About New York City
New York, the epicenter of incredible art and architecture, trending fashion, crazy nightlife, buzzing culinary, bustling streets, and iconic landmarks, is the trendsetter city of the world. Composed of five boroughs- Brooklyn, The Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island, the visit here can prove overwhelming for even the locals living here. However, we have jotted down a complete New York City travel guide for you. Scroll down to know more about the city before planning a trip.
With a dizzying list of museums devoted to everything from fin de siecle Vienna to Medieval European treasure, with iconic Brooklyn Bridge to its 19,000 restaurants reflecting the culinary tradition of all cultures around the world, visiting NYC could be overwhelming for even a seasoned traveler. You could spend months exploring NYC, yet there will be a lot to explore.
Population
With a population of 8,177,025, New York City is the largest and most highly populated city in the United States. Furthermore, it is the nation’s most densely populated city of all municipalities. The borough of Manhattan itself has a population density of 72,918 inhabitants per square mile, making it the most populated county in the U.S. and higher than the density of any American city.
Geography
New York City is the most densely populated city in the US, nestled at the congregation of the Hudson River and the Atlantic Ocean. NYC is bordered by Canada and Lake Ontario in the north, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, the Atlantic Ocean in the south, Lake Erie in the west, and Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Vermont in the east. It is located at an elevation of 300 meters above sea level and covers 141,300 square kilometers.
History
New York City’s history began around 10,000 BC when the first people arrived. However, the native Americans came to the city about 5,000 years ago and settled their colonies here.
In 1624, the Dutch from the Netherlands settled their colony in New Amsterdam, which is now popularly known as Manhattan Island. NYC was renamed in 1664 when the British took over the area and named the city after the Duke of York and Albany, brother of King Charles II.
Furthermore, it played a pivotal role during the American Revolution in 1776 and became a US state in 1788 and became the capital of the US. One year later, George Washington was sworn in as the first president of the United States in New York.
Religion
The majority of New Yorkers are Christian (60%), followed by irreligious (27%), Judaism (7%), Islam (2%), Hinduism, and Buddhism (1%). The largest Christian denomination in NYC is the Roman Catholic Church (31%). Although NYC has been a home to immigrants for ages, Christianity is the major New York religion here.
Culture
New York is considered the ‘cultural capital of the world’, thanks to diverse New York culture and multi-ethnic population. The city boasts some of the significant American cultural movements that first took place here. New York is home to many Irish, Italian, Jewish, Asian, and Hispanic Americans who emigrated to this incredible city during the 20th century.
Language
Over 20 million people live in New York, speaking over 800 languages in New York. New York has a rich history of immigration on the country’s coast.
However, English still tops the chart, and the 2019 U.S Census Bureau reported almost 70% of the New York population over the age of 5 speaks English. With 15.9%, Spanish is the second most spoken language in New York.
Furthermore, 1,587,798 residents speak Indo-European languages, and 948,949 residents speak Asian and Pacific islander languages.
Currency
The official currency of New York is U.S. Dollar ($, US$, USD).
Governance
New York comprises five boroughs- Brooklyn, The Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island. The city is run by The New City Council, which is a unicameral body of 51 members and a Mayor. Each council member is elected from a geographic district for four-year terms.
The mayor is the chief executive officer of the city, who is responsible for setting the agenda for the town and its finances. Along with the mayor, an independently elected Public Advocate represents the consumers of the city service. An independently elected Comptroller is also appointed, who manages the city’s finance.
Climate
The New York City climate features a variety of humid subtropical climates, with parts of the city transitioning into humid continental climates. Although NYC experiences cool, wet winters and hot, humid summers, it can be prone to extremes. Being on a coastal location and exposed to the Atlantic, NYC witnesses strong winds and heavy snowfall.
When to Go New York City
The honest answer to ‘When to go’ would be ‘Ánytime’. New York is an all-year-round city, and each season beautifies the city in its way. ‘However, if you want to explore the city in its prime, then plan your trip from April to October, when the weather is pleasant.
Travel
If you are visiting New York from another country for 90 days for tourism, business, and medical purposes, an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is required. You have to apply for ESTA at least 3 days before your scheduled departure.
Due to Covid-19, there are some travel restrictions in New York. Hence, read the updated government guidelines before applying for a visa.
If you belong to one of the 38 countries part of the Visa Waiver Program, you can apply for ESTA. However, the purpose of your visit to NYC should be tourism, business, or medical. For other purposes, the eligibility criteria would be different.
