New York Events

YEET MAGAZINE | Published  0153 GMT (0953 HKT) May 22, 2021

Things to do in New York

This city never sleeps for a reason — there's way too much to do. Catch an art show in Chelsea or a play Off Broadway. Head to an underground venue to see your favorite band play live or to a pop-up for a mouthwatering prix fixe meal. Take a workshop in Brooklyn or eat your way through a food festival in Queens. Take your outings to the next level with these New York events.

Editor's Picks

Free Intro class - Aikido 101 at Bond Street DojoFree Intro class - Aikido 101 at Bond Street DojoToday at 10:00 AM + 24 more eventsBond Street Dojo (New York Aikido Society, Inc.) • New York, NY

Everything Chocolate™ $59.99Everything Chocolate™ $59.99Today at 11:00 AM + 22 more eventsIn front of Dough Doughnuts • New York, NY

WED, MAY 26 - JUN 1

Virtual Fleet Week New York 2021

Online Event  · 55 people interested

SUN, MAY 23 AT 1:30 AM UTC+02

New York City FC vs. Columbus Crew

Event  · 93 people interested

Red Bull Arena in Harrison, New Jersey

HAPPENING NOW

KAYTRANADA - NEW YORK CITY

Online Event

HAPPENING NOW

KAYTRANADA - NEW YORK CITY

Online Event

SUN, MAY 23 AT 8:30 PM UTC+02

New York City Underground Tour

Event  · 789 people interested

New York, New York

SUN, MAY 23 AT 3 PM UTC+02

A DECADE OF DAPPER - DGR New York City, NY, USA 2021

Online Event  · 140 people interested

FRI, NOV 26 AT 7:30 PM UTC+01 AND 9 MORE

New York City Swing Party Nights

Event

Best Western Hotel Smokies Park in Oldham, United Kingdom

WED, JUN 16 - JUN 20

New York City Photo Workshop

Event  · 35 people interested

NYC

THU, DEC 9 - DEC 15

New York City Christmas Lights Tour - December 9-14, 2021

Event  · 15 people interested

Target Tours in Morell, Prince Edward Island

THU, MAY 20

Facades+ New York City

Event  · 35 people interested

Metropolitan West in New York, New York

SUN, NOV 7 AT 4 PM UTC+01

New York City Marathon

Event

New York City New York

WED, MAY 19

KAYTRANADA - NEW YORK CITY

Online Event

SUN, MAY 23 AT 1:30 AM UTC+02

New York City FC vs. Columbus Crew

Event  · 49 people interested

Red Bull Arena

HAPPENING NOW

Upstate New York District NMI Convention

Online Event  · 31 people going

THU, MAY 27 AT 11 PM UTC+02 AND 13 MORE

New York City - Somers National Thursday League

Event

Somers National Golf Club in Somers, New York

MON, NOV 1 - NOV 1

New York City Halloween Boat Party

Event  · 15,718 people interested

New York, New York

Things to do in new york city

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

What are some awesome things to do in New York that are not in the standard guide books?

Kevin McAleer

Lives in New York City

What are non-obvious things I should do if I am on vacation in New York?

Visit The Bronx .

Arthur Avenue, off Fordham Road, is NYC's most authentic Italian neighborhood. Often called "Little Italy of the Bronx", it is more Italian than Little Italy on Mulberry Street on Manhattan. Arthur Avenue includes many small Italian shops, where you can buy fresh bread, pasta, produce, meat, cheese, and fish. It also has some incredible Italian restaurants.

The Bronx also offers Bronx Zoo and The New York Botanical Garden. Both are right near Arthur Avenue, and both are world famous in their respective fields. Both are right off campus from my alma matter Fordham University, so make sure to take a stroll of the campus as well.

The Bronx is also home to Yankee Stadium, and the city's best parks. It is home to City Island and the Hunt's Point Market.

Make sure to check out Poe Cottage, former home of Edgar Allen Poe, on Grand Concourse.

The Bronx economy could really use some help. Visitors to NY should visit The Bronx to explore a new area of the city, and help to provide some much needed economic relief to a proud local community. I no longer live in The Bronx but I feel it is my obligation to encourage all to visit and experience everything it has to offer.

Since it is currently the holiday season, make sure to read my answer to:
What are good activities in New York City for visitors near the holidays (around Christmas)?

Aside from The Bronx, I would also recommend the NYC Transit Museum, located in downtown Brooklyn. The museum is built in an abandoned subway station, and features railcars from different eras in the subway's history.

What can I do in New York City in a week?

Jesse Richards

Lives in New York City

Ok, here's a suggestion of how I would do it, given 5 days. There is a lot of walking, because New York is all about walking.

Day 1: Ugh, Midtown

If this is your first time in NYC, you know why you're here: you want to see Times Square. Sure, go see it. Everyone should see it once in their lifetime (and only once). Do some touristy stuff. Go ahead, get it out of your system. We'll wait. And I hear there's a nice Applebee's for lunch around there.
1. Times Square
2. Rockefeller Center
3. Bryant Park
4. NY Public Library
5. Grand Central Station
6. Empire State Building
7. See a show (Broadway or Off)

Day 2: West Side

Now the good part starts. Let's walk around some of my favorite neighborhoods. Start at the Flatiron building and walk south on Broadway to Union Square, and south some more to Washington Square Park. Then take Bleecker all the way through the West Village. Don't be too prescriptive; you've got plenty of time to wander around. To finish off the day, walk the whole length of the High Line north. It will be crowded, but it's worth it.
1. Flatiron bldg
2. Madison Sq Park
3. Eataly
4. Union Square
5. Greenmarket (certain days)
6. Forbidden Planet & Strand
7. NYU
8. Washington Sq Park
9. Bleecker Street
10. Get lost in the West Village
11. Meatpacking district
12. The High Line

Day 3: Central Park

And now, the most beautiful work of art ever created: Central Park. Afterwards, there are a few million more pieces of art in The Met. Here's a recommended path:
1. Columbus Circle
2. Chess & Checkers house
3. The Dairy
4. The Mall
5. Bethesda Fountain
6. Pass by the Bow Bridge
7. Strawberry Fields & Imagine mosaic
8. The Ramble
9. Belvedere Castle
10. Shakespeare garden
11. Great Lawn
12. The Met
(If you are ever able to go to Central Park for a second day, check out the north half, including the Ravine and Conservatory Garden.)

Day 4: East Side

Back to another tour of incredible neighborhoods.
1. Chinatown
2. Canal St.
3. SoHo
4. Lower East Side
5. Katz's Deli
6. Alphabet City
7. Thompkins Sq Park
8. St. Mark's Place
9. East Village
10. Take the L one stop to Williamsburg
11. Wander around Williamsburg
12. Check out the Pier

Day 5: Downtown

Follow the beautiful series of interconnected parks around the tip of Manhattan, giving you spectacular views of the harbor and Statue of Liberty. Then, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge and see even better views from the Brooklyn Promenade.
1. Rockefeller Park
2. Tom Otterness sculpture garden
3. South Cove harbor and Esplanade
4. Robert F. Wagner park
5. Battery Park
6. Vietnam Veterans Memorial
7. Elevated Acre
8. South Street Seaport (the museum is nice, too)
9. Brooklyn Bridge
10. Brooklyn Heights
11. Brooklyn Promenade
12. Skybridge down to:
13. Brooklyn Bridge Park
14. and DUMBO

Day 6: Soak feet.

tl;dr: Don't do too many touristy things. Just wander in the world's best neighborhoods.

