Not hungry? Stephanie Holmes finds three great non-foodie things to do in New York.
1 Walk the High Line
Stretching more than 2km on a former West Side elevated railway track, the High Line is a great example of how disused city space can be converted into a much-loved public attraction. It was destined for demolition but the local community rallied to save the train lines and turn them into something beautiful. Now, you'll find gardens with more than 500 species of plants, artworks, food and drink vendors, performances and regular events. Walking the High Line also gives great views of the city and out to the Hudson River.
2 Take a hip-hop tour of Harlem
For a glimpse of New York your stock-standard tourist isn't going to see, head out to Harlem for an on-foot adventure. Hush offers unique music and cultural tours, exploring the roots of hip-hop culture and its importance to the city. Tour guides know what they're talking about too, they're hip-hop legends — like Grandmaster Caz from the Cold Crush Brothers, and Kurtis Blow, the first rapper to be signed by a major label — who have lived and breathed hip-hop culture throughout their lives. The Walk This Way Thru Harlem tour visits the Apollo Theatre, the Graffiti Wall of Fame, the Lenox Lounge, Museum of the City of New York, historic Harlem jazz clubs, and more. While you walk, your guide will play classic songs and maybe even rap some lyrics for you. US$35.
3 Watch a game at Madison Square Garden
Sport is an intrinsic part of American culture and in New York you can watch baseball (Mets; Yankees), basketball (Nets, Knicks, Liberty), American football (Giants, Jets), ice hockey (Devils, Islanders, Rangers), soccer (NYC FC, Red Bulls, Sky Blues) and much more. For the ultimate fan experience head to Madison Square Garden, in the centre of the city, where — depending on the season — you can see the New York Rangers hit the ice, and the New York Knicks run the court. MSG is absolutely huge and on a game night the atmosphere is electric. Stock up on merchandise, junk food and beers bigger than your head, then take your seats and prepare for the exciting games, as well as cheerleaders, crowd competitions and kiss cams.
