From Toronto to Times Square

There’s something magical about hitting the open road with a packed suitcase and a curious spirit. My East Coast USA adventure began in the vibrant city of Toronto, and from there, I journeyed through one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders -Niagara Falls – before arriving in my favourite city of all time, New York City.

Starting in Toronto

Toronto is a city that effortlessly blends modern urban energy with a multicultural heart. I spent my first day soaking in the sights of downtown, from the CN Tower to the charming cobblestone streets of the Distillery District. The food scene here is incredible – one minute I was enjoying fresh dim sum in Chinatown, and the next, sipping artisan coffee in a trendy Queen Street café.

After a couple of days exploring Toronto, it was time to hit the road.

The Power of Niagara Falls

Just under two hours from Toronto, Niagara Falls is nothing short of breathtaking. I’ve seen it in photos a hundred times, but nothing compares to witnessing the raw power of the falls in person. The roar, the mist, the sheer force – it was spellbinding.

I took a boat ride on the iconic Hornblower Cruise, which brought us right up to the base of Horseshoe Falls. Getting drenched in the spray was all part of the fun! I also made time to walk along the Niagara Parkway, visited the Floral Clock, and even stopped for a wine tasting in the nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake region, known for its world-class ice wines.

Big City Dreams: New York City

From Niagara, I continued my journey south toward New York City – I’ve visited NYC previously on a group tour, but this time was something special. As soon as I arrived, the energy was infectious. There’s something about NYC that makes you feel like anything is possible. One of my favourite things about NYC is that every corner I turn, there is something new and exciting to see and do.

Staying in Brooklyn offers a more relaxed, local vibe while keeping you close to all the action of New York City. It’s perfect for travellers who want to experience the authentic side of NYC -think brownstone-lined streets, trendy cafés, vibrant street art, and cool neighbourhoods like Williamsburg. You’ll find great boutique hotels, scenic views of the Manhattan skyline, and easy access to the city via subway.

I strolled through Central Park, took in the views from the Top of the Rock, and stood in awe under the lights of Times Square. I spent a day exploring Lower Manhattan, visiting the 9/11 Memorial, and walking the Brooklyn Bridge at sunset- a truly unforgettable moment.

No visit to NYC is complete without experiencing the food scene. I grabbed a classic bagel with schmear in the morning, devoured dollar pizza slices in the afternoon, and ended the day with a rooftop cocktail overlooking the skyline.

What I loved most about New York was the contrast- the quiet serenity of a brownstone-lined street in Greenwich Village, followed moments later by the bustle of Grand Central Station.

Big Apple Thoughts

This East Coast journey was the perfect mix of natural wonder, cultural exploration, and big-city excitement. From the multicultural charm of Toronto and the thunderous beauty of Niagara Falls to the dazzling streets of New York City, each stop offered something unique and unforgettable.

If you’re thinking of taking a similar trip, my advice is simple: go. And soak it all in-one incredible moment at a time.