New York City: An Introduction

New York City is one of the most populated and busy cities in the world. It has long been a center for trade, fashion, entertainment, culture, business and more. Several months would probably be required to fully explore all the attractions and sites that the city has to offer, but that doesn’t mean a shorter trip to NYC isn’t possible. With so many activities and attractions offered, nearly any type of tour is possible. NYC is a great destination for senior class trips, or for student trips and even field trips. Consider planning a group tour to New York City and get in on the excitement waiting to be found in the “City that Never Sleeps.”

Tourism is an important part of NYC’s economy, which is understandable due to the fact that several of the most well known sites in America can be found here. The most famous sites to see in clued the Statue of Liberty, the Empire Sate Building and Ellis Island. Students will also enjoy visiting a museum, perhaps the famous Metropolitan Museum of Art which is home to over 2 million works of art. If the weather is nice take a stroll through Central Park, the New York Botanical Garden, or the Bronx Zoo. NYC is also a huge Center for Performing Arts, and features some of the most prestigious groups in America including the Metropolitan Opera, the New York Philharmonic and the New York City Ballet. There are also any number of jazz performances from a concert hall to a nightclub, and multiple venues for punk, rock, pop and indie bands, both popular and underground. Or course, many people want to take in a show on Broadway, the name referring to any of the 39 theaters located on 42^nd street.

Your group will immediately notice the presence of many different cultures. New York City was a hub for immigration in the 19^th century, and as a result contains many different cultures. There is a large Jewish, Italian, Asian, Irish and Indian populations and often the neighborhoods in which these cultures reside feature food and shopping experiences that will make student educational tours feel as if they’ve stepped into another world. Be sure to experience some of these cultures whether by trying new foods, or simply soaking in the atmosphere.

New York City is notorious for its traffic jams, so rather than taking a bus, your group should consider alternate methods of travel. Most people in NYC don’t even own cars, and prefer to take the subway. NYC’s subway system is one of the most extensive rapid transit systems in the world, and is conveniently open 24 hours a day. The city also houses an extensive bus fleet, a commuter rail, and many taxicabs, but be warned that the cabs will require sitting in traffic and can also be rather expensive. If your group doesn’t mind walking plan to visit attractions that are relatively close together.

Students will find the energy and excitement that permeates New York City fascinating. From live music shows to historical sites, this city is sure to please. Whether for student educational tours or senior class trips, consider making New York City the destination.