From Architectural Marvel to City of Lights
From Architectural Marvel to City of Lights: Exploring Iconic Cities – Chicago & New York !
Hello Readers, here to share our trip to east coast of USA.
Date : May-June 2025
( Click here to read the part – 1 : Roaming Life : Chicago & New York ( Part 1 of 2 ) )
Part 2: New York City – The Unforgettable Pulse
After an incredible time in Chicago, we boarded our flight to New York, eager to experience the electric energy of the Big Apple!
Our base in Newark offered a great connection to the city, This place of our stay was well connected by NJ Transit train services for New York City (PENN STATION) & Other good places of New Jersey.
So herein below, we continue to explore our Day 6 onwards tour of NEW YORK & NEW JERSEY, where each day reveals a new facet of the city’s vibrant culture, iconic landmarks, and bustling neighborhoods.
Day 6: Times Square & Brooklyn Bridge Lights
Touching down at LGA (LaGuardia Airport: LGA), we quickly made our way to our extended family’s house in Jersey City for a warm welcome and homemade Indian lunch, filled with rich flavors and comforting aromas that immediately reminded us of home.
Refreshed and energized, we embarked on our first NYC adventure via train from Newark, hopping on the NJ Transit from Broadway to New York Penn Station, where the hustle and bustle of travelers created a lively atmosphere that thrilled us.
Our first stop in New York? The dazzling, sensory overload that is Times Square!
At Times Square, we were instantly swept into a whirlwind of lights, color, and energy.
The towering neon billboards flashed with dazzling advertisements and Broadway promotions, casting a kaleidoscope of hues across the streets.
The vibrant atmosphere buzzed with excitement, as the square pulsed with a steady flow of tourists capturing memories and locals weaving through the crowd.
Street performers added rhythm to the chaos, and the sheer scale of the surroundings made it feel like we had stepped straight into a cinematic dream — a real-life movie set where the city never sleeps.
Dinner was a New York classic: Artichoke Pizza – ( Artichoke Pizza, @ 1410 Broadway, New York ) absolutely delicious, with its crispy crust , juicy and generous toppings that left us wanting more! This was our first ever experience of buying 24″ sized pizza…! A single slice of this Pizza is truly satisfying and fulfilling.
To wrap up the night, we hopped on the subway to Clarke Street and soaked in the stunning view of the Brooklyn Bridge from Brooklyn Bridge Park all lit up against the night sky.
Then we took a peaceful stroll along the Hudson River — the cool breeze and soft sound of the water made it the perfect way to end our fun-filled first day in the city.
Day 7: New York Central Park Serenity & Midtown Marvels
Our Friday began with a visit to Whole Foods to stock up on fresh supplies before heading to the urban oasis of New York Central Park.
The aroma of fresh produce and baked goods filled the air as we carefully selected our favorite items, making sure to grab some delightful breakfast for our day ahead.
With our bags full and spirits high, we ventured to NY Central Park, a sprawling green haven nestled amidst the city skyline. Central Park in New York City covers 843 acres. The park stretches from 59th Street (Central Park South) to 110th Street (Central Park North) and from Fifth Avenue to Central Park West.
We spent hours exploring its vast beauty, wandering along the winding paths lined with vibrant flowers and towering trees.
The sound of laughter from nearby picnickers and the sight of children playing added to the park’s charm. We enjoyed a leisurely walk, taking in the sights of iconic landmarks like the Bethesda Terrace and Bow Bridge, and even indulged in some boating on the serene lake – a perfect escape from the city’s hustle.
The gentle rocking of the boat and the refreshing breeze made it an unforgettable experience, allowing us to forget our worries and simply enjoy the moment in this beautiful sanctuary. We were lucky enough to be able to see loads of tortoise in this river…!!
For a late lunch/early dinner, we savored authentic Thai cuisine at SALA Thai in Manhattan, where the vibrant flavors of each dish danced on our taste buds; from the creamy coconut curries to the perfectly spiced pad thai, every bite felt like a delightful journey to Thailand.
