Tips to make the most of a visit to New York City

New York City is one of the most exciting and vibrant cities in North America, so it makes sense it’s on the must-visit list for many. But, the city is huge and with so many areas to discover it can feel overwhelming. To help understand the city, we have broken it down into manageable chunks of information to navigate the lay of the land and help you decide where to start your adventure. We have also included a list of free things to do in New York.

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Tips to make the most of a visit to New York City

Visiting New York City does not have to be expensive. Plan to travel outside peak travel times and hotel rates drop. Avoid summer, holiday weekends and especially New Year’s Eve, when it’s crowded and prices for accommodation escalate during peak demand. Also, look for free attractions and activities, such as taking the free Staten Island Ferry for a mini harbour cruise. Jump on a Hop On Hop Off bus tour. These tours will give you a good overview of the city and some of the history. Book a tour using Viator.

Don’t miss a ride on the free Staten Island Ferry. Photo: Alexander Naumann, Pixabay

Talk to local New Yorkers working in stores or attractions to find out where their go to favourite spots are for a meal or drink, nearby. They may even suggest tours they particularly like. Museum volunteers are a great resource for information.

There are endless options for food, from Michelin star restaurants to lots of reasonably priced delicatessens, cafes, bakeries and food trucks to choose from. Look for lunch or early dinner specials. Buy discounted tickets for on Broadway and off Broadway shows. Plan in advance to be in the audience of one of your favourite shows.

Lunch specials displayed on a sign in Little Italy, New York. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

What are the five New York City boroughs?

The city is made up of five main boroughs, each of which have their own unique character and neighbourhoods. In total, there are 59 neighbourhoods within 300-square miles. View a map of the boroughs here.

1. Manhattan, is the smallest, most densely populated and filled with renowned iconic attractions.
2. Brooklyn, is known for its Coney Island area amusement rides and beaches. Don’t forget about that famous hotdog! Cross over the Brooklyn Bridge and take in the magnificent skyline views of Manhattan. It is also less expensive to stay in than Manhattan.
3. The Bronx has Yankee Stadium where the famous New York Yankees play and the Bronx Zoo, the largest American wildlife conservation area.
4. Staten Island is where the Staten ferry goes across the harbour from Manhattan.
5. Queens, has two international airports, JFK and LaGuardia, the New York Mets baseball team and diverse ethic neighbourhoods.

Unique districts of Manhattan, New York

The borough of Manhattan is made up of 45 distinct community districts as shown on this map. We have highlighted five of the most popular ones.

Theater District in Midtown Manhattan

There are about 40 theaters in the Broadway Theater District. In my opinion, many of the theaters are of a moderate size and almost every seat should have a good view of the stage. There are many price points and, of course, service fees. Service fees can be avoided by buying direct from the box office. Here is a complete list of current Broadway shows.

I managed to hit two Broadway shows during my short stay in the city. The first, SIX, The Musical, a high energy, Tony award winner. The second, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Phantom of the Opera, which closed this past April. This outstanding show was performed for 35 years and is the longest-running musical in Broadway’s history.  I still can’t get the music out of my head.

How to get Broadway show tickets for a discount

There are several ticketing services that help provide discounted tickets for New York City’s Broadway shows.

On my last visit to NYC, I tried the Telecharge lottery system where tickets are listed at a discount rate of up to $45.  One day before the theater performance, entries start at Midnight. Winners are drawn the same day at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Rush tickets are available the day of the show starting at 11 a.m. and ends 30-minutes before curtain. Tickets will be emailed.

Discounted tickets for on-or-off Broadway Shows at up to 50% off, can be found on the same day as the performance or next day matinee can be purchased in person at the TKTS booth (located in Times Square, Lower Manhattan, and Lincoln Center).

Take in a Broadway show while visiting New York City. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

Garment District NYC

The Garment District, also known as the Fashion District, is located in Midtown Manhattan. It’s a vibrant creative community to explore with an excellent selection of restaurants, cafes and rooftop bars offering impressive views.

This area started to bloom in the 1920s when many garment manufactures moved here. By the early 1930s, it became North America’s largest concentration of clothing producers.

Be sure to see the 28 historic Fashion Walk of Fame plaques that run along 7th from 40th Street to 34th celebrating famous New York designers.

It’s here you’ll find stores such as Mood Fabrics, offering design inspiration with a wide range of fashion and home fabrics, vintage trims, leathers, beads, wedding needs and just about everything imaginable for the construction of a garment.

Tour M&S Schmalberg, an artificial flower factory to see how fabric flowers are custom made.

And, if in need of a button, Lou Lou Buttons has more than 10 million to choose from.

Look for the iconic Button and Needle Sculpture, unveiled February 2023, at 7th Avenue and 39th Street, along with the nearby statue of the Garment Worker.

