Manhattan Travel Guide

Read this comprehensive guide to Manhattan to plan your vacation. Learn about must-visit places, local culture, food & drink scene, and more.


Known as the cultural, financial, and entertainment capital of the world, Manhattan is one of the most popular travel destinations. This island borough of New York City has something to offer to everyone: from the arts to food, history, architecture, and shopping. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a virtual tour of Manhattan, covering everything from places to visit, food, culture, safety, and more.

Introduction to Manhattan

Manhattan is an island located in the heart of New York City. It is home to some of the world’s most prominent landmarks, including the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, and the Statue of Liberty. Manhattan is divided into several neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm and attractions. Some popular neighborhoods include Chelsea, SoHo, Greenwich Village, and the Upper East Side.

List of Places to Visit in Manhattan

No visit to Manhattan is complete without exploring its iconic landmarks and attractions. Here are some must-visit places to add to your list:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Metropolitan Museum of Art
  • The American Museum of Natural History
  • The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
  • Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration
  • The National September 11 Memorial and Museum

Natural Attractions of Manhattan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Central Park
  • The High Line
  • Hudson River Park
  • The Brooklyn Bridge
  • Governors Island

Hiking/Biking Routes of Manhattan

Manhattan may be known for its skyscrapers, but it also boasts several beautiful parks and trails perfect for hiking and biking. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes to explore:

  • The Hudson River Greenway
  • Central Park Loop
  • Highbridge Park Trail
  • South County Trailway
  • Staten Island Greenbelt Trail

Best Things to Do in Manhattan: Activities and Tours

With so much to do, finding the best things to do in Manhattan can be overwhelming. Here are some activities and tours to make your itinerary planning easier:

  • Broadway Shows
  • Helicopter Tours
  • Food Tours
  • Private Walking Tours
  • The Ride New York

Week-Long Itinerary for Manhattan

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Manhattan, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activities
Day 1 Central Park: Boating, Biking, and Picnic
Day 2 Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
Day 3 Top of the Rock Observatory and MoMA
Day 4 Greenwich Village and SoHo
Day 5 Empire State Building and Broadway Show
Day 6 The High Line and Chelsea Market
Day 7 Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO

Food and Drink Scene of Manhattan

Manhattan is known for its diverse and exciting food and drink scene. Some must-try dishes and local beverages include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pizza
  • Bagels and Lox
  • Pastrami Sandwich
  • Hot Dogs
  • Cheesecake

Local Beverages

  • Manhattan Cocktail
  • Brooklyn Lager
  • Apple Cider
  • Cold Brew Coffee
  • Club Soda

Where to Stay in Manhattan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Manhattan has a range of accommodations to fit any budget. Here are some popular options:

  • Luxury hotels like The Plaza Hotel, The Peninsula, The Ritz-Carlton
  • Budget-friendly hotels like Pod 51, Hotel Pennsylvania
  • Hostels like HI New York City Hostel, The Local NYC

What to Buy in Manhattan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Manhattan, don’t forget to buy some souvenirs. From trendy fashion items to iconic souvenirs, here are some things you can bring home:

  • I Love NY T-Shirts
  • Broadway Show Memorabilia
  • Bagels and Deli Spices
  • Designer Clothing and Accessories
  • Artisanal Food Products

Local Culture and Customs of Manhattan

Manhattan has a diverse population and a unique local culture. Here are some things to keep in mind to respect local culture:

  • Tipping is expected in restaurants and other service industries.
  • New Yorkers are generally fast-paced and direct in their communication.
  • Don’t touch anyone without their permission.
  • Smoking is not allowed in most public places.

Best Time to Visit Manhattan

Manhattan is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences and interests. Here’s a breakdown:

  • For mild weather and fewer crowds, visit in the spring or fall.
  • For warm weather and outdoor activities, visit in the summer.
  • For the holiday festivities and winter activities, visit in the winter.

Do’s and Don’ts of Manhattan

Here are some Do’s and Don’ts to ensure you have an enjoyable and smooth trip to Manhattan:

Do:

  • Explore neighborhoods beyond tourist hotspots.
  • Use public transportation to get around.
  • Experience New York’s diverse food scene.
  • Be mindful of your belongings and surroundings.
  • Take in the architecture and history of the city.