The afternoon led us to iconic Midtown landmarks, where we marveled at the rich history and stunning architecture:
– the majestic Rockefeller Building with its impressive art deco design and the famous ice-skating rink that draws visitors from all over the world; (unfortunately our visit was in summer to ice-skating rink was replaced with food court and hang around places).
– the architectural grandeur of Grand Central Railway Terminal, a breathtaking masterpiece with its celestial dome and bustling atmosphere, serving as a fascinating backdrop to our explorations.
Of course, no visit to NYC is complete without a sweet treat, so a stop at VENCHI’s ice cream shop was a must, where the ice-cream was not only a feast for the palate but also a feast for the eyes, with an incredible array of flavors showcasing the best of Italian craftsmanship, making our day in the city all the more memorable.
Day 8: Financial District, Bridges & Art Deco Views
Saturday kicked off with a homemade Sabudana Khichdi breakfast, the warm, comforting flavors of this traditional dish fueling us for an exciting day ahead, before we dove into the financial heart of the city.
We took the train to Wall Street, where the atmosphere buzzed with energy and anticipation as we arrived, visiting the solemn 911 World Trade Center Memorial, a poignant reminder of resilience, and the bustling New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), where traders hurriedly moved about, complete with a photo op with the famous Charging Bull, a symbol of market strength and optimism, capturing the essence of our vibrant adventure in this iconic financial district.
A classic Liberty Bagel Sandwich fueled our Manhattan street walk, which took us past Pier 11/16 and City Hall, where the bustle of the city created an invigorating atmosphere. The busy sidewalks were lined with vibrant street vendors and artists, adding a lively touch to our exploration.
The highlight of the day was undoubtedly our walk across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, where we paused to take countless photos, capturing the stunning views of both Manhattan and Brooklyn, as the grandeur of the skyline unfolded before our eyes. Each step on the bridge felt like a step through history, with the sound of the wind blending with the distant chatter of fellow tourists.
Lunch in Brooklyn at Tutt Heights provided delicious Mediterranean flavors, as we indulged in vibrant salads and savory dishes, the refreshing meal reinvigorating us for the rest of the afternoon’s adventures.
We then relaxed at DUMBO’s Beach, enjoying the unique perspective below the Manhattan Bridge, the gentle lapping of the water creating a serene backdrop. An industrial history helps define the Brooklyn area known as DUMBO —short for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass — on the East River between the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges, where cobblestone streets and converted warehouses whisper tales of a bygone era.
Our evening concluded with a visit to the striking Vessel Art Deco Structure at Hudson Yards, a truly unique piece of modern architecture, where the interplay of light and shadow created a stunning visual feast, leaving us in awe of its intricate design and the creativity it represented.
Day 9: Riverside Rendezvous & Lady Liberty at Sunset
After homemade Kanda-Poha in breakfast, Sunday morning brought us to Exchange Place for stunning skyline views of Manhattan from across the Hudson River, where the view of historic architecture and modern skyscrapers created a breathtaking panorama.
The sun was shining brightly, casting a golden hue over the city, and the atmosphere buzzed with a mix of excitement and tranquility as we met up with our friend for coffee at SEMICOLON.
This cozy café, known for its artisanal brews and warm ambiance, provided the perfect setting to catch up and savor the rich flavors of our coffee & hot chocolate drinks, discussing everything from travel plans to the best local eats.
After our delightful coffee break, we enjoyed a refreshing riverside walk towards Newport, where the waterfront park offered serene views of the water and the iconic skyline.
As we strolled along the path, we took in the sights and sounds of the city around us; families picnicking, joggers passing by, and the gentle lapping of the waves against the shore. The vibrant energy was infectious, making each step a joy as we felt the cool breeze flutter against our skin.
Continuing our journey, we made a quick stop at our friend’s home, where we took a moment to pause and recharge before diving into the evening’s plans. The anticipation was building for an experience that was quickly becoming an absolute must-do: a Circle Line Cruise for a Statue of Liberty visit at sunset!
As we boarded the cruise, the excitement in the air was palpable, and the boat’s engines roared to life, propelling us toward the majestic Lady Liberty.
