The Ultimate First Timers Guide To New York [2024]

You could visit New York City 1,000 times and each time experience it in a brand new way, as a first timer in New York the feeling of excitement is unrivalled. There is an endless amount of things to see, places to eat, shows to see and people to meet. From world-famous landmarks to hidden gems tucked away in charming neighbourhoods, NYC offers unique experiences for every kind of traveller Whether you’re a culture enthusiast yearning for museums and Broadway shows, a foodie eager to savour diverse culinary delights, or a nature lover seeking refuge in lush parks, this city has it all. Keep reading to find out the best things to do as a first-timer in New York.

22 unmissable things to do for your first time in New York City

1. Cycle around Central Park

Cycling around Central Park is a must-do activity for any visitor visiting New York for the first time. The park’s offers a picturesque backdrop as you pedal along the well-maintained bike paths. The route is a 6 mile loop taking you through iconic landmarks, and provides a welcome escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Renting a bike is easy and can be done online with Bike Rental Central Park.

Some iconic parts of the park you do not want to miss: Loeb Boathouse, Bethesda Fountain, Belvedere Castle, Bow Bridge, Bethesda Terrace Arcade, the Carousel, Gapstow Bridge & Inscope Arch.

2. Walk across Brooklyn Bridge

This was my favourite thing that I did during my time in NYC and I believe no first time visit to New York City is complete without doing this. Such an iconic landmark with breathtaking panoramic views of Manhattans skyline, statue of liberty and East River. We walked from Brooklyn Heights, across the 1.1 mile bridge and to the 9/11 memorial museum. The views are unforgettable, if you can try get there for sunset.

Watch out for cyclists, they will shout at you if you are in their way.

3. One World Observatory

Standing at 102 storeys the One World Observatory is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. When at the top it feels like you are looking down at NYC from a place. The experience begins once you step into the Sky Pod elevator, the journey to the top takes 47 seconds and reveals the architectural history of NYC. Your ears will likely pop!

At the top you will be treated to spectacular panoramic views. There is a bar too, although drinks are very expensive but worth it in my opinion for the ultimate first time view of New York City from above.

4. Watch New York Rangers in Madison Square Garden

I do not follow American sports but wanted to experience the atmosphere, and wow it was incredible. There were many games on but we had to choose the iconic Rangers, we were seated pretty near the back but had a good view. I found it fascinating witnessing everyones patriotism standing for the American National Anthem with their hands on their hearts and listening to the fans chanting for their team.

To really get in the spirit I recommend purchasing some Rangers merchandise before the game, not only is it a wonderful souvenir you also feel like you fit right in.

5. Climb Lady Liberty’s crown

Have you ever wanted to just climb into someones head to see what is going on in there? Well seize this opportunity to see inside Lady Liberty’s head … well crown if we are being exact. You will need to climb 162 steps up a steep spiral staircase in a very tight space but it is pretty surreal when you are up there, the top of arguably the most iconic statue in the world. At the top there is a small space to take pictures and look out, there is also a security guard there. You can see Lady liberty’s torch up-close along with the Manhattan skyline.

Book your tickets for this amazing experience in advance, spaces are limited and due to its popularity it sells out fast.

Seaglass carousel at the Battery Conservatory

If you decide you visit the Statue of Liberty you will be getting the ferry from Battery Park where you can take a ride on the seaglass carousel. The carousel consists of colourful fish made from fiberglass. The ride lasts approximately 5 minutes and cost $6. It is located beside Battery Gardens.

6. Go to a Broadway Show

Visit one of the famous New York Theatre on Broadway such as Radio City Music Hall, Lyric Theatre Gershwin Theatre, Majestic Theatre and Winter Garden Theatre. Some popular long running shows are Wicked, Book of Mormon, Chicago, Lion King, Harry Potter & Aladdin, they are bound to make your first time in New York magical. There are many other shows so make sure to check Telecharge or Ticketmaster for up to date listings.

I went at Christmas to the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular in Radio City Music Hall, it was brilliant and a great start to the Christmas season.

Have you heard of TCKTS? It is a ticket discount service, they have a red booth on Times Square. They sell same day discounted theatre tickets that will be advertised on a large board. They have an app which allows you to see what tickets are available, this is especially helpful when you are in the queue to manage your expectations.

7. Roosevelt Island Tramway

Take a ride on the iconic Roosevelt Island Tramway for panoramic views of the city skyline, running approximately every 10 minutes. It is short trip but is well worth it for something different to do in NYC.
When you reach Roosevelt take time to explore the island, places of interest include the peaceful Southpoint Park overlooking the East River and the historical Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park, home to a memorial dedicated to the former president. Roosevelt Island offers a unique place to unwind and experience a different side to the city.

