22 Must-Know Travel Tips for NYC

Planning a trip to New York City is the kind of thing that gets your pulse going.

From catching a Broadway show and grabbing a slice of pizza at midnight to seeing the skyline light up from the Brooklyn Bridge, this city packs in more experiences per square mile than almost anywhere else.

But if it’s your first time in NY, or even your second or third, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

The pace is fast, the layout isn’t always intuitive, and between subway systems and neighborhood quirks, there’s a lot to get your head around.

That’s especially true if you’re not used to big cities or haven’t traveled much, since NYC moves unapologetically and rarely slows down to explain itself.

New York rewards visitors who come prepared. A few good habits, key apps, and cultural cues will help you avoid tourist traps, navigate smoothly, and actually enjoy what you came for, whether it’s street food in Queens, museums in Manhattan, or skyline views in Brooklyn.

Whether you’re into art, food, history, or just wandering aimlessly, there’s no shortage of unforgettable things to do in NYC, and with the right tips, you’ll make the most of every moment.

Essential Travel Basics for NYC

Pack for Walking, Not Just Weather

New York City is made for walking, and you’ll be doing a lot of it. Whether you’re strolling through Central Park, pacing museum halls, or simply getting from one subway stop to another, you can easily clock in 10,000+ steps a day without realizing it.

That’s why the single most important thing you can pack is a pair of comfortable, broken-in shoes.

Sneakers or cushioned walking shoes will save your feet, especially if you’re not used to full days on foot. Heels and stiff boots might look cute, but you’ll regret them by lunchtime.

In terms of clothing, NYC’s weather is dramatic and changes sharply with the seasons, hot and sticky in summer, bitterly cold in winter, and beautifully unpredictable in spring and fall.

If you’re wondering about the best time to visit NYC, it really comes down to what kind of weather and vibe you’re after, since each season brings something different to the city.

The trick is to dress in layers, light enough to peel off in a crowded subway, but warm enough for breezy evenings. A compact umbrella and windbreaker are non-negotiables.

And don’t stress too much about forgetting something, this is New York. If you leave anything behind, there’s probably a shop selling it within a few blocks.

Always Have OMNY or Contactless Payment Ready

The subway is your best friend in NYC, it’s the fastest, most budget-friendly way to get around, especially during peak hours when street traffic crawls.

And unless you’re walking everywhere (spoiler: you won’t be), you’ll want access to OMNY, the city’s contactless tap-to-pay system.

MetroCard sales will end at the close of 2025 and while existing MetroCards will still work through 2026, the city has fully transitioned to OMNY as the primary fare payment method.

OMNY lets you pay with contactless Visa, Apple Pay, Google Pay, or a plastic OMNY card available at vending machines across subway stations.

If you use the same contactless card or device repeatedly, OMNY automatically caps your spending at the equivalent cost of a 7-day unlimited ride pass, so you save money without needing a physical MetroCard.

And don’t underestimate subway etiquette, it matters here. Let people off the train before stepping on. Move to the center if it’s crowded.

Don’t block the doors, and avoid loud calls or music. Blending in isn’t just polite, it makes your ride a lot less stressful.

One last tip: Not every station has an elevator. If you’ve got luggage or a stroller, check the station map ahead of time so you’re not stuck hauling your stuff up endless stairs.

Download Key Apps Before You Go

Navigating NYC is so much easier with the right apps on your phone, and you’ll absolutely want to sort this out before landing, preferably while you’re still on Wi-Fi.

• Citymapper or Google Maps – both are excellent for subway directions, walking times, and figuring out transfers. Citymapper gives more local nuance, but Google Maps works great too.

• TodayTix – the best way to find discounted Broadway and off-Broadway tickets, often same-day.

• OpenTable or Resy – great for browsing restaurants, reading reviews, and locking in hard-to-get reservations without the guesswork.

• NYC Ferry App – if you plan to explore by water (like going from DUMBO to Wall Street), this app makes ticketing and schedules a breeze.

