New York is not one of the most popular vacation destinations for nothing - it's unique shopping, sightseeing and atmosphere cannot be duplicated anywhere else in the world. However, once you've exhausted yourself out on the tourist hotspots and your wallet can't take any more retail therapy, it's time to satisfy your inner geek and stimulate your intellectual mentality by heading to some of New York’s most nerdiest places! Note: You do not have to be a geek to enter but oh it is so much cooler if you are!
The Rose Center for Earth and Space
If science and astrophysics is your thing then no trip to New York is complete without a visit to the Hayden Planetarium. Geek or not, no-one could fail to be awed by the vast spectacle of stars on array at this renowned museum. A customized Star Projector projects a simulation of the Big Bang onto a state-of-the-art glass ceiling. And it's only $15 for entrance!
Midtown Comics
New York has a prestigious comic book history, being the home city of giant comic publishers Marvel and DC. With the best range of graphic novels, comic books and manga in New York City, the estimated number of books housed in their premises comes to over half a million. It's not just about books - they also supply trading cards, models and toys, manga soundtracks and DVDs. You won’t just find look-a-likes of the cast of The Big Bang Theory here, oh no, this place is filled with locals, business men, housewives, tourists and children all wanting to re-live a piece of nostalgia from their childhood and create new memories. It may be free to have a look around but how much you spend is totally up to you.
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The American Museum of Natural History
Otherwise known as AMNH, this is one of the most renowned and celebrated museums in the world. With twenty five buildings and forty six exhibition halls housing over thirty million artefacts; the constantly rotating specimens on display means that no two months are the same. Make sure you check out the 94 foot long model of the blue whale in the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life. Adult tickets cost $19, but students get a five dollar discount.
The Apple Store Fifth Avenue Gallery
This glass cube is a landmark in its own right - the striking entrance invites visitors into its subterranean haven for Apple geeks. Open twenty four hours a day, (yep they take this seriously!) It's a great place to test-drive the latest innovations from Apple. Whether you want to watch a movie on the latest, slimmest iPad or participate in a workshop on how to get the most out of your new iPhone, there's something even Microsoft fans would like to do!
The Barcade at Brooklyn
This Brooklyn classic combines the two great loves of any true geek: quirky alcohol and classic arcade games. Swing on by and immerse yourself in the retro old-school atmosphere. This is a must-see for anyone who misses the old school. Entrance is usually free, and each game costs only a quarter to play. Embrace your inner Space Invaders fan or challenge someone to a Street Fighter match - every visit is different.
Neutral Ground
If social gaming is your thing, stop by this LAN haven for every multi-player game under the sun. Whether you want to enter a trading card tournament, take part in a Dungeons and Dragons campaign or classic online gaming; entrance is free and food can be delivered! A great place to make new friends - and a great way to finish off your trip.
For more geek travel tips, Hostelbookers have created their very own Geek Travel Map with tips from top celebrity geeks!
If you are travelling on a budget you will find many cheap New York hotels around the Manhattan and Brooklyn area.
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