Welcome to Mon Tatane Tour, your guide to “New York travel guide in the United States”. New York is an incredible destination unlike any other. In the sections ahead, I’ll take you through the highlights of this captivating metropolis, from the iconic skyscrapers of Manhattan to the cultural districts of Brooklyn.
Put on your tatanes or your sneakers and let’s explore the Big Apple.
New York travel guide: must-see places
Statue of Liberty
Discover Ellis island
Discover the Statue of Liberty in New York, a global icon embodying the values of freedom and hope. Offered by France to the United States and inaugurated in 1886, this majestic monument sits on Liberty Island, in the heart of New York Bay.
Your visit will immerse you in the fascinating history of this icon thanks to the Statue of Liberty Museum located on Liberty Island. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to enjoy an exceptional panoramic view of the city from the top of the statue’s crown.
The Statue of Liberty transcends its status as a monument to represent a profound symbol of freedom, hope and welcome for immigrants who came to the United States in search of a better life. By visiting it, you will immerse yourself in this captivating and inspiring story.
How to get there?
- Take the ferry from Battery Park in Manhattan or from New Jersey.
This short boat ride adds a unique dimension to your experience, giving you panoramic views of New York Bay.
Visit New York: Ticket to the Statue of Liberty
New York travel guide – The Brooklyn bridge
Iconic symbol of New York
Situated majestically on the East River, the Brooklyn Bridge stands as an undeniable emblem of New York City. This legendary structure which has united Manhattan and Brooklyn for more than 135 years offers a grandiose perspective on the impressive skyline of Manhattan and the radiant face of the Statue of Liberty.
To enjoy this exceptional place, choose early or late visits to avoid the crowds and admire the view in a more peaceful atmosphere. You have the opportunity to explore the bridge on foot or by bike, each offering an unforgettable experience. Boat rides are also available, giving a unique viewing angle of the bridge from the water.
The Brooklyn Bridge holds the status of a historical and architectural symbol in New York. As you explore this iconic site, you’ll delve into the city’s history while enjoying a breathtaking perspective.
How to get there?
- Walk from the Financial District near Battery Park.
- If you’re staying in Brooklyn, you can walk to the bridge from DUMBO or Brooklyn Heights.
- Take the metro (line 4, 5, or 6) to City Hall station (located nearby).
- Another option is to take the bus, hop on hop off or a taxi
New York travel guide – Central Park
History of Central Park
Central Park, located in the heart of Manhattan, is a true green oasis in the city that never sleeps. This iconic 341-hectare park offers a multitude of experiences for visitors.
You can relax near the pond, stroll through the wooded trails or admire the flora and fauna. The park is home to attractions such as the Central Park Zoo, Belvedere Castle and the Imagine Memorial to John Lennon. Additionally, art lovers can explore the many sculptures and art installations scattered throughout the park.
If you are a fan of sporting activities, you will find tennis courts, baseball fields and running tracks. Central Park is also a great place for biking or rollerblading.
Whether you’re looking to relax, immerse yourself in culture, or enjoy the outdoors, Central Park is a New York City must-see. It offers a perfect balance between nature and culture in the heart of the metropolis.
How to get there:
To get to Central Park, you have several transportation options. Here are some suggestions:
- By subway: Take the subway and get off at one of the stations near Central Park.
- You can use lines A, B, C, D, 1, N, R, or W to access the park. The 59th Street-Columbus Circle station (A, B, C, D, or 1 lines) and the 5th Avenue-59th Street station (N, R, or W lines) are excellent access points.
- By bus: Bus lines M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, M10, and M104 also serve Central Park. You can check schedules and routes on the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) website to plan your bus trip.
- On foot: Being located in the heart of Manhattan, Central Park is within walking distance from many areas of the city.
New York travel guide: Central Parc by flying over it in a helicopter ⏳
One of the most popular activities
New York travel guide – Times Square
Lights and shows
Times Square is the liveliest district in New York. It’s full of dazzling lights, famous theaters and trendy boutiques. This iconic destination offers a unique experience around every corner.
