travel to new york cost

• Travel Planning Guide

How much does a trip to New York City Cost?

How much money should you budget for your trip to New York City?

How much does a weekend trip to new york city cost.

• How much does a five-day trip to New York City cost?
• How much does a one-week trip to New York City cost?
• Hostel Prices
• Hotel Prices

The Cost of a Trip to New York City

A trip to New York City for one person usually costs between $115 and $1,017 per day and $231 to $2,035 for two people. This is a wide range of costs, and the daily average per person from our data is $326 per person. This average includes food, accommodation, sightseeing, and local transportation expenses contributed from other travelers. Prices can vary based on travel style and activities. While the overall price for a trip to New York City is dependent on your personal travel style and the specific places you visit, if you book standard accommodation and travel with an average level of convenience, then your budget should be somewhere close to this average cost. Later in this article, you can find a breakdown of travel expenses by category, plus a general price range of accommodation and activity costs for your visit. Also, the prices for individual attractions and hotels may vary, but generally fall somewhat close to the price ranges described in this article.

If you're planning an Independent trip to New York City, budget travelers should plan to spend around $115 per day for their trip. This average includes hostels and budget hotels, affordable meal options, local transportation, and activities. If you're on a mid-range budget, plan for around $326 a day which covers the cost of typical hotels, normal restaurants, and a variety of popular attractions. Luxury travelers should allow for $1,017 a day, which would cover higher-end hotels, nicer restaurants, and more private tour options. All of these price ranges are based on our extensive travel cost data for New York City from other travelers, along with hotel and tour data from travel companies.

On average, travelers spend around $977 per person during a three-day trip to New York City. This average includes expenses for sightseeing, hotels, food, and local transportation. To align with this average price range, consider opting for mid-range hotels and dining at mid-level restaurants, while also allocating funds for entry tickets to popular attractions. For those seeking a more budget-friendly approach, it is possible to find lower-cost accommodations, dine at less expensive restaurants, and explore free activities. Also, many visitors choose to spend a higher travel budget, as New York City offers a range of high-end hotels and restaurants for those seeking a more luxurious experience.

How much does a five day trip to New York City cost?

With five days in New York City, you can expect to spend about $1,629 total, not including transportation to and from the city. It's possible to stay close to this daily average by booking mid-range hotels, eating at normal restaurants, and paying for some entry tickets to popular attractions. It's possible to find lower-cost accommodations, eat at less expenive restaurants, and find more free activities if you want to spent less money.

How much does a one week trip to New York City cost?

Most visitors spend between $808 and $7,121 for a one week trip to New York City, with the average being $2,281 . This includes sightseeing, local transportation, food, and hotels. One week is enough time to have a more in-depth experience in New York City. Also, one week allows you to be more flexible with your time and money, so you can potentially save money on some aspects of your trip while spending more on others.

Hostel Prices in New York City

With more than 10 hostels in New York City, the average price is $53 per night for a dorm bed. The cheapest hostel costs $20 and the most expensive is $80. Usually popular with younger travelers, hostels are a great way to save money while also being social. But not all hostels are the same, and we've analyzed the prices of both dorms and private rooms to find the average prices and best places to stay. You can see more details about the hostel prices in New York City here .

Here are a few sample prices from popular hostels in New York City.

• $39 for a dorm bed at HI NYC Hostel in New York more details
• $57 for a dorm bed at The Local NYC in New York more details
• $50 for a dorm bed at International Student Center in New York more details

Hotel Prices in New York City

Based on our calculations from available hotels in the New York City, the average price for a hotel room is $175 per night. To save money, or if you're planning a more luxurious trip, it's important to look at hotel prices based on the overall star-rating as well as guest reviews. Also, prices can vary by amenities and location. Check out more details from our analysis of hotel prices in New York City here , and below is a breakdown of hotel prices by star-rating.

Merrion Row Hotel and Public House

Blakely new york hotel.

Should you do a tour in New York City?

Many visitors enjoy the convenience of booking tours and activities while they visit, and New York City has a wide array of things to do. These activities often include knowledgable guides and unique experiences. Tours range in price from $20 for the Walking tour in Manhattan Brooklyn Bridge and Waterfront to $1,000 for the New Year's Day Bateaux New York Dinner Cruise .

• New York City Historic Walking Tour of Hamilton and Washington Viator $ 50
• New York City Historic Walking Tour of Hamilton and Washington: $50
• Central Park Photography Tour with Local Photographer: $100
• Central Park Highlights Running Tour: $44
• Brooklyn NYC Food & Walking Tour with a 5th Generation New Yorker: $68
• The Best of Brooklyn Walking Tour: "The Brooklyn Revolution!": $50
• 5 Neighborhoods NYC Walking Tour: $68
• American Specialties Gourmet Tour in Greenwich Village: $95
• Private Central Park Tour with Native and Professional PhotoShoot: $173

More for New York City

If you're planning a trip to New York City, New York, check out these other informative travel guides.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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Cost of a Trip to New York & the Cheapest Time to Visit New York

The average price of a 7-day trip to New York is $1,376 for a solo traveler, $2,026 for a couple, and $4,011 for a family of 4 . New York hotels range from $75 to $348 per night with an average of $121, while most vacation rentals will cost $190 to $690 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to New York (from all airports) are between $764 and $1,118 per person for economy flights and $2,399 to $3,511 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $56 to $116 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit New York

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to New York and stay in a New York hotel:

• January 8th to March 25th (except the week of March 12th)
• August 13th to November 18th

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in New York is usually early to mid September .

Average New York Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit New York for a week is $1,480-$2,906 ($211-$415 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $56 to $116 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $476 to $972 for economy

Lodging : $102 to $134 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $153 to $187 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit New York for a week is $2,354-$4,690 ($336-$670 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $113 to $232 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $951 to $1,944 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit New York for a week is $4,702-$8,821 ($672-$1,260 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $225 to $463 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,903 to $3,888 for economy

Lodging : $204 to $269 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $229 to $282 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to New York

How cheap can you make a vacation to New York? The cheapest trip to New York is about $150 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 1% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $19 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $63.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit New York for a week is $1,050-$2,204 ($150-$315 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $28 to $56 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $63 to $75 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $110 to $140 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit New York for a week is $1,721-$3,568 ($246-$510 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $56 to $112 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit New York for a week is $3,449-$6,729 ($493-$961 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $112 to $225 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $127 to $149 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $166 to $211 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is very difficult to travel to New York cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury New York Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in New York.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit New York for a week is $3,002-$12,261 ($429-$1,752 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $113 to $232 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,179 to $2,417 for first class

Lodging : $172 to $348 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $685 to $1,370 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit New York for a week is $4,972-$16,296 ($710-$2,328 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $226 to $463 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,358 to $4,835 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit New York for a week is $9,950-$28,475 ($1,421-$4,068 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $453 to $926 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $4,715 to $9,669 for first class

Lodging : $344 to $697 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $1,024 to $2,054 per night for a preferred vacation rental

New York Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in New York is much higher than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in New York due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

New York Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on New York hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in New York.

Flight Costs to New York

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $1,118 average in late July to a low of $764 in early to mid September. Median flight price is $651. These prices are based on millions of flights. For New York our data includes hundreds of originating airports, and dozens of airlines. The area has average variance in price compared with other locations.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Tuesday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Tuesday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In New York, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $354, so you can easily save about 46% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around New York can easily cost $421 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $28 per person. Private tours can cost $843 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

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:

How to Experience Milwaukee Like a Local

The 7 Best Hotels in New York City

The 7 Best Hotels in Miami

Where to Stay in Miami: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

How to Spend 24 Hours in Raleigh, North Carolina

The 6 Best Hotels in Austin

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

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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Daily costs to visit new york city | nyc price guide.

The daily costs to visit New York City on a budget. How much to budget for food, accommodation, attractions, & more

New York City

New York City is one of the most-loved and most-visited cities in the world, but it’s also one of the most expensive travel destinations—I should know, I’ve lived here for more than seven years.

So how much does it cost to visit NYC? Well, that truly depends on your travel style. That’s why I’ve created this NYC Price Guide to give you some ballpark travel costs tailored for the average budget-conscious traveler.

This article is part of our City Price Guide Series —  Click here to see all our city price guides .

Average Daily Costs To Visit New York City

These NYC travel prices are calculated based on what you’ll need to visit New York comfortably — so it includes things like food, accommodation, sightseeing, transportation, etc.

But I haven’t included “extra” things like big nights out at the bar, club entry fees, souvenir/clothing shopping, tours, random purchases, higher-end dining, etc.  Don’t forget to budget extra for those “non-essentials.”

DAILY COST OF BUDGET TRAVEL IN NYC: $135-$220

• Attractions : $25 (one paid attraction + any free sights)
• Breakfast: $3-$7
• Lunch: $8-$14
• Dinner: $10-$20
• Treat (dessert/beer/wine): $7
• Transportation : $6
• Accommodation  (average hostel): $65/night
• Accommodation  (budget hotel): $150/night

DAILY COST OF FRUGAL TRAVEL IN NYC: $75

• Attractions : $10 (free walking tour + visit one of the free sights)
• Breakfast: $3-$4
• Lunch: $7 (ethnic street food, takeaway shop fare, deli sandwich, or similar)
• Dinner: $12 (make your own meal in the hostel or grab something cheap)
• Cheap Beer or treat: $4
• Transportation : $0 (explore by foot)
• Accommodation  (cheap hostel bed): $35

Don’t forget to buy a mobile data plan for your phone when you visit. Check out The Savvy Backpacker’s  Guide To The Best Prepaid Data Plans For the USA .

New York City Attraction and Museum Prices

Most of New York’s major paid attractions and museums are expensive so take that into consideration when you’re budgeting your trip. Here are a few of the most popular NYC attractions:

• Museum of Modern Art: $25
• Metropolitan Museum of Art: $30
• Guggenheim Museum: $25
• Natural History Museum: $28
• Whitney Art Museum: $25
• Top Of The Rock/Empire State Building Observatories: $40-$60
• Broadway Tickets: Averages around $100/ticket but range from $60-$250+

Note: Many museums have free/pay-what-you-wish days but expect huge crowds so get there early. Here is a complete list at NYC-Arts.org but here are a few highlights:

• Museum of Modern Art: 4-8 pm every Friday
• Whitney Museum of American Art: 7-9:30 pm every Friday
• Frick Collection: 11 am-1 pm is pay-what-you-wish every Sunday

Budget Tip:  Consider picking up the New York Pass if you want to see a lot in a short amount of time. You can read our  New York Pass Review  to see if it’s right for your trip.

New York City Food Prices

NYC has some of the best dining options in the world but eating out can quickly bust your budget. That said, there are a few budget-friendly options but I highly suggest adding a little extra to your food budget so you can eat at a few of NYC’s restaurants.

Local Tip: I highly suggest doing some research when it comes to eating in NYC as there are plenty of overpriced/low-quality establishments. I’ll give you some of my favorite spots but you should do some research as well.

NYC Budget Breakfast Options & Prices

New York has just about every breakfast option under the sun. Here are some sample prices:

• A bagel with cream cheese will cost between $3-$6. A bagel sandwich with eggs and cheese will run you around $5-$8. For a cheap, no-frills bagel with bacon, egg, and cheese , simply stop into just about any bodega.
• Basic coffee and croissant will set you back about $4-$7.
• A basic doughnut from a Dunkin is around $1.75-$2/each but a higher-end doughnut will cost between $3.75-$4.50/each.
• A typical omelet from a diner will be anywhere from $6.50-$10.
• You can buy affordable fruit from street vendors for cheaper than at the grocery store.

NYC Budget Lunch/Dinner Options & Prices

Most New Yorkers have very little time for lunch so they eat at their desks. That’s why you’ll find an abundance of takeaway restaurants serving soups, salads, and sandwiches — it’s pretty amazing how quickly these places crank this stuff out. Below are a few examples of typical food prices in NYC:

• Street food carts sell a range of affordable options like tacos, chicken over rice, hot dogs, gyros, etc. Most things tend to cost between $5-$9. There are also specialty food carts that tend to cost a little more.
• A premade sandwich or panini from a bodega/deli is usually $7-$10.
• A make-your-own salad typically costs between $8-$14.
• A slice of pizza will run you from $1.50 for a cheap slice to around $3.00-$5.50 for a quality slice.
• A quality personal Neapolitan pizza will set you back around $14-$18. A sharable pizza costs $22-$30.
• A good taco costs around $3-$5/each and a burrito will be $9-$10.
• Chicken and waffles from a Harlem soul food joint tend to cost around $18.
• Chinese food from Chinatown offers plenty of budget-friendly options. An order of soup dumplings cost around $8-$10 for eight dumplings. Other main dishes will range from $10-$18+ depending on what you get.
• Tasty ramen from most quality ramen restaurants will be around $9-$14.
• Two hotdogs and a drink from Gray’s Papaya is $8.
• A double Shack Burger from Shake Shack is $8. Add another $3 for fries. A burger and fries at a sit-down restaurant will run you around $12-$19.

My favorite budget-friendly Lunch and Dinner Restaurants (aka Meals around $10)

Here’s a list of places I eat when I’m on a budget. This is by no means an exhaustive list of every budget restaurant in NYC (I’m working on a bigger list) but these are all solid places.

