new york travel 2022

The Ultimate New York Travel Guide 2024

Our new york travel tips for first time visitors.

Are you traveling to New York for the first time and want to get an overview of what you should pay attention to? Here, I show you step by step the most important information you need to know for your New York trip. There’s a lot to see and do in New York, from world-famous landmarks like the Empire State Building to a wide selection of unique museums and New York-style foods that you should definitely try.

You may also like:

Where in new york should you stay.

• The 33 Absolute Best New York Attractions
• New York on a Budget

Now, sit back and enjoy our New York Travel Guide to help you have a wonderful time in New York City!

By the way, we now have over 1,600 spots in the city on our site. So, if you’re looking for suitable tours, bars, restaurants, and awesome spots to visit, then you’re in the right place!

Everything you need!

Hello you 👋 Here you will find everything you need for your New York trip!

These are our best New York Travel Tips for first time visitors:

Table of Contents

New York at a Glance

Best time to travel to new york.

Visiting New York is worthwhile at any time of year, but I personally like the warm months best. Summer in New York can be very hot and humid. So, for many, the best times to visit New York is April and June, and September and October.

Spending Christmas in New York or enjoying the pre-Christmas season in New York City is also a wonderful experience.  The ice rinks are open, the city is beautifully decorated, and, if it snows, the dream vacation at wintertime is perfect!

Paying in New York

You can pay for almost everything with your credit card, even the smallest amounts. Credit cards are accepted in hotels, stores, restaurants, and bars. Don’t have one yet? Then, check out the best credit card to have in the USA here.

New York for First Time Visitors: Everything You Need to Know for Your Trip (70+ pages)

Best Way to Travel in New York

Finding your way around New York is quite easy, even if it doesn’t look like it at first. The streets’ checkerboard pattern makes finding your way around easy. These are the best ways to get around New York:

Metro / Subway: If you have longer distances ahead of you, then the Subway is your friend, because here you can travel really cheap. It’s easy to use! The MetroCard is available at every Subway station. You can buy single rides or the popular MetroCard for 7 days; that way you can travel for a week in New York at a fixed price. You can learn more about using the  Metrocard in New York here.

Taxi:  In New York, you can choose between the Yellow Cab and Uber. You can check out our tips and all the information you need to know in our following blog:  Taxi in New York City .

By bike: With many of the New York sightseeing passes (you can find out more about this budget tip in my New York Pass comparison ), the bike rental is included. We ourselves really love using New York’s Citi Bikes. This city bike program has over 1,000 stations throughout New York City, and it’s super-cheap. We’ll show you how it works in the Citi Bike New York article.

On Foot: You’ll be surprised how much walking you’ll do in New York. After all, there’s something to see on every corner. So be sure to bring comfortable shoes!

Where to Stay in New York?

Which neighborhood is best for you depends on several things: your interests, how close you want to be to the attractions and what your travel budget is. In the image below, I’ve drawn you my favorite neighborhoods of New York including the main attractions nearby.

And, on the subject of safety: In all of Manhattan, the Bronx , Brooklyn, and large parts of Queens, you don’t have to worry about being out and about in the evening. New York City is one of the safest cities in the world!

More than 100 hotels and over 70 neighborhoods to choose from –and after just 4 quick questions, I’ll show you which hotels in New York are best suited for you!

Where Should you Stay in New York?

Manhattan – it doesn’t get more central than this: Manhattan is the most famous borough of them all. Plus, it contains 95% of all the attractions New York is known for. Everything is within easy reach, and you are right in the middle of it all. On the other hand, the hotels are a bit more expensive than in Brooklyn or Queens .

Here, you can find my 33 hotel tips for Manhattan .

Brooklyn – urban and relaxed: For a long time, Brooklyn was the insider’s tip: now it’s “completely” normal neighborhoods. However, you’ll quickly notice one thing: life is much more normal, because it’s more of a residential area. It’s super relaxed, pleasant, and just as diverse as Manhattan. Above all, you can enjoy the Manhattan skyline from here!

Here, you can find my 20 hotel tips for Brooklyn .

Queens – the new trendy neighborhood: Queens is a bit more “normal” than Brooklyn is, but, lately, we’ve noticed that it is getting more and more gentrified. The hotels in Long Island City (not to be confused with Long Island!) are especially popular because they are cheaper compared to Manhattan—and they have a perfect connection to the Subway, which makes Queens a great alternative to Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Here, you can find my 20 hotel tips for Queens .

What to See in New York?

One thing to know in advance: just because there is so much to see in New York, a little planning makes absolute sense. For highlights like the Empire State Building ( here ), the Edge Hudson Yards observation deck ( here ) or the One World Observatory ( here ), I recommend buying the tickets online in advance. This will not only save you waiting time on site, but you can also be sure that you will actually be able to visit your desired sights.

👉 These are our 33 best attractions in New York .

These are my tips after more than 20 visits to New York:

• Observation decks:  New York City has no less than five (!) major observation decks to offer, and each one is a dream in itself. My two favorites are The Edge Hudson Yards and the One World Observatory , because from here you have a sensational view of New York from above and you can see the Empire State Building . From the end of 2021, another cool option will be added with the glass One Vanderbilt . One more thing about the Empire State Building: It’s the most visited observation deck in New York, so it’s always busy. Avoid the crowds in the morning – and if you really want to go to the Empire State Building in the evening, choose Thursday, Friday or Saturday. During those times, a saxophonist plays on the observation deck. Important: book the Skip-the-Line-Tickets (you can do that here). Then, you can easily save 1-2 hours of waiting time!
• Visit the Statue of Liberty : The trip from Battery Park to the Statue of Liberty is super-popular. To save yourself long waiting times, make sure you take the first ferry of the day. Here, you can find the best Statue of Liberty Cruises right now.
• Definitely take a boat tour , because seeing New York from the water is like being on vacation. Choices range from the free Staten Island Ferry or the NYC Ferry ($2.90 each way) to sailing tours (gorgeous) and the classic sightseeing tours that are included with all major New York passes.
• Walk along the High Line from the Meatpacking District to Hudson Yards .
• Visit Times Square in the evening – that’s when it’s at its most impressive.
• Relax in Central Park or Bryant Park .
• Plan a maximum of three attractions per day . After all, you don’t want any sightseeing stress.

The 41 Absolute Best New York Attractions In 2024

10 FREE Things to Do in New York City

The 36 Absolute Best Museums in New York

The 9 best observation decks in new york city, new york budget tip.

With the right New York sightseeing pass , you can easily save a lot of money on up to 100 tours and attractions. To find out if a New York Pass is worth it (or not), check out our free New York Pass Advisor to find out which New York Pass is best for you.

And on this page you’ll find our New York Pass comparison .

Itineraries in New York

You don’t know where to start? Then let us inspire you! We have some suggestions for you. By the way, the most popular is the 1 week New York itinerary .

The Perfect Itinerary For Your New York Trip

This itinerary contains over 50 spots and highlights of the city, including a map that shows you the best way to travel each day, taking you to or past the many big attractions. In addition, we‘ve added our favorite places, from great breakfast spots to start your day right to small bars and restaurants and hidden insider spots.

What awaits you here now is the perfect New York week, because this is what my itinerary would look like if I were visiting the Big Apple for the first or second time right now!

What to Do in New York?

For me, an unforgettable New York trip includes the following things in addition to visiting the main sights:

Go Shopping

New York is also really good for shopping. There are many small shopping spots and addresses, but also the big brands can often be found with flagship stores. If that’s not enough, you can go shopping in one of the outlets and flea markets of New York.

The best shopping areas in New York are Broadway, SoHo , Chelsea, the Meatpacking District, and Williamsburg in Brooklyn. And, of course, 5th Avenue!

Avoid Times Square for shopping!

A real tourist trap are the stores around Times Square – they are not only overpriced, but also the quality is not right in most cases!

Here you can find our Guide to Shopping in New York  with everything you need to know!

Shopping in New York: The Ultimate Guide 2024

The Best Outlets in NYC – The Ultimate Guide for 2024

The 15 Best Flea Markets in NYC – Shop Vintage and Rare to Find Items

Shopping in SoHo NYC: The 25 Best Stores Right Now

Visit a rooftop bar.

I love the rooftop bars of New York . You can sit and relax, enjoy a sensational view of the city and listen to relaxing music. All this mixes with the so-typical sounds of the city in the background, and if you have something delicious to drink or eat on top of that, it can’t get any better! You can see where we like to go in our article on the 43 best rooftop bars in New York .

By the way, if you want to experience the view of New York when you get up early in the morning, check out my list of the 26 best New York hotels with a view !

Visit a Broadway Show

New York is known for its many musicals and Broadway shows – most of which are performed in the Theatre District around Times Square. Here are our tips on the  best Broadway Shows in New York . If you already know which Broadway show you want to see, I recommend ordering the tickets in advance ( here ). If you’re still flexible, you can buy leftover tickets at TKTS in Times Square, for example.

Attend a Parade or Special Event

OK, hotel is booked, attractions are on the list, the myNY itinerary is ready, shopping spots are sighted and the first restaurants and bars are also noted. Now comes the last step on the list to the perfect travel planning for New York: the events, parades, and holidays.

They are the icing on the cake of every New York vacation and, therefore, could not be missed in our New York Travel Guide! Just check out our monthly specials that are relevant to you:  January , February , March , April , May , June , July , August , September , October , November and December .

Enjoying the Gastro Scene (in the Evening)

Now comes one of my favorite parts of planning our New York trips: the city’s many bars, restaurants, rooftop bars, and food markets. In our travel guide and insider guides on the website, we put a lot of emphasis on finding the best gastro spots and rooftop bars. So, feel free to browse through them, and if you like something, just add it to your myNY itinerary. Just click on the heart symbol, and you’re done!

The 24 Most Beautiful Bars in NYC Right Now

The 12 Best Food Markets in NYC

The 23 Best Waterfront Restaurants & Bars in New York Right Now

The Best Burger in New York City

Marvel at grand central station.

Be sure to take the time to see Grand Central Station . Not only is it the setting for many series and movies set in New York, it’s also very impressive and has a fantastic ceiling!

The 50 Absolute Best Things to Do in New York (90+ pages)

Walking through DUMBO and Soho

The neighborhoods of DUMBO in Brooklyn and Soho in Manhattan are among the most iconic neighborhoods in the city and are fascinating for their combination of old New York with new New York.

Things to Do in DUMBO

The 15 Best Things to Do in SoHo NYC – The Complete Guide 2024

What to eat in new york.

What should I start with first? With the New York pizza slice, the New York cheesecake, the wonderful pastrami sandwiches at Katz’ Delicatessen, or at the Pastrami Queen? In addition, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse and Luger are two really good steak restaurants waiting for you and if you want to eat really good burgers: go to J.G. Melon, the hidden Burger Joint or Shake Shack!

Get personal tips & tricks, specifically tailored to your trip!

We will provide you with individual tips & tricks as you prepare for your trip. How to plan, save money and make sure you experience the most of NYC are only some of the topics covered!

Specify dates

I hope my New York Travel Guide helped you plan your first trip to New York. Was there anything missing? Feel free to write it in the comments!

I wish you a wonderful time in New York City!

New York on a Budget: The 19 Best Money-Saving Tips for 2024

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide . Also check out my hotel finder for New York !

Get exclusive content, real insider tips, and the best deals in NYC for FREE!

Start of your trip: We will remind you with current events when you are in NYC!

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New York City Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 25, 2024

It’s famous for….well, just about everything, New York City is the beating heart of the world — which is why I call it home. Every culture, language, and food is represented here.

Unsurprisingly, there is a never-ending list of things to do here. No amount of time you spend in NYC will be enough so don’t worry about running out of things to do. You could spend a lifetime exploring the city and never really see it all. And, whatever your interest, no matter how obscure, you can find it in NYC.

As a budget traveler, visiting NYC can be tough, especially when you don’t know the hidden tricks that make living here affordable. There are plenty of things to do that won’t cost you an arm and a leg — if you know where to look!

This travel guide to NYC can help you make the most of your visit, get off the beaten path, and not break the bank.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on New York City

Top 5 Things to See and Do in New York City

1. Meander through Central Park

It’s free, there are lots of little paths to walk, and, since it spans over 40 blocks, it’s easy to spend hours upon hours wandering around or having a picnic. During the summer months, there are often free concerts and theater productions here too. From the spring to the fall, there are free guided walks on Saturdays as well. Personally, I’m a big fan of laying out in Sheep’s Meadow on a hot, sunny day with a book, some food, and a bottle of wine. If you want to take a guided tour around the park to learn more about the statues and sculptures, ponds, parks, and famous filming sites, take a guided tour with Get Your Guide ($25 USD). It will really give you a good understanding of the park.

2. Visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum

On September 11th, 2001, almost 3,000 people were killed in a series of terrorist attacks in NYC and elsewhere. Visit this somber memorial and take in the view from the Freedom Tower. On the elevator up, you can see pictures of the historical development of the city and how it’s changed over the years. To get a deeper understanding of 9/11 and the events that unfolded, visit the museum. It’s home to moving exhibits that illuminate the scope and significance of the tragedy. The memorial is free to visit; museum entry is $33 USD (free entry Mondays from 3:30pm-5pm but tickets must be booked online). Get tickets beforehand so you can skip the line and save time!

3. Visit The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Met is one of the foremost collections of fine art in the world. If you only see one museum in New York, make it this one. It has a wide array of art, artifacts, photographs, and other exhibits from around the world. There’s a whole collection of armor and another dedicated to costumes. You’ll see pieces from the ancient world as well as contemporary art. I like its expansive Impressionist and Greek exhibits, but there are more than 490,000 works of art on display. It’s chaotic and filled with people, especially on the weekend, but since it is so big, you can usually find some quiet spots away from the crowds. Budget at least a half-day here as a few hours won’t do this place justice. Admission is $30 USD and you can buy tickets in advance.

4. See the Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island

The Statue of Liberty is a massive Neoclassical statue gifted to the USA from France. It was dedicated in 1886 and stands 305-feet tall (95 meters). It was designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi though its metal framework was built by Gustave Eiffel (of Eiffel Tower fame). It’s spectacular to see up close and is as big as you imagine, but the real highlight of this combo is Ellis Island. Here, you can learn about the immigrant experience and get a sense of the people who helped build NYC (you’ll even find my family’s name inscribed on the wall). There’s such a great sense of history there that you can’t help but be impressed. Admission is $25 USD.

Here’s an overview of what the tours are like .

5. Walk the High Line

Other things to see and do in new york city, 1. take a walking tour.

A great way to orient yourself to the city is with a walking tour. You’ll learn some history, see the main sights, and explore all the city’s nooks and crannies. I think free walking tours are a wonderful activity in any city (I always take them when I arrive somewhere new). If you’re on a budget, I recommend Free Tours by Foot. For paid tours, go with Take Walks . They have specific tours in the city that focus on art, food, and history, and they are pretty affordable too. (I wrote a whole blog post about New York City walking tours that you can check out here. )

2. Ride the Staten Island Ferry

That two-hour-long line to see the Statue of Liberty not appealing? Walk a few blocks to the Staten Island ferry. This free ferry takes you across the harbor and offers a nice view of both the Statue of Liberty and the city skyline. You won’t get to stop at Ellis Island but you’ll get a nice (and free) view while you enjoy the historical route that New Yorkers have been taking for centuries. The ride takes about 20 minutes each way.

3. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge to get a picturesque view of the New York skyline and harbor. It’s a long walk, but good food and drinks await you on the other side. Stopping to take in the view and meandering along the way makes the walk about 40 minutes. I enjoy doing this walk at night when downtown Manhattan is all lit up. Otherwise, come early to beat the crowds. It’s a super popular spot for taking photos so be sure to bring a camera (or you can hire a NYC photographer if you really want to snag some impressive pics).

If you want a more nuanced experience, take a guided tour across the bridge . Not only will you learn some fascinating history but your guide can show you all the best spots to take photos.

4. Museum hop

New York City has dozens upon dozens of museums worth visiting. You have The Met, Natural History Museum, the MoMA, Frick, Guggenheim, the Museum for African Art, Museum of the City of New York, Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum (a branch of the Smithsonian Institution), The Whitney, The Brooklyn Museum, and so many more! Pick the ones you want to see the most and visit those unless you have weeks in New York to see them all. Admission varies, but expect to spend around $28 USD per person per museum.

5. Visit Radio City Music Hall

Is there a more American theater than Radio City Music Hall? This timeless testament to entertainment has captivated visitors since the 1930s (at the time, it was the largest auditorium in the world). It’s the home of the precision dance company The Rockettes, who have been performing here since 1932. It’s also been the venue for all kinds of award shows, including the Tonys and the Grammys. There are still concerts, comedy shows, and other entertainment happening all the time. Check their website to find out what’s happening during your visit. There’s also an hour-long tour you can take that will get you behind the scenes to see the Great Stage and The Roxy Suite. Tickets start at $42.

6. Take in the theater

You can’t come to NYC and not see a Broadway show. There are tons of amazing shows here from grand musicals to traditional Shakespeare to offbeat shows. There’s nothing better than witnessing NYC theater, and it’s such an integral part of life here you should check it out. Current highlights include Hamilton, Chicago, Wicked, The Book of Mormon, Six, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, The Lion King, and more. Most shows have performances roughly eight times per week. If there’s a specific one you’ve been wanting to see, you should be able to find a time while you’re in the city. Visit the TKTS booth in Times Square to get half-price tickets. To see what shows are playing during your visit, check out broadway.com.

7. Wander Times Square

No matter when you go to Times Square, it will be packed with people (usually other tourists). There are pedestrian areas where you can sit and hang out and tons of (overpriced) restaurants and stores. It’s still a fabulous place to people-watch for a few minutes from the top of the red steps of the TKTS kiosk. Try to come at night when it’s all lit up with all the signs and neon lights. That’s when it looks the best!

8. Experience the Prohibition Bars

I love the 1920s. One of the reasons I love NYC so much is because there are tons of other people here who love the Jazz Age. There are lots of Prohibition-style bars serving classic drinks and hosting live jazz and swing music. While the fancy cocktails they serve may not be cheap ($15–20 USD), I’m hooked on the atmosphere. Stepping into these bars with the music playing, people dancing, and everyone dressed the part transports me to an era when things were classy, carefree, and fun. Some of my favorites are The Back Room, Apotheke, The Dead Rabbit, and Bathtub Gin.

9. Visit the Lower East Side Tenement Museum

This museum highlights how immigrants from around the world lived during the late 1800s and early 1900s as they tried to make it in America. It’s a good follow-up to what you see on Ellis Island. You can only visit this museum via guided tours, and they need to be booked in advance. The museum is actually an apartment building that’s been used to recreate the living conditions during different periods of the city’s history. Each tour tells the story of a different family and what their life was like here during their time. The tour will take you through apartments that have been recreated to match the time period of the story. You can choose from tours that highlight women or specific immigrant groups. I like that live actors are used to portray and share the stories of newly arrived immigrants as it makes the experience much more memorable. Tours last 60-75 minutes. Admission is $30 USD.

10. Visit Trinity Church

Built in 1698, the original Trinity Church was a small parish church constructed by the Church of England. When the British seized New York after George Washington’s retreat, it was used as a British base of operations. After the war, George Washington and Alexander Hamilton regularly worshipped here. The graveyard dates back to the 1700s and holds many a famous Americans, including Hamilton and his wife Elizabeth, Francis Lewis (signatory on the Declaration of Independence), John Alsop (Continental Congress delegate), Albert Gallatin (founder of NYU), and Horatio Gates (Continental Army general).

11. Head to Top of the Rock

This area is always filled with hustle and bustle. Wander around Rockefeller Center to see where they film The Today Show , shop, snack, and then take the elevator to the “Top of the Rock” for a bird’s-eye view of the city (I personally think the view is better than the Empire State Building since you get the Empire State Building in your pictures). Tickets cost $40 USD.

12. Just wander

Walk from the east side to the west side and marvel at the beautiful New York City architecture such as Grand Central Station, Union Square, the New York Times building, the Chrysler Building, the Flat Iron building, and more. There are so many historic buildings in New York City to see! You can talk a walk past the United Nations Headquarters on the East side of Manhattan. Madison Square Garden and Chelsea Market are great spots for wandering on the other side of the island. In lower Manhattan, you can grab a slice of pizza in Little Italy or take in the bustle of Chinatown. Just wandering around the city and seeing what there is to see is a fun afternoon activity for every budget traveler.

13. Relax in Battery Park

Located on the southern tip of Manhattan, this park is where the Dutch built Fort Amsterdam in 1625 to defend their settlement. The British took the area over in 1664 and eventually renamed it Fort George. While the fort was mostly destroyed during the Revolution, the battery was expanded after the war’s end. Today, there are over 20 monuments and plaques in the park, covering everything from the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812 to immigration and much more. You can wander around the fort and then stroll through the surrounding park and take in the beautiful waterfront views of the harbor, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island.

14. Visit Wall Street

Take a photo with the famous charging bull statue (which was created in 1989) and then walk to Wall Street and see where all those bankers destroyed the economy. There’s heavy security in the area, but you can sit and watch people whiz in and out of buildings on their way to cause some other financial disaster. Guided tours around Wall St with Get Your Guide cost $35 USD and cover the highs and lows of the (in)famous finance hub, highlighting the lives of famous elites from John D. Rockefeller to Warren Buffet. I found the tour really interesting!

14. See Federal Hall

One of the most overlooked museums in the city sits across the street from the NY Stock Exchange (NYSE). Federal Hall, built in 1700, is where George Washington took his oath of office. You’ll see the Bible that was used when he was sworn in as president, which was loaned to him from the local Masonic Lodge. It was the site of the US Customs House in the late 1700s and the first capitol building of the US. Though the original facade was rebuilt, it’s one of my favorite attractions in the area. I especially love the old vaults. I highly recommend you visit. Admission is free.

16. See Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Terminal is the city’s historic train station. It was going to be torn down in 1975 but was saved by Jacqueline Kennedy, who raised money for its preservation. I love coming to the main concourse and looking up at the “stars” in the ceiling as everyone races to and fro. There’s also an amazing eatery in the basement called the Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant. And for fancy (and expensive) cocktails, visit The Campbell and step back into the 1920s (dress code enforced). It was once the office of John W. Campbell, a member of the New York Central Railroad’s board of directors and finance tycoon from the 1920s.

17. Visit The Cloisters

Few people make it up to the Cloisters (it’s up near 204th Street), a branch of the Met devoted to medieval Europe. It took me years to finally see it, and I kicked myself for waiting so long. It was built with Rockefeller money from parts of five European abbeys between 1934 and 1939. (They even stipulated that the land across the river would forever remain undeveloped so the view would be unspoiled!). The building and its stunning cloistered garden are very, very peaceful, and beautiful. It’s one of the best things to do in the city. There are free tours each day that explain the history of the museum and the paintings and exhibits. Admission is $30 USD (which includes same-day entrance to the Metropolitan Museum of Art).

18. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

Head over to the MoMA for lots of beautiful (and weird) modern art and some vivid impressionist art. Personally, I dislike modern art. I just don’t “get” it. How is a shovel on a wall art? While I’m not a fan, this museum does have Van Gogh’s Starry Night as well as other post-impressionist art, so I can’t hate it completely. If you love modern and contemporary art, this (I’m told) is one of the best in the world. The galleries display works from the 1880s through the modern day. The museum regularly has events that are interactive for kids, teens, and adults. They also show films as part of their art exhibitions. Check their website to see what’s on while you’re visiting. Admission is $28 USD. The MoMA’s Sculpture Garden is free of charge to the public daily from 9:30am–10:15am.

19. Hang out in Prospect Park

Get out of Manhattan and explore Brooklyn’s version of Central Park, which spans almost 600 acres. While you’re here, don’t miss the nearby Brooklyn Museum. Spend the afternoon discovering its vast collection of both historical and contemporary art and artifacts (there are over 1.5 million items in its collection). It has art exhibitions highlighting ancient Egypt, Medieval Europe, colonial USA, and more. Tickets are $20 USD.

20. Visit the Bronx Zoo

Head north for a look at one of the oldest and biggest zoos in the United States. Opened in 1899, the zoo spans almost 300 acres and sees over 2 million visitors each year. Home to over 650 different species, it’s a great place to visit with kids. Gorillas, birds of prey, bison — there is a huge assortment of animals here and you’ll definitely learn a lot during your visit! Admission is $37.95 USD. Tickets are $17.95 USD on Wednesdays.

21. See a Yankees/Mets/Rangers/Knicks game

Like sports? NYC has some world-class sports teams. I’m not a big sports fan (the Yankees play soccer, right?), but games are fun when you have friends to share the experience with. If you have a chance and the desire, don’t miss a sporting event, because New Yorkers are serious about their local teams!

22. Attend a taping

TV shows like Saturday Night Live , The View , The Late Show with Stephen Colbert , The Daily Show , Last Week Tonight , Late Night with Seth Meyers , and The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon offer free tickets to their tapings (although they must be reserved well in advance). See each show’s website for details and to make reservations.