Button and Needle Sculpture on display in the Garment District of New York City. Photo: DiversityPics for the Garment District Alliance.

The moving, gigantic illuminated Living Lantern, a public art installation, was on display on the Broadway plaza between between 39th and 40th Streets until February 24, 2023. This space provides an ever changing public art program created by Garment District Alliance and DOT Artwork.

View the changing public art exhibits in New York’s Garment District. The Living Lantern is one such exhibit. Photo: Alexandre Ayer / @DiversityPics for the Garment District Alliance.

Little Italy

The Italian district is smaller now than it was when thousands of Italians immigrated here in the late 1800s and is now concentrated on three streets. Mulberry Street, lined with Italian restaurants and bakeries, is the main street in Little Italy.

Ferrara is the most famous bakery and cafe in this area. This eatery opened its door in 1892, as the first American pastry shop and espresso bar. Don’t forget to stop at Caffé Palermo home of the Cannoli King, Baby John.

Nearby, is Lombardi, home to the first pizza ever served in North America in 1905. Take a fun food tour for one of the best experiences to learn about the cuisine and history.

One of the city’s oldest street fairs, Feast of San Gennaro, is celebrated annually in the middle of September.

Explore Little Italy in New York. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

Chinatown

Densely populated Chinatown in Manhattan is located right next door to Little Italy. The narrow streets boast many shops to browse in featuring wares from China and Southwest Asia. There is an abundance of Asian restaurants offering dim sum, tea rooms, and traditional Chinese cuisine.

New York City has the highest Chinese population in the United States and it boasts two other large Chinatowns, one in Flushing, Queens and the other in Sunset Park, Brooklyn.

Narrow streets of Manhattan’s Chinatown. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

Harlem

Harlem has deep roots steeped in Black culture and is known for its music scene, civil rights history and ethnic food.

Apollo Theater

Take a historic tour of the Apollo Theater the “Soul of American Culture.” Since the theater first opened in 1913, it has been supporting and launching talented African American musicians and genres of music. The Duke Ellington Band, Ella Fitzgerald, Gladys Knight, Billie Holiday, James Brown and Sammy Davis Jr. are just a few of the many legends who began their career here.

A street mural in Harlem. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

The Famous Apollo Theater in Harlem New York. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

Financial District

Wall Street is home to the bustling New York Stock Exchange and is the financial hub for the world’s economy. There are several notable sites to visit in this area:

• One World Trade Centre Observation Deck
• The National September 11 Memorial and Museum
• The Charging Bull
• New York Stock Exchange (not open to the public)
• World Trade Centre Oculus, with outdoor food market, beer garden, shops and Optik, an interactive light and sound art installation.
• Trinity Church, the oldest church location in New York.
• Catch the free Staten Island Ferry.
• Access to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge and Pier 11 for Dumbo/Fulton Ferry return ferry.
• Access near the ferry to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.

Charging Bull of Wall Street. Photo: Alexander Naumann from Pixabay

What is the best way to get around New York?

Whenever we visit a city, we start with a City Pass to save money and jump on a Hop On Hop Off bus tour. These tours will give you a good overview of the city and some of the history. Book a tour using Viator.

New York City is made for walking and this is one of the best modes of transportation. Take a taxi or an Uber. Uber usually works out less expensive, especially in the congested traffic of the city.

12 Free things to do in New York

Here are 10 free things to do in the city that never sleeps.

1. Times Square

The famous Time Square landmark has massive billboards and towering neon lights and its atmosphere is like no other. Right next to the Theater District it is truly one of  busiest hives of activity in the city. There are lots of shops, restaurants, bars and attractions to explore here. On New Year’s Eve the famous ball drop happens here.

2. Staten Island Ferry

Take a 25-minute picturesque ride on the Staten Island Ferry for a quick tour of the harbour. Go past the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The ferry leaves Lower Manhattan from the Whitehall Ferry Terminal, 4 South Street, to St. George Ferry Terminal on Staten Island. The boat runs 24 hours a day. Check schedule here. You must disembark the ferry at the other end and then hop aboard it again for the return trip.

3. Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge

Plan on taking at least one hour to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. Besides amazing views of Manhattan’s skyline, at the other end there is a wonderful park and Jane’s Carousel, a 1922 fully restored classic carousel with 48 carved horses and two chariots. Each ride costs $2. Consider exploring the area more and then taking the ferry back. Visit the Financial District to access the Brooklyn Bridge or the ferry at Pier 11 to cross over to Brooklyn. People also rent bikes to ride across.

4. Stroll through Chelsea Market

Renowned Chelsea Market is located in the Meatpacking District and is an internationally recognized food hall with many shops and, of course, places to eat.

