Statue of Liberty (Photo: Envato)
"Start spreading the news, I'm leaving today. I want to be a part of it, New York, New York." Frank Sinatra's iconic lines capture the essence of the excitement and allure that New York City holds for many, especially for those seeking a kosher vacation in the heart of the urban jungle. The Big Apple, hailed as the number one city on Conde Nast Traveler's list of The 9 Most Visited Cities in the United States, is a melting pot of culture, cuisine, and unmatched experiences. Whether you're jetting in from the other side of the globe or journeying from closer to home, Manhattan awaits with open arms.
For the kosher traveler, New York City is nothing short of paradise. Boasting possibly the largest selection of kosher dining options outside of Israel, the city's restaurant scene offers a variety of flavors and traditions. From cozy cafes and bustling bakeries to gourmet pizza, fast food, sushi, upscale dairy restaurants, and sumptuous steakhouses, New York caters to every palate. And for those looking for plant-based dining, the vegetarian and vegan offerings are just as plentiful and exciting.
Eyal Shani, the famous Michelin-starred Israeli chef, runs several must-visit kosher spots in New York. If you want to eat at Malka, his popular Upper West Side restaurant, then plan to make your reservation well in advance. If you can’t get a reservation then you can always try Miznon in Midtown Manhattan. It serves Shani's unique Israeli dishes, no reservation needed. Another notable mention is Le Marais, a veteran in the kosher dining scene and the only kosher establishment to grace Eater New York's list of The Best Steakhouses in New York City. With an abundance of options, our directory of kosher restaurants in NYC is an invaluable resource. Make sure to utilize our "kosher nearby" feature so you can coordinate your dining plans with your exploration of the city's sights and attractions.
But let's not forget, this guide isn't solely for the out-of-towner. New York's residents often overlook the treasures hidden in plain sight. Whether you've called New York home for years or are just passing through, take the opportunity to rediscover the city. Being a tourist in your own city can offer a fresh perspective on the familiar, revealing the layers that make New York the unforgettable city it is. Your kosher vacation in New York City awaits you!
Central Park (Photo: Envato)
Discovering New York: Free Gems to Luxe Experiences
New York City, a sprawling metropolis, offers a kaleidoscope of experiences that cater to varying interests and budgets. From serene parks and historic walks to the grandeur of its most iconic buildings and museums, the city is an open invitation to explore, learn, and be entertained. Whether you're looking to enjoy the city without breaking the bank or indulging in its more luxurious attractions, New York has something special for everyone.
Free Finds: Exploring NYC on a Budget
- Stroll through Central Park: Dive into the lush tranquility of Central Park, an emerald oasis amidst the concrete jungle of Manhattan. Whether you're up for leisurely walks, a peaceful boat ride on the lake, or simply yearning to relax on the Great Lawn, Central Park is your go-to for a serene escape. It's the perfect spot for family fun too—we brought a football for the kids to enjoy, turning a simple outing into a memorable playtime.
- Walk the High Line: Experience New York from an elevated perspective on the High Line, a unique park built atop a historic freight rail line. Enjoy spectacular views, contemporary art installations, and verdant gardens along this linear urban oasis.
- Ride the Staten Island Ferry: Discover stunning vistas of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline aboard the Staten Island Ferry. This free ride offers a picturesque view of the city from the water, making it a favorite among visitors and locals alike.
- Explore Brooklyn’s Prospect Park: Venture into Prospect Park, Brooklyn's flagship park, designed by the same visionary architects behind Central Park. With its sprawling landscapes, the Prospect Park Zoo, and the nearby Brooklyn Museum, it's a perfect spot for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts.
- Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge: Traverse the iconic Brooklyn Bridge on foot to enjoy panoramic views of New York City. This historic bridge is a marvel of architecture and engineering, offering a unique vantage point for photographers and sightseers.
- Attend a Live TV Show Taping: Join the audience of popular shows like "The Tonight Show" or "Saturday Night Live." While tickets are free, securing a spot requires planning ahead due to their popularity.
American Museum of Natural History (Photo by Aditya Vyas on Unsplash)
Mid-Range Must-Dos: Moderately Priced Experiences
- Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: Take a ferry to see these symbols of freedom and learn about America's immigration history. Tickets for both islands and museums cost $20 to $30.
- Explore the Metropolitan Museum of Art: Immerse yourself in over 5,000 years of art from across the globe at The Met. Admission is flexible for New York State residents, while visitors from out of state pay approximately $25.
- Visit the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): MoMA is a haven for lovers of modern and contemporary art, with admission around $25.
- Discover the American Museum of Natural History: A treasure trove for science enthusiasts, featuring dinosaur fossils, the Hayden Planetarium, and much more. General admission is suggested, with additional fees for special exhibits. Plus, experience the magic of a "Night at the Museum," bringing to life the adventures from the beloved movie set within its very walls.
- Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum: Reflect at this somber yet poignant tribute to the lives lost in the 9/11 attacks. The memorial is free, with museum entry around $26.
- Edge Observation Deck Admission: Experience unparalleled views from the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere, with tickets starting at $36.
- Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum Admittance: Explore military history aboard historical aircraft carriers, submarines, and airplanes, with tickets ranging from $26 to $36.
Broadway (Photo by Sudan Ouyang on Unsplash)
High-End Highlights: Splurging in the City
- Empire State Building: Soak in the breathtaking views of NYC from its iconic skyscraper, with tickets starting at around $45, with options for sunrise and VIP experiences.
- Catch a Broadway Show: Experience the magic of live theater in the world's most famous theater district, with tickets ranging from affordable to premium prices. Try to secure discounted tickets by signing up for the digital lottery - kind of like TKTS but you don’t have to spend hours standing in line.
Empire State Building (Photo: Envato)
Conclusion
And there you have it—a glimpse into the boundless energy and vibrant corners of New York City. From the tranquil stretches of Central Park to the iconic skyline viewed from the Empire State Building, NYC is a playground for the curious, the kosher foodies and everyone in between.
If you're planning to visit and hit all the must-see spots without your wallet taking a hit, here's a tip you'll thank us for: consider snagging a CityPass. It’s like having a backstage pass to New York’s top attractions but without the hefty price tag. Definitely worthwhile if you are planning to visit three or more attractions on their list.
Let the spirit of Sinatra’s iconic tribute to New York be your guide: embrace the city's bustling streets, its hidden gems, and its endless stories. Armed with a CityPass and a spirit of exploration, you're set to discover the ultimate kosher vacation spot. With its bustling kosher food scene offering an array of choices, from cozy cafes to gourmet dining, New York City stands unrivaled as a haven for the kosher traveler. Here, every meal is an adventure, every bite a memory—welcome to your kosher journey in the heart of the Big Apple.