Midtown East Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and vibrant neighborhood of Midtown East in Manhattan, New York City. Find places to visit, food and drink scene, transportation options, and more in this comprehensive guide.


Introduction to Midtown East

Midtown East, located in Manhattan, New York City, is a bustling neighborhood brimming with iconic landmarks and cultural attractions. It is bordered by the East River to the east and Third Avenue to the west, with 42nd Street to the south and 59th Street to the north. Midtown East is an important hub of business and commerce, thanks to its close proximity to the United Nations headquarters, Grand Central Terminal, and Times Square. Despite the fast-paced nature of the neighborhood, Midtown East has a unique charm and offers plenty for locals and tourists alike.

List of Places to Visit in Midtown East

Midtown East is an excellent destination for exploring New York City’s top cultural attractions. Here are some of the must-visit places in the neighborhood:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): This renowned museum is home to an extensive collection of contemporary art, including works by famous artists like Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Salvador Dali.

  • The Metropolitan Museum of Art: One of the world’s largest art museums, The Met houses a vast collection of art and artifacts from around the world, including ancient Egyptian artifacts and European paintings.

  • St. Patrick’s Cathedral: This stunning neo-Gothic cathedral is one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks and features beautiful stained glass windows, sweeping arches, and towering spires.

  • Grand Central Terminal: More than just a train station, Grand Central Terminal is a hub of history, culture, and commerce. Be sure to take in the stunning Beaux-Arts architecture, explore the numerous shops and restaurants, and check out the famous whispering gallery.

Natural Attractions of Midtown East: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Central Park: While not technically in Midtown East, Central Park is just a short walk away and offers a tranquil refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city. Take a stroll through the park’s lush greenery, visit the Central Park Zoo, or rent a boat and row around the lake.

  • East River Esplanade: Take in stunning views of the East River and the Queensboro Bridge on this scenic stretch of walkway. Stop by Sutton Place Park for a more intimate experience of the riverfront.

  • Rockefeller Center: This iconic complex features beautiful gardens, fountains, and artwork throughout its plaza. Don’t miss the stunning views of the city from the Top of the Rock observation deck.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Midtown East

Central Park is an excellent destination for hiking, jogging, and biking, with over 800 acres of trails and paths. The park also offers organized fitness classes and sports leagues. For more urban adventure, check out the Hudson River Greenway, a scenic biking and jogging path along the Hudson River, or the East River Greenway, which offers spectacular views of the East River and connects to other parks and trails throughout New York City.

Best Things to Do in Midtown East: Activities and Tours

There’s always something to do in Midtown East, whether you’re into sightseeing, shopping, food, or culture. Here are some of the top things to do in the neighborhood:

  • Take a food tour: Midtown East is home to an incredible range of eateries, from classic delis and pizza joints to fancy gourmet restaurants and international cuisine. Check out a food tour to discover some of the hidden gems in the area.

  • Catch a show: Midtown East is Broadway’s backyard, and you’re guaranteed to find world-class theater productions at any given time. Check out the current shows at the iconic theaters along Broadway’s Theater District.

  • Explore the United Nations: Take a guided tour of the UN Headquarters to learn about the organization’s mission and history. Don’t miss the stunning artwork and architecture throughout the building.

Week-Long Itinerary for Midtown East

A week is the perfect amount of time to soak up all the culture, food, and history that Midtown East has to offer. Here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit The Museum of Modern Art, have lunch at The Halal Guys
Day 2 Explore Grand Central Terminal, take a food tour
Day 3 Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, see a Broadway show
Day 4 Take a guided tour of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, have dinner at Rao’s
Day 5 Bike or walk through Central Park, have lunch at Shake Shack
Day 6 Visit Rockefeller Center, take in the views from the Top of the Rock observation deck
Day 7 Go on a walking tour of the United Nations, have dinner at Daniel

Food and Drink Scene of Midtown East

Midtown East is a foodie’s paradise, with plenty of options for every budget and palate. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • The Halal Guys: A Midtown institution, The Halal Guys serve up delicious chicken, lamb, or falafel over rice, with their signature white sauce.

  • The Original Ray’s Pizza: A classic New York-style slice, served piping hot and folded in half for easy eating.

  • Rao’s: This Italian restaurant is known for its legendary meatballs and classic pasta dishes.

Local Beverages

  • Manhattan Cocktail: An iconic NYC cocktail made with bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters.

  • Brooklyn Lager: A crisp, flavorful beer brewed locally in Brooklyn, NY.

  • New York Egg Cream: A creamy, sweet beverage made with chocolate syrup, milk, and seltzer.

Where to Stay in Midtown East: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Midtown East offers plenty of options for accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are a few recommendations:

  • The Roosevelt Hotel: A classic New York City hotel located in the heart of Midtown, offering elegant rooms and modern amenities.

  • Pod 51 Hotel: A budget-friendly option with clean, compact rooms and a central location near Grand Central Terminal.

  • The Beekman: A luxury hotel in a landmark 19th-century building, featuring stunning architecture and upscale amenities.

