New York City, is one of the most famous cities in the world. Known for its towering skyscrapers, Times Square's bright lights, and Central Park's green spaces, NYC offers endless things to see and do!
How to get to New York
If you are far from New York, flying to NYC will be an optimal choice. Since New York has three airports, John F. Kennedy International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, and Newark Liberty International Airport, choosing your flights based on your location is convenient. If you are near New York, taking the train is also a popular way to get to NYC.
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
JFK Airport is located in Queens, JFK is NYC’s largest and busiest airport, handling international and domestic flights. It is about 24km from Midtown Manhattan.
Staying near JFK Airport is convenient for travelers with early flights or layovers, providing easy access to the airport and nearby facilities.
Hotel Name | Location | Amenities | Rating |
Marriott New York JFK Airport | 135-20 39th Avenue, Flushing, NY 11354 | Free Wi-Fi, fitness center, restaurant, business center | 4.5/5 |
Four Points by Sheraton Flushing | 33-68 Farrington Street, Flushing, NY 11354 | Free Wi-Fi, fitness center, restaurant | 4.3/5 |
Hyatt Place Flushing LGA Airport | 133-42 39th Avenue, Flushing, NY 11354 | Free Wi-Fi, fitness center, restaurant | 4.4/5 |
Click to explore more hotels near JFK
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
EWR Airport is located in New Jersey, approximately 26 km from Midtown Manhattan. And NJ Transit is very convenient to transfer directly to Penn Station in Manhattan.
NJ Transit will only operate during certain time. If you arrive at EWR too late, it is better to stay near EWR to get good sleep. Here are some options:
Hotel Name | Location | Amenities | Rating |
Crowne Plaza Newark Airport, an IHG Hotel | 901 Spring St, Elizabeth, New Jersey 07201, United States | Airport pick-up & drop-off, Fitness Room, Restaurant, Luggage Storage | 4.1/5 |
Newark Liberty International Airport Marriott | Liberty International Airport, 1 Hotel Rd, Newark, New Jersey 07114, United States | Airport pick-up & drop-off, Spa, Golf course, Tennis Court | 4.5/5 |
Find more hotels near EWR here!
LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
LGA is location in Queens, which is about 13 km from Midtown Manhattan, while it has less flights than the main airports.
Although LGA is close to Manhattan, it will be no Subway option if you arrive late. Here are recommended hotels you can stay:
Hotel Name | Location | Amenit | Rating |
Four Points by Sheraton Flushing | 33-68 Farrington St, New York, New York State, 11354 | Airport shuttle pick-up & drop-off, Indoor swimming pool, gym, bar, taxi booking service | 4.4/5 |
Hyatt Place Flushing/LGA Airport | 133-42 39th Ave, New York, New York State, 11354 | Airport shuttle pick-up & drop-off, Spa, Gym, Bar | 4.3/5 |
Explore more options for hotels near LGA
Amtrak
Amtrak operates numerous routes to and from New York City, including the Acela Express (Northeast Corridor), Empire Service (Upstate New York), and Northeast Regional (Northeast coast). You can choose the New York Penn Station as destination.
Transportation in New York
1. Subway: The New York City Subway system, operated by the MTA, is the fastest and most efficient way to travel around the city. It operates 24/7, covering all five boroughs with 27 lines and 472 stations. Fares are $2.90 for a single ride. Unlimited ride MetroCards are available for $34 (7-day) and $127 (30-day).
2. Bus: MTA buses serve all five boroughs and operate 24/7. Local, limited-stop, and express routes are available. Fares are $2.90 for a single ride, and the same MetroCard used for the subway can be used on buses. Unlimited ride MetroCards ($34 for 7-day, $127 for 30-day) also apply.
3. Ferries NYC Ferry operates routes connecting Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx. The fare is $4.00 for a single ride. Ferries provide scenic views and are a relaxing way to travel, though they have limited routes and schedules.
4. PATH The Port Authority Trans-Hudson (PATH) train connects Manhattan with New Jersey cities such as Newark, Jersey City, and Hoboken. The fare is $2.75. PATH operates 24/7 and is an affordable option for cross-state travel.
Must-Visit Attractions in New York
There are quite a few famous attractions in downtown New York, such as One World Trade Center, Wall Street, Chinatown. For short trips in New York, Flushing Town Hall, New York Botanical Garden, Long Beach are all good options. Let's explore details!
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, often referred to as "The Met," is one of the largest and most prestigious art museums in the world. Located in New York City, it features over two million works of art spanning 5,000 years. The Met is divided into various sections including ancient art, European paintings, modern art, and much more. Highlights include masterpieces by artists such as Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Picasso. Find hotels near the metropolitan museum of art.
Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty, located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, is a symbol of freedom and democracy. Visitors can take a ferry to the island and explore the statue's pedestal and museum, which provides a detailed history of the monument. For an additional fee, visitors can climb to the crown for a panoramic view of New York City. The ferry ride itself offers great views of the city skyline and the statue.