Don’t:

  • Stop in the middle of sidewalks or crosswalks.
  • Expect everyone to be friendly or chatty.
  • Hail a cab that is already occupied.
  • Forget to buy tickets to popular attractions in advance.
  • Carry large bags or valuables in crowded areas.

Safety and Health

It’s always important to take care of your safety and health while traveling. Here are some tips to keep in mind when visiting Manhattan:

Safety in Manhattan

  • Stay aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
  • Keep your valuables secure and out of sight.
  • Avoid walking alone at night.
  • Take caution when using ATMs and credit cards.

Health in Manhattan

  • Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen during the summer months.
  • Use insect repellent and protective clothing when spending time outdoors.
  • Seek medical attention if you feel sick or experience any health concerns.

Getting to Manhattan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Manhattan is accessible via several modes of transportation. Here are some transportation options and logistics to help you plan your trip:

Airports Near Manhattan

  • John F. Kennedy International Airport
  • LaGuardia Airport
  • Newark Liberty International Airport

Bus Stations Near Manhattan

  • Port Authority Bus Terminal
  • Greyhound Bus Terminal
  • Mega Bus

Other Options

  • Amtrak Train
  • Personal Vehicle

How to Get Around in Manhattan

Manhattan has several options for getting around, including the subway, buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft.

Where to Go Next from Manhattan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Manhattan is a great starting point for exploring nearby destinations and excursions. Here are some options:

  • Visiting nearby boroughs like Brooklyn and Queens
  • Exploring the Hudson Valley or the Catskill Mountains
  • Taking a trip to nearby beaches like Jones Beach or Coney Island
  • Visiting nearby cities like Philadelphia or Boston.

Conclusion

Manhattan is a destination that cannot be missed while visiting the United States. From its iconic attractions, diverse food scene, and diverse neighborhoods, Manhattan has something to offer to everyone. We hope this comprehensive guide helps you plan your trip to Manhattan and experience the city to the fullest.

Street map of Manhattan Street map of Manhattan Grand Central Terminal at 89 E 42nd St. is the second busiest train station in North America Grand Central Terminal at 89 E 42nd St. is the second busiest train station in North America The new Moynihan Train Hall in Penn Station, the busiest train station in the Western Hemisphere with over 600,000 passengers a day The new Moynihan Train Hall in Penn Station, the busiest train station in the Western Hemisphere with over 600,000 passengers a day Pro tip: the subway gets crowded during rush hour...or all the time depending on what people do with their lives Pro tip: the subway gets crowded during rush hour...or all the time depending on what people do with their lives The skyline of Lower Manhattan The skyline of Lower Manhattan Outside the Guggenheim Museum Outside the Guggenheim Museum Washington Square Park Washington Square Park The Chrysler Building in Manhattan, from the corner of Lexington Ave. The Chrysler Building in Manhattan, from the corner of Lexington Ave. Twice a year (in late May and mid-July), Manhattan's street grid lines up precisely with the setting sun. Astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson has dubbed it '''Manhattanhenge''', and it's becoming a popular sight and subject for photographs, even among jaded New Yorkers. (A similar phenomenon happens at sunrise in the winter, but who's up that early?) Twice a year (in late May and mid-July), Manhattan's street grid lines up precisely with the setting sun. Astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson has dubbed it '''Manhattanhenge''', and it's becoming a popular sight and subject for photographs, even among jaded New Yorkers. (A similar phenomenon happens at sunrise in the winter, but who's up that early?) Radio City Music Hall at 1260 Avenue of the Americas Radio City Music Hall at 1260 Avenue of the Americas There's many a parade in Manhattan There's many a parade in Manhattan Rockefeller Center at Christmas time Rockefeller Center at Christmas time Hot dog cart Hot dog cart Manhattan's luxury hotels know how to put on the ritz Manhattan's luxury hotels know how to put on the ritz New Jersey Route 495 New Jersey Route 495


    Central Park
    Financial District
    Gramercy Flatiron
    Harlem and Upper Manhattan
    Midtown East
    Theater District
    TriBeCa