Did you know that New York County—better known as Manhattan—packs an astonishing 72,000 people per square mile, making it the densest county in America? Yet despite this concentration of humanity, visitors and locals alike continue to discover new experiences in this ever-evolving island of wonders. From world-class museums and Broadway shows to hidden speakeasies and neighborhood gems, Manhattan offers an unparalleled concentration of cultural experiences that would take lifetimes to fully explore.
Getting to New York County
Manhattan is served by three major airports: John F. Kennedy International (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA), and Newark Liberty International (EWR). Each offers various transportation options into the city, including taxis, rideshares, shuttle services, and public transportation.
Manhattan’s iconic skyline and Central Park from above
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Airport Transportation Options
| Airport | Distance to Midtown | Transportation Options | Approximate Travel Time |
| JFK | 17 miles | AirTrain + Subway, Taxi, Rideshare, Shuttle | 60-90 minutes |
| LaGuardia | 8 miles | Bus + Subway, Taxi, Rideshare, Shuttle | 30-45 minutes |
| Newark | 16 miles | AirTrain + NJ Transit, Taxi, Rideshare, Shuttle | 45-60 minutes |
If you’re traveling from nearby cities, Amtrak trains arrive at Penn Station in Midtown, while various bus services (including Greyhound, Megabus, and BoltBus) stop at the Port Authority Bus Terminal or curbside locations throughout the city.
Best Time to Visit New York County
Manhattan shines in every season, but each offers a distinct experience. Spring (April-June) and fall (September-November) generally provide the most pleasant weather and fewer crowds than summer. December brings holiday magic with festive decorations and events, though winter can be quite cold with occasional snowfall.
The iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and skating rink during the holiday season
Seasonal Highlights in Manhattan
Spring
- Cherry blossoms in Central Park
- Tribeca Film Festival (April)
- Shakespeare in the Park (May-June)
- Fleet Week (late May)
- Outdoor dining returns
Summer
- Free outdoor concerts
- Fourth of July fireworks
- Restaurant Week (July)
- US Open Tennis (late August)
- Rooftop bars and outdoor movies
Fall
- Fall foliage in Central Park
- New York Film Festival
- Village Halloween Parade
- NYC Marathon (November)
- Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade
Insider Tip: For the best balance of good weather and manageable crowds, aim for May, early June, September, or early October. Hotel rates also tend to be more reasonable during these shoulder seasons.
Getting Around New York County
Manhattan’s grid layout makes it relatively easy to navigate, and the borough offers multiple transportation options to help you explore efficiently.
Public Transportation
The subway is the fastest way to travel longer distances in Manhattan. A MetroCard gives you access to both subways and buses, with a single ride costing $2.90 or unlimited rides available for various durations. The subway runs 24/7, though service may be limited late at night.
A typical New York City subway entrance in Manhattan
Taxis and Rideshares
Yellow taxis are plentiful in Manhattan and can be hailed on the street. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft also operate throughout the city. While more expensive than public transit, they offer convenience for shorter trips or when carrying luggage.
Walking
Manhattan is a walker’s paradise. Many attractions are within walking distance of each other, and strolling the streets allows you to discover hidden gems you might otherwise miss. Comfortable shoes are essential!
Biking
Citi Bike, New York’s bike-sharing program, offers a network of stations throughout Manhattan. Daily and 3-day passes are available for visitors, providing an eco-friendly way to explore the city.
Need a Rental Car for Day Trips?
While a car isn’t necessary in Manhattan, it’s perfect for exploring beyond the city limits. Compare rental options for your New York adventure.
Manhattan Navigation Tip: “The avenues run north-south, while streets run east-west. Street numbers increase as you go uptown (north), and avenue numbers increase as you go west.”
Where to Stay in New York County
Manhattan offers accommodations for every budget and preference, from luxury hotels to boutique properties and budget-friendly options. Each neighborhood provides a different experience, so consider what attractions you plan to visit most when choosing your base.
A luxury Manhattan hotel room with skyline views
Popular Neighborhoods for Visitors
Midtown
Perfect for first-time visitors, Midtown puts you within walking distance of Times Square, Broadway theaters, Rockefeller Center, and the Empire State Building. Expect higher prices but maximum convenience.
Tourist Central
Upper East Side
Elegant and refined, this neighborhood offers proximity to Central Park and Museum Mile. Generally quieter than Midtown with a mix of luxury and mid-range accommodations.
Cultural Hub
Lower Manhattan
Includes diverse areas like SoHo, Tribeca, and the Financial District. Great for accessing downtown attractions like the 9/11 Memorial, Wall Street, and ferries to the Statue of Liberty.
