The Big Apple is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world, offering thousands of unique places to visit while you’re in the area. If you are planning to take a cruise and will be in New York City beforehand, you can’t simply sit in a hotel room. You have to get out and see the city. Check out some of these attractions before your ship sets sail.

Visit the Louis Valentino, Jr. Park and Pier

Surrounding the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal that hosts cruises from NYC is the gorgeous and vibrant neighborhood of Red Hook. Named after a firefighter, Louis J. Valentino Park provides excellent views of the Statue of Liberty, the Manhattan skyline, and the New York Harbor. Surrounded by residential and industrial historical buildings, the area provides a true sense of the diversity that New York City has to offer. After checking out the pier, spend some time in the local boutiques or cafes until it’s time to board your cruise ship.

Wander Through the Green-Wood Cemetery

People who love all things macabre will love wandering through the 478 acres that are Green-Wood Cemetery. A National Historical Landmark, the area was established in 1893 and was the city’s first green space. Today, it’s home to the final resting places of some of the world’s most famous people. Additionally, it is a historic site from the Revolutionary War. Try climbing to the top of Battle Hill to see where the Battle of Brooklyn was fought or take a themed trolly or walking tour through the cemetery. Of course, you can also just enter it and spend time walking at your own pace.

Spend Some Time in Central Park

You can’t be in New York City and not visit Central Park. Perhaps the most famous public park in the world, it spans more than 800 acres and is a true natural oasis in the middle of an otherwise bustling city. Sit in Sheep Meadow with a picnic lunch, visit the Conservatory Garden, or take a wander through the Shakespeare Garden. There is also a reservoir, a lake, and a pond if you love water, and of course, you can’t forget about the Central Park Zoo. If you want to make the most of your visit, consider booking a walking tour, a pedicab, or even a horse. There are even guided walking tours. 

Grab a Drink at Red Hook Bait & Tackle

If you want to sit back, relax, and grab a drink while you wait for your cruise to depart, be sure to do so at Red Hook Bait & Tackle. Although the name is a bit misleading (they do not sell bait or tackle), the spot has been in Red Hook for more than 100 years. In fact, it was one of the first bars to open in Brooklyn. This laid-back, friendly bar offers reasonably priced drinks, but that’s not all it has. Many people go simply to check out the interior’s decor. It features everything from antique signs to a lone coyote. It even has a traditional New York City phone booth. Live music happens often and some kid-friendly options are available some afternoons.

Ride the Rides at Coney Island

Another long-standing New York City attraction, Coney Island is more than a theme park. In fact, it’s considered one of the city’s neighborhoods. Its first buildings were constructed in the 1840s, but today, the area houses more than 60 rides and attractions. Some of the most popular ones include Deno’s Wonder Wheel Park, Luna Park, and some good, old-fashioned bumper cars. There is also an ample arcade for those who love video games. When you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the attractions, you can check out three miles of beaches and boardwalks with your family. 

Who says all the fun you have on your cruise has to be during the cruise itself? Whether you’re departing from New York City or docking there after your cruise line adventures, be sure to stay in the city for a day or two to take in all that it has to offer.