First Visit To NYC For One Week; Sightseeing:

New York City is where dreams meet daily adventures and some of those adventures are quite unexpected. You can see ANYTHING in NYC. Whether you are gazing at the skyline from One World Observation Deck, strolling through Central Park, or grabbing a slice of pizza on the go, NYC delivers both once-in-a-lifetime moments (unless you visit again) and every day thrills that make travel unforgettable. I know that our one week visit to NYC truly was unforgettable.

This photo includes the Empire State Building from the streets of NYC.

New York City might seem like a maze, but a little knowledge about its layout makes it easier to navigate. Manhattan, the heart of NYC, follows a straightforward grid system. Streets run east to west, while avenues cut north to south. Streets are typically numbered in ascending order from south to north, while avenues are slightly trickier with names and numbers, but it’s not as puzzling as it sounds once you get the hang of it. One thing about NYC is that I never got lost nor lost my bearings. I walked up and down a Manhatten town for many a mile with no directional confusion at all.

The city’s iconic areas are must-knows. Right in the middle, you’ve got Times Square, famous for its bright lights and bustling crowds. This area is one huge commercial with advertisements displayed all around in huge living color. There are about 100 commercial billboards. The best time to see them is at midnight when they turn into a huge three minute digital art display. This digital art display is called “Midnight Moment” and it is the worlds’ largest and longest running display of contemporary art. Just north of Times Square and the Theater District is Central Park which offers a green escape and the very cool John Lennon Memorial amidst the skyscrapers. The Dakota (where John and Yoko were living and where John got shot) is just across the street from the area of Central Park where the John Lennon memorial is located. And the other neighborhoods of NYC? Each neighborhood has its own vibe, from the artsy flair of Greenwich Village to the cosmopolitan feel of the Upper East Side.

Public transport is really good  in NYC. We used only the city buses and the subway while there. The subway runs 24/7 and covers most of the city. Keep a MetroCard handy for easy access to both the subway and buses. Buses might be slower but are good if you prefer seeing the city above ground. Using apps like Google Maps or City-mapper can be a lifesaver to plan your journeys efficiently. It takes only one or two trips to get acquainted with the subway system. Signs are plentiful and clear. RELY ON THE SIGNS. One time we were riding D line from Coney Island back to Manhatten Lower East Side, As we were riding very nicely towards Manhatten, I looked at Google Maps to see how far along we were. What I saw was us moving in the wrong direction, back towards Queens. I told my family that we may have to get off at the next stop because we may be on the wrong line. I decided to just sit and relax a moment. I thought about it. I KNEW we were on the right line and we were moving in the right direction. I had READ THE SIGNS. We continued on and we did arrive into Manhatten as we intended. Google Maps was wrong and the signs were right.

Walking is a great way to soak up the city’s energy, but stay aware of the surroundings. Stick to busy, well-lit streets, and it’s always wise to keep your belongings secure. NYC is generally safe, but common-sense precautions are still key. We never had any problems walking through any of the streets of NYC. I walked many miles in NYC because I would do my early morning photo walks as I always do when traveling. I had no safety issues at all during any of those walks. When my wife and I walked places, we had no safety issues then but we did see a few strange things. The strangest thing we saw will always stick in my mind. It was a completely naked man in the middle of an intersection doing some strange movements. As soon as we saw him my wife said; “I don’t have to see that.” so we looked away and continued walking

When you’re on foot, knowing some street etiquette can make the journey smoother. New Yorkers are always on the go, so keeping to the right while walking and avoiding sudden stops can save you from bumping into others. So, if you want to stop suddenly to look at something or to take a photo, look around first to make sure there is no one close behind you walking quickly which often is the case in NYC. And while it might be tempting to take photos mid-street, always watch out for traffic because pedestrian right-of-way isn’t a thing here! That was a habit I had for quite awhile but Farida broke me of doing that because she would get mad every time I stopped in a street to take a photo. Sometimes the place to get the best photos in a city is in the middle of an intersection. I guess , if you want such a photo, you better go out there at 5:00 in the morning or a similar early hour.

