Holidays to New York

New York travel guide

• When is the best time to visit New York?

  New York has some pretty extreme swings in temperature – it can be boiling in summer (we’re talking averages of 29°C!) and absolutely Baltic come winter! This means that spring or autumn – specifically April to June and September to November - is a really great time to enjoy the city. That being said, we reckon it’s totally worth it to brave the colder temps of December – Christmas in New York? 100% worth it, every time! How else will you live out your Home Alone 2 fantasies?

  If you’re travelling with kids or on a budget, it’s good to bear in mind that prices do rise in the milder months, and of course, if you’ve got certain things you want to get ticked off that swimming pool list of yours, then you’ll want to plan your arrival around those too!

  Need a hand narrowing it down further? Our handy blog all about what the weather’s like in New York might just help with that…

• What are the best New York attractions for kids?

  Get them into an Empire State of mind

  If it’s more adventurous teens you’re wrangling, then send them right up to the Top of the Rock at the Rockefeller Center, the Observation Deck at the Empire State Building or The Edge. One hundred percent sure-fire thrills, those are.

  Central Park is an all rounder

  You just cannot do a New York holiday without a trip to Central Park. It’s like fish and chips without the mushy peas. The little ones will love running around, climbing over the Alice in Wonderland statue, and a quick zip on the water with a motorised sail boat at Conservatory Water. Then there’s the zoo, obvs! Home to creatures great, like snow leopards, and small, like red pandas, their polar circle is always a big hit with kids. If you’re in town in winter, we reckon Central Park would make for a pretty mega snow-angel-making location, and then you can all scuttle over to boutique gelato outlet Venchi for some very indulgent hot chocolate, or have some afternoon tea at the whimsical Alice’s Tea Cup.

  Museums galore

  New York knows a thing or two about museums and galleries. We say when you’ve got the kids in tow, skip the likes of the MET and the Guggenheim, and head straight onto the American Museum of Natural History, the New York Hall of Science or the Rose Centre for Space and Earth. All three of these places will have little jaw dropping left, right, and centre. Since March 2021, the American Museum of Natural History has been running Worlds Beyond Earth, an immersive visualisation of distant worlds, ground breaking space missions, and the evolution of our solar system – and it’s all shown on the world’s most advanced planetary projection system. Fancy! Definitely add that one to your list.

  Coney Island

  A fifty minute subway journey from Midtown, this is a classic pastime for the kids of New York. Feel like a right local as you strap in for a white knuckle ride on Cyclone, the famously super old wooden coaster. Or if you don’t fancy New York’s equivalent to Blackpool Pleasure Beach’s Crazy Mouse (if you know, you know), then maybe try out the new(er) Atlantic Aviator. Then there’s the oldest continuously operating aquarium in the country, the Wonder Wheel at Denos, a boardwalk, a beach, and SO much more…

  Bryant Park

  Just behind the New York Public Library (another great visit if there’s some bookworms amongst you), Bryant Park is a lovely little retreat in the city that really comes to life in the summer, when there’s loads of free entertainment like the mega popular Monday night outdoor movies. There’s also a bunch of weekly kid-friendly activities, such as story time in the Reading Room and games in 40^th Street Plaza. You can even get a lesson from the Bryant Park Jugglers on the Lawn or Upper Terrace. To be honest, the park is just as lovely in winter, when it becomes a wonderland with an ice skating rink and lots of pop up shops.
  
  For more ideas, read our blog on 10 fun things to do with kids in New York.

• What are the best New York attractions for adults?

  Look, New York is MASSIVE. And like we said, it’s got a swimming pool size list of things to do. But one thing you don’t want to do is to try and cram too much into one day. We know you want to hit the concrete jungle running – it’s New York! – but trust us when we say you don’t want to turn that run into a painful hobble. Don’t overbook yourself when it comes to the sights and attractions – the aim is to be able to stroll leisurely between the landmarks. Wandering aimlessly for a bit is part of the fun! That’s how you stumble across all the good bits in the nooks and crannies of the city, the places that even we don’t know about!

  Here’s a few ideas to get the cogs turning:

  The Vessel

  The sci-fi looking centrepiece of Hudson Yards is a spiral staircase, known by its sci-fi sounding name, ‘The Vessel’. An interactive artwork, it was designed with the idea that it would be a focal point from which to enjoy new (seriously impressive) perspectives of the city from a bunch of different heights, angles and vantage points. There’s over 25000 steps and 80 different landing points to nab a view from, so best bring your comfy shoes and give those hammies a stretch.

