New York City Travel Guide
Overview
New York City is one of the world's most dynamic destinations, where towering skyscrapers meet historic neighborhoods, and world-class museums sit alongside cutting-edge restaurants. Whether you're visiting for the first time or the fiftieth, NYC always has something new to discover.
The city's five boroughs each have their own distinct character. Manhattan is home to iconic landmarks like Times Square, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. Brooklyn offers trendy neighborhoods, artisanal food scenes, and stunning waterfront views. Queens is the most diverse borough with incredible international cuisine. The Bronx boasts the famous zoo and botanical gardens, while Staten Island provides a quieter escape with the free ferry offering spectacular views of the Statue of Liberty.
New York's energy is unmatched. From the moment you step onto the bustling streets, you're immersed in a city that truly never sleeps. The subway runs 24/7, restaurants serve at all hours, and there's always something happening - a Broadway show, a gallery opening, a street festival, or a rooftop party.
The city's cultural diversity is its greatest strength. You can eat authentic food from virtually any country, hear dozens of languages spoken on a single subway car, and experience neighborhoods that feel like different worlds. This melting pot creates an atmosphere of constant innovation and creativity that permeates everything from the arts to technology to finance.
Where to Stay
Manhattan - Midtown
Perfect for first-time visitors who want to be in the heart of the action. You'll be walking distance to Times Square, Broadway theaters, and major attractions. Expect to pay premium prices but save on transportation.
Hotels in Midtown put you within walking distance of iconic landmarks. The Theater District means you can catch a Broadway show and walk back to your hotel. Rockefeller Center, the Museum of Modern Art, and Fifth Avenue shopping are all nearby. The area is well-connected by multiple subway lines, making it easy to explore other parts of the city.
The downside is that Midtown can feel touristy and crowded, especially around Times Square. Prices are higher here than in other neighborhoods. Street noise can be an issue, so request a room on a higher floor away from the street. Despite these drawbacks, the convenience factor makes Midtown an excellent base for first-time visitors who want to maximize their sightseeing time.
Manhattan - Lower Manhattan/Financial District
Great for business travelers and those who want to explore the 9/11 Memorial, Wall Street, and have easy access to Brooklyn via the Brooklyn Bridge. Generally quieter at night than Midtown.
The Financial District has transformed in recent years from a business-only area to a vibrant residential neighborhood. You'll find excellent restaurants, rooftop bars with stunning views, and easy access to the waterfront. The area is quieter on weekends when office workers aren't around, which can be a plus or minus depending on your preferences.
Staying here puts you close to Battery Park, where you can catch ferries to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The 9/11 Memorial and Museum are deeply moving experiences that shouldn't be missed. The neighborhood also offers some of the best views of the Brooklyn Bridge, especially at sunset. Hotels here often offer better value than Midtown, and you're still well-connected by subway to the rest of Manhattan.
Manhattan - Upper East/West Side
More residential feel with proximity to Central Park, Museum Mile, and Lincoln Center. Better value than Midtown with a more local vibe.
The Upper East Side is known for its elegance and sophistication. Museum Mile along Fifth Avenue includes the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim, and several other world-class museums. The neighborhood has excellent restaurants, upscale shopping, and beautiful tree-lined streets. It feels more like a neighborhood than a tourist destination.
The Upper West Side has a more laid-back, intellectual vibe. It's home to Lincoln Center, the American Museum of Natural History, and Columbia University. The neighborhood has great restaurants, cozy cafes, and easy access to Central Park. Both areas offer a glimpse into how New Yorkers actually live, with local grocery stores, dry cleaners, and neighborhood bars alongside the tourist attractions.
Brooklyn - Williamsburg/DUMBO
Trendy neighborhoods with amazing restaurants, bars, and stunning Manhattan skyline views. Great for younger travelers and those seeking a more authentic NYC experience.
Williamsburg has evolved from an industrial area to one of NYC's hippest neighborhoods. You'll find vintage shops, artisanal coffee roasters, craft breweries, and some of the city's best restaurants. The neighborhood has a creative, artistic vibe with street art, independent galleries, and live music venues. The waterfront offers spectacular views of Manhattan, especially at sunset.
DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) is known for its cobblestone streets, converted warehouses, and Instagram-worthy views of the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges. The neighborhood has upscale restaurants, boutique shops, and Brooklyn Bridge Park with its waterfront promenades and recreational facilities. Staying in Brooklyn gives you a different perspective on NYC and often better value than Manhattan hotels.
Long Island City, Queens
Increasingly popular with excellent hotels at better prices than Manhattan. Just one subway stop from Midtown with great views of the Manhattan skyline.
Long Island City has undergone massive development in recent years, with new hotels, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The neighborhood offers some of the best views of the Manhattan skyline, especially from Gantry Plaza State Park. You're just minutes from Midtown Manhattan via the 7 train or the E/M trains, making it incredibly convenient.
Hotels here are often newer and offer more space for your money compared to Manhattan. The neighborhood has a growing food scene with everything from food halls to upscale restaurants. MoMA PS1, a contemporary art institution, is located here, along with several other galleries. It's a great option for travelers who want easy access to Manhattan without paying Manhattan prices.
Top Attractions
Central Park (Free)
843 acres of green space in the heart of Manhattan. Don't miss Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, and the Central Park Zoo. Best visited early morning or late afternoon.
Central Park is NYC's backyard, offering a peaceful escape from the urban chaos. The park has distinct areas, each with its own character. The southern end near Columbus Circle is more manicured and crowded, while the northern sections offer a wilder, more secluded experience.
Key spots include Bethesda Terrace with its beautiful fountain and views of the lake, Bow Bridge (one of the most photographed spots in the park), Strawberry Fields (the John Lennon memorial), and the Conservatory Garden (a formal garden that's especially beautiful in spring). The park also has several playgrounds, sports facilities, and the Loeb Boathouse where you can rent rowboats.
Visit early morning to see the park at its most peaceful, with joggers and dog walkers but few tourists. Late afternoon offers beautiful light for photography. The park hosts free concerts and events throughout the summer, including Shakespeare in the Park and SummerStage performances.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
One of the world's greatest art museums. Suggested admission means you can pay what you wish. Plan for at least 3-4 hours.
The Met's collection spans 5,000 years of art from around the world. Highlights include the Egyptian Temple of Dendur, the American Wing with period rooms, the European paintings galleries with works by Rembrandt and Vermeer, and the rooftop garden with its seasonal installations and stunning views of Central Park.
The museum is massive - you can't see everything in one visit. Pick a few areas that interest you most. The Egyptian collection is world-class, the Arms and Armor galleries are fascinating, and the Costume Institute hosts blockbuster exhibitions. Audio guides are available and highly recommended for deeper understanding of the collections.
The "suggested" admission policy means you can technically pay any amount, though the suggested price is $30 for adults. The museum is free for New York State residents. Visit on weekday mornings for smaller crowds, or Friday and Saturday evenings when the museum stays open late.
9/11 Memorial & Museum
Powerful tribute to the victims of September 11th. The memorial pools are free to visit; museum requires timed tickets.
The twin reflecting pools sit in the footprints of the original Twin Towers, with the names of all victims inscribed around the edges. The sound of water cascading into the voids creates a contemplative atmosphere. The memorial is free and open to the public, offering a place for reflection and remembrance.
The museum below ground tells the story of 9/11 through artifacts, testimonies, and multimedia displays. It's an emotional experience that takes 2-3 hours to fully explore. The museum includes remnants of the towers, personal items belonging to victims, and the stories of survivors and first responders. Timed tickets are required and should be booked in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
The nearby Oculus transportation hub, designed by Santiago Calatrava, is an architectural marvel worth seeing. One World Observatory at the top of One World Trade Center offers panoramic views of the city, though tickets are expensive.
Brooklyn Bridge
Walk across this iconic bridge for stunning views of Manhattan and Brooklyn. Go early morning to avoid crowds and get the best photos.
The Brooklyn Bridge walk takes about 30-40 minutes and offers constantly changing views of the Manhattan skyline, the East River, and the Statue of Liberty in the distance. The pedestrian walkway is elevated above the traffic, providing a unique perspective on the city.
Start from the Manhattan side (near City Hall) and walk toward Brooklyn for the best views. The bridge is busiest midday and on weekends, so early morning or evening walks are more pleasant. Sunrise and sunset offer spectacular lighting for photography. Be aware that the pedestrian path is shared with cyclists, so stay in the designated walking lane.
