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New York City has an energy like no other city in the world. All the attractions (food, theater, art, parks) are world-class, and you’ll never run out of exciting things to do in NYC.
Although iconic, New York City tends to overwhelm first-time visitors, not just with the crazy traffic, honking, and amount of people, but with the sheer number of attractions to visit and places to check out.
This is why we’ve put together this list of attractions that first time visitors to the city can use if their not sure what to do or what are the absolute “must-sees”.
We’ve also shared our tips on where to eat, sleep, drink, shop, how to get around, and so much more!
Things to Do in New York City
1. Watch a show on Broadway
No trip to New York City would be complete without going to one of the big, glitzy Broadway Shows. It’s a once in a life time experience for many, and one of the best things to do at night.
To get an idea of what’s on and what’s popular vs. not popular, check out the Broadway grosses and look at the percentage of seats sold and average ticket price.
You can also use websites like Broadway Box, which has online discount codes that will save time and money, and usually give you better seats compared with using the discount TKTS booth that’s in Times Square.
My best insider tip is to find free events using The Skint. This will get you off the tourist trail if you wish to do that.
2. Bike around Central Park
Central Park is the biggest park in New York City and one of the city’s most famous places. Spanning 3.41 km², it’s huge, and so the best way to get around it is to hire a bike and cycle. You can hire bikes online here or take a bike tour.
The park has a 6.1-mile loop with designated bike lanes, making it a safe and convenient to cycle, and since it’s all flat, anyone can do it.
As you pedal around the park, you’ll pass by iconic landmarks such as the Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, and the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir.
New York City can be chaotic and overwhelming sometimes, so cycling amongst the lush greenery and seeing the city skyline poking above the trees is a refreshing retreat from it all.
Be sure to stop and watch the street performers or stop by a grassy area and enjoy a picnic.
Another popular cycle route people do is over the Brooklyn Bridge from Brooklyn to Manhattan, but if you only have time for one bike ride, Central Park is better.
Read more: Things to do in Central Park for all seasons
3. See Iconic Views from the Skyscrapers
New York City is not short of places to see amazing city views. One of the biggest draws to visiting NYC is to see the skyscrapers and see the world from new heights.
The most famous skyscraper in the city is The Empire State Building, which has an observation deck offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city from its 86th floor.
From the top, you can see the city’s iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and Central Park.
Another viewpoint, which is slightly less busy than the Empire State Building but still popular, is The Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center.
Here you can see awesome vistas of Manhattan from three different levels, so you can admire the city’s skyline from various angles.
The One World Observatory at One World Trade Center, one of the world’s tallest buildings, which has an observation deck on its 100th, 101st and 102nd floor.
4. Visit one of NYC’s Top Museums and Galleries
New York City is home to some of the world’s most acclaimed museums. General admission is usually free for museums but donations are appreciated.
Perhaps the most famous is The Metropolitan Museum of Art, often referred to as “The Met,” which houses an extensive collection spanning 5,000 years of art from around the globe.
Another art museum not to miss is The Museum of Modern Art, also known as MOMA, where you have the chance to see Van Gogh’s Starry Night painting. It also has original pieces from famous artists like Picasso and Warhol. You can get in free from 4.30-8pm on Friday night.
The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, which was designed by world-famous architect, Frank Lloyd Wright, is not only known for its impressive collection of modern works of art but also for its iconic spiral architecture.
If you have kids, they will love exploring The American Museum of Natural History, which is a treasure trove of wonders, featuring exhibits on dinosaurs, space, and the natural world.
For lesser known museums, I personally like the Frick, an art museum dedicated to Henry Clay Frick.
The Met was a NYC attraction our teen wanted to visit!
5. Attend Free Yoga Classes at Bryant Park
If you’re looking for unique things to do in NYC, how about a free yoga class in Bryant Park?
Every summer from May 29th until September 25th, there is a free yoga class every Tuesday morning on the Upper Terrace and every Wednesday evening on the lawn.
Each class is an hour long and is instructed by one of NYC’s top yogis.
Bring your mat and enjoy!
Check out the Manhattan to Brooklyn Walking Tour
6. Visit Coney Island
If you are visiting with your family, New York has some amazing amusement parks, and Coney Island is a classic!