I am planning a trip to New York City. What are some interesting things that i should do?

Matt Falber

Aspiring Hero

I would highly recommend eating at a Jewish deli. When Eastern European Jews first came to New York they forever changed the landscape of the city by introducing Jewish restaurants for those who kept kosher (meat and dairy aren't allowed to be served in the same establishment in it's Kosher). Though times have changed and many have disappeared, you can still get a great sandwich at Katz's Deli (http://katzsdelicatessen.com/) or Carnegie Deli (Carnegie Deli | Home). I recommend getting something with corned beef or pastrami. The matza ball soup is always good as are the knishes. It's a very New York experience.

While we're on old fashioned New York food, let's talk pizza. There's a touristy craze around coal oven pizza, particularly Lombardi's and Grimaldi's. Both establishments make delicious pizza but I'd venture to say that it's not what we as New Yorkers typically identify as New York pizza. If you're looking for some really good New York style pizza, I'd recommend John's Pizza (http://www.johnspizzerianyc.com/) -- they don't do slices and are so proud of it, they've made it their slogan -- or Bleaker Street Pizza (Best pizza in NYC).

If you're interested in the founding of our country, you should probably know that New York was America's first capital. Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton later made a compromise which moved it down to Washington, D.C. Much of the old capital can still be felt by heading to Lower Manhattan in the Wall Street area. You'll find Fraunces Tavern (Fraunces Tavern) - this pub and museum (while not exactly the same as it was then) is where George Washington said farewell to his troops after America won the Revolutionary War. Near there you'll also find Federal Hall (National Memorial) which housed the original Supreme Court, Congress, and Executive Offices of the United States.

If museums are your thing, you could spend days in the The Metropolitan Museum of Art and never see all it has to offer. Be sure to check out the roof exhibit if it's summer time. While you're up there you'll have an outstanding view of Central Park. Speaking of which, you should check out my tour! It's 2.5 hours of awesome exploration in Central Park at sunset (Central Park tours). Don't take my word for it though, check out TripAdvisor or I'll sound like an infomercial.

Also, the Frick is an amazing art museum which happens to be housed in Henry Frick's former mansion. Mind blowing. My all time favorite is The Museum of Modern Art though. I could wander around in there forever. My favorite exhibit in there was a talking lightbulb. I kid you not.

You'll probably want to go to the Empire State Building. You could. It's an amazing building. I would however recommend making a reservation at Rockefeller Center's Top of the Rock (Top of The Rock - New York City (NYC) Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions). You won't have to wait in line and the view is just as good plus you'll get to see the park better and The Empire State Building from Top of the Rock.

Last but certainly not least, be sure to get out on the water while you're here and experience the skyline as the immigrants did coming into the city years ago. You can take the Staten Island (http://www.siferry.com/) to actually pass by Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty for free or you can take the official boats (Statue of Liberty Tickets) from Castle Clinton.760 viewsView 8 upvotes82

What are some cheap and creative ways to have fun in New York City?

Kristen Windmuller

Lives in New York City

I worked at a non-profit for less than $30k with no insurance for a year and a half. Here are my tips.

Museums
Some are by donation, and most, if not all, have at least a few free hours or days per month. If you're lucky enough to work at a museum, show your ID and get a free admission + 1 (and sometimes a discount in the gift shop). If you've hung on to your old student ID, you might be able to still use it (this also applies for many other things with student discounts).

Art galleries
The vast majority of these are free to enter. Many have exhibition openings with snacks or wine.

Free movies
Mostly a summer event. Try Bryant Park or Brooklyn Bridge park, among many others. They wont be first releases, but they're usually crowd pleasers with a fun atmosphere.

Partying
Register on myopenbar.com. As the tagline says, "your guide to free booze." But beyond that, yes, partying can be a little tough depending on where you go--look for places without cover, or ways to get around cover (like calling ahead, wearing something for that night's theme, etc). Sometimes you just also have to suck it up and spend for a night out. For me, spending $13 on a really nice mixologist drink is much more worthy of the little money I have than a crappy rum and coke at a club for the same price--something to take into consideration.

Health Insurance (because you can't have fun if you're sick)
Check out the Healthy NY program (http://www.ins.state.ny.us/website2/hny/english/hny.htm) to see if you qualify. Freelancer's Union (http://www.freelancersunion.org/) is another good resource. Remember, you can often negotiate hospital bills, or at least arrange payments. My cousin, a teacher without insurance, was able to negotiate an $8,000 bill to $80.

Check out NY
There's lots to do here and visit with several hundred years of history at your feet. Rent the documentary New York by Ric Burns (http://www.pbs.org/wnet/newyork/), then head out and visit the sites! Many sites are free or have minimal charges. The downtown area has particularly good signage for this. Many New Yorkers forget just how much is interesting about this city because they dismiss it as touristy. Especially interesting is Governors Island, a former military base in the harbor that was only opened to the public a few years ago (accessible by free ferry).

Check out NY (libraries)
Get a library card and you'll have free access to millions of books, periodicals and films. You can even get volumes delivered to the branch nearest you for pick-up.

Pretty much everything in NYC
Search online. Time Out New York (http://newyork.timeout.com/section/own-this-city) has particularly good listings for free/inexpensive events. Also visit FreeNYC (http://www.freenyc.net/)

Spend on what's important to you/necessary
You don't need to go to Starbucks every day. $4 a day for coffee means $4 a day less for something you really want/need, like going to a concert or paying a bill.1.7K viewsView 11 upvotes · Answer requested by Murali Veeraiyan

What are some cheap things to do in New York City?

Jerome Espinosa Baladad

Lives in New York City

How cheap do you want to be when you’re here in New York City (NYC)? Let me share some really cheap things you can do here:

1. Just walk while you’re here. It’s a walkable city. You can bike, too, but you will have to rent for your bike (if you didn’t bring your own);
2. Cook your own food. Ingredients, of all kinds and varieties, as required by the toughest and heaviest cookbooks, can be found here;
3. Take the Staten Island Ferry to have fairly nice glimpses of Lady Liberty at close enough range but you’ll need a good camera (or phone camera) if you like taking pictures of such scenes;
4. Do happy hour periods for bars you like to visit and explore;
5. Visit all the parks, as they’re mostly free (except Gramercy Park, which is a private one);
6. In case you need emergency medical care while you’re here, NYC’s hospitals will take you in;
7. Visit the public libraries, which include those in Brooklyn and Queens that are run and managed by separate systems;
8. Would you like to try thrift store shopping? So many are found here in NYC. Stir clear of Housing Works, unless you like to help out in its AIDS advocacies, as the second hand goods there, plus a lot of new things as well, are almost priced like those in typical retail stores;
9. Check online the free entry visiting days of those museums you like to explore in NYC. You’ll sure get to spare more cash than necessary.
10. Don’t do shopping here unless you’ve suddenly got the itch to do so.