• Joe’s Pizza: Old-school and no-frills takeaway pizza joint in Greenwich Village that’s been around since 1975. Cheese slices are $3 each. Joe’s now has multiple locations. See Locations on Google Maps
• 2 Bros Pizza: New York has plenty of $1.50 slice pizza joints but 2 Bros. is your best bet. It’s not gourmet but it’s a solid option if you’re on a budget. See Locations on Google Maps
• Halal Guys: This famous middle eastern restaurant started off as a food cart but got so popular it expanded to two other storefronts. A regular gyro platter is about $10. It’s plenty filling, delicious, and a local favorite. See Locations on Google Maps
• Num Pang: This joint serves up delicious Cambodian sandwiches ($9-$12/each) and a few other things like soups and salads. This is a personal favorite of mine when I’m on the go. They have multiple locations. See Locations on Google Maps
• Shake Shack: Ahh, yes. The famous Shake Shack. This is my favorite fast-food burger restaurant in NYC. A ShackBurger and an order of their famous fries will set you back about $10. There are 20+ locations in NYC so they’re easy to find (but always busy). See Locations on Google
• Gray’s Papaya: You can get a famous “dirty water dog” from street vendors on just about every street but I prefer getting my cheap hotdogs from Gray’s Papaya (they’ve been around for years). It’s certainly no-frills but it’s cheap — around $7 for two hot dogs + a drink. See Locations on Google Maps
• Charles Country Pan-Fried Chicken: Budget travelers should head up to Harlem for filling and authentic soul food for affordable prices. At the no-frills Charles County (which is also a James Beard Award finalist), you’ll get two pieces of chicken, two 2 sides, and cornbread for about $12. See on Google Maps
• Vanessa’s Dumpling House: You can find excellent (and affordable) dumplings at multiple Chinese restaurants in Chinatown but Vanessa’s is a longtime local favorite. Vanessa’s is no-frills but you’ll walk out stuffed for under $15. See Location on Google Maps
• Xi’an Famous Foods: Excellent northwestern Chinese hand-pulled noodles for around $10. Yes, please. I love this place. These guys started in a humble 200-square-foot basement stall in Flushing, NY but have exploded in popularity so they now have 15 locations in NYC. See Locations on Google Maps
• Absolute Bagels : This is my favorite bagel joint in NYC (expect a line every weekend morning). The bagels are made fresh all day. Its Upper West Side location is a bit out of the way if you’re downtown but it’s worth checkout out if you’re in the hood. See on Google Maps
• Mamoun’s: This local favorite Middle Eastern chain has been serving falafel, shawarma, kebabs & more for very affordable prices since 1971. Sandwiches are $6-$8 and a combo plate is around $10-12. They now have multiple locations. See On Google Maps
• Malatesta Trattoria: Malatesta is a charming little cash-only Italian joint in the West Village that serves up tasty homemade pasta at fair prices. A main pasta dish costs $12-$15. They’re always bustling (plus they have outside seating in the summer) so reservations are recommended. See on Google Maps
• Ramen: NYC has plenty of excellent ramen restaurants and you can expect to spend around $13-$15 for a bowl. My favorite ramen restaurants are Hide-Chan , Ipuudo , and Totto (but there are plenty of other options).
• Bánh Mì Saigon: Bánh Mì Saigon is a tiny, bare-bones joint that serves up classic Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches priced around $6-$8. See on Google Maps
• Superiority Burger: This small vegetarian restaurant is famous for its veggie burgers and plenty of other excellent vegetarian/vegan options. The Standard veggie burger is a bit small and costs $6 but they have a “normal” size burger for $9. See on Google Maps

NYC Drink & Dessert Prices

It’s easy to be tempted by all the desserts, coffee, and alcohol in NYC. In fact, it’s good to treat yourself but it doesn’t come cheap. In fact, alcohol is a real budget killer.

• Cocktails tend to start around $13 but can easily be $18-$22.
• A typical domestic beer costs $6-$8 but nicer beers are $8-$12. You can find cheaper alcohol options during happy hour if you seek them out.
• An espresso or simple black coffee will run you around $3-$3.50. Cappuccinos and similar coffee drinks will set you back around $5.00-$6.00.
• Two scoops of quality ice cream will cost $5-$8.
• Really good cookies are generally around $4,50-$6.
• Specialty doughnuts cost $3-$5/each.

New York City Transportation Prices

NYC is a big city with multiple excellent neighborhoods so you’ll certainly want to use public transportation at least once or twice a day.

Subway and Bus

The best and most affordable way to get around NYC is the subway. A single ride costs $2.75 and a 7-Day Unlimited Ride pass is $33 . Unfortunately, there isn’t an unlimited day pass.

The bus uses the same ticket as the subway.

Taxis and Uber/Lyft

Taxis are plentiful in Manhattan (unless it’s raining) and you rarely have to wait for more than a few minutes for an Uber — but they’re both a lot more expensive than taking the subway. Expect to pay $15-$35 for a ride within Manhattan.

NYC Accommodation Prices

Staying in Manhattan is expensive — even shoebox-sized hotel rooms are far from cheap. Options get a little cheaper in Brooklyn, Queens, or New Jersey. But, if you can afford it, I recommend trying to stay in Manhattan to get the true New York City experience.

Average NYC Hotel Prices

If you have the cash, I recommend staying in Manhattan. Specifically, I recommend staying in downtown Manhattan but most visitors end up staying in Midtown (i.e. around Times Square).

Here are average hotel prices for Manhattan (based on a mid-June stay):

• Average Two-Star Hotel Prices: The average price per night is $175 (ranges from $150-$250).
• Average Three-Star Hotel Prices: The average price per night is $225 (ranges from $175-$330).
• Average Four-Star Hotel Prices: The average price per night is $270 (ranges from $215-$380).

Average NYC Hostel Prices

While NYC does have a handful of hostels, it doesn’t have many when you compare it to European cities — therefore prices tend to be comparatively high. Check out our guide to the best hostels in NYC to learn more about my top-hostel picks but below are the average hostel prices for NYC:

A bed in a good hostel will cost anywhere from about  $40-$80/night  with an  average of around $55/night . The cheapest hostel you’ll find will cost around $35/night but the quality most likely won’t be great.

Also, many NYC hostels only have private rooms so they’re more like “budget hotels” — which also means the prices are higher at these hostels since you have privacy.

NYC’s Top-Rated Hostels:

• Prices start around $100 for a single, $134 for a double, and $140 for a triple (via  Hostelworld ):
• Prices start around $55/night (via  Hostelworld ):
• Prices start around $120/night for a single, $280 for a double, & $335 for a 4-bed room (via  Hostelworld ):
• Prices start around $45/night (via  Hostelworld ):

NOTE: These are “high-season” prices for the cheapest bed option — off-season prices will be 20%-30% cheaper. Also, prices are often a little more expensive on Friday and Saturday nights than on weeknights. 

Check  Hostelworld  to get exact prices for your dates.

More NYC Travel Tips

I’m constantly adding new NYC travel tips to The Savvy Backpacker. Check them out!

• New York City Travel Guide
• The Best Things to Do in NYC
• The Best Hotels in NYC
• New York Pass Review
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April 27, 2021

8 minute read

How Much Does a Trip to New York Cost?

New York City is one of those places everyone should visit at least once. A day in the city won’t do, either. You need to explore everything the five boroughs have to offer, hit all the famous sights, dine in style, and return to a luxury room for some relaxation if not shuteye—recall that it is the city that never sleeps. 

But what exactly does a trip like that cost? Well, that’s a difficult question to answer. It depends on many factors: your length (and type) of stay, the size of your travel party, your destination of origin, and the number (and nature) of activities, to name a few. 

Let’s simplify it. Say, you’re taking a domestic flight to NYC and staying for seven days and seven nights by yourself. Your initial budget, with no additional expenses for theater or sports tickets, could look something like this: 

• A 7-day MetroPass for $33
• A roundtrip flight for $300
• A hotel room for $200
• $40 a day for meals

That adds up to $2,013 and covers basic transportation, lodging, and food. 

Of course, that number significantly increases the more events you tack on, and if your family or friends join you. 

Instead of focusing on how much you should budget (and it’s best to plan to spend more than expected) for your trip, narrow down a tight itinerary and stick to it as best as you can.

Important Budget Considerations

Before you pull out your calculator, it’s important to nail down the basics of your trip by answering these questions: 

• How many people are you traveling with? Any children? 
• When would you like to go?
• Are you looking for a luxury stay or a budget hotel room? 
• How long are you staying?
• Are you interested in eating at high-end restaurants or sampling street food?
• What activities would you like to do? 
• How do you plan to get around? 

Once you have confirmed answers, start to map out your budget, and don’t be afraid to get into the nitty-gritty. 

For example, do you want to go to a specific Broadway show, or just experience a Broadway show? Regular ticket prices range from $20 to $175 , so if you want to get in the door, you can at a decent rate. If you want to see ‘Hamilton’ or ‘Rent’ from a luxury seat, however, be prepared to spend a pretty penny. 

Premium prices apply to sporting events as well. Regardless of the quality of the teams, ticket prices to see the New York Knicks tend to exceed those to watch the Brooklyn Nets. The same is true of the New York Yankees and Mets. If you just want to catch a ballgame, pick the latter. But if you consider a trip to Madison Square Garden or Yankee Stadium a bucket list item, you’ll need to account for a higher expense in your budget. 

Then there’s dining. It’s one thing to subsist on fare from hot dog vendors and food trucks. It’s quite another to hit a different upscale steakhouse with a sweeping view every night. All to say, it doesn’t hurt to explore menus (especially for those picky eaters), and identify your nights out well ahead of time. 

Ways to Extend Your Budget

Now, if you look at your potential itinerary and see nothing but dollar signs flying across the screen, don’t panic! There are ways to get the most bang for your buck without sacrificing entertainment. 

For starters, invest in a MetroCard. For just $33, you can ride subways and buses the whole week. (To give you perspective, that cost is the equivalent of two shorter cab rides.) That will allow you to explore the city during the day and reserve the taxi or ride-shares for select evenings out--especially if the whole family is in tow. 

Another crucial purchase is a 7-day New York Pass , particularly appealing to sightseers. Consider that a ticket to the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building is $75 for one adult. A ferry ticket to explore Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty is $23.50. If you and your significant other want to see multiple attractions, the bill adds up. 

Well, at $299 for adults and $199 for children, the New York Pass covers entries for those landmarks, as well as a number of museums, including the Guggenheim, Museum of Natural History, MoMA, and the Met. 

You’ll also save money just by leaving Manhattan. Queens, the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Staten Island are all filled with terrific restaurants that significantly beat the prices of those found in Times Square. 

Finally, the best way to maximize your budget is to do things that are free . It costs nothing to stroll through Central Park, marvel at Grand Central Station, people-watch in Midtown Manhattan, or settle in at historic Greenwich Village for a while.

You may find that your favorite New York activity was one you didn’t pay for. 

Get the Most Value by Working With a Travel Advisor

Let’s return to the initial question: How much does a trip to New York cost? Although we’ve covered ways to set and extend your budget, there’s one thing that we haven’t really touched on: Cost doesn’t equal value. 

Really, you should build a trip that will have everyone in your travel party talking for years at the best available price to you. That’s difficult to do on your own. 

So why go at it alone? InteleTravel Advisors are here to deliver a trip of a lifetime. They’re walking, talking experts in all things New York. They can tell you what spots you need to hit. Perhaps more importantly, they’ll also share the ones to avoid. A reservation at that trendy restaurant? You got it. A ticket to Broadway? Done. 

They’ll work to understand your preferences, and have exclusive access to discounted rates and upgrades. You just might find yourself in a luxury room at a general price. 

For a trip to the city that never sleeps, why lose sleep planning it all? Stress less, travel more, and rest easy by contacting an InteleTravel Advisor today.

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How much does a trip to New York City cost?

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• New York City travel costs

If you’re planning on travelling to New York, you’re probably wondering how much you need to budget for your trip. While your travel costs will depend on your travel style, generally speaking New York is best for travellers with some spending money.

Accommodation costs are generally on the high side and food and drinks are relatively expensive. Many of New York’s best attractions are rather expensive to visit and, while some activities could set you back a fair amount, there’s plenty to do at lower price points too.

How much should I budget for a trip to New York?

A reasonable budget for two for a weekend in New York is around $1,200 . This assumes you’ll be spending two nights and three days in the city.

The above cost is based on staying in good, mid-range accommodation and going to a mix of restaurants and cafes for meals . It makes allowances for a couple of sightseeing activities, but doesn’t take into account expensive activities like adventure sports or private tours.

How much does accommodation cost?

You can expect to spend between $200-$300 a night, per couple, on accommodation in New York. This will get you a private room with your own bathroom in a 3-4-star hotel or apartment rental.

Hostels are, of course, cheaper, but a private room with a shared bathroom will still cost around $120 per night. A bed in a dorm room also averages around $60 per night, per person, although there are definitely cheaper options out there.

As is the case in many major cities, accommodation costs in New York City vary, depending on which neighbourhood you choose to stay in. Manhattan is considerably more expensive than Brooklyn and the further away you get, the more affordable the accommodation. Saying that, there are a few cheaper neighbourhoods in New York City which are still very convenient. If you're still deciding where to stay, read our neighbourhood guide for New York .

How much should I budget for food and drinks in New York?

Budget to spend around $450 for two for a weekend in New York. This assumes you’re eating out and drinking some alcohol.

If you enjoy eating out, you can expect to pay around $115 for a nice dinner for two, including an alcoholic drink. A meal at a pub is likely to be around $65 for two, with cheaper meals available (especially for lunch) for around $15 each. You can buy a beer from a bar for around $7 and you can expect to pay around $5 for a cappuccino from a local café.

While eating out in New York can be expensive, groceries and fast food options are a lot more affordable. If you want to spend less than the above, finding cheaper places to eat is the way to go. Look for food trucks, head to Chinatown and try the local bagels and hot dogs - typical New York food .

How much does it cost to get around New York?

Getting around New York is easiest with a train. Transport costs fluctuate depending how much you travel, but budgeting around $70 for two is a good starting point. This should allow you to take a couple of intercity train routes. If you’re planning on doing any tours or using hop-on hop-off buses, you’ll need to up your budget a bit.

Expect to use the subway to get around New York City. You can buy a MetroCard with unlimited trips or pay as you go. The above amount will cover unlimited MetroCards for two people.

What should I expect to spend on activities?

A lot of the best things to do in New York are free. However, there definitely are some attractions that cost money – entry fees to a museum or an art gallery are usually around $25 - $60 per person. If you want to do organised day trips or join smaller tour groups to learn more about some of the sites, budget around $150 per activity per person.

New York is a beautiful destination to visit and although it’s not cheap, it’s definitely possible to travel there for less. Cooking your own meals, carefully selecting accommodation or limiting meals out will definitely help you to reduce your travel costs. And, if you're wanting to treat yourself, there are many luxury options available.

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Last Updated 26 May 2022

New York Travel Prices: What Things Cost in NYC

A handy guide to New York City prices for travelers when it comes to transportation, lodging, food, and beyond. Learn what things cost, how to budget your trip, and more! Questions after reading?

NYC is accessible on any budget (but you need to know what you're doing)

The cost of living in New York City is higher than in other parts of the country (which makes sense: it’s basically the center of the universe). But honestly, NYC is totally accessible at any price point. When it comes to eating out in NYC , yeah, you can totally find tasting menus in the $200 range. But you can also find excellent pizza for just $1 at places like 2 Bros.*

The same idea applies for most everything—transportation, activities, etc.—which we’ll get into below. The big takeaway: if you know how to avoid the tourist traps and experience the city like a local , New York is totally affordable.

*The best dollar pizza spots are highly debated. Talk to a New Yorker for more pizza recs.

Food and drink can get pricey, but there are cheap options everywhere

New York is home to some of the best high-end restaurants in the world, but there are also thousands of out-of-this-world budget spots if you know where to look. See what New York locals say about where to get the best dollar dumplings, pizza slices, and food truck grub in the city. Their recommendations can make NYC budget travel so easy.

Transportation within the city can range dramatically in price

The subway is the best and least expensive way to get around the city ( tickets are only $2.75 , or $3.00 for a single ride). Four million people use the subway every day, so it’s a safe and easy way to explore.

