The Ultimate First-Timers Guide to New York City

Growing up in the Midwest, I had all the classic thoughts about the Big Apple. Watching the New York skyline on TV and in movies hundreds of times made me curious and a little intimidated. My first time in New York City wasn’t until I was 26 years old. We spent five days packing in various adventures and a lot of time in Times Square. We loved the city but felt we had seen enough to check it off the list. The good news is that we were so wrong, and I’m so glad we had so much more time there to explore and completely fall in love.

We moved to the New York City metro area in 2013 and spent four years there. We’ve returned a few times, and it will probably always continue to have a special place in our hearts. 

I wanted to put together a full first-timers guide to New York City using all the recommendations I’ve sent other newbies so that others have a much fuller experience on their first trip than we did. If you are planning your first trip to New York City, this guide has all the basic information, so many of our favorites, places to find the best views, information about how to ride the NYC subway, and even an itinerary to use as your template. Can you hear Taylor Swift singing “Welcome to New York” yet? Let’s dive in. 

New York City Basic Facts

• The largest city by population in the United States is New York City. It comes in #11 on the list of the world’s largest cities.
• The population is around 8.5 million people.
• New York City is on the land of the Lenape. It became a Dutch settlement in 1624 named New Amsterdam. The name later changed when the city came under English control. 
• At least 10 million visitors come to the city each year.
• The city is made up of five boroughs. Manhattan is the most popular for visitors. The others are Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, and the Bronx. 
• More than 800 languages are spoken in the city, making it the most linguistically diverse city in the world.
• Central Park has been featured in over 500 movies and is the most filmed location in the world. 
• The city is packed into 303 square miles (which is smaller than Indianapolis, Indiana in size.)
• You can choose between 23,000 restaurants in this city, with more than 1,000 specializing in pizza.

A First-Timer’s Guide to New York City

This guide for the first time in New York City is divided into several categories. It starts with the best places to get a view of the city. Then, you’ll see our favorite parts of the city to stroll around and explore on the sidewalk. If the weather is bad, you can check out the best indoor activities in New York City. And the guide rounds out with my favorite bars, restaurants, and dessert spots in the city. At the bottom, you’ll find our suggestions for hotels and other logistics.

The beauty of the Big Apple is the sheer number of places there are to explore. I recommend flagging these spots and reading a few other “best-of” lists online. Once you have a good selection flagged, you can open your list and see what’s close to you when you get hungry or want a change of scenery in the city. 

Our Favorite Views of New York City for First-Timers (and All Others)

New York City is huge. It’s impossible to really see all of the city from any one vantage point. I would recommend checking out a few of these spots for your first time in New York City. Seeing the incredible and everchanging skyline from the waterfront, 60 stories up, or a park in the middle of the city is the best. Bring your camera to these spots and get some great photos. 

Top of the Rock

This might not be the most famous tall building in New York City, but I would argue that it’s one of the best views. Rockefeller Center is located in midtown, and from the top deck, you can easily see Central Park. From this height, it’s also easy to see just how tall the other famous buildings are. You get a unique perspective without being at the highest levels. When you’re done up high, there is so much to explore within the 30 Rock building as well, so grab tickets to see the Tonight Show or see what’s happening on the Today Show plaza. 

Brooklyn Bridge

There are many great bridges in the NYC area, but I love walking across the Brooklyn Bridge. It’s the busiest, but that’s for a good reason. The walkway sits above the traffic, and you get nonstop skyline and East River views. It’s a bucket list item for many people, so check it off on your first time in New York City.

Staten Island Ferry

If you want to get on the water in the city, the Staten Island Ferry is completely free. The boat travels from the southern point of Manhattan over to the borough of Staten Island through the New York Harbor. It’s a great way to get a better view of the Statue of Liberty and the financial district. 

Little Island

This artificial island is built in the Hudson River of 132 oddly shaped structures called tulips. It’s a new addition to the city opening in 2021. There are a few walkways where visitors can get out over the water and enjoy unique city views. The landscaping helps provide a beautiful escape for city dwellers and visitors. There is also an amphitheater in the park that seats 687 people and hosts performing arts festivals, dance companies, and musicians. 

September 11 Memorial Park

The devastation that occurred in New York City in 2001 is still found in many places throughout the city, but nowhere as much as the site of the original World Trade Center towers. In their original footprints, there are now two large water features that are surrounded by the names of those who lost their lives that day. When you are standing next to them, all the sounds of the city are drowned out by the sound of falling water. It’s quite an experience. You can also marvel at One World Trade Center, which stands 1,776 feet above the park.