Once in Brooklyn, explore DUMBO neighborhood with its cobblestone streets, or continue to Brooklyn Bridge Park for waterfront views and green space. You can also grab pizza at Grimaldi's or Juliana's (both claim to be the original) near the Brooklyn end of the bridge.
Times Square
Love it or hate it, it's a must-see. Visit at night when the lights are most impressive, but be prepared for massive crowds.
Times Square is the epitome of NYC's energy and excess. The intersection of Broadway and Seventh Avenue is surrounded by massive digital billboards, theaters, restaurants, and shops. It's overwhelming, chaotic, and uniquely New York. The area is pedestrianized, with tables and chairs where you can sit and people-watch.
The best time to visit is after dark when the lights are most impressive. New Year's Eve is iconic but brutally crowded - arrive early afternoon if you want a spot for the ball drop. The area is safe and heavily policed, but watch out for costumed characters who expect tips for photos.
TKTS booth in Times Square sells same-day discount Broadway tickets, though lines can be long. The area has numerous chain restaurants, but venture a few blocks away for better dining options. Times Square is also a major subway hub, making it easy to get to from anywhere in the city.
Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
Book tickets well in advance if you want to go inside the statue. The ferry ride itself offers great views and is included in the ticket price.
The Statue of Liberty is one of America's most iconic symbols. Ferry tickets include access to Liberty Island and Ellis Island. Crown tickets (to climb up into the statue's crown) sell out months in advance and require climbing 377 steps. Pedestal tickets offer access to the museum and observation deck at the statue's base.
Ellis Island Immigration Museum tells the story of the millions of immigrants who entered America through this gateway. The museum is fascinating, with exhibits on the immigration process, personal stories, and the opportunity to search for your own ancestors in the database. Plan for 4-5 hours total for both islands.
Ferries depart from Battery Park in Manhattan or Liberty State Park in New Jersey. Morning departures are less crowded. Security screening is required, so don't bring large bags. The views of Manhattan from the ferry and the islands are spectacular, especially on the return trip.
High Line
Elevated park built on a historic freight rail line. Stretches from the Meatpacking District to Hudson Yards with great views, art installations, and food vendors.
The High Line is one of NYC's most innovative public spaces, transforming an abandoned elevated railway into a 1.45-mile-long park. The park features native plantings, art installations, and views of the Hudson River and surrounding neighborhoods. It's a perfect example of adaptive reuse and urban renewal.
The southern section near the Meatpacking District is the most popular, with views of the city and access to Chelsea Market. The middle section passes through the heart of Chelsea's gallery district. The northern section near Hudson Yards is newer and less crowded, ending at the Vessel sculpture and Hudson Yards development.
The High Line is free and open year-round. It's busiest on weekends and summer evenings. Early morning visits offer a more peaceful experience. The park hosts free programs including tours, performances, and stargazing events. Food vendors and nearby restaurants provide refreshment options.
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
World-class modern art collection. Free admission Friday evenings 4-8 PM (expect crowds).
MoMA's collection includes some of the most famous works of modern art: Van Gogh's "Starry Night," Picasso's "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon," Warhol's "Campbell's Soup Cans," and many more. The museum recently underwent a major renovation and expansion, adding more gallery space and improving the visitor experience.
The collection spans painting, sculpture, photography, film, and design from the 1880s to the present. Don't miss the sculpture garden (especially beautiful in good weather) and the film screenings in the museum's theaters. The museum store has excellent art books and design objects.
Free Friday evenings are popular - arrive right at 4 PM to beat the crowds. The museum is less crowded on weekday mornings. Audio guides and gallery talks provide deeper insights into the collection. Plan for 2-3 hours to see the highlights.
Grand Central Terminal
Beautiful Beaux-Arts architecture. Free to explore, and the food hall in the lower level is excellent.
Grand Central is more than just a train station - it's an architectural masterpiece and a NYC landmark. The main concourse features a vaulted ceiling painted with constellations, massive windows flooding the space with light, and the iconic four-faced clock at the information booth.
