Is NYC Safe to Visit? 13 Must Know Travel Tips
New York City is one of the most iconic cities on Earth, a fast-paced, high-energy hub of culture, history, skyscrapers, and neighbourhoods that feel like entire worlds of their own.
But is NYC safe to visit? If you’re asking that question, you’re not alone, and the answer isn’t a simple yes or no.
As someone who’s spent a lot of time in the city (and grew up in another major one, Toronto), I can tell you this: New York is absolutely safe when it comes to crime, especially compared to other global cities. But that’s not the only definition of safety.
So while you might glance at the title and think, “C’mon, it’s just New York,” let’s not brush off the reality that big cities come with their own chaos, and NYC is no exception.
This article isn’t about fear-mongering or dramatic headlines. It’s about awareness. New York is incredible, but there are real things to keep in mind, from transit chaos and sidewalk etiquette to scams, weather extremes, and more.
These NYC safety tips are written to help you avoid surprises, feel more confident navigating the city, and enjoy your trip with fewer headaches.
Whether it’s your first or tenth time visiting the city, a little prep, and a well-planned NYC itinerary, goes a long way in the Big Apple.
Get Comfortable Navigating the Subway
Let’s be real, NYC traffic is a nightmare, and cabs will burn a hole in your wallet fast. The subway?
It’s chaotic, but it’s also the fastest and most budget-friendly way to get around the city.
That said, it can be overwhelming at first, especially if you’re not used to big metro systems.
Between express vs. local trains, route changes on weekends, and occasional delays, there’s a bit of a learning curve. But once you get the hang of it, it’s incredibly efficient.
- Use Contactless Payment: Apple Pay, Google Pay, or a tap-enabled credit/debit card works on most turnstiles now, no need to fumble with a MetroCard.
- Avoid Empty Subway Cars: If you see an empty car during rush hour, there’s usually a reason. Broken AC, bad smell, or something worse. Follow the locals.
- Stay Alert Always: Don’t blast music or get too zoned out. It’s not about danger, it’s just smart city etiquette to stay aware.
Honestly? Once you get comfortable, the subway becomes part of the NYC rhythm.
It’s gritty, unpredictable… and kind of iconic, not to mention one of the best ways to keep your NYC trip costs down.
Be Mindful in Crowded Areas
NYC isn’t known for violent crime, but like any major city, petty theft can happen, especially in tourist-heavy spots like Times Square, major subway stations, or markets.
Wear a crossbody bag, keep it zipped, and never leave your phone or wallet in an open pocket or backpack.
Crowded areas are prime real estate for pickpockets working in pairs or creating distractions.
A good rule? Keep your personal belongings where you can see or feel them at all times. It’s not about fear, just smart travel habits.
Learn How to Cross Streets (Seriously)
Crossing the street in NYC is basically a survival skill. Even when the walk sign is on, you still need to look both ways, because bikes, cabs, or delivery scooters might be gunning it for that last-second turn.
If you’re not used to fast-paced city environments, this can all be a bit of a shock. It’s loud, aggressive, and totally unapologetic.
And if you’re coming from a smaller town or haven’t traveled to other big metropolitan cities before, the chaos of it all might catch you off guard at first.
Locals cross with confidence but stay alert. Don’t just blindly follow the crowd across intersections.
Keep your head up, stay off your phone, and remember: right of way doesn’t always mean you’re actually safe.
NYC drivers are aggressive and often impatient, so it pays to be cautious, one of those travel tips for NYC you want to keep in mind when navigating the city day by day.
Choose Safe Accommodation and Neighbourhoods
New York is made up of five boroughs, and safety can vary block by block. If you’re a first-time visitor, stick to well-known areas like Midtown Manhattan, the Upper West Side, or Brooklyn neighbourhoods like Williamsburg or Park Slope.
Read reviews before booking, especially if you’re using platforms like Airbnb. And if you’re staying somewhere outside the tourist core, double-check that it’s well-lit and near public transit.
Not sure where to stay? Check out this breakdown of the best areas in NYC for first-time visitors.
Watch Out for Sidewalk Hazards
The sidewalks of NYC are a world of their own. Between scaffolding, delivery carts, food vendors, and rogue e-bike riders, you need to stay alert even when you’re just walking.
Uneven pavement is common, especially in older neighbourhoods. And in winter, icy sidewalks can get slick fast.
Just like crossing the street, walking in New York requires attention. Keep your head up, watch your step, and leave the distractions for when you’re seated.
Don’t Flash Valuables
This one’s simple: don’t be flashy. Wearing expensive jewelry, handling a wad of cash, or pulling out the latest tech gear in the middle of a crowd? It makes you an easy target.
NYC is generally safe, but flashy tourists stand out. Keep your camera, phone, or wallet tucked away when not in use.
And consider leaving valuable items at your hotel unless you really need them throughout your day of exploring.
Don’t Rely Entirely on Google Maps
Yes, Google Maps is useful, until you realize it has no idea which subway entrance is open or where scaffolding blocks the sidewalk.
And in Midtown, GPS can bounce off tall buildings and mess with your directions.
Use maps as a starting point, but always cross-check with subway signage, ask a local, or just follow the crowd. And when in doubt? Look up. NYC has signs everywhere.
Late-Night Wandering? Stay Smart
New York is the city that never sleeps, and you’ll find people out and about at all hours—but that doesn’t mean every street is safe at 2 a.m.
Stick to main avenues or well-lit areas if you’re out late. Avoid deserted subway stations or walking alone through unfamiliar neighbourhoods.
NYC is much safer than it used to be, but late-night wandering still calls for common sense.
If something feels off, trust your gut and reroute, there’s no harm in playing it safe to avoid trouble.