(So many free concerts happen in NYC all year long. I saw this one featuring Bach’s chamber music at Mt Sinai Hospital Complex somewhere near the Upper East Side in Manhattan. You can check online for such events, too)8.

What are fun things to do in New York City?

Olga Bohngartz

Lives in New York CityOMG! O.K., let´s have fun! 1 – Try indoor skydiving at iFLY Westchester Experience the thrill of skydiving without any of the danger. iFly Westchester is a themed wind tunnel for indoor skydiving. So there is no jumping, no bad weather, no danger, just a jolly good time to spend with your friends of family! 2 – Balance your mind and body at Aire Ancient Baths. In an industrial building from 1808, the AIRE is an experience of sensations that runs through different thermal baths, massages as well as other experiences which you will find absolutely delightful! 3 – Spend an afternoon at Modern Pinball NYC. Pinball games are old school, but challenging and always fun to play. Experience the fun and excitement of dozens of vintage and modern pinball machines at Modern Pinball NYC and learn about

What are your favorite things to do in New York City?

Lore Dp

Applied mathematician, enthusiastic traveler, PotterheadOriginally Answered: What are you favorite things to do in New York City?

I have been to New York many times and each visit I get to do new things. That's the magic about NYC, there's always something to do. My favorites things to do are:

1. Ride a bike around Central Park. This is my favorite activity hands down. I usually rent the bike for a couple hours and go around the park. It is a nice and easy way to visit a lot of the important sights in the Park like Strawberry Fields, the fountains and lakes, sculptures, even the Zoo.
2. Visit the Highline and watch the sunset. I admit I have only sone this once since the Highline is a relatively new place but watching the sunset from there was really nice.
3. Go to a Broadway show: there's always something new and worth the visit
4. Eat in Chinatown and Llittle Italy: just walk around the restaurants and I'm sure you'll find something you like.
5. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge: great views of Manhattan from there
6. Go to Coney Island: I’ve also done this only once but I loved it and am definitely going back next time
7. Walking and shopping around Soho
8. Night pictures at Times Square
9. Go up the Empire States and enjoy the view
10. Visit the Met and the Museum of Natural History. There is never enough time to see all the exhibits!
11. What's your favorite thing to do in NYC?

Noam Kaiser

I visit NYC frequently and find it to be the most inspirational place on Earth.

I'll begin by stating NYC is my favorite place to be. It makes me feel right at home.

Sometimes when I'm there (and it's always business I'm afraid) a significant other comes with me, making it business with pleasure. I enjoy it anyway.

So, OUR favorite thing to do in NYC:

Daytime
We usually stay somewhere around midtown (works for my meetings, and makes everything not too far and easily accessible).
So we like grabbing a coffee to go early in the morning and just walk down on the 5th or 6th / Ave. of the Americas, to our favorite part of the city: West Village.

After the hectic scene of the avenues - which we love too, it's part of "who" New York is - we reach this "island" of serenity within the city.

​ You just can't go wrong, the area has so much character, it's lovely, full of small, precious gems, cafes, restaurants and hangouts - Like Bouvette, Ellary's Greens, By Chloe - a great way to spend time from the morning till late noon.

A favorite thing while in the area, is a pit stop at the whole foods market on Union Square, stocking up for a small picnic we have either on Union Square Park, or even better, Washington Square Park.

​

Nighttime
We love Jazz.
It's an integral part of New York City for us, its soundtrack.

A great way to spend an evening is an early dinner somewhere in the many great options midtown has to offer and then catching either the main line, late line or both at one if the great places for live Jazz music.

Two favorites are Dizzy's Club Coca Cola, perfectly located on the top of the Lincoln center, overlooking Columbus Circle, Central Park and the remarkable towers bordering the park from its south end,

​and the other is the classy Flatiron room, across the street from the Flatiron building, right off Madison Square Park,

​Some of the best young talent in Jazz worldwide, is right there in front of you, taking you, if you just let it, to a different time. Luckily, you don't need them to take you to another place - You're already there.

If we don't stay for the late line, grabbing a drink in one of the awesome rooftop bars overlooking the phenomenal NYC night skyline is one of our favorite ways to end an evening. The Refinery is a good choice.

Last time around, we went to a picnic at Washington Square park, and right across from us, two students from the Julliard School Jazz Faculty placed a piano and a drum set and gave a full show - best of both worlds, in a scene like this:

​ It's a heck of a town.

What mistakes should I avoid as a tourist in New York City?

Britney Fitzgerald

Lives in New York CityOriginally Answered: What are some things people should not do while visiting New York City?

New Yorkers are not necessarily rude—but we’re always on-the-go! Here are 8 tips for navigating our town like a local:

• When you are exiting/entering the subway, do not stand on the left side of the escalator. Commuters walk up the left side, and stand on the right side. This is especially important to keep in mind during the morning rush (7–9am) and the evening rush (5–7pm).
• There are similar rules for the sidewalk: Do not block the sidewalks. Most New Yorkers will say, “excuse me” or walk on the street to get around you, but (like with many cities) clogging up our sidewalks is considered poor form.
• Don’t eat at chain restaurants, like Olive Garden or Red Lobster. If you’ve seen the restaurant in another town, avoid it. You are in New York City—one of the food capitals of the world! Explore. Use Yelp, Instagram, Open Table, or blogs to find tasty meals. Leave Time Square and check out the East & West Villages for coffee shops, wine bars, real Italian food, and live music. (More ideas, on my blog.)
• Know your food or beverage order when you get to the counter, particularly at places like Starbucks. New Yorkers are in a rush—to get to work, to catch a train, to make a Broadway show. If you need help with English or currency, just ask! People in NYC are generally very down to help, as long as you keep that line moving ;)
• Don’t take a gypsy cab (an unmarked cab). These are not regulated, and as a tourist, you will most likely be taken advantage of. It’s better to hop in a yellow cab in Manhattan, a yellow OR green cab if you are in the outer boroughs, or to download an app like Uber or Lyft. There are plenty of ways to get to your next destination, so don’t let someone bully you. Also, be wary of this at the airport and use the taxi line to be safe.
• Don’t take a “free CD” from someone on the street. It ain’t free, my friend. And if someone offers you a “free comedy show,” just know that you will probably be expected to buy 1–2 drinks per person.
• Quick overview of subway etiquette: Let people exit the subway car before you enter the subway car. Only take up one seat, and be sure to place your bags on the floor or in your lap. Do not lean on the poles, as people need to hold on to those. Do not eat smelly food. Do not play music or games out loud—use headphones. Be aware that (even on packed trains) part of American culture is the belief in personal space, so leaning on or touching someone should be avoided whenever possible. And if you’re lost? Ask us. Many of us like to help—we were once just as lost as you.

More NYC tips, here!

What are some fun things to do with kids in New York City?

Falcor De'Laggio

Experienced marketer & sales profesisonal

New York has so many things to offer to families that travels with kids. Here are few ideas for inspiration:

Recommended activities for kids with or near the water

Are you visiting New York during summertime? It can get really hot. a variety of destinations and things to do, including beaches, waterway tours, free splash-pads and fountains where kids can get totally soaked and many more:

Teardrop Park

Chealsea Pieres

LeFrak Center

Washington Square Park

Rockaway Beach

Rockaway Water Park

Coney Island Boardwalk and Beach

Plumb Beach

Manhattan Bridge

Family-Friendly Spots to See the City Skyline With Kids

while the older kids may appreciate and find it enjoyable exactly as you are, younger kids and toddlers may find this experience less attractive and sometimes even boring. The following recommendations suggest only spots that on one hand you'll offer a scenic view of the city skyline, and on the other hand a fun and sometimes energy-burning activities for the little ones.

