Just a New York minute!

New York City is a haven for restaurants and cuisines of all types, including vegan-style food. Made from fresh ingredients without any animal products, vegan cuisine can be healthy and delicious. Here are some of our favorite vegan restaurants to enjoy in the Big Apple. If you’re craving something different or if you’re a vegan in search of a dining spot to visit on your New York City vacation, any of these restaurants will be the perfect pick.

Pure Food and Wine: As one of New York’s most popular organic raw restaurants, Pure Food and Wine offers delicious fine dining with some of the freshest ingredients available. A five course chef’s tasting menu is available as a special treat. Located at 54 Irving Place, close to Union Square (between 17^th and 18^th Streets).

Terri: With multiple locations throughout the city, Terri is a popular vegan hot spot to grab lunch favorites, including sandwiches, wraps, salads, fresh juices, shakes and desserts. All dishes on the menu are 100% vegan and Kosher.  Located in Chelsea at 60 West 23^rd Street and in the Financial District at 100 Maiden Lane.

Blossom Restaurants: This popular grouping of restaurants includes Blossom (187 9^th Ave.), Café Blossom (466 Columbus Ave. and 41 Carmine St.), Blossom Du Jour (259 West 23^rd Street, 617 9^th Ave., and 164 Amsterdam Ave.), and V-Note (1522 First Ave.) From an organic wine bar and vegan bistro to fast vegan favorites, Blossom restaurants certainly deliver on taste and variety!

Quintessence: This dining retreat uses rare and exotic ingredients to create dishes that are 100% organic, vegan, and raw. Comfort and favorite foods in vegan form include burgers, pasta, Indian cuisine, pizza, sushi, and crepes. Located at 263 E. 10^th Street between Avenue A and 1^st Ave.

Rawlicious: Smoothies, juices, salads, desserts, Pad Thai, pizza, wraps, pasta, tacos, flatbreads, spring rolls, and nachos are just a few of the favorites to be found on the Rawlicious menu. This vegan restaurant favorite is located at 249 Centre Street between Broome and Grand. They do takeout and local delivery, too!

There are just so many more to name – Candle 79, Organic Avenue, Sacred Chow, Candle Café –  that the list would go on and on if we tried to cover all of our favorites! Have you tried any of these vegan eateries? Which one was your favorite? What did you try from the menu?  

Having the time of your life on a cruise vacation? Don’t let your vacation end so soon. A pre- or post-cruise vacation in NYC might just what the doctor ordered. Beginning or ending your cruise with a vacation to New York City can give you the perfect taste of what the Big Apple has to offer.  There’s no better excuse to visit some of the hottest New York City attractions than a post- or pre-cruise vacation.

 If your cruise departs from a New York harbor or a harbor close to the city, why not consider starting your vacation a few days earlier? NYCTrip.com can book you an amazing two night complete package pre- and post-cruise NYC vacation so you can enjoy your vacation longer and have the opportunity to see the greatest city in the world in all of its glory.  We’ll take away all the hassle by providing a private vehicle and driver to pick you up at (or take you to) the pier, whether you’re sailing from the Manhattan pier, Brooklyn terminal or from Bayonne New Jersey’s new facility. You can choose from a variety of midtown Manhattan hotels, too.

A pre- or post-cruise vacation in NYC is the perfect way to unwind and start or end vacation mode. With some of the world’s greatest restaurants and shows, we think you’ll immediately fall in love with the Big Apple.

With a pre or post cruise vacation in NYC, you can enjoy a romantic pre-vacation night out, or kick back and relax after a long week at sea by taking in a Broadway show or spending the day at the spa. If your cruise is a family-oriented cruise, consider visiting the large selection of family-friendly sights and destinations, like the USS Intrepid Sea Air Space Museum, American Museum of Natural History, Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, Madame Tussaud’s, or the Top of the Rock Observation Deck (we’ve got a whole list of family-friendly ideas for NYC vacations). 

