THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO NYC

New York City—arguably the most iconic metropolis in the world!

From its dazzling skyline to its bustling streets that pulse with life 24/7, NYC is a city that captures hearts, fuels dreams, and creates lifelong memories. Whether you’re chasing the glamour of Broadway, savoring world-class cuisine, exploring cultural landmarks, or simply soaking in the electric energy of Times Square, there’s a reason they call it “The City That Never Sleeps.”

But NYC is more than its landmarks. It’s a melting pot of cultures, a hub for creativity, and a place where every block tells a story. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, the magic of New York City never fades.

Let me take you through some reasons why this dynamic city should be at the TOP OF YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET LIST.

GENERAL INFORMATION

• Location: Northeastern USA, in the state of New York. USA has 50 states.
• Capital of the state: Albany but largest city is New York.
• Population: around 8.8 million people
• Weather: NYC’s weather can be extreme—summers are hot and humid, and winters can be freezing. Dress accordingly! Angel’s tip: I visited during Christmas and I faced -10C with snow! Layers are life saver, usually I was wearing 3-4 with a good coat & comfortable shoes.
• Transportation: The subway is the fastest way to get around, and taxis or Uber are readily available. Walking is also a great way to explore Manhattan. The metro in NY has a contactless system(OMNY) which I used, where you can tap your credit/debit card or phone (with Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.) on the turnstile reader to pay your fare. Cost is $2.90 per ride. Angel’s tip: OMNY includes fare capping, meaning after 12 rides in a week (Monday to Sunday), all additional rides are free for that week! You can also buy a MetroCard (Physical Card), load money and pay $2.90 per ride. Fyi, there is an option for 7-day unlimited rides: $34 (ideal if you’ll take 12+ rides in 7 days). Angel’s tip: You can buy it from vending machines at subway stations or select stores.
• Timing: NYC is amazing all year! Winter & especially on December NYC is like a fairytale but cold & crowded, summer is awesome but hot & crowded. Spring and Fall are most probably the best months with pleasant weather and less crowds.

THE 5 BOROUGHS OF NYC

New York City is a melting pot of cultures, history, and modern-day attractions. The city is divided into five distinct boroughs:

1.Manhattan

The borough that you will be mainly and I suggest you to stay.

The center of business, culture, and tourism, home to iconic neighborhoods like Harlem, SoHo, and Chinatown. Central Manhattan features world-famous landmarks such as Times Square, Central Park, and the Empire State Building.

2.Brooklyn

The 2nd famous borough that you will have heard for sure from movies and TV series. Don’t miss it!

Known for its artsy vibe and eclectic neighborhoods like Williamsburg and DUMBO, Brooklyn is the place for creativity, amazing food, and stunning views of the skyline.

3.Queens

The most ethnically diverse borough in the city, with neighborhoods like Astoria, Flushing, and Long Island City, offering a mix of cuisines and cultures. Plus, it’s home to both JFK and LaGuardia Airports.

4.The Bronx

The Bronx has historically the had a reputation of beging less safe, but many neighborhoods have significantly improves over the years! Some parts like Mott Haven and Hunts point have higher crime rates. It is famous for being the birthplace of hip-hop and home to the Yankee Stadium, the Bronx has a rich history and local attractions like the Bronx Zoo and the New York Botanical Garden.

5.Staten Island

Beautiful views and nature but not much to see from landmarks,  you can skip it.

With a more suburban vibe, Staten Island offers scenic views, peaceful parks, and a ferry ride with stunning views of the Statue of Liberty.

TOP THINGS TO DO IN NYC

Landmarks :

New York is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Here are a few you absolutely can’t miss:

• Statue of Liberty: A symbol of freedom and one of the world’s most famous statues. You can visit by taking the Statue City Cruises ferry from Battery Park. Statue of Liberty museum entry is included too. Angel’s tip: I had booked in advance online at “Statue City Cruises” (click here) and I paid $25 for general admission.
• Empire State Building, Summit One Vanderbilt, the EDGE and Top of the Rock: Head to the top of these skyscrapers for panoramic views of the city. I visited Summit that I recommend and Top of the Rock. Angel’s tip: Book online in advance weeks ago, if possible. I paid $58 for the Summit and $130 for the Top of the Rock with all the extra activities (Beam, Skylift etc)
• Times Square: The heart of NYC, lit up by neon signs and home to Broadway theaters. Angel’s tip: Did you know that there’s a unique moment every night at 11:57 PM called the Midnight Moment? During this 3-minute event, many of the electronic billboards in Times Square synchronize to display coordinated art installations or digital works.
• Central Park: An oasis in the middle of the bustling city, perfect for a relaxing walk or a picnic.Wander through iconic spots like Bethesda Terrace or Bow Bridge.