Roosevelt Island Tramway

Empire State Building

One World Observatory

Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park

Wave Hill

Top of the Rock

Monuments and Landmarks to Visit with kids in New York City

These landmarks should exist in the MUST VISIT list of your next family trip to New York City if you are a first timer, or if your kids are first timers.

Statue of Liberty

Times Square

9/11 Memorial

United Nations Headquarters

Flatiron Building

More Recommendations:

Best Kid-Friendly Shopping Experiences in New York City

Family Friendly Museums in New York City

Energy Busting Activities for Kids in New York City

NYC’s Best Children’s Museums

The Best Family-Friendly Parks of NYC

All the above recommendations and many more can be found in http://WithKids.co

The huge urban concrete jungle is an amazing destination not only for the adults. In fact, New York City (or simply NYC) is loaded with a seemingly infinite number of landmarks and showstoppers that your children simply must experience. No matter how old the kids are, NYC offers to the young generation countless activities and an endless variety of world-class attractions such as zoos and aquariums, interactive museums, amusement parks, huge green lunges such as parks and beautiful gardens, water activities, Broadway shows and so much more. We’ve scoured the city to find the best activities for families, whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor. Traveling in New York with children? This city won't get them bored even for a second. And in the process, you’ll find yourselves having a pretty rousing good time, too. With this travel guide in your hand, navigating New York City with kids will never be a daunting task.

Find more than 150 kid-centric activities in New York City and the most recommended attractions for kids in New York City in https://www.withkids.co

What are some free outdoor things to do in New York?

Olga Bohngartz

Lives in New York CitySure, you could drop a bunch of coin to go to the top of the Empire State Building, eat at the fanciest restaurants or walk around on the grounds of the Statue of Liberty. But what if we told you that you could take a boat ride right past Lady Liberty without spending a dime? It's a possibility and thousands of New Yorkers who ride the Staten Island Ferry do it every day. New York is chock full of free gems like these ones, but to find them, the secret is connecting with a local who knows all the tricks. Luckily for you, we're spilling our beans and dishing up the best free spots to enjoy in New York City. From long, luxurious walks through the city's parks, including the elevated High Line, to the weird, wacky and wonderful sights at Coney Island, this list curates the best of New York

What makes people fall in love with New York City?

If you had one day in NYC what would you do?

Webin Manzana

I think I did well in this department!Wake up early, take a hearty breakfast in one of those American Diners around Times Square. Walk. Start from Times Square, go around it a few times, street by street. Then take a stroll up 5th Avenue towards Central park, it's the main shopping avenue of NYC. Continue on until you hit 59th st., where the Apple Store is. Take the glass encased elevator to the main store below street level, visit their Genius Bar, browse for half hour. Exit Apple Store and you'll find a lot of Food Carts selling Hotdogs and Kabab, take your lunch here. After Lunch, continue on up (walk or cab) 5th Avenue toward Central Park, and you'll find the Metropolitan Museum of Arts, go in to enrich yourself in culture and arts, it's time well spent. After 3 hours, exit MMA and go down to 72nd street and cros

If you only had 7 days in New York City, what would you do?

I will be in NYC in mid-May.

I’m looking to do some tourist things and experience some of the things uniquely NYC.

I prefer things like food, parks, and experiences, as opposed to drinking.

Alexis Ching

GluttonOriginally Answered: If you only had 7 days in New York City, what would you do?

See a show at BAM - they often have the directors come and intro their movies and do a Q&A session which is great.

Ride the water taxi from DUMBO to Water Taxi Beach in LIC!

Eat dumplings in Flushing.
Eddie Huang has this funny video

And Gothamist has this guide http://gothamist.com/2012/04/18/a_guide_to_flushing_food_malls.php#photo-1

Eat great pizza - hit DiFara's while you still can.

Get out to Fort Tilden.

Blue Man Group!

Brooklyn Flea/Smorgasborg (I prefer the Flea in Fort Greene...)

The Black Label Burger at Minetta Tavern. Or the bacon cheeseburger at Corner Bistro.

Crif Dogs, then look for rock n roll/punk landmarks in the East Village (Joe Strummer mural, the building on St. Marks that is the cover of Physical Graffiti, where CBGBs used to be :( ...). Try to find some record stores to peruse. Most of my spots have closed down.

Russ & Daughters and/or Barney Greengrass. Not as touristy as Katz's but still great NY institutions.

YES YES YES to Doughnut Plant. Grant St > Chelsea Hotel

Uniqlo - the only one in the US to date. They are opening a 2nd outpost in San Francisco soon.

I'm not sure when they do their parties anymore but The Rub just turned 10 this year. If you want to dance at a crazy party with great music, check it out.

NYS Botanical Gardens in the Bronx.

The Jewish Museum has a really awesome exhibit right now, Kehinde Wiley. Free on Sundays (I think?)

Empellon Cocina/Taqueria (Alex Stupak from Alinea)

Le Bernardin

A recent favorite is Talde (Dale Talde - top chef). Despite his celeb chef status, he makes really excellent food. Park Slope is great too, and close to Prospect Park.

People watching: Union Square, Washington Square Park, Tompkins Square Park

Sing your heart out at Radio Star Karaoke, only $1 per song, then have sul lang tang + this http://www.flickr.com/photos/lazysundae/5386660392/ at Gahm Mi Ok.

Williamsburg is hipster/douche canoe central but there are some excellent spots there. Egg on N. 5th for brunch, Maison Premiere on Bedford (absinthe cocktails and a HUGE oyster menu), Huckleberry Bar, Dressler, Marlow & Sons... also on Saturday and Sunday there is a "Surf Shack" which is actually a big truck parked on Bedford Ave. They sell handmade old school 60s style skateboards out of it, and the inside is set up like a living room, where they play chess while they hang out and show their stuff. Even if you don't skate it's still pretty awesome.

Coney Island + Totonno's pizza and/or Russian food adventure in Brighton Beach.

Bowl at Melody Lanes (real old school spot!) in Sunset Park and hit 5th Avenue for a taqueria crawl. Green Wood Cemetery is also nearby (5th and 25th) and could be worth a stroll-through. They also give tours.

If you gotta check out the cupcake scene, the spots are Sugar Sweet Sunshine in Manhattan (LES) and Baked (Red Hook). Please don't go to Magnolia. Their cupcakes are bland and icing too sweet and dry.

Austin has the Alamo Drafthouse but in NYC this is still a new idea. See a movie at Nitehawk Cinema and sip/snack on themed cocktails and food. They also do special midnight and brunch shows of old/cult favorites (Twin Peaks recently!)

Good music venues: Mercury Lounge, Cake Shop, S.O.B.'s, Bowery Ballroom, Le Poisson Rouge, Joe's Pub - these are smaller and more intimate.