Madison Square Park

Historic buildings and modern skyscrapers surround this small public square in Manhattan. You can get great views of the Flatiron and the Empire State Building. There are often art installations in the park to enjoy, but I think it’s just a great place to drink some coffee, sit on a park bench, and take in the city things.

Bryant Park

Behind the famous public library and just blocks from Times Square sits Bryant Park. It’s home to a large holiday market and ice skating rink during the holiday season. In the warmer season, you’ll find exercise classes, people on picnic blankets, and a perfect shady and green place to read a book or play one of the games the park provides. 

Hoboken, New Jersey

One of our favorite spots on the New Jersey side of the river is Hoboken. Many people stay here for a better price than New York City, and it’s a quick train or ferry ride. The views of the skyline from the waterfront are incredible. While you’re there, grab a giant slice of pizza at Benny Tudino’s and stroll up and down Washington Street for great bars, restaurants, and boutique shops. 

Favorite Walks in New York City

The absolute best way to enjoy New York City is on foot, especially on your first visit. Each borough is packed with so many unique neighborhoods. Everyone can find something that fits their vibe. Start with these walks to help you get started on your first trip to New York City.

Central Park

You could spend so much time exploring this giant park in the middle of Manhattan. The northern edge of the park is quieter than the southern end. Locals use the reservoir as a running path and the Sheep’s Meadow as a hang-out spot. You can find concerts, plays, boat rentals, and more. 

If you are already overwhelmed with options, start at the Pond on the south end and go north up the Mall to the Bethesda Fountain. Circle the lake by the boathouse, get a little lost in the Ramble, and then cross back over the Bow Bridge. You can end by Strawberry Fields and enjoy the musicians constantly playing Beatles music to memorialize John Lennon, who lived across the street from this park section. 

The Highline

Weave your way through the Chelsea neighborhood on an old train track that sits elevated above the busy streets of the west side. The Highline is a popular park that goes from the Hudson Yards area to the Whitney Museum. You’ll find many photo opportunities along this path, as you won’t get many opportunities to be just above street level. 

Greenwich Village

This part of Manhattan is packed with stunning brownstones and incredible city history. The Stonewall Inn is a National Historic Landmark that was central to the gay rights movement. It’s a great neighborhood to find yourself if you’re hungry or thirsty. You can walk towards NYU and take a break in Washington Square Park.

Fort Greene/Clinton Hill, Brooklyn

I cannot leave out our neighborhood in Brooklyn. I walked the dogs here every day and never got tired of it. Cobble Hill, Carroll Gardens, and Williamsburg often overshadow this neighborhood. Still, I think it’s worthwhile strolling through Fort Greene Park and enjoying the great dining options and beautiful streets in Clinton Hill. Most people don’t get out of Manhattan on their first time in New York City, but I think the other boroughs are each incredible.

Read our specific Clinton Hill neighborhood guide. 

5th Avenue

Midtown Manhattan can be a little crowded and overwhelming for a nice stroll, but Fifth Avenue is a bit different. It’s a classic stretch of things first-timers in New York should see. The Plaza Hotel has a food court in the basement that gets you inside the famous hotel, and then you can walk south from there by 30 Rock, famous department stores, and other top-of-the-line luxury hotels. The windows and lights are best if you visit New York City at Christmastime, but worth a visit anytime. 

Favorite Indoor Activities in New York City

New York City sees rain, snow, cold, and heat, so it’s nice to have an indoor activity to escape the elements. Have no fear. The options are endless, but here are a few options that are great for your first time in New York City.

Eat all the things at Chelsea Market (or Another Food Market)

New York City is packed with food halls where you can choose between many great food stands. Chelsea Market is one of the most popular and oldest. You’ll find a little bit of everything. The Dooughnuttery is my personal favorite. Chelsea Market is famous enough to have their own cookbook. Dekalb is a Brooklyn spot that feels a bit more modern but has great options as well.

Take in the Art at MoMa 

Museums are all over the city, and it’s one of the most popular things for tourists to do when visiting. If it’s your first time in New York City and you can only fit in one, I recommend the Museum of Modern Art (MoMa.) It’s a bit smaller than the MET or the Natural History Museum. A few hours will be enough to explore. You won’t spend a whole day, but you’ll have the chance to see some of the world’s most famous paintings. 