A pre- or post- cruise vacation in New York City is sure to make you come back for more. If you’re interested in getting a small taste of the Big Apple before you get onboard your ship for a week (or more) of vacationing, plan your trip today. Go ahead  - treat yourself!

It’s no secret that plenty of today’s hottest celebrities take residence in New York City, and a celebrity sighting is nothing out of the ordinary when visiting. From Matt Damon to Tina Fey, some of today’s biggest stars proudly call New York City their home. There are a few hot NYC spots that greatly increase your chances of a celebrity sighting, but there is always a chance to spotting your favorite celeb while out and about. However, if you’re planning a New York City vacation for the chance of hopefully seeing your favorite stars, considering visiting the following:

• Ed Sullivan Theater (Broadway between West 53^rd and West 54^th)- The Ed Sullivan Theater is home to The Late Show with David Letterman. The Late Show tapes early in the afternoon Monday through Friday, and celebrity guests are often seen entering and leaving the building. In many cases, celebrities will stop and sign a few autographs or participate in a few photo opportunities.
• The Spotted Pig (314 West 11^th St at Greenwich St.)- With Jay-Z as an investor, the Spotted Pig is a frequent hot spot for a variety of different celebrities. It’s been said that Jude law, Mario Batali and David Schwimmer are regulars to this ultra hip establishment.
• Lucky Strike (42^nd St & 12^th Ave)- Quite possible the hottest bowling alley around! Regular bowlers include Gerard Butler and Jim Carrey. If you love celebrity sightings with a healthy dose of bowling, consider making Lucky Strike a destination on your New York City Vacation.
• Brooklyn Diner (212 West 57^th Street)- Frequented by the likes of Sir Paul McCartney, Adam Sandler and Jerry Seinfield, this NYC staple is a great place to enjoy some lunch and the chance to catch a celebrity in the wild.

There are many hot spots for celebrity sightings throughout the city, and the chance to randomly spot a celebrity is always a possibility at any given time. When you plan your New York City trip, consider visiting celebrity hot spots for your chance to potentially rub elbows with Hollywood’s elite. There’s a reason New York City is one of the most famous cities in the world, and celebrities agree. 

P.S. You can always hop on the NBC Studio Tour, where you may just cast a glimpse of an NBC star.  

Known for its bustling night life scene and upscale adult hot spots, New York City may not always been seen as a place for children. However, New York City is a city for the entire family, with a plethora of fun and exciting activities for kids to enjoy.  When you plan your New York City vacation, consider checking out these top 5 secret spots for kids and the whole family to enjoy:

1. Sony Wonder Technology Lab: The Sony Wonder Technology Lab includes four amazing floors of extremely fun interactive technology exhibits, and better yet, the exhibit is completely free. With exciting activities and gadgets to keep kids and adults busy for hours, make this an absolute must when vacationing in the city with family. Workshops at the exhibit allow kids to make their own telescopes, musical instruments, and other amazing gadgets and gizmos.
2. F.A.O. Schwarz:  Not so much a secret, but a paradise for children. F.A.O. Schwarz is one of the world’s most famous toy stores, and a surefire hit for children of all ages. Enjoy browsing the giant selection of toys and even get your Tom Hanks on by stepping on the giant piano featured in Big.
3. Children’s Museum of the Arts:  Let your kids unleash their creative sides at the Children’s Museum of the Arts. This NYC museum features workshops and art made exclusively for kids. With workshops that allow kids to explore their inner artist, your kid will be entertained and pleased for hours.
4. Broadway Shows: With a variety of kid-friendly Broadway shows always in rotation, a night out to the theater is the perfect family activity. We highly recommend grabbing tickets for The Lion King, Wicked, Annie, Newsies the Musical, Cinderella, and Matilda.
5. USS Intrepid Sea Air Space Museum: Located on Pier 86, this amazing museum allows kids and families to explore the inside of an actual NAVY submarine. With fun simulators and an amazing space shuttle exhibit, your children will be in constant awe around every corner.

Do you have any favorite kid-friendly spots in NYC? Share them with us! 

