place, which often hosts free art installations and events in its Winter Garden atrium. When I was there, they had a stunning light installation that transformed the space.

Free Events and Festivals

SummerStage: Music Under the Stars

SummerStage hosts free concerts in parks across the five boroughs, but the Central Park venue is of course the crown jewel. I caught a jazz performance there one summer, sprawled on a blanket with a group of friends and a discreet bottle of wine.

The atmosphere was electric – families, friends, couples, all gathered under the stars listening to live music. You’d pay a fortune for this experience in most places, but here it was completely free.

The trick is checking their schedule in advance and arriving early for the popular shows. I turned up an hour before a well-known band once and still had to sit quite far back. Next time I’ll know better.

Museum Mile Festival: Art for All

Every June, Fifth Avenue’s Museum Mile shuts down to traffic for an evening of free museum access. The Met, Guggenheim, and other top museums throw open their doors at no cost.

I managed to hit three museums in one evening – started at the Met, popped into the Cooper Hewitt, and finished at the Museum of the City of New York. It was a bit of a mad dash, but worth it to experience these world-class collections for free.

The street itself becomes a festival with performances, chalk drawing, and a carnival atmosphere. Even if you only make it to one museum, the vibrant street life makes it worthwhile.

Neighborhood Exploration and Street Life

Exploring Neighbourhoods

Some of my best New York memories are from simply wandering aimlessly. The East Village, with its quirky shops and street art, kept me entertained for hours. I discovered the most brilliant little community garden tucked between buildings on 6th Street – an unexpected oasis of calm.

Chinatown is another favourite for a free wander. Yes, I ended up buying dumplings because I couldn’t resist, but the experience of wandering the crowded streets cost nothing.

Wear proper walking shoes though – I explored Harlem in new boots and it tainted the experience a little.

Chelsea Art Galleries: Free Creativity

Chelsea is home to hundreds of art galleries, and they’re all free to enter. I spent a rainy afternoon gallery-hopping and saw everything from massive installations to intimate photography exhibitions.

Most galleries are closed Mondays, so plan accordingly. When I returned on Thursday, the street-level galleries were buzzing with opening events -complete with free wine if you time it right!

Staten Island Ferry: Iconic Views

The Staten Island Ferry is perhaps the best free thing in New York. This 25-minute ride offers spectacular views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Manhattan skyline.

Sunset rides are the best. If you catch the 7:30pm ferry, you can watch the city lights come on as the ferry pulls away from Manhattan. It’s beautiful to watch.

A cheeky tip: some locals bring a concealed drink to enjoy during the ride, turning it into a budget “booze cruise.” I’m not officially recommending this, mind you, but that sunset G&T was rather lovely.

Practical Tips for a Free NYC Adventure

Timing makes all the difference. Early mornings (before 10am) are brilliant for popular spots like the Brooklyn Bridge or Central Park.

For getting around, I invested in a 7-day unlimited MetroCard ($34) which covered all subway and bus rides. It paid for itself by day three. If you’re staying for a shorter trip, consider walking between nearby attractions – the city is more walkable than you might think.

Food can be a budget-killer in New York. I became best friends with the local bodegas, where you can grab a decent sandwich for under $10. Halal carts are another cheap option – a massive plate of chicken over rice for $8.

Keep an eye on websites like The Skint or Time Out New York for updated free event listings. I discovered a brilliant free comedy show in Washington Square Park through The Skint that wasn’t advertised anywhere else.

The Magic of Free New York

New York doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Between its magnificent parks, cultural institutions, interesting neighbourhoods and free events, you can experience the best of New York without suffering financially.

Some of my most treasured New York memories didn’t cost a penny – watching street performers in Washington Square Park, stumbling upon a free Shakespeare performance in Central Park, catching that perfect sunset from the Staten Island Ferry.

So go see the real New York. Just make sure you’re wearing food footwear!

The post Free Things To Do In New York appeared first on Big Little Travels - Your Travel Guide.

In this article, we will delve into the 8 best hotels near Times Square, making your next trip to the Big Apple one to remember.

Choosing the right hotel can make all the difference when it comes to enjoying your stay in the heart of New York City.

