New York never really feels still. Yellow taxis slide between glass towers, subway trains hum below your feet, and neighborhoods shift in mood every few blocks. In New York, United States, you can wander from a sunrise walk over the Brooklyn Bridge to a Broadway curtain call in one day, with bagels, rooftop cocktails, and museum masterpieces in between. This is a city of restless creativity and bold everyday life, and once you find your corner of it, you may never want to leave.
Quick Facts: New York, United States
Time Zone Eastern Time (UTC−5 in winter, UTC−4 in daylight saving)
Nearby Destinations Philadelphia, Boston, Hudson Valley, Long Island, Jersey City, Brooklyn, Queens
Average Temperature Winter 0–5°C, spring 8–18°C, summer 22–30°C with humidity, autumn 10–20°C
Cash or Card? Cards widely accepted, but small delis, food trucks, and local markets may prefer cash or debit
Destination Overview
Why Visit New York?
New York is a city of stacked experiences, where art museums, street murals, and subway musicians all feel part of the same living gallery. You can spend mornings inside the Metropolitan Museum of Art, afternoons people watching in Central Park, and evenings at a tiny jazz bar in the West Village. Food ranges from one dollar pizza slices to Michelin starred tasting menus, often within a few blocks. Whether you come for films, fashion, finance, or just to feel the city’s energy, New York rewards curiosity more than checklists.
Best Time to Visit New York
- Spring – April to early June brings mild temperatures, blooming trees in Central Park and Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and outdoor dining. Occasional rain showers, but crowds are manageable compared with summer.
- Summer – Late June through August can be hot and humid. In return you get free concerts, outdoor movie nights, rooftop season, street fairs, and lively boardwalks at Coney Island and Rockaway Beach.
- Autumn – Late September to early November is ideal. Crisp air, colorful foliage in parks and along the Hudson, and plenty of cultural openings. This is peak season, so book popular attractions and hotels early.
- Winter – December feels festive with holiday markets, window displays, and ice skating rinks. January and February are cold and often cheaper, with shorter lines at museums and indoor attractions.
Travel Difficulty & Ideal Duration
Difficulty: Easy for experienced city travelers, moderate if you are unused to crowds or public transit.
Recommended: 4 to 6 days for a first visit, 7 to 10 days if you want to explore multiple boroughs and take a side trip.
Essential Travel Information
Visa & Entry
New York is part of the United States, so entry rules follow federal regulations. Many travelers from Europe, parts of Asia, and Oceania can use the Visa Waiver Program with an approved ESTA. Others need a B1 or B2 visitor visa obtained in advance. Passport validity should extend at least six months beyond your stay, and all travelers are inspected by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on arrival. Always confirm your status on the U.S. Department of State website before booking flights: official tourism and visitor visa information.
Money & Realistic Daily Costs
- Budget: $110–$170 per person per day with hostel or simple hotel rooms, subway rides, casual meals, and one paid attraction.
- Mid-range: $220–$350 per person per day with a comfortable central hotel, a mix of sit down restaurants and cafes, and several ticketed sights.
- Luxury: $400–$700+ per person per day with upscale or five star hotels, fine dining, private tours, and premium seats for theater or sports.
Language & Communication
English is the main language, but you will hear many others on the street. Service staff in hotels and popular attractions are used to international guests. eSIM and local SIM options are widely available at airports, phone stores, and some convenience shops. Coverage is strong across the city, though deep subway tunnels may have weaker data. Popular translation apps work well for menus and signs, and most locals are happy to help if you ask politely.
Getting There & Around
Air, Rail, Bus: The city is served by John F. Kennedy (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA), and Newark Liberty (EWR) airports. JFK and Newark offer AirTrain connections to commuter rail and subway lines, while LaGuardia is linked by buses and airport shuttles. Amtrak trains arrive at Moynihan Train Hall near Penn Station, and long distance buses use hubs such as Port Authority and Midtown curbside stops.
