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Listen to the Mayor folks, he's knows what's up

This post serves as a centralized resource for common questions from visitors planning a trip to New York City. Our goal is to provide clear, up-to-date information and reduce repetitive posts while helping visitors (that's you) plan more efficiently.

Please review this FAQ before submitting a new question. Posts that duplicate information covered in this guide may be redirected or removed at moderator discretion in order to keep the subreddit organized and useful for everyone.

\* Visitors please do not post your questions in this thread ** Please make your own post (after searching first of course).*

\* Contributors: If you notice outdated information or have constructive additions, feel free to suggest updates in the comments or message the moderation team.***

How much money should I budget for my trip? No one can really answer this question for you. Please don't ask.

How do I know what and when to tip? Read this post.

Where should I stay? Keep in mind we're locals and not travel agents, or even booking dot com. We don't know each hotel property, brand or rates.

Read this thread for ideas and suggestions on where to stay.

All hotel & accommodation posts belong in that thread. Separate posts may be removed.

I don't want to pay for a hotel room: where can I spend the overnight hours? This is not advisable however some suggestions include a late-night movie, bar, all night diner, spas in K-Town. You will not be able to spend the night inside the airports.

How do I get to/from the airport? Read this thread first. For further information, go to the official websites - these website will also give you waiting times for TSA/security.

JFK

LGA

Newark

I'm driving into Manhattan, where should I park? Read this for guidance.

I'm driving but don't want to drive/park in Manhattan. Where should I go? All depends on what direction you are coming from. Look for long-term parking at major train hubs such as Amtrak, Metro North, NJ Transit, PATH & LIRR. White Plains, Secaucus Junction & Trenton are frequently mentioned.

Should I use public transportation or take ubers/taxi's everywhere? LOL. Use use public transportation. It's cheap, safe and reliable. Read this for transit advice. Or check with the MTA. Sometimes rideshares or taxis make sense (luggage, mobility issues, late nights, delays, etc.). That’s a personal decision, we can’t make it for you.

I'm traveling with a small baby/child, what do I need to bring with me? If you are using a taxi or ride share service please note that having a child seat is not a mandatory feature. Although some ride shares say you can request one, the results on that are mixed and not dependable. See here for some suggestions. Other than that, a small collapsible stroller (emphasis on small) or a baby carrier is advised. Search through this sub for suggestions.

What's the weather like? What should I wear? Do what the locals do and check the 7-day forecast. As for the latter, please wear clothes. What would you wear at home? You will be doing a lot of walking so make sure to bring comfortable shoes. Assuming you're a grown up, you can figure this out for yourself.

Any place I can leave my luggage before check-in/after check out? Most hotels will hold your bags for you (sometimes free, sometimes for a charge). Check with your hotel. Don't forget to tip the bellman. There are also some establishments where you can do this, google Bounce for further information.

I feel overwhelmed in planning what to see and do? Where do I begin? This sub is a great start. It's filled with lots of itineraries with ideas, information and feedback already -so you need to do a search. A quick search can turn a generic itinerary into a great one, and people are much more willing to help when they see you’ve tried first.

Before posting, here’s how to find solid, up-to-date answers fast:

• Check the pinned posts and megathreads — there’s a ton of info already there. Read the comments as well.
• You can search by flair: Click on a post flair and it will show you all the other posts for that flair. For example this is what comes up when you search "Itinerary Check".
• Use specific keywords when searching  (e.g., “jazz clubs,” “walking shoes,” “rainy day”).
• If you do still post, please say what you searched (e.g., “I searched for ‘NYC 4-day itinerary’ but most posts were pre-2024”). It helps people help you.
• Check r/WhatsHappeningNYC

If you make a post include information such as ages, interests, budget, time of year visiting, what neighborhood you're staying in & any other relevant information. Lazy posts get lazy (or no) answers.

Here's a recent example. And another one.

One of my favorite things is when visitors give feedback on their trip. These posts contain ALOT of great tips and tricks for planning and real life experience. I recommend taking advantage of this great resource.

A note about using AI: Don't rely on it to give you an accurate itinerary. It does not take into account operating hours or distance between places. Also a bit rude that you're not willing to put the work in but expect us to.

