New York City
Your complete travel companion for exploring New York City
Why We Love New York City
When planning our trip to New York City, we expected beautiful sights. What we didn't expect was how deeply the culture would move us. Every neighborhood has its own character, every street its own story. This is a destination that keeps revealing new layers the longer you stay.
Explore New York City on the Map
Get familiar with the area before your trip. Zoom in to explore neighborhoods, find landmarks, and plan your itinerary.
Click on the map to explore. Use street view to virtually walk around before your trip!
Insider Travel Tips
These are the things we wish we knew before our first visit—straight from our experience and conversations with locals:
Beat the Crowds
Visit national parks and top attractions early. Weekdays are quieter than weekends.
Money Saving Secret
Lunch specials and happy hours cut food costs. Book rental cars and flights well ahead for better rates.
Local Etiquette
Tipping is expected (15–20% in restaurants). A friendly approach goes far in getting local tips.
Best Time to Visit
Shoulder season (spring and fall) offers good weather and fewer crowds; summer is peak and expensive.
What to Expect in New York City
Based on our travels and feedback from fellow travelers, here's what you can realistically expect:
Cultural Richness
Diverse cities, national parks, and strong regional identities. Well-developed tourism infrastructure.
Value for Money
Costs vary by region; cities and coasts are pricey. Save by eating smart and booking ahead.
Safety & Comfort
Generally very safe with excellent infrastructure. Easy to get around by car or domestic flights.
Getting Around
Car rental common; major cities have good public transport. Book in advance for peak periods.
Realistic Budget Planning
Based on our experience and current pricing, here's what daily costs actually look like in New York City:
Typical Cost Breakdown (Mid-Range Traveler)
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season
Peak season: best weather and busiest. Book accommodation and flights well in advance.
Shoulder Season
Good weather and fewer crowds. Often the best value and most comfortable for travel.
Off Season
Varies by region: cold in the north, mild in the south. Cheapest outside holidays.