People Watching at Grand Central Station

Grand Central Station is a national historic landmark, so it’s worth visiting just to enjoy the beautiful ceiling with constellations covering it. Each hallway has some fun surprises, so just taking time to explore or even take a tour is worth it. Enjoy the Oyster Bar, which is a staple in this busy station, or sample some of the other food inside and watch the commuters come and go. 

See a Live Show

Whether you’re interested in a musical or some stand-up comedy, you can find tickets for a show while you’re in town. TKTS is a popular destination to snag some last minute tickets for a good price for one of the famous Broadway shows. There are comedy spots all over town that sell tickets at the door. You never know when an SNL alum might pop in to try out some new material. 

Join the Audience for a Talk Show

Lines might not be your favorite thing, but if you have some patience, you might be lucky enough to sit in the live studio audience of one of your favorite talk shows. Most of the shows are completely free to attend, but you either need to put in a request in advance and get lucky or you need to wait in line and see if you make it in the door before show time. Find the information for each specific show on their website. I have seen The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, Late Night with Seth Meyers, and The Daily Show—it’s such a cool experience.

Learn About New York History at a Specialty Museum

Ellis Island is a popular NYC attraction where you can see where history happened. I want you to consider two other history museums that are specific to New York City and equally as fascinating (plus you’ll have a smaller crowd.) The New York Transit Museum is in downtown Brooklyn and explains how the subway system came to be. You can actually explore train cars from different decades throughout history in an old station. 

On the Lower East Side, you can tour the Tenement Museum. It covers the history of immigration in New York City. There are neighborhood walking tours and apartment tours where you can visit historically recreated 19th and 20th-century homes. The Museum of the City of New York is another great option, with rotating exhibits throughout the year. 

Favorite Cocktail Bars and Beer Halls

New York City is a perfect place to head out with no agenda. If you are ready for some drinks, I encourage you to turn to any inviting spots or have an energy that matches your mood. Here are a few of my favorite spots to have a drink:

• Frying Pan is a fun outdoor summer spot on the Hudson River.
• Fraunces Tavern is famous for hosting George Washington for a drink.
• Tiny’s and the Little Bar Upstairs is a Tribeca gem. 
• The Standard at the High Line should be a stop on your Highline walk to cool off.
• McSorley’s Old Ale House is a must for beer drinkers who love history.
• Gallow Green is an amazing rooftop spot. 

If you want to do a little bar hopping, I would encourage you to check out one of these areas with tons of options:

• Bar hop on the Lower East Side, and you’ll be able to visit all kinds of fun-themed spots. 
• Williamsburg is known for being a hipster haunt, but there are so many great cocktail bars and the famous Brooklyn Brewery.
• Smith Street and Court Street in Cobble Hill are the perfect spots for shopping and sipping. 
• Bleecker Street is popular with the college crowd, but grown-ups are welcome too. The drink specials are fantastic here during happy hours. 

Favorite New York City Food Spots (including Desserts)

The Big Apple is filled with Michelin stars and walk-up pizza windows. Anyone can find their new favorite restaurant thanks to the diversity of flavors, prices, and vibes. I could probably write a list of 1,000 places to check out, but I think anyone in the city obviously sees the options. Pizza, bagels, and deli sandwiches are all classic menu items for anyone’s first time to New York City.

These are my go-to NYC food spots when in town:

• Oyster Bar in Grand Central Station
• LeVain Bakery Cookies that are worth waiting in line for
• Gelso & Grand has great Italian in Little Italy
• Jajaja is a Mexican restaurant with locations in Chinatown and West Village
• Tacombi serves “fast” food with multiple locations
• Crif Dog is a Lower East Side hot dog spot with a speakeasy in the phone booth
• Awash in Brooklyn is my favorite Ethiopian restaurant
• Murray’s Cheese Bar serves an insanely perfect cheese tower
• Russ and Daughters Bagels are famous for a reason
• Eataly has two locations to help you carb load for your walking
• Ring Ding Bar in Tribeca is my go-to nostalgic dessert spot
• Sweet Chick is my favorite place for brunch because it serves up a vegetarian option
• Pizza everywhere

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Where to Stay in NYC

I am a big fan of Airbnb stays in many travel situations, but in New York City, for the first time, I would recommend a hotel. I have heard too many horror stories about weird apartment setups and people trying to sneak guests in because their buildings didn’t allow temporary stays. Plus, there are so many top-notch hotels in the city, and you’ll barely be in your room anyways. Here are a few of my top recommendations based on location and comfort. 

