TV host David Letterman always refers to New York as “the greatest city in the world” and millions agree. Where else can you catch a show on Broadway, see the view from the Statue of Liberty, or dine on any cuisine in the world?

New York glitters year-round, but it’s magnificent during the holidays: See the sumptuous department store window displays at Christmas, watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade travel down 42^nd St., and join the wearers o’ the green in a drink on St. Patrick’s Day.

New York Expert on Best Things to See and Do in NYC

Longtime New Yorker Leslie Koch of DowntownTraveler.com recently told FareCompare’s Anne McDermott all about the best things to do in New York – plus what to eat, where to shop, and how to find the deals:

The city’s official slogan is, “I Love New York”. We think you will, too.

Flights to New York

Flying in and out of New York is simple, and finding cheap flights to New York is easy, thanks to a choice of airports.

LaGuardia Airport (LGA): The smallest of New York City’s airports is also closest to Manhattan; it is served by most domestic and Canadian airlines.

John F. Kennedy International (JFK): This is the busiest international passenger gateway to the U.S. and is served by scores of the world’s international airlines, as well as many domestic carriers including JetBlue and Virgin America.

Newark Liberty International (EWR): Though based in New Jersey, this facility is only about 15 miles from midtown-Manhattan; it too is served by number domestic and international airlines.

Attractions in New York

There are a million things to do in New York City; here are just a few suggestions (and see the links below for more ideas).

Statue of Liberty – A symbol of freedom throughout the world. Take the ferry, then climb the interior staircase to the crown (and take some New Yorkers with you; chances are, they haven’t done this, either).

Empire State Building – Sure, other buildings are taller, but do they have as good a view of New York City? The observation deck in this Art Deco masterpiece isn’t free, but is worth it.

Metropolitan Museum of Art – This beautiful building along Fifth Avenue in Central Park hosts one of the world’s greatest collections of art, from Egyptian artifacts to medieval treasures and Impressionist paintings – and so much more. Tip: the museum store has stunning gifts.

Shopping and Restaurants in New York

Dining: With over 20,000 restaurants, you won’t go hungry here. Whether you had something rarified in mind, like Terrine of Hudson Valley Moulard Duck Foie Gras, or just a pastrami on rye, you will be satisfied. Tip: ask a local for the name of his favorite neighborhood joint (there are so many good ones).

Shopping: From the venerable department stores to trendy boutiques and the diamond district, shoppers can find whatever they fancy. Tip: the street vendors off Union Square Park have terrific costume jewelry, and try the Pearl River Mart on Broadway in Soho for all things Asian.

Smart Tip

St. Paul’s Chapel: George Washington worshipped at this Georgian Classic Revival church at 211 Broadway; in the aftermath of 9/11, it came to be known as the “World Trade Center Chapel” as emergency workers made it their headquarters. It is New York’s oldest public building still in continuous use and is adjacent to the site where the Twin Towers once loomed.

More Information on New York

These sites are loaded with great information on what to see and do in the city, and beyond.

NYC Go – Lists of “must-see” attractions as well as little known gems, plus info on TV show tapings, dining, hotels and more.

New York State Tourism – Includes a city attractions guide, plus what to do and see throughout New York State.

New York Magazine’s Visitors Guide: Up-to-the minute guide to clubs and restaurants plus great lists (including “top five pizzas in the city”).