• NYC311 or Citizen App – for local alerts, neighborhood news, or if you’re staying a bit longer and want to know what’s going on.

Carry a Credit Card—But Some Cash Too

While contactless payment works almost everywhere in NYC, don’t assume it’s universal.

There are still plenty of spots, like old-school diners, hole-in-the-wall bakeries, or food carts, that only take cash. It’s rare, but it happens.

I’ve had times where a card randomly didn’t work at a busy café, and having a bit of cash on hand saved the day.

You don’t need to carry much, but even $30–$50 tucked into your wallet means you’re never stuck. Just in case.

Getting Around NYC

Use the Subway for Speed and Savings

The New York City subway is hands down the fastest, most efficient way to get around. It’s affordable, reliable, and connects almost every corner of the city you’ll want to see.

Many first-time visitors to New York feel a little unsure about using the subway. Maybe they’ve never navigated public transit in a big city, or they think it’s too complex.

So instead, they rely on Uber or walk everywhere. But here’s the thing: that’ll burn through your time, and your patience, especially when you’re stuck in Midtown traffic crawling block by block.

Take it from someone who’s been through it: using the subway will save you hours. It’s what locals use because it just works. Apps like Google Maps or Citymapper make it easy, even if it’s your first time.

And beyond the time savings, the subway will also keep your NYC trip costs significantly lower, especially if you’re staying for more than a couple of days. Compared to taxis or ride sharing apps, a $34 unlimited weekly MetroCard is one of the best deals in the city.

Skip the Hop-On, Hop-Off Buses

You’ll see them everywhere in Midtown, big red buses promising easy sightseeing.

While they might seem like a stress-free way to see the city, the truth is: they’re slow, overpriced, and often stuck in traffic. You’ll spend more time waiting in line or sitting still than actually exploring.

Most of the city’s biggest attractions are easily walkable or connected via subway, so unless you’re traveling with limited mobility, skip the bus and explore on your own time.

You’ll have way more freedom to dive into different areas in NYC, discovering hidden gems and neighborhoods with their own distinct personalities, something you just won’t get from a seat on a tour bus.

Take Advantage of the NYC Ferry

This is one of NYC’s best-kept secrets. For just a few bucks, you can hop on a sleek, modern ferry and cruise past skyline views that many pay a premium for on sightseeing tours.

It’s not just scenic, it’s also practical. Starting December 2025, an optimized ferry system connects Manhattan with parts of Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, and even Governors Island more extensively than ever before.

New landings at Sunset Park’s MADE-Bush Terminal and East Harlem 125th Street expand accessibility, and new routes offer one-seat rides from South Brooklyn to Midtown Manhattan, cutting travel times and increasing frequency.

If you’re planning to explore places like DUMBO, Williamsburg, Long Island City, or the newly connected neighborhoods like Sunset Park, this is a stylish and efficient way to get there.

Plus, it’s clean, rarely crowded, incredibly photogenic, and operated with modern vessels. Just download the NYC Ferry app for ticketing, real-time schedules, and route maps, and you’re good to go.

Taxis vs. Ride Shares

Taxis are still very much a thing in NYC, and hailing one with your hand (not an app) is the traditional move.

But Uber and Lyft are more predictable, especially during off-hours or if you’re in a less central neighborhood.

If you’re traveling with luggage or after midnight, a ride share may be worth it rather than carrying your luggage at times through public transportation.

Food & Drink Tips in NYC

Don’t Limit Yourself to Manhattan

It’s easy to center your entire NYC trip around Manhattan, especially if it’s your first visit, but doing that means missing out on a huge part of what makes this city so diverse and exciting.

The outer boroughs (Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island) are packed with flavor, culture, and experiences that rival or even beat what you’ll find in Midtown.

Brooklyn has some of the city’s best food scenes, Queens is where you’ll find the most diverse cuisines in the world, think hand-pulled noodles, Dominican bakeries, and Thai night markets.

Even The Bronx, home to the Yankees and the incredible New York Botanical Garden, deserves a spot on your list.

