New York is without a doubt one of the most popular cities in the world – and for good reason! It is not only the personification of the “American Dream” but also offers a unique atmosphere, fantastic sights, and masses of culinary highlights.
If you too are planning to go to New York soon, there is a lot to discover – a lot!
There is no question that you will explore a few tourist highlights, such as the Empire State Building, Time Square, or the Statue of Liberty. But even far away from the tourist hotspots, New York has many treasures to discover.
We have collected the best insider tips for New York and show you which ones you should not miss on your trip!
Insider tip 1: New York High Lane
New York High Lane
The green oasis and heart of New York (EZ PASS NY) is Central Park. A real insider tip, however, is the New York High Lane in western Manhattan.
The green park above the rooftops of New York serves as a recreational area and was created on the disused elevated railway line. Besides a fantastic view over Chelsea and the Meatpacking District, the High Lane also offers numerous sunbathing areas to get some sun, small bistros for the hunger in between, live performances by artists and for sports enthusiasts there are various wellness courses such as Tai Chi classes.
Admission to the High Lane is completely free and opening hours vary from 7 am to 7-11 pm.
Insider tip 2: City Hall Metro Station
City Hall Metro
In New York, the obligatory metro ride is simply part of it. A special subway station that takes you on a little time travel is City Hall. The station was built in 1904 and almost 40 years later it was closed again. Since then it is no longer in use – but you can still admire it.
Besides beautiful architectural details and decorated glass elements, the station exudes a nostalgic charm. To get an impression yourself, you can book a tour through the City Hall Station.
A little cheaper – but also much faster – is the ride with the subway line 6 to the final station. Do not get off there! The train makes a loop and passes the City Hall Station.
Insider tip 3: HBO Film Festival Bryant Park
Film Festival Bryant Park
If you are visiting New York during the summertime, the HBO Film Festival in the famous Bryant Park is a real insider tip. It takes place from June to August and shows film classics like Casablanca, Ghostbusters or Footloose every Monday evening.
The special thing: The film festival is completely free! And although there are a few tables and chairs, most New Yorkers sit on the grass with their big blankets and picnic baskets while enjoying the film.
Insider tip 4: Eat, eat and eat again
New York pizza
For many, New York is the Mecca of culinary highlights. From pizza and cronuts, to hot dogs and steaks – in New York simply everyone can find what they are looking for.
Some of the most important restaurants you should definitely visit are Katz’s Deli (order a pastrami sandwich here), Bleeker Street Pizza, Gray’s Papaya for super hot dogs, and Serendipity III for unbeatable desserts (especially recommended is the “Forbidden Broadway Sundae”).
Insider tip 5: Above the rooftops of New York
Top of the Rock Observatory
You can get a good view of New York in many places. However, if you want to save yourself the long queue in front of the Empire State Building, we recommend you go to Rockefeller Center instead.
On the roof of the building is the “Top of the Rock Observatory”, from which you have a fantastic view over all of New York.
Unlike the Empire State Building, the viewing platform of the Top of the Rocks Observatory is protected by high glass walls – these give an unobstructed view of the skyline and allow for fantastic souvenir photos.
Insider tip 6: Feast on the Chelsea Market
Chelsea Market
New York has a lot to offer – especially in markets. From antiques to books and clothes. But a real insider tip is the Chelsea Market in the famous Meatpacking District.
The covered hall once housed a biscuit factory where Oreo biscuits were invented. In the meantime, however, Chelsea Market has become a real mecca for foodies.
In addition to cupcakes, fresh bread and fish, you can also enjoy Italian specialities and drink a glass of wine. We especially recommend the small bakery Sarabeth’s. The cookies are great and if you are a little more hungry, you should try the “Pumpkin Waffle”.
Insider tip 7: Paley Park
Explore the world and learn languages abroad
Also an absolute insider tip for New York is Paley Park in Midtown.
This small oasis is located on Madison Avenue and 53rd Street and offers a true place of tranquility if you want to escape the hectic pace of the city. The highlight of the park is without question the 6 meter high waterfall, which is illuminated especially in the evening in bright light.
Insider tip 8: Brooklyn Bridge Photo Safari
Brooklyn Bridge new
If you’re ever out of Manhattan, you can take a tour of Brooklyn. Not only are there many trendy neighborhoods, such as Williamsburg, Brooklyn Heights & Dumbo, but you also have one of the best views of the New York skyline.
Especially in the evening, the long boardwalk along the East River is recommended. You should definitely make a short stop at the Brooklyn Bridge because you can take probably the most beautiful pictures from here.
Insider tip 9: Brighton & Manhattan Beach
Brighton Beach Coney Island
If you are in New York for the first time, the world metropolis can be quite overwhelming. Take a break and go to one of the many beaches, like Brighton Beach or Manhattan Beach. Both are located on the small Coney Island peninsula in the south of Brooklyn.
The miles-long white sandy beach offers pure Italy feeling and allows you to cool off in the Atlantic Ocean on hot summer days. Brighton Beach also offers many Russian and Ukrainian restaurants while Manhattan Beach offers various sports fields.
Insider tip 10: “The Water Table”
Water Table boat trip
Our last New York insider tip is a boat trip with “The Water Table”. The boat is an old military ship and offers a large viewing platform.
The trip starts in Greenpoint in Brooklyn and passes many sights like the Brooklyn Bridge, the New York Harbor, and also the Statue of Liberty. At the same time, you will also receive an extremely tasty three-course meal during the 2.5-hour boat trip.