With so many options in the vicinity of Times Square, it can be quite overwhelming. Fret not, as I’ve narrowed down the top-notch hotels which not only offer excellent service and amenities, but also convenient access to the city’s top attractions. When you’ve decided on the your hotel read our Perfect 3 Day Itinerary.

1: New York Marriott Marquis

Located in the heart of Manhattan’s Times Square, I found staying in the New York Marriott Marquis to be a great experience.

The hotel boasts spacious accommodation with modern amenities, offering impressive views of Broadway, Times Square, and the city skyline.

With a selection of restaurants on-site, I savoured a variety of bold, New York-inspired flavours and innovative menus.

During my stay, I appreciated the spectacular event spaces the hotel offers. The sophisticated meeting rooms span over 100,000 square feet and come equipped with state-of-the-art technology that could cater to any corporate event, holiday party, or special occasion.

As a seasoned traveller, I felt that the New York Marriott Marquis provided the perfect blend of style, comfort, and convenience right in the epicentre of Times Square.

A short stroll from the hotel led me to experience unique, iconic New York City attractions that make the Big Apple so enchanting. As I immersed myself in the excitement of Broadway shows and famous landmarks, I knew that there was no better place to explore the vibrant energy of Manhattan than the New York Marriott Marquis.

Location: 1535 Broadway, New York, NY 10036
Contact: (212) 398-1900

2: The Times Square EDITION

The Times Square EDITION is a 5-star luxury hotel located right in the heart of New York City.

As soon as you step into the hotel, you will be amazed by the modern design and timeless style that is apparent in every detail. The guest rooms and suites boast comfortable designer bedding, high-quality Le Labo bathroom amenities, and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi.

Dining at The Terrace and Outdoor Gardens, the hotel’s signature all-day restaurant, which is helmed by Michelin-starred Chef John Fraser, is amazing. The menu focuses on American brasserie classics and locally sourced ingredients.

The Times Square EDITION truly sets itself apart with its unique offerings, such as Paradise Club – a high-production nightlife venue that hosts some of the most energetic events and performances.

The hotel’s location at Times Square serves as a fantastic starting point to explore nearby Rockefeller Center, Broadway Theatres, and a myriad of dining options.

Location: 701 7th Ave, New York, NY 10036
Contact: (212) 398-7017

3: The Gotham Hotel NY

I was immediately impressed by The Gotham Hotel NY, an independently owned boutique hotel in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. It features 67 sleek, modern rooms and suites, bringing a sense of elegance to the bustling city. I found it particularly appealing because of its unique high-rise structure and the private balconies included with every room.

During my stay, I discovered The Reading Room, the hotel’s in-house American Bar & Restaurant, which was a delightful place to have a meal or a late-night snack. The focus on local, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients made every dish I tried both fresh and delicious.

One thing that truly stood out in this hotel was the remarkable level of service. The multi-lingual staff were friendly, accommodating, and seemed genuinely invested in making my stay the best it could be.

Location: 16 E 46th St, New York, NY 10017
Contact: (212) 490-8500

4: Hard Rock Hotel New York

The Hard Rock Hotel is located just a stone’s throw away from Times Square and boasts a fantastic atmosphere. The theme, which celebrates the vibrant music scene of the city, really sets it apart from other hotels.

The Hard Rock Hotel ensures your stay is comfortable and enjoyable, with exceptionally friendly staff and beautiful modern rooms. The infusion of music throughout the hotel, from the decor to the exciting events calendar give it a unique edge.

What truly sets the Hard Rock Hotel apart from others is its stunning rooftop lounge. With 360-degree views of the bustling city, it is the perfect place to unwind and soak in the New York atmosphere.

Location: 159 W 48th St, New York, NY 10036
Contact: (212) 970-1200

5: The Knickerbocker

The Knickerbocker, located just at the corner of West 42nd and Broadway and tucked between the vibrant Times Square and the serene Bryant Park is a contemporary sanctuary in the middle of the city.

It boasts luxurious rooms and suites, featuring 12-foot high ceilings, large windows, and lavish marble bathrooms. The attention to detail and style of the hotel provides a calming and sophisticated oasis for any traveller.