22. Talk a walk through Green-Wood Cemetery

Green-Wood in Brooklyn was the first rural cemetery in the US and is now a National Historical Landmark. You’ll see graves of famous Americans like the Roosevelt family, Laura Keene (she was one of the actresses on stage when Lincoln was assassinated), and many others. There’s a free map at every entrance so you can easily find where you want to go in the 478-acre grounds. This was also the site of the Battle of Long Island during the Revolutionary War. The grounds are open year-round and free to visit.

23. Visit the Louis Armstrong House

Jazz legend Louis Armstrong and his wife lived in this house on 107th Street in Queens which has been turned into a museum, which opened to the public in 2003. The main exhibition features Louis’s life, career, and impact within the musical and local communities. Other exhibits show the collection of music, photographs, recordings, and other personal items from Louis and his wife, Lucille. You’ll even see a trumpet that Louis gave to King George V of England. There are guided tours available for $20 or you can walk through the exhibit on your own for $10.

( Hey there! Wait one second! Did you know I also wrote an entire guidebook to New York City filled with – not only even more detailed information on the things included on this page but also itineraries, practical information (i.e. hours of operation, phone numbers, websites, prices, etc.), cultural insights, and so much more? It has everything you want in a guidebook – but with a focus on budget and cultural travel! If you want to go into more depth and have something to take on your trip, click here for more about the book! )

New York City Travel Costs

Budget hotel prices – Budget two-star hotels start at $120 USD per night during the winter and about $160 USD a night the rest of the year. Expect basic amenities like TV, AC, and coffee/tea makers. If you want cheaper accommodation, it’s much better to stay in Hoboken/Jersey City or Brooklyn, where there’s more budget options. In Manhattan, accommodation is going to be the most expensive, especially if you come during the summer, where most hotels are around $200 USD or more per night.

Airbnb is technically banned in NYC for anything under 30 days, unless the host lives there. Private rooms start at $80 USD per night but average closer to $130-150 USD, especially if you want to stay in Manhattan. For entire places, you can still find some listed online but Airbnb is constantly trying to remove those in order to comply with the law. I’d try to avoid them.

Food – New York has every kind of cuisine you can think of — and at every price range too. This is the land of cheap eats and $1000 dinners! Post-COVID, prices have risen a lot and, while can get pricey here, there’s still a few cheap ways to save.

Pizza slices can be found for as little as a dollar, though typically they cost around $3 USD for a slice of cheese and about $5 USD for one with a topping. A bagel with cream cheese or a hot dog is usually around $3-5 USD. The famous “BEC” (bacon, egg, and cheese) sandwich will cost about $10 USD. There are plenty of street vendors with meals between $5-10 USD.

Sandwich shops, kebab places, salad shops, and cafes are generally going to be between $15-20 for a meal.

You can eat a sit down restaurant for $15-25 USD per main course. Appetizers can range from $8-15 USD. Dinner for two with drinks usually averages around $100 USD. This is any random place in NYC that’s not too fancy. Think the random Mexican, Thai, or Italian place you walk across. For sushi, you’re looking at about $40-50 USD for a meal (though you can get lunch specials for around $15 USD) and about $100 USD for an omakase.

If you like fast food (I don’t), you can usually find value meals for $10-15 USD.

Prices just go straight up from there as NYC has some really fancy and expensive restaurants. I mean, you can pay upwards of $350 USD for a prix-fixe dinner! main courses at many high-end restaurants can sometimes be $50 USD each! If you were to go to a really fancy place, you’d probably spend at least $200 for two people, especially if you got drinks.

A latte/cappuccino is $5 USD while bottled water is $2 USD. For drinks, you’ll find beer for around $8 USD, wine between $12-15 USD, and cocktails for between $15-20 USD. (For tips on how to get cheaper drinks, see the money saving section below.)

If you cook your own food, expect to pay between $65-80 USD per week for groceries that includes basic staples like pasta, rice, vegetables, and some meat. Shop at Fairway for inexpensive groceries. If you don’t have a kitchen, Whole Foods and Wegman’s have really good prepared meals and hot / salad bars.

Backpacking New York City Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking New York City, expect to spend around $100 USD per day. This budget covers a hostel dorm, public transportation, cooking your own meals, and free attractions. If you plan on drinking, add $40 USD more per day.

A mid-range budget of about $300 USD covers staying in a cheap hotel, eating cheap, enjoying a couple drinks, taking the occasional taxi, and doing more paid activities. You could probably lower this cost a bit (see the next section) but, given the price of accommodation, it’s the most realistic daily budget.

On a “luxury” budget of $600 USD or more per day, you can stay in a fancy hotel and do whatever you want! The sky is the limit after that!

New York City Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

New York City can easily drain your wallet. It is expensive and your money really, really quickly if you aren’t careful. Prices for everything have dramatically increased post-COVID. Luckily, this is the city of starving artists so there are always deals and ways to save. Here are some ways to save money in New York City:

• Take a free tour – Taking a free walking tour is the best way to get introduced to the city. You get to see the main sights and ask all your questions to a local guide. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end! This post on NYC walking tours can give you my favorite companies .
• Get a MetroCard – You’ll be taking the subway a lot and fares can add up. Get one of the Unlimited MetroCards and save yourself a bundle during your trip. 7-day unlimited cards are $34 USD.
• Get cheap theater tickets – Broadway tickets can easily run hundreds of dollars, especially for new and popular shows. The TKTS stand in Times Square offers 40-50% off select shows. You need to arrive at the counter the same day to see what they have but it’s usually a wide selection. Be prepared to wait in line for about an hour. TKTS also has offices at the South Street Seaport and in Brooklyn.
• Visit the museums for free – NYC is full of some of the best museums in the world. In addition to the MoMA, many offer free entry on certain days of the week: the Whitney Museum of American Art is pay-what-you-wish on Thursday afternoons, the Solomon R. Guggenheim has pay-what-you-wish between 4-6pm on Saturdays, the Cooper-Hewitt National Museum of Design has a pay-what-you-wish policy on Saturday nights.
• Visit the tourism website – New York City’s tourism website has a great list of free activities, museums, and shows. Visiting their website can help you figure out what is free in the city. While NYC is expensive, there’s always free things going on. The tourism board’s website is a great place to find those things.
• Eat on the cheap – Between the food carts, dollar slice shops, kebab places, and cheap eateries (Indian, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Thai are some of the cheapest places in the city) you can eat really cheap in NYC. Some of my favorite places to eat cheap are The Dead Rabbit (oyster happy hours), Percy’s Pizza, Noodle Q (Chinese food with big portions), and Gray’s Papaya (cheap hotdogs).
• Get the lunch special – Most restaurant in NYC have lunch specials and those are usually the best time to eat out. You can usually find set lunches for around $15-20 USD. Personally, I tend to eat at lunch and cook my dinners because it’s so much cheaper.
• Hit the happy hours – Happy hour is the best time to get discounted food and drinks in the city. We NYers love happy hour because it’s one of the best ways for us to save money while still going out. Drinks will be about 50% of what you normally find. I love the happy hour at The Gray Mare. For current best happy hours, try Eater. They have a good list!
• Consider getting the New York Pass – This sightseeing pass allows you free entry to over 115 attractions. If you plan on seeing a ton of attractions, this can save you money. A one-day pass is $134 USD per person while the two-day pass is $179 USD.
• Redeem hotel points – Be sure to sign up for hotel credit cards before you go and use those points when you travel. This is especially helpful in NYC because hotel prices are really high, especially since Airbnb has been banned. Be aware that most hotels charge parking fees if you have a car, and adjust your budget accordingly.
• Hit the oyster happy hours – Love oysters? Eat them during the happy hours that happen all over the city where they cost around $2 USD.
• Stay with a local – Accommodation is expensive in NYC and, with few hostels, there aren’t many options for a budget traveler. Use a hospitality website like Couchsurfing to stay with locals for free. There is a huge network in the city with tons and tons of hosts. To increase the chance of success, request as far in advance as possible!
• Save money on rideshares – Uber and Lyft are cheaper than taxis and are the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to take a bus or pay for a taxi.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in New York City

Accommodation is very expensive in New York, and there aren’t a ton of hostels in the city. Here are some places to stay in NYC:

• HI New York City Hostel
• Heritage Hotel NYC
• The Local NYC
• Pod Brooklyn
• Chelsea International Hostel
• The Marlton

For more hostel suggestions, check out my complete list of the best hostels in New York City.

How to Get Around New York City

If you can’t get to where you’re going by subway, the bus will get you there. Like the subway, the fare is $2.90 USD, but an express ride is $7 USD (you can’t use a regular Unlimited Ride MetroCard for express rides).

The Staten Island Ferry is a staple of morning commuters. It operates 24/7 and is free. The NYC Ferry Service is also a reliable way to commute and connects Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens and the Bronx along the East River. The ferries make many stops along the East River and are the same price as the subway.

Taxis – Taxis are definitely not the cheapest option for getting around New York City. The minimum fare starts at $3.00 USD and goes up another $3.50 USD per mile. Skip them if you can. However, during peak times, they are cheaper than Uber since they have set fares.

Ridesharing – Uber, Lyft, and Via are way cheaper than taxis and are the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to take a bus or pay for a taxi. The shared/pool option (where you share a ride with other people) offers even better savings.

Bike rental – You can bike just about anywhere in New York City, especially if you want to explore big parks like Central and Prospect. Citi Bike is a bike-sharing system, starting from $4.79 USD per 30-minute ride, or $19 USD for 24 hours. There are about 10,000 bikes all over the city, so one is always within reach!

When to Go to New York City

Anytime is the best time to visit New York! Each season offers visitors plenty of reasons to visit. Early fall offers crisp breezes, bright sun, and comfortable temperatures while late fall and winter make merry with the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and holiday decorations.

Deep winter – January and February – is cold, with temperatures ranging between 18-23°F (-7 to -5°C). But coming in winter means better hotel rates, ice skating, and hopping around cozy cafes and bookstores.

Spring is glorious and New Yorkers celebrate the thaw by taking to the streets, shopping at outdoor markets, frolicking in Central Park, and dining outside. Summer is hot, with average daily temperatures around 77-86°F (25-30°C).

Personally, I think the shoulder seasons (April–May and September–October) offer the best experience: there are fewer crowds and the weather is more bearable, averaging around 56-63°F (13-17°C) in the spring and 53-78°F (11-25°C) in September and October. Walking around snapping photos is a great way to see the city, but doing so when it’s sweltering can be challenging. If you love the heat, however, then summer is the time to visit!

How to Stay Safe in New York City

New York City is a safe place to visit. Violent attacks are rare and tend to be confined to certain areas. And there’s not a lot of gun violence. Petty crime, like theft, around popular tourist landmarks and on the subway will be your biggest concern. Keep an eye on your belongings at all times.

During COVID, crime went up for a bit but crime going down now. There are very rarely instances of violence or crime in any place you’d want to go as a visitor. In Manhattan, most of Brooklyn, and Queens, the city is really safe and you’re unlikely to encounter any major crime. In all my years living in the city, I don’t know anyone that has had something violent happen to them.

That said, there has been a rise in homelessness and vagrants, especially on the subway so you’ll just want to follow the locals and stay vigilant. Most people I know don’t ride the subway after midnight just because there’s not enough people on it.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply. For specific safety tips, consult one of the many solo female travel articles on the web.

Beware of anything that seems too good to be true in Times Square — it probably is. Try not to buy any tickets, massages, facials, or experiences from hawkers in the area. They prey on tourists here. If you do, you risk getting your credit card charged multiple times, getting less than you paid for, or getting ripped off altogether. Also, if you want to take a photo with the life-sized costumed characters in Times Square, they will demand money from you.

You can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

New York City Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to New York City!

While I have a lot of free tips on New York City, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorites restaurants, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc etc), and cultural tips.

I’ll give the insider view of New York City that I got from living here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go.

New York City Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on United States travel and continue planning your trip:

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New York City

Epicenter of the arts. Architectural darling. Dining and shopping capital. Trendsetter. New York City wears many crowns, and spreads an irresistible feast for all.

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Explore the Big Apple with this New York City travel guide

Things to do in New York NYC Travel Guide

Ah, the Big Apple! Where crossing the street feels like a scene from a movie and the pizza slices are as big as your ambitions. Navigating through the bustling streets of New York can seem daunting, but fear not! I’ll help simplify New York City for a tourist with this guide. In a metropolis that practically buzzes with the energy of its 19 million diverse inhabitants, every corner harbors a new adventure. From towering skyscrapers to serene parks, you'll glimpse the world in the microcosm of its vibrant neighborhoods.