Historic Area
Greenwich Village/Chelsea
Bohemian vibe with excellent restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. Close to the High Line, Whitney Museum, and Chelsea Market. More residential feel than tourist areas.
Local Experience
Upper West Side
Family-friendly area near Central Park, the American Museum of Natural History, and Lincoln Center. Quieter than Midtown with a neighborhood feel.
Family Friendly
Harlem
Rich in culture and history with the Apollo Theater, excellent soul food, and beautiful brownstones. More affordable than downtown areas with good subway connections.
Cultural Immersion
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From luxury hotels to boutique properties and budget-friendly options, find the perfect accommodation for your New York adventure.
Top Attractions in New York County
Manhattan is home to some of the world’s most iconic attractions. Here are the must-see sights that should be on every visitor’s list.
The iconic Bow Bridge in Central Park with the Manhattan skyline in the background
Iconic Landmarks
Empire State Building
This 102-story Art Deco skyscraper offers breathtaking 360-degree views from its observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors. The Empire State Building is particularly magical at sunset when the city begins to light up.
Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning (8-10am) or later in the evening (after 9pm) to avoid the longest lines. The night view is spectacular and well worth experiencing.
Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
A symbol of freedom and the American dream, the Statue of Liberty stands tall on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. Nearby Ellis Island, once America’s busiest immigrant inspection station, now houses a fascinating museum documenting the immigrant experience.
Insider Tip: Reserve tickets well in advance if you want to access the statue’s pedestal or crown, as these tickets sell out quickly, especially during peak season.
Central Park
This 843-acre urban oasis offers a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Highlights include the Central Park Zoo, Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, Strawberry Fields (John Lennon memorial), the Loeb Boathouse, and miles of walking and biking paths.
Insider Tip: Rent a rowboat at the Loeb Boathouse (April-October) for a romantic and peaceful perspective of the park from the lake.
World-Class Museums
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
One of the world’s largest and most prestigious art museums, “The Met” houses over two million works spanning 5,000 years of world culture. Don’t miss the Egyptian Temple of Dendur, the American Wing, and the rooftop garden (open May-October) with spectacular views of Central Park.
Art Lovers
American Museum of Natural History
Perfect for families, this renowned museum features impressive dinosaur fossils, the Rose Center for Earth and Space with its planetarium, and extensive exhibits on human cultures, animals, and natural phenomena from around the world.
Family Friendly
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
Home to some of the world’s most famous modern masterpieces, including works by Van Gogh, Picasso, Warhol, and Pollock. The museum’s design is itself a work of art, with light-filled galleries and thoughtful exhibition spaces.
Modern Art
Explore Manhattan’s Top Attractions
Skip the lines and book tickets to New York County’s most popular sights and experiences.
Broadway and Entertainment
No visit to Manhattan is complete without experiencing its legendary entertainment scene, headlined by the Broadway theater district.
The bright lights of Broadway theaters in the Theater District
Broadway Shows
With over 40 professional theaters, Broadway offers something for everyone—from long-running musicals like “The Lion King” and “Wicked” to cutting-edge plays and star-studded revivals. Tickets can be purchased online in advance, at theater box offices, or at the TKTS booth in Times Square for same-day discounted tickets.
Broadway Insider Tip: For the best selection of discounted tickets, visit the TKTS booth at Lincoln Center (Broadway and 62nd Street) instead of the more crowded Times Square location. Alternatively, many shows offer digital lotteries for deeply discounted tickets through apps like TodayTix.
Live Music Venues
Carnegie Hall
This historic concert venue hosts world-class classical, jazz, and popular music performances in a stunning setting with exceptional acoustics.
Lincoln Center
Home to the Metropolitan Opera, New York Philharmonic, and New York City Ballet, this cultural complex offers outstanding performances year-round.
Village Vanguard
A legendary jazz club in Greenwich Village that has hosted jazz greats since 1935. Still one of the best places to experience live jazz in an intimate setting.
Comedy Clubs
Manhattan is a comedy mecca, with venues ranging from historic clubs to underground open mics. The Comedy Cellar in Greenwich Village is perhaps the most famous, known for surprise appearances by comedy legends. Other notable venues include Carolines on Broadway and the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre.
Exploring Manhattan’s Neighborhoods
Each Manhattan neighborhood has its own distinct character and attractions. Here’s a guide to some of the most interesting areas to explore.
