At the heart of this full-colour and visually inspiring guide is a wealth of well-researched information and over 100 detailed recommendations, written by experts. New York is a breath-taking city packed with magnificent architecture and some of the most spectacular museums in the world, not to mention the shopping extravaganza available almost 24/7. In this guide you will find all the sights and top attractions explored in an easy-to-read A-Z format helping you navigate your way through the tremendous array of sights. Superb 3D laminated illustrations display the key highlights in perspective and include the Brooklyn Bridge, Chrysler Building and a unique view underneath Manhattan, all brought to life at the turn of a page. Clear and concise background texts cover New York's fascinating and somewhat turbulent cultural heritage and history, tracing key events from the first American Indians that settled to the arrival of the Europeans and beyond. Special feature pages cover topics of particular interest that give a rare glimpse into everyday life and throughout the guide you will find answers to some of New York's more intriguing cultural questions such as 'Who invented the hot dog and when?' and 'Why is New York called the Big Apple?'. A comprehensive 'Practicalities' chapter covers all the essential travel advice you need, including accommodation, transport, food and drink, health, shopping, money and much more, not to mention useful insider tips for travellers with disabilities and those travelling with children. It reveals when and where you can catch festivals, holidays and events throughout the year. There are plenty of 'Baedeker tips' alongside the relevant places and sights information, making this guide ideal for on-the-spot reference. The guide is accompanied by a large, fully indexed, pull-out map, along with 26 detailed maps and plans within the text that clearly pin-point the best places to stay and top venues to eat and drink en route. There are 5 recommended tours specially designed to ensure you see the very best of this extraordinary and almost over-whelming city. Walking is definitely the best way to get around the centre of this city so strap on your comfiest shoes and pick a tour from the 5 that we recommend covering Midtown & the heart of Manhattan, Downtown where the city grew up, From West to East through Central Park to the United Nations, a cultural tour along Museum Mile and Chelsea, the neighbourhood on the upswing. Each tour takes from 2 hours depending on your stamina and how much you want to take in on the way. Top sights are clearly plotted along the way with the distances marked between them. All of this invaluable information is contained within a handy plastic wallet that allows you to keep the guide and map together whilst ensuring that both will survive in all weather. Baedeker - setting a new standard in 21st century travel guide publishing.