Seven Travel Hacks For Visiting New York City
Planning a trip to New York City?
Before you go here are seven travel hacks that will help you during your New York City visit. These are some of our favorite tips and tricks for avoiding crowds, getting around the city and most importantly getting the most bang for your buck and more!
There Are a Ton of Options for Food
If the restaurant you want has a long wait, don’t worry! There are so many good options for food throughout the city so you just never know what you might find when you travel off the beaten path. For example, it is estimated there are over 2,000 pizzerias in New York City. So if L’industrie Pizzeria (197 Grand St & Other Locations) has a long line, there is another pizzeria a block away like say Gelso & Grand (186 Grand St). For some good restaurant recommendations including many hidden gems, be sure to follow our blog.
Bring Cash
You definitely want to bring cash to New York City. Some restaurants and shops only accept cash. You don’t want to be caught unaware and have to find an ATM. Some places even offer a small discount if you use cash instead of a credit card.
The Best Way to Get Around NYC Is to Walk
Whether you are wandering around a museum, walking through Times Square or strolling around Central Park, the best way to see all the sights in New York City is to walk. You will miss so much of what makes New York City special if you are on a bus or car the whole trip. So you definitely want to have a comfortable pair of walking shoes and dress in layers.
Take Advantage of the Citi Bikes
P.C.: wikipedia, Jim.henderson
When the destination you want to go to is too far to walk or if you just want to rent a bike, we recommend checking out Citi Bike. Citi Bike is New York City’s official bike share program. It only cost $4.99 for 30 mins or $25 for a day pass and there are Citi Bikes that you can rent throughout New York City.
Also Take Advantage of TKTS Deals for Broadway Plays
P.C.: wikipedia, Jim.henderson
Don’t pay full price for Broadway tickets! You can sometimes get 50% off or more on tickets through the TKTS booths if you buy the day of or the day before (for early shows). Another tip is to avoid the TKTS booth in Times Square since the lines there can get very long. The TKTS booth at Lincoln Center (61 W. 62nd St) usually has much shorter lines.
Don’t Forget About the Free Activities!
There is a lot you can do for free in New York City. Central Park has a lot to see and has Shakespeare plays and concerts in the summer. Bryant Park has board games, shuffleboard, ping pong and a movie night that are all free. We love exploring the High Line. You can also get free kayak rides at Pier 26 or you can ride the Staten Island Ferry which offer great views of the Statue of Liberty.
Join Ahoy New York on a Food Tour
A stress-free and hassle-free way to explore some of the most popular NYC neighborhoods is to join us on a walking food tour! We have three fun options to choose from: the Chinatown & Little Italy Food Fest, Tasty Global Bites – A Culinary Journey Through Nolita and Market 57 Chelsea Food Tour. All of our tours feature plenty of yummy tastings and are a great way to learn about the fascination history of NYC that is fun for the whole family.