world travel guide new york

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!

Start of your trip: We will remind you with current events when you are in NYC!

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Destinations A-Z

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. 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 .

North America Chevron

United States Chevron

New York Chevron

The 37 Best Things to Do in New York City

By Melissa Liebling-Goldberg and Alex Erdekian

One of the most mysterious things about New York City is that the closer you look—even at something as minor as a street corner—the more you see. And the longer you look, the faster it changes before your eyes. People can live here for 100 years and never run out of places to go or people to meet, so deciding the best things to do in New York is daunting; which is why we're narrowing your options. Whether you're a local itching to get out of your neighborhood or an out-of-towner who doesn't know The Met from the Mets, these new and classic activities alike will dazzle you. From wandering Central Park to slurping soup dumplings in Chinatown , these are a few of our very favorite things to do in New York City, from Midtown to Brooklyn.

Read our complete New York City travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Central Park Arrow

To get that Nora Ephron New York experience, you have no choice but to take a stroll through Central Park while in the city. As you step off the crowded sidewalks of 59th Street into a mass of green, you’ll hardly realize what lies before you: 693 acres of man-made gardens, meadows, forests, and  hillsides. If you ambled down every one of Central Park’s pathways, you would walk 58 miles. Along the way, you pass sculptures, bridges, and arches, plus 21 playgrounds, a winter ice-skating rink, even a zoo . But you’d hardly notice the four major crosstown thoroughfares, which cleverly disappear into foliage-covered tunnels. Map your park route to stop at classic Central Park landmarks, like the Bethesda Fountain, Bow Bridge, Belvedere Castle, and the Strawberry Fields John Lennon Memorial.

Chinatown Arrow

 Chinatown is one of the neighborhoods that makes lower Manhattan vibrant and unforgettable. After surfacing from the steps of the Canal Street subway station onto the sidewalk, meandering past thick crowds, neon light shops, and vendors peddling fake designer bags, you’ll find yourself in the narrow streets of Chinatown, where there are bright heaps of produce, succulent ducks hanging in windows, and restaurants old and new. Touching Tribeca, SoHo, Little Italy, and the Lower East Side, Chinatown has a rich history and began being populated by Chinese immigrants as early as the 1850s. You can visit in whichever way makes sense for you. Whether you spend an hour devouring a box of roast pork or duck from street-style Wah Fung No. 1 before you have to proceed elsewhere, or you spend half a day shopping for produce, dining out, and paying a visit to the Museum of Chinese in America , everyone will gain something from a visit to Chinatown.

Whitney Museum of American Art Arrow

The Whitney got a major upgrade when it relocated from the Upper East Side to its vastly-expanded Meatpacking headquarters in 2015. It houses 50,000 square feet of indoor galleries with works by Jean Michel Basquiat, Richard Avedon, and Alexander Calder, four outdoor exhibition spaces and terraces, and a ground-floor restaurant and top-floor bar, both by Danny Meyer, one of the town’s best-known restaurateurs. The floors are connected by two artist-designed elevators (albeit slow-moving, crowded ones). If mobility isn’t an issue, take the stairs instead, which offer uninterrupted views of the Hudson river. The upper floors and sculpture terraces are also connected by a series of exterior staircases, with great views of the downtown skyline, and a rare opportunity to experience art en plein aire.

Yankee Stadium Arrow

A spring or summer day spent cheering at an NYC ballpark is a classic activity for a reason. Located in the Bronx, Yankee Stadium is the home field of New York’s 27-time World Champions. It’s a half-hour subway ride from Penn Station and approximately a 20-minute subway ride from Grand Central Terminal, making it easily accessible from Manhattan. It replaced the 1923 original in 2009 and cost $1.5 billion to build, making it one of the world’s most expensive stadiums. It seats 50,287 fans. New York Yankees games, obviously, are the main event here, but you can also attend concerts, college football, and soccer matches.

Laura Walsh

Alex Erdekian

Charlie Hobbs

The Morgan Library & Museum Arrow

The Morgan is like a multi-hyphenate millennial—only instead of actress/model/influencer/whatever, it’s museum/library/landmark/historic site/music venue. Inside the multimillionaire’s personal library, expanded into a must-see museum and cultural space, you'll find rare artifacts, paintings, and books, some dating back to 4000 B.C. that are worth more than your house. In particular the museum is home to one of 23 copies of the original Declaration of Independence; Mozart's handwritten score of the Haffner Symphony; the collected works of African American poet Phillis Wheatley; the only extant manuscript of Milton's  Paradise Lost ; and Charles Dickens’s manuscript of  A Christmas Carol . Swoon.

The Cathedral of St. John the Divine Arrow

The Cathedral of St. John the Divine on 112th and Amsterdam in Upper Manhattan’s Morningside Heights is the largest cathedral in the world and the sixth-largest church by area. Hundreds of thousands of visitors walk through these doors annually for a reason. The cathedral itself—and its remarkable Gothic architecture, story-telling stained glass windows, and 17th century tapestries—is already worth visiting. But there is artwork that is especially meaningful to New York City here as well, including Keith Haring's white gold and bronze altarpiece and a 9/11 memorial sculpture by Meredith Bergmann, which holds debris of the towers in it.  The cathedral holds daily and Sunday worship services, which welcome all. There is no charge to pray, meditate, or contemplate in the cathedral. Visitors who show for sightseeing purposes can enter for $5 admission. Special tours are offered depending on the day of the week. 

Summit One Vanderbilt Arrow

There’s no shortage of jaw-dropping views found throughout the city, but the team behind Summit One Vanderbilt has assembled a bunch of big names to bring together a full experience where you could easily spend a few hours. It starts with the elevator, a light- and sound-filled ride that whooshes visitors up to the 91st floor. There, you’re greeted by a massive, mirrored room that looks out over New York City. Additionally, there are rotating art installations from Kenzo Digital, as well as two special features: Levitation, a glass skybox that lets you feel as if you’re floating one-thousand feet above Madison Avenue; and Ascent, a separate glass elevator that brings you up even higher to gaze over downtown Manhattan. Inside, a Snøhetta-designed Nordic-inspired space serves food and drinks from Danny Meyer’s Union Square Events, including pastrami-stuffed pretzels and ricotta toast; there’s also a wrap-around outdoor terrace that feels like the city's most exciting rooftop bar.

MoMA PS1 Arrow

The sister institution to MoMA   is no ordinary art museum. Located in a striking Renaissance Revival former public school building in Long Island City, Queens, MoMA PS1’s setting is just as interesting as its collection. All manner of cutting-edge contemporary art is shown here, with a collection over 200,000 pieces strong, from the likes of James Turrell and Ai Weiwei. The people-watching can be just as good as the art, as creative types from around the city come here to find inspiration.

Bemelmans Bar Arrow

At Bemelmans, Ludwig Bemelman's illustrations—you might remember them from the Madeline books—adorn the walls. In one panel, a bunny smokes a cigar in Central Park ; in another, a man hands a boy a clutch of balloons. This is a bar where gawking is permissible. The cocktails here very much depend on who’s making them: an Old Fashioned might be a bit watery, a whiskey sour too tart. But often a dirty gin Martini is just perfectly executed. Everything is expensive—it’s clear why you’re here—so take the edge off that sensation by digging into the free, hearty snacks that float your way.

For locals and first-time visitors alike, seeing a Broadway show is a special experience, and one that is exclusive to New York City. Times Square is ordinarily a drag, but when you’re moseying into Midtown Manhattan for a show the bright billboards and lights don’t flash in your face—they dazzle in your eyes. A Broadway show's costumes, sets, songs, and stories are the stuff of dreams. In November, anticipated Spamalot— (parodying Monty Python and the Holy Grail) —and Harmony —a performance telling the true story of the Comedian Harmonists—take the stage.

New York Botanical Garden Arrow

The New York Botanical Garden has carefully manicured flower gardens, lush fields, winding hikes, and impeccable greenhouses. There are spaces that feel deeply intimate, as if you're truly separated from the world, and there are vast expanses where it's hard to believe you're still in the Bronx . In winter, the greenhouses host an annual train show recreating all of New York City in miniature; the warmer months bring every floral delight imaginable, from cherry trees to peonies. Plan to spend at least half a day here and pack a picnic.

Brooklyn Heights Promenade

It’s one thing to be in the midst of Manhattan, on the ground; it’s quite another to look upon it from across the river. In Brooklyn Heights, a couple subway stops away from lower Manhattan, the city’s image looms large before you. Arguably the best view of the skyline in the city, the Brooklyn Heights promenade hovers above the Brooklyn-Queen Expressway. Underlying the peaceful, tree-lined walkway, traffic rumbles below. The promenade stretches from Remsen Street at the south end to Middagh Street at the north. Around the corner, pedestrians can discretely cross a basketball court to access a suspended footbridge that zigzags down to the piers of Brooklyn Bridge Park. While in the picturesque neighborhood, make stops at the New York Transit Museum, the Sardinian trattoria River Deli, and the old-time dive bar Montero.

Grand Central Terminal Arrow

Grand Central Terminal is more than just one of the busiest train stations in the world—it's a window into old New York and into a time when train travel was the ultimate luxury for the wealthy and a necessity for the working man. If you aren't commuting in or out of the city, avoid coming during rush hour, and take your time admiring the landmark architecture and checking out the top-notch dining and shopping.

9/11 Memorial and Museum Arrow

Every American should visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum at least once. As you enter the museum, you descend from the street to bedrock level—the foundation of the former Twin Towers—and are placed in a meditative mindset, forced to recall where you were on that fateful day. The museum itself is a masterful balance: It's grand in scale, contemplative in its construction, and personal in its execution. It pays homage to the enormity of the loss, both physical and spiritual. 

Brooklyn Bridge Arrow

When the Brooklyn Bridge was constructed in 1883—extending 1,595 feet across the East River, connecting lower Manhattan to Brooklyn Heights—it was the longest suspension bridge in the world. Now, it’s a historic staple of the New York City skyline, transporting commuter car traffic underneath and touristic foot traffic above . Standing before arches and rectangles with city skyscrapers rising in the distance, will at once inspire a sense of grandiosity and slightness.

The Cloisters Arrow

Located on four acres in northern Manhattan's Fort Tryon Park, the Met Cloisters is a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and is America’s only museum dedicated exclusively to the art and architecture of the Middle Ages. The building overlooks the Hudson River and actually incorporates five medieval-inspired cloisters into a modern museum structure, creating a historic, contextualized backdrop in which to view the art.

Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Arrow

Located in Midtown Manhattan, the MoMA is larger than it appears as you approach it from the street below. One of the world’s most influential museums—displaying the works of important artists like Van Gogh, Monet, Picasso, Matisse, Rothko, Frida Kahlo, Salvador Dali, and Diane Arbus—it has 630,000 square feet of space and attracts more than a million visitors a year. While making a beeline for the fifth-floor Collection Galleries to take in The Starry Night and Monet’s Water Lilies is understandable, don’t miss the exhibitions, which tell new stories and can only be experienced in a limited time frame. Allocate time to spend pouring over the remarkable books and objects in the famous gift shop, too—an NYC must-visit in its own right.

Apollo Theater Arrow

Countless careers have been made and stars have passed through this world famous, legendary Harlem theater—Duke Ellington, Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, Ella Fitzgerald, Diana Ross, Lauryn Hill, and D’Angelo to name a few. The venue—which began as a white-only burlesque destination until 1934, when under new ownership it began welcoming and becoming central to the Black community—has been active for 88 years, with swing, blues, jazz, R&B, and comedy acts taking the stage. Today, visitors can attend events like Amateur Night at the Apollo, one of the city’s most long-standing, fame-making live shows. Capacity is 1,500, with three levels of seating, and contrary to the way it appears on 'Showtime at the Apollo,' is intimate without much legroom.

Prospect Park Arrow

Prospect Park is in many ways the Central Park of Brooklyn; in fact, it was designed shortly after by the same team of architects, Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, and has many of the same features: sprawling meadows, walking trails, and picturesque bodies of water. In feeling though, it’s more rambling and less manicured than its touristed Manhattan counterpart. Prospect Park Woodlands is Brooklyn’s last remaining forest, with 250 acres of trees, turtles, chipmunks, 200 species of birds, and other fauna and flora. There's also basketball and tennis courts, a carousel, playgrounds, zoo, and a 3.35-mile loop for runners and bikers (they’re fast —watch out!). While there, make a trip to adjacent Brooklyn Botanic Garden , particularly lovely during cherry blossom season.

Bedford Avenue, Williamsburg Arrow

Sip iced coffee in McCarren Park, catch an indie show at Baby's All Right, walk two blocks over to some of the city's most-coveted Italian at Lilia (with a month-in-advance res, of course.) This is the busiest thoroughfare in hip Williamsburg: Bedford Avenue—and the L train that feeds it—might as well be North Brooklyn’s own personal people-watching catwalk. Pedestrians with voluminous pants, dogs with miniature rain boots, and high-speed scooters will swish past you. As you make your way south from the subway station, likely en route from the East Village, you’ll pass local businesses that characterize the area, like Catbird (ethereal, vintage-inspired jewelry), Spoonbill & Sugartown Books (poetry, special design and cookbooks, cards), and Awoke Vintage (best-known for their genuine denim often from the ‘90s.)

Coney Island Arrow

Coney Island has a reputation as a circus-worthy tourist trap, which is exactly what it is. But you may be surprised by the old-timey charms of this beachfront American town. You’ll definitely be impressed by the food and drinks—Totonno's Pizza, Gargiulo's and Coney Island Brewery in particular. Locals and tourists hang out on the beach, eat ice cream cones on the promenade, and stand in line for the famed Cyclone roller coaster. The beach and boardwalk along with spots like Nathan’s are open year-round. The amusement park itself is seasonal. Events like the annual Mermaid Parade (crowded as they may be) are worth watching for the audacity and theatrics you can’t find anywhere else in the world but Coney Island.

Lincoln Center Arrow

World-renowned performing arts center Lincoln Center is always worth visiting when the opportunity arises, and in October 2022, David Geffen Hall, home to the New York Philharmonic, reopened after a major renovation that improved the venue’s acoustics and spiffed it up with a modern look. The sprawling Upper West Side complex is also home to the Metropolitan Opera, the New York City Ballet, the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, and Juilliard. All kinds of music, dance, theater, and films show here; Some highlights from the upcoming calendar include the New York Film Festival, the operas like The Life and Times of Malcom X and La Boheme , and ballets like The Nutcracker . Whether you’re on a special date or reconnecting with old friend when you’re in town, seeing a live performance at Lincoln Center will always make for an elegant and memorable night out.

Washington Square Park Arrow

If people-watching is your sport, Washington Square Park is your place. Entertainment is a given in this intimate, not-quite 10-acre space, filled with career chess players, musicians, performers, students, sunbathers, strollers, and general throngs of Greenwich Villagers, desperate for a bit of fresh air. Take your time as you go through: Pause beneath Washington Arch, honoring our country’s first president (for whom the Park is named), and observe the laurel wreaths and intricate motifs that extend from the base to the keystones, atop which twin eagles perch like constant watchmen. Washington Square Park is the beating heart of this vibrant New York neighborhood.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art Arrow

For nearly a century and a half, the Met has remained the cultural epicenter of New York City, thanks to forward-thinking exhibits and an extensive permanent collection. With its Gothic-Revival-style building, iconic tiered steps, and Central Park location, the building is a sight to be seen. But step inside its Great Hall—as a ceaseless parade of museumgoers move to-and-fro—and you’ll feel the overwhelming sense of possibility and discovery that lays beyond. If you've got limited time or compatriots with limited attention spans, start with the Temple of Dendur, a 2,000-year-old soaring Egyptian temple (the only complete one in the Western Hemisphere)

Blue Note Jazz Club Arrow

Blue Note has been one of the best jazz clubs in New York, and the world, since the 1980s. It offers music every night at 8 p.m. and 10:30, and on Friday and Saturday nights has a late night series at 12:30 a.m., which showcases emerging talent. If you're looking to get a taste of jazz in NYC, you can do no better. Over the years, legendary musicians including Sarah Vaughan, Dizzy Gillespie, and Ray Charles have performed on the Blue Note Stage, as well as contemporary jazz acts such as Wynton Marsalis, Keith Jarrett, and Chris Botti. Tables are intimate, close-set, and all-ages (with the bar being 21-plus).

Union Square Greenmarket Arrow

Union Square is a place of the people, not unlike the agoras of ancient Athens—and no offering of Union Square showcases this quality quite like the bustling Greenmarket. From upstate New York, the Berkshires , New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, vendors sell artisan bread, honey, fresh-cut flowers, heritage meats, pastries, seasonal fruits and vegetables both common and uncommon, and much more. Don't miss the free events, like book signings and more: Cooking demos take place at the Market Information tent daily, beer and spirits pop-ups show seasonally, and the education station offers tours and tastings.

Rockefeller Center Arrow

Rockefeller Center sits in the heart of midtown Manhattan, both in terms of its physical location and its prominent place in the city's folklore and culture. Whether you want to check out a performance on the plaza outside the TODAY show, visit the Christmas tree, or practice your best moves on the ice skating rink, you're in for an iconic, family-friendly experience. If you buy a ticket to Top of the Rock, you'll enjoy spectacular views of the city below. No matter where you are, you're bound to be constantly pointing and shouting “hey, look at that!”

Comedy Cellar Arrow

None of the promoters on MacDougal Street shouting “stand-up comedy tonight!” are trying to get you into the Comedy Cellar, where the show is already sold out. Blockbuster stars like Jerry Seinfeld and Eddie Murphy made their names at the Cellar; if you're lucky, one may show up the night you're there. Seating is intimate and close together, and there is a two-item minimum on food or drinks. It's 21-plus and vaccine-mandatory; be prepared to surrender your phone at the door, too. There's no bad seat in the house, but sit in the front at your own risk of getting (playfully) heckled by the host or a comic.

