Heading to The Big Apple for the first time? This is your ultimate guide to New York First Timers Edtion. This guide takes you through the whole city from Times Square to Central Park and everything in between.
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New York City is one of the world’s most popular metropolitan cities and is also known as the city that never sleeps! New York has 5 boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island. This wonderful city is known for so many great things including the Empire State Building, the one and only Central Park, Times Square, amazing Broadway shows, world-class luxury shopping, and so much more.
This post will go over the ultimate guide to New York first-timers, New York first-time itinerary, New York tips for first-timers, New York City travel tips, NYC first-time visitor guide, things to know before visiting NYC, tips for exploring New York City, what to do in NYC as a first timer, and more.
New York City, the iconic metropolis that never sleeps, offers an endless array of sights, sounds, and experiences to discover. Whether you’re here for the famous landmarks, world-class dining, or vibrant culture, we’ve got you covered. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge, take a ride on the Staten Island Ferry, explore the MET and much more.
This post is all about New York City First Timers Edition.
Getting around New York City is fairly simple. There are many ways of transportation to get you from point A to point B. The New York City transportation system is fantastic and easy to navigate.
The traffic in New York City is a nightmare so the best way to get around would be the subway. New York has a great subway system called The Metro, it is cheap and easy to use. My best NYC Subway tips include googling where you are heading and Google will tell you what trains to take, where to get off, and if there are any interferences. This MetroCard Guide has more information on the specifics of The Metro system.
Another option is to use Uber. Depending on traffic Uber is very convenient to use as well since you can choose where you want to be picked up and dropped off. A little bit more expensive than The Metro but still a great option.
New York has so many great places to stay. You could either stay in the City or nearby. There are many budget-friendly options and many luxury options as well.
The Hilton Garden Inn New York Central Park South-Midtown West is a budget-friendly hotel if you are looking to stay close to the city. Also, The Manhattan at Times Square is another budget-friendly hotel that is in the city. These 2 hotels are within walking distance from Times Square and Central Park. The price for these hotels is great based on the location since you are right in the center of the city and that is very convenient.
If you are looking for something a little fancier to stay in then some mid-range hotels include the DoubleTree by Hilton New York Downtown and the Hilton New York Fashion District. These hotels are a little pricier but also offer different amenities. The rooms are very fancy and luxurious, and the hotels are both located close to the city center.
If you are going all out on your visit to New York and want all the glamour that comes with it then you need to stay at either Thompson Central Park New York, part of Hyatt, or the Warwick New York. These hotels are pricey but they are luxurious and super comfortable. Also in a great location.
Start your first visit to New York City by heading to the Staten Island Ferry. The Staten Island Ferry connects Staten Island to Manhattan. This is the best place to get a view of the Statue of Liberty as the ferry travels all the way around. You could also visit Ellis Island to see the Statue Of Liberty up close. This is also a great way to see Manhattan from afar. A must-do for your first time visiting New York.
After seeing the wonderful Statue of Liberty you have to head over to Central Park. Even though New York is known as the concrete jungle, it also has an enormous green space known as the one and only Central Park. Central Park is the city’s biggest park and is also a National Historic Landmark. The park has lots of walking and biking trails, fountains, little bridges with water underneath, small ponds, lots of nature, and amazing views of the city. While in Central Park check out the view of the Plaza Hotel. It is a beautiful building and is also known for the iconic scene from Home Alone 2 Lost In New York.
Within Central Park, you also need to check out the Strawberry Fields, which is the tribute site for John Lennon, located across the street from where he was killed. Also, be sure to check out Bethesda Terrace and Fountain overlooking The Lake located right in the middle of Central Park. Take a look at Umpire Rock to is said to be over 450 million years old and is embedded right in Central Park.
After enjoying the peaceful Central Park you need to visit the hustle and bustle in Times Square. Times Square is known for having huge light-up billboards, theatres, music halls, grand hotels, restaurants, and bars. Times Square is one of the most famous places people enjoy on large celebrations like New Year’s Eve. New York City first-timers must visit Times Square you will be in awe.
