New York Travel Guide
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Top Attractions
Cheap Flying Tips
Where to Stay
Things to Do
Your Guide to New York
If New York City is sitting on your travel bucket list waiting to be checked off, you’re not alone. As the home to some of the most visited tourist attractions in the United States, New York City has a lot to offer, and planning one’s trip agenda here can be a daunting task. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
This guide to New York City will cover everything, including the top attractions, what to expect from your flying experience, where to stay, and what to do.
There’s no right or wrong way to explore New York City, but we’ll help you find the way that’s best for you. Read on for vital tips on how to have the most unique experience while getting the best bang-for-your-buck or lavishing yourself in the city’s finest.
Top Attractions in New York
New York City has more than 80 museums, 1,700 parks, 25,000 restaurants, and is the most populated city in the United States. To keep more than 8.6 million inhabitants happy, it’s no surprise that many attractions are scattered throughout the five boroughs. So, if you’re unsure where to start in the largest of the cities of New York, these are the top attractions in New York City.
Times Square
One of the most iconic images of New York City depicts the kaleidoscopic lights and massive billboards and television screens that line Times Square. This neighborhood in Midtown Manhattan is depicted in various forms of pop culture worldwide, and so, it is no wonder that people travel hundreds of miles just to stand in the midst of it all.
Times Square is located in the entertainment hub of New York City and a mere walk away from the Theatre District, where you can watch countless Broadway performances any day of the week performed by artists of unmatched talent. You can also visit numerous attractions found within Times Square, such as Madame Tussauds and Ripley’s Believe it or Not!
Central Park
Amidst the Concrete Jungle is 843 acres of natural beauty that is Central Park. This is a great family or date location where you can:
- Lay in the open grass, gaze at the architectural beauty of Bethesda Terrace
- Walk amongst the exotic animals in Central Park Zoo
- Row a boat in the park lake
- Take a ride on a horse-drawn carriage tour for a different view of the park
If you plan and time it just right, sit down to an iconic show of Shakespeare in the Park.
Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is an essential landmark of New York City. At 1,454 feet tall, it was the tallest building in the world upon its completion in 1930 and is the pinnacle of architecture and design. Although the view of this magnificent skyscraper alone is reason enough to visit, it’s what it has to offer inside that makes it such an iconic attraction.
You’ve never truly seen New York City until you’ve seen it from above, and the Empire State Building allows you to do that. There are two observatories in the building: one on the 86th floor and one on the 102nd.
With 360-degree views that can stretch up to 80 miles, the view of New York City from the Empire State Building is unmatched. But that’s not all. Visitors can also walk through awe-inspiring exhibits on the 2nd and 80th floors with content ranging from historical, to architectural, to borderline fanciful.
The Experience Flying into New York Airports
For most, the first impression a traveler receives of New York City is the airport, and, more often than not, this airport will be John F. Kennedy International Airport. JFK Airport is the fifth largest and sixth busiest airport in the United States, so brace yourself if this is your first stop.
With eight terminals, over 300 gates, and an average of 150,000 passengers per day, this building’s mammoth might be a bit overwhelming and difficult to navigate. The best plan of action would be to use the 24/7 airport rail,AirTrain, to travel between terminals.
However, before you rush out into the bustle of New York City, take a moment to appreciate some of the exceptional services JFK has to offer. Shop around in Terminal 5, grab a bite to eat at Terminal 4, or get pampered at one of the spas in Terminals 1, 4, and 7. Once you’re well-fed and refreshed, you’ll be ready to take on The Big Apple.
United Airlines operates flights to and from major New York airports such as John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), providing easy access to the city and its vibrant attractions.
Top 3 Tips to Fly Cheap to New York
Traveling to New York City alone can cost a small fortune, and the best way to limit cost would be to buy your tickets cheap. Here are a few simple tips to ensure you don’t ever spend before you’ve even landed.
1. Book in Advance:
One of the best ways to find low prices for plane tickets is to search for the 2-3 months before your trip. You are more likely to get cheaper tickets ahead of most buyers than at the last minute when airlines are trying to fill their seats.