Visiting Times Square is a must for travelers. You will be surrounded by giant billboards and famous theaters, including the famous Broadway. The energy of this place is thrilling, day and night.
Enjoy the ambiance, catch a Broadway musical or shop in the world-famous boutiques. Don’t miss the opportunity to take photos of the famous New Year’s Eve crystal ball.
As you explore Times Square, you will discover the beating heart of New York. It’s the perfect place to feel the vibrancy of the city that never sleeps. Don’t miss this unforgettable experience during your visit to New York.
How to get there:
To get to Times Square, take the subway (too much traffic). You can use the N, Q, R, W, 1, 2, 3, 7, and S metro lines to access this iconic neighborhood.
The Metropolitan museum of Art
Explore the cultural treasures of the New York MET
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, often called the Met, is one of the largest art museums in the world. Located in New York, it houses an exceptional collection of works of art from various eras and regions.
Visiting the Met is an unforgettable cultural experience. You can admire famous paintings, sculptures, antiques, jewelry and much more. The museum offers a variety of temporary exhibitions in addition to its permanent collections.
During your visit, be sure to see iconic works such as “Self-Portrait with a Necklace of Thorns and a Hummingbird” by Frida Kahlo and “The Portrait of George Washington” by Gilbert Stuart. You will be amazed by the diversity and quality of the works of art on display.
The Met is located along Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, near Central Park.
How to get there:
- Take the subway: You can take lines 4, 5 or 6 and get off at the 86th Street station. From there, walk a few minutes to reach the museum.
- By bus: bus lines M1, M2, M3 and M4 also serve the museum.
- On foot: If you’re staying near the museum, a pleasant walk through Central Park can take you there.
- By bike: If you’re a bike enthusiast, you can use the city’s bike-sharing system to get to the Met. Find nearby Citi Bike stations.
Schedules
- Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m.–9 p.m.
- Closed on Wednesday.
Entrance to the MET in New York
New York travel guide – The High Line
The High Line is an emblematic place in New York, located in the Chelsea district. This former railway line has been transformed into an urban linear park offering a unique experience. The High Line rises above the city streets, providing a unique perspective of Manhattan.
This urban walk allows you to relax in the middle of greenery while having a breathtaking view of the city’s architecture. There you will find gardens, art installations, rest areas, and even cultural events.
Visiting the High Line is a calming and refreshing experience in the heart of the hustle and bustle of New York. Whether you are a nature, art or architecture lover, this park will appeal to you.
How to get there:
- Take the subway to the 34th Street-Hudson Yards station (Line 7) or 14th Street-8th Avenue (Lines A, C, E, L).
The park is easily accessible from different parts of the city, making it a pleasant stroll to get there.
New York travel guide – One world observatory
Visit to the observatory
The One World Observatory is an iconic New York attraction. Located atop One World Trade Center, this observatory offers stunning views of the city and surrounding areas. It’s the perfect place to admire the Manhattan skyline.
When visiting the One World Observatory, you can enjoy breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views. You will be able to see famous landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge and Central Park. The observatory also offers interactive exhibits and an immersive experience to learn about the history of New York and the World Trade Center.
How to get there:
- Take the subway to World Trade Center Station (Lines E or C).
It’s a must-see for all visitors to New York who want to see the city from above.
New York travel guide: observatory ticket ⏳
New York travel guide – Empire State Building
A breathtaking view of New York
The Empire State Building is one of New York’s most iconic landmarks. Located in the heart of Manhattan, this historic skyscraper offers breathtaking views of the city that never sleeps. It’s the perfect place to admire the New York skyline.
When visiting the Empire State Building, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from its observatory. You will be able to see famous landmarks such as the Chrysler Building, the Brooklyn Bridge and Central Park. The observatory also offers interactive exhibits to learn about the history of the skyscraper and the city.
How to get there:
- Take the subway to 34th Street – Penn Station (Lines A, C, or E) or 34th Street – Herald Square Station (Lines B, D, F, M, N, Q, or R).