Cultural spots:

From world-class museums to unique parks, NYC has a cultural scene that is unmatched. Don’t miss these hotspots:

• The Met (Metropolitan Museum of Art), MoMA (Museum of Modern Art), and the American Museum of Natural History are a must for art lovers. Angel’s tip: Ticket for all is $30.
• The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is a poignant reminder of the city’s resilience. Explore the museum for a deep and moving understanding of the events of 9/11. Angel’s tip: Entrance ticket is $33 and free on Mondays.
• The High Line: An elevated green space that offers a unique view of the city’s architecture and landscape. It begins/ends at Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District and stretches north to its endpoint at 34th Street, near Hudson Yards. Loved it!
• The Vessel: an extraordinary architectural centerpiece located at Hudson Yards, near the northern end of the High Line in Manhattan. It is perfect for photos and it is free to enjoy it from outside. Angel’s tip: In case you want to climb The Vessel for panoramic views of the Hudson River, the city skyline, and the surrounding area, general admission is priced at $10 per person, and children aged 5 and under can enter for free.

Neighbourhood exploration:

Exploring the diverse neighborhoods in NYC is one of the best ways to experience the city’s many personalities:

• Midtown Manhattan is the bustling heart of New York City, home to iconic landmarks and attractions. Highlights include the Empire State Building, Times Square, Grand Central Terminal, Rockefeller Center, and the Chrysler Building. It’s also a hub for shopping with Fifth Avenue, dining, and Broadway theaters.
• Greenwich Village: Bohemian vibe, jazz clubs, and Washington Square Park.
• Chinatown: Authentic chinese food, bustling streets, and unique shops.
• Little Italy: Charming Italian vibes and restaurants and pastry shops like Ferrara Bakery.
• SoHo: High-end boutiques and art galleries.
• Upper West Side: Home to charming brownstones and the American Museum of Natural History. Angel’s tip: you can find great cool shops to grab sth to eat, I combined Gray’s Papaya for hotdog and Popup Bagels with Levain bakery and Crumbl cookies. One of the best food days, haha!
• Upper East Side: Upscale vibes, luxury shopping, and the MET museum. Angel’s tip: Visit Ralph’s for a coffee to go. From Upper east side, you can take the tram for Roosevelt island to enjoy the views!
• East Village: Eclectic bars, vintage shops, and vibrant nightlife.
• Brooklyn: Visit DUMBO for jaw-dropping views of the skyline and Williamsburg for a cool, laid-back vibe. Take a scenic walk across the historic Brooklyn bridge too for breathtaking views of Manhattan and Brooklyn. Don’t miss Williamsburg: Hipster haven with rooftop bars, street art, and amazing food.
• Queens: Check out Astoria for great food (many Greeks live here) and Flushing for a mix of international flavors.
• The Bronx: Explore Riverdale and Belmont, or catch a game at Yankee Stadium.

Entairtainment:

New York City is packed with things to do, whether you’re into world-class performances, sporting events, or outdoor activities:

• Broadway Show: NYC’s theater scene is legendary—don’t miss the chance to see a Broadway showlike The Lion King, Hamilton,or Wicked. Angel’s tip: For discounted tickets, check out TKTS Booths in Times Square. They offer discounted same-day tickets for Broadway and Off-Broadway shows. The main booth is located at Times Square (46th St. and Broadway), but there are also booths at South Street Seaport and Lincoln Center. You can find tickets for up to 50% off regular prices, though availability varies depending on the show and time of day.
• Helicopter Ride: A helicopter ride over New York City offers breathtaking aerial views of iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and Central Park. These tours provide a unique perspective of the city’s skyline and landmarks. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for popular times or events. Prices start from $150 per person.
• NBA Game:Watch the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden or the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center. Angel’s tip: Even non-sports fans will love the electric atmosphere of an NBA game in NYC. Trust me! Angel’s tip: In addition to basketball, you can catch games from the New York Yankees (baseball), New York Mets (baseball), New York Rangers (hockey), and New York Red Bulls (soccer). NYC has a packed sports calendar, making it easy to find exciting events.
• NYC’s Skyline: Visit iconic observation decks like Summit One Vanderbilt, Top of the Rock, The Edge or the Empire State Building for stunning city views. Alternatively, enjoy cocktails with skyline views at rooftop bars like Westlight in Brooklyn or The Roof at the Viceroy Hotel.
• Live Jazz Music: Catch some live jazz or other performances at one of the city’s famous jazz bars.Dive into NYC’s jazz scene at venues like The Django (in Roxy Hotel in Tribeca), Blue Note, or Village Vanguard. A jazz night is a quintessential New York experience, offering intimate vibes and exceptional music.
• Jimmy Fallon talk show: Watch a live taping of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon at NBC Studios in Rockefeller Center (at the heart of Manhattan). Enjoy celebrity interviews, comedy sketches, and musical performances. It’s a fun behind-the-scenes experience and free, but tickets are limited and must be booked in advance.
• Radio City Rockettes: See the iconic Rockettes perform at Radio City Music Hall, especially during the Christmas Spectacular. Experience high-energy dance routines, elaborate stage setups, and festive themes. It’s a classic NYC experience, perfect for the holiday season. Tickets range from $50-$150 depending on seating.