What to Buy in Midtown East: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Midtown East is a shopper’s paradise, with numerous options for souvenir shopping and unique local products. Here are some suggestions:

  • Times Square Gift Shops: Pick up a fun souvenir like a Statue of Liberty magnet or an “I Love NY” t-shirt at one of the many gift shops around Times Square.

  • The Morgan Library & Museum Gift Shop: Browse the stylish and unique selection of books, art prints, and gifts at this elegant museum shop.

  • Grand Central Terminal Market: Pick up some local treats, like artisanal cheeses or fresh baked goods, at this bustling market in the heart of Grand Central Terminal.

Local Culture and Customs of Midtown East

Midtown East is a melting pot of cultures and customs, with a diverse population from all over the world. Visitors should respect the local customs, such as tipping servers at restaurants and being mindful of personal space on crowded sidewalks and public transportation.

Best Time to Visit Midtown East

Midtown East can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is generally in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter can be cold and snowy. Keep in mind that peak tourist season runs from May through September, so expect larger crowds and higher prices during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Midtown East

Do:

  • Do take a walking tour of the neighborhood to get a feel for local life and architecture.

  • Do explore the numerous shops and restaurants, from classic delis to fancy gourmet eateries.

  • Do visit the iconic landmarks like Grand Central Terminal and The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Don’t:

  • Don’t jaywalk or cross the street against the light. Stay aware of your surroundings and follow traffic laws to stay safe.

  • Don’t forget to tip your servers at restaurants, as tipping is standard practice in America.

  • Don’t be afraid to ask for directions or recommendations. New Yorkers are generally friendly and helpful, and happy to share insider tips on their city.

Safety and Health

Safety in Midtown East

Midtown East is generally a safe neighborhood, but visitors should take the usual precautions to ensure their safety. Keep valuable belongings secure and be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas. Use designated crosswalks and follow traffic laws to avoid accidents.

Health in Midtown East

New York City offers excellent healthcare facilities and services. Visitors should make sure they have adequate health insurance and familiarize themselves with local emergency services. It’s also important to stay hydrated and wear comfortable shoes when exploring Midtown East, as there is a lot of walking involved.

Getting to Midtown East: Transportation Options and Logistics

Midtown is a well-connected neighborhood with numerous transportation options for visitors. Here are some of the options:

Airports Near Midtown East

  • LaGuardia Airport: About 8 miles from Midtown East, accessible by taxi, bus, or shuttle.

  • John F. Kennedy International Airport: About 17 miles from Midtown East, accessible by taxi, bus, or shuttle.

  • Newark Liberty International Airport: About 17 miles from Midtown East, accessible by taxi, train, or shuttle.

Bus Stations Near Midtown East

  • Port Authority Bus Terminal: Located in Times Square, this is the main bus terminal for NYC and offers connections to destinations throughout the United States and Canada.

  • Megabus NYC: Another popular bus service with several stops throughout Midtown East and connections to other major cities on the East Coast.

Other Options

  • Subway: Midtown East is well-connected by subway lines, with numerous stops throughout the neighborhood and easy access to other parts of the city.

  • Taxi and Ride-Sharing Services: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Midtown East and can be hailed from anywhere in the neighborhood.

How to Get Around in Midtown East

Walking is the easiest way to get around Midtown East, as there are numerous sidewalks and pedestrian crossings throughout the neighborhood. Biking is also a popular option, with several bike rental companies offering hourly or daily rentals. For longer distances, visitors can take the subway, cab, or ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft.

Where to Go Next from Midtown East: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Midtown East is conveniently located near a number of other iconic New York City destinations, including:

  • Times Square: Just a 5-10 minute walk from Midtown East, Times Square is a must-visit destination for its bright lights, bustling crowds, and unrivaled energy.

  • Chelsea: A trendy neighborhood known for its art galleries and vibrant nightlife, Chelsea is just a short subway or cab ride away.

  • Brooklyn: One of the trendiest boroughs of New York City, Brooklyn is easily accessible by subway or cab and offers a unique mix of history, culture, and street art.

Conclusion

Midtown East is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re into food, culture, history, or outdoor adventure, you’re sure to find plenty of options to keep you busy and entertained. From the breathtaking museums and iconic landmarks to the vibrant food and drink scene, there’s no shortage of reasons to explore all that Midtown East has to offer.

Midtown skyline Midtown skyline The Atlas in front of St. Patrick's Cathedral at 460 Madison Ave. The Atlas in front of St. Patrick's Cathedral at 460 Madison Ave. Roosevelt Island Tram, with the Queensboro Bridge behind it Roosevelt Island Tram, with the Queensboro Bridge behind it Bergdorf Goodman department store with the Crown Building (lit up) on the left Bergdorf Goodman department store with the Crown Building (lit up) on the left The doors of the Chrysler Building, widely considered the finest of many Art Deco skyscrapers in Midtown Manhattan because of decorations that can be seen from nearby as well as its elegant shape when seen from afar The doors of the Chrysler Building, widely considered the finest of many Art Deco skyscrapers in Midtown Manhattan because of decorations that can be seen from nearby as well as its elegant shape when seen from afar The Park Avenue entrance to ''the'' Waldorf-Astoria The Park Avenue entrance to ''the'' Waldorf-Astoria