Midtown Manhattan is known for Times Square, Rockefeller Center, and Grand Central Terminal. But there is more to Midtown than these renowned attractions. In addition to finding great places to have fun and enjoy the nightlife, visitors will find bars and shops that are not commonly known and, hence, missed by many tourists. Sarah, a licensed tour guide in New York City, claims that to enjoy Midtown like a local, one needs to know the right places to go and the tourist traps to avoid.
Use Grand Central Terminal as a starting point
Grand Central Terminal would be the best place to start one’s journey in Midtown. Its gorgeous main hall, with its stunning sky-like ceiling that is one of the most recognizable sights in New York City, will definitely amaze one. One can also visit sometimes known as the Whispering Gallery, where the sound passes through the arched passageway, which makes it possible for people to communicate with each other.
There is Grand Brasserie which is a restaurant with amazing cuisine. And there is Campbell Bar, which is a cool lounge made in an impressive style.
Learn About Culture Through the New York Public Library
The New York Public Library can be reached by a short walk away from Grand Central and is a wonderful place. Apart from the books, the beauty of the library, its architecture, murals and exhibitions are worth visiting. Inside, it is possible to see some historical documents such as a hand-written Declaration of Independence and copies of the Bill of Rights. To reach the library, it is better to enter through the side entrance so as to avoid waiting in a line.
Bryant Park is a great park that can be visited on the way to Midtown.
Take a Look at Times Square
Times Square is not only crowdy but very commercialized. Hence, people should be careful with the shops and various attractions there. Still, Times Square can be visited for a Broadway show.
Among other attractions are Rise NY, which merges exhibitions on the city with an interactive ride experience, and Madame Tussauds. For food, to get more bang for your buck, visitors should head to Hell’s Kitchen only a few blocks away along Restaurant Row on West 46th Street and Ninth Avenue, featuring a range of local restaurants with international cuisine alternatives.
For a cheap drink at a casual venue, one should visit Rudy’s Bar, which is famous for serving a complimentary hot dog with every drink.
Shopping and Other Famous Midtown Attractions
While Fifth Avenue is recognized for its luxury brands, its expensive stores may not work for everyone’s wallet. If visitors are looking for some variety and want to avoid pricey stores, then they could check out SoHo for the independent boutiques. For those who are still interested in spending some money on designer items, they can check out Bergdorf Goodman with its famous window displays and exclusive designer collections.
Not far from Midtown are some locations that must be visited: Rockefeller Center, Top of the Rock, Radio City Music Hall, St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
Where to Stay in Midtown
There are many places to stay on the midtown side, as luxury and boutique hotels are available. Peninsula is a great place for upscale living with high-end food and wonderful rooftop features. Library Hotel offers unique literary decorations. Next option is going to Marriot for a laid-back and chill stay.
Midtown Manhattan has numerous more attractions other than simply its renowned tourist sights. By seeing its cultural attractions, private restaurants, and less mainstream places, tourists can create an unforgettable and diverse experience in New York City.