Local transport: The MTA subway and bus network runs 24 hours a day on most lines. A standard subway ride is around $3 per trip, with contactless OMNY tap payment and weekly caps that reward frequent use. Yellow cabs are easy to find in Manhattan, ride hailing apps operate citywide, and Citi Bike docks let you cycle short distances. Walking is often the fastest way to move within a neighborhood.
Top Things to Do in New York
Must-See Landmarks & Cultural Sites
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Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
Address: Liberty Island and Ellis Island, New York Harbor
Admission and timing: Ferry and pedestal access from around $25 per adult, crown tickets slightly higher and often sold out months ahead. Ferries run from Battery Park and Liberty State Park, plan 4–5 hours for the full visit.
Best visiting time: First ferries of the morning for softer light, cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds.
Sail past the harbor, walk around Lady Liberty, then tour the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration for a moving look at arrivals to the United States. -
Empire State Building
Address: 20 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001
Admission and timing: Observation deck tickets for the 86th floor start from about $70–$80 for adults, with dynamic pricing that increases at sunset and on holidays.
Best visiting time: Late evening after 10 pm or early morning for shorter lines, sunset for dramatic light if you book ahead.
This Art Deco icon offers 360 degree views across Manhattan, with indoor exhibits on the building’s history and its place in popular culture. -
Central Park
Address: Runs from 59th St to 110th St between Fifth Ave and Central Park West, Manhattan
Admission and timing: Free entry, bike rentals and guided tours from around $25–$60.
Best visiting time: Early morning or late afternoon, spring blossoms and autumn foliage are especially beautiful.
Wander past lakes, bridges, and lawns, visit Strawberry Fields, rent a rowboat at the Loeb Boathouse, or simply sit with a coffee and watch the city go by. -
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Address: 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028
Admission and timing: Standard general admission for most visitors is around $30 for adults, with reduced prices for seniors and students. New York State residents and local students can pay what they wish with ID.
Best visiting time: Weekday mornings or late Friday and Saturday openings, allow at least 3–4 hours.
One of the world’s great museums, the Met spans everything from Egyptian temples to Impressionist paintings, so choose a few wings rather than trying to see it all. -
Top of the Rock Observation Deck
Address: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112
Admission and timing: Standard adult tickets start around $40–$45, with flexible pricing by time and date.
Best visiting time: Clear afternoons into sunset for views over Central Park and the Empire State Building.
Glass enclosed elevators shoot you up to multi level terraces with some of the most balanced skyline views in the city. -
Times Square & Broadway Theater District
Address: Centered at Broadway and 7th Ave between 42nd and 49th St
Admission and timing: Free to walk, Broadway tickets typically range from $60 to over $200 depending on show and seat.
Best visiting time: After dark when the billboards are bright and the energy peaks.
Take in the neon, then slip into a Broadway or Off Broadway performance to experience the city’s world famous theater scene. -
Brooklyn Bridge & Brooklyn Bridge Park
Address: Bridge entrances at City Hall Park (Manhattan) and near Brooklyn Bridge Blvd (Brooklyn)
Admission and timing: Free, walking the bridge takes about 30–45 minutes one way.
Best visiting time: Sunrise for peaceful photos, sunset if you do not mind company.
Walk the wooden promenade above traffic, then head into Brooklyn Bridge Park for skyline views and waterfront lawns. -
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
Address: 11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019
Admission and timing: General admission is around $30 for adults, with free or reduced entry at selected times.
Best visiting time: Early weekday slots, or evenings when available.
See works by Van Gogh, Picasso, Warhol, and many contemporary artists in a sleek, easy to navigate space near Midtown.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites
- Greenwich Village Side Streets – Slip off the main avenues into tree lined blocks like Grove Street and West 4th Street for brownstones, cafes, jazz bars, and a quieter, historic feel.
- Roosevelt Island Tram – Take the aerial tram from 59th Street and Second Ave for the cost of a subway swipe and float over the East River with Midtown views, then stroll the island’s riverside paths.
- Jackson Heights Food Tour – Explore Queens by tasting Indian, Nepali, Colombian, and Tibetan dishes within a few blocks around Roosevelt Ave and 74th St, ideal for adventurous eaters.
