For being a girl who lives in Jersey, and an hour away from the big apple, I can say I’m quite experienced with navigating through New York City. There are three types of people that you will most likely encounter, the NYC regulars, the tourists and the artists. Whether you are any of these, here are the do’s and don’ts when you visit NYC!
Don’t: Get a cab
Straight off the bat, cabs are over priced and you don’t want to be paying for all that when you have so much food to be looking forward to. They are also really hard to get a hold of in the big city. You are probably going to be waiting for a good 20 minutes trying to get a drivers’ attention.
Do: Take the Subway or even walk around
Subways are convenient and have stops at almost every famous landmark. It might be hard to navigate at first, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll realize it’s much better and faster getting from point A to point B. If, however, you prefer walking, there’s no harm. Yes, it’s true the city is big and there’s always rush hours, and don’t be that person that stops in the middle of a sidewalk to take pictures. Actually appreciate everything around you, and avoid blocking the people who are trying to get somewhere.
Don’t: Eat anywhere in Times Square
Basically, eating anywhere at Times Square including the Olive Garden, Hard Rock Cafe and even the Starbucks, is a nightmare. It’s average overpriced food in an insanely crowded area. If you want good food, try the Restaurant Row on W. 46th Street. You can find all types of cuisines there including Thai, Italian and Japanese!
Do: Visit the stores in Times Square
The stores in Times Square are so big! These include clothing stores H&M, Forever 21, American Eagle, Sephora and my personal favorites, the Disney Store and M&M Factory! To be honest, they really aren’t super pricey either. They are your standard prices that you would see at a mall.
Don’t: Come to Times Square during New Years Eve
Please, don’t do this to yourself. It’s all fun and games on screen, but in reality it’s an absolute mess. Also, the ball isn’t even that big. If you really want to come to the city during the holiday season, I’d recommend going a week or so after Thanksgiving. You can see the colorful lights and holiday enthusiasm throughout the city, and that is definitely fulfilling enough.
Do: Visit museums
MOMA (Museum of Modern Art) and MET (Metropolitan Museum) are my favorite museums of all time. Even if you are not a big fan of museums, I think it’s a once in a lifetime activity to do. The place is just so inspiring and filled with so many unique pieces; you WILL be in awe. Plus, don’t you wanna be basic and take pictures on the MET Steps and eat your yogurt like Serena and Blair? (Shout out to “Gossip Girl” fans).
Don’t: Take pictures with anyone with a costume
It’s scary to admit, but those creepy Mickey Mouse and Cookie Monster costumes are just a way for them to get money. One time, I made eye contact with an Elmo and this woman chased me down for a good five minutes. It’s pretty freaky.
Do: Buy Broadway Tickets at the TKTS Booth
This is basically a life hack for anyone planning to see a Broadway (which, by the way, YOU DEFINITELY SHOULD), as well as off Broadway shows. The TKTS Booth is located at Times Square. Yes, the line can get really long, but it is all worth it because you can get great seats for much cheaper than buying them online.
Don’t: Take the cruise to see the Statue of Liberty
I mean, the Statue of Liberty is super impressive, but the cruise is really unnecessary. You are better off seeing it close by, because the cruise doesn’t even take you that close to the statue. It’s not something worth paying for, and the views from land are so much better.
Do: Visit the 9/11 Memorial
I went to visit the memorial about two months after it was opened, and it was the most respected place I’ve probably ever been to. The memorial is so quiet and peaceful, everyone you see is in silence paying their respects to the victims of 9/11. It’s an absolutely stunning place to see and honor those who lost their lives in the horrible tragedy. In that area, there is also a museum that has the history of the Twin Towers. I personally haven’t been in the museum yet, but I’m sure that’s definitely a place to visit too. Just remember that despite the gorgeous architecture, you are there to pay respects, so it is kind of a quiet space.
So the next time you visit New York City, take my advice. You’ll actually be able to enjoy yourself with zero stress!
Photo Credits: Cover Image, Image 1, Image 2, Image 3, Image 4