It’s no secret that plenty of today’s hottest celebrities take residence in New York City, and a celebrity sighting is nothing out of the ordinary when visiting. From Matt Damon to Tina Fey, some of today’s biggest stars proudly call New York City their home. There are a few hot NYC spots that greatly increase your chances of a celebrity sighting, but there is always a chance to spotting your favorite celeb while out and about. However, if you’re planning a New York City vacation for the chance of hopefully seeing your favorite stars, considering visiting the following:

Ed Sullivan Theater (Broadway between West 53^rd and West 54^th)- The Ed Sullivan Theater is home to The Late Show with David Letterman. The Late Show tapes early in the afternoon Monday through Friday, and celebrity guests are often seen entering and leaving the building. In many cases, celebrities will stop and sign a few autographs or participate in a few photo opportunities.

The Spotted Pig (314 West 11^th St at Greenwich St.)-  With Jay-Z as an investor, the Spotted Pig is a frequent hot spot for a variety of different celebrities. It’s been said that Jude Law, Mario Batali and David Schwimmer are regulars to this ultra hip establishment.

Lucky Strike (42^nd St & 12^th Ave)- Quite possible the hottest bowling alley around! Regular bowlers include Gerard Butler and Jim Carrey. If you love celebrity sightings with a healthy dose of bowling, consider making Lucky Strike a destination on your New York City Vacation.

Brooklyn Diner (212 West 57^th Street)- Frequented by the likes of Sir Paul McCartney, Adam Sandler and Jerry Seinfeld, this Midtown Manhattan  staple is a great place to enjoy some lunch and the chance to catch a celebrity in the wild. Despite its name, the Brooklyn Diner is located in Manhattan, close to all major midtown hotels!

There are many hot spots for celebrity sightings throughout the city, and the chance to randomly spot a celebrity is always a possibility at any given time.  When you plan your New York City trip, consider visiting celebrity hot spots for your chance to potentially rub elbows with Hollywood’s elite. There’s a reason New York City is one of the most famous cities in the world, and celebrities agree. 

Mother’s Day will be here before you know it and if you want to treat that special lady in your life with a memorable gift, why not whisk her away to New York City. The Big Apple is full of activities that Mom will love and the chance to spend time with her children (or grandchildren) will certainly make for a wonderful holiday. Gather up the family and make Mom the guest of honor on your Mother’s Day in NYC vacation.

The Mother’s Day in NYC Vacation Package

To help make the planning of a Mother’s Day vacation to NYC quick and easy, we’ve put together a featured vacation package that includes everything you need (save for the suitcase) to have a great time in NYC with Mom.

You’ll start off your trip with accommodations for two nights or longer at a midtown Manhattan hotel, right in the heart of the action of NYC. You’ll be steps away from world class restaurants, shopping, and entertainment. From there, it’s time to head out and see the best of the Big Apple, with free admission into the Empire State Building Observatory, Museum of the City of New York, or NY Water Taxi Statue of Liberty Flex Pass – take your pick and enjoy! You’ll also get free admission to your choice of the American Museum of Natural History, Metropolitan Museum of Art, or Top of the Rock Observation Deck. Finally, on Sunday, enjoy a Mother’s Day Brunch aboard World Yacht with a complimentary mimosa and relaxing live music. It’s the perfect way to relax and see the beauty of the Hudson River. And of course, you’ll get all of our NYCTrip.com exclusive discounts.

If you’re ready to surprise Mom with this amazing trip, you can book here and start planning!

Things to Do With Mom in NYC

Looking for other activities to do on your NYC trip? We’ve got you covered with this list of great ideas and hotspots that are sure to make your trip even more unforgettable:

• Surprise her with flowers! NYC is filled with vibrant street vendors and corner markets with fresh blooms. Surprise her with a bouquet to kick off your trip!
• Take in a Broadway show. There are plenty of hot musicals opening on Broadway this spring and you can always add on tickets to your New York City vacation package with us.
• Unwind at the spa. We offer several add-on packages that Mom can enjoy as part of her trip at Oasis NYC Day Spa. There are also other incredibly day spas throughout midtown Manhattan that are sure to leave her feeling pampered.
• Sip a cup of tea! Visit the Russian Tea Room, Alice’s Tea Cup (close to Central Park!), or other top tea places throughout Manhattan. It’ll be a lovely way to spend your afternoon!

