Apollo Theatre

253 W 125th St, between 7th and 8th Ave, Harlem, NY 10027-4408 212-531-5337

Description: HARLEM. Home of the famous "Showtime" and "Amateur Night at the Apollo," this theater has a very rich history of bringing some of the most talented African-American performers to the stage. Interestingly enough, when the building first opened in 1913, it was a whites-only burlesque hall. But its purchase by the Shiffman and Brecher families in 1935 opened the stage for greats like Count Basie, Nat King Cole, Sammy Davis, Jr., Stevie Wonder and the Jackson Five. Today, the theater operates under nonprofit status and is still popular with young audiences for hosting fresh local and national talent. Tours are available for groups of 20 or more. Call 212-531-5337 to set up a date and time. TRAIN: A, B, C, D to 125th St
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Brooklyn Bridge

New York, NY 1002

Description: BROOKLYN. Spanning from the South Street Seaport to Brooklyn Heights, the famous Brooklyn Bridge has ushered New Yorkers across the East River since 1883. A must for any visitor to the Big Apple is to take the 30-plus minute, 3,455-foot walk across the bridge. The view you get of Manhattan is incredible, and it's easy to understand why decades of poets and painters have been fascinated by it. The great Walt Whitman even described the view from the bridge as the "most effective medicine my soul has yet partaken." TRAIN: A, C to High St; N, R to City Hall
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Chrysler Building

405 Lexington Ave, between 42nd and 43rd Sts, New York, NY 10174 212-682-3070

Description: MIDTOWN EAST. This Art Deco masterpiece briefly held the title of world's tallest building for some few months before the completion of the Empire State Building in 1931. It was originally built for the automotive icon's corporate offices, and today it still contains decorative pieces in automotive fashion, including eagle heads and hood ornament wings. Except for the glorious shiny steel needle crowning the structure, some would characterize the exterior of the building as simple. Yet, one step inside the lobby assures you a wonderful treat. Beautiful marble work, elevator doors displaying rare wood marquetry and chrome stair banisters make this 77-story, 1,048-foot building a beauty all its own. A mixture of city history and the building's magnificence keep this a beloved treasure. Unfortunately, the Chrysler Building does not offer an observation deck, but once you see all the great design work inside the lobby, be sure to walk down a few streets and look back. This combination is probably the best way to experience the building. TRAIN: 4,5,6,7 to Grand Central-42nd St
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Columbia University

Broadway at W 116th St, Visitor's Center, New York, NY 10027 212-854-4900

Description: MORNINGSIDE. Columbia is the oldest university in New York and one of the oldest in the United States. The university, originally known as King's College, received its charter in 1754, and among its first legendary graduates were Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, Robert R. Livingston and Gouverneur Morris. Noteworthy sites include the statue "Alma Mater" in the main courtyard, Pupin Hall and Hamilton Hall, the setting of the turbulent student demonstrations in the late 1960s. TRAIN: 1, 9 to 116th St
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Edgar Allan Poe Cottage

2460 Grand Concourse, Poe Park, New York, NY 10458 718-881-8900

Description: BRONX. The last home of America's first, and perhaps greatest, gothic writer, this Colonial-style cottage is located in an area that was once known as Fordham Park. The home, which dates from 1812, served as Edgar Allan and Virginia Clemm-Poe's home until she died of tuberculosis in 1847. Among the Poe memorabilia you'll see here are original manuscripts, personal items and a unique collection of antique furniture. TRAIN: D, 4 to Kingsbridge Rd
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Empire State Building

350 5th Ave, at 34th St, New York, NY 10118 212-736-3100

Description: GARMENT DISTRICT. One of the world's most famous skyscrapers is easily recognized by its strong, slender ascent into the NY sky. The building opened in 1931 at a cost of $41 million after about a year of construction, making it the fastest development of any major skyscraper (4.5 stories per week). At 1,450 feet and currently the ninth tallest building in the world, this landmark soars more than a quarter mile into the Manhattan atmosphere. Observation decks are on the 86th and 102nd floors. The lower deck is probably the better spot for the best views. On clear days, there can be an amazing 80-mile visibility. The upper deck is good too, just smaller and glassed in. Mornings are less crowded, yet the views at night can be magical. You can bank, shop, send a postcard or have a cup of coffee ­ all within the building. Also available is a virtual trip around the city on the New York Skyride, an exciting thrill-ride simulated helicopter experience. In the lobby, special concerts and art exhibits are offered at various times throughout the year. If you are observing the Empire from another building, you may notice on occasion that the top 30 stories are illuminated by colored lights. Since 1976, varying color combinations have served as a New York City-style Empire celebration of different holidays. TRAIN: 6 to 33rd St; B, D, F, N, Q, R to 34th St
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Federal Hall National Monument