Japanese food - we have a huge variety, from izakayas to noodles. Sushi is expensive, so try something else while you're here: Chuko, Ippudo, Minca, Sakagura, Aburiya Kinnosuke, Totto Ramen, Soba Totto, Yakitori Totto, Hide-Chan Ramen

Brunch at The Dutch or Buttermilk Channel. Also Prune, Clinton Street Baking Company, Betto <-- my latest favorite.

Bars with photobooths (that I know of): The Bell House, Union Pool, Bushwick Country Club, Gallery Bar.

Check out Rucker Park for some street ball! If you can't make it up to the BX, they play ball just outside the West 4th Street station too.

** Check out Sleep No More!!

That's all I can think of at the moment, hopefully this gives you a good range of things to do! Definitely rent a bike and try to see the city on two wheels - my favorite mode of transportation when not dodging crazy drivers and clueless pedestrians :)3.5K viewsView 13 upvotes ·

by Andrew Koenigsberg

What's the most overrated thing to do in New York City?

Daniel Ruzeu

New Yorker Since 1986. I Like Food & Beer.

Damn - my top 2 were New Years Eve and parades…both taken…hate them both. Anything to do with Times Square which I avoid at all costs like a war zone would make it high on that list.

So I’ll go with another that everyone who visits seems to be keen on…shopping. There’s only (2) malls in NYC (Manhattan) that I can think of: Manhattan Mall and Brookfield Place. The former has been mostly a failure since its creation (and given its location is should be printing money!) the latter is relatively new, but for the life of me I can’t figure out who the audience is (commuters? Battery Park dwellers?). Regardless, no one really shops there…especially not tourists. They go to SOHO, or the LES, or 5th Ave (maybe?), or the UES, or any one of several other districts. Or perhaps the holiday shops at Bryant Park/Columbus circle/Union Square. Regardless, these places are actually quite “far” apart (in NYC terms). So you end up spending most of your time walking/cabbing/training from place to place looking down instead of up. It’s a waste of time. Order your stuff online like any sensible person would do and enjoy the city when you come…the merchandise here is the same as the merchandise anywhere else.251 viewsView 1 upvote · Answer requested

by Patricia Salem

What should you never say or do in New York?

Kevin McMullan

Actor//Singer/Writer/NYC Tour Guide/World TravelerMost of these can be applied to most cities, but they particularly apply here. 1 THEATER ETIQUETTE: When attending the theater, I don't care whether it's Broadway, off-Broadway, off-off Broadway, Shakespeare in the Park, audience-immersive, a concert, movie or cabaret - NEVER EVER pull out your phone to talk, text or whatever. It's the height of rudeness and is distracting to both audience AND performers. It says to the world around you, “I'm the most important person (read: asshole) in the room.” Everyone, both onstage and in the audience around you, will HATE your overentitled, desensitised guts. If someone in the audience TELLS you to knock it off, they are entirely justified and if you ignore their plea and they grab your phone and smash it to the ground, we will all applaud them; they

What are some great things to do in New York City in early March?

Clay Williams

Lifelong New Yorker - A Brooklynite to be precise

March in New York is always a crapshoot and this year, we're as likely to have summery temps as we are to have a (third) blizzard. I'll split the answer between indoor and outdoor activities to give you some options either way.

Indoor:

• The Metropolitan Museum of Art - great, historic collection of work.
• The Cloisters - a collection of actual European cloisters shipped over in the 30's by Rockefeller. Not something you're going to see everywhere.
• Chelsea Market - if you are interested in food, this is a great place to graze on locally produced and artisanal foods
• Katz's Deli - Legendary pastrami
• Balthazar - I second. It's profoundly well known at this point, but still a fun experience.
• Fatty Cue - in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Asian inflected barbecue. Think hickory smoke and fish sauce. It's a thing to behold.
• Brooklyn Bowl - it's a bowling alley, music venue and a restaurant serving food by Blue Ribbon, one of the better restaurants in town. The fried chicken is amazing and, again, it's not a combination you're going to find elsewhere.

Outdoor:

• Staten Island Ferry - I second this as well. It's free and gets you a great view of the harbor, the Statue of Liberty and the skyline from the south. Not necessarily where you want to be in a snow storm though.
• Brooklyn Bridge - again, I second. It's iconic. It gets crowded, but it's worth it to walk across and back.
• Washington Square Park - The heart of Greenwich Village. It's historic and with renovations nearly complete, it's a lot nicer than it's been in years.
• Central Park - Cold or warm, a must visit.
• The Pond at Bryant Park - If you ice skate, this beats the rink in the park or at Rock Center. It's free and isn't swamped with as many tourists since it's not as well known.
• The Highline - a long abandoned rail line on the west side of Manhattan, recently renovated into one of the best designed parks I've ever seen. A block from Chelsea Market, if you go that way.

For more on interesting and unique New York (Brooklyn in particular), see Sam Sifton's recent 36 Hours in Brooklyn piece in the NY Times.

Where can I find a list of off-the-beaten-path attractions in New York?

Jerome Espinosa Baladad·

Lives in New York City

: What are some off-the-beaten-path things to do in New York City?

Go and visit Staten Island, not just ride the ferry boat from Manhattan and back again to Manhattan, which we observe most tourists would do. I wonder why they even bother to ride the boat in the first place, and then just head off back to Manhattan in the next boat. Why bother in the first place? Exploring the whole of the Staten Island borough is definitely among the “off-the-beaten-path things to do in New York City.”

I can come up with itineraries, but you can easily figure out ways yourself. For example, just take the S78 bus from St George to its last stop, and decide to come back in the same bus. Or you can figure out to get into the last stop of the Staten Island Railway in the southernmost part of the borough and head back again to the north shore at St George where you can take the boat again to Manhattan. You may have to spend easily at least 3 hours of your time doing this itinerary. You’ll be rewarded with views, for example, of the ever changing mini sites of a borough gradually being transformed into a highly urbanized section of New York City, which to most people think is just Manhattan and Brooklyn, plus Queens to some extent. The Bronx is really a special place as it’s the only borough right on mainland USA.

Do the above first. If you want more suggestions, just private message me here prior to your trip. I will share some ideas, if you like to bother yourself with all these.

Visiting and Travel in New York City: What are the best things to do in Manhattan with a six and eight year old?

Victoria Shaw

Lived in New York CityOriginally Answered: What are the best things to do in Manhattan with a six and eight year old?

My kids' are 5 and 8 and their top list includes:

• Times Square - the Toys R Us and the M&M store especially
• Statue of Liberty - the boat ride is fun and the whole experience is so memorable
• Empire State Building - going to the top takes patience but will not be forgotten
• Rockefeller Center - during the winter to skate and see the tree
• Circle Line Boat Tour - can be a bit long for some types of kids but being on a boat is fun and the views are excellent
• American Museum of Natural History - SO much to see in this place it's ridiculous
• Taxi Ride - taking a taxi just about anywhere is surprisingly entertaining
• Pretzels, T-shirts and other street vendor goodies - kids love seeing (and buying!) anything sold off a street cart
• Playgrounds - there are some really awesome ones (like Hudson River Park!), check out this list for details
• What’s the best thing to do in New York City when traveling alone?

