The big Apple. The city that never sleeps. The capital of the world. From the bright lights of Broadway to the top of the Empire State Building, there is so much to see and do in New York City! Deciding on a list of must-sees will help you make the most of any trip. For first-time visitors, here are some standard landmarks that shouldn’t be missed!

Central Park:
Walking out the door of most hotels will put you in the middle of the hustle and bustle of New York City. Always remember that despite the gigantic skyscrapers and the endless parade of honking taxis, fresh air and green grass are not far away. Central Park, one of the city’s most popular landmarks, is easily accessible from most New York hotels. While some places may be familiar from movies (Breakfast at Tiffany’s) and TV shows (Friends), there are some areas that only connoisseurs frequent.

The Alice in Wonderland statue is based on the famous children’s story and is a favorite spot for many of the children who frequent the city. Alice, The Mad Hatter, The Cheshire Cat, and of course The White Rabbit, are all cast in bronze in this whimsical statue. Some say that rubbing the White Rabbit or the mushroom Alice sits on can bring good luck, so be sure to touch the statue before heading to your next destination.

Another local favourite, Shakespeare’s Garden is a true must-see for any Bard aficionado. The garden, originally planted in 1916, is filled with plants mentioned in Shakespeare’s play. Over the years, the garden fell into disrepair, but it flourished again in the late 1980s when it was restored by patrons of Central Park. While many have enjoyed saying or reading the interesting names of plants from the time of Shakespeare, few would be able to identify wormwood, quince or primrose if they were in the lobby of the Manhattan hotel where they were staying. To find out exactly what these and other exotic-sounding plants look like, make sure this colorful garden is on the agenda.

Radio City Music Hall:
Next, the best theater in the world! Long a favorite tip of New York City travel experts, Radio City Music Hall is actually the largest indoor theater in existence, with a marquee the size of an entire city block! Live theater and movie fans alike are sure to be wowed by the magnificent theater that was designed so there are no “bad seats.”

Famous movies like White Christmas, National Velvet, and Breakfast at Tiffany’s premiered here, and stars like Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, and Liza Minnelli, among others, have performed there. During the holiday season, the Christmas Spectacular features the Radio City Rockettes, whose choreographed high kicks have made history. True fans will insist on a behind-the-scenes tour before heading back to their hotel, and they won’t be disappointed. Tours are available daily and downtown hotel concierges may have discount ticket coupons.

For many who travel to New York, they want the thrill of travel combined with the convenience of a hotel location. Remember, there are many New York luxury hotel options available. Make sure your hotel is based on your itinerary and personal style. If you spend most of your time in the theaters around Broadway, then consider looking at New York Broadway boutique hotels among other boutique hotel room options.