About New York
New York State stretches from the Atlantic coast and the world-famous boroughs of New York City northward through the Hudson Valley, past the Catskill and Adirondack mountains, across the glacier-carved Finger Lakes, and west to the Great Lakes and Niagara Falls. The state is home to 19.7 million residents and draws tens of millions of international and domestic visitors each year. New York City alone boasts over 800 languages, more than any other city on Earth, making the state a microcosm of global culture. Beyond the city, charming small towns, centuries-old farms, award-winning wineries, and pristine wilderness offer visitors a deeply American experience far from the urban crowds.
Quick Overview
Capital: Albany
Largest City: New York City
Population: 19.7 million
Languages: English, Spanish, Chinese, Italian, Russian, Yiddish
Currency: US Dollar
Time Zone: Eastern Time (ET) — UTC-5 / UTC-4 (DST)
Explore New York by Topic
Best Places to Visit in New York
Discover the top 5 must-see destinations in New York, from iconic landmarks to off-the-beaten-path treasures.
American Museum of Natural History
Central Park
Niagara Falls
Intrepid Museum
Coney Island
Recommended Itineraries for New York
Plan your perfect New York trip with our expertly crafted itineraries for every travel style and duration.
5-Day New York Explorer
- Day 1: Arrive in New York, explore city center
- Day 2: Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3: Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4: Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5: Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic New York
- Days 1-2: New York city highlights
- Days 3-4: Regional exploration
- Days 5-6: Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7: Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate New York
- Days 1-3: New York comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6: Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9: Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12: Southern attractions
- Days 13-14: Return to New York, departure
Where to Stay in New York
From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, New York offers accommodations for every traveler.
Budget Options ($75)
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-Range ($200)
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury ($550)
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
CitizenM Times Square
Freehand New York
Pod 51
Where to Eat in New York
Discover the culinary delights of New York, from local street food to fine dining experiences.
Katz's Delicatessen
Carbone
Via Carota
Getting Around New York
Budget Breakdown for New York
Plan your spending with our comprehensive cost guide. Currency: USD.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $35 | $120 | $350 |
| Food (per day) | $20 | $50 | $130 |
| Transportation | $10 | $20 | $50 |
| Activities | $10 | $30 | $70 |
| Daily Total | $75 | $200 | $550 |
Best Time to Visit New York
Best Season: Year-round
Essential Travel Tips for New York
- Purchase a 7-day MetroCard if spending multiple days in NYC ($34 unlimited)
- Book Broadway shows well in advance for popular productions
- Consider renting a car for any travel outside of New York City
- New York City has a 8.875% sales tax; hotel room taxes can add 14–20% to room rates
Safety Information
Travel Advisory
No specific travel advisories for New York State. Follow standard travel precautions. NYC tourist areas are heavily policed and generally very safe.
Establish a meeting point in each attraction in case children get separated
All children should carry a card with your hotel name and your phone number
NYC subways are generally safe but hold children's hands on platforms and in crowded cars
Apply sunscreen for outdoor activities in summer; children dehydrate quickly in NYC heat
Register at Adirondack trailheads before hiking with children and carry a first aid kit
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit New York?
The best time to visit New York is year-round. Check local conditions may have less favorable conditions.
Do I need a visa for New York?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Check with your nearest embassy or consulate for New York for current requirements before travel.
How many days do I need in New York?
For a comprehensive New York experience, we recommend 7-10 days. However, you can have a great trip in 5 days focusing on highlights.
Is New York expensive to visit?
Budget travelers can expect $75 per day, mid-range $200, and luxury $550.