You don’t need to stay in these boroughs, but do carve out at least a half-day to explore beyond the classic Manhattan checklist.

Building in a few outer-borough stops into your NYC itinerary makes your trip feel far more dynamic and less like you’re just hopping from one tourist crowd to another.

Plan a Few Reservations in Advance

Yes, New York has thousands of restaurants, but that doesn’t mean you’ll get into the good ones by just walking in.

Especially on weekends, or if you’ve got a specific place in mind, a little pre-planning will save you a lot of time and stress.

Apps like OpenTable and Resy are your best friends for snagging reservations, whether it’s a trendy brunch spot in SoHo or a cozy dinner place in the West Village.

Even casual places get booked up fast, and during peak holiday time in NYC, that competition gets even fiercer, with both locals and tourists packing the city’s top spots.

Planning just 1–2 sit-down meals in advance gives your trip some structure, and leaves the rest of your time open for spontaneous eats.

Try a Food Tour or Market

New York’s food scene is huge, and a food tour is one of the easiest ways to experience it without overthinking your meals.

Whether you’re into pizza slices, dumplings, bagels, or global street eats, there’s a food tour for it.

Not into organized tours? Hit a few food markets instead. Chelsea Market is a great all-weather option, packed with everything from tacos to handmade pasta.

If you’re visiting in warmer months, Smorgasburg (in Brooklyn and Manhattan) is a must, dozens of vendors, lots of open-air seating, and killer city views.

These spots give you a bite-sized version of NYC’s food culture without having to commit to one sit-down spot, perfect for first-timers or families.

Coffee Culture is Huge

You’ll never be far from caffeine in NYC, but if you’re used to big chains like Starbucks, now’s the time to branch out.

This city is packed with independent cafés, each with their own vibe, some are neighborhood staples, others are sleek and specialty-focused.

Try spots like Birch Coffee, Devoción, or Joe Coffee, you’ll usually find great brews, solid pastries, and cool spaces to relax in between exploring.

And yes, NYC moves fast, but that doesn’t mean you have to rush your coffee. These cafés double as great people-watching spots, and sometimes the perfect break from the chaos.

Culture & Etiquette in NYC

Walk Fast, Stay to the Right, Don’t Block Sidewalks

New York moves fast, and so do the people. Sometimes you’ll hear folks say New Yorkers are rude, but honestly? Most aren’t.

They’re just busy, stressed, and trying to get somewhere quickly. In a city where time is tight and patience is thinner than a dollar slice, the last thing you want to do is slow them down.

Sidewalks are like highways here. Walk with purpose, stay to the right, and if you need to stop, step aside.

Don’t stand in the middle of the flow to figure out directions or scroll your phone. You’ll get bumped, grumbled at, or both, and honestly, you’ll deserve it.

Group travelers, take note: two people wide is fine. Five people fanned out like it’s a group stroll? Absolutely not.

Say “Excuse Me,” Not “Sorry”

This might feel like a small thing, but in NYC, it’s a cultural cue. If you need to pass someone, bump into someone, or get someone’s attention, a quick “excuse me” is the norm, not an overly apologetic “sorry.”

New Yorkers value directness and efficiency. Saying “excuse me” communicates exactly what you need without the drawn-out politeness that might fly in smaller towns or slower-paced cities. It’s not about being rude, it’s about not wasting anyone’s time, including your own.

So don’t overthink it. Be polite, be clear, and keep it moving. That’s the New York way.

Tipping is Standard

The concept of tipping might feel confusing or unfamiliar to many visiting New York City, especially if you’re coming from a country where it isn’t expected.

But in NYC, and much of North America, tipping is more than just a nicety; it’s a deeply embedded cultural norm and, unfortunately, something many workers rely on to make ends meet.

This city is one of the most expensive in the world, and in industries like hospitality, base wages are often low with the expectation that tips will make up the difference.

So while it might seem strange, tipping well is part of being a respectful traveler here.

