tips to travel to new york

New York City Tips: 50 Dos & Don’ts for Visiting NYC Like a Pro

If you’re looking for New York City tips that have been tried and tested by a local New Yorker, you’re in the right place!

For more than 2 decades (and counting), New York has been my home. I even married a native New Yorker! The NYC dos and don’ts below come from my own experiences of living here and helping visitors navigate the city.

So whether it’s your first visit or fifth to New York City, I’ve got 50 of the best NYC tips to help make your time in the city a success,

New York City Tips: 50 Dos & Don’ts for Visiting NYC like a Pro!

Living in New York City was always one of my dreams. As a young girl, I was fascinated with Broadway, the bright lights, and the endless number of things to do in NYC.

Fast forward to when I arrived and I had no idea what I was doing!

On my first full day living in New York, my aunt tried to help me get my bearings. We walked around, and in between getting jostled by people racing to wherever they were going, I got every single one of the questions on her New York City quiz wrong.

Luckily for you, it’s been 25+ years since that failed quiz and now there’s no denying my status as a New Yorker!

I’m also a traveler, who knows that local tips can’t be beat when you’re exploring a new place, so I wanted to pass on some tried and true New York City tips for your first/next trip to the Big Apple!

NYC Tips: Planning Your Trip

When you’re planning a New York trip , there are a few basics you want to keep in mind.

It’s impossible to see and do everything. Instead, you want to focus on the time you do have and decide which places and activities are at the top of your must-see list.

Then, take advantage of the New York travel tips below to help you save money and time, as well as plan for your arrival.

1. Do plan ahead and spend enough time.

Ideally, you’ll want to spend at least 3 days visiting New York City, especially if you’re one of the many first-time visitors who come to NYC each year. This will ensure you have time to see some of New York City’s top sights, as well as a few nights to enjoy NYC’s restaurants and entertainment.

Maximize your time in New York City by planning sensible logistics (avoid backtracking) and making advance restaurant and ticket reservations to avoid missing an opportunity and waiting in long lines.

This includes booking timed-entry tickets for tourist attractions like Summit One Vanderbilt , the 9/11 Museum , and the Statue of Liberty if they’re on your list of places to visit.

And if there is a Broadway show that you’re deadset on seeing, it’s best to secure those tickets ahead of time instead of leaving to chance getting discounted tickets last minute.

2. Don’t overstuff your NYC itinerary.

It’s easy to be wide-eyed as you plan what to see and do in New York City. The city has an endless number of things to do. But you also want to take the time to enjoy your time and not just race from place to place.

Here are a few things to keep in mind.

Unless you’re an absolute die-hard art lover, don’t visit more than 1 art museum in a day. Museum fatigue is real and you’ll likely stop absorbing what you’re seeing after a couple of hours.

If you can, mix in a variety of indoor and outdoor activities. For example, visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art or MoMA in the morning and then spend at least part of the afternoon in Central Park. Similarly, you might want to plan a morning or afternoon visit to the 9/11 Museum and the other part of the day walking across the Brooklyn Bridge or exploring Chinatown.

Lastly, if managing the entire day independently feels overwhelming, join a guided tour or activity for part of the day. Guided neighborhood walking tours can help you explore a new part of the city without worrying about where to go or what to see.

3. Do consider saving money with a sightseeing pass.

If you’re planning a heavy sightseeing itinerary, absolutely consider getting a bundled pass like The New York Pass or New York CityPASS . These passes can help you save a good amount of money when compared to buying tickets individually.

The New York Pass lets you choose the duration of your pass, from 1-10 days. This is a great way to pack together consecutive days of unlimited sightseeing with a choice of 100+ attractions.

The New York CityPASS , on the other hand, gives you access to 5 attractions (2 fixed and 3 of your choice from a set list) over 9 days. This pass is great if you want to sightsee at your own pace while mixing in other activities and experiences around the city.

4. Don’t miss NYC’s numerous free things to do.

Fortunately for your wallet, there are also plenty of amazing free attractions in New York City. Quite a few of them also happen to be top places to visit in NYC, too.

Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, taking in the harbor and Lower Manhattan views. This is a top New York City thing to do and shouldn’t be missed!

Central Park, Bryant Park, the High Line, Little Island Park, Riverside Park, and numerous other green spaces are all free to explore. Some like the High Line come with art exhibitions, while Little Island Park hosts free performances.

In the heart of Midtown Manhattan, visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the main branch of the New York Public Library, Rockefeller Center, and Grand Central Terminal…all for free!

Many of New York City’s museums have free days including MoMA, the Met, the 9/11 Museum, the Guggenheim, and the Morgan Library. Check individual museum websites for more info and, in some cases, to make a free reservation.

In Lower Manhattan, you can visit the 9/11 Memorial Reflecting Pools for free, as well as ride the Staten Island Ferry past the Statue of Liberty and head to Governor’s Island for free.

And on any given day, the city hosts numerous free activities and cultural events from art shows to concerts and live theater productions. Use a resource like TimeoutNY to check free events happening during the days you visit.

5. Do learn how to navigate New York City’s streets.

One of the great things about getting around New York City is the grid pattern of its streets on most of Manhattan (down to 14th Street). The simple tic-tac-toe set-up combined with numbered streets makes it easy to orient yourself and find where you need to be.

NYC’s streets (i.e. 37th St., 38th St. 39th St.) run east and west across the island of Manhattan. Roughly 20 of these “city blocks” are about 1 mile. When you’re walking with the numbers going up, you’re walking uptown. If the numbers are going down, you’re heading downtown.

New York City’s avenues (Madison Ave., 5th Ave., 6th Ave., 7th Ave.) run north and south. These avenues intersect the numbered streets. The distance between avenues is greater than the distance between streets. About 7 avenues add up to 1 mile.

At 5th Avenue, you’ll find the dividing line between the west and east sides of the island.

For example, if you’re at 42nd St. & 5th Ave., walk in one direction along 42nd Street and you’ll see that it’s E.42nd Street. But if you walk the other way, you’ll notice the signs say W.42nd Street.

Street addresses get smaller the closer they are to 5th Avenue and bigger the farther they are from 5th Avenue. So, if you need to go to MoMA at 11 W.53rd Street, you know that the museum is on the west side of Manhattan and close to 5th Avenue because the building number is 11.

Lastly, New Yorkers typically use intersections or cross streets to explain where they are or to tell a taxi where to take them. You wouldn’t say to a taxi driver, please take me to 11 W. 53rd Street. Instead, you’d say, 53rd and 5th, please. This tells the driver the intersection where you’d like to be dropped.

6. Don’t rely on taxis to get to Manhattan from the airport

This might be one of the most important New York City travel tips on this list.

I highly recommend having a plan for getting from your airport to Manhattan. All the airports have taxi lines that will take you where you need to be. The problem is they’re expensive and sometimes come with a lengthy wait in line for an available taxi.

From JFK to Manhattan, taxis charge a flat rate of $70. This does NOT include extra for tolls, tips, and any surcharges in effect. From Laguardia and Newark Airports, taxi fares are calculated by the meter with tips, tolls, and surcharges tacked onto that. Depending on traffic, taxi fares calculated by the meter can add up quickly.

Instead, use public transportation or book a transfer service in advance so that you know the cost ahead of time. These guides will help you figure out the best way to get from each airport.

• JFK to Manhattan
• LaGuardia to Manhattan
• Newark Airport to Manhattan

7. Don’t shy away from spending Christmas in New York

I reject the idea that you should think twice about spending Christmas in New York .

Yes, it’s very crowded and hotel prices can be high especially right around the time of the Rockefeller Tree Lighting and during the school break week between Christmas and New Year’s.

But, Christmas in New York is absolutely beautiful. The city sparkles with lights and decorations. The atmosphere at the holiday markets is festive enough to warm even the coldest of Grinch hearts. Even “hardened” New Yorkers can’t help but feel the Christmas spirit.

8. Do know the mistakes to avoid spending Christmas in New York.

That being said, you want to make sure you’re a little extra prepared so that you don’t fall victim to some of the classic New York City Christmas mistakes.

Knowing what to avoid, how to dress, or the best places to ice skate all help to make your New York City Christmas trip a success!

New York Travel Tips: Getting Around

Pay attention to these New York tips for navigating the city. Getting around NYC (or lack thereof) can make or break your entire trip.

The last thing you want is the stress of getting lost or arriving late only to realize you’ve missed out on something you were really looking forward to.

The good news, though, is that with a little common sense and advance studying by reading these NYC tips, you’ll be on your way to getting around the city like a pro!

9. Don’t drive.

Traffic is horrendous and parking is worse. It can take a maddening amount of time to get around NYC by car and will inevitably waste hours.

And even if for one crazy fleeting moment, you think driving around New York City makes sense, remember that no restaurants, bars, shops, or sightseeing attractions have parking for their customers.

Bottom line. There are no good reasons to justify driving into or around New York City.

10. Do use public transportation.

The subway (and even walking) will typically be faster than taking a taxi, perhaps except for hours in the dead of night when NYC quiets down. (Although this is never a guarantee because night road work is always happening somewhere!)

Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx are well connected by subway trains and buses. This is why millions of people use them every day,

You can get anywhere you’d want to go in the city and be much happier when you arrive…not to mention on time, too!

11. Don’t be a subway oaf!

The fastest way to annoy New Yorkers is to in any way block the turnstiles, the stairways, or the train entrance. We understand that you might not be familiar with the subway system. All we ask is that you move to the side or to a place that is out of the way so you can figure out which way you need to go.

Think of it like this. Navigating the subway is part of our daily commute. Would you stop your car in the middle of a highway entrance ramp (during rush hour) while you read all the signs or looked at a map? No. The subway tunnels, stairways, and turnstiles are no different.

Once you know the train you need, be sure to stand back on the platform. When the train arrives, don’t block the door. Step to the side to allow people inside to get off the train.

Once you’re inside, move all the way into the subway car. You’ll notice that New Yorkers have mastered the art of making no eye contact even when we are smushed together in a cramped space. You should practice this skill, too.

And, whatever you do, don’t lean your whole body on the poles inside the train. On a crowded train, these are the only things that a lot of people can hold onto once the train is moving.

Yes, it’s a petri dish of bacteria, but hold onto the poles with your hands so other people around you have space to hang on, too. This is exactly why those mini bottles of hand sanitizer were created in the first place.

12. Do have your subway payment method ready.

As of 2023, you can still swipe a MetroCard to enter the subway. Although, they will eventually be phased out. The subway and bus fare is $2.90.

Metrocards are refillable (except those that are single-ride cards) and can be used on buses, PATH trains to/from New Jersey, and for the AirTrain at JFK Airport. There are also 7-day unlimited ride Metrocards which make sense if you ride the subway at least 12 times no matter how long your New York City itinerary is.

You can also use the contactless payment system on all turnstiles with your smartphone or contactless credit card. Just tap to pay and you’ll be able to go through the turnstile. Be sure to use the same device or card so the system will recognize if/when you’ve reached 12 rides in a 7-day period. Any rides past that in the same window of time will be free.

13. Don’t get in an empty subway car !

While we’re talking about the subway, I feel obligated to mention this.

I did this once with a college friend of mine. I was new to New York City and flat-out didn’t know any better. Just trust me on this one…unless, of course, you enjoy breathing the foulest stenches in creation.

14. Do move down the platform and find a car with people on it.

If an empty subway car (while all the others are pretty full) pulls up in front of you on the platform, no you did not just get incredibly lucky. There’s 100% a reason why others have skipped the empty train car in favor of wedging themselves into a more crowded part of the train.

Instead of thinking you landed a jackpot, quickly move to a train car with people on it. Your nose and taste buds will thank you.

15. Do know the difference between local and express trains.

Several subway lines run express and local trains. It’s exactly as it sounds. The local trains make all the stops on the line, while the express trains bypass many stations stopping only in select places.

Know which one you need before you get on the train. Don’t waste time having to backtrack to a station because the accidental express train you were riding skipped your stop.

Look at an NYC subway map. Local stations are marked with a filled-in-all-black circle. Express train stops are marked by a white or unfilled circle. Where the white circle (or oval) overlaps several train lines, it means you can connect underground to these other lines without having to pay again.

Sometimes it’s knowing the simplest of NYC travel tips that can make all the difference.

16. Don’t block the subway station escalator.

Some subway stations have escalators to carry you to or from the train platforms. While riding these escalators, it’s expected that you move to the right if you’d like to stand and ride and move to the left if you’d like to climb the stairs and pass others.

Please don’t stand on the left or place suitcases there while others are trying to move quickly to wherever they are going (i.e. work, doctor’s office, picking their kids up from school).

17. Don’t be the cause of a sidewalk traffic jam.  

Other than the subway and buses, New Yorkers’ primary mode of transportation is their feet. The sidewalk in New York is like a pedestrian highway. Walking in a line across with your whole family blocks others from passing.

If you stop suddenly, the people behind you won’t expect this and just might walk into you. Just like there are rules of the road when you’re driving, NYC’s sidewalks come with similar protocols.

18. Do “pull over” to the right

Not to worry if you’re just strolling, are a slow walker, or want to stop and figure out where you are and where you’re headed! Just move to the right which signals to those around you that they are free to move past you.

This also applies if you want to look up or take photos of something. And don’t worry if you need to look at a map. Use Google Maps on your smartphone. No one will be the wiser that you aren’t sure which way to go because everyone else will be looking at their smartphone, too!

19. Don’t wait for a walk sign if there are no cars.

Ok obviously always check for cars before crossing the street. But if you want to blend in with real NYers, it’s okay to cross even when it doesn’t say “Walk” as long as no cars are coming.

20. Do watch for buses and bikes.

Just don’t forget about bike and bus lanes! Bike path traffic can be dangerous and they’re less forgiving than cars. So if you see a small painted green lane as you cross the street, be sure there isn’t someone racing by on a bike or e-bike!

New York City Tips: During Your Trip

The New York tips below are all about helping you take advantage of some of the best NYC has to offer while avoiding some of the pitfalls that an unknowing (first time) visitor might not realize.

21. Don’t spend too long in Times Square.

For that matter, don’t stay in Rockefeller Center, either. These places are iconic, sure. Go see them, take some photos in front of the ice rink or the giant billboards with their flashing lights, and then get out of there.

Times Square is full of tourist traps from costumed characters looking to be paid to take photos with visitors to chain restaurants overcharging for bad food.

Besides just seeing the spectacle that is Times Square, the only other reason to spend any length of time there is to get discounted Broadway show tickets at the TKTS booth on W. 47th Street.

22. Do explore other parts of New York City.

New York City is made up of 5 boroughs, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island. And within these boroughs are countless neighborhoods, each with their own character and culture. Together, they make up the endless number of amazing things to do in New York City.

Why not head to Lower Manhattan to visit the Financial District and to see the 9/11 Memorial & Museum? The tiny streets at Manhattan’s southern tip are where the city first took root as a colony in the 1600s. When you look closely, you can see remaining bits of colonial history and even visit the final resting place of Alexander Hamilton.

Walk the High Line as it snakes through Chelsea or head uptown to the Upper West Side to visit the northern parts of Central Park and the iconic St. John the Divine. When you’re hungry, take the subway down to Chinatown to sample plates of noodles and Dim Sum.

When you’re ready, ride the subway to Brooklyn for a stroll through one of the most incredible open-air street art galleries in the world.

23. Don’t eat in Little Italy…unless you know where to go.

It pains me to say this as a girl of southern Italian ancestry but unfortunately what’s left of this neighborhood is just a couple of streets with souvenir shops and restaurants serving mediocre Italian fare.

If you do go, avoid the restaurants with wranglers trying to persuade you to sit down. The places worth visiting don’t have people doing this. For example, Di Palo’s on Grand and Mott is famous for their sandwiches and homemade mozzarella. (The line is worth standing in!) Il Cortile has fantastic northern Italian dishes and Ferrara Bakery has been making Italian sweets like cannoli for over 100 years.

24. Do walk down Bleecker Street in Greenwich Village.

Between 6th and 7th Avenues along Bleecker Street in Greenwich Village , you can taste delicious pizza at legendary places like Bleecker Street Pizza, John’s of Bleecker Street, and Joe’s Pizza. Save room for a couple of rice balls from Faicco’s Italian Specialties and cannolis at Pasticceria Rocco.

If you want to have a sit-down Italian dinner, New York City has no shortage of options! Some of my favorites are  Morandi , L’Artusi , and Via Carota .

And if you’re up for taking a bit of a trip “north,” head to Arthur Avenue in the Bronx for another authentic Little Italy neighborhood!

25. Don’t take disrespectful selfies .

Sadly this makes the list, but crimes, tragic or sad events, homeless people, and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum are off-limits when it comes to selfies. Just please don’t do it.

26. Do take photos of NYC’s iconic skyline.

That being said, please take as many photos as you’d like of the city itself and all of its beautiful sights and attractions. This is especially true of the New York City skyline as seen from above.

Contrary to what others might say, I recommend visiting one of New York City’s skydeck experiences. There are plenty of options so choose the one that speaks to you the most or works best with your itinerary.

For example, Summit One Vanderbilt is the most popular immersive skyline experience and has amazing views, especially of the Chrysler Building. The Empire State Building is an iconic art-deco building full of classic NYC history. The view from the Top of the Rock is gorgeous at night when you can see the Empire State Building and all of Manhattan lit up.

Take a look at each one to decide.

• Summit One Vanderbilt
• Empire State Building
• Top of the Rock
• One World Observatory

You might even splurge and take a helicopter ride over New York City to take in the epic views. Either way, it’s a quintessential NYC experience to see the city from above.

Can you accomplish the same thing by visiting a rooftop bar or restaurant?

That depends on where you go and what you’re hoping to see. Some rooftop bars and restaurants can come with fabulous views and even ones that are from a unique angle or height. But they’re also usually not the places where you snap off an endless number of photos without running the risk of irritating those around you.

Skyline experiences are for really marveling at the skyline and taking in the incredible scene before you. While rooftop restaurants and bars are for savoring the ambiance of being high up among the city’s skyscrapers.

27. Don’t eat at a chain or theme restaurant.

New York City is home to an unlimited number of incredible restaurants in every cuisine you can imagine. And you only have a limited amount of stomach real estate. Don’t waste it on food that you can get anywhere.

Besides if you’ve landed in one of these chain restaurants, you’ve most definitely fallen victim to one of NYC’s tourist traps. Restaurants like Olive Garden and Bubba Gump Shrimp typically exist in places like Times Square for a reason. You won’t find restaurants like these in the West Village or Dumbo in Brooklyn because most New Yorkers go for local restaurants instead.

You should do the same.

28. Do eat classic NYC foods.

That being said, not every meal has to be at a five-star restaurant. After all New York City is the land of pizza and bagels!

Order a bagel sandwich with cream cheese and lox (smoked salmon) from Absolute Bagels or Leo’s. Grab a slice of pizza at Prince Street Pizza or go for a classic margherita pie at Juliana’s in Brooklyn…my pick for the best New York style pizza in the city!

Try a new type of ethnic food. Whether you seek out local spots near your NYC hotel or you head to ethnic-specific neighborhoods like Koreatown or Little India, you won’t be disappointed by the endless array of authentic dishes. Not to mention, many of these spots are much better priced than what you might expect in New York.

29. Don’t eat at restaurants without an A rating.

Regardless of where you choose to eat, always look for the Health Department’s rating which must be hung in a prominent place in the front of every restaurant.

With so many restaurant options to choose from, there’s no reason to eat anywhere that doesn’t have an “A” rating. Hopefully, there’s no need to go into any more detail on this one.

30. Do take advantage of cheap eats in NYC.

In a city full of famous restaurants, you might think cheap eats in NYC don’t exist. You just have to know where to look.

Los Tacos No. 1 is hidden in plain sight in famous Chelsea Market. Gray’s Papaya is famous for its hot dogs & “recession special.” Mamoun’s Falafel is listed as one of the 1000 places you need to visit before you die. And Empanada Mama in Hell’s Kitchen will fill you up for about $10. Not to mention Chinatown and its plentiful options of cheap noodle and dumpling dishes.

Or keep your eyes out for any number of New York City’s famous food trucks from one of the Diso’s trucks around 46th Street or in the W. 50s. serving up Italian deli sandwiches to a Souvlaki GR truck also in midtown offering delicious Greek bites!

31. Don’t initiate small talk with locals.

This is not meant to seem rude. But most of us are out and about trying to run errands or get to appointments or work on time. In the process, we get a few moments to pop in our Airpods to listen to some music or a favorite podcast.

And for sure there’s a safety component to this, as well. There’s no need to open up a box of worms if you don’t have to. Better to just go about your business and let others do the same.

32. Do ask a local for directions if you’re lost.

Even with the above small talk NYC tip, I don’t want you to get the impression that NYers are really rude. In fact, I’ve seen countless New Yorkers go out of their way to help visitors who are lost or have a question…myself included!

So if you’re lost or need help, don’t hesitate to ask someone nearby, If you’re unsure about talking to a stranger, pop into a hotel or restaurant or even ask a doorman at one of the city’s many apartment buildings.

I guarantee you’ll come across a friendly local willing to help out!

33. Do avoid tourist traps.

In addition to chain restaurants, places like Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum and experiences like a pedicab or horse-drawn carriage rides are best avoided.

They’re overpriced and gimmicky. Plus, in the case of the horses, they aren’t always treated right.

But for the record. I don’t think going to the top of the Empire State Building, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island, or the Book of Mormon are tourist traps, contrary to what you might read elsewhere. That’s my opinion and I’m sticking to it.

34. Don’t miss the chance to see a Broadway show.

In an era where everything is on a screen, the experience of seeing a live theater production is an unforgettable experience and totally worth it.

Feel free to choose the play or musical that most interests you. Broadway and the countless Off-Broadway theaters have something for everyone’s taste and budget.

Take advantage of discount tickets on websites like Broadway Box . Grab same-day discounted tickets from TKTS in Times Square or Lincoln Center. Or even try your luck at winning a Broadway lottery .

Either way, don’t miss this classic NYC experience!

35. Do tip appropriately.

Tipping in New York City is so important.

If you’re happy with the service you get from a waiter, bartender, delivery person, or taxi driver (to name a few), be sure to tip 15%-20%. These service workers make horribly low hourly wages and rely on these tips to survive in New York City. Don’t forget about tour guides, too, especially the ones giving free walking tours.

While it’s never an obligation if you don’t think a tip is earned, it’s greatly appreciated and often supports artists and students who live off these tips.

36. Don’t give money to beggars.

As difficult as it may be, don’t give money to beggars. You never know what that money is truly going to be used for. If the opportunity presents itself and you feel compelled, purchase a coffee or some food. But always beware that if it’s not asked for, your kind gesture can always be rejected.

And to be clear, I don’t consider musicians to be beggars. If you’re on a subway platform or walking through Central Park and appreciate the music someone is playing, feel free to contribute to their tip jar.

37. Do use bathrooms when they’re available.

Of all the travel tips for NYC, this one cannot be overstated. New York City has hardly any public restrooms. This poses a real challenge when you’re on the go all day.

So the golden rule (sorry pun not intentional!) is to always use a bathroom when you have one available to you regardless of whether or not you really feel like you need to go.

All of NYC’s top sights and museums have bathrooms for visitors. Be sure to use them when you’re visiting. The same goes if you’re at a restaurant or cafe for lunch or a coffee break. Take advantage of the access to bathrooms.

In an emergency, there are bathrooms at Grand Central Terminal. Nearby Bryant Park has one of the cleanest public bathrooms in the entire city. Public libraries have bathrooms, as do markets like Chelsea Market. Hudson Yards and the Shops at Columbus Circle have restrooms. And if you’re in Lower Manhattan near the 9/11 Memorial & Museum , the Oculus has bathrooms.

Otherwise, you’ll likely have to go to a coffee shop or restaurant and buy something to use the bathroom.

38. Don’t use ATMs outside of bank locations.

Nearly everywhere you go in New York City, debit and credit cards are accepted. So there’s never a reason to carry large amounts of cash. However, if you need some money, use an ATM at an established banking location.

ATMs in places like delis, bars, or drug stores aren’t monitored as closely making it easier for skimmers to add devices to card readers that’ll help them steal account numbers and PINS.

Tips for NYC: Safety

Is New York City safe is one of the most common questions I get from readers who are considering a trip to the Big Apple. So in this section of New York City tips, you’ll find the common sense safety advice that I live by.

39. Don’t walk scared .

Despite what you might see on the news, New York City is still one of the safest mega-cities in the world. Yes, the pandemic’s empty sidewalks allowed a rougher element to surface. You will see homeless and mentally unstable people more so than perhaps in the years just prior to 2020.

However, with each day that life has returned to normal, the city’s residents and visitors alike are reclaiming the sidewalks, so to speak. To be a part of this, walk with purpose…like you know the streets like the back of your hand.

The more confident you look (and the faster you walk), the more you’ll blend in with every other New Yorker.

40. Do stay alert and be aware of your surroundings.

Yet with any big city, you need to exercise some basic caution. You should always be aware of where you are and the others around you. And if something doesn’t look right, move yourself away from the situation quickly and calmly.

Remember, pickpockets and others hoping to pull off petty crimes are opportunistic. They’re looking for anyone who has an unzipped bag or isn’t paying attention to where their belongings are. Everyone has a smartphone but don’t flash other expensive electronics.

Leave your best jewelry at home and don’t walk around with huge amounts of cash. And never carry phones or wallets in your back pants pocket. It’s an invitation for a quick-fingered thief.

41. Don’t react to catcalling.

As a female living in NYC, I’ve experienced plenty of catcalling. It’s always eye-rollingly annoying, especially when you’re just trying to enjoy the city’s sights like everyone else without feeling self-conscious about how you look or what you’re wearing.

The most important thing is not to react. Just keep walking and don’t make eye contact. I know the feeling of wanting to react but trust me, it’s not worth it.

42. Do trust your gut.

But you should always trust what your gut is telling you. If the catcaller (or someone) escalates their advances or you feel unsafe in any way, don’t hesitate to get out of there, seek help, look for a police officer, or even draw attention to what’s happening.

Go into the first available shop or restaurant. Cross the street. Stop walking and let whoever is bothering you pass so that you can see them in front of you rather them being behind you. Speak loudly so that others nearby are made aware of what is going on.

The same holds true outside of a catcalling situation. Something feels off on a subway car you’re riding? Move to another car or get off the train. The street is too dark or quiet? Take a different route. Always do what you feel is right for your own safety and remember the majority of New Yorkers around you will help if they can.

NYC Tips: What to Wear

What you pack for your trip to New York City is so important! With a lot of your trip spent outside, you’ll need to wear clothes that align with whatever the weather happens to be, while of course, achieving a few fashion points along the way.

These tips for traveling in NYC are all about the best clothes and shoes.

43. Don’t pretend it’s spring when it’s winter .

It doesn’t matter if you’re hot all the time. The streets in Manhattan have a really special way of funneling the cold winter wind right in your direction. It might feel crisp and refreshing at first, but after a few hours of walking around, you’ll be shivering miserably.

What to wear in New York in winter is not the same as what to wear in spring, summer, or fall. It’s also not like home where you likely go quickly from your heated house to your heated car to your heated destination.

During New York City in winter you have to be prepared to spend long periods of time outside regardless of what the temperature is or what the weather is doing. Otherwise, the winter weather can quickly put a freeze on whatever you had planned during your trip to New York City.

44. Do dress for the weather.

No matter when you plan to visit New York City, you’ll be walking outside, a lot. No matter how much planning you do before your trip, it’s so important to check the weather in the days leading up to your arrival. The right clothes and shoes will make all the difference during your New York City trip.

Fall in NYC is a great time to visit, weatherwise! The days are comfortable, with little humidity and plenty of blue skies. Similarly, visiting NYC in April or May comes with moderate temperatures and blooming flowers.

Winter and summer, obviously, come with more temperature extremes.

But regardless of what the calendar says, the weather forecast should dictate how you pack. Visiting in April and New York City is going to be 80+ degrees during the day? Pack like it’s summer with some layers for potentially cooler evenings.

Or are you planning a Christmas trip to NYC with sunny weather and 60-degree days in December? Leave your heaviest winter gear at home. You’ll only end up hot and sweaty as you walk around Manhattan.

45. Don’t underestimate the importance of the right shoes.

In a blink of an eye, you’ll have walked 10k+ steps in New York City. You need the right shoes so that you can sustain this amount of pedestrian life for a successful trip.

Fashion sneakers, flat boots, and sporty sandals all work depending on the season and how comfortable they are when you’re walking in them all day. These sneakers are among the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever worn and I often wear them for everyday walking around New York City.

And of course, weather plays a role. Don’t wear shoes that make your feet hot and sweaty during hot summer days. That’s a recipe for blisters. (Which is also why you should travel with at least 2 pairs of comfortable shoes. You can switch them from day to day so that your feet aren’t being continuously rubbed in the same places.)

The same goes for wearing the right shoes in the rain or snow. Wet and cold feet or shoes that can’t grip the sidewalks on bad weather days are the fastest way to put a damper on what you hoped to do in New York City.

46. Do leave the high heels at home.

Seriously. Unless you’re attending a gala or making an appearance in a Sex and the City sequel, you likely don’t need them. Not to mention, they hardly double for a shoe you can also walk in…outside…for several blocks.

If you need or want something dressier for nights out, consider shoes or boots with more of a platform or wider base that can also serve as functioning walking shoes.

47. Don’t wear your souvenirs here.

Your “I <3 New York”, subway line, or Broadway show tee-shirt will be much cooler at home. Not to mention, wearing items like these immediately identifies you as a tourist just when you might be trying to blend in with the crowd.

48. Do dress stylishly and comfortably .

With all the clothing tips for NYC focusing on comfort and the weather, you might think I’m suggesting you toss all fashion sense out the window. On the contrary! NYC is still a place to look put together. But you can do this in a smart way that combines utility and function.

Jeans are always a good start because you can dress them up or down. Boots, flats, oxfords, loafers, and fashion sneakers are all better choices than your standard gym sneakers.

Think minimalist fashion basics that are chic yet allow you to move comfortably (on foot) around the city. And don’t be afraid to accessorize with a scarf or a hat that will instantly add a bit of flair to your outfit.

49. Don’t wear white/light colors.

Ever wonder why a lot of New Yorkers seem to love wearing black? It’s because NYC is grimy and messy and most of us don’t have washers and dryers in our apartments!

This tip applies especially to pants, shoes, and jackets because they come into contact with park and subway benches and get splashed on by puddles and anything kicked up as you walk. Some of which may never come out even after being scrubbed or washed repeatedly.

Plus, if you’re trying to pack light and plan to wear things more than once, the soot and muck of New York City may upend that plan when it comes to those white pants or pastel pink jacket.

50. Do dress in darker colors.

Instead go for blacks, grays, and even dark colors like forest green, navy, or burgundy when packing bottoms and outerwear. You’ll have a better chance of hiding the inevitable filth that winds up on your clothes after traversing the city by foot and public transportation.

Not to mention, you’ll blend in with the crowd and have a better chance of re-wearing things you’ve packed.

New York City Tips Bottom Line

Your trip to New York City is destined to be fantastic now that you’ve prepared yourself with these NYC travel tips!

If you put these tips for visiting New York City into action, you’re on your way to saving money and time, as well as looking like a total pro as you sightsee, eat, and get around fantastic NYC.

What questions do you have about the best New York City travel tips?

Like this post? Please share it on social media using the share buttons below.

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70 thoughts on “new york city tips: 50 dos & don’ts for visiting nyc like a pro”.

Perfect timing as we are going there in a few weeks, so have made notes from your post on NYC. Thanks

Excellent, Paula! So glad the tips will be useful. Enjoy your trip! 🙂

Love this tip – “Whatever you do, don’t take out a map. Look cool and use Google Maps on your smartphone!” haha. And are selfies ever respectful;?? Great post. It has reminded me that I really need to visit soon!

Glad to make you laugh, Dave! I only do selfies when the landscape behind me needs to be in the shot, like when I was hiking in Patagonia. Hope you make it to NYC soon!

Great tips. I used to spend summers in NYC growing up, but I have to admit, I’ve never been in the subway (mostly because of that petri dish of bacteria thing).

Thanks, Mags. The subway is THE way to travel while in NYC. If you’ve survived the air on planes, you’ll be fine. 🙂

I love your do/don’t format. You’ve given better options for things many tourists would probably want to do.

Thanks, Beverly! Local tips can’t be beat!

Great tips! We really want to make it back to NYC especially since we were there for such a short time on our last visit. I hate when people stop in the middle of sidewalks too–so frustrating!! And good thing to note about the empty subway cars! I would have probably jumped in one too, haha!

Thanks, Jenna! Seems logical to jump in that empty subway car, at first….but, oh how quickly you regret it! Thanks for your comments and hope you make it back to NYC soon!

I once was in the unfortunate position of having to drive in Manhattan. To this day that stands as the scariest thing I have ever done.

I believe it, Brianna! If you don’t know where you’re going and the aggressive style of the New York driver, then you’re in for a terrifying experience.

Dressing for the weather!! Definitely a good tip! I was in NY last winter and almost froze to death!! Great tips.

You’re not alone, Anna. Many people visit NYC, and are so used to getting in and out of their cars, they don’t realize how important dressing for the weather is.

Hi! great list! Thank you! #theweeklypostcard

Thanks, Tanja!

I’ve always wanted to go to NYC, I grew up only a couple hours away in Connecticut, have been inside JFK twice and to Yankee Stadium (the real one,) and that;s it. It was such a small taste and I need more… I gotta get my fix jack lol

So close, Adam! You should definitely not form your NYC opinions on JFK! And, I totally agree with you about the old Yankee Stadium being the real one! 😉

OK, now I am very afraid I want to know what on earth has happened inside an empty subway carriage. Especially as I gather this is a relatively frequent thing?

I would have to take a cab just once I think though. Unless New York taxi drivers are less legendary than they are painted? That would be disappointing.

*grins* I am not sure I agree with you about not wearing your souvenirs in country. I see it as an exuberant celebration of how much fun people are having when they are there, and am therefore quite tolerant. I am actually less so when people save it until they get home.

What good tips though. Especially about where is *really* interesting to go.

Thank you for your comments! If the subway car is empty, it’s typically because someone has become sick, a person who has not bathed in quite a while has taken a nap in there, or someone has used it as a bathroom. While I have a great deal of empathy in my heart for someone in these conditions, I don’t want, nor is it recommended, to ride in that car.

A taxi ride is an experience, but drivers can be hit or miss. Fair points about wearing souvenirs, even though it still wouldn’t be a “NYC Pro” move. Thanks again for your comments! 🙂

I live visiting nyc. Wanted to live there when I was younger but now I think the tourists and other inconsiderate people there would give me too much anxiety.

You would have loved it, Laura! But, it can, indeed, be a stressful city.

Great tips! I have to remember those for next time we visit. We did not take the subway once when we stayed in NYC for three days, we walked. And we did eat at non-chain restaurants we found near the hotel, and I’m glad of it. And yes, Times Square is a zoo!

The subway is a lot easier than it seems, Jolanta. Definitely give a try on your next visit. So glad you were able to enjoy some food at an NYC restaurant! Thanks so much for your comments! 🙂

I loved visiting NYC. There is just so much to love! I wish I had ventured out a little more to explore little restaurants and bars but there is always next time! Also “pulling over” out of peoples way should be practiced around the world haha

Absolutely, Sally! I agree with pulling over being a worldwide courtesy.

