NYC Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General Tips & Etiquette
Is NYC safe?
Answer: Yes, overwhelmingly so, especially in tourist areas. It’s a safe city, much safer than it was in decades past. Use common sense, be aware of your surroundings, and trust your gut. Most areas you’d visit as a tourist are very safe.
How do I act like a local?
Answer: Don’t stop abruptly in the middle of a crowded sidewalk. Move to the side if you need to check a map or take a photo. Walk with a purpose. Don’t make prolonged eye contact with people selling things or begging.
Are New Yorkers friendly?
Answer: Yes, but they are also busy. They are generally happy to help if you ask a direct, quick question like “Which way is the uptown 6 train?” Avoid starting with long pleasantries.
How should I handle scams?
Answer: Be wary of people trying to hand you things (like CDs or “free” tickets) or dressed up characters in Times Square who want a photo. They will demand money. Just politely but firmly keep walking and ignore them.
What’s the best way to get around?
Answer: The subway is the best and cheapest way. It’s fast and efficient. For detailed navigation, use apps like Citymapper or Google Maps.
Do I need a MetroCard?
Answer: Not anymore! The OMNY system lets you tap your credit card, debit card, or phone (with Apple Pay/Google Pay) at the turnstile. It’s a $2.90 per ride.
What are some subway tips?
Answer: Stand back from the edge of the platform. Don’t block the doors. Be aware of the difference between local and express trains. The trains are referred to by their letters or numbers (A/C/E, 4/5/6), not their colors.
Should I rent a car?
Answer: No. Parking is expensive and difficult to find, and traffic is a nightmare. Use public transit or ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft if absolutely necessary.
What’s the tipping culture?
Answer: Tipping is expected. A standard tip is around 20% for restaurants. For bars, a dollar or two per drink is a good rule of thumb.
What’s the best way to get to/from the airport?
Answer: The subway or Airtrain systems are the most economical. Ride-sharing apps and taxis are more convenient but also more expensive.
Accommodations & Planning
Where should I stay?
Answer: Many travelers advise against staying in Times Square due to the crowds and high prices. Look for hotels in Midtown East, the Village, or other neighborhoods. Staying in Manhattan is often better than in New Jersey or Queens for a first-timer, even if slightly more expensive.
Are Airbnbs allowed?
Answer: Short-term rentals (less than 30 days) are mostly illegal in NYC unless the host is present. It’s best to stick with hotels to avoid potential issues.
How should I structure my itinerary?
Answer: Plan your days by location to minimize travel time. For example, group all your Midtown activities on one day, and all your Downtown activities on another. Don’t overschedule.
Are tourist passes (CityPASS, New York Pass, etc.) worth it?
Answer: Travelers are generally skeptical. They are usually only a good value if you plan to visit a lot of attractions in a short period, which can lead to a rushed and less enjoyable trip.
What’s a good budget for a trip?
Answer: The budget varies, but NYC can be very expensive. Be prepared to spend on food, accommodation, and activities. There are many free things to do, but ticketed attractions add up quickly.
Food & Drink
Where can I find the best pizza?
Answer: Avoid the places with huge “Best Pizza” signs in Times Square. Travelers favorites for a classic slice include Joe’s Pizza and Scarr’s Pizza. For sit-down, consider Lucali or L’industrie in Brooklyn.
What’s a must-try food?
Answer: Bagels and pizza are non-negotiable. Other recommendations include a pastrami sandwich from a Jewish deli like Katz’s or Sarge’s, and Chinese food in Flushing, Queens.
Where should I eat that’s not too expensive?
Answer: Food trucks, local bodegas, and ethnic neighborhoods (like Chinatown or Flushing) offer great food at a lower price. Restaurant Row (46th Street between 8th and 9th Avenues) is a good alternative to the overpriced spots in Times Square.
What’s a “regular” coffee?
Answer: In NYC, “regular” coffee means with two sugars and milk.
What are some good cocktail bars or speakeasies?
Answer: New Yorkers recommend places like The Bell House in Brooklyn for live shows, and local jazz clubs like the Blue Note or Village Vanguard.
Attractions & Activities
Empire State Building vs. Top of the Rock?