Why Visit NYC?

If you're itching for a cosmopolitan experience, then New York City should be at the top of your list. With its vast transit network of subways, buses, and even ferries, you can sail between boroughs with ease. Discover the various islands that make up the city, each with its own unique charm, or dive into the multitude of museums offering everything from modern art to historical artifacts. Not to mention, the countless cultural events, Broadway shows, and live performances that are a daily spectacle.

The diversity extends to infrastructure as well, from concrete landmarks such as Times Square, the Empire State Building, the Rockefeller Centre among others to green-spaces like Central Park, Washington Square Park, Bronx Zoo.The excitement doesn't stop there. NYC's culinary scene is a paradise for foodies, offering everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to the quintessential dollar pizza slice. And let's not forget about the shopping! Whether you're seeking high fashion on Fifth Avenue or elusive vintage finds in the East Village, this city has it all. Plus, New York's nightlife is second to none – trendy bars, speakeasies, and clubs that keep the city that never sleeps living up to its name.

Top 10 things to do in New York

Below is a NYC tourist map with all the prime attractions around the city that will help you chart an itinerary for yourself. Download this on your phone and keep it handy while visiting New York City.

NYC essentials

Language English

Time zone GMT - 4

Country Code +917

Socket Type A & B

Currency Dollar ($)

New York City trip planner

All you need before you book your tickets and zip your bag!

When to visit

Travel tips, weather in nyc.

One can chose to visit New York anytime of the year as the city is beautiful and bustling throughout the year. Notably, New York is known for its unpredictable weather, which could switch not just from day to day but even hour to hour. Below is a generic season pattern to help you plan your trip and wardrobe accordingly. You can check the weather here .

New York in Spring

A glorious time to visit as the mild weather makes it easier to explore the city on the foot. The mesmerizing backdrop of blooms accompanies the open air markets, which even make the locals to hit the street. Do pack some rain boots and an umbrella as showers are often expected.

New York in Summer - Sun

A hugely popular time to visit New York as soaring temperature and school break inspires free activities such as kayaking on the Hudson to outdoor movie screenings to Shakespeare in the Park. Expect the hotel prices to be high and availability to be low, we suggest to get bookings done in advance.

New York in Autumn

The steep hotel rates continue as the winds starts blowing the summer away and fall sets in. Early fall offer crisp breezes and bright sun while late fall observes lower temperature, so carry a coat for sure.

New York in Winter

There is nothing quite like the holiday season in New York; from dressed-up Fifth Avenue windows to the massive tree at the Rockefeller Center. While the holiday causes the prices to hike, as the temperature become harsher the hotel prices steps down a few notches.

The best time to visit New York is May and late October. April to June is spring, the weather is pleasant and tourists are fewer than usual. New York is in its best festive mode in November and December with Thanksgiving followed by Christmas and New Year. Tons of events and special attractions ensure you will have a holiday of a lifetime!

Best time to visit New York - for different kinds of travelers

Best time for sightseeing : April, May, June, September, October Best time for backpackers : September, October, January, February, March Best time for honeymooners : April, May, June, September, October Best time for festivals in New York : April, July, November, December

New York in January

New York in February

New York in March

New York in April

New York in May

New York in June

New York in July

New York in August

New York in September

New York in October

New York in November

New York in December

NYC daily budget planner

You can choose to explore NYC on a budget, or take the luxurious route; both offer a great travel experience. Depending on how you'd like to go about your NYC visit, you can budget your trip. Here's a summary of an approximate per day expense in NYC.

NYC on a Budget - $86 per day Midrange spending in NYC - $236 per day Luxury vacation in NYC - $693 per day Use this tool to further Budget your NYC visit .

If you are planning to visit NYC, you will require a USA Visitor Visa usually known as a B2 Visa. Here are a few guidelines:

• Getting a visitor visa to USA is subject to approval. Each applicant must have a valid passport, submit the application form, pay the fee, and appear for the visitor visa interview at the nearest applicable US consulate in their country.
• Tourist visa is granted for a specific purpose only, like tourism, medical treatment, etc. Person entering the United States on visitor visa should not be involved in study, business, or work.

Currency & ATMs in NYC

The United States’ dollar, USD ($) is the standard currency adopted in New York. 100 cents make up a dollar. The currency notes come in the denominations of 1$, 2$, 5$, 10$, 20$, 50$, 100$ and the coins come in 1¢, 5¢, 10¢, 25¢, 50¢, and $1.00.

New York’s restaurants, bars, cafes, and shops widely accepts most credit and debit cards like Visa and Mastercard, though a overseas transaction fee is incurred. Check the fee beforehand with your card issuer as it varies from card to card. It is advisable to keep some local currency always handy for any emergencies.

Ample number of ATM’s is strewn across NYC, and it is likely you will cross one within than two or three blocks. In addition to bank locations, ATM’s are located at many hotel lobbies, at fast food restaurants, in delis called bodegas and pharmacies like Duane Reade and CVS . Notably a surcharge will be applied as per the ATM used and your bank regulations.

Here’s a trusted exchange calculator you can use to check the current exchange rate of US Dollar to your home currency.

In all honesty, visiting New York can be overwhelming. What all can I squeeze into my itinerary? Which Broadway show should I watch? Should I eat from the tourist traps for my 'gram or just eat delicious cheap food in bento boxes? Trust me, such conundrums are absolutely normal and it's okay to have all these dilemmas. I was in New York for a week earlier this March and based on all that I saw and experienced at the Big Apple, I have jotted down a few tips that could help clear your head a little. From shopping tips to sightseeing tips, I've got you covered.

If you're visiting New York for the first time, our handy list of 20 travel tips and hacks will come handy.

New York Borough map

Understanding the geography of the city is very important before setting foot there. New York is divided into 5 boroughs - Bronx, Manhattan, Queens,Brooklyn & Staten Island. Here's a short introduction to each of the city's boroughs.

Home of the New York Yankees, the birthplace of hip-hop and host to dozens of cultural marvels, the Bronx is often, mistakenly, overlooked. Head to City Island for a bite to eat at one of the gorgeous waterfront restaurants, roam around the ‘real Little Italy’, visit the famous Bronx Zoo and much more.

The heart and soul of NYC, Manhattan is a thriving epicenter for business, art, fashion and entertainment. Visit iconic sites such as the Empire State Building and Central Park. Catch a Broadway show at the city’s prolific theater district, and experience the energy of Time Square.

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, Queens is considered to be the most diverse place on the planet. Eat food from around the world, hang out at one of NYC’s best parks and explore incredibly unique art exhibits and museums.

From flea markets to microbreweries, live music spots to trendy eateries, Brooklyn rivals Manhattan as the city’s hot spot. Bike ride across Brooklyn Bridge, relax at Prospect Park, or hop over to Coney Island - there’s plenty to do and see in this favorite NYC borough.

Staten Island

Hop aboard the Staten Island Ferry and take in up-close views of the Statue of Liberty before. Or opt for a more luxurious cruise and sip champagne while you take in the sweeping skyline and iconic sites from an incredible vantage point.

Detailed New York City itineraries

We've done all the hardwork for you! All you have to do is pick the number of days you'd like to visit New York for, and find a readymade NYC itinerary , tailored to suit all age-groups!

How to save money in NYC

New York can be really pleasing on your senses; from your eyes to your taste bud, but the same cannot be said for your wallet. Ranked as one of the most expensive cities in the United States, NYC can be more than a handful if not maneuvered correctly. While various online discounts can enable you to stick to your budget, here are some tips to save you some more.

• Plan, plan & plan some more: New York has heaps to offer, so plan ahead if you don’t want to get daunted by where to go and where not to. Apart from a smoother experience pre-planning can save you galore.Depending upon your desired destinations you can plan your stay, the inter-city travel and much more. Once you have a rough sketch for your visit, browse through a bunch of offers, discounts, passes, free tours that suits your itinerary. New York is usually bustling with offers both off-season and in-season, keep an eye for them to enjoy guilt free and pocket friendly trip to the Big Apple.
• Use public transportation: Public transport not just let you read the pulse of a city; it is mostly the cheapest and fastest to go about explorations. NYC boasts one of the world’s most extensive and inexpensive mass transit systems. With a widespread, 24-7-365 network of buses and subways, you are sure to find a stop not far from your point of boarding or destination. Grab a MetroCard for more savings and hassle free travel. Take The Staten Island Ferry or the Hop On Hop Off tour bus or both for some breathtaking views along with an overview of the city.
• Buy the NYC Pass: Aimed at visiting the NYC’s most popular attractions - Empire State Building, Statue of liberty, 9/11 Memorial Museum is your answer. The pass gives you free access to over 100 New York attractions and discounted entry at others. Alongside saving money, it cuts down the time spent in long-line on individual ticket windows at each attraction. Additionally, procuring the pass is a breeze; you can collect it from the collection desks or can opt for the handy mobile version. Further discounts can be availed while booking the pass online.
• Attend the free Events: While budget friendly, exploring the boulevard streets on foot is among the best ways to inhale some New York air. Observe the locals at the central park, or take a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge or saunter at the High Line or choose and enroll in various walking tours that explore different parts of city such as the Greenwich or the Chinatown. The city is infamous for free events and attractions including free museum days, free exhibits, pay as you wish tours, free comedy shows, free concerts to name a few. You can check the listings and in fact plan your trip around such events.
• Stay in the cheaper boroughs: While this is one area where your pocket definitely feels the pinch, there are ways to budget your stay in New York City. To repeat ourselves, pre-planning can land you a great deal with the hotel and save much money to splurge on something else. Although the city doesn’t really get the term off-season, the hotel prices are comparably affordable during the months of January and March. Most budget travelers choose to stay in Hostels, B&Bs, Couchsurf or Airbnb over the regular hotel experience. New York offers tons of possibilities around the same, though one has to surf thoroughly through these offers to ensure safety and profitability.
• Eat pocket-friendly bites: Food in New York can be a friend or a foe to your budget depending upon where you choose to eat. The City’s food cart/truck culture keeps pushing the gastronomical envelope and offers food that can make you weak at the knees. A secret tip to score some scrumptious food inexpensively is to opt for take-out like many locals to avoid high cost of restaurant service. And then there are happy hours, you can not only score a good deal on drink specials but on food as well. Some restaurants offer happy hour seven days a week, check online or the scan the local newspaper for such offer.
• Visit attractions on free Days: Many of NYC's attractions, museums & galleries allow free entry or pay-what-you-wish options on select days of the month or evening hours every week. Those traveling to NYC on budget can take advantage of these free or low-cost admittance and experience NYC's art without burning a hole in their pocket. You can check out the list of free days to visit here .

Best museums in New York City

New York is a treasure chest when it comes to museums and cultural institutions. With well over 80 museums dedicated to history, culture, art, immigration, military, science, natural history and cinema; museum choices in New York are abundant. With so many options, narrowing them down to fit your travel itinerary can be difficult. In this guide, we will look at the 10 Best Museums in New York City . This guide focuses on museums which are home to some of the most exquisite collections and exhibits in New York. Among the horde of museums in New York, these are also the largest and most popular.

We have arranged the 10 best museums in New York in order of popularity based on Tripadvisor ratings and Headout customer reviews; so choose your pick and go museum ambling in New York. Make sure you don't plan more than 2 museums a day as it becomes hard to really absorb what the museum has to offer if you're rushed.

Best tours in New York City

NYC is a city best explored by foot and there are many guided and bus tours to help you make the most of your visit. Here's a quick list of the top tours in NYC .

New York cruises

A hot favourite with tourists of all age groups, New York City is a heady mix of colossal skyscrapers, historic buildings, treasure trove museums, iconic monuments, designer showrooms, vibrant bars, happening joints and much more. Arousing a stir inside, this city with its dazzling vibes tops the dream list of many travellers! Captivating millions of visitors, NYC is a trendsetting city with a unique charm of its own. Out of scores of things to do in this delightfully animated city, one thing you cannot miss are the famous New York Cruises. A scenic and relaxing cruise in the Hudson or the New York harbour is a quintessential New York experience. You can admire the famous New York skyline dotted with iconic buildings, spectacular bridges, famous monuments and many other best known sights, chilling on a cruise while you are filled up with interesting historical information and fun facts through onboard narration.

Why go for an NYC cruise?

