Being a Staten Island native definitely has its perks. Manhattan is only a ferry or bus ride away. Being someone who loves the hustle and bustle of the city, I feel like a little kid in a candy store when I arrive in Manhattan. Coming out of the tunnel and seeing huge magnificent buildings or approaching the ferry terminal looking out on the NYC skyline gets me really excited.

However, I do not go to Times Square every time I go to the city. I like to explore and to see what this amazing city has to offer.

Union Square

Union Square has so much to offer. There are tons of stores such as Forever 21, Burlington, Nordstrom, Sephora, DSW and much more. Hungry? No problem, stop by Panera, Chipotle and the famous Max Brenner's chocolate bar and restaurant. Whether it is sitting in the park or walking around window shopping this is a perfect area to visit on a beautiful day in NYC.

Central Park

Central Park is absolutely beautiful at any time of the year. There are many different gardens to walk around as well are different bridges and fountains. There is a carousel, Central Park Zoo, and in the winter the skating rink.

Museums

There are so many different museums in NYC. The National History Museum, Museum of Modern Art, Metropolitan Museum of Art, and New York Hall of Science.

Little Italy / China Town

If you are in the mood for a cultural experience, visit China Town or Little Italy. There are amazing restaurants that feature these cultures.

Soho

Soho is filled with fun activities. It is home to the Lower East Side Tenement Museum. There are also a few wineries around the area. Soho is filled with a bunch of stores and boutiques to go shopping as well.

Statue of Liberty / Ellis Island

If you have time hop the Ferry and visit Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. There is so much history in both of these places that it would be a shame to not visit them.

The High Line

The High Line is a long boardwalk type area in NYC. It is great to walk along and sight see, as long as you are wearing comfortable shoes. There are many different restaurants, bars, and shops around the area.

Chelsea

Chelsea has so much to offer. The Chelsea market it perfect to walk around, find any kind of food you want, fresh! The Chelsea Piers are fun to hang around with some friends as well as the sports complex.