• Restaurants: 18–20% of the total bill (some even go higher if the service was exceptional)

• Bars: $1–2 per drink

• Taxis/Ride Shares: At least 10–15%

• Hotels: $1–2 per bag for bellhops, and $2–5 per night for housekeeping

If in doubt, round up. Tipping might not be second nature for you, but in New York, it’s the difference between a good traveler and a clueless one.

Avoid Times Square for Meals

Let’s be real, Times Square is flashy, chaotic, and absolutely worth seeing… once. But eating there? Not the move.

Most restaurants in the area are chains or overpriced tourist traps, offering average food at inflated prices.

You’ll find better meals, better vibes, and better value just a few blocks in any direction.

Seriously, walk 10 minutes west into Hell’s Kitchen or south into Koreatown and your options immediately get better.

Safety & Smart Travel Tips

Use a Crossbody Bag or Anti-Theft Backpack

You don’t need to walk around NYC gripping your bag like it’s gold, but you do need to be smart.

Pickpocketing isn’t wildly common, but it does happen, especially in high-traffic areas like Times Square, subway stations, or busy markets.

A crossbody bag (ideally with a zipper) is your best friend. Backpacks are fine too, but opt for something that zips up fully and maybe even has a hidden pocket or two.

I personally use the same bag for most of my travels, and New York is one of those cities where it actually matters.

You’ll want something that stays close to your body, feels secure, and doesn’t scream “tourist.” Keep your wallet, phone, and essentials zipped up and avoid digging around in public for long periods. A little awareness goes a long way.

Know the Difference Between a Local and a Scam

Here’s the deal: most New Yorkers aren’t going to stop you on the street and start chatting.

So if someone approaches you with a “free” CD, a bracelet, a charity petition, or an amazing deal on a tour, it’s almost always a hustle.

These are some of the most common tourist mistakes in NYC, especially for first-time visitors who assume every smiling face is just being helpful.

Don’t feel bad about saying nothing and just walking away. It’s not rude, it’s survival in NYC. Locals do it all the time.

And hey, if you do need help or directions, ask someone who’s clearly not working a street hustle.

A subway attendant, someone in a coffee shop, or even someone walking by with headphones out is more likely to help you out without trying to sell you anything.

Avoid Empty Subway Cars

Let’s keep this one simple: if a subway car is completely empty while the rest of the train is packed, don’t take it. There’s a reason no one’s in there, and it’s rarely a good one.

Most of the time, it’s due to an overwhelming smell (yes, that bad), or something just off enough that locals have learned to avoid it.

Follow the crowd and stick with the cars that are in use. It’s not about being scared, it’s about being street-smart.

Be Street-Smart, But Not Paranoid

New York is safer than it’s been in decades, but like any major city, you still need to stay aware.

Walk with purpose, don’t flash valuables, and trust your gut, especially at night. Avoid isolated or poorly lit areas, especially if you’re alone, but there’s no need to overthink every move.

Just stay alert and confident, and you’ll blend in like a local, even if you’re clearly visiting, moving with purpose and awareness will help you avoid unwanted attention and navigate the city more comfortably.

911 is the Emergency Number

If something serious happens, don’t hesitate, dial 911 for emergencies. For non-emergencies like noise complaints, lost items, or sanitation issues, call 311 or use the NYC311 app. It’s fast, efficient, and surprisingly helpful for tourists too.

Final Takeaways: NYC Travel Tips

I’ve travelled to quite a bit of places around the world, and I’ll say this, New York City is one of those rare destinations where travel tips genuinely matter.

It’s not just about knowing where to eat or what to see, it’s about navigating the fast pace, avoiding rookie mistakes, and knowing a few small things that make a big difference.

NYC isn’t a place where you want to show up and wing it. Coming prepared, knowing how to move through the city, and understanding what to expect will save you time, money, and unnecessary stress.

These aren’t complicated things, just the kind of smart pointers that take your day-to-day experience from “this is hectic” to “I’ve got this.”

Whether it’s your first time or you’ve been here before, keeping these tips in mind will absolutely make your trip smoother.

Enjoy your visit, and trust me, this is one city that delivers when you do it right.