American Museum of Natural History Arrow

Truly one of the world's great natural history museums, the American Museum of Natural History spans four city blocks just across from Central Park . All aspects of the natural world are represented here, from a vast collection of taxidermy mammals, to depictions of the life of Native American tribes, to an entire hall dedicated to marine life—including a life-size model of a blue whale. The crown jewel is the dinosaur floor, with an imposing Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton that dominates the room. The newest attraction comes in the form of the long-awaited Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation , which opened in May of 2023 and, among many other things, boasts a comprehensive insectarium and vivarium. Breathtaking architecture from New York-based Jeanne Gang doesn't hurt, either.

The Strand Book Store Arrow

With its towering stacks, filled with more than 2.5 million titles, this 94-year-old bookstore is less neighborhood haunt and more globally recognized institution. You could call the Strand's employees tour guides, considering their deft ability to find the exact title you're looking for and recommend a book you may not have otherwise plucked from the shelves. The store will make you question why you don’t read more; and chances are you won’t leave empty-handed.

Bronx Zoo Arrow

With more than 700 different animal species spread across 265 acres of parkland thoughtfully designed to mimic natural habitats, the Bronx Zoo is a great place to escape from Manhattan for the day, especially if you're traveling with kids. Don't miss the giraffe building, the Congo gorilla forest, the house of reptiles, the flamingos in the sea bird aviary, and the sea lions, who always make for an exciting show. If you want to blow the minds of a bunch of kids, you can do no better.

Governors Island Arrow

Located in New York Harbor, only 800 yards from Manhattan and 400 yards from Brooklyn, walking onto quirky, car-free, brick-covered, 173-acre Governors Island feels like being transported to an alternate universe from the city—but in reality it's a quick, affordable ferry ride away. One-way fare is $4 and boats are serviced from Lower Manhattan’s Battery Maritime Building every day, as well as from Brooklyn Bridge Park and Atlantic Basin in Red Hook on the weekends. In the past couple of years, Governors Island has become an even more popular city destination, and has welcomed a slew of new luxury businesses. One is special in particular: Collective, the only place you can stay overnight on the island. Collective is a glamping experience, offering plush beds inside the tents, morning yoga, sunset cocktails, and iconic skyline views—Lady Liberty included, herself. Which is all to say, you’re by no means roughing it here. On the menu at their restaurant, you’ll find grilled seafood, gorgeous spreads of pastries, and more. Another luxury experience new to the island is QC NY Spa, with top-grade saunas and a skyline view-filled pool.

McCarren Park Arrow

Fashion and dogs; dogs and fashion. At McCarren Park, these wonders abound. Located smack between Williamsburg and Greenpoint and bound by Nassau Avenue, Bayard Street, Lorimer Street, and North 12th Street, McCarren is one of North Brooklyn’s best gathering places and community hubs. Activities on offer include softball, volleyball, soccer, handball, and more, but you’ll also see Brooklynites running on the track, rollerblading around the park’s perimeter, and hoisting each other up in acroyoga poses on the grass. Shopping and dining opportunities fringe the park and make for a bustling atmosphere—including the Greenmarket on Saturdays, a thrift market bursting with vintage clothes on the weekends, Awoke Vintage, Forma Pasta, Bernie’s, Frankels, and more.

Elsewhere Arrow

Located in Brooklyn on a hip stretch of Bushwick’s Jefferson Avenue, Elsewhere—a vast, three-story nightclub and live music venue with multiple dance floors, stages, and a rooftop—has become one of the city’s best nightlife destinations. Spinning disco balls and kaleidoscopic lights set the scene. A somewhat recent staple in the city’s nightlife scene, Elsewhere is a converted warehouse that opened in 2017. Blocks away from similar venues like Avant Gardener and House of Yes, Elsewhere stands out for its inclusivity, its intimate vibe in spite of its size, and for lifting up smaller, up-and-coming acts.

Rockaway Beach Arrow

One of the best public beaches you can visit in New York City proper, Rockaway is a sandy, sprawling stretch of surf located in Queens on the Atlantic Ocean, complete with a 5.5-mile boardwalk of delicious concessions. A summery way to get there in style? Take the ferry from Wall Street or Sunset Park, Brooklyn, and let the wind blow through your hair as you take in the city views, sailing under the Verrazano Bridge and past Coney Island on the way. From just about everywhere else in the city, you can also get there via the A train. Each stretch has a different crowd and personality: Beach 90-106 is the busiest section, with the most food and drink options; Beaches 67-69 as well as 90-92 are the surfing zones; between Beach 153 and Beach 169 you’ll find Jacob Riis Park, which is popular with young people and is a summer gathering place for the city’s LGBTQ+ community.

Metrograph Arrow

Located on Ludlow Street in the Lower East Side, Metrograph is an independent movie house and a New York City cinema destination. When you walk in, you’ll notice that the decor is trendy, artsy, and has almost nothing in common with an AMC. You might overhear film buffs opining on French directors you never heard of, but hey, it’s all part of the charm. It shows a curated roster of films that includes exclusive archival screenings, special premiers, and Q&As with notable filmmakers; a few of the films playing on the current lineup in November include The Wall , a 1990 documentary about the Berlin Wall with vérité-style footage; Bill Cunningham New York on 35mm film, introduced by director Richard Press and producer Philip Gefter; and the classic Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf , starring Elizabeth Taylor. Seats are assigned and booked online—to purchase in person, tickets go on sale a half hour before showtime. Seats are red-velvet-cushioned, and pretty comfortable.

Bonus: The legitimate restaurant on site called the Metrograph Commissary serving brunch and dinner, where movie-goers can extend their outing with a meal or a round of drinks. You won’t find your typical movie theater slushies here—espresso martinis, steak tartare, and duck with rosemary are on the menu.

Chelsea's Art Galleries Arrow

If you’ve done the Met and the MoMA a million times but have yet to explore the city’s art gallery scene, get thee to Chelsea. The West Side neighborhood is one of the city’s best-known for art and is home to some of the world’s most respected contemporary art galleries, like David Zwirner —representing legends like Yayoi Kusama, Alice Neel, and William Eggleston—and Gagosian —Damien Hirst, Richard Avedon, Takashi Murakami, and Anna Weyant, whose star is rising. These spaces feel exclusive and glamorous, and you feel special upon walking inside and experiencing their treasures. (And unless you’re an heiress, you’re only window shopping.) The Chelsea gallery scene exemplifies one of New York City’s greatest strengths: walkability. We’d recommend mapping out the spots you want to hit and making half a day out of it—West 24th Street between Tenth and Eleventh Avenues is a prime route.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

New York City   Travel Guide

Why Go To New York City

Cool, cosmopolitan, crowded, constantly evolving … the Big Apple blends big city splendor with small-town charm. Amid New York's iconic landmarks and towering skyscrapers, you'll experience a vibrant culture permeating each of the city's distinctive neighborhoods and boroughs. Follow trendsetters to the East Village and Brooklyn to check out indie boutiques, iconic bakeries and trendy coffee shops. Afterward, peruse the racks of the sleek shops lining Fifth Avenue , admire the cutting-edge art collections at the MoMA  and the Met , catch a memorable show on Broadway or sit down for a meal at the latest "it" restaurant.

As the most populous city in the U.S. – set at the forefront of food, fashion and the arts – NYC requires stamina. But don't let the Big Apple's frenetic sights and sounds intimidate you from soaking up its grandeur. Enlist the help of a local to help you navigate it all. Wander through the concrete jungle and you'll discover roaring taxis zipping down bustling blocks, fast-paced pedestrians strolling past on their way to marquee galleries and trendy cocktail bars, and Times Square 's neon lights flickering at all hours. And yet, the city's twinkling lights and chaotic corners also invite you to embrace every New York minute, explore every enclave and create your own urban adventure. There are endless ways to spend your time in the city that never sleeps, but before you leave, stop and look around – what's here today will be transformed into something bigger and better tomorrow.

Find Flight and Hotel Deals

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

• # 1 in Best East Coast Vacation Spots
• # 1 in Best U.S. Cities to Visit
• # 2 in Best Food Cities in the U.S.

See All 11 Rankings

Best of New York City

Best hotels in new york city.

• # 1 in The Pierre, a Taj Hotel, New York
• # 2 in The Plaza, A Fairmont Managed Hotel
• # 3 in Baccarat Hotel New York

Best Things to Do in New York City

• # 1 in Central Park
• # 2 in National September 11 Memorial & Museum
• # 3 in Empire State Building

Popular Tours

New York in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour

(9322 reviews)

from $ 99.00

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Experience Ticket

(3143 reviews)

from $ 46.82

Empire State Building Ticket

(4981 reviews)

from $ 47.91

New York City Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit New York is anytime . Each season in Gotham 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, but that also means cheaper hotel rates . 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, but hey, so are lots of places, and at least this is New York. No matter when you decide to visit New York City, consider travel protection – such as a  travel insurance policy or a cancel for any reason plan – in the event you encounter weather issues or trip delays.

Weather in New York City

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Exercise shopping smarts If you're a high roller with a thick wallet,  Fifth  and Madison avenues are your shopping strips. Bargain-hunters should stick to SoHo and Chinatown.

Enter the subway with caution Many subway stations have different platforms for trains going uptown and downtown. Make sure you enter the correct platform before swiping your ticket through the turnstiles. 

Skip the train If you live in a major East Coast city, chances are you'll be able to reach New York City for a relatively affordable price by hopping on the BoltBus or Megabus , two companies that transfer visitors to NYC for cheap.

Take a tour Seeing all of the Big Apple's top sights can be a challenge, which is why signing up for a guided tour may be a smart idea. Whether you're looking for a walking tour , a  food tour , a boat tour , a helicopter tour  or a bus tour , you'll find a variety of experiences to choose from.

How to Save Money in New York City

Say no to cabs A cab here, a cab there … pretty soon, you'll find that cabs have eaten up all your spending cash. Yes, they're convenient but cost-efficient they are not. Learn the subway system instead, or try Uber or Lyft.

Say yes to street vendors Eat some cheap meals on the street at vendors, especially the ones with "Vendy Awards" posted, and you can put the money you would've spent on an expensive lunch toward your MoMA admission.

Say maybe to the TKTS booth If you're willing to spend an hour of your New York City vacation waiting in the half-price ticket booth in Times Square , you could save some serious money on a Broadway show.

Culture & Customs

New York City is one of the most densely populated cities in the world. So it should come as no surprise that it's also one of the most diverse. The city is known for its ethnic neighborhoods, as well as its status as the country's trendsetter, making it difficult to define one specific "culture" of the Big Apple. As home to the most vibrant theater and fashions scenes in the country and a large contingent of schools and Wall Street on top of that, NYC also shelters a large gay community as well as many students, artists, fashionistas, writers, businessmen and so on. 

Stereotypically, New Yorkers are portrayed as brash and rude. But as TripAdvisor explains, "New Yorkers are unfailingly proud of their great city, and this pride can, at times, come off as arrogance." Contrary to popular belief, most New Yorkers are happy to help you explore their home.

What to Eat

It's fitting that New York's most popular nickname includes a reference to food. Experts say that the city is jam-packed with delicious places to eat, from the high-end celebrity chef hot spots to cozy eateries. When you're in this cosmopolitan city, you'll have to sample some of its specialties. Most people associate NYC with pizza: New York-style pizza consists of hand-tossed thin crust, a light layer of tomato sauce, plenty of mozzarella cheese and an assortment of toppings. There are dozens of pizzerias dishing out traditional pies across the city, but locals say Joe's Pizza and Grimaldi's Pizzeria are two of the top spots to grab a slice of pizza . Another New York staple? Bagels. The large, soft, doughy bagels can be topped with thick cream cheese (often you can choose from various schmear flavors), lox or your favorite breakfast sandwich accoutrements. Experts say you can't go wrong with a bagel from Ess-a-Bagel , Bagel Bob's or Tompkins Square Bagels .

In addition to its casual eateries, New York City has a vibrant food market (visit Chelsea Market and Gotham West Market ) and farmers market scene. And of course, the Big Apple is home to numerous upscale restaurants highlighting cuisine from around the world. The list of must-try restaurants is constantly changing, but those looking to enjoy an exquisite multicourse meal should make reservations (well in advance) at Eleven Madison Park , Le Bernadin or Daniel . If you'd like to explore fine dining restaurants with more reasonable price tags, Butter , Scarpetta and Marc Forgione are a few celebrity chef-helmed eateries that won't completely bust your budget. The wealth of food options in the city is also part of why New York City consistently lands on the U.S. News ranking of the Best Foodie Cities in the USA . For a comprehensive understanding of the city's dining scene, take one of the Big Apple's top food tours .

What's more, New York City isn't only home to fantastic restaurants, but also to several stand-out bars and breweries . When the weather warms up, locals and travelers alike love heading to the top rooftop bars around the city to soak up the skyline views.

In the past, New York City has owned a reputation for being a rough and dangerous city, but now it's one of the safest large cities in the country. As a tourist, you're not likely to encounter any serious crimes, but you should still use common sense when exploring the city. In the evenings, stick to well-lit areas with other people and keep a close eye on valuables. To discourage pickpockets, keep your wallet in your front pocket and your purses zipped closed.

Like other large cities, New York City is filled with its own group of eclectic personalities. Should someone out of the ordinary approach you, follow many New Yorkers' leads and simply walk away. Be particularly wary in places like Manhattan's Lower East Side and parts of boroughs Queens, Brooklyn and especially the Bronx. Central Park can also get seedy at night.

Despite what people may think, the subway in New York City is safer now than it has ever been. That said, you should be particularly watchful of your belongings while riding, especially when the trains are packed and crowded. Stay near the ticket booths and get into cars with more people or with the conductor, who will normally stick his head out when the train stops. Consider taking a cab at night if you are alone.

Getting Around New York City

The best way to get around New York City is on foot as traffic is fairly heavy around-the-clock. That said, the subway system is a convenient option, too, and it extends throughout Manhattan and into the other New York boroughs. Buses are another affordable way to get around, but keep in mind they traverse streets clogged with weaving cars and cabs. Picking up a car isn't the best mode of transportation, as traffic is heavy. To get from the two main airports – LaGuardia (LGA) and John F. Kennedy International (JFK) – into the city, you'll likely want to take a taxi or ride-hailing service like Lyft or Uber. If you'd like to mix in a little sightseeing with your transportation, consider a bus tour  or a boat tour .

Many East Coast travelers tend to arrive in New York City on one of the bus services like FlixBus  or Megabus . Amtrak is another popular way of getting into the city and trains roll into Penn Station daily.

Central Park occupies more than 800 acres in the heart of Manhattan and is the largest urban park in the United States.

Explore More of New York City

Things To Do

Best hotels.

You might also like

Philadelphia

# 1 in  Best Day Trips from NYC

# 3 in  Best Day Trips from NYC

# 1 in  Best Places to Visit in New Jersey

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

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:

How to Experience Milwaukee Like a Local

The 7 Best Hotels in New York City

The 7 Best Hotels in Miami

Where to Stay in Miami: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

How to Spend 24 Hours in Raleigh, North Carolina

The 6 Best Hotels in Austin

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

10 things you should know before visiting New York City

Mar 24, 2024 • 8 min read

These top tips from a local will help you be ready for your visit to New York City © Cavan Images / Getty Images

New York City's world-class cultural institutions , incredible diversity and everything-goes vibe make it a one-of-a-kind destination to visit.

Having moved here over 18 years ago, I think it's fair to say that I'm now officially a New Yorker. And as an official New Yorker, I've found myself playing tour guide for dozens of friends and family over the years.

In my experience, most visitors arrive full of excitement and clutching a list of places to go and restaurants to try. While these lists usually include some great New York City sites  and bites, they often miss the information that will really help you fit in, feel like a local and make your trip easier and more fun. So, here are all the things I want you to know before your trip to New York City .

1. New York City is so much more than Manhattan

Don't get me wrong, Manhattan is great. After all, it's home to beautiful Central Park and the Metropolitan Museum of Art , both of which are must-see stops in NYC. However, Manhattan is only one of five boroughs, and you're missing out if you don't go beyond it. Queens is the largest and most diverse borough, and it has some of the best food in the city. Not only can you find Bhutanese, Mexican, Ecuadorian, and Thai food within a few blocks, but the Queen's Night Market offers a huge concentration of vendors in the summer.

The Bronx is known for its gritty past and being the birthplace of hip-hop. It also has the New York Botanical Garden , which is near Arthur Avenue, the city's real Little Italy (the one in Manhattan has become more of a stage set).

Brooklyn has become the coolest kid on the block with amazing waterfront parks (that offer the best views of Manhattan), world-class exhibits at the Brooklyn Museum , and a happening nightlife scene to keep you going until the wee hours. Staten Island might be called "the forgotten borough," but New York City wouldn't be New York City without it – take the (free!) Staten Island Ferry not just to catch views of the Statue of Liberty but to visit the Chinese Scholar's Garden in a secluded corner of Snug Harbor Cultural Center . Here, a team of 40 Chinese artisans used Ming-dynasty methods and handcrafted the lattice screens, pagoda-style roofs, pavilions, and bridges.

2. You can take the train anywhere and everywhere

New York City Transit's five-borough subway and bus network is famous for its 24/7 coverage and (relative) reliability. Locals like to complain about train delays and malfunctions (which are absolutely a thing, especially on the weekends), but overall it's pretty impressive.

NYC yellow cabs are iconic, and ride-hailing apps are popular and convenient, but in addition to fuel-filled vehicles being bad for the environment, traffic is horrendous in New York City, and the subway is usually faster than a car.

Navigate New York City like a local with our complete transportation guide.