Really helpful tips! Bookmarking this one for future reference. Particularly like the one about the empty subway car as I’m sure I’ll be jumping on one if I didn’t read this, but now I know… 🙂

Thanks, Olivia! Good thing for your nose!

Great tips! I finally walked across the Brooklyn Bridge for the first time last year and it was one of the highlights of my trip!

The Brooklyn Bridge is my favorite too, Elena! It’s such a special landmark.

Great tips! We LOVE experiencing the restaurants in NYC. Some of the best food we’ve ever eaten. We often wonder how chain restaurants survive there. Who eats at a chain when there is a plethora of other amazing options!

Thanks, Amanda! Those chains survive only from the tourists who never venture outside of the Times Square tourist zone.

what a clever way to tell New York story:) i may not agree with all the tips, but i love that your personality shows through:) You got me with a paper map- I love those and will always use:)

Thanks for your comments, Victoria. Just be sure to pull over when you take out that paper map (wink wink!) 🙂

I must say, I read many articles about tips for NYC, this one ranks at the top! Most of the people writing about NYC have visited a few times. You are clearly someone who knows the city well! My biggest tip for any city I visit is to walk like you know what you are doing, even if you don’t. Duck into a store or side street to check where you are going rather than stopping in the middle of the sidewalk!

I have been planning a 10 day NYC itinerary for someone going for the first time. She gave me a list of places she wanted to see, and my first thing was to scoff. Times Square, Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building. All these places are the things I was trying to tell her to avoid! But then I had to think like her, a person who has never seen NYC (and not like me—someone who grew up there), and understand that it is OK to want to see those places! They are iconic for a reason! So I guess my biggest piece of advice is that its okay to visit all of those popular tourist places in the city, just know that there is more to the city than Times Square!

Hopefully that all made sense! Cheers, Katie

Thanks, Katie! I’m so glad you got one of the post’s main points, which is to enjoy and explore New York City’s iconic sights, but also remember there’s so much more to see and do in the city! It’s such a fabulous city and, those of us who live or are from here, want everyone to get the most out of their trip. 🙂

Do go out and take in a comedy show, especially any of the local clubs that support upcoming talent.

Don’t wear sandals, especially if you are going to walk around Manhattan all day. Not only will your feet hurt, but it will take literally days to wash the sludge that built up in between your toes!

Do check out Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade! It is probably one of the best outdoor festivals that you will ever see in your life.

Don’t get caught in the middle of an intersection during a red light unless you are cool with angry New Yorkers laying down on their horn like nobody’s business.

Do go to the Top of the Rock to get the best view of Manhattan. Don’t throw objects off the Top of the Rock. You might hurt someone and it’s illegal!

Been to NYC four times in my life and this city just gets better every single time!

Ray, these are awesome tips! Thanks for helping to make the list even better! Love the point about the sandals and walking around NYC all day and there is certainly no shortage of great comedy shows!

Interesting set of Do’s and Don’t while visiting NYC…..Thanks for Sharing Informative article…

Thanks for reading and commenting, Maggie.

This is great we are coming over from Australia in March and it is always a bit weird going to a new city! where would you recommend someone to stay? I was looking at the Roosevelt in Manhattan ?

thanks for the advice!

Hi Sharna, Thanks for reading. How exciting to be visiting NYC! I haven’t checked out the Roosevelt Hotel, but it is in a good location. You are just footsteps away from Rockefeller Center, Broadway, and the subway. Midtown east tends to be quieter at night than midtown west, but this is not so far east that you’d feel remote or unsafe. I have more hotel recommendations and all the tips to make your first trip a success in my NYC Guide . Plus, you can even download a cheat sheet to take with you if you want. 🙂

Hi Jackie, Thanks for your advice, what is the best area to stay in that is easy to get around, safe and not overly pricey ?

Thanks for reading and commenting. Sorry for the delay in getting back to you. I’m traveling and my wifi is a bit spotty. Ugh! Of course, the most convenient areas to stay are right in midtown, but these will also likely be the priciest areas, too. I’d recommend looking uptown on the west side of NYC, close to the 1,2,3 (red) subway line. It’s quick and easy and has connections in Times Square to nearly every subway you could want. If you really prefer midtown, east will likely be cheaper than west. I wouldn’t go past the Lexington Ave area, though. It’s safe, but so far east it’ll be a long way to walk to a train or to the main tourist areas of Times Square, Broadway, Rockefeller Center, etc. Hope that helps, but feel free to comment again if you need anything else. Enjoy your stay in NYC! 🙂

Hi Jackie what a great post and so spot on! I am a former New Yorker, been gone 20 years and I was visiting recently last month. It was so much windier than I’d remembered. It must be the tall buildings creating wind tunnels or something. I don’t remember that for 20 years ago. Maybe the buildings have gotten taller. I would also recommend the Bronx Zoo and the Botanical Gardens which make you feel as if you’re in an English countryside.

Thanks for reading, Mary. How great to get back to the city after many years. Great tip about the NY Botanical Gardens. It’s a favorite of mine, especially in fall.

Hi Jackie! Thank you for sharing such interesting tips. I will be visiting my Uncle and his family this June and it is my first time to go to US, and I am glad to be visiting New York. However, I do not have any idea what type of clothes to bring. Your suggestions will be very much appreciated.

Hi Faith, Thanks so much for reading. 🙂 Summers in NYC are warm and some days even, really hot. Sundresses, short sleeve shirts, shorts, capris, elephant pants (loose-fitting pants) are all good. NYers always wear jeans no matter what time of year. As for shoes, NYers wear all kinds of shoes, but we are also used to walking in them. Sandals are fine if they’re comfortable to walk in. Also, there can be afternoon rain storms, so pack an umbrella or pick up one once you arrive. Finally, most places have Air Conditioning, so sometimes a light sweater or sweatshirt comes in handy! Hope that helps, Faith. If you’re looking for more first-timer NYC tips, check out this post . Enjoy NYC!

This is a great list, except that blocking people in the subway is absolutely not “the fastest way to ingratiate yourself with New Yorkers.” It is, in fact, just the opposite since to ingratiate yourself means to bring yourself into favor.

Ha! I can’t believe I never picked that up after all this time, Lizzy! I guess that’s why it’s good to have lots of eyes reading. 🙂

This is a great post love all the tips. I am traveling there soon so will be very handy.

Thanks so much for reading. Glad the tips will be useful.

Great post. I am a travel and sports blogger who was born and raised in New York City , even though I lived in other places. I would definitely recommend that tourists check out the Outer Boros. Take a ride on the Staten Island Ferry , which is free. See the real Little Italy on Arthur Avenue in the Bronx. See the Queens Zoo as well as attending a game at either Yankees Stadium or Citi Field . See the other Chinatown in Flushing. Have some Asian, Indian or Latin American food in Jackson Heights . Visit Grants Tomb or Alexander Hamilton ‘ s home Hamilton Grange in Harlem. There is more to New York City than times square . Also, please tourists , don’t take a picture of the rats on the subway. They’re just like their human New York City cousins , aggressive and in a hurry to get to the train.

Thanks for reading, Jo Ann, and for all the tips! You are soo right about getting to the outer boroughs. I’ve included many of these in my 100 things to see and do in NYC. 🙂 Love that last bit about the rats. They’re definitely camera shy!

NY is like a dream city to me. Thanks for the o do list and not to do list. Great. Thanks.

Thanks for reading, Jimmy. Enjoy NYC. 🙂

Hi going to New York for the first time late June for 4 nights then heading to upstate for a wedding. I’m getting freaked out because I’m disabled with visual and balance disabilities. So with that in mind do I stay in Manhattan and cab into the city for getting a feeling of NYC? I walk slowly and afraid of getting bumped around. 4th of July holiday Yikes what have I gotten myself into!?!

I’m so glad you reached out, Lisa. It’s more than possible to enjoy NYC in a way that you’ll feel comfortable. I’d recommend looking into the Global Greeter Network. There are locals who volunteer to show visitors around for free. It’s even possible to be paired up with a local who also has some type of disability. I’d also think about bus tours if the idea of getting bumped around too much is nervewracking. You’d be able to get around to different parts of the city without the stress of doing it on your own. Thanks so much for reading and I’m sure your trip to NYC will be great. 🙂

Ok list, but remember I think the the thing to remember is A LOT of people walking on streets in NYC are tourists! Been there many times and it runs like any other large city. I think the thing to remember, do what you want…there are no “rules” to walking around and subways just use common sense.

Thanks for reading, Nicole. Common sense goes a long way in NYC!

Wow, how kind of you to share this information. I am taking my wife Dec 14-18 and 3 exchange students–all 16, here for entire school year. This is a surprise for them (first trip), and I am attempting to put this all together, a play, a convenient hotel (will need two rooms) and recommendation would help. Prior post indicated you may have an article(s) out there with this information. Also, flying in from the south, ATL so all airports are reasonably price options, any recommendations there? Thanks again for taking time to share important information. Mark

Thanks so much for reading, Mark. That will be such an amazing surprise! I do have a where to stay in New York article. If you’re open to seeing any play or musical, I’d recommend going to TKTS the discount ticket booth in Times Square just before showtime. So if it’s an 8pm show, go to TKTS at 7:30. There will still be tickets available and no line like there would be had you gone earlier in the day. If you have a specific show in mind, look at websites like Broadway Box for discounts and buy in advance. As for airports, I have guides on all 3 NYC airports (JFK, LGA, and Newark) and how to get to Manhattan. I’d recommend JFK or Newark because their public transportation options are the best. But LGA also has options, so no need to worry if that’s where you fly into. 🙂

4 years on… do you have any new tips to add to the above? 🙂 Thanks Ryan

Thanks for reading, Ryan. If you’re visiting NYC for Christmas, I have these mistakes to avoid . I will also be updating this article soon. 🙂

I have a package deal and have to travel to NYC before 11/25/2020. When do you suggest I go? I would like to see the decorations and some iconic sites also and maybe a show or two but am only there 4 days and 3 nights. I will be staying somewhere in Manhattan, not sure where, yet.

Thanks for reading, Ellen. New York City in the fall is the best time to come. If you want to see some decorations, I’d recommend next November right before your package expires. The Rockefeller Center tree won’t be lit but there’s a chance it’ll be up. The ice rink will be up and the Bryant Park holiday markets typically begin right after Halloween. Not to mention the weather tends to be a little chilly but mostly pleasant for walking around. Hope that helps. If you need other NYC tips, start with this guide.

Would really like to know what was in that empty subway that made it smell so bad???

Also, great tips!

Thanks for reading, Shannon. 🙂 To this day, I don’t know. But it was absolutely putrid!

I plan on driving to visit New York from Virginia with my two teenagers this summer. I’m driving because we also plan on visiting family in Rochester. I do not want to drive in the city. Where do you recommend we stay and park our car while taking public transit into the city to sightsee?

Thanks for reading, Rachel. What I would do is to look for cheap parking around Newark Airport or JFK Airport. You can find cheap airport parking at hotels and off-airport sites and then take public transportation into NYC from there. Definitely a smart choice to avoid driving in Manhattan. Enjoy your trip!

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The Ultimate New York Travel Guide 2024

Our new york travel tips for first time visitors.

Are you traveling to New York for the first time and want to get an overview of what you should pay attention to? Here, I show you step by step the most important information you need to know for your New York trip. There’s a lot to see and do in New York, from world-famous landmarks like the Empire State Building to a wide selection of unique museums and New York-style foods that you should definitely try.

You may also like:

Where in new york should you stay.

• The 33 Absolute Best New York Attractions
• New York on a Budget

Now, sit back and enjoy our New York Travel Guide to help you have a wonderful time in New York City!

By the way, we now have over 1,600 spots in the city on our site. So, if you’re looking for suitable tours, bars, restaurants, and awesome spots to visit, then you’re in the right place!

Everything you need!

Hello you 👋 Here you will find everything you need for your New York trip!

These are our best New York Travel Tips for first time visitors:

Table of Contents

New York at a Glance

Best time to travel to new york.

Visiting New York is worthwhile at any time of year, but I personally like the warm months best. Summer in New York can be very hot and humid. So, for many, the best times to visit New York is April and June, and September and October.

Spending Christmas in New York or enjoying the pre-Christmas season in New York City is also a wonderful experience.  The ice rinks are open, the city is beautifully decorated, and, if it snows, the dream vacation at wintertime is perfect!

Paying in New York

You can pay for almost everything with your credit card, even the smallest amounts. Credit cards are accepted in hotels, stores, restaurants, and bars. Don’t have one yet? Then, check out the best credit card to have in the USA here.

New York for First Time Visitors: Everything You Need to Know for Your Trip (70+ pages)

Best Way to Travel in New York

Finding your way around New York is quite easy, even if it doesn’t look like it at first. The streets’ checkerboard pattern makes finding your way around easy. These are the best ways to get around New York:

Metro / Subway: If you have longer distances ahead of you, then the Subway is your friend, because here you can travel really cheap. It’s easy to use! The MetroCard is available at every Subway station. You can buy single rides or the popular MetroCard for 7 days; that way you can travel for a week in New York at a fixed price. You can learn more about using the  Metrocard in New York here.

Taxi:  In New York, you can choose between the Yellow Cab and Uber. You can check out our tips and all the information you need to know in our following blog:  Taxi in New York City .

By bike: With many of the New York sightseeing passes (you can find out more about this budget tip in my New York Pass comparison ), the bike rental is included. We ourselves really love using New York’s Citi Bikes. This city bike program has over 1,000 stations throughout New York City, and it’s super-cheap. We’ll show you how it works in the Citi Bike New York article.

On Foot: You’ll be surprised how much walking you’ll do in New York. After all, there’s something to see on every corner. So be sure to bring comfortable shoes!

Where to Stay in New York?

Which neighborhood is best for you depends on several things: your interests, how close you want to be to the attractions and what your travel budget is. In the image below, I’ve drawn you my favorite neighborhoods of New York including the main attractions nearby.

And, on the subject of safety: In all of Manhattan, the Bronx , Brooklyn, and large parts of Queens, you don’t have to worry about being out and about in the evening. New York City is one of the safest cities in the world!

More than 100 hotels and over 70 neighborhoods to choose from –and after just 4 quick questions, I’ll show you which hotels in New York are best suited for you!

Where Should you Stay in New York?

Manhattan – it doesn’t get more central than this: Manhattan is the most famous borough of them all. Plus, it contains 95% of all the attractions New York is known for. Everything is within easy reach, and you are right in the middle of it all. On the other hand, the hotels are a bit more expensive than in Brooklyn or Queens .

Here, you can find my 33 hotel tips for Manhattan .

Brooklyn – urban and relaxed: For a long time, Brooklyn was the insider’s tip: now it’s “completely” normal neighborhoods. However, you’ll quickly notice one thing: life is much more normal, because it’s more of a residential area. It’s super relaxed, pleasant, and just as diverse as Manhattan. Above all, you can enjoy the Manhattan skyline from here!

Here, you can find my 20 hotel tips for Brooklyn .

Queens – the new trendy neighborhood: Queens is a bit more “normal” than Brooklyn is, but, lately, we’ve noticed that it is getting more and more gentrified. The hotels in Long Island City (not to be confused with Long Island!) are especially popular because they are cheaper compared to Manhattan—and they have a perfect connection to the Subway, which makes Queens a great alternative to Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Here, you can find my 20 hotel tips for Queens .

What to See in New York?

One thing to know in advance: just because there is so much to see in New York, a little planning makes absolute sense. For highlights like the Empire State Building ( here ), the Edge Hudson Yards observation deck ( here ) or the One World Observatory ( here ), I recommend buying the tickets online in advance. This will not only save you waiting time on site, but you can also be sure that you will actually be able to visit your desired sights.

👉 These are our 33 best attractions in New York .

These are my tips after more than 20 visits to New York:

• Observation decks:  New York City has no less than five (!) major observation decks to offer, and each one is a dream in itself. My two favorites are The Edge Hudson Yards and the One World Observatory , because from here you have a sensational view of New York from above and you can see the Empire State Building . From the end of 2021, another cool option will be added with the glass One Vanderbilt . One more thing about the Empire State Building: It’s the most visited observation deck in New York, so it’s always busy. Avoid the crowds in the morning – and if you really want to go to the Empire State Building in the evening, choose Thursday, Friday or Saturday. During those times, a saxophonist plays on the observation deck. Important: book the Skip-the-Line-Tickets (you can do that here). Then, you can easily save 1-2 hours of waiting time!
• Visit the Statue of Liberty : The trip from Battery Park to the Statue of Liberty is super-popular. To save yourself long waiting times, make sure you take the first ferry of the day. Here, you can find the best Statue of Liberty Cruises right now.
• Definitely take a boat tour , because seeing New York from the water is like being on vacation. Choices range from the free Staten Island Ferry or the NYC Ferry ($2.90 each way) to sailing tours (gorgeous) and the classic sightseeing tours that are included with all major New York passes.
• Walk along the High Line from the Meatpacking District to Hudson Yards .
• Visit Times Square in the evening – that’s when it’s at its most impressive.
• Relax in Central Park or Bryant Park .
• Plan a maximum of three attractions per day . After all, you don’t want any sightseeing stress.

The 41 Absolute Best New York Attractions In 2024

10 FREE Things to Do in New York City

The 36 Absolute Best Museums in New York

The 9 best observation decks in new york city, new york budget tip.

With the right New York sightseeing pass , you can easily save a lot of money on up to 100 tours and attractions. To find out if a New York Pass is worth it (or not), check out our free New York Pass Advisor to find out which New York Pass is best for you.

And on this page you’ll find our New York Pass comparison .

Itineraries in New York

You don’t know where to start? Then let us inspire you! We have some suggestions for you. By the way, the most popular is the 1 week New York itinerary .

The Perfect Itinerary For Your New York Trip

This itinerary contains over 50 spots and highlights of the city, including a map that shows you the best way to travel each day, taking you to or past the many big attractions. In addition, we‘ve added our favorite places, from great breakfast spots to start your day right to small bars and restaurants and hidden insider spots.

What awaits you here now is the perfect New York week, because this is what my itinerary would look like if I were visiting the Big Apple for the first or second time right now!

What to Do in New York?

For me, an unforgettable New York trip includes the following things in addition to visiting the main sights:

Go Shopping

New York is also really good for shopping. There are many small shopping spots and addresses, but also the big brands can often be found with flagship stores. If that’s not enough, you can go shopping in one of the outlets and flea markets of New York.

The best shopping areas in New York are Broadway, SoHo , Chelsea, the Meatpacking District, and Williamsburg in Brooklyn. And, of course, 5th Avenue!

Avoid Times Square for shopping!

A real tourist trap are the stores around Times Square – they are not only overpriced, but also the quality is not right in most cases!

Here you can find our Guide to Shopping in New York  with everything you need to know!

Shopping in New York: The Ultimate Guide 2024

The Best Outlets in NYC – The Ultimate Guide for 2024

The 15 Best Flea Markets in NYC – Shop Vintage and Rare to Find Items

Shopping in SoHo NYC: The 25 Best Stores Right Now

Visit a rooftop bar.

I love the rooftop bars of New York . You can sit and relax, enjoy a sensational view of the city and listen to relaxing music. All this mixes with the so-typical sounds of the city in the background, and if you have something delicious to drink or eat on top of that, it can’t get any better! You can see where we like to go in our article on the 43 best rooftop bars in New York .

By the way, if you want to experience the view of New York when you get up early in the morning, check out my list of the 26 best New York hotels with a view !

Visit a Broadway Show

New York is known for its many musicals and Broadway shows – most of which are performed in the Theatre District around Times Square. Here are our tips on the  best Broadway Shows in New York . If you already know which Broadway show you want to see, I recommend ordering the tickets in advance ( here ). If you’re still flexible, you can buy leftover tickets at TKTS in Times Square, for example.

Attend a Parade or Special Event

OK, hotel is booked, attractions are on the list, the myNY itinerary is ready, shopping spots are sighted and the first restaurants and bars are also noted. Now comes the last step on the list to the perfect travel planning for New York: the events, parades, and holidays.

They are the icing on the cake of every New York vacation and, therefore, could not be missed in our New York Travel Guide! Just check out our monthly specials that are relevant to you:  January , February , March , April , May , June , July , August , September , October , November and December .

Enjoying the Gastro Scene (in the Evening)

Now comes one of my favorite parts of planning our New York trips: the city’s many bars, restaurants, rooftop bars, and food markets. In our travel guide and insider guides on the website, we put a lot of emphasis on finding the best gastro spots and rooftop bars. So, feel free to browse through them, and if you like something, just add it to your myNY itinerary. Just click on the heart symbol, and you’re done!

The 24 Most Beautiful Bars in NYC Right Now

The 12 Best Food Markets in NYC

The 23 Best Waterfront Restaurants & Bars in New York Right Now

The Best Burger in New York City

Marvel at grand central station.

Be sure to take the time to see Grand Central Station . Not only is it the setting for many series and movies set in New York, it’s also very impressive and has a fantastic ceiling!

The 50 Absolute Best Things to Do in New York (90+ pages)

Walking through DUMBO and Soho

The neighborhoods of DUMBO in Brooklyn and Soho in Manhattan are among the most iconic neighborhoods in the city and are fascinating for their combination of old New York with new New York.

Things to Do in DUMBO

The 15 Best Things to Do in SoHo NYC – The Complete Guide 2024

What to eat in new york.

What should I start with first? With the New York pizza slice, the New York cheesecake, the wonderful pastrami sandwiches at Katz’ Delicatessen, or at the Pastrami Queen? In addition, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse and Luger are two really good steak restaurants waiting for you and if you want to eat really good burgers: go to J.G. Melon, the hidden Burger Joint or Shake Shack!

Get personal tips & tricks, specifically tailored to your trip!

We will provide you with individual tips & tricks as you prepare for your trip. How to plan, save money and make sure you experience the most of NYC are only some of the topics covered!

Specify dates

I hope my New York Travel Guide helped you plan your first trip to New York. Was there anything missing? Feel free to write it in the comments!

I wish you a wonderful time in New York City!

New York on a Budget: The 19 Best Money-Saving Tips for 2024

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide . Also check out my hotel finder for New York !

Get exclusive content, real insider tips, and the best deals in NYC for FREE!

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

7 Key Things To Know Before Your First Trip To New York City

• Destinations
• New York City
• United States

New York City is diverse, lively, dense, and home to iconic sights and symbols like the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building. Streets are filled with skyscrapers. It’s a mix of cultures and foods and world-class art. Theater is top quality here. You can shop till you drop. At Times Square, you will marvel at the oversized flashing lighted signs that surround the crowds below. And when you are tired of the bustle, escape to the wonders of Central Park with its lakes and trees and grassy hills.

With all New York City has to offer, it’s easy to get overwhelmed when planning a trip, especially if it’s your first time in NYC. Here are some major things to know that will help. Be flexible once you get to New York, but at least have a game plan ahead of time so you can best enjoy this wonderfully complex city.

1. New York City Is Manhattan And More

New York City is made up of five boroughs, with Manhattan at its core. While you can venture to Brooklyn , the Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island, you will want to center your first trip in Manhattan. This is where you’ll find the Empire State Building , Times Square, Broadway shows, and Central Park . If you have time, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge or take the subway to the Bronx. If you have only a few days, plan to spend most of your time in Manhattan.

2. Sleep In Manhattan But Not In Times Square

Staying in Manhattan on your first trip allows you to fit in the most sightseeing. That doesn’t narrow it down a lot, though, as Manhattan is large and there are hundreds of hotels. Many people book a hotel in Times Square because they’ve heard of it and seen the ball drop on TV on New Year’s Eve. But I recommend staying at least a few blocks away from the chaos and noise and giant neon signs of Times Square. Choose a place in your budget and preferences at least a few blocks away.

I like staying near Grand Central Station on East 42nd Street. This puts you at a transportation hub within walking distance of Rockefeller Plaza, Bryant Park, Times Square, and Central Park. I can recommend the Hyatt Grand Central as a mid-priced, clean, attractive option.

If you’re after lower prices, you can opt to stay in New Jersey or Brooklyn, or anywhere outside the middle of Manhattan. The trade-off is more time spent on the train or subway. I like to pack my sightseeing days full of sights, walking out the door of my hotel and being right in the middle of the hustle and bustle. Figure out what’s best for you.

3. Decide On The Iconic Attractions You Want To See

While your interests will determine how you fill your time in New York City, there are three iconic sights that will top your list on your first trip.

The Statue of Liberty National Monument . Lady Liberty, recognized around the world as a symbol of freedom, stands waiting to welcome you to New York. Before you go, think about whether you want to take the boat out to the island and see the statue from her pedestal. Or are you fine with taking the free Staten Island Ferry and getting a close-up view from the water? Do you also want to go to nearby Ellis Island, where immigrants were brought and processed into the U.S. for years? You can get tickets to see both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Allow basically a morning or afternoon to do the joint tour.

The 9/11 Memorial and Museum

Built where the Twin Towers once stood, the 9/11 Memorial and Museum honors those lost in the terror attacks of September 11, 2001. Be prepared for an emotional experience .

If you are short on time, you can visit just the memorial pools outside the museum. Allow at least 2 hours for the museum.

Central Park

This famous green oasis covering more than 800 acres calls to visitors and locals alike. Stroll along the tree-lined paths or relax on the grassy lawns of North Meadow and Sheep’s Meadow. Marvel at the lovely curves of Bow Bridge. And visit the Imagine memorial to John Lennon.

If time is limited, enter the park at the south end and wander as long as you can. There’s more to see than at the north end of the park. Download a map or app of the park so you can easily find the points you most want to see.

4. Discount Passes May Save You Money

For your first trip to New York City, consider an attractions pass. This can save you money, especially if you plan to visit the most popular places. Basic options include:

All-Inclusive

These are for a set number of days. Fit in as many attractions as you like in that time. Some come with skip-the-line perks. Two to look into are the Sightseeing Pass and the New York Pass .

Number Of Attractions

These are for a set number of attractions, such as three or five choices from the options given. If you know what you most want to see, these are a good kind of pass. One to consider is The Explorer Pass .

Pre-Packaged Passes

You don’t have a choice of which attractions are included. But many of the most popular are included. Check out the CityPass , which is a booklet of six tickets

Do a cost comparison with what you want to see between having a pass and no pass to find out whether you want to invest in one.

5. Choose Where You Will Take In The City Views

The vastness of New York City never ceases to amaze people. And taking in a view of the city from above is a must when you visit. Not only do you see the density of the buildings but you have the water, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty to spy on from up high. Here are four main places that feature a panoramic view. Book tickets ahead of your visit to get the time of day you prefer. If you can choose two of these viewing sites, book one in the daytime and the other at sunset for views of NYC in all lights.

The Edge is an outside platform 101 stories up, and it literally hangs off the edge of the building. You see West Manhattan and south to the Statue of Liberty. The angled glass walls allow you to lean out over the city. And there’s a glassed section of ground where you can stand and look straight down at the city below.

This is my favorite of the city view places. After you get over the strange sensation of feeling like you’re on the brink of falling 100 stories to the sidewalk, it’s quite exciting. And the views are certainly breathtaking.

Top Of The Rock Observation Deck

From the top of Rockefeller Center, you can take in views of Central Park and Manhattan Midtown from 70 floors up. And from the Top of the Rock you can clearly see the Empire State Building. That’s one reason some people recommend this one if you are choosing just one view site. And with indoor and outdoor viewing decks, you can stay inside if it’s cold or rainy.

Empire State Building

This grand symbol of New York, the Empire State Building , is billed as the “world’s most famous skyscraper.” Get your ticket and ride the elevator to the 86th floor, where you can look out at the city from the 360-degree observatory. See the Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty.

If you choose, you can include a visit to the 102nd floor as well. Here are floor-to-ceiling views that can cover up to 80 miles away on a clear day.

Summit One Vanderbilt

The newest entry into fantastic NYC viewpoints is the Summit . The entrance is inside Grand Central Station. It does have a view of the city, and it also has other floors with mirrors and shiny objects. It’s an experience that goes beyond taking in the city sights. Take a look at the website and see if it’s something you want to do. 

6. It’s Okay If It’s Rainy Or Very Cold

As your trip gets close, check the weather. If it looks like a day of rain or extreme cold is coming, no problem. Plan for amazing indoor options. A few top picks:

Metropolitan Museum Of Art

This world-class art museum offers so much to see that you could easily spend days here. Not only does it display art from different historical periods and countries, but also the architecture of the building alone is worth a visit.

Like the Louvre in Paris and the British Museum, the Met can be enjoyed in short sessions. Plan for a morning or a few hours. Then, look at the online information about the exhibits. Choose two or three areas that fascinate you and start there. You will likely want to return to see more!

American Museum Of Natural History

This grand museum has been around for 150 years. While it’s a great way to keep young ones in your party busy and happy, I’ve found as a grown-up that I love natural history displays.

Popular exhibits include the brown bears in the North American Hall of Mammals, the massive blue whale model that measures 94 feet, and the huge Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton.

New York Public Library

This imposing building is a great place to shelter from the weather. The stately lions standing guard on the front steps are named Patience and Fortitude. The architecture inside the library is noteworthy. And it’s free.

7. Wear Comfortable Shoes

You may think of New York City as a fashion mecca and figure you need to dress up. But while there are upscale stores and elegant restaurants, for sightseeing, you don’t need to be fancy. You will walk and walk and walk. And that’s the best way to experience New York. So, wear comfortable shoes or flat-heeled boots. And it may be surprising but rest assured that casual clothes are fine for Broadway shows and most restaurants.

These tips touch on some things that can make your trip easier and more fun. With a bit of planning, you will enjoy your time in New York. I’m betting you’ll want to return for more incredible experiences in this fascinating city.

Go over to our New York City category to find out more about the Big Apple:

• 9 Best Places In New York City To Escape The Crowds
• 10 Best Spots To Try New York City Pizza, According To The Locals
• 10 Luxe Lounges To Visit In New York City

As the owner of the travel blog, Exploring Our World , Sharon enjoys taking her readers on a journey with her. Articles often delve into the history of a place, and by adding in a generous number of photos, she inspires others to explore for themselves. In her early travels, she was most frustrated by coming back home and learning that she had missed a fascinating sight or a hidden gem. Now she helps travelers prepare for a trip by passing along travel tips, pointing out lesser known things to see, and alerting them to enjoyable day trips from major cities.

Her travel articles have been published by Stripes Europe Newsletter and the World War 2 Writing and Research Center. Whether she's discovering more about her hometown of San Diego, California or flying to faraway places, she enjoys sharing with travel lovers around the world.

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

New York City Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 25, 2024

It’s famous for….well, just about everything, New York City is the beating heart of the world — which is why I call it home. Every culture, language, and food is represented here.

Unsurprisingly, there is a never-ending list of things to do here. No amount of time you spend in NYC will be enough so don’t worry about running out of things to do. You could spend a lifetime exploring the city and never really see it all. And, whatever your interest, no matter how obscure, you can find it in NYC.

As a budget traveler, visiting NYC can be tough, especially when you don’t know the hidden tricks that make living here affordable. There are plenty of things to do that won’t cost you an arm and a leg — if you know where to look!

This travel guide to NYC can help you make the most of your visit, get off the beaten path, and not break the bank.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on New York City

Top 5 Things to See and Do in New York City

1. Meander through Central Park

It’s free, there are lots of little paths to walk, and, since it spans over 40 blocks, it’s easy to spend hours upon hours wandering around or having a picnic. During the summer months, there are often free concerts and theater productions here too. From the spring to the fall, there are free guided walks on Saturdays as well. Personally, I’m a big fan of laying out in Sheep’s Meadow on a hot, sunny day with a book, some food, and a bottle of wine. If you want to take a guided tour around the park to learn more about the statues and sculptures, ponds, parks, and famous filming sites, take a guided tour with Get Your Guide ($25 USD). It will really give you a good understanding of the park.

2. Visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum

On September 11th, 2001, almost 3,000 people were killed in a series of terrorist attacks in NYC and elsewhere. Visit this somber memorial and take in the view from the Freedom Tower. On the elevator up, you can see pictures of the historical development of the city and how it’s changed over the years. To get a deeper understanding of 9/11 and the events that unfolded, visit the museum. It’s home to moving exhibits that illuminate the scope and significance of the tragedy. The memorial is free to visit; museum entry is $33 USD (free entry Mondays from 3:30pm-5pm but tickets must be booked online). Get tickets beforehand so you can skip the line and save time!

3. Visit The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Met is one of the foremost collections of fine art in the world. If you only see one museum in New York, make it this one. It has a wide array of art, artifacts, photographs, and other exhibits from around the world. There’s a whole collection of armor and another dedicated to costumes. You’ll see pieces from the ancient world as well as contemporary art. I like its expansive Impressionist and Greek exhibits, but there are more than 490,000 works of art on display. It’s chaotic and filled with people, especially on the weekend, but since it is so big, you can usually find some quiet spots away from the crowds. Budget at least a half-day here as a few hours won’t do this place justice. Admission is $30 USD and you can buy tickets in advance.

4. See the Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island

The Statue of Liberty is a massive Neoclassical statue gifted to the USA from France. It was dedicated in 1886 and stands 305-feet tall (95 meters). It was designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi though its metal framework was built by Gustave Eiffel (of Eiffel Tower fame). It’s spectacular to see up close and is as big as you imagine, but the real highlight of this combo is Ellis Island. Here, you can learn about the immigrant experience and get a sense of the people who helped build NYC (you’ll even find my family’s name inscribed on the wall). There’s such a great sense of history there that you can’t help but be impressed. Admission is $25 USD.

Here’s an overview of what the tours are like .

5. Walk the High Line

Other things to see and do in new york city, 1. take a walking tour.

A great way to orient yourself to the city is with a walking tour. You’ll learn some history, see the main sights, and explore all the city’s nooks and crannies. I think free walking tours are a wonderful activity in any city (I always take them when I arrive somewhere new). If you’re on a budget, I recommend Free Tours by Foot. For paid tours, go with Take Walks . They have specific tours in the city that focus on art, food, and history, and they are pretty affordable too. (I wrote a whole blog post about New York City walking tours that you can check out here. )

2. Ride the Staten Island Ferry

That two-hour-long line to see the Statue of Liberty not appealing? Walk a few blocks to the Staten Island ferry. This free ferry takes you across the harbor and offers a nice view of both the Statue of Liberty and the city skyline. You won’t get to stop at Ellis Island but you’ll get a nice (and free) view while you enjoy the historical route that New Yorkers have been taking for centuries. The ride takes about 20 minutes each way.

3. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge to get a picturesque view of the New York skyline and harbor. It’s a long walk, but good food and drinks await you on the other side. Stopping to take in the view and meandering along the way makes the walk about 40 minutes. I enjoy doing this walk at night when downtown Manhattan is all lit up. Otherwise, come early to beat the crowds. It’s a super popular spot for taking photos so be sure to bring a camera (or you can hire a NYC photographer if you really want to snag some impressive pics).

If you want a more nuanced experience, take a guided tour across the bridge . Not only will you learn some fascinating history but your guide can show you all the best spots to take photos.

4. Museum hop

New York City has dozens upon dozens of museums worth visiting. You have The Met, Natural History Museum, the MoMA, Frick, Guggenheim, the Museum for African Art, Museum of the City of New York, Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum (a branch of the Smithsonian Institution), The Whitney, The Brooklyn Museum, and so many more! Pick the ones you want to see the most and visit those unless you have weeks in New York to see them all. Admission varies, but expect to spend around $28 USD per person per museum.