Free tours are offered by the Grand Central Partnership, providing fascinating history and pointing out hidden details. The Whispering Gallery outside the Oyster Bar has unique acoustics - stand in opposite corners and whisper to each other. The lower level food hall has excellent options from pizza to oysters.
The terminal is busiest during rush hours (7-9 AM and 5-7 PM) when commuters flood through. Visit midday for a more relaxed experience. The holiday season brings a special market and decorations. The terminal is also a great place to people-watch and soak in the energy of NYC.
One World Observatory
Stunning 360-degree views from the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. Book tickets online to skip lines.
One World Observatory occupies floors 100-102 of One World Trade Center, offering views from 1,250 feet above the city. The experience begins with Sky Pod elevators that reach the top in 47 seconds, with a time-lapse video showing NYC's development from the 1500s to today.
The observation deck has floor-to-ceiling windows providing views in all directions. Interactive displays help identify landmarks and neighborhoods. The Sky Portal is a 14-foot-wide circular disc in the floor showing real-time HD footage of the streets below. On clear days, you can see up to 50 miles.
Sunset is the most popular time, offering views in both daylight and after dark. Tickets are expensive ($40+), but the experience is impressive. Combination tickets with the 9/11 Museum offer some savings. Visit on a clear day for the best views - check the weather forecast before booking.
Food & Dining
Breakfast/Brunch
**Russ & Daughters (Lower East Side)** - NYC institution since 1914, famous for bagels with lox and schmear. The appetizing shop has a sit-down cafe next door. Expect lines on weekends, but they move quickly. Try the Super Heebster bagel with whitefish salad, baked salmon, and horseradish cream cheese.
**Clinton St. Baking Company** - Known for their fluffy pancakes with warm maple butter. The blueberry pancakes are legendary. Lines can be 1-2 hours on weekends, so arrive early or go on a weekday. The savory options like the buttermilk fried chicken sandwich are also excellent.
**Balthazar (SoHo)** - French bistro serving classic brunch dishes in a beautiful space. The atmosphere is lively and quintessentially NYC. Try the eggs benedict or the French toast. Reservations recommended, especially for weekend brunch. The pastries from their bakery next door are also worth trying.
**Sarabeth's** - Multiple locations serving American comfort food with a focus on fresh ingredients. Known for their preserves and baked goods. The lemon ricotta pancakes are a signature dish. More upscale than a typical diner but still approachable.
Pizza
**Joe's Pizza (multiple locations)** - Classic NY slice, thin crust with just the right amount of grease. The original Greenwich Village location has been serving since 1975. A plain slice is perfection - no need for fancy toppings. Eat it folded, standing up, like a true New Yorker.
**Lucali (Brooklyn)** - Sit-down pizza in Carroll Gardens, cash only, no reservations. Arrive before they open (5 PM) to get on the list. The pizza is made by hand by owner Mark Iacono, who rolls each pie individually. The calzone is also excellent. BYOB - bring wine from a nearby shop.
**Prince Street Pizza** - Famous for their pepperoni square slice with crispy, cup-and-char pepperoni. The Spicy Spring slice adds hot honey for a sweet-spicy kick. Located in Nolita, often with a line out the door. Worth the wait for some of the best square pizza in the city.
**Di Fara Pizza (Brooklyn)** - Legendary pizzeria in Midwood where Dom DeMarco made every pizza himself for decades. Now run by his children, maintaining the same quality. The classic round pie with fresh basil is perfection. Expect a wait, but it's worth it for a pilgrimage-worthy pizza experience.
Bagels
**Absolute Bagels (Upper West Side)** - Locals swear by these bagels, which are perfectly chewy with a good crust. The everything bagel with scallion cream cheese is a favorite. Cash only, and there's often a line, but it moves fast.
**Ess-a-Bagel (Midtown)** - Huge, fluffy bagels with generous schmears. The bagels are bigger than your face. Try the nova lox on an everything bagel. Two locations, both popular with locals and tourists alike.
**Russ & Daughters** - Already mentioned for brunch, but worth noting again for their bagels and fish. The bagel with lox, cream cheese, tomato, onion, and capers is the classic NYC experience. The quality of their smoked fish is unmatched.
