Why go to New York City?

The Big Apple is one of the most popular travel destinations every year. The allure of this big American city is not only in it’s architecture but also in the number of attractions and entertainment venues that it has. There is always something going on in NYC no matter the time of day.

It’s compact design makes it a great place to explore on foot and the city is very family friendly. Granted it’s not one of the cheapest holiday destination out there but there are some deals to be had if you book early and follow our tips below.

This is one city where you’re guaranteed not to get bored.

Best time to visit New York City

Anytime of the year is a good time to visit NYC. The Big Apple is a 24 hour city that bustles with energy every day of the year. There is always something going on no matter the season.

Weather wise. Fall and winter bring crisp cold air and sun along with possible snow and the call of Thanksgiving,  Christmas and New Year celebrations. Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a must see event.

Spring and summer, on the other hand, is the time to be outside walking around and enjoying the sights.

If you want cheaper hotels then come in the first part of the year. This is arguably the low season.

Top things to see in NYC

There’s so much to do in New York City it’s difficult to know where to start but here are some ideas to get you started.

• Rockefeller Center and Observation Deck
• Times Square & Broadway
• Statue of Liberty
• Empire State Building
• Fifth Avenue
• Grand Central
• Brooklyn bridge
• Coney Island
• Bryant Park
• Museum of modern art
• American museum of natural history
• Madison Square Garden
• Chrysler building
• Central Park
• China Town
• Yankee stadium
• Flatiron building

Things to do in New York City

Take a trip to Times Square

Home to large neon billboards and countless attractions this is the heart of NYC. You’ll find Madame Tussaud’s wax museum and the Hard Rock Cafe close by.

Visit Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty

For millions of immigrants Ellis Island was there first port of call in the United States. Overlooked by Lady Liberty this symbol of freedom is one of the most visited attractions in the city.

Climb Empire State Building

This iconic Art Deco skyscraper is the place to go for panoramic views of the whole city. Head up to the observatory on the 86th floor.

See some museums

This city is full of world-class museums, enough to keep you busy for a lifetime. Try starting with the American Museum of Natural History.

Have a picnic

New York City is one of America’s greenest cities. Everyone has heard of Central Park no doubt but this 843-acre garden is actually only the fifth largest in the Big Apple. Nevertheless is a great place to rest those weary feet and enjoy a sunny day with a nice picnic.

Hit the shops

NYC is a shoppers paradise. From the designer stores of Fifth Avenue to cheap souvenir stores dotted around the city this is an easy place to spend your money.

Take in a show

What’s a trip to New York without taking in a show. There are 39 theaters located around Broadway just be sure to look for some discounted tickets before you go.

Go Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center

Get your skates on and take to the ice at the famous Rockefeller Center. Okay, first you’ll need to be in NYC during the Fall and Winter season. The rink opens daily from around October until April.

Eat Pizza

Nothing gets more New York than eating a big slice of piping hot pizza. There are dozens of places claiming to make the best pizza in NYC. I guess that you’ll have to try them all.

Where to stay in NYC

There are many districts within New York City and where you stay will likely depend upon your budget and the attractions that you’re interested in.

Midtown is close to Broadway and Times Square. Central Park & the Upper East Side is home to many of the city’s museums and Fifth Avenue, for those that want to shop. Chelsea & Greenwich Village bring art galleries and trendy shops.

SoHo & the Lower East Side is close to Little Italy and China Town while Wall Street & the Financial District is close by the Brooklyn Bridge and ferry access to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

There are plenty of five star hotels in Manhattan such as the Park Hyatt New York and The St. Regis New York but there are also cheaper hostels and hotels off the beaten track that are worth investigating. My biggest tip here is to book very early. Many of the decent cheap hotels are sold out many months in advance.

Getting around NYC

Buses

Public transportation is good. Buses afford a view of the city on your travels, unlike the subway, which may appeal to some if you dont mind the congestion. Although you can pay cash when you board it’s easier to use a metrocard as drivers won’t give any change for a dollar.

Taxi

Yellow cabs are everywhere. Remember to tip between 15% and 20% on top of your bill.

If you’re coming from the airport then it may be best to splash out on a cab. While buses are available you’ll likely be looking at several vehicle changes making taxis the easiest and quickest option.

Walking

Walking is the best way if you want to avoid the constant traffic. The city’s grid system makes navigating it very easy.

Subway

The subway is popular and cheap, costing a few bucks per trip. Metrocards can be picked up at any station and if you’re planning on staying for any length of time then you’ll probably be better off with a 7 day pass, which costs around 30 USD.

Cheapest time to visit New York City

No time of the year is particularly cheap in NYC but some seasons are a little cheaper than others. Any time around public holidays are going to be super expensive and difficult to book unless you reserve your room very early. Go any time around Thanksgiving, Christmas and the New Year and you can expect to pay top dollar.

You’ll find the cheapest hotel beginning January and running through February when the weather is a little colder. It’s also quieter and not so crowded.

Between March and May is the wettest time of the year in NYC and June to August is the hottest time.

Hotel prices start to rise again between September and November and like most places you’ll probably find weekday prices cheaper than weekends.

Money saving tips for New York City

Saving money in New York City is not an easy thing to do as it’s one of the worlds most expensive cities, but here area few tips to get you started.

Check out the museums free days

Many of Manhattans museums will have at least one day a month when they are free, for some it’s once a week, so be sure to enquire before you visit.

Avoid alcohol

NYC has some of the most expensive drinks prices going. With an average price of 15 USD for a cocktail it’s probably better avoiding them altogether. If you really need to partake then go during happy hour.

Take up walking

Save on cab and train fare by taking to the streets. Just wear some comfortable shoes.

Enjoy free performances

Take a trip to Central Park and watch the street artists performing their routines free of charge.

Look for coupons online

Have a search on the free coupon site Groupon to find deals on all sorts of things in NYC. From restuarant discounts to hotel deals and much more. You can also register to receive alerts to specials deals each day.

Getting deals on broadway tickets

You can always try the TKTS ticket booths for discounts. Failing that check online at BroadwayBox.com or even go direct to the theatres just before the show and see if anything is available.