The following photo is that of the Hotel Chelsea.

We did not stay here because it was still under renovation when we visited NYC. We WILL stay here NEXT time we visit NYC but only for one night because it is a bit expensive. It is located at 222 West 23 Street in the Chelsea neighborhood and if your thing is staying in hotels with a colorful past, then you must stay here. It has twelve stories. It was built as a housing cooperative but it is now a luxury hotel that is on the National Register of Historic Places. It has El Quijote restaurant on the ground floor.

So, why is this place so iconic? It is because of the former residents and a few strange incidents. I can not name all of the former residents but will name a few very well known personages such as Sherwood Anderson, Sarah Bernhardt, Henri Chopin, Betty Davis, Joan Baez, Leonard Cohen, Gregory Corso, Kurt Cobain, Alice Cooper, Chick Corea, Donovan, Bob Dylan,Jane Fonda, Allen Ginsberg (so I have photos of two places where Allen Ginsberg lived), Ethan Hawke, Jimi Hendrix, Jack Kerouac, Stanley Kubrick, Courtney Love, Madonna, Bette Midler, Buddy Miles, Joni Mitchell, Arthur Miller, Jim Morrison, Eugene O’Neill, Al Pacino, Iggy Pop, Edith Piaf, Diego Rivera, Annie Russell, Sam Shepard, Donald Sutherland, Mark Twain, Patty Smith, Ravi Shankar, Gore Vidal, Tom Waits, Tennessee Williams, Frank Zappa. Last but not least, I will mention the fact that Sid Vicious of the Sex Pistols was living here with his girlfriend Nancy Spungen when he supposedly killed her in 1978.

Finding Your Base: Choosing Where to Stay

Getting a place to stay in NYC can feel a bit overwhelming given the endless options, but it’s all about what suits your style and budget. Whether you’re after luxury, comfort, or on a tight budget, NYC’s got something for everyone. High-end hotels around Central Park provide stunning views and five-star services for those wanting a taste of luxury. If you’re watching the wallet, hostels and budget-friendly hotels in the Lower East Side or even parts of Brooklyn might be right up your alley. Of course, all of my suggestions here will be mid-range hotels where I actually stayed and enjoyed because they proved to be of good value.

The location is just as important as the price. Staying in Midtown puts you right in the thick of famous attractions like Times Square, but the hustle-bustle might be a bit much if you’re after something quieter. Neighborhoods like Brooklyn offer more relaxed vibes and could save you a few bucks, though they mean a longer commute to the central attractions. We stayed in several hotels, in several neighborhoods, because I wanted to explore those several neighborhoods without using any transportation. This is an essential strategy for my early morning photo walks.

Want something a bit different? NYC’s full of unique accommodation options. Historic hotels offer a sense of the city’s storied past, while boutique hotels provide a blend of charm and modern comforts. Airbnb can also be a great option if you prefer a homier atmosphere or want to feel more like a local during your stay. In this category of hotel, I chose the Jane Hotel because of its history.

Booking smart can make all the difference. Look for deals well in advance, especially in peak tourist seasons like summer or the holiday period. Price comparisons across multiple booking sites can uncover hidden deals, and flexing your travel dates even slightly can lead to significant savings.

The neighborhood you choose can really shape your NYC experience. Perhaps you’ll love the artsy and historic feel of the West Village or find yourself drawn to the diverse and vibrant environment of Astoria in Queens. Evaluate what you’re looking for in terms of vibe, nightlife, and accessibility to attractions when choosing your base.

New York City is not short on options, and your stay can be as unique as you wish it to be. No matter where you choose to sleep, waking up in NYC is always a dream come true.

The Jane Hotel.