  Sunset from Top of the Rock

  This is something you’ll want to get booked in advance because tickets go like hot cakes. Any old person can get a mega view from this viewing platform at the top of the Rockefeller Center, but the thinking man or woman knows to grab a ticket with an entry timed for sunset for one of the best views of your life. And if you end up engaged at the end of it, well then that’s just two birds with one stone!

  The High Line

  Stretching from the Meatpacking District all the way through Chelsea before ending at West 34^th Street and the Hudson Yards development on the edge of Hell’s Kitchen, the High Line is one of the best walks to be had in the city, especially in the warmer months. Bask in some stunning waterfront views and while away the afternoon with some sunbathing, a bit of art, and some snacks from the likes of Blue Bottle Coffee, Melt Bakery, and L’Arte Del Gelato - authentic deliciousness straight from Sicily.

  Head to Dumbo for a classic New York picture opportunity

  Dumbo is an area of Brooklyn, and is actually an acronym that stands for Down Under The Manhattan Bridge Overpass (save that one for the pub quiz!). That’s probs why it’s known for having the best view of the Manhattan Bridge – you know the one we mean! Washington Street is all cobblestones, red brick buildings, and the Manhattan Bridge aligned perfectly ahead of you. Not only that, but the Empire State Building can be seen peeking out right beneath it! Bingo! Unsurprisingly, it gets mega busy during the day, so aim to be an early riser or a night owl for this one.

• Where to shop in New York?

  Renowned department stores. Million-square-foot shopping centres. Luxury retailers. Boutiques. Thrift stores. New York has got mega shopping right across all five boroughs. Where do you start?!

  Bloomingdale’s 59^th Street

  Your first point of call has gotta be Bloomingdale’s in Manhattan. Drop some dollars on some designer clobber or just hang around the beauty and fragrance counters and see what samples you can score. Let’s be honest though, all you really want is that Little Brown Bag.

  Macy’s Herald Square

  Another Manhattan staple, this place is massive – the biggest department store in the US, actually. Besides serious shopping, it’s got bags of history to it too. Bring your comfy shoes – there’s 11 floors to get through!

  Fifth Avenue

  This place needs no introduction. Fifth Avenue is an absolute shopping mecca, up there with the likes of Oxford Street, Orchard Road and Rue de Rivoli. But it’s not all top shelf stuff here, there’s more down to earth retailers here too, like H&M and Zara. The main shopping bit of Fifth Avenue is actually between Bryant Park and Central Park South – a perfectly do-able 20 blocks. Shopping day, anyone? Say no more!

  Brother Vellies

  Like your luxury best when it’s made ethically and sustainably? Us too. You might wanna nip into this boutique in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, where everything is made by those employed across the globe – all paid a proper living wage to create gorgeous, one-of-a-kind pieces. Nice one.

  L Train Vintage

  If you’ve got good stamina (and some hefty arm muscles!) then you’ll love a good rummage at one of L Train's locations across Brooklyn and Manhattan. The locals love it, and you’ll no doubt clock a few of them with an L Train Vintage bag in hand. Don’t look for ‘L Train’ though, as most of their locations operate under different monikers – look for No Relation Vintage and Urban Jungle, amongst others.

  What Goes Around Comes Around

  If you like your vintage a little more on the premium side, then this is where you need to go. Since 1993, What Goes Around Comes Around has been serving lessons in fashion history with bags, accessories, jewellery and watches from the likes of Fendi, Rolex, and Chanel on offer. Fancy. Find it in Soho.

  The Shops at Hudson Yards

  Hudson Yards is one of Manhattan’s newest neighbourhoods, and you’ll know it when you see it because of The Vessel (see above). It’s also home to The Shops at Hudson Yards, a luxury mall that offers the same thing you’ll get on Fifth Avenue, Madison Avenue, and in Soho, but it’s all indoors and often less crowded. Expect lots of luxury, with a few mid-price brands thrown in for good measure.

• Where to eat out in New York?

  No matter what part of the city you find yourself in, you’re guaranteed to bag yourself a right good meal. Midtown Manhattan is where you’ll find a lot of hotel restaurants, big name chains and tourist-friendly buffet options, but don’t be afraid to stray to the streets lining Chinatown, Upper Manhattan, the East Village, the Upper West Side and Brooklyn for some amazing meals at a decent price.

