A Dream Trip with Unforgettable Experiences

We had always dreamed of visiting New York, and this October half term, that dream finally came true. Our trip was full of surprises, from the record-breaking weather for the time of the year to the incredible experiences we had across this iconic city. Here’s a look back at my unforgettable four-day adventure in the Big Apple.

Perfect Weather in November

We packed plenty of jackets and hoodies in anticipation of chilly New York weather, but much to my delight, we were met with unseasonably warm temperatures. The city saw record-breaking highs in the 70s, which made for a comfortable and pleasant visit. The crisp air, blue skies, and sunshine added to the charm of my trip, especially considering how cold New York can usually be this time of year.

Arriving in Style: JFK to Midtown Manhattan

After landing at JFK, we decided to take the subway straight into Midtown Manhattan. For just a few dollars, the ride was quick, efficient, and remarkably easy. What stood out was how safe we felt throughout the journey. Even though we were unfamiliar with the city, the subway system was clean, organised. We used it plenty of times during the trip. It very easy to use, just use your debit card like at home and it’s easy to navigate around as you just go up, down or across the city.

The Hilton Midtown: A Perfect Base

We stayed at the Hilton Midtown, ideally located to explore all the top attractions. The hotel was just steps away from Times Square, Central Park, and so much more, making it the perfect spot to relax and recharge between sightseeing. The location was unbeatable, offering easy access to the heart of Manhattan.

First Night: Top of the Rock

We arrived in the city late evening, and our first stop was the Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center. It was a stunning experience, especially at night when the city was lit up below us. We could see the Empire State Building, Central Park, and the far-reaching skyline of Manhattan – the perfect introduction to the city’s magnificence.

Day 1: Empire State Building and Ferry to the Statue of Liberty

The next morning, we headed straight for the Empire State Building. Taking the elevator up to the 86th floor, we were treated to panoramic views of the city – absolutely breathtaking. You could see every part of Manhattan, from the skyscrapers to the bridges and beyond.

Afterwards, we made our way down to the pier for the ferry to the Statue of Liberty. This was a bucket-list experience, made even more special by the fact that we were able to walk all the way up to the crown. Be sure to book tickets well in advance, as only a few people can access the crown each day. The views from the top were worth every step of the climb.

Later in the evening, we took a two-hour open-top bus city tour from Times Square. It was an amazing way to see the city from a different perspective and get a feel for the energy of New York. We saw iconic spots like the Flatiron Building, Madison Square Park, and the beautiful nighttime skyline.

Day 2: Brooklyn Bridge and Dumbo

On our second day, we woke up to more perfect weather and decided to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. The views from the bridge were stunning, and the crisp air made the experience even more enjoyable. After reaching Brooklyn, we took some time to explore the Dumbo neighborhood, which provided some of the best photo opportunities of the whole trip. The views of the bridge, the Manhattan skyline, and the East River were spectacular.

We also made a quick stop at Tiffany & Co. on 5th Avenue for some luxury shopping before heading to see Moulin Rouge on Broadway. The performance was absolutely stunning, and the energy in the theater was electric. It was a perfect end to a full day of exploring.

Day 3: Grand Central Station, 9/11 Memorial, and Halloween Parade

Our third day started with a visit to the iconic Grand Central Station. This historic landmark is a must-see, with its grand architecture and bustling atmosphere. We then wandered through the streets to Little Italy for a delicious lunch of pasta and pizza, before heading to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. This deeply moving experience left a lasting impression, and we spent about three hours learning about the events of 9/11 and reflecting on the impact it had on the city and the world.

Later that evening, we were treated to the annual Halloween Parade along 5th Avenue. This parade was like nothing I’ve ever seen before – creative costumes, lively music, and an estimated 50,000 spectators lined up to witness the celebration. It lasted for hours and was a great way to experience the city’s vibrant culture.

Day 4: Trump Tower and Central Park Pedicab Ride

On our final day, we visited Trump Tower, a modern landmark in the city. From there, we took a pedicab ride through Central Park, which was one of the highlights of our trip. The park was absolutely gorgeous, with the fall foliage still hanging on and the weather perfect for a leisurely ride. We passed by some of the park’s most famous spots, like Bethesda Terrace, and got a real sense of how New Yorkers escape into nature right in the middle of the city.

Heading Home

As our trip came to an end, we reluctantly made our way back to JFK for our flight home. This trip was everything I had hoped for and more. New York’s charm, energy, and vibrancy left a lasting impression, and I can’t wait to return.

If you’re planning a trip to New York, be sure to take your time and enjoy all the unique experiences the city has to offer – from world-class attractions to hidden gems, there’s something for everyone. And, as I learned, don’t always rely on the weather forecast – sometimes, the best surprises are the ones you don’t expect!