There are few places around the world that have a larger-than-life character rivaling New York. The pulsing metropolis has an enigmatic pull on those who want to be in on the action in real life.

Violet Krasner, a Delta Red Coat at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), said her affinity for the city began in 1996 when she moved from her home country of Trinidad and Tobago.

“It is like nowhere else in the world,” said Violet, a Delta employee since 2007. “The diversity and culture of the city at once stood out to me, and I was struck by all it had to offer. The hustle and bustle of the streets, the constant movement – it’s all so exhilarating.”

VIOLET’S MUST SEE & DO IN NYC

Although there are many must-see places to visit in the Big Apple, Violet recommends the following for a well-rounded trip:

• The Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island. This iconic symbol of freedom and democracy has been welcoming visitors to New York Harbor since 1886.
• Empire State Building. Although this 102-story skyscraper was once the tallest building in the world, it still offers incredible views from its observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors.
• Times Square. There is always something going on in Times Square, no matter what time of day or night you visit, teeming with street performers and food vendors amidst the large LED displays and gigantic storefronts.
• Top of the Rock. This observation deck offers stunning panoramic views of the city from Rockefeller Center.
• Grace Church. Built in 1846, this Gothic Revival-style architectural masterpiece has been featured in many films, including "National Treasure" and "Gangs of New York.”

As one of the most artistically driven places in the world, New York presents many sights to behold for inspiration and enjoyment. Some of Violet’s recommendations for visitors would be to see a Broadway play, visit one of the city’s many museums and galleries or enjoy the nightlife in areas like the Meatpacking District, Lower East Side and Williamsburg.

SEASONS

“No matter what season you choose to visit, New York has something special in store for you,” Violet said. “Each season brings its own unique charm and energy, making it a perfect destination all year round.”

Springtime invites a blooming center of flowers throughout the city greenspaces. Violet suggests a leisurely stroll through Central Park and attending the annual Cherry Blossom Festival.

New York City summers invite the buzz of outdoor events and activities for visitors to enjoy, including free park concerts and movie screenings around the city, visiting Coney Island and indulging in ice cream from street vendors.

Fall in New York is an experience like no other, as the crisp air coupled with the dynamic foliage creates a picturesque environment. Taking a stroll through the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, visiting a local farmer’s market and visiting the pumpkin patch at the Queens County Farm Museum are a few things Violet recommends doing around town.

During the winter months, there are plenty of New York City holiday traditions Violet suggests, including ice skating at Central or Bryant Park, seeing the Radio City Rockettes perform or watching the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Times Square.

THE FOOD SCENE

Violet urges visitors to have an open mind when exploring dining options around town, as there are seemingly endless options for every type of epicurean.

Some of Violet’s must-visit food spots include:

• Xi'an Famous Foods. Well-known for its hand-pulled noodles, this chain was created by a son of Chinese immigrants who wanted to bring the authentic flavors of his family's hometown to the States.
• Joe's Pizza. This Greenwich Village pizzeria has been in operation since 1975 and has become a go-to spot for locals and tourists alike. The family-owned business is famous for its thin-crusted, Neapolitan-style pizza that's crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. 
  
• Halal food. If you're looking for a quick meal, a halal cart is the way to go. These street vendors serve chicken or lamb over rice, topped with white sauce and a tangy hot sauce. Although the most notable halal cart is on the corner of 53rd and 6th in Midtown, you can still find great carts all over the city.
• Katz's Delicatessen. Katz’s is most famous for its pastrami on rye. The pastrami is juicy and tender, with a rich, smoky flavor that comes from being smoked and cured for weeks.
• Junior's Restaurant. This iconic and classic diner has been a fixture in Brooklyn since 1950, and it's known far and wide for its delicious comfort food and cheesecake.

NEIGHBORHOODS

A more immersive view of New York’s diversity is found in visiting the city’s neighborhoods, home to many cultural persuasions from all over the globe.

“Each neighborhood has its own unique character and vibe,” Violet said. “Make sure to take some time to explore and discover what makes each one special.”

In Queens, the Astoria neighborhood is a great visit for Greek food and culture along with its thriving arts scene.

Brooklyn is home to Greenpoint, a Polish community known for its pierogi and aerial views of Manhattan. Dumbo, standing for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, is another great place for views of the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges.

The Washington Heights and Harlem neighborhoods are also notable for their rich cultural heritage.

A LIST FOR THE TOURIST

A few tips Violet recommends for those who desire to come to NYC are to:

• Plan ahead to make most of your trip.
• Bring comfortable shoes, as NYC is a walking city.
• Take the subway to get around – it’s quick and cost-effective.
• Hold on to your Metro card as a keepsake.
• Stop by Fishs Eddy in the Flatiron District for vintage dishware souvenirs.
• Keep the dress code for bars and clubs top of mind and don’t forget to bring your ID.

GETTING THERE THROUGH DELTA

Delta is proud to be New York City’s No. 1 airline*, offering more than 465 total daily departures to over 120 domestic and international destinations with its unique dual hub position at LaGuardia Airport (LGA) and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). Delta provides nonstop service to all of New York’s 40 most popular domestic markets.

Additionally, the airline will fly its largest trans-Atlantic schedule ever to JFK this summer, offering more than 225 weekly departures from 32 destinations such as Berlin, Geneva and London-Gatwick—all routes not flown since pre-pandemic or prior.

Delta has invested more than $7 billion in its New York City airports alone since 2010, unveiling a brand-new, $4 billion Terminal C at LGA last June and $1.5 billion expansion project at New York-JFK back in January. And there is more to come at both key airline hubs - with progress being made at LGA to complete the two remaining concourses by the end of 2024 and at JFK, a new Delta Sky Club set to open this summer, followed by the Concourse B expansion, opening in early fall 2023.

With over 10,000 NY-based employees, Delta’s people are part of the fabric of the New York community, committed to connecting the world from NYC and beyond.

*According to Cirium, Delta is No. 1 based on number of departures from JFK and LGA.