26 Wall St, New York, NY 10005 212-825-6990

Description: FINANCIAL DISTRICT. Where the historic Customs House (1834) now stands was once a building that served as the setting for some of the most significant events in our country's early history. The Federal Hall was the site of the swearing-in of George Washington as the country's first President on April 30, 1789. Today, a statue commemorates the place and date of this event. The first Congress also met here until 1790 and drafted the Bill of Rights. After the capital moved to Philadelphia in 1790, the building served as city hall until its demolition in 1812. TRAIN: 2, 3, 4, 5 to Wall St
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Fort Tryon Park

Fort Washington Ave, at Margaret Corbin Cir, New York, NY 10040

Description: INWOOD. The 60-plus acre park surrounding historic Fort Tryon, one of the last strongholds to resist the British invasion of New York in 1776, offers spectacular views of the Hudson River and the George Washington Bridge. The park itself is a beautiful landscape filled with trees, lawns and rock gardens designed by Frederick Law. In the fall of each year, Fort Tryon Park hosts the Medieval Festival, during which the park is transformed into a medieval market town. TRAIN: A to 190th St
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Grand Central Terminal

87 E 42nd St, at Park Ave, New York, NY 10017 212-532-4900

Description: MIDTOWN EAST. Said to be "Manhattan's only remaining great gateway," Grand Central Terminal (not "station" as it is so often mistakenly called) is a magnificent example of art meeting functionality. Visible on the south side of 42nd Street is a grand beaux arts façade with three high arched windows separated by pairs of fluted columns. At the top is a beautiful clock and crowning sculpture of Transportation (Minerva, Mercury and Hercules statues). Inside the terminal, gold and nickel plated chandeliers hang from light blue ceilings covered with celestial mapping that displays the zodiac constellations (major stars even glow with fiber optic lighting). A new marble staircase on the east end of the main concourse was modeled after the Garnier stair at the Paris Opera. Sixty integrated railroad tracks act as a transport hub for over 500,000 people daily, including commuters from Connecticut and New Jersey. The lower level offers dining and retail shops. In addition to the travel concourse, Vanderbilt Hall is a part of the terminal and makes 12,000 square feet of space available for special events. Arts for Transit, a unique program hosted by the New York Transit Department, encourages the placement of art and musical performance in public transportation areas. Free public tours are given on Wednesdays & Fridays at 12:30pm.
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Historic Richmond Town

441 Clarke Ave, Staten Island, NY 10306 718-351-1611

Description: STATEN ISLAND. Take a step back through time when you visit Historic Richmond Town, a settlement that dates back to the 17th century. This living museum offers glimpses of colonial buildings, furnishings, and tools ­ much of it original. Highlights of the tour include stops at the Courthouse, the Stephens-Black House and General Store with their authentic period décor, and the home where Elizabeth Lake Tysen was born. Historic Richmond Town also hosts numerous family-oriented events and festivals throughout the year.
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South Street Seaport

Fulton & South Sts, Pier 17, New York, NY 10038-2101 212-732-7678

Description: FINANCIAL DISTRICT. The South Street Seaport, a neat collection of pedestrian malls, shops, cafés and galleries, offers visitors a glimpse into New York's maritime past. The district, located on the East River, spans over 10 blocks and includes structures that were once counting houses, warehouses and artisan shops. The South Street Seaport Museum boasts several original 19th century vessels among its unique collection. The District's visitor center is located at 12-14 Fulton Street. TRAIN: 2, 3, 4, 5 to Fulton St
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St. Paul's Chapel

209 Broadway, New York, NY 10007-2977 212-233-4164

Description: FINANCIAL DISTRICT. Under the proprietorship of Trinity Church, St. Paul's is the oldest church on Manhattan Island. This beautiful Georgian structure, dating from the 1760s, is a proud reminder of New York's past and stands in stark contrast to the modern office buildings and skyscrapers surrounding it. Inside the chapel, little has changed over the past few hundred years, including George Washington's pew and the original Waterford chandeliers. On Mondays from noon to 1pm, the chapel hosts classical music programs. "Unwavering Spirit" is an interactive exhibit that chronicles the role the church played after the terrorist attacks of September 11th, 2001. Trivia fact: St. Paul's Chapel was constructed using stones quarried in Manhattan. TRAIN: 2, 3, 4, 5, J, M, Z to Fulton St; A, C to Broadway-Nassau St
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Statue of Liberty / Ellis Island

New York Harbor, New York, NY 10004 212-363-3200

Description: These two sights represent freedom for millions of people, and the Statue of Liberty, a 450,000 pound gift from the people of France, is a must-see for anyone visiting the Big Apple. Access to the islands is via a Circle Lines ferry, and a (free) timed pass is required. Ranger-led tours detail the history and technical aspects of the statue. Inside the base of Lady Liberty you'll find a number of exhibits and concessions, and from the observation deck the city and harbor views are unbeatable. Circle Lines recommends that guests arrive at least two hours in advance of their scheduled departure time. Reservations are essential ­ call 866-882-8834 or visit www.statuereservations.com.
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The Cloisters