Away from the busy city life, New York Cruises are the best way to enjoy the view of this active city while relaxing on a world class cruise. When you take the NYC Cruise you can virtually experience the feel of those millions of people who headed to this country hundreds of years back in hope of living the American dream! The view of the Manhattan clustered with multitude of famed buildings is best enjoyed while cruising along the coastline of New York City. Witness the often seen in pictures view of this incredible city from the peaceful comfort of your air-conditioned area or the open observation deck of the New York City cruises. Your cruise glides down the Hudson River presenting the best view of New York’s must sees like the Brooklyn Bridge, One World Trade Centre , Trump Towers, Statue of liberty , Empire state Building and many others. A distant view of the skyline with towering glass skyscrapers and watching the iconic Statue of Liberty from close quarters gives you a unique perspective of the place. View of the bustling city from the peaceful comforts of the cruise, whether you are travelling alone or with family and friends, is a memorable experience you shall always remember.

NYC Sightseeing Cruises

Out of scores of things to do in this delightfully animated city, one thing you cannot miss are the famous New York Cruises. A scenic and relaxing cruise in the Hudson or the New York harbour is a quintessential New York experience. You can admire the famous New York skyline dotted with iconic buildings, spectacular bridges, famous monuments and many other best known sights, chilling on a cruise while you are filled up with interesting historical information and fun facts through onboard narration.

Read all about the best NYC Sightseeing Cruises .

Hudson River Cruises

Read all about the best Hudson river cruises .

Broadway in New York

Broadway, New York City’s very own theatre district, is teeming with fabulous shows and breathtaking performances. A good time is all but guaranteed at a Broadway show, but getting tickets for the good shows can be a tad challenging. Wondering if there’s a way to score great seats for some of the best shows on Broadway for cheap? Well, our guide on the best ways to get Broadway discount tickets can help you out!

Here is our first timer's guide to Broadway NYC .

New York Helicopter Tours

When it comes to exploring NYC , taking the city in from a bird's eye view pretty much takes the cake. Sure, you can enjoy stellar views from one of the many rooftop bars; however, nothing captures the city’s impressive skyline like a helicopter ride! For tourists and locals alike, it's an adrenaline pumping experience that can't be topped. Literally. After all, when else will you be able to come eye-to-eye with the Statue of Liberty?

Truth be told, it's an experience worth every penny and it's quite likely your exhilarating air time will turn out to be some of the most thrilling minutes you ever spend in the city. In fact - the incredible panoramic views had such an impact on one young man, that they inspired him to create an intricate, 18ft drawing of New York’s skyline - entirely from his memory! Stephen Wiltshire’s masterpiece is a living relic of how powerful a single experience can be.

So how do you pick the right tour? How can you be sure you’re getting the biggest bang for your buck? From hacks to getting the best helicopter ride for two, to which tour is best for large groups, we’ve laid it all out for you.

Getting Around New York City

New York’s public transportation is the city's heart beat and best way for locals and travelers to go about the city. While taxis gets pretty expensive for everyday travel, buses and subway offer a much better alternative.

On the surface, deciphering the map of trains and busses network looks quite a laborious process. But the well connected system that lends the fast pace city its real pace is not that difficult. We suggest that you download a map and keep it handy while traveling around NYC.

Additionally, to make your travel smoother choose travel cards that suits your itinerary. This way, you can avoid the long lines at the ticket windows and travel like a local.

Where to stay in NYC

Questions about which neighborhood to prefer while planning for a stay in NYC, is amongst the most puzzling one. To put it simply, there is no ‘best place,’ it all depends upon your budget and itinerary which neighborhood might suit you better than the other.

• Midtown : This has the city’s largest concentration of hotels. Neighboring landmarks like the Empire State Building, the Museum of Modern Art the bright lights of Broadway have attributed it as the best neighborhood in regards of sightseeing. It offers shopping at the 57 Street and Madison Avenue boutiques to dining spaces that span across everyone’s budget.
• Lower Manhattan and the Financial District : The southern tip of the island is also one of New York’s most flourishing neighborhoods with new shops, hotels and restaurants. Many hotels of the financial district offer good rates during the weekend, when the business travelers go home.
• Tribeca and SoHo : The triangle below Canal(Tribeca) and South of Houston (SoHo) are two reformed neighborhoods from former warehouses. Known for their spacious and pricey loft apartments, both Tribeca and Soho are home for fine dining and trendy shopping. It is among the best Neighborhood for foodies.
• Upper West Side : Lined with playgrounds and parks it is amongst the best NYC neighborhood for Families. Served by two subway lines and several buses the area’s hotels offer affordable family accommodations

What to Eat in NYC

NYC is a foodie's paradise. You'll never get tired to eating in this city and exploring them all is a distant dream. However, here are a list of delicious delights which you simply cannot miss enjoying!

New York is home to some of the world’s finest bagels, so much so that many people claim that it is the water here that makes it so yummy. It is amongst the favorite breakfast for the locals and the travelers alike.

2. Pastrami on Rye

A Jewish delicacy that is omnipresent and amalgamated in New York City’s culture since the 19th century. As popular as ever, the classic beef pastrami smeared with yellow mustard between two slices of rye bread holds the heart of most locals.

The bacon, scrambled egg, and cheese sandwich or the “BEC” is power house breakfast that fuels the pace of New York. Available at almost every deli in the city this delicacy is what a diet conscious New Yorker will surely cheat for. The best one comes from Bodega.

4. Dollar slice

A piece of pizza priced at $1 or less, “dollar slice,” is locals pick for the best cheap meal in the city. While the economic crises have forced this trend to slow down a lot of local chains like 2 Bros. Pizza or 99¢ Fresh Pizza, still serve a consistent dollar slice.

5. New York Cheesecake

As the cheesecake lover will put it, there’s Cheesecake and then there is New York Cheesecake. Restaurant owner Arnold Reuben claims his family invented the cheesecake in 1929. Fair warning - you won’t be able to go back to your local cheesecake after you tasted this one.

Where to Eat in NYC

Now that you know what all you should eat in NYC, here's where you can find the best of these delicasies.

Absolute Bagels

While on the pricier side in terms of hamburgers, a Balthazar hamburgers undoubtedly is your money’s worth. One of the bestsellers ‘Balthazar Cheeseburger’ is priced at $21, and comes perfectly grilled with a thick slab of melted cheese and a side of crunchy fries. Read more here .

Invented by German butcher Charles Feltman in Coney Island in 1871, hotdogs have been everyone’s favorite since. Crif Dogs envelopes the traditional dish with a twist of flavors. For instance the Spicy Red Neck has a bacon wrapped dog with coleslaw, chilli and jalapeños. Read more here .

Balthazar Restaurant

Dominique ansel bakery.

If you haven’t heard about the cronut than visit this place, if you have heard or eaten one, taste this one to know what the real deal is about. The bakery introduces a new exotic flavor every month and offers flavor profile from strawberry balsamic to mascarpone with basil sugar. Read more here .

The Halal Guys

What started as a single food cart in Midtown in 1990 has now evolved into a nationwide chain that serves a big pile of tender, heavily seasoned chicken accompanied by lamb over rice and a healthy serving of a lip-smacking white sauce. Read more here .

Grand Central Oyster Bar

This 104-year-old restaurant in Grand Central, is as iconic to New York as the train station’s starry ceiling over the cavernous main concourse. Their platter of raw oysters or the iconic, creamy oyster pan roast is sure to steal your heart Read more here .

Food Tours In NYC

They say, the best way to experience the beat of a city is by sampling the local cuisine of the city. New York , the city of immigrants brings to the platter an array of cuisines, each of which has become the city's own over the years. Experiencing the best of all the city's cuisines can be hard, but not if you sign up for an NYC Food tour. Food tours in NYC take you through different boroughs of the city and expose you to the best tuck and tipple, be it China Town or Brooklyn. All you have to do is, figure out which Food Tour in New York sounds most interesting to you, grab your ticket and reach there with a massive appetite and lots of excitement!

Valentine’s Day In NYC

14th February is just around the corner and the air is already chirping with the upcoming festivities. Never short of activities, the city of New York poses endless possibilities when it comes to Valentine’s Day. Valentine’s Day in New York can be tailor made to suit what you love as a couple. Whether you want an old school celebration or you want to explore the wild side this year or you want to pop the question, New York City presents you with a whole lot of quirky and interesting options. Look through our special guide to find a date idea that suits you and your better half the best.

Festivals in New York

The spirit of New York in and around festivals is as wonderful as the main event. Several festivals are planned throughout the year; here is a list of some of the most notable one’s.

• The Tribeca Film Festival - Created by Jane Rosenthal and Robert De Niro in 2002, the Tribeca Film Festival showcases a diverse selection of independent films to a broad audience. The festival garners an estimated three million attendees including celebrities from the worlds of art, film, and music.
• The Museum Mile Festival - A 40 year old festival, that knits together art lovers from New York and beyond. Museums open their doors to the public at no charge; the streets are flooded with live music and entertainment converting the Fifth Avenue into the city’s largest block party.
• Fleet Week NYC - The members of the United States Navy, Coast Guard, and Marine Corps are honored and celebrated in a week long affair. It starts with the Parade of Ships cruising along the Hudson River, leads into military demonstrations and concludes with a Memorial Day ceremony
• Five Boro Craft Beer Fest - Live music with over 100 event-exclusive small-batch beers by 50 local and out-of-state breweries, what more can a beer lover ask for. The all-you-can-drink fest offers you to chat up with the brewers while you sip their two-ounce pour.
• Lunar New Year Parade & Festival - A cultural celebration to ring in Lunar new years, that takes place in Manhattan’s Chinatown, as well as in Flushing, Queens, and Sunset Park, Brooklyn. Crowds of hundreds of thousands gather to witness elaborate floats, marching bands, martial artists, Asian musicians, magicians, acrobats and processions by local organizations.

There are plenty more Events & Festivals in NYC and a quick cursory glance across the internet will expose you to many more.

NYC Festivals in Summer

• St. Patrick's Day Parade (March)
• Easter Parade (April)
• Burt's Bees Earth Day (April)
• Ninth Avenue International Food Festival (May)
• Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit (May)
• Belmont Stakes (June)
• NYC Pride March (June)
• Shakespeare in the Park (June)
• Metropolitan Opera in the Parks (June–July)
• July Fourth (July)
• New York International Fringe Festival (August)

NYC Festivals in Autumn

• New York Film Festival (September-October)
• Haunted Halloween Carnival (October)
• New York City Marathon (November)
• Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade (November)
• Lighting at Rockefeller Center (November)

NYC Festivals in Winter

• Times Square New Years Eve (December)
• Westminster Kennel Club Show (February)

NYC Culture Tips

It is understandable that New York City can be a daunting destination with so much to absorb, so much to see and so little time. Barring that you also need to understand that while you are on a trip, New Yorkers are going about their strict daily schedule. So, it is important to follow some typical New York’ish etiquettes that will not hinder the local’s life.

• Sidewalk etiquettes – Whether to ogle at the sites or to refer a map, shift on the pavement. The citizens are rushing towards their respective destinations and definitely wouldn't appreciate running into you in the middle of the sidewalk
• Subway/public transport etiquettes – While you are getting accustomed to the pace of the place, do observe how speedily New Yorkers like to cross through. Keep the metro card handy for smooth swipe through the turnstile. Do not crowd the subway door, way before your stop, letting others pass and board with ease.
• Quick help – New Yorkers while stern don’t mind helping out, though they might not have time for a chit-chat. So ask your prompt questions.
• Place your order quick – Do not keep the line waiting while you decide your order. Try and sort it before you reach the counter.

Tipping in NYC

New Yorkers in the Service industry expect some love and appreciation from you in the form of tip.

• Note that these days many restaurants implement a no-tipping policy and apply add on service charge or administrative charge, so you need not pay tip in that case.
• A tip of 15- 20 percent of total bill for Wait staff and Bartenders in the general norm in restaurants.
• Hotel staff expects a tip for their services, depending upon the service rendered by the guest. The norm suggests $1 to the hotel doorman for hailing a cab, $1–$2 per bag to the Porters and bellhops, $1–$2 per day of your visit to $5 per day for the housekeeping staff.
• The taxi drivers are usually paid a tip of 15–20 percent of total fare.
• If you happen to visit the salon or avail similar services, a tip of 15–20 percent of total service cost is expected.

All New York Guides

Top Attractions in NYC

Statue of Liberty

Empire State Building

One World Observatory

Top of the Rock

Central Park

Ripley’s Believe it or Not!