Known for its iconic boardwalk that’s lined with amusement parks, including Luna Park and Deno’s Wonder Wheel, it’s the perfect place to take the kids and enjoy classic rides and carnival games.
Coney Island has a rich history as a hub for entertainment, and has been NYC’s amusement park hot spot since 1895. It’s an iconic place to visit in the city.
7. Walk the High Line
Another unique thing to do is to walk along High Line, a 1.45-mile-long elevated linear park built on a historic freight rail line from Chelsea Market to Hudson Yards.
It has stunning views of the Hudson River and the city skyline.
The park is adorned with lush greenery, art installations and sculptures, and architectural wonders, and sometimes hosts various cultural events and performances.
8. Eat Your Way Around NYC
You will never go hungry in New York City. There are so many incredible restaurants and eateries, even the fussiest eater will find something for their taste.
To find out which restaurants are currently the trendiest, have a look on NY Mag’s Grub St blog.
Grub St also tends to have good information about the possibility of getting reservations.
Some super trendy places have no reservations policies and the wait can be up to 3 hours.
“For restaurants, you have hundreds of options. You’re in the restaurant capital of the world”.
For cheap eats, my favorite is Taim falafel bar in the West Village. They also have a new falafel truck. Their falafel is consistently on NYC’s best lists. It lives up to the hype, and it’s vegan.
Another street food favorite is the dosa vendor in Washington Square Park (lunchtimes).
For coffee we love In Common near Hudson Yards, the Bluestone Lane chain, Two Hands in Little Italy, and Culture Espresso. What do they all have in common? Well, it’s good coffee so they have to be Australian coffee shops!! See more NYC coffee shops to love.
Joe in the West Village is also a popular coffee option. It’s close to Taim falafel. Pok Pok NY is new and hot for Thai. Michael White’s Marea is consistently recommended for Italian, or you can visit Little Italy for family-owned pizzerias.
Chowhound Manhattan is another excellent way of doing foodie trip research, and you can even view menus in advance on Menupages.
Side note: NYC restaurants are known for being very crowded and discourage lingering. They do this subtly with design elements like backless seats.
Read More: Iconic places to eat in NYC and don’t miss these NYC food tours.
Don’t visit NYC without eating…
- Bagels – I like Murray’s Bagels in Greenwich Village, on 6th Ave between 12th and 13th. It’s just West of Union Square.
- A close second, pizza! NY’s best pizza is a hotly debated. Di Fara in Brooklyn is very popular and serves slices. Slices in NYC are as big as your head. Be warned!
- For Vegan Pizza options, try Cafe Viva on 2nd Avenue between 11th and 12th St.
9. Explore the NYC Nightlife
For those who enjoy bars, clubs, live music concerts, and partying until dawn – you’re in the right city.
They don’t call it the city that never sleeps for no reason!
New York Magazine have a big feature on where to drink on each night of the week in NYC.
The MO Lounge at the Mandarin Oriental serves amazing cocktails and has an amazing view of Central Park.
There is no need to limit your drinking to night time, New Yorkers are also very fond of drinking with brunch.
Try the spiked coffee with brunch at Sons of Essex.
If you want a more unique way to drink in the city, you can usually drink for free if you go to an art show opening.
Have a look on The Skint to find info for new openings. They’re often quite fun, and you can just walk in, chat to people, and have a few drinks.
10. Go Shopping in NYC
NYC is a shopper’s paradise! For people from outside the US, the chain stores that are popular in the USA are The Gap, H&M, and JCrew.
There is a JCrew in the Time Warner Center right next to the 59th St entrance to Central Park.
You can also find cheap designer clothes in NYC at one of the second-hand outlets.
The Century 21 Discount store near the World Trade Center is good(ish) for designer labels at discount prices.
Prices are probably better at designer discount stores in NYC compared to other states (such as Ross Dress for Less, which isn’t in NYC but is in places like LA and Vegas).
My most fashionable neighborhood is Soho in Lower Manhattan, which is where you’ll find boutique shops, thrift stores, and independent stores.
If you have kids – or you happen to love video games – check out Nintendo New York. It is right by Rockefeller Center (which has lots of clean bathrooms too).
If you’re planning a picnic, head to The Union Square farmers market in the summer. It’s on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, but Fridays are the best and have the liveliest vibes.
There’s also an awesome Wholefoods supermarket in the Time Warner Center, with seating and even a microwave.