New York travel guide: Empire State Building Ticket ⏳
New York travel guide – Grand Central Terminal
The impressive architecture of Grand Central
Grand Central Terminal, located in the heart of Manhattan, is much more than just a train station. It is an architectural masterpiece and a true symbol of New York City. This iconic train station is a blend of beauty, history and functionality.
When visiting Grand Central Terminal, you will be amazed by its large main hall with its starry ceiling and its famous brass clock. You can also discover the shops, restaurants and culinary delicacies found there. It’s a great place for a coffee break or an elegant meal.
How to get there:
- Take the metro or train and arrive directly at this magnificent station. It is accessible from various metro lines and is also a major railway terminal.
New York travel guide: SUMMIT One Vanderbilt ⏳
It is located across the street from Grand Central Terminal station.
New York travel guide – Broadway
Popular shows
Broadway, nicknamed “The Great Avenue,” is a world-famous theatrical institution located in New York. It is the heart of the United States’ theater industry, home to some of the most renowned shows and A-list actors. During your visit to New York, don’t miss out on discovering the magical world of Broadway.
Broadway theaters are located along the famous avenue and offer a variety of shows, from musicals to dramas to family productions. The bright lights of Broadway and colorful billboards create a unique atmosphere, day or night.
To get tickets for Broadway shows, you can purchase them in advance online, at the theater box office, or through local concierges. If you have a particular show in mind, I recommend booking in advance , as places are often in high demand.
How to get there:
- Several subway lines serve the Broadway area, including the N, Q, R, 1, 2, 3, 7, B, D, F, M, and S lines.
New York: Lion King tickets ⏳
New York travel guide – Greenwich village
LGBTQ+ culture in the village
Greenwich Village, also nicknamed “The Village,” is an essential neighborhood in Manhattan, New York. This neighborhood is famous for its bohemian atmosphere, narrow streets and brownstone-style row houses. By visiting Greenwich Village, you will discover an artistic atmosphere and a unique cultural richness.
The area is home to many cafes, bars, restaurants and independent shops. It’s the perfect place to stroll the picturesque streets, listen to live music, and sample a wide variety of international cuisines. You can also explore parks, such as Washington Square Park, which is the heart of the neighborhood.
Greenwich Village has a rich history of counterculture and activism, and is the birthplace of the LGBT movement in the United States. The Stonewall Inn, a neighborhood bar, became iconic for LGBTQ+ rights after the Stonewall riots in 1969.
How to get there:
- Take the subway (lines A, B, C, D, E, F, M) to the West 4th Street station.
Greenwich Village is a cultural gem in New York that is absolutely worth a visit.
New York travel guide – Brooklyn Heights promenade
The Brooklyn Heights Promenade is an iconic location offering breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. Located in the Brooklyn Heights neighborhood, this promenade runs along the East River and is surrounded by a charming and historic atmosphere.
As you stroll along this magnificent promenade, you will have the opportunity to admire breathtaking panoramic views of the Brooklyn Bridge, the Manhattan Bridge, and the entire Manhattan skyline. It’s a great place to take memorable photos, relax and enjoy the cityscape.
The Brooklyn Heights neighborhood itself is full of charm, with its tree-lined streets, well-preserved row houses, and small local shops. You can also visit the Brooklyn Heights Promenade Garden, a peaceful public garden.
How to get there:
- Take the subway (lines 2, 3, 4, 5) to Clark Street station.
New York travel guide – The Edge
The highest outdoor observatory
Edge is a revolutionary attraction in New York. It is the highest observation deck in the Western Hemisphere, located at Hudson Yards on the West Bank of Manhattan. Edge offers breathtaking views of the New York skyline.
When visiting Edge, you can venture onto a glass platform that juts out from the building’s exterior, providing a unique perspective of the city. You can also enjoy interactive experiences to learn about the history of New York.
How to get there?
Take the subway to the 34th Street – Hudson Yards Station (Line 7) or take the 34th Street – Penn Station subway line (Lines A, C, or E).
New York travel guide – The 9/11 Memorial & museum
Testimonies and tributes: World Trade Center
The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is a moving and memorable site in New York. It sits on the exact location of the former World Trade Center, the site of the September 11, 2001 attacks. As a traveler, I have explored many incredible places around the world, but this one is truly unique of its kind.