The Moxy NYC Lower East Side

The rooms are small, but the beds are comfortable and the rooftop bar has some awesome views. Moxy is a brand that I always trust in big cities. There are large community areas in the lobby to hang out and grab a coffee or get some work done. The rooms have everything you need to sleep and get ready without any extra space or cost. 

Book your comfy stay at this cool hotel. 

Kimpton Eventi Midtown Manhattan

Ask for a room with an Empire State Building view. We stayed here for Christmas one year as a “staycation” and had a front-row view of the light show each night. The location is right in Midtown Manhattan and easy to jump on any subway line without being in the middle of Times Square.

Book your stay in the middle of town with a view.

Sonder Duane Street

Stay downtown at this boutique hotel. Tribeca is such a cool area and very centralized. The rooms are designer spaces and you’ll enter feeling like you’ve moved into an upscale building in the city. The large windows allow you to watch the city go by while relaxing and resting your feet. 

Book your boutique stay here.

Gansevoort Meatpacking

If you are visiting the city with friends and want to spend some time at your hotel enjoying amenities, the Gansevoort has a lot to enjoy. Between an outdoor pool, a year-round rooftop bar, and a restaurant onsite, you’ll be able to spend some time partying and indulging without having to catch a cab or navigate the subway every day. 

Book your stay and enjoy the rooftop pool here.

1Hotel Brooklyn Bridge

1Hotel is a sustainable, luxury spot with some of the best views in the city. This hotel sits next to the famous Brooklyn Bridge and offers views of the Manhattan skyline. There is a spa and farm-to-table restaurant on site, so you’ll enjoy some luxury with your view. It’s a great spot to explore Brooklyn a little more, but still incredibly close to many of the attractions I’ve listed today. 

Book your fancy night stay.

Ace Hotel Brooklyn 

The Ace is located near the Brooklyn Bridge but in a more convenient location than the 1Hotel. The vibe is great, and it’s a bit more affordable than some of the other options on the list, but you’re still just a quick subway ride to all the important spots.

Book your Brooklyn getaway here.

Tips to Not Stand Out as a Tourist for your First Time in New York City

Do not stop in the middle of the sidewalk.

There are many moving people on the sidewalks of the Big Apple. I totally understand the temptation to stop and take it all in, but just make sure to pull over. Nothing gives away tourists visiting New York City for the first time like stopping in the middle of the sidewalk. Find a telephone pole or something people already have to walk around if you want to stop. If this seems obvious, just watch people for a few minutes, and you’ll see someone stop, and the traffic flow has to redirect around them (with plenty of people rolling their eyes.) 

Be prepared, but not too prepared.

You’ll be outside a lot, so make sure to wear (and bring more) sunscreen every day. You’ll also want to have your credit card and phone with you, but keep your bag light. Don’t bring along large maps, guidebooks, and umbrellas. 

Move with traffic.

New Yorkers know how to navigate crosswalks and traffic. Just move with the flow. Many people will not wait for the walk sign to turn white. Keep your eyes on the cars, but you’ll be safest if you move with the rest of the pedestrians.

Save your souvenir shirts for back home.

I’m not judging anyone who has an I Love NY shirt, I mean, I scream my love for the city in a million ways but don’t wear the shirt in the city. Stick to solid, neutral colors or whatever high-fashion look you want to try out. Black is the uniform, so when in doubt, just wear black. 

Don’t assume everyone is mean.

New Yorkers love to point out their favorite coffee shop or help people lost on the train. Ask a bartender what restaurant they recommend or their favorite pizza. Metro transit workers are happy to help you navigate the subway. The trick is just not to stop anyone that is trying to get somewhere. Use common sense and wait for someone to make eye contact with you if you have a simple question. 

How to Ride the Subway in New York City

The first time you descend the stairs to the NYC subway system, it can feel a bit overwhelming and intimidating. But it is hands down the best way to get around the city. It’s cheap, quick, and really reaches a huge portion of the city. There’s no reason to be scared to try it, even if it’s your first time in New York City.

Map Your Route

Google Maps is one of the best tools for determining your best route. Punch in your destination and select the public transportation option. It will give you the train number/letter you want, which stop you will exit on, and walking directions to and from the subway stations. Each station has a map, and you’ll want to know your direction before going through the gates. 

Train directions are determined by which borough they are heading towards. If you have a Bronx-bound train, it’s heading north towards the northern borough. Manhattan-bound trains are all heading back toward Manhattan. If you find yourself on the train going in the wrong direction, you’ll have to exit at the next stop and cross over to the other platform.