Have another idea for spending Mother’s Day with Mom in the Big Apple? Add your plans to our list!

Spring has sprung in the Big Apple and there are plenty of activities to try if you’re looking for a great day out. Springtime is the time of year when New York City’s streets are filled with blossoms, bright colors, and of course, that special cheerfulness that comes from winter’s end. When planning your New York City vacation, be sure to add a few of these favorite activities to your itinerary to make your trip even more memorable!

Fly Kites in Central Park

April winds are perfect for flying kites in the park. We recommend picking up a kite at FAO Schwarz (at 767 5th Ave, right by the park) before hitting Central Park to fly for awhile. Be sure to stop and get a hot dog or a snow cone before or afterwards, or even have a picnic in the park to enjoy the lovely weather.

Grab Deals at Seasonal Flea Markets

Springtime is also the time when street fairs and outdoor flea markets appear, so be sure to hit up favorites like the Hester Street Fair (Hester St. at Essex St.), Bedford Village Market (Macon St. between Arlington Pl. and Nostrand Ave.), Brooklyn Flea (multiple locations) and the East 67th Street Flea Market (P.S. 183 on East 66th and East 67th Streets) for fabulous finds both new and old.

Go for Ice Cream

Warmer weather is a recipe for happiness – and ice cream! We definitely recommend checking out the Chinatown Ice Cream Factory (Baynard St. between Elizabeth and Mott Streets), Dessert Club ChikaLicious (E 10^th Street between First and Second Ave.), Alphabet Scoop (E 11^th Street between Avenues A and B) and the celebrity favorite, Serendipity 3 (E 60^th Street between Second and Third Ave).You can also try tracking down the famous Big Gay Ice Cream Truck by checking Twitter for locations (http://twitter.com/biggayicecream).

Take in a Broadway Show

Springtime is a great time for a show, don’t you think? We think so too! We have several exciting shows opening in the city this spring, including Pippin, Matilda, and Jekyll & Hyde. You can grab tickets to these shows through NYCTrip.com – but don’t wait! These shows are already gaining a ton of buzz, so it’s best to grab your tickets ASAP. We also have Broadway vacation packages for long-running favorites, too!

Besides these activities, you can also go for city standbys, like sightseeing, outdoor brunch, and simply enjoying the energy of the city. There’s always something to do!

Have a springtime activity you’d like to see added to our list? Leave a comment!

Did you ever think you could see the best of NYC for under $40 per day? It can be done! There are plenty of things to see and do in the Big Apple that are free or cost only a few dollars. In fact, we've compiled a list of some of our favorite things to do for $5 or less. Add them to your itinerary when you book your NYC trip for a real taste of what this magical city has to offer. We promise that these activities are both exciting and wallet-friendly!

• Visit the Mahayana Buddhist Temple at 133 Canal St. for a calming and spiritual experience amid the hustle and bustle. Bring a dollar for donation. 
• Learn about New York City's transit system by visiting the New York Transit Museum at Boerum Place and Schermerhorn Street. Just a few dollars will get you access to the history of one of the world's most trafficked and treasured transportation systems. 
• Grab a hot dog at Gray's Papaya. Popular with both the locals and tourists from around the world, Gray's Papaya is home to some of the best hot dogs in the city - and the price is perfect. Locations at Eighth Ave. and 37th Street, Broadway and 72nd Street, and Sixth Ave. and 8th Street. 
• Take a free tour of City Hall. The Public Design Commission of the City of New York gives free tours of City Hall throughout the week (usually mornings), plus a weekly tour at noon on Wednesdays. Sign up at the NYC Tourism Kiosk at the southern end of City Hall Park on Broadway at Barclay St.
• Laugh at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre: The Upright Citizens Brigade has served as the birthplace of some of the nation's greatest comedians and for just $5, you can catch a show of the comedy and improv group. Check the schedule at UCBTheatre.com to see when you can catch a discount show. 

