There’s just something about New York City that makes you come alive. From the moment you step off the subway or hop out of a cab, the city wraps you in its energy. The mix of towering skyscrapers, historic buildings, charming brownstones, and a bagel shop on what felt like every block — it’s magic.
Whether you’re wandering through Soho’s cobblestone streets or catching golden hour views from the Brooklyn Bridge, New York City is the kind of place that gives you endless moments to soak up, no matter the season.
But let’s be real — the sheer number of things to do in the Big Apple can feel overwhelming. Where do you eat? What’s worth seeing? To make planning your next trip easier, I’m breaking down all of my favorite spots to stay, eat, shop, and explore, along with a few hidden gems that make this city feel so special.
New York City Travel Guide
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or just daydreaming about your next trip, keep reading for all of the tips and must-visits to get the true NYC experience. Whether it’s your first time visiting, or your tenth, this city really does have it all, and trust me, you’ll be booking your next visit before you even leave.
How to Get to New York City
Traveling to New York City is relatively easy! Depending on where you’re traveling from, flying is typically the most convenient option, but if you’re coming from within the New England area, you can also drive or take the Amtrak. I prefer to fly and typically fly into LaGuardia (LGA) but will definitely take the Amtrak in the future (it brings you right into Manhattan).
If you opt to fly to New York, LGA is the closest airport to the city and is my favorite airport to fly into. JFK is an additional 15 or so minutes from the city.
Getting to the City from the Airport
Once you’ve arrived at either JFK or LGA, it’s time to get into the city! I typically taxi or Uber into Manhattan, which will cost anywhere between $50 and $100 depending on the time of day and traffic. If you fly into JFK, the AirTrain is also a great option! It connects to the E and will get you from JFK to Manhattan in under an hour for $15.
When deciding whether to Uber, taxi, or take the train into the city from the airport, I recommend looking at the timing and cost of all three. Ubering is almost always the most convenient option, but if you’re not on a tight schedule, take the train!
Getting Around the City
Once you’re in Manhattan, the easiest (and best) ways to get around are by foot or by subway. The subway is super convenient and you can use Google Maps (switch to transit once in the app) to easily navigate the subway system. The subway is almost always faster and it’s cheaper than taking an Uber or taxi.
With that being said, if you do want to get somewhere by car, you can take Uber, Lyft, Revel, or a taxi to get where you’re going. Hailing a taxi is easy, too! Simply stand on the curb and hold out your hand to hail one.
When to Visit NYC
There’s always something to do in New York City, no matter what month it is or what the weather is like, so there’s really no bad time to visit.
With that being said, my favorite times of year to visit are spring (April-early June) and fall (late September-November). When planning your trip, consider these seasonal pros and cons for the best time to visit:
- Spring – The city has a feeling of renewal. The weather can be unpredictable but if you go in late spring, you’ll get to see all of the beautiful flowers around the city!
- Summer – The busiest time of the year to visit NYC (and one of my least favorite!). It’s hot, it’s sticky, and it’s smelly but there are a lot of pros to the longer days, patio seating, and rooftop patios.
- Fall – Fall is one of my favorite times to visit the city! The temperatures are crisp but not cold and even if it is chilly, the sun is always warm. If you can catch the leaves changing in October, be sure to take a walk through Central Park.
- Winter – The tourist season is over and it can be cold, but there’s nothing more magical than snow in the city. If you visit in December, be sure to soak in all of the holiday decor.
Where to Stay in New York City
There are so many hotel options in NYC and I always recommend staying at one that is convenient to the things you want to do in the city. My two favorites are Kimpton Hotel Theta and Moxy LES. I’ve also heard good things about Hotel Indigo Lower East Side, Ace Hotel, Langham Hotel, and The New York EDITION.
Kimpton Hotel Theta
Located between Times Square and Meat Packing, Kimpton Hotel Theta is one of my favorite hotels to stay at in NYC. It’s design-forward, has extremely spacious rooms, and is convenient for exploring Central Park, Chelsea, and the Upper West Side. The hotel also has an on-site rooftop restaurant, Bar Sprezzatura, that is to die for!
See my full review of Kimpton Hotel Theta here.
photography by hannah lozano photography
Moxy NYC Lower East Side
If I’m going to be spending a lot of time in Soho, the Moxy LES is my go-to. It’s moody and eclectic, and is a quick walk to Soho. The rooms at the Moxy are on the smaller side, so keep that in mind when booking if you’re going to be sharing a room with more than one person!