3. Understand subway etiquette

Okay, you've decided to ride the train, good for you! Now, you just need to understand some basic subway etiquette. Take your backpack off and put it on the floor or swing it around to your front so you're not bumping people with it or taking up too much space. Step out of the way of the doors to let people on and off because blocking the doors (which annoying New Yorkers also do) really slows things down.

Even if you see locals blasting music, cutting their nails, ranting on the subway, or eating, please don't do that. Finally, if you see someone get on who is elderly, pregnant, or disabled, offer them your seat. As the classic New York Metro Transit Authority quote states, "Courtesy is contagious, and it begins with you."

4. Ride a bike

I promise my tips are about more than how to get around , but biking really is an amazing way to explore, with more than half a million cycling trips made in the city every single day. Want to get around like a New Yorker? Ride a bike! Loads of bike shops offer rentals (as do outfitters in Central Park, where the bike loop does tend to get super crowded on weekends), but you can also use our fabulous bike share.

The Citi Bike program includes thousands of bikes across four boroughs (sorry, Staten Island, CitiBike also forgot you), as well as Hoboken and Jersey City. Snag a free map from a bike shop and study NYC's extensive cycle path network. Popular places to ride are along the Hudson River Greenway, which runs along most of the western coast of Manhattan, and on the Brooklyn waterfront. If you're biking on city streets, be careful and wear a helmet.

5. Bring cash

Most businesses accept credit cards in the city, but smaller shops and street vendors may only take cash. Want to relax with a massage? Chinatown has loads of affordable massage parlors (I promise, most are legit), and some only take cash.

6. Understand NYC lingo

For the most part, New Yorkers talk just like other Americans. We do have our own slang, however, and much of it applies to food. If you're in the mood for a BEC (bacon-egg-and-cheese sandwich, usually "on a roll," which is a soft kaiser roll), you go to a bodega (neighborhood convenience store). If you're buying pizza, you can usually get "a slice," a "grandma slice" (the square ones) or a whole "pie." In some American cities you can order a hoagie or submarine sandwich, but in NYC ask for a "hero," which can be either hot or cold. A "regular" coffee has milk and sugar.

Also, when it comes to so-called "New York speak," I feel compelled to mention Houston St in lower Manhattan. No, that street is not pronounced "Hugh-Stun," like the city in Texas. It's pronounced, "How-Stun." I don't know why, but it is, and anytime we hear someone say it otherwise, we know they're a tourist.

7. Don't eat a slice of pizza with a knife and fork

Please, please don't do it. Even the former Mayor of New York City, Bill De Blasio, was ridiculed for doing this back in 2014. De Blasio (who is originally from Boston) argued that his method was authentic to his Italian roots but New Yorkers weren't having it and mocked him even more. Grab your sloppy slice by both ends of the crust and fold it in half so the cheese doesn't spill out (or at least less cheese spills out).

8. From NYC classics to world foods, you should try it all

New York City is known for its food, from world-class dining to street food. Pizza, bagels, hot dogs, and pastrami on rye are our claims to fame, but as the most diverse city in the country, expect to find extraordinary food from all over the world. Not only do we have a huge amount of excellent Chinese, Thai, Mexican, Korean, and Vietnamese food, but there's also a tremendous number of restaurants specializing in cuisine that can be harder to find in the US.

Think Sri Lankan food in Staten Island; Colombian and Bhutanese food in Queens, Jamaican and Dominican food in the Bronx; and Trinidadian, Palestinian, and Haitian food in Brooklyn. As for Manhattan, you'll find everything from Burmese and Persian to some of the best soul food in the country.

Hungry for more? Continue your food tour at the best local restaurants in Brooklyn .

9. Safety tips for visitors

New York City is one of the most progressive cities in the country, but racial and gender-based discrimination still happens. For its size, NYC is one of the safest large cities out there, and most major crime tends to happen far away from tourist areas.

That said, visitors should be prepared for the same issues that are found in other cities around the world. Pickpocketing and purse snatching are far from rampant here (Paris and Barcelona seem bigger hubs for that), but don't tempt petty thieves – keep your belongings close to you and your phone tucked away.

10. Some of New York City is accessible, but much of it isn't

Travelers with disabilities should check out NYC Tourism's Accessible NYC Guide , which includes information on accessible dining, museums, festivals, and other attractions in the city. The site allows you to search activities by category, neighborhood, or type of accessibility (audio description, braille, assistive listening system, adaptive activity, sign language, neurodiverse programming, etc.)

Wheelchair-friendly subway stations exist but are unique to high-traffic hubs. Many of the city's 472 subway stations lack elevators and ramps, and they may not always be working in those that have them. Before heading out, check the MTA Accessibility page for a list of accessible stations and then cross-check that with the  Alerts Page so you don't route your trip through a station that is under repair.

According to the MTA, 124 of its stations offer full access for visitors with a walking impediment, which is something, but true equal access for disabled visitors and residents across the five boroughs is a long way off.

This article was first published Aug 24, 2021 and updated Mar 24, 2024.

Explore related stories

Tips & Advice

Apr 25, 2024 • 9 min read

Learn what our writer spent on a weekend in Copenhagen, Denmark, as part of our A Total Trip series.

Apr 14, 2024 • 6 min read

Apr 7, 2024 • 11 min read

Apr 6, 2024 • 7 min read

Apr 2, 2024 • 9 min read

Mar 24, 2024 • 10 min read

Mar 22, 2024 • 8 min read

Mar 22, 2024 • 9 min read

Mar 22, 2024 • 5 min read

Feb 23, 2024 • 6 min read

New York City Travel Guide

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• North America
• new-york-city
• Travel guide
• Itineraries
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

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

Discover more places in USA

The rough guides to usa and related travel guides.

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Find even more inspiration here

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

written by Andy Turner

updated 03.09.2021

Ready to travel and discover USA?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Travel advice

New York City Travel Guide

Visiting NYC?

Then you're in the right place! Check out my New York City Travel Guide resources.

Maybe you're traveling on a budget and want to enjoy free NYC views and cheap things to do in New York .

Or perhaps you're seeking adventure through Manhattan hiking trails or a day trip from NYC to hike in the Hudson Valley — the Bull Hill Full Loop and Breakneck Ridge Trail are both epic and nearby!

Remember, too, that while there is a lot to do in Manhattan — like exploring SoHo , the Upper East Side , and Times Square — the other boroughs also have a lot to offer.

A few of my favorite neighborhoods include Long Island City in Queens and Williamsburg in Brooklyn .

To help you plan your perfect trip to New York City, find some helpful resources below.

You can also click here to grab my free PDF New York City travel guide .

Manhattan Travel Guides

When visiting manhattan, don't miss....

Brooklyn Travel Guides

When visiting brooklyn, don't miss....

Queens Travel Guides

When visiting queens, don't miss....

Long Island Travel Guides

Long island offers great day trips from nyc don't miss....

New York City Hiking Guides

When hiking in new york , don't miss....

NYC Day Trips

Looking for day trips from nyc these guides will help you visit the hudson valley , catskills, and more.

NYC In Winter

Visiting nyc in winter don't miss....

NYC In Fall

Visiting nyc in autumn don't miss....

NYC In Spring

Visiting nyc in spring don't miss....

New York City Guides & Resources

Check out these other things to do in new york city....

Common New York City Travel Guide Questions

*Note: Some of the below links are affiliate links to trusted partners!

Q: Are there guided tours in New York City ?

Yes! In fact, I'm a licensed NYC tour guide myself and I lead private photo tours around the city that include photos of your group to keep.

Traveling solo? The tours are also great if you're looking for things to do in NYC by yourself . No need to ask strangers to take your picture!

Additionally, you can click here to view hundreds of popular New York City tourism, events, tickets and other guided tours around the city.

Curious what kind of questions are on the tour guide exam?

Check out this video:

Q: How many days do you recommend visiting NYC for?

No USA travel guide would be complete without mentioning NYC, as here's why:

If you lived in New York City for your entire life you still wouldn't have enough time to experience everything the city has to offer.

That being said, if you don't mind packing activities into your itinerary, you can do and see a lot in a weekend. Ideally, you'll plan out a 4 day NYC itinerary or more though.

Just keep in mind that many popular attractions featured in major New York City guides — like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and Circle Line cruises — take a few hours each.

If you want to go beyond Manhattan and also visit Brooklyn , Queens , The Bronx , and/or Staten Island , you'll want to visit for at least one week. This will help you also explore some of the more unusual things to do in NYC .

Q: What are the best ways to visit NYC on a budget?

There are so many cheap things to do in New York City !

First of all, opt for public transportation like the subway, bus, NYC Ferry, and CitiBike.

You can also ride the free Staten Island Ferry, which offers gorgeous views of the Statue of Liberty and is exceptionally lovely after dark if you're looking for free NYC night tours .

Moreover, book budget-friendly New York hotels like the Hotel Edison , YOTEL New York City , or Pod 39 .

Finally, save money on food by using the Crave app, find inexpensive local events through newsletters like The Skint and Nifty NYC , and opt for free experiences like riding the Staten Island Ferry, attending park events, and walking the High Line.

The Crave App can help you snag budget-friendly meals in NYC

Q: Where are the best free views of New York City?

If you're seeking out views of the skyline from Queens , check out Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City and Hunter’s Point South Park.

That being said, there are loads of great free views in NYC  featured in this New York City Travel Guide.

A few others include:

• East River Park in Williamsburg, Brooklyn
• The Roosevelt Island Tram in Manhattan
• Governors Island in Manhattan

Also, don't forget to enjoy some stunning views in NYC at night !

And if you don't mind spending a bit of money, there are some great Manhattan skyline tours , like yacht excursions and helicopter tours, as well as NYC architectural tours that showcase the city's most iconic buildings.

Q: How do I take the New York City subway?

The easiest way to get a handle on the subway is to use an app like Google Maps or CityMapper, both of which provide step-by-step instructions from your location to your destination.

Most New York tourist information booths also include instructions!

While you don't need a MetroCard anymore (you can simply tap your credit card to enter), many people like to get one to keep as a souvenir from New York . You can purchase your MetroCard at almost all subway stations, which are marked by a green and white globe at the entrances.

Note that unless you purchase a single ride, your MetroCard is refillable.

As long as you ride the subway four or more times during your entire trip, it will be more economical to avoid single ride tickets and purchase a refillable card or even a weekly or monthly unlimited card.

One neat thing about the NYC subway:

There are no zones, so no matter where you're going you'll pay $2.75 (unless you have an unlimited card, in which case all your rides are included).

The subway is one of New York City’s easiest and cheapest ways to get around

Q: What areas of New York City do you recommend tourists avoid?

Overall, the streets of New York are safe to wander.

That being said, NYC is unfortunately a prime example of the differences in opportunities and justice caused by generational systematic racism.

Most violent crimes take place in the city's poorest neighborhoods, so tourists won't commonly find themselves in NYC's most dangerous places.

A few neighborhoods that tend to make dangerous area lists include Mott Haven (The Bronx), the South Bronx (The Bronx), and East Harlem (Manhattan), though I'll also say that as a local I've walked around all of these neighborhoods without a problem.

Furthermore, if you want to avoid getting pickpocketed , it's worth noting that this tends to happen semi-frequently in touristy Times Square. That's why I recommend pickpocket-proof garments .

Q: Is the New York City subway safe at night?

Yes, though you should always keep travel safety in mind.

Be alert and aware of your surroundings, trust your gut, and if you've had a few drinks consider hailing a taxi.

The above are also things I would suggest during the day, though are especially pertinent if you're exploring NYC after midnight .

You also might consider investing in some travel safety essentials for peace of mind.

Yes, you can ride the NYC subway at night. Just be sure to use common sense.

Q: Where can I go hiking in NYC?

People are often surprised to learn that New York City has over 1,700 parks — many of which include hiking trails.

That being said, some parks are more rugged than others.

If you're looking for a hiking experience that feels like you've escaped the city for the Catskills, check out  Inwood Hill Park (Manhattan), Van Cortlandt Park (The Bronx), and Pelham Bay Park  (The Bronx).

Pelham Bay Park is actually NYC's largest park at 2,772 acres!

Additionally, people often forget about Staten Island , which is just a 30-minute (free!) ferry ride away and is full of hiking trails. This New York City Guide includes plenty of NYC hiking opportunities.

Recommendation:

Check out Staten Island's six major Greenbelt trails . These offer a diverse array of hiking for all fitness abilities.

Now, if you're looking for something easy and scenic but not necessarily rugged for hiking in New York City, a few suggestions include:

• Central Park (Manhattan). The park's three major woodlands include the North Woods, the Ramble, and the Hallett Nature Sanctuary (shown in the below video). Visiting Central Park is one of the top things to do on the Upper East Side NYC !
• Randall's Island  (Manhattan). The island park features an approximately four-mile scenic loop around the perimeter, though you can also venture inland to extend your hike. This is also a popular spot for an engagement photoshoot in NYC !
• Prospect Park (Brooklyn). This park has the same architects as Central Park. The Ravine is particularly noteworthy for some stunning urban hiking in NYC.
• Highland Park  ( Queens ). Here you can walk around a lovely reservoir and enjoy beautiful views of the Ridgewood Reservoir, the Rockaways, and the Atlantic Ocean.

Q: How much should I save for a trip to NYC?

While there are ways to explore NYC on a budget , most travelers will want to save at least $300 per day, including a hotel, daily tours, meals, and subway transportation.

Q: What should you not miss in NYC?

Why is NYC so popular ? For one, because of all of the incredible experiences to be had!

A few things you shouldn't miss when visiting New York City are wandering Central Park, taking a cooking class, doing an NYC walking tour , eating bready foods like pizza and bagels, savoring one of the best bottomless brunches in NYC , taking a boat ride (there are also many options for hosting a birthday party on a boat in NYC ), and seeing a show (off-Broadway counts, too!).

There are also numerous Instagrammable restaurants in NYC and beautiful places to take photos .

Q: How do I not look like a tourist in NYC?

Don't ever stop in the middle of a sidewalk or block pedestrian traffic to take a photo or read a map.

Also, learn the small rules that locals abide by, like letting people off of the subway before stepping on and standing still on the right side of the escalator and leaving the left side open for walkers.

Q: Can you visit New York City without a car?

Absolutely! Unless you'll be doing a road trip from NYC , you can get easily get around the five boroughs via public transportation.

Q: What can I do in six hours in New York?

With such a short amount of time, it's recommended to choose one or two main highlights — like walking the Williamsburg Bridge or eating your way around the West Village — and creating an itinerary around that.

You might also opt for a walking tour, which can help you see and learn a lot in a short amount of time.

Here are a few fun options:

• A Private & Custom NYC Photo Journey (Including Photos to Keep!)
• Professional Photoshoot in NYC (Including 100+ Images!)
• Greenwich Village Walking & Food Tasting Tour
• Brooklyn Graffiti Lesson
• Champagne Brunch Sail
• Broadway Theaters & Times Square with a Broadway Actor

Click here for a full list of tours and experiences .

Q: What can you do in New York City for $20 or less?

There are many free and cheap things to do in NYC , like enjoying an al fresco meal at one of the many lovely NYC picnic spots , walking around one of the city's 1700 parks, doing a self-guided audio tour of the city , wandering the art galleries of Chelsea, and taking in the free New York City views from the Staten Island ferry.

What would you add to this New York City travel guide?

• Attractions
• Restaurants
• Sample Sales
• Things to Do
• Trip Reports
• Print NYC Guide
• NYC Coupons
• NYC on a Budget
• Free in NYC

New York City Events April

Nyc concerts shows april, things to do in new york in april.

• Events & Holidays
• + Add Event
• +Get Listed

NYC Insider Guide New York City for Locals and Travelers

Things to do in new york in spring, new hotels in manhattan, new york city, the big apple, manhattan, nyc the greatest city in the world, welcome….

To the NYC Insider Guide, a New York City Travel Guide created by a fourth-generation lifelong New Yorker.

Planning a vacation is always fun, but in a place like New York City, with SO MUCH to see, do, tour, shop and eat – you want to make sure to do everything you can during your New York City Vacation. That is no easy feat, even for those of us who have lived in New York City our entire lives.

Consider me your very own NYC Insider to help you make the most of your NYC vacation, find our hidden treasures and advise you on the best New York City events, tours and attractions. I’ll also show you tons of discounts and coupons, how to see Museums for free and so much more!

Explore this New York City Travel Guide to book your trip and get New York City Insider tips, free maps, where to spend and save your money, secret ways of getting discounts and most importantly, what to book NOW so you don’t miss out!

NYC Insider Picks

New york yankees tickets, new york mets schedule & tickets, new york city ballet, things to do in new york with kids, billy joel at msg, metropolitan museum of art nyc, biking in new york city, latest news, top 50+ must-do new york city events may 2024 | tours & things to do, nyc concerts shows may 2024 | music calendar live events, the wallace hotel hidden gem near new york marathon finish line, new york sightseeing pass | price increase soon buy now, parts of fashion-curating in focus, a taste of ireland – celebrating the spirit of the emerald isle off-broadway, nyc concerts shows february | music calendar live events, nyc insider hotel picks, july 4th in new york city fireworks, best new york marathon hotels, best us tennis open hotels, romantic new york city hotels, boutique hotels in times square, jacuzzi hotels nyc in room, nyc hotels for families, macys thanksgiving parade hotel, hotel week new york city 2024, broadway shows, list of nyc broadway shows, hamilton broadway musical tickets, broadway week * jan 16-feb 4, 2024, new york broadway shows, book of mormon broadway musical, spotting celebrities in nyc, new york city gift ideas, discount broadway tickets new york, broadway shows in new york by category, nyc holidays.

• Valentines Day in New York City

Radio City Christmas Spectacular with Rockettes

New york city events december 2023, nyc new years eve parties.