The golden hour views of Lady Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Manhattan skyline from the water were simply magical. The sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant oranges, pinks, and purples, while the iconic silhouette of the Statue of Liberty stood proud against the backdrop of the setting sun. Cameras clicked, and gasps of awe echoed among the passengers as the scene unfolded before us, each moment a memory waiting to be cherished.
Following the cruise, we returned through the impressive WTC Oculus Terminal, with its beautiful architecture resembling a bird in flight, symbolizing hope. As we walked through, we enjoyed the spacious designs, marking a perfect end to our day.
Before heading home, we again stopped by Exchange Place for a lovely evening view of the NYC skyline, with all its lights.
We relaxed here and enjoyed the cool breeze. Wrapped up in conversation about the day’s highlights, we reflected on the beauty of New York City and how it connects people. It was a wonderful day, filled with laughter, stunning views, and unforgettable moments.
Day 10: Spiritual Serenity & Skyline Grandeur
Our final full day in the NYC area offered a blend of peace and panoramic views.
We embarked on an hour-long drive to the magnificent Akshardham Temple in Windsor, NJ, a breathtaking structure that embodies intricate carvings and rich cultural narratives.
As we arrived, the atmosphere was imbued with a sense of tranquility, inviting us to explore its stunning gardens and reflecting pools that framed the temple perfectly.
This architectural marvel provided a serene spiritual experience, filling our hearts with a sense of awe and gratitude. After immersing ourselves in this peaceful environment, we enjoyed a delicious lunch at their Shayona Cafe, which specializes in satvik cuisine. The cafe offered an array of thoughtfully prepared dishes that were not only flavorful but also nourishing, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing meal. The combination of delightful flavors and the serene ambiance made for a truly memorable afternoon.
In the evening, we returned to Manhattan for our grand finale: a visit to SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. From the 91st, 92nd, and 93rd floors, the NYC skyline view at sundown was absolutely breathtaking and an unforgettable experience, as the vibrant colors of the sunset painted the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple, creating a stunning backdrop for the iconic landmarks below.
Each moment spent gazing out at the sprawling cityscape felt like a surreal escape from reality, allowing us to fully absorb the energy of New York City as it transitioned from day to night. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as people around us captured the moment on their cameras, sharing in the awe of such a magnificent sight, eagerly discussing their favorite features of the skyline, from the towering Empire State Building to the shimmering lights of the Brooklyn Bridge.
LAST DINNER in NYC :
We capped off our incredible trip with a satisfying Punjabi dinner at PATIALA Grill & Dinner Restaurant near Penn Station, relishing the rich flavors of freshly prepared dishes like buttery naan and aromatic Indian vegies & curry, each bite taking us on a culinary journey through the vibrant tastes of India.
As we savored the food, we shared our favorite moments from the trip, laughing and recounting the adventures we had embarked on during our time in this magnificent city.
After our meal, we felt content and grateful, but also a tinge of melancholy, knowing this chapter was coming to an end. We then headed back to Newark base for our flight home, reminiscing about the unforgettable memories we had created during our time in the city, forever cherishing the experiences that made our journey so special.
Final Note of this 10 day’s of roaming life with FAMILY
Our trip from Chicago to New York was an amazing experience in two iconic American cities.
Each day was filled with new discoveries, from great food to stunning sights and cultural moments.
#Chicago, #NewYork, #ChiTown, #BigApple, #WindyCity, #NYC, #Travel, #ExploreChicago, #ExploreNewYork, #Vacation, #CityBreak, #WeekendGetaway, and #CityThatNeverSleeps
#MagnificentMile, #TimesSquare, #CentralPark, #MyChicagoAdventure, #MyNewYorkStory, #Travelgram, #InstaTravel.
( Click here to read the part – 1 : Roaming Life : Chicago & New York ( Part 1 of 2 ) )
THANK YOU KIDS!! We are overwhelmed with gratitude for the incredible 10-day journey you planned across two iconic East Coast cities, Chicago and New York. Every moment was filled with awe and joy. More than the sights and bites, we were touched by the love, laughter, joy we shared together and thoughtfulness behind each experience.
Thank you for this unforgettable trip and for making us feel cherished.
You’ve given us a chapter of happiness in our lives.
With all our love: Mom & Dad
GoodSoul.in 