Spotlight on New York City Beyond the Bridges - Alternative

“Start spreading the news,” because today you arrive in America’s most exciting metropolis for a getaway filled with shopping, sightseeing, and endless entertainment. Relax as you enjoy a single-hotel stay in the heart of the city. There are no included activities today.

An exciting day begins with breakfast at a local eatery before embracing the city’s energy on a locally guided tour of the “Big Apple.” Find yourself in Central Park, on Fifth Avenue, in Greenwich Village, and Chinatown. See St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Rockefeller Center, and many other time-honored landmarks. Starting at 1:00 p.m., you’ll have three hours of free time this afternoon to discover the city at your own pace. Your Tour Manager has countless suggestions on how to spend your time. Maybe you are up for a shopping spree at some of the world’s most legendary department stores, including Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, and Saks Fifth Avenue. Later, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Then, take your seat at a Broadway show!

Enjoy breakfast at a local diner, then board a ferry for a cruise of New York Harbor. Take in the incredible views of the towering Statue of Liberty. Dock and get up-close to “Lady Liberty.” She has welcomed immigrants and visitors to New York Harbor since 1886. Created as a token of friendship between the U.S. and France, the Statue of Liberty has become a global symbol of freedom. Then, it’s on to Ellis Island. Step back in time on a self-guided tour of the museum. Come to know the personal stories of the immigration boom of 1892-1924 when 12 million people passed through this station on their journey to America. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore “the city that never sleeps.” Tonight, choose to join an optional walking tour of Greenwich Village including dinner.

This morning, drive through the Wall Street district on your way downtown. Reflect at the 9/11 Memorial and take a self-guided tour at the 9/11 Museum, two poignant tributes to the lives lost. This afternoon, the curtains rise for your second Broadway show. You’ll choose from a selection of Broadway’s biggest hits.* Later, gather for another night out in the city for dinner.

Enjoy a full day on your own today to explore the city. Visit a museum, take a walk in the park, go souvenir shopping, try a new restaurant — the possibilities are endless!

This morning, begin a Brooklyn adventure by heading downtown to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. Just over a mile long, this impressive structure is pedestrian-friendly with separate driving and walking levels. Look out from the bridge in awe of the skyscrapers and Statue of Liberty as you leave Manhattan behind and enter a new borough. Spend some time in the trendy, waterfront DUMBO neighborhood and explore Bridge Park with free time for lunch. Maybe you’ll try some famous Brooklyn pizza. Then, step inside the Brooklyn Seltzer Museum, located inside an active seltzer water factory, where you'll learn about a local, family-run business, the 2,400-year history of the fizzy drink, and its cultural impact in both New York City and around the world. Then, gather for dinner this evening and toast to the end of your "Big Apple" journey.

Your tour comes to a close with many memories of fabulous "New York, New York."