HackCville NYC 2020: The Ultimate City Guide
Hey HackCvillians!
If you plan on going on the New York spring break trip you’ll have quite a bit of free time in the city (score!) so here’s a guide on a few really cool spots to check out. There’s three sections depending on if you’re feeling touristy for the New York Newbie, adventurous for the Seasoned New Yorker, or just plain tired of walking for things-to-do Near the Hotel. We also have some Events that are going on in the city during our startup trip that you should definitely take advantage of. Whatever you decide, you’re sure to have an absolute blast in the Big Apple. Enjoy!
New York Newbie:
New to New York? Here are some of the city’s staples to check off the bucket list…
The Empire State Building:
- The Empire State building takes the crown as the coolest lookout spot in New York City. Get an amazing view of the city and experience the history of the building on the 86th Floor. 360 degree views with indoor and outdoor promenades ensure a highly memorable experience.
- Access to the main deck and 2nd floor museum costs $42 per ticket.
The 9/11 Memorial and Museum: (Free!)
- The memorial gives visitors a chance to pay their respects and see how the World Trade Center has reinvented itself since 2001. You can also learn more about the September 11 attacks and reflect on their continuing impact and significance in the museum.
- The memorial is free and open to the public and it only costs $20 per ticket inside the Museum with a valid university ID.
Central Park: (Free too!)
- In need of a break from the concrete jungle? Check out Central Park. Known as the “lungs of New York,” Central Park is an ideal spot to unwind, exercise, and immerse yourself in nature. And the best part? It’s totally free!
The High Line: (Also Free!)
- The High Line has proved to be one of the city’s most beloved spots. The city transformed an old railway into an elevated green-space that’s open to the public. Spanning 1.5 miles above New York, the walk features art exhibits, gardens, overlooks, and more. And again- totally free!
- There are various entrance points concentrated around 20th Street, check out this website with their exact locations.
The Seasoned New Yorker:
For the person that has been to New York (or our NYC startup trip🤗) a dozen times and has seen it all, here are some hidden spots that could offer you a new perspective on the city…
Top of the Rock:
- If you’ve already been to the Empire State Building but are looking for another incredible view check out the Top of the Rock, an observation deck set 70 stories above Rockefeller center. Here you’ll be able to take in 360 degree views of New York staples like Central Park and the Empire State Building.
- Tickets are only $25 per person, which is well worth those skyline pics!
City Hall Station: (Sort of free!)
- If you’re riding the #6 subway downtown, try staying on after the last stop at the Brooklyn Bridge. Before changing directions, the subway passes by one of the most legendary hidden spots in NYC- City Hall Station. Almost perfectly preserved since 1904, the station is like a time capsule from a rather elegant era. But be careful, staying on the subway is heavily frowned upon so you’ll have to be slick.
Grand Central Terminal Whispering Spot: (Free!)
- Imagine our Whispering Wall here on grounds but much bigger and in New York. That’s what’s hidden in plain sight at Grand Central Terminal. Their whispering spot is the archway right outside of Oyster Bar & Restaurant in the dining concourse. When two people stand on opposite ends of the arch they can talk into the wall and hear each other, but you all know the drill.
Near the Hotel:
There’s no way to avoid a crazy amount of walking in New York, but here are some places that aren’t too far from the hotel…
MOMA PS1: (last time.. FREE!)
- It’s like the MOMA but more quirky, less mainstream, and completely free. This museum is also one of the largest art institutions that’s dedicated solely to contemporary art. It’s only a 15 minute walk from the hotel and it doesn’t cost a cent so go take a look at some really sweet art.
Sapps:
- Sapps is a Japanese and sushi restaurant — that’s only a 7 minute walk from the hotel. They are also known for their funky decor that is sure to spice up your next Instagram post. But if you don’t want to take even one more step … good news — they also deliver!
Waheyo:
- Another restaurant that is only a 4 minute walk from the hotel. Waheyo specializes in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. Be sure to get here early or make a reservation because it’s a super popular spot.
Events:
After long days of sightseeing, take a load off with some of these cool events happening during the startup trip in the city…
New Jersey Devils at New York Rangers Game:
- Check out the New York, New Jersey rivalry first hand at a hockey game at Madison Square Garden on March 7th at 7pm. Tickets get pricey the longer you wait so book sooner rather than later.
A Broadway Show:
- Usually you can get really great deals on ticket prices for shows on the day-of, so stop by a box office to check them out. Keep an eye on prices for The Lion King (3/7 and 3/8), Mrs. Doubtfire (3/9), Chicago (3/7), and Wicked (3/8).
Lower East Side Pub Crawl:
- Aka New York’s Elliewood Block Party…? If you’re over 21 or “over 21”, then you can enjoy the Lower East Side’s annual Pub Crawl. Pubs, bars, and clubs in the area will be having incredible drink deals and guest DJs. If you reserve a ticket you access VIP treatment with no lines, free shots, and the ability to explore NYC’s hottest three level rooftop bar. It all happens on March 7th starting at 9pm, the perfect start to your spring break.