Where to Eat in New York City
It’s no secret that New York City has one of the best food scenes in the country. No matter what you’re in the mood for or what time it is, there is most likely somewhere within a two-block radius that can curb your craving. When I visit NYC, I always love trying new spots, but there are plenty that I always make a point to go to!
Coffee/Bagels/Pastries
Stone Street Coffee – Located on Broome Street, Stone Street Coffee is a favorite coffee spot when staying at the Moxy LES. They serve breakfast all day and offer a few really delicious tartines.
Butler – Offering pastries, coffee, breakfast, and lunch, Butler is a great spot! The Soho location has a lot of seating, making it easy to catch up with a friend, enjoy a coffee before exploring the city, or get some work done.
Leon’s Bagels – New Yorkers take their bagels seriously and Leon’s Bagels is at the top of my favorites list. I love a spicy bagel/cream cheese combo and Leon’s has the best jalapeño cream cheese. It’s spicy (but not too spicy) and has big chunks of jalapeños in it! Their coffee is also really good.
Thompkins Square Bagels – My second favorite bagel shop in NYC! They have a solid bagel and a plethora of schmears to dress up your bagel with. Go early – the line gets long, fast!
The Penrose – If you’re looking for something with more sustenance for breakfast, The Penrose has a great brunch! The cinna-bun french toast sticks are so good.
Stumptown Coffee Roasters – Stumptown Roasters has the best coffee and they have a few locations in NYC! I always pop in for a cold brew when I’m in the city.
Davelle – I love a fancy toast and that’s exactly what Davelle is known for. Located in Lower Manhattan, it’s a great place to stop before exploring Soho. Get the berry cream cheese toast!
Lunch
La Mercerie – Known for its French cuisine highlighting seasonal ingredients, La Mercerie has a stunning interior and even better food. If you eat red eat, be sure to order the petit tartare and finish your meal off with a warm chocolate chip cookie (not on the menu!).
Soho Park – A more casual lunch option, Soho Park has really great sandwiches that will keep you full for hours.
Laudree – I love an elevated lunch and Laudree in Soho is just the spot. If weather permits, try to sit on the back patio; it’s beautiful! I can never not order the beef tartare and french fries when I stop in for lunch.
Chelsea Market – If you’re not quite sure what you’re in the mood for, or are traveling with multiple people who want different things, stop into Chelsea Market! Takumi Taco (Japanese-inspired Mexican food) is a must-visit. There’s also several small shops within the market that have a variety of clothing, accessories, home goods, and yummy snacks!
Maman – Maman has several locations throughout NYC, making it easy to pop in to grab a quick (but delicious) lunch. If you’re not familiar with Maman you might recognize their iconic blue and white branding from Instagram. You really can’t go wrong with anything on their menu but I do love the rose’s steak sandwich as a heartier meal.
Queensyard – Located in Hudson Yards, Queensyard offers an array of modern American dishes with London flair. The menu truly has a little something for everyone! The interior reminds me a lot of Earls but a little bit more elevated. The views of the Vessel were amazing!
Dinner
Rosa Mexicano – I will never say no to Mexican and Rosa Mexicano is a go-to spot (both in NYC and Boston!). The tableside guacamole is a must and the margaritas are delicious.
Jack’s Wife Frieda – An NYC staple, Jack’s Wife Frieda is a lively bistro with American-Mediterranean dishes that are mouth-watering. Their seasonal drink, the pink guzzler, is my go-to cocktail and I always order the French fries (the spicy green dipping sauce is SO good!).
Lēna – A French bistro on the Lower East Side (LES), Lēna is a cozy spot, perfect for a date night. The pizzas are so good and great for sharing!
Boqueria Soho – I am a sucker for a good Barcelona-style tapa and Boqueria provides just that. This intimate space is cozy at night and has a delicious menu!
Wayla – Featuring homestyle Thai food inspired by the markets of Bangkok, Wayla is a must-visit when in NYC. Some of my favorite dishes include Moo Sarong (crispy noodle-wrapped pork meatballs), Khao Pad Kra Prow Nuta (bbq beef fried rice), and the Kanang Pad Krapow (Brussel sprouts). The Sway Wayla cocktail is also delicious if you like gin!