This hotel is at 113 Jane Street in the West Village of Manhatten near the Hudson River. It is across the street from a footpath that runs for several miles along the river. I used the hotel as my base for photo walks along the foot path, to the Whitney Museum, and to One World Trade Center and September 9-11 Memorial Park area. I also chose this hotel because it was built as the American Seaman’s Friend Society Sailors’ Home and Institute in 1906 by William A Boring who also designed the Ellis Island Immigration Station. Some of the survivors from the Titanic ship wreck were put up here while the investigation into the ship wreck was being conducted. The crew members who survived the ship wreck held the memorial service at this hotel. It is a really funky hotel with maze like hallways and yes, we did get lost INSIDE THE HOTEL, trying to find the proper exit door down to the lobby. Just stick to the elevator and you will be all right. They also have a music venue on the ground floor and it can get loud until around midnight but that is not every night. They are occasional, private events that may happen once or twice a week there. We usually stay up that late anyway, exploring the cities we visit so that was no issue for us. The second night we stayed at the Jane Hotel, was perfectly quiet.

Victorian Bed and Breakfast.

This lovely home is on the north coastal area of Staten Island in a lovely neighborhood. We stayed here for two nights because I wanted to visit the Snug Harbor Chinese Cultural Scholars Garden for one day. The cost of a room will be around $140.00 which is a good value for such a cozy and historic place. The neighborhood is called New Brighton and the street address is 92 Taylor Street. The house was built in 1846 which makes it very old but it has been restored in loving fashion and it has won the “Recognition of Excellence” reward. by several travel agencies. Several famous people have stayed here. Actor Edward G Robinson has stayed here as well as mobster Bugsy Siegel. Politicians will stay here also. We really loved staying here because it is really beautiful and romantic in a very quiet neighborhood. The only problem with staying here is, if you are not driving, then you will need a taxi or Uber to get back there because the buses on Staten Island stop running quite early.

Hotel Riu Plaza.

We then stayed at Hotel Riu Plaza. which is just west of Times Square. I chose this hotel because it is within very easy walking distance to Times Square and Central Park. I also found a good discount price for a two night stay here so it was a great value hotel for us. The address is 305 West 46th Street. Its full name is Riu Plaza New York Times Square Hotel. What a mouth full right? Anyway, the hotel has 600 rooms with 29 floors so it is a rather large hotel. I do not know if all rooms have refrigerators but our room did. It does have an exercise room which I ALWAYS look for in a hotel (unless I want to try out a historic or boutique hotel like the two places I mentioned above.) Oh, and I know for a fact that they donate thousands of dollars to Childhood welfare programs and for the use of renewable energy. A deluxe 2 queen bed room would cost about $550 each night (with the taxes included here) but, as I said earlier, discount prices can be found. I found my discount price through TripAdvisor.

Hotel Indigo Lower East Side.

The photo below shows Farida at Mr Purple rooftop restaurant and bar which is on the 15th floor of Hotel Indigo Lower East Side. The restaurant also has an inside room. This hotel is an excellent hotel with very high ratings and prices are very reasonable. Prices start at around $220 a night with the fees included. The address is 171 Ludlow Street. It does have an exercise room. We paid about $320 a night for our room because we got the 2 Queen beds with a city view. Anyway, I wanted to stay in a lower east side hotel so we could have a whole day visiting iconic places like Katz’ Delicatessen (think Harry and Sally “When Harry Met Sally”), New Museum of Contemporary Art, Tenement Museum, Pier 35, The Back Room (which was an actual speakeasy during prohibition times), and one of the buildings where Allen Ginsberg lived (I actually met him so I am a fan of his). The address of the building is 170 East Second Street. There is a plaque on the building because Allen Ginsberg lived there for a few years. I took a photo of the building during my early morning photo walk throughout the lower east side neighborhood. It is from this hotel that we took a very easy subway ride to Coney Island.

Iconic Landmarks and Must-See Attractions

New York City is packed with landmarks that live up to their iconic reputations. Starting with the Statue of Liberty, it’s one of those things you’ve got to check off the list. If you’re up for it, ferries depart from Battery Park, and getting there early can help you skip the longest lines. We actually booked the tour from Battery Park to Liberty Island, then to Ellis Island, then back to Battery Park. I wanted to go to Ellis Island because my grandparents arrived into USA through there. The ferry tour was only about $35.00 and we had at least an hour to hang out on both of the islands. Ellis Island is actually very nice with shady areas to relax so if you decide to stay for a few hours you can. Just hop on the next ferry. The guide would give us the history of each island and then let us explore on our own.

