New York City is one of the most popular American destinations for foreign travelers visiting the USA. With famous sites like Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, and the Empire State Building, it’s easy to see why. But what should you know before you visit? We’ve put together five travel tips to help make your first trip to NYC a fantastic experience.
1. There’s More to New York than Manhattan
Sure, Manhattan is home to many of New York’s most famous sights, but it’s just one of five boroughs that make up the city. Don’t forget to head to the Bronx to see a Yankees game, shop for incredible wares at the Queens Night Market, or head to the Brooklyn Museum. Of course, you’ll also want to jump on the Staten Island Ferry to catch views of the Statue of Liberty.
2. Don’t Rent a Car
New York City is one of the few places in the United States where driving is not only unnecessary, but actually not a very good idea. New York traffic can be intimidating for foreigners, and parking spaces are expensive and difficult to find. You’re far better off utilizing the city’s massive transit system of subways, buses, and ferries. You can also hail a famous NYC cab.
3. Travel Smart on a Budget
Take advantage of NYC's numerous free attractions, including Central Park, the High Line, and museums that offer free admission days. Maximize savings with discount passes like CityPASS or the New York Pass, which bundle popular attractions at reduced rates. Visit during shoulder seasons (late fall or early spring) to avoid peak crowds, securing better hotel rates and shorter lines at major sites. With strategic planning, you can enjoy New York's iconic experiences while keeping your wallet happy.
4. Experience the Local Food Culture
New York is the most diverse city in the US and has dining options from all over the world, but any visitor should at least try some famous New York City foods. These include hot dogs, bagels, pastrami on rye, and of course, pizza. A word of caution, though. Never use a knife and fork to eat pizza in New York. Simply fold the slice and eat it with your hands.
5. Plan Ahead and Prioritize Your Itinerary
Research must-see attractions before arriving, prioritizing based on your interests. Group activities by neighborhood to minimize your travel time; for instance, combine the Museum of Natural History with Central Park. Book popular attractions (Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty) in advance to skip lines. Consider the New York CityPASS or Explorer Pass if visiting multiple major sites. Allocate realistic timeframes for each location, accounting for travel between spots. Leave buffer time for unexpected discoveries or delays—some of NYC's best experiences happen spontaneously when you wander off your planned route.
Insurance is a Must
If you get sick or hurt while visiting New York, you’ll have access to some of the best medical care on earth, but it won’t be inexpensive. This is why it’s incredibly important to protect yourself with visitors medical insurance or travel insurance. The right insurance plan is a shield for your health and finances that will let you enjoy your New York trip with less worry about the unexpected.