First time in New York City: The best sights, neighborhoods, and more

If it’s your first time in New York City, you may be dreaming of catching a Broadway show, walking through Central Park, and snapping photos of the Statue of Liberty with a crispy slice of NYC pizza in hand. All this and more awaits in the Big Apple, where NYC's world-famous landmarks and hidden gems are around every corner.

This first-timer’s guide covers everything you need to know, including what to avoid, navigating public transportation, the best foods, and all the things to do in New York City for first-timers.

Tips: Things to know about New York City

1. New York is a city best explored on foot, so wear comfortable shoes and carry a lightweight bag.
2. The subway is your best friend when it comes to getting around NYC quickly and cheaply. Read up on how NYC fares work on the MTA website. Keep in mind that locals refer to the subway as the “train.”
3. Tipping is a major part of service culture in NYC and is expected in many places. Plan to leave 15-20% for good service at eateries.
4. Subways and buses can be jam-packed during rush hour (8:00-10:00 AM and 5:00 PM-7:00 PM). If you’re traveling during these times, be prepared for crowds.
5. In crowded areas and on public transportation, keep your bags secure and valuables close to avoid pickpockets.

Best time to visit

New York City’s charm never dips, but the best time to visit depends on the type of experience you’re looking for. Spring and fall are popular for their mild weather, summer is buzzing with events, and winter offers holiday magic. As NYC is a year-round destination, planning months in advance is necessary to snag lower prices on hotels and flights.

Spring

From March to May, spring in NYC is a beautiful time to explore the outdoors. Areas like Central Park and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden are in bloom, and the weather is perfect for walking around. While spring is generally less crowded than summer, note that Easter and Memorial Day weekends can still draw large crowds.

Summer

New York City summers (June to August) are hot, humid, and packed with both locals and tourists out and about. The upside? Street fairs, open-air concerts, outdoor movies, and festivals like SummerStage are in full swing. Central Park and the city’s beaches, such as Coney Island, are great for relaxing, though you’ll have to battle the crowds.

A train ride away, you can reach the cozy seaside town of Southampton, which has a sprawling beach with plenty of space. Wherever you go, book tickets well in advance to avoid long waits.

Fall

New York City reaches its peak romantic atmosphere in the fall (September to November). The trees take on shades of orange, red, and yellow, and with the temperatures cooling down enough to wear layers and accessorize, it’s one of the best seasons to witness NYC’s ever-cool and inspiring street fashion.

Halloween celebrations and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade are major reasons to visit NYC in the fall. And don’t let the occasional rainshower deter your plans — there are plenty of things to do in NYC when it rains.

Winter

December to February brings chilly weather and the chance for snow in New York City. To many, NYC’s holiday charm is unmatched. The city transforms with twinkling lights, decorated shop windows, ice skating rinks, and holiday markets.

January and February are quieter months with fewer tourists, but the snow keeps the city looking magical after the festive season ends. Make sure to pack layers to stay warm while exploring. While you’ll still be able to experience the city’s characteristic hustle and bustle, winter in NYC has a slightly more mellow pace.

New York City’s 5 must-visit attractions

1. Statue of Liberty

An iconic symbol of freedom, the Statue of Liberty stands tall on Liberty Island, offering views and an essential New York experience.

2. Empire State Building

One of the most iconic skyscrapers in the world, the Empire State Building has one of the best views in NYC of the Manhattan skyline.

3. Central Park

Stretching across 843 acres, Central Park’s trails and walking paths lead you to spots like Bow Bridge and the Bethesda Terrace.

4. Times Square

Touristy, but a must-do in New York City for first-time visitors, Times Square is the heart of The Big Apple, bursting with neon lights, Broadway theaters, and an electric atmosphere.

5. Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the world’s greatest art museums, The Met houses everything from ancient Egyptian relics to modern masterpieces.

Best 3 neighborhoods to explore in New York City

1. Greenwich Village

Greenwich Village is the perfect neighborhood for those who want a taste of old-school NYC with a modern twist. Known for its bohemian vibe, this area is home to iconic landmarks like Washington Square Park and the Comedy Cellar, where some of the world’s best comedians perform nightly.