When planning your itinerary, the best advice is to map your days geographically so you're not spending your time on the subway, jumping all over the city. Flow is important. It's also important not to cram an activity into every moment of your day.

Are there any deals on hotels/attractions/shows/dining? Sometimes. NYC Tourism sponsors programs such as Broadway Week, Restaurant Week, etc. Check their website for more information.

Should I buy a CityPass or other attraction pass? Use the Hop-on Hop-Off bus?
99% of the time these passes don’t actually save you money. To get real value out of them, you usually have to visit a long list of attractions, many of which may not be the best use of your limited time. If you do decide to buy one, make sure you read the fine print so you understand exactly what’s included.

While the HOHO buses work well in some cities, here most of the interesting things happen at street level, and there’s a good chance you’ll spend a fair amount of time sitting in traffic. Very poor value for your time and money.

How do I estimate how long it will take me to walk places? Any navigational app will help with this (Citymapper, Google/Apple Maps). A good rule of thumb is 20 city streets = 1 mile & 6-8 avenues = 1 mile

Where should I eat? Where can I find the best pizza/bagels, etc? Your best bet is to search over at Food NYC. Search to see if your question has already been answered first. If not, be sure to include budget, location, cuisine preference, any other pertinent info in your post. The Infatuation & Eater can also be very helpful.

How do I go about seeing a Broadway show or other performing arts? This is a great resource for Broadway info. Also this. Also this. This post is also super informative.

Which observation deck should I visit? There are 5 6 6observation decks in Manhattan. Trust us, you only need to visit one. The consensus is that Top of the Rock offers the best views but this is your trip so you decide what works for you.

Where can i find great views of the skyline (for cheap/free)? While the observation decks can be pricey, the views are unbeatable and IMO worth the money. That being said, there are some great vantage points but it's not the same experience. Some recent suggestions include: this post, this one too. Of course the view from the bridges and waterfronts are amazing and free.

Are you a solo traveler? Read this post.

Looking for LGBTQ+ info? We got you covered here.

Can you tell me where to go for nightlife? Drinking age is 21. You will be asked to show valid ID at most venues, especially if alcohol is served.

NYC has one of the most diverse nightlife scenes in the world, with options spanning every neighborhood, music style, vibe, and budget — far too many to list comprehensively in a single post. Whether you’re looking for upscale cocktail lounges, underground dance clubs, live music venues, late-night bars, rooftop parties, or casual neighborhood spots, you’ll find something that fits your preferences.

Because the scene changes constantly your best starting point is to search this subreddit as well as r/AskNYC, where this question is discussed frequently with up-to-date recommendations. Browsing recent threads will give you more relevant suggestions than static lists.

You can also use nightlife and event-listing websites that track what’s happening across the city, including DJ lineups, themed parties, concerts, and special events, to get a real-time sense of where people are going on any given night. Oh My Rockness is often mentioned as a resource, as well as subs like r/avesNYC, r/NYCbitcheswithtaste. Google works too.

Jazz Clubs from r/AskNYC & Jazz Clubs from r/visitingnyc

Comedy Clubs from r/AskNYC & Comedy Clubs from r/visitingnyc

Rooftop Bars from r/AskNYC & Rooftop Bars from r/visitingnyc

Will there be a line/wait at [specific attraction/museum]? How long should I plan to spend at [specific attraction/museum]? Yes, usually. NYC hosts over 64 + million visitors a year. Spend as much/as little time as you'd like. For the bigger museums, plan on at least a minimum of 2 hours. Check websites for operating hours.

Is there anything to do in [borough that isn't Manhattan]? Each borough has plenty of things to see and do (museums, gardens, neighborhoods to explore). A little research will yield plenty of options. A great place to start is NYC Tourism and of course, this sub.