For a trip to New York for 90 days, ESTA is the quickest and easiest way to get travel permission. However, check your ESTA eligibility criteria before applying for a B1 and B2 visa.
- B1 Business Visa: If you are going to the US for a business meeting or conference.
- B2 Tourist Visa: If you are traveling to the US for tourism.
While applying for a visa, the first step is to complete the DS-160 form. Once you submit it online, schedule an interview at the US embassy or consulate in your country. You will need some documents to present at the interview.
To know more about ID & documents required to visit New York City, follow our New York City Travel Guide.
The ID and Documentation requirements to visit NYC varies from country to country. Furthermore, it also depends on your nationality, health status, criminal record, and purpose of the visit. The ID and documents required to enter the territory of the US are:
- Passport with at least 6 months of validity
- You must have an electronic, biometric passport, which is equipped with an electronic chip in it and contain your biometric data.
- Your ESTA must be valid when you arrive in the US. You can’t renew your ESTA and overstay.
Arriving From Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda
- Citizens arriving in the U.S. from these countries must show a valid passport, U.S. Passport Card, a Trusted Traveler Program Card (NEXUS, SENTRI, Global Entry, or FAST), or an enhanced driver license.
- Canadian citizens can use NEXUS instead of a passport to arrive in the U.S. if departing from Canada.
Arrival From Other Countries
- Citizens from other countries must present a valid passport upon arrival.
- Both permanent residents and foreign nationals need a U.S visa.
Everyone should prepare the information needed for mandatory security checks to prevent delays. You can go through the US Customs website to know more about the items you are carrying with you.
The prohibited items as per the US Federal Law are:
- Alcoholic beverages over 70% by volume
- Alcoholic beverages under 70% by volume
- Animal products or products of animal origin (EU destinations only)
- Batteries
- Cutting instruments
- Defense sprays
- Drones
- Dry ice
- Electronic cigarettes like vapor or e-cigarettes
- Explosives
- Firearms and ammunition
- Flammable items, liquids or solids
- Gasoline powered tools
- Hoverboards
- Marijuana
- Mobility Devices
- Lighters and Matches
- Pressurized containers/compressed gasses
- Self-heating meals
- Self-inflating life jackets
- Scissors and tools
- Smart bags
New York City has two major airports- John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and LaGuardia Airport (LGA) that connect the city with all major cities worldwide.
John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK) has emerged to become the busiest airport in New York and the 6th busiest airport in the US, with 8 terminals, serving over 62 million passengers annually.
Several hotels are available near the airports, which offer easy airport pick-up and drop-off. If you want the pick-up and drop-off options from/to the airport, you will need to book your transfer before your arrival. If you haven’t booked well before, several cabs are also available at the airport.
John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK) Customer Support Number (24×7)
+718 244 4444
Custom and immigration
- Location: John F Kennedy International Airport
BLDG 151, Room 378, Jamaica, NY 11430
United States - Contact No.: +1 (718) 656 2891
Emergency and Medical Assistance
Dial 211 from a courtesy phone 911 from a payphone or cell phone in an emergency. For medical emergencies, professional medical assistance is available 24×7 at the airport.
Lost & Found
Contact John F Kennedy International Airport TSA Lost & Found at (718) 917 3999
LaGuardia Airport (LGA) Customer Support Number (24×7)
(866) 289 9673
Custom and immigration
LaGuardia Airport doesn’t serve international passengers except Canadian and the Caribbean, as it lacks the immigration facility.
Emergency and Medical Assistance
Emergency medical services at LaGuardia are provided by North Shore University Hospital under contract to the Port Authority.
Lost & Found
Contact the Transportation Safety Authority (TSA) at (866) 289 9673
The most popular airlines to fly from/to New York are- American Airlines, United Airlines, JetBlue, Delta Air Lines, North American Airlines, Pan Am, US Airways Express, New York Air, Continental Airlines, FedEx Express, Kiwi International AirLines, etc.
How to travel in New York City when it is your first time here?
Mass transit is the best way to get around in New York City. Nearly half of the population uses public transport. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), also known as MTA New York City Transit, runs the city’s subways and buses.
Purchase a MetroCard to get around the buses and subways and keep a minimum value of $5.50, excluding the card fee of $1, when initially buying it.
Besides subways and buses, yellow taxi cabs and green Boro taxis are available 24 hours a day.