Know the Seasons Before You Pack
New York weather is no joke. Summers get hot and humid, winters can be brutally cold and slushy, and spring and fall, while beautiful, can flip from sunny to stormy in a heartbeat.
If you’re visiting in summer, pack light clothing, sunscreen, and stay hydrated (subway platforms get very hot).
For winter, think layers, a warm coat, and waterproof boots. Spring and fall? Bring a mix of layers and a rain jacket so you’re ready for sudden weather shifts.
NYC is amazing year‑round, but knowing what to pack for NYC in each season will make your trip far more comfortable.
Be Cautious Around Street Performers and Solicitors
This is one of the most common tourist mistakes in NYC: getting pulled into an interaction you didn’t actually want.
In busy areas like Times Square, Central Park, or the Brooklyn Bridge, you’ll run into costumed characters, performers, or people handing out “free” CDs or bracelets.
But once you engage, they’ll often demand money, sometimes aggressively. What starts as a fun moment can quickly turn uncomfortable.
Some street performers are incredibly talented and worth supporting, but there’s a fine line between a great show and a setup.
The truth is, common tourist scams in NYC often revolve around these encounters. If someone seems pushy, just keep walking. You’re not being rude, you’re being smart.
Setting boundaries is part of how NYC works, and it’ll help you avoid unnecessary stress.
Use Reputable Transportation from Airport
Getting from JFK, LaGuardia, or Newark into the city can be stressful, especially if you’re dealing with jet lag or unfamiliar surroundings. This is when people are most vulnerable to sketchy ride offers.
Only use official taxis (look for the official taxi line) or trusted rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft.
Don’t accept rides from anyone approaching you inside the terminal or baggage claim, they’re often unlicensed and overpriced.
NYC has fixed taxi rates from airports, so you should never be surprised by the fare.
Hold the Pole on the Subway
This might feel obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people don’t do it until the train jolts them off balance.
NYC subway trains start and stop fast sometimes jolting back and forth, and the momentum can catch you totally off guard.
If you’re standing, always grab a pole or strap, even if the train seems still. Falling into a stranger is more than just awkward, it can cause injury (or a whole lot of side-eyes).
Balance is not guaranteed here, especially when it’s crowded, so it’s best to follow this tip!
Don’t Block the Flow—Step Aside
In New York, walking is serious business. People are trying to get somewhere, fast. If you need to stop to check your phone, look at a map, or take a photo, step to the side.
Standing still in the middle of a busy sidewalk, subway platform, or building entrance is the quickest way to annoy locals (and maybe even get bumped into).
Yeah, you may even get bumped into, maybe not aggressively, but firmly, and that’s just how New York works.
This is the fast-paced atmosphere that this city runs on, so keep yourself safe when navigating the city.
That means stepping aside if you’re doing something that may get in the way of others.
Common NYC Laws Tourists Should Know
New York City may seem fast, loose, and full of energy, but that doesn’t mean it’s lawless, far from it. In fact, there are specific local rules that catch tourists off guard all the time.
Some of them might feel minor, but breaking them can result in hefty fines or unnecessary stress during your trip.
A little awareness goes a long way, so here are a few NYC laws you definitely want to know before exploring the city.
- No Drinking Alcohol in Public: It’s illegal to drink alcohol openly on NYC streets, in parks, or public areas. This includes wine at a picnic or champagne on the Brooklyn Bridge. Stick to bars, restaurants, or your accommodation.
- Legal Drinking Age is 21: No exceptions. You’ll be carded at bars, clubs, and sometimes even restaurants, so carry a valid ID (driver’s license is best).
- Jaywalking Is Technically Illegal: Locals do it all the time, but if you cross the street outside of a marked crosswalk or against the light, it’s still against the law. Police don’t often ticket for it, but they can, so be aware, especially in busy or tourist-heavy areas.
- Marijuana Is Legal—But with Limits: Recreational cannabis use is legal for adults 21+, but smoking it in public isn’t always allowed. The same rules as tobacco apply, meaning no smoking in parks, subways, restaurants, or within certain distances of buildings.
- No Feeding Wildlife in Parks: That cute squirrel in Central Park? Don’t feed it. NYC law prohibits feeding any wildlife in city parks, including birds, squirrels, or raccoons. It messes with the ecosystem. There are signs posted with fines up to $250.
Final Thoughts on NYC Safety
New York isn’t just another big city, it’s its own universe. It’s busy, bold, and sometimes flat-out overwhelming.
But it’s also one of the most rewarding travel experiences out there, as long as you show up informed and aware.
These tips aren’t here to scare you. They’re here to help you move through the city with confidence, knowing how the subway works, when to stay alert, and which habits make you blend in better with locals.
Respect the flow, keep your guard up just enough, and trust your gut. NYC might seem chaotic at first, but once you catch the rhythm, it becomes part of the adventure.
And if you’re anything like me, it’s a place you’ll keep coming back to, especially for the food and endless things to do!
Is NYC safe for solo travelers?
Yes, especially in well-trafficked areas like Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. Just use common sense, stay alert, avoid poorly lit streets at night, and stick to busy public areas.
What areas of NYC should tourists avoid?
Most of NYC is safe, but neighbourhoods can change block by block. It’s best to research where you’re staying and avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar outer borough areas.
Is the NYC subway safe at night?
It depends. Major lines and busy stations are generally fine, but avoid nearly empty cars, especially late at night. Stick to cars with other riders and stay alert.
Can I walk around NYC at night without worrying?
In most parts of the city, yes. Places like Midtown, the West Village, and areas with nightlife stay busy late into the night. That said, it’s still a major city, use common sense. Stick to well-lit streets, avoid wandering into unfamiliar neighbourhoods alone, and trust your instincts.