- Fort Tryon Park & The Met Cloisters – Head uptown to this hilltop park for Hudson River vistas, then visit the Met’s medieval art branch in a tranquil cloistered setting.
- Prospect Park & Brooklyn Botanic Garden – Designed by the same team as Central Park, Prospect Park feels more local and untouristed, with nearby gardens that shine in spring cherry blossom season.
- Tenement Museum – On the Lower East Side, guided tours through restored tenement apartments bring immigrant stories to life in a way textbooks rarely do.
Unique Experiences You Can’t Miss
- Join a small group pizza tour in Brooklyn or Manhattan (around $70–$90 per person, 3–4 hours) to learn how New Yorkers debate their favorite slices while tasting several styles.
- Book a sunset harbor cruise (from about $40 for standard boats to $150+ for dinner cruises, 1.5–3 hours) to see the skyline light up from the water with views of the Statue of Liberty.
- Take a hands on bagel or pizza making class in Brooklyn, many run by local chefs, typically $90–$140 per person including food and recipes to take home.
- Reserve a behind the scenes tour at a Broadway theater or Radio City Music Hall, usually $40–$80, to step onto the stage and see how productions come together.
- Cheer at a Yankees, Mets, Knicks, Nets, or Rangers game, with regular season tickets commonly starting around $25–$50 for upper levels depending on team and date.
- Cycle the Hudson River Greenway on a rented bike for a relaxed way to link neighborhoods from Battery Park up towards Harlem without fighting traffic lights.
- Visit a comedy club in Greenwich Village or Hell’s Kitchen, where emerging and famous comics test material. Tickets often start at $20–$30 plus a two drink minimum.
Best Photo Spots
- Brooklyn Bridge Park’s Pebble Beach and the nearby Jane’s Carousel area, perfect for skyline sunsets with the bridge arching overhead.
- DUMBO’s Washington Street view where the Manhattan Bridge frames the Empire State Building in the distance, popular at sunrise and early morning.
- Top of the Rock terraces, which place the Empire State Building in the center of your frame with downtown stretching beyond.
- Central Park’s Bow Bridge and The Mall, especially in fall when the leaves turn bright gold and red.
- The rooftop of public observation decks like Edge at Hudson Yards or SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, where glass floors and mirrored halls amplify the skyline.
- Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City, Queens, with classic Pepsi Cola sign foregrounds and wide open Manhattan views.
- High Line viewpoints over 10th Avenue, where you can capture traffic trails at night without leaving the elevated park.
- Roosevelt Island’s Four Freedoms Park, a quieter angle on the East River bridges and Midtown towers.
Where to Stay in New York
Best Areas or Neighborhoods
- Midtown Manhattan – Central for first timers, easy subway access, near Times Square, Broadway, and major landmarks. Busy and bright at all hours.
- Upper West Side – Residential feel with brownstones, close to Central Park and the American Museum of Natural History. Good for families and quieter nights.
- Greenwich Village & West Village – Charming streets, cafes, nightlife, and a creative atmosphere. Great for food lovers and those who enjoy walking.
- Lower East Side & East Village – Trendy, energetic, and packed with bars, small music venues, and independent restaurants, ideal for younger or nightlife focused visitors.
- Williamsburg, Brooklyn – Short subway ride from Manhattan with waterfront views, boutique hotels, street art, and a strong brunch and bar scene.
- Long Island City, Queens – Good value with several subway lines into Midtown in 10–15 minutes, growing skyline and riverside parks.
