🚇 Getting Around

The subway is the fastest way to move around New York ($2.90 per ride). It runs 24/7 and covers all major areas. Taxis and Ubers are common but usually cost more ($12–30 for short trips depending on traffic). Walking is ideal in Manhattan, especially Midtown, SoHo, and the Village.

🏨 Where to Stay

Budget hostels in Manhattan start around $60–90 per night (check areas like Upper West Side or Chelsea). More affordable Airbnb rooms or studios in Brooklyn or Queens usually range from $80–140. Mid-range Manhattan hotels average $180–260, while luxury stays in Midtown, Tribeca, or Central Park South begin around $400+.

🍽️ Where to Eat

Street food is everywhere—pizza slices ($1–4), bagels ($3–6), and food trucks ($8–15). Casual restaurants normally charge $15–25 per dish. Nicer dinners in popular areas like West Village or Williamsburg often cost $35–60 per main. Portions are large, so sharing or ordering light is easy.

🎟️ Things to Do

Many landmarks are free to enjoy from the outside—Times Square, Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park. Empire State Building observatory: about $44–54. Top of the Rock: around $40–44. The MET and Natural History Museum use “pay-what-you-wish” for NY state residents but have standard prices for visitors (about $25–30). Staten Island Ferry is free and offers skyline views.

☀️ Quick Tips

Use a MetroCard or OMNY tap system to save time. Expect busy sidewalks. Tap water is safe to drink. Tipping is standard: 15–20% in restaurants. Winter is cold and windy; summer is humid—dress accordingly.