Where to Find NYC Subway Stations

The city has a way of blending together sometimes. Once you know which train you’re looking for and have the approximate location of the station, you’ll have to find the entrance. Look for green globes and signs with the colors and train names. Sometimes, the entrances are flush with the side of a building or inside buildings (like Grand Central Station.)

If you spot a red globe, you’re at an exit-only station. Look down the block for the corresponding green globe to find the staircase to the station. 

The signs over the entrance will tell you which trains stop there and which directions they are heading. You can compare the sign with your directions on Google to ensure you are heading in the right direction.

Many people are also happy to point you in the right direction. Just avoid asking anyone who looks like they are already rushing to get their train. 

How to Pay for the NYC Subway

OMNY is the new payment method for the NYC subway. You can get a pre-paid card or use your phone to load fares ahead of time. Hold the payment method near the screen, and it will turn green and allow you to proceed.

There is a cap for fares. If you are visiting NYC, use the same OMNY payment method for all subway rides, and you’ll cap out at $34.00 within a seven-day period. It will charge you each time until you hit that dollar amount and then every ride after until the end of the seventh day will be free. 

Check out this NYC Subway Guide for a more in-depth guide if you really want to master the subway system while visiting. 

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An Itinerary for a Long Weekend in New York City

New York City is huge and can be a bit overwhelming. If you are just looking for a loose itinerary laid out for you, I have you covered. This itinerary is for a Thursday through Sunday trip and helps you make the most of your time by sticking to certain areas of the city each day. It’s perfect for your first time in New York City or maybe your 100th.

Thursday

• Land at the airport and get to your hotel to check in and drop off suitcases. 
• Have a late dinner and a drink in Little Italy at Gelso & Grand.
• Enjoy the late-night hustle in the city and walk off your dinner before heading to bed for a good night’s sleep.

Friday

• Grab a coffee and go to Russ & Daughters for a bagel. 
• Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge and take in the views of Lower Manhattan.
• Try a slice of pizza on the Brooklyn side of the bridge and wander around one of the cool Brooklyn neighborhoods – Clinton Hill, Carroll Gardens, and Cobble Hill.
• Return to Manhattan and enjoy some drinks on the Lower East Side. The Tenement Museum is a great afternoon stop if you want to learn more about the neighborhood.
• Head to Grand Central Station for Oysters and to take in the beautiful ceiling art and the nearby Chrysler Building. It’s stunningly lit up at night.

Saturday

• Start with coffee first, obviously, before heading to the Little Island on the Hudson River. Take in the views while sipping on your coffee.
• Take the Highline south and enjoy the artwork and people-watching along this unique walking path in the city. Get off the at Chelsea Market and find something to snack on to boost your energy.
• Enjoy a brunch at Good and then meander through Greenwich Village. 
• Walk south towards lower Manhattan and check out the 9/11 Memorial Park and the other important historical spots in the Financial District.
• Grab tickets to a Broadway show at the downtown TKTS booth and then stop in Chinatown for dinner before heading towards Times Square for the show. 
• Have a post-show drink and sing to your heart’s delight at one of the karaoke lounges.

Sunday

• Grab coffee in the morning and head to Central Park. Walk from the Plaza to the Dakota to see some of the park’s most beautiful areas. 
• Have brunch on the Upper West Side, and make sure to visit Levain Bakery for a sweet treat afterward. 
• Use your afternoon to explore a museum on your list or do some shopping before returning to your hotel to grab your luggage and head home.

Is New York City the Greatest City in the World?

I have traveled to cities all over the world, and while I do not think there is a perfect city, I think New York City just might be the greatest city in my eyes. Singapore is so clean, but the laws are strict, and the weather is hot. Paris is stunning, but it has a bigger focus on the classic arts and has a more leisurely pace that I love on vacation. There are reasonable arguments for Sydney, but the weather is too nice. 

New York City has four seasons, thousands of blocks to explore, plenty of green space, history, interesting architecture, and a lot of stories. 

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Final Thoughts on This First-Timers Guide to New York City

I’ll finish this long article by giving you the best advice I can—pack comfortable shoes. New York City is best seen on foot, and you will surely find all kinds of gems packed away down random streets. The city is magic and has so much to explore. Make sure to tag us in your photos and drop any questions in the comments. I’m always happy to help with NYC recommendations and ideas because I want others to love this city as much as I do.

Pin this for your next trip to the Big Apple:

Frequently Asked Questions About Your First Time in New York City