When living in New York City, it can be very easy to forget to enjoy some of the most famous and most treasured sites of the city. The Big Apple is a place that millions of people visit every year, but they have a very different experience than those who call the city home. There are many places that are only known to locals, such as the 25 foot waterfall located on 51st street in between 2nd and 3rd avenue and browsing the endless stacks of books at the Strand Bookstore.

It doesn't matter who you are, or what job you have. Whether you're a high flying lawyer, a successful professional poker player, or a Wall Street Trader, there's no place like home - especially when it is New York City. This sentiment is encapsulated by other New Yorkers, who said there is nothing quite like New York's mix of yellow taxis, skyscrapers, crowds of people, and unique food. Many millions more New Yorkers echo this love for the city.

Of course, it is the locals who know it best, so here are some of their favorite places to visit in the city.

Central Park

Central Park is one of the most treasured places in the city. It is so big that it is possible to stand within it and not even see the legendary skyline that surrounds it. The park is loved by locals who enjoy walking, skating, bicycle riding, and jogging through the park as part of their exercise routine. The endless benches are used by locals to meet and chat, sharing stories with friends and complete strangers alike.

The 843-acre park is home to a boating lake and carousel, as well as many seasonal activities, such as an ice-skating rink on the Wollman Rink in winter and outdoor movie theatre in the summer. Central Park is universally loved because it is a refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city, providing a tranquil contrast right in the heart of Manhattan.

The High Line

The High Line is another garden space within the center of the city, but it is unlike Central Park in many ways. Firstly, it is much smaller, measuring just one mile in length and being considerably narrower. Secondly, it is elevated up in the air, on what used to be part of the New York Central Railroad.

The park begins on Gansevoort Street and ends at 34th Street, traveling through the district of Chelsea. It was opened in sections, beginning in 2009 with the latest part in 2019 and has a lift and ramp access at multiple points along its route. Thanks to its elevated position, it offers fantastic views of the city, especially at sunset, within a beautifully landscaped park.

Catch a Basketball Game

New Yorkers love their sport, with many going to watch baseball games. New York is home to one of the most famous basketball names, the New York Knicks. However, its other NBA team, the Brooklyn Nets, is performing much better at the moment. Whilst the Knicks are currently considered the least likely to win their conference, the Nets are currently 4th favorite. If the Nets can make it to the top of the Eastern Conference they will compete against the winner of the Western Conference in the NBA Finals. Based on current odds, this will likely be either the Los Angeles Clippers or Lakers.

The Knicks play their games at the famous Madison Square Garden stadium, so even if you are not into basketball you may want to go and check out this famous New York landmark. 

St Patrick’s Cathedral

Taking up an entire city block, the 135-year-old St Patrick’s Cathedral can accommodate up to 2,200 people inside. Its Neo-Gothic style architecture, stained glass windows, and sheer size have made it a major landmark within the city. It contrasts against the modern architecture that is built right across the city and, like Central Park and the High Line, provides a sanctuary of peace for New Yorkers wanting to escape the chaos of the busy streets outside.

The cathedral holds events each day and organizes regular special music events set within the building.

New York is a fantastic city, providing round the clock excitement and a fast pace of life. Whilst this can be exhilarating, everyone needs to relax and unwind sometimes. New York has plenty of opportunities for this too, whether it is enjoying a baseball game, admiring the beauty of Central Park, enjoying the sunset from the elevated High Line, or taking in the beautiful architecture of St Patrick’s Cathedral. 

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