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Statue of Liberty
My advice is to visit during the week if you can. I went on a Saturday and the crowds were insane. It felt more rushed than relaxing.
I suggest taking the audio tour when you're on Liberty Island. It added so much to the experience and I felt like I was really learning about the history there.
Times Square
If you can, try to visit around 8 AM. The crowds are way smaller, and you can snap some great photos without too many people in the background.
Be cautious of street performers. They can be engaging, but some might ask for money after taking a pic with you. Enjoy them, but set boundaries!
Plan your bathroom breaks at the nearby McDonald's or fast food places. Public restrooms are tough to find, and those spots can help you avoid a long search.
Rockefeller Center
I wish I had known to wear comfy shoes. There’s a lot of walking and standing, especially if you want to explore the surrounding Rockefeller Plaza and catch the seasonal decorations or events
I recommend visiting during the weekdays, especially early in the morning around 9 am to avoid the weekend crowds. It's way more chill and you can actually enjoy the views without jostling for space.
While the observation deck is a must-do, I suggest also taking a walk around the area. The shops, including the famous Radio City Music Hall, are great, but keep an eye out for street performers. They can be really entertaining.
My advice is to time your visit around sunset. There's nothing like seeing the city turn from vibrant lights to twinkling stars, but book your ticket in advance to get that prime time!
Pier 39
Fremont Walking Alley
I recommend grabbing the famous shrimp cocktail at the Golden Nugget. It’s a tasty treat and won’t break the bank!
Santa Monica Pier
Don't forget to explore the beach! The sand is wonderful for a leisurely stroll and the ocean view is a perfect backdrop for your photos.
I recommend timing your visit around sunset. The views from the pier are absolutely breathtaking, and it’s a great time to grab some photos.
I suggest visiting on a weekday if you can. The weekend crowds are no joke, and it’s way more chill to enjoy the pier without all the hustle.
Golden Gate Bridge
Don’t forget to bring a jacket! It gets really windy on the bridge, and even if it’s warm in the city, it can be chilly up there.
I suggest visiting during the week if you can. The weekends get super crowded, and I found it much more enjoyable with fewer people around.
The Brooklyn Bridge
My advice is to wear comfortable shoes. It's a longer stroll than it looks, and your feet will thank you by the end!
If you're planning to take photos, I suggest heading to the Brooklyn side before sunset for magical lighting. The skyline at dusk is awesome.
Lincoln Memorial
Wear comfy shoes! You’ll probably end up walking a lot more than you think, especially if you decide to explore the nearby National Mall afterward
Check out the reflection pool in front of the memorial. It's super photogenic, especially around sunset, so don’t miss it for great Instagram shots.
Consider visiting on a weekday rather than the weekend to dodge some of the bigger tourist crowds; it makes for a much smoother experience.
Pike Place Market Foundation
For a budget-friendly experience, I suggest exploring the lower levels of the market. There are some indie shops and food stalls that are way cheaper than the main ones.
I think checking the weather before you go is key. If it’s drizzly, you’ll want a good umbrella; some areas are covered, but you’ll still want to be prepared!
Check out the seasonal events. I stumbled upon a fresh flower festival during my visit, which was a lovely surprise and made for great photos.
I recommend bringing cash. Some vendors only accept cash, and you can often get better deals that way. My debit card was a hassle at several places.