Fine Dining
**Le Bernardin (Midtown)** - Three Michelin stars, focusing on seafood. Chef Eric Ripert creates elegant, refined dishes. The tasting menu is expensive but worth it for a special occasion. Reservations required well in advance. Dress code enforced.
**Eleven Madison Park** - Three Michelin stars, plant-based tasting menu. One of the world's best restaurants, offering an immersive dining experience. Book months in advance. The meal is a journey through New York's seasons and ingredients. Expensive but unforgettable.
**Peter Luger (Brooklyn)** - Legendary steakhouse since 1887. Cash only (or Peter Luger credit card). The porterhouse for two or more is the way to go. No-frills atmosphere, surly waiters, and some of the best steak you'll ever eat. Reservations essential.
**Per Se** - Thomas Keller's NYC restaurant with three Michelin stars. Located in the Time Warner Center with views of Central Park. The tasting menu changes daily, showcasing seasonal ingredients. Impeccable service and attention to detail. Very expensive and requires advance booking.
Ethnic Cuisine
**Flushing, Queens** - The best Chinese and Korean food outside of Asia. Take the 7 train to Flushing-Main Street. Try Xi'an Famous Foods for hand-pulled noodles, Joe's Shanghai for soup dumplings, or any of the Korean BBQ restaurants on Northern Boulevard.
**Jackson Heights, Queens** - Incredible diversity with Indian, Tibetan, Colombian, Ecuadorian, and more. Try Samudra for South Indian food, Phayul for Tibetan momos, or any of the Colombian bakeries for fresh arepas.
**Arthur Avenue, Bronx** - The "real Little Italy" with authentic Italian delis, bakeries, and restaurants. Try Mike's Deli for sandwiches, Madonia Bakery for bread, or any of the red-sauce restaurants for classic Italian-American food.
Food Halls
**Chelsea Market** - Converted Nabisco factory with diverse food vendors. Try Los Tacos No. 1 for tacos, Li-Lac Chocolates for sweets, or Mokbar for Korean ramen. Also has shops and the entrance to the High Line.
**Essex Market (Lower East Side)** - Historic market with modern vendors. Good for lunch with options ranging from ramen to tacos to ice cream. Less touristy than Chelsea Market.
**Time Out Market (DUMBO)** - Curated food hall with some of NYC's best restaurants in one space. Great views of Manhattan from the outdoor seating. Good option when your group can't agree on one cuisine.
Late Night
**Katz's Delicatessen** - Open until 10:45 PM most nights (2:45 AM on Fridays and Saturdays). Famous for pastrami sandwiches. The "I'll have what she's having" scene from When Harry Met Sally was filmed here. Cash tips for the cutters get you extra meat.
**Veselka (East Village)** - Ukrainian diner open 24 hours. Pierogies, borscht, and blintzes at any hour. Popular with late-night crowds after bars close. Comfort food at reasonable prices.
**Joe's Pizza** - Multiple locations open late. Perfect for a post-bar slice. The classic NY late-night experience.
Budget-Friendly
**Halal Guys** - Food cart turned empire, famous for chicken and rice with white and red sauce. The original cart is on 53rd and 6th. Now has brick-and-mortar locations too. Huge portions for under $10.
**Xi'an Famous Foods** - Hand-pulled noodles and spicy cumin lamb. Multiple locations. Authentic Chinese food at very reasonable prices. The spicy cumin lamb burger is a must-try.
**Mamoun's Falafel** - NYC institution since 1971. Cheap, delicious falafel and shawarma. Multiple locations. Perfect late-night food.
**Any corner pizzeria** - A plain slice is $3-4 and perfectly satisfying. This is how New Yorkers eat pizza most of the time.
Getting Around
Subway
The fastest and most economical way to get around. Runs 24/7 (though some lines have limited service late night). Get an OMNY card or use contactless payment (credit card or phone). Single ride is $2.90, unlimited weekly pass is $34.
Download the MYmta app for real-time updates, service changes, and trip planning. The subway can be confusing at first - express vs. local trains, uptown vs. downtown. Don't be afraid to ask for help. New Yorkers are usually happy to give directions.
Most tourist attractions are accessible by subway. The system is generally safe, even late at night, though use common sense. Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings. Trains can be crowded during rush hours (7-9 AM and 5-7 PM).