• Christmas in New York City

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting 2023

Thanksgiving dinner in new york city 2023, nyc monthly events, new york city events january 2024, new york city events february 2024, new york city events march 2024, new york city events may, new york city events june, new york city events july, new york city events august, new york city events september, new york city events october, new york city events november, new york city activities.

New York City Tourist Attractions include the typical Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, Museums of Modern Art and Natural History, Central Park and so much more. Some of our newer attractions include the 9-11 Memorial Museum, Madame Tussauds Wax Museum and Times Square. But, do you also know you can have a martini and listen to classical music at a Museum? Or eat Chinese food while looking at the Statue of Liberty? Come enjoy NYC like a local….

New York City Tourist Attractions

New york city concerts shows 2024, nyc vacation itineraries, visiting new york with kids, new york city nightlife.

• New York City Museums

New York Restaurant Guides

New york city shopping, new york city sports teams, nyc events today, new york city tours.

• Fun Things to do in New York in Winter
• Ice Skating in New York City
• Things to do in NYC in December
• Things to do in NYC in January
• Things to do in NYC in February
• Holiday Markets in NYC
• Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting

Best New York City Hotel Rooftops

• NYC Helicopter Tours
• Free Things to Do in New York City

Newest NYC Experiences - Be The First!

NYC Hotel Rooftops offer some of the best skyline views in the whole City, along with cocktails and food, views, pools, cabanas, sundecks and retractable roofs. Our top picks for the most surreal views and cocktails include:

• Ink48 Hotel - right next to the Intrepid Museum and my ALL time favorite rooftop!
• The Ready @ Moxy NYC East Village - all-season rooftop with an amazingly eclectic vibe and great skyline views. (photo)
• The Empire Hotel - year-round indoor/outdoor rooftop with seasonal pool and cabana rentals

See More: Best New York City Hotel Rooftops

Museums and attractions are open, some with reduced capacity, safety protocols, reservations and vaccination proof. Check out the new Museum of Ice Cream (SoHo), Guggenheim, MoMA, Whitney and so many more NYC Museums from which to choose.

• All NYC Museum Guides
• Metropolitan Museum of Art
• 9-11 Memorial & Museum
• Statue of Liberty Museum
• Museum of Natural History
• Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum
• Museum at Eldridge Street
• Whitney Museum of American Art

Attractions & Sightseeing

NYC attractions are open, some with reservations required. Whether you want to sightsee from the sky or selfie with celebs @ Madame Tussauds , you can be safe and explore.

Go HIGH or Go Home

Top of the Rock, Empire State Building, One World Observatory, Edge or the new SUMMIT? Which is best and, if we have to choose, which should we visit? There is no easy answer, but here are some facts to help guide your choice.

• Empire State Building - (86 and 102 floors) Best for patient movie and history buffs who need to check it off their bucket list. Recently redone indoor 102nd Floor Observatory
• Top of the Rock - (67-70 floors) Best for sweeping 360° vista views, including of the Empire State Building and Central Park. Shorter lines and cheaper than the ESB.
• One World Observatory - (100-102 floors) Best for homage to the Twin Towers. Modern and high tech, with phenomenal views
• Edge - (100-101 floors) Highest outdoor observation deck, glass bottom floor, deck extends 80 feet away from building (photo)
• Summit One Vanderbilt - (91-93 floors) Opened Oct 2021, all glass elevator, indoor and outdoor decks and glass terraces off the side of the building. One of the hottest tickets in town

NYC Neighborhood Guides

Chelsea & hudson yards neighborhood guide, central park ny, west village nyc guide, harlem neighborhood guide, times square new york and theater district, greenwich village nyc guide, manhattan neighborhood map, upper east side ny guide, chinatown nyc guide, little italy nyc guide, garment district fashion center nyc free map guide, upper west side nyc guide, tribeca ny and the battery neighborhood guide, east village ny guide, popular nyc events, brooklyn nets tickets schedule, new york rangers tickets 2023-24, new york knicks tickets and schedule 2023-24, volleyball in new york city, nyc off-broadway week winter | tickets on sale.

• NYC Broadway Week
• NYC Restaurant Week
• Mother’s Day
• Memorial Day NYC
• July 4th NYC
• US Tennis Open
• Labor Day NYC
• Rockettes Christmas Spectacular
• Thanksgiving Day & Parade
• Thanksgiving Parade Hotel
• Thanksgiving Dinner
• Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
• New Years Eve
• Ball Drop New Years Eve NYC Hotels

NYC Things to Do

• Things to Do in NYC
• Sample Vacations

Welcome to the NYC Insider Guide . Please enjoy our Insider tips, free maps, where to spend and save your money, secret ways of getting discounts and most importantly, what to book NOW so you don’t miss out! - All the Best, Melissa

© 2008-2024 NYC INSIDER GUIDE , LTD ™. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. CONTENT PROTECTED BY DMCA.

• NYC Travel Itineraries
• Advertising
• Site Policies

Your Ultimate New York Itinerary: A 5-Day Guide

• 9 minute read

• February 19, 2024

5 DAY- Family Friendly New York Itinerary (2024 Updated)

Are you thinking about taking your family on a fun trip to New York City? Well, we’ve got you covered with our updated 5-day itinerary! It’s specially designed for families like yours, making sure everyone has a fantastic time.

From exploring Central Park to enjoying the bright lights of Times Square, visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, checking out the cool stuff at the American Museum of Natural History, to spending a sunny day at Coney Island – we’ve got all the exciting spots covered. So, get ready for a fantastic New York adventure with your family!

Day 1: Central Park Exploration

• At Early Morning 8:00 AM – Breakfast at Sarabeth’s Central Park South Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at Sarabeth’s, nestled near Central Park. This charming eatery offers a variety of mouthwatering options, setting the perfect tone for the day’s adventures.

Tip : Try the signature dishes like their fluffy pancakes or eggs benedict for a delightful morning treat.

• 10:00 AM – Central Park Zoo starts on a family-friendly exploration of Central Park Zoo, immersing yourselves in the wonders of diverse wildlife. The zoo offers a captivating experience for all ages, with exhibits showcasing a range of animals from playful sea lions to majestic snow leopards.

Tip : Plan your visit around feeding times or special animal encounters for an extra dose of excitement.

• 1:00 PM – Lunch at The Loeb Boathouse Take a scenic pause for lunch at The Loeb Boathouse, nestled by the lake in Central Park. This upscale restaurant provides a picturesque setting, allowing you to savor delicious cuisine while surrounded by the natural beauty of the park.

Tip : Opt for outdoor seating to enjoy the serene views of the lake and perhaps spot some rowboats drifting by.

• 3:00 PM – Boat Ride on Central Park Lake Continue your Central Park adventure with a leisurely boat ride on Central Park Lake. Whether it’s rowing your boat or indulging in a gondola ride, this experience offers a serene escape within the heart of the bustling city.

Tip : Capture memorable photos of iconic park landmarks from the unique vantage point on the lake.

• 5:00 PM – Dinner at Tavern on the Green Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at the iconic Tavern on the Green. This historic restaurant, nestled in the heart of Central Park, offers a charming ambiance and a diverse menu to suit various tastes.

Tip : Make a reservation in advance to secure a preferred dining time and experience the enchanting atmosphere of the evening.

Night – Find Hotels In New York City, USA

Day 2: Times Square Excursion

• 9:00 AM – Breakfast at Ellen’s Stardust Diner Kick off your day with a unique breakfast experience at Ellen’s Stardust Diner in Times Square. This retro-themed diner is known for its singing waitstaff, adding a touch of entertainment to your morning meal.

Tip : Arrive early to secure a good seat and enjoy the lively performances throughout your meal.

• 11:00 AM – Exploration of Times Square Immerse yourselves in the vibrant energy of Times Square, known for its dazzling billboards, bustling streets, and world-famous theaters. Take a stroll, capturing the electrifying atmosphere and perhaps spotting street performers.

Tip : Visit the TKTS booth for discounted Broadway show tickets and plan a visit to a nearby souvenir shop.

• 1:30 PM – Lunch at Junior’s Restaurant Indulge in a classic New York deli experience at Junior’s Restaurant, a beloved eatery renowned for its mouthwatering sandwiches and decadent cheesecakes.

Tip : Don’t forget to try their signature pastrami sandwich or a slice of their famous New York cheesecake.

• 3:00 PM – Visit Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Embark on a journey of curiosity at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! museum in Times Square. Explore bizarre exhibits and optical illusions that captivate both children and adults alike.

Tip : Take your time to fully appreciate the unique and unusual artifacts on display.

• 6:00 PM – Dinner at Carmine’s Wrap up your day with a family-style Italian dinner at Carmine’s in Times Square. This popular restaurant is known for its generous portions and lively atmosphere.

Tip : Order family-style dishes for a communal dining experience, and save room for their delectable desserts.

Select accommodations that align with your family’s preferences, whether it’s a centrally located hotel offering easy access to Times Square or a cozy boutique hotel with personalized service.

Day 3: Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Visit

• 8:00 AM – Breakfast at Clinton Hall Fuel up for the day with a hearty breakfast at Clinton Hall, preparing for an exciting exploration of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

Tip : Try their signature breakfast items or opt for a classic New York bagel with cream cheese.

• 10:00 AM – Statue of Liberty Tour Embark on a ferry journey from Battery Park to the iconic Statue of Liberty. Explore the statue’s history and significance, climbing to the pedestal or crown for breathtaking views of the city.

Tip : Book tickets in advance to secure your preferred ferry time and access to the pedestal or crown.

• 1:30 PM – Lunch at Ellis Island Cafe Enjoy a meal at Ellis Island Cafe, offering a variety of options to suit different tastes. Take a break before delving into the rich history of Ellis Island.

Tip : Consider trying a dish inspired by the cultural diversity represented at Ellis Island.

• 3:30 PM – Ellis Island Immigration Museum Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of immigration at the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. Explore exhibits showcasing the immigrant experience and the role of Ellis Island in shaping American history.

Tip : Utilize audio guides or guided tours to gain deeper insights into the exhibits.

• 6:00 PM – Dinner at Stone Street Tavern Conclude your day with a relaxing dinner at Stone Street Tavern in the historic Financial District. This charming restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere and a diverse menu.

Tip : Explore the historic Stone Street area after dinner for a glimpse into New York’s past.

Select accommodations that align with your family’s preferences, considering options with views of the Statue of Liberty or convenient access to Battery Park for a seamless departure the next day.

Day 4: American Museum of Natural History

• 9:00 AM – Breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien Start your day with a wholesome breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien, setting the stage for an educational and captivating day at the American Museum of Natural History.

Tip : Try their organic breakfast options or opt for a classic continental breakfast to fuel your museum exploration.

• 10:00 AM – Exploration of AMNH Spend the day delving into the vast exhibits at the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH). From dinosaurs to space exploration, the museum offers a diverse range of displays suitable for all ages.

Tip : Plan your visit around special exhibitions or interactive displays for an engaging experience.

• 2:00 PM – Lunch at Shake Shack Recharge with a quick and delicious lunch at Shake Shack, conveniently located near the museum. Indulge in their famous burgers, shakes, and crinkle-cut fries.

Tip : Check for any exclusive museum-themed menu items or promotions at Shake Shack.

• 3:30 PM – IMAX Movie at AMNH Enhance your museum experience with an educational IMAX movie at the museum’s theater. Immerse yourselves in captivating documentaries or thrilling educational films.

Tip : Check the museum’s schedule for IMAX showtimes and plan your visit accordingly.

• 5:30 PM – Dinner at Ocean Prime Conclude your day with a delightful seafood dinner at Ocean Prime. This upscale restaurant offers a sophisticated ambiance and a menu featuring a variety of fresh and expertly prepared seafood dishes.

Tip : Make a reservation to secure a preferred dining time and explore nearby attractions like Central Park after dinner.

Choose accommodations that cater to your family’s preferences, whether it’s a hotel near the American Museum of Natural History or a cozy retreat with amenities catering to children.

Day 5: Coney Island Adventure

• 9:00 AM – Breakfast at Tom’s Coney Island Commence your day with a classic breakfast at Tom’s Coney Island diner, known for its timeless charm and delicious morning offerings.

Tip : Try their signature breakfast items or opt for a classic American breakfast for a satisfying start to the day.

• 10:00 AM – Rides and Games at Luna Park Experience the excitement of Luna Park with its thrilling rides and entertaining games. Catering to all ages, Luna Park provides a fun-filled atmosphere for family enjoyment.

Tip : Check the park’s schedule for special events or character appearances to enhance your visit.

• 1:00 PM – Lunch at Nathan’s Famous Savor the iconic hot dogs and fries at Nathan’s Famous, a staple on the Coney Island boardwalk. Enjoy a quick and delicious meal amidst the lively atmosphere.

Tip : Share a classic Coney Island hot dog experience with the family and try their famous crinkle-cut fries.

• 2:30 PM – Beach Time at Coney Island Beach Relax on the sandy shores of Coney Island Beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the ocean breeze. Take a stroll along the boardwalk, appreciating the vibrant atmosphere.

Tip : Pack sunscreen, beach towels, and snacks for a comfortable beach outing with the family.

• 5:00 PM – Dinner at Gargiulo’s Restaurant Conclude your Coney Island adventure with a hearty Italian meal at Gargiulo’s Restaurant. This iconic eatery has been serving delicious Italian cuisine for generations.

Tip : Try their signature pasta dishes or seafood specialties for a memorable dining experience.

Night – Find Hotels In Brooklyn, New York, USA

Additional Tips to make your trip successful.

Transportation Tips

Navigating the bustling streets of New York City requires a bit of know-how. The city offers an extensive public transportation system, including buses and subways, providing a cost-effective and efficient way to get around. Taxis and rideshare services are also readily available for a more personalized travel experience.

Tip : Purchase a MetroCard for easy access to subways and buses, and plan your routes using online maps or apps to streamline your journey.

Travel Requirements

Before embarking on your journey, be sure to check the travel requirements for your trip to New York City. This includes any necessary visas, passport validity, and other entry regulations. Staying informed about travel restrictions and guidelines will help ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival.

Tip : Visit the official U.S. government website or consult with your local embassy to stay updated on the latest travel requirements.

Local Sayings

New York City has its unique language, with locals often using phrases and expressions that might be unfamiliar to visitors. Embracing a few local sayings can enhance your interactions and make you feel more connected to the vibrant city culture.

Tip : Familiarize yourself with common New York expressions, such as “ The Big Apple ” or “On the Subway,” to navigate conversations with locals more effortlessly.

Connectivity Info

Staying connected during your trip is essential for communication, navigation, and sharing your experiences. New York City boasts widespread connectivity with numerous free Wi-Fi hotspots, and cellular networks cover the entire city. Ensuring you have a reliable data plan or SIM card will keep you seamlessly connected throughout your stay.

Tip : Activate international roaming or consider purchasing a local SIM card for cost-effective data usage during your trip.

Nearby Shopping

For avid shoppers, New York City is a paradise with world-renowned shopping districts like Fifth Avenue and SoHo. Exploring nearby shopping options allows you to indulge in retail therapy and take-home unique souvenirs.

Tip : Research popular shopping areas close to your accommodation and plan dedicated shopping days to make the most of your retail experience.

Accepted Currency + Payment Types

Understanding the local currency and preferred payment methods is essential for a hassle-free experience. While the U.S. Dollar is widely accepted, having some cash on hand for small purchases is advisable. Credit and debit cards are commonly used, but it’s essential to inform your bank about your travel dates to avoid any payment disruptions.

Tip : Carry a mix of cash and cards, and inform your bank of your travel dates to prevent any unexpected card issues.

Safety Tips

New York City is generally safe for tourists, but like any big city, it’s crucial to stay vigilant. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and keep your belongings secure. Use well-lit and populated streets when walking at night, and avoid engaging with aggressive street vendors.

Tip : Familiarize yourself with emergency contact numbers and store important documents securely, like a copy of your passport and travel insurance information.

Cultural Norms + Etiquette

Understanding and respecting cultural norms and etiquette is key to having a positive travel experience. New Yorkers are known for their fast-paced lifestyle, so being mindful of personal space and adopting a confident stride when walking helps you blend in. Politeness and courtesy go a long way in any cultural setting.

Tip : Observe local behaviors, be courteous, and follow common social norms to ensure a positive and respectful interaction with locals.

Health + Medical Facilities

Prioritizing health is crucial during your travels. Familiarize yourself with the locations of nearby medical facilities and pharmacies. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, and carry a basic first aid kit for minor health issues.

Tip : Check the nearest hospitals and pharmacies to your accommodation, and carry essential medications along with a list of emergency contacts.

How much did you like Our detailed  Your Ultimate New York Itinerary: A 5-Day Guide ?  Review Also, please share these  Blogs  with your friends on social media.

Related Article –

• Lakshadweep Itinerary
• Morocco Itinerary
• 7 Day Phuket Itinerary
• LA 7-Day Itinerary
• Japan Itinerary
• Pattaya, Thailand
• Korea Travel itinerary
• Epic Itinerary Road Trip
• Delhi to Manali

Meet David Hoper, a passionate travel Blog writer with 7+ years of experience in travel content. Through his exemplary storytelling and engaging narratives, he shares his experiences and brings destinations to life. With a keen eye for detail and a love for exploration, he has cultivated a diverse portfolio of travel blogs that inspire and inform readers worldwide.

In this article:

Post written by: David Hoper

Leave a reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

United states Venice Beach Travel Guide | A Must See Florida Beach Town

• February 20, 2024

Travel Guide 20 Expert Tips for a Stress-Free Family Travel

You may also like.

EPIC 7 Days Korea Travel itinerary for first-timers (2024)

The best 5-day Japan itinerary suggestions for first-timers

Pattaya Itinerary: Best Places to Visit in Pattaya

• 2 minute read

Uncover the Southwest Road Trip Itinerary: A 7-Day Epic Road Trip itinerary

• 12 minute read

7 Day Phuket Itinerary (2024) | The Best Things to Do in 7 days in Phuket

• 6 minute read

Explore Morocco: A 7-Day Family Travel Itinerary (Updated 2024)

• 5 minute read

Our Latest Instagram Posts

@amazingworld.travel8.