For those drawn to the bright lights and stage life, Broadway shows are unmissable. From classics like “Chicago” or “Moulin Rouge” to contemporary hits like “Wicked”, there’s something for everyone. Snagging tickets can be competitive. Timing and flexibility can be crucial, so consider matinees or off-peak days if your schedule permits. TKTS ticket booths are great places to find last minute tickets for sliced prices. They do sell same day tickets to shows that were not sold out. One of the booths is the Times Square TKTS Booth at West 47th Street and 7th Avenue. The other booth is the Lincoln Center TKTS Booth at 61 West 62nd Street

Central Park is your break from the city’s hustle and bustle. For first-timers, a guided tour can be an eye-opener, leading you to lesser-known gems like Belvedere Castle or the peaceful Conservatory Garden. Carrying a map or using a park app can be handy to navigate its vast expanse. The small Alice in Wonderland sculpture on the east side of Central Park is a perfect photo opportunity and Strawberry Fields (John Lennon memorial) is a must-see if you are a fan. We took a few photos here while musicians took their turn performing John Lennon songs. It is on the western side of the park not far from The Dakota.

Museum enthusiasts have a lot to explore. The Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET) and the American Museum of Natural History double as cultural havens and architectural wonders. If you’re tight on time, focusing on a few exhibits will help you appreciate them without rushing. At the American Museum of Natural History, make sure to see the mammoth and brontosaurus skeletons. We visited both of these museums, as well as the Whitney Museum of American Art for about three hours each. In all three of these museums, we were able to take photos and create videos of anything we wanted. MET is on 5th Avenue at 82nd Street and the American Museum of Natural History is at 200 Central Park West. Whitney Museum of American Art is at 99 Gansevoort Street. If you like Andy Warhol, then visit this museum.

On the other hand, when we visited The Frick Collection (when it was at their temporary Madison Street location), we were not able to take any photos. Now that it is back in its original (though expanded which is why they were at Madison Street for a while), 1920 home, I look forward to visiting Frick Collection again in its original location. This museum has a more intimate atmosphere than that of the huge MET and American Museum of Natural History. We spent only about one hour here but now that it is in its original location, we intend to tarry there for two or three hours. It has about 1,500 artworks including Goya, Whistler (without his mother), Bellini, Rembrandt, and many more. It is in the Beaux-Arts Henry Clay Frick house at 1 East 70th Street.

MoMA is the Museum of Modern Art and it is also a huge museum where we spent about three hours. It is 11 West 53 Street and has some 200,000 paintings and sculptures including Pablo Picassos’ Les Demoiselles d’ Avignon, The Bather by Paul Cézanne, and The Persistence of Time by Salvador Dalí.

Scattered across the city are hidden gems known mostly to locals. The High Line offers a unique perspective of the city—a park built on an elevated railway line, perfect for a stroll amidst public art and greenery. I spent at least three hours on the High Line. I took lots of photos there during an early morning photo walk. It is 1.45 miles long (almost two and a half kilometers). It has trees, bushes, benches, sculptures, and street views all along the route. It is known as ” An icon of American contemporary landscape architecture.”

Meanwhile, Grand Central Terminal isn’t just a transit hub; take a moment here to gaze at the main concourse’s celestial ceiling, and lose yourself in its classic charm. It has trees, bushes, benches, sculptures, and street views all along the route. We did spend some time here but we never asked about the location for the Whispering Gallery. I know there are four low arches near the Oyster Bar & Restaurant. If you go to one corner of an arch and someone else goes to the opposite corner of the arch, you can whisper something and the other person will hear what you are saying. Next time we go to NYC, we will go to the oyster bar, try the trick, then have lunch.

Discovering these attractions brings NYC’s story to life, making every moment memorable. Explore at your own pace, and let the city surprise you with its vibrant energy and endless possibilities. There is so much to do here that we accomplished only about one quarter of what I had on my list of things to do in NYC. I guess my NYC to do list is a four trip list.