Look out for The Knickerbocker special offers, their Suite Summer Offer gives you prosecco upon arrival and breakfast for two each morning. The Knick Family Getaway and Breakfast at the Knick ensure a satisfying and wholesome dining experience.

The hotel is situated in the heart of New York City, making it an ideal base to explore the cultural crossroads of the world, where fashion meets finance, and art inspires meaning.

Location: 6 Times Sq, New York, NY 10036
Contact: (212) 204-4980

6: Tempo by Hilton

Situated in the heart of Times Square, Tempo by Hilton New York Times Square is a stylish hotel that offers a vibrant stay for travellers. Just a stone’s throw away from numerous restaurants, shops, and Broadway theatres, its location is perfect for exploring the city.

It has particularly impressive sweeping views of the city from the Outdoor Terrace and on-site restaurant.

The rooms are modern and well-appointed, providing a comfortable retreat after a day out in the city. With connecting rooms and pet-friendly options available, it caters to various types of travellers and their needs.

The on-site fitness centre is open 24 hours a day, allowing you to continue your exercise routine during your stay. Additionally, the hotel offers Hilton Honors member benefits, giving points toward free nights and more.

Location: 1568 Broadway, New York, NY 10036
Contact: (212) 262-8100

7: Hyatt Centric Times Square New York

I recently visited the Hyatt Centric Times Square in New York. It’s an exceptional choice for anyone looking to stay near Times Square. The hotel is located just a short walk from all the action. This offers guests both convenience and comfort. The sleek, modern design of the hotel creates a welcoming atmosphere that instantly made me feel at home.

One of the highlights of my stay at the Hyatt Centric was the spacious, well-appointed rooms with stunning views of the city skyline. It was truly a treat to wake up every morning to a spectacular view of Times Square. The hotel also offers top-notch amenities such as a 24-hour fitness centre and a popular rooftop bar perfect for enjoying a drink while taking in the sights.

Another aspect worth mentioning is the excellent hospitality provided by the friendly staff. From the moment I arrived, they greeted me warmly and offered assistance whenever needed. In addition to the comfortable stay, its location allowed me to conveniently explore the city with ease as it’s in close proximity to major attractions and subway stations.

Location: 40.7574627,-73.98409029999999
Contact: (646) 364-1234

8: Hotel Riu Plaza Manhattan Times Square

The Hotel Riu Plaza Manhattan Times Square offers an incredible experience for anyone looking for a comfortable stay in the heart of New York City. The hotel is situated in the centre of Manhattan, and it is perfectly located, allowing easy access to all the must-see sights of the Big Apple.

The rooms are exceptionally well-equipped with all the right amenities to make you feel right at home. The air conditioning, satellite TV, mini-fridge, and safe are all welcome inclusions to the room. They provided the ideal spot for rest and relaxation after a long day of exploring the city.

What stands out most are the wide variety of services provided by the hotel to ensure guests have a fantastic experience. The buffet breakfast selection at the hotel’s restaurant cannot be missed, fueling you up and giving you the energy you need to tackle a packed day of sightseeing. The Grab&Go area is also perfect for those in need of a quick snack or drink on-the-go.

Location: 145 W 47th St, New York, NY 10036
Contact: (212) 706-3170

Best Times to Visit

Seasonal Trends

In my experience, the best time to visit Times Square and stay at one of the 8 best hotels near Times Square is during the spring and autumn months. During these times, the weather is mild and enjoyable for exploring the city. The crowds tend to be smaller, and hotel rates are more affordable than in the peak summer months.

Winter can also be a magical time to visit, especially around the holidays when Times Square is adorned with festive decorations. However, the cold weather might deter some visitors.

Major Events

Times Square is a hub for various major events throughout the year, and visiting during these times can be a unique experience. For example, New Year’s Eve is when the famous ball drop takes place, drawing massive crowds from all around the world. Be prepared for higher hotel prices and longer waiting times at attractions during these events.

Another popular event is the annual Times Square Red, Times Square Blue Festival, which celebrates the culture and history of Times Square through various performances and educational programs.

