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Empire State Building

I think it’s worth it to splurge on the express pass if you can; it's a time-saver. I saved nearly an hour, which I used for exploring the area.
Don’t forget to check out the exhibits on the 2nd floor while you wait for the elevator. They give you some cool insights into the building's history.

My advice is to visit around sunset. The views are absolutely magical and you'll get both day and nighttime city vibes in one go.

If you go on a weekday instead of the weekend, it’ll likely be less crowded. I went on a Tuesday and it was a totally different experience compared to the weekend.
Manhattan Sky Tour

If you're nervous about the helicopter ride, I recommend sitting in the front seat next to the pilot. It's less bumpy and you'll get the best view of everything! I really enjoyed my time up there.

My advice is to check for discount codes online before you go. I saved some bucks doing this and it made the experience even sweeter!

I suggest booking your flight in the late afternoon around 5 PM to catch the sunset. It's such a breathtaking view and you'll get the city lights twinkling as you land. Definitely a highlight for me!

Don’t forget your camera, but make sure to double-check their rules on photography. I missed some great shots because I was worried about guidelines
Madison Square Garden

I suggest arriving at least 1-2 hours before the event. Lines for security can get crazy, and you don’t wanna miss the pre-game excitement. Trust me, the atmosphere is electric!

I recommend taking the subway, especially after the event. Traffic gets nuts around the arena and waiting for rides can be a hassle. The 34th street station is super close and usually has trains running pretty frequently.

Don’t forget to check for parking deals close to the venue on the day of the event. I paid way too much! Grab a ride-share instead; it’s way easier and cheaper.

I think it’s smart to use the app for your tickets. Scanning at the gate was a breeze with my phone, and it saved me from fumbling with paper in the crowd.
Yankee Stadium
Take a stroll around the stadium before heading to your seats. The ambience and history are amazing, and I discovered some cool photo spots that I would have missed otherwise!

Check the schedule for kids' activities if you're bringing little ones. They loved the interactive zones! It kept them entertained before the game. Huge win for us!

If you're planning to eat at the stadium, grab a meal at the nearby restaurants before the game. I found the prices inside to be pretty steep, and the food options around are just as good, if not better.

Dress in layers! The weather can change quickly, and if you're sitting in the sun, it can get hot. I ended up sweating a ton, then freezing when the sun went down!
Indoor Extreme Sports Paintball & Laser Tag

I suggest trying the laser tag first if you’ve never played before. It’s easier to pick up and a lot of fun to get familiar with the mechanics!

If you can, bring your own snacks and drinks. The cafe can be pricey, and a little break with your own food really hits the spot!
Barclays Center

My advice is to grab food at one of the nearby restaurants before the game. The food inside can be pricey and not that great.

I think getting to your seats earlier can help—cheering the teams warm up is an awesome part of the experience that you won't want to miss!

Don't forget to check if there's a promo code for your tickets! I saved a bit on mine that way, which was a nice surprise.

I suggest bringing a small portable charger. Using your phone for pics and directions drains battery life, and you might miss out on moments.
Liberty Helicopters

I suggest opting for a 'fly over the Statue of Liberty' package. It's totally worth it for those stunning views, and you'll get the best photo ops.

My advice is to arrive at least 30 minutes early. It gives you time to soak in the atmosphere and get through any check-in lines without feeling rushed.

I recommend booking your flight a few days in advance. It can save you a good amount of cash compared to last-minute deals. Plus, you might score some nice promotional rates!

I think wearing a windbreaker is a smart move! The chopper can get pretty windy, and it's way more comfortable than freezing your butt off mid-flight
One World Trade Center

If you're looking for great sunset views try to be there around 6 PM. The colors are amazing and the crowds thinned out a bit later.

I think visiting during the weekdays is way better if you can swing it. The weekends were packed, making it harder to enjoy the view.

My advice is to really take your time at the observatory level. There’s so much to see and photograph, including the city skyline!

I suggest booking your tickets online ahead of time to skip the long lines. I went on a busy Saturday and regretted not doing that
Amsterdam Billiards Club

If you're new to billiards, ask for a house cue instead of renting one. They're usually in better shape, and it could save you a few bucks!

My advice is to check their schedule for any special events or tournaments before you go. Sometimes it's bustling with players and might not be the chill vibe you're looking for.

Bring cash! I found out the hard way that they have a minimum on cards for games, and it's way easier to pay with cash for food and drinks too.
If you're planning to grab food, I suggest coming before 7 PM to avoid the dinner rush. The kitchen closes early, so you’ll want to get in there before everyone flocks to the place for dinner.
Frames Bowling Lounge

I think bringing your own socks can save you some money. They charge for renting them, and it’s a small expense that adds up if you’re with a group
Try to arrive at around 5 PM for a good mix of crowds. It’s lively but not too packed, so you can enjoy the vibe without the crazy wait times.