m'digital nomad

Hey! In June 2023 we spent an incredible 48 hours in New York City, here to tell you all about our adventure. So, grab your favorite snack, settle down, and let’s dive into Day 1!

But before some practical information: We stayed 2 nights at Element Times Square West, located on 311 West 39th street, a very good value hotel ($370 for 2 nights). We bought a New York city pass to take in all the attractions.

No more talking – Touchdown NY:

We landed bright and early at 8 AM and hopped on a train straight to the city’s action-packed center. First stop on our list? Times Square! I’ll be honest – it’s super busy and can be a bit too much at first. But, it’s one of those places you’ve just got to see. It’s where the city feels most alive, especially with those huge billboards that light up everything like daytime, even at night!

Did you know Times Square wasn’t always the buzzing place full of lights and ads we see now? It got its name back in 1904 when The New York Times newspaper decided to move their office there. That’s when it started to become the lively spot it is today.

After soaking in the bright lights, we took a relaxed walk over to Rockefeller Center. We were there during Pride Week, and the whole place was covered in rainbow flags. It felt so happy and welcoming! Rockefeller Center has its own cool story, too. It was built back in 1939, and not everyone thought it was a good idea at the time. But look at it now – it’s an important part of the city, showing off what New York is all about: bouncing back and dreaming big.

Often referred to as the city’s green heart, we headed to Central Park for some nature. It’s like a big green escape in the middle of the city. The trees are huge, and you can see squirrels everywhere. It’s the perfect spot to just sit back, relax, and watch all sorts of people walking by.

Our original plan included a visit to the Museum of Natural History, a treasure located just at the park’s edge. The museum promises an adventure through time, from the age of dinosaurs to the depths of the ocean, and even out into the far reaches of space. It’s a place where history and science come alive, captivating the minds of those who wander its halls. Sadly, time wasn’t on our side, and we had to postpone exploring its vast collections for another day. Yet, it remains high on my list of recommendations. As you exit Central Park, it’s hard to miss, and it’s an experience I urge you not to skip.

Info: The Museum of Natural History is included in all tourist passes, such as the New York City Pass. | Classic tickets cost €30 per person and give access to all the museum’s permanent exhibitions. | The Museum of Natural History is open from Wednesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 17:30.

When it got late, we went back to our hotel and decided to have dinner at this place called Anejo in the Hell’s Kitchen area. It’s all about Mexican food there. The tacos were amazing, and they had these drinks that were just so good. If you love Mexican dishes, this restaurant will make you very happy.

To round off our day, although a little tired, we went up to the Monarch’s roof. The view? Simply breathtaking, with the Empire State Building standing out majestically against the night sky. It’s a very crowded place, so it’s best to book if you plan to go after 8pm.

Summary of the day’s sights: 

• Times Square 

• Rockefeller Center

• Central Park 

• Museum of Natural History

Day 2 in New York City

We got up at 9 AM on our second day and went straight to the Empire State Building. Standing at 381 meters, the Empire State Building was the tallest skyscraper in the world and in New York until the twin towers of the World Trade Center were built in 1973.

The view from the top was incredible. We spent a lot of time just looking at the city spread out below us, each part telling its own story.

Info: The Empire State Building is included in all tourist passes, such as the New York City Pass. | The Empire State Building is open daily from 8am to 2am. Last elevator departures are at 1:15 a.m. | The standard adult ticket for the 86th floor observatory is €47. It costs €82 to go up to the 102nd floor, rising to €109 to see the sunrise.

After that, we walked around Hudson Yards. It’s a new part of town with really modern buildings and some cool places to shop and hang out.

Our next stop was Pier 86, where we explored the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. If you have an interest in military and maritime history, this place is worth a visit. With a collection of aircraft and the USS Intrepid aircraft carrier, it offered insights into aviation and naval technology. The museum has been open since 1982. Prior to that, the aircraft carrier was used in the Second World War in the Pacific Ocean and in the Vietnam War.

Info: The Intrepid Sea, Air, Space Museum is included in all tourist passes, such as the New York City Pass. |The museum is open daily from from 10:00 to 17:00. | The price of admission if you don’t have a NYC Pass is €33 for adults.

Feeling hungry, we returned to Hell’s Kitchen and had a meal at Valla Table. The restaurant served up tasty Thaï dishes, making it a pleasant discovery on our part.

Afterward, we decided to walk along the High Line. This elevated park is built on a historic freight rail line and offers a quiet escape from the city streets. Our walk led us to Little Island, a small public park that stands out due to its distinctive design.

As evening approached, we ventured down to Wall Street. Standing in front of the New York Stock Exchange, we took in the atmosphere of this financial hub. A photo with the Charging Bull statue was a must, even though it required a bit of waiting in line.

We concluded our day with a visit to Chinatown. The neighborhood was lively, but the dining experience there didn’t quite meet our expectations this time around! Nevertheless, it was an interesting way to wrap up a day full of exploration.

Summary of the day’s sights:

• Empire State Building
• Hudson Yards
• Intrepid Museum of Sea, Air and Space
• High Line and Little Island
• Wall Street and Charging Bull
• Chinatown

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, I invite you to consider these highlights as the beginning of what New York has to offer. Let the city’s energy inspire you to explore further, dive deeper into its neighborhoods and discover your own New York stories.