Historic cast-iron architecture in SoHo, a premier shopping and dining district
Greenwich Village
Known for its bohemian past, tree-lined streets, and beautiful brownstones. Washington Square Park is the neighborhood’s heart, while Bleecker Street offers excellent shopping and dining. Don’t miss the historic Stonewall Inn, birthplace of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement.
- Washington Square Park
- Comedy Cellar
- Cafe Wha?
- Bleecker Street shops
Chelsea
Home to over 200 art galleries, the High Line elevated park, and Chelsea Market food hall. This former industrial area has transformed into one of Manhattan’s most vibrant neighborhoods, with excellent restaurants and nightlife.
- The High Line
- Chelsea Market
- Whitney Museum
- Art galleries on 20th-27th Streets
Lower East Side
Once a working-class immigrant neighborhood, now a hub for nightlife, boutiques, and restaurants. The area retains elements of its multicultural history while embracing contemporary culture.
- Tenement Museum
- Essex Market
- Katz’s Delicatessen
- Indie boutiques on Orchard Street
Chinatown
One of America’s oldest Chinese communities, offering authentic cuisine, unique shops, and cultural experiences. The narrow, bustling streets transport visitors to another world.
- Canal Street markets
- Museum of Chinese in America
- Nom Wah Tea Parlor
- Columbus Park
Harlem
The epicenter of African American culture, known for its rich history, soul food, and musical heritage. The neighborhood has experienced a renaissance while preserving its cultural identity.
- Apollo Theater
- Studio Museum in Harlem
- Sylvia’s Restaurant
- 125th Street shopping
Upper East Side
Elegant and sophisticated, this neighborhood is home to Museum Mile, luxury boutiques, and some of the city’s finest dining establishments. Central Park forms its western border.
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art
- Guggenheim Museum
- Madison Avenue shopping
- Gracie Mansion
Neighborhood Exploration Tip: For an authentic experience, consider taking a guided walking tour led by a local. Many specialized tours focus on food, history, architecture, or film locations in specific neighborhoods.
Dining in New York County
Manhattan’s dining scene is unparalleled, offering everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to beloved hole-in-the-wall eateries. The borough’s cultural diversity means you can find authentic cuisine from virtually any country in the world.
A classic New York-style pizza slice – a must-try Manhattan food experience
Must-Try New York Foods
New York Pizza
Thin, foldable slices are a city staple. Legendary pizzerias include Joe’s Pizza in Greenwich Village, Lombardi’s in Little Italy (America’s first pizzeria), and Patsy’s in East Harlem.
Bagels & Lox
New York’s water allegedly makes its bagels superior. Try Russ & Daughters on the Lower East Side, Absolute Bagels on the Upper West Side, or Ess-a-Bagel in Midtown.
Pastrami Sandwich
Katz’s Delicatessen on the Lower East Side serves the city’s most famous version, piled high with hand-carved meat. Also try Pastrami Queen on the Upper East Side.
Dining Experiences
Fine Dining
Manhattan boasts some of the world’s best restaurants, including Le Bernardin, Eleven Madison Park, and Per Se. Reservations are essential and should be made weeks or even months in advance.
Food Halls
For variety and casual dining, visit Chelsea Market, Essex Market, or the Time Out Market in DUMBO (just across the Brooklyn Bridge). These venues offer multiple vendors under one roof.
Ethnic Enclaves
Explore Chinatown for dim sum, Little Italy for pasta, Koreatown for barbecue, or “Curry Hill” (Lexington Ave in the 20s) for Indian cuisine.
Dining Tip: Many of New York’s most popular restaurants offer more affordable prix fixe lunches that feature the same quality cooking as their dinner service. NYC Restaurant Week (held twice yearly) is another opportunity to try high-end restaurants at reduced prices.
Shopping in Manhattan
From luxury department stores to quirky independent boutiques, Manhattan is a shopper’s paradise with options for every budget and style preference.
The world-famous Fifth Avenue shopping district
Iconic Shopping Destinations
Fifth Avenue
The world-famous shopping street is home to flagship stores for luxury brands, Saks Fifth Avenue department store, and the iconic Apple Store cube. The stretch between 49th and 60th Streets is particularly upscale.
SoHo
Known for its mix of high-end designer boutiques, trendy chains, and independent shops set among beautiful cast-iron architecture. Broadway and Prince Street are the main shopping arteries.
Madison Avenue
The Upper East Side section (between 57th and 79th Streets) features luxury fashion houses, jewelry stores, and upscale boutiques in a more relaxed setting than Fifth Avenue.
Unique Shopping Experiences
Chelsea Market
Beyond food, this indoor market houses unique shops selling everything from artisanal kitchenware to handcrafted jewelry and vintage clothing.