Answer: Many travelers prefer Top of the Rock because it offers a view that includes the Empire State Building itself. Go to the Empire State Building at night for fewer crowds. Summit One Vanderbilt is another popular, modern option.
What’s a better alternative to the Statue of Liberty boat tours?
Answer: The Staten Island Ferry is a free option that provides excellent views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline.
What’s a must-do in Central Park?
Answer: The Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, Belvedere Castle, and The Ramble are often recommended. Renting a rowboat on the lake is also a popular activity.
Are there any free museums?
Answer: The Met has a pay-what-you-wish policy for New York State residents and students from the tri-state area. Others like the Brooklyn Museum and the Bronx Museum of Art are free on certain days.
Is the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) worth it?
Answer: MoMA is a favorite for many, but some find the Guggenheim to be a better architectural experience, even if the art collection is smaller. The Whitney is a popular choice for contemporary American art.
What are some “non-touristy” things to do?
Answer: Explore neighborhoods like the East Village, Greenwich Village, or the Lower East Side. Check out a comedy show at the Comedy Cellar, visit the Tenement Museum, or see a live show in Brooklyn.
What are some family-friendly activities?
Answer: The American Museum of Natural History (especially the dinosaur exhibits), the Central Park Zoo, and a show like “The Lion King” on Broadway are popular with families.
How can I get cheap Broadway tickets?
Answer: The TKTS booth in Times Square offers same-day, discounted tickets. Many shows also have online lotteries.
What’s the best view from Brooklyn?
Answer: Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge from Manhattan to Brooklyn, then explore the DUMBO area. The Time Out Market rooftop also has great views of the skyline.
Is walking the Brooklyn Bridge worth it?
Answer: Yes, but go early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Walking from Manhattan to Brooklyn is often preferred for the views.
Hidden Gems & Specific Recommendations
What’s a good alternative to Times Square?
Answer: Visit Times Square once for the experience, but then get out. Explore other neighborhoods like Soho, the Village, or the Upper West Side for a more authentic New York feel.
Any cool libraries to visit?
Answer: The New York Public Library in Bryant Park is a must-see for its architecture and the free “Treasures” exhibition. The Morgan Library & Museum is also recommended.
What’s a hidden spot in Central Park?
Answer: The Conservatory Garden on the park’s east side is a beautiful, quiet spot.
What’s a good place for a relaxed walk?
Answer: The High Line, a converted elevated railway, offers a unique perspective on the city. Little Island is a newer park on the Hudson River that’s also popular.
Any specific museums for NYC history?
Answer: The Tenement Museum and the New-York Historical Society are great choices for diving into the city’s past.
What’s a unique experience I can’t get anywhere else?
Answer: Attending a taping of a late-night show (if you can get tickets), or seeing a show at a historic venue like Madison Square Garden.
Are there any good food tours?
Answer: While not a specific tour, many travelers suggest creating your own “food tour” by walking through different neighborhoods and trying a famous bagel, pizza slice, or pastrami sandwich.
Where can I find the best bagels?
Answer: Absolute Bagels and Ess-a-Bagel are frequently mentioned as top contenders.
What’s a good place for a picnic?
Answer: Central Park, Prospect Park in Brooklyn, or Washington Square Park are all great options.
What’s a cool neighborhood to wander in?
Answer: Greenwich Village, the West Village, and Soho are perfect for aimless walking and discovering small shops and cafes.
Practical Advice
Is it okay to bring my own water bottle?
Answer: Yes, absolutely. It’s an easy way to save money and stay hydrated while walking.
What should I wear?
Answer: Comfortable shoes are the most important thing you’ll pack. Be prepared for lots of walking. Dress in layers, as temperatures can change.
What should I pack?
Answer: Good walking shoes, a portable phone charger, and a reusable water bottle are all highly recommended.
What’s the weather like?
Answer: Travelers have noted that summer can be very hot and humid, so sunscreen is a must. Winter can be very cold, and spring/fall are generally pleasant.
What’s the best time of year to visit?
Answer: Fall (September/October) and spring (April/May) are often cited as the best times due to pleasant weather. December is magical for the holiday decorations but is also very crowded.
What if I get lost?
Answer: The grid system in Manhattan makes it hard to get completely lost. Avenues run north/south (uptown/downtown), and streets run east/west. Just ask a local for a quick direction, they will point you the right way.