Perfect for lunch or supplies for a picnic in Central Park (and for a clean toilet near Central Park!).
11. Attend a Festival in New York City
NYC knows how to do a festival or an event. I’ve been in NYC for Gay Pride, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and 4th of July.
The 4th of July Fireworks are cool but the public viewing areas are claustrophobically crowded.
It’s definitely a once in a life time experience to see how big NYC does a festival, but you may literally only want to do it once in your life!
12. See the Statue of Liberty
Of course, you cannot visit NYC without seeing the Statue of Liberty!
Don’t pay a fortune for the boat cruises (the circle line cruise is the most famous boat cruise), you can see the Statue of Liberty for free using the Staten Island Ferry, one of the free ferry services that operates between Manhattan and Staten Island.
The ferry has a scenic 25-minute ride across New York Harbor, and is a great way to see some of the best views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Governor’s Island, and the Manhattan skyline.
It does not dock at Liberty Island though, so if you want to see the statue up close or visit the Statue of Liberty Museum, you’d need to get a ferry to Liberty Island which you have to pay for.
Personally, I don’t think it’s worth the money to get up close, especially since the Staten Island ferry passes relatively close to the statue so you can capture memorable photos easily.
13. Feel the Pulse of Times Square
Times Square in New York City is a bucket list experience. The vibrancy and exhilarating atmosphere captures the essence of the city’s energy and dynamism.
Known for its dazzling billboards, neon lights, and bustling atmosphere, Times Square is the place to be to feel the buzz of the city.
It’s also right in the heart of the Broadway Theater District, and is most famous for being the place where the New Year’s Eve ball drops.
14. See Grand Central Terminal
Grand Central Terminal is one of the world’s most renowned train stations, not only a transportation hub but also a destination in itself since it’s featured in so many movies and TV shows.
The terminal’s Beaux-Arts architecture, depicted by its iconic celestial ceiling mural, is one of the city’s most recognizable backdrops.
You can also visit the Grand Central Market, a shopping center in the terminal where you can find a variety of gourmet foods and artisanal products.
15. Walk Along Brooklyn Heights Promenade
Finally, don’t miss a chance to stroll along the Brooklyn Heights Promenade for stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the East River.
The promenade is a peaceful and scenic walkway lined with benches, gardens, and historic brownstone homes.
It’s an ideal spot to end your trip, to take in the breathtaking scenery and reflect on your thoughts of the city.
Best Time of Year to Visit New York
Most people say Fall is the best time to visit New York City, but I like summer in New York because there are so many free events taking place.
Only go in summer if you like the heat though, as temperatures often reach in the 90s F/30s C. The weather is bleak in winter and bitterly cold. It can snow, which is magical to witness, but do wrap up warm.
As a visitor, it’s a pain to work around attractions being closed for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
We do love experiencing New York during Christmas – it’s quite magical. Follow these holiday travel tips.
Getting To and Around New York City
You can easily fly into any of three airports. Kenndedy/JFK, La Guardia (LGA), and Newark (EWR). Transport links from all three airports to the city are good.
There are also cheap buses from Boston, Washington DC, and Philadelphia. Mega Bus is the most popular bus company to use.
When it comes to getting around the city, the subway is incredible. I love it. You can buy a 7-day pass which is the most cost-effective for tourists.
Unlike other cities, there are no zone restrictions. For the same fare, you can use any subway including to Brooklyn and Queens. A subway pass is also valid for the buses.
With the exception of “crosstown” buses that travel east/west rather than north/south, I don’t generally recommend the buses though. You’ll just end up stuck in traffic.
Google maps will give you subway directions if you click on the public transport symbol.
There’s a reason why Sarah Jessica Parker has such toned legs (apart from wearing heels all the time)!
NYC is an amazing walking city.
A combination of walking and the subway is the best way to get around the city.
Where to Stay in New York City
New York City is an expensive city to visit. A hotel room can easily set you back $500 a night, it’s crazy.
To find cheaper places to stay, I tend to look for sublets using Craiglist in advance. Rent is so high in NYC that New Yorkers are often keen to sublet when they go away.
Another thing people are doing now to save money is staying in Jersey City and catching the train into Midtown Manhattan. This is another way to save money.