The Empire State Building is a must-see in New York for first-timers. The Empire State Building is one of the tallest buildings in New York City. Head to the top to get some amazing pictures of the city from up top. There are also binoculars that you can use to see the city. On a clear sunny day, you can see all of New York from up there. This is another great Instagrammable spot in New York City.
Rockefeller Center is a large complex of commercial buildings located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan in New York City. The center is home to numerous businesses, shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, including Radio City Music Hall, NBC Studios, and the Top of the Rock Observation Deck. Rockefeller Centre is most popular to visit during Christmas time and the holiday season. There is a huge Chrismas tree that is decorated beautifully. And the surrounding are is very festive as well.
Top of the Rock is an observation deck located on top of the GE Building, one of the buildings within the Rockefeller Center complex. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the New York City skyline, including landmarks such as the Empire State Building, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty. You can take high-speed elevators to reach the observation decks on the 67th, 69th, and 70th floors, where you can enjoy stunning views both indoors and outdoors. The observation deck provides a unique perspective of the city, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
The MET is one of the world’s finest and largest art museums. With over 5000 years of history and culture from all over the world. If you love history then this is a great place for you to enjoy.
When in New York for first timers you have to visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. It pays tribute to the victims and heroes of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. Located at the former site of the Twin Towers in Lower Manhattan, New York City, the memorial consists of two reflecting pools set within the footprints of the original buildings, known as the North and South Pools.
Surrounding the pools are bronze panels inscribed with the names of the nearly 3,000 individuals who lost their lives in the attacks, including those at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and aboard Flight 93. Adjacent to the Memorial is the Museum where you can see the aftermath of the attacks and personal stories from friends and family. A huge part of New York’s history.
The High Line is a unique park that was built on an elevated rail line. It is a park that incorporates buildings as well. Also has walk-through gardens, restaurants, street food, art, and much more.
Brooklyn and the Brooklyn Bridge is also great to visit when in New York. The Brooklyn Bridge connects Manhattan to Brooklyn and offers one of the best panoramic views of the skyline of Downtown Manhatten. Walk up the bridge to get some Instagrammable photos. Also, take a stroll through Brooklyn Heights and enjoy the beautiful architecture of the buildings.
Catch a Broadway Show in New York City for first-timers. This is another classic thing you have to do when here. Some great shows to watch are The Lion King, Hamilton on Broadway, Wicked on Broadway, Sweeney Todd on Broadway, and Moulin Rouge! The Musical on Broadway, and many more.
The Upper East Side is famous for being a part of Gossip Girl’s stomping grounds. The Upper East Side is a must when visiting New York for the first time. This prestigious neighborhood is known for its elegance, sophistication, and cultural institutions. Explore the Museum Mile, luxury shopping like Madison Avenue and Fifth Avenue, and many Fine Dining options including Michein-Star dining establishments.
Grand Central Station is the historic transportation hub in Manhattan. It is known as the world’s largest train station. It has amazing one-of-a-kind architecture, shopping and dining, Whispering Gallery, events and tours, and much more.
New York City has a very diverse culinary scene which offers lots of international and iconic cuisines. Wondering what to eat in NYC? New York is known for its New York-style Pizza, its iconic Bagels with anything and everything on them, New York cheesecake, street food, NYC food trucks, burgers, deli sandwiches, dollar slices pizza, and more.
Some of the best restaurants in New York include a range of Michelin-star fine dining restaurants and hidden gems. Some of these restaurants are Le Bernardin, Eleven Madison Park, Per Se, Peter Luger Steak House, Gramercy Tavern, Momofuku Ko, Jean-Georges, Blue Hill at Stone Barns, Chef’s Table at Brooklyn Fare, and more.
Here are some great tips to keep in mind when heading to New York City for the first time. These tips will help you save time and enjoy your overall experience.
New York City Travel Tips include: Buy tickets online for attractions to avoid waiting in line during busy times and wasting time. Avoid peak times, and visit the most popular attractions right in the morning or later on at night to avoid the crowds. Go beyond Manhattan to get a true experience of New York City, exploring NYC neighborhoods is a great way to also see diverse cultures within the city. Most importantly stay safe and enjoy everything New York City has to offer.
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