Top Rated Attractions in New York

Covering 250 acres (101 hectares), the New York Botanical Garden is a blend of rocks, waterfalls, hills, rivers, woods, ponds, plants, and of course, flowers. The property is beautiful and a National Landmark and includes an interactive area for children. The restored Enid A. Haupt Conservatory is a Victorian-era greenhouse. Don't forget to visit the Shop in the Garden - a store which offers a wide range of goods, from books and garden products to jewelry and body products. Admission prices are higher during peak season, so check the website for details. For those interested in fresh fruits and vegetables, the garden hosts a farmer's market from June through November each year.

Considering themselves as not just a particular activity park, but a complete recreational park, the Gateway National Recreational Park is historic and lies in a condensed urban environment and still manages to offer a variety of activities like boating, hiking, swimming, bird watching and camping. This beauty was built to preserve the exclusivity of nature and culture and the recreational resources.

The United States Tennis Association (USTA) Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, Queens hosts most of the major events in the professional tennis circuit. The center is named after Billie Jean King, the famous tennis player. Numerous tennis fans gather to witness some spectacular matches held here, with a bit of celebrity spotting thrown in as a bonus. Most famously, the US Open is played here, giving the venue a vibrant, carnival-esque atmosphere. The venue has both indoor and outdoor courts, with a seating capacity for thousands. Most of the courts are open daily with access to the public at nominal admission charges. Check the website for details of upcoming tournaments.

The stellar zoo located within the sprawling Central Park is one of the most recognized wildlife attractions in the city. Part of a network of four zoos within the city, Central Park Zoo adheres strictly to sustainable and environmentally friendly practices apart from boasting great facilities for the animals. Animal cages have been removed, in favor of open-air habitats. In the Polar Circle, glass walls allow you to see penguins and polar bears swimming just inches from your face.

Touted to be one of the largest parks in town, Pelham Bay Park is certainly worth a visit. Spread across a vast area of 2766 acres (1119 hectares), this park is a spacious stretch of greenery. Bounded by the Hutchinson River, Pelham Bay Park features a variety of landmarks that include The Bronx Victory Column & Memorial Grove, Glover's Rock, Bartow-Pell Mansion and Museum and more. Apart from that, there is also the Orchard Beach. The park also has sports facilities like running/walking trails, tennis courts, baseball fields, a softball area and a playground for kids. While the little ones are busy having fun, adults can enjoy a BBQ picnic here. Truly, Pelham Bay Park is an ideal place for a fun day out. For the list of events and nature walks held here, check website.

Embark on a journey down the Hudson with Circle Line Downtown. Departing from Pier 16 at the South Street Seaport, Circle Line offers two vessels for touring along the waters; Zephyr catamaran and Shark speedboat. You can book the Shark for your small group and enjoy the thrill as it cuts through the currents. Get on to the Zephyr and enjoy a lazy ride along the water gazing at the popular attractions of the city; The Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Brooklyn bridge and other sites. Along with a cruise to view New York's famous structures, you can also book their liners for your private event.