Aside from the subway, you can take taxis or use rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft (or Via or Juno or anything else—if it’s new, New York likely has it). If you want to rent a car (and we can’t say we recommend it: Manhattan parking, HAH) it’ll be about $50–$100/day, depending on the car and company.

Finally, there is a free way to get around New York City… walking! NYC is flat and super easy to navigate (thank you, grid system).

Pro tip : New York City is safe , even at night. But if you ever feel uncomfortable walking or talking the subway, go ahead and call that Uber. Safety is priceless.

You can find awesome activities to fit your budget

No matter what you want to do, you can likely find it on the cheap in New York. Excited about comedy clubs but unwilling to spend $20 for a show? Check out an open mic night. Into museums but worried about the price tag? Many NYC museums offer pay-as-you-can deals or have specific free days .

Plus there are free activities everywhere , like the Staten Island Ferry, the Chelsea High Line, and so many more. Talk to someone who actually lives in NYC to get the low-down on the coolest activities, all tailored to your budget!

Knowing where to stay depends on your budget and neighborhood preference

Where you stay in New York City really depends on what you want to be close to, and what your budget is like.

If you want to live like Friends , check out Greenwich Village. To indulge in hipster activities like great craft beer and street art, maybe Bushwick is more your speed. The neighborhoods in NYC are all really different, so talk to a local to narrow down the best place for your tastes.

You might even want to spend a night or two in upstate New York . Areas like the Hudson Valley and the Catskills are gorgeous. They're wonderful places for a day trip or for camping and hiking! We can connect you with a local in upstate, too.  Learn more . 

You can get to and from NYC’s airports at any price point

There are multiple airports that serve NYC, each with multiple ways to get to/from the city.

JFK: A taxi from JFK to Manhattan costs a flat fee of $52, although cabs are metered going to the airport. An Uber can cost anywhere between $45–$55 or more ( or possibly less if you choose the UberPool option). You can also take the subway—it’s the cheapest, but least time-efficient. JFK’s AirTrain transfers straight to the A train.

LaGuardia (LGA): Many of the options to and from LGA are the same as those to and from JFK: you can take a taxi, Uber, or use public transportation. Note: there is no flat taxi fare from LGA to Manhattan. Also, LGA doesn’t have an AirTrain like JFK—instead, you can take the M60 bus into the city or to a free subway connection along the way.

Newark-Liberty (EWR): The EWR AirTrain will take you to NJTransit or Amtrack trains (both of which go straight into Manhattan). Or, you can Uber or grab a taxi. If you choose to take a cab, there's $69 flat fare from Manhattan to EWR.=

The truth is, an NYC trip can be as budget-friendly or over-the-top as you want it to be. So have one of our New York locals start planning your trip ! They’ll design a custom itinerary around your budget, travel style, interests, and preferences. Plus, they’ll offer tons of insider tips (best happy hours, anyone?), and they’ll be available by phone 24/7 in case you run into any issues. Get started ! And don’t forget to check out:

• Connect With a Local to Plan Your Trip
• New York City Travel FAQs 2024
• Where to Stay in NYC: Neighborhood Pros and Cons
• The Dos and Don’ts of New York Travel
• Locals Recommend: 18 Things to Do in NYC
• New York Transportation: Everything You Need to Know

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Planning a Trip to New York City: A Complete Guide to the Cost

by Trip.com

March 3, 2023

Statue of Liberty / Source: Trip.com

Flights to New York

Here are some average flight prices to New York City from major cities around the world below:

• Los Angeles: $250-$350 USD
• London: $400-$600 USD
• Tokyo: $800-$1,000 USD
• Sydney: $1,000-$1,500 USD
• Dubai: $700-$900 USD
• Toronto: $200-$300 USD

How to save money on flight bookings?

Here are some tips for saving money on flight bookings via Trip.com, listed in point form:

• Use the Trip.com app: The Trip.com app often offers exclusive discounts and deals on flights, hotels, and other travel arrangements.
• Sign up for Trip.com membership: Members of Trip.com can enjoy special discounts and rewards, as well as access to exclusive promotions and deals.
• Be flexible with travel dates: Flights on certain days of the week or at certain times of day may be less expensive than others. Use Trip.com's flexible search options to find the best deals.
• Book in advance: Booking flights well in advance can often save you money, as prices tend to rise closer to the travel date.
• Consider layovers: Flights with layovers may be less expensive than non-stop flights. Use Trip.com's search options to compare prices and travel times.
• Compare prices: Use Trip.com's price comparison tool to compare prices from different airlines and find the best deal.
• Use promo codes and coupons: Trip.com often offers promo codes and coupons that can be applied to flight bookings for additional savings.

Accommodations

Conrad New York Downtown / Source: Trip.com

Here's a table listing different types of accommodations in New York City with their features, average prices, and what they provide:

** Please note that these prices are approximate and can vary depending on location, season, and other factors. **

Best Hotels in New York

Conrad new york downtown, times square edition new york, royalton park avenue, intercontinental new york times square, an ihg hotel, new york marriott marquis, business travel, hyatt grand central new york, even hotel brooklyn, an ihg hotel, fairfield inn & suites by marriott new york manhattan/central park, millennium premier new york times square, sheraton tribeca new york hotel, family friendly, the rockaway hotel, hilton garden inn nyc financial center/manhattan downtown, doubletree by hilton new york downtown, the new yorker a wyndham hotel.

1. The Plaza New York - A Fairmont Managed Hotel

• Address: 768 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019
• Average price: $800 per night

The Plaza New York - A Fairmont Managed Hotel

The Plaza New York- A Fairmont Managed Hotel

Airport pickup service

Pets allowed

Check Availability

2. The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue

• Address: 400 5th Ave, New York, NY 10018
• Average price: $600 per night

The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue

3. The Greenwich Hotel

• Address: 377 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10013

The Greenwich Hotel

Swimming pool

4. The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park

• Address: 50 Central Park S, New York, NY 10019
• Average price: $700 per night

The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park

5. The Peninsula New York

• Address: 700 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019

The Peninsula New York

** Reminders: These prices are subject to change and can vary depending on factors such as season and availability. Be sure to check with the hotel directly for the most up-to-date pricing and availability. **

How to Save Money on Hotel bookings?

Trip.com Rewards Loyalty Program / Source: Trip.com

Transportation

New York Subway / Source: Andre Benz @ unsplash

Here is a table of average transportation prices in New York City:

Here is a table of estimated transportation fees for different trip lengths in New York City:

** Reminder: Please note that these are estimated prices and can vary depending on your transportation choices and activities. **

Sightseeing & Ticket

If you're planning a trip to New York City, it's essential to consider the cost of sightseeing and tickets. With so many iconic attractions to visit, it's easy to get carried away and overspend. However, with a little bit of planning and research, you can save money and make the most of your trip to New York without breaking the bank.

Time Square / Source: Trip.com

Here is a table of estimated Sightseeing & Ticket fees for different trip lengths in New York City:

New York Must-go Attractions

Dumbo / Source: Trip.com

1. Statue of Liberty

• Address: Liberty Island, New York, NY 10004, USA
• Admission ticket price: $18.50-$25 (depending on age and type of ticket)
• Opening hour: 9:00am to 5:00pm (last ferry departs from Liberty Island at 5:00pm)

2. Empire State Building

• Address: 350 5th Ave, New York, NY 10118, USA
• Admission ticket price: $38-$58 (depending on age and type of ticket)
• Opening hour: 8:00am to 2:00am

Empire State Building / Source: Trip.com

3. Metropolitan Museum of Art

• Address: 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028, USA
• Admission ticket price: $25 (suggested admission for adults)
• Opening hour: 10:00am to 5:00pm (Mon - Thurs & Sun) | 10:00am to 9:00pm (Fri - Sat)

The Metropolitan Museum of Art / Source: Trip.com

4. Central Park

• Address: 14 E 60th St, New York, NY 10022, USA
• Admission ticket price: Free
• Opening hour: 6:00am to 1:00am

Central Park / Source: Trip.com

5. The 9/11 Memorial and Museum

• Address: 180 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10007, United States
• Admission ticket price: General admission: $28 for adults (ages 18-64), $22 for seniors (ages 65+), $20 for youth (ages 7-17), free for children under 7
• Opening hour: 9:00am to 8:00pm (last entry at 6:00pm) | Closed on September 11th and May 1st

The 9/11 Memorial and Museum / Source: Trip.com

Here are some average costs for food and dining in New York City:

Popular Restaurant in New York

1. Katz's Delicatessen

• A legendary Jewish deli on the Lower East Side known for its overstuffed sandwiches and pickles.

2. The Halal Guys

• A food cart turned chain restaurant that serves up delicious Middle Eastern street food, particularly their famous chicken and rice platter.

3. Joe's Pizza

• An iconic Greenwich Village pizzeria that has been serving up thin-crust slices for over 40 years.

4. Le Bernardin

• A three-Michelin-starred seafood restaurant in Midtown that has been consistently ranked as one of the best restaurants in the world.

5. Peter Luger Steak House

• A Brooklyn instituti on that has been serving up some of the city's best steaks since 1887.

Shopping and Souvenir

Here is a table with some average prices for souvenirs and shopping in New York City:

Here are some iconic brands that are closely associated with New York City:

• Tiffany & Co.
• Macy's
• Bloomingdale's
• Saks Fifth Avenue
• Bergdorf Goodman
• Barneys New York
• FAO Schwarz
• The NBA Store
• The NHL Store
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art Store
• Dylan's Candy Bar
• Shake Shack
• Katz's Delicatessen
• Baked by Melissa

Wifi and Communications

• Wi-Fi - Many hotels, coffee shops, and public spaces in New York City offer free Wi-Fi. However, if you need to purchase Wi-Fi access, prices can range from $5-$15 per day.
• SIM cards - If you're traveling from abroad, purchasing a SIM card can be a good option for staying connected. Prices can vary depending on the carrier and plan, but typically start at around $30 for a basic plan with limited data.
• International roaming - If you plan to use your existing phone plan while traveling to New York City, be sure to check with your carrier for international roaming rates. These can be quite expensive, with data charges sometimes reaching $10 or more per MB.
• Mobile hotspots - If you need to connect multiple devices to Wi-Fi while on the go, renting a mobile hotspot can be a good option. Prices vary depending on the provider, but typically start at around $10-$15 per day.

Here are some key factors to consider when calculating the cost of travel insurance for a trip to New York City:

• Trip length - The longer your trip, the higher the cost of insurance will likely be.
• Age - Travel insurance premiums are typically higher for older travelers.
• Coverage level - Basic travel insurance typically covers trip cancellation, medical expenses, and emergency evacuation. However, more comprehensive coverage options are available, which can include coverage for lost or stolen luggage, trip interruption, and more.
• Activities - If you plan to engage in high-risk activities like extreme sports or adventure travel, you may need to purchase additional coverage.
• Pre-existing conditions - If you have a pre-existing medical condition, you may need to purchase a policy with additional coverage to ensure you are adequately protected.

New York Travel Tips

New York Public Library / Source: Trip.com

• Use public transportation - New York City has an extensive public transportation system, including subways and buses, that can get you anywhere you need to go. It's a cost-effective and efficient way to get around the city.
• Wear comfortable shoes - New York City is a walking city, so comfortable shoes are a must. You'll likely be walking more than you expect, so make sure your feet are prepared.
• Carry cash - While credit cards are widely accepted in New York City, it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases or in case of emergencies.
• Be aware of your surroundings - New York City is generally a safe place to visit, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid pickpockets or other scams.
• Check the weather - New York City experiences all four seasons, so be sure to check the weather forecast before you pack. In the summer, it can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy.
• Plan ahead for popular attractions - New York City is home to many popular attractions like the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. To avoid long lines and crowds, consider purchasing tickets in advance or visiting during off-peak hours.
• Be respectful - New York City is a melting pot of cultures and backgrounds. Be respectful of others and their cultures, and try to learn and experience as much as you can while visiting.

Best Time to Travel New York

Here is the information on the best time to travel to New York City:

How to Save Money at Trip.com?

• Use promo codes and coupons
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• Use Trip.com's price alert feature to monitor price changes and get notified of deals

Planning a trip to New York City can be exciting, but it's important to be aware of the associated costs. From accommodation and transportation to dining and activities, the trip to New York cost can add up quickly. However, with careful planning and budgeting, it's possible to enjoy everything this vibrant city has to offer without breaking the bank.

By using our comprehensive guide to the cost of a trip to New York City, you can feel confident in creating a budget that suits your needs and preferences, ensuring an unforgettable trip while keeping the trip to New York cost in check.

What is the best time to visit New York City?

The best time to visit New York City is during the fall (September to November) or spring (April to June) when the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded.

What is the average cost of living in New York City?

The cost of living in New York City is higher than the national average, but it varies depending on the neighborhood and lifestyle.

How much does it cost to visit the Statue of Liberty?

The cost of visiting the Statue of Liberty varies depending on the type of tour and access level. A general admission ticket to Liberty Island and Ellis Island costs $18.50 for adults and $14 for children (ages 4-12).

Can I save money on dining in New York City?

Yes, there are many ways to save money on dining in New York City. Consider eating at food trucks or street vendors, cooking meals at your accommodation, or checking out happy hour specials.

Is it possible to visit New York City on a budget?

Yes, it is possible to visit New York City on a budget. By choosing budget-friendly accommodation, using public transportation, and seeking out free or low-cost activities, you can have an enjoyable experience without breaking the bank.

Cost of a Trip to New York

• 1. Flights to New York
• 2. Accommodations
• 3. Transportation
• 4. Sightseeing & Ticket
• 6. Shopping and Souvenir
• 7. Wifi and Communications
• 8. Insurance
• 9. New York Travel Tips
• 10. How to Save Money at Trip.com?
• 11. Conclusion

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How to Travel to New York City Cheaply: Our Top 35 Tips

Yes, you can experience New York City on a budget. Here are 35 ways to save money on an NYC vacation. 

By Pauline Frommer

June 20, 2023

New York City has more billionaires  than anywhere else on earth. But that doesn’t mean you have to be a one-percenter to visit. There are ways to do the city affordably, provided you’re savvy about it and willing to be flexible.

What follows are 35 helpful tips for planning an affordable trip to New York City, whose great riches—and I mean cultural riches such as Broadway shows, world-class museums, extraordinary architecture, innovative restaurants, top-tier dance and music, engaging literary events, and much, much more—still make NYC one of the most rewarding vacation destinations in the United States.

By the way, I’m the author of Frommer’s New York City 2023,  so if you like what you read here, consider getting the guidebook for even deeper intel on planning a great trip. 