5. Visit Radio City Music Hall

Is there a more American theater than Radio City Music Hall? This timeless testament to entertainment has captivated visitors since the 1930s (at the time, it was the largest auditorium in the world). It’s the home of the precision dance company The Rockettes, who have been performing here since 1932. It’s also been the venue for all kinds of award shows, including the Tonys and the Grammys. There are still concerts, comedy shows, and other entertainment happening all the time. Check their website to find out what’s happening during your visit. There’s also an hour-long tour you can take that will get you behind the scenes to see the Great Stage and The Roxy Suite. Tickets start at $42.

6. Take in the theater

You can’t come to NYC and not see a Broadway show. There are tons of amazing shows here from grand musicals to traditional Shakespeare to offbeat shows. There’s nothing better than witnessing NYC theater, and it’s such an integral part of life here you should check it out. Current highlights include Hamilton, Chicago, Wicked, The Book of Mormon, Six, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, The Lion King, and more. Most shows have performances roughly eight times per week. If there’s a specific one you’ve been wanting to see, you should be able to find a time while you’re in the city. Visit the TKTS booth in Times Square to get half-price tickets. To see what shows are playing during your visit, check out broadway.com.

7. Wander Times Square

No matter when you go to Times Square, it will be packed with people (usually other tourists). There are pedestrian areas where you can sit and hang out and tons of (overpriced) restaurants and stores. It’s still a fabulous place to people-watch for a few minutes from the top of the red steps of the TKTS kiosk. Try to come at night when it’s all lit up with all the signs and neon lights. That’s when it looks the best!

8. Experience the Prohibition Bars

I love the 1920s. One of the reasons I love NYC so much is because there are tons of other people here who love the Jazz Age. There are lots of Prohibition-style bars serving classic drinks and hosting live jazz and swing music. While the fancy cocktails they serve may not be cheap ($15–20 USD), I’m hooked on the atmosphere. Stepping into these bars with the music playing, people dancing, and everyone dressed the part transports me to an era when things were classy, carefree, and fun. Some of my favorites are The Back Room, Apotheke, The Dead Rabbit, and Bathtub Gin.

9. Visit the Lower East Side Tenement Museum

This museum highlights how immigrants from around the world lived during the late 1800s and early 1900s as they tried to make it in America. It’s a good follow-up to what you see on Ellis Island. You can only visit this museum via guided tours, and they need to be booked in advance. The museum is actually an apartment building that’s been used to recreate the living conditions during different periods of the city’s history. Each tour tells the story of a different family and what their life was like here during their time. The tour will take you through apartments that have been recreated to match the time period of the story. You can choose from tours that highlight women or specific immigrant groups. I like that live actors are used to portray and share the stories of newly arrived immigrants as it makes the experience much more memorable. Tours last 60-75 minutes. Admission is $30 USD.

10. Visit Trinity Church

Built in 1698, the original Trinity Church was a small parish church constructed by the Church of England. When the British seized New York after George Washington’s retreat, it was used as a British base of operations. After the war, George Washington and Alexander Hamilton regularly worshipped here. The graveyard dates back to the 1700s and holds many a famous Americans, including Hamilton and his wife Elizabeth, Francis Lewis (signatory on the Declaration of Independence), John Alsop (Continental Congress delegate), Albert Gallatin (founder of NYU), and Horatio Gates (Continental Army general).

11. Head to Top of the Rock

This area is always filled with hustle and bustle. Wander around Rockefeller Center to see where they film The Today Show , shop, snack, and then take the elevator to the “Top of the Rock” for a bird’s-eye view of the city (I personally think the view is better than the Empire State Building since you get the Empire State Building in your pictures). Tickets cost $40 USD.

12. Just wander

Walk from the east side to the west side and marvel at the beautiful New York City architecture such as Grand Central Station, Union Square, the New York Times building, the Chrysler Building, the Flat Iron building, and more. There are so many historic buildings in New York City to see! You can talk a walk past the United Nations Headquarters on the East side of Manhattan. Madison Square Garden and Chelsea Market are great spots for wandering on the other side of the island. In lower Manhattan, you can grab a slice of pizza in Little Italy or take in the bustle of Chinatown. Just wandering around the city and seeing what there is to see is a fun afternoon activity for every budget traveler.

13. Relax in Battery Park

Located on the southern tip of Manhattan, this park is where the Dutch built Fort Amsterdam in 1625 to defend their settlement. The British took the area over in 1664 and eventually renamed it Fort George. While the fort was mostly destroyed during the Revolution, the battery was expanded after the war’s end. Today, there are over 20 monuments and plaques in the park, covering everything from the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812 to immigration and much more. You can wander around the fort and then stroll through the surrounding park and take in the beautiful waterfront views of the harbor, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island.

14. Visit Wall Street

Take a photo with the famous charging bull statue (which was created in 1989) and then walk to Wall Street and see where all those bankers destroyed the economy. There’s heavy security in the area, but you can sit and watch people whiz in and out of buildings on their way to cause some other financial disaster. Guided tours around Wall St with Get Your Guide cost $35 USD and cover the highs and lows of the (in)famous finance hub, highlighting the lives of famous elites from John D. Rockefeller to Warren Buffet. I found the tour really interesting!

14. See Federal Hall

One of the most overlooked museums in the city sits across the street from the NY Stock Exchange (NYSE). Federal Hall, built in 1700, is where George Washington took his oath of office. You’ll see the Bible that was used when he was sworn in as president, which was loaned to him from the local Masonic Lodge. It was the site of the US Customs House in the late 1700s and the first capitol building of the US. Though the original facade was rebuilt, it’s one of my favorite attractions in the area. I especially love the old vaults. I highly recommend you visit. Admission is free.

16. See Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Terminal is the city’s historic train station. It was going to be torn down in 1975 but was saved by Jacqueline Kennedy, who raised money for its preservation. I love coming to the main concourse and looking up at the “stars” in the ceiling as everyone races to and fro. There’s also an amazing eatery in the basement called the Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant. And for fancy (and expensive) cocktails, visit The Campbell and step back into the 1920s (dress code enforced). It was once the office of John W. Campbell, a member of the New York Central Railroad’s board of directors and finance tycoon from the 1920s.

17. Visit The Cloisters

Few people make it up to the Cloisters (it’s up near 204th Street), a branch of the Met devoted to medieval Europe. It took me years to finally see it, and I kicked myself for waiting so long. It was built with Rockefeller money from parts of five European abbeys between 1934 and 1939. (They even stipulated that the land across the river would forever remain undeveloped so the view would be unspoiled!). The building and its stunning cloistered garden are very, very peaceful, and beautiful. It’s one of the best things to do in the city. There are free tours each day that explain the history of the museum and the paintings and exhibits. Admission is $30 USD (which includes same-day entrance to the Metropolitan Museum of Art).

18. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

Head over to the MoMA for lots of beautiful (and weird) modern art and some vivid impressionist art. Personally, I dislike modern art. I just don’t “get” it. How is a shovel on a wall art? While I’m not a fan, this museum does have Van Gogh’s Starry Night as well as other post-impressionist art, so I can’t hate it completely. If you love modern and contemporary art, this (I’m told) is one of the best in the world. The galleries display works from the 1880s through the modern day. The museum regularly has events that are interactive for kids, teens, and adults. They also show films as part of their art exhibitions. Check their website to see what’s on while you’re visiting. Admission is $28 USD. The MoMA’s Sculpture Garden is free of charge to the public daily from 9:30am–10:15am.

19. Hang out in Prospect Park

Get out of Manhattan and explore Brooklyn’s version of Central Park, which spans almost 600 acres. While you’re here, don’t miss the nearby Brooklyn Museum. Spend the afternoon discovering its vast collection of both historical and contemporary art and artifacts (there are over 1.5 million items in its collection). It has art exhibitions highlighting ancient Egypt, Medieval Europe, colonial USA, and more. Tickets are $20 USD.

20. Visit the Bronx Zoo

Head north for a look at one of the oldest and biggest zoos in the United States. Opened in 1899, the zoo spans almost 300 acres and sees over 2 million visitors each year. Home to over 650 different species, it’s a great place to visit with kids. Gorillas, birds of prey, bison — there is a huge assortment of animals here and you’ll definitely learn a lot during your visit! Admission is $37.95 USD. Tickets are $17.95 USD on Wednesdays.

21. See a Yankees/Mets/Rangers/Knicks game

Like sports? NYC has some world-class sports teams. I’m not a big sports fan (the Yankees play soccer, right?), but games are fun when you have friends to share the experience with. If you have a chance and the desire, don’t miss a sporting event, because New Yorkers are serious about their local teams!

22. Attend a taping

TV shows like Saturday Night Live , The View , The Late Show with Stephen Colbert , The Daily Show , Last Week Tonight , Late Night with Seth Meyers , and The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon offer free tickets to their tapings (although they must be reserved well in advance). See each show’s website for details and to make reservations.

22. Talk a walk through Green-Wood Cemetery

Green-Wood in Brooklyn was the first rural cemetery in the US and is now a National Historical Landmark. You’ll see graves of famous Americans like the Roosevelt family, Laura Keene (she was one of the actresses on stage when Lincoln was assassinated), and many others. There’s a free map at every entrance so you can easily find where you want to go in the 478-acre grounds. This was also the site of the Battle of Long Island during the Revolutionary War. The grounds are open year-round and free to visit.

23. Visit the Louis Armstrong House

Jazz legend Louis Armstrong and his wife lived in this house on 107th Street in Queens which has been turned into a museum, which opened to the public in 2003. The main exhibition features Louis’s life, career, and impact within the musical and local communities. Other exhibits show the collection of music, photographs, recordings, and other personal items from Louis and his wife, Lucille. You’ll even see a trumpet that Louis gave to King George V of England. There are guided tours available for $20 or you can walk through the exhibit on your own for $10.

( Hey there! Wait one second! Did you know I also wrote an entire guidebook to New York City filled with – not only even more detailed information on the things included on this page but also itineraries, practical information (i.e. hours of operation, phone numbers, websites, prices, etc.), cultural insights, and so much more? It has everything you want in a guidebook – but with a focus on budget and cultural travel! If you want to go into more depth and have something to take on your trip, click here for more about the book! )

New York City Travel Costs

Budget hotel prices – Budget two-star hotels start at $120 USD per night during the winter and about $160 USD a night the rest of the year. Expect basic amenities like TV, AC, and coffee/tea makers. If you want cheaper accommodation, it’s much better to stay in Hoboken/Jersey City or Brooklyn, where there’s more budget options. In Manhattan, accommodation is going to be the most expensive, especially if you come during the summer, where most hotels are around $200 USD or more per night.

Airbnb is technically banned in NYC for anything under 30 days, unless the host lives there. Private rooms start at $80 USD per night but average closer to $130-150 USD, especially if you want to stay in Manhattan. For entire places, you can still find some listed online but Airbnb is constantly trying to remove those in order to comply with the law. I’d try to avoid them.

Food – New York has every kind of cuisine you can think of — and at every price range too. This is the land of cheap eats and $1000 dinners! Post-COVID, prices have risen a lot and, while can get pricey here, there’s still a few cheap ways to save.

Pizza slices can be found for as little as a dollar, though typically they cost around $3 USD for a slice of cheese and about $5 USD for one with a topping. A bagel with cream cheese or a hot dog is usually around $3-5 USD. The famous “BEC” (bacon, egg, and cheese) sandwich will cost about $10 USD. There are plenty of street vendors with meals between $5-10 USD.

Sandwich shops, kebab places, salad shops, and cafes are generally going to be between $15-20 for a meal.

You can eat a sit down restaurant for $15-25 USD per main course. Appetizers can range from $8-15 USD. Dinner for two with drinks usually averages around $100 USD. This is any random place in NYC that’s not too fancy. Think the random Mexican, Thai, or Italian place you walk across. For sushi, you’re looking at about $40-50 USD for a meal (though you can get lunch specials for around $15 USD) and about $100 USD for an omakase.

If you like fast food (I don’t), you can usually find value meals for $10-15 USD.

Prices just go straight up from there as NYC has some really fancy and expensive restaurants. I mean, you can pay upwards of $350 USD for a prix-fixe dinner! main courses at many high-end restaurants can sometimes be $50 USD each! If you were to go to a really fancy place, you’d probably spend at least $200 for two people, especially if you got drinks.

A latte/cappuccino is $5 USD while bottled water is $2 USD. For drinks, you’ll find beer for around $8 USD, wine between $12-15 USD, and cocktails for between $15-20 USD. (For tips on how to get cheaper drinks, see the money saving section below.)

If you cook your own food, expect to pay between $65-80 USD per week for groceries that includes basic staples like pasta, rice, vegetables, and some meat. Shop at Fairway for inexpensive groceries. If you don’t have a kitchen, Whole Foods and Wegman’s have really good prepared meals and hot / salad bars.

Backpacking New York City Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking New York City, expect to spend around $100 USD per day. This budget covers a hostel dorm, public transportation, cooking your own meals, and free attractions. If you plan on drinking, add $40 USD more per day.

A mid-range budget of about $300 USD covers staying in a cheap hotel, eating cheap, enjoying a couple drinks, taking the occasional taxi, and doing more paid activities. You could probably lower this cost a bit (see the next section) but, given the price of accommodation, it’s the most realistic daily budget.

On a “luxury” budget of $600 USD or more per day, you can stay in a fancy hotel and do whatever you want! The sky is the limit after that!

New York City Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

New York City can easily drain your wallet. It is expensive and your money really, really quickly if you aren’t careful. Prices for everything have dramatically increased post-COVID. Luckily, this is the city of starving artists so there are always deals and ways to save. Here are some ways to save money in New York City:

• Take a free tour – Taking a free walking tour is the best way to get introduced to the city. You get to see the main sights and ask all your questions to a local guide. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end! This post on NYC walking tours can give you my favorite companies .
• Get a MetroCard – You’ll be taking the subway a lot and fares can add up. Get one of the Unlimited MetroCards and save yourself a bundle during your trip. 7-day unlimited cards are $34 USD.
• Get cheap theater tickets – Broadway tickets can easily run hundreds of dollars, especially for new and popular shows. The TKTS stand in Times Square offers 40-50% off select shows. You need to arrive at the counter the same day to see what they have but it’s usually a wide selection. Be prepared to wait in line for about an hour. TKTS also has offices at the South Street Seaport and in Brooklyn.
• Visit the museums for free – NYC is full of some of the best museums in the world. In addition to the MoMA, many offer free entry on certain days of the week: the Whitney Museum of American Art is pay-what-you-wish on Thursday afternoons, the Solomon R. Guggenheim has pay-what-you-wish between 4-6pm on Saturdays, the Cooper-Hewitt National Museum of Design has a pay-what-you-wish policy on Saturday nights.
• Visit the tourism website – New York City’s tourism website has a great list of free activities, museums, and shows. Visiting their website can help you figure out what is free in the city. While NYC is expensive, there’s always free things going on. The tourism board’s website is a great place to find those things.
• Eat on the cheap – Between the food carts, dollar slice shops, kebab places, and cheap eateries (Indian, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Thai are some of the cheapest places in the city) you can eat really cheap in NYC. Some of my favorite places to eat cheap are The Dead Rabbit (oyster happy hours), Percy’s Pizza, Noodle Q (Chinese food with big portions), and Gray’s Papaya (cheap hotdogs).
• Get the lunch special – Most restaurant in NYC have lunch specials and those are usually the best time to eat out. You can usually find set lunches for around $15-20 USD. Personally, I tend to eat at lunch and cook my dinners because it’s so much cheaper.
• Hit the happy hours – Happy hour is the best time to get discounted food and drinks in the city. We NYers love happy hour because it’s one of the best ways for us to save money while still going out. Drinks will be about 50% of what you normally find. I love the happy hour at The Gray Mare. For current best happy hours, try Eater. They have a good list!
• Consider getting the New York Pass – This sightseeing pass allows you free entry to over 115 attractions. If you plan on seeing a ton of attractions, this can save you money. A one-day pass is $134 USD per person while the two-day pass is $179 USD.
• Redeem hotel points – Be sure to sign up for hotel credit cards before you go and use those points when you travel. This is especially helpful in NYC because hotel prices are really high, especially since Airbnb has been banned. Be aware that most hotels charge parking fees if you have a car, and adjust your budget accordingly.
• Hit the oyster happy hours – Love oysters? Eat them during the happy hours that happen all over the city where they cost around $2 USD.
• Stay with a local – Accommodation is expensive in NYC and, with few hostels, there aren’t many options for a budget traveler. Use a hospitality website like Couchsurfing to stay with locals for free. There is a huge network in the city with tons and tons of hosts. To increase the chance of success, request as far in advance as possible!
• Save money on rideshares – Uber and Lyft are cheaper than taxis and are the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to take a bus or pay for a taxi.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in New York City

Accommodation is very expensive in New York, and there aren’t a ton of hostels in the city. Here are some places to stay in NYC:

• HI New York City Hostel
• Heritage Hotel NYC
• The Local NYC
• Pod Brooklyn
• Chelsea International Hostel
• The Marlton

For more hostel suggestions, check out my complete list of the best hostels in New York City.

How to Get Around New York City

If you can’t get to where you’re going by subway, the bus will get you there. Like the subway, the fare is $2.90 USD, but an express ride is $7 USD (you can’t use a regular Unlimited Ride MetroCard for express rides).

The Staten Island Ferry is a staple of morning commuters. It operates 24/7 and is free. The NYC Ferry Service is also a reliable way to commute and connects Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens and the Bronx along the East River. The ferries make many stops along the East River and are the same price as the subway.

Taxis – Taxis are definitely not the cheapest option for getting around New York City. The minimum fare starts at $3.00 USD and goes up another $3.50 USD per mile. Skip them if you can. However, during peak times, they are cheaper than Uber since they have set fares.

Ridesharing – Uber, Lyft, and Via are way cheaper than taxis and are the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to take a bus or pay for a taxi. The shared/pool option (where you share a ride with other people) offers even better savings.

Bike rental – You can bike just about anywhere in New York City, especially if you want to explore big parks like Central and Prospect. Citi Bike is a bike-sharing system, starting from $4.79 USD per 30-minute ride, or $19 USD for 24 hours. There are about 10,000 bikes all over the city, so one is always within reach!

When to Go to New York City

Anytime is the best time to visit New York! Each season offers visitors plenty of reasons to visit. Early fall offers crisp breezes, bright sun, and comfortable temperatures while late fall and winter make merry with the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and holiday decorations.

Deep winter – January and February – is cold, with temperatures ranging between 18-23°F (-7 to -5°C). But coming in winter means better hotel rates, ice skating, and hopping around cozy cafes and bookstores.

Spring is glorious and New Yorkers celebrate the thaw by taking to the streets, shopping at outdoor markets, frolicking in Central Park, and dining outside. Summer is hot, with average daily temperatures around 77-86°F (25-30°C).

Personally, I think the shoulder seasons (April–May and September–October) offer the best experience: there are fewer crowds and the weather is more bearable, averaging around 56-63°F (13-17°C) in the spring and 53-78°F (11-25°C) in September and October. Walking around snapping photos is a great way to see the city, but doing so when it’s sweltering can be challenging. If you love the heat, however, then summer is the time to visit!

How to Stay Safe in New York City

New York City is a safe place to visit. Violent attacks are rare and tend to be confined to certain areas. And there’s not a lot of gun violence. Petty crime, like theft, around popular tourist landmarks and on the subway will be your biggest concern. Keep an eye on your belongings at all times.

During COVID, crime went up for a bit but crime going down now. There are very rarely instances of violence or crime in any place you’d want to go as a visitor. In Manhattan, most of Brooklyn, and Queens, the city is really safe and you’re unlikely to encounter any major crime. In all my years living in the city, I don’t know anyone that has had something violent happen to them.

That said, there has been a rise in homelessness and vagrants, especially on the subway so you’ll just want to follow the locals and stay vigilant. Most people I know don’t ride the subway after midnight just because there’s not enough people on it.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply. For specific safety tips, consult one of the many solo female travel articles on the web.

Beware of anything that seems too good to be true in Times Square — it probably is. Try not to buy any tickets, massages, facials, or experiences from hawkers in the area. They prey on tourists here. If you do, you risk getting your credit card charged multiple times, getting less than you paid for, or getting ripped off altogether. Also, if you want to take a photo with the life-sized costumed characters in Times Square, they will demand money from you.

You can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

New York City Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to New York City!

While I have a lot of free tips on New York City, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorites restaurants, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc etc), and cultural tips.

I’ll give the insider view of New York City that I got from living here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go.

New York City Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on United States travel and continue planning your trip:

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The 12 Best Things to Do in Chicago

The 5 Best Hotels in San Francisco

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Your Trip to NYC: The Complete Guide

New York City Guide: Planning Your Trip

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New York City is an iconic destination chock full of attractions — but it can also be overwhelming to visit. Which days are best to visit busy places like the Met and the Empire State Building, and how do you avoid tourist traps and discover local hangouts? Did you know the city has tons of outdoorsy activities for all seasons? And what about deciding between so many acclaimed bars and restaurants of all types?

Whether you want to spend the weekend in the city or a whole week exploring, planning your trip is important to ensure you make the most of your time. Let’s explore the best the city has to offer and help you decide when to visit, learn what to see and do, and discover where to eat, drink, and stay during your trip.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: Figuring out the best time to visit really depends on what you want to do on your trip. New York City is a great destination year round, but each season has its own perks (and disadvantages). Winter is great for visitors who want to experience the wonders of the  holiday season in New York City  and after New Year’s crowds really dwindle and prices drop. Spring and fall are ideal in terms of mild weather and being able to take full advantage of everything the city has to offer. And while summer can get very hot and humid and it also brings lots of crowds, there are tons of free events and beaches , pools , and parks are in full swing.
• Language: English is the official language of New York, but you’ll also hear a lot of Spanish   , Mandarin, and plenty of other languages in this melting pot.
• Currency : U.S. dollar
• Getting Around: Public transportation makes getting around New York City easy, fast, and affordable. Quite often, you’ll find it’s best to take a bus or the subway to avoid traffic and save money. Before you give it a go, familiarize yourself with the routes by looking at maps so you don’t get lost or take the wrong  train . Sometimes though, it can be more convenient or appropriate to take a taxi, Lyft, Uber , or  car service . A cab is a good option for a group and might save money. You also might feel safer in a car late at night, although buses and the subway run all night long   . Renting a car if you’re staying in the city is generally a bad idea as parking is difficult to find and/or very expensive. Plus, traffic is typically horrendous.
• Travel Tip: Remember, New York City is more than just Manhattan and all five boroughs are worth visiting, especially Brooklyn and Queens , which are quite easy to get to from Manhattan. To avoid crowds, get an early start to your day and consider visiting the mot popular sites during the week if you can.

Things To Do

Whether it’s your first or tenth visit, New York City has so much to offer. It is brimming with attractions and activities, from world-class museums and monuments to stunning parks to shopping galore . There are things for kids and families , romantic activities for couples, and friend groups can be kept busy for days. Architecture fans, history buffs, entertainment lovers, foodies , shoppers , art hounds, and culture vultures will all be happy here. Don’t miss these activities:

• Museums and Galleries: Visitors would be hard pressed to visit all the museums in NYC; from art to history to science and even food, there are hundreds of museums and galleries   to see. Beyond the classics like the Met , MoMA , American Museum of Natural History , and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum , await the Brooklyn Museum , Queens Hall of Science , Museum of the City of New York, El Museo del Barrio, and the Museum of Food and Drink, to name a few.
• Boat Rides: Remember that New York City is surrounded by water   and seeing the sights by boat is a great experience. A number of companies offer  boat tours and cruises  around the city, pay a few bucks to ride the East River Ferry to a number of locations, or hop on the Staten Island Ferry for free. 
• Theater and Shows : Broadway shows are a highlight for many visitors and for good reason. There’s also plenty of Off-Broadway, Off-Off-Broadway, and experimental and avant-garde venues putting on some of the best theater in the world. And don’t forget the music scene — almost every band comes through NYC to play at one of its most famous concert venues, like Carnegie Hall, Radio City Music Hall , Lincoln Center , Bowery Ballroom, Kings Theatre, and Music Hall of Williamsburg.

Where to Eat and Drink

New York City is known for its plethora of food options, including iconic dishes that are must-eats on any trip. Be sure to grab a slice of pizza , a bagel with lox, a bodega egg and cheese on a roll, a classic deli sandwich, and a hot dog . And don’t forget to partake in brunch , a NYC tradition. But the best part about New York City is that you can find foods from across the globe here thanks to immigrants from around the world, be it inside Michelin-starred dining rooms or hole-in-the-wall eateries serving everything from Ethiopian to Burmese to Korean to Italian to Israeli to Mexican and beyond . You can go big at a steakhouse or find cheap eats throughout the five boroughs. And every neighborhood has something unique to offer if you look hard enough — even Times Square .

Drinking is just as important as eating in NYC and there are plenty of craft cocktail bars, historic taverns, breweries and taprooms, wine and Champagne bars, and even alcohol-free drink spots. And, there are some incredible coffee shops to start your day at.

Explore our articles on the most romantic restaurants , the best family-friendly restaurants, and the most expensive restaurants in NYC.

Where to Stay

Hotels are easy to find in New York City, but finding the right room for you is a different story. Where you stay is going to depend on which borough and neighborhood you prefer, if you’re alone, with a significant other , or with your family , and how much you want to spend . Midtown Manhattan is the most popular place to stay because it’s where most of the tourist attractions are but it is also one of the most expensive areas. If you’re willing to move north or south, there are some good  budget-friendly hotels in Manhattan available. And of course, if you want to stay somewhere with a  view of Central Park , near nightlife in Chelsea , or in the center of trendy SoHo , expect to pay a premium but be very happy. If you’re amenable to heading over the bridge to Brooklyn, there are some excellent options, and many people prefer its more low key vibe. Other options aside from hotels include short-term apartment rentals (a good value if you’re staying for three nights or more and may want to cook instead of eating out), hostels  for those on a tight budget, and Airbnb rentals—although beware that these might be operating illegally   .

Explore the different neighborhoods you can stay in, and see our recommendations on the best hotels in NYC with Pools and the Best NYC Airport Hotels .

Getting There

There are myriad ways to get to NYC: flying, by train, by bus, or driving. The main airports are:

• John F. Kennedy International Airport is the largest and has the most international flights, but it can be intimidating and exhausting to traverse its many terminals. It is 16 miles from Midtown Manhattan and there are various ways to get there .
• La Guardia International Airport in Queens is more manageable and recent upgrades have greatly improved its look, functionality, and services. It also has plenty of flights from most major carriers but less international options than JFK and EWR and some airlines, like Delta and United, use the other area airports as their hubs and so have fewer flights from La Guardia as a result. It is a little closer to Midtown Manhattan at 8.5 miles away and there are various ways to get there .
• Newark Liberty International Airport  in Newark, New Jersey, is 16 miles from Midtown Manhattan and sometimes flights there can be cheaper (but taxis generally cost more from there to NYC). It is the hub for United so almost all United flights will arrive and depart from here and it also has robust international offerings.

Amtrak trains to other major East Coast cities run fairly often to and from Penn Station and there are also trains to cities farther afield. Buses are usually the cheapest option, with Greyhound , Megabus , Bolt Bus, and smaller companies serving the city. And of course, driving is always an option but keep in mind that parking can be difficult and expensive.

Culture and Customs

New York City has a culture all its own and there are several unwritten rules that locals follow, including how to walk on a busy sidewalk (hint: don’t stop in the middle of it), subway etiquette , how to hail a cab, and proper bicycle behavior.

Tipping is important in NYC; be sure to tip taxi drivers, wait staff at restaurants, and bartenders.

Is New York City safe?  It's a question visitors ask all the time and, in general, it is a safe city   . However, swindlers and thieves can often spot “out of towners” so a little common sense is required.

Money Saving Tips

• There are tons of awesome free activities , events , and places to visit in NYC, from parks to museums.
• Several museums and attractions have certain days or times that are Pay What You Wish or are sometimes free .
• If you plan on riding the subway and taking buses at least several times a day, you can save money by getting an MTA MetroCard for a day or week of unlimited rides.
• Check out TKTS and other discount venues for cheaper Broadway tickets and don’t forget about standing room only .
• Head to the outer boroughs for many excellent yet more affordable restaurants and eateries.

Watch Now: Planning Your Visit to New York City

U.S. Census Bureau. " Languages Spoken at Home ." 2018

MTA. " How to Ride the Subway ."

NYC & Company. " Museums & Galleries in NYC ."

The Official Website of the City of New York. " New York City Water Bodies ." 2014

Airbnb. " New York, NY ." 2020

The Economist Intelligence Unit . "Safe Cities Index 2017."

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New York City Travel Guide

Meena Thiruvengadam is a lifelong traveler and veteran journalist who has visited more than 50 countries across six continents. Her writing has appeared in The Wall Street Journal , Departures , TripSavvy , and other publications.

Whatever it is you're into, you'll find there's more to do in New York than you'll have time.

Check out the views from the top of the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, or One World Observatory. Take yourself on a museum crawl, starting at The Metropolitan Museum of Art on the northeastern edge of Central Park. Then, make your way north several blocks to the Guggenheim Museum and eventually to the Museum of the City of New York, one of the best places to learn about the Big Apple's history.

Go to Chinatown for dim sum and to Little Italy for cannoli. Head to a jazz club in Harlem, check out the independent artist galleries that dot Chelsea, shop along Fifth Avenue, and pay a visit to the Statue of Liberty.

You could spend an entire day in Central Park alone, checking out its zoo, carousel, lakes, and ice rink. A number of gardens and meadows make for excellent people-watching and host impromptu musical performances on nice days. Traveling in the summer? Make sure to check the schedule for Shakespeare in the Park.

Prefer sports, movies, and live music? See the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium, the New York Mets at Citi Field, or the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Track down sites from your favorite movies and TV shows. Seinfeld , Sex and the City , "When Harry Met Sally," "Sleepless in Seattle," "Serendipity," and "Home Alone 2" are just a small fraction of what's been filmed here.

New York is a city filled with attractions, but some of its most interesting experiences are sure to be the ones you accidentally stumble upon on the way to somewhere else. Whatever it is you're looking for, you can find it in New York. Check off your packing list , and remember: Just don't try to do everything in one trip.

Eastern Standard Time

Best Time to Go

New York is a city that's always celebrating something, and summer is one of the best times to visit. Outdoor concert season is in full swing. Free movies and theatrical performances fill the city's parks, street vendors are everywhere, and street fairs abound. But subway platforms can get steamy, lines can get long, and temperatures can soar among the city's high-rises. If this sounds like misery, visit between Thanksgiving and the New Year, when temperatures are cooler and department store windows are decked out for the holidays. During this time, Manhattan's three major outdoor ice rinks are open, a giant Christmas tree marks Rockefeller Center, and holiday light shows are more elaborate than anything you could ever imagine.

Things to Know

New York is a city made up of five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island. Most tourist attractions are in Manhattan, with a few scattered across Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx.

Driving in Manhattan is unnecessary. The city has an extensive public transit system, making it easy to get just about anywhere by subway, bus, cab, and foot. Uber and Lyft are plentiful, while parking can be both a miserable and expensive experience. Meanwhile, the subway is open 24/7.

New York is a city that moves fast. Step aside to look at your phone, and remember to stand on the right side of the escalator so hurried commuters can walk on the left.

Times Square characters can be pushy. Tipping is at your discretion.

How to Get Around

Trains: The New York City subway is one of the most extensive public transit systems in the world. It connects Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx, and runs on Staten Island. Each ride costs $2.75. A seven-day pass is available for $33 and covers both trains and buses.

Buses: A network of buses offers easy access to the rare spots not served by nearby train stations and to New York's LaGuardia Airport. Individual bus rides cost $2.75. Seven-day transit passes cost $33 and cover trains and buses. While buses can be convenient, traffic can sometimes make them easy to outwalk.

Ferries: One of the best ways to hop among New York's boroughs in good weather is a ferry. Ferries connect Queens, the western coast of Brooklyn, the eastern side of Manhattan, and Staten Island. Rides are $2.75 each. Subway and bus passes aren't accepted on New York ferries. The Staten Island Ferry is free.

Taxis: Cabs are all over Manhattan, but a little harder to find in parts of Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx. Green cabs offer service in northern Manhattan and the outer boroughs. To hail a cab, look for one that has its light on and raise your arm. All New York cabs are metered and required to accept credit cards.

Rideshare: Uber and Lyft are all over New York and offer similar pricing. Rideshare can be the best way to travel in parts of Brooklyn and Queens.

Best Hotels

Address: 768 5th Ave., New York, NY 10019

Phone: (212) 759-3000

If money is no object and you can afford to check into the best New York City hotels — or always dreamt of sleeping in a castle — this is the property for you. It was built to resemble a French château and sits across the street from the southern edge of Central Park. A favorite of filmmakers, The Plaza is where Robert Redford and Barbra Streisand filmed "The Way We Were" and where Macaulay Culkin spent Christmas in "Home Alone 2." The Plaza underwent a $450 million restoration in 2008 and is known for its afternoon tea service.

The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park

Address: 50 Central Park South, New York, NY 10019

Phone: (212) 308-9100

The Ritz-Carlton is one of Central Park's most luxurious hotels. The high-end property is located steps from some of the best shopping in the world and the southern edge of Central Park. Rooms are plush and personal touches abound. This is a place to be pampered. Come for a spa day, stay for afternoon tea, and while away the hours in between at Bergdorf Goodman a few blocks away.

The Peninsula New York

Address: 700 5th Ave., New York, NY, 10019

Phone: (212) 956-2888

After being closed for 14 months during the COVID-19 pandemic, The Peninsula New York reopened in summer 2021 and welcomed guests back to this iconic address on Fifth Avenue, near high-end stores and popular attractions such as Rockefeller Center and Radio City Music Hall. The hotel's spa is one of the largest in the city, spanning three floors, and the top-floor indoor pool offers sweeping views of the skyline.

CitizenM New York Times Square Hotel

Address: 218 W. 50th St., New York, NY 10019

Phone: (212) 461-3638

Located on the northern edge of Times Square in the heart of the Theater District, this hotel feels like an urban art gallery. Rooms are compact yet modern, functional, and clean. Plus, the hotel bar is as affordable as they come in NYC, and there's a rooftop that's perfect for sipping cocktails.

Pendry Manhattan West

Address: 438 W. 33rd St., New York, NY, 10001

Phone: (212) 933-7000

Located in one of the city's newest developments, Pendry Manhattan West brings a sense of modern California luxury to Hudson Yards. Pendry's first hotel in New York City, Manhattan West opened in September 2021 and sits among some of the area's premium dining and shopping options. The hotel decor has a refined 1960s retro inspiration, merging the brand's serene West Coast style with the energy of New York City's west side. Take a stroll outside on the nearby High Line, or simply head to the hotel's Peloton-outfitted fitness center.

Soho Grand Hotel

Address: 310 W. Broadway, New York, NY, 10013

Phone: (212) 965-3000

The luxury Soho Grand Hotel takes the guest experience to another level. It has rooms that are small yet luxurious and functional, even for business travelers. Common areas are nothing short of opulent. This is a perfect home base for exploring Lower Manhattan and escaping the hustle and bustle of the city overnight.

The Empire Hotel

Address: 44 W. 63rd St., New York, NY 10023

Phone: (212) 265-7400

This trendy boutique hotel is known for its rooftop bar whose red neon sign looms large over the Upper West Side. Rooms are small yet functional, comfortable, and well-equipped for business travelers. Besides, the rooftop is where you'll want to spend all of your free time.