2. Be the Oddball:
Unsurprisingly, the cheaper tickets are sold when people don’t typically want to travel. If you aren’t particular about when you can visit New York City, you’ll find tickets at a significantly reduced price from January to April. However, if New York’s winter chill doesn’t appeal to you, tickets will be cheaper if you book them on a Tuesday (when airlines release their deals) and set to arrive on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Saturday. If all else fails, the early bird and night-owl get the worm. Fly before 7am or after 9 pm for the best prices.
3. Shop Around:
Don’t settle for one airline or travel company. There are three major airports in New York City alone: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). Spend the time to compare ticket prices using different flight search engines, such as Kayak, Booking.com, and Expedia.
Popular Areas of the City to Stay
After buying your plane tickets, the next step is to figure out where you’ll stay. Some of the most popular areas of New York City are:
1. Midtown:
Commonly agreed upon as the best area for first-timers, Midtown, named for its central location in the city, is arguably the most tourist-friendly location. Popular sightseeing stops located here are Grand Central Station, the Empire State Building, Times Square, and the High Line, to name a few. Not only does Midtown offer a wide range of attractions and experiences, but tourists will also save a lot of money in travel fees by simply staying in this area.
2. Upper East Side:
A stark contrast to the noisy, touristy bustle of Midtown, Upper East Side is one of the safest and quietest locations in all of New York City. Here, visitors can walk the Museum Mile along Fifth Avenue, spend a pretty penny in a designer boutique, or take a stroll over to Central Park. There is an air of peace and luxury to this area, which is great for families and visitors to avoid the overbearing crowds.
3. SoHo:
If you’re more into the culture of shopping for vintage items and watching indie films rather than the mainstream tourist attractions, SoHo is for you. Often referred to as the more“hipster” area of the city, SoHo is filled with trendy shops, contemporary art galleries, and a prime location for nightlife adventures.
Popular Hotels in those areas
You know where you’re going, but where are you going to stay? These are some of the most popular hotels in each area, either for the bargain master trying to save cash or for those looking for the finer things.
Interested in digging into some of our favorites? Check out this article for a complete list of The 10 Best Hotels in New York City.
Midtown
Affordable Hotels
The Seton Hotel boasts a prime location that is a mere walk to popular tourist hotspots, such as the Chrysler Building. The hotel also provides spacious and affordable rooms with sleek and trendy furnishings.
Luxury Hotels
The Refinery Hotel offers a spectacular view from its rooftop bar and pampers its guests with a jazz happy hour and personalized service.
Upper East Side
Affordable Hotels
Garden Suites Hotel by Affinia an ideal option for families. Not only does the hotel have rooms with fully equipped kitchens, but it is also pet-friendly.
Luxury Hotels
The Mark Hotel is a picture of French taste due to its unique interior design and furnishings. But its exquisite taste doesn’t stop there. Be sure to stop by the hotel’s Jean Georges Vongerichten restaurant and bar for an unforgettable meal.
SoHo
Affordable Hotels
Nomo Soho reflects the hipster vibes of the area clearly from its exterior alone. Graffiti art-covered walls starkly contrast the ivy wrapped tunnel archway that leads to the hotel’s front doors. Its quaint outdoor dining is perfect for a cup of coffee.
Luxury Hotels
Crosby Street Hotel has a reputation for treating their guests as if they’re movie stars. The staff is extremely attentive and provide top-of-the-line amenities, particularly in their extensive bar and private theatre.
Popular VRBO Places in Those Areas
VRBO is another great options for finding quality places to stay in New York city in some of the most popular areas. Below are a few Super choices for you to check out. For a more comprehensive list, check out our article on the 10 Best VRBO Rentals in New York City.
Luxurious Manhattan Penthouse
Experience the grandeur of this opulent penthouse located in the heart of Manhattan. With stunning city views, a rooftop terrace, and modern amenities, this spacious rental is perfect for your NYC getaway.
Charming Brooklyn Brownstone
Immerse yourself in Brooklyn’s vibrant culture in this beautifully restored brownstone. Boasting original architectural details and a lush backyard garden, this stylish home is perfect for a unique NYC experience.
SoHo Design Loft
Discover the epitome of New York chic in this sophisticated SoHo loft. With exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and stylish furnishings, this spacious rental promises an unforgettable stay in one of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods.