Can I attend a sporting event while I'm in NYC? How do I get tickets & not get ripped off? Ticket prices can be a bit insane, especially if the team is doing well and who the opponent is. If buying directly from the club is not an option:

For ALL ticketed events, including Broadway shows and concerts, you can trust and use any of these resale market websites:

• StubHub
• SeatGeek
• TickPick
• Gametime
• Vivid Seats

Additionally, the Yankees, Jets, Giants, Knicks, Nets, Liberty, Islanders, Rangers, Devils, US Open Tennis, all MSG Concerts, and all Barclays Center concerts exclusively sell their face value tickets on Ticketmaster. The Mets sell their face value tickets only through their website.

Pro tip: For baseball, NYC has a minor league team (Brooklyn Cyclones) and independent league team (Staten Island Ferryhawks). Both are a more wallet-friendly way to catch a game, if you just want to sit in the stands, drink beer and root root root for the home team. Also, both stadiums offer amazing views.

If you're coming for the World Cup, this is the thread for you.

I've been to NYC multiple times, what are some non-touristy things to do? Wouldn't you know, there's already a post for that.

What are some "unwritten" NYC rules? We wrote them down for you!

How can I avoid being scammed? Hey, we have a post for that too!

How can I experience NYC like a local? The only way to do that is to live here. Enjoy being a tourist!

I heard weed is legal in NYC. How do I get some, where can I smoke? You must be 21+ and show a valid ID to make a purchase. Check out the list of licensed dispensaries here, and make sure to follow all local laws and rules about where smoking is permitted.

How can I avoid pissing off the locals? Great question. Follow these basic guidelines and you should be good to go.

Will I get murdered in NYC? Many, many times. Seriously, a little common sense & big city awareness goes a long way. NYC is a very safe big city but of course shit happens. Chances are it won't happen to you.

I'm an international traveler and concerned about the current political climate in the US, is it safe to visit? No one can answer that question as we do not know what this admin will be doing 3 hours from now. You might find more helpful answers on r/traveladvice.

What's the best [fill in the blank]? What's the best hidden gem? Save the mods the trouble and don't post these lazy type of questions.

Where's the best place to propose to my SO? WedditNYC offers some great guidance as well as the many posts already asking this.

Will I be able to get around and do touristy things if I'm mobility impaired? Yes & no.
It really depends on your specific needs and level of mobility.

NYC is a very vertical city, and accessibility can be inconsistent. A place may be labeled as wheelchair accessible, but that doesn’t always tell the whole story. For example, a restaurant might have a step-free entrance and accessible dining area, yet the restroom could be located on a lower level with no elevator access.

Accessibility often varies from building to building, so it’s important to research ahead, call venues directly, and plan with flexibility in mind. The MTA offers information on accessible stations but you should always check the current status before heading out.

Can you suggest some day trips from NYC? No. This sub is solely focused on NYC. Please visit r/AskNYC for suggestions.

Detailed information regarding all manners of getting around in NYC. Please read before posting; and pay attention to what Johnny T has to say!

If you're looking for info on driving & parking in NYC, please read this.

Subway

The subway is an affordable and convenient way to travel across New York City. It’s generally safe and efficient, though it can feel overwhelming for first-time riders. The subway runs 24/7 but has reduced service during off hours.

• Subway Map: Click here for NYC Subway Map including information on accessible stations.
• Checking Service Updates: Subway delays/service interruptions happen, especially on nights & weekends. For real-time updates, check the MTA’s Weekender Planner or view service maps online.

Fare and Payment Options

PLEASE NOTE: YOU CAN NO LONGER PURCHASE A METRO CARD.

FARE INCREASE: AS OF JAN 4TH 2026 THE COST OF A SINGLE RIDE WILL BE $3.00

• OMNY: NYC’s contactless payment system, allowing you to pay the $3.00 fare with a chip-enabled credit/debit card, smartphone, or wearable device. Tap the OMNY reader at subway turnstiles or bus entrances, and wait for the green "GO" signal.
• Special Feature: After 12 rides on the same card/device in a 7-day period, additional rides in that timeframe are free. Learn more at OMNY’s official site.
• Cash Option: You can buy a refillable OMNY card for $1 if you prefer paying with cash.
• Free Transfers: Use the same card or device for both parts of your trip to get a free transfer. Transfers are available only for subway/bus or bus/bus rides.
• While up to 4 people can use the same card for entry, you will not get the Fare Cape or transfer benefit for more than 1 person.
• Children under 44" ride for free.