Make sure to plan ahead and check for upcoming events at Times Square’s official website to make the most of your visit during these special occasions.

Accommodation Tips

Booking Strategies

When planning my trip to Times Square, I found it helpful to book a hotel at least two months in advance. This gave me ample time to research and compare prices. I also checked multiple websites and set up alerts for price drops. It’s worth considering booking a refundable room, so you can make changes if a better deal comes up later. Another tip is to travel during off-peak seasons, as hotels near Times Square tend to be less crowded and more affordable then.

Amenities to Look For

In my experience, it’s essential to consider the amenities offered by the hotels near Times Square. Here are some key factors to look for:

• Location: Proximity to Times Square is vital, as well as easy access to public transport. A central location will save you time and money on transportation.
• Free Wi-Fi: This is crucial for staying connected and planning your day.
• Breakfast: Many hotels offer complimentary breakfast, which helps to save money and kick-start your day.
• Facilities: Look for hotels that have well-equipped gyms, business centres, and laundry services.

Local Attractions

Walking Tours

One of the best ways to explore the area around Times Square is by joining a walking tour. I’ve found that these guided tours provide a unique perspective on the history and culture of the district. They often include famous landmarks as well as hidden gems that are not typically mentioned in travel guides. Some of the most interesting stops are the iconic Broadway theatres, where you can learn about the history of the shows and the stars who have graced their stages.

Cultural Highlights

Of course, a visit to Times Square wouldn’t be complete without taking in some of the area’s cultural highlights.

Just a short walk away is the beautiful Bryant Park, which offers a green oasis in the midst of the bustling city.

Within the park, you can find several al fresco cafes. You can also find free events and performances throughout the year.

For art lovers, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is a must-visit.

As one of the most influential art museums in the world, it houses an impressive collection of contemporary and modern art. You can spend hours here admiring works by legendary artists such as Picasso, Van Gogh, and Warhol.

In addition, just a few blocks from Times Square is the renowned Carnegie Hall, a historic music venue offering a variety of concerts and performances.

This spectacular venue has hosted many of the world’s greatest musicians. It is well worth a visit, especially if you can catch a show while you’re in town.

With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Times Square is such a popular destination. Whether you’re enjoying a walking tour, soaking in the culture, or simply admiring the dazzling lights, there’s always something happening in this vibrant part of New York City.

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We love walking, eating and experiencing a place, over ticking off places on a checklist, just to be able to say we’ve seen it. However, when in New York some of the iconic buildings and places simply have to be seen so it’s hard to strike a balance.

If you, like us, want to enjoy your stay and not feel completely exhausted when you return then we think this would be the ideal itinerary to follow.

Day 1

Depending on where you are staying (anywhere in central Manhattan is good) either walk or catch the subway to 42nd Street Station which brings you out in the middle of Times Square. When you emerge from underground, the sensory overload is immediate with flashing lights, music, cars whizzing past and people everywhere. It wasn’t quite as overwhelming as we imagined, but after a quick walk around and a few selfies to say “we were here” we were ready to move on.

When you’ve had enough of the bright lights, head east along 45th Street until you reach 5th Avenue where you will find all the high end stores, which are great for admiring the window displays as you wander along. You will also find the famous Rockefeller Center just off Fifth Avenue, perfectly situated for a drink or bite to eat (and in our case warm up as it was pretty chilly). Rockefeller Centre does have an observation deck called Top of the Rocks if you fancy catching the skyline views from here but we planned to visit Summit One Vandebilt later in our trip.

When you are fully refreshed and refuelled, continue to walk up towards Central Park past shops such as Gucci, Armani and Cartier, when you reach Prada look over the road and you’ll spot Trump Tower nestled amongst the designer stores. As you approach Central Park you pass the Plaza Hotel to your left with it’s impressive lobby and facade. Peer in, to sneak a glimpse pure opulence.

Entering from the South East corner of central park you will immediately recognise it as the setting to Home Alone 2 (when Kevin meets Pigeon Lady). From here its up to you how much or how little of the park you explore. It’s two and a half miles to the north side of the park but there are many winding paths you can stroll along depending on how energetic you feel. If you’ve had enough of walking, then you can hire a horse drawn carriage to give you a tour of the whole park in comfort or an electric scooter.