Dallas McKay

Lived in New York CityI stayed in Brooklyn when in NYC by myself. I'd take the train to Manhattan and do some touristy stuff during the day. Statue of Liberty, the various museums, Empire State, etc. I highly recommend a ball game of some kind, depending on the season. Have dinner some place interesting. The Villiage is a great place to find neat restaurants that don't require a reservation. After that, go find a pub. You're not getting into any nightclubs of note unless you're willing to grease the doorman with $100, and even that is not a guarantee. So, look for a place that doesn't have a cover charge, sit back and have a few drinks. Don’t get drunk. Take a walk in the well lit highly trafficked areas. Go into establishments you'd never go into normally. Harlem, Halls Kitchen and the Villiage have some very

What is the best way to spent time in New York City alone?

Sage Bergman

Lives in New York City

So. Many. Ways! I love going to the major museums alone. I prefer to go alone so no one is rushing me along. If I want to stare at a Monet at the Met for 15 minutes, by golly I can. And if I want to rush through parts that don't really interest me, even better.

If I wake up really early, nothing beats heading over to the Brooklyn Bridge to watch the sunrise. Same in the evening. Watching the sunset over the Hudson is amazing.

Walking/running, reading, picnicking in the grass in Central Park = the very best. People watching in Times Square with an ice cream cone or a juice = always, always hilarious!

I love the farmer's markets all over the city (they're every day...somewhere) and of course the Staten Island ferry rides on weekends, when I have more time.

I've mentioned 0.001 percent of what you can do alone in NYC. If you live here and are looking for activities, you must join Meetup.com - tons of groups for every interest and activity imaginable, including holiday gatherings, cycling, movies, running, hikes and picnics, bar hopping, etc.
I love it!

What are some coolest thing you can do in New York City as a tourist or New Yorker?

Janice Person

avid traveler near and far with off the beaten path locations a favorite!

I lived in NY metro for several years. A couple of years ago, I took my nephew for his first visit. The coolest way to show my nephew what it is like to be a New Yorker was to get on the subway to Park Slope, hop in a friend's car to the marina where he keeps his sailboat and sail from Brooklyn toward the Statue of Liberty.

Riding the subway shows him the reality of NYC, an incredible number of people moving around every day but the reality of living there is everyone has something that helps them find peace.

The scale of the city is amazing and yet you get to see so many details... Coney Island was one that really grabbed the imagination but every bridge, shoreline park and passing boat. For my friend Gary, he's always had a sailboat and was willing to share it with us. Just look how cool my nephew is!

I shared more of the photos and thoughts on my blog post about the trip.

Not everyone can do that but we can slow down rather than just running through tourist sites.... that's something that living there affords you an opportunity to do but few tourists want to "waste a single minute in the city" so they run themselves ragged.

Everyone can take in some of the neighborhoods, taking time to see what it is that makes them different. While tours and/or books can help you get your bearings on this, I've found the best way to go about it is on foot, walking up and down streets, stopping in cafes, wandering through parks, focusing on local businesses that are unfamiliar to you.

The same goes for Central Park -- everyone knows the rink and a few areas, but only by going deep into the park, not focused on getting back out can you get a sense for how incredible it is that a city maintained such an immense amount of land in a park despite the development push that has been going on there for centuries.

Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. Ride the subway. Think about living in a space that is as small as the hotel room you are in.

And if you happen to meet someone with a sailboat, ask them if they feel like taking a day out on the water.

What can you do only in New York City and nowhere else?

Rei Toei·

Lives in New York City

There are any number of places to visit that only exist in NYC, including Broadway, Carnegie Hall, Radio City Hall, the Freedom Tower, the Empire State building, Grand Central Station, Greenwich Village, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, the museums (so many)… then there is the food, with many of the greatest restaurants and bars and clubs in the world, along with unique NYC sreet food and pizza and cheesecake and deli…. not to mention the shopping - few places in the world compare with Fifth Avenue and the other shopping areas.

by Anthony Previtera

What are some little known things to do while visiting New York City?

David Mount

Former CEO at WeStaff (1982–2010)There are a lot of interesting things in NY that are obscure. NY has at least two arches - not of the scale if Paris but still beautiful. One is in Greenwich Village in Washington Square Park and the other is in Brooklyn at the northern entrance to Prospect Park. Little Italy and Chinatown come together at Canal and Mulbury. One goes north and the other south. Take a look around. You might still see some of the old “social clubs” that old time maffioso frequented. New York has miles of white sand beach. Visit Coney Island or Rockaway - both on the subway line. Visit the Belmont section of the Bronx (Arthur Avenue) home of the 50’s rock group Dion and the Belmonts. Go hungry because it’s the best Italian food andwhere west of Rome. Go see Grant”s Tomb. It and the Riverside Park around it are

What are the most interesting art galleries in New York City?

Rebecca Taylor

An art-loving New Yorker who works @MoMAPS1 and writes for @HuffPostArts. In a previous life as an Angeleno, called @MOCALosAngeles and @GettyMuseum home. If lost, check the museums or galleries...

New York City is full of interesting art galleries. Here are a few (there are many more) by neighborhood:

Chelsea
Gagosian
David Zwirner
Barbara Gladstone
Andrea Rosen
Matthew Marks
Paula Cooper
Sean Kelly
Petzel
Hauser & Wirth
Lehmann Maupin
Luhring Augustine
Bortolami
Harris Lieberman
Tanya Bonakdar
Greene-Naftali
wallspace
Winkleman Gallery
Postmasters Gallery
Leo Koenig

Upper East Side
Marian Goodman
Hauser & Wirth
Gagosian

Lower East Side
Salon 94
DODGE Gallery
UNTITLED
Eleven Rivington
Lehmann Maupin
HALF Gallery
Invisible-Exports
Reena Spaulings
Lisa Cooley
Allegra LaViola
Jen Bekman

West Village
Gavin Brown's Enterprise
Maccarone

What not to do in New York, USA?

Ken Wong·

Lives in New York City (1984–present)Originally Answered: What are the things I must not do in New York?

Things you should not do:

1. Be a racist.
2. Be impolite.
3. Be selfish.
4. Write a formal offer to buy a house.
5. Litter.
6. Ridicule the homeless.
7. Mass shooting because you’re bored and have nothing better to do. Stay away from NYC, please!
8. Drive. Why? You have the bus and subway. Live with it!
9. Do drugs or smoke weed. The fumes don’t go well with the kids with dense housing.
10. Waste water or food.
11. Not recycle and not be socially responsible.
12. What are the non-touristy things to do in New York?

Kevin McMullan

Actor//Singer/Writer/NYC Tour Guide/World Traveler

If a person is visiting NYC, what should they do so they don't stand out as a tourist?

First of all, don't listen to anyone who tells you not to look up. I've lived here 39 years this month and I STILL look up, and any NY'er who tells you otherwise is either lying through their teeth or has a neck problem. With skyscrapers like NY's, this business of “don't look up” is just plain jaded. I might caution, however, it may be a wise choice to step to the side of a crowded sidewalk and never do so when crossing the street.

I'll reiterate what others have said about the importance of getting out of Manhattan. There are four other boroughs and each has its own uniqueness. For off the beaten track ideas, see some of my other posts. I know a lot of them.