Greenwich Village
Bleecker Street and the surrounding area offer independent bookstores, record shops, and boutiques with character. Three Lives & Company bookstore is a neighborhood treasure.
The Strand
This legendary independent bookstore on Broadway near Union Square boasts “18 miles of books” with new, used, and rare volumes. Their tote bags make great souvenirs.
Shopping Tip: Non-U.S. visitors may be eligible for tax refunds on purchases over a certain amount. Ask stores about their tax-free shopping programs and be sure to bring your passport when shopping.
Practical Tips for Visiting New York County
Make the most of your Manhattan adventure with these essential tips from locals and experienced travelers.
Safety and Etiquette
Manhattan is generally safe for visitors, but as in any major city, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings. Keep these tips in mind:
- Walk confidently and be aware of your surroundings
- Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- Avoid empty subway cars when others are occupied
- Use licensed taxis or established rideshare services
- Walk like a New Yorker: move quickly and don’t block the sidewalk
- Stand to the right on escalators to allow others to pass
Weather and What to Pack
| Season | Temperature Range | What to Pack | Weather Notes |
| Spring (Mar-May) | 40-70°F (4-21°C) | Layers, light jacket, umbrella | Variable with occasional rain showers |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | 70-90°F (21-32°C) | Light clothing, comfortable shoes, hat, sunscreen | Hot and humid with occasional thunderstorms |
| Fall (Sep-Nov) | 45-75°F (7-24°C) | Layers, light jacket, scarf | Generally pleasant with cooler evenings |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | 25-45°F (-4-7°C) | Warm coat, hat, gloves, scarf, boots | Cold with possible snow and wind |
Packing Tip: Regardless of season, comfortable walking shoes are essential in Manhattan. New Yorkers walk everywhere, and you’ll likely cover several miles per day while exploring.
Money-Saving Tips
Attractions
- Purchase a tourist pass for multiple attractions
- Visit museums during free or pay-what-you-wish hours
- Take advantage of free walking tours (tip-based)
- Enjoy free attractions like Central Park and the High Line
Dining
- Eat like a local at food carts and delis
- Look for lunch specials at upscale restaurants
- Visit ethnic neighborhoods for authentic, affordable meals
- Bring water and snacks for long sightseeing days
Transportation
- Purchase a 7-day unlimited MetroCard if staying a week
- Walk when possible—it’s often faster than traffic
- Take the AirTrain + subway from airports instead of taxis
- Use Citi Bike for short trips instead of taxis
Day Trips from Manhattan
While Manhattan offers endless exploration, consider these rewarding excursions if you have extra time in your itinerary.
The Brooklyn Bridge walkway offers spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline
Brooklyn
Just across the East River, Brooklyn offers distinctive neighborhoods, excellent restaurants, and attractions like Brooklyn Bridge Park, the Brooklyn Museum, and Prospect Park. Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is a must-do experience with spectacular Manhattan views.
Getting There: Subway (multiple lines), ferry, or walk across the Brooklyn Bridge.
The Bronx
Visit the world-famous Bronx Zoo, the New York Botanical Garden with its 250 acres of diverse plant collections, or catch a Yankees game at Yankee Stadium. Arthur Avenue, the Bronx’s “Little Italy,” offers some of the city’s best Italian food.
Getting There: Subway (B, D, or 4 lines) or Metro-North Railroad.
Coney Island
This classic seaside amusement area in Brooklyn features a historic wooden roller coaster (the Cyclone), the Wonder Wheel, a boardwalk, beach, and Nathan’s Famous hot dogs. Best visited in summer, though some attractions are open year-round.
Getting There: Subway (D, F, N, or Q lines) to Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue.
Explore Beyond Manhattan
Discover guided tours and experiences in the surrounding boroughs and nearby destinations.
Experience the Magic of Manhattan
New York County—Manhattan—is truly a world unto itself, where every street corner tells a story and each neighborhood offers new discoveries. From iconic landmarks that define the American experience to hidden gems tucked away on quiet side streets, this island of possibility continues to captivate visitors from around the globe.
Whether you’re gazing at the skyline from a rooftop bar, catching a Broadway show, strolling through Central Park, or sampling culinary delights from every corner of the world, Manhattan delivers experiences that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home. The city’s energy is infectious, its diversity inspiring, and its constant reinvention ensures that no two visits are ever quite the same.
So lace up your walking shoes, grab a subway map, and prepare to fall in love with the city that never sleeps. Manhattan awaits with open arms and endless possibilities.
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