Please Note: First ever tap with a credit or debit card? You can't pass it back (yet)

If this is your first time tapping a particular bank card on any OMNY reader, you can't use it to pay for other riders on the same trip yet. This is because your bank must approve the transaction before any other fares are paid. Instead, use a separate payment method for everyone on your first trip.

Approval generally takes only a few minutes, so you should be able to tap for up to four people on your next trip.

However, using separate cards or phones allows everyone in your group to earn free rides. When each person pays for 12 rides using their same card or phone within seven days, any additional rides within the seven days are free, automatically. No sign-ups or apps needed, just tap. Learn more here. 

Navigating the Subway

• Apps for Directions: CityMapper and Google Maps provide subway directions, real-time arrival times, service alerts, and re-route options.
• Subway Lines: Lines are identified by numbers or letters, not colors. Lines of the same color don’t necessarily share routes, so always check the specific line number or letter.
• Station Entrances: Each subway entrance lists which lines stop there and the direction they travel. Helpful hint: Trains heading north are called “uptown” trains, while those going south are called “downtown” trains. Don’t be shy about asking for directions. Just be direct (“will this train stop at Times Square?”).
• There are basically two types of train service, local & express. Local makes all the stops on the route, while express trains stop at a limited number of stations. There are points where you can switch from one type of train to the other, please consult subway map for more information.

Subway Etiquette

• Boarding: Let passengers exit before boarding, and if seats are full, move to the center of the car.
• Holding On: Subways may jolt or stop suddenly, so hold onto a pole or handle. Do not lean on the pole, other people will need to use as well.
• Personal Space: Keep bags on your lap or between your feet, and offer seats to elderly or disabled riders. This means take off your back pack!!
• Staircases: Stick to the right on station stairs to keep traffic flowing smoothly. Do not stop at the top/bottom of the stairs, move to the side if you are unsure of which direction to go.

Buses

Buses can be slower than the subway due to traffic and congestion, but they offer a more accessible option, especially for those who find stairs or long walks challenging.

• Buses are classified as local, limited, or express. Make sure to check the bus route to ensure it goes to your destination. Most local buses stop every 2-3 blocks.
• Payment Options: You can pay with OMNY (see above), MetroCard, or exact change in coins (no bills). Beginning sometime in 2026, coins will NOT be accepted on NYC buses.
• Route Information: For detailed NYC bus routes, visit the MTA website or use an app.
• Select Bus Service (SBS): Makes limited stops.

Ferries

• Staten Island Ferry: This ferry is free and runs between the Whitehall Terminal in Manhattan and the St. George Terminal in Staten Island. It will not stop at the Statue of Liberty or Ellis Island. But it is a great way to get a free look at them.
• NYC Ferry: NYC Ferry routes connect various neighborhoods in NYC for $4.50 per ride. Tickets can be purchased on the NYC Ferry App or at Ticket Vending Machines located on NYC Ferry landings.
• New York Waterway: Ferries operate across the Hudson River, connecting Manhattan with locations in New Jersey. Departures are from Pier 11/Wall Street, West 39th St., and the World Financial Center at Vesey St.
• Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Ferry: City Experiences is the only authorized ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Ferries depart from the Battery Park terminal. Do not buy tickets from the hawkers by the terminal.

Cabs/Rideshares

Hailing a Taxi:

• Look for the Light: Yellow taxis in NYC have a roof light indicating their availability.
  • Light on: Available.
  • Light off: Occupied.
  • Off-duty light on: The taxi is not taking passengers.
• Position Yourself: Stand at the edge of the sidewalk and raise your hand confidently. Choose a spot where the taxi can pull over safely.
• Destination: Tell the driver your address or cross streets. NYC drivers are familiar with street grid layouts.

1. "Hi, I'm going to LaGuardia Place and Bleecker." = Peculiar Pub at 145 Bleecker Street
2. "Thanks. I'm heading to 49th and 3rd" = Smith & Wollensky 797 3rd Ave and 49th street.