The memorial is a place of contemplation and remembrance, marked by two large fountains which occupy the site of the former twin towers. Each of these fountains bears the names of all the people who lost their lives during these tragic events. I was deeply touched while standing in front of these fountains and reading the engraved names.
The museum also features a poignant exhibition that tells the personal stories of individuals affected by the attacks. I had the opportunity to view personal items of the victims as well as artifacts from the former World Trade Center. This gave me a better understanding of the scale of the tragedy and the enormous impact it had on the world.
The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is a must-see for any visit to New York. By visiting it, you will have a deep perspective on the tragic events of September 11, 2001 and you will be able to pay tribute to the victims of that day. I highly encourage you to include this tour in your stay in New York for an emotional and memorable experience.
How to get there:
- Subway: You can take lines A, C, J, Z, 2, 3, 4, 5 or E and get off at the World Trade Center subway station.
- Bus: Several bus lines serve the World Trade Center area.
- Path Train: If you’re coming from New Jersey, the Path Train is a great way to get to the site.
- On foot: If you’re staying in Manhattan’s Financial District, you can easily get to the memorial on foot.
September 11 Memorial
- Daily: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
9/11 Museum
- Wednesday: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The address for the 9/11 Memorial & Museum is: 180 Greenwich St, NY 10007.
Be sure to plan your visit with these times in mind to take full advantage of these important memorial sites during your stay in New York.
Buy your tickets in advance, as this is a busy venue.
New York travel guide: the 9/11 memorial & museum ❤
Unmissable visit…⏳
New York travel guide – SoHo
New York’s Art District
SoHo, an acronym for “South of Houston Street,” is an iconic neighborhood in Manhattan, New York. This artistic district is renowned for its art galleries, trendy boutiques, and creative atmosphere. When visiting New York, SoHo is a must to explore.
SoHo’s cobblestone streets are lined with beautiful cast iron buildings with unique architectural styles, making it a great place for a stroll. Here you will find a variety of stores, from big fashion brands to independent boutiques selling art and design items.
The neighborhood is also known for its thriving art scene. You can visit the many art galleries that exhibit contemporary and classic works. Art lovers will be delighted by the diversity of the creations on display.
The dining options in SoHo are also notable. Charming cafes and restaurants offer delicious international cuisine. Don’t forget to try the local dishes and relax in one of the beer gardens.
How to get there:
- You can take the A, C, E, 1, N, Q, R, J or Z subway lines and get off at one of the nearby stations, such as Prince Street, Spring Street or Houston Street.
The best things to do in New York
Whether you are alone or with family, the activities in New York are countless and made for you. For my part, I have been there several times with family or alone and it is better to have time because there are so many things to do and see! Here are the activities that I have selected for me and for you.
The best activities in New York: The attraction pass
Stay in New York: the most popular activities!⏳
Visit New York by helicopter: Impressive
Visit New York in hop on hop off
Do you want even more activity ideas in New York?
Where to stay in New York
The best areas to sleep in New York:
New York is a huge city with many diverse neighborhoods, each offering a unique experience. To help you choose the best neighborhood for your stay, here is a list of some of the most popular neighborhoods:
Manhattan : Manhattan is the heart of the city, home to iconic attractions such as Central Park, Times Square and Rockefeller Center. It’s an ideal choice if you want to be in the heart of the action.
Brooklyn : Across the East River, Brooklyn offers a more relaxed and trendy vibe. The Williamsburg and Bushwick neighborhoods are perfect for street art, cafes and independent boutiques.
Queens : Queens is a cultural melting pot with diverse cuisine, lush parks and fascinating museums. Long Island City and Astoria are great areas to be near Manhattan.
Harlem : Harlem is steeped in cultural history and features a vibrant jazz music scene. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to experience New York’s rich musical culture.
Lower East Side : The Lower East Side is a trendy neighborhood, known for its bars, restaurants and independent boutiques. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Upper West Side : The Upper West Side is an elegant residential neighborhood nestled between Central Park and the Hudson River. You will find peace and quiet while being close to the tourist attractions of New York.
The choice of neighborhood will depend on your preferences in terms of ambiance, budget and amenities. Don’t forget to take into account the proximity of public transport to make traveling around the city easier.
Find your hotel
Getting around New York?
Means of transport in New York
To explore the city that never sleeps, here are some practical options for getting around New York:
By subway : The New York subway is a fast and efficient means of transportation. Buy a MetroCard at ATMs or ticket counters. The cost of a ride is $2.75. If you plan to use the subway frequently, consider purchasing a 7-day unlimited card for $33.
By tourist bus : Tourist buses offer guided tours in several languages. You can hop on and off at different stops depending on your preferences. It’s a great way to discover the city while benefiting from informative commentary.
By taxi : New York yellow taxis are easily spotted and can be hailed on the street. The minimum cost of a taxi ride is $2.50, with an additional charge of $0.50 for every 1/5 mile. Additional charges apply for night shopping and airport trips.
Means of transport in New York
By bike : To avoid traffic jams and crowded public transport, opt for cycling. The city has bike paths and companies offer bike rentals. Prices vary depending on the duration of the rental and the type of bike.
On foot : Getting around on foot is a great way to explore the city. You can enjoy views of the skyscrapers and explore the neighborhoods at your own pace. Many attractions are close together, making it easy to walk from one place to another.
By ferry : For a different perspective of the city, consider taking the ferry. You can admire magnificent views of the city and iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Fares vary depending on the destination and ferry company you choose.
With these varied transportation options, you can explore New York in a flexible and convenient way.
Taxes and tipping in New York
When visiting New York, it is essential to understand the tax and tipping system, as it is an integral part of the experience. Here’s what you need to know about taxes and tipping in New York:
Sales taxes: New York charges a sales tax on most goods and services. The current sales tax rate is approximately 8.875%, but it may vary depending on locality. Be sure to take this tax into account when shopping, dining out, and doing leisure activities.
Tipping: Tipping is common in New York, where it is an essential part of the service culture. It is customary to tip for various services, such as restaurant meals, bar drinks, valet parking, porters, hairdressers, etc.
- When dining out, it is common to tip around 15-20% of the total bill. Be sure to check your bill, as some restaurants automatically include a service gratuity ( gratuity ) for large groups.
- In hotels, it is customary to tip employees who provide you with services, whether for baggage delivery, housekeeping or concierge service. A tip of a few dollars is appropriate.
- When using valet parking, tip the attendant. A tip of $2 to $5 is generally appreciated.
Keep in mind that tips are an important income supplement for many workers in New York, so be generous when the service is good.
Practical information in New York:
Practical information in New York: what you need to know
Exploring New York is an exciting adventure, but knowing some practical information is essential to make the most of your trip. Here are 9 important points to keep in mind:
Time difference : New York is in the UTC-5 time zone in winter and UTC-4 in summer (Eastern Daylight Time). Be sure to take the time difference into account if you have appointments or visits planned.
Currency : The currency in circulation is the US dollar (USD). You will find automatic teller machines (ATMs) all over town.
Language : English is the primary language in New York. Most locals speak English, but you will also find a wide diversity of languages spoken due to the city’s multiculturality.
Essential tips for a successful trip to New York
Climate : New York’s climate varies greatly depending on the seasons. Winters are cold and summers are hot. Plan your clothes accordingly.
Tipping : Tipping is common in the United States, especially in restaurants and bars. It is generally recommended to tip approximately 15-20% of the bill.
Electrical outlets : The United States uses type A and B outlets. The electrical voltage is 120 V. Make sure you have an adapter if your electrical devices are incompatible.
Transportation : New York has an excellent subway, bus and taxi network. Bring a metro card (MetroCard) to save on travel.
Security : as in any big city, it is essential to remain vigilant against petty crimes. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busy tourist areas.
Attractions : Plan your trip based on the attractions you want to visit. Some are very popular and may require advance reservations to avoid long lines.
With this information in mind, you will be ready to have a memorable experience in New York. Enjoy your trip to the Big Apple!
The formalities for going to New York
The necessary documents for my trip to New York
To explore the magnificent city of New York, it is important to take into consideration a few essential formalities for a hassle-free trip.
Passport and visa:
The first thing to check is the validity of your passport. Make sure it is valid for the duration of your stay in the United States. In addition, you will need a visa to enter the United States, unless you are a national of a country benefiting from the Visa Waiver Program. In this case, you will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ESTA) before leaving.
ESTA:
ESTA is an electronic system that allows travelers from participating countries to travel to the United States for a short-term tourist or business stay (less than 90 days) without a visa. You will need to complete an online application, ideally well before you leave, as approval may take a few days. The application costs $21, don’t go to sites where they ask you to pay more! Here is the official link for the ESTA application .
Travel insurance:
It is recommended to purchase travel insurance to cover medical costs and other unexpected expenses. Medical costs in the United States can be high, so it is essential to be properly insured.
Airline tickets:
Make sure you have all your airline tickets, hotel reservation confirmations, and other travel documents ready and accessible during your trip.
Health:
Remember to check with your doctor to make sure your vaccinations are up to date and to discuss prevention measures if necessary. It is recommended to have health insurance abroad.
Customs:
Be prepared to clear US customs upon arrival at the New York airport. Immigration officials may ask questions about the purpose of your trip, the length of your stay and other details.
Homosexuality in New York
A must-see gay-friendly destination
As a traveler, I’m always looking for LGBTQ+ friendly destinations, and New York stands out as one of the best cities for queer people along with Las Vegas .
Greenwich Village is the birthplace of New York’s LGBTQ+ community. It is one of the most gay-friendly neighborhoods, offering a diversity of bars, clubs, and restaurants. The Stonewall Inn, located in this neighborhood, is a must-see for gay tourists, as it is the scene of the famous Stonewall Uprising.
However, Greenwich Village is not the only gay-friendly neighborhood in New York. Hell’s Kitchen is another popular neighborhood, known for its concentration of bars and restaurants catering to the LGBTQ+ community. West Village and Chelsea are also welcoming neighborhoods, offering a variety of bars and clubs to suit all tastes.
Aside from nightlife, New York has many gay-friendly events and festivals. Pride Month, celebrated each June, is a highlight for the city’s LGBTQ+ community, with parades, concerts and cultural events throughout the city.
Address of LGBTQ+ bars in New York:
The Stonewall Inn: This historic bar is the birthplace of the fight for gay rights. Today it is emblematic for the LGBTQ+ community. There you can enjoy dance evenings and drag queen performances. Address: 53 Christopher St, New York, NY 10014.
Therapy: This chic and trendy bar in Hell’s Kitchen offers cocktails, live music, karaoke and drag queen nights. Address: 348 W 52nd St, New York, NY 10019.
The Monster: located in the West Village, this bar is renowned for its festive and friendly atmosphere, with dance evenings and drag queen performances. Address: 80 Grove St, New York, NY 10014.
Boxers: This gay-friendly bar in Hell’s Kitchen offers sports broadcasts, happy hours and themed nights, like underwear nights. Address: 742 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019.
Flaming Saddles: This gay-friendly country dance bar in Hell’s Kitchen is known for its sexy bartenders and dance parties. Address: 793 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019.
LGBTQ+ places in New York:
Julius: New York’s oldest gay bar, located in the West Village, offers affordable drinks and a friendly atmosphere. Address: 159 W 10th St, New York, NY 10014.
Club Cumming: Owned by actor Alan Cumming, this East Village bar offers dance parties, cabaret shows, and drag queen events. Address: 505 E 6th St, New York, NY 10009.
Hardware Bar: In Hell’s Kitchen, this bar offers affordable drinks, karaoke nights and drag queen events. Address: 697 10th Ave, New York, NY 10036.
Phoenix Bar: Located in the East Village, this bar offers affordable cocktails, dance parties, and drag queen events. Address: 447 E 13th St, New York, NY 10009.
The Boiler Room: This East Village bar is known for its dance parties, drag queen events, and affordable drinks. Address: 86 E 4th St, New York, NY 10003.
MTT wishes you the most wonderful trip to New York
