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New York Travel Guide: Make the Most of Your Trip to USA

July 16, 2024

Known for its towering skyscrapers, diverse culture, and iconic landmarks, New York City is a must-visit destination. Did you know that NYC is the most populated city in the United States and is home to more than 8 million people?

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this New York travel guide will help you make the most of your trip.

10 Things You Have to Do in New York

  • Times Square: No visit to New York City is complete without experiencing the vibrant energy of Times Square. Visit at night to see the dazzling lights and billboards.
  • Central Park: This massive urban park is perfect for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or renting a bike to explore its many attractions.
  • Statue of Liberty: Take a ferry to Liberty Island and see this iconic symbol of freedom up close.
  • Empire State Building: Head to the observation deck for breathtaking views of the city skyline.
  • The Friends Experience: Fans of the TV show "Friends" can visit this interactive exhibit to see recreated sets and props.
  • Eat New York Pizza: Indulge in a slice of authentic New York pizza from one of the city's many renowned pizzerias.
  • Broadway Show: Catch a world-class performance on Broadway. It's an iconic New York experience.
  • Brooklyn Bridge: Walk or bike across this iconic bridge for stunning views of Manhattan and Brooklyn.
  • Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): Explore one of the world's largest and most influential museums of modern art.
  • High Line: Stroll along this elevated park built on a historic freight rail line on Manhattan’s West Side.
  • Getting Around New York


    Transport

    New York City has an extensive public transportation system, making it easy to get around.

  • Subway: The subway is the most efficient way to travel around NYC. Grab a New York subway map to navigate the system.
  • Buses: The MTA bus system covers areas that the subway doesn't reach.
  • Taxis and Rideshares: Yellow cabs and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available.
  • Walking: Many of NYC's attractions are within walking distance of each other, so be prepared to do a lot of walking.
  • To book an Uber and navigate while walking around, get yourself a KnowRoaming eSIM so you don’t have to try to find public WiFi. Click here to see our USA eSIMs.

    Staying Connected in New York with KnowRoaming eSIMs

    Stay connected throughout your trip with a KnowRoaming eSIM.

    eSIMs are a convenient way to ensure you have data coverage without the hassle of swapping physical SIM cards. Here’s how eSIM USA can enhance your experience in New York City:

  • Share Images and Stay Connected: Capture and share your New York moments instantly on social media without worrying about data roaming charges.
  • Navigate with Ease: Use maps and navigation apps to explore the city, find attractions, and navigate public transportation conveniently.
  • Stay Informed: Keep up to date with real-time information on public transport schedules, events, and local recommendations.
  • Things to Do in New York at Night

    New York City comes alive after dark with a plethora of activities to enjoy. Here are some must-do experiences for an unforgettable night in the city:

  • Times Square: Experience the electric atmosphere of Times Square with its dazzling billboards and bustling streets.
  • Broadway Show: Catch a world-class Broadway show for a memorable evening of theater and entertainment.
  • Night Tour: Take a nighttime tour of iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, and Brooklyn Bridge.
  • Nightlife: Explore New York’s vibrant nightlife scene with rooftop bars, jazz clubs, and trendy lounges across the city.
  • Dinner Cruise: Enjoy a dinner cruise around Manhattan for stunning skyline views and a gourmet meal on the water.
  • Observation Decks: Visit observation decks like Top of the Rock or One World Observatory for panoramic views of the city lights.
  • Late-night Eateries: Indulge in late-night eats at famous spots like Katz’s Delicatessen, Shake Shack, or the Halal Guys.
  • Travel Tips

  • Dealing with Crowds: NYC is bustling and can be overwhelming. Plan your visits to popular attractions during off-peak hours to avoid long lines.
  • Stay Hydrated and Comfortable: Wear comfortable shoes and carry a water bottle, especially if you plan on doing a lot of walking.
  • Street Smarts: Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid empty subway cars.
  • Respect the Culture: NYC is a melting pot of cultures. Be respectful and open-minded towards the diverse backgrounds of the city's residents.
  • Emergency Contacts: Save the numbers for local emergency services and your country's embassy or consulate.
  • Make sure you are always connected with KnowRoaming eSIMs. Click here to see our USA eSIMs.