New York travel guide

Unleash the urban jungle: new york city uncovered.

As one of the world’s hubs for art, culture, business, and more, New York is home to mountainous skyscrapers, bustling streets, and a massively diverse population. With iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty juxtaposed against trendy neighborhoods like Williamsburg and SoHo, New York City is a place that captures the imagination and leaves a lasting impression. But while it’s easy to assume that New York City is all glassy office towers and packed subway cars, the city is also home to peaceful parks and hidden gems. Here, you’ll find both the old and the new, the traditional and the innovative, the global and the local - and everything in between. New York City is made up of five boroughs, all connected by public transit and each with its own unique character and charm. Manhattan is the city's heart, known for its big buildings, world-class museums, and vibrant nightlife. At the same time, Brooklyn is a hub of creativity and innovation, with trendy neighborhoods and a thriving arts scene. Queens is the most diverse borough, with a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant food scene, and to the north, the Bronx is home to some of the city's most iconic landmarks, including Yankee Stadium and Bronx Zoo. Meanwhile, Staten Island is a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, with stunning parks and a scenic waterfront. Whether you're visiting the city for the first time or have lived here for decades, there's always something new to discover.

Must-see in New York

New york's must-see attractions for the perfect big apple adventure, the metropolitan museum of art.

Explore 5,000 years of art history at one of the world's largest and most prestigious museums.

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

Ellis Island is where you can learn about NYC's vital immigrant history and marvel at the iconic Statue of Liberty.

Experience the nostalgia and excitement of a classic American beachfront amusement park.

Central Park

This sprawling, tranquil green space is Manhattan's heart and soul.

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

Discover groundbreaking modern and contemporary art at this world-renowned institution.

St. Patrick's Cathedral

This neo-Gothic masterpiece is simply awe-inspiring.

The 9/11 Memorial and Museum

Pay your respects at this moving tribute to the victims of the Sept. 11 attacks.

Brooklyn Bridge

Take in breathtaking views of NYC from the historic and picturesque Brooklyn Bridge.

The High Line

Discover an urban sanctuary on this elevated park with unparalleled views and artistic flair.

The American Museum of Natural History

Unearth the wonders of our natural world at this captivating and comprehensive museum.

The Cloisters

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the art and tranquility of medieval Europe.

Trinity Church

Delve into NYC's rich history and admire the stunning architecture at this historic church.

The Whitney Museum of American Art

This modern museum in the vibrant Meatpacking District is home to cutting-edge American art.

Encounter diverse wildlife and learn about conservation efforts at this world-renowned urban zoo.

The New York Botanical Garden

Explore the breathtaking beauty of diverse flora and seasonal displays in this serene urban garden.

One World Observatory

Take in unparalleled panoramic views of the city from the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.

Apollo Theater

Uncover America’s music and entertainment legacy at Harlem's historic Apollo Theater.

The Guggenheim Museum

Marvel at this world-famous museum's iconic architecture and impressive collection of modern art.

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

Discover the fascinating history of sea, air, and space exploration aboard this historic aircraft carrier.

Governors Island

This tranquil island paradise is just a short ferry ride from the heart of NYC.

The Tenement Museum

Step back in time and explore the stories of immigrant families at this captivating living history museum.

The Morgan Library & Museum

Immerse yourself in the opulence and literary treasures of J.P. Morgan's private library and museum.

Enjoy the serene beauty and breathtaking views of this public garden and cultural center.

The Cathedral of St. John the Divine

Head to Morningside Heights to take in the incredible grandeur and artistry of the world's largest cathedral.

The Frick Collection

Admire an exquisite collection of Old Masters paintings and European decorative arts on the Upper East Side.

Flushing Meadows Corona Park

Flushing Meadows Corona Park, the city’s second-largest park, has many attractions and recreational activities.

New York Transit Museum

Kids and adults alike will love uncovering the history and engineering feats of New York City's public transportation system at the New York Transit Museum.

Broadway, the epicenter of New York City's theater scene, enthralls visitors with world-class performances.

Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden

This picturesque Staten Island attraction is a rich blend of culture and nature.

Hudson Yards

A cutting-edge urban development in Manhattan, featuring striking architectural landmarks, high-end shopping, and a vibrant cultural scene.

Socrates Sculpture Park

Explore contemporary art in a dynamic outdoor setting with breathtaking skyline views.

New York Aquarium

This historic city aquarium is home to abundant marine life and underwater adventure.

The Noguchi Museum

Enter the creative world of Isamu Noguchi at this tranquil and inspiring Queens museum.

Eldridge Street Synagogue & Museum at Eldridge Street

Explore the beautiful architecture and rich history of this landmark 19th-century synagogue.

Louis Armstrong House Museum

Step into the world of jazz legend Louis Armstrong at his preserved and historic Queens home.

National Museum of the American Indian

Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Native American tribes at this enlightening museum.

Top of the Rock

Top of the Rock, the spectacular observation deck at Rockefeller Center, offers awe-inspiring 360-degree views of New York City's iconic skyline and landmarks.

New York's neighborhoods

Explore new york's best neighborhoods, west village, williamsburg, long island city, seasonal events in new york, the ultimate guide to seasonal events in new york city, st. patrick's day parade (march).

A colorful celebration of Irish heritage and culture along Fifth Avenue.

Tribeca Festival (June)

This premier event celebrates independent films and filmmakers from around the world.

Governor's Ball Music Festival (June)

Governor's Ball Music Festival is an annual event that showcases a diverse lineup of musicians and bands on Randall's Island.

Coney Island Mermaid Parade (June)

Coney Island’s Mermaid Parade kicks off summer with participants dressed in mermaid and sea-themed costumes.

NYC Pride March (June)

NYC Pride March is a vibrant and joyous event celebrating the LGBTQ+ community and their allies with colorful floats, costumes, and live music.

New York Film Festival (September-October)

This world-renowned event showcases some of the best films from around the globe, with screenings, premieres, and discussions with filmmakers and actors.

Village Halloween Parade (October)

Village Halloween Parade is a spooky and playful event featuring creative costumes, floats, live music, and passes through Greenwich Village.

TCS New York City Marathon (November)

Among the world's largest and most prestigious marathons, the TCS New York City Marathon takes runners through all five boroughs of New York City.

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (November)

Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is a beloved annual tradition featuring elaborate floats, balloons, and live performances, drawing millions of spectators and viewers worldwide.

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting (November-December)

Rockefeller Center’s annual Christmas tree lighting is a magical event that marks the start of the holiday season, featuring the lighting of the iconic tree and live performances by top musicians and entertainers.

Times Square New Year's Eve (December)

This globally recognized celebration features live performances and the iconic ball drop at midnight, attracting millions of people from around the world.

Planning toolkit for New York

Everything you should know about visiting new york, planes, trains, and automobiles - the ultimate guide to getting to new york city, discover the best hotels in new york city for every type of traveler, once you're in new york, getting around new york city.

With so much to see and do in New York City, getting around can take time and effort, especially for first-timers. Learn about the different transportation options available in the city, including tips, ticket prices, rental prices, valuable apps, and more, to help make your travels as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Savor the City: New York City’s Best Dining Delights

Embark on a gastronomic expedition through the diverse and delectable landscape of New York City's top 20 must-visit restaurants. From the finest Michelin-starred establishments to hidden gems that locals adore, this handpicked selection showcases the culinary genius and multicultural spirit that make NYC a food lover's paradise.

Renting a car and driving in New York City

While navigating in New York City can be intimidating, renting a car can allow you to explore beyond the subway or public transportation confines. However, before you hit the road, there are some essential things you need to know.

Things to do

The ultimate guide to exploring new york city with kids.

New York City is a huge city with something for everyone, but is it child-friendly? The answer is a resounding yes! From family-friendly attractions to kid-friendly restaurants, New York City is an excellent family destination. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the top destinations and experiences to visit with your family and provide tips on how to get around the city easily.

The Ultimate Guide to New York City's Best Bars and Clubs

The dead rabbit.

The Dead Rabbit is a popular bar located in the Financial District, known for its extensive list of craft cocktails, impressive collection of Irish whiskey, and cozy taproom and parlor on two levels.

Buzzy Le Bain is a rooftop bar located in the Meatpacking District, known for its hot tubs, indoor/outdoor space, electronic and house music, and stunning views of the city skyline.

The Box is a high-energy club located in the Lower East Side, famous for its burlesque shows, live music, and DJs.

Employees Only

This speakeasy-style bar in the West Village is known for its intimate ambiance, inventive cocktails, and vintage decor.

Stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, inventive cocktails, and a small plate menu make for a chic and memorable experience.

A cozy Japanese-inspired cocktail bar on the Lower East Side, Bar Goto features minimalist decor, inventive cocktails with Japanese ingredients, and a small plate menu.

This Tribeca jazz club has live performances, vintage-inspired decor, and a tasty full menu.

The Campbell

With its luxurious ambiance, classic cocktails, and a selection of small plates, The Campbell is the spot for an upscale experience.

The Woods is a laid-back bar located in Williamsburg, featuring an outdoor patio, craft cocktails, beer, and a rotation of DJs spinning tunes.

The Up & Up

A speakeasy-style bar located in Greenwich Village, known for its inventive cocktails, vintage decor, and intimate atmosphere.

The Ultimate Shopper's Guide to New York City: Discover the Best Stores, Markets, and Boutiques

New York City is known for many things, and shopping is definitely one of them. From world-famous department stores to charming boutiques, the city has it all. In this guide, we'll take you through some of the best places to go shopping in the Big Apple, whether you're looking for high-end fashion or quirky souvenirs.

Escape the City: The 15 Best Day Trips from New York

New York City can be an exciting place to live or visit, but sometimes you need a break from the hustle and bustle. Luckily, plenty of beautiful and exciting destinations within a few hours of the city make perfect day trips. From charming small towns to stunning natural landscapes, these are the best places to escape the city and recharge your batteries.

Beacon, New York

Philadelphia, pennsylvania, fire island, new york, cold spring, new york, bear mountain state park, new york, new paltz, new york, storm king art center, new york, mystic, connecticut, montauk, new york, hudson, new york, princeton, new jersey, newport, rhode island, woodstock, new york, shawangunk wine trail, new york, what to pack for new york city.

Packaging the right items is essential to maximize your trip to New York City. Whether you visit during the summer or winter, this guide will help you pack for a comfortable and enjoyable trip.

World Travel Guide - Official Destination Guides and Travel Stories

World Travel Guide

Editorial Foreword

The World Travel Guide (WTG) is the flagship digital consumer brand within the Columbus Travel Media portfolio . Available in English, German, and Spanish versions, the WTG provides detailed and accurate travel content designed to inspire global travellers. It covers all aspects, from cities to airports, cruise ports to ski and beach resorts, attractions to events, and it also includes offbeat travel news, stories, quizzes and guides for adventurous travellers.

Travel Features

Food and drink.

Los Angeles food & drink guide: 10 things to try in Los Angeles, California

From celebrity chefs to timeless burger joints, lively Los Angeles has a wide range of dishes to impress you; here are the top 10 things to try

London food & drink guide: 10 things to try in London

As one of the most diverse cities in the world, London’s culinary scene offers an eclectic mixture of British classics and modern, multicultural cuisine

Are eggs good or bad for you?

Chicken eggs are nutritious and versatile, but are they good or bad for you?

Italian wine for major occasions

Great wine can amp up your mood and enhance your experience, and this guide can help you choose fantastic Italian wine for major foodie and special occasions

The complete guide to Bulgarian wine

Bulgaria is not yet a well-known wine country, but that is about to change as Bulgarian wineries are carving an admirable niche

Thai Wine – A remarkable success story

A feat to be admired, we take you through Thai wine’s remarkable journey to success

City Guides

Bustling and energetic, Osaka is a thriving metropolis with a distinct commercial culture and with a regional identity that sets it apart from elsewhere in Japan.

Paris rarely disappoints. Home to beautiful architecture, arresting art and the world’s finest restaurants, only the hard–hearted will leave the City of Light without falling in love.

Sandwiched between the Red Sea and the mighty Negev desert, Eilat is a water sport and desert adventure paradise. The southernmost city of Israel has all the hallmarks of a fantastic sun and fun holiday.

Country/ State/ Region Guides

A flavourful melting pot of sparkling nightspots, fresh seafood, sizzling Mediterranean passion and mythical legend, Greece is a fascinating and enchanting destination.

The eyes of the world are on Qatar right now. Following the discovery of oil in the 1940s, this small Gulf state has been catapulted from a small fishing and trading hub to one of the richest (per capita) countries in the world.

The Islands of Tahiti

The Islands of Tahiti are known for their laid-back vibes. Expect romantic sunsets and giant curls of turquoise breaking over reefs. Remote and pristine, the islands give you a glimpse of paradise on Earth.

Mongolia is far-flung and little visited yet has much to offer, from the stunning scenery and wildlife of mountains and deserts to the emerging luxury hotels and restaurants of capital Ulaanbaatar.

Much like the varying conditions of classic cars, Havana appears to be in a constant state of restoration. A mishmash of beautifully restored colonial buildings rubs shoulders with dilapidated tenements of regular Cubans.

© Columbus Travel Media Ltd. All rights reserved 2024

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

• Restaurants
• Best-of Guides
• MICHELIN Guide Ceremony
• My Favorites
• Subscribe to newsletter
• Booking partnership with OpenTable
• Booking partnership with Resy
• USA - English - USD
• The First MICHELIN Key Hotels: All the Keys in the United States

The MICHELIN Guide announces top honors for U.S. hotels in 2024.

Hotels NYC California Washington D.C. MICHELIN Keys

New York City by The MICHELIN Guide

See the New York City guide

On April 24, 2024, the MICHELIN Guide revealed the brand new list of One, Two, and Three Key hotels in the United States. In this first ever announcement of MICHELIN Keys in the United States, hotels in Atlanta, California, Chicago, Colorado, Florida, New York, and Washington DC were eligible for the distinction. This announcement of the most outstanding hotels in the country comes four years into a comprehensive refresh of our hotel selection. The MICHELIN Guide now includes over 5,000 hotels across the world, and not a single one is simply a room for the night. These are places that significantly add to your experience as a traveler, each vetted and judged excellent in five categories: architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, overall personality and character, value for the price, and a significant contribution to the guest experience in a particular setting. Which brings us back to the Keys. The culmination of countless hours of evaluation by our team of experts, the Key hotels below represent the highlights of our broader selection. Like the MICHELIN Stars for restaurants, the MICHELIN Keys are our most outstanding hotels. In total, the 2024 MICHELIN Guide hotel selection in the United States includes 11 Three Key hotels, 33 Two Key hotels, and 80 One Key hotels. Want to know more about the MICHELIN Key? Here’s everything you need to know . Or, head below to look at all the Keys.

How To Look Through the List

Jump straight to the list or take a deeper dive into select key hotels..

Take a peek at SingleThread, the five room inn with Three Keys and Three Stars. Explore the one street in Chicago that leads to seven Key hotels. Or find out more the Cliff House suite at our only Three Key hotel in Big Sur, California. Subscribe to our newsletter for more like this.

Highlights of the United States 2024 Key Hotel List

The Three Key Club in New York City

Expect: The highest luxury and impeccable design in Soho, Midtown, and the Financial District. Within the small club of Three Key hotels in the United States, four make their home in New York City. The Aman New York (Midtown) and Casa Cipriani (the Financial District) both make use of glamorous Beaux Arts buildings, the former a gold-crowned skyscraper in Midtown, the latter a glamorously restored ferry terminal at the very southern tip of Manhattan. Each is a refuge: an elegant, painstakingly designed escape from bustling city life. Meanwhile, two Firmdale hotels round out the list of Three Key hotels in New York City. Each is a quintessential example of the style and execution of the group’s co-owner and interior designer, Kit Kemp. Click the links here to explore the whirl of colors and collage of art that define the Crosby Street (Soho) and the Whitby Hotel (Midtown). Also read: Every Three Key Hotel in Paris

Jewels on the Coast: Up and Down California

Its sheer breadth of size and variety means it’s no surprise to announce California as the state with the most Key hotels in America. Here, we’ll point you towards coastal gems like the sublime architectural achievements in Big Sur ( Post Ranch Inn and Ventana ), beachside luxuries in Santa Monica (in particular: the newly opened Georgian ), and wine country favorites like SingleThread and the Madrona . What we love: how each one of these hotels opens the door to the very best of their locations — and gives us a look at each setting through fresh eyes.

Across America: The Golden Age of Celebrity

Our French Keys bask in the tradition of ancient vineyards, stone chateaus, and historic palaces. In the United States, we see a different tradition. In Los Angeles, places like Chateau Marmont , the Paramour Estate , Sunset Tower , and the Charlie date back to guests and residents as illustrious as Clark Gable and Marilyn Monroe. These are spaces that play ingeniously with their history, even as they forge ahead with cutting-edge amenities and experiences. But it’s not just California. New York’s historic artist hotspot, the Hotel Chelsea , once hosted Bob Dylan and Andy Warhol. Today, it decorates every space with art donated by former residents. Look too to the Chicago Athletic Association , a former member’s club for 20th century business magnates and athletes — now among the city’s most impressive and vibrant hotels. Also read: Hollywood Glamor at the First Key Hotels in Los Angeles

Click below to jump to each distinction: 

The three key hotels.