How do I pronounce certain street names?
Answer: Houston Street is pronounced “How-ston” (not like the city in Texas). The BQE is the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway.
Should I bring cash?
Answer: While most places accept credit cards, it’s good to have some cash for smaller purchases, food carts, or for small tips.
Are there any must-see sports events?
Answer: Attending a Yankees or Mets baseball game, a Rangers or Islanders hockey game, or a Knicks basketball game at Madison Square Garden can be a classic NYC experience.
What’s a good first-time itinerary for a few days?
Answer:
Day 1 (Midtown): Times Square (briefly), Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, walk down 5th Avenue, visit Central Park.
Day 2 (Downtown): 9/11 Memorial & Museum, One World Observatory, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, explore DUMBO.
Day 3 (Culture/Neighborhoods): Museum of your choice (Met or AMNH), walk the High Line, explore Greenwich Village or Chelsea Market.
What’s a good gluten-free or dairy-free food spot? Answer: Travelers often recommend Modern Bread and Bagel for excellent gluten-free bagels, as well as restaurants like Friedman’s or Wild for other options.
Where can I find a good classic NYC diner experience? Answer: The classic diner is a dying breed, but some still exist. Look for a local spot rather than a tourist trap.
What’s a good rooftop bar recommendation? Answer: Rooftop bars are plentiful, but some popular ones offer great views. Check out the one at the Time Out Market in Brooklyn for a free option with a fantastic skyline view.
Are the “subway performers” real? Answer: Many are, and are often licensed by the MTA. While some are just buskers, others are part of the “Music Under New York” program. It’s up to you if you want to tip.
Should I go to the Statue of Liberty or the 9/11 Memorial? Answer: They are two very different experiences. The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is a somber and powerful historical experience. The Statue of Liberty is a classic icon. Both are highly recommended, but your choice depends on your interests.
What’s a great museum that’s not the Met or MoMA? Answer: The Tenement Museum, The New York Transit Museum, and the Brooklyn Museum are often suggested for those looking for something different.
Is the Vessel worth a visit? Answer: The Vessel is currently closed to climbing, but it’s still an impressive architectural structure to view from the ground in Hudson Yards.
What’s a good day trip from NYC? Answer: Many suggest a trip to Coney Island (in the warmer months), or a journey upstate to the Hudson Valley for some nature.
Are there any good places to see live comedy? Answer: The Comedy Cellar is legendary and a rite of passage for many, often with surprise drop-ins from famous comedians. Book tickets in advance.
What’s a good place to find vintage or unique shopping? Answer: The East Village and Lower East Side are known for their vintage and thrift stores.
Is Little Island worth visiting? Answer: Yes, many visitors found it to be a unique and peaceful urban park with great views of the Hudson River.
How do I get to Flushing, Queens? Answer: Take the 7 train, which runs from Hudson Yards, Bryant Park, and other stops in Midtown.
Is it worth going to the UN? Answer: The UN is a bit far from other tourist sites, and some travelers feel it’s not very interesting from the outside.
What’s a good place to get a classic New York pastrami sandwich? Answer: Katz’s Delicatessen is the most famous, but Sarge’s Deli is also highly rated and less crowded.
Any good tips for visiting the museums? Answer: Plan to spend an entire day at a large museum like the Met or AMNH. Go in the morning to avoid the largest crowds.
What are some of the best parks in NYC besides Central Park? Answer: Prospect Park in Brooklyn, Washington Square Park, and Bryant Park are all popular.
What’s a good way to see a different side of the city? Answer: Take the Roosevelt Island Tramway for a unique aerial view of Manhattan for the price of a subway ride.
Should I walk the entire High Line? Answer: The High Line is about 1.45 miles long. It’s a very pleasant walk and most people recommend doing the whole thing.
Any good book recommendations about NYC? Answer: While not a travel guide, many users recommend books by authors who capture the spirit of the city, like E.B. White’s “Here is New York.”
What’s a good place to see live jazz? Answer: The Village Vanguard, Blue Note, and Smalls are legendary jazz clubs in Greenwich Village.
Are the Hop-On-Hop-Off bus tours worth the money? Answer: Most travelers say no. They are expensive, get stuck in traffic, and don’t offer much that you can’t get from walking and taking the subway.