    Logistics Information

  • JFK Airport to Times Square: To get from JFK Airport to Times Square, you can take a taxi, which takes about 45-60 minutes, or use public transportation (AirTrain and subway), which takes around 60-75 minutes.
  • JFK to Grand Central Station NYC: The journey from JFK to Grand Central Station NYC takes approximately 60-75 minutes by AirTrain and subway.
  • Flights to New York: There are numerous direct flights to New York from major cities worldwide.
  • How Long from London to New York: The flight from London to New York takes approximately 7-8 hours.
  • Airport Transfers: Besides taxis and public transport, many hotels offer shuttle services. Consider booking a shuttle in advance for convenience.
  • Make sure you are always connected with KnowRoaming eSIMs. Click here to see our USA eSIMs.

    2-Day Itinerary for New York City

    Day 1: Manhattan Exploration

  • Morning: Visit Central Park and explore its iconic spots like Bethesda Terrace and Bow Bridge.
  • Afternoon: Tour the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) or the Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET).
  • Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant followed by a Broadway show.
  • Day 2: Lower Manhattan and Beyond

  • Morning: Explore the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
  • Afternoon: Walk through the financial district, including Wall Street and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum.
  • Evening: Dinner in Chinatown or Little Italy, followed by a night tour of Times Square.
  • 4-Day Itinerary for New York City

    Day 3: Brooklyn and Queens

  • Morning: Cross the Brooklyn Bridge and explore Brooklyn Heights.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Brooklyn Museum or Brooklyn Botanic Garden.
  • Evening: Dinner in Williamsburg or DUMBO, followed by a Brooklyn Brewery tour.
  • Day 4: Cultural Immersion

  • Morning: Explore the High Line and Chelsea Market.
  • Afternoon: Visit the American Museum of Natural History or the Guggenheim Museum.
  • Evening: Dinner in Greenwich Village or SoHo, followed by a jazz club experience.
  • 7-Day Itinerary for New York City

    Day 5: Upper Manhattan

  • Morning: Visit the Cloisters and explore Fort Tryon Park.
  • Afternoon: Walk through Harlem and visit the Apollo Theater.
  • Evening: Dinner in Harlem with live jazz or soul music.
  • Day 6: Central Park and Museums

  • Morning: Explore more of Central Park, including Strawberry Fields and Belvedere Castle.
  • Afternoon: Visit the New-York Historical Society or the Frick Collection.
  • Evening: Dinner at Tavern on the Green or nearby restaurants in the Upper West Side.
  • Day 7: Neighborhood Explorations

  • Morning: Explore neighborhoods like Greenwich Village, SoHo, and the East Village.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Tenement Museum or take a food tour in one of the neighborhoods.
  • Evening: Farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the city skyline.
  • FAQs

    What is an eSIM and how does it work?

    An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card that allows you to activate a cellular plan from a carrier without having to use a physical SIM card. It works by downloading a profile from the carrier directly onto your phone.

    Can I use an eSIM in New York City?

    Yes, eSIMs are compatible with most modern smartphones and provide excellent coverage throughout New York City. Click here to see our USA eSIMs.

    How do I activate an eSIM for use in New York?

    To activate an eSIM for use in New York, follow these steps:

  • Purchase an eSIM plan from KnowRoaming’s website.
  • You will receive a QR code via email.
  • Scan the QR code with your phone’s camera to download the eSIM profile.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
  • Are eSIMs available for short-term travelers to New York City?

    Yes, eSIM plans are available for both short-term and long-term travelers, offering flexible data packages to suit your needs. Click here to see our USA eSIMs.

    What are the benefits of using an eSIM in New York City?

    Using an eSIM provides several benefits, including:

  • Avoiding high roaming charges.
  • Easy activation and setup.
  • The ability to switch between multiple carriers if needed.
  • No need to carry and swap physical SIM cards.
  • Plan your trip with this New York travel guide and get ready to explore one of the most exciting cities in the world. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, New York City USA has something for everyone. Enjoy your visit!