  The Village, SoHo and Tribeca are where you wanna head if you’re a foodie, as this is where all the proper exciting stuff when it comes to cooking is happening.

  Classics

  Katz Delicatessen on the Lower East Side is all about the overstuffed pastrami sandwiches and hot dogs, but Nathan’s Famous over at Coney Island is also, er, famous for a doing a really good hot dog – since way back in 1916! Staten Island, meanwhile, is where you’ll find local fave, Killmeyer’s Old Bavaria Inn – try the potato pancakes and the pierogi (potato-ey, cheesy goodness).

  If it’s French you’re after, try The Odeon in Tribeca for perfect omelettes, roast chicken, and burgers on brioche. Italian more your thing? Well, New York’s really good at that. Barbetta is famous and has been a staple of Restaurant Row in the Theatre District for nearly a century – and it’s still run by the same family!

  But one place you defo have to try? The Grand Central Oyster Bar – mega elegant, they (unsurprisingly) do the best cherrystone clams in the city, as well as a pretty good seafood pan roast.

  Newer places

  If you can’t decide what you’re in the mood for, try Bonnie’s – it’s a Cantonese-American-Italian restaurant where it’s said the cacao e pepe fermented bean curd is mega (don’t knock it ‘til you try it!) Laser Wolf is just as cool as its name, and is all about charcoal grills skewered meats and creamy, Middle Eastern dips – and it all comes with a swanky view from atop the Hoxton in Williamsburg.

  If you’re in Times Square and need a top me up, try Italian sandwich shop All'Antico Vinaio – there might be a queue though, because it’s mega popular! Bubby’s in Tribeca, meanwhile, is all about simple food done really well. Try their signature buttermilk biscuits, or maybe one of their pies – they’re particularly good at those, after all, they did start out back in 1990 as a pie company…

• Lifestyle and culture in New York

  Obviously, you’ll need to get a few notches in your Museum Mile belt whilst in town. Museum Mile, you say? Yep, that’s the spot in Midtown Manhattan where they have a whole lot of – you guessed it – museums and galleries. But it’s not all about museums, New York is a culture vulture’s dream holiday.

  You know all the big hitters, like the Metropolitan Museum of Art (almost as famous for its exhibits as it is for the Met Gala…), the Museum of Modern Art, and – the best, if you ask us – the American Museum of Natural History, with its 4 floors of history and planetarium in the Rose Centre for Earth and Space. But how about we give you a couple of options that are little bit less trodden? Have a gander at some of these, and you’ll really be impressing your folks back at home!

  The Guggenheim

  Set in the mega cool (and a little bit trippy) Frank Lloyd Wright building on Fifth Avenue, the Guggenheim is home sweet home to some of the best works from the last 100 years. The building itself is pretty cool too – remember that scene from Mr Popper’s Penguins? Yeah, now you’re getting the idea!

  The Whitney

  There’s a focus on American art here, from the 20^th century as well as more contemporary work, with space dedicated to works by living artists. It was established by Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney, who had a bit of a soft spot for American work disregarded by traditional academies. If 20^th century American art is your thang, this is the place to be because it has the best collection in the world.

  The Morgan Library

  This was once the (bloomin’ amazing, Belle-worthy) private library of J. P. Morgan, but since an expansion in 2006 there’s now some 20 different spaces here, from galleries to libraries to even a performance hall. The main library itself is home to some right gems, from one of 23 copies of the original Declaration of Independence (better keep Nicholas Cage away!), to the only known manuscript of Milton's Paradise Lost. Seriously though, this place is STUNNING. There’s a free ‘highlights’ tour of the permanent collection Tuesday to Sunday at 12.30pm.

  More culture

  Grand Central Terminal

  Yep, this isn’t just a transport hub, it’s also a shopping, dining, and cultural destination tied into one! It’s been in more films than we can count, and even though the famous beams of light don’t come through the windows anymore, thanks to the skyscrapers (boo!), it’s still an incredible space to see. Plus, it comes in handy if you happen to get split up from who you’re travelling with. We mean, sure you could just call them on your phone, but why do something so boring when you can be dramatic and tell them to meet you “at the clock”? We know what we’d do!