Timing Accommodations Getting Around Sightseeing Entertainment Food Shopping Getting There

Visit in January, February, or March .   This is the most important tip on this list. During the chilly winter months, New York goes on sale—there are often promos for discount theater tickets and restaurant meals, as well as lower airfares into the city’s hubs. Most important, hotel prices drop an average of 66% compared to other times of year. I’ve seen rooms at very nice hotels sell for $129 per night in February; that same unit goes for $399 between September and the end of December. And that huge spread in costs is the rule, not the exception.

Fortunately, it’s not much of a sacrifice to come to New York in deep winter, since most of the city’s top sights and experiences are indoors. Because of climate change, snowy days and bitterly cold temperatures are few and far between in any case.  

Stay a Sunday night . One legacy of the pandemic is that New York has turned into more of a long weekend destination than a center for business travel. Consequently, Sunday nights are very quiet as other travelers head back home—and you can get a February-style deal if you just want to dip into the city for a night (or two—Mondays are the week's second-least expensive night at the moment).

Accommodations

Book reservations you can cancel .   This may not be the case in other markets, but in New York   last-minute hotel deals are almost always better than pay-in-advance rates. Do reserve a room when you first make plans to ensure you have a backup bed, but then undertake a search in the week leading up to your trip. Unless a major event such as the New York City Marathon is scheduled, you’ll almost always find that rates have dropped. Cancel your original reservation and opt for the lower price instead.  

Use a club to find a hotel . How you do that search is also important. I've found that those who book through private clubs such as  @Hotel   on Instagram, Travel + Leisure Go , and  Room Steals get better rates. For an explanation of why their rates are lower and a rundown of the pluses and minuses, click here . 

Or try Priceline . Especially if you want to find a deal on a hotel in Manhattan—Priceline has options for a number of midrange chains there. The online travel agency's Express Deals offer unusually low rates for overnighters willing to book without knowing the name of the hotel (though we know a free and easy hack for figuring out the name before booking).

Stay in Long Island City . Despite the name, this is a neighborhood in Queens that’s just one or two subway stops from Manhattan, making it a convenient area for sightseers. Until recently, Long Island City was mostly industrial, so the many chain hotels here charge less than they would in Manhattan or Brooklyn, because you'll likely have to travel to reach some of the restaurants and bars on your must-see list. 

This is one of the few affordable NYC neighborhoods for hotels. These days, most Brooklyn properties are as pricey as those in Manhattan—with the exception of hotels (like the one pictured above) in less touristed neighborhoods such as Red Hook. Decent hotel options are lacking in the rest of Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island.

Despite what you read elsewhere, I can't recommend booking an Airbnb for one simple reason: Almost all short-term rentals are against the law in New York City, which doesn’t allow rentals of under 30 days except with a rarely issued special license. Though the city has delayed enforcement of the law, an Airbnb crackdown could leave you bedless. 

Opt for a New Jersey hotel—but only if there's a rail link . New York City has one of the country's worst commutes—not to mention horrifically high parking prices—so I don’t recommend staying in New Jersey and driving into the city using your own vehicle or riding a bus. However, there are a handful of hotels situated near the PATH train  in Jersey City, Hoboken , and Newark that could work. Only use this tip if the above strategies don’t pan out .  

Getting Around

Just walk . That’s what New Yorkers do! Wear comfortable shoes and enjoy the fascinating parade of fellow pedestrians as well as the endless varieties of restaurants, shops, and pocket parks. Manhattan, the borough where most visitors spend the bulk of their time ('cause that's where the densest concentration of important museums and historic sights is), has a grid system for the majority of streets, so it's simple to avoid getting lost. Going uptown? Look for numbers going up. Going east? Fifth Avenue is the dividing line between east and west for most of the island. 

Rely on subways and buses . If you have to go a considerable distance—say, a mile and a half or more—hop on a bus or the subway. At $2.75 per ride, this is the most cost-effective way to get around, beyond strolling, and the subway will often get you where you’re going far faster than a taxi, thanks to perennially gridlocked streets. Buses get their own lanes on many avenues and are therefore more efficient than taxis and Uber rides much of the time. 

For tips on navigating New York for those with accessibility concerns, consult the Metropolitan Transit Authority's accessible transit guide  or the guide to accessibile transportation compiled by New York City's official tourism office .

Sightseeing Savings

Take a free harbor cruise for up-close views of the Statue of Liberty .   There’s no cost to jump aboard the Staten Island Ferry , and while I don’t recommend tourists spend much time in Staten Island (simply take the ferry back; other boroughs have more items of interest), getting into New York Harbor and seeing the city and Lady Liberty from that viewpoint is a splendid experience.

See incredible NYC views without paying a dime . Yes, going to the top of the Empire State Building is a classic tourist experience. And the new SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is a hoot with its all-glass interior, floating mirrored balls, and fab Midtown views. But at $42 to $79, those skyline-skimming experiences are not cheap. You can see spectacular cityscapes for free from these spots: 

• • the top of Little Island
• •  Domino Park
• •  Brooklyn Heights Promenade
• • the walkway of the Brooklyn Bridge
• •  Belvedere Castle in Central Park
• •  Governors Island
• • the upper levels of the Shops at Columbus Circle  for Central Park views (pictured below)
• •  Brooklyn Bridge Park

Or, for really high views for the cost of a cocktail, head to Overstory , Manhatta , or Dear Irving .

Be part of the studio audience for a free TV taping . Yes, you can watch Saturday Night Live , The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon , The Drew Barrymore Show,  and  The   Late Show with Stephen Colbert for free at home. But seeing tapings in person introduces you to the effort and artistry that go into making a TV show. It’s a fun and fascinating look behind the scenes. To learn how to snag free seats to those shows and others taped in NYC, click here .

Head to one of the city’s free museums . Alas, such marquee museums as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the American Museum of Natural History no longer have “pay what you wish” policies (except for citizens of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut). But many smaller, stellar cultural institutions do. These include the Museum of the City of New York , African Burial Ground National Monument , the  National Museum of the American Indian , the  Museum at FIT , El Museo del Barrio , Federal Reserve Bank , Hamilton Grange National Memorial , BLDG 92 at the Brooklyn Navy Yard , the New York Public Library (which has excellent exhibits at its 42nd street branch) and the American Folk Art Museum .

Visit other museums when they’re free . Though entry fees have risen in the past 2 years at pretty much all of New York City’s museums, most still have weekly get-in-free periods.  Here's a quick summary of where and when entry fees are waived at some of the city’s top cultural draws.

And it's important to remember that visiting art galleries is always free. New York City has more of those than any other city on earth, meaning the variety of art you'll see here is mind-blowing. Click here for more info on that.

Get a CityPass . If you plan to see the city’s most famous sights during your vacation, buying a CityPass will save you a good amount of money. Take a look at  this article  to find which attractions are covered and how much you’ll save by getting the pass. 

Sign up for a Big Apple Greeter tour . This personalized tour, led by a local volunteer who is well versed in the area you'll be exploring, is absolutely free and can be scheduled at the most convenient time for you. Here’s a Frommer's report  on the wonderful Greeter program.

Join a free walking tour . Truth be told, these are free in name only, because participants are expected to tip at the end. But what you tip is up to you, and because guides are working for tips alone, there’s a self-selection process, with only the most entertaining guides sticking with the job. I recommend Free Tours by Foot .

Wander through a park .  Central Park (pictured below) was the first landscaped public park in the United States, influencing thousands of other municipal green spaces across the country. Central Park is still a wonder, but you'll also be wowed by the elevated High Line , the floating  Little Island , the transformed sugar factory  Domino Park , and many other innovative, artistic parks across the city. Bring a picnic and enjoy.

Kayak on the Hudson for free . Thanks to the all-volunteer nonprofit Downtown Boathouse at Pier 26 , anyone can take a kayak for a spin on the Hudson River at no cost. There are also free lessons available for those who’ve never kayaked before. Visit HudsonRiverPark.org for more info. (Obviously, this is strictly a warm-weather activity.)

Entertainment

Get discounted Broadway theater tickets . The majority of shows on Broadway (and Off-Broadway) sell cut-rate tickets either through discounters or lotteries, or to playgoers willing to stand rather than sit throughout the show.  See our detailed advice  on the many ways you can save on live performances. 

Soak up the scene in Times Square .   If you’re in Times Square for a Broadway show, hang out a bit longer for some free nighttime entertainment. The pedestrianized square becomes an impromptu stage for talented performers every night. And at 11:57pm, the lights around the square dance in a choreographed 3-minute light show that’s been heralding midnight—and delighting visitors—for the past decade.

Try to snag tickets for Shakespeare in the Park . In summertime, there are few better ways to spend an evening than at this festival held in Central Park and starring some of the biggest stars of stage and screen. Meryl Streep, Denzel Washington, Natalie Portman, and Al Pacino are just a few of the celebs who've trod these boards. Tickets are free and available via lottery or by waiting in line at the theater. Good luck—er, break a leg!  Click here  for more details.

Attend a book reading or lecture .   Because the city is the media capital—home to major TV and radio networks, publishing houses, and journalism outlets—top minds know that New York is the preeminent soapbox for telling a story, explaining a concept, or otherwise broadcasting one's yawp to the world, to paraphrase the New Yorker Walt Whitman . Held at bookstores, universities, and cultural centers, literary events are usually free to attend, though some require the purchase of a book. They happen every night of the year—simply search online for “book readings NYC” to see what’s on.

Find a festival . In the warm-weather months, the city hosts numerous free or low-cost festivals that bring symphonic music, opera, dance, jazz, and other types of performance to the city’s parks and outdoor stages. The work on display is often stellar since the quality of the talent in New York City is so high. Again, a quick online search will show you what’s happening while you’re here.

Share dishes and under-order . Restaurant prices have gone up across the United States, but so have portion sizes. Of course, you won’t learn that from the server. Waiters across Gotham have been trained to say, “We recommend 3–4 dishes per person.” Don’t believe it—under-order and share dishes. You can always order more if you're still hungry.

Go with the city’s starchy specialties .   I’m talking bagels and pizza, two staples NYC does better than any other city in the USA (sorry, Chicago). You can craft serious meals from both, and many of New York's pizza restaurants have handsome décor, potent potables, and other trappings of a night on the town. Or you could just grab a slice and keep sightseeing. Up to you. To see a list of Frommer's-recommended NYC restaurants—including bagel joints and pizza parlors— click here .

Make a meal of happy hour specials .   If you’re willing to dine before 6pm—and at the bar—you can make a nice meal out of the happily priced happy hour specials offered at many of the city’s top restaurants. These include a tasty meatball sandwich at Portale ; flatbread pizzas at Iris ; cheap beers (just $4!) and oysters, shrimp, and corn dogs at Sidney’s Five ; curried mussels and seafood fritters at Kokomo ; and so on.

Go upscale for lunch .   If you want to try one of the city’s top restaurants but don’t want to spend your child’s college fund doing so, make a lunch reservation. Such temples of gastronomy as Ai Fiori , Aquavit , Iris , Le Pavillon , Le Bernardin , and others offer tasting menu lunches for 25% to 50% less than what you’d pay at dinner.

Eat in Queens . The most recent U.S. census found that 47.2% of the people who live in Queens were born outside the United States. They are from all over the world, and that diversity is reflected in the borough's smorgasbord of authentic, inexpensive restaurants showcasing the culinary heritage of an astonishing roster of nations.

Some of these cuisines are next to impossible to find elsewhere in the United States, or in such wide variety. For instance, in the neighborhood of Flushing—one of the largest Chinese enclaves outside of Asia—it’s possible to try Hakka, Korean, Taiwanese, Shanghainese, Hunanese, Sichuanese, Cantonese, Fujianese, Mongolian, and Uyghur fare, all within a few blocks. Also in the borough: restaurants serving food from Venezuela, the Czech Republic, Greece, Ecuador, Sri Lanka, and on and on and on.

Want to try a variety of different cuisines all in one place? Head to the awe-inspiring Queens Night Market , where most dishes cost just $3–$4 apiece.

Get your souvenirs in Chinatown . In the market for a Statue of Liberty hat, an I Love NY sweatshirt, or a snow globe containing a yellow taxi and a skyscraper? Wait until you get to Manhattan’s Chinatown to buy. The neighborhood has dozens of souvenir stores selling the same goods you’ll find in Times Square or near the Empire State Building, but at a fraction of the cost.

Visit a discount haven . The city has a number of top-notch outlet stores that sell all kinds of goods at deep discounts. At the forefront are B&H Photo Video (for electronics and cameras), Century 21 (for designer fashions), and Empire Outlets on Staten Island (for savings on big box brands).

Getting There

Ditch your car . Please don’t drive into New York City. Your costs will rise exponentially if you do, thanks to nightly parking rates rivaling the cost of a hotel stay in other cities. If you must drive, park your car in one of the bedroom communities that has train access into the city, and use public transportation while in New York itself.

Hop a cheap bus. If you’re coming in from Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, Boston, Providence, or other relatively nearby spots, there are inexpensive buses that will get you into the heart of NYC.  Wanderu.com is an excellent resource for finding these types of fares.

Do a smart search for airfares .   In Frommer’s most recent study , we found that Skyscanner  returned the lowest rates on airfares most consistently. Start there.  

Search for and book flights on the right day of the week .  According to another study  examining tens of millions of booked airfares (not just airfare searches) done by the Airlines Reporting Corporation, passengers who buy tickets on Sundays can save a good amount, statistically speaking. It’s also important to purchase roughly 4–6 weeks before travel. That’s the sweet spot for getting a good rate.

Now come and enjoy the Big Apple. We look forward to welcoming you to the greatest city on earth!

Related : The Best Cheap Hotels in New York City for 2023

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How Much Does It Cost to Visit NYC?

3 + 7 day trip costs.

Is New York expensive to visit? Well, that depends on when you visit and what you want to do here.

This post lays out the costs of both a 3-day trip and a 7-day trip for low and moderate budgets. With these numbers, you can estimate 4, 5, and 6-day trips.

As a walking tour company offering pay-what-you-wish walking tours, our local tour guides know a thing or two about keeping costs down in NYC.

We've led hundreds of thousands of people throughout the city and often our guests talk to us about what they've spent and what they should anticipate spending in NYC.

This insight, together with our knowledge of how much things cost, informed this post. We also include suggestions on how to keep costs down from members of our NYC Travel Tips Facebook group .

Our group consists of roughly 240,000 members and consists of locals (like our tour guides), travelers and newcomers to the city.

You don't have to join the group to read the posts, comments and recommendations, so take a look when you're done reading this post! You can even ask a question yourself!

• How to Use This Guide
• Snapshot of Costs
• Accommodations
• Transportation
• Attractions and Entertainment
• Tips from Locals and Travelers

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

When reading this guide, keep in mind the following:

(1) the prices are for one adult traveling in March . This is a non-peak time of year with moderate to pleasant weather. 