California (Beverly Hills):  The Beverly Hills Hotel, Dorchester Collection California (Big Sur): Post Ranch Inn California (Healdsburg): SingleThread Inn California (Los Angeles):  Hotel Bel-Air, Dorchester Collection California (Rutherford):  Auberge du Soleil, Auberge Resorts Collection California (St. Helena):  Meadowood Napa Valley California (Woodside):  Canyon Ranch Woodside New York (NYC):  Aman New York New York (NYC):  Casa Cipriani New York New York (NYC):  Crosby Street Hotel, Firmdale Hotels New York (NYC):  The Whitby Hotel, Firmdale Hotels

NEW: New York by The MICHELIN Guide – expert insights on where to dine, stay and explore

The two key hotels.

California (Beverly Hills): L'Ermitage Beverly Hills California (Beverly Hills): The Maybourne Beverly Hills California (Beverly Hills): The Peninsula Beverly Hills California (Carmel Valley): Bernardus Lodge & Spa California (Big Sur): Ventana Big Sur California (Guerneville): The Stavrand California (Healdsburg): Montage Healdsburg California (Healdsburg): The Madrona California (Laguna Beach): Montage Laguna Beach California (Montecito): Rosewood Miramar Beach California (Napa):  Milliken Creek Inn & Spa California (San Francisco):  Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco at Embarcadero California (San Francisco):  The Battery California (Sausalito):  Cavallo Point Lodge California (West Hollywood): Chateau Marmont California (West Hollywood):  Pendry West Hollywood California (Yountville):  Bardessono California (Yountville):  North Block Washington D.C.:  Rosewood Washington, D.C.   Washington D.C.:  The Jefferson Florida (Miami):  Mayfair House Hotel & Garden Florida (Miami Beach):  Faena Hotel Miami Beach Florida (Miami Beach):  Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club Florida (Miami Beach):  The Setai Miami Beach   Illinois (Chicago): Pendry Chicago Illinois (Chicago):  The Langham, Chicago Illinois (Chicago):  The Peninsula Chicago New York (NYC): Hotel Barrière Fouquet's New York New York (NYC):  Nine Orchard  New York (NYC):  Pendry Manhattan West New York (NYC): The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel New York (NYC): The Fifth Avenue Hotel New York (NYC):  The Mark Hotel

The One Key Hotels

Washington D.C.

Hero Image: Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection — Aspen, Colorado

Rosewood Kona Village Breathes Luxurious New Life into Legacy

Ten years after a devastating tsunami destroyed it, Kona Village is back and better than ever.

Mikhail Baryshnikov's New York is an Ode to the City's Artists

The icon celebrates and champions the boldfaced names in the city from meat purveyors to Three Star chefs.

In Photos: Every Three Key Hotel in Spain

The ins and outs of the most outstanding hotels in the country.

Total Package: Key Hotels with Star Restaurants in Spain

21 spots that have it all in Spain.

Keep Exploring - Stories we think you will enjoy reading

Inside The Top Suite of Mallorca's Seaside Fortress Hotel

The “Sentinel Suite” at Cap Rocat is cut deep into the Mallorcan cliffside — where a cannon once sat guarding the sea.

Cristine Bedfor Is By Your Side in Menorca

Cristine Bedfor is charming, graceful, and generous. She’s a true bohemian and, if you find yourself in Menorca, a trustworthy confidant. She’s also a Key hotel.

The First MICHELIN Key Hotels: All the Keys in Spain

The MICHELIN Guide announces top honors for Spanish hotels in 2024.

In Photos: Every Three Key Hotel in New York City

The ins and outs of the most outstanding hotels in the city.

The Most Outrageous Design Hotel In Miami

The Faena Miami Beach is a Two Key hotel with a $15 million gilded woolly mammoth.

A Brief Guide to All the Key Hotels in Washington D.C.

Seven hotels earned at least one MICHELIN Key in Washington D.C.

Inside the Top Suite of the Only Three Key Hotel in Big Sur

The so-called "Cliff House" has the views you're looking for.

SingleThread: The 5-Room Inn with Three Keys and Three Stars

Revered for its Three MICHELIN Star restaurant and biodynamic farm, the SingleThread Inn earns Three Keys for its tiny, food-driven hotel.

MICHELIN Guide

Use the app to find the best restaurants and hotels everywhere

Be the first to get news and update about the michelin guide.

MICHELIN Guide selections

The michelin group.

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Legal Notice

Display settings

Customize your experience by easily adjusting display settings for territory, and currency to suit your preferences!

Member privileges

The Plus program provides upgrades and amenities at participating hotels. For this hotel, Plus members will receive:

Non-members can add the privileges at checkout through our 30 day free trial, cancellable at anytime.

Watch CBS News

2 New York City beaches make Travel + Leisure's "25 Best in the USA." See the complete list.

By Dave Carlin

Updated on: April 29, 2024 / 6:47 PM EDT / CBS New York

NEW YORK -- Travel + Leisure magazine's annual list of the 25 best beaches in the U.S. includes a pair of popular ones right here in New York City.

The two beaches are sharing the prestigious space with other sun, sand and surf spots in places like Hawaii, California and Florida.

George Schlereth of Forest Hills said his love for Rockaway Beach predates the hit 1978 song by the Ramones with lyrics that went, "Rock, rock, Rockaway Beach."

"It's a great place to spend the afternoon. It's the best place you could go," Schlereth said.

So what else makes Rockaway Beach such a fan favorite?  

Travel + Leisure praised Rockaway Beach's "Five-mile boardwalk, and surf-worthy waves."

"It's definitely very diverse. People come from all over come here," said Kristen Supple of Far Rockaway.

"Rockaway Beach, because I love like the waves and boogie boarding and they have great ice cream and food," said 10-year-old Jordan Cannetti.

"I used to come here as a kid with my parents and family and it's just night and day. The boardwalk, it's just amazing. Now, the restaurant," his father said. "The parks along the boardwalk are just amazing. Ninja Park is great The pickle ball, the basketball."

"They spent so much money fixing up the Rockaways. They brought in more people, more families down there. The place is packed now," Schlereth added.

And let's not forget the amazing Coney Island   

Coney Island bubbled up to the Top 25 as well, with the editors of Travel + Leisure writing, "Coney Island is a perfect seaside wonderland of nostalgia and kitschy fun."

Kenya Dethan, who is 7, called it her favorite beach.

"I like the nice water. I like going on the roller coasters," Dethan said.

The thing about Coney Island is there is so much to do -- sand and surf, the boardwalk with the amusements, and the food and drinks -- all of it rain or shine.

"Number one in the world, Coney Island," resident David Dingle said. "Best of both worlds. You're at the beach and the stores all together, all in one place. Once you're here, you don't want to go back home."

Also making the best beaches list is the New Jersey favorite for fun, Asbury Park. It's the hometown of music legend Bruce Springsteen and features clubs like The Stone Pony , which keep the town highly rated and rockin'.

• Asbury Park
• Coney Island
• Rockaway Beach

Dave Carlin serves as a reporter for CBS2 News and covers breaking news stories and major events in the Tri-State Area.

Featured Local Savings

More from cbs news.

Suspected killers indicted for chilling Long Island murders

Police in NYC fatally shoot armed man wanted in felony assault

Columbia, City College protests lead to nearly 300 arrests

Lawmakers pushing for NYC Ferry route connecting S.I., Brooklyn

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

The world’s best budget hotels that cost less than £100 per night

Share this with

We all want to travel in style, but most of us don’t have to stick to a budget when planning our holidays.

Thankfully, you don’t have to spend a fortune to stay in luxurious lodgings. You just need to know where to look.

There are some hotels that offer no-frills accommodation at bargain prices , and it’s possible to get a discount on your room if you book outside of peak season or in less popular locations.

On average, though, you’re looking at £200 a night for four-star hotel in London or £350 if you opt for a five-star location in the capital, while a luxury room will set you back $318 (£255) in New York City or €221 (£190) in Paris.

However, a new guide from travel writer Kate Leahy reveals 30 hidden gem hotels from around the world priced at less than £100 per night. Easy on the eye as well as your bank balance, the boutique locations she recommends look anything but cheap.

These are our favourites on the list (which you can see in full over on the Daily Mail site), proving bougie doesn’t need to break the bank.

Mollie’s Motel, Bristol and Oxfordshire

Here in the UK, one of the best budget hotels is Mollie’s Motel in Bristol and Oxfordshire, which is soon to open a third location in Manchester.

You can expect Hypnos mattresses, Dyson hairdryers and Cowshed products, with rooms designed by the team from Soho House – all from £70 a night for a double room.

Babel Belleville, Paris

Kate says: ‘Babel’s rooms are small but perfectly formed: Berber-influenced with patinated walls, antique furnishings and feature bed heads. A glass elevator makes the four floors accessible, including the massage room, restaurant and cocktail bar.’

It’s right in the heart of the action in the Belleville neighbourhood, between the 19th and 20th Arrondissements. Cafes, restaurants, bars and markets are all nearby, and rooms are priced from £98.

Hotel Not Hotel, Amsterdam

Rooms may be small at this boutique spot, but it’s super unique. You may just be placed in a room hidden behind a bookcase, and there’s a local tram cart in the lobby where you can get a drink.

Priced from £68 for a double, you can choose between a private or shared bathroom.

Hotel Galleria, Venice

There are only nine rooms at this Venice hotel, which is quintessentially Italian with art on the walls and ornate decor. Some even have a Juliet balcony looking out onto the Grand Canal.

Prices start from £86.

Boro Hotel, New York

Head to Queens and you can stay at Boro for £100 a night.

Its chic rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, hardwood floors and atmospheric pendant lighting, and Manhattan is within easy reach just over the East River.

Terminus Hotel, Pyrmont, Sydney

The Terminus Hotel Pyrmont offers nine boutique double rooms, two with private ensuite bathrooms and seven with shared bathroom access, priced from £92 per night.

Your Daily Horoscope

Pluto Retrograde will help you make sense of this crazy world – your tarot horoscope

‘There’s a pretty courtyard deck and bar, as well as tables outside in what was previously the pub garden,’ says Kate in her guide.

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing [email protected] .

MORE : TUI issues ‘three hour’ warning to anyone flying from major UK airport

MORE : ‘Spectacular’ Greek island named Europe’s cheapest holiday destination

MORE : Here’s what the Heathrow Border Force strike could mean for your flight

Get need-to-know travel news, inspiration and advice from Metro every week.

Sign up here....

Privacy Policy

You were the handsome American fella standing next to me, wearing a brown…

To the beautiful blonde in the white T-shirt with black stripes and fluffy…

Enter your birthday for your free daily horoscope sent straight to your inbox!

Get us in your feed

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

A local’s travel guide to New York City: what to eat, see and do in three days

Top destinations in New York include a ferry ride, shopping for watches in Chinatown and a Brighton Beach bender

I first came to New York City by accident, after a miscommunication with my father led me to believe my (long-deceased) mother had been desperate to visit the city before she died.

Years later I found out that my mum had actually wanted to go to Paris. But I still had a great time in New York, and ended up moving here a couple of years later.

On that first trip I did all the main tourist things which, owing to the miscommunication, I had thought my mother had wanted to do: I went up big buildings, looked at big buildings, drank in bars beneath big buildings.

It was great and everything, but there’s much, much more to do here – especially if you like eating, riding about by subway and ferry, and bargaining for knockoff luxury goods.

Day 1: Boating and brownstones

A lot of people have heard of the Staten Island ferry , and for good reason. It’s free to travel on the big orange boats between the southern tip of Manhattan and Staten Island. The route goes right past the Statue of Liberty, and offers amazing views of lower Manhattan.

As a boat lover, I’d also recommend taking the NYC ferry . It has a flat fare of $4 and operates up and down the East River, passing under bridges and allowing riders to snoop at waterside buildings.

If you’re starting in Manhattan (which you probably are), take the southbound ferry from East 34th Street to the Brooklyn neighborhood of Dumbo, which stands for “down under the Manhattan Bridge overpass”. It’s here where everyone with an Instagram account gets their shots of both the Manhattan Bridge and the (older, better-known) Brooklyn Bridge. Plenty of people will visit this area then turn their back on Brooklyn, but I’d recommend sticking around New York City’s most populous and, depending whom you speak to, trendiest borough.

Pop by Jane’s Carousel , an exquisitely restored 1922 ride which is plonked between the bridges, and then walk south through Brooklyn Bridge Park. You’ll go past several piers – once working docks now transformed into leafy picnic and sport areas. There are magnificent views across to Manhattan. It’s a nice spot to propose to a partner, as my little brother did last year. If you don’t want to do that, but do like to play soccer or basketball or roller-skate, you’re in luck.

After you hit Pier 6, where there’s a pleasant, if expensive, rooftop pizza restaurant called Fornino , walk up Atlantic Avenue for some shopping and coffee at Goose Barnacle , an independent clothing store with a hidden bar in the back. The owner, Dave Alperin, a fourth-generation Brooklynite, is very friendly and knowledgable about the area and can give you tips about everything from where to buy the best sandwich ( Lillo Cucina Italiana – try the Mamma Roma) to the location of a semi-secret basement speakeasy ( Le Boudoir ) nearby.

From there I’d take a bus or cab to Fort Greene, a very pretty neighborhood whose townhouses are the sort of Brooklyn thing you see in the movies, and grab dinner at Olea . If you make it before 6.30pm, there’s a great happy hour.

Day 2: Rude T-shirts and not-quite Rolexes

Manhattan’s Soho neighborhood has all the posh shops, so if you have money, or like looking through windows at expensive clothes and bags, walk east along Prince Street from West Broadway. There are nice buildings to look at around here too – the newly constructed towers that abound in the city are largely absent in this neighborhood. Stop in at Fanelli Cafe , a neighborhood stalwart that has been around since 1847, for a coffee or some food, then head south along Broadway to Chinatown.

There are lots of great dim sum places, including Golden Unicorn , whose large fancy dining hall is located on the second floor of a marble-esque building. From there I’d take a walk along Canal Street, dipping into sidestreets for cheap souvenirs – snow globes, little statues and that sort of thing – and bizarre T-shirts (many of which are very rude).

Chinatown also does a roaring trade in imitation watches and handbags. So if, like me, you will not and cannot spend $30,000 on a watch but have about $100 to spare, you can get (to my eye) a fairly good imitation. The food markets along Canal Street also sell real nice timepieces – they even work – if you fancy sticking it to big watch. You’ll find plenty of “designer” bags too.

Hopefully you’re hungry again, because Great N Y Noodletown is, per its name, great – especially the roast pig on rice.

From there I’d head farther south and stop in at Whiskey Tavern , the friendliest bar I’ve ever been to in my life (and I’ve been to a lot of bars). They print out personalized welcome signs that they will stick to your table or behind the bar, which sounds a bit naff – but isn’t. The real reason to come is to chat to locals and regulars. It’s also one of the closest bars to city hall, which means there’s a regular stream of “Just Married” couples doing shots of whiskey and eating chicken wings.

If you’ve still got energy, and like singing or shouting, go to Up Stairs , a karaoke bar tucked behind a nondescript doorway on Canal Street. Drinks are cheap, and it gets packed with revelers.

Day 3: Seaside shenanigans

If, like me, you’re a fan of once-glamorous seaside attractions that are now in a state of faded glory, then take the F train to Coney Island. People seem to overlook the fact that the city is surrounded by water, and while Coney Island isn’t the nicest beach for bathing (for that, try Fort Tilden or Jacob Riis Park), there’s loads to do.

Kick things off by watching a Brooklyn Cyclones game. The Cyclones are a feeder team to the New York Mets. They play at Maimonides Park, tickets are usually dirt cheap and easy to get, and you’ll be able to enjoy a nice view of the Atlantic Ocean. If you want a snazzy memento, buy a beer in a foot-long plastic baseball bat. Sometimes they let the crowd “run the bases” after the game, which is a lot of fun, especially if you’ve had more than one of the baseball bat beers.

After the exhilaration of taking in second-tier baseball, walk east towards the Cyclone , one of the oldest and, as far as I can tell, rickety-est rollercoasters in the US. The wooden ride – described as “pretty extreme” by Coaster Critic – will celebrate its 100th birthday in 2027, and it sounds and looks its age. Buyer beware.

Once you’ve stumbled off the ride, go for a settling drink at Ruby’s , the oldest bar on the boardwalk. You can take in the black-and-white shots of Coney Island in its 1930s glory, and if you’re feeling brave, buy a cardboard box full of clams.

Every Friday night from late June to September there is a fireworks show on the beach, which draws a large crowd. You could take it in while eating borscht and sipping coffee or vodka at Tatiana’s , a Russian restaurant-cum-nightclub a 10-minute walk along the boardwalk from the Cyclone.

Side note: you don’t need to wait until summer to visit. I went a day after it had snowed, and it was brilliant.

Question time

How many days do you need to visit new york city.

Three would be fine. If you want to take in all the Instagram favorite destinations, then maybe four.

What’s the most-visited attraction? Is it worth it?

Times Square. And not really. But it’s near enough to other attractions that if you’re heading to a Broadway show then you might as well walk through it.

When is the best time to visit?

The peak of summer can be boiling hot, and winter can be freezing cold. May through early July and September through October are usually a safe bet.

How expensive is it?

New York City is expensive. If you’re staying in Manhattan you’d be (very) lucky to get a hotel room for about $200 a night – but bear in mind that there will usually be hefty taxes on top of that. A bog standard coffee will cost you about $5, a pint anywhere from $6 to $10. The subway fare recently went up: it’s $2.90 a ride now.

Adam Gabbatt is a writer for the Guardian and is originally from the north of England. He has lived in New York City for 13 years and now says “trash” instead of “rubbish” and “sidewalk” instead of “pavement” and his family hates him for it

• Hometown tour

Most viewed

Receive emails and newsletters to keep in touch with I LOVE NY.