Budget Traveler Picks
- Pod Times Square – 400 W 42nd St, New York, NY 10036 • $140–$260 per night
- HI New York City Hostel – 891 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10025 • Dorm beds from about $60–$90
- The Gotham Hotel – 16 E 46th St, New York, NY 10017 • Often from $170–$260 outside peak holidays
- The Jane Hotel – 113 Jane St, New York, NY 10014 • Compact cabins from around $150–$220
- Ace Hotel New York – 20 W 29th St, New York, NY 10001 • Occasional deals from $190–$280
Mid-Range Favorites
- citizenM Times Square – 218 W 50th St, New York, NY 10019 • $260–$420 per night
- Moxy NYC Times Square – 485 7th Ave, New York, NY 10018 • $230–$380 per night
- Arlo SoHo – 231 Hudson St, New York, NY 10013 • $260–$400 per night
- The Box House Hotel – 77 Box St, Brooklyn, NY 11222 • $250–$380 per night
- The Hoxton, Williamsburg – 97 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249 • $260–$420 per night
Luxury Stays
- The Plaza Hotel – 768 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019 • Often $900+ per night
- Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown – 27 Barclay St, New York, NY 10007 • $800–$1,200+ per night
- The Mark – 25 E 77th St, New York, NY 10075 • $1,000+ per night
- Mandarin Oriental, New York – 80 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10023 • $900–$1,300+ per night
- The Peninsula New York – 700 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019 • $900+ per night
Family-Friendly
- Residence Inn New York Manhattan / Times Square – Suites with kitchenettes and breakfast, near Bryant Park and subways.
- Gild Hall, a Thompson Hotel – Quiet Financial District location with larger rooms and easy subway rides uptown.
- Residence Inn Midtown East – Apartment style rooms, close to Grand Central and kid friendly dining.
- Hotel Beacon – Upper West Side suites with kitchenettes, near Central Park and family friendly restaurants.
- TRYP by Wyndham Times Square South – Family rooms with bunk beds, convenient for theater outings.
Alternative Stays
- Freehand New York – Stylish shared and private rooms with an artsy vibe in the Flatiron neighborhood.
- Ink 48 Hotel – Boutique hotel in Hell’s Kitchen with a popular rooftop bar overlooking the Hudson River.
- 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge – Eco conscious design with reclaimed materials, riverfront views, and strong sustainability focus.
- Licensed Vacation Rentals – Look for officially registered short stays within New York’s evolving rental regulations.
- Official Short Term Rental Rules – Review city guidelines to ensure your alternative stay complies with local law.
What & Where to Eat in New York
Must-Try Dishes
- New York Slice Pizza – Thin, foldable slices sold by the slice, found in corner shops across the city. Expect to pay around $3–$5 for a plain slice, a bit more for toppings.
- Bagel with Lox and Cream Cheese – Dense, chewy bagels topped with cream cheese and cured salmon. Classic delis and bagel shops usually charge $10–$18 depending on toppings.
- Pastrami on Rye – Overstuffed sandwiches with hand carved pastrami, mustard, and rye bread in traditional Jewish delis. Plan on $20–$30 for a sandwich big enough to share.
- Halal Cart Platters – Street vendors serving grilled chicken or lamb over rice with salad and white sauce. Portions are generous and usually around $10–$15.
- Dim Sum and Dumplings – In Chinatown and Flushing, bamboo baskets and plates arrive with buns, dumplings, and noodles. A satisfying spread typically costs $20–$30 per person.
- Cheesecake – Rich, creamy dessert slices at bakeries and diners, often $8–$12 per slice.
Restaurants & Cafés
- Budget Eats – Joe’s Pizza in Greenwich Village, Mamoun’s Falafel, and Vanessa’s Dumpling House offer tasty meals in the $6–$15 range with locations across Manhattan and Brooklyn.
- Classic Delis – Katz’s Delicatessen on the Lower East Side and 2nd Ave Deli in Midtown serve towering sandwiches and matzo ball soup, expect $25–$45 per person.
- Brunch & Cafés – Spots like Jack’s Wife Freda, Buvette, Clinton St. Baking Company, and Devoción coffee shops are popular for brunch and coffee, typically $20–$35 per person.
- Global Kitchens – Try Sri Lankan in Staten Island, Greek in Astoria, Dominican food in Washington Heights, Korean BBQ in Koreatown, and Mexican tacos in Sunset Park, usually $20–$40 per person.