Walking
Manhattan is very walkable. Most avenues are about 20 minutes apart on foot (1 mile). Numbered streets are closer together - about 20 streets per mile, or roughly 1 minute per block. The city is laid out on a grid (above 14th Street), making navigation easy.
New Yorkers walk fast. Don't stop suddenly in the middle of the sidewalk. Stand to the right on escalators, walk on the left. Cross streets when the light changes, not in the middle of the block (though locals do this all the time).
Wear comfortable shoes - you'll walk more than you expect. Sidewalks can be uneven, and there are often grates and construction. In winter, sidewalks can be icy. In summer, the pavement radiates heat.
Taxis & Rideshares
Yellow cabs are plentiful in Manhattan. Hail them on the street - if the roof light is on, they're available. Uber and Lyft are widely available but can be expensive during peak hours. Expect surge pricing during rush hour, bad weather, and late nights.
Taxis charge by meter plus tolls. Tip 15-20%. Rideshares show the price upfront. Both are convenient but can be slower than the subway during rush hour due to traffic. For trips within Manhattan, the subway is usually faster and cheaper.
From airports, taxis have flat rates to Manhattan. Rideshares vary by demand. The subway is the cheapest option but requires navigating with luggage.
Citi Bike
Bike-share program with stations throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. Great for short trips (under 30 minutes). Download the app to locate bikes and docking stations. Day passes and single rides available.
NYC has been adding protected bike lanes, making cycling safer. However, traffic can be intimidating for inexperienced urban cyclists. Helmets are not provided - bring your own or ride carefully. Bikes must be docked every 30 minutes to avoid extra charges, but you can immediately take out another bike.
Buses
Slower than subway but useful for crosstown travel (east-west). Same fare as subway ($2.90) and transfers are free within 2 hours. Buses display their route number and destination. Use the MYmta app to track bus locations in real-time.
Select Bus Service (SBS) routes are faster, with fewer stops and off-board payment. You must get a receipt from the machine at the bus stop before boarding. Inspectors check for proof of payment.
Ferry
NYC Ferry offers scenic routes connecting Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx. Same price as subway ($2.90) with much better views. Routes include East River, South Brooklyn, Rockaway, and more. Great for a relaxing commute or sightseeing.
Ferries can be crowded during rush hour and nice weather. Outdoor seating is popular. Service can be affected by weather. Check the schedule as ferries run less frequently than subways.
From Airports
**JFK** - AirTrain to subway (cheapest, about $10 total, 60-90 minutes), express bus ($19, 60-90 minutes), or taxi/rideshare ($50-70, 45-90 minutes depending on traffic). The AirTrain connects to the A, E, and Long Island Rail Road.
**LaGuardia** - Bus to subway (cheapest, about $5 total, 60-90 minutes), express bus ($16, 45-75 minutes), or taxi/rideshare ($35-50, 30-60 minutes). No direct train connection yet (coming in future).
**Newark** - NJ Transit train to Penn Station (cheapest, $15, 30-45 minutes), express bus ($17, 45-75 minutes), or taxi/rideshare ($50-80, 45-90 minutes). Despite being in New Jersey, Newark can be convenient for Manhattan.
Local Tips & Recommendations
Timing
Avoid visiting during major holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's) unless you enjoy massive crowds and inflated prices. Summer (June-August) is hot and humid, with temperatures often in the 90s. Spring (April-June) and fall (September-November) offer the best weather and are ideal for walking around the city.
September is particularly nice - warm but not hot, kids are back in school so attractions are less crowded, and the cultural season (theater, opera, concerts) is in full swing. Late spring (May-June) brings beautiful weather and outdoor events.
Money-Saving
Many museums have "pay what you wish" hours or suggested admission. The Met, Brooklyn Museum, and others allow you to pay less than the posted price. Some museums are free on certain days - check websites before visiting.
Broadway shows offer same-day discount tickets at TKTS booths in Times Square (47th Street), South Street Seaport, and Lincoln Center. Digital lottery and rush tickets are available for many shows through apps like TodayTix. Expect to pay $40-80 for discounted tickets vs. $150+ for regular prices.