If I have any days before my sublet starts, I stay at the Hosteling International located at 103rd and Amsterdam (dorms only). It’s a really nice hostel.
At the risk of this sounding like an ad for the Ace Hotel (it’s not), it’s a great mid-range hotel option for people who want to keep it classy.
For a splurge (and possibly to tick an item off your bucket list), the uber famous Waldorf Astoria has surprisingly good rates.
We really love the INNside New York Nomad, having stayed there three times. Here is a list of other NYC accommodations that we recommend.
Final Thoughts
There you have it, those are the top things to do in the Big Apple for any first time visitor, and as you can see, there are tons of attractions to see and do.
As well as ticking off the bucket list item, be sure to take time out to mingle with the locals and wander the boroughs.
I love New Yorkers! They’re generally friendly and helpful.
There is a sense of anything is possible in NYC and people have self-confidence – living life their own way. The vibe is infectious, and you come away feeling like any of your dreams can come true.
Especially in Brooklyn, there’s also an amazing sense of highly concentrated creativity.
New York is inspiring and energizing.
We hope this guide helped you plan your visit and gave you some ideas for what to do.
Tours, Sightseeing & Passes
Viator is a Trip Advisor company and offers small group tours of NYC, plus passes and tickets to the most popular places and attractions including the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, and One World Observatory.
I can personally tell you how valuable guided tours are. You learn so much and don’t have to figure out how to get to the biggest and most popular attractions.
New York City Travel Videos
You can learn more about our experience visiting NYC by watching our videos on our YouTube channel!
More NYC Travel Tips
You can read more guides about visiting NYC below:
- New York travel tips for saving money and maximizing time
- 3 Day NYC itinerary
- Weekend getaways from NYC
- Best things to do in New York City with Kids
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Are you planning to visit NYC? What do you think are the top things to do in New York? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
What a great post. Love the suggestion on how to get cheaper tickets for Broadway plays as that tops my list of what to do in the city. I need to explore by bike the next time I’m there too.
We’d love to see a Broadway show too next time, amongst everything else. So much to see and do. Great tips by Kate 🙂
There’s a new mobile phone app called TodayTix that recently launched that lets you get discount Broadway tickets à la TKTS but without the long lines. It also lets you reserve tickets up to a week in advance, instead of just same day. Check it out: http://www.todaytix.com
This is very good. A few additional notes and suggestions from someone who’s lived in Manhattan since 1995:
1. For getting around, the buses — not just the crosstown ones — are a perfectly fine alternative for getting around most of the time. Outside of rush hour on weekdays on certain routes, they get you around reasonably quickly (and if you’re going down Second Avenue on Manhattan’s east side, there’s an express bus service called the “Select” bus). They’re also often less crowded than the subways, and you can get a cellphone signal unlike when you’re underground. Note, though, that Metrocards are not sold at bus stops. Thus, you will either need cash to pay the fare, or you’ll have to already be carrying a Metrocard (which would be the case if you’ve purchased a long-term pass).
2. An excellent site for planning your trip on NYC public transportation is hopstop.
http://www.hopstop.com/search
It generates directions and a map, which you can have emailed to you. You can generate routes for your preferred combination of subways, buses, and walking. I use hopstop all the time.
3. If you like Indian food, there’s an enclave in the East Village called Little India — a cluster of quality Indian restaurants on East 6th Street. They tend to provide excellent value, too.
4. The Astoria neighbourhood in the borough of Queens has many ethnic restaurants, including a good number that serve Greek food; and they tend to be reasonably priced.
5. Down at the southern tip of Brooklyn is Coney Island, a beachfront neighbourhood which has a great old-time boardwalk and some classic amusement park rides. The highlights are a ferris wheel called the Wonder Wheel that provides great views of the area, and an old rickety wooden roller coaster called the Cyclone. And within walking distance from Coney Island is Brighton Beach, a neighbourhood with a large number of Russian residents in which you’ll find some top-notch Russian restaurants. Coney Island takes a while to get to but it’s easily reached by subway and can be a fun excursion on a summer day. (Coney Island is also the site of the hot dog-eating contest you may have heard about that’s held annually on July 4).
