New York City is the world’s leading metropolis that finds its way to every traveler’s bucket list. You finally booked a trip, and now it’s time to develop a vacation plan while you eagerly await for your holiday to begin.

However, there are so many things to see and do in NYC that it might seem almost impossible to incorporate everything. So, let’s explore the best spots for different traveler types to help you optimize your itinerary.

For Couples

NYC is as versatile as it gets, offering something for every couple. You could put together a long list of date ideas, and it would tick all the boxes. Here are some top localities for romance in the Big Apple.

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden
This serene oasis reaches the fairytale peak during the spring period when it sees over 70 cherry trees blossoming. It’s gorgeous any time of the year, though. The Rose Garden is a couple’s must-visit.

Ditmas Park
The Victorian-era houses in this peaceful neighborhood are downright breath-taking. Ditmas Park is the ideal place for a comfortable stroll after a noisy city life tour.

The Empire State Building
It might seem like a cliche, but this monument is so famous for a good reason. You’ll see once you’re standing there hand-in-hand, enjoying a view that’s oh-so-Sleepless-in-Seattle.

The Bow Bridge
Central Park’s Bow Bridge is an ideal backdrop for the sweetest romantic moments.

The Lincoln Center
After a world-class play, ballet, or opera, sit beside the Revson Fountain and enjoy the water shows while discussing your impressions.

For Friends
If you’re visiting with friends, you’re likely to spend the day coming up with new ideas for selfie poses on Times Square and touring the quintessential museums during the day. The nighttime offers a bustling atmosphere that paints NYC in a whole new light.

The Speakeasy Walking Tour
The Prohibition gave birth to numerous concealed bars and breweries. While drinking alcohol is legal for adults today, there’s a certain thrill to sneaking through a hidden entrance to access the speakeasies scattered across the city.

A Nightclub Tour
If you find it hard to decide which bar to hit first, why would you force yourself to make the call anyway?

The five-hour tours take you bar hopping, VIP-style, with complimentary drinks and tables reserved in advance.

The Brooklyn Bowl
Alcohol, bowling, and music are the name of the game at the Brooklyn Bowl. The professional DJs who work there on weekends are brilliant, creating an authentic NYC experience.

For Families
Despite its reputation as ‘the city that never sleeps,’ New York has a lot to offer to families, too. So, if you’re traveling with kids, don’t miss these entertaining, educational locations.

Bus Tours
First-time visitors often find organized bus tours a great way to see multiple attractions in one sitting. The bus stops by every landmark, giving you the flexibility to hop off and explore when something seems appealing.

Ellis Island
Take a ferry ride to the Liberty Isle and climb up the crown if you’re feeling fancy. Afterward, pay a visit to the Ellis Immigration Museum for an engaging history lesson.

The Natural History Museum
Your kids will love the dinosaur fossils, animal dioramas, and gemstones while learning a bit about all the wonders of the natural world.

Madame Tussauds
The iconic wax sculptures are another must-see. The stunning replicas from pop culture and history are fantastic year-round, but it gets even better if you happen to come around the time of a special exhibit.

The Central Park
You can’t visit New York without spending some time exploring the lush greenery located in the center.

The Bottom Line
Finally, remember that you won’t get to see everything during your vacation. Unless you have an unlimited budget and several free weeks, you’ll miss out on some locations due to the sheer size of New York City.

That doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy yourself to the maximum, though. Think about all the things you’d like to do and plan your trip around those locations and activities. Use these ideas as inspiration and make each day count. Check out these vacation rental properties in New York.

This article was provided by Rebecca Alston.