Bar Sprezzatura – Located on the rooftop of Kimpton Hotel Theta, Bar Sprezzatura instantly transports you to the Italian Riviera the moment you step off the elevator. A few menu favorites: The Montauk fluke crudo, ravioli caprese, and the caprese corstino.
photography by hannah lozano photography
Drinks
EDITION Hotel – This uber chic hotel has a stunning lobby/bar area. Grab drinks, settle into the oversized couches, and catch up with friends.
Moxy LES – The Moxy hotel on the LES has a lobby bar. It’s funky, it’s moody, and it has a great cocktail menu.
Bar Veloce – This modern wine bar is a great spot to visit in the evenings. Start with a glass here before heading to dinner!
Champers Social Club – If champagne is your go-to beverage, stop into the Champers Social Club in Soho. It’s a cute spot with a great variety of champagnes to try!
Bar Sprezzatura – While this is a great restaurant for lunch and dinner, Bar Sprezzatura also has a fantastic bar! With a DJ on the weekends, it’s a great spot to settle in for a drink or two.
Things To Do in New York City
Top of the Rock
This observation deck in the heart of Rockefeller Center has amazing views of the city. It has both indoor and outdoor spaces, too! Plan to spend at least an hour here. You’ll also get great views of the Empire State Building.
Rockefeller Center
After your visit to the Top of the Rock, plan to spend time skating at Rockefeller Center if it’s open!
Shopping in Soho
Soho is one of my favorite neighborhoods in NYC – the architecture is so pretty, countless restaurants to stop into, and the shopping is so good! Whether you finally want to shop Mango in real life or are ready to make your first designer bag purchase, Soho has it all.
A few of my favorite stores to visit in Soho:
- Jenny Bird (pop up)
- Varley
- Mango
- & Other Stories
- Chloé
- Veronica Beard
- Alex Mill
- The Frankie Shop
- Mure + Grand
St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Located across from Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is a must-visit. Step inside to explore the space and learn more about the history. This will take less than a half hour!
The Met
The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the most iconic museums in NYC. Explore the exhibits and then enjoy lunch on the steps!
Central Park
A slice of heaven in the middle of the city! Grab a coffee and pastry to enjoy on a morning walk through the park or have an impromptu picnic with items from the local bodega.
American Museum of Natural History
The Natural History Museum is located on the Upper West City and is a great museum for rainy days. Explore the natural world and the known universe, and explore planets beyond Earth. Set aside a few hours for this!
Vessel & Hudson Yards
If you love cool architecture, a visit to Hudson Yards to view Vessel. Whether you view it from afar or enter it and explore, it’s a really cool experience. After you’re done viewing Vessel, do some shopping and grab a bite for lunch inside Hudson Yards.
Learn more about admission and purchasing tickets for Vessel here.
The High Line
Once you’re done exploring Hudson Yards and Vessel, head to 30th Street to access The High Line. This
1.45-mile-long elevated rail structure-turned-public park runs from Hudson Yard to Chelsea (ending right near the Chelsea Market!) and is a great way to see the city!
9/11 Memorial
The 9/11 Museum and observation deck is one of those chill-inducing activities. It’s crazy to walk through it and remember it happening. Plan to spend a few hours here.
The Oculus
Located at the World Trade Center, the Oculus is both a transportation hub and retail center. With stores like & Other Stories, Aesop, and COS, it’s a fun spot to pop in to explore and see the architecture.
Times Square
Times Square is complete chaos but if you’ve never been before or it’s your first time visiting NYC, it’s worth the visit.
See a Broadway Show
If you’re looking for something to do in the evenings, there is nothing better than seeing a Broadway show! You can see a full list of current shows here.
Statue of Liberty
I personally have yet to visit the Statue of Liberty, but if you’re looking for touristy things to do, you mine as well add this to your list! You can see Lady Liberty up close and get access to both Liberty and Ellis Islands and museums through Statue City Cruises. Get more information here.
Instagrammable Spots in NYC
There are so many cute, Instagrammable spots in NYC! Here are some of my favorites:
- Central Park (Bow Bridge and Gapstow Bridge)
- The Flatiron Building (Broadway & 5th)
- Brooklyn Bridge
- Washington Square Park
- Top of the Rock
- Soho (Greene Street, Broome & Crosby, Broome & Mott)
- Plaza Hotel
- Grand Central Station
- Ralph Lauren Mansion (women’s side)
- The New York Public Library
- Tribeca (Vestry Street & Greenwich Street)