To find out about other good times of the year for your trip, take a look at our posts on the best time to visit NYC or the cheapest times to visit NYC .

Also, before booking, take a look at our post, How Many Days Is Enough For NYC?

(2) Prices are per day so you can use that amount to budget for whatever number of days you plan to come to NYC. We also list, in parentheses, the total cost for a 3-day trip and a 7-day trip.

(3) We include two price points:  budget  and moderate.

Budget is for someone who wants to spend as little as possible but still get a lot out of New York City.

This means staying at very inexpensive accommodations (most likely a hostel in a shared dorm), not dining at full-service restaurants, and spending money on activities unique to New York City. 

Moderate is for someone flexible with the amount of money to spend.

This means staying at mid-range accommodations in a convenient location, eating some meals out, and spending money on some of the best attractions in New York City.

(4) We do not include airfare since prices will vary greatly based on your departure point. Take a look at our post on how to find the cheapest flights to NYC . 

(5) In our summary of costs, we do not include the price of traveling to/from airports since this can vary depending on what airport you fly into. We did include prices in our transportation section anyway so you have the information.

TIP:  Our  New York City on a budget  post is an excellent complement to this post.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST FOR A TRIP TO NYC?

This summary of the overall cost of a trip is based on the detailed calculations just below this summary. Again, this does not include the costs of to/from airports

Budget Traveler

3-day trip (per person).

• Accommodations $375
• Transportation $17
• Attractions and activities $150
• Total $ 602

7-day trip (per person)

• Accommodations $875
• Transportation $34
• Attractions and activities $300
• Total $1,349

Moderate Traveler

• Accommodations $600
• Transportation $41
• Attractions and activities $388
• Total $1,179
• Accommodations $1400
• Transportation $79
• Attractions and activities $776
• Total $2,605

ACCOMMODATIONS

These are off-season prices per night, per person. In the parentheses are the cost of 3 nights/7 nights).

Double Occupancy room for one person in a budget hotel in a non-central neighborhood: $125 a night ($375 / $875) 

Tip : Want to keep the costs of accommodation way down? Consider staying in a hostel. NYC doesn't have a lot of them but the quality has been improving. Some are quite stylish!

3-star chain hotel in a less popular neighborhood in Manhattan at $200 per room per night ($600 / $1400)

Regardless of your budget, our posts listing  21 inexpensive hotels in NYC and  affordable accommodations in NYC can help you find a hotel suitable for your needs, tastes, and the amount of money you can spend.

TIP:  Check out The Pod Hotels . They have locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn that are fun, well-rated, and reasonably priced. A few of them have rooftop bars with great views!

TRANSPORTATION COSTS

Prices are standard regardless of your budget when you ride the subway and buses. 

The only variation is if you take several taxi rides. Find out more by reading our post on how to use taxis and Uber in NYC .

To/From airports via public transportation

These are not included in our summary above since each airport's transportation costs vary.

• John F. Kennedy (JFK)  r/t $22.30 with Air Train and subway
• LaGuardia (LGA) r/t $5.80 by subway
• Newark  (EWR) r/t $32 Local train and Air Train

Before purchasing your airport transportation, read our post on which MetroCard to purchase  since a subway ride is involved in getting to/from both JFK and LaGuardia airports. 

Getting around NYC

Most likely you will be using the subway at some point, though we say NYC is best seen on foot (plus it's free!)

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Budget   

• 3-day trip, take subway/buses twice a day - $17.40 
• 7-day trip, unlimited MetroCard - $34
• 3-day trip, 3 subway rides per day ($26.10) and splurge for one taxi ride ($15)  - $41.10
• 7-day trip, unlimited MetroCard ($34) and splurge for 3 taxi rides ($45) - $79

We highly recommend that you look at our post, Which NYC Subway MetroCard to Buy to get a detailed explanation of the costs.

And if you are new to using the subway system, read up on  navigating the New York City subway !

TIP: One way to combine entertainment and transportation costs is to take a Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour .

Since you have to pay for transportation anyway, it may be worth it to you to pay a bit extra to travel from site to site while enjoying an entertaining ride between stops.

Check out our post on which New York bus tours are best .

ATTRACTIONS AND ENTERTAINMENT COSTS

When calculating these costs, we considered your budget and the amount of time you had to spend. 

On a 7-day trip, you will be doing more than you would if you were here for a quick 3-day trip. See our suggested itinerary for  3 days in New York . 

Also, be sure to read our post on  things to do for free in New York City .

If you are traveling with children, see our post about  free things to do with kids in NYC .

Budget Traveler

3 days - $150 per person.

If you take advantage of free museums and attractions , ride the free Staten Island Ferry instead of a Statue of Liberty cruise and take one of our  pay-what-you-wish walking tours , you could spend NOTHING!

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Add on the cost of visiting one of NYC’s observatories for breathtaking views of NYC and a deeply-reduced ticket for a Broadway show , you can keep yourself entertained for 3 days and nights for $150 or less.

7 Days  - $300 per person

You are here for twice as long, so you have more time to occupy. Your budget will be about double your cost for a 3-day trip.

In addition to the above activities, add on a few paid attractions and activities such as the Bronx Zoo , the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), and a  Statue of Liberty cruise .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gareth Lloyd (@runlondon)

With an additional night of paid entertainment such as a show, comedy, or pub crawl, your total is $300.

TIP: Even for those on a tight budget, you may find that some of the less expensive tourist passes will save you money on sightseeing in the long run.

Take a look at our post comparing NYC tourist passes to see if getting a pass is right for you.

If you plan to see several NYC attractions , we recommend buying a tourist deal pass.

These passes aren't cheap, but they can save you up to 55% of the cost of tickets to NYC attractions and activities. 

See our guide,  Which NYC  Tourist Pass is Best?  to compare what is available and if a pass is right for you.

Regardless of your budget, take advantage of the many free things to do in NYC so you can spend your money on attractions that charge admission.

3 Days - $388

We reached this amount by using the below 3-day itinerary designed to get the most out of a short visit.

TIP : To see a lot of the city in a short amount of time, consider taking a Hop-on, Hop-Off bus tour . They are available in increments of 24 hours, 48 hours and 72 hours. 

• Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island $25
• 9/11 Museum and Memorial  $33 (Memorial is free)
• One World Observatory $44
• Pay-what-you-wish Lower Manhattan tour
• 24 Hour Hop-on, Hop-Off bus tour $54
• Museum of Modern Art $25
• Bronx Zoo or similar attraction $27
• Pay-what-you-wish Midtown Manhattan tour
• Broadway Show with a cheap ticket $100
• Pay-what-you-wish Central Park tour
• Metropolitan Museum of Art $25
• Rockefeller Center - free
• Top of the Rock at night $55

TIP: There are a few tourist passes, like the CityPASS and the Smart Destinations  Build Your Own Pass  that can save you up to 25% even if you are here for a short stay.  

Since many passes include “skip the line” privileges, you will also save on time. 

7 Days - $776

In addition to the above activities, take advantage of even more free activities like walking the Brooklyn Bridge, visiting the High Line, and exploring Soho, Chinatown, and Little Italy.

We offer pay-what-you-wish walking tours of these neighborhoods and more!

We also offer  pay-what-you-wish food tours and night tours. See our calendar of all NYC tours .

Even with so many free things to do, you will still spend double on attractions and entertainment as you will have more than twice the amount of time to fill with activities.

TIP:  With this high cost just for activities and attractions, we encourage you to consider a tourist pass. For example, you could save up to 55% with a  New York Pass .   

MEALS AND RESTAURANTS

One of the most incredible things about New York City is that you can get incredible food of every type of cuisine at any price! 

You can eat three meals a day for $10 a day and it will still taste good! See our guide to  cheap eats in NYC.

Prices are based on the below menu, which gives you the chance to taste several classic New York foods. 

• Breakfast - a bagel and coffee
• Lunch - a slice of pizza  or  deli sandwiches
• Dinner - a meal in either Chinatown  and  Little Italy

Budget:   $20 per day ($60/$140)

Moderate: $50 per day  ($150/$350).

Note: Prices do not include tips, as you may only go to restaurants that do not have waitstaff. If you do have sit-down service, add a 15% tip for good service. See our post on tipping in New York City .

Alcoholic drinks

Prices do not include the cost of an alcoholic beverage. In NYC you will pay a premium for alcohol with your meals.

The average cost of a beer is $6, a glass of mediocre wine will be $8, and a mixed drink upwards of $10! Regardless of your budget, no one likes to pay $6 for a bottle of beer!

Take a look at our post on Happy Hour to find out how to save a lot for a good drink! We also have a  self - guided tour of historic New York City bars .

Because the amount you spend on shopping can vary wildly depending on your tastes and what you want to purchase (beyond souvenirs), we decided not to include costs in this guide.

But we do recommend that you check out the following posts:

• Budget Shopping in NYC
• Shop at an Outlet Center
• Shopping at Grand Central Station
• Gramercy Thrift and Vintage Shopping Day Tour  
• East Village Vintage & Boutiques Tour

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TIPS FROM LOCALS AND TRAVELERS

We hope you found the above information and approximate calculations helpful to give you a sense of the cost of a trip to NYC. 

To help you keep costs down, we've included replies from members of our popular New York Travel Tips Facebook group to this question posted in the group.

Here, Yvonne covers all the best budget basics!

For food, Chinatown, pizza and food carts are the way to go. This is echoed by so many group members.

An interesting option she suggests is to go to Whole Foods (a chain of supermarkets throughout the city) and get their pre-packaged food. 

With tables and chairs, it's like eating in a restaurant. The food is great too!

In the second half of her comment, she notes that she used a money-saving tourist attraction pass, and to maximize her savings, she planned carefully what attractions to go to and which to skip. 

See our post on tourist attraction passes where we cover this planning process.

If you're on a 7-day trip, or if less, expect to use the subway a lot, get an unlimited MetroCard.

Lastly, she recommends our pay-what-you-like walking tours. We are so happy she enjoyed them and that we were able to keep her costs down.

Here, Dr Tracy lists just a handful of the fantastic things you can do for free or cheaply.

Robbee adds to Dr Tracy’s ideas with our favorite thing to do -- walk around!

NYC has so many neighborhoods with “unique flavors”, and visiting them gives you a true sense of what the real New York is like.

Read about NYC’s neighborhoods here .

Peter also backs the idea of walking around and taking in the city. It’s free and fascinating.

Take a look at our post on things to do for free in New York City .

Many people want to see a Broadway show when in town. This could be the one thing that costs you the most. But it doesn't have to be.

Here are the best ways to get inexpensive tickets.

We cover all these options: TodayTix, TKTS booth, Broadway Roulette, Off-Broadway shows and more in our post, How to Get Cheap Broadway Tickets .

Many replies offered advice on how to save on the cost of food as this was the most flexible aspect of a trip to NYC.

The biggest misconception about NYC is that food is expensive.

Jeff points out that he was happily surprised by how affordable food was, so long as you don’t plan to dine at the most expensive restaurants.

TIP : Want fancy food at a third or more of its regular price? Check out our post on Restaurant Week .

The most popular cheap foods mentioned were bagels, pizza and food trucks.

Keeping your breakfast and lunch simple will allow you to splurge on dinner.

Skip the drinks as NYC costs are pretty high in restaurants. If you want some beer, it’s pretty cheap in a supermarket.

What is so great is that these foods are pretty good if you know where to find the best.

See our post on NYC Cheap Eats for a list of the best, inexpensive food.

If you have any more questions about the cost of visiting NYC (or anything else about the city), check out the suggestions in our New York Travel Tips Facebook group !

Related Posts

• Best time to visit NYC
• Cheapest times to visit NYC
• How many days is enough to visit NYC?

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Courtney Shapiro

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How much money should you budget for a week trip to New York City?

Mis à jour le 04/04/2022. 203 commentaires

Determining a budget for a trip to New York is quite complicated. It would help if you considered various expenses, and some are more important than others. Anyhow, I’ll try to give you some clues. First, I will define three types of budgets (tight, average, and large) for a couple who decides to stay a week in New York (7 nights).

For each budget, I will consider the following elements: Flight + accommodation + food + departures + visits + shopping + extras

It is an estimate based on my own experience. At least I will try to give you an idea of how much your budget should be.

Factors to think about as you prepare your budget for a trip to New York City

Firstly, you must consider when you want to go to New York City. The flights and accommodation rates vary depending on the season. The cheapest season is from January to March. The seasons that attract more tourists are when there are school holidays (Easter, summer, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year).

The accommodation is another factor to care about. The place where you will stay and the comfort and services you want. You can start at around $90 a night up to $250-300 or a few thousand dollars for high-end hotels.

The lifestyle you want in New York also matters. You may don’t mind eating sandwiches, going out at night, or shopping; your budget may be more limited than a couple who wants to dine in restaurants, see a show on Broadway, and visit many places.

The 7 factors that seem most important to me are: – the flight (round trip) – accommodation (hostels, hotels, apartment…) – transportation (from the airport, taxis, metro…) – meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) – visits, attractions and shows – shopping – extra expenses (bars, cakes…).

How much does a flight cost to New York?

I know you read me from different countries, and I cannot easily compare the cost of a flight ticket from London, Sydney, or Berlin. For those who read me from the United States, the price categories that I will give below do not apply because domestic flights are usually much cheaper than international flights.

However, if you go on vacation outside school holidays, you will get cheaper rates. But still, you can review the fares of some airlines which propose offers throughout the year. The key is to check rates often. Sometimes it can be helpful to register for an airline’s newsletter and receive special offers notifications.

I prepared a list of airlines in this article . Do not hesitate to review it and compare the rates 😉

If you notice a promotion, you can also inform me, and I’ll publish it in this post .

I determine three types of budget:

How much does it cost to stay in New York?

Again, it is a bit difficult to give you a very precise cost.

New York City attracts a lot of tourists, the rates vary from month to month.

You can find a room at $150 off-season, and pay $250- $300 for the same room during the high season!

In addition, you have to take into account where you would like to stay, the number of travelers, comfort, and services.

How much does transportation cost in New York?

The first expense you will have in New York is the transfer between the airport and your accommodation ( JFK , Newark , La Guardia ). The cheapest way is public transportation with the Airtrain and subway because it is equivalent to $15.75person round trip, or $31 for a couple.

You can also book a taxi shuttle, about $ 23/person, or about $90 per couple, the round trip.

Another option is the taxi or a limousine. It can cost from $50 to $170 for a one-way trip.

Once in New York, if you stay a week, it is best to buy an Unlimited Metrocard . It costs $32 per person.

Yellow cabs can be very practical … and they are so mythical! They are available 24 hours a day in Manhattan. A trip can cost between $8 and $10, it obviously depends on the distance. There are also green taxis, I give you more information in this article . They cost the same, the difference is that they go to areas where yellow taxis do not.