Take a walk along the cobblestone streets, and you’ll find cozy cafes, historic brownstones, and jazz clubs where live music fills the air. It’s also the birthplace of New York’s counterculture movements, so don’t miss the independent bookstores and art galleries like McNally Jackson Books and White Columns.

2. Williamsburg

Known for its creative energy, Williamsburg in Brooklyn is one of NYC’s best neighborhoods for street art, indie boutiques, and foodie destinations. On weekends, Smorgaburg, a weekly open-air market, features dozens of vendors serving up inventive street food and drinks (typically operates from April to October).

Explore Bedford Avenue for vintage shopping, artisanal coffee shops, and rooftop bars like Westlight, which offers unbeatable views of the Manhattan skyline. You can also catch live music at the Music Hall of Williamsburg or see local artists’ work at the street art-filled Bushwick Collective.

3. Harlem

Harlem, Manhattan’s cultural heartbeat, is full of history, music, and food. Walk down 125th Street to the iconic Apollo Theater, where legends like Ella Fitzgerald and James Brown performed. For soul food, hit up Sylvia’s or Red Rooster for a true taste of Southern comfort. The jazz scene is alive and reminiscent of the past at spots like Minton’s Playhouse, where Bebop was born.

What to eat in New York City

A must-do in New York City for any first-timer is diving into the food scene, and there’s almost too much good food in NYC to try. From cheap but delicious pizza slices to Michelin-starred restaurants where you’re bound to catch a few celebs dining, the culinary options are endless. Expect a mix of classic American fare, Italian, Chinese, and Jewish deli staples.

1. New York-style pizza

With a thin crust, oversized and perfectly foldable slices, and an ideal cheese-to-sauce ratio, a slice of NYC pizza is one of the most affordable meals in the city.

2. Bagel with lox

A quintessential New York breakfast, a bagel, commonly topped with lox (brined salmon), is best enjoyed from a fail-proof bagel spot like Russ & Daughters or Tompkins.

3. Pastrami on rye

A must-try from Katz’s Delicatessen, this towering sandwich is packed with smoky pastrami.

4. New York Cheesecake

Rich and creamy, New York-style cheesecake is a must-try, with Junior’s being a popular spot.

5. Dim sum

New York’s Chinatown is home to some of the best dim sum in the city — stop by Nom Wah Tea Parlor for traditional favorites.

Getting to New York City

New York City is one of the most connected cities in the world, with three major airports and extensive train and bus services. Most international travelers will fly into John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in Queens or Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), just across the river in New Jersey. LaGuardia Airport (LGA) is closer to Manhattan but mainly serves domestic flights. You can also reach NYC via Amtrak, Megabus, or Greyhound from many US cities.

Flying into John F. Kennedy International Airport

JFK is the city’s main international hub, though there are several other airport options in New York that you may use depending on where you are coming from. There are several ways to get to Manhattan from the airport.

From JFK, you can take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station, where you can transfer to the subway or the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) for a quick ride into Manhattan. The NYC Express Bus, formerly the NYC Airporter, also offers direct access to Midtown.

Taxis and rideshare services are available right outside the terminals but can be pricey, especially during peak traffic hours.

Penn Station and Grand Central

Penn Station, located in Midtown Manhattan, is a major hub for Amtrak trains, the Long Island Rail Road, and New Jersey Transit. It’s centrally located, so getting to your hotel or attractions from here is straightforward, with several subway lines accessible from the station. The M34 bus also stops in front of Penn Station.

Grand Central Station, also in Midtown Manhattan, does not handle Amtrak or New Jersey Transit. Instead, it serves as the main terminal for the Metro-North Railroad, connecting New York City with suburban communities in Westchester County, the Hudson Valley, and Connecticut. In addition to Metro-North, Grand Central provides access to several NYC subway lines, including the 4, 5, 6, 7, and S (Shuttle) lines, making it a key transit point within the city.

For easy navigation, follow the signs for the exits you need, especially during rush hours when the station is filled with commuters. Both stations have amenities like food courts, shops, and waiting areas, making transit more comfortable.