Address: Multiple Locations

This trendy hotel has outposts in SoHo, NoMad, and Midtown. The Hudson Street location is perfect for travelers looking for a party in the Meatpacking District, while the NoMad spot offers excellent proximity to shopping and rooftop bars, including the hotel's own. The Arlo NoMad rooftop is a great place to gawk at the Empire State Building, cocktail in hand.

Grayson Hotel

30 W. 39th St., New York, NY 10018

Phone: (212) 229-4729

The Grayson Hotel combines luxurious style with industrial-chic design and stunning skyline views for an authentic Manhattan experience. Minutes from Bryant Park, Herald Square, and a short walk to the Times Square theater district, its convenient midtown location is a plus. Enjoy wine and tapas at Bar Harta or mezcal at Cima, set above the city on the 28th floor.

The James New York NoMad

22 E. 29th Street, New York, NY 10016

Phone: (212) 532-4100

Book Now Stay at this stylish Beaux Arts boutique hotel for a welcome refuge from the bustle of the city or take inspiration from its modern, upbeat atmosphere. The James Club lobby features a nightly happy hour with live music and morning coffee to start your day. Don’t miss the Seville, its speakeasy-style cocktail lounge or Scarpetta for gourmet Italian cuisine.

Smyth Tribeca

Address: 85 W. Broadway, New York, NY 10007

Phone: (917) 997-2700

Set downtown in Tribeca, the Smyth offers 100 spacious, stylishly furnished guest rooms and suites. The Smyth is conveniently located near the Chambers Street metro station, and it's just a short walk to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, shopping at the Oculus and Brookfield Place, and a variety of bars and restaurants. This moderately priced hotel features soundproof floor-to-ceiling windows, continental breakfast, and thoughtful details that make it a comfortable home away from home.

Address: John F. Kennedy International Airport, JFK Access Road, One Idlewild Dr., 11430

Phone: (212) 806-9000

Designed by the architect behind St. Louis' Gateway Arch and completed in 1962, TWA Hotel is a vintage aviation geek's dream come true. Formerly an airline terminal, it has since been converted into a 512-room hotel. It's also a convenient choice if you're working a New York stop into a long layover. The hotel offers four- to six-hour bookings, as well as overnight stays, and the rooftop infinity pool is the perfect place to watch planes take off.

Sofitel New York

Address: 45 W. 44th St., New York, NY, 10036

Phone: (212) 354-8844

The Sofitel New York brings a bit of French Art Deco elegance to New York City, with interior decor inspiration that will transport you back to 1930s Paris. But head to one of the top-floor suites and you'll instantly know which city you're in, as all four Terrace Suites offer up-close views of either the Chrysler or Empire State buildings from private outdoor terraces. Whether entertaining a crowd or celebrating an intimate occasion, the Sofitel offers a fashionable escape from the hustle and bustle of nearby Grand Central Station.

Park Lane Hotel New York

Address: 36 Central Park South, New York, NY, 10019

Phone: (212) 371-4000

Recently renovated Park Lane Hotel has spun up a welcoming atmosphere with artful touches steps from Central Park. Whimsical murals from New York City-based artists decorate guests rooms and public space in the hotel — which is also pet-friendly, near every city dog's dream spot for a long walk. Make sure to head upstairs to Darling, Central Park South's only rooftop lounge, where guests can take in the sprawling views of the park and skyline from the 47th floor.

The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue

Address: 400 5th Ave., New York, NY 10018

Phone: (212) 695-4005

With the Theater District just a 12-minute walk, Bryant Park six minutes away, and the Empire State Building around the corner, you can't ask for a better-located hotel in New York City. But this luxurious five-star spot is hard to leave, thanks to its Michelin-starred restaurant Ai Fiori, well-appointed suites (some with full kitchens), spacious gym and spa, and fabulous 60-story views of Manhattan.

Kimpton Hotel Eventi

851 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10001

Phone: (212) 564-4567

Friendly, casual, and comfortable, Eventi’s warm atmosphere is evident in its living room–style lobby and adjacent coffee bar, cocktail lounge, and restaurant. Set in the Chelsea neighborhood steps from Penn Station, Madison Square Garden, and the Empire State Building, the hotel offers magnificent city views along with its convenient location.

Best Restaurants

Katz's delicatessen.

Address: 205 E. Houston St., New York, NY 10002

Phone: (212) 254-2246

Founded in 1888, this kosher-style deli sits underneath an iconic old-school sign. The casual, bustling space is known for its pastrami on rye — considered to be one of the city's best — as well as for its corned beef. It's likely to look familiar — Katz's was the backdrop for Meg Ryan's fake orgasm scene in "When Harry Met Sally."

Eleven Madison Park

Address: 11 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10010

Phone: (212) 889-0905

Regularly on lists of the world's top fine-dining establishments, Eleven Madison Park is best known for its multi-course tasting menu. The Michelin three-starred restaurant also serves up beautiful views, given its location overlooking Madison Square Park.

Address: 138 Lafayette St., New York, NY, 10013

Phone: (212) 271-4252

Le Coucou was the first U.S. establishment for head chef Daniel Rose, who hails from two successful restaurants in France. Reopened in November 2021 after more than a year closed, the Michelin-starred French restaurant still offers an a la carte menu, as well as a new four-course tasting menu priced at $185 per person. While jackets are not required, the dress code is still listed as "elegant."

Keens Steakhouse

Address: 72 W. 36th St., New York, NY 10018

Phone: (212) 947-3636

Keens is the rare restaurant that has survived more than a century in the Herald Square section of Midtown Manhattan. It opened in 1885 and was a favorite among stage actors in the early days. Now, it's a carnivore's paradise known around the world for its whiskey and gigantic mutton chop. The restaurant previously allowed patrons to store their clay pipes, allowing it to build a collection from legends such as Babe Ruth, Theodore Roosevelt, J.P. Morgan, and Albert Einstein.

Gage & Tollner

Address: 372 Fulton St., Brooklyn, NY, 11201

Phone: (347) 689-3677

Originally open for 125 years from 1879 to 2004, Gage & Tollner reopened in April 2021 as a modern oyster and chop house. Now, once again, the cornerstone of Downtown Brooklyn's restaurant scene, Gage & Tollner gives plenty of nods to its history, through both the food and largely Gilded Age-inspired design . Looking to stray from the classic '40s martini-and-steak vibes? There's a tiki bar called Sunken Harbour Club upstairs.

Joe's Shanghai

Address: 46 Bowery, New York, NY 10013

Phone: (212) 233-8888

The original Joe's Shanghai opened in Flushing, Queens, paving the way for future locations in Chinatown and Midtown Manhattan. The restaurant is known for its authentic Shanghainese food, specifically its pork and crab xiao long bao. This variety of Chinese steamed bun is cooked with soup inside the dumpling, creating a simple culinary experience like none other.

Totto Ramen

Ramen is everywhere these days and Totto Ramen doles out some of the best in New York City. Its restaurants are small, lines can be long, and reservations aren't an option. But don't worry — this ramen is worth the wait. Totto is known for using a rich, chicken-based broth instead of a more traditional pork-based version, and for serving up some of the best noodles in Manhattan. There are now three Totto Ramen locations in Midtown Manhattan. The 52nd Street location is the original.

Address: 240 Central Park S., New York, NY 10019

Phone: (212) 582-5100

Marea is one of the city's top seafood restaurants. This high-end spot at the edge of Central Park has earned two Michelin stars and the 2010 James Beard Award for best new restaurant. Chef Michael White gets his inspiration from coastal Italy — don't miss the branzino, Adriatic seafood soup, or the stuffed calamari. Can't decide? Opt for a multi-course prix-fixe menu or a chef's tasting menu.

Address: 385 9th Ave., New York, NY, 10001

Phone: (212) 219-6559

The newest restaurant from famed New York City restaurateur Danny Meyer, Ci Siamo, which translates to "here we are" or "we've finally arrived," brings a bit of Italian flair to Hudson Yards on the west side. With plush leather and velvet seating, plus subtle midcentury modern decor touches, the interior of the restaurant is meant to evoke the comfortable feeling of dining in someone's home. Chef Hillary Sterling even has a custom-built grill to accommodate various temperatures at once, as she cooks up selections like wood-fired whole trout.

H&H Bagels

You can't visit New York without eating an iconic NYC bagel. But why not eat that bagel where Seinfeld 's Kramer used to work? H&H was once the largest bagel maker in New York and one of the largest bagel manufacturers in the world, making an estimated 80,000 rounds per day. Nowadays, its two locations feed New Yorkers on the Upper East and Upper West Sides of Manhattan.

Bonnie's

Address: 398 Manhattan Ave., Brooklyn, NY, 11211

Phone: (914) 875-3709

Named after chef Calvin Eng's mom, Bonnie's, in Brooklyn, is self-described as Cantonese American cuisine, with a varied menu that includes nods to some of Eng's favorite food memories, including glazed pork served on a sesame milk bun, mimicking a high-end McRib sandwich. The popular Williamsburg restaurant is closed on Mondays and offers reservations from Tuesday to Sunday, though they leave a few tables and seats at the bar open for walk-ins.

Dominique Ansel

Address: 189 Spring St., New York, NY 10012

Phone: (212) 219-2773

This Soho bakery is perhaps best known for creating the cronut, a magical blend of croissant and donut in new flavors revealed each month. But Dominique Ansel offers so much more. Among the treats not to miss: torched-to-order frozen s'mores with a vanilla ice cream center covered in chocolate wafer crisps and honey marshmallows.

Dowling's

Address: 35 E. 76th St., New York, NY, 10021

Phone: (212) 744-1600

This new, fine art-covered restaurant located within The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel is under the guidance of executive chef Sylvain Delpique — previously of 21 Club — with a menu nearly as timeless as New York itself. The throwback favorites, including wedge salad, shrimp cocktail, and steak, are sure to be crowd favorites, though there are distinctly modern sections of the menu, too. Jackets are recommended for dinner service, though if you prefer to dine sans sport coat, Dowling's does an impressive lunch service complete with mini-martinis .

Address: 70 Pine St., New York, NY, 10005

Phone: (212) 339-3963

Perched atop the 63rd floor of a landmark Art Deco tower, SAGA offers a modern European tasting menu from acclaimed duo James Kent and Jeff Katz, known for building their careers at top New York City institutions like Eleven Madison Park and Del Posto. At this modern fine-dining spot, reservations are hard to grab; lucky diners who do snag one will need to prepay the full nonrefundable menu price of $245 each, with a minimum reservation for two.

Serendipity III

Address: 225 E 60th St., New York, NY 10022

Phone: (212) 838-3531

This is a place guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. The legendary sweet shop and general store opened in 1954 and has since become a go-to for celebrities like Marilyn Monroe, Andy Warhol, Grace Kelly, Cary Grant, Cher, and Beyonce. It's known for its Frozen Hot Chocolate, creative savory dishes such as shrimp-stuffed avocado, and for creating both the world's most expensive dessert and most expensive burger. The restaurant has made appearances in the movies "Serendipity," "One Fine Day," and "Trust the Man."

Xi'an Famous Foods

With several locations across New York, this chain of family-run restaurants specializes in authentic western Chinese food. The company's CEO was born in Xi'an, one of China's oldest cities. Fun fact: Its dishes were a favorite of Anthony Bourdain's.

Tanner Smith's

Address: 204 W. 55th St., New York, NY 10019

Phone: (646) 590-2034

Located just south of Central Park, Tanner Smith's is the perfect place to go for a classy tea that doubles as a tipsy brunch. It's part speakeasy, part cocktail bar, part restaurant, and 100% authentic New York. This is a place whose roots stretch back to the 1800s and whose Tipsy Tea Brunch will make you feel as if you've stepped back in time.

Laser Wolf Brooklyn

Address: 97 Wythe Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11249

Phone: (718) 215-7150

Located on the roof of The Hoxton, Williamsburg , Laser Wolf Brooklyn offers Manhattan skyline views almost as delightful as its Israeli cuisine. Cooked over live coals, the food at this "shipudiya" (or skewer house) from legendary chef Michael Solomonov offers the luxury of simplicity: simply choose from three main dish categories (meat, fish, or veggies) and then prepare to be whisked away on a culinary journey. The wide selection of salatim (Israeli side dishes) and the brown-sugar soft serve for dessert are included in the price.

Things to Do

Times square.

Times Square is the pulsing heart of the city that never sleeps, but it isn't actually a square. In fact, it looks more like a bow tie and covers an area from West 42nd to West 47th Streets along Broadway and Seventh Avenues. This commercial intersection is where the city's world-famous New Year's Eve celebration is held. Hundreds of thousands of people pass through it even on a slow day, and visitors should not be surprised to catch impromptu concerts, yoga classes, and street performances here.

Theater District

New York's Theater District is home to Broadway, the collection of Midtown Manhattan theaters that comprise one of the world's top live performance hubs. This area between West 40th and West 54th Streets, and between Sixth and Eighth Avenues, is where most of the city's Broadway theaters are located. Some offer discount tickets through lotteries, and even walking through the area provides ample opportunity to spot celebrities. Performers often take the time to sign autographs and snap photos with audiences outside of stage doors after shows. For discounted same- and next-day tickets, check out the TKTS booth in Times Square.

Central Park

Central Park is an 840-acre urban oasis separating the Upper East and Upper West Sides of Manhattan. The park draws more than 35 million visitors a year and is one of the most filmed locations in the world. It is home to the Central Park Zoo, the expansive Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, the John Lenon tribute Strawberry Fields, and Delacorte Theater, home of Shakespeare in the Park. Spend some time soaking in the sun at Sheep Meadow and wandering through the Conservatory Garden, and be sure to check the schedule for special events.

Empire State Building

Address: 20 W, 34th St., New York, NY 10001

Phone: (212) 736-3100

This 102-story Art Deco skyscraper is a cultural icon in Midtown Manhattan that's appeared in more than 250 movies and TV shows. The Empire State Building is the second-tallest building in New York City and the 45th tallest building in the world. It's an office building with public observation decks offering some of the best views in Manhattan. Tip: Splurge for the skip-the-line tickets, especially during the spring and summer.

Top of the Rock

Address: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112

Phone: (212) 698-2000

Sitting at the top of Rockefeller Center, Top of the Rock is home to three of the best observation decks in the city, which offer unobstructed views of Central Park and the towering skyscrapers of Midtown Manhattan. Observation decks are located on the 67th, 69th, and 70th floors of the building, which also happens to be the iconic 30 Rock.

One World Observatory

Address: One World Trade Center, 117 West St., New York, NY 10006

Phone: (844) 696-1776

One World Trade Center's elevators whisk visitors up 102 stories in just 47 seconds, delivering them to an expansive observation deck that offers a bird's-eye view of Lower Manhattan, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty. This observatory is located farther south than the Empire State Building and Top of the Rock, making for a completely different way of experiencing New York City from above.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Address: 1000 5th Ave., New York, NY 10028

Phone: (212) 535-7710

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

The Met, as it's known to most, is the largest art museum in the U.S. and was the third most-visited art museum in the world in 2018. The Met's collection includes more than two million pieces spread across three Manhattan venues, the largest of which sits on Fifth Avenue and overlooks Central Park. Don't miss the Temple of Dendur, an ancient Egyptian temple that dates back to the first century B.C. or the rooftop.

American Museum of Natural History

Address: 200 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024

Phone: (212) 769-5100

The American Museum of Natural History is the largest natural history museum in the world. The Upper West Side space has 28 interconnected buildings and 45 permanent exhibition halls, as well as a planetarium, library, and the largest collection of dinosaur fossils in the world. If dinosaurs are your thing, plan to spend most of your time in Dinosaur Hall, home to a massive T-Rex made almost entirely of real fossil bones from the museum's collection.

Yankee Stadium

Address: 1 E 161 St., Bronx, NY 10451

Phone: 646-977-8400

Yankee Stadium is the home to the world-famous New York Yankees. The stadium is located in the Bronx and easily accessible by the New York subway. This is an iconic place to catch a baseball game while on vacation. Not traveling in season? Try a tour. Yankee Stadium tours include stops at the on-site New York Yankees Museum and in the 27-time World Series champions' locker room. Some pregame tours during baseball season include opportunities to sit in on batting practice.

Brooklyn Bridge

This iconic neo-Gothic bridge connects Manhattan to Brooklyn and offers visitors the chance to walk between boroughs on a piece of literal history. The Brooklyn Bridge was the world's first-ever steel-wire suspension bridge. It once carried horse-drawn carriages, but now serves as a way for cars, pedestrians, and bikes to cross the East River between Manhattan and Brooklyn. The bridge is also known for its pointed arches and stone towers, and offers excellent views of the Financial District skyline and Brooklyn.

Washington Square Park

Address: Washington Square

This nearly 10-acre park in Greenwich Village is a hotbed of cultural activity. The park has a gateway reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris and has long served as a place to celebrate nonconformity. Expect to find artists, musicians, and other types of performers here every day, and spend some time people-watching around the park's iconic fountain.

Statue of Liberty

Phone: (212) 363-3200

Lady Liberty is an icon of freedom that sits in the harbor just off the coast of Manhattan. Visitors can either schedule a visit to the statue and Ellis Island from Battery Park City in Manhattan, or hop on the free Staten Island Ferry to see the Statue of Liberty from the water. Visits to the Statue of Liberty's pedestal and the top of her crown require visitors to pass through airport-like security. Tickets to the crown should be booked months in advance.

9/11 Memorial and Museum

Address: 180 Greenwich St., New York, NY 10007

Phone: (212) 312-8800

The World Trade Center museum and memorial site honor the victims of the September 11, 2001, attack on New York City. Two memorial pools stand where the World Trade Center's iconic towers once did, inscribed with the names of those killed. Museum tickets can be purchased up to six months in advance.

Best Shopping

Saks fifth avenue.

Address: 611 Fifth Ave., New York, NY, 10022

Phone: (212) 753-4000

Saks Fifth Avenue is a luxury department store that anchors New York's Fifth Avenue shopping strip, an area known for its designer names and sky high prices. The shopping experience at Saks is like none other, especially during the holidays, when the building's facade becomes part of one of the best holiday light shows in the world.

Macy's Herald Square

Address: 151 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001

Phone: (212) 695-4400

Anchoring the Herald Square section of Manhattan, this flagship Macy's store is among the largest in the world. It covers nine levels and has been in operation since 1902. It's also known for its animated holiday window displays and for hosting the annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. But tucked into its sixth floor is Stella, a peaceful oasis of Italian food in a neighborhood where quiet restaurants are few and far between.

Bergdorf Goodman

Address: 754 5th Ave., New York, NY 10019

Phone: (212) 753-7300

This is the kind of New York department store high-dollar dreams are made of. Bergdorf isn't just a place to shop for designer bags, clothes, and beauty products — it's also a great place for tea. Make time for tea at Bergdorf Goodman's BG restaurant on the top floor, and watch the movie "Scatter My Ashes at Bergdorf's" before you go. It'll give you an idea of how this department store became the retail icon it is today.

Sabyasachi New York

Address: 160 Christopher St., New York, NY 10014

Phone: (646) 799-9400

Kolkata-based couturier Shabyasachi Mukherjee's first U.S. store in the West Village is arguably one of the shopping wonders of the world. This 5,800-square-foot ode to maximalism is decked out in priceless kilims, art, and crystal chandeliers, these a backdrop to the mega-luxe fashions for men and women, jewelry, and collectibles. The designer, known abroad for his elaborate bridal wear, dressed Priyanka Chopra for one of her ceremonies to Nick Jonas honoring her Indian roots. While many of his clients prefer wearing head-to-toe ensembles from the brand, Mukherjee expects visitors to this store to take a more high-low approach, perhaps pairing one of his opulent creations with jeans and a t-shirt.

Olde Good Things

Olde Good Things is an architectural salvage shop that offers visitors the opportunity to quite literally take home a piece of old New York. Much of this store's inventory won't fit into an overhead compartment, but there is no more interesting place to browse for one-of-a-kind New York souvenirs. Olde Good Things sources from pre-Depression and late 19th-century buildings, including some with very famous names. Want to take home a piece of the Waldorf Astoria hotel or the J.P. Morgan empire? Olde Good Things has you covered with furniture, accessories, and more.

Take the N, R subway to Prince or Canal Street stations

This is where to find designer boutiques, sample sales, and the occasional bargain. This area in Lower Manhattan is also home to retail chains such as AllSaints, Madewell, Nike, and REI; resale shops; and a number of unique boutiques. While you're here, take a stroll through Chinatown for affordable souvenirs and accessories.

Harlem Haberdashery

Address: 245 Malcolm X Blvd., New York, NY 10027

Phone: (646) 707-0070

This Harlem boutique has been dressing American hip-hop royalty for years. It has outfitted celebrities like Will Smith, LeBron James, Kanye West, and Pharrell Williams, and is said to be a favorite of Jay Z's. The store carries both men and women's clothing, as well as household items.

Artists & Fleas

Artists & Fleas operates a collection of sprawling indoor markets across New York City. New merchants selling arts, crafts, clothing, and more cycle out every couple of weeks, making each a spot to consistently find new things.

Michela Buttignol/Travel+Leisure

Neighborhoods to Know

Financial District : This is where you'll find the New York Stock Exchange and the iconic Charging Bull statue that's become a symbol of Wall Street. Visitors can no longer enter the stock exchange, but they can take photos outside with the Fearless Girl, a controversial New York statue that once stared down the Charging Bull. Cruises to the Statue of Liberty leave from Battery Park City in this area.

Midtown : This is the heart of Manhattan. It's where you'll find Times Square, Broadway, Bryant Park, and the gargantuan Macy's store in Herald Square. It's also home to Radio City Music Hall, St. Patrick's Cathedral, and the Museum of Modern Art. If you're looking to shop, head to Fifth Avenue, where you'll find Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, and Bloomingdale's.

Chinatown : This neighborhood of narrow streets not far from City Hall is where you'll find some of the city's best Chinese restaurants and bargain prices on accessories, souvenirs, and more.

Little Italy : Little Italy sits in Lower Manhattan near Chinatown. It was once known for its large Italian-American population, but these days, it houses a small collection of Italian stores and restaurants. Don't miss Ferrara, a bakery that traces its New York City roots to 1892, or The Feast of San Gennaro, a one-of-a-kind food festival that takes place each September.

Williamsburg : Known for its independent shops, cute cafes, and abundant street art, this hipster paradise is especially popular among European tourists. Visit the Brooklyn Bowl, Brooklyn Brewery, and East River State Park, which offers some of the best Manhattan skyline views and an international food market on Saturdays.

Astoria : This former Greek enclave was America's original motion picture capital, and it still houses several film and TV production studios. It's home to the Museum of the Moving Image, Kaufman Astoria Studios, and some excellent views of the Manhattan skyline. Several scenes from Orange Is the New Black were filmed in this neighborhood.

Greenwich Village : This is where you'll find New York University, Washington Square Park, and some of the city's top comedy and jazz clubs. It's known for its intimate restaurants, hole-in-the-wall bars, and one-of-a-kind boutiques. It's also home to the historic Stonewall Inn.

Harlem : Harlem sits in northern Manhattan above Central Park. It was a hub for jazz musicians in the 1920s and the birthplace of the Harlem Renaissance, an outpouring of artistic work that stretched into the 1930s. Nowadays, it's a great place to catch a jazz show or have a decadent Southern meal. Harlem is also home to the iconic Apollo Theater.

Upper West Side : This largely residential area is home to the American Museum of Natural History and to Strawberry Fields, a tribute to former resident John Lennon. This neighborhood is also a great place to gawk at gorgeous townhouses and spot celebs.

Upper East Side : This posh residential area is home to a number of the city's top museums, including The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Jewish Museum, and the Museum of the City of New York. It's bordered by Central Park to the west and home to a number of foreign embassies.

Summer days are long and can be either beautiful or sticky and sweaty. Winters are relatively mild, with January and February offering the coldest temperatures.

The following are average Fahrenheit lows and highs by month.

January: 26°F to 39°F February: 29°F to 42°F March: 35°F to 50°F April: 44°F to 60°F May: 55°F to 71°F June: 64°F to 79°F July: 70°F to 85°F August: 69°F to 83°F September: 61°F to 76°F October: 50°F to 65°F November: 41°F to 54°F December: 32°F to 44°F

Apps to Download

OpenTable : Restaurant reservations iOs | Android

MyMTA : Trip planning, service updates iOs | Android

TodayTix : Last-minute discounted Broadway show tickets iOs | Android

For the best hotels, restaurants, shops, and more in Brooklyn, visit our full Brooklyn travel guide .

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Must-Know Visiting New York City Travel Tips (Essential NYC Tips From a Local!)

Hello travelers! If you’ve found your way here, don’t fret. Visiting New York City for the first time (or any time, if you’ve been here before but don’t feel like you’ve quite established the familiarity necessary to tame this crown jewel of urban chaos) can seem like a beast, and even locals have at times found themselves face to face with unforeseen and undesired circumstances as a result of poor judgment or lapses in knowledge.

Trust me, I’ve been there.

That being said, if you keep your wits about you, have a cool head and the appearance of confidence (even if that outward facade is purely smoke and mirrors), the beast is tameable, and all it takes is this New York City travel tips guide to orient you properly.

Let’s get you oriented so you can take advantage of the endless opportunities visiting New York City has to offer while retaining the poise and adventurous spirit of a local.

This guide for NYC travel tips is organized by a few sections:

• NYC Transportation Tips (how to get to/from the airports)
• Best General NYC Travel Tips (everything you need to know about things like getting a taxi and how much to tip a driver)
• NYC Subway Tips (everything you need to know about riding the subway and safety tips + how to use the NYC Ferry service)
• Tips for Avoiding Scams (this section provides a few common scams to look out for and how to avoid)
• Essential NYC Travel Tips (general rules for tipping in NYC, where to find bathrooms in NYC, how to see places without crowds, etc.)
• NYC Travel Tips for Saving Money (cheap eats & happy hour specials, save money on big-ticket attractions, free things to do)

NYC Transportation Tips

Since you’re looking for New York City travel tips, without a doubt the best place to start is with the travel itself. Perhaps more than any other major American city, you will find yourself getting places without the use of a car most often here, which leaves a plethora of alternative transportation methods to master.

And if you MUST travel with a car, we do have a guide on where to park in NYC and everything you need to know about finding parking whether you’re looking for free parking or affordable parking during your time in the city. But we must stress, you don’t want a car in a congested city like New York unless there’s no other option.

Let’s start with options and NYC travel tips from the moment you arrive (if you are arriving via air).

Best NYC Travel Tips for Airports

If you’re looking for the breadth of the planes, trains and automobiles experience when you visit New York City–minus the automobiles part–the good news is it’s possible, right from the jump.

All three airports in close proximity to NYC have options to fit your needs.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

Whereas Newark (EWR) is the only one of New York’s airports that is not actually in the city nor directly connected to the MTA transit map, NJ Transit has train routes that can get you to Penn Station lickety-split with minimal hassle.

There are bus and shuttle routes available from Newark, but taking an NJ Transit train eliminates the horrors of inbound-NYC traffic, which can extend your transit time significantly (and pointlessly, in my opinion), especially during rush hour. 

When you’ve exited your terminal and gathered any luggage you traveled with from the carousels, follow the signs to the AirTrain and board the next one in the direction of the Newark Liberty International Airport RailLink Station.

When you arrive, you’ll be able to purchase a rail ticket to New York Penn Station from one of the kiosks (make sure you are selecting New York Penn Station as there is another Penn Station in New Jersey).

A one-way ticket costs $15.75 per adult, and if you’re not sure how you’ll travel back to Newark after you visit New York City, there’s no need to purchase a round-trip ticket as there is no discount for buying in bulk. But if it makes you feel comfortable then have at it.

Follow the departures board to see which track your train is on, and then it’s only a few quick stops to midtown Manhattan and various connecting transportation options to get you to where you’re staying. 

Hot New York City Travel Tips: I recommend downloading the NJ Transit app in advance of visiting New York City if you are traveling through Newark Airport. This will make it easier to see rail schedules and buy tickets.

Read Next: How to get from Newark Airport to Brooklyn

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

For non-driving options from JFK (located at the outskirts of Queens), there are two decent routes using public transportation, both of which also involve taking an AirTrain from your terminal.

Make sure you board an AirTrain in the direction of Jamaica Station, where you’ll disembark before paying an $8.25 exit fare at the turnstiles via Metrocard, which you can purchase at the nearby kiosks.

Once you’ve passed the threshold, you’ll enter the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) station, where you can purchase a separate, $5.00 ticket to get to Penn Station. Again, follow the departures board at the top of the stairs to find your platform and board the correct train.

The second non-driving option from JFK involves the same AirTrain route, but instead of finding your way to the LIRR station at Jamaica, follow the signs to the subway.

When you arrive at the subway station, you’ll be able to board a J, Z, or E train. If you are traveling towards Midtown Manhattan, the E train is your quickest, most direct option and involves no transfers to get to Penn Station.

The MTA subway fare is $2.90 a trip, which can be paid via Metrocard (yes, the same one you used to escape the AirTrain!) or by contactless payment with a credit card or Apple Pay.

Hot New York City Travel Tips: If you’re traveling with larger luggage but don’t want to take a car, I recommend the LIRR over the subway from JFK. Getting through the subway turnstiles with luggage can require feats of strength you won’t have to showcase on the LIRR platform. And yes there are buses, but don’t, for your own sake.

Read Next: How to get from JFK to Brooklyn

LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

The beacon of 21st-century American travel infrastructure, LaGuardia Airport (LGA). Until recently, this place was a nightmare of construction and confusion, but now they have pretty indoor water elements and shiny new tile floors to welcome you to the Big Apple with open arms.

Unfortunately, LaGuardia does not have an AirTrain, so if you’re traveling via public transportation, your best bet is to board the shuttle Q70+ bus towards the Jackson Hts–Roosevelt Av subway station (at Roosevelt Ave. & 74th St.) and hop on a Manhattan-bound E train from there.

For both the Q70+ bus and the subway, keep in mind you can use a Metrocard or contactless options like a credit card or Apple Pay, and your subway fare will be comped as a free transfer since you’ve already paid for the bus.

Hot New York City Travel Tips: Use the same payment method you used for the bus when you enter the subway station so you get a free transfer.

Read Next: How to get from LGA to Brooklyn

For all three airports, there are many ground transportation options if you’d rather have the peace of mind associated with fewer steps in your travel plan and less maneuvering of luggage.

Just beware, cab and rideshare fares are not cheap, so if you’re considering this option make sure to check what those fares look like before you travel. Each airport has a yellow cab taxi line you can wait in if you prefer, or there are numerous private car companies you can hire in advance to take the guesswork out of it (these include Carmel, Dial 7 and Seaman Car Limo, amongst others).

But don’t hire a driver on the spot at the airport if you didn’t go through the official yellow cab taxi line or order from a rideshare app!

Additionally, some attraction passes (covered later on in this guide) include free transport to and/or from Newark, JFK, or LaGuardia, so if you’re considering purchasing one, keep a lookout for these deals.

Best General NYC Travel Tips

You don’t need a car.

Traveling by car in New York can be a nightmare. Traffic is unpredictable, and it’s often quicker to travel by subway, bicycle, or even by foot sometimes.

Of the many New York City travel tips there are out there, here’s one that is guaranteed to make your trip better throughout: DO NOT rent a car.

Just don’t do it.

Not only will you waste time and money, but parking in NYC is a craft reserved for only the most experienced New York drivers. I’ve lived here my entire life and still don’t understand this aspect of the city.

Signage is complicated, spaces are limited and garages will charge you ridiculous prices, even just for a few hours.

The occasional Uber or cab makes sense in select situations, like if you’re traveling a far distance and a train route to get there is unnecessarily complicated, or if it’s late at night. During the day, taking the subway is likely your best bet, and your wallet will thank you. And if you get stuck in traffic, that Uber or cab can take longer!

How to Get a Taxi

If you do opt to travel by a taxi cab while you’re here, there are a few New York City travel tips you’ll need to know.

The first is how to hail a cab. In this case, I’m talking about yellow cabs, not anything app-based like Uber or Lyft, which operate similarly around the world regardless of location. Hailing a cab is pretty foolproof and really easy to do around touristy areas of Manhattan.

Take your position on a street or avenue where traffic goes in the general direction of where you’d like to go, take a step out off the sidewalk, and stick a hand in the air. It’s that simple.

Yellow cabs all have a light affixed to their roofs, and if the light on a cab is on, it means they are open for business and will pull over if they see your hand stuck up on the side of the road. If it’s off, they either have a passenger inside already or they are off duty.

Hot New York City Travel Tips: Do not accept a ride from anything other than a yellow cab if your hand is up on the side of the road. Sometimes black cars will pull over and ask if you need a ride, but they will almost certainly charge you more than you’d pay in a yellow cab, and they have no set rates, for the most part. Yellow cabs have meters that track your ride, so you can see what you’re paying as the ride continues.

Best Areas & Where to Hail a Taxi

If you get all of it right in tip #5, there is still room for error. Where you enter the wilderness of cab hailing is important, too, not just how you do it.

Generally speaking, find an avenue or main thoroughfare. In Manhattan, this means almost any street that runs north-to-south, south-to-north, or both.

Traffic is heavier here, and so is the density of open cabs. It’s best to situate yourself on a corner where an avenue and a street intersect to maximize your chances of getting picked up, and getting picked up quickly.

Anywhere NOT in Manhattan–that means Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx or Staten Island–the same rules apply, but streets and avenues have a bit less directional rhyme or reason.

If you find yourself in an area where there seems to be very little traffic (you may notice the consistent hum of the city dissipates a bit here), use Google Maps or Apple Maps to find your way to the nearest main thoroughfare, or simply opt for an app-based transportation option like Uber or Lyft. It’s likely you’ll spend less time waiting and a similar amount of money, and it takes the guesswork out of the whole scenario.

In the boroughs, you may see a green taxi. These are legit. You can get one of these to Manhattan. You just can’t start a ride in a green taxi in Manhattan. These green taxis are meant to help service the outer boroughs.

Hot New York City Travel Tips: If you’ve waited more than five minutes trying to find a cab, even if you’ve followed these guidelines to a tee, walk an avenue over (this should take about 3-4 minutes most places in the city) and try your luck there. If you continue having no luck but you’re dead set on getting to your location via car, give it another few minutes before opting for Uber or Lyft.

Additionally, make sure you haven’t stepped in front of anyone else looking for a ride on the same street or avenue. The unwritten rule of NYC cab-hailing is first come, first serve, so if there are others waiting, find a place behind them.

Tipping Your Driver

Tipping culture in New York is pervasive, so for anyone visiting from abroad where tipping is not considered customary (or sometimes even considered rude), this section and others to follow on tipping will be important.

As a rule of thumb, 10% of the cab fare should be your bare minimum tip. For a ride $20 and up, I will typically tip at least $3, or 15%. If you’re feeling more generous, feel free to select from the tip options that pop up on the screen at the end of your ride, which starts at 20%.

These preset tip options will likely be present anywhere tipping is applicable, but we’ll get into other tipping scenarios later.

NYC Subway Tips

Ah, yes. Here we are, friends. I know it can be quite daunting. But it’s tameable, like I promised.

Take a Step Back from the Platform

Priority number one when taking the train is doing so safely. There are dangers not otherwise accounted for when the adventure goes underground, but generally staying alert and aware can prevent a lot of undesired circumstances.