The Ride NYC

9/11 Museum & Memorial

Gulliver’s Gate

NYC Museums

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Best Museums in NYC

Museum of Modern Art

Whitney Museum Of American Art

Metropolitan Museum Of Art

American Museum Of Natural History

Free Museums in NYC

NYC Itineraries

1-Day in NYC Itinerary

3-Day NYC Itinerary

5-Day NYC Itinerary

Walking Tours in New York City

Food Tours in New York City

New York Sightseeing Cruises

NYC Helicopter Tours

Disney On Broadway Tour

New York to Niagara Falls Tour

NYC Through The Year

NYC Toolkit

NYC Essential Guide

Christmas in NYC

NYC Explorer Pass

Best New York City Passes

New York New Year's Eve Guide

Times Square Ball Drop

Instagrammable spots in NYC

Lakshmi Menon

Born to parents bit by the wander bug, Lakshmi calls her love for travel "hereditary and habitual". Perpetually ensconced with a book in her hand and a mug of coffee in the other, she has been to over 15 countries in her 23 years of existence and is currently saving miles and money for her solo trip to Iceland. Always hustling towards the least trodden path, she has encountered some wonderful people during her escapades and if you ever meet her, she won't stop gushing about them.

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The printable version wasn’t all that accessible Looking forward to a real guide in my hands l thank you!!!

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This New York State Region Is One of the Best Places to Go in 2022 — With Wineries, Waterfalls, and Charming Hotels

We've heard it's 'gorges.'

Jessica Ritz is a Los Angeles-based journalist with a professional background in architectural history and historic preservation. Her design, culture, food, and travel articles have appeared in Architectural Digest , Travel + Leisure , Metropolis , and Los Angeles Times , among other publications.

The Best Times to Visit the Finger Lakes

The best things to do in the finger lakes.

• Visiting the Finger Lakes' Waterfalls

The Best Hotels in the Finger Lakes

Camping in the finger lakes, the best restaurants in the finger lakes.

Named one of the best places to travel in 2022 by Travel + Leisure editors, the Finger Lakes region in central New York maintains a distinct identity. The "centrally isolated" geographic positioning of FLX, as it's been dubbed in recent years, means denizens take great pride and intentionally invest in this dispersed assortment of towns and sites full of rich, diverse histories. Ever since Ukrainian immigrant Dr. Konstantin Frank planted his first vitis vinifera vines in 1958 on 188 sloping acres along western Keuka Lake, the Finger Lakes' profile as a wine region has quietly been on the rise. A new generation of restaurants and hotels is evolving into a robust hospitality ecosystem, making the range of Finger Lakes experiences on offer better than ever.

From the base of the 1848 women's rights convention in Seneca Falls that catalyzed the suffrage movement to a comprehensive Native American heritage site and Harriet Tubman's home in Auburn, history buffs can investigate pressing questions related to the past and present. Nature lovers can explore the famed, glacially formed gorges and waterfalls and astonishingly scenic vistas around the 11 slender bodies of water — the largest three of which are Keuka, Seneca, and Cayuga — located roughly in the triangle formed by the cities of Rochester, Syracuse, and Corning. Food and beverage enthusiasts can sate themselves touring the Finger Lakes' wineries (there are more than 100) and delving into the impressive culinary scene rooted in elevating local and seasonal ingredients.

The seasons express themselves intensely and fully in the Finger Lakes. With the exception of active winter sports destinations like Greek Peak Mountain Resort and Bristol Mountain in Canandaigua, winter travel is a niche preference that comes with challenges, namely, an obscene amount of lake-effect snow. (This climate, however, accounts for the world-class rieslings and other varietal wines that thrive in low temperatures.) Unsurprisingly, summer and fall are glorious. Both seasons allow for long hikes followed by invigorating swims, whether in a lake or waterfall, and vendors' stalls are piled high with colorful organic summer produce at the Ithaca Farmers Market . Fall ushers in the grape harvest and technicolor displays of fall foliage as the school year gets underway at Cornell University and other school campuses in the area.

Ambitious outdoors adventurers can consult the Finger Lakes Trail website for routes, itineraries, and other resources related to the 950-plus-mile-long network. Letchworth State Park , a.k.a. "the Grand Canyon of the East," contains myriad opportunities for adventure, from cross-country skiing and snowmobiling in winter to whitewater rafting and hot air balloon rides. Letchworth State Park is also home to the Autism Nature Trail , an innovative, neurodiverse-inclusive program.

For trails of a different sort, FLX has five established wine trails to help guide visitors eager to investigate the wineries around Canandaigua, Seneca, Cayuga, and Keuka lakes. If making your own itinerary, don't miss the tasting rooms of FLX OG winemakers Hermann J. Weimer Vineyard and the aforementioned Dr. Frank . And for a sense of how the art and science of wine has evolved here beyond the better-known (deservedly so) winter-friendly rieslings, labels such as Heart and Hands , Forge Cellars , and Red Tail Ridge Winery are making impressive strides with crafting red wines using FLX-grown pinot noir and cabernet franc, among other varietals.

Beyond the fruit of the vine, the Rochester/Finger Lakes Craft Beverage Trail highlights breweries, cider houses, and distilleries that have kicked into high gear in recent years, primarily in Ontario County. The world of cider is quite compelling, as visitors to Finger Lakes Cider House in Interlaken on Cayuga Lake quickly learn. The rustic-chic dining room also serves an outstanding menu with views of the Good Life Farm and the lake beyond. From its Seneca Drums gin to McKenzie whiskeys, Finger Lakes Distilling has put the region on the map for spirits production using locally sourced grains and fruits.

Outstanding among the other unique cultural institutions in FLX is the Corning Museum of Glass . The sprawling facility is an immersive look into the fascinating intersections of craft, art, and design, along with American industrial history. The glass company's unrivaled collection starts with ancient specimens and continues through contemporary cutting-edge art, while the institution pushes the medium forward through its education, research, and artist residency programs .

Finally, for a water-oriented outing toward the eastern edge of the Finger Lakes, the town of Skaneateles, at the northern tip of its namesake lake, is another enchanting destination. Book a cruise with Mid-Lakes Navigation , which offers cocktail and dinner cruises aboard different vessels.

Visiting the Finger Lakes' Waterfalls

"Ithaca is Gorges" is a well-known tourism motto and easy conversation starter when spotted outside of the town itself. This geologic feature is certainly worth bragging about and makes the surrounding area one of the most stunning destinations for hiking and swimming in naturally formed channels. Download the Ithaca Waterfalls Challenge digital passport to keep track of its 22 waterfalls and other natural attractions, from the more gentle slopes of Buttermilk Falls and Buttermilk Creek to the diving board perched over a deep swimming hole at Robert Treman State Park . The 215-foot waterfall drop at Taughannock Falls in Trumansburg is a perfect Kodak — OK, Instagram — moment.

Watkins Glen State Park near the southern tip of Seneca Lake merits dedicating several hours in order to extensively hike the dramatic trails that hug the glen and take in the breathtaking sight of its 19 waterfalls. (Much of the ingenious infrastructure here and at other nearby sites that carefully respect their contexts were built under the aegis of agencies created during the New Deal.) And the options are plentiful, since FLX counts over 200 waterfalls.

The Inns of Aurora on Cayuga Lake is a community and hospitality passion project from native Pleasant Rowland, founder of the American Girl empire. The five unique luxury properties that make up the Inns of Aurora each convey their own aesthetic and atmosphere (most are landmarked historic structures). The newest inn is the restored Zabriskie House, which blends retro styling with selections from Rowland's modern art collection and features 11 guest rooms. Inns of Aurora also has a brand-new wellness center, an on-site Ayurvedic counselor, a demonstration kitchen where guests can take cooking classes, and two restaurants.

The ultra-chic Lake House on Canandaigua signaled a shift in the FLX hospitality scene when its 125 guest rooms and suites in the re-envisioned retreat debuted in summer 2020. Third-generation family owners who operate the design firm Post Company (formerly Studio Tack) and development arm Brooklyn Home Company breathed new life into the site-sensitive buildings with a fresh take on understated, contemporary luxury. TLEE Spas designed the comprehensive wellness program at the Lake Houses's Willowbrook Spa , which opened in summer 2021.

Whether it's for a classic cocktail at Bar Argos , an evening with friends in the funky, welcoming Argos Warehouse outdoor lounge, or an overnight stay at the Argos Inn , any or all of these plans provide a taste of Ithaca's eclectic character. The creative reimagining of this historic house has been adapted into a modern bed-and-breakfast where no two spaces are alike.

Firelight Camps , situated just a short drive outside of Ithaca, is the best of both worlds, allowing guests to be close to nature but with the all stylish and creature comforts of a well-designed, modern, bohemian-inflected glamping site. Another perk: co-owner Emma Frisch's culinary expertise makes this your-not-so-typical camping excursion.

The camping options in the Finger Lakes run the gamut and can accommodate anyone, from camping veterans to novices. The Corning KOA Resort south of Watkins Glen splits the difference, with a campground and deluxe cabins, plus a pool and waterslide. Sampson Park at Seneca Lake Resorts in the town of Romulus (one of the many whose names evoke Greek and Roman history) hosts campers, cabin dwellers, and RV drivers. The New York State Parks system operates camping areas with fewer frills but no less awe-inspiring settings, including the Taughannock Falls , Watkins Glen , and Robert H. Treman State Park campgrounds.

Elevated homeyness of the best sort sets the tone at Hazelnut Kitchen in downtown Trumansburg. The menu is both sophisticated and hearty, whether you opt for fresh fish or a New York strip steak served with fries and caramelized onions. Alternately, the kitchen designs a tasting experience based on whatever is in season, and it's well worth trying if you're an adventurous diner.

F.L.X. Table in Geneva takes an experimental yet highly convivial approach to hospitality, curating prix-fixe menus designed for intimate groups of diners. This venture is part of master sommelier Christopher Bates and restaurant industry pro Isabel Bogadtke's ambitious F.L.X. Hospitality group, which operates multiple concepts including the Quincy Exchange in Corning's Gaffer District, F.L.X. Weinery in Dundee on Seneca Lake, and Roc Brewing Co in Rochester.

The Moosewood restaurant became a quasi-household — yet still niche — name thanks to its iconic, best-selling vegetarian cookbooks. Now, the physical space that launched an institution back in 1973 is onto its next chapter, under new ownership. Ithaca native Danica Wilcox, whose mother was a longtime member of the Moosewood collective, has revamped the beloved restaurant, located on the ground floor of downtown Ithaca's Dewitt Mall , as of early 2022. She and her team kept the warm, comforting touchstones of the space and the spirit of the menu intact, while evolving the food and beverage program to engage with the community and host events including FLX-focused wine tastings with local experts.

The laid-back vibe at Ithaca Beer Co. , home to award-winning brews like Flower Power and Apricot Wheat, make its brewery and taproom outside of town an easy pleasure. When the weather permits, the idyllic arrangement, with views of rolling green meadows and outdoor games, is ideal for families and large groups. Tasting flights pair seamlessly with the menu that's heavy on top-notch comfort food and bar classics.

The Stonecat Cafe in Hector reflects the best of FLX unconventional quirkiness, serving unpretentious, high-quality fare paired with a local wine and cocktail list. Visitors can also book a stay on the property.

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The best michelin guide bib gourmand spots for under $50 in uptown new york city.

Uptown Manhattan has been immortalized in song and on screen, synonymous with a well-heeled (and deep-pocketed) crowd but that doesn't mean you can't find a slew of spots that cater to all budgets. Below, check out a few of our favorites on both the east and west sides of Uptown that won't break the bank.

Finding the ideal setting for a first date is sort of like trying to solve the Goldilocks conundrum. You want something nice but not too fancy—because sitting through a three-hour tasting menu could be a deal breaker. You also don’t want to go too casual (read: cheap). A lively, buzzy spot will help ease the first date jitters, but it can’t be too loud that you can’t hear each other wax on about your idyllic childhoods. The food should be innovative but not so challenging that you both are stumped on what to order. Fortunately, there are certain restaurants in the city that can set the right tone. King, the bright and cheerful restaurant located in a West Village townhouse, started by chef friends Clare de Boer and Jess Shadbolt, features a simple menu with just a handful of dishes every night. This makes ordering seamless so you can focus on the date instead of deciphering complicated ingredients. The room is airy with only a handful of tables that are decorated with bud vases and cellars of salt and pepper. Start off with their signature panisse, fried chickpea fritters with sage, followed by a chicory salad with warm lentils and a soft egg and then monkfish roasted with parsley butter. There is also an excellent selection of wines by the glass. You’ll feel like you are having a leisurely meal in Italy or France—and it doesn’t get more romantic than that. At Altro Paradiso, the stylish SoHo restaurant offers several private corner booths and soft, amber lighting that casts a flattering glow on the always fashionable crowd. Chef and owner Ignacio Mattos serves simple, flavorful fare like roasted chicken with chicory, grilled octopus and fennel salad, which will please even the fussiest diner. In Brooklyn’s Cobble Hill neighborhood, Saint Julivert Fisherie offers up a warm, inviting ambience and plenty of small, shareable plates. Wash down spicy peanuts and stuffed olives with a glass of sherry as you break the ice, and if it’s going well, you can continue with dishes like grilled shrimp and shiso tacos with scallops. You might get to see husband and wife owners Alex Raj and Eder Montero in action and be inspired by their successful relationship, so save room for dessert—like the cherry marsala zabaglione. Keep reading for more spots ideal for first (or second) dates.

