The ultimate New York City travel guide
Everything you need to know about the Big Apple
What to Do
New York City is an amazing place filled with a variety of activities and attractions to experience. Here are the best things to do while you’re in the city:
Be amazed at the Top of the Rock Observation Deck
Get a spectacular view of New York City and its iconic skyline from the Top of the Rock Observation Deck located on the 70th floor of the Rockefeller Center.
Take a stroll through Central Park
Take a leisurely stroll through Central Park, one of the most beautiful parks in the world. Enjoy the stunning scenery and take in the sights and sounds of this natural oasis.
Explore the Metropolitan Museum of Art
Take a step back in time and explore the vast collection of artwork at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. There’s something for everyone, from classic works to modern pieces.
Visit Times Square
No visit to New York City would be complete without a stop at Times Square. This iconic area is filled with bright lights, street performers, and plenty of places to shop and eat.
Shop along Fifth Avenue
Spend a day shopping along Fifth Avenue, home to some of the most luxurious stores in the world. From Tiffany & Co to Prada, this street has something for every shopper.
Take a cruise on the Hudson River
Experience the beauty of New York City from a different perspective by taking a cruise on the Hudson River. This is a great way to see the city and get some amazing photos.
Go ice skating at Rockefeller Center
Skate around Rockefeller Center's iconic ice rink and get a close-up look at some of New York's most recognizable landmarks.
Visit the Statue of Liberty
Take a boat ride out to Ellis Island and visit one of America's most iconic monuments, The Statue of Liberty. This is an unforgettable experience that you won't soon forget!
Attend a Broadway Show
Catch a live performance of one of Broadway's most famous plays or musicals. This is a must-do activity when visiting New York City.
Check out the view from the Empire State Building
Climb to the top of one of New York City's most famous buildings and take in the stunning views from the observation deck.
What to Eat
New York City is a foodie paradise, offering a variety of delicious cuisines from all around the world. Whether you’re looking for traditional New York specialties such as pizza and bagels, trying something new such as ethnic dishes, or indulging in some of the city’s finest restaurants, there’s something for everyone.
For traditional American fare, there are countless pizza shops and delis across the city. New York-style pizza is characterized by its thin crust, large slices, and signature foldable dough. Meanwhile, iconic New York delis offer classic sandwiches piled high with meats, cheeses, and pickles.
For an upscale dining experience, New York offers some of the world’s best restaurants. High-end steakhouses, Japanese sushi bars, modern French bistros, and Spanish tapas restaurants can all be found in Manhattan.
New York also has plenty of more exotic options. From Central American empanadas to North African couscous dishes, you can explore the flavors of cultures around the globe.
Ethnic restaurants serving Chinese dim sum, Korean BBQ, and Indian curries abound. For a truly unique culinary adventure, you can also find a wide array of food carts and food trucks across the city that serve up creative dishes and snacks.
No matter what type of food you’re looking for, New York City is sure to satisfy any palate. Bon Appétit!
Shopping
Read full article: The best department stores in New York City
New York City is a shopper’s paradise, no matter your budget. Whether you’re looking for designer labels, bargains or unique boutiques, the city has something for everyone.
For high-end shopping, head to Madison Avenue and Fifth Avenue in Manhattan. Both streets are lined with designer stores like Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton. Other high-end shopping centers include Rockefeller Center and Soho.
If you're looking for more affordable options, head to the Garment District or Chinatown. You can find great deals on clothes, accessories, souvenirs, and more. You'll also find bargain shopping in Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx.
Exploring New York City’s neighborhoods can lead to some interesting finds. From vintage clothing stores in the East Village to hip boutiques in Williamsburg, there's something unique to be discovered around every corner.
Outdoor markets offer a wide variety of items ranging from crafts to food to vintage items. The best outdoor markets are Union Square Greenmarket, Chelsea Flea Market, and Hester Street Fair.
No matter what type of shopping experience you’re looking for, you can find it in New York City!
Useful Tips
• Pack an umbrella, as New York City can get quite rainy.
• Wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking.
• Download apps such as Citymapper and Google Maps to help navigate the city.
• Carry some cash with you in case certain places don’t accept credit cards.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
• Make sure to check out the free attractions in New York City.
• Take advantage of tourist discounts offered at certain attractions.
• Plan ahead and book tickets online to avoid long lines.
• Keep an eye out for discount coupons and travel deals.
New York City FAQs
Q: Is New York City a safe place to visit?
A: Yes, New York City is generally a safe place to visit. Like all major cities, there are areas of the city that should be avoided. It is always a good idea to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings when travelling in an unfamiliar area.
Q: What is the best way to get around New York City?
A: The best way to get around New York City is by using public transportation. There are extensive subway and bus systems in NYC, making it easy to get from point A to point B. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also take a taxi or ride-share services such as Uber or Lyft.
Q: Is New York City expensive?
A: Yes, New York City can be expensive, depending on where you stay and what you plan to do. Many attractions and activities in NYC can be done for free or at a low cost. Additionally, there are plenty of budget-friendly accommodation options available.
Q: What language is spoken in New York City?
A: English is the primary language spoken in New York City. Spanish is also widely spoken in some neighborhoods.
Q: What is the climate like in New York City?
A: New York City experiences all four seasons. Summer temperatures range from the low to mid-80s Fahrenheit and winter temperatures range from the low 20s to mid-40s Fahrenheit. Rainfall is frequent throughout the year with snow occurring between December and March.