• Accessibility
• Adirondack Attractions
• Spotlight: Adirondacks
• Spotlight: Lake George
• Family Guide
• Lake Placid City Guide
• Central NY Attractions
• Spotlight: Cooperstown
• Binghamton City Guide
• Greater Niagara Attractions
• Spotlight: Buffalo & Niagara Falls
• Buffalo City Guide
• New York City Attractions
• Capital Saratoga Attractions
• Spotlight: Albany
• Albany City Guide
• Chautauqua-Allegheny Attractions
• Spotlight: Jamestown and Chautauqua-Allegheny
• Hudson Valley Attractions
• Spotlight: New Paltz
• Spotlight: Hudson Valley
• Thousand Islands Attractions
• Catskills Attractions
• Spotlight: The Catskills
• Finger Lakes Attractions
• Spotlight: Rochester
• Spotlight: Syracuse
• Spotlight: Finger Lakes
• Syracuse City Guide
• Rochester City Guide
• Long Island Attractions
• Spotlight: Long Island
• New York Blooms Report
• Spring Flower Shows & Festivals
• Maple Sugaring
• Land Adventures
• Whitewater Rafting & Tubing
• Canoeing and Kayaking
• Excursions by Boat
• Motorcoach Tours
• Motorcycling in New York
• Scenic Byways
• Scenic Train Rides
• Weekend Getaways
• Black History & Culture
• History Museums
• Underground Railroad
• Path Through History Weekend
• Architecture and Design
• Art Museums
• Covered Bridges
• Drive-In Movies
• People and Cultures
• Performing Arts
• Buffalo Wings
• Cideries and Distilleries
• New York Pizza
• Restaurants
• Amusement Parks
• Animals & Zoos
• Indoor Water Parks
• Outdoor Water Parks
• Kids' Museums
• Special Events
• Wedding Guide
• LGBTQ Resources
• Shop LGBTQ New York
• New York State Recipes
• Affordable Getaways
• Watchable Wildlife
• Natural Wonders
• Nature Centers
• State and National Parks
• Caverns and Mines
• Arenas & Stadiums
• Auto Racetracks
• Horse Racetracks
• Arts and Crafts
• Farmers Markets
• Flea Markets
• Malls and Outlets
• Senior Travel
• Romantic Getaways
• B&B / Inns / Farm Stays
• Dude Ranches
• Cabins / Cottages
• Hotels / Motels / Resorts
• Festivals & Annual Events
• Food & Drink
• Film Festivals
• Arts & Culture
• Expos / Shows & Sales
• Sports & Gaming
• Coronavirus Resources for Travelers
• Amtrak Discount
• Travel around New York State from NYC
• Trip Planner
• New York State Welcome Centers
• Travel Guides
• Offers & Deals
• I LOVE NY Mobile App

Governor Hochul Announces Plans for New Visitors Experience at Canalside in Buffalo

Buffalo to Host World Canals Conference in 2025

 See Renderings of the Visitors Experience Here  

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced plans for “Waterway of Change: A Complex Legacy of the Erie Canal,” a new Erie Canal bicentennial visitors experience at Canalside in Buffalo. On May 7, after four years of construction in the Longshed, the replica Erie Canal Boat Seneca Chief will move out to make way for interior construction and installation of the new experience in the building.  Work will be completed in time for next year’s Erie Canal Bicentennial. Renderings are available  here . 

“Waterway of Change will share the remarkable story of the Erie Canal and the area now known as Canalside with visitors,” Governor Hochul said. “As the 200th anniversary of the Erie Canal approaches in 2025, this visitors experience will draw more people to Buffalo’s waterfront and help them connect to its history in a new and participative way.”

The concept for the 2,900-square-foot Longshed, located at Canalside on the historic western terminus of the Erie Canal, is to create a visitors experience that acts as a gathering space and starting point for visitors beginning their Bicentennial Commemoration journey. Plans include visitors’ experiences that will explain and detail how Canalside’s timeline, from its beginnings as traditional homeland of the Haudenosaunee to the development of a rural village at the time the Erie Canal opened in 1825, to a thriving port and shipping hub at the end of the 19th century. Waterway of Change will include interactive multimedia exhibits for visitors of all ages and abilities, sharing Buffalo’s Erie Canal story in an inclusive and diverse way through the use of short films, touch screens, audio, historical artifacts and dramatic lighting. A series of outdoor interpretive exhibits will also be created at towpaths along and around the canals. 

Local Projects, a multi-disciplinary exhibition and media design firm based in New York City, has been working with the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation to create the visitor experiences for the Longshed and Canalside. Other partnerships include exhibit fabrication, with Buffalo’s Hadley Exhibits, and project development with the Buffalo History Museum. The museum is providing interpretive content and historical guidance through all phases of the project. The collaboration includes consulting with a diverse group of community stakeholders and subject matter experts to ensure Buffalo’s Erie Canal story is shared with visitors from multiple perspectives and viewpoints. 

ECHDC Chairperson Joan Kesner said, “Waterway of Change will be the premier attraction at Canalside when we mark the historic 200th anniversary of the opening of the Erie Canal in Buffalo next year. We’ll be hosting visitors from around the globe, as well as our neighbors across Western New York, at this visitor experience and we are excited to share the first renderings of this beautiful and educational space in the Longshed. ECHDC also will be offering fun, thoughtful, and hands-on programming located on the lawns, ruins, and towpath areas. We have lots more in the works, enjoyment for all ages, all abilities—history buff or not, you may just want to make all of Summer 2025 a Canalside staycation!” 

Additionally, the content in the visitors’ experience will be utilized by schools to supplement their Erie Canal history curricula during visits to the Longshed. The content will meet New York State Education Department standards to broadly reach and resonate with Grade 4-12 educational experiences.  

While the anniversary of the bicentennial will likely be marked at events throughout New York State, ECHDC is planning a large celebration at Buffalo’s Canalside, which will also  host the World Canals Conference in 2025 . That event, first  announced by Governor Hochul in June 2022 , will bring together canal and inland waterway enthusiasts, professionals and scholars from around the world to learn about a variety of canal-related topics. The event will highlight Buffalo’s transformed waterfront district, which has seen more than $400 million in new investment, including new hotels, a major sports arena, a children’s museum, retail shops and a re-created waterway on the footprint of the original Erie Canal in the Queen City. Today, the Buffalo waterfront attracts more than 1 million annual visitors.

In 2020, a wood frame structure at the northern end of the Central Wharf, now called the Longshed Building, was completed. The structure reflects on the history of the wharf location by incorporating elements from the Joy and Webster Storehouse that was situated on the site in the early 1800s. Work on the building, which incorporates select interior modifications to incorporate a small office, transient boater shower rooms, and public restrooms, is currently being completed.

State Senator Tim Kennedy said, “This new experience will give visitors at the Bicentennial Commemoration the opportunity to learn about our waterfront's shared history, and the recent investments New York has made to restore it and preserve it well into the future. Once this project is complete, I look forward to seeing the Longshed once again serve as a gathering space and scholastic resource for our greater community.”

Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera said, “Erie County will become the epicenter of New York next year when the Erie Canal celebrates its 200th anniversary, and the vision for a new, multimodal visitor experience at Canalside will bolster our waterfront’s entertainment sector before an influx of visitors travel here to learn more about the history of the canal — one of our state’s greatest technological achievements. The new exhibit, ‘Waterway of Change: A Complex Legacy of the Erie Canal,’ will not only serve as a gathering space and starting point for visitors as they start their Bicentennial Commemoration journey, it will also capture in detail the history of Canalside, the integral and often overlooked role that the Haudenosaunee played, and how the canal’s success as a shipping hub forever changed the fate of the City of Buffalo. I want to thank Governor Hochul and the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation for their ongoing commitment to ensuring the vitality of Canalside as one of our region’s premier attractions.”

Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz   said, “As a true ‘Waterway of Change,’ the Erie Canal was the key factor in the growth of Buffalo, Erie County, New York State and the American frontier. It served as a super-highway for commerce and culture, opening the interior of North America for westward expansion, and also brought new Americans right here to Erie County.  This new experience at the Longshed Building will be an immersive and educational one, giving visitors a real life look at how the Erie Canal changed Western New York and spurred the advance of the United States. I commend and thank Governor Hochul for adding this attraction to Canalside for the Canal’s bicentennial commemoration.”

Buffalo Mayor Byron W. Brown   said, “It is good news that the replica of the Seneca Chief boat will be moving from the Longshed building and docking at Canalside. The replica will draw visitors from near and far. Also, the new educational exhibit ‘Waterway of Change’ that will be taking its place inside the building, will be a welcome addition to the attractions enjoyed by many.”

New York State Canal Corporation Director Brian U. Stratton said, “On the eve of the Erie Canal's 200-year anniversary milestone, we are thrilled to be working with Governor Hochul and our agency partners to bring to life Waterway of Change at Canalside in Buffalo. The Erie Canal holds a special significance in New York’s history, and this new interactive exhibit will tell the story of the canal and New York’s Queen City to visitors from near and far. Throughout the next two years and culminating with the 2025 World Canals Conference in Buffalo, the Canal Corporation is eager to celebrate the Erie Canal’s Bicentennial as we prepare for the next century of operations and opportunities along the entire New York State Canal System.”

About Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation

The Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation (ECHDC) is governed by a nine-member board consisting of seven voting directors and two non-voting, ex-officio directors. The seven voting directors are recommended by the New York State Governor and are appointed by the New York State Urban Development Corporation d/b/a Empire State Development as sole shareholder of ECHDC. The two non-voting, ex-officio director positions are held by the Erie County Executive and the City of Buffalo Mayor.

As a subsidiary of Empire State Development, the state’s chief economic development agency, the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation supports and promotes the creation of infrastructure and public activities at Canalside, the Ohio Street corridor and the Outer Harbor that is attracting critical mass, private investment and enhance the enjoyment of the waterfront for residents and tourists in Western New York. Its vision is to revitalize Western New York’s waterfront and restore economic growth to Buffalo based on the region’s legacy of pride, urban significance, and natural beauty.

Click here to access the I LOVE NY press kit.

• 2024 Solar Eclipse (41)
• Accolades (4)
• Amusement Parks (33)
• Anniversaries (30)
• Arts and Culture (836)
• Beaches (2)
• biking (18)
• Boating (44)
• Brand Stories (11)
• camping (14)
• Canals (45)
• Capital-Saratoga (262)
• Catskills (86)
• central (1)
• Central New York (126)
• Chautauqua-Allegheny (49)
• craft beverages (36)
• fall foliage (13)
• family (58)
• festivals and events (1637)
• Finger Lakes (439)
• fishing (26)
• food and wine (137)
• golfing (10)
• Greater Niagara (138)
• green tourism (5)
• hiking (18)
• history (715)
• Hudson Valley (400)
• Long Island (96)
• Museums (654)
• natural attractions (94)
• New Developments in New York State Tourism (256)
• New York City (339)
• New York State in the News (94)
• Path Through History (187)
• places to stay (57)
• regional publications (11)
• road trips (5)
• romance (2)
• shopping (55)
• skiing (28)
• snow sports (7)
• snowmobiling (6)
• sports (75)
• Spring (23)
• State Parks and Historic Sites (112)
• Summer (62)
• The Adirondacks (457)
• The Catskills (11)
• Thousand Islands-Seaway (36)
• tourist services (385)
• Wellness (1)
• Winter (62)
• winter sports (45)
• February (95)
• January (64)
• December (60)
• November (45)
• October (19)
• September (51)
• August (76)
• February (42)
• January (36)
• December (23)
• November (49)
• October (29)
• September (32)
• August (39)
• February (24)
• January (23)
• December (30)
• November (21)
• October (14)
• September (19)
• August (30)
• February (34)
• January (27)
• December (32)
• November (29)
• October (49)
• September (39)
• August (49)
• February (57)
• January (67)
• November (59)
• October (6)
• September (9)
• August (21)
• February (5)
• January (10)
• November (1)
• October (1)
• accommodation deals
• Adirondacks
• Alpine Adventures
• anniversary
• Backcountry
• Bed & Breakfasts
• budget travel
• children's skiing
• cooking classes
• cross-country skiing
• East Aurora
• Finger Lakes
• French and Indian War
• historical re-enactments
• Hudson Valley
• luxury travel
• Niagara Falls
• off-season vacation
• Otsego Country
• Putnam County
• restaurants
• southwestern New York State
• Strong Museum of Play
• tv commercials
• Upstate New York

Cookies are used for measurement, ads, and optimization. By continuing to use our site you agree to our  privacy policy .

• Best overall
• Best for expensive trips
• Best for exotic trips
• Best for annual plans

How we reviewed travel insurance for seniors

Best travel insurance for seniors of may 2024.

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

Reaching your golden years doesn't mean your adventures have to end. In fact, in this stage of life, you'll hopefully have more time and resources to travel. But as a senior citizen, you'll want to ensure you have travel insurance that covers any health-related issues arise while you travel.

Our top picks for the best senior travel insurance

• Best overall: Allianz Travel Insurance
• Best for expensive trips: John Hancock Travel Insurance
• Best for exotic trips: World Nomads Travel Insurance

Best for annual plans: Travel Guard

How we rate the best senior travel insurance companies »

Compare travel insurance for seniors

Your health gets more unpredictable as you age, which makes travel insurance more important for seniors. Unfortunately, it's also more expensive. The best travel insurance for seniors won't have too steep of a price hike compared to rates for younger travelers. It will have high coverage limits for emergency medical coverage, trip cancellations, and and emergency medical evacuation. It's also important that your travel insurance offers pre-existing condition waivers , ideally at no extra cost to the traveler. 

Here are our picks for the best travel insurance coverage for seniors in 2024.

Best overall: Allianz

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Good option for frequent travelers thanks to its annual multi-trip policies
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Doesn't increase premium for trips longer than 30 days, meaning it could be one of the more affordable options for a long trip
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Some plans include free coverage for children 17 and under
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Concierge included with some plans
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Coverage for medical emergency is lower than some competitors' policies
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Plans don't include coverage contact sports and high-altitude activities
• Single and multi-trip plans available
• Trip cancellation and interruption coverage starting at up to $10,000 (higher limits with more expensive plans)
• Preexisting medical condition coverage available with some plans

Allianz Travel Insurance is one of the most widely recognized names in travel insurance, and it stands out as one of the top travel insurance providers for seniors. It offers a wide range of policies covering medical treatments overseas and emergency medical transport.

Allianz also provides options for varying trip lengths. Its annual multi-trip policies , for example, cover any trip you make during your policy period, even if they aren't yet planned, making it an excellent option for seniors who vacation multiple times per year.

Read our Allianz Travel Insurance review here.

Best for expensive trips: John Hancock

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers 3 travel insurance plans
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cancel for any reason rider available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable travel insurance premiums
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Reviews of claims process are mixed
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Buyers may not get specialty coverage for sports equipment and other high value items
• Trip cancellation for 100% of the trip cost
• Trip interruption insurance for up to 150% of the trip cost
• Emergency medical coverage of up to $250,000 per person
• Medical evacuation coverage of up to $1,000,000

John Hancock Travel Insurance plans for seniors offer some of the best coverage available. It provides generous maximum benefit amounts while still offering affordable prices.

Each plan includes coverages like trip cancellation, emergency accident, and emergency medical, with the option to add benefits like CFAR (cancel for any reason) . Plus, getting a free online quote is a quick and straightforward process.

Read our John Hancock Travel Insurance review here.

Best for exotic trips: World Nomads

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Coverage for 200+ activities like skiing, surfing, and rock climbing
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Only two plans to choose from, making it simple to find the right option
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. You can purchase coverage even after your trip has started
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. If your trip costs more than $10,000, you may want to choose other insurance because trip protection is capped at up to $10,000 (for the Explorer plan)
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Doesn't offer coverage for travelers older than 70
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) option
• Coverage for 150+ activities and sports
• 2 plans: Standard and Explorer
• Trip protection for up to $10,000
• Emergency medical insurance of up to $100,000
• Emergency evacuation coverage for up to $500,000
• Coverage to protect your items (up to $3,000)

World Nomads Travel Insurance is a great choice for active senior citizens under 70 who want comprehensive travel insurance. The key difference between World Nomads and many other providers is that it covers 200+ adventurous activities like scuba diving, mountain biking, surfing, skiing, and even bungee jumping. In addition, World Nomads' trip cancellation and emergency medical coverage includes COVID-19-related issues. Many other insurers are excluding that type of coverage now.

For adventurous senior citizens over the age of 70 years, World Nomads suggests working with its partner, TripAssure .

Read our World Nomads Travel Insurance review here.

Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of the trip cost and trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of the cost, for all three plan levels
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. CFAR covers up to 75% of total trip costs (maximum of $112,500 on some plans) 
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Medical coverage of up to $500,000 and evacuation of up to $1,000,000 per person
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Includes COVID coverage 
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Above average baggage loss and delay benefits
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. High medical evacuation coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Premiums may run slightly higher than competitors

Travel Guard is a well-established and highly rated name in the travel insurance industry. It offers three main coverage options to choose from, and in general its policies have above-average coverage for baggage loss and baggage delays, plus high medical evaluation coverage limits.

• Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of the trip cost
• Trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost
• Preexisting medical conditions exclusions waiver must be purchased within 15 days of initial trip payment
• Annual travel insurance plan and Pack N' Go plan (for last-minute trips) available

Travel Guard  offers comprehensive insurance plans for shorter and longer trips. One of its more unique offerings is its Travel Guard Annual Plan.

This annual travel insurance comes with standard coverage benefits (trip delay, baggage loss, etc.) and substantial coverage amounts, which is important for seniors who travel multiple times per year. Travel Guard also offers a preexisting medical condition waiver, meaning those with certain medical issues can still gain coverage.

Read our AIG Travel Guard Insurance review here.

Understanding travel insurance for seniors

Before diving into the specifics, it's essential to understand what travel insurance is and why it's particularly important for senior travelers. The best travel insurance offers financial protection against unexpected events affecting your trip, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.