Getting around New York City

When traveling distances that are not walkable, getting around New York City is easiest and cheapest via its extensive public transportation system. Most subway lines run 24/7 and are the fastest way to travel across boroughs while walking or biking are the best options for exploring compact neighborhoods. Though taxis, Uber, and other rideshare services can be more pricey, you may feel safer using one of these options if traveling alone late at night.

Exploring New York City on foot

NYC is incredibly walkable, and simply walking the city streets is one of the best things to do in New York City for first-timers. Neighborhoods like SoHo and the West Village are perfect for on-foot exploration or biking. Many landmarks are within a short walking distance from each other, too.

Public transportation in New York City

Public transportation is the most popular method to get around NYC. Even if it isn’t your first time in New York City, the transportation system, namely subways, can seem daunting, but once you try it a couple of times, it becomes almost second nature.

Buses are another option, though they can be slower and delayed during rush hour. For those planning to stay longer, consider purchasing a MetroCard. The official MTA website is a great resource, with information on how to use the subway, a breakdown of fare costs, and more. Downloading an app like Citymapper can make navigating the subway lines easier.

What to avoid in New York City

1. Rethink taking taxis or Ubers everywhere. While it may be tempting, the subway is typically faster and cheaper, especially during peak traffic times.
2. Don’t spend all your time in Times Square. It’s crowded, and overpriced, and there are much better places to explore.
3. Avoid doing all your dining in tourist-heavy areas. A big part of the fun of being a first-timer in New York City is visiting some of the iconic food spots in the city, even if you’re guaranteed a wait in line, but bear in mind the eateries around Times Square and the Empire State Building tend to be overpriced.
4. Beware of street scams. If someone offers you tickets or “designer” goods on the street, it’s probably a scam. Stick to official vendors.
5. Avoid blocking pedestrian traffic. New Yorkers walk fast, and you’ll frustrate locals if you stop in the middle of the sidewalk, or at the entrance and exit of a subway station. Step aside if you need to check your map or take photos.

First-timer’s guide to New York City: FAQs

How many days should I spend in New York City as a first-time visitor?

There’s lots to see on a first trip to New York City, so 4 to 5 days is ideal. This gives you enough time to see must-visit attractions while also exploring several neighborhoods. With a few extra days, you can dive deeper into NYC’s hidden gems and really soak in the city pace of life here. While a 48-hour trip is doable, you may feel rushed and have to skip some of the essential NYC experiences.

What’s the tipping policy in New York City?

In New York City, tipping is customary and expected in most service situations. At restaurants, it’s standard to tip 18-20% of the total bill. For taxis and rideshares, 10-15% is common, while hotel staff like bellhops and housekeeping typically receive $1-$2 per bag or $3-$5 per night. Many places add a gratuity automatically for larger groups, so always check your bill to ensure you don’t double tip. For more important things to know about New York City beyond this first-timer’s guide, it’s a good idea to review a local’s NYC tips.

Where’s a good area to stay in New York City?

Midtown Manhattan is an excellent choice for first-time visitors due to its central location and proximity to major attractions like Times Square and Broadway. If you’re looking for a more laid-back vibe, neighborhoods like the Upper West Side or Greenwich Village offer a quieter experience with easy access to sights. Williamsburg in Brooklyn is also popular for a more local feel.

What are the best free things to do in New York City?

Many of the fun things to do in New York City for first-timers are also free. You can walk the High Line, explore Central Park, picnic at Bryant Park, or visit the 9/11 Memorial. The Brooklyn Bridge, one of the most Instagrammable places in the city, offers sweeping skyline views, and the New York Public Library is both an architectural wonder and a free space to dive into literature. For a free cruise alternative, ride on the Staten Island Ferry as many times as you want.

Do I need to book restaurants in advance in New York City?

Booking restaurants in advance is recommended in NYC, especially for popular spots and during weekends. High-demand places or trendy dining areas in SoHo and Williamsburg fill up quickly. Many casual eateries and food markets don’t require reservations, so you’ll always find somewhere to eat. Planning ahead for fine dining or special occasions ensures you avoid long waits and get a seat.