6. If you like drinking in style, check out one of the rooftop bars in Manhattan, which can offer some terrific views, especially at night. Here’s a recent list of some of the best ones.
http://www.timeout.com/newyork/bars/rooftop-bars-in-nyc
Hey Harvey,
Appreciate all the great extra tips. I really do want live in New York, even if it’s just for a few months. Have visited once before for 10 days over Christmas/New Years and can’t wait to go back. Cheers!
Hey Kate, Top of the Rock is a definite must visit New York sightseeing spot IMO. It’s got breathtaking views overlooking Central Park and NYC itself. Highly recommended to any visitors to the city (at night is the best). However, a downside is that it does cost money.
There is also the Empire State Building, but it doesn’t have as good of views as Top of the Rock in my opinion…
Thanks for the great ideas! Now I’m totally jazzed to go back to New York…sooner, rather than later.
Thanks Caz and Craig for the opportunity to contribute to Ytravel. Am excited that this post is up to 250 stumbles already in less than 24 hours!
What a fab,concise guide-great for people with little time(or money)!
Craig, I think while visiting NYC I won’t need any guide because your Post is enough for me to note down the major activities to do in NY.
Fabulous tips!!!!!!
Excellent post – so many great tips… can’t wait to try some of the restaurants on Kate’s list! We haven’t made it to a Broadway show yet but that’s one thing we’d love to do next time we’re in NYC.
Thanks commenters!
Excellent tips! It’s impossible to experience everything New York has to offer in one visit. From world-class museums to iconic landmarks, there are more than enough reasons to visit New York and Free Event Finder can be used as your guide in searching for events that won’t hurt the pocket. It lists plenty of fun things to do for the kids and the entire family. Please visit http://www.FreeEventFinder.com
The Herald Square Hotel is a brilliant place only 2 blocks from the Empire State Building, So good I have stayed their twice in 2006 and 2007. Very comfortable beds from what I recall
http://www.heraldnyc.com
Great suggestions! Another great option when visiting NYC is Family In New York! They offer custom private New York tours! They will create a tour for you that is sure to show you the best of what New York has to offer! They are experts when it comes to this great city and a tour with them is sure to be the highlight of your trip!
I thought this guide was supposed to be about things common tourists wouldn’t know to do? Central Park, Broadway Shows – come one EVERYONE knows to go there!
Actually it is a guide called Things to do in New York City, not off the beaten path experiences in NYC. Not everyone has been to New York City before, nor knows everything to do. What is obvious to you may not necessarily be to EVERYONE–a term that really shouldn’t be used. It implies that you know everything about every single person’s experiences and needs. I know many people who have no idea of Broadway shows in NYC nor things they can actually do in Central Park.
I think EVERYONE should know to go to the Botanical Gardens here in Sydney, as it is one of the most stunning gardens in the world, but plenty people don’t know about it, nor visit it.
Hi, Love your blog, we have taken your advice to look at Craigslist for apartment rentals in New York, however there are some warnings about scams, how would I best go about conducting a transfer of funds or booking a room without being ripped off or finding myself in New York with no accommodation. We don’t want to spend money on accomm that would be better spent elsewhere so we are hoping to pick up a low price apartment. Any suggestions or advice booking online for apartments in New York the listings on Craiglist look amazing compared to that of airbnb, but worried that we are being fooled.
Yeah Craigslist is a risk in that way. I’m not really sure what parameters are in place to protect you. Can you research the apartments online to see if anything dodgy comes up? Have you tried http://wimdu.com or http://roomarama.com Both of those are similar to airbnb and you might find a better deal
Great article about NYC and great additions by Harvey. Here’s a few more tips from a 4th-generation New Yorker:
Free Walking Tours – are offered by almost every neighborhood organization in Manhattan
Half Price Broadway AND Yankees Tickets – yep, in Times Square, you can get same-day half price Yankees Tickets. And just about any Broadway show available at TKTS (the half price booth) will also be available at 30% or more off – online and in advance! Don’t waste your vacation on a long line for a marginal savings.
NYC Vacation Rentals – these are tough, because they are mostly illegal. Doesn’t mean you can’t find a great deal (many of my friends have), but it likely means you are taking a risk. There are definitely some great vacation rentals in great neighborhoods with no legal risk. Be cautious and research thoroughly. If it sounds too good to be true (eg – sleeps six, in Manhattan, for $100 per night) IT IS!
