New York City is one of the most attractive places to visit. The city’s fast-paced and vibrant life, offers so much to do and enjoy for tourists. It’s the cultural and economic hub of the United States of America. But planning a trip to New York isn’t as easy as you may think.
To get most out of your visit to New York, you must plan it well in advance, keeping a close eye on your itinerary, your luggage requirements, and above all, the cost of the visit.
In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know before planning your trip to New York. We will mention about the best time to visit New York and budget tips for visiting New York. Essentially, this blog you’ll get to understand how to plan a trip to New York.
What to keep in mind while planning a trip to New York
There are several aspects that you need to consider beforehand when you plan a trip to New York.
- What you should pack for your trip,
- What activities do you want to engage yourself in,
- Your accommodation,
- How long will you stay there
These are some important aspects that you must consider before you plan your trip to New York.
How are we getting to and getting around New York
One of the most important questions to answer relates to how you should go to New York? The short answer is to book a direct flight. Now, once you reach there, it’s important to understand how to navigate New York’s public transportation system. Will you take a flight? Will you prefer to visit New York by train? Will you take a bus to New York? If you are on a budget, you should take a bus or opt for New York subway. Otherwise, if you have bucks to spend, you can take a flight to New York.
Flights to New York
With an average price of $237, January is the least expensive month to book a trip to New York. If you plan a trip to New York in June, it may be expensive for you (an average of $338).
You must compare the fares that various airlines offer. Moreover, you must keep track of the flight schedule to avoid any unnecessary delays. It’s important for you to research the market and the internet for the cheapest flights to New York. If your budget allows, you should visit the city in January. The question remains: Is there anything to do in New York in January? Read the blog in full to get your answer.
How To Get Around In New York
New York is a big city, and there are quite a few options for you to try out while exploring the sights and sounds of New York.
The best modes of transportation in New York include the New York Subway, the iconic yellow cabs, and the buses. These three are among the most budget-friendly and readily available options. You can also use ride hailing apps, like Lyft and Uber. Both apps work just fine in New York. But if you have a few bucks to spare and want to enjoy your time to the fullest, you can book a helicopter or a yacht tour.
When Should We Visit New York?
Now comes the most important question, when should we visit New York? Well, it all depends upon your budget and the kind of activities you want to engage yourself in. New York has something for everyone. So, why you should lag behind.
If you plan a four-day visit to New York, do check out our blog, what to pack for 4 days in New York.
Holiday Season Is December To February
During the holiday festive season, New York City is engulfed in shimmering lights. You can visit the Rockefeller Center to see the towering Christmas Tree that stands there throughout the Christmas season. You can also go shopping in New York during winter and get your hands on home décor, festive attire, and other things that catch your fancy at discounted prices.
You can visit a church and participate in a choir to make your day count. If you plan to visit New York in holiday season, it may cost you dearly, as hotel booking prices are at peak during festivities.
As mentioned earlier, you can opt for an affordable and budget-friendly flights in January. It can be a more suitable option for you.
Before you travel to New York, you must pack your luggage with all your favorite attire. You can opt for cozy jumpsuit with trousers, or a stylish top to go with jeans. The choice is yours. But remember to wear your style and enjoy your time in New York.
If you’re still finding it difficult to choose your favorite clothes, don’t worry, we have got your back. Read our blog, What to wear in New York to have an idea. Given that it would be colder than usual, do search for a New York winter packing list.
Spring In New York March to May
Spring is the most amazing time to travel to New York. The weather is just perfect for outdoor activities. Bright tulips blossom in tree pits, window boxes, squares, and parks, and cherry trees begin to bloom. You can visit Brooklyn Botanic Garden, on Roosevelt Island, and Central Park to capture the lovely sight. In April, the city’s outdoor eating extravaganza formally opens for all – locals and tourists alike.
It gets a touch warm during May, but you can still enjoy being in New York, without getting messy. You must have a diverse packing list for New York spring, given the changing weather conditions that can influence your traveling plans.
Summer In New York From June to August
While you can have a good time in New York during spring, summer is the best season to engage yourself in outdoor activities in New York. During summer, New York gets more lively. The city hosts a variety of festivals, parties, and events across the five boroughs.
You can attend the US Open Tennis Grand Slam at Queens, the Pride March in Manhattan, the Puerto Rican Day Parade, and the Mermaid Parade in Coney Island, while in New York during this happening season. Moreover, you can also plan a beach trip to enjoy your time.