Types of coverage

• Medical Coverage: Ensures your medical expenses are covered in case of illness or injury.
• Trip Cancellation/Interruption Coverage: Provides reimbursement if your trip is canceled or cut short due to unforeseen events.
• Baggage Coverage: Covers loss, damage, or theft of personal items during your trip.

Benefits of travel insurance for seniors

• Peace of Mind: Knowing you're covered in case of emergencies can make your travel stress-free.
• Financial Protection: Shields you from potentially overwhelming medical costs and trip cancellations fees.
• Assistance Services: Many plans offer 24/7 assistance services, providing help whenever and wherever you need it.

Making the most of your plan

After choosing a plan, it's crucial to understand your policy fully and know what services are available to you in case of an emergency.

Understanding your policy

• Read the fine print and understand the claims process to avoid surprises.

Emergency assistance services

• Familiarize yourself with the emergency assistance services offered by your plan and keep all necessary contact information handy.

How to pick senior travel insurance

It's wise to compare several different travel insurance policies for the best coverage and pricing, as premiums vary widely between insurers and depend on factors like your age and travel destination.

That said, some of the more essential coverages to look for if you're a senior citizen include:

• Travel medical coverage - This coverage will pay for your medical bills outside the US.
• Medical evacuation coverage - If you're injured or become sick while traveling, this coverage will transport you to the nearest hospital or even back home if your condition necessitates it.
• Preexisting conditions - Coverage for known health conditions. You'll need to purchase travel insurance within a certain time period from when you book your trip to qualify for a preexisting condition waiver .
• Cancel for any reason (CFAR) - The name says it all! It'll cost extra and you'll need to purchase insurance early, but it's the most comprehensive trip cancellation coverage you can get. Note that CFAR insurance usually only covers up to 75% of your trip fees.
• Trip cancellation insurance - This coverage provides reimbursement for your prepaid and nonrefundable costs if you cannot make your trip due to an unforeseen event.
• Baggage delay insurance - This coverage will reimburse you for essentials like toiletries and clothes if your bags are delayed.
• Lost luggage insurance - This coverage will reimburse you up to a specified amount if your bags get lost en route.

Of these, the most critical to note are whether or not your policy covers preexisting conditions and the limits for travel medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation.

Some insurance companies offer a waiver that will cover preexisting conditions. You'll have to follow the requirements for adding a waiver to your policy, like insuring the entire cost of your trip. Or purchase the policy within a specific time after making your first trip deposit payments.

You'll also want to find a policy with high maximum limits for travel medical and emergency medical evacuation coverage. These types of expenses can be substantial, so you want to have appropriate coverage.

When comparing senior travel insurance options, we looked at the following factors to evaluate each travel insurance provider:

• Coverage limits: We looked at each travel insurance company's coverage amounts for benefits like medical emergencies and trip cancellation.
• Flexibility: We looked at how customizable a policy is, so you can choose what your travel insurance policy covers .
• Coverage for preexisting conditions: Preexisting conditions are one of the more critical factors for travel insurance for senior citizens, so we looked at travel insurance companies that offer the best coverage for preexisting conditions.
• Price: We compared travel insurance providers offering reasonable basic and comprehensive coverage rates.
• Benefits geared towards seniors: We compared travel insurance companies that offer solid coverage for senior citizens, like medical evacuation, COVID-19 coverage, and trip cancellation.

You can read more about our insurance rating methodology here.

Seniors should look for travel insurance policies that offer comprehensive medical coverage, including for preexisting conditions and emergency medical evacuation. They should also consider policies with higher coverage limits to ensure adequate protection. Additionally, seniors should seek travel insurance plans that provide 24/7 assistance services, as well as coverage for trip cancellations, interruptions, and baggage protection.

The cost of senior travel insurance coverage can vary depending on your age, overall health, state of residence, travel destination, and length of your trip. However, assuming all other factors are the same, you'll pay more for travel insurance at 70 than at 30.

All travel insurance companies, except World Nomads, included in this guide offer coverage for pre-existing medical conditions as long as you buy your policy within the qualifying period from when you placed your trip deposit.

Allianz is the best travel insurance for seniors due to its wide array of medical coverages and emergency medical transport. Allianz also offers multi-trip insurance policies , which could make sense for seniors who travel frequently.

In some instances, travel insurance companies will have age eligibility restrictions, often only insuring people 80 years old and younger.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

**Enrollment required.

• Main content

• Weird But True
• Sex & Relationships
• Viral Trends
• Human Interest
• Fashion & Beauty
• Food & Drink

trending now in Lifestyle

Space laser transmission strikes Earth from 140 million miles...

WFH employee fired after boss tracked her laptop activity breaks...

'Blue hole' is largest ever discovered at 1.3K feet deep — and...

I'm a longevity expert — I swear by these 5 supplements for...

'Choose tip amount' prompts might be scamming you into spending...

Dear Abby: I fell in love with my boss and had to leave my job

A surprising amount of remote workers are doing their jobs on...

I'm a personal development coach — here's my 5-second...

Live updates, michelin’s us hotel guide debuts with 11 worthy of top award — and 4 are in nyc.

• View Author Archive
• Email the Author
• Get author RSS feed

Contact The Author

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

Hoteliers had better sleep with one eye open.

The restless restaurant gurus at Michelin have decided to cast their famously critical eyes on the world’s most luxurious hotels, establishing a key rating system for the first time — and just 124 snooze shops around the world managed to snag a slot on the tiremaker’s debut list for the US, released Wednesday.

Out of that already elite group, 11 pampering palaces — sticking to the mix of American destinations where Michelin publishes a restaurant guide — were considered worthy of the coveted “3 Keys” award, with four of the properties found right here in the Big Apple.

Aman , Casa Cipriani , Crosby Street Hotel and the Whitby Hotel were named the best in New York.

The 83-suite Aman brings the elite retreat brand — better known for remote resorts around the world — into the heart of Midtown, where guests are invited to leave the city behind and disappear into the spacious hotel spa, relax on the garden terrace or canoodle in a speakeasy-style, underground club.

And while a 1906 ferry terminal at the foot of the FDR Drive might not seem like the most exclusive spot, the 47-room and suite Casa Cipriani has wowed some of the pickiest celebrity travelers since its debut with stunning river views and an onsite supper club.

In Soho, nestled between Spring and Prince, London’s can’t-fail Firmdale Hotels knocked it out of the park with the Crosby Street Hotel — its first stateside effort — delivering one of the Big Apple’s finest stays on one of its most charming streets.

And proving the Crosby Street was no one-hit wonder, Firmdale Hotels swept into Midtown with the Whitby Hotel to remind the giant palaces that predominate in the neighborhood that scale and luxury are two different things.

Michelin has been recommending hotels for years, however the key system is new.

“With this new distinction, the Michelin Guide has opened up a brand-new chapter in the service it provides for travelers, which has been its lifeblood for the past 124 years,” said Gwendal Poullennec, international director, in a statement.

“Steadfast in our field-based approach, the Michelin Guide inspectors drew up this unprecedented list to share their best hotel experiences in the US. Every establishment awarded one, two or three Michelin Keys is a gem sculpted by talented professionals,” he added.

The first key awards — for France, naturellement — were announced April 8. The US awards were announced at a ceremony in Manhattan Wednesday.

“Over the last four years, our selection team of passionate, independent experts vetted, scrutinized, and ultimately determined more than 5,000 remarkable hotels for inclusion in our collection,” an earlier statement read.

“Each has been selected for its remarkable quality. Out of these thousands of hotels, those offering the most outstanding stays will be awarded the special Michelin Key distinction.”

So what do the Michelin keys mean?

“Just like the famous Stars that indicate the best culinary experiences in the Michelin Guide restaurant selection, the Michelin Keys reveal accommodations in the Guide’s hotel selection that offer the most outstanding stays. They are a new benchmark for travelers, qualifying each hotel experience in broader terms than simple amenities,” the publisher stated.

A One-Key Michelin hotel is described as a “very special stay.”

“This is a true gem with its own character and personality. It may break the mould, offer something different or simply be one of the best of its type. Service always goes the extra mile and provides significantly more than similarly priced establishments,” the experts said.

For one level up, a Two Key is “an exceptional stay.”

“Somewhere truly unique and exceptional in every way, where a memorable experience is always guaranteed. A hotel of character, personality and charm that’s operated with obvious pride and considerable care. Eye-catching design or architecture, and a real sense of the locale make this an exceptional place to stay,” the pros explained.

Three Key is the cream of the crop, described as “an extraordinary stay.”

“It’s all about astonishment and indulgence here – this is the ultimate in comfort and service, style and elegance. It is one of the world’s most remarkable and extraordinary hotels and a destination in itself for that trip of a lifetime. All the elements of truly great hospitality are here to ensure any stay will live long in the memory and hearts.”

Here are the 11 Three Michelin Key hotels for 2024 in the United States:

• Aman , New York
• Auberge du Soleil , Napa Valley, Calif.
• The Bel-Air Hotel , Los Angeles
• The Beverly Hills Hotel , Los Angeles
• Canyon Ranch Woodside , California
• Casa Cipriani , New York
• Crosby Street Hotel , New York
• Meadowood , Napa Valley, Calif.
• Post Ranch Inn , Big Sur, Calif.
• SingleThread Inn , Healdsburg, Calif.
• The Whitby Hotel , New York

Share this article:

Advertisement

More From Forbes

Mother’s day gift guide 2024: the best food festival trips.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

Several dishes from the Far East Street Ph'east at the 2023 Hawai'i Food & Wine Festival

Why experience the creations of one chef when you can experience a range of local and noted guest chefs plus wine tastings, seminars and other gastronomic treats? That’s the ethos of an enticing food festival and it’s even better when it’s located in a destination that is desirable anyway as a holiday spot. Here are some of the best festivals in, and just outside of, the U.S.

The setting of First Hawaiian Bank Mastercard Presents House of Blanc & Rouge at Ko Olina, part of ... [+] the 2023 Hawai'i Food & Wine Festival

Hawai‘i Food & Wine Festival , October 18-November 10. Hawai‘i is such a good idea for this that there are several contenders both across the islands and situated on one at different times of the year. This one co-founded by star Hawai’i chefs Alan Wong and Roy Yamaguchi brings over 150 master chefs, wine and spirit producers, sommeliers and mixologists to three different islands Maui, Oahu and the Big Island on three different weekends for 20 events. The one stipulation each must satisfy: to use an ingredient grown, farmed or fished in Hawai’i in their dishes. The event lineup and ticket sales go live on May 7.

Desserts in the lineup at the 2023 Kapalua Wine and Food Festival

Kapalua Wine & Food Festival , June 6-9. Located in the resort area on the coast in West Maui, this weekend festival will feature events such as an exclusive Petrossian caviar tasting, chef Charlie Palmer’s trademark “Pigs and Pinot,” the pork and wine pairing held annually in Healdsburg and here given local slant; a wine tasting seminar featuring the best of Paso Robles and a Grand Tasting Gala spotlighting the chefs of Lahaina, all of whom suffered devastating losses in the August fire. In addition, grassroots organizations to aid this community such as Chef Hui and the Hawai’i Restaurant Association Educational Foundation will be among the beneficiaries of festival proceeds.

Amazon Prime Video’s Best New Show Arrives With A Perfect 100% Critic Score

Apple s iphone 16 pro design revealed in new leak, charlotte shooting 4 officers killed while serving warrant.

The last night Culinary Classic Dinner at last year's Mauna Lani Culinary Classic on the Big Island ... [+] of Hawai'i.

The Mauna Lani Culinary Classic , August 29-September 2. The four-day event at this Auberge Resorts Collection resort on the Big Island was such a hit in its debut last year that it’s coming back in even more expanded form for its sophomore year. Among the featured activities: repeats of the 17 course Omakase prepared by the Blue Ribbon Sushi master chefs and Chefs On the Beach featuring chef stations spread out on the Great Lawn bordering the sand. Among the new ones this year: a female slanted luncheon prepared by local star Lee Anne Wong, chef/partner of Honolulu’s Koko Head Café and, before the Maui fire, Papa’aina in Lahaina and Stephanie Izard chef/owner of Girl & The Goat in Chicago and Los Angeles; an authentic lū'au and a discussion with Lee Anne Wong and Blue Ribbon’s Bruce Bromberg about the realities of being a chef today.

The Grand Tasting Tents at the 2023 Food & Wine Classic in Aspen.

FOOD & WINE Classic in Aspen , June 14-16. The mountain scenery would be enough on its own but this three day event features marquee name chefs such as David Chang, Marcus Samuelsson and Nancy Silverton in a selection of cooking demonstrations, seminars and special dinners plus a Grand Tasting Pavilion with over 150 food, wine and spirits stations available five times over the weekend for passholders. Two of the special dinners, including one celebrating the 30 th anniversary of New York’s Gramercy Tavern, are sold out but there are a number of other events around town presented by hotels such as Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection which is offering special dinners highlighting Latin American and African American chefs for guests along with a dinner by several California chefs celebrating the life of the late Napa Valley chef Michael Chiarello. Other events in town include an American Express sponsored dinner for Marriott Bonvoy cardmembers atop Aspen Mountain with COTE Korean Steakhouse and a daytime party celebrating Juneteenth at Aspen Meadows Resort .

Grilling at the Culinary Village at the 2024 edition of Charleston Wine + Food.

Food & Wine Classic in Charleston , September 27-29. The Holy City’s signature food festival, Charleston Wine + Food celebrates its 20 th anniversary, holding the 2025 festival on March 5-9; if the schedule aligns with past festivals, it’s a sprawling five day affair that careens around town for special dinners, lunches and brunches spotlighting local food and beyond plus wine, beer and spirits explorations. Before that, though, a Food & Wine Classic is landing in Charleston this fall as an extension of its Aspen festival. More details are forthcoming but it’s expected to feature local and international chefs in a variety of tastings, demonstrations and seminars plus the Grand Tasting Pavilion showcasing a wide array of wine tasting and culinary offerings.

Grilling oysters at a private wine dinner, part of the New Orleans Wine + Food Experience

New Orleans Wine & Food Experience , June 5-9. The Big Easy is a food, wine and spirits experience on a daily basis but during these five days, the interaction goes up a notch. Among the events this year: Vinola and the Grand Tasting, elite wine tastings paired with special offerings by local chefs; wine dinners at local restaurants; an essential New Orleans culinary tasting paired with wines at one of the most famous restaurants, Galatoire’s, and tasting labs with the wines of different Italian regions. Special rates are also available at local hotels including The Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans and Virgin Hotel New Orleans .

The setting of the Caribbean cuisine dinner at Altamer Luxury Villas in Anguilla.

Anguilla Culinary Experience , May 23-26. This Caribbean island has always had a reputation for superior culinary experiences and that gastronomic flair is on view in this four day event which features local and international guest chefs as well as the island’s elite hotels. The events range from a Rum Punch Mixology Class, Rum and Chocolate Pairing and Barefoot Beach Dinner with chef stations on the sand at Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel, Anguilla to a panorama of Caribbean cuisine at the Altamer Luxury Villas prepared by brothers Xavier Rochat, a local private chef, and his brother Yannick Rochat, Sous Chef at Saison by Mauro Colagreco at Raffles London at The OWO.

Chef Marcus Samuelsson gives a culinary demonstration during last year's Food Network New York City ... [+] Wine & Food Festival.

The Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival , October 17-20. Anything other festivals can do, New York can do bigger. For this year’s event, the 17 th , the festival moves to a new 450,000 square foot campus at the Brooklyn Army Terminal in Sunset Park for the Grand Tasting featuring hundreds of winemakers, distillers, chefs from New York’s best restaurants and national chefs and Walk Around Pier Parties including Rachael Ray’s popular Blue Moon Burger Bash. There will also be 75 events in Manhattan including intimate dinners with some of the world’s most renowned chefs, walk around tastings and master classes. Lineup and tickets available in June.

Miami's South Beach Wine & Food Festival has settings that are quintessential Miami.

Plan ahead for next year: The Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival , February 20-23, 2025. The specific details for this four-day extravaganza involving stars from television and music as well as gastronomic celebrities haven’t been rolled out yet but judging from past festivals, a wide array will be in evidence. Among the 500 chefs and wine and spirit producers in attendance last year: international stars Massimo Bottura of Modena’s Osteria Francescana and Argentine chef Francis Mallmann who has a restaurant Los Fuegos at the Faena Hotel Miami Beach; local favorites such as Michelle Bernstein whose latest restaurant is Michy’s Chicken Shack and national star chefs such as Mario Carbone , chef/co-owner of Carbone and Alon Shaya whose restaurants include Miss River in New Orleans and Safta in Denver. The events ranged from the formal Wine Spectator’s Best of the Best at the Fontainebleau to a BBQ Master Class and everything in between.

Foundation Table at the Fairway Complex during the Pebble Beach Food and Wine event on Friday April ... [+] 5, 2024.

Pebble Beach Food & Wine , April 10-13, 2025. This four-day festival located on the grounds of the Pebble Beach Resorts on California’s Monterey Peninsula is a draw both for its wine and culinary offerings and the famous golf courses bordering craggy cliffs overlooking the Pacific. This year’s event brought together over 150 wine and spirit producers and over 125 acclaimed chefs from around the country including New York’s Jonathan Waxman , chef/owner of Barbuto , Hawaiian chef Roy Yamaguchi and Nancy Silverton , chef and co-owner of Osteria Mozza in Los Angeles. The events ranged from haute to casual in a variety of showcase dinners, a Tasting Pavilion, Italian Feast, pan-Asian lunch and simpler tastings such as one pairing Burgers, Bourbon and Bordeaux. But on day one, there was a golf tournament with food stations along the fairway. And lodgings were the pair of notable resorts: The Lodge at Pebble Beach and The Inn at Spanish Bay .

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions