based on 8 experiences
I have stayed in NYC several times by myself and loved it! Always felt safe. Stayed at hotels in Manhatten, watched Broadway shows by myself. Did a lot of walking (not fond of the subway) and went to a lot of museums.
I've done NYC many times. I'd recommend the high line, 9/11 memorial and museum, a full day in central park, try and see a show on Broadway, coney Island, empire state or rockerfeller at night (I prefer rockerfeller), moma, natural history museum, public library (only open Mon to Fri), financial district, times Square at night. NYC can get pricey for food so I usually do a late breakfast, snack and dinner to save a bit of money.
The High line is amazing. Times Square itself is fun and worth seeing but very touristy. See it, then wander around. 30 Rock (Rockefeller Center) is within walking distance as is Radio City Music Hall and the Empire State bldg. If you like art, the MoMA is within walking distance. Take a short subway or bus ride to Central Park and wander there. The subway is safe but keep in mind that NYC is huge. It can take nearly an hour of trains and transfers to get from Midtown Manhattan to parts of Brooklyn.
The worst views of the Statue of Liberty are from Liberty Island. She looks better from afar. The Staten Island Ferry is free, and you can see her from there. Unless you are going to a Broadway show, Times Square is pointless. It is overcrowded, and just has chain stores/restaurants. Rockefeller Center has a better view, as you would be able to see both the Chrysler and Empire State Buildings. Do not skip the 9/11 Memorial. Central Park and Museum Mile are beautiful. Whatever you choose to see, do not get suckered into going to Hudson Yards. PS: Purchase a MetroCard and use the subways and buses.
My top secret picks: Normal tourist things: hit grand central station, the met, Carnegie hall, the high line (including Chelsea market) Unexpected things: The Morgan museum is a quick stop and gorgeous, the Rubin is a beautiful one about Tibet and Nepal if you have time. There is a brilliant bar up top of Rockefeller called bar 60 where you can sneak up and see an amazing view of the city (without buying a drink if you're on the super cheap). I also recommend checking out St Mark's place in the East Village - Veselkas is a crazy good 24 hour polish place, lots of good weird New York in that area. Wander around Soho and West Village if you want to check out a posher part of town, and Williamsburg Brooklyn to see the cool hip little shops and coffee bars (get BRUNCH).
Most of NYC is safe but has its bad areas like any other metropolitan city. Time Square is a tourist trap with crappy chain restaurants and stores, and you’ll be harassed by people wanting to sell you their CD, pay to take a picture with them in their dingy costume, or try to talk you into some touristy things to do. I always stay away from there. Central Park is lovely and there is a lot to see and do in/around the park. Chelsea and the Chelsea Market is a great place to shop and eat and walking The High Line is fun. There are a lot of things to do safely. Just be aware if your surroundings and try to blend in.
Where to stay: Hotels in NYC are so expensive. My go-to budget hotel is Best Western Bowery Hanbee. Nothing fancy but it's clean and totally fine - great staff! It's right next to Nolita & Soho, which has so many amazing sights & restaurants. Whatever you do, do not stay in Times Square. Things to do / not to do: - Top of the Rock has a better view than Empire State Building (you get lovely pics with the ESB instead) - Skip the Statue of Liberty. Incredibly time consuming and rarely worth it for most people. - Walk the Brooklyn Bridge and check out the park between Br Bridge & Manhattan Bridge once you get over to DUMBO - amazing view of Manhattan, and a great area itself. - Check out the 9/11 Memorial. Its free to visit (the museum is not though) - Visit The High Line! So cool. - Central Park is a must. Its huge though, so if there is anywhere in particular you want to see you should do some research first. I suggest The Pond, Bethesda Fountain, Bow Bridge, The Boathouse, Belvedere Castle & Strawberry Fields. - Go vintage shopping or visit a flea market in Brooklyn
From a former New Yorker. The must in the city: Times square, Central park, Rockefeller center (if you're a foodie try Coldstone ice cream, and Magnolia bakery), the 5th avenue/ Soho maybe for window shopping, Met museum or other museums ( if you're a museum person). South Street Sea port (historical area in the city). Then for relaxation Brooklyn bridge, Roosevelt island, or some pier.
Yes, New York is generally safe for solo female travelers. However, it is important to take the same precautions as you would in any other city. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, and keep your valuables secure.
Yes, New York is a great destination for solo female travelers. The city is very safe and there are plenty of activities and attractions to explore. There are also many female-friendly accommodations, restaurants, and bars. Additionally, there are many other solo female travelers in the city, so you can easily meet up with other travelers and make new friends.
Yes, New York can be expensive for solo travelers. Accommodation, food, and transportation can all be costly. However, there are ways to save money, such as staying in hostels, eating at budget-friendly restaurants, and taking public transportation.
Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art
Explore the world’s largest art museum and take in the vast collection of artwork from around the world.
Take a walking tour
Take a guided tour of the city and learn about its history and culture.
Explore Central Park
Take a stroll through the 843-acre park and enjoy the lush greenery and beautiful views.
Visit the High Line
Take a walk along the elevated park and enjoy the views of the city.
Take a boat tour
Take a boat tour of the city and get a unique perspective of the skyline.
Visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum
Pay your respects to the victims of the 9/11 attacks and learn about the events of that day.
Take a food tour
Taste the city’s diverse cuisine and learn about its culinary history.
Visit the Statue of Liberty
Take a ferry to Liberty Island and get up close to the iconic statue.
Take a Broadway show
Enjoy a show on the Great White Way and experience the magic of live theater.
Shop in SoHo
Explore the trendy boutiques and stores in the SoHo neighborhood.
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