99 Margaret Corbin Dr, Fort Tryon Park, New York, NY 10040-7503 212-923-3700

Description: INWOOD. Home to the Metropolitan Museum of Art's medieval collection, this North Manhattan museum resembles an Old World monastery. Four reconstructed cloisters make up the complex, and each contains sculptures, fountains, and artwork donated by the Rockefeller families and others. A tour highlight includes the Saint-Michel-de-Cuxa Cloister, containing half of the original's Romanesque capitals and its beautiful rose marble fountain. The Trie-en-Bigorre Cloister, known as the Unicorn Tapestries Hall, is noteworthy for its exquisite 15th- and 16th-century tapestries. TRAIN: A to Dyckman St
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The Villard Houses at the New York Palace Hotel

455 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10022 212-888-7000

Description: MIDTOWN EAST. New York's luxurious Palace Hotel has a secret. Although much of the hotel looks sleek and modern, the historic 1882 Villard Houses actually make up the public areas and surround the picturesque courtyard, giving the Palace a graceful blend of Renaissance-style charm and contemporary style. The Villard Houses were once six individual mansions, whose unique design was inspired by Rome's Palazzo della Cancelleria. TRAIN: B, D, F, Q to 47-50th Sts
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Top of the Rock

30 Rockefeller Plz, Rockefeller Center, 70th fl, New York, NY 10012 212-698-2000

Description: MIDTOWN WEST. First premiered in 1933 (and shuttered from 1986 till 2005), Rockefeller Center's lofty observation deck again mesmerizes visitors with panoramic city views. The multi-tiered platform occupies the 67th to 70th floors, and encased in glass, it affords a spectacular vista of Central Park, the Empire State Building, Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, and much more. Historic exhibits in the lobby provide background on the structure, and the ascent in a glass-topped elevator is a special treat. Although the deck closes at midnight, visitors are last admitted at 11pm. Reserved-time tickets ensure that crowds are small and may be booked online or by phone. An entrance dedicated solely to the observation deck is located on West 50th between Fifth and Sixth Avenues. TRAIN: B, D, F, V to Rockefeller Center 47-50th St. Station
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United Nations Headquarters

3 United Nations Plz, New York, NY 10017-4414 212-963-8687

Description: MIDTOWN EAST. An approach from Grand Central offers the best view of this immense complex ­ a place where the representatives of more than 185 nations join together in an effort to preserve international security and promote worldwide peace. Tours of the grounds include the General Assembly and the Conference Building, which contains the chambers of the Security Council, Trusteeship Council and Economic and Social Council. Advance ticket reservations for groups of 12 or more can be procured by calling 212-963-4400. Children under 5 not admitted. TRAIN: 4, 5, 6, 7 to Grand Station
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Wave Hill

W 249th St & Independence Ave, Bronx, NY 10471 718-549-3200

Description: BRONX. In the mid-1960s, this surreal 28-acre estate, welcomed the public for the first time. What those visitors discovered was a piece of history unique in the Big Apple: beautiful Glyndor House, Georgian Revival-style home overlooking the Hudson River, and the Greek Revival-style Wave Hill House, both of which are surrounded by rolling meadows, serene woodlands and well-preserved gardens and courtyards. The homes have had a veritable who's who of residents, including the Roosevelt Family (1870) and Mark Twain (1901). After touring the grounds, plan to take lunch at the Wave Hill Café, which offers breathtaking views of the Hudson River and Palisades. TRAIN: 1, 9 to 231st St
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Woolworth Building

233 Broadway, New York, NY

Description: FINANCIAL DISTRICT. Commissioned by chain store mogul Frank W. Woolworth, this brilliant 60-story example of early 19th century neo-gothic architecture is still something to behold even though it's overshadowed by some of New York's modern edifices. The building, designed and built by Cass Gilbert, was known as the "Cathedral of Commerce" for several years due to its ornamental gargoyles, flying buttresses, and ornate lobby. There is no organized tour of the building. TRAIN: N, R to City Hall
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Yankee Stadium

161st Street and River Ave, New York, NY 10451 718-579-4531

Description: BRONX. The Empire State Building. Central Park. The Statue of Liberty. Yankee Stadium. Few sights define the Big Apple as well as these. The historic "House that Ruth Built," which dates from the Roaring '20s, has been the stage for some of the game's greatest performers and singular events: Lou Gehrig's famous retirement speech and the on-field exploits the Babe, Joe DiMaggio and M & M Boys, Mr. October and the heroes of today. Watching a game here is a must for any sports fan, as is taking a stroll through the hallowed Monument Park, where the greatest Pin-Stripers are honored. Guided stadium tours available; reservations required for group tours. NB 2008 is the last year for tours at the current Yankee Stadium. In April 2009, the doors will open to their new complex. TRAIN: 4, D, C to 161st St
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