The beautiful bustling city, arguably the financial and cultural capital of the world, gets more face time in Hollywood movies than most actors and has more nicknames than Liz Taylor has husbands. From Wall Street to Broadway to the Yankees (not to mention Ground Zero and the Statue of Liberty), New York City is home to some of the most long-standing fixtures in the American consciousness. Dozens of ethnic enclaves are evidence that this was the city many of the nation's immigrants first called home. New York City was the birthplace of the Harlem Renaissance and is now home to one of the most vibrant arts scenes in the U.S. The Big Apple is a visitor's paradise. From tall buildings (Empire State Building, Chrysler Building) and massive parks (Central Park), to bright lights (Times Square), fine dining (can you say Michelin?), and upscale shopping (5th Avenue), there seems to be something for everyone. It is, after all, as a famous duo sang, the "concrete jungle where dreams are made of.

• 1 Public transportation is very convenient, but subway cars and stations are old and filthy. Cabs and car services may be welcome alternatives.
• 2 If you do opt for frequent public transportation, an unlimited MetroCard may give you the best deal.
• 3 It's not safe for ladies to walk around alone at night. Call up a friend!
• 4 Tax-free shopping? NYC tax exemption on clothing/shoes purchases under $55 reinstated in April 2011.
• 5 Smokers beware! Smoking banned in all bars and restaurants.

Fair and 54 F at New York City, Central Park, NY

Winds are from the South at 11.5 gusting to 18.4 MPH (10 gusting to 16 KT). The pressure is 1005.1 mb and the humidity is 40%. The wind chill is 51. Last Updated on Feb 22 2012, 12:51 pm EST.