Namely, when the train is arriving at the station, take a step back from the platform edge. The further away the better, especially if you’ve got a wall or post at your back.

Keep your head on a swivel during this moment to make sure your surroundings do not pose any immediate danger, which they will not most of the time. It never hurts to be prepared and aware.

Other NYC Subway Tips for Safety

Always keep your head on a swivel, even once you’ve boarded a train and be aware of your surroundings as you would in any city across the world.

If you have to take your wallet, phone, or other valuables out of your pockets, do so while maintaining an awareness of your immediate surroundings. Pickpocketing is less rampant than in the days of old, but it can still certainly happen, especially if you look like a tourist and are around the busiest of tourist spots.

If there is no space to sit, avoid standing against train car doors, and make sure to grab hold of a pole for balance, and keep hold of it. If you need to squeeze in next to others to grab a pole, that’s okay–don’t be shy. Just don’t press your whole body against a pole, as it limits available hand space for other passengers.

Avoid eye contact with strangers as much as possible.

DO NOT transition between train cars through the car doors. If you want to switch to a different car, wait until the next stop and swiftly exit your car through the passenger doors before boarding another.

Uptown vs. Downtown

One of the easiest mistakes to make for first-time subway riders is successfully getting yourself into your desired station, only to board a train heading in the wrong direction.

I have a friend from Tennessee who once came to NYC to visit his sister, who was staying in Brooklyn at the time. He only realized he had gone the wrong way when he got to Yankee Stadium on the D train. Don’t be my friend from Tennessee.

Generally speaking, trains heading uptown in Manhattan have platform entrances on the east side of avenues, whereas trains heading downtown have platforms on the west side. East, up; west, down.

This doesn’t cover every single train line in the city or even in Manhattan, but it’ll get you north and south with limited variation. Just make sure that when you arrive at the train platform, look for signage on that specific track denoting the direction the train is heading.

If all else fails and you’re not sure, ask someone who looks like they live here which way you should be going. Most New Yorkers will be helpful, despite what you may have heard about us.

Hot NYC Subway Tips: Pay attention to some subway entrances on the street level before entering to see if it says it’s only for Uptown or Downtown. Some subways are like this and it takes you directly onto the platform in the direction you’re going sometimes without an option to switch once you’ve swiped in.

If this happens to you, you may have to exit the subway and go back to the street level to enter on the correct side. Tell the attendant (if there is one) to let you in without swiping again or having to pay a double fare.

Subway Fares

We touched on this before in the airport section, but the MTA subway system requires a fare of $2.90 per ride. This can be paid at the turnstiles by Apple Pay, credit card (if your card has tap-to-pay functionality) or MetroCard.

To obtain a MetroCard, go to any of the kiosks within any subway station and follow the directions on the screen, a new MetroCard will cost you $1. You’ll have options for how much money you’d like to load onto your new card, and there are custom amounts as well.

They also have an option to buy a 7-day unlimited MetroCard. This is a good deal if you will be riding the subway alot on your trip. Keep in mind that the unlimited MetroCard only can be swiped every 18 minutes (so each person has to get one). This type of MetroCard does not work for the AirTrain fare, you must have a preloaded amount for the AirTrain since it costs more than a regular subway fare.

To enter the station with a MetroCard, simply swipe it at one of the turnstiles. You’ll hear a click, which means the turnstile is unlocked and will let you through.

Hot NYC Subway Tips: There is an art to swiping a MetroCard, and native New Yorkers often wear their ability to swipe in on the first try as a badge of honor. Your pace should be firm but deliberate–not too fast, not too slow, with the entirety of the bottom edge of the card touching the metal panel at all times through the swipe.

Additionally, if you pay by Apple Pay or touch-to-pay, every ride within a week starting on Monday is free after the 12th subway ride. So if you find yourself constantly using the subway while you’re here, paying this way might be your best bet to save a little coin.

Watch Out For Express Trains

It would be nearly impossible to synthesize the entirety of the subway system in one go, but there are a few general things you should know. The first is that for each different train line color, most often at least one of those trains is an express train.

What is an express train? It is really handy when you know the routes as it skips over stops and takes you to places quickly – if that’s where you’re aiming to go. If you accidentally get on an express train though it could pass your stop and you’re at the mercy of waiting until the next stop to get off and redo your navigation and route.

In Manhattan, this generally includes the A (blue), 2 and 3 (red), 4 and 5 (green), N and Q (yellow), and D (orange), with some exceptions.

Just make note of where the express stops are by looking on a map, which you can find in nearly every station and within each train car. Express stops are marked with white dots, whereas local stops are marked with black ones.

Hot NYC Subway Tips: Download the MTA Subway Map app so you always have access to a train map. It has annoying ads whenever you open the app, so I don’t recommend using it to make last second decisions as the train is pulling in. But it’s helpful to visualize and gain a better understanding of the system as a whole or reference as needed.

Weekend Schedules

Trains tend to run slower and less frequently on the weekends and at night, particularly on weekend nights.

Often, express trains run on the local track or routes typically held by certain trains are replaced by other ones. To see service changes, check the side panel in the MTA Subway app and click on “service status.”

Most often, Google Maps and Apple Maps will direct you appropriately too, taking into account these changes. And sometimes, stations have signage denoting any relevant changes.

Hot NYC Subway Tips: The L train (gray line) can be an efficient way to get across town, but it is notoriously bad on the weekends. It often does not run or runs very infrequently, sometimes changing its western terminal station to Union Square instead of 8th Avenue and 14th Street. Avoid the L train at night and on weekends if you can.

Did you know that the MTA also has ferry routes? Many travelers to New York use Google Maps for navigating and it often doesn’t show the ferry routes, which can be really handy and a great way to get awesome city views during your transit time!

Whether you’re here for the first time or you’ve been here a million times, I highly recommend taking a ferry at least once during your trip. It offers views that are hard to get otherwise, and most rides cost little more than a subway fare at only $4.

The NYC Ferry also offers express routes to Rockaway Beach (one of the best beaches in NYC ) for $10 (kids under 44 inches tall ride free on these routes), which can get you to the beach in under an hour from Wall Street/Pier 11.

Generally speaking, the ferry may not always be the most practical of transportation options as routes are not as expansive as the subway system, but it’s certainly worth a try if your route makes sense via ferry.

If you’d like to see ferry maps and routes , it’s best to download the NYC Ferry app to see the schedule while you’re sightseeing, and if you do take it, make sure to take schedules into account so that you know you’ll be able to hop on a return ferry without waiting too long or getting stranded. You can also buy your ferry tickets on the app.

When you’re at the ferry terminal and aren’t sure what ferry or route it is, simply ask the attendant there if it stops at where you’re trying to go.

Hot New York City Travel Tips: My favorite ferry route is the one from Wall Street/Pier 11 in downtown Manhattan to Brooklyn Bridge Park in DUMBO. It’s a super short ride–maybe five minutes–but it’s cheap, effective and offers incredible views up the East River and into the harbor on the south side.

Brooklyn Bridge Park is a great destination for locals and tourists alike, so if you find yourself in the financial district with a little extra time to kill, hop on a ferry to Brooklyn and enjoy the open park spaces, recreational activities, and plethora of dining options Brooklyn Bridge Park has to offer. 

Another cool ferry option is taking the South Brooklyn ferry (which leaves from the Lower East Side and Pier 11 in Manhattan) to Governors Island in the New York Harbor. There are so many cool things to do at Governors Island , a former military base that’s now a public park with many facilities and even a really cool spa with skyline views!

Tips For How to Avoid Common Scams

Unfortunately, it’s hard not to look like a tourist when you are one. There’s no shame in this, it just means that you are more likely to be targeted by scammers than locals. Below is a short list of common scams in NYC to avoid , and how to spot them.

Luggage & Cab Scam

Around busy transportation hubs like Penn Station, there are areas that are better for cab/Uber/Lyft pickups. These are easy to spot as cabs often line up here.

Sometimes, there are scammers who will offer to help you load your luggage into the trunk and then ask you to pay them the cab fare in advance of getting in, as if they worked alongside the drivers.

These scammers are never associated with any transportation department or with cab drivers, and you’ll have to pay the cab fare on top of the money you just coughed up to them.

Never let anyone help you with your luggage unless it is the driver, and know that there are no scenarios in which you will pay a cab fare before the ride has ended.

Bump n’ Yell Scam

Here’s how this one works: a person, or a pair of people, will be walking down the street going the opposite way that you are. They will be carrying something, often takeout food or something breakable, like glasses or glass bottles.

They will then intentionally bump into you, drop their items, and become outraged, demanding that you pay them for their ruined or damaged items.

Do not engage, simply walk away at a fast pace if you can. Draw attention to yourself if they’ve grabbed hold of you or won’t let you pass, and they’ll likely move on. If all else fails, threatening to get the police involved should do the trick.

Miscellaneous Selling Scams

There are all kinds of people you may encounter who are selling goods or services on the street, and they will try to draw your attention, often aggressively, so that you stop and engage with them.

A rule of thumb, especially in busy areas like Times Square: keep it moving. A moving target is a harder one to scam.

Some of the most common characters will be “monks,” tourist attraction sellers, and musical artists.

Monks will try to sell you religious items like beaded bracelets by putting them on your arm. Do not let them do this, as they will then demand payment rather than taking back the item they’ve let you try on. Also, they’re not actually monks.

People will also try to sell you on fake tourist attractions like comedy shows or bus tours. These are not always scams, but it’s always better to buy tickets for attractions at the site of the attraction rather than on the street, to be sure.

And if you run into someone trying to sell you their mixtape or CD, again, do not engage. They will pull similar tactics to the monks by putting a mixtape in your hand and demanding payment rather than returning it to them. Keep it moving, don’t engage, and if you’re looking for attractions, go to the site of the attraction.

There are all kinds of scammers out and about on the streets of New York, and scammers grow more inventive by the day. That is to say, this is by no means an exhaustive list. We also have a more in-depth list of common scams to be wary of , if you want to educate yourself as much as possible before you visit NYC.

Essential NYC Travel Tips

Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes

This one’s an easy one. New York is a walking town, and if you’ve got a packed schedule with activities planned for each day around the city, it means you’ll be on your feet plenty.

A great trip can be ruined by a pesky blister or the proclivity to favor fashion over function. And everyone walks more than they realize when they are here.

Make sure to pack your best pair of sneakers or running shoes. Something that offers good support and versatility for the various activities you’ll engage in and transportation methods you may encounter (like bicycles, maybe!)

If you’re visiting in the winter, make sure to pack a pair of boots for inclement weather like rain or snow. It’s simple, but it can make all the difference.

And as a rule of thumb (here we go again with the rules of thumb), do not wear flip-flops unless you plan on remaining in one scenic location like a beach, park, or pier for an extended period of time.

Tipping is Expected

I promised we’d come back to this, so here we are. In many places you’ll go, tipping is expected. This includes cabs (as mentioned), restaurants, bars, clubs, barbershops (not that you’ll need one while on vacation, hopefully), and more, and there are different expectations for each type of establishment.

If you’re only ordering drinks at any location–a bar, club, restaurant, or otherwise–10% is the expected tip. Not only do bartenders and servers earn some of their income on tips, but you’ll be more likely to get good, quick service if you’re planning on any more than one drink and you’ve tipped appropriately on that first one.

For restaurants, if you’re sitting down for a meal, the expected tip is 20%. If you tip slightly under, say 18%, no one will find it out of the ordinary, but anything less is not enough, for the most part . The only exception is when gratuity is already included on the bill, usually at 18% or 20%. This is often an automatic charge for large groups, but whether you travel in a pack or on your own, make sure to check your bill for an included gratuity before adding a custom tip of your own.

There’s no need to double tip, unless you’re feeling ultra generous.

For fast-casual or takeout places (Chipotle, Starbucks, pizza places, etc.) tipping is not expected. However, you will often be presented with tipping options on a screen after you’ve ordered. Simply select the “no tip” option here, unless you’re feeling generous, again.

I highly encourage you not to order food delivery if you can avoid it, because the dining experience in New York is unmatched, and we have a guide to all our favorite restaurants in NYC and the most iconic foods to try in NYC .

But if you find yourself jetlagged, unable to leave your hotel room and hungry, and you do order delivery, the expected tip is about $5. For larger orders, consider tipping extra to match about 10-15%, but you should rarely be tipping under $5. If you’re ordering takeout, tips are appreciated but not required. At most, if you’re feeling generous, tip 10% here.

NYC Bathrooms

Of course, when you’re gallivanting around the city having the time of your life, you’ll have to stop and pee on occasion. Knowing where you’ll be most likely to find an accessible bathroom is key to the enjoyment of your trip.

At times when I’ve found myself in this situation, my best bet has most often been bars, restaurants or coffee shops. A lot of times, if you ask someone at one of these establishments if you can use their bathroom, they’ll say yes.

Sometimes they’ll say you have to be a customer, in which case you can buy something cheap.

Sometimes they’ll say no outright, and you’ll have to try another place. And keep in mind, Starbucks’ policy is to let anyone use their bathroom regardless of if they are a customer or not, so you can always find respite here, although sometimes you have to ask for a passcode.

Public bathrooms can be found in most department stores as well. Think Macy’s, DSW, Saks, etc. If your search for a bathroom is unsuccessful after trying a handful of bars, restaurants, and department stores (although this is unlikely), there are public bathrooms in most NYC parks.

Ask a park ranger or employee where you can find the nearest bathroom, and they will direct you. Beware–public bathrooms of this nature are typically not kept in pristine condition, so proceed with caution. Unless of course, you find yourself at Bryant Park, who has some of the nicest bathrooms in the city!

You can also reference this map to find public bathrooms all over the city !

Consider Visiting New York City Attractions in the Early AM or Evenings

Here’s where we dive into some serious insider NYC tips. Keeping with the theme of timing and efficiency–no matter what time of year you visit New York City, certain attractions will almost always have crowds, but there are ways to game the system a bit by following these NYC tips.

One such way is to plan activities in the mornings or evenings. Walking over the Brooklyn Bridge is a great (and free!) option while you visit New York City, but the experience can result in frustration and claustrophobia if you decide to go at the same time everybody else and their mother did.

Consider going in the morning before the crowds gather, or in the evening (which offers incredible sunset views of the harbor and skyline), after most people have finished their activities for the day.

These NYC tips can apply to many attractions–from the Freedom Tower to a Central Park bike tour, shopping in Soho (avoid weekends here), visiting the MoMA and more.

Consider Booking Off-Season

One of the most incredible things about NYC is that even for those of us that have lived here forever, there is always more to discover. This applies 24/7, 365 days a year, which means that you won’t truly be missing out on anything if you visit New York City during the offseason.

This comes with a number of benefits: avoiding crowds, experiencing a more authentic version of daily life in NYC (if there is such a thing as “daily life” here) and especially saving money.

Hotel rates are often lower in the offseason–times that don’t align with school breaks, national holidays like Christmas or summer vacation–and if you can swing it, visiting New York City during the offseason will dampen the damage done to your wallet.

Visiting New York City is expensive no matter what, so saving money on lodging can allow you to spend some of that extra cash on activities, food and more–or just pocket it and your future self will thank you.

NYC Travel Tips for Saving Money

Traveling and visiting New York City on a budget is possible believe it or not! This section of NYC travel tips will give you a few ideas on how to save money!

Cheap Eats & Drinks in NYC

Whereas this guide is meant to offer overall tips for visiting NYC, we’d be remiss not to also offer some staple options for cheap eats in NYC and drinks as a starter pack for entering the fray. Below is a short, inexhaustive list of places to wine and/or dine on a budget.

The NYC Pizza Slice

What’s more iconic than a slice of New York pizza?! Among the many ways to experience quintessential NYC, ordering a couple of slices at the counter is one of the best, and one of the cheapest.

A few of my favorites in Manhattan for a quick bite:

• Joe’s (in the West Village, the one in Times Square has crazy long lines. Cash only)
• Burrata Pizza (East Village)
• Gotham Pizza (Chelsea and the Upper East Side)
• Artichoke Basille’s Pizza (various locations in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens)
• If you’re really ballin’ on a budget, try 2 Bros Pizza (various locations in Manhattan) for a dollar slice. Somehow, they’ve managed to exist in a world devoid of inflation. It’s not the best pizza you’ll find, but it’s not terrible by any means.

See our full guide to best pizza slices in NYC for more which includes a map to see what’s near where you’re going.

For sit-down pizza options, check out our guide to the best pizza in NYC where we also include a map to see where they are. Here are a few of my favorites:

• John’s of Bleecker in the West Village is the best. They only sell pizza by the pie, it’s cash only, and often there’s an extensive line to get seated, but it’s worth it.
• Grimaldi’s in DUMBO is another great option, and easily accessible by the NYC ferry.
• L’Industrie Pizza in Williamsburg is highly touted as one of the best in the city as well–you can’t go wrong with any of these options. They also sell by the slice.

Happy Hour Specials

If you’re here on vacation, you have an incredible opportunity to take advantage of some of the best happy hour deals in NYC that many locals can’t experience due to work hours or other limitations.

Most happy hour specials will have reduced price drinks and/or food in the late afternoon to early evening on weekdays, and if you time it up right, you may spend a fraction of what you might at another time. And some have deals on the weekend too.

A few of my favorites include:

• Art Bar -Where most cocktails go for no less than $15 in Manhattan, you can order well drinks, draught beer and house wines at Art Bar for $5 a pop during happy hour, which is from 4-7 pm daily, including weekends.
• V{IV} – Located in Hell’s Kitchen (a short walk from Times Square), you’ll find this Thai restaurant and bar with great happy hour specials from 12-3:45 pm daily, select wines and cocktails are only $6, and from 5-7 pm they go up to $8.
• Bareburger – With various locations around the city, they have daily happy hour deals from 12 – 7 PM daily. $3 Miller High Life, $6 mule, $9 margarita or a half-priced glass of wine to go with your burger, and for those who stay away from meat, they have some great vegan and vegetarian options as well.
• Alligator Lounge – Located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn this is not even a happy hour special but an everyday special where any drink you purchase comes with a free personal size wood-fired cheese pizza (toppings are $1 extra each).

More Cheap Eats

Here are a few more of my favorite cheap eats, but see our full guide to cheap eats under $15 in NYC for more options!

• Gray’s Papaya – The esteemed New York hot dog is a money-saving food, and there is no better place to find one than at Gray’s Papaya on the Upper West Side. They literally have a deal called the “recession special,” which consists of two franks with whatever toppings you want and a medium fruit juice for only $6.95. Make sure you bring cash as there is a credit card minimum.
• Bodega BaconEggandCheese with SaltPepperKetchup (BECSPK) – No need to splurge on breakfast, look no further than the closest corner store (or bodega, or deli–these are all names for the same thing) you can find. Order a bacon, egg and cheese (BEC) sandwich on a roll from the grill, and make sure you specify that you’d like salt, pepper and ketchup on it. Of all the NYC tips out there, I am staunchest about this one. Most of the time this won’t run you more than about $6. Editor’s note: BaconEggandCheese is most often pronounced as one word, so if you want to feel like you’re living the true New York experience, let it all flow out at once.
• Taqueria St. Marks – this East Village sit down restaurant that won’t break the bank. Tacos are $4 each, no single food item breaks the $15 threshold, and drinks are on the cheaper side as well.
• Deluxe Green Bo – If you run into difficulty getting into some of the better-known places in Chinatown like Joe’s Shanghai or Wo Hop, Deluxe Green Bo is a terrific plan B that really should be more of a plan A. Order dishes to share, and make sure to get the soup dumplings. Payment here is done either in cash or by Venmo.

The NYC Bagel

Another great money saving tip for NYC is to enjoy another one of the most quintessential foods in New York, the bagel.

Not only does New York do bagels better than anyone else (and may we suggest checking out our definitive guide to the  best New York City bagels ), but many of the Big Apple’s bagel spots have options that make more than just a breakfast meal that’s filling for under $10!

The hard part will choosing what type of bagel to get. Do you want a bagel schmeared with flavored cream cheese, classic lox, or a hearty BEC (baconeggncheese)?

Here are a few iconic places to get bagels in the city:

• Russ & Daughters: A Lower East Side institution since 1914, Russ & Daughters offers classic New York-style bagels with an array of smoked fish and toppings.
• H&H Bagels: Known for its hand-rolled, kettle-boiled bagels, H&H Bagels has been a staple on the Upper West Side for decades.
• Ess-a-Bagel: This Midtown bagel shop has earned a devoted following for its oversized, chewy bagels and extensive cream cheese choices.
• Murray’s Bagels: Located in Greenwich Village, Murray’s Bagels serves up fresh, delicious bagels with a variety of cream cheese spreads.
• Brooklyn Bagel Co: One of the best bagels in the city with great flavored cream cheese!

Consider an Attraction Pass

If you’re coming to New York City to see alot of the most famous attractions, museums, observation decks, etc., you’ll want to look into the attraction pass options to save money.

These attraction passes are paid upfront for a one-time fee and on your trip they get you into multiple different attractions for free meaning that you save some serious money overall. By purchasing an attraction pass you can save anywhere from 35-45% on your attraction passes and saving you hundreds of dollars on your visit!

CityPASS offers a 3 attraction pass or a 6 attraction pass with over 12 city attractions to choose from including popular observatories like the Empire State Building, The Edge, Top of the Rock, 9/11 Memorial & Museum, Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island, the Guggenheim, and more!

Another great option is the New York Pass which you can purchase anywhere from a 1 Day Pass to a 10 Day Pass that gets you into over 100 attractions. Once you purchase your New York Pass you download the Go City app and use that to get up to 45% savings on popular attractions as well as a few hidden gem attractions ranging from the Empire State Building to the Museum of Ice Cream and many of the NYC experiences mentioned in this guide!

See our full breakdown of the New York Pass and our breakdown of the New York CityPASS to see if it’s worth it for your visit to save hundreds of dollars on multiple attractions!

Enjoy Free Activities in the City

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: New York is expensive. Luckily, there are so many incredible free things to do in NYC , which often offer less organized experiences than you might expect from an attraction pass.

In my opinion, if you visit New York City, your trip requires both structured marveling at the grandeur of iconic sights and allowing time for go-with-the-flow-style exploration, which can be supported by a general idea or area of interest, like sauntering through Central Park.

Some of my favorite things to do in NYC are free–and they would still be some of my favorites even if there were price tags attached to them. Below is a short list of New York tips for free activities to do while you visit New York City:

• Central Park – there are so many cool things to do in Central Park and Central Park hidden gems to check out . One of my own New York tips which I heed probably more than any other is to visit Sheep Meadow (near the 68th street entrance on Central Park West) for a picnic, check out Poet’s Walk, stroll through the Ramble (a lovely wooded assortment of walking paths) up to Belvedere Castle and performances of Shakespeare in the Park (in the summer).
• The Museum of the City of New York – This museum covers the city’s history and cultural background. Whereas most free museums in the city have a suggested donation (in this case, $20 for adults and $14 for seniors and students over 19), you are not required to pay. That being said, if you can spare a little cash, consider making a donation.
• SummerStage Concert Series – One of the best things to do in NYC in the summer is take advantage of the free concert series featuring some of the world’s most prominent musical artists for free in a number of parks around the city.
• The Staten Island Ferry – if you’re looking for a view of the city from the harbor (& amazing views of the Statue of Liberty up close) without the price point, the Staten Island ferry is completely free of charge! You just walk right on and you’re welcome to BYOB!
• Movies Under the Stars – this is a free program in the summer by the Parks Department which offers movie screenings in parks and public spaces throughout the city. Make sure to check the Parks Department website for showtimes, and bring something to sit on if you can!
• Bike Along the Hudson River – this is *almost* free as all you have to do is rent a Citibike for up to 45 minutes (then dock it again and re-rent if you want to go further to not be charged ridiculous fees). Head across the West Side Highway to Chambers Street, Houston Street, or 40th Street and rent a bike so you can follow the bike path along the river all the way up or down until you’ve had your fix of the breathtaking vistas and beautiful piers.

Now that you’re oriented, I’ll leave you with the last of these NYC travel tips, which I touched on earlier: plan, but don’t overplan. One of the most beautiful things about New York is its ability to surprise you, for both locals and tourists alike.

Often for us locals, we find our favorite spots by accident, with zero expectations or thought-out plans. And you can do it too! Of course, if you’re visiting New York, you should experience the more popular attractions (and you should plan for them, considering all the variables–from time slots to price ranges to admission policies and more), many of which are listed in this guide.

But you should also leave time to explore and find your own favorites, which can become staples of your own unique trip to New York anytime you decide to come back. And, you’ll be able to show off your new hidden gems to your friends who may be considering a trip to NYC for themselves.

New York is weird, the people are weird, our art, music, fashion and dance are weird, and even our animals (rats, pigeons, squirrels and the like) are weird. But there’s good weird and bad weird, and New York is mostly good weird.

So come with an adventurous spirit, a positive attitude, a wary eye and your own personal brand of weird, and there’s no doubt you’ll enjoy yourself. And as Taylor Swift once said, welcome to New York!

To fully experience New York City’s top attractions and culture, plan for at least 4-5 days. This allows time for iconic sights, museums, diverse neighborhoods, and some leisurely exploration.

While New York City is highly walkable, its size and attractions are spread out. Walking is great for exploring neighborhoods, but you may need public transportation or cabs for longer distances.

The best way to navigate New York City is by a combination of walking, subway, and occasional taxis or rideshares. The subway system is extensive and convenient for reaching various neighborhoods and attractions.

Winter (January to February) is often the least expensive time to visit New York City, with lower hotel rates and fewer crowds. However, be prepared for cold weather.

The best time to visit New York City is in the fall (September to November) when pleasant weather, vibrant foliage, and various cultural events create an ideal balance for exploring the city’s attractions.

The best area to stay in New York City depends on your preferences. Manhattan neighborhoods like Midtown, Times Square, and the Village offer central locations, while Brooklyn’s Williamsburg provides a trendy, more affordable alternative.

Eli Kimbell is a born and raised New Yorker from Greenwich Village. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in liberal arts at the University of Richmond and a passionate writer and poet.

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17 New York City Tips Every First Time Visitor Should Know

By: Author Sunset Travellers

Posted on Last updated: February 25, 2021

Categories New York City , Travel , United States

We had our first visit to New York City at the end of August.

These 17 New York City tips are essential to know before you visit NYC for the first time. Even if it is not your first visit we are sure you will learn something. 

Travelling around the world, we have visited many busy cities such as Sydney , London, Manila , Singapore, etc.

New York City is one of a kind. 

NYC city indeed never sleeps, the noise and traffic are constant, which can be quite challenging for anyone new to the city.

But don’t worry we are here to help!

We spent five days in this concrete jungle and loved it! Since then we have been lucky enough to visit NY a few more times. 

Heading to NY soon and looking for a place to stay? Sign up here.

Let’s begin our New York City tips

Let’s begin our NYC tips!

1. New York City Tips – The traffic is ridiculous.

Sounds obvious right? But the traffic in New York City is constant and loud.

Streets are packed with cars, cabs and buses and let me tell you; it is loud.

Day or night it just doesn’t stop.

You might think that it gets better at night, but it feels like it’s busier at night than during the day.

The engine noise, people beeping, fire/ambulance sirens sound all day every day.

The great thing is that after a day or two you actually will stop noticing it and it will become standard to you.

2. New York City Tips – The “five-star” hotel rooms are tiny.

Looks a lot bigger than it is.

After checking into a five-star hotel, you will quickly realise that the bedrooms are small.

The website pictures do not mirror the size of the room, and a room upgrade to an executive room will probably be pointless. All you will gain is that one extra square meter of space.

For our holiday we decided to splash out and get an executive Times Square View, but our view ended up being a wall, a few rooftops and a tiny glimpse of Times Square in between other buildings.

Moving rooms didn’t make any difference either.

If you are looking to splash out and have a ridiculous 5-star stay check out this place (it is not cheap haha)

3. New York City Tips – Always have a valid credit card when booking a hotel room.

Although we had given our right bank card while booking a room online, we spent too much on the card, and there were no sufficient funds for the hotel to take payment before we even arrived.

Upon check-in, we discovered that they had cancelled our booking and it took a very unnecessary and rude attitude from the receptionist to reinstate our reservation.

Keep in mind that on Booking.com they told us no prepaid amount was required.

Even if your hotel confirmation states free cancellation and that no payment is taken until check-in, this might not be the case. So keep in mind that your room might not be waiting for you upon check-in.

There are many amazing apartments available on Airbnb so make sure to check them out.

4. New York City Tips – Taxi is not always the fastest way to get from point A to B.

As we have mentioned earlier, the traffic is constant .

Therefore a taxi might not be the best option for you.

If you are on a schedule and need to get somewhere in time, NYC subway could be your best choice. We also did a lot of walking.

If you have a flight to catch, the JFK airport is about an hour drive from Manhattan , so make sure to allow enough time to get there.

5. New York City Tips – New York City has the best doughnuts.

Get in my belllyyyy

It’s entirely accurate and a tasted statement. In general, we do not have a sweet tooth, but the doughnuts here are to die for. Every doughnut is enormous and can easily feed two.

Many places are selling delicious, fluffy doughnuts with every flavour you can dream of.

You can’t visit New York and never try a doughnut here.

6. New York City Tips – Central Park is as amazing as they say.

We spent the whole day in Central Park and fell in love with it. First, we rented a bike to explore the entire area (about $15-30 for 2 hrs), then again on foot.

The place doesn’t disappoint. Packed with so many beautiful spots, we could stay there forever.

If you are in New York for the first time, most of all Central Park should be on your bucket list.

We also loved the  Loeb Boathouse restaurant , where you can enjoy a meal or just sit back with a drink and breath in the beautiful scenery.

Did you know? New York City’s Central Park gets all the hype about being a huge city park, but Phoenix Park in Dublin is actually twice the size of Central Park. More Irish facts here.

7. New York City Tips – Eating out is a lot more expensive than you might think.

Visiting New York and planning on eating in restaurants?

This might cost you a lot. We had a budget of US$200 a day for two for attractions and food which might feel like a lot. Well let us tell you, there is no way of splashing out on fancy dinner with such a budget.

Our food choices were mainly pizza, pasta or other cheap food options.

New York has so much to offer in regards to food choices, but if you are on a budget, your options get limited.

If you are in a central location, venture out a bit for different restaurant options and more reasonable prices.

Don’t forget to tip! 🙂

8. New York City Tips – Tourist attractions are very expensive.

Travelling around the world, we had expected that New York is going to be costly when it comes to sightseeing. But the prices really exceeded our expectations.

As you can imagine, with our daily budget, our sightseeing options had to be carefully evaluated.

We got a great deal of $30 for two for the hop on hop off cruise which was great, and we enjoyed the experience.

If you don’t have much time, you can take an hour-long  NYC Liberty Cruise . 

In a day we managed to see Wall Street, beautiful St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Ground Zero and much more.

The New York hop on hop off bus is also a great option, and you can grab tickets from as little as US$29 per person.

With the New York hop on hop off tour, you create your own sightseeing itinerary.

In our opinion, it’s the ideal way to explore every corner of the Big Apple and, with lively tour guides to keep you entertained and informed, you are going to learn facts old and new about the city that never sleeps!

You can grab your tickets here .

As you can imagine getting around on the bus can take a lot of time depending on the traffic so consider your choices before going for it.

The Empire State Building entry fee is at $34-$54 depending on if you want to go up to the very top.

Want to see it all for a reasonable price? Check out the New York City Pass .

9. New York City Tips – Be prepared to queue everywhere.

In the five days in New York, we had queued more than in the past year altogether.

If you have been to London attractions, you patiently waited for your turn; here it takes twice as long. Even public toilet queues can be exhausting (applies to us ladies).

The attractions are popular seven days a week year-round, and there is no way of skipping the queue unless you purchase expensive VIP passes.

10. New York City Tips – No, tv or music stars don’t stand on every corner waiting to be spotted.

New York is famous for celebrity spotting , but it’s not as easy to see them unless this is your only holiday goal. In five days in the city, we haven’t seen any stars during our trip, unfortunately.

If you want to see all the hotspots you can take a guided tour of New York sites from your favourite movies and television shows, including Friends, Birdman, Glee, and more. 

This is by far one of the best ways to see all the famous locations from movies and TV shows. 

The tour takes approximately 3 hours and costs US$43. You can find more details here . 

11. New York City Tips – There is a park you can legally have a drink in.

The Bryant Park , located just by the Public Library, has a great outdoor bar where you can enjoy a cold alcoholic beverage.

Also, the park itself is very popular for events, outdoor summer cinema and much more. It’s a small but gorgeous park worth visiting when in the city.

12. New York City Tips – It might be easier just to walk.

Although you might hate walking, New York by foot can be more fun than you think.

There is something around every corner, and because of the constant traffic, it might be easier if you just put comfy shoes on and walk.

In this short visit, we have learnt that you will get somewhere faster if you use your own two feet.

It is a lot of fun being able to walk the streets and blend in.

New York is also very popular for its walking tours and you can explore some of the most exciting locations and capture your experience on a private walking tour . 

13. New York City Tips – There are food stands on every corner and make sure to take advantage of them.

This is a fact that you must take advantage of. Selling a variety of food, the stands are a must try.

14. New York City Tips – Eating cheap = eating unhealthy.

New York serves international cuisine, and you can find here every possible dining option.

Being on a budget, unfortunately, will equal eating cheap food, meaning fast food.

Although the pizza places are delicious , after a few days you just crave for a healthy green salad.

This rule might not be applicable everywhere, but if you are right in the heart of the city, be prepared to pay a lot for not necessarily the healthiest options.

If you are keen to get the taste of the best food the city has to offer while sightseeing, why not go on a delicious food cruise ? 

15. New York City Tips – There is a Starbucks coffee shop on every corner.

Well almost.

The city has 277+ Starbucks shops so even if you are not a fan of their coffee, the store might become handy when looking for a nearby restroom. 🙂

16. New York City tips – Everyone is in a hurry – and you better not get in their way.

As you can imagine, the city is bustling.

Even if people are keen to help when asking for directions, do not dear to slow them down.

Everyone seems to be on a mission to get somewhere, and they will not slow down if you get in their way trying to take a picture. So be aware and try to blend in and you will be just fine.

17. New York City tips – The city is shopping heaven!

If you are coming to New York to do some shopping, you are coming to the right place.

The city has the best shopping I’ve ever seen and trust me, it’s hard not to go shopping when here.

Make sure to put some $$$ away to have at least a bit of fun and go shopping.

Shopping makes everyone happy, and we guarantee that you will enjoy it a much as we did.

In conclusion what other New York City tips do you wish you had known?

If you are planning to visit New York soon and looking to see everything in 3-4 days why not get the New York City package ? 

You can design your own itinerary of Manhattan and Brooklyn on a hop-on-hop-off double-decker bus tour.

Then head over to Liberty Island to see the Statue of Liberty with a ferry ticket, cruise around the harbour and see the city from above with your choice of Top of the Rock Observation Deck or the Empire State Building admission

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Monday 27th of December 2021

- To save time in queue at any tourist stop, go EARLY. If you’re going to have a lazy morning and arrive at 9 or 10:00, you’ll be adding HOURS on to your wait. - If you want to take a pedicab for fun, be sure to read the price on the side before you get in! We saw prices ranging from $2.99 a minute, to $8.99 a minute. Eek. We took one before realizing the differing prices and paid $56 for a 14 minute ride. He was constantly stopping to take photos for us… - Get a subway pass! Cheap and easy. - Buy a City Pass if you want to go to multiple tourist spots! Saves money and you get to do more. For the best views, go up to the Top of the Rock for great views of the city and Empire State building during the day, and go to the top of the Empire State building at night. We were there at midnight. Basically no line, and an incredible view!