Scenic walks:

Brooklyn bridge promenade: one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see attraction. It connects Manhattan and Brooklyn over the East River, offering pedestrians and cyclists stunning views of the skyline, Statue of Liberty, and the waterfront. The pedestrian walkway is elevated above the traffic lanes, offering amazing views of downtown Manhattan and Brooklyn. It’s about a 20-30 minute walk, depending on your pace and how often you stop to take pictures.

Brooklyn Heights promenade: Located in the Brooklyn Heights neighborhood, this elevated 1/2-mile walkway runs along the East River. It offers stunning views of the Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan skyline, and Statue of Liberty, with more quiet, relaxed surroundings compared to the bridge itself.

Hudson river park: stretches for 8 kilometers along Manhattan’s west side, from Battery Park in the south to Hudson Yards in the north. This waterfront park offers a variety of recreational activities, including biking, kayaking, and sports courts, all while providing stunning views of the Hudson River and skyline. It’s a great spot for relaxation, outdoor events, and enjoying the natural beauty of NYC—all for free!

Pier 35 for sunset : If you’re looking for a peaceful yet scenic spot to catch an unforgettable sunset in the city, head to Pier 35, located along the East River in Manhattan’s Lower East Side. This waterfront destination offers stunning views of both the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges, making it a photographer’s paradise. Get a panoramic view of the East River and the iconic NYC bridges. With its elevated porch swings, it’s the perfect place to unwind and take in the views.

Angel’s tip: The pier offers some of the best photo ops in the city, especially at sunset.  This is definitely one of my favorite spots in NYC for capturing breathtaking sunset views, and it’s a perfect spot for relaxation after a busy day of sightseeing, and for sure instagrammable!

Roosevelt Island Tramway:  a unique and scenic way to reach the island, offering a 5-minute aerial ride with panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, East River, and landmarks like the United Nations and Chrysler Building. The tram ride costs the same as a subway fare, about $2.80 one way & runs daily from 6 AM to midnight .

DINING IN NYC

No trip to New York is complete without indulging in the city’s iconic food scene and shopping destinations:

• Pizza: You can’t visit without trying a slice! Go for Joe’s Pizza, Lucali in Brooklyn, or Prince Street Pizza. Angel’s tip: You can try “$1.50 Fresh pizza” for cheap decent pizza. I paid $1.5 for a slice and it was not bad at all!
• Bagels: Don’t miss a classic New York bagel at Leon’s, PopUp bagels, Liberty Bagels or Frankel’s.
• Hot Dogs: Gray’s Papaya is a must-visit for a true New York hot dog experience. You may have seen it in a lot of TV Series too, open 24/7. Papaya has been serving up its signature “Recession Special” for decades, offering two hot dogs and a drink for just a few dollars—making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists on a budget.
• Pastrami sandwich: Located on East Houston Street, Katz’s Delicatessen is perhaps the most famous deli in NYC. Their pastrami sandwiches are piled high with tender, flavorful pastrami, served on rye bread, and are absolutely iconic. It’s been a NYC institution since 1888.

Angel’s tip: Don’t skip to visit food halls like Chelsea Market or Time Out Market in DUMBO.

Sweets:

• New York-Style Cheesecake: Junior’s Cheesecake in Brooklyn & Manhattan is world-famous for its rich, creamy, and indulgent cheesecake. You can find it in various flavors, but the classic New York-style is a must-try.
• Crumbl cookies: a popular cookie chain, delicious and soft!
• Magnolia bakery for the banana pudding, a creamy – sweet dessert layered with vanilla wafers and banana slices.
• The Cronut, a croissant-doughnut hybrid, was invented by Dominique Ansel Bakery in SoHo. It’s filled with various creams and flavors, and it’s a must-try pastry when in NYC.
• Levain bakery, known for their huge cookies!