  Ground Zero

  The National 9/11 Memorial & Museum should always be on your list. Nowhere else in the city tells the story of the city like this place does. Take a moment at the memorial itself to read the names of those who died, and then follow it with a visit to the museum which examines and documents the continuing effects of the attacks. Our tip? Experience it with a tour led by an expert guide.

• New York events - what's on when?

  January - Chinatown New Year

  New York is probably the best place to celebrate Chinese New Year outside China. With several days of celebrations, there are a number of free events held within the city, including The Firecracker Ceremony, Cultural Festival, and the Lunar New Year Flower Market, followed by the Lunar New Year Parade and Festival in February.

  February – Westminster Kennel Club Show

  Head to Madison Square Garden and catch the pandemonium and excitement that is the Westminster Kennel Club Show. With more than 200 pooches taking part in this champion dog show, watch in amazement as the regal canines battle it out to be named top dog.

  March - St. Patrick's Day Parade

  Ireland is a great place to celebrate St. Patricks Day, but if you happen to be in New York you can have just as much fun. The annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade is the city’s oldest and largest, so celebrate Irish culture and the Catholic Faith on the streets of New York.

  April – Tribeca Film Festival

  This annual festival was created by Robert De Niro in the wake of September 11. Now on par with the likes of Sundance and Cannes, the festival celebrates film, music and culture, transforming the neighbourhood into a hub of red carpet glamour. With more than 100 world films shown, there’s even free drive-in screenings – no car required.

  May – Ninth Avenue International Food Festival

  This annual food festival sees more than 200 vendors and restaurants come together to serve up various culinary delights, satisfying everyone’s taste buds. Taking place over 15 blocks, you can enjoy gastronomic feasts from the world over, with Greek, Brazilian, Moroccan, Ukrainian and Italian specialities all on offer. There’s also plenty of music, arts, crafts and dancing to go along with the edible feast too.

  June – Pride Week

  With a vibrant and thriving LGBT community, the city embraces its incredible diversity with annual pride week. Fun for people of all ages and backgrounds, there are various activities happening throughout neighbourhoods in the five boroughs of New York. Pride Week concludes with the famous march down Fifth Avenue.

  July – Macy's 4th of July Fireworks

  Take a moment to celebrate one of the most historically significant days in America’s long history; Independence Day. With thousands of fireworks lighting up the New York skyline during the spectacular display, there’ll also be musical accompaniment from the New York Pops Orchestra and special guest stars. With millions watching in person and at home, waterfront locations are the best spots to obtain spectacular views.

  August - New York International Fringe Festival

  Lasting for two weeks during August, the Fringe Festival plays host to over 1,000 distinct and unique performances. With local and world theatre companies taking part, alongside hip-hop musicals and comedians who range from absurd to social commentary, there’ll be something to suit everyone. You can even buy a multi-day pass to make the most of everything on offer at the Fringe.

  September – Atlantic Antic

  Head over to Brooklyn and experience one of the city’s biggest and best street fairs. Attended by an estimated one million people, the festival features a host of different handicrafts and culinary delights, with a mixture of jazz, rock and R&B music coming from the multiple stages. Alongside this you’ll find storytelling and pony rides for the children. A fun filled festival for the whole family to enjoy.

  October – Village Halloween Parade

  You haven’t experienced Halloween until you’ve experienced it in the USA. When in New York on Halloween head to the West Village and take part in the massive party, which features fantastically costumed characters, puppets, dancing and bands amongst the estimated two million spectators. This lively New York tradition is a Halloween experience like no other.

  November - Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

  Experience one of the biggest days in the New York calendar, the Thanksgiving Day parade. Filled with school marching bands, celebrity guests and performances making the streets come alive like never before, you’ll be awestruck when the true stars of the show, the balloons, make their way past. With millions of people cheering along the 2.5 mile route, you’ll see inflated versions of Spongebob and Snoopy amongst others on this magical day.

  December - Times Square New Year's Eve

  If you’re in New York to welcome in the New Year, then the only place to be is Times Square. With more than a million people baring the cold and gathering in one of New York’s most famous locations, you can be part of the world’s most iconic New Year party as you embrace the musical performances, balloons, confetti and fireworks whilst waiting for the ball to drop.

• Do you need a visa to visit New York?

  Everyone travelling into America must have completed the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation, or ESTA for short, a US Customs & Passport Control entry requirement. US Immigration may well refuse you entry at border control if you do not complete the online form.