New York City, otherwise known as The Big Applе, is a bustling metropolis with towering skyscrapers, colorful locals, exciting nightlife, and a plethora of tourist attractions.
Getting there
Three major airports serve New York John F Kennedy Airport, 24kms from Midtown Manhattan in southeastern Queens; La Guardia Airport in northern Queens, 13kms from Manhattan and serving mostly domestic flights; and Newark Airport in New Jersey. Buses run to various points in the city centre from all three airports every half-hour. Amtrak trains come into Pennsylvania station from around the nation; buses arrive at the Port Authority bus terminal. National travel deals and car rental are easy to find at all of these airports and terminals.
Major highways enter Manhattan from all directions for those who travel by rental car to New York City. The Connecticut Turnpike (I-95) and Long Island Expressway enter from the east; while I-95 connects to Boston, Philadelphia and Washington, DC.
Key attractions
The Statue of Liberty is the most famous, long enduring symbol of New York; itеs a 354-step climb to the top а well worth the effort for the view. Another well known landmark, the Empire State Building rises 102 storeys. Another icon of New York, Times Square should not be missed. The Museum of Modern Art is one of the world’s finest. Other excellent museums include the Guggenheim Museum and American Museum of Natural History.
Out and about
You can escape the bustle of Manhattan by heading to Long Island, which is home to Jones Beach and Fire Island, where crowds bask on the beaches. The Hamptons on the islandеs far eastern side are where the rich and famous spend weekends away from the bustle of the city; while the Wine District hosts warm vineyards and old fashioned villages, in particular the 17th century town of Orient.
The Hudson Valley is to the north of New York City. It is a delightful area filled with picturesque towns and pleasant countryside. Nearby Bear Mountain State Park offers plenty for nature lovers, with hiking, fishing, skiing and ice-skating available. Farther afield, Atlantic City in New Jersey is of the most popular tourist destinations for its many casinos. These destinations outside of the city are easiest to explore by rental car in New York City.
Leisure options
Taking up an expansive portion of the centre of Manhattan is New York’s most famous respite а Central Park. The park is not only filled with quiet areas though, there are plenty of joggers, skaters, musicians and tourists. SoHo is the city’s leading district for art galleries, clothing stores and boutiques; while you can experience bohemian New York at Greenwich Village.
Safety
Driving in New York City is difficult and not recommended, but national travel deals are easy to find for those willing to take the risk. Do not leave your car rental parked on city streets at night and be extra vigilant for the ever-present pickpockets and carjackers. The city can be dangerous if you are walking alone at night. We strongly recommend you take out travel insurance for yourself and your family when visiting New York.