I want to draw attention to those who decide to stay in New Jersey. They must add the price of the PATH (train from New Jersey to NYC), it costs $29 /person, unlimited travel for 7 days. If you don’t stay close to a PATH station, you can take a bus, rates vary depending on the distance.

How much money could you spend for meals?

It is another difficult point to determine. Some may be satisfied with a $3 hot dog, and others prefer $200 meals at a good restaurant. Breakfast at a Starbucks costs $5 to $6 per person (a simple coffee and pastry). You can spend less at a 7 Eleven, Dunkin Donuts, Prêt-à-Manger…

Eating at a fast-food restaurant varies from $8 to $10 for a main dish + drink + dessert. There are small restaurants or Deli’s, in which the main course (pizza, pasta, meat, …) costs from $10 to $12 per person. A full meal costs $20 – $26 per person.

As for restaurants, likewise any big city, some can be very expensive. But there are many with complete menus (entrees + main dish + dessert) between $50 and $60 per person.

Note: some hotels have breakfast included in the room rate, with a large selection of food.

For three meals per day (breakfast, lunch and dinner). dinner), my estimate is:

How much do visits, attractions and shows cost in New York?

First of all, I think that for a first visit of New York, the purchase of a Pass is very useful, like the New York CityPASS since it offers the main visits and attractions in NYC.

Then, if you want to see an NBA game, whether it’s the New York Knicks or the Brooklyn Nets, you could find tickets at $26-40. For a baseball game, it’s starting at $20-25, a football game is starting at $40-50. You can read more information here .

If you like shows and plays , you can go see a musical on Broadway, starting at $ 65-90 per person.

One of the must-see activities in New York is a helicopter flight , starting at $215 per person. It is impressive and allows you to see the whole city from an extraordinary point of view.

In short, there are thousands of things that can be done in New York , not to mention concerts, museums, bus tours, boats, guided tours…

How much does a shopping session in New York cost?

It is one of the most difficult budgets to anticipate. Even if your not a regular shopper, the prices in New York are so attractive that one quickly falls into the shopping fever.

Most tourists buy souvenirs from $ 1 to $ 10 (key chains, I Love NY t-shirt …) but they also buy at least a pair of sneakers (Converse, New balance, Nike) from $40 to $50, a pair of jeans from $40 to $50, 2-3 t-shirts at $10 each…

You can save money going to one of the outlet stores near NYC . For nice souvenirs at “wallet friendly” prices, you can go to Cocoblues .

What are the other expenses that can be spent in New York?

Within these expenses I include going to a bar at the end of the day, passing by a bakery during the afternoon… expenses that are not necessary but are part of the vacations.

A cupcake, muffin or cookie, can cost at least 3 to 4 dollars, a beer costs $6-10, a cocktail is from 9 to 13 dollars, if it is on a rooftop (on the terrace of a building) it is at least $ 13…

In this category you can count the administrative expenses ( ESTA -$14 person- or visa, it depends on the countries in terms of price), the passport (the price depends on the countries), and are required to enter the American territory.

I prepared a table so you can better read the budgets calculated above.

As you can see, you can go to New York with your partner with a little over $2000, reserving the flight and accommodation as soon as possible and limiting your expenses in the city. However, I recommend that you go with a budget of minimum $2200 per couple, to truly enjoy your stay. I would say a minimum of $3500-$4000.

In this article, I am not talking about the agencies that offer flight-hotel packages. You can get a good deal on websites like Expedia .

To prepare your budget, you can also calculate how much money you spend per week when you are at home: meals, transportation to work, shopping, gas and electricity for example.

In conclusion, I hope I have helped you a little with this article, so you can prepare your trip to New York with ease.

My fist trip to New York was in 2007 when I was working for an airline company. I was born in the US, I lived in Mexico, in Europe in between Belgium, Spain and France… Well, let’s say I know about travelling! I bring my experience of NYC to the blog, to provide the best travel tips you could imagine!

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New York City Travel Tips

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• There are loads of types of vacations in New York and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $538; Family vacation $473; Romantic vacation $595; Luxury vacation $650; Budget vacation $309.

Why should you book a vacation package to New York City?

When should you book a vacation package to new york city.

The best time to visit New York City is in the fall, when the weather is cooler and there are several big American traditions which see floats and parades taking to the streets. Some of the most popular events include Thanksgiving Day Parade in June, ice skating at Rockefeller Plaza, and the infamous New Years Eve Countdown in Times Square.

Where should you stay in New York City during your vacation?

For any vacation type in new york city:.

The Knickerbocker Hotel is a NYC landmark in the heart of Times Square with bespoke furniture, sweeping midtown views, and an electric rooftop bar. Take the Jamaica Train and connect via NYC Subway for the most authentic transport between JFK Airport and the Knickerbocker Hotel.

Conrad New York is an unpretentious 5-star hotel near Battery Park which offers daily connections to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. A taxi ride to this east side NYC hotel will cost you approximately 60 dollars and take up to 30 minutes.

For family vacations in New York City:

Novotel New York Times Square is a great central choice to match your the high-paced energy of your kids. Consider pre-booking your airport shuttle through the hotel's reception for a smooth transition from JFK, La Guardia, or Newark airports.

Adjacent to Central Park, the Quin Hotel commissions local graffiti artists to decorate the interior of the building for a truly one-of-a-kind experience in the Big Apple. Take a combination of the Jamaica Train and NYC Subway to show the kids a more authentic angle on New Yorkers.

For romantic vacations in New York City:

Gramercy Park Hotel shoulders one of the most secluded parks in all New York City and also boasts famous iconic artworks from Andy Warhol and Keith Haring in an ever-changing selection. A taxi ride from JFK to Gramercy Park will cost you approximately $60.

The Langham New York on 5th Avenue encompasses all your needs with comfortably intimate rooms, a fitness center, and comprehensive spa treatments. For even more freedom while you travel, consider renting a car at JFK, La Guardia, or Newark airports.

For luxury vacations in New York City:

The London NYC will have you feeling like you've visited two cities in just one trip! It features all-suites accommodation. You can travel in comfort to your midtown hotel like the locals do in an iconic NYC taxi from JFK Airport.

Refinery Hotel puts other accommodation options to shame with a 360 degree rooftop lounge and minimalist modern décor. Just a few blocks from Grand Central Station, it boasts a swanky bar and stunning downtown views. Consider taking the train for a classic experience when traveling in and out of New York City.

For budget vacations in New York City:

The Redbury New York is a 4-star hotel in the NoMad district which features a café, bar, and restaurant onsite so you don't get overwhelmed with choices on your next trip to the Big Apple. The Jamaica Airtrain is the fastest and least expensive way to transfer from midtown to JFK Airport.

Ameritania Times Square's location sets you in the heart of New York City's famous district, also within easy walking distance of the spacious Central Park. The most straightforward way to Times Square is via taxi from JFK Airport, which will cost approximately $60.

Where to stay in New York

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Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

Solo on a Budget in New York City: 50+ Tips to Make NYC Affordable

March 1, 2024 by Janice Waugh

Is it possible to travel solo to New York City on a budget?

Yes. But, it will take some planning.

While New York City can be expensive, there are plenty of affordable things to do and see. There are always free events going on, off-broadway theater, and, of course, the energy of this amazing city. I've been many times and I never get tired of New York or stop finding new places to eat, visit, and explore.

Compared to most people, I do New York on a shoestring. So, I have advice for you.

The companion post to this is Best Places to Stay in New York City for Solo Travelers .

Table of Contents

A Fabulous Solo Trip to New York on a Budget

It's true that New York City is expensive.

It's also true that you can have a great time visiting the city without spending a fortune.

The key, I think, is to take your time and dig in a little deeper than the average tourist. Travel a little more slowly. Take public transit. Go to events that locals attend. Eat at smaller restaurants rather than those of celebrity chefs. The bottom line is, don't focus on the high ticket tourist activities that eat up your time and your budget. And, if there are things like going to the top of the Empire State Building that you think are a must, list them all and see what is truly important to you. Then cut the rest off your list and take advantage of some of the tips below.

So that the Big Apple doesn't take a big bite out of your wallet, here's my take on the best of budget New York City for solo travelers.

Getting Around New York City on the Cheap

Balancing safety with your budget is important when you travel solo. The New York transit system works well and is generally very safe. Yellow cabs are more expensive but safe. Uber and Lyft are a slightly more expensive option to cabs and have their safety system built in through the rating process. I don't recommend ever getting into an unmarked cab, though I have often been offered one in New York.

Here are options for getting into, out of, and around the city.

• From the airport to the city: take your pick. This article gives you information on traveling from all NYC airports via public transit . In some cases the GO Airlink Shuttle is a better deal in terms of time and money.
• Get a MetroCard.  The bus and subway system in New York City is a really efficient way to get around. The MetroCard costs $1 and you can load money onto it and swipe as you go, or you can tap your contactless debit or credit card or smartphone digital wallet. Most fares are $2.90. You can check out all the options here .
• Take the people's ferry . The Staten Island Ferry is free and offers such a great view of the city. It runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with more frequent service during rush hour on weekdays (when it is packed, so you might want to avoid commuting hours to enjoy a more leisurely experience). You can get free Wi-Fi on the ferry and in the ferry terminals. Here's a post that gives you great information on a Staten Island tour . Pro tip from a local: Christine says, “Make sure you are on the starboard side, and preferably on the deck outside when you leave from the Battery.”
• Take a bus tour. A Hop On, Hop Off tour is great if you're short on time or want to get an overview of the city before you dig into its specifics. If I only have a couple of days in a city I generally take one.
• Explore New York City by bike. Like most large cities, New York has a bike sharing service. City Bike has stations around the city where you can rent a bike for $4.79 per trip to a 30 minute maximum or $19 for unlimited 30-minute rides for 24 hours. There are hundreds of stations where you can rent a bike and a map to confirm availability at a station near you. Here's a link to some of the best cycling routes in NYC.
• Walk and soak up the city.  Budget New York City definitely includes walking, which is great because there are so many wonderful areas to explore. As you walk, listen to the city as well. It's quite unique.

Our Solo Travel Society readers give walking a big thumbs-up for those who are solo on a budget in New York City:

• Sandra – I had a great day exploring Harlem for next to nothing. It's easy to get to on the Metro and great if you want to explore Black history & music plus some wonderful architecture.
• Tracy – Staying in the city can be expensive but being there doesn’t need to be. There are tons of free things to do if you can walk. Walking around the park, the walk across the Brooklyn Bridge is fun, and the Highline is fabulous. Cut through Chelsea Market while walking it and pick up a picnic lunch which will be cheaper than a restaurant meal.
• Ian – The 9/11 memorial is a nice walk, then onto Battery Park. Dumbo (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) is nice to walk around, after walking across the Brooklyn Bridge. There's a nice food hall next to the merry-go-round. Also, if you are in Dumbo, walk along the promenade on the other side of the bridge. They have turned the old piers into floating parks and there are also sports venues with waffleball, roller hockey, basketball, etc.

Where to Eat Cheap in New York City and Feel Comfortable Solo

• Go to Arturo's for a slice and some jazz . A New York City institution in the West Village, Arturo's has been serving up coal oven pizza and nightly jazz since 1957. They also offer a wide choice of Italian food and gluten-free options. I had the arugula salad with shaved parmesan and a 13″ pizza that I could only eat a third of. The service is great. Eating at the bar, which is a social option when you're traveling solo on a budget in New York City, is fun here.
• Enjoy Beatnic vegan restaurant . By Chloe has been renamed to Beatnic. There are four New York City locations . Healthy and yummy! They also take good care of gluten-free patrons. A casual atmosphere makes Beatnic great for solo travelers.
• Check out a little bar called  George Keeley . Located at Amsterdam and 83rd it offers local beers and exceptionally good “everything bagel fries”. Grace went here after her run. See Grace’s Nerdy New York City Adventure .
• Eat at a food truck. Food trucks can be a big part of a budget New York City experience but where do you find them? Food trucks are always on the move. Here's a site that will tell you where and when the most popular food trucks are in NYC .
• Get your free pizza . The Alligator Lounge offers free pizza with the purchase of a drink every day of the week along with karaoke, trivia, comedy, or whatever's going the night you're there.
• Consult a local guide . Check out TimeOut New York's cheap eats guide for their latest recommendations. Also, Eater NY has a list of 40 dining options for under $20 across the city.

Top Things To Do in New York City Traveling Alone

• Big Apple Greeter . Whatever your interests, with luck, you'll get a volunteer tour guide who shares them and will show you their beloved New York.
• New York By Foot . Pay-what-you-wish, with no set fee. Think about how much a 2-hour tour would cost you otherwise and tip generously if you enjoyed yourself.
• Tour Grand Central Station . These range from free or pay-what-you can walking tours, to GPS guided tours for $2.99, to guided tours of variable prices.
• High Line Tour: From Freight to Flowers . Hear the story behind New York City’s park in the sky. Free tours are led by High Line Docents, knowledgeable volunteer guides who offer you an insider’s perspective on the park’s history, design, and landscape.
• Brooklyn Literary Audio Walking Tour . Created by the Brooklyn Public Library, this audio tour guides you from neighborhood to neighborhood, telling you about the literary sites along the way: fictional places where novels have been set, real apartments where the authors once lived, and the libraries they visited.
• Flatiron NoMad Walking Tour . Learn the fascinating details and scandalous tidbits of the past that make this area integral to New York and U.S. history. It includes some of the city’s most notable landmarks, including the New York Life Building, the MetLife Clock Tower, the Appellate Courthouse, and the famous Flatiron Building.
• Get the New York City Discount Pass . There are three options: the New York CityPASS ticket, which includes admission to 5 Big Apple attractions; the New York C3 ticket, a three-admission pass designed for shorter-stay visitors; and the New York C-All pass, which offers one-time admission to 10 attractions over 9 days. Have a look and see if the New York CityPASS will save you money on what you want to do in New York.
• Visit museums . Watch for free times for visiting the many museums in the city. Here is a list of free museum entrance days . Note: The Museum of Modern Art is free for New York State residents only.
• Go to Cathedral of Saint John the Divine. Located on the upper west side,  Saint John the Divine  is a massive cathedral and a major attraction in the city. Bonus: down the block is the diner featured in the Seinfeld series.
• Go shopping and get a deal . Here's a guide to shopping deals in New York City. You can also check out the NYC Sample Sales Calendar on The Stylish City website.
• TodayTix . This is an app for getting discount theater tickets in New York City, London, Toronto and other major cities. The last time I was in New York, I tested it on tickets to see a show. The seat I got sells for $109 online. On TodayTix I chose the lottery option. If I had won, I would have got my ticket for $25. I received an email that said I didn't win but I could buy a ticket for $30, which I did! Before buying, I looked at reviews of the service to make sure they were legitimate and I turned on my VPN as I was going to use my credit card on public Wi-Fi (for more on this, read Best VPN for Travel: What, Why, How & New Recommendations ). I picked up my ticket from a TodayTix customer service person outside the theater.
• Upright Citizens Brigade Theater. This is a great deal though their theaters have closed. They are planning to continue in a pared-down format. I'm leaving it on the list in hopes that it becomes possible to attend their performances again.   Founded by Amy Poehler and others, UCBT also offers classes. You can join their mailing list to find out when performances resume.
• Buy discount Broadway tickets . Shows on Broadway are expensive, but, if you're willing to stand in line, you can buy tickets for 20%-50% off on the day of the show. There are a couple of places you can do this but go to the  TKTS Discount Booths (their flagship location is in Times Square) and you'll be supporting the non-profit Theatre Development Fund.
• Off-Broadway productions . Off-Broadway is cheaper than on, so check out The New York Theatre Guide to Off-Broadway shows.
• Go to a Poetry Slam in Brooklyn . The iconic BRIC Arts Media Center hosts exhibitions, concerts, performances, and screenings year-round. Many events are free.
• Get your Shakespeare on. Normally, from late May to mid-August you can enjoy Shakespeare under the stars in Central Park. In 2024, things are going to run a little differently, while the open-air Delacorte Theater is under construction. The Public Theater will be taking the show on the road, offering free programming in a variety of locations around the city. Get all the details here .
• Danielle –  “For free and/or cheap stuff to do, check out  the skint . It's the absolute best. “
• Karla  uses  playbill.com  to get discounted tickets in advance.
• Kim – “If you want to see a Broadway show, look into the Theatr app for last minute cheaper tickets.” (This app connects people who have tickets they're not using with people who want to buy or exchange for face value or less.)
• Christopher recommends going to small indie theaters instead of Broadway shows. “Go see bands at dive bars in Alphabet City instead of concerts at Madison Square Gardens.”
• Denise recommends 1ota for information on getting tickets to a taping of your favorite television show while you're in the city.

