The Big Apple: New York City
New York City, often simply called New York, is the most populous city in the United States. Known as “The City That Never Sleeps”, it is a global hub for finance, fashion, art, and culture. Home to iconic landmarks such as Times Square, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and the Empire State Building, it’s a city with something for everyone.
New York City is also known for its diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. From the artsy streets of SoHo to the brownstones of Brooklyn, the city offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity that will make your visit unforgettable.
Essential New York City Information
- Languages: English (Spanish widely spoken)
- Currency: US Dollar ($)
- Timezone: Eastern Standard Time (EST)
- Travel: Most nationalities can enter the United States for 90 days under the Visa Waiver Program
- Tipping: Expected in restaurants (15-20% of the bill) and for various services
Where to Stay in New York City: Top Neighborhoods for Tourists
New York City is vast, with each borough offering a unique experience. Tourists typically stay in Manhattan, but Brooklyn and Queens may offer a more affordable (and local) experience. Here are some recommended areas:
Manhattan
Midtown Manhattan
Midtown Manhattan is the central portion of Manhattan and is home to some of the city’s most iconic buildings, including the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, and Times Square. It’s a bustling area with plenty of hotels, restaurants, and shopping options.
Lower Manhattan
Lower Manhattan is the southernmost part of the island and is known for its business and financial institutions, including Wall Street and the New York Stock Exchange. It’s also where you’ll find the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, and Battery Park, where you can catch a ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
Upper East Side
The Upper East Side is a quiet and upscale residential neighborhood known for its wealthy denizens, posh restaurants, and designer boutiques. It’s also home to Museum Mile, which includes the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, and the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum.
Upper West Side
The Upper West Side is a residential neighborhood with a bohemian flair. It’s home to the Lincoln Center, which hosts performing arts institutions like the Metropolitan Opera and New York City Ballet, and the American Museum of Natural History. It’s also a great area for foodies, with plenty of gourmet food shops and restaurants.
Greenwich Village
Greenwich Village, often simply called “the Village”, is known for its bohemian and artistic vibe. It’s home to Washington Square Park, New York University, and a plethora of cafes, bars, and bookstores.
SoHo
SoHo (South of Houston Street) is a trendy neighborhood known for its cast-iron architecture, high-end boutiques, and art galleries. It’s also a great area to explore for food lovers, with a wide range of restaurants and cafes.
Brooklyn
Williamsburg
Williamsburg is a trendy neighborhood known for its hipster culture. With indie music performances, art galleries, and hip boutiques, along with a variety of eateries and cafes, Williamsburg attracts a youthful, contemporary crowd.
DUMBO
Short for “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass,” DUMBO offers stunning city views, unique shops, high-end boutiques, and a variety of dining options. It’s also home to the famous Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory and the scenic Brooklyn Bridge Park.
Brooklyn Heights
Known for its gorgeous brownstones and scenic promenade, Brooklyn Heights is a residential neighborhood that offers a quieter stay with easy access to Manhattan via the Brooklyn Bridge.
Park Slope
Park Slope is a family-friendly neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets, historic brownstones, and proximity to Prospect Park, which offers a wealth of outdoor activities.
Queens
Astoria
Astoria is known for its vibrant food scene and is home to a variety of restaurants, bakeries, and breweries. The area also boasts the Museum of the Moving Image and Astoria Park, which offers stunning views of the East River and Manhattan skyline.
Long Island City
Long Island City is a bustling neighborhood located along the East River. It’s known for its thriving arts community, waterfront parks, and rapid growth and gentrification with new buildings and establishments constantly popping up.
Must-See Sights in New York City
- The Statue of Liberty: An iconic symbol of freedom and democracy, accessible via ferry from Battery Park.
- Central Park: An 843-acre urban oasis in the heart of Manhattan, perfect for walking, biking, or picnicking.
- Times Square: The bustling heart of Manhattan, known for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and constant energy.
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art: One of the world’s largest and most comprehensive art museums.
- Empire State Building: An iconic Art Deco skyscraper offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.
- Brooklyn Bridge: A historic bridge offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, perfect for walking or cycling.
- The High Line: An elevated linear park built on a former New York Central Railroad spur on Manhattan’s West Side.
- One World Trade Center: The main building of the rebuilt World Trade Center complex, with an observatory offering sweeping city views.
- Broadway: The heart of American theater, offering world-class performances in historic venues.
- The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): Home to some of the world’s most famous modern and contemporary artworks.
Discover New York’s Hidden Gems
- The Cloisters: A branch of The Met dedicated to medieval European architecture and art, located in Fort Tryon Park.
- Roosevelt Island: A small island in the East River, accessible by aerial tram, offering unique views of Manhattan.
- City Island: A small seaside community in the Bronx, known for its seafood restaurants and maritime history.
- Green-Wood Cemetery: A beautiful and historic cemetery in Brooklyn, final resting place of many notable New Yorkers.
- The Elevated Acre: A hidden park in the Financial District, offering a quiet escape with great views of the East River.
Food Highlights: Must-Try New York Dishes
New York City is a food lover’s paradise. Here are some iconic dishes and treats you shouldn’t miss:
- New York-style Pizza: Thin-crust, hand-tossed pizza sold in wide slices – a true NYC classic.
- Bagels: Dense, chewy rounds of bread, often topped with cream cheese and lox.
- Pastrami on Rye: A classic Jewish deli sandwich, best enjoyed at Katz’s Delicatessen.
- New York Cheesecake: Rich, creamy, and indulgent – a dessert icon of the city.
- Hot Dogs: Whether from a street cart or Nathan’s Famous in Coney Island, a NYC essential.
- Cronut: A croissant-doughnut hybrid created in NYC, worth the wait at Dominique Ansel Bakery.
For the best culinary experience, try these dishes at local delis, pizzerias, and bakeries throughout the city. New York’s diverse population means you can find authentic cuisine from almost every culture here!
10 Essential Tips for Visiting New York City
- Use Public Transport: The subway is often the fastest way to get around. Consider buying a weekly MetroCard if staying for several days.
- Walk When Possible: New York is a great walking city. It’s often the best way to experience the neighborhoods.
- Visit Museums on Pay-What-You-Wish Days: Many museums have specific days or hours when admission is by donation.
- See a Broadway Show: For discounted tickets, visit the TKTS booth in Times Square.
- Explore Beyond Manhattan: Each borough has its own unique character and attractions.
- Try the Street Food: From hot dogs to halal carts, NYC’s street food is delicious and budget-friendly.
- Take a Free Staten Island Ferry: For great views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline.
- Visit Central Park: It’s free, beautiful, and offers numerous activities and attractions.
- Be Prepared to Tip: Tipping is expected in restaurants (15-20%) and for many services.
- Stay Safe: While NYC is generally safe, stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night or in crowded areas.