As a tour guide, I have begun to experience this city as a tourist for the first time since I first visited here, decades ago. I'm seeing it in a new, wonderful light. I try to visit at least one different site on my own each week, because it does help when I have to talk about it later. This also means I'm not afraid to take pictures and well, act like a tourist, so therefore you, as a tourist, shouldn't be afraid of that, either. Along these lines, read up and do a little research about the places you think you may visit. NYC is rich with history and stories, and it will make your visit so much more meaningful. I absolutely promise you.

As for getting lost, there's little I can add to what's already been said on the thread. The best advice on here is not stare into a map for five minutes with a confused look. That invites trouble and we, as NY'ers feel that after having given directions to you we've done our good deed for the day, even when we don't know what we're talking about. So oblige us. Ask questions. We're really a bunch of good deed doers trapped in a jaded bubble and we love when the bubble bursts. And we get lost, too and have to ask. So, beats staring at a map.

Safety tips - already covered here, pretty much.

Don't hang out in Times Square unless you're taking my informative and entertaining tour of the theater district or standing in line at the TKTS booth for discount tickets to Broadway shows. Yes, even savvy NY'ers do this. (Another tip: there's another TKTS booth with the same discounts way downtown on John St. where there are no lines, so when you take my tour of Colonial New Amsterdam in the Financial District, we're but a hop-skip-jump away from your discounted tickets. Also one in downtown Brooklyn.)

Back to Times Square - if young people approach you trying to sell their CDs, it's a scam. They're blank. And no NY’er would EVER pose with the costumed characters. I might give you the Naked Cowboy; at least he's somewhat authentic. His ex-girlfriend is my personal gym trainer, the original Naked Cowgirl, so I can make an exception there, but steer clear of Minnie and Mickey Mouse and Spiderman and whatever else might approach you looking to pose for tips. You WILL be deemed a tourist. Same goes for pedicabs. NY'ers don't take them.

Bottom line is we don't care if you're a tourist. Without you, I wouldn't be in business and for that matter, neither would the rest of NYC. When we leave New York and environs to go on vacation, guess what WE turn into???!!!1.1K viewsView 9 upvotes ·

What are some good date ideas in NYC?

Eddie Hernandez

Online Dating Consultant, As Seen In NYTimes

Bryant Park Date Idea

A great park in the middle of the city, always something going on. Movie nights, salsa dancing, markets and more. Check out the calendar of events to plan your next date. In the winter, be sure to check out the skating rink and holidays bazaar shops!

Bryant Park

Bemelman’s Bar, Rosewood Hotel, Upper East Side

There is nothing quite like the dark, intimate feel of hotel bars. Great for people watching and great for escaping crowded loud bars. Great place to sneak into after a stroll in the winter evenings.

Bemelmans Bar New York | Upper East Side Bars | Rosewood

Jane Hotel Ballroom Lobby, West Village

Check ahead because this place has weird hours but beautiful spacious area.

Jane Hotel Opens Lobby Bar

Central Park Date Ideas

There is nothing quite like Central Park but having a specific game plan and itinerary makes it better. Check out the calendar of events, time it right with fresh snow or color change in the leaves. Grab a Coffee at St. Ambrose in the UES for a pick-me up at the standing counter. Highlights include skating rinks, Belvedere Castle, Miniature Boats, Alice in Wonderland Sculptures, The Mall, Bethesda Terrace, Horse & Carriage Tour, View from the Met and more.

The Central Park Conservancy

Refinery Rooftop Hotel Bar

One of the few rooftops open year-round. This place has decent views but the covered area with exposed brick is quite nice here.

Refinery Rooftop Bar in Midtown, NYC

Highline

It’s always a great way to walk, sunbathe, have a drink, listen to music, snack along and more. Check out the calendar of events.

Home | The High Line

Roberta’s Pizza, Brooklyn

Amazing pizza, versatile space with communal seats, bar seats and patio seats. Excellent craft beer on tap and cans as well as a great wine and cocktail list to pair with your food.

Roberta's

Bushwick Collective Self Guiding Walk

Amazing murals, street art in one of the most famous artist districts in the United States. Most top street artists have graced the walls of one of the buildings here at some point in their career.

The Bushwick Collective – A Street Art Gallery

Le Bain Rooftop Bar

One of my favorite rooftops where you can actually sit down and soak in the rays.

Meatpacking District Nightclubs & Rooftop Bars | The Standard, High

Jimmy at Jane Hotel Rooftop Bar

Love the views of SOHO and Lower Manhattan. Quite the perspective that other rooftops lack.

JIMMY at The James New York

Shakespeare in the Park

A charming way to spend an evening experiencing some of the best that NYC has to offer. If you get lucky, you might catch a celebrity or two in the show.

Free Shakespeare in the Park

Bin71 Wine Bar, UWS

My old neighborhood Upper West Side wine bar. Nothing pretentious just a favorite haunt of mine, cozy, limited outdoor seats and intimate environment.

Welcome to the Bin

Chelsea to SOHO Architecture Walk (my customized walking tour)

There are numerous streets, alleys, street art and architecture along this walk between neighborhoods. One of the best bang for the buck walks in the city.

Vin Sur Vingt Wine & Cheese Bar, West Village

Given that I am not the biggest wine fan, this place gets me. Cozy, intimate place, amazing cheese selection.

Home - Vin Sur Vingt - Vin Sur Vingt

Roosevelt Tram Ride, Roosevelt Island

Amazing views of the city from up above. Get a unique view that few New Yorker’s get to experience.

Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation of the State of New York

Roxy Hotel Lobby, Tribeca

One of my favorite hotel lobbies in the city. Retro vibe, comfortable seats – what’s not to like?

Roxy Bar

Westlight, William Vale, Williamsburg

Spacious, wide views of the city. Nothing quite like it.

NYC Rooftop Happy Hour | Westlight at William Vale Brooklyn

Chelsea Market

Snack along the market and head over to the Highline for a nice walk in the day or evening. Check the calendar of events for pop-ups, concerts and more.

CHELSEA MARKET

DUMBO

One of my favorite neighborhoods for walking, street art, views, rooftops, pizza and more.

Bowery Hotel, Lower East Side

Lobby bars in NYC are what makes winters bearable.

Home - The Bowery Hotel

The Roof, PUBLIC Rooftop Bar

Excellent 360 degree views, hard to beat views of Manhattan from this part of town.

PUBLIC Hotel New York City

Kobrick Coffee, West Village

Kyoto Coffee Negronis? Yes please! Aside from the espresso martini made with rum liqueur, this is my favorite drink.

Hand roasted in small batches by four generations

Brooklyn Bridge Walk

It’s always a great way to experience sunset or an early morning walk. Avoid crowds and go off-season or mid-week.

NYC DOT - Brooklyn Bridge

Ace Hotel Lobby Bar, Flatiron

Love this hotel, Stumptown Coffee bar and cocktails in a casual lobby. What’s not to like?

Ace Hotel New York

Frick Collection, Upper East Side

Overlooked museum relative to the bigger ones. Not to miss.

The Frick Collection

Aviary NYC, Columbus Circle

Replaced the Mandarin Hotel Lobby Bar. Pristine views down Central Park West. Best to go during the day or near sunset, ideally with the autumn color change or fresh snowfall.