Please note the tramway does not accept OMNY payment, you can use your MetroCard or purchase one from a ticket machine at the station.

9. Manhattan Bridge

From the pedestrian walkway, you’ll be treated to breathtaking scenes of the Manhattan skyline, the East River, and the Brooklyn waterfront. The bridge is an architectural gem with its intricate network of cables, the intricate ironwork, and the iconic arches against the backdrop of the city. The bridge is 1.3 miles longs and will take about 30 minutes to walk it. I highly recommend that you start your walk in Brooklyn so you can end it in chinatown and little Italy.

10. Walk the Highline

The High Line, an elevated park in New York City, offers a unique blend of urban architecture and natural beauty. Stretching over a mile, this former railway-turned-public space boasts stunning views of the city skyline, vibrant gardens, and art installations that breathe life into the surroundings. As visitors stroll along the elevated pathway, they can admire the creativity of local artists, grab a bite from local food vendors, and just enjoy the serene atmosphere.

12. Watch time go by in Grand Central Station

I am a total people watcher, I like sitting in busy places and watching everyone go by. Grand Central Station during rush hour is the ultimate place for this, a bustling hive of energy. I grabbed a prosecco and sat in Cipriani Dolci a restaurant overlooking the concourse and watched all the commuters hurry to catch trains, their steps echoing off the marble walls. Strangely, I found all this hustle and bustle calming.

13. Attend a live taping of a TV show

SNL, Tonight with Jimmy Fallon, Drew Barrymore, Late Night with Seth Meyers and Late Show with Stephen Colbert are just a few shows that you can attend. It is not easy, for example SNL is a lottery system that you apply via email or you need to queue at 7am for standby tickets to either the 7pm dress rehearsal or 11pm live show. Check out this blog post which outlines how to apply to be in the audience.

You never know who could be in town promoting a new album or film.

14. Helicopter Tour of New York

Taking a helicopter tour of New York City is an extraordinary experience for your first time in New York City that offers a unique perspective of the bustling metropolis below. From the Statue of Liberty to the Empire State Building, you’ll witness these renowned sites from an exhilarating vantage point, allowing for breathtaking photo opportunities and an appreciation of their grandeur. The helicopter tours often come with knowledgeable pilots who provide insightful commentary throughout the journey, offering interesting facts, historical information, and anecdotes about the city, adding depth to your understanding of New York’s culture, history, and architecture.

Book a helicopter tour of New York City.

15. Ellen’s Stardust Diner

This may be the most unique lunch spot I have visited. This retro diner has an all singing wait staff who take it in turns belting out songs, all day from opening until closing. Many people get discovered here and offered roles on Broadway. The atmosphere is incredible, you forget you are in a restaurant, a restaurant that serves very tasty food. Expect there to be queues, we waited 30 minutes in November.

How many days in enough for your first time in New York?

For your first time visit to New York 5 – 7 days is the perfect amount of time to experience everything, it allows you time to see other boroughs and take things at a slower pace than if you only had 4 days. However if you have less time than that you can still experience so much, you are just leaving room to for another trip!

Where to Eat

New York City is a culinary paradise, offering a diverse and vibrant food scene. From world-class restaurants to street food vendors, the city caters to all tastes and budgets. With a melting pot of cultures, New York City is a haven for foodies, offering endless opportunities to discover new flavours.

My favourite food spots I visited are below, I have included the google map link so you too can enjoy them during your first time in New York.

Savoury

Juliana’s Pizza: famous pizza place in Brooklyn, the best pizza I have ever had
Harding’s: American food, the lobster roll is amazing!
Bubby’s: Popular brunch spot close to the high line
bb.q Chicken NY K Town: If you love Korean Fried chicken you do not want to miss this spot
TAO Downtown: Asian Fusion: the giant fortune cookies are out of this world
Luke’s Lobster Brooklyn Bridge Park: good food and great views with outdoor seating
Prince Street Pizza: popular pizza slice spot, you will likely be waiting for about 30 minutes but it’s worth it
99 Cent Fresh Pizza: Exactly what the names says

Sweet

Grace Street Coffee & Desserts: in K Town, try the shaved snow
Junior’s Restaurant and Bakery: delicious cheesecakes
Magnolia Bakery: Pies, cupcakes, cheesecakes and banana puddings
Crumbl Cookies: flavours change every week, queue can be very long
The Doughnut Project: gourmet doughnuts

Where to stay during your first time in New York

It is no secret, New York is expensive! Expensive areas include Manhattan, while more affordable options can be found in neighbourhoods like Brooklyn and Queens. If you are visiting for a short time I would suggest staying close to Manhattan, I stayed in Brooklyn Heights which was a brilliant location. A short walk from Dumbo and a 5 minute walk to Clark St subway. All these options are great for your first time in New York City.

