This New York City travel guide will show you everything you need to see/do when visiting NYC for the first time!
New York City is a vibrant and diverse metropolis that offers an endless array of experiences for both locals and tourists.
With many things to see and do, New York City is a city of endless possibilities, offering something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re exploring iconic landmarks, indulging in world-class cuisine, or immersing yourself in the city’s rich cultural scene, NYC promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting to return for more!
I’ve put together this New York City travel guide to help you make the most of your first visit to the Big Apple!
New York City Travel Guide
Top Sights in NYC
Time Square
Can’t go to NYC without seeing Time Square of course! As the vibrant epicenter of New York City, Times Square pulsates with energy day and night. This iconic intersection encapsulates the essence of the city that never sleeps. Though it may be overwhelming to visit and quite the tourist trap it is still quite an iconic landmark to check out during your first visit. Watch out for people trying to take photos of you here, as they will harass you for money!
Empire State Building
Rising majestically above the New York City skyline, the Empire State Building stands as a timeless symbol of architectural ingenuity, resilience, and the spirit of innovation. You can see it close up or make your way up the 102 floors for a spectacular panoramic view of the city with a ticket purchase. However, I think it’s best to see it from afar on a rooftop bar for less money while also getting a 360 view of the city.
The Metropolitan Musem of Art
Nestled amidst the bustling streets of New York City, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, affectionately known as The Met, stands as a beacon of culture, creativity, and human expression from various artists. You can easily spend half a day wandering through the many labyrinth of galleries showcasing masterpieces from every corner of the globe. This is a great escape from the cold (if you are visiting in the colder months) to spend a couple of hours indoors with lots of art to see.
Watch a Broadway Musical
I HIGHLY recommend watching a Broadway musical!! Even if you are not into plays/musicals they are spectacular (duh it’s Broadway) and another great opportunity to be indoors away from the cold. You can’t go wrong with any play you choose to see they are spectacular and truly worth splurging on!
The Statue of Liberty
The most iconic if not most visited landmark in NYC! Though if I’m being honest The Statue of Liberty wasn’t my favorite thing to see and it is a bit far from the city. However, I recommend taking a sunset cruise which takes you along the river to the statue while also seeing the Manhattan Bridge and skyline, the Brooklyn Bridge, along Ellis Island. A great way to see a couple of landmarks in an hour! You can check out some ferry tours here.
Grand Central Terminal
Step into the Grand Central Terminal to admire the soaring celestial ceiling, adorned with constellations and zodiac symbols, stretches overhead, while the opulent chandeliers cast a warm glow upon the bustling crowds below. The terminal is further accentuated by its marble floors, majestic staircases, and iconic four-faced clock. This historical popular transportation hub is a landmark you can’t miss to admire the beautiful architecture!
Parks to check out
Central Park
Nestled amidst the towering skyscrapers of Manhattan, Central Park encompasses a sprawling expanse of greenery and tranquility in the heart of New York City. Central Park had to be my absolute favorite place in all of NYC. I went in the summer and therefore recommend renting bikes and riding throughout the park. The park is huge so start from any entrance and just explore or have a picnic at Sheep Meadow!
Washington Square Park
Tucked away in the heart of Greenwich Village, Washington Square Park is a vibrant and historic park that embodies the spirit of New York City where lots of locals and NYC students hang out! At the heart of Washington Square Park stands the iconic Washington Square Arch, a triumphal arch dedicated to the first President of the United States, George Washington. An iconic landmark you can’t miss!
Bryant Park
Located between Fifth Avenue and Avenue of the Americas in Midtown Manhattan, Bryant Park offers lively events and seasonal attractions like an ice skating ring during the winter captivating visitors and locals. Grab a book or pack a picnic and enjoy Bryant Park!
Little Island
Perched atop the waters of the Hudson River, Little Island emerges as an innovative design as it resembles a floating park! This unique park opened to the public in 2021 since then making it a top attraction as it seemingly floats atop the river’s surface, creating a captivating visual spectacle and offering stunning views of the surrounding skyline. A whimsical park to check out.
Highline Park
What was once a disused railway line dating back to the 1930s has been transformed into one of New York City’s most iconic parks. Yup, a park on above ground on old railway tracks! Today, the High Line Park stretches for 1.45 miles (2.33 kilometers) along the elevated railway tracks, offering a unique perspective of the cityscape below.