Best Restaurants to Take the Kids

This may sound counterintuitive but one of the most pleasant experiences you can have as a parent is dining out with your children—if you pick the right spot. We’re not talking about restaurants that serve coloring books with their chicken fingers or places where they offer nine varieties of grilled cheese. These are restaurants where the children can expand their palates (but remain within their comfort zone) while the parents can indulge in grown-up conversations and a glass of wine. Located in a former garage parts building in Brooklyn’s Clinton Hill neighborhood, Speedy Romeo serves kid-friendly fare like pizza, burgers, and chicken parmesan, but prepared with foodie parents in mind. For chef and owner Justin Bazdarich, who worked for chef Jean-Georges for over a decade, that means wood-fired pies like the Truffle Shuffle, a soppressata and pepperoni pizza topped with truffle sauce, and The Dangerfield, a rich combination of pork meatballs, béchamel sauce, and ricotta. The food is ambitious, but the casual atmosphere makes it fun for the entire clan. Ivan Ramen, the brainchild of Ivan Orkin, Long Island-born Japanophile who opened his first noodle shops in Tokyo, hits all the right notes when it comes to family dining. Kids will love to slurp down a bowl of noodles swimming in the signature tangy, salty broth. It’s a great opportunity for children to learn to operate chopsticks while parents will appreciate all the big flavor found in dishes like triple pork garlic mazemen and spicy red chile ramen. Mile End, a Jewish deli from Montreal, offers the usual crowd-pleasers like doughy bagels, matzo ball soup, and a high-quality hot dog on a challah roll. But for more adventurous young eaters, there’s poutine, the Québécois dish of French fries, cheese curd, and gravy. Stepping into Al Badawi, a festive Palestinian restaurant on Atlantic Avenue in Brooklyn’s Cobble Hill is like stepping into another land. There are long communal tables filled with Middle Eastern families lingering over large platters of mezze (baba ghanoush, labneh, tabbouleh) and pouring water from large terra-cotta jugs. From the pizza oven there is a steady procession of khubz (flatbreads) which can be eaten plain or topped with various spices, meats, and cheeses like a Middle Eastern pizza. For the grown-ups, there’s lamb shanks with cooked with yogurt and cabbage leaves filled with rice and meat. See the other spots that made the list below.

Best Restaurants for Solo Diners

Perhaps the best secret about dining alone is that often you don’t need a reservation—that is if you eat at the bar. At certain New York spots, the bar serves as the beating heart of the restaurant. There’s the all-knowing bartender, the lingering waitstaff, the regular customer who comes in for a quick burger or an expertly mixed martini. New York is a friendly town so it’s easy to strike up a conversation with your neighbor. Of course, you can always read a book but there is such a singular pleasure in just soaking up the atmosphere, the flavors, the textures and the chatter that surrounds you. (Yes, dining alone gives you a free pass to do some innocent eavesdropping.) The always packed Cervos restaurant—an homage to Iberian seafood on the Lower East Side— might appear intimidating at first but it’s worth checking in with the friendly staff to see if there is an empty seat at the bar or the front window counter. Once you’ve scored a spot you’ll find the room’s vibrant energy infectious. There’s nothing strange about asking your neighbors what they’re eating—yes,the Louisiana white prawns are succulent and sweet, and don’t sleep on the manila clams cooked in vinho verde. The bartender will happily let you sample a selection of orange wines as he guides you through the menu. In no time, you will feel at home, breaking bread with your neighbor and sopping up all the delectable, briny flavors coming out of the kitchen. Gramercy Tavern’s front room, with artist Robert Kushner’s colorful cornucopia mural hanging above the handsome wood paneled bar, is one of the city’s most inviting spots. The staff here are seasoned and know exactly what wine to pair with the grilled pork shoulder with parsnips. They also instinctively know when to strike up a conversation, offer another cocktail or just leave you alone. Thai Diner is an all-day restaurant in Nolita started by the owners of the beloved Uncle Boons which shuttered during the pandemic. The wait time for parties of two and more can last hours long but for the single diner, there’s often a space at the counter inside, which looks like a mashup of a tiki bar and a retro dining car. The vibe is casual and friendly, the crowd is an eclectic mix of hipster and construction crews, and the food is pure comfort: think crab fried rice, chicken legs in a creamy curry sauce, Thai disco fries and banana rum pudding. The bonus to a solo outing at Thai Diner? You ‘ll have plenty of leftovers.

Best Restaurants to Get Engaged

While TikTok wedding proposals seem to be all the rage, there’s something nice about asking someone to marry you in a more traditional manner. With its dramatic floral displays, flickering candles at the table, and chefs walking around in tall white toques, Le Coucou is the closest you’ll get to Parisian fine dining in New York. With all this romantic pageantry and traditional French cuisine (foie gras, Dover sole, grilled rabbit), it wouldn’t seem out of the ordinary for a guest to get down on bended knee. If the River Cafe’s walls could talk, how many milestones—from birthdays to anniversaries—have been celebrated at this waterfront restaurant in the shadow of the Brooklyn Bridge? Dining at one of the window seats with mesmerizing views of Manhattan is magical; the pianist playing ballads makes the moment even more memorable; and the meal? More than forty years later the food is just as special. Over the years the restaurant’s young chefs have gone on to become some of the most important culinary figures in America (including Larry Forgione and Charlie Palmer.) Current chef Brad Steelman prepares classic American fare—Caspian golden osetra caviar, Colorado rack of lamb, and poached lobster— you’d like to indulge in on a special occasion. For someone who wants to avoid the pomp and circumstance, there is Clover Hill, a charming restaurant in the leafy neighborhood of Brooklyn Heights. This cozy restaurant, located in a historic townhouse and decorated with oil paintings and flea market finds, feels like a throwback. From the tiny kitchen, Chef Charlie Mitchell (who honed his skills at Eleven Madison Park) presents a multicourse tasting menu featuring bounty from the best purveyors from upstate farmers to Maine fishermen. The presentation is beautiful, making it the perfect backdrop to pop the question. For those who might not have the patience to sit through a longer meal, reserve one of the velvet banquettes upstairs at Caviar Russe for a caviar and champagne extravaganza. (A shot of vodka might be in order to steel yourself for the big moment, too.) See the other spots that made the list below.

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Welcome to New York, the city that never sleeps , which we invite you to discover in all its glory with NYC by The MICHELIN Guide! Showcasing the 'best of the best' among New York’s restaurants and hotels, this Guide includes daily recommendations from our experts. From all the central neighborhoods to the outer boroughs, our selection is constantly updated with the latest news . 


Discover the openings that everyone is talking about: New York’s buzziest boîtes and bistros, Michelin-Starred restaurants that are among the cheapest in New York and Bib Gourmands offering amazing value for money. And that's not all: day after day, we also recommend here the best brunch spots, cocktail bars, spas and more – allowing you to experience Manhattan like a real New Yorker.

Our specialist hotel experts also compile the best hotels in New York. From luxury hotels to affordable hotels , including the best located hotels in New York and those with the most beautiful views, we have everything you need to plan a magical trip to New York, and to make the most of summer in the city! 


Where to go out in New York? With us, you can explore all the areas of the city one by one, discovering major historical and cultural highlights as you go: the hustle and bustle of midtown Manhattan flanked by Rockefeller Center and Central Park; which spots will welcome you and your four-legged friend; and the places to visit just outside the city. 


Our Inspectors search New York with a fine-tooth comb, to exclusively unearth the city's best restaurants and hotels, as well as its best-kept secrets – from the city’s most iconic dishes to the best places to visit if it’s your first time. Across the Inspector's many recommendations, our New York Travel Guide provides you with the perfect opportunity to taste local specialities against a backdrop of iconic landmarks. 


As we're sure you know by now, this Guide is specially designed to help you have a perfect stay in New York, to optimize your trip and to guarantee you a trouble-free experience. Whether for a quick summer getaway, a full-on holiday or just a long weekend , The MICHELIN Guide will help you (re)discover the best places in New York.

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In The MICHELIN Guide 2023, New York stands out for having 68 Starred restaurants – a testament to its exceptional gastronomic wealth.

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The city of Tokyo ranks first in the world for Starred restaurants, with Paris just behind.

What are the affordable restaurants recommended by The MICHELIN Guide in New York?

Contrary to popular belief, not all restaurants recommended by The MICHELIN Guide are exorbitantly expensive 'fine dining' establishments. From trendy bistros and luxury restaurants to village pubs and street food, The MICHELIN Guide has something to satisfy all tastes, occasions and budgets – most notably with its Bib Gourmand award, for restaurants that offer good value for money. You can also find a list of the cheapest Michelin-Starred restaurants in NYC on our website.

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Etihad's mammoth Airbus A380 has returned to the US after nearly retiring. Take a look at its exclusive $24,000 'The Residence' first-class suite.

• Etihad Airways has returned its beloved Airbus A380 to New York amid booming demand.
• The decision comes after the airline nearly retired the quad-engine superjumbo during the pandemic.
• Etihad's A380 boasts the world's only three-room suite, complete with a bedroom and shower.

Eithad Airways' popular Airbus A380 has returned to the US after the pandemic nearly forced it into retirement .

On Monday, the mammoth plane took off from Abu Dhabi's Zayed International Airport at about 3:20 a.m. local time and landed at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport more than 14 hours later, just after 10 a.m. ET.

This is the first time Etihad's quad jet fleet has flown the route since 2020 and represents its official re-entry into the US market after four years. The superjumbo also flies between Abu Dhabi and London.

According to Etihad, the A380 will boost capacity between the two metropolitan cities as it takes over one of the two flights presently serving New York-JFK — the second operated by a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.

"Our North American portfolio has continued to exceed expectations with the second daily JFK flight introduced last year performing well," Etihad CRO Arik De told Business Insider in December when the route was first announced.

With its return, deep-pocket US travelers once again have access to the A380's crown jewel: The Residence.

Take a look at what up to $50,000 gets you on a roundtrip flight between New York and Abu Dhabi in Etihad's one-of-a-kind first-class suite.

Exclusively installed on its mammoth A380, The Residence is the world's only three-room suite on a passenger plane.

The entire suite can accommodate up to two passengers and is located on the second level of the superjumbo .

Other carriers like Singapore Airlines offer first-class cabins with a separate bed , but Etihad takes luxury to a new level.

According to De, the Residence is only available by upgrading a first class ticket. Fares were priced at over $20,000 one-way pre-pandemic.

When booking on Etihad's website in December for a flight between New York and Abu Dhabi in mid-May, its first-class apartments were priced between roughly $9,000 and $10,000 each way, with another $3,000 per leg on top for the Residence, totaling about $24,000 .

Looking again on Monday, it appears the Residence is already booked up on most days for May, as it cannot be added to first-class bookings .

Demand for The Residence is booming — helping make Etihad's A380 an 'overall commercially profitable venture in New York.'

"We had our first bookings within minutes of the announcement that the A380 was coming to New York," De told BI. "It's a famous experience, and there are plenty of people out there who want to sample it, either as a dream one-off or as part of their overall travel mix."

The first space in The Residence is the livingroom with a giant flatscreen television and a multi-person couch.

The living room has a sliding door to ensure full privacy from the rest of the aircraft.

The space is designed to accommodate up to two people.

Here, travelers can eat, work, or watch movies.

A dedicated cabin crew team serves The Residence passengers. They will set up the dining table and serve meals, as well as prep the space for sleeping.

Passengers will be served luxury meals, including things like caviar, steak, champagne, and wine.

However, the butler service formerly offered in The Residence will not return, aviation journalist Andreas Spaeth said on X in mid-November after an interview with Etihad CEO Antonoaldo Neves.

Etihad confirmed to BI that a butler would not be onboard.

Down the hall from the living room is The Residence's private bathroom, complete with a shower.

"[The Residence] is a great experience for everyone, whether they are flying for business or pleasure or both," De told BI. "Flights between Abu Dhabi and New York are over 13 hours long, and people flying for business want to arrive refreshed and relaxed."

Monday's flight took a northern route across Russia, putting the trek at more than 14 hours, according to FlightAware.