For shopping, locals just LOVE NYC Sample Sales – each brand usually offers them about 1-2 times per year. But it is where all the locals shop and how they get Louboutins, Manolos or Jimmy Choos for $100+.
Caz, this is a great list of Things to do in New York and as a visitor from the UK I will recommend it to all my friends.
We all have our favourite things to do in New York, its the size, variety and choice which makes it so fantastic. There are amazing museums – the Frick Collection is wonderful and my wife and I really enjoyed the Evening Jazz Cruise.
We’re putting together our own guide of New York and will be adding more information after our visit next week.
http://citybreaks.amoretravel.co.uk/new-york/
Awesome Chris! Thanks for sharing. Love getting lots of tips for New York
Some great tips getting back to NYC in October we got a great flight offer with Tour America.
Thanks for posting.
I am wondering about easiest way to tour when u can’t get out there and walk freely.
You really covered just about everything there is to know about New York to get a great vacation planned. I just wanted to let you know about a small boutique hotel that you probably haven’t come across in your travels. The Park House Hotel in Brooklyn, NY is a great spot for a family stay or someone looking for a budget-conscious alternative with easy access to the New York attractions.
Great post – and clearly timeless 🙂 Thanks for the tips on the Broadway shows – have been checking those out so insider’s tips are very welcome. And love the best neighbourhoods to explore too… have list, will travel 🙂
Great to hear Louise. Enjoy NYC 🙂
Your post makes me want to visit NYC right now! Great tips!
Us too Ian 🙂
This is PERFECT! I just booked a flight to new york and decided to do some research on pinterest on things to do in new york! This blog came up first and im amazed of all the details and information you have provided us. I cant wait to go and visit everywhere around! Thanks so much and greetings from Texas 🙂
Awesome Diana! So glad you found us. Have an amazing time in NYC
I am always searching for deals. For NYC I use the guide book 365 Guide. It lists restaurant deals and bar specials. http://www.365guidenyc.com Saves me a ton.
Oh, how I wish to live in New York City! Just merely looking at the photos you posted makes me want to get away right away in New York City. I can’t help but imagine myself to be in this big room where there are colorful bright lights watching the big glitzy broadway shows, that must be really awesome. And to top that out, I can get a discount while having a good seat to experience this. Thank you for mentioning it in your blog. I can’t wait to visit this fancy city soon.
Oh thank gosh we found this post! What an informative and excitement-starting post to read! We’re off to NYC in June and this really has given us plenty of information… “The Union Square farmers market is amazing in summer. It’s on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Fridays are the best.” We’ll definitely be hitting up the markets! Thanks for sharing guys! Love your work! xo
Happy to help. There’s also this post on 11 things to do in a New York Summer: https://www.ytravelblog.com/new-york-summer/
Hi! I’m going to NY on July. How can I reach NYU from La Guardia? A taxi maybe? How much does it cost the ride from there?? What activities or shows do you recommend on July? Thanks!
There was a bus that would take you from the airport to Grand Central. From there you could take a taxi or the subway #4,5, or 6. 4or 5 to 14th street, Union square and walk 10 blocks or transfer to the 6 and get off at Astor Place (8th St). Avoid traveling with baggage during rush hour. July is good for renting a rowboat in Central Park, street fairs on weekends, green market, Shakespeare in the Park, or there used to be Shakespeare in the parking lot somewhere around Eldridge St. South of Houston (pronounced house-ton, not like that town in Texas). I love the Statue garden at the Met. Museum of art, the high line, the Irish famine memorial in battery park city. Rent bikes and you can ride along the Hudson and East rivers on paths. Have a great time!
Thanks Yvette for sharing your tips!! 🙂
very helpful
Thank you so much for this post. I will be doing some traveling to New York very soon, and coming from a very small farming town, the Big Apple is quite daunting. I appreciate this information. It was MUCH NEEDED for us small town gals.
Cheers!
Da Nico in Little Italy is a must!! Went there last year and it was just amazing. Good was delicious, my father and uncle got a HUGE seafood pasta for $50 with clams, muscles, lobster tail, crab, etc. very under priced for what you got.
Hey Kate, what a lovely post it is. Thanks for sharing such a nice information with us. New york is such a beautiful city as I have ever seen. I was in new york last year with my family. Had lots of enjoyment with my family.