Culinary Delights: NYC’s Diverse Food Scene

When it comes to food, NYC is like a world tour for your taste buds. Street food here is legendary. Whether it’s a classic New York hot dog from a cart or a soft pretzel sprinkled with salt, these quick bites are part of the city’s essence. Really, some of the best foods we ate were from food trucks and the portions were huge. We ate Indian food, Greek food, and Palestinian food from food trucks. It was always fantastic. Although I normally do not eat beef, I did have to try Nathans Hot Dog and it was very delicious. We did not get it from a food truck though (Nathans does have a few food trucks). We got ours at Coney Island.

For a more global palate, NYC’s neighborhoods serve up delicious surprises. You can wander through Chinatown for authentic dumplings or head to Little Italy where hearty pastas and tiramisus abound. Move a bit further, and you’re immersed in the spicy, rich flavors of Indian cuisine in Curry Hill. Nha Trang One is an excellent Vietnamese restaurant with some of the best Pho you will ever eat. In Little Italy, there is Emilios’ Ballato for excellent pasta dishes. It is cozy and not too expensive. The address is 55 East Houston Street. And then there is the iconic Puglia restaurant. The front window states; Puglia Est. 1919. Gregorio Garofalo immigrated from Puglia southern Italy and opened a restaurant for the neighborhood that lacked good meal options from southern Italy. It is at 189 Hester Street and it is still owned and managed by the same family. In Curry Hill, there are several wonderful restaurants but I like Chote Nawab and Bhatti restaurants. That said, there are many good Indian restaurants located along the Curry Hill area of Lexington Avenue between 27th and 28th Streets.

If fresh and organic is what you’re after, NYC has embraced the farm-to-table trend with open arms. Dozens of eateries offer dishes crafted from locally-sourced ingredients, bringing sustainability to the forefront of the dining scene. Gramercy Tavern would be an excellent restaurant of this type to frequent if this is what you are looking for. It is run by chef Michael Anthony. It is at 42 E 20th Street is an iconic restaurant attested to by locals and visitors alike. In Chinatown, there is a very interesting restaurant called Bodhi Kosher Vegetarian. They use kosher and vegetarian ingredients to create Chinese meals in the Cantonese style.

A food tour isn’t complete without sampling NYC’s most beloved dishes. A cheesecake is a must-try, each bite creamy and sweet. Ferrara Bakery at 195 Grand Street in Little Italy is thought to be the best place to get cheesecake. It is an iconic bakery established in 1892 so the desserts here SHOULD be good. For pizza lovers, the debate between thin-crust and deep-dish can be settled by tasting both styles, though many locals will vouch that a slice from Joe’s Pizza in Greenwich Village (the original location founded by Pino “Joe” Pozzuoli from Napoli) remains unbeatable. Bagels here aren’t just breakfast but an experience in themselves, especially when topped with a schmear of cream cheese. As far as bagels are concerned, they are a quintessential food for NYC and I could not begin to choose the best. bagels here. I ate bagels in two well known places and they were indeed very good. I can attest that bagels are great at Absolute Bagels which is at 2788 Broadway and at Tompkins Square Bagels which is at 165 Avenue A near the historical Tompkins Square Park (where the ISKCON devotes first started their sankirtan get togethers.) I am willing to bet though, that there are a hundred great places for bagels in NYC.

We ate at two locations of Joe’s Pizza. The locations are iconic for different reasons. One Joe’s Pizza is famous because it is featured in one of the Spiderman movies. I think it is in Spiderman II where Peter Parker is working as a pizza delivery person. This is the branch near Washington Park at 124 Fulton Street. The other Joe’s Pizza where we ate is famous because of all the famous people who have eaten there and have their photos on the walls. This is the Downtown Manhatten location on Bedford Avenue and it is known as the Famous Joe’s Pizza. They have a counter where you can eat your pizza if it is not completely occupied. Pizza costs an average of $4.00 and is good enough to make it worth a visit. The walls are completely full of photos of celebrities.