Showers are rare onboard airliners because the water adds extra weight, with Emirates as the only other carrier offering one.

Like Etihad, Emirates has a first class suite complete with a shower spa. The rival UAE carrier is so loyal to its A380 that it recently announced a $1.5 billion investment to keep them flying.

The last room of The Residence is the bedroom.

The double bed is another rarity onboard commercial jetliners.

Qatar Airways famously flies a double bed in its QSuite business class, voted the best in the world by Skytrax last year.

Considered one of the most luxurious airline offerings in the sky, travelers were worried when Etihad's A380 nearly retired.

The A380's poor economics and fuel-hungry quad-engines make it an expensive jet to fly, and many carriers have ditched it for more efficient twinjets like the Boeing 787 and the Airbus A350.

Fortunately, the surge in demand for air travel in 2022 prompted Etihad to add it back to the fleet.

"We are entering a new phase of sustainable growth to meet the demands of our customers, and the A380 is the right aircraft to meet capacity demands on very select routes," De told BI. "We brought it back on our London services earlier this year, and saw tremendous commercial success, with guests loving the experience."

Etihad's new A380 route will be the second in its network following the return to London in July 2023.

According to Cirium data, Etihad has been flying three of its A380s between Abu Dhabi and London as of October, but one was plucked to serve the New York-JFK route.

De told BI that Etihad has a total of four planes in service and, in the short term, "will deploy them where it makes the most sense."

De told BI that the decision to add the A380 to NYC came after the second frequency proved commercially successful.

"Given the commercial performance, and the popularity of the aircraft with our guests, we feel now is the right time to bring the A380 on to our service to New York," he said.

Although some of its A380s are flying again, six of Etihad's 10 superjumbos are still parked but remain 'in reserve.'

The six jets are sitting in airports across France and Spain, according to Planespotters .

"We are focused on sustainable expansion going forward, and having the option of drawing on our A380 fleet is an element of that," De told BI, noting Etihad plans to double its fleet size to 150 planes and carry 33 million passengers by 2030. "We will make sure we choose the right aircraft to achieve that, and the A380s will be part of that mix for a while."

• Main content

Parking and traffic for President Biden’s visit to Syracuse

SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) — President Joe Biden will be visiting Central New York on Thursday, April 25.

The President is expected to discuss how the CHIPS and Science Act and his Investing in America agenda are growing the economy and creating jobs in Central New York and communities across the country, according to the White House.

Airspace will be restricted when the President arrives in the Syracuse area between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. that day.

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As for drivers, there will be no parking in the streets marked in red on the map below beginning Wednesday, April 24 at 10 p.m.

All streets that are marked in red will be closed from 6 a.m. until 4 p.m. on April 25. Syracuse Police remind drivers that they will be towing any vehicles remaining parked in those areas beginning at 5 a.m.

Foot traffic is allowed on those streets and surrounding businesses will be open as well.

The last time the President was in town to talk about Micron was when he went to OCC, back in October 2022.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSYR.

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New federal rules on airline refunds require cash instead of vouchers

Airline canceled your flight? The plane arrived hours late after a maintenance issue? The inflight Wi-Fi didn't work?

New federal rules say travelers deserve cash refunds when inconvenienced by their airline - not vouchers or travel credits.

The rules, announced by the Transportation Department on Wednesday, also require airlines to provide upfront information about fees for baggage and changing flights.

Although many airlines have done away with change fees and disclose fees on their websites, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg estimated more transparency with some airlines and websites would make it easier for travelers to shop around - ultimately saving consumers millions every year.

The rule would formalize a requirement that passengers receive refunds if a domestic flight is delayed by more than three hours or if an international flight is delayed by more than six hours.

It would also require a refund of any baggage fees for bags that arrive more than 12 hours late, and a refund of the fee for a purchased service like Wi-Fi or upgraded seating if the airline doesn't deliver.

'Without headaches or haggling'

"Our new rule sets a new standard to require airlines to promptly provide cash refunds to their passengers," Buttigieg said in a statement, saying the refunds were due "without headaches or haggling."

There's also a provision for travelers frustrated with call center hold times or filling out online claim forms. The rules require the fees to be automatic and prompt: Within seven days for a credit card refund and 20 days for other forms of payment.

Airlines for America, which represents the country's largest passenger carriers, said its airline members "offer transparency and vast choice to consumers from first search to touchdown."

"U.S. airlines are committed to providing the highest quality of service, which includes clarity regarding prices, fees and ticket terms," the group said in a statement.

Surge in complaints in 2022

The Biden Administration proposed its change to the refund rules in 2022 after a surge in complaints about refunds when the coronavirus brought air travel to a standstill.

That year, DOT received nearly 47,600 complaints, more than double the number of complaints received in 2021. More than half of the complaints involved flight disruptions or refunds.

Many travelers complained at that time that airlines pushed noncash flight credit or required extended time on customer service phone lines to request a refund. Some of those credits expired long before the effects of the virus receded and travel returned to more normal levels.

This spring, DOT and other executive branch agencies are finalizing key rule changes from Biden's term in office in case Republicans take control of Washington in November's election. A federal law allows Congress to unravel recently implemented executive branch rules.

The cutoff date depends on the House and Senate legislative calendar but is likely to fall in May, meaning rules finalized before that date are not eligible for review under the Congressional Review Act.

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What to Know Before Booking a National Park Trip This Summer

Additional routes in popular parks now require reservations, the annual pass gets a big change, Juneteenth is now a new free entrance day and more changes for 2024.

By Lauren Matison

In 2023, the seashores, lakeshores, battlefields, historic sites, monuments and more that make up the National Park Service had 325.5 million visits , an increase of 4 percent from the year before.

The National Park Service director, Charles F. Sams III, praised the surge of interest in “learning our shared American story throughout the hidden gems of the National Parks System.”

Expecting an even greater turnout in 2024, the Park Service and Recreation.gov , the booking platform for federal land reservations, have implemented new measures to streamline the park experience, manage overcrowding and safeguard the environment.

More parks are requiring reservations

To better avoid congested trails, packed parking lots and overflowing trash cans, additional parks are joining Rocky Mountain , Arches and Glacier National Parks this year in requiring day-use permits, timed entries and other reservations for travelers who wish to visit, particularly during peak hours, holidays and the parks’ high seasons. Yosemite National Park is reinstating a timed-entry system it instituted in 2020, but paused in 2022.

Many park enthusiasts expressed mixed feelings about the reservation policies, with some lamenting a lack of first-come, first-served campsites while others find comfort in knowing they have a confirmed booking. As nearly 75 percent of visitors each year descend on national parks from May to October (and often on weekends), park officials stand by the system.

“In some parks, the level of demand is exceeding the capacity for which infrastructure was designed or is outpacing the National Park Service’s ability to sustainably support visitation,” said Kathy Kupper, a public affairs specialist for the service. “This trend is resulting in the need to explore new strategies to protect natural and cultural resources and provide opportunities for safe and meaningful visitor experiences.”

It can be confusing.

New to implementing timed-entry reservations for vehicles is Mount Rainier National Park , in Washington, for its popular Paradise and Sunrise Corridors during certain times in the summer season. Reservations cost $2, are valid for one day and must be purchased along with the park ticket, but do not apply for visitors with wilderness permits or camping or lodge reservations. Similar vehicle reservations are now required for certain periods for viewing the sunrise at Haleakalā National Park in Maui, Hawaii , and driving the Cadillac Summit Road in Maine’s Acadia National Park .

Visitors wishing to hike Old Rag Mountain in Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park must obtain a day-use ticket between March 1 and Nov. 30, and in Zion National Park, in Utah, hikers wishing to visit Angels Landing , the dramatic 1,488-foot-tall rock formation, also need to purchase a permit. Fees range from $1 to $6, in addition to the parks’ entrance fees.

As each destination is managed differently, check the park’s webpage for the type of reservation required. Although most bookings can be made through Recreation.gov, some sites, such as Muir Woods National Monument, use a different system.

New features on Recreation.gov

In 2023, Recreation.gov reported that more than 4 million camping reservations and 2 million timed-entry reservations were booked online, and 1.5 million permits were issued. Some 2.9 million new users signed up for the site. With its expanding user base, the booking platform has added 58 reservable national park locations — including 17 campgrounds — such as Central Avenue Walk-in Sites at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and Bluff Hike In Camping in South Carolina’s Congaree National Park.

Recreation.gov has also improved an alerts feature, piloted in July 2023, that can notify users through email or mobile push notifications when a sold-out campsite becomes available. After Recreation.gov notifies you of availability, you must book the campsite yourself online — and quickly, as you’ll be shown how many other people (possibly hundreds) have received the same alert.

While its customer support center and mobile app are still only available in English, Recreation.gov recently introduced a Spanish language translation option. The Park Service partners with Latino Conservation Week , which hosts nationwide hikes and events on environmental education and in-park stewardship, and will celebrate its 10th year in September.

A limit to the annual America the Beautiful pass

The 2024 America the Beautiful pass no longer allows two owners. The annual interagency pass, which costs $80 and covers the entrance fees for more than 2,000 federal recreation sites (of which roughly 100 do not charge for admission year-round), is now marked by a single signature line on the back of the card. The pass owner must show I.D. and be present with any accompanying travelers wishing to access the park with the pass. (Annual passes issued in 2023 will still be valid until their expiration date.) The pass covers all passengers in a vehicle — up to four adults, and children under 16 are admitted free — or up to four cyclists riding together. Active military or veterans and people with permanent disabilities are eligible for a free lifetime pass; 4th grade students may receive a free annual pass; and senior citizens may purchase a $20 annual pass or pay $80 for a lifetime pass.

At the parks, more accessible features, E.V. chargers and new lodging

To better protect against global warming, the Park Service is putting more than $65 million from the Inflation Reduction Act and Great American Outdoors Act into climate mitigation and ecosystem restoration.

Using $15.9 million budgeted for zero-emission vehicle deployment, charging capacity and infrastructure, the Park Service is prioritizing a reduction in carbon emissions, said Mr. Sams, by installing new electric-vehicle charging stations and running electric buses.

An interactive online locator tool created in 2023 shows E.V. charging stations throughout 27 national parks and the type of chargers available. In addition to the tool, every national park page displays alerts on road closures, parking lot capacities, construction work and other incidents.

Mr. Sams also said the Park Service is investing $1.3 billion from the Great American Outdoors Act to improve accessibility features, ranging from a new A.D.A.-compliant visitor center at Morristown National Historic Park in New Jersey to new beach wheelchairs at Sleeping Bear Dunes , Channel Islands and Virgin Islands National Parks . Each destination’s website has an accessibility tab to help visitors plan their trip, and Recreation.gov now has a search filter on its homepage to make it easier to locate accessible accommodations.

New lodging options now available across the country include the Flamingo Lodge , which opened inside Everglades National Park last fall with 24 guest rooms built from repurposed shipping containers. In March, along the southeastern border of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Cataloochee Ranch reopened with 11 renovated cabins and a new restaurant. This spring, the Clubhouse Hotel & Suites will welcome its first guests in Rapid City, S.D., the closest major town to Badlands National Park , and opening in May in Idaho is the Yellowstone Peaks Hotel , a 30-minute-drive from Yellowstone National Park. This fall, California-bound travelers planning a visit to General Sherman, the largest known tree on Earth, might book at AutoCamp Sequoia , just outside Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park .

Also in California: Those who don’t score a highly coveted (and contentious) spot at the newly reopened High Sierra Camps in Yosemite could book Wildhaven Yosemite in Mariposa, which offers more affordable rates, hiking trails and views of the Sierra Nevadas. Reservations for its first season are available beginning May 1.

Celebrating milestones and a new free entrance day

On the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act, visitors can pay tribute to African American heritage at over 100 parks , including the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site in Washington, D.C., Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument , and the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail . This year also marks 100 years since Indigenous people were recognized as United States citizens. Although many parks have Indigenous programming , Mr. Sams, who is the first Native American to serve as N.P.S. director , suggested visiting Hopewell Cultural Historical Park in Ohio and Whitman Mission Historic National Historic Site in Washington, where he recently brought his daughter.

“In order to celebrate the diversity that makes our country great, we must share the complete story of America, which includes both the successes and challenges encountered on the way to form a more perfect union,” Mr. Sams said.

Juneteenth National Independence Day is the National Park Service’s newest free entrance day . Visitors can also take advantage of free admission on April 20, the first day of National Park Week; Aug. 4, the four-year anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act ; Sept. 28 on National Public Lands Day ; and Nov. 11 for Veterans Day .

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of this article misstated the location of the Flamingo Lodge. It is inside Everglades National Park, not outside the park.

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