Getting around

Subway

The quickest and easiest way to get around during your first time in New York City, they operate 24/7 and you will not be waiting more than a few minutes. If you plan on taking the subway a few times then paying contactless (OMNY) or with a MetroCard will save you some cash, MertroCards are $1 and an be purchased in vending machines, subway station booths, and local shops.

A one-way ticket on the MetroCard/OMNY is $2.75 whereas cash is $3. This is the fare whether you are going 1 stop or until the end of the line. Another benefit of paying via MetroCard or OMNY is you can transfer for free to another bus or subway within 2 hours of your first fare.

Bus

If you want the scenic route and do not mind sitting in traffic then there are 322 routes to choose from. Bus stops will be marked with blue signs and shelters stating what bus will stop there. Check the MTA official website for the live bus times.

Fares are $2.75 for a normal bus and $6.75 for an express bus. You will to pay the driver via MetroCard, contactless or the exact change, they do not give change or accept notes.

Taxi

The iconic yellow taxi, I would recommend taking one just for the experience. The light will be illuminated if they are available to pick up passengers, you just need to hail them.

Fares start at $3, increasing with time and distance, they can be paid with cash or debit/credit card. You can also use Uber or LYFT.

Should you buy the NYC pass?

The short answer is yes but only if you get a 1 or 2 day pass. I suggest figuring out everything you want to see, add up the price of normal admission to see if you will save much. For a more detailed insight check out my blog post Is the New York Pass worth it?!

What to expect during your first time in New York

1. Forward locals

You might hear a “MOVE OUTTA THE WAY” or a “dumbass” here and there from a frustrated local. Maybe you are walking too slow, you joined the wrong queue or you are in a cyclist paths; do not fret New Yorkers are just good at expressing their disdain to your face, most people will just do it behind your back. If you get shouted at do not take it to heart, it is just part of the experience.

2. It is a little dirty

It is a beautifully gritty city, you will see rats on many corners and bins overflowing but it adds to its charm. However on the flip side there are plenty of parks, flowers and tree lined paths.

3. Times Square can actually be peaceful

Ok so neon signs, police sirens, car horns and hundreds of thousands of people passing by does not scream peaceful. Well I lay back on one of the pink XXX chairs, the people faded away as did the noises and time stopped still. I thought “Oh my f**king God, I am in New York” and just took it all in. I lay there for a good 20 minutes and it was one of my favourite memories. Doing nothing just taking it in. If you see the pink XXX chairs then lay back and see for yourself.

4. Pizza is everywhere

You have to try a $1 slice, you cannot escape them. Quick, tasty and cheap. Aside from the $1 stalls there are countless pizza restaurants, I personally did not realise how pizza mad New Yorkers are.

5. 15 – 20% is the average tip

Coming form a country where tips are not the norm it can be hard to adjust to all the extra costs in America. You really need to tip in America, the staff will not be afraid to call you out on it. Tips make up the body of their wages so be respectful and tip.

Can I visit NYC on a budget?

Absolutely! I am a big believer you can visit anywhere in the world on a budget and have an amazing time. The average tourist spend $130 per day. Here are my tips on how you can save a lot of money during your first time to New York;

• Stay outside of Manhattan, check the subway map and choose a safe area close to a subway station
• Eat from stalls when possible, $1 pizza, bagels, hotdogs might not be the healthiest but they will keep your pocket happy
• Do not feel the need to see all the big attractions. Pick ONE viewpoint and a small number of museums that excite you. If you do not feel excited by it then skip it!
• Speaking of museums, did you know you can get in for free or at discounted rates on certain times or days. Check this site for a detailed list of those museums.
• Explore the local boroughs, Times Squares & Manhattan are great and all but there is much much more to NYC than this. Check here for free walking tours in places like DUMBO, Greenwich Village, Harlem and Bushwick
• Some of my favourite things I did in NYC were free – Brooklyn bridge, Manhattan bridge, the high line & central park
• Check out eventbrite for free events. There are some great comedy & music nights all for free!
• To see more free things you can do in NYC the guys at secret NYC have put together a comprehensive list.

Related Posts

Is the New York Pass worth it?