Why I love New York City

I love New York City for many reasons. Let me quickly define what I am talking about when I say NYC. While all the "City" is great, I'm going to focus on Manhattan.

Over the years I've gotten many chances to visit the city. Fall and early winter is an amazing time to visit, which I consider anytime from October until the first week after New Years Celebrations. There is nothing like stopping by Starbucks in Times Square and walking up from Midtown and through Central Park.

In future posts I will write more about the "stuff" that makes me love the city. Here is a quick list of places. Let's call it my "Top Ten" places to visit while in NYC.

1. The 21 Club - This is my favorite place to eat in the city. Over Thanksgiving weekend I proposed here during an amazing day. I recommend Upstairs at '21'. The Prix Fixe Dinner is a great menu. The atmosphere is "High Class", Romantic and Beautiful. I don't know if he is still there, but Chris use to manage the room and did an amazing job.

2. Bryant Park - This is a great park located between Times Square and Macy's. I love it for many reasons. One reason is The Pond. It's the only Free Skating Rink in NYC. They do charge for the skate rentals. Another reason I love Bryant Park are the Holiday Shops. They are great Artisan Shops. To enjoy the Pond and Shops you will want to visit after November.

3. Village Vanguard - Let's just say it's a Jazz Club with History. The atmosphere feels like a well worn in pair of gloves. Yeah, it's not in the best condition....but it feels perfect. They call this place the Carnegie Hall of Jazz.

4. New York Ballet - I saw the "Nutcracker" and it was incredible. Lincoln Center is the home of many of the best venues in the world. I really loved seeing the Nutcracker and would recommend seeing any of the Ballet performances at NYC Ballet. Only regret I have is not seeing more shows.

5. Times Square - Times Square is called "The Crossroads of the World". It has much to offer. While visiting you have to check out one of the many Broadway or Off Broadway shows. Right up the street is the home of Late Night with David Letterman. I haven't gotten to go see the show yet, but it's on my list of things to do before he retires.

6. The Cocoa Bar & Tea Salon: MarieBelle - They have two locations. I have only visited the on just east of Central Park on Madison Ave. They have the most amazing Hot Chocolate and Crepe sandwiches. I know it sounds crazy but try the Country-Style Turkey Crepe. It's kind of a hard place to find. Look for their sign and ring the bell to go upstairs. Very relaxed atmosphere.

7. Flatiron Building - This is my favorite building in New York City. It's been around since 1902. I love the design of this building.

8. Tiffany & Co. - This is a must visit to see fine jewelry. It's hard to explain how impressive Tiffany's is inside. You've gotta visit it to understand. Not only is it a "legend" in it's own right both in History and Pop Culture. How many places have a movie named after them? Enough said.

9. Rockefeller Center - Rockefeller Center is a fun place to visit. Not only can you stop by for the live broadcast of the Today Show, but you can check out one of the tours. The tours are a ton of fun. You get to see some "Magical" places on the tour. Many people go to visit the Empire State Building (Worth the Visit). Not as many people go to the "Top of the Rock" to view the city. Amazing views. Also, don't forget to go Ice Skating if your their during the winter. The Christmas tree is pretty impressive too!

10. Park Central - It may not be the best Hotel in NYC, but I really do like this hotel. It's got a great feel and price....and the rooms aren't a bad size for New York.

So there is my short list of places to visit while in the city. Here is a google map with some of my favorite places marked. I can't wait to go back soon. It's been way to long since my last visit. Look for more travel lists both of NYC and other places around the world.