Bethel Coach Tours - The Destination Spotlight

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In a city this big, there's definitely no shortage on visuals, but here's a few things you simply must see!

Times Square

Formerly Longacre Square, Times Square was renamed after the Times Building (now One Times Square), the former offices of the New York Times, in April 1904. Times Square has achieved the status of an iconic world landmark and has become a symbol of its city. Times Square is principally defined by its animated, digital advertisements (Photo shown at the top of this page).

Central Park

Central Park is a large public, urban park in New York City, with about twenty-five million visitors annually. Central Park has been a National Historic Landmark since 1963. It contains several natural-looking lakes and ponds, extensive walking tracks, two ice-skating rinks, the Central Park Zoo, the Central Park Conservatory Garden, a wildlife sanctuary, a large area of natural woods, a reservoir with an encircling running track, and the outdoor Delacorte Theater which hosts the "Shakespeare in the Park" summer festivals.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is an art museum located on the eastern edge of Central Park, along what is known as Museum Mile in New York City, USA. It has a permanent collection containing more than two million works of art, divided into nineteen curatorial departments. The main building, often referred to simply as "the Met" and is one of the world's largest art galleries.

The Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge, one of the oldest suspension bridges in the United States, stretches 5,989 feet (1825 m) over the East River, connecting the New York City boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn on Long Island. On completion, it was the largest suspension bridge in the world, the first steel-wire suspension bridge, and the first bridge to connect to Long Island.

The South Street Seaport (Pier 17)

The South Street Seaport is a historic area in the New York City borough of Manhattan, located where Fulton Street meets the East River, and adjacent to the Financial District. The Seaport is usually considered a historical district, distinct from the neighboring Financial District. It features some of the oldest architecture in downtown Manhattan, and includes the largest concentration of restored early 19th-century commercial buildings in the city. This includes renovated original mercantile buildings, renovated sailing ships, the former Fulton Fish Market, and modern tourist malls featuring food, shopping and nightlife, with a view of the Brooklyn Bridge.

The Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is a 102-story Art Deco skyscraper in New York City at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and West 34th Street. Its name is derived from the nickname for the state of New York. It stood as the world's tallest building for more than forty years, from its completion in 1931 until construction of the World Trade Center's North Tower was completed in 1972.

Here's a list of our ten favorite things to do when in "the Big Apple" in no order in particular)...

#1: Visit Central Park

Central Park has offered a welcome escape from the concrete jungle of New York City for over 150 years. Take a walk, a boat ride or just enjoy a picnic in Central Park and discover for yourself why Central Park is so popular.

#2: The Rockefeller Center Observation Deck

The observation deck at the Top of the Rock might not be as famous as the Empire State Building Observation Deck, but that is one of its prime advantages making it far less crowded. In addition, timed ticketing means avoiding the crazy waits that are routine at the Empire State Building, and you can enjoy beautiful views of Central Park, as well as the Empire State Building itself from the Top of the Rock.

#3: The Empire State Building

Tired of staring up at New York City skyscrapers? Check out the view of New York City from atop the Empire State Building. You can avoid waiting in the ticket line for the Empire State Building if you buy your tickets online in advance.

#4: South Street Seaport (Pier 17)

Enjoy great food and tasty dishes while enjoying spectacular views of Brooklyn heights across the river. The entire top floor has a variety of food available with a deck that surrounds most of it - offering you some great photo opportunities. Looking to try something exotic and delicious? Try Cabana, a "delicioso" spicy and fruity Cuban-Caribbean restaurant offering mouthwatering seafood, chicken and meat favorites in a fun tropical waterfront décor.

#5: The Staten Island Ferry

The Staten Island Ferry is a free ferry from lower Manhattan to Staten Island, used by commuters and tourists wanting a view of the harbor and the Statue of Liberty.

#6: American Museum of Natural History

Since opening to the public in 1869, the American Museum of Natural History has evolved and grown. In addition to the Rose Center planetarium and regular exhibits, the American Museum of Natural History hosts a revolving series of new exhibits, so there is always something new to see.

#7: Metropolitan Museum of Art

Over 2 million works of art from around the world and throughout history are housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is an iconic art museum that is well worth a visit.