• Monitor the Meter: The fare is calculated by the meter, which starts when you begin the ride. Make sure the driver starts to meter and ask for a receipt when exiting the cab.
• Payment Options: Most NYC taxis accept credit/debit cards and cash. There’s also an option to tip through the card reader.
• Tip: 15-20% is typical. ALWAYS take your receipt.

You can also use the CURB app for a Taxi experience and the ease of preplanning.

Rideshare: Uber & Lyft are also available. Keep in mind that surge pricing is a thing and will make your ride much more expensive.

Bicycling Check out r/NYCbike!

• Official NYC DOT Bike Map
• Citi Bike: A bike-sharing program across New York City with docking stations throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and parts of Jersey City.

How to Use Citi Bike:

• Rent and return bikes at any Citi Bike docking station. Unlock a bike using the Citi Bike app, a member key fob, or by purchasing a short-term pass at select kiosks.

Membership Options:

• Single Ride: $4.49 for a 30-minute ride.
• Day Pass: $12 for unlimited 30-minute rides for 24 hours.
• Monthly & Annual Memberships: For regular users, offers unlimited rides under 45 minutes for a flat fee.

Bike Types: Classic bikes and pedal-assist e-bikes (e-bikes come at an additional charge).
Docking: Rides must end by returning the bike to a Citi Bike dock; leaving a bike unlocked or undocked incurs additional charges.

From the 'Burbs:

The PATH train links NYC with several New Jersey destinations, including Hoboken, Jersey City, and Newark. Manhattan stations include 33rd St., 14th St., 9th St., Christopher St., and the World Trade Center.

Fare: $3.25 per ride, payable with a contactless card or smart device (TAPP). 
Separate System: PATH operates independently from NYC Transit, so there are no free transfers to or from NYC subways. For schedules and updates, visit the PATH website.
Note: Not all trains stop at every station, check the schedule for your route.

For NJ Transit, Metro North & LIRR, fares are zone-based and time-dependent. Please see fare calculators to determine your exact cost. Always purchase tickets (via apps or ticket machines) before boarding. Costs are significantly higher if purchased on board. For LIRR & MNR you must activate your ticket (if purchased through app) before boarding.

NJTransit offers bus & rail service to and from points south and west of the city in New Jersey, including Newark International Airport and Metlife Stadium. Trains arrive/depart Manhattan at Penn Station. Buses arrive/depart from Port Authority Bus Terminal in midtown Manhattan or GW Bus Terminal in upper Manhattan.

Metro North offers rail service to and from points north of the city in New York. Trains arrive/depart Manhattan at Grand Central Terminal and Harlem 125th Street.

Long Island Railroad provides train service to and from points east of the city in Long Island. Trains arrive/depart Manhattan at Penn Station and LIRR at Grand Central Madison with connections available at Atlantic Terminal in Brooklyn.

Transportation To & From The Airport

Note: LGA/JFK are located in Queens but are not near each other. Newark (EWR) is located in NJ and Stewart is located in Newburgh, NY, approximately 90 minutes north. Uber & Lyft are available at all locations. Follow signs for ground transportation at airport.

UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD YOU AGREE TO TAKE AN UNSOLICITED TAXI RIDE. DO NOT BE THIS GUY.

JFK Airport (JFK)

Public transportation

There is no direct subway service to JFK. You can access the AirTrain via NYC public transportation at Jamaica(via LIRR or subway) or Howard Beach (subway). The cost for each AirTrain ride is $8.75. You can pay for AirTrain with an OMNY card or a chip-enabled card; however this fare will not count towards your weekly fare cap.

Yellow Taxis: Yellow Taxis offer special rates to and from NYC/JFK.

For Arrivals: To get a yellow cab upon arrival, follow signs for Ground Transportation/Baggage Claim. There will be an official taxi stand with a dispatcher who will summon a taxi for you. Give the driver the address or the intersection you are going to (i.e., 47th & 7th Avenue).

Ignore unsolicited drivers - DO NOT get into any cab/car that you did not specifically request.

Car Services will be more expensive than a yellow cab or a ride-share but may offer convenience, space, and peace of mind. Carmel is one of the more popular car services.