- Special Occasion Dining – For tasting menus and fine dining, look at restaurants led by well known chefs in Manhattan and Brooklyn, where multicourse meals often run $150–$350 per person before drinks.
Street Food & Dietary Tips
- Choose busy food carts with steady turnover, which helps ensure ingredients are fresh and recently cooked.
- Look for letter grade health inspection signs posted in windows and at carts, and aim for A ratings when possible.
- Tap water in New York is safe to drink, and many restaurants will happily refill a reusable bottle if you ask.
- Vegetarian and vegan diners can find strong options in nearly every neighborhood, with dedicated spots in the East Village, Williamsburg, and Midtown.
- Gluten free travelers should still ask about cross contamination in pizza shops and bakeries, but many cafes label gluten free items clearly.
- Portion sizes are often large. Sharing dishes or taking leftovers can help you sample more without over ordering.
- Most restaurants add tax and sometimes a service charge, but tipping your server around 18–22 percent in full service venues is still standard.
Local Culture & Etiquette
- Norms – New Yorkers walk quickly and value personal space, but they usually help if you ask concise questions. Queues form neatly, whether for coffee or the subway.
- Do’s & Don’ts – Stand on the right side of escalators, leave the left open for passing. Avoid blocking subway doors or holding them open. Step aside to check your phone rather than stopping in the middle of the sidewalk.
- Tipping – In restaurants with table service, 18–22 percent is customary. For counter service, rounding up or adding a dollar or two is appreciated but not required. Tip taxi drivers and hairdressers around 15–20 percent.
- Festivals & Events – Major events include the Lunar New Year parades in Chinatown (January or February), Pride in June, the U.S. Open in late August and early September, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in November, and holiday markets in December.
Practical Tips & Safety
- Health & Safety – New York’s central neighborhoods feel busy but generally safe, especially along main avenues. Use common sense, keep valuables out of sight on trains, and avoid very empty areas late at night. For emergencies, dial 911 for police, fire, or ambulance.
- What to Pack – Bring comfortable walking shoes, a compact umbrella, and layers since indoor spaces can be strongly heated or air conditioned. In winter, add a warm coat, hat, and gloves.
- Money Saving – Consider attraction passes if you plan to visit several big sights. Use weekly caps on OMNY for unlimited public transit after a set number of rides, and look for free museum evenings and public events.
- Emergency Phrases – Simple English phrases such as “I need help,” “Call 911,” and “Where is the nearest subway?” are widely understood. Many neighborhoods have multilingual residents, so do not hesitate to ask for assistance.
New York Itineraries
3-Day Express Itinerary
- Day 1 – Start at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island in the morning, have a late lunch in the Financial District, then walk over Brooklyn Bridge and end with dinner around DUMBO or Brooklyn Heights.
- Day 2 – Explore Midtown highlights. Visit the Empire State Building or Top of the Rock, stroll Fifth Avenue, visit MoMA or another museum, and book a Broadway show in the evening with dinner nearby.
- Day 3 – Spend the day in Central Park and the Upper East or Upper West Side. Tour the Metropolitan Museum of Art, wander the park, then finish with a relaxed dinner in Greenwich Village or the West Village.
7-Day Comprehensive Itinerary
- Day 1 – Arrive, check in, and stretch your legs with an afternoon walk along the High Line and Chelsea Market, followed by dinner in the Meatpacking District.
- Day 2 – Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island in the morning, Wall Street and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum in the afternoon, then sunset drinks around Battery Park City.
- Day 3 – Midtown and Theater District. Visit the Empire State Building or SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, shop or stroll around Bryant Park and Fifth Avenue, then catch a Broadway or Off Broadway show.
- Day 4 – Museum day and Central Park. Spend several hours at the Met or American Museum of Natural History, then cycle or walk through the park before dining on the Upper West or Upper East Side.
- Day 5 – Brooklyn focus. Explore DUMBO, Brooklyn Heights, and Brooklyn Bridge Park, then head to Williamsburg for street art, boutiques, and dinner.
