New York City

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in New York City

New York City, the city that never sleeps! The concrete jungle is a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and experiences that will leave you breathless. As a traveller, NYC can be overwhelming, but with this guide, you’ll be navigating the five boroughs like a pro in no time.

Where to Visit

Iconic Landmarks

  • The Statue of Liberty: Take a ferry to Liberty Island to witness the iconic statue up close. Be sure to book tickets in advance.
  • Central Park: A tranquil oasis in the middle of Manhattan, perfect for a stroll or picnic.
  • Empire State Building: For panoramic views of the city, head to the observation deck on the 86th floor.

World-Class Museums

  • The Met: The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the world’s largest and most renowned museums, with over 2 million works of art.
  • MoMA: The Museum of Modern Art is a must-visit for modern art enthusiasts, featuring works by Warhol, Pollock, and Picasso.
  • American Museum of Natural History: Explore the wonders of the natural world at this iconic museum.

Neighborhoods to Explore

  • SoHo: Short for “South of Houston,” this trendy neighborhood is known for its cast-iron buildings, art galleries, and boutique shopping.
  • Greenwich Village: This charming neighborhood is famous for its historic brownstones, trendy bars, and vibrant LGBTQ+ community.
  • Chinatown and Little Italy: Experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of these two iconic neighborhoods.

Where to Eat

Classic NYC Eats

  • New York-Style Pizza: Try Lombardi’s, Joe’s Pizza, or Patsy’s Pizzeria for a slice (or three) of heaven.
  • Bagels with Lox: Ess-a-Bagel or Russ & Daughters Cafe are must-visits for a classic NYC breakfast.
  • Hot Dogs: Gray’s Papaya or Papaya King serve up some of the city’s best hot dogs.

Trendy Eats

  • Shake Shack: This modern day “roadside” burger stand has become a cult favorite.
  • Carbone: A retro Italian-American restaurant in Greenwich Village, complete with over-the-top decor and dishes like veal parmesan.
  • Peter Luger Steak House: This Brooklyn institution has been serving up top-notch steaks since 1887.

Where to Stay

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Pod Hotel Brooklyn: Compact, stylish rooms at an affordable price in trendy Williamsburg.
  • YOTEL New York: A futuristic, pod-style hotel with compact rooms and a rooftop bar.

Mid-Range Options

  • The NoMad Hotel: A beautifully designed hotel in the heart of Manhattan, with a Michelin-starred restaurant on site.
  • The William Vale: A stylish, boutique hotel in Brooklyn’s trendy Williamsburg neighborhood.

Luxury Options

  • The Plaza Hotel: Iconic luxury and opulence at this legendary Midtown hotel.
  • Baccarat Hotel & Residences New York: Crystal-infused luxury and world-class service in the heart of Manhattan.

Activities and Events

Seasonal Events

  • Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade: Kick off the holiday season with this iconic parade, featuring giant balloons and festive floats.
  • Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting: Witness the lighting of the famous tree, a holiday tradition since 1933.
  • SummerStage: A free outdoor performing arts festival in Central Park, featuring music, dance, and theater performances.

Outdoor Activities

  • Bike Ride along the Hudson River Greenway: Take in stunning views of the river and New Jersey Palisades while cycling along this scenic path.
  • Kayaking on the East River: Rent a kayak and explore the city’s waterways with guided tours or on your own.
  • Central Park Walking Tours: Join a guided tour to discover hidden gems and secrets within the park.

Indoor Activities

  • Broadway Shows: Catch a performance of a hit musical or play, like Hamilton, Wicked, or The Lion King.
  • TV Show Tapings: Attend a live taping of shows like Saturday Night Live, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, or Good Morning America.
  • Escape Rooms: Challenge yourself and friends to escape a themed room at places like Escape the Room NYC or The Escape Game.

Insider Tips

Save Money

  • Buy discounted attraction tickets through websites like Groupon or LivingSocial.
  • Take advantage of happy hour deals at bars and restaurants across the city.
  • Walk or take public transportation instead of hailing a taxi or ride-sharing service.

Beat the Crowds

  • Visit popular attractions early in the morning to avoid long lines and crowds.
  • Explore neighborhoods during off-peak hours, like visiting SoHo on a weekday afternoon.
  • Avoid Times Square unless you enjoy massive crowds and bright lights – it’s not for everyone!

With this ultimate guide, you’re ready to take on the city that never sleeps! From iconic landmarks to world-class museums, trendy eats to budget-friendly accommodations, and seasonal events to outdoor activities, NYC has something for every kind of traveller. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to fall in love with the Big Apple!