Dining at some of the city’s top restaurants requires a bit of planning. Reservations are often necessary, particularly at popular spots. Apps like Resy or OpenTable can help secure a table, and doing so a few weeks in advance is wise, especially on weekends. Exploring restaurant week deals or prix-fixe menus offers high-end dining at more affordable prices. We sometimes use Open Table and sometimes Resy. We used such a reservation service to book our dinner at The Beekman which has a Chef Tom Colicchio restaurant on the roof. It is the Temple Court. It is an award winning restaurant. It is open for dinner only. The address is 123 Nassau Street.

NYC’s food scene is vast but approachable, offering something for every craving and budget. With so many options, every meal becomes an adventure. Eating in Jewish delis is quite new to me We ate at Bens’ Kosher Delicatessen at 209 West 38th Street. They have Hungarian Goulash, Stuffed Cabbage, Hot Corned Beef Sandwiches, Grilled Knockwurst, Tongue sandwiches, Baked Knishes, Kashe Varnishes, Stuffed Derma, and many other foods I will never find here in Albuquerque.

The following photo was taken at the Temple Court Restaurant, a rooftop bar and restaurant of the Beekman Hotel.

 

Retail Therapy: Shopping in NYC

Shopping in NYC is more than just buying things—it’s an experience in itself. Whether you’re eyeing luxury goods or hunting for bargains, the city offers a staggering variety of options. Fifth Avenue is the starting line for high-end fashion enthusiasts. Designer flagships line the boulevard with eye-catching displays and opulent interiors that make window-shopping an event. We actually did not do a lot of shopping on 5th Avenue. We did shop at Muji which is located at 475 5th Avenue. It is open from 1000 until 2000 and 1100 until 1900 on Sundays. This is one really cool shop. I bought a long sleeve t-shirt similar to those french t-shirts with the duo colored horizontal stripes. The one I bought has blue and black horizontal stripes. Farida bought a skirt. Farida also did some shopping at Zara on 5th Avenue. It is open from 1000 until 2100 and is located at 660 5th Avenue. Neither of these two shops are near as expensive as are their luxury brand neighbors like Louis Vuitton and Gucci.

For unique finds, independent boutiques are where NYC truly shines. Areas like SoHo and the Lower East Side are brimming with styles that range from avant-garde to vintage, each store offering a distinctly personal flair that chain stores just can’t replicate. Supporting these small businesses also means you often discover up-and-coming designers poised to make it big.

Major tourist spots like Times Square offer shops that cater to those seeking classic NYC souvenirs or popular brand merchandise. Here, everything is about excitement and accessibility, with stores staying open late to accommodate true shopaholics. The only place I shopped at around Times Square is the deliciously colorful M&Ms Shop where you will find tons of different colors of M&Ms and M&M themed souvenirs.

Those in search of a more eclectic selection should venture to the city’s various flea markets and vintage shops. Brooklyn Flea, for instance, is a treasure trove of antiques, crafts, and one-of-a-kind items that tell a story better than any mass-produced products could. These markets are also an excellent place for people-watching and mingling with locals. This is one lively location. Locals and tourists abound here. It IS a great place to spend a few hours. Food is excellent and multi cultural at the vendor carts. Brooklyn Flea is located in three neighborhoods that I know about; 1). DUMBO which is down under the Brooklyn bridge, 2). Chelsea which is a westside neighborhood between Hudson Yards and the Meat Packing District, and 3). SOHO which is south of Houston Street. If you are staying near the High Line pedestrian Park, just walk west and you will be in the Chelsea neighborhood.

When shopping, it’s useful to remember that sales tax can be a surprise. NYC adds a state and city sales tax totalling just over 8%, so check before you splurge. However, certain items like clothing and footwear under $110 are tax-free, which is good to keep in mind if you’re planning a wardrobe update. Duty-free shopping opportunities at airports can also offer tax savings for travelers returning home.

Embracing the Nightlife: Evening Entertainment Guide

New York City really comes alive after dark, offering a diverse nightlife that suits just about any taste. For theater lovers, catching a Broadway or Off-Broadway show is a must. The magic of live performances, be it a musical or an experimental play, creates an unforgettable experience. Ticket lotteries and same-day rush tickets can offer more affordable prices (easily found at the TKTS TICKET BOOTHS I mentioned previously) so it’s worth exploring these options if you’re flexible with what you want to see.

