The big apple. The city that never sleeps. The capital of the world. From the bright lights of Broadway to the top of the Empire State Building, there's a lot to see and do in New York City! Deciding on a list of must-see's will help you make the most out of any trip. For first-time visitors, here are a few standard landmark spots not to be missed!

Central Park:

Stepping out the door of most hotels will place you square in the midst of hustle and bustle of New York City. Always remember, despite the giant skyscraper buildings and never ending parade of honking taxi-cabs, fresh air and green grass aren't far away. Central Park, one of the city's best known landmarks, is easily reached from most of New York hotels. While some spots might be familiar from movies (Breakfast at Tiffany's) and TV shows (Friends), there are a few areas that only the insiders frequent.

The Alice in Wonderland statue based on the famed children's story and is a favorite spot of many of the city's children frequent. Alice, The Mad Hatter, The Cheshire Cat and, of course, The White Rabbit, are all casted in bronze in this whimsical statue. Some say rubbing The White Rabbit or the toadstool Alice sits on can bring good luck, so be sure to touch the statue before heading to your next destination.

Another local favorite, the Shakespeare Garden, is a true must-see for any Bard buff. The Garden, originally planted in 1916, is full of plants mentioned in Shakespeare's work. Over the years, the garden fell into disrepair, but flourished again in the late 80's, when it was restored by Central Park patrons. While many have enjoyed saying or reading the interesting names of plants from Shakespeare's times, few would be able to identify wormwood, quince or cowslip if it were in the lobby of the Manhattan hotel they were staying at. To find out exactly what these and other exotic sounding plants actually look like, make sure this colorful garden makes it onto the agenda.

Radio City Music Hall:

Next up, the grandest theater in the world! Radio City Music Hall, long a favorite suggestion of New York City travel experts, is actually the largest indoor theater in existence, with a marquee the size of a full city block! Both live-theater and movie fans are sure to be enthralled by the gorgeous theater that was designed so that there are no "bad seats."

Famous movies such as White Christmas, National Velvet and Breakfast at Tiffany's premiered here, and stars like Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles and Liza Minnelli, among others, have performed there. During the holiday season, the Christmas Spectacular features the Radio City Rockettes, whose high, choreographed kicks have made history. True fans will insist on a behind-the-scenes tour before making their way back to their hotel, and they won't be disappointed. Tours are available daily, and downtown hotel concierges may have discounted ticket coupons.

For many traveling to New York they want the excitement of travel combined with the convenience of hotel location. Remember, there are lots of New York luxury hotel options available. Make sure your hotel is based around your itinerary and personal style. If you’re spending most of your time in the theatres around Broadway, then consider searching for boutique New York Broadway hotels among other boutique hotel room options.