Day 2

Start the day with a walk along The High Line, which is an old freight line, situated above the streets on Manhattan’s West Side. It’s elevated position gives you a different view of New York and along the way there are many interesting art installations.

If you start at the northern end of The High Line the nearest subway station is 34th Street – Hudson Yards. From here you can stroll along the old track immersed in nature and art with a backdrop of skyscrapers. If you walk from north to south, you finish up close to Greenwich Village which is a laid back area with lots of lovely pavement cafes and quirky shops. Its also a great place for people watching, one of our favourite sports!

After enjoying a wander around The Village, head back towards central Manhattan to Grand Central Station. It has been in so many films, you just have to see it, and the architecture is simply stunning. It is also right next to Summit One an observation deck with a difference.

Summit One Vandebilt is a multi-sensory, immersive experience starting with the light show in the lift ride to the top of the 93 storey building. The experience is spread out over three floors and includes mirrored rooms, art installations and even a bar on the top floor. The best place for sipping on a cocktail with a stunning view!

You can spend about 2 hours there so well worth the money. My top tip is to visit around sunset so not only do the crowds tend to thin out but you can also see the city by day and night.

Day 3

Head straight to the very southernly tip of Manhattan and catch the Staten Island ferry, which is one of the best completely free things to do in New York. This takes you past the most iconic landmark in New York, the Statue of Liberty and also gives you great views of Manhattan from the water. When you arrive at Staten Island there are some outlet shops and a zoo but we decided to get straight back on the ferry to Manhattan as it was our last day and there were other things we wanted to see and do.

When back in Manhattan, Ground Zero is only a mile from the ferry terminal so it should take about 20 minutes to walk there. I wasn’t sure what to expect and how I would feel visiting the memorial but felt it was something that I really wanted to do. What struck me above all, was how quiet and peaceful it was.

The 911 Memorial waterfall highlights the absence of the towers and the sound of the water cascading down into the pool gives you a sense of tranquility to help you reflect, away from the sounds of the city. There is also a museum at the 911 memorial which is supposed to be fascinating.

From here, our top tip is to grab lunch at the Shake Shack known for its delicious burgers. The branch that is near to the World Trade Centre is a lot quieter than the one in Times Square, which regularly has queues down the street, and the food is just as good!

A trip to Brooklyn was high on my wish list so a short hop on the subway from here and you can be over, or should I say, under the water. Brooklyn has a totally different feel to Manhattan with its elegant brown stones and cosy neighbourhood bars and cafes. A stroll around this area on a sunny afternoon is lovely and the views of the Manhattan skyline from Brooklyn are spectacular. Grab a drink in one of the cute little cafes or bars before heading back to Manhattan.

Walking over Brooklyn Bridge, simply has to be done. There are great views, fantastic architecture of the bridge and some bargains to be had from the street vendors. We came away with some New York Yankees caps, pens and a selection of key rings.

Evenings In New York

Most afternoons we headed back to our hotel for a well earned rest and possibly a quick cat nap (jet lag had us getting up very early!). Leaving us suitably refreshed to enjoy our evenings.

After a lot of discussion, we decided not to see a Broadway show. Instead, we opted to go and see a comedy show in one of the many comedy clubs in Manhattan. For us this was a much better option as the atmosphere was fantastic, we felt like we were doing something real New Yorkers might do and it was a lot cheaper.

Another evening we went to watch a New York Knicks game at Maddison Square Gardens. This was my husband’s choice so I wasn’t sure how much I would enjoy it. However, I have to say, it was one of the best sporting fixtures I’ve ever been to. The atmosphere was electric, the game itself was fast paced and exciting and the entertainment during every time out was great. Sometimes it was a cheerleading display by local kids, a competition or they simply fire t-shirts at you (which was surprisingly thrilling!).