Live Like a Local in New York City

• Go to Chess Forum . Chess lovers must go to Chess Forum . If you want to learn chess you must go. If you want to see a Greenwich Village institution, go. Chess Forum is “located at the original site of Grandmaster Nicolas Rossolimo's Chess Studio. Bobby Fischer was a frequent visitor to the studio and so were art and film greats Marcel Duchamp and Stanley Kubrick.”
• Go to local art galleries . On the recommendation of Imid from Chess Forum, I went to the Pomegranate Gallery where I had the great fortune of meeting Oded Halahmy, the artist and gallery owner. “Oded Halahmy was born in Iraq, moved with his family to Israel in the 1950s, was educated at St. Martin's School of Art in London, taught sculpture, and is in the collection of the Guggenheim Museum, the Hirshhorn Museum, and the Israel Museum in Jerusalem, as well as many other public and private collections worldwide.”
• Join a local running group . The  North Brooklyn Runners  is just one of the groups you can join for a run and a coffee afterwards. Here's a list of running groups in NYC.
• A calendar of free events.  You can see what's free at  DoNYC.com and Free NYC events on eventbrite . There are plenty of entertainment options to be found when you're traveling solo on a budget in New York City.
• Check out Meetup.com . Hiking, architecture, technology, wine: there are groups for people interested in every subject imaginable. Find a Meetup in New York City and go to meet locals who have similar interests as you.
• Go to an Open Mic . In a city with as much talent as New York you know that the Open Mic scene has to be a good one. And where there's an Open Mic there are always friends (locals) out to support the artists. Here's a list of Open Mic events in the city.
• Go kayaking on the Hudson. What a city! The Downtown Boat House promotes public access to the waterfront for all and offers free kayaking from May to October. Don't know how to kayak? Take one of their free classes.
• The drama of chess. Go to the southwest corner of Washington Square and watch the drama as people try to beat the regulars. You can also test your own skills at $5 a game.
• Take a beer tour and tasting.   Brooklyn Brewery hosts tours and tastings  are offered Monday to Friday. Check for details.
• Bookstores worth browsing.   Spoonbill Books ,  Berl's Brooklyn Poetry Shop ,  Housing Works Bookstore Cafe . Here is a list of 15 of the Best Bookstores in NYC .
• Visit the local chapter of your favorite organization . Are you a member of a service group or association? If so, plan to go to a local chapter meeting and see the city through a local's eyes – and maybe find yourself a volunteer tour guide! Read Take Your Membership Benefits on the Road: 11 Ways to Save for more ideas to save through organizations you already belong to.

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Publisher Janice: info @ solotravelerworld.com

Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

Sales Simon: simon @ solotravelerworld.com

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New York City

Vacation packages, the city that never sleeps, big apple, bigger adventures..

From exploring New York City's world-famous dining scene, Times Square, Top of the Rock, museums and more, there's so much to do and see in this city you might need to extend your stay.

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More About New York City

New York City is traditionally broken up into five-boroughs: Manhattan, the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island. To the west, there's the island of Manhattan where you'll find most of the iconic attractions like Central Park, The Empire State Building and Times Square. It might be a good idea to give yourself plenty of time to explore this borough. To the north of Manhattan is the Bronx, known for Yankee Stadium and famous Bronx Zoo. Over on the eastside is Queens where you can explore a variety of museums off the beaten path like MoMA PS1, Queens Museum and New York Hall of Science. Over in Brooklyn, look out for the famous Brooklyn Bridge and Coney Island, both have been featured in countless movies and TV shows. Down south is Staten Island connected to Manhattan via the Staten Island Ferry, which gives you a scenic ride of New York Harbor.

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Before You Go

• To make it easier to replace your passport if it’s lost or stolen, in addition to your passport, take a photocopy of your passport information page (keeping it separate from your actual passport).
• Carry only a limited amount of cash, just enough for gratuities and incidental purchases. Major credit cards are widely accepted and can be replaced if lost or stolen.
• Always lock your hotel room door (including patio and balcony door on any level of the building) and use the peephole before opening the door.
• Store your valuables (such as cash, credit cards and airline tickets) in the hotel’s in-room safe or front desk safety deposit box.
• If you must carry valuables on your person, do so in a pouch or money belt concealed under your clothing. Purses and backpacks can be easy targets for thieves.
• For complete and current safety and security information, including travelers' tips, public announcements, travel advisories and more, please visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov.
• December through February: 44° to 43° (Winter)
• March through May: 52° to 72° (Spring)
• June through August: 80° to 84° (Summer)
• September through November: 76° to 55° (Autumn)

Top Experiences

Central Park : You could easily spend all day at this park. It's home to numerous movie filming locations like Wollman Rink, known for most ice-skating scenes in New York City and Bethesda Terrace, that gorgeous arched terrace with the fountain outside of it with the angel on top, popular with romcoms. Just walk around the park and you'll get a sense of deja vu. The park is also home to the Central Park Zoo and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Statue of Liberty : A gift from the French, she's become a symbol of America. You can only reach her by ferry so make sure to book your ticket in advance to get an up-close and personal look and learn more about this piece of American history.

Empire State Building : Songs have been inspired by this building, the New York skyline wouldn't be quite as stylish without it. While not the tallest building in the city, this 102-story art deco inspired building still offers an amazing view of the city.

Times Square : If you're brave enough come for the epic New Year's Eve ball drop, otherwise come to marvel at the brightly lit square in all its glory on any other day of the year. It's located at the junction of Broadway and Seventh Ave and is surrounded by popular attractions, restaurants and shops.

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What’s the best bus to New York? We tested 5 for comfort and value.

No matter how you travel between the major cities of the East Coast, the journey gets old fast. The New Jersey Turnpike is boring to drive. Amtrak prices can be outrageous. Flying looks good on paper, but you still have to figure out a ride to the airport ; plus it comes with a bigger carbon footprint.

Then you have the bus, which can be the most affordable way to get from one Mid-Atlantic metropolis to another.

East Coast travelers have a glut of options when it comes to buses. You have your ultra-budget lines, midrange and luxury tiers. Having so many companies to choose from is convenient, but it’s also confusing. We tested five companies on trips between Washington, D.C., New York and Boston to help you decide which to take.

Pros: Affordable. Robust schedule.

Cons: Often packed. Itchy seats. Long lines to board.

Megabus is the Starbucks of the pack: ever-available and a little more expensive than it should be, but mostly acceptable.

The best case for Megabus is the volume of options. Unlike some of the other brands with one or two departures a day, you can find a Megabus between big cities like Philadelphia, New York and Baltimore at all hours. It also has the standard fixings: personal power outlets, WiFi and a bathroom.

Last November, I booked a last-minute round trip between D.C. and New York. The first leg was about $50 for a priority seat I reserved in the front row of the top level of the bus. The second leg without a seat assignment was $45. Book a few weeks in advance and you can find serious savings; similar one-way tickets could have cost me just $4.99 if I’d planned ahead.

Sitting in that front seat on the way out felt like cruising on the freeway in a spaceship or watching an Imax movie. No staring at the back of another bus seat, or feeling crammed in a little row. I learned later this seat assignment isn’t for everyone. My in-laws recently booked it and said they felt like they were sliding off the seat the whole trip.

Last word: Megabus is a trusty steed. It’s no-frills, but it’s always there for you.

2. Tripper Bus

Pros: Timely. Nice customer loyalty program.

Cons: Misleading website.

I booked a ride ($58, one-way) on Tripper Bus because the website promised the “epitome of luxury” with “leather captain seats.” But when I boarded my trip from Manhattan to D.C., I found no leather or luxury — just another basic bus with cloth seats. The WiFi was so bad, I could barely connect to my email to find out what went wrong.

Apparently, the company has two different bus options: standard coach and Elite. The website doesn’t make that very clear; neither does the company’s Instagram account. Its profile tagline calls itself an “Upscale Luxury coach service.” I felt part culpable, part catfished.

Last word: At the end of the day, Tripper is fine. It got me to my final destination as planned, even leaving a few minutes early once all passengers had been accounted for. The electrical outlets worked. The company also offers a buy-six-tickets-get-one-free scheme, which is nice for frequent travelers.

Pros: Luxurious and exclusive-feeling. An ocean of legroom. Reliable WiFi.

Cons: Limited schedule. Often expensive.

The Jet is a bona fide fancy bus between New York and D.C. reminiscent of the long-defunct (and much beloved) Royal Sprinter. It’s a smaller bus than your mega coach and seats only 14 passengers.

A huge selling point is the seats. They’re 22 inches wide — 5 inches wider than some airline seats — and made with a gel-foam base and a memory-foam back. They recline 45 degrees, boast motion-canceling technology and have six feet of distance between rows.

When I reviewed the company after it debuted in 2021, they offered lots of free perks onboard, from coffee to snacks. One-way fares were just $99. Now it’s usually closer to $200 — rivaling prices of Amtrak or flying — and you have to pay for coffee and snacks (although alcohol remains free for up to two drinks). I recently bought a one-way ticket for my fiancé, Dan, for $155, including tax, but have seen fares as low as $89.

While the motion-canceling seats are very comfortable, Dan did comment that his most recent driver accelerated and braked so aggressively that it did not feel like a smooth ride.

Last word: If your budget allows for a more expensive ticket than the typical bus, the Jet does feel like a special treat.

4. Peter Pan

Pros: Prompt. Cheap. Skilled driver. Clean bathroom.

Cons: Old bus. old seats. Less privacy.

For $38, I took a Boston to New York trip on a Peter Pan bus; fares start at just $14 for the same route if you book them further in advance, according to the website . So it was no surprise that the bus was old, from its exterior paint job to the cloth seats. It claimed to have WiFi (it didn’t work for me) but it did have functioning electric outlets.

My favorite part of the Peter Pan experience was that the driver was a seasoned professional who seemed like he had a lifetime of experience; you could tell by the way he breezed through his intro spiel — “please be nice,” and don’t make calls on speakerphone — “that is just obnoxious.” He moved the big old vehicle through traffic like butter.

The company does offer a perks rewards program to encourage repeat customers.

Last word: Peter Pan isn’t worth going out of your way to book, but if you need a ride in a pinch, it’ll do.

5. Vamoose Gold

Pros: Quiet. Clean. Thoughtful touches. Friendly service.

Cons: Bumpy ride. Spotty WiFi.

Vamoose Bus offers an economy version and a business class. In early April, I took the more expensive ($83 one-way) Vamoose Gold Bus to New York from Bethesda, Md., — an affluent Washington suburb — on the recommendation of a colleague. As a D.C. resident, it wasn’t ideal to Uber almost a half-hour north to catch the bus, but for me that was only 10 minutes longer than driving to Union Station, where the other buses depart. The company also leaves from Arlington, Va.

There was helpful signage at the at the departure location and an attendant handing out complimentary full-sized water bottles for customers.

I boarded the sleek black beauty to discover a pristine interior, plush leather and lots of open seats. My fellow passengers took some work calls but maintained a courteous volume throughout the trip. The bus was bouncier than you’d expect from its appearance; I switched seats mid-trip and found a seat closer to the back that somehow felt a little smoother. Worse, the WiFi was not dependable for a service marketed toward business travelers. Sometimes it had speeds capable of uploading a high-res file; sometimes it was so bad I couldn’t open an email.

Last word: Overall, Vamoose Gold was my favorite. It was nice enough to justify the price difference between Megabus but isn’t as expensive as the Jet.

Travel Cost Calculator

Quick links, trip pricing calculator.

Travelmath provides an online cost calculator to help you determine the cost of driving between cities. You can use this data to figure out a budget for a road trip. The driving calculation is based on the average fuel efficiency of your vehicle, and you can change the gas mileage in mpg or L/100 km to match your exact make and model. Gas prices are automatically estimated based on current fluctuations, and again you can adjust these to fit your local gas station prices. Both U.S. and international units are available to make the calculations easier to use, and the output is given for both one-way and round trip travel routes.

Check the driving distance for your planned route, and see if the total driving time requires an overnight stay. If it's a long trip, you may want to research some hotels along the way . Or compare whether it's better to fly or drive to your destination.

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LA To NYC: How Much This 17-Day Amtrak Train Trip Costs

From Los Angeles to New Orleans up to New York City, Amtrak's Southern Trail is the ultimate U.S. coast-to-coast adventure.

Read update

Los Angeles To New York City: How Much This 17-Day Train Journey Through The South Will Cost

• Explore the U.S. coast-to-coast on a 17-day train journey, soaking in iconic landmarks and unique experiences along the way.
• Experience the deep south's charm, the cultural richness of cities like New Orleans, and iconic cityscapes in Atlanta and Washington DC.
• With a cost starting at $4,949 per person, the Southern Trail package offers a comprehensive Amtrak service, hotels, guided tours, and more.