Famous Chelsea Market in the Meatpacking District of New York City. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

5. High Line Park

High Line is an elevated park designed on a historic railway line running through the west side of Manhattan. The park opened in 2009 to provide an urban space to enjoy nature and art. Take advantage of free tours of the park, which can be accessed near the Chelsea Market and the Whitney Museum of Modern Art.

6. Garment District Factory Tour

Take a factory tour in one of the many places in the Garment District. See above for more information.

7. See a Live TV Performance

Be in the audience of a live taping of a New York produced TV show. Some of the many offered:  Seth Myers, Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, Saturday Night Live, and The View.

8. Little Island

Little Island, an urban space on the Hudson River at Pier 55, opened in 2021. The 2.4-acre park is constructed out of 132 mushroom-shaped concrete columns. The garden is designed to maximize colour as a way to attract a variety of birds and pollinators. To learn more about the design, there is a 40-minute audio tour available narrated by Signe Nielsen, the landscape architect.

While in the same area visit the Hudson River Park walkway popular for jogging and biking.

View of Little Island from the Whitney Museum of Art. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

9. Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Terminal is the second most visited landmark in the city after Time Square. More than 750,000 people pass through the train station each day. Grand Central Depot, built in 1871  by Cornelius Vanderbilt, the wealthy railroad owner, became out-of-date quickly and Grand Central Terminal replaced it in 1913. Find out more about the history.

A few special features to look for in the terminal:

• The main concourse’s emerald green zodiac ceiling features 2,500 stars and 12 constellations.
• All clocks in the station are accurate to one second. The main clock at the information booth is valued at around $20 million.
• The European-style Grand Central Market has 13 vendors to choose from to pick up ingredients for a picnic lunch.

Grand Central Station is one of the most famous train stations in North America. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

Famous clock at Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

10. Shop along Fifth Avenue and Macy’s on 34th Street

Strolling down Fifth Avenue to window shop in some of the most well-known brand shops in the world will cost nothing. Stepping through the doors on the other hand may leave quite a dent in the wallet.

Take a look in Macy’s on 34th Street. It is the largest department store in North America. Don’t miss seeing the antique wooden escalators that are more than 100 years old.

Famous antique wooden escalators in Macy’s Department Store in New York. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

11. National September 11 Memorial

The National September 11 Memorial is free to visit. The museum is not. Advanced tickets are required.

12. St. Patrick’s Cathedral

St. Patrick’s Cathedral is the most famous church in Manhattan. The foundation for this neo-Gothic Catholic church was laid in 1860. Everyone is welcome to enter the church to look around or worship.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral is a Catholic cathedral in the Midtown Manhattan neighbourhood of New York City. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

Where to see the best views of New York City

There are several spots to choose from to take in the incredible views of the city and surrounding areas. Remember to save on entrance fees by buying a City Pass using Viator.

Empire State Building

The iconic Empire State Building is a National Historic Landmark and worth checking out. This landmark can be seem from many areas of the city. At night it dazzles the skyline with an LED lighting system capable of 16,000,000 different colours. Head up to the 102nd floor for 360 degree views that can extend up to 80 miles on a clear day.

Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center

Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center features views from three different floor; 67, 69 and the 70th, an open-air roof deck. See the Joie Chandelier above the Grand Atrium lobby. It is the largest of its kind, made with 70,000 Swarovski crystals.

Summit One Vanderbilt

Summit One Vanderbilt offers a three level immersive experience. Ride the world’s largest glass-bottomed elevator up to the summit.  To take in the views there are a strict footwear restrictions and, due to the reflective nature of the building, wearing sunglasses are advised as well as pants, tights or shorts.

The Edge

The Edge is one of NYC’s architectural marvels and the highest outdoor platform in North America. In the photo below, notice the tall building with a platform jetting out of its side. This is The Edge.

The Edge in New York City. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

4 Days in New York City

Here is a suggested guide for time spent in New York City. Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly. Dress appropriately and in layers, if needed. If there are rainy days, plan to do indoor visits. It’s best to try to do most of the activities in one area on the same day. Make a list to decide what is the most important to see in the time allotted and weave it into the suggested timeline.

Remember to book tickets in advance at attractions and museums. All indoor spaces suggest wearing a mask for safety. Most places offer free coat and bag checks and plastic bags for wet umbrellas.

Itinerary for Day One

1. Take the Hop on Hop off Tour to get acquainted with  the city. Passes can last for 24 hours or 48 hours. I usually take the full tour first to get familiar with the city. Be sure to check the route map. This will help plan what else you will do or when to get off the bus.