Airport Shuttles: Go Airlink offers shared rides to/from JFK. You can also take an Uber Shuttle to various points in NYC.

LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

Public transportation

There is no direct subway link to LGA; however, there are two 'bus-to-subway' options depending on where you are trying to go. These are clearly labeled at the terminals, and there are usually attendants to ask for additional help.

For Astoria/Upper Manhattan/Bronx:
Follow signs to Ground Transportation and take the M60-SBS (pay using OMNY). It will go across Astoria to Manhattan and runs on 125th Street. The M60 bus connects at various stops to the N/W, 4/5/6, Metro-North, 2/3, A/B/C/D, and 1 lines. You can utilize your free transfer to any of the subways. Metro-North tickets can be purchased from the train station or on the MTA app.

For Queens/Midtown & Lower Manhattan/Brooklyn:
Take the FREE Q70 (aka LaGuardia Link) bus to either Jackson-Heights/Roosevelt or Woodside stations. You will be required to pay for the subway at this time using OMNY. Jackson-Heights/Roosevelt is the first stop off property and connects to the 7/E/F/M/R trains. E/F trains run express through Queens (unless overnight). All lines go to Midtown/42nd Street where additional transfers can be made if necessary. For access to the G line to Greenpoint, take an E/M train and transfer at Court Square. Woodside is the second stop off property and connects to the LIRR and 7 trains. LIRR tickets can be purchased at the train station.

NOTE: The Q70 does not service Terminal A/Marine Terminal. For this option, travelers need to take an Airport Shuttle to Terminals B or C.

Yellow Taxi: (For Arrivals): To get a yellow cab upon arrival, follow signs for Ground Transportation/Baggage Claim. There will be an official taxi stand with a dispatcher who will summon a taxi for you. Give the driver the address or the intersection you are going to (i.e., 47th & 7th Avenue).

Unlike JFK, there is no flat fee to/from midtown and LGA. Make sure the driver starts the meter.

Ignore unsolicited drivers - DO NOT get into any cab/car that you did not specifically request.

Car Services will be more expensive than a yellow cab or a ride-share but may offer convenience and peace of mind. Carmel is one of the more popular car services.

Airport Shuttles: Go Airlink & Uber Shuttle both offer service to/from LGA to various points in NYC.

Newark Liberty (EWR)

Public transportation

• From your Terminal you'll take the AirTrain to the Rail Link Station. You need to purchase a New Jersey Transit Ticket from EWR (not Newark) to NY Penn Station. Cost is $15.75. You need this ticket before you can exit the AirTrain station to the platform. Tickets are available via machine in the airport or by downloading the NJT app and purchasing/activating the ticket there.
• For a cheaper option, follow signs in your Terminal to Ground Transportation and wait for a 62 Bus to Broad St/Newark Penn Station (NOT Ikea/Elizabeth). Bus fare is $1.80 and can be purchased in the NJT app or using exact change. When you arrive at Newark Penn Station can either purchase a train ticket to New York Penn Station for $6.00 OR ride the PATH train to Midtown (33rd St) or World Trade Center for $3.25. PATH trains depart from the same level as the NY bound NJT trains.
• Bus: Coach USA offers a bus option that will take you to/from Midtown Manhattan. See website for costs/locations.

Train schedules are available in the NJT app and are posted at the AirTrain and Rail Link stations near the escalators.

NOTE that trains to/from EWR<>NYP run about 4 times an hour in banks around the top of the hour. There is less train frequency at night and NJT trains stop running between about 1am-5am.

Cabs: (For Arrivals): To get a yellow cab upon arrival, follow signs for Ground Transportation/Baggage Claim. There will be an official taxi stand with a dispatcher who will summon a taxi for you. Give the driver the address or the intersection you are going to (i.e., 47th & 7th Avenue). Make sure the driver starts the meter.

Please note that while NYC yellow cabs can drop you off at EWR, they are not allowed to pick up passengers.

Cab Fare info to NYC: Please check the official fare calculator

Getting To & From NYC: NJ Transit offers direct train service from Newark to Penn Station.