Sunset Travellers

Tuesday 18th of January 2022

Hi Sue, thanks so much for your detailed comment :) Great tips

Stephanie Johnson

Sunday 9th of June 2019

The Staten Island Ferry is free and a great way to see the Statue of Liberty and the island from a distance.

Monday 10th of June 2019

Thanks Stephanie, we meant to include this so will update it soon :) Have a great day!

New York City   Travel Guide

34 Best Things to Do in NYC

There are countless reasons to be mesmerized by New York, from its skyscrapers and monuments to its vibrant art, food, fashion and nightlife. Across the city, fresh perspectives are yours to be found; go for a stroll in Central Park or along the High

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Central Park Central Park free

This part-park, part-museum, part-concert hall swallows central Manhattan, and many of the city's most notable attractions are situated next to it or within its limits ( the Guggenheim , the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the American Museum of Natural History , to name a few). But travelers insist that you shouldn't just pass through Central Park on your way to another place. This 843-acre green space is a favorite of New Yorkers and tourists; you can come here to exercise, dine, go to the zoo and more.

Almost everyone has a positive impression of the park, but no one has quite the same experience or recommends that you do quite the same thing. There's an almost impossible amount of sights to see here (hidden treasures, indeed), including more than 20 playgrounds, 48 fountains, monuments or sculptures, and 30 bridges. Here's a shortlist:

National September 11 Memorial & Museum National September 11 Memorial & Museum

The National September 11 Memorial & Museum serves as the primary tribute to the nearly 3,000 victims of the 2001 terrorist attacks, as well as the six lost in the 1993 bombing. The memorial's twin reflecting pools and human-made waterfalls rest as eerie footprints where the World Trade Center's twin towers once stood. The 1-acre pools are enclosed in bronze panels on which the names of every victim are inscribed. The museum spans across 110,000 square feet and relays the narrative of the attacks through a series of multimedia displays, real-time recordings, authentic artifacts and an interactive table.

Recent visitors cited the overall atmosphere of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum as sobering and moving. Many travelers say they were impressed with the site as a whole, noting its respectful and informational displays. Reviewers say you won't want to rush your time here, with some recommending that you budget three to four hours to see all of the exhibits.

Empire State Building Empire State Building

U.S. News Insider Tip: Watch out for "sunset peak" pricing, which adds an extra $10 per ticket for two hours around sunset each evening. But on a clear day, it just might be worth it. – Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

New York City Tourist 101 dictates that you must swing by this landmark structure in midtown Manhattan. And despite the hefty admission fees, the crowds and the long lines, recent visitors insist that you won't be sorry. In fact, taking a trip to the top of the Empire State Building is either the perfect way to begin or end your Big Apple excursion – on a clear day you'll be able to the see the city's major highlights some 1,250 feet beneath you. 

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Metropolitan Museum of Art Metropolitan Museum of Art

U.S. News Insider Tip: Come for the art, stay for the rooftop cocktails. A seasonal rooftop garden bar offers views over Central Park, which is especially coveted at sunset. The roof garden stays open into the evening on Friday and Saturday. – Jessica Colley Clarke

No museum in the United States is as celebrated as the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Spilling over with masterpieces from all over the world, including notable collections from ancient Egypt and classical antiquity, "the Met" is an art experience unlike any other, and like much in New York, it's impossible to see all the museum has to offer in one day (or even two days, for that matter). 

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Statue of Liberty is at the top of many travelers’ must-see lists. A feat of 19th-century technical engineering and a beacon for immigrants arriving at Ellis Island, the statue can be admired from several different vantage points around Manhattan, including Battery Park and the High Line . But to truly appreciate its size and significance, you’ll want to visit the statue and Ellis Island while on your NYC vacation.

The only way to access the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is by using the official National Park Service ferry operator, Statue City Cruises. If you’re departing from the New York side, you’ll hop on a ferry at Battery Park in lower Manhattan. If you’re departing from the New Jersey side, you’ll depart from Liberty State Park in Jersey City. The ferry ride takes approximately 15 minutes.

Brooklyn Bridge Brooklyn Bridge free

One of many signature landmarks of New York City, the Brooklyn Bridge is also one of the oldest suspension bridges in the country and a National Historic Landmark. Its six lanes (and one pedestrian and bicycle walkway) span the East River, connecting Manhattan to Brooklyn. Walking across the bridge remains a tourist pastime.

Some visitors decide to skip the bridge in favor of other attractions, but if you're short on money, this truly is one of the best ways to experience the city and to get a unique view of either borough at no cost. Several reviewers warn that since there is no shade along the bridge, it can get quite hot in the summertime (though there are vendors selling bottles of water). Many also warned that it can get quite crowded, and advised visiting in the morning before 9 a.m. if you don't want to maneuver around crowds.

The High Line The High Line free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning or on a weekday to avoid crowds. If you walk from north to south, add on a visit to The Standard Biergarten or the vibrant Chelsea Market for great people-watching, food and drink. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

Set on an abandoned rail track on Manhattan's West Side, this sprawling, nearly 1½-mile-long landscaped park stretches over three of the city's most lively neighborhoods: the Meatpacking District, West Chelsea and Hell's Kitchen. Standing 30 feet above street level, the High Line offers sweeping views of the Hudson River and Manhattan's cityscape. But the vista isn't the only reason visitors and Manhattanites flock to this manicured green space. Here, you'll find continually changing public art installations, a handful of food vendors and a sprawling picnic and sunbathing area (known as the 23rd Street Lawn).

NYC Food Tours NYC Food Tours

Known for everything from cheap eats to authentic international fare to Michelin-starred restaurants, New York City is a culinary hot spot and undoubtedly one of the best foodie cities in America . However, chances are you won't have time to experience everything the city has to offer in just one trip. One way to get a taste of New York's excellent cuisine across a variety of neighborhoods is to take a food tour.

Whether you want to explore a particular borough or neighborhood, or even a specific cuisine or dish, you'll find a tour to appease your taste buds. Relying on traveler reviews and expert analysis, U.S. News rounded up the best food tours in New York City . Though tours vary in length and price, they all receive rave reviews from past travelers, who applauded the variety of food and the expert knowledge of the guides.

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Washington Square Park Washington Square Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Finding an empty bench in Washington Square Park after visiting one of the neighborhood's independent bookstores – from The Strand to Three Lives & Company to Left Bank Books – is a true lower Manhattan pleasure. – Jessica Colley Clarke

The central gathering place of Greenwich Village is Washington Square Park, an almost 10-acre green space known for its downtown buzz. Here, kids splash in the fountain, musicians perform to a crowd, artists sell sketches or photographs, and chess enthusiasts gather to challenge each other to a game. What was historically a cemetery and later a bohemian hot spot is now a neighborhood institution that draws locals and visitors alike with its kids' playground, sizable dog run and ample shady space for picnics. An arch dedicated to George Washington is the dominant architectural feature of the park. 

Broadway Broadway

U.S. News Insider Tip: Start your day with a stop at the TKTS booth in Times Square or at the Lincoln Center location to snag discounted same-day tickets for an array of Broadway and off-Broadway shows. – Catriona Kendall, Associate Editor

Some out-of-towners spend their entire New York trip at one show or another on the Broadway circuit. And if you like plays and musicals, this is where you should be: "The Great White Way" represents the heart and soul of American theater. Considering that nearby Times Square is a dizzying maze of sights and sounds with no real starting point, some visitors suggest you can see all you need to of that neighborhood just by trundling back and forth between shows. 

One World Observatory One World Observatory

Formerly known as Freedom Tower, One World Trade Center is the main building of the rebuilt World Trade Center complex in lower Manhattan. This observatory sits atop the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and the highest point in the city. You'll find it adjacent to the 9/11 Memorial . At more than 125,000 square feet, the three-level observatory is located on the 100th, 101st and 102nd floors of this office skyscraper. Travelers enjoy the panoramic, 360-degree views, up to 45 miles in every direction on clear days. 

Visitors reach the observatory by direct express elevators known as SkyPods. The trip upward includes a visual presentation showing how New York has changed over the decades, from open land to smaller buildings to skyscrapers. The trip takes less than a minute. Expect a multimedia presentation at the top before stunning views are revealed. A restaurant and bar on the 101st floor are open to guests who have purchased tickets to the observatory. 

Grand Central Terminal Grand Central Terminal free

At this beautiful train station, you can eat some lunch or shop till you drop, but recent travelers most enjoyed just taking in the scenery. Before you enter, be sure to snap a few shots of the exterior's ornate beaux-arts neoclassical architecture. Inside the celebrated main concourse, you're treated to glimmering marble floors, gold and nickel-plated chandeliers and a sky-themed ceiling. Other must-sees include the Information Booth clock, the Whispering Gallery and Grand Central Market, a European-style food market that sells produce, gourmet ingredients and treats. Food options range from the upscale (Cipriani Dolci and The Campbell Bar) to the legendary (the Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant) to the fast and easy (Shake Shack). As mentioned, there are also plenty of shopping options, though most travelers suggest you leave most of Grand Central's pricey merchandise in the store. If you want a train-themed souvenir, visit The New York Transit Museum Store in the shuttle passage.

Travelers call the train station "iconic" and say it's a beautiful space to walk through or to grab a meal and people-watch.

Bryant Park Bryant Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: This Midtown park draws crowds for two seasonal events: summer movie nights under the stars and a holiday market complete with ice skating. For summer picnics or winter shopping sprees, Bryant Park delivers year-round. – Jessica Colley Clarke

Sprawling across nearly 10 acres, Bryant Park sits just south of Times Square – though it feels a world away. Though its lush green space has existed for more than 150 years, Bryant Park was a revitalization project of the 1990s that made it a sanctuary for locals and tourists alike. This is the preferred place for midtown Manhattan professionals to eat lunch, for fashionistas to strut during fashion week and for performers to showcase their talents during annual events like Broadway in Bryant Park and Piano in Bryant Park. If you're interested in learning more about the park's history, consider joining one of its free tours. Tours, which last 45 minutes, are free and offered every other Wednesday, year-round. 

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Staten Island Ferry Staten Island Ferry free

Perhaps the most famous ferry service in the United States, the Staten Island Ferry runs daily between the Whitehall Ferry Terminal in lower Manhattan and St. George Ferry Terminal on Staten Island. The city has been operating the ferry service since 1905 and transports some 70,000 passengers across New York Harbor every day. It’s one of the last remaining vestiges of an entire ferry system that served New York City residents before the construction of any bridges.  

But the Staten Island Ferry is more than a transportation service; it’s an attraction, drawing tens of thousands of out-of-town visitors a year for a free ride across the harbor (that’s right, no charge; the service is provided by the City of New York). The 5-mile ride lasts about 25 minutes. Passengers must disembark and then reboard to make the return trip to Manhattan. Travelers remark about the views of the Statue of Liberty , Ellis Island, Manhattan skyscrapers and the bridges of lower Manhattan. 

Museum of Modern Art Museum of Modern Art

You don't have to be an art lover to appreciate the Museum of Modern Art; this airy midtown gallery also doubles as a shrine of pop culture and 20th century history. Some of the most significant contemporary pieces hang on its walls, including Picasso's "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon," Warhol's "Campbell's Soup Cans," Van Gogh's "Starry Night," Dalí's "The Persistence of Memory," Monet's "Water Lilies," and the list goes on and on. In October 2019, the museum reopened after completing an expansion project that added more than 40,000 square feet of gallery space, as well as a performance studio that features live programming.

Recent travelers were impressed by the extensive art collection and loved being able to see the museum's famous paintings. The $30 entry fee for adults ($17 for students; $22 for seniors; free for kids 16 and younger) can be hard to stomach for some, but reviewers insist you won't regret the money spent. A few travelers express disappointment with the crowds (which are most common on rainy days), but suggest getting some fresh air at the museum's Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Sculpture Garden.

New York Public Library New York Public Library free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If you love all things book-related, consider visiting The Morgan Library & Museum nearby, which features J.P. Morgan's stunning 1906 library. The museum offers free admisson (and live jazz music) on Fridays from 5 to 7 p.m. – Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

This main branch, officially called the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, attracts plenty of book lovers, history junkies and architecture aficionados. Most people swing by the Bryant Park landmark to say hello to Patience and Fortitude (the famous marble lions guarding the entrance) and to admire the lovely beaux-arts design.

American Museum of Natural History American Museum of Natural History

Visitors love the American Museum of Natural History off Central Park West. Whether you're exploring the interactive exhibits on the land, the sea or outer space; user reviews take on a common theme. This museum is incredible. Even the cafeteria and gift shop are worth your notice.

There are more than 34 million artifacts inside, spread across four city blocks, 26 buildings and through 45 exhibition halls, so don't plan on seeing everything in one day. The Rose Center for Earth and Space is a particular favorite, but you should also plan on visiting the dinosaurs, the Dorothy and Lewis B. Cullman Hall of the Universe and the Butterfly Conservatory (accessible November through May), which houses nearly 500 butterflies. Local experts say the institution is one of the city's can't-miss museums , especially for families.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Wander along Brooklyn's Washington Avenue, and you can't avoid stumbling upon this verdant 52-acre park. A main highlight here is the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, punctuated by wooden bridges and Japanese maples. And if you arrive at the end of April, you can't miss the Cherry Esplanade ( Sakura Matsuri ) when rosy cherry blossoms burst into bloom. Another standout: the Shakespeare Garden, which contains more than 80 plants described in the playwright's works.

Thanks to the garden's extensive collection, which includes 13 gardens and five conservatories, there's plenty of scenery to soak up here. Plus, you can take advantage of year-round exhibits and events, such as children's gardening workshops and Lightscape, the annual wintertime lights display. After you've taken respite in Brooklyn's cherished green space, recent visitors suggest moseying over to two staples located down the street: Prospect Park and the Brooklyn Museum.

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Brooklyn Bridge Park Brooklyn Bridge Park free

Located on the Brooklyn side of the East River, Brooklyn Bridge Park is an 85-acre oasis at the foot of the famous bridge connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn. The park stretches 1.3 miles along Brooklyn’s waterfront, connecting Columbia Heights and Dumbo, an acronym for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, an eclectic neighborhood of boutiques, trendy cafes and restaurants. Travelers rave about the views of the lower Manhattan skyline, the New York Harbor and the bridge.

Among the city’s newest parks, Brooklyn Bridge Park was once an industrial district and home to a transportation terminal that served as an entry point for immigrants. Today, the park features rolling hills, promenades, playgrounds, basketball courts, sports fields, a roller skating rink, gardens, and more among six piers and the riverfront. What’s more, the park is home to more than 12,000 species of plants and wildlife. It also hosts a variety of events and programs throughout the year, such as sunset yoga and stargazing.

The Guggenheim The Guggenheim

The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, or simply, "The Guggenheim," is one of the most well-known art museums in the country, and it's just as renowned for its cutting-edge design as it is for its pieces. The coiled building (designed by Frank Lloyd Wright) stands out on Fifth Avenue at 89th Street. Inside, the halls are chock full of works from the likes of Picasso, Cézanne, Degas, Manet and Van Gogh, among others.

Visitors loved the building's design and architecture, but offered more mixed reviews for the art on display. Some raved about the permanent collection and the special exhibitions, while others felt the cost of entrance tickets was overpriced for the amount of art displayed. Reviewers recommended the Museum of Modern Art over the Guggenheim if you're short on time. 

Off-Broadway Shows Off-Broadway Shows

Off-Broadway may not have the glitter of the Great White Way , but these smaller theaters and their productions are often innovative and are no less engaging. Unlike Broadway, these theaters are not centered around Times Square , but scattered all over Manhattan and generally seat fewer people (between 100 to 499 audience members). Smaller venues provide a more intimate experience for plays, musicals and revues. Many of New York’s most famous productions found their start off-Broadway, such as “Hair,” “Rent” and “In the Heights.”

Tickets also are more affordable, generally between $20 and $75 per person. Look for innovative productions at places like the Public Theater, Cherry Lane Theatre or Playwrights Horizons. The Signature Theatre showcases revivals and new plays.

Rockefeller Center and Top of the Rock Observation Deck Rockefeller Center and Top of the Rock Observation Deck

This iconic plaza has it all – beautiful sculptures, an enormous skating rink, a fishbowl view of NBC Studios, plus a plethora of stores and restaurants. Though undoubtedly there will be intense crowds, this is an experience that's worth having at least once. During the wintertime holidays, the plaza sparkles with an illuminated Christmas tree and skaters gliding across the ice rink. But don't fret if your New York adventure doesn't take place during the cold months. There's plenty to do year-round. If you plan ahead, you can spend a morning watching a taping of the "Today" show, an afternoon admiring the city from the Top of the Rock Observation Deck and an evening catching a performance at Radio City Music Hall .

Travelers say the Top of the Rock offers some of the best views of Manhattan and say the experience is worth every penny. Visitors recommend booking the Rock Pass ticket that includes a tour of the building and observation deck access.

Little Island Little Island free

New Yorkers have long needed to get creative to maximize space on the island of Manhattan, where space is limited. But with the opening of Little Island in 2021, that creativity stretched beyond the island's borders and into the water. Little Island is an artificial island located on the west side of Manhattan in the Hudson River. This public park, which is free to visit, offers a new space for locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in nature, art, free events like concerts and one of the most memorable locations in New York City to catch the sunset.

Most recent visitors praised Little Island for its peaceful atmosphere, splash of greenery and views of the Hudson River and beyond. Some recent visitors recommend planning a visit on a weekday rather than a weekend, when this attraction can be crowded with people picnicking, especially during the golden sunset hours. Regardless of what time of day visitors stop by, almost everyone is left with a positive impression of the park and note its sculptures, family-friendly vibe, impressive variety of plants and free concerts.

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St. Patrick's Cathedral St. Patrick's Cathedral free

This sprawling cathedral sits amid the hustle and distinctively secular bustle of Rockefeller Center . But that doesn't take away from its otherworldly vibe. Whether you're religious or just making an architectural pilgrimage, you can't help but be impressed by St. Patrick's. Opened in 1879, the neo-Gothic cathedral spans the length of an entire city block and features 330-foot spires. Its interior is just as impressive thanks to its numerous altars, stained-glass windows, organs and imposing 9,000-pound bronze doors. The church welcomes more than 5 million visitors annually.  

Travelers love the historical church's beauty and stained-glass windows, but say you don't have to carve out too much time to see it. Previous vacationers also suggest visiting at Christmastime to really see the church in all its glory. 

Little Italy Little Italy free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Taste the best of Little Italy at C. Di Palo Wine Bar. With connections to the fine foods store serving this neighborhood for more than a century, this wine bar serves Italian cheeses, meats and wines in a comfortable, modern environment. – Jessica Colley Clarke

Once a thriving enclave of Italian immigrants, Little Italy is now a popular tourist destination (though remnants of the past remain). Restaurants serving classic Italian dishes on red-and-white checkered tablecloths can still be found in the neighborhood. Among the neighborhood staples is Lombardi’s, a restaurant that has been tossing pizzas since 1905 and claims to be the first pizzeria in the United States. Ferrara Bakery & Cafe, another famous Little Italy eatery best known for its cannolis and espresso, has been around since 1892. 

Times Square Times Square free

Some say that Times Square is like a five-block metaphor for New York City itself – it's exciting, colorful and always jumping. Others describe this area of midtown Manhattan as artless, overpriced and congested. Perhaps this commercial stretch from West 42nd to West 47th streets is a little of both, and though locals would advise you to avoid it, you should at least catch a glimpse of its neon lights. Most travelers recommend visiting the area after dark to see the marquee displays. Many add checking out Times Square before or after a Broadway show is the perfect time to fit it into your schedule. However, if you're not a fan of crowds, reviewers suggest you avoid this area altogether.

Times Square's biggest tourist draw is the annual New Year's Eve ball drop. Revelers crowd the area to see New York's famous Waterford crystal ball descend 77 feet from a pole on the One Times Square building. If you're feeling brave, take a trip to New York and Times Square at this time of year and watch the ball drop for free! Just plan on coming in the early morning and staying all day, and note that the area is super crowded, even by New York standards.

Fifth Avenue Fifth Avenue free

It's fitting that St. Patrick's Cathedral would be on the same street as stores like Bergdorf Goodman, Tiffany & Co. and Van Cleef & Arpels. That's because for many people, shopping is a religious experience, and here between 34th and 59th streets you'll find the holy grail. 

Even if you're not planning to put your credit card to work at high-end stores, travelers say a stroll along Fifth Avenue is a must. It's one of the top places to shop in the city, according to local experts. Plus, during the winter holidays, the street is decked out in festive decor.

Bronx Zoo Bronx Zoo

According to travelers, these 265 acres sheltering more than 10,000 animals should be near the top of every young family's itinerary in New York. And if you're an older visitor, the Bronx Zoo could be a great way to escape the nonstop activity in Manhattan. This zoo's claim to fame is that it's one of the largest metropolitan animal parks in the country. It's also one of the best zoos in the U.S . Originally opened at 1899, the zoo also houses several famous landmarks, including the Rainey Memorial Gates, the Rockefeller Fountain and the historic Zoo Center, which was constructed to look like a palace.

Among the zoo's popular exhibits is JungleWorld, which aims to recreate the jungles of Asia with animals like white-cheeked gibbons, gharials, tapirs, fruit bats and more. There's also the Wild Asia Monorail, a seasonal outdoor monorail that allows visitors to observe animals like rhinos, tigers and red pandas roaming freely in the outdoor habitat. Other star attractions include the Congo Gorilla Forest, the seasonal butterfly garden, Tiger Mountain and the Children's Zoo. Along with the animals, there are also several rides and experiences, such as a carousel and sea lion feedings.

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Apollo Theater Apollo Theater

U.S. News Insider Tip: Go to BLVD Bistro on 116th St. before or after your visit to the Apollo. They serve breakfast all day and literally have the best grits and pancakes I have ever had in my life. It is also Black-owned! – Lawrence Phillips, founder and CEO of Green Book Global

One of the most famous music halls in the United States, "the Apollo" started as a burlesque theater in 1914. By the 1930s, it transformed into a concert hall that helped launch the career of several black musicians. A then-unknown Ella Fitzgerald, Michael Jackson (with the Jackson 5) and Stevie Wonder all performed on the Apollo stage during an Amateur Night competition. If you're in Harlem on a Wednesday you can still go to Amateur Night, an experience some previous travelers highly recommend.

Metropolitan Opera House Metropolitan Opera House

Stroll through the courtyard of the Metropolitan Opera House even if you're not going inside for a performance. Every element of this opulent building – from the limestone architecture, to the lobby's glittering chandelier, to the acoustics in the concert hall – is gorgeous. Travelers call this opera house a feast for the eyes and ears. Tickets are notoriously expensive (as much as several hundred dollars for the best seats), but the sticker shock evaporates quickly if you're into performing arts. You can try to score a same-day ticket at a discounted rate, plus there are discounts for senior citizens.

The Metropolitan Opera House features spring performances by the American Ballet Theatre and fall and winter performances by the Met Opera Company. Showtimes and ticket prices vary by performance and seating, so check the Met Opera's website for additional details. You'll find the opera house at Lincoln Center Plaza on Manhattan's Upper West Side – take the 1 train to 66th Street.

Radio City Music Hall Radio City Music Hall

It's where Ella Fitzgerald pined for the man she loved, the Rolling Stones couldn't get no satisfaction and Lady Gaga had a "Bad Romance." Among performers, there's no New York concert venue that's quite like Radio City Music Hall. Not only is it the largest indoor theater in the world, its marquee spans a full city block. Opened in 1932, the theater is a New York City Landmark. Today, the theater welcomes musical performers like Ben Platt and Lil Nas X, as well as comedians like Chris Rock.

If you're in town any dates between November and January, consider attending the famous Radio City Christmas Spectacular, which stars the Rockettes. According to recent visitors who attended a show, there's not a bad seat in the house. If you're not able to attend a performance, consider signing up for the hourlong Radio City Stage Door Tour. The guided tour includes stops at areas of the historic venue not typically seen by the public, such as Radio City’s secret apartment, The Roxy Suite. You'll also an enjoy an in-depth history lesson about the stage and its iconic art deco design. The tour concludes with a meet-and-greet with a Radio City Rockette. Tours are offered daily starting at 9:30 a.m.; tickets cost $42 per adult and $38 per kid 12 and younger.  

The Battery The Battery free

Also known as The Battery, this 25-ace park sits at the very southern tip of Manhattan Island, and offers a green respite from the steel and concrete of lower Manhattan. The park, named after artillery batteries that protected the settlement in the 17th century, is popular with visitors because of its views of the harbor and the Statue of Liberty . 

The park is home to perennial gardens, bike paths, grand lawns, an urban farm and a unique carousel, known as the SeaGlass Carousel. On the carousel, riders sit within iridescent fish and glide through a 360-degree aquatic adventure. The carousel’s bioluminescent design honors the waterfront site as well as another landmark, the Castle Clinton, one of the country’s earliest aquariums. 

Coney Island Coney Island

Known as the "the People's Playground," this famous amusement area in Brooklyn has witnessed an illustrious past. In the early 1900s, Coney Island enticed New Yorkers to visit with its bathing pavilions, seaside resorts and amusement park. The Great Depression took its toll on the fun-loving spot, causing many attractions to close. But after years of economic instability, Coney Island has reclaimed its place on the Brooklyn map, with a fresh roster of eateries and entertainment (including a July Fourth hot dog-eating contest and an annual Mermaid Parade ) found along the boardwalk. Coney Island now features several separate amusement parks, as well as a museum, which hosts a variety of exhibits and shows.

According to recent visitors, Coney Island is a worthwhile trip in the summer if you have the time and are traveling with young kids who would enjoy the rides. If you're not up for indulging your inner thrill-seeker, you can also walk along the beach, which spans nearly 3 miles and features several sports courts, as well as playgrounds. A walk along the iconic Riegelmann Boardwalk is just as memorable, according to recent visitors.

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Chrysler Building Chrysler Building free

Technically, the Chrysler Building is an office building open Monday through Friday, but you don't need to go inside to appreciate its aesthetic appeal. Recent visitors praised the building's unique architectural style (though a few wished you could still go inside to admire its intricate lobby and elevators).

Built in 1930, the Chrysler had a short-lived run as the tallest building in the city, before it was usurped of its title by the Empire State Building . Nevertheless, this 1,046-foot-high skyscraper remains a favorite among New Yorkers for its classic art deco style. And unlike the Empire State, at this site you won't need an expensive entry ticket, a strong stomach to stand soaring heights or patience for long lines to see what all the fuss is about. You can behold the building's menacing gargoyles and triangular openings from many spots in Manhattan. Though the lobby is currently closed to visitors, there have been talks of building an observation deck, though none is available at this time.

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One week in New York: The best 7 days itinerary

7 days in new york: the best one week itinerary + where to stay.

You’re planning to spend one week in New York  and you’re looking for the best itinerary?

You’re in the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you this 7-day itinerary in New York.

During your trip, you will discover all must-see attractions of the city  such as the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Central Park, the district of Brooklyn and a lot more.

In addition to the best places to visit and activities for each stage of your itinerary, I will also give you all my best tips and accommodation suggestions depending on your budget.

So,  how to spend 1 week in New York? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. The New York Go City Explorer Pass

2. fast track tickets for new york’s best tourist attractions, one last tip for a perfect 7-day stay in new york, a. central park, b. visit 1 or 2 must-see museums, c. fifth avenue, d. st. patrick’s cathedral, e. top of the rock, f. times square, a. brooklyn district and dumbo, b. brooklyn bridge, c. ferry to the statue of liberty and ellis island, d. financial district / wall street / new york stock exchange / charging bull, e. 9/11 memorial and museum, f. one world observatory, g. dinner in little italy or chinatown, a. intrepid sea, air, and space museum, b. circle line sightseeing cruise, c. madame tussauds new york, d. new york public library / grand central terminal / chrysler building / united nation headquarters, e. empire state building, f. see a musical on broadway, a. greenwich village, b. luch break at chelsea market, c. the high line, d. the vessel – hudson yard, e. edge observation deck, f. rooftop bars in new york, b. summit one vanderbilt, c. shopping in new york, d. speakeasy or michelin-starred restaurants, day 6: exploring staten island, option 1: coney island, option 2: visit harlem district / gospel concert, where to stay in new york, one week in new york with your family, more ideas of things to do during your 7-day stay in new york, map of your 7-day itinerary in new york, flight prices to new york, you’re traveling in the us these articles will help you, how to avoid waiting in line (and save a lot of time) at new york’s tourist attractions.

With more than 56 million tourists every year, New York is one of the top tourist destinations in the world.

Everyone wants to discover its skyscrapers as all the amazing museums and activities New York has to offer.

Unfortunately, this means  huge waiting lines  (and a lot of time wasted!)  at all must-see attractions  like the Empire State Building or the Rockefeller Center.

It’s as crowded as the  Colosseum in  Rome or the Burj Khalifa in Dubai .

But don’t worry: I have  2 solutions that will allow you to save a lot of time during your one week trip to New York.

One of the best solutions to avoid queuing for your one week itinerary in New York is to buy the “New York Go City Explorer Pass”.

With this pass, you will have  access to 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 10 attractions .

If you have already visited other cities with a City Pass, you should note that the New York Explorer pass  works according to the number of activities,  and not in terms of duration (no 24h/48h/72h limit, like most other City Pass).

And you know what: there are about 90 activities offered!

Of course, all the most famous attractions such as the Empire State Building , the ferry for the Statue of Liberty or the top of the Rock observation deck are included!

To book it, it’s very simple:  you just need to click on the green button located a bit below. 

Once you have ordered your New York Explorer Pass, you will receive your pass by email.

The email also contains a digital guide with a lot of useful information to organize your visits to the attractions: opening hours, directions … as well as if you need to  book a time slot (which is the case for the majority of New York’s sites).

Here is a summary of the most popular attractions included in the New York Explorer pass :

• Empire State Building
• The Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island Ferry
• Top of the Rock
• 9/11 Museum and Memorial
• American Museum of Natural History
• One World Observatory
• Madame Tussauds
• Circle Line Sightseeing
• St Patrick’s Cathedral Tour
• And many many more…

For a week in New York, you should book the New York Explorer Pass for 10 attractions as you will do a lot of activities and visits.

To  purchase  your  New York Explorer Pass , simply click on the following green button:

There is another pass available to visit New York: the New York City Pass . But I don’t recommend it for 7 days as it only includes 5 attractions.

For a one week trip in New York, the New York Explorer Pass with 10 attractions is definitely the best one!

If you don’t want to buy the New York Explorer Pass to visit New York in 1 week , you can also  buy skip-the-line tickets for each attraction  separately.

You can purchase skip the line tickets for all the best places to visit and activities for New York.

You can also  book all your guided visits in advance .

If you book your tickets and activities through the links I give you in this guide, you will  avoid a lot of unnecessary waiting and save money .

Here is the list of the best skip-the-line tickets for your one-week stay in New York:

•   Central Park Zoo
• A private tour in Central Park in a horse-drawn carriage
• A pedicab tour in Central Park – choose between the 1 or 2 hours tour version
• Guggenheim Museum
• Metropolitan Museum of Art
• St. Patrick’s Cathedral
• National 9/11 Memorial & Museum
• Wall street guided tour
• Helicopter tour over New York
• Statue of Liberty
• Cruise around the Statue of Liberty
• Walking guided tour in Brooklyn
• Broadway show
• Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum
• Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises
• Madame Tussauds New York
• Edge Observation Deck
• SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
• Harlem guided tour
• Greenwich Village guided tour
• Luna Park in Coney Island

If you want to book other activities in New York, you should always use these 2 reliable and safe websites:

• GetYourGuide: Official entrance tickets and activities in New York .
• Tiqets: Skip the line tickets in New York

If you already know your travel dates (or as soon as you will have them!) , you should really book your accommodation.

As New York is one of the most touristic cities in the world , the hotels offering the best value for money are often fully booked months in advance.

As a seasoned traveler, I can assure you that it’s always by planning as far in advance as possible that I’ve found the best hotels or apartments deals.

You agree that it would be a shame to somewhat ruin your stay in New York by ending up in a not-so-great hotel that costed you a fortune, right? 😅

So your best bet is to take 5 minutes now to have a look at  traveler’s favorite hotels in New York.

And if you like one of the hotels you find, book it!

It’s fast, it’s easy and most accommodation offer free cancellation. That’s the best way to protect yourself from the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the best hotels deals in New York, simply click on the green button below:

After securing your dream stay, it’s time to continue reading this guide!

New York in 1 week: the best itinerary

Let’s now start your  7-day New York itinerary.

For each day, I will tell you  everything you need to know about the places you will visit  +  give you a map  that will help you visualize the itinerary a bit better.

I’m assuming  you will be staying in New York for a full week , and that you have bought the New York Explorer Pass  or  Skip-the-Line Tickets .

It’s  the best way to save time  and see as many tourist attractions as possible during your one week stay!

If you still have questions after reading this guide  (or need help organizing your holiday), don’t hesitate to  ask me in the comments section  located at the very end of this article.

So, what are the best places to visit in New York in 7 days?

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Manhattan

Day 1 visits:

A. Central Park B. Museums C. Fifth Avenue D. St Patrick’s Cathedral E. Top of the Rock F. Times Square

Start your one-week itinerary in New York with a visit to the city’s famous Central Park.

This vast urban oasis is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a scenic walk amidst the city’s bustling pace.

Make sure to check out The Mall and Literary Walk , a beautifully lined path known for its row of statues of literary figures.

Also, pay a visit to Bethesda Terrace and Fountain – it’s one of the most photographed spots in the park , and for good reason!

You should also pass by:

• The   Strawberry Fields memorial dedicated to John Lennon
• The Belvedere Castle
• Central Park Zoo
• Shakespeare Garden
• The Bow Bridge
• Alice in Wonderland Statue

To reach Central Park, you can take the subway to 72 Street Station, 81 Street Station or 86 Street Station.

If you want a change from the classic walking tour of Central Park, you can also choose to:

• Rent a bike
• Take a horse-drawn carriage ride
• Take a pedicab tour

Close to Central Park, you’ll find some of the world’s most renowned museums.

Depending on your preferences, you can choose to visit the American Museum of Natural History , the Metropolitan Museum of Art , or the Guggenheim Museum .

Each museum offers a unique experience.

The American Museum of Natural History is perfect for science enthusiasts, while the Metropolitan Museum of Art showcases a vast collection of art from around the world.

If modern and contemporary art is your preference, then head straight to the Guggenheim Museum .

Both the American Museum and the Guggenheim are included with the  New York Explorer Pass.

Entrance ticket for the MET has to be purchased on the official website   and the guided tour by clicking here!

If you don’t have the pass , you need to book your tickets in advance by clicking on the button below:

• The American Museum of Natural History:

If you’re spending these 7 days in New York with your family , you can be sure that everyone will love that visit!

• The Guggenheim Museum:

Next, stroll down the iconic Fifth Avenue.

Known for its high-end boutiques and historic landmarks, it’s a great place to shop or just enjoy some window-shopping.

Your next stop during your one week trip to New York will be the St. Patrick’s Cathedral , a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture.