Free activities abound: walking the Brooklyn Bridge, exploring Central Park, visiting the 9/11 Memorial (museum costs money), browsing Chelsea Market, people-watching in Washington Square Park, and attending free concerts and events in summer.
Safety
NYC is generally safe, but stay aware of your surroundings. Keep valuables secure in crowded areas like Times Square and the subway. Don't leave bags unattended. Be cautious of scams - people offering free CDs or asking you to sign petitions often want money.
At night, stick to well-lit, populated areas. The subway is safe late at night, but use common sense. If a subway car is empty while others are full, there's usually a reason (someone sleeping, bad smell, etc.). Trust your instincts.
Avoid walking while looking at your phone - you'll mark yourself as a tourist and might walk into someone or something. If you need to check directions, step to the side.
Tipping
18-20% at restaurants (some add automatic gratuity for groups). $1-2 per drink at bars. $2-5 per bag for hotel porters. 15-20% for taxis and rideshares. $1-2 per bag for coat check. Tipping is expected and service workers rely on tips as part of their income.
Pace
New Yorkers walk fast and don't stop in the middle of sidewalks. If you need to check your phone or look at a map, step to the side. Stand to the right on escalators, walk on the left. Don't block subway doors - let people exit before boarding.
The city moves at a fast pace. Restaurants turn tables quickly. People are direct and to the point. This isn't rudeness - it's efficiency. Don't take it personally.
Reservations
Popular restaurants book up weeks in advance. Use Resy, OpenTable, or call directly. If you can't get a dinner reservation, try lunch - same food, lower prices, easier to get a table. Walk-ins are possible at many restaurants, especially if you're flexible on timing (early or late).
Some restaurants don't take reservations - arrive early or be prepared to wait. The host will give you an estimated wait time. You can usually grab a drink at the bar while waiting.
Free Activities
- Walking the Brooklyn Bridge (best early morning or evening)
- Exploring Central Park (free concerts in summer)
- Visiting the 9/11 Memorial (museum costs money)
- Browsing Chelsea Market
- People-watching in Washington Square Park
- Walking the High Line
- Visiting the Staten Island Ferry for free views of the Statue of Liberty
- Exploring different neighborhoods (SoHo, Greenwich Village, Williamsburg)
- Free museum days (check websites for schedules)
Weather
Layers are key. Buildings are often overheated in winter and over-air-conditioned in summer. Always check the forecast before heading out. Summer can be brutally hot and humid - stay hydrated and take breaks in air-conditioned spaces.
Winter can be cold and snowy, with temperatures often below freezing. Sidewalks can be icy - wear appropriate footwear. Spring and fall can be unpredictable - bring a light jacket even if it's warm during the day.
Neighborhoods to Explore
**Greenwich Village** - Historic charm with tree-lined streets, Washington Square Park, and NYU campus. Great for wandering, with independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. The Stonewall Inn, birthplace of the LGBTQ+ rights movement, is here.
**SoHo** - Cast-iron architecture, high-end shopping, and art galleries. Can be crowded on weekends. Good for window shopping and people-watching. Many chain stores have moved in, but it still has charm.
**Williamsburg (Brooklyn)** - Hipster culture, vintage shops, artisanal everything. Great food scene and nightlife. Waterfront parks offer stunning Manhattan views. Can feel overly trendy but worth exploring.
**Upper West Side** - More residential feel with beautiful brownstones. Home to Lincoln Center, American Museum of Natural History, and Columbia University. Good restaurants and cafes. Feels more like a neighborhood than a tourist destination.
Avoid
**Times Square restaurants** - Overpriced and mediocre. Walk a few blocks in any direction for better options. The area is worth seeing but not for dining.
**Buying from street vendors selling "designer" goods** - They're fake. You could be fined for purchasing counterfeit goods. If you want souvenirs, go to legitimate shops.
**Taking taxis when subway is faster** - During rush hour, the subway is almost always faster than sitting in traffic. Save taxis for late night, bad weather, or when you have lots of luggage.
**Eating at chain restaurants** - You can eat at Olive Garden anywhere. Try local, independent restaurants instead. NYC has some of the best food in the world - take advantage of it.
**Driving in Manhattan** - Traffic is terrible, parking is expensive ($40-60/day), and the subway is faster. Only rent a car if you're leaving the city for day trips.