How do I avoid crowds? Answer: Go to popular sites in the morning or on weekdays. Visit Times Square at off-peak hours (very late or very early).
What’s the deal with the “upstate” vs. “downstate” thing? Answer: For New Yorkers, “upstate” often means anything north of the city, while “downstate” refers to the city itself and its suburbs.
What’s the best time to visit for Christmas? Answer: The holiday season is magical, but be prepared for massive crowds and higher prices. Early December is a good time to go before the peak madness of the final two weeks of the year.
Is it true that I should stand on the right on escalators? Answer: Yes, this is a rule to allow people who are in a hurry to walk on the left side.
What’s the best way to get to the Statue of Liberty? Answer: The official Statue Cruises ferry from Battery Park is the only way to get on Liberty Island.
What’s a good place to see street art? Answer: The Bushwick Collective in Brooklyn is a world-renowned outdoor gallery of murals.
What’s a unique thing to do with kids? Answer: The American Museum of Natural History, the New York Transit Museum, and riding the carousel in Central Park or Brooklyn Bridge Park.
Should I bring a physical map? Answer: Google Maps or Citymapper on your phone will be your best friend. A physical map can be a good backup, but the apps are the most useful.
What’s a good place to get a late-night bite? Answer: New York is the city that never sleeps. You can find food everywhere, from 24-hour diners to late-night pizza joints.
What’s the best way to get a good photo of the skyline? Answer: From the Brooklyn Bridge, the Staten Island Ferry, or one of the observation decks.
Should I buy tickets for attractions in advance? Answer: Yes, for popular attractions like the 9/11 Museum or observation decks, it’s a good idea to book online to save time and guarantee entry.
What’s a good, free activity? Answer: Walking the High Line, the Brooklyn Bridge, exploring Central Park, and riding the Staten Island Ferry.
How do I use a yellow taxi? Answer: Stand on the side of the road and raise your hand. The light on the top of the cab will indicate if it’s available.
Is it worth it to visit the boroughs outside Manhattan? Answer: Yes, absolutely. Brooklyn, in particular, offers fantastic views and unique neighborhoods like DUMBO, Brooklyn Heights, and Williamsburg. Queens has a diverse food scene.
What’s the best way to get around Brooklyn? Answer: The subway system is extensive in Brooklyn, and you can also use Citi Bike for a fun way to explore the neighborhoods.
What’s a hidden gem in Brooklyn? Answer: The Green-Wood Cemetery is a beautiful, historic site with stunning views and architecture.
Any good places for a romantic dinner? Answer: The Village and West Village are full of cozy, romantic restaurants.
What’s a good place for a burger? Answer: Joe’s Burger and Shake Shack are popular chains, but many local places have great burgers.
Is it worth it to go to Governors Island? Answer: Yes, it’s a fun summer day trip. You can rent bikes and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and city views.
What’s a good place for a quiet escape from the city? Answer: The Cloisters is a branch of the Met Museum focused on medieval art, located in a peaceful park in northern Manhattan.
Where can I find the best bagels? Answer: Absolute Bagels on the Upper West Side and Ess-a-Bagel in Midtown are frequently mentioned as top contenders.
What’s a great place for a casual but delicious lunch? Answer: Chelsea Market is a popular indoor food hall with many different options.
Are there any good places to see street performers? Answer: Washington Square Park and Central Park are popular spots to see musicians, artists, and other performers.
What’s the best way to see the fall foliage? Answer: Walk through Central Park or take a trip up the Hudson River Valley.
Is it worth seeing a show at Radio City Music Hall? Answer: Yes, many travelers love the architecture and history of the venue, with some recommending the tour as a highlight of their trip.
What’s a great place for a dessert? Answer: Magnolia Bakery is famous for its banana pudding, and Levain Bakery is known for its massive cookies.
How do I get to Coney Island? Answer: Take the D, F, N, or Q trains to the end of the line.
Any tips for first-time solo travelers? Answer: New York is a great city for solo travelers. It’s safe, and there’s always something to do. Don’t be afraid to ask for directions or recommendations.
What’s the one thing I shouldn’t miss on my first trip? Answer: The single most common answer is to simply walk. Walk as much as you can. It’s the best way to truly experience the energy and feel of the city.