If rooftop views and cocktails are more your scene, NYC is like a treasure chest waiting to be unlocked. From the towering views at Mr. Purple to the eclectic vibe of 230 Fifth, every rooftop offers its own panorama of the city skyline. Dress codes can vary significantly, so checking beforehand saves any fashion faux pas.230 Fifth is the largest rooftop bar in NYC. It is near the iconic Flatiron building. Mr Purple is our favorite rooftop restaurant and bar. We might be biased though because it is the rooftop bar at our favorite hotel in NYC which the IHG Hotel Indigo lower east side.

Music lovers find a haven in NYC’s live music venues. From the legendary Apollo Theater in Harlem that spotlights emerging talent, to the cozy jazz bars of Greenwich Village, where saxophones and soft lighting set the night’s mood, there’s no shortage of spots to explore. Concert halls and club gigs around the city often showcase everything from mainstream pop to indie bands, ensuring that all musical tastes are catered to. The Apollo Theater is located at 253 West 125th Street. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as well as a NYC designated landmark.Performers here are legendary, from Bessie Smith, Josephine Baker, Count Basie, James Brown, Cab Calloway, Nat King Cole, Sam Cooke, B. B. and Ben E. King Buddy Holly, Billie Holiday, Jerry Lee Lewis, Thelonious Monk, Wilson Picket, Otis Redding, The Staple Singers, and many more that I could not list here because this paragraph is already getting too long.

After a night out, late-night eateries provide a savory conclusion to your evening. Food trucks or 24/7 diners are dependable choices for satisfying those midnight cravings. Katz’s Delicatessen in the Lower East Side is an iconic spot where the pastrami sandwich is rumors have it, life-changing. They just about are. The sandwiches are HUGE. While you are waiting for them to create your masterpiece, they will give you a sample of the meat. Everybody got the Pastrami sandwiches except me. I got a turkey sandwich. All of it is great and, did I mention HUGE? It is located at 205 East Houston Street. This is where the famous scene in the movie “Where Harry Met Sally” occurred (“I will have what she’s having.”) There is even a sign above the table where Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal were sitting.

While enjoying the nightlife, it’s important to stay safe. Travel in groups if you can, and always keep an eye on your belongings. Using rideshare apps or licensed taxi services to get around during the evening can add peace of mind. New Yorkers are friendly, but it’s always wise to remain aware of your surroundings. It was rated as the 12th safest city to visit by Safe Cities index so go with self confidence laden with common sense.

Evenings in NYC extend your adventure, filled with possibilities that transform a regular night into extraordinary memories. From stage lights to skyline views, this city doesn’t stop, and neither should you. Especially intriguing are former speakeasies that continue the tradition of using the same entrances that were used during prohibition times. There are a few of them in NYC.

Here is a link to Booking.com just in case you decide to investigate the website. Maybe you got the urge to book a room in Manhatten after reading this article? Click on the link and have fun:

http://www.awin1.com/awclick.php?mid=6776&idhttps://=2ee50e8b

I wanted to stay on Staten Island for a couple of nights so we could spend some time together in a quiet and traditional type of place. The Chinese Scholars’ Garden was a perfect place for that.

SIMON RAVEN SAID

LIFE IS SHORT AND THE WORLD IS WIDE.”

Here is a concise FAQ section about visiting New York City for its food scene and cultural experiences:

Q: What makes New York City’s food scene special?
A: New York City brings together cuisines from all over the world in one place, from classic New York pizza and bagels to regional Chinese, Italian, Latin American, and Middle Eastern food in different neighborhoods. This diversity, plus everything from street carts and food halls to Michelin-starred restaurants, makes it a top destination for food-focused travel.​ Several of my favorites are mentioned in this article but there are so many more to explore.