Neighborhoods to check out
SOHO
SoHo, short for “South of Houston Street,” is a neighborhood located in Lower Manhattan, New York City. It is known for its artistic and creative atmosphere, historic cast-iron architecture, trendy boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. SoHo has a vibrant and lively vibe, attracting locals and tourists alike.
Greenwich Village
Greenwich Village, often referred to simply as “the Village,” is a neighborhood located on the west side of Manhattan in New York City. This neighborhood is a mixture of residential, commercial, and cute restaurants. It is home to New York University (NYU) and Washington Square Park adding to the youthful and energetic atmosphere. By far my favorite neighborhood! Oh and if you are a big fan of FRIENDS make sure you stop by the iconic FRIENDS building located in Greenwich Village!
Brooklyn
Brooklyn is one of the five boroughs of New York City and is located on the western end of Long Island. It is known for its diverse neighborhoods, such as Williamsburg, known for its hipster vibes, street art, and thriving music scene. DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) is another trendy neighborhood that offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, art galleries, and unique shops. Of course, you can’t miss out on the iconic Brooklyn Bridge which I recommend walking on to get to Brooklyn.
Chinatown
The biggest Chinatown in the US is located in lower Manhattan with 150,000 Chinese-speaking residents along with several delicious Chinese restaurants to choose from! I recommend strolling around the neighborhood and trying some Chinese cuisine!
Little Italy
Little Italy is a neighborhood known for its rich Italian-American heritage, culture, and cuisine. Located in the lower part of Manhattan, it’s bordered by Chinatown to the south, SoHo to the west, and Nolita to the north. You can indulge in Italian cuisine with many different restaurants to choose from.
Chelsea
Located on the west side of Manhattan, Chelsea is known for its diverse community, art scene, trendy restaurants, and high-end boutiques Highline Park is located here, and Chelsea Market (food recs: Los Tacos No.1, Doughnuttery, Ninth Street Espresso, Amy’s Bread). You should take a stroll around the neighborhood and check out the brownstones as well!
Meatpacking District
Cute trendy neighborhood with its cobblestone streets, and trendy, upscale restaurants with a mix of high-end boutiques, bars, and art galleries.
Restaurants Recommendations
Ess-a-bagel
The best bagel I’ve ever had!!! Can’t go to NYC without eating a bagel
Joe Shanghai dumplings
located in Chinatown, the best dumplings ever!!!
Fiaschetteria Pistoia
the best pasta and wine I had in all of NYC
Claudette
If you’re willing to splurge, this was the best French restaurant I went to with delicious food!!
Soothr
Delicious Thai food, again the best Thai food I had in NYC
NOMO Kitchen
great place for brunch and a cute ambiance
Laduree
its soo cute for a little brunch moment, it’s like you’re in Paris!
Eat a pretzel/hotdog from the stands
you just gotta
Joe’s Pizza
has the iconic NY-style pizza! Another food you can’t go to NYC without having it!
Sarabeth’s by Central Park
another cute brunch spot
Serafina
I swear these are everywhere in NYC and honestly it was very good pasta!
Magnolia
famous for their banana pudding, you must try!! A NYC staple
Levain Cookies
we now have this in LA but they are originally from NYC and are to be the best cookies
Bars/rooftops
*View from Jimmy’s rooftop!
Jimmy’s
By far my FAVORITE rooftop, it had incredible views and I would DEFINITELY come here during sunset!!
While We Were Young in Soho
This cute trendy place if you want to splurge on some drinks
The Roof at the Public Hotel
great rooftop for drinks and great views
The Fleur Room
another trendy rooftop
Slate NYC
Bar where you have to go down the slide to enter
Somewhere, Nowhere
the highest rooftop bar in NYC!! Looks so cute!
Short Stories
A cute little bar, I went here on a Wednesday night and surprisingly popping haha
Final Thoughts
The hustle and bustle of New York City can be overwhelming but also exhilarating! With many things to do in NYC, it can be a bit tricky to figure out what to see during your first visit. When I went to NYC for the first time I spent a week playing tourist and visiting places where some of my local friends took me to. Therefore, I hope this New York City travel guide I came up with helps you have an amazing time as much as I did!
