Things To Do
in New York
New York City, often called the Big Apple, is a vibrant metropolis that never sleeps. It’s a global hub of finance, art, culture and cuisine, with iconic landmarks like Times Square, Central Park and the Statue of Liberty. The city’s diverse neighborhoods—from Chinatown to Harlem—offer unique culinary and cultural experiences around every corner.
With towering skyscrapers, world-class museums and a fast-paced energy, New York City delivers an unforgettable urban adventure.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll around the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, taking in the reflection of skyscrapers on the water. Stop for a classic New York bagel and coffee at a nearby vendor under the elm-lined Mall. Feel the gentle rhythm of the park as joggers, dog walkers, and families animate the leafy pathways.
Rent a rowboat at the Loeb Boathouse and glide along the lake, pausing to admire Bow Bridge’s graceful arches. Explore the hidden trails behind the Ramble, keeping an eye out for local birdlife and scenic rock outcroppings. Finish with a picnic on Sheep Meadow, enjoying skyline views against an urban meadow backdrop.
Head to the Delacorte Theater area to catch Shakespeare in the Park or simply linger as the sun sets. Grab dinner at Tavern on the Green, where historic charm meets modern American cuisine under twinkling lights. End the night with hot chocolate and a quiet walk past Wollman Rink, serenaded by distant city hums.
Start at the Metropolitan Museum of Art to wander Egyptian tomb replicas and European masterpieces before the crowds swell. Savor a cappuccino at the museum’s rooftop café while gazing over Central Park’s treetops and city skyline. Continue with a stroll down Fifth Avenue, admiring luxury storefronts and architectural landmarks.
Head to the Guggenheim Museum for its iconic spiral ramp and modern art collection, absorbing works by Kandinsky and Picasso. Pause at a street café for a light salad and espresso amid bustling Midtown sidewalks. Resume your cultural journey at the Neue Galerie, discovering Viennese art and decadent pastries in an intimate townhouse setting.
Dine at a chic Midtown bistro on fresh seasonal fare and artisanal cocktails. Walk off your meal with an evening promenade past St. Patrick’s Cathedral, its spires illuminated against the night sky. Conclude with pastries from a Fifth Avenue bakery to savor on a nearby bench.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15–20 |
| ☕Coffee | $3–5 |
| 🚕Taxi start (normal tariff) | $3–4 |
| 🎟️Cinema ticket | $15–20 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $150–300 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class museums, theaters and landmarks
- Incredible diversity of food and neighborhoods
- Efficient subway network
- Iconic skyline and endless photo ops
- High costs for accommodation and dining
- Crowded sidewalks and attractions
- Hot, humid summers
- Constant noise and hustle
Places to Visit in New York
Visit one of these nice places.
360° views from Rockefeller Center with unobstructed sightlines to the Empire State Building.
Classic framing of Manhattan Bridge with cobblestone streets and skyline backdrop.
Vibrant neon signs and crowds – best captured at night when everything is lit up.
Romantic cast-iron bridge over the lake, framed by park foliage and city skyline.
Futuristic honeycomb structure offering unique angles and reflections.
Food in New York
New York Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thin-crust slices sold by the pie or slice at pizzerias like Joe’s Pizza in Greenwich Village.
Must-Try!
Classic breakfast at spots like Ess-A-Bagel and Russ & Daughters.
Iconic street food available from vendors such as Gray’s Papaya or Nathan’s Famous.
Rich, creamy dessert best sampled at Junior’s Restaurant in Brooklyn.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Indoor market with global stalls – don’t miss tacos, lobster rolls and artisanal snacks.
Weekend outdoor food market in Brooklyn offering dozens of street food vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Keep moving on sidewalks, step aside to let faster walkers pass and don’t block escalators.
Form single lines for subways, buses and shops; cutting in line is frowned upon.
Be on time for reservations, tours and appointments; lateness can disrupt schedules.
Despite the fast pace, basic politeness—‘please,’ ‘thank you,’ and eye contact—goes a long way.
Safety
Tipping in New York
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard is 15–20% in restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, $1–2 per bag for porters and round up cab fare.
Credit/debit cards are ubiquitous; contactless/mobile wallets are widely accepted; carry small cash for street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cold and snowy, with holiday lights, ice skating at Rockefeller Plaza and Central Park.
Mild temperatures and blooms in parks; perfect for outdoor festivals and walking tours.
Hot, humid and busy; enjoy rooftop bars, outdoor concerts and free kayaking on the Hudson.
Crisp air and colorful foliage in parks; ideal for sightseeing and food festivals.
New York at Night
Hiking in New York
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
About an hour north by car; trails, lake vistas and scenic overlooks in the Hudson Highlands.
Over 200 miles of trails through forests and lakes, roughly an hour’s drive north.
Rocky cliffs on the New Jersey side of the Hudson River, offering short and long hikes with skyline views.
Airports
How to reach New York by plane.
Major international hub in Queens, reachable via AirTrain and LIRR connection.
Handles domestic/regional flights in Queens; accessible by bus, taxi and rideshare.
Serves Newark, NJ; connected by AirTrain Newark and NJ Transit rail services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Over 37% of residents are foreign-born, creating rich ethnic neighborhoods and festivals.
Large population of 20–30-year-olds working in finance, tech, media and creative industries.
Many families live in the outer boroughs, taking advantage of more space and neighborhood schools.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Home to the NBA’s Knicks at Madison Square Garden and famed streetball courts throughout the city.
Passionate fan bases for the Yankees and Mets during MLB season.
Jets and Giants NFL teams play in New Jersey with devoted followings in the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting New York.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Numerous vegetarian-friendly restaurants and salad bars; plant-based eateries in every borough.
Strong vegan scene: try by CHLOE and Superiority Burger for casual comfort food.
Dedicated gluten-free bakeries like Erin McKenna’s and GF menus at many mainstream restaurants.