New York has always been on my bucket list, but before I went I was worried it wouldn’t live up to my expectations. It actually surpassed them and it wasn’t the big iconic buildings that made it special. It was the little things like seeing the steam rising from the ground or grabbing a $5 slice of pizza as we wandered around Manhattan. In my opinion an itinerary is useful but make sure you allow time to just explore or even get lost and see what you find!

Written by Laura Mills

Laura loves travelling across the UK and abroad. She has two children and a husband who are often her travel companions. Beach holidays, cosy cottages, treehouse adventures and brunching are just a few of her favourite ways to spend her travel time.

The post The Perfect 3 Day Itinerary In New York appeared first on Big Little Travels - Your Travel Guide.

Kochi

Before visiting New York we did our normal extensive restaurant research. This involves looking at lots of reviews and salivating over menus, a traditional part of our holiday preparation. I much prefer it to packing!

This is when we found a Michelin starred, Korean restaurant, something we definitely don’t have locally! Its aptly located in the Hell’s Kitchen district of New York, not too far from where we were staying, so it ticked all the boxes.

Kochi, meaning skewer in Korean, combines street food with all the traditional Korean flavours and ingredients. We opted for the tasting menu and sat at the chef’s counter, which means you can watch them prepare your food with extreme precision and care (often using tweezers) which was fascinating.

Each course was beautifully presented with such attention to detail it was amazing. The courses ranged from soup to start, to meat and two veg Korean style. The flavours were all interesting and very different to anything we had had in New York so far, giving our taste buds a real treat.

The service was impeccable, our waitress was extremely friendly and informative, chatting about when she had visited England but knew not to linger too long (an important skill which is sometimes hard to refine). The restaurant is small and intimate with only about 8 seats at the chef’s counter and 5 other tables allowing the chefs to prepare the food to a high standard.

The whole experience was really enjoyable and a stark contrast to the other meals we had eaten so far in New York, where portions are huge. These delicate little dishes were individual works of art that also tasted great.

Joe’s Pizza

On our first day in New York we stumbled upon Joe’s Pizza while walking from our hotel in Flatiron to Times Square. We recognised the name and the queue out the door attracted our attention. Anywhere with a queue that long must be good!

As we got closer to the counter we could not only smell the delicious savoury, woody scent of pizza cooking but we also got a glimpse of the huge slices being served. It was hard to decide which pizza to have as they all looked amazing, but in the end we opted for a classic pepperoni with mushrooms and onions. I’d never normally order this combination at home but it proved to be an excellent choice.

Luckily, we found two seats inside where we could perch while devouring our huge floppy slices of pizza. My mouth watered as I took my first bite and I wasn’t disappointed.

It was the perfect balance of tastes and textures, a chewy yet crispy crust oozing with cheese and packing great flavour from the toppings. Heaven in a slice! The cheese and toppings were clearly good quality but the thing that really made this pizza stand out was the crust, sheer perfection for a New York slice.

Not only was the pizza exceptional but there was also a buzzing atmosphere in the restaurant, mixed with a sense of history. While enjoying our pizzas we were surrounded by a huge gallery of famous people who have eaten there in the past. Joe’s Pizza was established in 1975 by Pino “Joe” Pozzuoli, an Italian immigrant originally from Naples, Italy. The location of the original restaurant was Greenwich Village but there are now four other locations across Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Our verdict

I have to say both meals were delicious but complete polar opposites so very hard to compare. The meal at Kochi was refined, classy and a real treat for your taste buds with so many different elements. However, Joe’s Pizza felt like New York in every way; taste, smell, sound and it felt like I imagined New York to be.

Kochi on the other hand could have been anywhere in the world. It was slick, professional and aesthetically pleasing but didn’t have that New York feeling you are looking for as a tourist. So If you are a New Yorker then Kochi is probably the place for you, however as a tourist visit Joe’s for that New Yorkiness that we’re all searching for!

Written by Laura Mills

Laura loves travelling across the UK and abroad. She has two children and a husband who are often her travel companions. Beach holidays, cosy cottages, treehouse adventures and brunching are just a few of her favourite ways to spend her travel time.

The post $5 Pizza Vs Michelin Star Restaurant – Which One Wins? appeared first on Big Little Travels - Your Travel Guide.