- Subways
Subways are the quickest and the most popular mode of transport in NYC, and it operates 24 hours a day. While traveling via subways, purchase a MetroCard, which will cost you just $1, and a single subway ride costs $2.75.
- Buses
Like subways, all NYC city buses accept MetroCard or exact coin change (no pennies or paper money). Several buses operate 24 hours a day on selected routes; hence before boarding one, identify your route and see if the service is available round-the-clock.
- The Roosevelt Island Tram
The Roosevelt Island Tram accepts MetroCards and gives you an aerial view of Midtown East. It runs from East 60th Street and Second Avenue, Manhattan to Roosevelt Island in the East River between Manhattan and Queens.
- Taxis
Taxis are available 24 hours a day; however, check for the taxis whose numbers are illuminated on top; they are on duty. The minimum metered fare is $2.50, and additional bridge and tunnel tolls. New Yorkers tip the cab drivers 15-20%at the end of the trip.
Accommodation
The city offers a good range of hotels to its guests. New York City has over 700 hotels and 138,000 rooms operating in the city. From luxury hotels to affordable B&Bs, New York accommodates all kinds of guests. Find out some of the best hotels to check-in in this city in our New York City Travel Guide.
The Mark Hotel
Location: 25 E 77th Street, NY 10075
Contacts: +1 212 744 4300
Lotte New York Palace
Address: 455 Madison Ave, NY 10022
Contact:+1 212 888 7000
Mandarin Oriental, New York
Address: 80 Columbus Cir, NY 10023
Contact: +1 212 805 8800
Lowell Hotel
Address: 28 E 63rd Street, NY 10065
Contact: +1 212 838 1400
The Plaza- A Fairmont Managed Hotel
Address: 768, 5th Ave, NY 10019
Contact:+1 212 759 3000
Services
When in the US, call 911 in case of any emergency. In addition, New York has a good number of public and private hospitals. Below are the emergency contact numbers of services in New York.
New York Presbyterian Hospital
- Address: New York Metropolitan Area, New York, United States
- Contact: 212-9324000
NYU Langone Hospital
- Address: 550 1st Ave, New York, United States
- Contact: +1 646 929 7800
Duane Reade
- Location – New York, United States, Timing: 24*7 Open
- Contact: 1-800-925-4733
Tourists traveling to the USA are responsible for their insurance coverage. From medical to travel insurance, visitors should ensure they are fully covered.
Travel insurance is necessary for unexpected losses or expenses such as missing flights, losing luggage, stolen cash, and missing passport.
Gas, Electric, Phones, Cable TV service
Contact: 1 800 342 3377
Fire Department, City of New York
Contact: (718) 999 0779
Etiquette
- Dress Code
The best part of traveling to New York is, well, there’s no dress code. You can dress whatever you like, from classic chick to punk or whatever suits you.
However, it is better to check in with the restaurants, clubs, or bars if they have any specific dress code before visiting them.
- Drinking
NYC has some of the best bars, clubs, and breweries globally, where anyone above the age of 21 can go. Maintain your social etiquette and don’t create chaos in public.
- Tipping
Although tipping is your choice, New Yorkers always tip at 15%-20% of your total bill in cash. While ordering a drink, a $1 tip to the bartender would be appreciable.
- Photography
Public photography is considered legal in NYC. Public Place is where most New York photographers are taking pictures, and it is one of the popular things to do in New York City. Even subways are considered public space. As a photographer, you have the right to take pictures of the subject as long as you are in public space. However, taking photos in a private establishment is strictly prohibited until given permission.
Neighborhood
New York City comprises 5 boroughs- Manhattan, Brooklyn, The Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island, each with a large number of neighborhoods lending their own local flavor. Here’s a quick look at the five boroughs of NYC:
- Brooklyn
If Brooklyn Bridge is the first thing that comes to your mind, you should know this borough of NYC has more to offer. From Brooklyn Heights Promenade, Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Brooklyn Museum, and Coney Island, the borough is home to some of the iconic tourist spots of New York.
- Manhattan
Manhattan is the most densely populated and the most popular borough of NYC, and it is considered the world’s major financial, commercial, and cultural epicenter. Home to prominent Broadway and Times Square, Manhattan is a promising neighborhood to explore.
- The Bronx
The Bronx is known for Yankee Stadium, the home field of the Yankees baseball team, and it is also known for its hip-hop culture and Bronx Zoo, home to hundreds of animal species. Visit Arthur Avenue, known among the locals as little Italy, to relish authentic Italian delicacies.