Q: Which neighborhoods are best for food and culture?
A: Popular areas include Chinatown, Little Italy, Korea-town, the Lower East Side, Harlem, and neighborhoods in Queens and Brooklyn known for strong immigrant communities. Exploring several boroughs rather than just Midtown gives a better mix of local restaurants, markets, and cultural institutions. We really loved the food we got from some of the ethnic food trucks that can be found all over town. Prices are small, but the portions are big, and the food is authentic.

Q: How many days do I need for a food and culture trip?
A: Three to five days is a good minimum to sample a few neighborhoods, visit major museums, and try some iconic foods without feeling too rushed. Longer stays let you explore more local spots in outer boroughs and attend shows, tours, and festivals.​

Food-focused questions

Q: What are must-try New York foods?
A: Many visitors seek out a slice of New York-style pizza, bagels with classic toppings, deli sandwiches, hot dogs, and cheesecake. Beyond the stereotypes, there are also beloved regional Chinese dishes, Latin American specialties, and modern fusion concepts across the city. Katz Deli is really popular for tourists because the filming of the fake orgasm scene in When Harry Met Sally was filmed there. The sandwiches there are amazing too. Joes’ Pizzerias are also very popular with tourists because one location is iconic as the place where Peter Parker worked in Spiderman 2. Another location is very popular because of the many photographs of celebrities who visited there that hang on the walls.

Q: Are food halls and markets worth visiting?
A: Yes, food halls and markets are an easy way to try several styles of cuisine in one place, often with local vendors and seasonal events. They can be especially useful if you’re short on time or traveling with a group that has different tastes.​ Eataly Italian Market is a wonderful indoor market that is very extensive. We ate at the Flatiron location where we could eat good Italian food and roast chicken while making selfie photos.

Q: Do I need reservations for popular restaurants?
A: Many well-known spots and fine-dining restaurants book up in advance, especially on weekends and holidays. Casual spots, neighborhood joints, and some walk-in–only places are easier to visit without planning, but you should be prepared to wait at peak times.

Q: Is New York City good for street food?
A: Yes, street vendors and food trucks are a big part of the city’s food culture, offering everything from classic hot dogs to international dishes. These are often budget-friendly and give a quick taste of the city’s diversity between museum visits or neighborhood walks.​ The Halal Guys food truck, Birria-Landia, DF Nigeria, and King Souvlaki are four excellent choices among hundreds.

Cultural experiences

Q: What cultural experiences pair well with food exploring?
A: Food walks combine neighborhood history, architecture, and tastings in one outing, which is ideal if you’re new to the city. Museums, galleries, live music, and theater are often clustered near great dining areas, so you can plan meals around performances and exhibits.

Q: Are there specific neighborhoods where food and cultural heritage overlap?
A: Areas like Chinatown, Little Italy, Harlem, and certain districts in Queens and Brooklyn highlight community history through restaurants, bakeries, temples, churches, murals, and local shops. Visiting these neighborhoods respectfully supports long-standing small businesses and cultural institutions.​

Q: Are guided food and culture tours worth it?
A: Guided tours can help you find places you might overlook, share stories behind dishes, and simplify logistics in a busy city. They are especially helpful if you have limited time or feel overwhelmed by the number of options.​

Practical tips

Q: How should I budget for food in New York City?
A: Prices vary widely, but you can mix affordable street food and casual spots with a few splurge meals to keep costs reasonable. Food halls, lunch specials, and neighborhood diners can help balance out higher-end dinners. This is actually our strategy on every trip we take.

Q: Is New York City safe for exploring food at night?
A: Busy dining areas stay active late, and main corridors are generally well lit and heavily trafficked. As in any large city, it is wise to stay aware of your surroundings, stick to populated streets, and follow local guidance.​

Q: How can visitors be respectful diners and tourists?
A: Learn basic local etiquette, such as not blocking sidewalks, being ready to order in busy lines, and tipping appropriately in sit-down restaurants. In culturally significant neighborhoods, be mindful when photographing, dress appropriately for religious sites, and support small businesses by making purchases rather than only browsing.

I will continue to update this article as I discover new favorite places in NYC. Thank you for your visit. MAC.