New York is a city that millions of people dream of visiting and we were lucky enough to speak to people who spend every day helping travelers make the most of it.
We chatted to Jake, Go City’s New York director, who’s spent nearly a decade living in Brooklyn and even longer working with international travellers; Captain Ken from Circle Line, who’s been cruising NYC’s waterways since he was sixteen; Renita, the legendary VIP guide at the Empire State Building with 26 years of stories; Julie, co-founder of the Museum of Broadway and a long-time New Yorker; and Top of the Rock’s brilliant visitor experience duo, Deborah and Ariel, who’ve welcomed guests for a combined 26 years.
Between them, they’ve seen it all – from the classic first-timer moments to the small things only locals notice.
We’ve collected all their refreshingly real, surprisingly simple, and genuinely helpful advice to make you a cheat sheet for exploring New York like a pro.
Meet Captain Ken, one of the longest-serving Circle Line captains and a lifelong New Yorker!
Local-approved tips for exploring New York
1. Don’t fear the subway
One thing every expert agreed on? The subway is your best friend. Jake, Julie and Renita all stressed that it’s far less intimidating than it looks and absolutely the easiest way to get around.
It’s fast, cheap and the quickest way to get about.
Tip: download a subway app (we love City Mapper) before you go, and don’t panic if you miss a stop – trains run every couple of minutes, so it’s easily fixable!
2. Expect fast walkers, not rude people
The supposed “rude New Yorker” stereotype is one every local wants to put to bed. People may move quickly, but they’re friendly, helpful and proud of their home. Jake assured us you’ll find most people are more than happy to help if you ask!
If someone shoulder-swerves past you, they’re probably just late for something… again.
Just try to be a mindful visitor; move with purpose, step to the side if you’re checking your map and don’t block the subway doors.
3. Eat everything – but don’t only eat the famous stuff
Bagels, pizza, hotdogs – yes, they’re iconic for a reason, and yes, you should absolutely have them.
But as Jake reminded us, New York’s diversity is its superpower.
Step off the main streets and try something that isn’t trending on TikTok. Korea Town came up more than once from our experts and the city’s neighborhoods are packed with hidden gems. Plus, New Yorkers have pretty high standards, so wherever you end up, it’s likely to be a great meal!
Meet Renita, Queen of the Empire State Building, born and raised in NY!
4. Enjoy the sweet stuff too!
New York takes its sweets very seriously – and according to long-time locals like Deborah, keeping up with the city’s dessert scene is practically a full-time job.
From classics like New York cheesecake (name a good place for cheesecake) and Magnolia Bakery’s banana pudding, to newer spots like Rice to Riches (indulgent rice pudding) and Levain (oversized cookies), there’s a sweet option for every kind of craving.
If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll be spoiled. Consider it a sightseeing energy strategy.
5. Walk… a lot
Deborah and Renita both championed exploring on foot. New York is a city of street-level magic – tiny details in the architecture, unexpected mural walls, pocket parks and perfect people-watching spots. Comfortable shoes are essential.
And if something “looks close”, add at least 10 extra minutes for traffic lights. They will get you, probably at every crosswalk.
Ariel recommended heading downtown: SoHo, vintage shops, cafés like his fave ‘Jack’s Wife Freda’ and endless boutique-lined streets.
New York is a city of neighbourhoods and each one feels like its own little world, so give yourself time to discover them!
6. See the city from the water
Sure, Captain Ken might be biased – he’s been with Circle Line since he was a teenager – but he’s right. Seeing the skyline from the water ties everything together. It’s the perfect way to start a trip (to set the scene) or end one (to connect everything you’ve seen).
Plus, sitting down while still sightseeing? Your feet will thank you!
Meet Ariel, Top of the Rock host and NYC local!
7. Visit the icons – and the meaningful ones
When asked what visitors must see (apart from her stomping ground, the Empire State Building), Renita said Ground Zero without hesitation. It’s moving, important and helps you understand part of the city’s story.
She also suggested catching a Broadway show and walking the Brooklyn Bridge – two very different but equally “New York” experiences.
The takeaway for visitors: mix it up!
8. Layers are your friend
Visiting in winter? Dress warm. Really warm. Hats, gloves, scarves – the works!
Visiting in summer? Expect heat, humidity and bear in mind you’ll probably be doing a lot of walking.
Tip: remember that at the top of observation decks, or out on the river it can feel a lot cooler and breezier than when you’re hustling around at street level, so light jackets and layers that you can easily carry and put back on is the way to go.
9. Take a moment to look up (literally)
Locals like Renita and Deborah swear that one of the best things you can do in New York is simply look up as you walk.
The city’s architecture changes block by block – from ornate Art Deco details in Midtown to cast-iron facades in SoHo and hidden rooftop water towers everywhere.
It’s a small habit that instantly makes you feel more connected to the city, helps you notice things most visitors rush past and turns even a quick walk into a mini sightseeing moment.
Meet Julie, Museum of Broadway founder with 20 years of NY expertise!
10. Go your own way
One thing stood out, when we asked our locals their favourite New York treat, activity, attraction or experience: we got several different answers from everyone!
New York is such a diverse and evolving city, the consensus was that everyone needs to explore to find their own faves. So try the things that sound good to you, skip the things that don’t and you’ll end up with your own perfect NY collage.
Explore like a local, enjoy like a tourist
What every New Yorker told us comes down to this: walk a lot, take the subway when you need to, try everything, stay curious and don’t be afraid to get a little lost.
New York rewards explorers. Not just the people who chase the big icons, but the ones who wander through neighborhoods, follow the smell of good food, pause for a skyline view or take a random left turn and discover something they weren’t expecting.
If you explore the city with openness, sensible shoes and a healthy appetite, you’re already halfway to experiencing New York exactly the way locals do.
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