Top 10 - Tourist Destinations in NYC

     To finish off our New York/New England trip series, I've decided to do another Top Ten - tourist destinations in New York City. Even though we were only there three days, we did almost a week's worth of things; yet there are so many things we would love to go back and do "some day." Naturally, I might have to modify this list after a future visit. Here is my current list of Top Ten tourist destinations in NYC:

10. Coney Island - The best thing about Coney Island is that it is very affordable. There is no entrance fee, so you don't have to feel like you have to spend all day there to get your money's worth. On the flip side, since you pay for each ride individually, you have to debate whether each individual ride is worth it.

9. Rockefeller Center - The thing I liked best about the Rockefeller Center was the view from the Top of the Rock. My biggest regret is that we couldn't be there during the Christmas season to see the famous tree, or try the ice skating rink.

8. American Museum of Natural History - Since we enjoyed the Movie Night at the Museum, the best part of the museum was searching for the items that were used in the movie. Unfortunately, several of the main exhibits/characters in the movie aren't in the museum.

7. Central Park - The best thing about Central Park is that it has something for everyone. It is so big, that no two visits will be the same. I only wish I had more time to explore it, because we only saw a small slice of the park.

Statue of Daniel Webster

6. The Empire State Building - The Empire State Building offers two spectacular views of New York City - the classic view from the observation deck, and the virtual reality view via the New York Skyride. The down side is the price; but that can be mitigated through various combo deals.

5. Clipper City - The nice thing about the Clipper City tour is that you get awesome views of the Statue of Liberty and the NYC skyline without the long lines. The downside of seeing the Statue of Liberty this way is that you don't have the option of going inside the monument or visiting the displays.

4. The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum - The Intrepid lets you explore an aircraft carrier and a submarine, as well as admire a wide variety of 20th Century aircraft including a space shuttle - all in one place. The downside is that you can only admire the fighter planes from a distance.

3. Times Square - The great thing about Times Square is the easy access to a wide range of famous stores and restaurants; and it doesn't cost anything to browse. On the downside, if you do purchase something, it's going to cost more than if you buy it elsewhere.

Rocky & Pop at Planet Hollywood

2. Broadway - Broadway plays host to the most famous dramas from around the world. They are performed in some of the most famous venues in the nation, by some of the most talented actors. That being said, I'm sure you've heard the expression "You get what you pay for." In other words, those high demand tickets are going to cost you a bundle.

1. Liberty Island - The Statue of Liberty is probably the most famous statue in the world. It symbolizes all the values our nation was built on. Climbing to the crown of the statue is one of the most enduring memories I have of my youth. The only downside of visiting Liberty Island is the long line to get on the ferry.

Waiting in line to get on the ferry