#8: Times Square

New York's laboratory for unprecedented urban revitalization. Dazzling lights, a consortium of restaurants ranging from Middle American chain eateries to high-end bistros and trattoriae. The 21st century embodies the spirit of the '50s-era heart of the Theater District.

#9: Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge

A walk from Brooklyn Heights to Manhattan (or vice versa) is an experience that can only be realized first hand! Get great shots of the city, the statue of liberty and the river, while enjoying a healthy bit of exercise too!

#10: Take a walk!

Stroll around 5th Avenue, and admire the famous, elaborately designed window displays. Department stores like Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue, Lord & Taylor, Macy’s, Barneys, and Bloomingdale’s participate in this visual fun.

Whilst in NYC, you'll discover you have a problem...it's not if you're going to eat - it's where! Here's some places near Times Square...

Italian

People flock to Becco, either because of co-owner Lidia Bastianich (of PBS) or to enjoy the all you can eat pasta special, featuring antipasto or salad and three pastas nightly. Although you're unlikely to spot Lidia, you won't leave hungry.

Address: 355 West 46th St (8th Ave)
Phone: 212-397-7597
Cuisine: Italian
Hours: Mon-Fri: 12-2:25 pm; 5-10:30 pm; Sat: 4:30-10:30 pm; Sun: 5-10 pm
Price Range: pasta special: lunch $16.95, dinner $21.95; a la carte: approx $40
Good for Kids/Groups? Yes

Pizza & Italian Sandwiches

Housed in a deconsecrated church, John's Pizzeria is renowned for its coal oven pizza. The Times Square outpost of the famed Greenwich Village original serves up the best pizza in the neighborhood and solid Italian sandwiches and entrees. (No pizza by the slice.)

Address: 260 West 44th St (7th/8th Aves)
Phone: 212-582-8065
Cuisine: Pizza/Italian
Hours: 11:30 am - 11:30 pm
Price Range: entrees/sandwiches $8-15; pizza $10-16
Good for Kids/Groups? Yes (special packages available for groups)

Brazilian

Brazillian rodizio at Churrascaria Platforma is a great choice for those with big appetites and large groups, seeking a celebratory atmosphere. The prix-fixe includes the endless grilled meats and the extensive salad bar, but not dessert. Diners use a double-sided green/red chip to indicate when they want more meat served.

Address: 316 West 49th Street (8th/9th Aves)
Telephone: 212-245-0505
Cuisine: Brazillian
Hours: 12 pm - 12 am
Price Range: lunch $30.95, dinner $46.95
Good for Kids/Groups? Yes

Chinese / Asian Fusion

Wu Liang Ye is regarded among Manhattan's best Sichuan restaurants. Sichuan dumplings, Kung Pao chicken and cold sesame noodles are some of the most popular dishes. Be warned -- Sichuan dishes tend to be hot -- if you prefer your food less spicy, be sure to let the waiter know.

Address: 36 West 48th St (5th/6th Aves)
Telephone: 212-398-2308
Cuisine: Chinese/Sichuan
Hours: 12 pm - 9:30 pm
Price Range: lunch special $6.95; entrees $8-20 (seafood and specialty items at top of range)
Good for Groups? Yes

Ruby Foos: This fun, funky Asian fusion restaurant has a great atmosphere and features creative takes on dim sum, sushi, and Thai dishes, designed for sharing. The children's menu has familiar items like hot dogs and grilled cheese. Reservations are recommended, though after 8, tables are easier to come by.

Address: 1626 Broadway (49th St.)
Telephone: 212-489-5600
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Hours: 11:30 a.m. - midnight (11 p.m. Sunday - Wednesday)
Price Range: $6-30
Good for Kids/Groups? Yes

Japanese / Sushi

Affordable sushi served in a simply decorated environment is the reason to check out Kodama. Their lunch specials are a good deal, and they are known for serving solid maki, including a Canadian roll featuring salmon, and spicy greens.

Address: 301 West 45th St. (8th Ave)
Telephone: 212-582-8065
Cuisine: Japanese/Sushi
Hours: Mon-Fri: 12 - 2:25 pm; 5 - 10:30 pm; Sat: 4:30 -10:30 pm; Sun: 5 - 10 pm
Price Range: lunch $8-15; dinner $10-25

Deli and American

Located in the Edison Hotel, the Edison Cafe serves up affordable food all day long, including pancakes, matzo ball soup, and deli sandwiches. Edison Cafe is a reliable standby and popular with those who work in the neighborhood -- meaning you might just spot a theater big-wig or star dining there.