I know its been two years since you wrote this blog post but I really must say that I appreciate it. My family and I will go to New York this spring. We are a Swedish family and we used the swedish site hyrboende.se to find us an apartment on Manhattan.
Many of the things like Central Park and Broadway is a must see when we get there, is the http://broadwayworld.com/grosses.cfm#sthash.qCc7DuPG.dpbs still the best site to buy cheap tickets?
And the drink free tips, love it 🙂 gotta check out some art show openings 🙂
Thanks for this great post. I’ve just book marked it as we’re taking our family of three kids and my Mum there in a couple of months. I can’t wait! x
Exciting Vanessa. I’m sure all you guys will have a great time in NYC!
Easy and cheap way to get to Times Square from newark airport at 800am
Excellent post, thank you so much! Found it via Pinterest. I’m heading to NYC for my 30th birthday this May (for 11 days) and it will be my first time visiting. This is very helpful, thanks again!
Great. Enjoy NYC Karlie!
Yes it was great post because it is really helpful for upcoming visitor in new york, perfect guidance provide here by Craig and his team. Hey craig why you not discribe here about nightlife in nyc like limo service etc Long Island Airport Limo Service
Wow!!! Just as others have said…this is a great post. All of the details are explained well and I’m so excited about my next trip in the spring to this amazing city!
You like New York because of the people?? Are you kidding me?? Never met a more rude and horrible type of person in the world than New Yorkers!!!
Well everyone is entitled to their opinion and perspectives. I’ve heard many people say that about Parisians as well, but I found them to be the total opposite. I think it just depends on how open you want to be to finding those positive experiences. I hope next time you are in NYC you find those lovely people. I think Humans of New York shows just how incredible the people of New York are. It might be one to check out.
You can also access the TKTS booths at South Seaport and downtown Brooklyn.
Great article!!! Lots of awesome ideas. My wife and I are planning a New York trip and we managed to get everything booked for under $700. Here is how we did it if anyone is interested. http://mylifespendings.com/how-i-booked-a-nyc-vacation-for-under-700
If you are looking for cheap double decker hop on hop off tours do not hesitate to visit us at 2 E 42 ST New York NY 10017. Lowest price guaranteed on most NYC attractions and tours especially nyc hop on hop off.
I am visiting NYC in early June, 15. booked the Holiday inn at 99 Washington Street (Financial District). Is that area safe? I saw your post shows at the tip of Manhatan is not cool, that concerns me.
Also, with all of the travel tips on spotlights, do I really need to buy Hop-On-Hop Off bus tour?
This is great. The most to the point article for anyone coming to New York City. I especially like tips like side favorites. I have been using this article and help from folks at http://www.unwander.com. Check out all the speakeasy bars and all the Ramen places like Ippudo, Toto ramen. Man I am in love with this city. I cannot thank enough for this great article. It saved me so much time planning.
This post was very helpful. I would love to visit New York, it’s a great city.
Wonderful article thank you. I am traveling to NYC with my fiancee next month. Looking forward to our trip.
I am not a big fan of chain hotels, they all seem so sterile. I noticed your recommend the ACE hotel. The last hotel recommended that hotel as well.
As well as a few other independent properties. https://www.hotelsnearme.co/content/8-independent-hotels-nyc-authentic-experience
You seem to have a similar travel personality to me. Any other thoughts on independent hotels I might like? Looking for some authentic advice.
Thank you in advance from your help.
Jenna
Wow this is a great post
That is an amazing over-view. I could get time to visit One World Observatory, Times Square, Central Park in my current visit to New York. It would also be interesting to know how we can decide the travel places according to which part of the year we are visiting.
P. S. New York is that game of chess ( streets and avenues ) where everyone thinks they are playing but actually they are the pieces.
I would love to visit rest you mentioned in my next visit. Thanks for those tips. Great work.
I and my family traveled from Seattle, WA and we enjoyed our NYC trip. Thanks for sharing!
We booked guided tour from: https://nyc-adventure.com
Thanks for this post. Super useful and great links!!!
Great article. But the best place to stay in new york is the Ace Hotel
Have heard good things about the Ace Hotel, will have to check it out on our next trip to NYC
Thank you so much for these wonderful tips. This is a great post and place you visited. Lovely pictures.
All the things mention in this blog will be really fun to do in NYC! Thanks for sharing.