SHOPPING IN NYC

Luxury : New York City is a luxury shopping haven, with some of the world’s most prestigious brands lining its streets. The iconic Fifth Avenue is home to flagship stores from designers like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany & Co. For a more exclusive experience, head to Madison Avenue or the Designer Showcase at Hudson Yards. You’ll find luxury boutiques, high-end department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman, and upscale shopping malls like The Shops at Columbus Circle. Angel’s tip: Don’t miss Macy’s, one of the largest and most iconic department stores in the world, located at 151 West 34th Street in Manhattan. You can find many discounts too in specific floors.

Unique finds:  Brooklyn Flea Market for vintage clothing, antiques, furniture, artwork, jewelry, and handmade goods.

For major discounts, head to Woodbury Common Premium Outlets: one of the largest outlet shopping centers in the United States, located about an hour north of New York City in Central Valley. With over 250 stores, it offers significant discounts on brands like Prada, Gucci, Coach, Columbia, Tommy Hilfiger, North face, Lululemon, YSL, Nike etc. It’s a shopping paradise for bargain hunters and fashion lovers alike, offering up to 65% off retail prices year-round. How to Get There:

1. By Car: If you’re driving, the outlet mall is about an hour’s drive from Manhattan via I-87 N. There’s ample parking available at the outlets.
2. By Bus: You can take several buses like the bus from Port Authority Bus Terminal in Manhattan. The Gray Line Bus offers round-trip service to Woodbury Common, with tickets available online or at the terminal. The trip takes about 1-1.5 hours each way. Angel’s tip: I booked in advance the Woodburry Bus, 1 hour drive and $42 round trip from Manhattan. You can book your tickets here. 
3. By Train and Shuttle: You can also take a train from Penn Station to Woodbury Common, followed by a shuttle bus service from the station to the outlets.

FREE THINGS TO DO IN NYC

New York City can be expensive, but there are plenty of free activities to enjoy that let you experience the city without breaking the bank. Here are some great options, most of them mentioned above:

• Walk Through Central Park
• Explore the High Line
• Visit Times Square, day and night
• Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge
• See the 9/11 Memorial (Outside). Angel’s tip: Museum is free on Mondays.
• Stroll Through the Brooklyn Botanic Garden (Free on Tuesdays)
• Visit Grand Central Terminal, an iconic NYC landmark and transportation hub in Midtown Manhattan. Opened in 1913, it’s famous for its stunning Beaux-Arts architecture, the celestial constellation ceiling in the main concourse, and the iconic four-faced clock. Beyond transit, it’s a destination for dining, shopping, and events, with spots like the Grand Central Market and the historic Oyster Bar & Restaurant.
• Walk Along the Little island in meatpacking district
• Visit the New York Public Library (Main Branch)
• Take a Free Ferry Ride to Staten Island. The Staten Island Ferry is free and offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Manhattan skyline as you cross the harbor between Manhattan and Staten Island.
• Walk Around Chinatown & Little Italy
• Visit from outside the Vessel in Hudson Yards
• Visit Bryant Park . Angel’s tip: During winter, you can enjoy the Bryant Park winter village.

Angel’s tip: And of course don’t forget to explore NYC’s neighborhoods on foot, as there are plenty of free experiences just by strolling around. Each area has its own charm, from the bohemian vibe of Greenwich Village to the artistic flair of SoHo.

Angel’s tip: If you visit NYC during Summer, you can find many free Concerts & Events to attend.

Angel’s tip:  If you visit NYC during Christmas don’t miss Dyker Heights: The Christmas Light Wonderland . Located in Brooklyn, Dyker Heights is famous for its Christmas light displays. Every December, this quiet residential neighborhood transforms into a winter wonderland as homeowners compete to outdo each other with extravagant lights, inflatable decorations, and elaborate holiday scenes. It’s a heartwarming holiday tradition that draws both locals and tourists for an unforgettable Christmas experience.

• Best seen from mid-December to New Year’s, when the whole neighborhood is illuminated.
• Perfect for families, friends, and anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit.
• Make sure to visit 11th to 13th Avenues, between 83rd and 86th Streets, where you’ll find the most decorated homes.
• There are guided walking and bus tours to help you explore the area easily.

New York City is more than just a destination; it’s an experience that leaves an indelible mark on everyone who visits. From its iconic skyline and historic landmarks to its vibrant neighborhoods and rich cultural diversity, NYC offers endless opportunities for exploration and inspiration. Whether you’re wandering through Central Park, admiring the views from the Empire State Building, or savoring the perfect slice of pizza, the city’s energy is unparalleled.

No matter how many times you visit, there’s always something new to discover—a hidden jazz club, a pop-up art exhibit, or a sunset that stops you in your tracks. New York truly is the city that never sleeps, and it’s ready to welcome you with open arms.

So, pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime in the greatest city in the world!

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