Address: 228 West 47th St (Broadway and 8th Ave)
Telephone: 212-840-5000
Cuisine: American/Delicatessen
Hours: Mon - Sat: 6 am - 9:30 pm; Sun: 6 am - 7:30 pm
Price Range: $5-10

Barbeque

Surprisingly, Virgil's offers some of New York City's best barbecue, including Memphis ribs and Carolina Pulled Pork. Portions are generous and they have a full bar with signature drinks. Reservations are recommended -- allow plenty of time if you're going to a show afterward, as service can be slow.

Address: 152 West 44th Street (Bdwy/6th Ave)
Telephone: 212-921-9494
Cuisine: Southern/BBQ
Hours: 11:30 AM - Midnight (11 p.m. on Sun/Mon)
Price Range: $8-22 for entrees
Good for Kids/Groups? Yes

Like most destinations these days, the weather can be fairly unpredictable, but here's some tips on what we've learned.

The Spring & Fall Season

The Days are usually warm during this time, however, the evenings can be a little cool. For this reason, it is best to wear layered clothing each day so you can adjust according to the climate. If you'll be visiting Canada on your tour, the same rules apply. (Consider the June 2002 Our Kingdom Ministry, Pg. 2 for guidelines on dress & Grooming).

The Summer Season

The Summer season in New York can be intense. Not only is it hot, but humid as well. It's best to wear clothes that will allow you to stay cool all day. (Consider the June 2002 Our Kingdom Ministry, Pg. 2 for guidelines on dress & Grooming).

The Winter Season

Winter tends to hit NYC hard, resulting in very low temperatures and large amounts of snow. Not only will you do well to have thick, warm clothing, but scarves, caps that cover the ears and gloves will be much welcome commodities to your travels!

Over-packing tops the list of biggest travel mistakes. We'd like to help you learn to travel light!

Any documents given you by Bethel Coach Tours

Whether you've booked your own tour with Bethel Coach Tours online or over the phone, We make every effort to get your important documents to you that you may need for your tour. Depending on the type of tour you've booked, these may include your flight itinerary, rooming arrangements and arrival instructions. You'll want to be sure you have these documents with you to make your vacation a success!

Your 'Daily Text', and any other study material you may want

Each day is started off right - with a warm breakfast and a consideration of the daily text with the entire bus group - so be sure you have yours on the bus with you each day! Not to be forgotten too is your song book. We love to sing Kingdom Melodies when the road gets a bit lengthy - such as when were on our way to Canada or to Washington, DC. We also take time to read and discuss the Watchtower on Sunday afternoon too - so you'll want to have the current study article along with your bible.

A Camera + Film

And who could forget their camera!? There's so many sites you're going to want to have captured forever - be sure to bring extra batteries!

Going to New York on a budget? Here's some things you can do, see and eat that won't break the bank (some of them FREE)!

Eating in NYC for less

Brooklyn Heights / Montague St. Dining / Southstreet Seaport Dining / Inexpensive dining in the Times Square district

Fun things to do for FREE

Ride the Staten Island Ferry and get some great close-up shots of the Statue of Liberty. Take a stroll through Central Park and enjoy the sunshine. Try on perfume samples at Saks Fifth Avenue. Spend hours at Toys R Us! watch break dancing at Grand Central station...

A lot of fun for a few dollars

Explore a famous Art Deco masterpiece on an inexpensive, guided tour of majestic Rockefeller Center. Taste farm-fresh produce, homemade breads, cheeses, cider and more at the Union Square Greenmarket, where some vendors offer free samples of their wares. Or, browse for bargains at the famous Annex Antiques Market (212-243-5343), between 24th and 27th Streets. Stories of faith and courage that affect nearly every American are told at the Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island Immigration Museum. See New York's most famous landmark and learn about America's melting pot heritage. Admission and ferry ride are $10 adults, $8 seniors, $4 children ages 3-17. Experience New York's salty maritime history at the South Street Seaport Museum, which also boasts upscale shops and restaurants. Browsing is free; museum admission $5.