Train travel in the United States seems to be becoming more popular than ever. With some spectacular coast-to-coast train tours across the United States, travelers are able to discover the country in a whole new way, all in the comfort and luxury of Amtrak's train service.

One of these epic adventures begins on the West Coast in the unmissable sunny city of Los Angeles, California through the culturally rich deep south, up to the East Coast's must-visit, New York City . This life-changing train experience will showcase U.S. like never before, where something new and exciting awaits around every bend — and the journey doesn't stop on the railway.

UPDATE: 2024/05/01 00:52 EST BY ERYNN RUIZ

Ready for a journey through the South on Amtrak? This 17-day trip might take some budgeting, but you'll be prepared for the trip of a lifetime thanks to our updates, which include insights into experiences on the train, updated pricing information, and more info on traveling with Amtrak.

Amtrak's Great American - Southern Trail: Los Angeles To New York

A hollywood tour, a taste of new orleans, exploring the nation's capital & much more.

Traveling from Los Angeles to New York City will surely be an adventure of a lifetime, like no other. Amtrak's Great American - Southern Trail's itinerary has been thoughtfully composed with the aim of giving passengers an engaging and unique way to experience the United States like never before.

This 17-day scenic train journey will give travelers a look into some of the United States' most important and iconic landmarks with hop-on-hop-off tours, but also with plenty of room to venture off independently.

The journey begins in Los Angeles, California, a place with plenty of bucket list-worthy things to see and experience . The journey begins with a tour of Hollywood's most iconic landmarks, such as the Chinese Theater and the Walk of Fame, and even venturing into the hills to explore the homes of the stars.

There's a lot to learn about Hollywood's Walk of Fame before you visit!

From there, passengers will board Amtrak's Sunset Limited for a two-day picturesque train trip through the heart of the Southwest's Arizona and New Mexico to San Antonio, Texas. Travelers will spend two nights in San Antonio discovering the Alamo, taking a River Walk Boat Cruise, and enjoying a surprisingly long list of free things to do .

From San Antonio, the train continues onto the Crescent City, New Orleans . The heart and soul of the deep south. Amtrak's passengers will get two adventure-packed (but laid back and slowed down, southern style) days of exploring one of the best cities in America, if not the world.

Exploring the French Quarter while admiring the beautiful architecture, and finding local favorite restaurants will have you leaving the city wishing you were a local.

7 Amtrak Routes That Make Stops At Beautiful Beaches

Continuing on through the heart of the south, passengers will enjoy a day train to Atlanta, the capital city of Georgia, where they will spend 1 day and 2 nights. Atlanta is another great food destination and a wonderful city to explore and discover the diverse population and cultures.

Passengers will even receive a CityPASS to get around and explore all that Atlanta has to offer.

Washington DC

From Atlanta, the train journey continues overnight and arrives in the nation's capital, Washington DC, the next morning. Passengers will get two full days to discover some of the country's most iconic and important landmarks and museums in the U.S., on one of the many guided tours of the trip.

New York City

One last stretch... DC to New York City! After a remarkable coast-to-coast journey, passengers will land in what some consider to be the greatest city in the world, the perfect ending destination for such an impressionable adventure.

However, the trip doesn't end there. Passengers will have the pleasure of enjoying New York's hop-on-hop-off sightseeing tour to discover the city's most iconic buildings and landmarks, with plenty of time to explore the beautiful streets of New York , independently, the perfect end to the ultimate U.S. trip.

There are many reasons to visit DC in the spring , and booking a trip during this time will give travelers the rare opportunity to experience the city's stunning cherry blossoms .

How Much Does The Coast-to-Coast Southern Trail Train Cost? (& How To Book)

17-days, 6 destinations, and 4 guided tour train trips start at $4,949 usd.

The Southern Trail train package tour is one that may not come cheap but will provide an experience of a lifetime. It's a trip that introduces a unique way to see the United States from the comfort of Amtrak's services.

Passengers can expect to pay upwards of $4,949 per person one way , depending on the time of year. Through navigating Amtrak's website, passengers can scroll through the calendar to compare prices and request a quote for the trip's total cost.

It is worth mentioning the trip can be reversed and started in New York City, allowing for flexibility and convenience for each individual traveler. While the cost may sound daunting to some, what is included makes it all worth it and is actually quite reasonable.

Contact one of Amtrak's travel advisors for direct quotes and answers to any questions!

What Is Included In The Southern Trail Package Tour?

Amtrak service, hotels, and city tours are included in this cross-country package.

It's always important to know exactly what is included when booking such a big trip where travelers are putting their trust in a company to provide exactly what is promised. It's always worth contacting one of Amtrak's travel advisors with any questions and concerns regarding the trip.

The Southern Trail package includes train accommodation as well as hotel accommodation, along the way with guided tours and museum and attraction admissions.

What's included in the Southern Trail train trip

• One-way Amtrak in Coach accommodations from Los Angeles to San Antonio; San Antonio to New Orleans; New Orleans to Atlanta; Atlanta to Washington, DC; and Washington, DC to New York on the Sunset Limited®, Crescent®, and Northeast Regional®
• 14 nights hotel accommodations; 2 nights onboard Amtrak
• 1 meal (1 brunch) *Jazz Brunch at The Court of Two Sisters may be substituted with a dinner at an alternative restaurant on select dates.

Explore 5 National Parks In Two Weeks On This Amtrak Trip

Highlights of the amtrak great american - southern trail, experience a tour of los angeles, new orleans' french quarter, and stand at the top of the rock.

While the package tour has some impressive highlights, it is also up to individual travelers what they want to experience and discover in each place. By doing plenty of research on each destination, travelers can be assured of having a trip of a lifetime while discovering the best of what each city has to offer.

However, the package tour comes with a long list of impressionable highlights throughout the trip.

Trip Highlights

• Sightseeing city tour of Los Angeles
• Multi-day hop-on, hop-off w/ River Walk Boat Cruise + Tower of the Americas admission
• Sightseeing city tour of New Orleans
• Georgia Aquarium
• World of Coca-Cola
• Zoo Atlanta
• Plus your choice of admission to 2 of the following attractions:
• Fernbank Museum of Natural History
• Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame
• National Center for Civil and Human Rights
• Hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour of Washington, DC
• Monuments by Moonlight Tour
• Multi-day hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour of New York
• Admission to the Top of the Rock

Three Scenic Amtrak Routes That Won't Break The Bank

A U.S. coast-to-coast train journey is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that not everyone will have the privilege of being able to embark upon. If the adventure seeker in you is intrigued — and the wanderlust is being ignited — through this introduction, it could be a sign that it's a trip worth investing in.

The Great American-Southern Trail could be the next epic trip of your travel career!

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Congestion Pricing Will Start on June 30 in New York City, M.T.A. Says

Transit officials announced the start of the program, which they have said will ease some of the nation’s worst traffic.

By Ana Ley and Winnie Hu

The first comprehensive congestion-pricing program in a major U.S. city will begin in New York on June 30, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority announced on Friday.

The plan remains contentious, however, and with months to go before its scheduled rollout, legal and political clashes could still dilute or stop it altogether. A growing number of opponents — including Gov. Philip D. Murphy of New Jersey, influential unions and some elected New York officials — recently ratcheted up their effort to block it.

The program is meant to ease some of the worst traffic in the nation, improve the city’s air quality, increase mass transit ridership and raise money to modernize the city’s subway, bus and commuter rail system. Congestion-pricing tolls are expected to generate $1 billion a year, with the revenue earmarked by law for capital projects, not operating costs.

The authority, which operates the mass transit system, also said on Friday that it had opened a portal for applicants seeking the program’s coveted discounts and exemptions. A website will guide drivers on who qualifies and how to apply.

Under the program, most passenger cars will be charged $15 a day to enter a so-called congestion zone below 60th Street in Manhattan. Trucks would pay $24 or $36, depending on their size. Taxi fares would increase by $1.25, and Uber and Lyft fares would rise by $2.50.

The program is widely unpopular by many measures. A survey of about 800 New Yorkers conducted this month by Siena College found that 63 percent opposed it. Still, out of more than 25,000 public comments about congestion pricing submitted to the transportation authority from late December to mid-March, roughly 60 percent expressed support, the authority said.

M.T.A. and federal transportation officials are defending it against six lawsuits in federal courts in New York and New Jersey that seek to halt the plan. The courts, which are expected to rule before the program starts, could possibly delay or block it.

“They are proceeding at their own risk in arrogant disregard of pending court cases,” said Jack L. Lester, a lawyer for a group of city residents who filed one of the suits.

This month, a federal judge in Newark heard arguments in a suit brought by New Jersey officials who argue that the congestion-pricing plan would shift traffic and pollution to some communities in the state as drivers try to avoid the tolls.

“We are awaiting a court ruling as early as next month on whether the M.T.A.’s unprecedented congestion-pricing scheme can go forward,” said Randy Mastro, a lawyer for the state of New Jersey, adding that “the jury is still out on this hugely flawed plan.”

The tolling rates, which the authority’s board approved last month , are still being reviewed by the Federal Highway Administration, which has already signed off on an exhaustive study of the program and is expected to approve the tolls.

Congestion pricing is expected to lower the number of vehicles coming into the zone by about 17 percent, according to a November report by an authority advisory committee. The report also said the program would reduce the total number of miles driven by motorists in 28 counties in the metropolitan region.

The fees are also supposed to discourage drivers from jamming roads and idling in gridlock, which contributes to soot and other harmful air pollutants. But some of the program’s harshest critics have pointed to evidence that certain neighborhoods could end up with dirtier air as a result of the traffic that is diverted. In response, the authority has vowed to work to diminish such potential harm .

Other cities that have adopted congestion-pricing programs, such as London, Singapore and Stockholm , have reported sharp drops in traffic and congestion.

David I. Weprin, a Democratic state assemblyman from Queens and a longtime congestion-pricing opponent, said of the plan that the authority was “trying to aggressively ram it down the public’s throat.”

“I don’t think the public wants it and I think it’s really unfair for people who have to drive and have no choice,” Mr. Weprin said. He has joined a lawsuit filed by Vito Fossella, a Republican and Staten Island’s borough president, and the United Federation of Teachers that seeks to keep the tolling plan from proceeding.

Danny Pearlstein, a spokesman for the Riders Alliance, an advocacy group, said in a statement that the start of the program “cannot happen soon enough.”

Congestion pricing, he said, “will be a win-win-win for all New Yorkers, commuters and visitors and will bring better public transit, cleaner air, and freer moving traffic.”

Ana Ley is a Times reporter covering New York City’s mass transit system and the millions of passengers who use it. More about Ana Ley

Winnie Hu is a Times reporter covering the people and neighborhoods of New York City. More about Winnie Hu

Watch CBS News

NYC congestion pricing start date set for June 30. See a map of the zone and how much it will cost

By Jesse Zanger , Alecia Reid , Tim McNicholas

Updated on: April 26, 2024 / 11:20 PM EDT / CBS New York

NEW YORK - New York City's congestion pricing plan has a start date. 

The controversial plan charges a fee to  enter Manhattan's Central Business District , which the MTA is now calling the "Congestion Relief Zone," which is surrounded by more than 100 MTA cameras that will scan license plates. 

The MTA estimates congestion pricing will result in 100,000 fewer vehicles in the zone every day. 

The MTA says congestion pricing is necessary not only ease street traffic but also to raise critical funds to support mass transit projects, such as revamping the subway signal system. The MTA says a revamped signal system will improve overall train service, particularly during rush hour, by making it possible to run trains closer together, and trains therefore less crowded. 

"I think the main thing is, New York is, at our density, we're a mass transit city, and many people have already come to the realization that it's cheaper and faster to travel by mass transit," MTA Chairman Janno Lieber said. 

When does congestion pricing start in NYC?

According to the MTA's website, congestion pricing will begin on Sunday, June 30. 

The MTA is still contending ongoing lawsuits , including one from the state of New Jersey. The MTA has pushed back against those lawsuits, and has said  the litigation is effectively  hampering their ability to make new improvements . 

What about MTA congestion pricing exemptions?

The MTA says there are some discounts and exemptions for congestion pricing. 

Among the discounts:

• A 50% discount is available for vehicle owners who are enrolled in the Low-Income Discount Plan . The discount kicks in after the first 10 trips in any month. 
• Residents in the zone whose household income is less than $60,000 may qualify for a tax credit
• The  Individual Disability Exemption Plan will provide relief for those who have medical conditions that prevent them from using mass transit. Similarly, an Organizational Disability Exemption Plan will address vehicles for organizations like Access-A-Ride
• Certain emergency vehicles will be exempt
• School buses, commuter buses and certain other buses will be exempt
• As will certain other specific types of government vehicles that perform public works

NYC congestion pricing map 

The congestion pricing zone encompasses Manhattan's Central Business District, including all of Lower Manhattan and running north through 60th Street. 

That area includes  the Queensboro Bridge, Queens-Midtown Tunnel, Williamsburg Bridge, Manhattan Bridge, Brooklyn Bridge, Hugh Carey Tunnel, Holland Tunnel and Lincoln Tunnel. 

What are the congestion pricing hours and fees? 

Peak congestion pricing time runs from: 

• 5 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Friday
• 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

The toll structure listed below is for E-ZPass users. The MTA says fees for non E-ZPass users, such as tolls by mail, will "generally be 50% higher than the E-ZPass rates." 

• Passengers and small commercial vehicles will pay $15 during peak/$3.75 overnight
• Motorcycles will pay $7.50/$1.75
• Trucks and buses will pay either $24 or $36 and $6 or $9 overnight
• The fee will be reduced for drivers with an E-ZPass who use the following four tolled entry points in the zone during peak hours: The Lincoln Tunnel, Holland Tunnel, Queens-Midtown Tunnel and Hugh L. Carey Tunnel. Those credits include $5 for passenger vehicles, $2.50 for motorcycles, up to $12 for small trucks and charter buses, and up to $20 for large trucks and tour buses. There will be no credit offered during the discounted overnight period. 

Here's how to sign up for an E-ZPass . 

The MTA has posted extensive information about the congestion pricing plan on their website.

Pending congestion pricing lawsuits

Congressman Josh Gottheimer says pending lawsuits could halt the congestion pricing plan .

New Jersey lawmakers have argued congestion pricing would negatively impact the environment .  

"We should get an answer any day now. That could literally freeze it up and say you actually have to study the impact of the cancer-causing pollution that will come out because of more traffic," he said. "I'm very optimistic about these lawsuits. You gotta keep fighting this because families can't afford it."

Multiple suits have been filed in three separate federal courts.

• Congestion Pricing
• Metropolitan Transportation Authority
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Jesse Zanger is the managing editor of CBSNewYork.com. Jesse has previously worked for the Fox News Channel and Spectrum News NY1. He covers regional news around the Tri-State Area, with a particular focus on breaking news and extreme weather.

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