- Day 6 – Queens and local flavors. Visit Long Island City’s waterfront parks, then ride to Jackson Heights or Flushing for a food tour across different cuisines.
- Day 7 – Free choice day. Catch up on anything you missed, browse SoHo’s galleries and shops, visit a smaller museum, or take a harbor or helicopter tour before a final special meal.
Off the Beaten Path Route
For a more local loop, base yourself outside Midtown and spend a day each in neighborhoods such as the West Village, Greenpoint, Harlem, and Astoria. Use the subway to hop between boroughs, then explore on foot, stopping at independent cafes, small galleries, and local parks. Allow at least 45–60 minutes to travel between farther flung neighborhoods and build in time for spontaneous discoveries.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit New York?
Most travelers prefer April to June and late September to early November, when temperatures are comfortable and outdoor events are in full swing. Spring brings blossoms and patio dining, while autumn adds colorful foliage and a busy cultural calendar.
How many days do I need in New York?
First time visitors should aim for at least 4–5 full days to see major highlights at a relaxed pace. If you want to explore multiple boroughs, attend a game or a show, and include a side trip, 7–10 days feels more comfortable.
Is New York safe for solo travelers?
Central neighborhoods and popular areas are busy and feel safe for most solo travelers, including at night. Stick to well lit streets, keep valuables secure, use official taxis or reputable apps, and trust your instincts in quieter areas.
What is the best area to stay in New York?
Midtown suits first timers who want quick access to many attractions. The Upper West Side and Upper East Side feel more residential and family friendly, while neighborhoods like the West Village, Lower East Side, and Williamsburg attract food and nightlife fans.
How do I get around New York without a car?
The subway and buses cover most of the city and run frequently, especially in Manhattan and central Brooklyn and Queens. Combine transit with walking, Citi Bike rentals, and occasional taxis or ride hailing apps for late nights or longer hops.
What foods should I try in New York?
Do not leave without a classic slice of pizza, a bagel with lox, and a deli sandwich. Add dim sum in Chinatown or Flushing, street halal platters, and cheesecake or a cronut for dessert to round out a simple but iconic food tour.
Is New York suitable for families with children?
Yes, families usually love New York’s parks, zoos, kid friendly museums, and easy transit. Choose a hotel with larger rooms or kitchenettes, stay near a park like Central Park or the Hudson River, and build downtime into busy days.
Do I need to book attractions in advance?
For observation decks, the Statue of Liberty pedestal or crown, Broadway shows, and popular restaurants, advance booking is strongly recommended. Museums often sell timed tickets online, which can help you skip longer ticket queues.
Can I use contactless payment on the subway?
Yes, the OMNY system lets you tap contactless bank cards, phones, or OMNY cards at turnstiles. Frequent riders benefit from weekly fare caps, which limit what you pay after a certain number of rides.
Is New York accessible for travelers with limited mobility?
Accessibility varies. Many attractions have elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms, and accessible cabs can be requested. Not all subway stations have elevators, so plan routes around accessible stops and consider buses or taxis where needed.
Don’t Miss
- Watching the sun set behind the Statue of Liberty from a harbor boat or Brooklyn shoreline while the skyline begins to glow.
- Spending an unplanned afternoon in Central Park or Prospect Park with no agenda except walking, people watching, and soaking up neighborhood life.
- Eating at least one late night slice of pizza or bagel at a busy corner shop, surrounded by locals finishing their shift or heading out.
- Crossing the Brooklyn Bridge on foot and then wandering Brooklyn Bridge Park for long, wide open views back toward Lower Manhattan.
- Taking in live arts, from Broadway to tiny comedy clubs or jazz bars, to feel the creative core that keeps New York moving.
Your New York Story Starts Here
New York will never fit into a single trip, and that is part of its magic. Choose a handful of neighborhoods, a few must see sights, and leave space between them to follow the smell of fresh bagels, the sound of subway musicians, or the glow of a rooftop you spot from the street. Once you pick your dates, book a room that feels like a small home base, and tap into the city’s rhythm, you will start writing a New York story that is entirely your own.