Entry to St. Patrick’s Cathedral is included in the New York Explorer Pass,   which give you the perfect occasion to see the inside of the cathedral and the beautiful stained glass. 

Without the pass , you can directly buy your ticket by clicking here:

To get an awe-inspiring view of the city, head to the Top of the Rock .

Located at the top of the Rockefeller Center , this observation deck offers a 360-degree panoramic view of New York City. Make sure to look out for the Empire State Building and Central Park – they look particularly majestic from here.

Entrance to Top of the Rock is included with the New York Go City Explorer Pass.

If you don’t have the pass, you have to buy your skip the line ticket here:

Finish your first day in New York at Times Square .

This iconic square , filled with bright billboards, is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

Day 2: Discovering Brooklyn and Downtown Manhattan

Day 2 visits:

A. Brooklyn district and DUMBO B. Brooklyn Bridge C. Statue of Liberty D. Financial district E. 9/11 Memorial and museum F. One World Observatory G. Little Italy and Chinatown

On the 2nd day of your one week trip to New York, wake up early and get ready to discover Brooklyn, one of New York’s most vibrant boroughs.

Start your day in the trendy neighborhood of DUMBO (short for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass).

While in DUMBO, take the chance to snap that iconic picture with the Manhattan Bridge in the background.

If you want to visit the district with a local guide and learn everything about Brooklyn , you should book this walking tour (click here)

To get to Brooklyn, take the subway to York Street station.

Next on your itinerary during your 7 days in New York is a stroll on the iconic Brooklyn Bridge.

This stunning piece of architecture has stood tall since 1883, connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn over the East River. With its gothic arches and web-like cables, it’s one of the best photo spots in NYC.

As you walk the 1.3-mile span , you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the Freedom Tower.

Did you know the Brooklyn Bridge was t he world’s first steel-wire suspension bridge?

It was also the longest suspension bridge in the world when it opened.

Make your way to Battery Park (if you want to take the subway, you can get off at Whitehall station or Bowling Green) and hop on a ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

You have the choice to set foot on the islands or enjoy a one-hour cruise around them.

The New York Explorer Pass includes round trip ferry ticket for the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

If you haven’t bought the pass and you want to disembark on the island, you need to book your tickets here:

If you prefer to take the one-hour cruise, click here:

For an other epic experience during your week in New York, you need to take an helicopter tour above the city!

The tour departs from Battery Park 200 metres away , which is very convenient. You can take your helicopter tour before or after going to the Statue of Liberty.

You’ll have the choice between the classic tour ( click here for more info and booked it !) or the sensational version with the door open! 

To book this incredible activity to do in one week in New York, you just have to click on the button below:

Back on the mainland, make your way to the Financial District , the heart of New York’s commerce.

Take a stroll down Wall Street and visit the New York Stock Exchange .

And don’t forget to rub the nose (or on the other side, the private parts 😅) of the Charging Bull for good luck. You never know, it might just bring you some Wall Street fortune!

Then, it’s time for a moment of reflection at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum .

The two large pools , located where t he Twin Towers once stood, serve as a powerful reminder of the tragic events of September 11, 2001.

You can also visit the museum to learn more about that day and the aftermath.

Entrance to the National 9/11 memorial and museum is free with the  New York Go City Explorer Pass.

A 90-minute guided walking tour around Ground Zero and the 9/11 Memorial is also available. You can book it here!

Otherwise skip the line tickets are available here:

Finally, end your day with a visit to the One World Observatory .

Located at the top of the One World Trade Center, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, it offers breathtaking views of the city.

And the ride in the elevator is an experience itself as you can see a short film showing the transformation of New York city over the years.

Entrance to One World Observatory is free with the New York Go City Explorer Pass .

Simply click on the green button to book your tickets if you don’t have a pass:

By now, you must be starving. So, why not treat yourself to an authentic meal in Little Italy or Chinatown ?

From delicious pasta to dim sum, these neighborhoods offer some of the best food in town. Bon appétit, or should I say, buon appetito!

In Little Italy, don’t miss the chance to try cannoli, a delicious Sicilian dessert.

And in Chinatown, go for the Peking Duck. They’re my personal favorites!

That concludes your second day in the city of dreams. You are doing great exploring New York in one week .

But remember, the city never sleeps, and there are still five more exciting days to come! Stay tuned for more of your 7 days in New York journey.

Day 3: What to do in New York?

Day 3 visits:

A. Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum B. Circle line Sightseeing cruise C. Madame Tussauds D. New York Public Library / Grand Central Terminal / Chrysler Building / United Nation Headquarters E. Empire State Building F. See a musical on Broadway

Start your third day on your  one week itinerary in New York  at the Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum .

It’s not every day you get to tour a legendary aircraft carrier!

The museum houses a wide range of exhibits, including the space shuttle Enterprise. If you are a fan of history or technology, you’ll love this place.

Free access to Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum with the New York Explorer Pass.

Without it, you need to book your ticket in advance by clicking here:

The nearest underground station to the museum is 50 Street Station, a 15-minute walk away.

Next, take a Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise for a refreshing perspective of New York.

You can soak in iconic sights like the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the breathtaking skyline.

Even if you’ve already done the cruise around the Statue of Liberty, this one is much more complete and allows you to see other places as well.

And as it’s included in the New York Explorer Pass , it won’t cost you a thing.

If you don’t have a pass but want to take this cruise during your week in New York, you’ll need to book it in advance here:

Ever dreamt of rubbing shoulders with celebrities? Well, at Madame Tussauds New York , you can do just that.

Okay, they might just be wax figures , but who’s checking?

Pose next to your favorite stars, and make your friends green with envy after posting pictures with Brad Pitt, Rihanna, Beyoncé or Georges Clooney.

And again: free entrance to Madame Tussauds is included with the New York Go City Explorer Pass.

If you don’t have the explorer pass, don’t panic, you can buy your tickets for Madame Tussauds here:

After that, make your way to a cluster of iconic landmarks.

Visit the New York Public Library to witness the stunning architecture and soak up some wisdom.

Stop by the Grand Central Terminal to admire its grandeur.

Take a quick look at the art deco Chrysler Building , and round off the sightseeing with the United Nation Headquarters .

As the evening sets in , it’s time to head to the Empire State Building .

Trust me, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to see New York light up from the 102nd floor. 

To visit the Empire State Building, you need to book your tickets in advance here:

But don’t forget that it’s already included with the New York Explorer Pass.

Finally, cap off the day with a musical on Broadway.

Whether you’re a theater aficionado or a casual fan, there’s something magical about seeing a story unfold on the Broadway stage.

Remember to book your Broadway tickets in advance. Some of the popular shows as the Lion King for example, sell out quickly.

You can see all Broadway shows tickets and book them by clicking here!

And just like that, your third day of your one week in New York comes to an end. Get a good night’s sleep because there’s much more to discover in your 7 days in New York adventure!

Day 4: Exploring Artistic Corners + The Best Rooftops of NYC

Day 4 visits:

A. Greenwich Village B. Chelsea Market C. High Line D. The Vessel E. The Edge F. Rooftop bars

On day four, brace yourself to dive into the hip and artistic side of the city.

Your first stop is Greenwich Village , where creative culture meets historical charm.

You can stroll around the leafy streets , find quirky shops , or even stop by a trendy cafe for a caffeine fix.

And if you don’t want to miss anything in Greenwich Village , you should book this 2-hour guided tour.

Fans of the famous TV series Friends will also be able to:

• Pass by the iconic Friends apartment building (adress: on the corner of Grove Street and Bedford Street)
• Visit the “Friend Experience” where you can take photos of yourself in the flats of Monica, Phoebe, Ross… It is essential to book your tickets well in advance as they go very quickly. Click here to book!

When the hunger pangs kick in, head to Chelsea Market .

With over 35 vendors selling cuisines from all over the world , you can embark on a global culinary journey.

After your culinary escapade, walk it off at The High Line . A little stroll is the perfect way to digest your meal!

It’s an elevated park built on a former railway track.

You’ll get fantastic views of the city and the Hudson River.

Next on your list is The Vessel at Hudson Yard .

It’s an interactive sculpture where you can climb 154 interconnecting flights of stairs. That’s around 2,500 steps. Who needs a gym, right?

As you ascend, make sure to take in the mesmerizing views.

As you continue your exciting one week in New York , your next stop is the newest kid on the block among New York’s observation decks – the Edge.

Standing proudly at an elevation of 1,131 feet, Edge is the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere!

Even the city’s skyscrapers will look like Lego blocks from up there.

Upon reaching the Edge, you’ll find yourself on a spacious outdoor viewing area , boasting 360-degree views of New York City’s skyline, the surrounding waters, and landmarks near and far.

But the real show-stopper here is the glass floor! A 225-square-foot portion of the deck has a see-through floor that allows you to look straight down to the streets below. 

Good news: visit the Edge for free with the New York Go City Explorer Pass (if you don’t have it, book your tickets here! ).

As the day nears its end, it’s time for a well-deserved drink.

New York City is known for its fantastic rooftop bars. I’ve got a few personal favorites – the 230 FIFTH Rooftop Bar NYC offers incredible Empire State Building views.

At Westlight in The William Vale, you get a panoramic view of Manhattan and Brooklyn.

The Rooftop at The Standard, High Line and The Press Lounge also offer splendid city views and exquisite drinks.

These rooftop bars can get crowded, especially during sunset hours. Try to go early to secure a spot with the best view or book in advance if that’s possible.

Day 5: More places to visit in New York

Day 5 visits:

A. MoMA B. Summit One Vanderbilt C. Shopping in New York D. Speakeasy or Michelin-starred restaurants

Day five of your one week in New York starts at the iconic Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) .

This is the place to be if you’re a lover of modern and contemporary art. Or even if you’re not, you might just become one after this.

From Van Gogh’s Starry Night to Warhol’s Campbell’s Soup Cans , you’ll see it all.

Entry to the MoMA is included in the New York Explorer Pass.

Alternatively, you can buy your tickets here:

After your artsy morning, make your way to SUMMIT One Vanderbilt .

This place takes observation decks to a whole new level, literally and figuratively.

The glass floor terraces and mirrored rooms will give you a unique perspective of the city.

As this visit is not included in a pass now, you have to book your skip the line directly by clicking here: 

It’s now time for a different kind of art – the art of shopping!

Whether it’s the luxurious 5th Avenue or the trendy boutiques of Soho , New York has got you covered.

Don’t forget to swing by the iconic Macy’s. Who knows? You might find that perfect New York souvenir. Or an entire new wardrobe, no judgment here.

As the day winds down, why not take a step back in time with a drink in a speakeasy?

These secret bars will transport you to the 1920s, minus the prohibition part.

Here’s a list of some popular speakeasies in New York City:

• Please Don’t Tell (PDT) – Situated in the East Village
• Employees Only – Found in the West Village
• The Back Room – Tucked away on the Lower East Side
• Attaboy – Located in the Lower East Side,

Or, if you’re feeling fancy, treat yourself to a meal in a Michelin-starred restaurant . After all, you’re in the culinary capital of the world. You might as well eat like it!

On day six, it’s time to venture out of Manhattan and explore Staten Island .

This often-overlooked borough is a gem just waiting to be discovered. But first, how do you get there?

The easiest way to reach Staten Island is via the Staten Island Ferry . It’s free, it operates 24/7, and it offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. Not bad for a commute, right?

Once on Staten Island, you can visit the beautiful Snug Harbor Cultural Center , the intriguing Staten Island Museum , the Botanical garden or take a leisurely stroll in the Staten Island Greenbelt .

And if you didn’t do enough shopping the day before, head to the Empire Outlet.

I recommend timing your ferry ride back at sunset. The view of the Statue of Liberty with the sun setting behind the skyline is a sight you won’t forget.

Day 7: Coney Island or Harlem? Tough Choice!

Finally, the seventh day of your one week in New York has arrived.

But no tears, please. We’ve got a whole day of fun ahead.

And here’s the best part: you get to choose your own adventure for the day! So, what’s it going to be – the vibrant vibes of Coney Island or the soulful energy of Harlem? Let’s see what each option has to offer.

A trip to Coney Island if you are visiting New York in 7 days with kids.

This iconic amusement park on the southern tip of Brooklyn is home to the famous Cyclone roller coaster, the Wonder Wheel , and of course, Nathan’s Famous hot dogs.

You can also take a dip in the ocean , or just kick back on the beach.

If you’re looking to let loose and have some good old-fashioned fun on your last day in New York, Coney Island is the place to be.

Remember, Coney Island is seasonal . It’s at its best from late spring to early fall. So, plan accordingly.

You need to buy your tickets for Luna Park in Coney Island here.

On the other hand, if you’re more in the mood for a cultural experience, consider heading up north to Harlem.

This historic neighborhood is the heart of African-American culture in New York.

Visit the Apollo Theater, take a stroll along Malcolm X Boulevard, and enjoy some soul food at a local restaurant.

And the cherry on top? A gospel concert. The powerful voices and infectious energy will leave you moved and inspired.

To attend the concert, the easiest is to book a Harlem tour. The best one includes:

• Pickup and drop off from Times Square
• Exploring the best places to visit in Harlem with your guide
• The highlight of the tour: the gospel concert!

The tour takes place only 2 days a week . You need to book the Wednesday tour by clicking here , and the Sunday tour by clicking there.

Now that you know everything about the best things to do in New York in 7 days , there is just one thing left to do: booking your hotel!

There are hundreds of hotels in New York, and choosing the best for your stay can be a bit complicated.

In order to help you out, I have selected for you  the best hotels in New York depending on your budget.

As always, to get the best prices, you should  book your hotel as early as possible!

Here is my selection of the best hotels to stay when visiting New York in one week (around Times Square / Empire State Building / Central Park).

• HI New York City Hostel : Youth hostel located right next to Central Park. Dormitory beds from €50 per night. An excellent choice for cheap accommodation in New York City Center!
• Club Wyndham Midtown 45: Located next to Grand Central Station. Bright and spacious double room from €200 per night. Strong Points: the rooftop and the location.
• Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott New York Manhattan/Times Square South: Located 1 km from Times Square. Cosy, comfortable double rooms from €330 per night, including breakfast. Strong points: friendly staff, view, peace and quiet.
• Hyatt Place New York City/Times Square: Located next to Madame Tussauds. Double room with impeccable cleanliness and comfortable bedding from €350, breakfast included. Strong points: central location for visiting New York on foot, very generous breakfast, very friendly staff.
• The Iroquois New York: Located less than 500 metres from Times Square, this 5-star hotel offers superb rooms with very chic decor, from €410 including breakfast. Strong points: ideal, quiet location, attentive staff.
• Riu Plaza Manhattan Times Square: Located next to the Rockfeller Center. Very comfortable, noise-isolated room from €450, breakfast €23. Strong points: very professional staff, varied breakfast, very easy to visit the centre of New York on foot.
• Hard Rock Hotel New York: Located next to the Rockfeller Center, this luxury hotel offers elegant, contemporary rooms from €500, breakfast €47. Strong points: the rooftop, the comfort, the classy design. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in New York!

If you don’t mind being a bit further from the centre (don’t worry, it’s still very easily accessible by public transport), here is my list of the best hotels in Wall Street.

It’s a bit quieter than the hotels in Times Square and also slightly less expensive for equivalent quality.

• Hilton Garden Inn NYC Financial Center/Manhattan Downtown: Located 160 metres from Battery Park. Comfortable, modern rooms from €225, breakfast €23. Strong points: the location close to the metro, very comfortable, practical for going to the Statue of Liberty and Staten Island.
• The Washington by LuxUrban: Located 200 metres from the 9/11 Memorial and museum. Stylish rooms from €240, breakfast included. Strong points: metro stations right next to the hotel – perfect for sightseeing, view of the One World Trade Center, quality of bedding, peace and quiet.
• Club Quarters Hotel World Trade Center: Located next to Ground Zero. Spacious and cosy double room from €330. Strong points: location next to several metro stations, views from the rooftop and some rooms, free unlimited water and coffee/tea, in-room fridge.

To help you find the perfect accommodation, I have also written a guide of the best areas and places to stay in New York depending on your budget.

You can find it here: Where to stay in New York?

You can easily do this suggested  one week itinerary in New York  with your kids.

You can take the metro to move around and walk.

Here are some fun and family-friendly activities that should definitely be on your itinerary for a kid-approved one week in New York:

• Central Park Zoo: from snow leopards to grizzly bears, this zoo is brimming with creatures that will keep the little ones entertained for hours.
• American Museum of Natural History: d inosaur fossils, a giant blue whale model, a planetarium – your kids won’t know where to look first.
• The iconic toy store, FAO Schwarz , is an absolute must-visit. With its giant floor piano and aisles overflowing with toys, it’s sure to bring out the inner child in everyone. 
• Pass by the M&M and Disney’s stores in Times Square and the Lego’s store on Fifth Avenue
• Take a Ferry to the Statue of Liberty
• Visit Coney Island
• Broadway Show: many shows like ‘The Lion King’, ‘Frozen’, and ‘Aladdin’ are perfect for kids.

With so many kid-friendly activities, your one week in New York will be a blast for the whole family.

The New York Explorer Pass are available for children (prices depends on their age).

To get even more information about the best places to visit in New York you should also read my other article: The 57 best things to do in New York.

To help you visualize your  daily itineraries during your 7 days in New York,  I have created this map with  all the places to visit day by day . You can view the map’s legend by clicking on the top left button, the one with a little arrow.

You can thus see the suggested itineraries for each day.

As always, you should book your plane tickets as early as possible to get the best prices.

To check the rates and schedules for flights to New York, you can use our flight comparator, in partnership with Skyscanner:

You need help to plan your 7-day trip to New York? Don’t hesitate to ask me in the comment section located below!

Discover all my articles about USA : All my articles to help you plan your trip to USA are listed there.

• New York: Top 57 best things to do
• 2 Days in New York – The best itinerary to visit the Big Apple in 48h
• 3 Days in New York – All the best places to visit + Detailed itinerary

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The cultural and financial capital of the USA, if not the world, New York City is an adrenaline-charged, history-laden place that holds immense romantic appeal for visitors. Its past is visible in the tangled lanes of Wall Street and tenements of the Lower East Side; meanwhile, towering skyscrapers serve as monuments of the modern age. Street life buzzes round the clock and shifts markedly from one area to the next. The waterfront, redeveloped in many places, and the landscaped green spaces – notably Central Park – give the city a chance to catch its breath. Iconic symbols of world culture – the neon of Times Square, the sculptures at Rockefeller Center – always seem just a stone’s throw away. For raw energy, dynamism and social diversity, you’d be hard-pressed to top it; simply put, there’s no place quite like it . Visiting New York should be on every traveller's bucket-list.

Where to go in New York

What to do in new york city, lgbt travel information for new york, nightlife in new york city, arts, culture and entertainment in new york city, shopping in new york city, sports in new york, best time to visit, bus and boat tours, walking tours, drinking in new york city.

New York City comprises the central island of Manhattan and the four outer boroughs – Brooklyn , Queens , the Bronx and Staten Island. Manhattan, to many, is New York; certainly, this is where you’re likely to stay and spend most of your time. Though you could spend weeks here and still barely scratch the surface, there are some key attractions and pleasures that you won’t want to miss. These include the different ethnic neighbourhoods, like Chinatown, and the more artsy concentrations of Soho and the East and West villages. Of course, there is also the celebrated architecture of Midtown and the Financial District, as well as many fabulous museums. In between sightseeing, you can eat just about anything, at any time, cooked in any style; you can drink in any kind of company; and enjoy any number of obscure movies. The more established arts – dance, theatre and music – are superbly presented. For the avid consumer, the choice of shops is almost numbingly exhaustive. When you're visiting New York, it can feel hard to catch your breath.

Manhattan is a hard act to follow, though Brooklyn is a worthy rival: there’s the ragged glory of Coney Island, the trim brownstones of Brooklyn Heights, the foodie destinations in South Brooklyn and the hip nightlife of Williamsburg. The rest of the outer boroughs also have their draws, namely the innovative museums of Long Island City and Astoria, both in Queens; and the renowned Bronx Zoo and adjacent botanical gardens in the Bronx. Last but not least, a free trip on the Staten Island Ferry is a sea-sprayed, refreshing good time.

Every trip to New York is unique and that's why it's essential to stay protected. With our go-to travel insurance provider, Heymondo , you get great value and 24/7 support wherever you are.

New York is very much a city of neighbourhoods, most compact enough to be explored on foot (at least below 59th Street). This guide to the best places to visit in New York starts at the southern tip of the island and moves north.

The Harbour Islands – Liberty, Ellis and Governors islands – were the first glimpses of New York (and indeed America) for many nineteenth-century immigrants, a legacy celebrated in Ellis Island’s excellent Museum of Immigration.

The Financial District encompasses the skyscrapers and historic buildings of Manhattan’s southern reaches, including the tallest structure in town, One World Trade Center, rising from the ashes of Ground Zero.

Immediately east of here is City Hall, New York’s well-appointed municipal centre, and the massive Gothic span of the Brooklyn Bridge, while to the west is swanky Tribeca, a loft-filled residential district with plenty of happening restaurants. Soho, just to the north, was a big centre for art galleries in the 1970s and 80s; it’s better known today for its shops and street scene, as well as some historic cast-iron buildings.

East of here is Chinatown, Manhattan’s most densely populated ethnic neighbourhood and a vibrant locale great for Chinese food and mooching around. Now more a haven for pasta-and- red-sauce tourist traps than Italians, Little Italy next door is slowly being swallowed by Chinatown’s hungry expansion, while the Lower East Side, traditionally the city’s gateway neighbourhood for new immigrants – whether German, Jewish or Hispanic – has been almost totally gentrified by young urban professionals, but preserves its history in the thought-provoking Tenement Museum.

The East and West villages are known for their gorgeous, tree-lined streets, bohemian history and their hip bars, restaurants and shops. Chelsea has displaced the West Village as the heart of Manhattan’s gay scene, scooped Soho for exciting gallery spaces and added outdoor gems in the High Line and Hudson River Park developments.

The areas around Union Square and Gramercy Park feature some lovely skyscrapers, including the Flatiron Building, that nicely complement the green spaces, as well as an exciting eating scene. This is where the avenues begin their march north through the busy, regimented blocks of Midtown.

In its eastern portion, Midtown is dotted with some of the city’s most impressive sights, including the Empire State Building, Grand Central Terminal and the Museum of Modern Art. Modern and postmodern skyscrapers punctuate this business district. To the west, Times Square and the Theater District provide a commercialized look at the popular image of New York City, while Hell’s Kitchen, along Ninth and Tenth avenues, at least harkens back to a slightly grittier day.

Beyond the high-rise blocks of Midtown, the character of the city changes quite rapidly. The neck-cricking architecture and flagship stores along Fifth Avenue run into 59th Street, where the classic Manhattan vistas are broken by the broad expanse of Central Park, a supreme piece of nineteenth-century landscaping.

Flanking the park, the Upper East Side is wealthy and grandiose, with many of its nineteenth-century millionaires’ mansions now transformed into a string of magnificent museums known as “Museum Mile”; the most prominent of these is the vast Metropolitan Museum of Art. The residential neighbourhood boasts some of the swankiest addresses in Manhattan, as well as a nest of designer shops along Madison Avenue in the seventies.

On the other side of the park, the largely residential, less patrician enclave of the Upper West Side is worth a visit, mostly for Lincoln Center, the American Museum of Natural History and Riverside Park along the Hudson River; studenty Morningside Heights, home to Columbia University, tops off the neighbourhood.

Immediately north of Central Park, Harlem, the historic black city-within-a-city, numbers elegant brownstones, Baptist churches, jazz landmarks and a strong community spirit among its high points.

Still farther north, past residential Hamilton Heights and Washington Heights, a largely Hispanic enclave that few visitors ever venture to visit, stands Inwood at the tip of the island. It’s here you’ll find the Cloisters, a nineteenth-century mock-up of a medieval monastery, packed with great European Romanesque and Gothic art and (transplanted) architecture – in short, one of Manhattan’s must-sees.

It’s a good thing that, more and more, visitors (even those on a limited trip) venture off Manhattan Island to one or more of the outer boroughs: Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx and Staten Island.

In addition to the points of historical and contemporary interest in each, places to visit include some of New York’s most vibrant ethnic neighborhoods. Consequently some of the city’s best food can be found out here: the Greek restaurants of the Astoria district in Queens, for example, or the Italian bakeries and trattorias of the Bronx’s Belmont section.

Individual sights like the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx and Museum of Moving Image in Queens have plenty of pull, too, and a ride on the Staten Island Ferry is a free thrill that’s hard to beat.

It’s Brooklyn, however, that tends to steal the show and is more or less Manhattan’s equal – or at least rival. You can sample locally made food and buy snappy duds in hip Williamsburg, wander the brownstone-lined streets of Cobble Hill and Brooklyn Heights, view cutting-edge exhibits at the Brooklyn Museum, ride a rickety roller coaster and soak up the old-world charm of Coney Island or hit Central Park’s counterpart, activity-filled Prospect Park.

Brief history of New York City

The first European to see Manhattan Island, then inhabited by the Lenape, was the Italian navigator Giovanni da Verrazano, in 1524. Dutch colonists established the settlement of New Amsterdam exactly one hundred years later. The first governor, Peter Minuit, was the man who famously bought the island for a handful of trinkets. Though we don’t know for sure who “sold” it (probably a northern branch of the Lenni Lenape), the other side of the story was that the concept of owning land was utterly alien to Native Americans – they had merely agreed to support Dutch claims to use the land. By the time the British laid claim to the area in 1664, the heavy-handed rule of governor Peter Stuyvesant had so alienated its inhabitants that the Dutch relinquished control without a fight.

Renamed New York, the city prospered and grew, its population reaching 33,000 by the time of the American Revolution. The opening of the Erie Canal in 1825 facilitated trade farther inland, spurring the city to become the economic powerhouse of the nation, the base later in the century of tycoons such as Cornelius Vanderbilt and financiers like J.P. Morgan. The Statue of Liberty arrived from France in 1886, a symbol of the city’s role as the gateway for generations of immigrants, and the early twentieth century saw the sudden proliferation of Manhattan’s extraordinary skyscrapers, which cast New York as the city of the future in the eyes of an astonished world.

Almost a century later, the events of September 11, 2001, which destroyed the World Trade Center, shook New York to its core. Yet the Financial District bounced back, and the former Ground Zero site continues to develop, with the incredible Oculus housing a fancy shopping mall while new digs for the 9/11 Tribute Museum opened in 2018.

• Visit the Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is still the most original and elegant skyscraper of them all.

• Breathe in the Statue of Liberty

There's no greater symbol of the American dream than the magnificent statue that graces New York Harbour. Those with deep pockets can see the lady from a whole new angle by booking onto a New York helicopter tour .

• Explore the Metropolitan Museum of Art

You could easily spend a whole day (or week or month) at the Met , discovering everything from Egyptian artefacts to modern masters.

• See a baseball match

A summertime treat: enjoy a hot dog, a cold beer and America's pastime in the Yankees' or Mets' homes – or for a more intimate experience, see a Cyclones game in Coney Island.

• Walk across Brooklyn Bridge

Take the less-than-a-mile walk across the bridge to see beautiful views of the downtown skyline and Harbor views.

• Pause at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum

The pools in the buildings' footprints and museum artefacts including the "Last Column" can't help but stir emotion.

• Discover the Museum of Modern Art

Simply put, the MoMA holds the most comprehensive collection of modern art in the world, curated in a breathtaking setting of glass atriums and statuary.

• Smell the flowers at the High Line

This plant-lined Chelsea walkway offers a unique perspective on the city below and on the power of progressive urban renewal.

• Roam Central Park

The city's beloved swathe of green: take a boat ride, watch Shakespeare in the Park or enjoy a picnic after a morning spent museum-hopping. Alternatively, join a Central Park Ice Skating and Walking Tour , or book onto a romantic Carriage Ride .

• Take the Staten Island Ferry

Savour Manhattan's skyline and the Statue of Liberty from a boat's-eye view – absolutely free.

• Experience some thrills on Coney Island

Ride on classics like the Wonder Wheel or Cyclone, or on the newer Thunderbolt coaster, high above the boardwalk, for a seaside thrill.

• Marvel at modern art at the Whitney Museum of American Art

As the anchor of the High Line, this Meatpacking District museum shows off modern American art, with a healthy dose of terrace views.

• Explore the Tenement Museum

A Lower East Side apartment dwelling turned museum, this local treasure brilliantly captures the lives of three generations of immigrants.

• Feel the beat at live jazz

New York's jazz scene is vibrant, but Harlem is first choice for characterful venues and late-night jam sessions. Some great jazz talent is showcased at the Rendall Memorial Presbyterian Church in Harlem.

Taking in a Broadway play or musical is a must for theatre-lovers; any venue will suffice, as long as the show is up to standard. Try Frozen , Aladdin , the Lion King , Moulin Rouge or Tina Turner .

There are few places in America where gay culture thrives as it does in New York. Chelsea (centred on Eighth Ave, between 14th and 23rd sts), the East Village and Hell’s Kitchen have replaced the West Village as the hubs of gay New York, although a strong presence still lingers around Christopher Street. There’s Brooklyn’s Park Slope, too, though perhaps more for women than for men. The free weekly Gay City News, Next and GO have listings.

You’ll never be at a loss for something fun or culturally enriching to do while in New York. The live music scene, in particular, well reflects New York’s diversity: on any night of the week, you can hear pretty much any type of music, from thumping hip-hop to raging punk, and, of course, plenty of jazz. There are also quite a few dance clubs, where you can move to hard-hitting house or cheesy tunes from the 1970s and 80s.

Home to Broadway and 42nd Street, New York is one of the world’s great theatre centres. Even if you’re not normally a theatre buff, going to see a play or a musical while here is virtually de rigueur. The various theatre venues are referred to as Broadway, Off-Broadway or Off-Off Broadway, representing a descending order of ticket price, production polish, elegance and comfort. Classical music, opera and dance are all very well represented, too. As for film, you couldn’t hope for better pickings: the city has several large indie theatres, assorted revival and arthouse cinemas and countless Hollywood-blockbuster multiplexes. Last but not least, NYC has many excellent comedy clubs.

When it comes to consumerism, New York leaves all other cities behind. Midtown Manhattan is mainstream territory, with the department stores, big-name clothes designers and larger chains. Downtown plays host to a wide variety of more offbeat stores – SoHo is perhaps the most popular shopping neighbourhood in these parts, and generally the most expensive. Affordable alternatives for the young and trendy are available in the Lower East Side; good vintage clothing can be found there, in the East Village and in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

Seeing either of New York’s two baseball teams involves a trip to the outer boroughs. The Yankees play in the Bronx, at Yankee Stadium. Get there on the #4, B or D subway lines direct to the 161st Street station. The Mets are based in Queens, at Citi Field. Take the #7 train, direct to Willets Point.

New York’s football teams – the Jets and Giants – play at the Metlife Stadium . Buses from the Port Authority Bus Terminal, serve the stadium. Tickets for both teams are always officially sold out well in advance, but you can often get seats (legally) from websites such as stubhub.com .

There are three New York pro teams: the NBA Knicks and the WNBA Liberty , both of which play at Madison Square Garden , and the Brooklyn Nets , who call Barclays Center home. Tickets for the Knicks are very expensive, and, due to impossibly high demand, available in only limited numbers, if at all. Nets tickets are easier to score, while the women’s games are fairly exciting and cheaper (starting at a little over $10, though they can be much more).

New York’s hockey team, the Rangers , also plays at Madison Square Garden. The New York Islanders skate at the Barclays Center. The area soccer team, the New York Red Bulls , play over in Harrison, New Jersey; a second pro team, New York City FC, started playing in 2015.

This page contains affiliate links; all recommendations are editorially independent.

New York City’s climate ranges from sticky, hot and humid in midsummer to very cold in January and February: be prepared to freeze or boil accordingly if you decide to visit during these periods.

Spring is a good time to visit, gentle, if unpredictable and often wet, while autumn is perhaps the most beguiling season and the best time to visit New York, with crisp, clear days and warmish nights.

Whenever you’re visiting, plan to dress in layers, as it’s the only way to combat overheated buildings in winter and overactive, icy air-conditioning come summertime.

Countless businesses and individuals compete to help you make sense of the city, offering all manner of guided tours; even if you don’t need the assistance, you might appreciate the background they provide.

Circle Line Ferry Pier 83 at West 42nd St and Twelfth Ave 212 563 3200, circleline42.com . Circumnavigate Manhattan while boxening to live commentary; the 3hr tour runs year-round.

Gray Line Port Authority Bus Terminal 800 669 0051, newyorksightseeing.com . Double-decker bus tours offering an unlimited hop-on, hop-off service, taking in the main sights of Manhattan. If you’re not happy with your tour guide (quality can vary), you can hop off the bus and wait another 15min for the next one.

Big Onion Walking Tours 212 439 1090, bigonion.com . Guided by history grad students from local universities, the venerable Big Onion specializes in tours with an ethnic and historical focus: pick one, or take the “Immigrant New York” tour and learn about everyone. Tours last about 2hr.

Harlem Heritage Tours 212 280 7888, harlemheritage.com . Local Neal Shoemaker runs cultural tours of this historic neighbourhood, ranging from Harlem Gospel to Harlem Renaissance-themed walking tours. The tours sometimes include food, a cultural performance, film clips and/or bus service.

Municipal Arts Society 212 935 3960, mas.org/tours . Opinionated, incredibly detailed historical and architectural tours in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens and the Bronx. They also offer free tours of Grand Central Terminal (Wed 12.30pm; from the information booth).

New Yorkers take their food very seriously, and are obsessed with new cuisines, new dishes and new restaurants. Certain areas hold pockets of ethnic restaurants, especially in the outer boroughs, but you can generally find whatever you want, wherever (and whenever) you want. You can also find examples of a recent trend, the food truck, scattered all around town, serving lobster rolls, Korean tacos and much more. Check @nycfoodtruck on Twitter locations.

New York’s best bars are, generally speaking, in Downtown Manhattan – the West and East villages, Soho and the Lower East Side – and in outer-borough hoods like Williamsburg, Red Hook and Long Island City. Most places serve food of some kind and have happy hours sometime between 4pm and 8pm during the week.

Top image: New York City with the Brooklyn Bridge © Taiga/Shutterstock

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10 of the Most Important Travel Safety Tips for New York City

New York City is one of the safest big cities in the country, but it’s still important for visitors to stay sharp and make smart decisions while exploring the Big Apple. The massive scope and crowded streets of the city can be intimidating, but you can navigate them like a pro by using common sense and following these travel safety tips.

Here’s everything you need to know to make sure your NYC trip is a success.

The Airport

Whether you land at JFK, LaGuardia, or Newark, the key to starting your trip off right is planning. Decide on your ground transportation plan before leaving your hometown. Make sure your luggage is easy to identify and manageable for you to carry on your own.

Don’t leave your bags unattended. If you have to visit the restroom, take everything with you and don’t be tempted to leave bags on the counter or near the door. Avoid strangers asking to carry your bags or anyone that offers you a deal on a ride that sounds too good to be true —  because it probably is.

Never get into an unmarked cab. All NYC taxicabs are clearly identified. The largest and most well-known fleet are yellow with a light on the roof that displays the cab driver’s medallion number. You can also spot the ID number on the hood. If you don’t see those three elements, move on. Outside Manhattan, look for light green Street Hail Livery taxis.

Other services like Lyft and Uber are also available, but since they aren’t regulated by the NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission, use them with caution. Know where you’re going before you get in and speak confidently to the driver. Always exit on the curbside, and keep an eye out for cyclists, pedestrians, and other vehicles. Don’t forget to tip, as stiffing a driver can get you involved in a heated altercation.

Accommodations in New York City

There are over 100,000 hotel rooms in New York City. Make sure you get a safe room by reading hotel reviews and finding out about the neighborhood where your room is located before making reservations. Choosing a hotel over alternative options (homestays, and couch surfing for example) is a much safer option considering they have a secured internet line, 24-hour security and a safe available.

Go straight to your hotel from the airport; you don’t want to have your luggage with you as you start to explore the city. Once in your room, put all valuables in the safe and get to know the front desk staff and the concierge. Never open your door without verifying who is on the other side. If you didn’t call housekeeping, don’t automatically let them in.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - New York

Walking the city.

New York is a great city for walking, but with so many people and so many things to look at, you need to take a few smart precautions. Stick to main streets and pathways and always cross at the intersection. Follow the traffic signals and pay attention to cars and cyclists. Be hyper-vigilant at night and stick to well-lit, populated streets.

Plot out your path before heading out — and stick to it. Take note of landmarks and cross streets that will help you get back to your room with ease. Save the heels for a night out on the town and opt for supportive shoes when exploring the city. If you get lost, seek out a police officer or shop owner to help you find your way.

The subway is an efficient, affordable way to get around, but you need to know what you’re doing.  Buy MetroCards only from approved vendors in the station. When you’re waiting for the train, always stand behind the yellow line on the platform and mind the gap.

Keep your limbs and possessions away from the doors—don’t try to hold them open. If you’re riding the subway late at night, try to get on the conductor’s car. This is usually a middle car, and there are signs on the platform to indicate the position of that car when each train arrives. Don’t move from car to car unless directed to do so.

Panhandlers

There will be panhandlers on the streets. Many have some truly sad stories, but most will be deterred with a single “sorry.” If you feel compelled to give, consider offering a MetroCard or some food instead of cash, and then quickly move on.

Beware of all the Disney and superhero characters in Times Square. Many of them are hustling for “tips.” If you’re traveling with small children, be sure to make a plan in advance to keep them from getting overexcited. Don’t take any pictures without permission, as the characters may demand payment.

Pickpockets

Don’t let a lifted wallet ruin your vacation. Keep your belongings close and pay attention to your surroundings. Women should consider a purse they can wear across their body, and everyone should keep things out of their back pockets.

Pay special attention to pickpockets working as teams—one will cause a disturbance while their partner takes advantage of the distraction to relieve bystanders of their valuables. Street performances often attract pickpockets. Make sure to pay attention to the people and actions around you when you stop to appreciate the local talent.

Best Areas To Explore

The good news is that most of New York City can be explored freely. Pretty much anywhere in Manhattan is going to be safe. The Financial District is full of hustle and bustle, adding to the sense of safety. Greenwich Village has charming, winding streets lined with brownstones and tucked-away dining spots.

Chelsea is a great place to experience the New York art scene and big-city nightlife at its best. Midtown and Times Square are crowded, but because they’re such popular areas they are well-patrolled and great spots for tourists. If you want to get a taste of New York’s most interesting cuisine and aren’t afraid of public transportation, Queens and Brooklyn have to be on your list.

Spots To Watch Out For

New York City is safer than ever, but there are still some neighborhoods you might want to skip— especially after the sun goes down. Alphabet City and the Lower East Side should be explored with caution. Hell’s Kitchen is still known for muggings, and areas like Brownsville and Hunts Point still struggle with high violent crime rates and prostitution.

Most of these areas aren’t tourist hot spots, so they’re easy to avoid. If you do want to venture into some of these neighborhoods, be sure to do it during the day and know exactly where you are going. These aren’t the best places to wander aimlessly.

Don't Sweat The Small Stuff

The  last thing you want to do is suck all the fun out of your vacation  by worrying about everything that can go wrong. Here are some things you can relax about.

• It’s a friendly city:  The Big Apple is full of friendly people who are usually happy to help out with directions or a dinner recommendation.
• Technology is there to help you:  Thanks to smartphones and other helpful travel gadgets, it’s easier than ever to plan a vacation, find your way, and stay safe. Check out  interactive crime maps  to find the safest places in the city and use your GPS to get from Point A to Point B.
• Don’t be afraid to explore:  The Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building are definitely worth checking out, but it’s okay to venture off the usual tourist path. Use common sense and these safety tips to help you branch out with confidence.

Traveling to  New York City is exciting , and we know you want to squeeze every ounce of pleasure out of your trip. You’ll be able to make memories that will last a lifetime when you approach your travel with safety smarts. Now that you know how to navigate the city safely, upgrade your safety level with the best safety products out there for people on the go.

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Along the banks of the East River in Brooklyn, the yellow letters of Domino Sugar crown a landmark building with origins in 1856. This is the Domino Sugar Factory. 240-feet tall, it is known by every Brooklyner: its iconic, red-brick frame unmissable. 20 years ago, it stopped refining sugar. In 2024, it has been remade into an office building. Below it, the newly built park that shares its name is a bright swath of green on the waterfront. Historically industrial, currently rejuvenated: this is today’s Brooklyn . In April 2024, the MICHELIN Guide announced its very first MICHELIN Keys , a distinction — like the MICHELIN Star for restaurants — that denotes the most outstanding hotels in the world. In Brooklyn, three hotels gained Keys. A decade ago, it would have been unthinkable. But today, parts of Brooklyn rival even the glitziest corners of Manhattan. Williamsburg is as trendy and teeming with energy as the East Village. Little neighborhoods like Boerum Hill are thriving with antique stores and coffee shops, like Greenwich Village with more elbow room. Dumbo is a historic waterfront with almost no comparison The very best hotels in these neighborhoods — the Key award winners — are grounded in Brooklyn history. We mean that literally. The building that hosts the Wythe once made sugar barrels for the Domino Factory. At the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge , reclaimed pine from that same landmark now serves as tables and benches around the lobby and guest rooms. Spread between three distinct neighborhoods, the Key hotels in Brooklyn are mainstays of their communities, full to the brim with work by local artists, multiple bars and restaurants, other common spaces, and magnificent bedrooms that reflect the fantasy version of how the locals live — and with much better views. In other words, these hotels simply feel like Brooklyn.

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Most of the action is in the lobby — a bustling room packed with dark decor that serves as the office space for dozens of Brooklyners on their laptops. At night, it becomes a swanky bar filled with dates and friends lounging on leather couches. On the same floor is As You Are, an American restaurant with its own a bakery window for grab and go breakfast — as well as a surprising little garden nook, a bonus space for reading or sipping.

The immediate block of Schermerhorn Street that hosts the Ace is more of a thoroughfare than a destination outside of the hotel, but it’s a short walk from some of the most charming neighborhoods (Boerum Hill, Cobble Hill, Brooklyn Heights) in Brooklyn, and steps from A, C, and G subway stations that make it a breeze to head elsewhere in Brooklyn or Manhattan.

Restaurants Nearby:  Mile End , Fradei , Miss Ada , Saint Julivert Fisherie Book Ace Hotel Brooklyn with The MICHELIN Guide →

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Foreclosure sale of elvis’ graceland paused after granddaughter riley keough files suit against ‘fraudulent’ company.

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These guys stepped on the wrong blue suede shoes.

A Memphis judge halted a planned foreclosure sale of  Elvis Presley’s iconic Graceland home  during a brief hearing Wednesday morning.

Chancellor JoeDae Jenkins ruled the historic Tennessee property should stay in the hands of the Presley family after suspicious minds questioned dubious documents handing it over to an investment company, which appear to have been forged.

In an audacious move, a company named Naussany Investments and Private Lending LLC got the local community “All Shook Up” by claiming the right to auction off Graceland — voted the most popular museum in America in 2023.

They even set a public auction for Thursday to sell the property to the “highest and best bidder for cash,” per the foreclosure notice.

The company’s claim to the property states it had loaned $3.8 million to Lisa Marie Presley — Elvis’ only daughter — and she had  offered Graceland as collateral  before her death in January last year.

A lawsuit filed Monday by Lisa Marie’s eldest daughter and heir, Riley Keough stated the documents were a fraud, her mother’s signature on them was forged and the company itself was a “false entity” set up to defraud the estate, which attracts 500,000 visitors annually.

The papers described how a deed of trust presented by the company, purportedly signing Graceland over to them, had apparently been signed by Lisa Marie in the presence of a woman named Kimberly Philbrick, who then notarized it as genuine.

However, Philbrick provided a document to Keough’s team which stated: “I have never met Lisa Marie Presley, nor have I ever notarized a document signed [by her].”

Eager to avoid a potential great rock ‘n’ roll swindle and Elvis’ home and final resting place falling into the wrong hands, Jenkins said Thursday’s sale must be postponed until clear evidence of who owns it is presented.

“The estate is considered unique under Tennessee law, and in being unique, the loss of the real estate will be considered irreparable harm [to the Presley family],” Jenkins ruled.

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Naussany Investments — which lists its address as PO boxes in Florida and Missouri — will now have to prove their claims in court.

However, one of the men believed to be behind the company, Gregory Naussany, appeared to backtrack later Wednesday.

The Memphis Commercial Appeal newspaper obtained an email from Naussany, which read: “Due to the Deed of Trust not being recorded and the loan being obtained in different state, legal action would have to be filed in multiple states and NAUSSANY Investments & Private Lending will not acquire to proceed [sic].

“There was no harm meant on Ms. Keough for her mothers [Lisa Marie Presley’s] mis habits and mis managing of money. The company will be withdrawing all claims with prejudice.”

Legal eagles said they felt it likely the company is trying to pull a fast one and effectively steal Graceland — which generates over $10m annually from tourists, according to its website — from under its true owners’ noses.

Cindy Ettingoff, an attorney not affiliated with the case, said it’s “fairly easy to register a deed” if a fake signature isn’t caught, then transfer it to someone else.

She told  Memphis’ WREG-TV : “I could say I’m going to take your house, your title, I’m going to claim that it’s your signature on [the deed] transferring title to me. Once I have the title, I don’t want to get caught … so I’m going to sell it to someone else, take the money, and I will go on to the next place.”

Graceland has been a fixture in Memphis since Elvis bought the estate in 1957 for $102,500, the same year he released the hits “Blue Christmas” and “All Shook Up.”

Spanning 14 acres, the estate is preserved as it was when Elvis died there in 1977. 

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9 Things To Do In Buffalo: Complete Guide To Historic New York

B uffalo, New York, is famous for its infamous winters, raucous table-breaking sports fans, and as the USA’s gateway to Niagara Falls. This city also sits intimately close to two of the great lakes making the city almost a home base for exploring its incredible environment. However, there is still much to do in the City.

Travelers looking to visit Buffalo may not have the best idea of where to start or what the city has to offer. Some plan their trips solely around visiting the falls but there is so much more to the city than that. Here is a look at a guide to historic Buffalo, New York.

UPDATE: 2023/07/11 18:48 EST BY NICHOLAS MAYAMBA

The Ultimate Travel Guide To Historic Buffalo, New York

Buffalo, New York is a top travel destination for history buffs, but there's plenty more to see here. The updated guide includes more things to do, tips, and photos.

Things To Do In Buffalo

There are so many incredible sights to check out around Buffalo besides Niagara Falls . Here is a look at three that travelers can't miss out on.

Take A Day Trip To The Great Lakes

Being so close to both Lake Erie and Lake Ontario , travelers spending some time in Buffalo should make a day trip out of visiting either lake.

Each lake is bordered by national and state parkland that is well-preserved and open for travelers to explore. The great lakes are always an incredible destination.

Lake Erie is about 140 miles from Buffalo. While there are multiple ways to reach the site, the cheapest option is to take the bus, which costs $26-$70 and lasts just over 6 hours.

Visit Niagara Falls

Buffalo serves as the US gateway to the stunning sight of Niagara Falls. Some travelers come to Buffalo just for the purpose of experiencing these legendary falls .

With so many accommodations and view platforms around the attraction, tourists will have an easy time finding the view they are looking for.

• Hours: Open all year round, 24/7
• Cost: From $172.38 per adult

There are two ways to view the Niagara Falls. Guests can choose between the Maid of the Mist and Journey Behind the Falls tours. However, the falls are inaccessible during winter due to harsh weather, hence summer would be the best time to visit the venue.

Stroll Along Canalside Buffalo

Travelers looking for a relaxing walk through a happening outdoor market should take a walk along Buffalo’s Canalside.

Here, travelers can explore 21 waterfront acres with the best views of the surrounding city and many wonderful little things to discover.

And just outside Buffalo is an amazing piece of history to visit: a prehistoric park for fossil finding .

• Admission : $5
• Hours : 9 am - 10 pm

Summer is an excellent time to visit Canalside Buffalo; the venue hosts major concerts that visitors will be thrilled to attend.

Enjoy A Broadway Show At Shea’s Performing Arts Center

Shea’s Performing Arts Center is a historic venue in Buffalo that holds various live performances. Established in 1926 to show silent movies, the center was saved from destruction when community leaders applied to list it on the National Historic Registry. Today, it hosts different special events, including touring Broadway troupes.

Thanks to continuous renovations, the venue boasts an exquisite interior, highlighted by a lavish stage, plush red seats, and a colored ceiling. Locals and tourists alike converge here to enjoy comedy, music, and Broadway shows.

• Tickets : Range from $90 - $110
• Hours : Summer: Monday to Thursday, 10 am-5: pm, Friday, 10a m-2 pm. Fall/Winter/Spring: Monday to Friday: 10 am-5 pm, Saturday, 10 am-2 pm

Besides watching the live shows, take advantage of Shea’s historic tours to learn about the historical and cultural significance of the venue to the community.

Admire Buffalo City Hall

Despite being built after the First World War, Buffalo City Hall remains an iconic feature in the city’s skyline thanks to its gorgeous design. Rising to 32 stories, the structure boasts intricate geometric details that separate it from other buildings in the area.

It also has over 1500 windows offering 360-degree views of Buffalo’s downtown and beyond, acting as the perfect vantage point for sightseers.

On the 28th floor of the building, visitors can take in panoramic views of Lake Erie and the Buffalo River at the observation deck. Located along Niagara Square, Buffalo City Hall is a must-visit for first-timers.

• Admissions : Free
• Hours : Monday to Friday, 9 am - 4 pm

The observation deck is free to access and tourists can make the most of a guided tour at noon daily.

Tour The Frank Lloyd Wright’s Darwin D. Martin House Complex

The Darwin D. Martin House Complex is a fine site for those interested in the city’s backstory. Designed by the famous architect Lloyd Wright for the New York entrepreneur, it offers a glimpse into the past lifestyle of middle-class America. The complex features the main house, conservatory, pergola, carriage house, and a Wisteria Museum Shop.

It is a fabulous venue for tourists to explore and admire the structure's subtle design features. Built in the 1900s, the complex has been renovated to its former grandeur, impressing visitors with its unique aura.

• Admission : $12.50 for an hour-long tour and $27.50 for a two-hour tour
• Hours : Wednesday to Monday, 10 am - 3 pm

See First Niagara Center

A short distance from the Frank Lloyd Writght’s Darwin D. Martin House Complex is the Buffalo Zoo (more on this to come), another top attraction worth a visit.

Buffalo is a sports city and one of its crown jewels is the Buffalo Sabres, which plies its trade in the National Hockey League. Every game day, hockey fans gather at the First Niagara Center, home of the Buffalo Sabres, to support their local team, The 19,070-capacity stadium stages exciting ice hockey games that aptly complement the buzzing atmosphere.

Besides hockey, the arena holds various concerts and events, with top acts like Justin Timberlake and Trans-Siberian Orchestra performing. Whether a hockey fan or not, the otherworldly atmosphere of the stadium when full is worth experiencing.

Visit the First Niagara Center website for scheduled games/events, times, and ticket prices.

Check Out The Buffalo Zoo

After Niagara Falls, the Buffalo Zoo is the most sought-after attraction in Western New York, welcoming around 400,000 visitors. The magnificent facility was established in 1875 and sits on a 23.5-acre property in Delaware Park. It houses over 320 species of plants with exotic animals from around the globe, including polar bears, tigers, and gorillas.

Animal lovers flock here to interact with the various zoo residents. Aside from admiring the creatures, the zoo offers different educational programs on conservation that go a long way in preserving and improving the animal kingdom.

Be One With Nature At The Buffalo And Erie County Botanical Gardens

Those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city will feel at home visiting the Buffalo Botanical Gardens. This lush complex offers one of the best forms of natural beauty first-timers can find in the city, and the harmonious environment is perfect for unwinding after a long day.

The gardens are home to vast species of plants and flowers from around the globe. With over 140,000 guests visiting the venue annually, the facility is a proven tourist magnet that newcomers will find interesting. Whether looking to meditate, reflect, or seek spiritual healing, the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens are worth a stop.

For those looking to learn more about plant preservation, the gardens host insightful workshops, educational programs, and special events that will suit them perfectly.

Elmwood Village is a quaint suburb in Buffalo where visitors can experience the strong bond of the local community. The delightful neighborhood boasts all kinds of businesses, providing tourists with great dining, shopping, and entertainment. Shopaholics can stop at venues like Her Story, Blush, and Half & Half Boutique for much-needed retail therapy.

Meanwhile, restaurants like Mister Goodbar, Kuni’s, and Vera Pizzeria spoil guests with sumptuous servings of local and international cuisines, including the iconic Buffalo wings . There is so much to see and do in Elmwood Village; vacationers will need to clear their itinerary to fully experience the neighborhood.

Art enthusiasts should stop by the Burchfield Penny Art Center while in Elmwood Village to sample one of the best art collections in Western New York.

When To Visit Buffalo

Visiting Buffalo is best done during the Summer months, from June to August. These may be the busiest times in Buffalo but the summer weather in the city is hard to beat.

This is in contrast to Buffalo’s infamous winter months. Travelers looking to dodge the crowds may want to try late September, the weather is still holding up, the colors start to change, and there's plenty to do during the fall season .

What To Know When Visiting

When visiting Buffalo, travelers may not be aware of the city's multiple neighborhoods. When trying to their destination, travelers should make sure to get their neighborhoods right, so they don’t end up in the wrong place.

To help travelers keep the neighborhoods straight, here is a link to a map of the city’s neighborhoods .

Best Ways To Get Around The City

Buffalo is a large city with many people moving around at once. It is the home to a serviceable metro and is also a walkable city.

Taxi, Uber, Or Lyft!

Those that don’t mind paying a little extra to get where they're going quickly, will be able to rely on having both Uber and Lyft available as well as conventional taxis.

Getting around Buffalo this way isn’t a problem at all.

Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA)

Travelers looking to make use of public transit will be able to make use of the bus and rail systems that are all part of the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) . The city’s metro runs along Main Street from Key Bank Center to the South Campus of Buffalo University.

It is important to know that the train is free for the above-ground section. Travelers will be able to find a bus to get anywhere else.

Walking and Cycling

Travelers arriving during the summer months may want to know if the city is walkable or ridable. According to Walkscore.com Buffalo is a moderate to good walking city .

The same could be said about its riding score. As long as the weather is nice, it is quite easy to get around Buffalo walking or on a bike.

Where To Stay

Looking to spend a day or two in Buffalo? Here is a look at the best places to stay during a traveler's stay in the city.

Wyndham Garden Buffalo Downtown

Travelers looking for excellent value should check out Wyndham Garden Buffalo Downtown . This hotel is found on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus and was newly renovated in 2018.

It is easy to access the rest of Buffalo from this hotel with Canalside, HarborCenter, KeyBank Center, New Era Field, Sahlen Field, Shea's Theatre, and Buffalo Seneca Creek Casino all just minutes away.

• Accommodation: Wyndham Garden Buffalo Downtown
• Address - 125 High St, Buffalo, NY 14203-1153
• Amenities - Parking, Free Wi-Fi, Fitness Center with Gym / Workout Room, Free shuttle or taxi services, Business Center with Internet Access, Concierge, Airport Transportation, Shuttle bus, service, Photocopier/fax In the business center, Convenience store
• Non-smoking hotel, 24-hour front desk, Self-serve laundry

Hampton Inn & Suites Buffalo Downtown

Travelers looking for an unforgettable experience should stay at Hampton Inn & Suites Buffalo Downtown .

Offering incredible accommodations and being just two blocks from the NFTA metro, and eight minutes from KeyBank Center and Canalside, this is a great hotel for exploring buffalo.

• Accommodation: Hampton Inn & Suites Buffalo Downtown
• Address - 220 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14202
• Amenities - Paid public parking on-site, Free High-Speed Internet (Wi-Fi), Pool, Fitness Center with Gym / Workout Room, Free breakfast, Babysitting, Pets Allowed (Dog / Pet Friendly), Business Center with Internet Access

Hyatt Regency Buffalo / Hotel and Conference Center

Located at the heart of Buffalo’s theater and financial districts, this newly renovated hotel has a little bit of everything including a full-service spa.

All of this and the Hyatt Regency Buffalo is just steps from the Chippewa Entertainment District, Elmwood Village, and a variety of restaurants and shops.

• Accommodation: Hyatt Regency Buffalo
• Address - 2 Fountain Plaza, Buffalo, NY 14202-2290
• Amenities - Valet parking, Free High-Speed Internet (Wi-Fi), Fitness Center with Gym / Workout Room, Bar/Lounge, Pets Allowed (Dog/Pet Friendly), Business Center with Internet Access, Conference facilities, Baggage storage

Where To Eat

Buffalo is one of the best foodie destinations in Upstate New York with many choices for visiting travelers. Here is a look at just a few.

Paula's Donuts

Travelers looking to start their day with a sweet treat and a coffee should make a stop by Paula’s Donuts, they won’t regret it.

Established in 1996, Paula’s has been cooking up freshly baked donuts for their community for nearly three decades.

• Address - 2319 Sheridan Drive Tonawanda, Buffalo, NY 14150
• Contact - 716-862-4246
• Fan-Favorite - Cannoli and Cookie Dough

Pearl Street Grill & Brewery

Travelers looking for some traditional American flavors as well as the local tastes of Buffalo should check out Pearl Street Grill & Brewery.

This is a great spot to enjoy some local food while in Buffalo.

• Address - 76 Pearl St, Buffalo, NY 14224-1718
• Contact - (716)856-2337
• Cost - $$-$$$
• Fan-Favorite - Panko breaded fish

Bacchus Wine Bar & Restaurant

Named after the Greek god of wine, this is the place travelers want to go to spend an evening enjoying fine dining and fine wine .

Refusing to compromise, they always have the freshest possible ingredients. Their incredible service can also be counted on.

• Address - 54 W Chippewa St, Buffalo, NY 14202-2206
• Contact - (716)854-9463
• Cost - $$$$
• Fan-Favorite - Tuna Tartar

Spend A Perfect Day In Buffalo

It would start with Paula’s Donuts of course, but from that point, there are a few options. But for the perfect day, travelers should get to Niagara Falls early. Do this in the morning and beat the crowds.

Perhaps travelers will want to spend more time than just the morning but with just one day, they should return to Buffalo for a late lunch at the Pearl Street Grill before taking a walk along Canalside.

Once it starts to get into the evening, travelers should head to Bacchus Wine Bar & Restaurant for the remainder of their evening. That would be a perfect day in Buffalo, New York.

Q: How Does Buffalo Compare With Syracuse, NY?

Both cities offer something a little bit different to travelers, but for those looking for big attractions like Niagara Falls or exploration of the Great Lakes, Buffalo offers a bit more. Syracuse, on the other hand, is a smaller city a few hours east, with better access to the Finger Lakes region and the Capital Region.

Q: How Does Buffalo Compare with Ithaca, NY?

These two cities are incredibly different. Buffalo is a large happening city with hundreds of thousands of residents. That is not the case with Ithaca. Ithaca is a much more quiet and more aesthetic city sitting right on the Finger Lakes of Upstate New York.

Buffalo is a busy place sitting on the doorstep of one of the natural wonders of North America. They are both great destinations, it just depends on what travelers are looking for.

Q: Is There Really Anything Else To See In Buffalo Other Than Niagara Falls

Yes, there is quite a bit to do in Buffalo than just going to see Niagara Falls. In fact, for many who visit the city often, Niagara Falls no longer appears on their itineraries. Buffalo is home to a great food scene, active outdoor events and venues, a bit of theater, and a great deal of passion for their sports. There is so much more to Buffalo than just Niagara Falls .

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Help! Our Cruise Operator Went Bankrupt and We Are Out $17,905.

A couple purchased an Arabian Sea voyage, but Vantage, the cruise company, went under. Their travel insurance was supposed to cover financial default, but the claim was repeatedly denied.

By Seth Kugel

Dear Tripped Up,

In September 2022, I booked a 17-day Arabian Sea cruise through Vantage Travel Services to celebrate my 80th birthday with my wife. The cruise was to set sail in October 2023. I used my credit card to leave a $2,000 deposit and paid the remaining $17,905 shortly afterward by bank transfer. I also bought the Worldwide Trip Protector plan from Travel Insured International (for $1,954), in part because it covered financial default and bankruptcy of cruise lines. Vantage then canceled the cruise and offered me an alternative date I could not make; I also declined their offer of credit and asked for a refund, which they agreed to. But no refund ever came, and they stopped answering the phone. My credit card returned the $2,000, and I filed an insurance claim for $17,905. It was denied, as was my first appeal. Then Vantage filed for bankruptcy, and my second appeal was denied too. The reasons given by the insurer were outrageous. They cited a vague parenthetical phrase in the policy’s bankruptcy clause, claiming I wasn’t covered because I purchased the cruise directly from the cruise line (rather than, say, through a travel adviser). Then they said my policy lapsed when I canceled the trip. But I did not cancel; Vantage did. I also filed a complaint with the New York State Department of Financial Services, which was rejected. Can you help? Michael, Smithtown, N.Y.

Dear Michael,

When Boston-based Vantage filed for bankruptcy last year, it owed thousands of customers a total of $108 million for cruises and other travel products they had paid for but never received. The company’s former owner is facing lawsuits in New York and Pennsylvania. But you had purchased an insurance policy to cover just such a risk, a smart move. Or so you thought until the insurance company, Travel Insured International, denied your claim and then used exasperating logic to fend off your two appeals, first interpreting the policy’s financial default and bankruptcy clause in a maddening way and then twisting the meaning of the word “cancel.”

You made a few mistakes as well — most notably, by making a claim based on a financial default that had not yet happened. But after speaking with law professors, insurance experts and competing insurance companies, I believe Travel Insured International was wrong, at least by the time of your second appeal, and should pay up.

What does it have to say for itself? For nearly five months, Travel Insured International and its parent company, Crum & Forster, did not respond to my detailed inquiries. Days before publication, however, a spokeswoman, Amy Whilldin, sent the following statement:

“The claim was properly considered, and the correct determination was made based on the facts of this claim, which was to the satisfaction of both the New York Department of Financial Services and the New York State attorney general.”

Ms. Whilldin is correct about the state’s financial services department . An examiner with the department, which regulates the insurance industry, rejected your complaint. “After a review of the policy language," he wrote, “we do not find they are acting in an arbitrary or capricious manner,” referring to Travel Insured International. I disagree with that determination, as we are about to get into.

But the attorney general’s office was not satisfied. You had complained to its Department of Consumer Frauds and Protection, and they did not receive a response from the company. “Despite our repeated efforts,” an employee wrote, “they have failed to respond.” The letter goes on to recommend you consider suing the company.

I have a better idea. You should file a formal grievance with Travel Insured International, which under your policy allows you to submit new evidence, and if that fails even argue your case in person. (You told me you are not interested in a third option, to accept travel credits under the conditions offered by the Australian company that bought Vantage’s assets.)

In the meantime, your story provides great lessons on how travelers should choose the appropriate travel insurance policy, and what can go wrong even when they do.

In your initial claim to Travel Insured International, filed in late 2022, you cited Vantage’s “very poor record” in refunding its customers and your “assumption that the company is in default in making payments.”

This was an error: Your policy defines financial default as “the total cessation of operations,” and Vantage at the time was running at least some cruises. Travel Insured International’s response simply said that “your travel supplier canceling your trip is not a covered reason.” True.

When you first appealed in April, Vantage was two months short of declaring bankruptcy outright, and was not yet in financial default as defined by the policy. But it was teetering. (That one of its cruises left at all made headlines in The Boston Globe .) This time, Travel Insured International denied your claim, citing the bankruptcy clause, which protects policy holders in case of “Bankruptcy or default of an airline, cruise line, tour operator or other travel provider (other than the Travel Supplier, tour operator, travel agency, organization or firm from whom you purchased your travel arrangements).”

That parenthetical says you are not covered if the organization that sold you the cruise goes bankrupt. You purchased the cruise directly from Vantage, so you are not covered, according to the claims adjuster’s reasoning. (Why the company even cited this clause, if the cruise line was not yet in default, remains a mystery.)

Similar clauses appear in many travel policies, but that’s not what they’re supposed to mean, said Loretta Worters, vice president for media relations at the Insurance Information Institute , an industry group.

Such provisions, she explained, are intended to exclude coverage for an unscrupulous or financially flailing middleman that goes belly-up after collecting your money but before passing it along to the actual travel provider.

“Some of these are fly-by-night, travel-agencies-in-their-kitchen kinds of things,” Ms. Worters said. ( We encountered one such agency in a previous Tripped Up column .)

Guess who agreed with Ms. Worters: The agent who answered the phone when I called Travel Insured International’s customer care line as a potential customer. I asked about the clause and she agreed it was ambiguous, checking with a supervisor before saying: “If you are booking directly with the company and the company itself goes under default or bankruptcy, you would be able to file a claim for the nonrefundable portion of your trip.”

Ms. Whilldin, the spokeswoman for Travel Insured International, did not specifically answer my question about this apparent conflict. But it seems their claims adjuster made a mistake, aided by the ambiguous language of the underwriter who wrote the policy. (That’s United States Fire Insurance, another Crum & Forster company.)

Now, let’s discuss the second appeal. “Once you cancel your trip, the coverage under the plan ends,” Travel Insured International said. Your argument is that you did not cancel; Vantage did.

I think almost anyone who isn’t a lawyer would agree with you. But Oren Bar-Gill , a professor at Harvard Law School and the author of “Seduction by Contract: Law, Economics and Psychology in Consumer Markets,” explained to me the opposing argument. Vantage was contractually allowed to change the dates or offer credit, and you refused, the equivalent of canceling.

But, he added, when Vantage agreed to refund your cruise, it could be “considered a waiver of their contractual rights,” weakening the argument that you canceled your contract.

In a lawsuit New York State filed against the now-defunct Vantage and its former owner, Henry Lewis, the issue also comes up: The suit says Vantage “deceptively” mislabeled cancellations as “postponements.”

Even Travel Insured International admitted that Vantage had canceled, in its original letter rejecting your claim. “It is our understanding that your travel supplier, Vantage, canceled your cruise,” the claims adjuster wrote. Somehow, however, by the third response you had gone from cancelee to canceler.

You also missed a red flag when you chose your policy. Suzanne Morrow, the chief executive of InsureMyTrip , where you found your plan, told me you called the company within minutes of your purchase and asked an agent to point you to the bankruptcy clause. (You confirmed this to me.)

That means you’re not the typical insurance customer blindsided by small print you never read. If you were so concerned about the cruise line’s solvency, you could have canceled your plan during the insurer’s “free look” period and chosen one with more straightforward language — I found several on the InsureMyTrip website.

What lessons can we take away from your debacle?

To begin with, pay for everything with a credit card when your credit limit allows. Because of an odd quirk in a 1974 law , card issuers are required to reimburse you if the company you interacted with goes bankrupt.

Beyond that, the basic advice for travel insurance remains unchanged: Shop for a plan separately through a provider you trust or an aggregator like InsureMyTrip, rather than adding trip protection by checking a box just before you purchase a big-ticket item. Read the policy summaries fully and click through to the actual policy document to read fine print on issues that concern you most (say, bankruptcy protection or medical coverage for pre-existing conditions).

If you don’t understand anything, call the company. If it cannot answer satisfactorily and follow up in writing, choose another provider.

If you need advice about a best-laid travel plan that went awry, send an email to [email protected] .

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Seth Kugel is the columnist for “ Tripped Up ,” an advice column that helps readers navigate the often confusing world of travel. More about Seth Kugel

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Everyday Cheapskate: Yes, you can have a stress-free family vacation with this guide

• Published: May. 22, 2024, 12:00 p.m.

How to have a stress-free family vacation. (Getty Images) Getty Images

• Everyday Cheapskate

Family vacations can be either delightful or disastrous -- it depends greatly on your attitude and the care you devote to research and planning.

But first, a few basic guidelines ...

ADJUST YOUR ATTITUDE. Here is the first rule of family vacations: Parents on vacation really aren’t. If you can unload personal expectations that you will be relaxed and refreshed when it’s over, you won’t be disappointed when you’re not. And if you do get a little R&R along the way, consider it an unexpected bonus.

BE REALISTIC ABOUT THE COST. Decide ahead of time how much cash you have for this vacation. If you have, say, a family of five and $500 to spend, don’t even think about a couple of days at Walt Disney World. Always consider the money you have first, then design a vacation that will realistically fit within that financial boundary.

BE REALISTIC ABOUT TIME. Don’t try to stretch your available cash to cover the maximum time you have to be away from home. Divide what you can spend by a reasonable daily budget to determine how many days you can be gone. Carefully consider all the costs, not only the admission fees and overnight accommodations. Instead of full weeks, consider day trips or a weekend vacation. When it comes to family vacations, quality is considerably more important than quantity.

SINGLE PARENTS. It is really tough to go it alone. If you have more than one child, full vacation responsibility can be overwhelming. You need help, so consider staying with relatives or traveling with a group. Sharing the trip with another single-parent family with kids the same age can reduce costs significantly. It will relieve your anxiety and stress, too.

INVOLVE THE KIDS. If everyone is involved in making the plans and saving the money, you will prevent lots of problems. Let the kids have a say in where you will go. Talk about how much money you can spend. Show the kids what it costs to eat in a restaurant, spend the night in a hotel or buy tickets for the amusement park. In many locations, Groupon is your friend! Look at travel guides to find the best bargains for the amenities you agree on. Encourage everyone in the family to think of ways to cut back to allow more money for activities or what you have decided is top priority.

ENVELOPE METHOD. There’s nothing like a good visual to keep a vacation based in reality. Large colorful envelopes are ideal, one for each day to hold that day’s allotted cash. Design the outside for the spending record so you can keep track of where the money is going.

LIVING HISTORY MUSEUMS. There are hundreds of living history museums around the country where the past seems as real as the present and learning is a joyous adventure. Spring and summer are the best times to visit because of the many special children’s programs and family events. Many can be seen in an afternoon, while others might require the entire weekend. Start with a virtual tour of wonderful places like the Jamestown Settlement in Williamsburg, Virginia, The Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan, and Conner Prairie in Fishers, Indiana, to name just a few. You can find hours of operation, entrance fees and programs they offer currently.

Whether you will travel this summer or design a stay-at-home vacation, it’s not too early to start planning. Besides, half the fun is the anticipation!

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Mary invites you to visit her at EverydayCheapskate.com , where this column is archived complete with links and resources for all recommended products and services. Mary invites questions and comments at “ Ask Mary .” This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of EverydayCheapskate.com , a frugal living blog, and the author of the book “Debt-Proof Living.”

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