Visiting New York City

New York City is now more accessible and organized than ever, but it rewards prepared visitors. From tap-to-pay transit to timed attraction tickets, this brief guide covers everything first-time visitors need to know to navigate the city confidently.

Getting Around

The Subway

  • The most commonly used way to get around.
  • Every subway and bus accepts tap-to-pay with OMNY.
  • Tap your card, Apple or Google Pay just like you would when shopping.
  • Weekly fare cap: After $34 (12 rides), the rest of the week is free.
  • You must use the same payment method every time to benefit from the cap.
  • MetroCards still work until Dec 31, 2025 — if you're feeling old-school.

Subway Navigation Essentials

  • Some subway stops have different tracks for uptown vs. downtown.
  • If you enter the wrong side, you'll have to pay again.
  • Pro tip: downtown trains are on the right side of the street when facing south.
  • Know your express vs. local trains—express skips stops.

Citi Bikes

  • Riding a bike can be a very efficient way to get around.
  • No waiting for the train, no delays, no traffic. Bike lanes are generally prevalent.
  • Use the Lyft app to unlock bikes across 2,400+ docking stations.
  • Standard rides: $4.99 + tax. E-bikes: 38¢/min (25¢ for members).
  • Check dock availability before starting a trip.

Driving? Congestion pricing applies south of 60th Street: $9 during peak hours.

Where to Stay

  • Short-term rental rules are strict—many Airbnb-style listings gone.
  • Hotels now have more availability and competitive rates.
  • Extended-stay hotels like Residence Inn offer kitchens.
  • Stick to verified platforms—many short-term listings are pulled last minute.

Major Attractions

  • Timed tickets are the norm—book early for top sites.
  • Crown access at Statue of Liberty: book 2–3 months ahead.
  • Summit One Vanderbilt: book 2–4 weeks ahead.
  • Use Apple/Google Pay where possible for mobile entry.
  • Expect $50–100+ per person during peak hours due to dynamic pricing.

The Cashless Economy

  • Some venues are card/mobile pay only. Carry a backup card.
  • Cash still useful for bodegas, food trucks, and smaller shops.
  • Parking: Use ParkNYC or ParkMobile apps.

Dining and Tipping

A 18–22% gratiuity is basically expected - staff doesn't make money otherwise.

  • Full-service: 18–20%
  • Bars: $1–2 per beer, 20% for cocktails
  • Counter: $1–2 or 10% optional
  • Taxis/rideshares: 15–20%

Weather and Packing Strategy

  • Winter: 28–45°F. Bring waterproof boots and a tote for your coat.
  • Spring: 48–70°F. Pack for layers and spring rain.
  • Summer: 72–92°F. Hot, humid, thunderstorms. Bring water and umbrella.
  • Fall: 50–75°F. Best walking weather—carry a light jacket.

Technology and Apps You'll Need

  • Uber and Curb for rides, Lyft for rides and Citi bikes.
  • Google or Apple Maps for navigation is generally fine.
  • ParkNYC / ParkMobile (for parking)

Safety and Etiquette

  • Escalators: Walk left, stand right.
  • Crossing streets: Remove headphones. $50 fine in some areas.
  • Bag size limits: Many venues restrict bags to 12×12".
  • Restrooms: Use hotel lobbies, Bryant Park, and big stores.

Budgeting

  • Transit: Tapping is cost-effective.
  • Attractions: Book early and expect peak pricing.
  • Dining: Tax and Tip added after = higher meal cost than expected.
  • Hotels: Fewer Airbnbs means higher rates.

Miscellaneous Important Info

  • Cannabis is legal—buy only from licensed shops and don’t take it across state lines.
  • Hotels better for groups 2+ due to Airbnb limits.
  • Skip the subway during rush hour (7:30–9:30am, 5–6:30pm) if possible.

The Bottom Line

Book early, enter subway by tapping, carry both cards and cash, and know your subway platform before entering. Oh and, use New York Curated!