The Aviary

Staten Island Ferry

Free ferry, leaves about every 25-30 minutes (check schedule for exact times). Amazing views of Lower Manhattan.

The Staten Island Ferry

Gantry Plaza State Park

One of those parks with a majestic view of the Manhattan skyline but without the crowds and tourists of DUMBO.

Gantry Plaza State Park

by Robet Schall

What are the best things to do in New York City when it snows (either during or after)?

Mildred Lewis

Yet another writer-director.

Visit the Cloisters and create your version of the King Arthur legend.

Take a ferry (Staten Island, Port Jefferson)

Skate in Manhattan at Rockefeller Center, Lasker, Bryant Park, in Brooklyn at Wollman, in Queens at City Ice Pavilion or War Memorial in Staten Islands.

How about hot cocoa at Brooklyn's Chocolate Room?

God, I miss my hometown.

What’s the best thing to do in New York City that no tourist would know about?

Suzanne Thompson

Artist and Historic InterpreterBecause you can google anything, many tourists know more about NYC than people who live there. That being said, here are a few things I’ve enjoyed on visits: 1. The Eldridge St Synagogue. There is a fabulous modern rose window, and they give a wonderful tour. It’s one of those places that you can feel the history, and I bought one of my best souvenirs, a shlepping bag (tote) 2. The Tenement Museum is another place you can feel the history. You don’t wander through, but join a specific tour that begins with a classroom-like introduction before you see a portion of the museum that represents the tour’s theme. The day I went most of the people in my group had ancestors who had lived in these buildings or buildings like them. It was really interesting to hear from them in addition to the tour guides. 3.

What are some interesting facts about New York?

What are some tips for going to New York for the first time?

Tara Leone

Jersey girl living in West Village

Upon Arrival at an airport:
- Upon arrival, either use a pre-planned car service, a yellow taxi, or Uber, don't go with the guys who stand around and say "Need a ride".
- You can also take a bus or subway but with luggage and a long flight, I recommend a direct ride.

In the city
- If you are lost, or need help Ask a local - we are friendly
- Walk briskly, no more than 2 people next to each other, and step to the side closest to the buildings if you need to pause on the sidewalks. Otherwise you block the sidewalks, and people can't get past you.
- Don't give money to beggars, avoid buying tourist crap from the street vendors - but if you must, definitely negotiate.

-umbrellas from street vendors will not last very long- they are junk!

-stay away from the curb in rain, cars and buses splash major puddles on you

Getting Around
- Take the subway, it's the easiest. Buses are great too, (and air conditioned) but the schedules are less regular and harder to figure out. Here is a link to the site that tells you where the bus you want is, so you know how long you will have to wait. Manhattan Bus Schedules

-both the subway and buses require a metro card. Depending on how long your trip is, you can get an unlimited daily/weekly card. But if you aren't sure - and may come back - here is the best amount to put on a new card, when purchasing, so you don't have leftover money go to waste: $22.30 See explanation here: A statistician figured out the perfect amount to put on a subway card so you'll never have left over change
- When in doubt, hail a taxi (The Number on the top of the cab has to be lit up, to hail it. If its not lit, it's not available), and don't forget about Uber It's a great way to get around if you can afford it.

Activities:
-Of course this will vary - you will have to do some research
- Lots of museums, art galleries, shows and activities to choose from. Check out specifics here: Your ultimate guide to New York
- You can wait online for discount tickets for Broadway shows at the various TKTS booths, OR you can check out this list for Rush/Student/Same day tickets for specific shows here: Broadway Rush, Lottery and Standing Room Only Policies
-General sightseeing can't be beat from the top of an open air double decker. Buy your tickets in advance - there are people on every street corner of tourist areas trying to sell you a bad deal.
- The Staten Island Ferry is a free way to get a tour of the harbor, and get up close and personal with the Statue of Liberty.
- Empire State building is cool, but I think the view is actually better from Top of the Rock.

I personally recommend:
- Walking the High Line. Start in the 30's, and walk down towards 14th. The new Whitney is on 14th at the end of the highline, so you could either check that out afterwards, or head to the Standard Beer Garden for a drink.

-I also love having a drink with friends on the water. Pier A, Frying Pan, Boat Basin, City Vineyard - doesn't matter which one, they are all fun, and have great views.

Enjoy!

What are some fun outdoorsy things to do in NYC?

Mia McCroskey

Have worked in Manhattan, off and on, for more than thirty years.

What is your favorite outdoor activity to experience in New York?

Biking. I do it year round as part of my commute. You can get places faster than by motorized ground transport (other than, say, an e-bike or motorcycle). It’s much more pleasant than the subway. But it does require nerves of steel, and it’s not for novice riders. There are bike paths around the edge of a large part of Manhattan that offer great views of the waterways on one side and the city on the other. Bike paths on the streets and avenues tend to be less honored by the motor vehicles and pedestrians, but they do exist. Parks in all boroughs offer great options as well. If you’re visiting, you can use the bike share program (Citibike) for a small daily or weekly fee. The advantage to it is you don’t have to lock up and worry about your bike when you aren’t using it, you dock your borrowed bike at any of hundreds of docks.

Petanque in Bryant Park. Petanque is a French bowling game. In Bryant Park there are several courts maintained by an organization that will give you a lesson and let you play.

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

Jan Soloven

Visit the Museum of Modern Art, or the Met, or see a play… but for god’s sake find SOMETHING indoors.

What is the most touristy thing to do in New York City?

Lew Lorton

writer, photographer, general know-it-all- and NYC resident

Touristy - and not in a good way

Stopping on 34th St to get a picture of your loved one with the Empire State Bldg in the background

Climbing up the stairs out of the subway and stopping at the top to look at your phone, thus blocking everyone behind you.

Walking slowly 3,4 or 5 abreast thus filling a sidewalk and stopping for a meeting about where to go or what to do.

In case, you don’t notice a theme here, it is slowing, impeding or stopping those people who are just trying to get to work, to walk to lunch or going somewhere.

Yes, I have only lived in NYC for a year, but I do love it.

I am willing to share my island (Manhattan) with tourists as long as they cluster out of the general flow.
Tourists are like squirrels, quite cute if there are just one or two shy ones but just annoying as hell if there are thousands.

What are the most impressive things to do in New York City on Thanksgiving break?

Anonymous

The Thanksgiving Day Parade

Any suggestions for a weekend in NYC

Abby Wolfe

Editorial Manager

What are some of the best things to do in a weekend in NYC?

While there are hundreds of great things to do in NYC on the weekend, I highlighted a few in this post from last week.

6 Fun Things To Do In NYC This Weekend - brunchwork

brunchwork holds events almost every weekend in NYC, and they’re a great way to meet new people and interact with experts from a variety of industries. You can find out more about the upcoming NYC events here: New York City Events - brunchwork

What are some fun things to do in New York City on weekends?

Aspry Jones

What are some of things to do in New York City this weekend? (for a couple)

Go see “Sleep No More.” I'll be here in case you wanna thank me later.

It's an interactive play set in a fake, 5 floor Hitchcockian hotel. Everything happens right in front of you for 3 hours while you wander the premises. It's the coolest thing I've ever done in NYC.