Statue of Liberty @Trip.com
Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is an iconic skyscraper in New York City, known for its Art Deco architecture and observation decks. Visitors can ride to the 86th-floor outdoor observatory for stunning views of the city, or go up to the 102nd-floor indoor observatory for an even higher vantage point. The building also features exhibits on its history and construction. Nighttime visits offer the chance to see the city illuminated. Stay near Empire State Building.
Central Park
Central Park is a vast urban park in the heart of New York City, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. The park features numerous attractions including walking trails, boating, picnicking areas, playgrounds, and the Central Park Zoo. Popular sites within the park include Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, and Strawberry Fields. It's a great place for outdoor activities like jogging, cycling, or simply relaxing. Find comfortable hotels near Central Park.
The Museum of Modern Art
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City is one of the world's leading museums of modern and contemporary art. The museum's collection includes works by famous artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Andy Warhol, and Pablo Picasso. For convenient visit without waiting for line, here are hotels near the museum of modern art.
Where to stay in New York
Manhattan is the heart of New York City, home to Wall Street, Central Park, the Empire State Building, and numerous museums and theaters. So, staying at Time Square or SoHo will be convenient choice for visiting central New York by metro.
Brooklyn is perfect for those looking to experience a more local side of New York. From the trendy streets of Williamsburg to the waterfront views in DUMBO, Brooklyn offers something for everyone.
Queens is a melting pot of cultures and flavors, offering a more laid-back experience compared to Manhattan. It's home to world-famous attractions like Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Citi Field, and diverse food scenes in areas like Astoria and Jackson Heights.
Better to know before visiting New York
Category | Details |
Language | English; Spanish also widely spoken |
Tickets | Book earlier since popular attractions like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and Broadway shows often sell out. |
Safety | Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas and on the subway. And avoid empty subway cars or poorly lit areas late at night. |
Visa Policies | Most visitors need a visa or an ESTA for entry. Please check the U.S. policy to prepare. |
Electricity | 120V, 60Hz, common plug types are A and B |
Time in New York
New York follows Eastern Time (ET), which is UTC-5 during standard time and UTC-4 during daylight saving time.
1. Los Angeles: 3 hours behind
2. London: 5 hours ahead
3. Singapore: 13 hours ahead
4. Beijing: 13 hours ahead
5. Bangkok: 12 hours ahead
Note:The time difference is calculated based on the standard time zones and does not account for Daylight Saving Time (DST). When planning a trip, it's better to check the current time difference and DST status for accurate scheduling.
Best Time to Visit New York
New York Centrl Park @Trip.com
New York City experiences a humid subtropical climate, with four distinct seasons: a cold winter, a mild spring, a hot summer, and a crisp fall. Here’s a detailed guide to the weather in New York City, including the best times to visit and what to wear for each season. The best times to visit New York City are in the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and the city is alive with activities and events.
Winter (December to February)
Winters in New York are cold, with average temperatures ranging from -1°C to 7°C (30°F to 45°F). Snowfall is common, and there can be occasional ice storms. Warm clothing is essential. Layer up with thermal shirts, sweaters, and insulated coats. Hats, scarves, gloves, and waterproof boots are necessary to stay warm and dry.
Spring (March to May)
Spring starts cool and gradually warms up. Average temperatures range from 6°C to 20°C (43°F to 68°F). Rain showers are frequent, especially in April. Layered clothing works best. Light sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, and a medium-weight jacket are recommended. An umbrella or a raincoat is handy for the frequent showers.
Summer (June to August)
Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Heatwaves are common, and occasional thunderstorms provide brief relief. Light, breathable clothing such as shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses are ideal. Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are important to protect against the sun. Stay hydrated and wear comfortable walking shoes.
Fall (September to November)
Fall brings cooler, more comfortable weather, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 22°C (50°F to 72°F). The foliage changes color, making it a picturesque time to visit. Light layers are perfect for fall. Sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, and a light to medium-weight jacket are suitable. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the city.
What to eat in New York
Ray's Pizza in New York @Trip.com
New York-Style Pizza
The New York-style pizza is renowned for its thin, foldable crust and generous toppings. Typically sold in large slices, it's a staple for both locals and visitors. Pizzerias like Joe's Pizza in Greenwich Village have been serving authentic slices since 1975, embodying the city's rich pizza heritage.
Pastrami on Rye
The pastrami on rye sandwich is a cornerstone of New York's deli culture. This hearty sandwich features succulent, peppery pastrami layered between slices of rye bread, often accompanied by mustard and pickles. Katz's Delicatessen, established in 1888, is legendary for its rendition of this classic, attracting patrons from around the globe.
New York-Style Cheesecake
A decadent dessert, the New York-style cheesecake is characterized by its dense, creamy consistency and a subtle tang, typically derived from cream cheese. Often served plain or with a light fruit topping, it epitomizes indulgence. Junior's Restaurant, with its flagship location in Brooklyn since 1950, is renowned for serving some of the city's finest cheesecakes, making it a destination for dessert enthusiasts.
90 Reviews