New York City
Explore the Big Apple’s must-visit spots and experiences
USA > New York > New York City
Evgeny Karandaev / Shutterstock
New York City is big, loud, and absolutely relentless—but that’s exactly why you’re here. It’s a city that doesn’t do small talk. It throws you into the deep end, whether you’re battling the crush of Times Square, dodging yellow cabs, or ordering a bagel at lightning speed because the line behind you is getting impatient.
First-time visitors often try to do everything, but NYC rewards those who focus. Pick a few neighborhoods, explore them properly, and save the rest for another trip. You’ll be back. Everyone comes back.
Start with Manhattan—it’s the classic for a reason. Midtown has the must-sees: the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, and Grand Central. But don’t just tick them off a list. Get to the top of the Empire State at night when the city sparkles. Stand in the middle of Grand Central’s main concourse and take in the golden glow. If you must do Times Square, go early in the morning or late at night to avoid peak chaos.
Downtown Manhattan is where things feel more local. Walk through the narrow streets of the Financial District, see the Charging Bull (skip rubbing it—it’s a tourist trap), and take the Staten Island Ferry for the best free view of the Statue of Liberty. Skip the overpriced restaurants near One World Trade and head to Chinatown for some of the best dumplings you’ll ever have.
Brooklyn is where you’ll find a slower pace and fewer tourists. Williamsburg is packed with trendy cafés and rooftop bars with skyline views, while DUMBO delivers the perfect shot of the Brooklyn Bridge. Walk across it at sunset for a view that makes every step worth it. Prospect Park is a less touristy alternative to Central Park, and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is stunning in spring.
The subway is your best friend, but it’s not perfect. Get a MetroCard or tap with your phone, always check for service changes on weekends, and avoid rush hour unless you enjoy being squished. Yellow cabs are fine, but Uber and Lyft often make more sense. Walking, though, is the best way to understand the city—just stay out of the bike lanes unless you want to be yelled at.
New York isn’t cheap, but it doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Street food, dollar slice pizza, and happy hour deals will keep you going. Museums have free days, Broadway has rush tickets, and Central Park costs nothing. The best part? Simply being here. The energy is real, the skyline is iconic, and if you do it right, New York will get under your skin in the best way.
New York City Experiences
More NYC
