Flying Into New York

You can book flights to multiple different New York area airports such as New York-LaGuardia (LGA), New York-Kennedy (JFK), or Newark (EWR).

New York's LaGuardia airport is the closest to the city center and is in the process of a major remodel. Flights to New York-LaGuardia are limited to a maximum distance, so if you're flying cross-country, you'll likely fly into either New York-JFK or Newark airports, which handle international flights as well. All three airports have plenty of shopping, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary airport shuttles between the terminals within each airport.

There are multiple transportation options to/from New York airports. At all airports, you'll be able to take a taxi or ride share service. Choose from express coach bus service or MTA bus service to/from New York-LaGuardia. AirTrain service is available in all terminals at both New York-JFK and Newark airports, which will connect you to the Long Island Railroad, New Jersey Transit, or MTA subway.

You'll have your choice of airline when flying to/from New York. All major domestic and international airlines fly into New York's airports. Delta and JetBlue have hubs at JFK, while Delta and American have abundant flights to/from LaGuardia. United dominates at Newark airport, but Southwest has been busy adding flights to/from Newark as well.

Getting Around New York

Most people choose not to drive around New York City. The streets are very busy and public transportation is accessible throughout the city. The MTA subway and bus services are cheap and convenient for getting around the city center. Get a MetroCard at any station for use on any service in the MTA network.

Taxi services are easy to find by just hailing a cab on the street. Alternatively, you can use the NYC Bike Share program, which allows you to cycle from place to place at your own pace by paying a single fee for unlimited 30 min. rides.

Things to Do in New York

New York is full of things to do for any type of person. You can go to see a Broadway show, visit one of the many museums such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, or take a tour around Manhattan island. Popular shopping districts in New York include SoHo (which means south of Houston St.), Fifth Ave. for high end stores, and Chinatown, which has many off-brand items and cheap souvenirs to buy.

New York is home to some of the best cuisine in the world. Choose from Italian, Chinese, Greek, Brazilian, Indian, and many other styles of food. With such a diverse population, you can taste local dishes from nearly every corner of the world all in the same city. New York is best known for its pizza, which has no comparison. Grab a slice at Joe's Pizza in Greenwich Village or head to Brooklyn and try Di Fara Pizza. For a true New York experience, grab a bite at one of the many small and independent bodegas or delicatessens.

Nightlife hotspots are found all around the city. Many converge in the east village for live music venues such as Mercury Lounge. Head to Greenwich Village for some of New York's best comedy acts at the Comedy Cellar. If you're into trendy clubs, check out the Chelsea neighborhood near the Meatpacking District for dance halls such as Oak or Marquee. Head to Astoria in Queens for some massive beer halls at Studio Square or the Bohemian Beer Garden.

What to Know About New York

New York is nicknamed the “Big Apple” and is the largest city in the USA. This vibrant city is rich in history and culture from all over the world. The weather is most pleasant in the spring and fall. Summers bring high humidity and winters are cold and snowy, but New York has plenty to do in any season.

New York offers many free activities to enjoy a trip on a budget. A stroll through Central Park is a great way to spend an afternoon. On Fridays, you can visit the Museum of Modern Art for free and in the summer many outdoor parks have free movie screenings. The Brooklyn Brewery offers free tours and you can sign-up for free kayaking on the Hudson river at the Manhattan Community Boathouse or along the East River at the Long Island City Community Boathouse in Queens.