Central Park Oasis
Escape the city’s hustle and bustle in this serene Central Park retreat. Nestled in a historic building, this elegantly furnished apartment features stunning park views and easy access to Manhattan’s top attractions.
Top 5 Things to do in New York
Many tourists that visit New York City immediately rush off to the typical hotspots like Times Square and Central Park, but make sure you spare the time to have these experiences as well. Below are the top 5 things to do in New York. For the full list, check our our article on the Top 10 Things To Do in New York. Have fun!
- Walk in the footsteps of countless American Immigrants at Ellis Island
- Take a stroll through the New York Botanical Garden
- Get a bargain beer and a free ride on the Staten Island Ferry
- Pay your respects at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum
- Get a classic New York cheesecake from Eileen’s Special Cheesecake
Also, If you’re a fan of art, culture, and history, a visit to New York City’s museums is an absolute must.
The Best Guided Tours and Experiences in New York
NY is massive and has so much to offer, however the city’s sheer size and vibrancy could be overwhelming for visitors, especially first-timers. This is where guided tours come in, providing a more structured, informative, and engaging exploration of the city’s best offerings. Check out our full list of The 10 Best Guided Tours in New York but for a sneak peak and to see the top 5 see below.
1. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour: Start your NYC adventure with the city’s iconic landmarks, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. This tour not only offers you a close-up view of Lady Liberty but also immerses you in the rich immigration history of the United States. See options here on Tripadvisor.com.
2. Brooklyn Bridge Walking Tour: Experience a scenic walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. With the NYC skyline as your backdrop, your guide provides insightful narration about the bridge’s history and the surrounding neighborhoods. See on Tripadvisor.com.
3. Central Park Bike Tour: Experience nature in the heart of NYC with Central Park Sightseeing. This leisurely bike ride around Central Park offers views of the Bethesda Fountain, the Strawberry Fields memorial, and more. See on Tripadvisor.com.
4. Food and Culture Tour of Queens: Delve into the diverse food scene of Queens. With Queens Food Tours, enjoy a culinary journey, sampling international cuisines and learning about the cultures that have shaped this vibrant borough. See on Tripadvisor.com.
5. High Line Walking Tour: Walk the High Line, an elevated park built on a former railway line. This unique tour showcases the beautiful gardens, artwork, and architecture of the High Line, along with stunning city views. See on Tripadvisor.com.
New York City, with its kaleidoscope of cultures and experiences, offers myriad ways to explore and discover. These tours, led by knowledgeable guides, offer a curated, enriching, and memorable experience of the city’s many attractions. So lace up your walking shoes, prepare your taste buds, and get ready to dive deep into the vibrant heart of New York City!
Super AirBnB Experiences in New York!
In addition to Guided Tours, Airbnb is widely known for providing luxurious or affordable lodging to the everyday traveler. But, did you know they also offer a wide range of experiences, from online field trips to city tours to local food tastings? So, if you’re looking for a more niche experience in the city, here’s a list of the coolest Airbnb experiences available.
- New York Mafia Tour with Food Tastings- the Insider’s Story
- Brooklyn Bridge cinematic photo walk
- Harlem Jazz Crawl
- Ultimate Chinatown Food Tour
- Puerto Rican Cooking and Cocktails
- The Ultimate Broadway History Tour
- Boxing w/World Champ Fire On Miami Beach
Exploring New York City can be an immense challenge to tackle. It’s easy to be overwhelmed with the sheer amount of options that surround you. Although all of the options listed here are optimal places to start, sometimes the best approach is to try something new right in front of you.
Final Thoughts
Don’t treat the city like a checklist; treat it like an adventure. There’s an unlimited amount of cultures, opportunities, and history surrounding you on every corner, so don’t get swept away in the whirlwind around you.
Take your time and embrace what the city has to offer, especially some of the more niche locations if you’re revisiting the city or want to do something more unconventional. You never know where quirkiness and spontaneity will lead you, especially in an urban playground like New York City.
Read More New York Travel Tips
- New York City’s Best Hotels
- The Best New York City Boutique Hotels
- The Best Fine Dining Restaurants in New York
- The Top VRBO’s in New York City
- New York’s Best Resorts
- Best Places to Visit in New York
- The Top Things to do in New York