June’s pleasant weather entices New Yorkers to leave their workplace and enjoy sometime in lush green areas – parks to enjoy some live music performances and parades.
In July, New York attracts the most foreigners and European visitors. The Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks are spectacular, and Shakespeare in the Park offers free theatrical performances. Have a look at the packing list for New York summer and plan your trip accordingly.
Almost Fall In New York From September to December
The mild fall weather adds a peculiar attraction to the city’s ambience and feel. During this season you can catch up with Broadway performances and new art exhibitions to make your experience count. You can witness the West Indian American Day Parade in Brooklyn where spectators dance down Eastern Parkway. You can also attend the Little Italy’s Feast of San Gennaro feast on sausage and peppers. Though hotel prices might not drop as much, you should not expect to get any good deals on hotel bookings.
The air grows crisp, and the colors of the leaves begin to change as the autumn season takes hold. Being mindful of the weather, you must have a look at the packing list for New York fall. While visiting New York in fall, you have a chance to attend and cherish more cultural activities at Open House. During the fall season, the Comic Con takes over the Javits Center. You can also attend the Village Halloween Parade during October.
If you plan a visit to New York in fall, you can attend the NYC marathon that commences just before the Thanksgiving day. You can also witness the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and feel yourself proud.
If you are on a budget, it’s better to pick budget-friendly flights and pack your luggage accordingly. Do check out our NYC packing lists to ensure you don’t miss this chance to enjoy your time in the city of lights.
What To Do When We Get There?
New York has something to offer all year round. Whether you are here for a few days or a week, you must make a list of activities you want to participate in during your time in the city. There are many indoor and outdoor activities that you can enjoy depending on your budget and nature of the trip.
Visit Tourist Sites
If you really feel like getting out, check out the Grand Central Station. It truly is a marvel of art and grand architecture. It’s classic remnant of one of the powerful American families. You can also visit the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Empire State Building. Just be mindful of how some places take prior bookings a year in advance, otherwise, you might miss your chance to visit them.
Go For A Broadway Show
New York is known for its popular theatrical performances. How about you catch a Broadway show or a ballet show while it rains. It can be an exciting thing to do in New York for first-timers. Catch a show and make the most of your trip.
Check Out The Bars and The Nightlife
New York is home to most vibrant nightlife culture, thanks to thriving nightclubs. You can visit the Refinery Bar, which is one of the finest bars in Midtown, NYC. Take your date and have a warm cuddle by the fireplace and enjoy some tasty food and exquisite cocktails. It’s a romantic thing to do in NYC.
Brunches are some unusual things to do in New York on a weekday since you break away from otherwise hectic life of the city. You can have a ball at a brunch with your friends. You might want to spend a few hours exploring Mario Batali’s Italian food market to tantalize your taste buds. You can also check out Eataly’s La Scuola and taste their gourmet ingredients. It can be a rather fun thing to do in NYC on weekends.
Go On A Cruise
Not everyone likes to stay indoors, while visiting New York. If you have the same interests, you can opt for a cruise service and visit the Statue of Liberty, Elis Island. It can be one of the bucket list things to do in New York. But remember, your cruise trip depends on weather conditions, so be ready for the best, and be prepared for the worst.
Conclusion
This blog details the best time to visit New York, and also covers the travel tips, budgeting tips, things you can do, and what to expect while in New York, during every season. Now it’s your turn to make your New York visit a memorable one that you can cherish for your life. Whatever you plan and decide, we hope you would have a wonderful trip.
What is the best month to go to New York?
There is no definite answer to this question. Some people want to visit New York to experience the city’s extravagant nightlife, others may want to check out the historical exhibits and art culture or indulge themselves in the sights and sounds of the city. However, there are two specific seasons in which many people prefer to visit New York. Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to November). During these seasons, there are fewer people around, weather is just perfect with cozy winds, to make your New York trip a memorable one.
What is the cheapest month to go to NYC?
There is no clear answer to this question. While you can book affordable or cheap flights to New York in January just after the New Year celebrations are over, the hotel and accommodation are a bit expensive. The hotel bookings fluctuate during the spring and summer seasons before skyrocketing in winter, owing to Christmas and New Year. However, you must also consider your budget and the duration of your stay in New York to have a clear idea of how you want to spend your leisure time there.
