A fun family vacation has been set in motion! We are going to be hitting up the Big Apple for the first leg of the trip! New York has energy to spare and we made the most of our trip. We stayed in Elizabeth New Jersey and predominately used Lyft and Uber to get around. Traffic can be a challenge but just sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery as you take in everything that this amazing City has to offer. Here are some of the variety of shots from around the area!
Empire State Building
Hitting up the Big Apple needs to include a visit to this iconic attraction. Definitely packed with people, beautiful sunny day and the best way to see everything from high above the city. Plan to spend some time to check every section of the 360 option as you move about the top of the building. You will make a couple stops to the top but it is absolutely awesome. You know the say, “on a clear day you can see forever” well, that is definitely very true from atop the Empire State Building. Strongly recommend that you make reservations, be ready to go when your time is called so you don’t miss out on this great experience.
Statue of Liberty
The ferry ride was amazing, packed with people even at this time of the year. We left out of the New Jersey terminal because it was closer to us and we are really glad we did. Easy on to the ferry and away we go. The scenic backdrop of skyscrapers, blue skies and plenty of soft waves to take you to your destination. First stop was Ellis Island but we unfortunately, didn’t get off of the ferry due to the large amounts of people already there. As we got closer and closer to Lady Liberty, you just could help be feel in awe of this majestic piece of monumental history in front of you. As we landed, we started the journey around her statuesque beauty that began with a quick it to eat at the snack bar. We kicked back, enjoyed the view, ate some great food and planned our own personal journey are this magnificent Lady. Take your time check out the view and gaze up into the sky as you ponder the past. We didn’t get tickets to go to the top and it was closed to people when we arrived. Just like everything, there is always work to be done to keep history alive.
9/11 Memorial
To really experience New York, you have to come to the site of the 9/11 Memorial. This was the first time here since it’s completion to honor and remember those who gave their lives that day to unspeakable violence. The feeling of being at Ground Zero is so humbling – I’m truly having no words for how to describe it. Each of us had our own personal feelings as we moved around the area, maybe for me it was reverence. An experience that has moved me beyond belief. As we toured the museum it is hard not to shed a tear for those who experienced this horrific moment in time. I remember that day, where I was, who I was with and how it impacted the people who were so dear to my heart. My colleague had family in the towers, in the area and was unable to reach them. It was a day I will never forget.
St. Nicholas National Shrine
A beautiful Greek Orthodox Church sits next to 9/11. Absolutely gorgeous with the stained glass, artistry and architecture are something to see and enjoy. This Church was rebuilt after the events of 9/11 in a more modest fashion but still stands upon the teachings that “It will be a house of Prayer for all people”.
Legends NYC Bar & Grill
Hitting up the Big Apple had to include food, beer and atmosphere! We knew it was going to be a long day so we decided to grab a quick bite at Legends and we were not disappointed. Each of us had something different food and beverage wise. We hit it early, no crowd which was nice and we were able to enjoy some fun times with family. The menu was extensive, food was piled high, so plan to come hungry or you definitely will need a to go box. The food was amazing, great flavors, cooked to perfection.
La Mexicana Bar & Grill – Elizabeth NJ
If you love Mexican food then this is a must stop when you are hitting up the Big Apple. Even though it is in New Jersey it is definitely worth a trip on over to grab some great food, margaritas and if you are lucky there will be a soccer game going on! When there is, the place comes alive. Each of us tried something different and as a huge fan of empanadas, I just couldn’t resist trying them out. They did not disappoint! Margaritas on the rocks with Tajin rim are the bomb! Andrea prefers blended margaritas and the guys had sodas. Tacos, street corn, variety platter rounded out our selections and there was more food than we could eat. Another favorite for me was the street corn — great flavors and different than I’ve had before.