- Queens
Perched on the Long Island across the East River from Manhattan, Queens is known for its diversity, and queens are home to Flushing Meadows Corona Park, which hosts the annual U.S. Open Tennis Tournament.
- Staten Island
Staten Island is the greenest borough of NYC and is connected to lower Manhattan via ferry. The Staten Island Zoo is home to kangaroos, birds of prey, and snakes. It has a fascinating maritime history, and its beaches, parklands, and preserved colonial villages attract a large number of tourists from across the globe.
Exploring New York
Museum and Cultural Tour
The choices are nearly endless when it comes to NYC’s museums, art, and culture. Museum tours are a popular activity in New York. There are over 5000 years of art history with a collection of stone age objects and contemporary art in the Metropolitan Museum.
So, while visiting NYC, consider choosing the cultural and theme tour of the city. From world-class museums spanning from the Upper East Side to the Lower East Side, the boroughs of NYC are dedicated to several museums and art galleries.
Top Museums and Art Galleries
New York Sightseeing
New York Food and Wine Tour
High End Dining
The best way to experience New York’s culinary lifestyle is to take a culinary & wine tour of the city. New York offers a host of novel dining options and boasts over 19,000 eateries, and New York is abuzz with some of the finest restaurants serving off-beaten delicacies and wine.
New York gets alive when darkness arrives. Who doesn’t want to experience the city’s pulsing nightlife that never sleeps? Most bars offer Happy Hours from 4 pm to 8 pm, when you can snag one of those cocktails you have always wanted to try.
New York organizes some of the best and most exciting Food fairs and Wine tours, where you can relish the authentic cuisines of the USA and taste the finest wine from California’s Napa Valley. Book one such tour and embark on a culinary voyage.
However, before visiting these public places, check the latest travel restrictions in New York.
Jean-Georges
Cuisine: French Cuisine
Location: Trump International Hotel & Tower New York, 1 Central Park West, New York NY 10023
Contact: +1 212 299 3900
Batard
Cuisine: Contemporary European
Location: 239 W Broadway, NY 10013
Contact: +1 212 219 2777
The Modern
Cuisine: Contemporary American
Location: 9 W 53rd Street, NY 10019
Contact: +1 212 333 1220
Indian Accent
Cuisine: Indian Cuisine
Location: 123 W 56th Street, NY 10019
Contact: +1 212 842 8070
Hirohisa
Cuisine: Japanese Cuisine
Location: 73 Thompson Street, NY 10012
Contact: +1 212 925 1613
Casual Dining
Vineapple Cafe
Cuisine: Italian Cuisine
Location: 71 Pineapple Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Contact: +1 347 799 1035
La Contenta
Cuisine: Mexican Cuisine
Location: 78 W 11 Street, NY 10011
Contact: +1 212 533 2233
Hole in The Wall- Flatiron
Cuisine: Australian Cuisine
Location: 37 W 24th Street, NY 10010
Contact: +1 646 726 4277
Silver Factory
Cuisine: Korean Cuisine
Location: 270 S 5th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Contact: +1 347 725 3017
5ive Spice Taco & Banh Mi
Cuisine: Vietnamese Cuisine
Location: 227 Mulberry Street, NY 10012
Contact: +1 917 409 2605
Bars & Lounges
Mace
Location: 35 W 8th Street, NY 10011
Contact: +1 347 866 7739
The Long Island Bar
Location: 110 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Contact: +1 718 625 8908
Bemelmans Bar
Location: 35 E 76th Street, NY 10021
Contact: +1 212 744 1600
Sidney’s Five
Location: 103 1st Ave, NY 1003
Contact: +1 917 409 3368
Clover Club
Location: 210 Smith Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Contact: +1 718 855 7939
Spas & Wellness Resorts
Menla Retreat & Dewa Spa
Location: 375 Pantherkill Road, Phoenicia, NY 12464
Contact: +1845 688 6897
The Well
Location: 2 E 15th Street, NY 10003
Contact: +1 646 560 8080
Mirbeau Inn & Spa Rhinebeck
Location: 46 W Market Street, Rhinebeck, NY 12572
Contact: +1 877 647 2328
Shou Sugi Ban House
Location: 337 Montauk Hwy, Water Mill, NY 11976
Contact: +1 631 500 9049
Equinox Hotel Hudson Yards
Location: 33 Hudson Yards, NY 10001
Contact: +1 212 812 9200