What's your favorite low-cost way to enjoy NYC? Share your favorite spots with us in the comments!

New York City is home to a large number of arts and cultural centers, as well as museums, libraries, and galleries. For tourists, New York City museums offer a little something different and for families especially, these landmarks in the city skyline offer an educational element to round out any trip. If you're looking to book a New York City vacation this spring or summer, be sure to add some of these free museum must-sees to your list!

The National Museum of the American Indian: Located near Battery Park, this museum showcases one of the country's finest collections of Native American art and is housed in the beautiful former US Customs House. Culture, not history, is the focus in this museum, with over a million pieces in the entire collection. Located at 1 Bowling Green in Lower Manhattan. 

The Hispanic Society of America Museum and Library: Have you ever wanted to learn more about Spanish art and culture? This is the perfect stop. This museum houses the largest collection of Spanish art outside of Spain and is most famous for its ornate Beaux Arts space. Located on Broadway & 155th Street in Washington Heights. 

Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) Museum: The Fashion Institute of Technology is home to some of the world's most talented budding designers and its museum pays homage to all things garment with rotating student exhibits, unique displays, and a collection of more than 50,000 garments dating from the 18th century to present. Located at Seventh Ave and 27th Street in the Garment District. 

Besides these three gems, you can also get into some of NYC's most treasured museums when you book your New York City vacation with NYCTrip.com. We offer admission into the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the American Museum of Natural History, and more when you book your package. 

Which museum in NYC are you looking forward to visiting most? 

Heading to the Big Apple with the kiddos? Don't worry - NYCTrip.com has you covered with a list of the best parks in the city to visit if you want to give your family some time to swing, slide, and enjoy the best of the city's playgrounds:

1.) Ancient Playground: Children take a step back in time thanks to a 2009 renovation when they enjoy this playground inspired by the Egyptian Wing of The Metropolitan Museum of Art (a favorite destination on New  York City family vacations!). It features stone pyramids, tunnels, a sandbox with a mini obelisk in the center, nine slides, water features, treehouse-like wooden forts, and more. A perfect place to play after a visit to the Met! Located in Central Park at East 85^th Street.

2.) Billy Johnson Playground: Another Central Park favorite, this classic playground showcases rustic wood play structures, a stone bridge, wood nymphs, vine covered gazebos, lots of sand to play in, and a huge carved granite slide. It’s an oldie but goodie, much beloved by New Yorkers young and old. Plenty of trees and walking paths in the park, too! Located in Central Park at East 67^th Street.

3.) Heckscher Playground: Yet another Central Park must-see, this is the largest and oldest playground in the park. It was renovated and reopened in 2006 and boasts an unusually fun landscape: a stone pyramid, a small bridge, and cliff connection to Umpire Rock. Rubber-topped humps for the little ones dot the landscape, alongside a dedicated water area, huge sandbox with climbing net, spray fountains, tunnels, moats, and bridges. And of course, classic tire swings and a metal slide. Located at Central Park, midpark between 61^st and 63^rd Streets.

4.) Union Square Playground: Quirky and fun, the Union Square Playground features a large shiny dome, checkerboard rubber flooring, stainless steel slides, spiral climbers, and horns inspired by Dr. Seuss. A lot of fun and located near some of the city’s best sites, transportation, shopping, and restaurants. Located at Union Square between 16^th and 17^th Streets. A must for visiting on your New York City family vacation.

5.) Nelson A. Rockefeller Park Playground: Located in just north of the North Cove in Battery Park City, this wooden playground showcases a red fabric grid to bounce on, plenty of walkways and bridges, ladders, slides, and an awesome kid-pedaled carousel that’s sure to be a favorite on your visit to the park! Located in Battery Park City, North End Ave at Vesey Street.

Have another park you love to visit in the Big Apple? Share it with us in the comments!