Itinerary for Day Two

1. Visit to the MET (Metropolitan Museum of Art) Time — 2-3 hour visit. The museum has the largest art collection in the world, from contemporary art to ancient artifacts. Book tickets in advance. At the entrance, look for one of the knowledgeable volunteers at the information counter and ask for advice. I spoke to Visitor Experience volunteer Brenda Stern. She provided her insights to the newest exhibits and advised where to start for my interests. She also provided helpful tips for a visit to Central Park across the street.
2. Go to Central Park. Time — 2-3 hour visit. Take a walking tour, photography tour, classic Venetian gondola tour on the lake or a horse carriage ride through the park. The Central Park Zoo is also located here.
3. Museum of Natural History. Time – 2-3 hour visit. The museum houses the largest collection of natural history in the world. The impressive revitalized Northwest Coast Hall features over 1,000 Pacific Northwest Indigenous exhibits. The Mignone Halls of Gems and Minerals boast 5,000 specimens from 98 countries.
4. MOMA or Guggenheim Museum are other option depending on time and interests.

The Egyptian art exhibit at the MET Metropolitan Museum of Art. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

A display at the American Museum of Natural History New York City. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

Giant geode lined with quartz and amethyst from the Bolsa Mine Artigas Uruguay. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

Itinerary for Day Three

1. Head to the Financial District and start the day by catching the free Staten Island Ferry or go to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. Tickets must be bought in advance. Note: tickets to go to the top of the Statue of Liberty sell out months in advance. Time – 2-3 hours
2. Visit Wall Street and take a picture with the Charging Bull
3. Have lunch at World Trade Centre Oculus, with an outdoor food market, beer garden, shops and Optik an interactive light and sound art installation.
4. One World Trade Centre Observation Deck
5. Visit the National September 11 Memorial and Museum. Tickets to the museum must be purchased in advance
6. Trinity Church, the oldest church location in New York.
7. Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge for views of the New York skyline, ride Jane’s Carousel and go to Pier 11 for Dumbo/Fulton Ferry return ferry. Time – 2-3 hours
8. See a Broadway show.
9. Go to Times Square for a nighttime vibe after the show
10. Eat the original New York cheesecake from Juniors.

Itinerary for Day Four

1. See Grand Central Station, one of the most famous train stations in North America.
2. View Rockefeller Plaza. Go to The top of the Rock to access an observation deck or Empire State Building
3. Go into St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
4. Window shop along 5th Avenue.
5. See Time Square during the day.
6. See the wooden escalators at Macy’s.
7. Visit the Garment District.
8. Head to Little Italy for a late lunch or a cannoli.
9. Go to Chelsea Market.
10. Walk through Little Island

Ink 48 Hotel rooftop view of the Hudson River from Hells Kitchen. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

Is it safe to visit New York City?

Tips to help keep you stay safe

Every city or area has its problems. Honestly, I was really cautious about travelling to New York City on my own. It took me out of my comfort zone, but I survived by using common sense. I did not use the subway or the transit system and walked a lot.

Here are a few tips I follow:

• Walk briskly, with purpose. Be aware of surroundings.
• Never appear lost. Plan the route and use smartphone GPS. If assistance is needed, ask for it before leaving the hotel, attraction, restaurant, or other widely populated areas like a museum or reputable store. Ask a police officer. There are plenty patrolling the streets at night around Time Square.
• At night, cross the street to avoid larger gatherings outside subway and train station entrances or people displaying erratic behaviour.
• Never walk down alleyways or through an unlit area.
• Call a taxi or Uber to get to the destination.
• Don’t wear jewelry.
• Do not put a wallet in a back pocket and safely stow a small purse by wearing it toward the front of the body.

Where to stay in New York City

On my last stay in New York City, I stayed at the Doubletree Hilton Times Square South. It was in the perfect location — close to everything. The complementary bottled water and freshly baked chocolate cookies each day were very welcome. Most hotel rooms in New York City are on the smaller side. The rooftop bar offered great views of the city and the Empire State Building.

Tip: Ask for two beds in the room instead of a queen. This will give you a bigger room.  Always check for complementary upgrades to the room when checking in.

Search for more accommodation in New York City by using Booking.Com

This view was taken from the rooftop bar at my hotel the Doubletree Hilton New York Times Square South. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

Fast Facts about New York City

• The Staten Island Ferry is one of the U.S.’s busiest ferry routes transporting 25 million people a year.
• Italian baker from Naples, Gennaro Lombardi, created the first pizza in North America in 1905.
• The black and white cookie is actually a flat cake.
• The largest Chinatown in North America is located in Queens.
• Dutch first settled in Harlem in 1658.
• The 22-storey Flatiron Building was New York’s first skyscraper. It stands 285-foot (87-meter) tall and is 6.5 feet (2 meters) wide.
• In 1957, Buddy Holly and the Crickets were the first Caucasian rock band to perform at the Apollo Theater in Harlem.
• The Empire State Building: Did you know that this is the most photographed building in the world? This finding is the result of a 2011 research study done by Cornell University.