Empire State Building
Iconic 102-story Art Deco skyscraper with observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors
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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.
- 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
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in New York
The 3 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Niagara Falls State Park
America's oldest state park, home to the thundering American and Bridal Veil Falls
Central Park
840-acre urban oasis in the heart of Manhattan beloved by locals and visitors alike
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day New York Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in New York, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic New York
- Days 1-2New York city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate New York
- Days 1-3New York comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to New York, departure
Where to stay in New York
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $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
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Katz's Delicatessen
Carbone
Via Carota
Getting around New York
Transportation options in New York include local buses, taxis, and rental cars. Check local conditions before planning your travel.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| 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
Essential travel tips
- 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
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
Is New York safe to visit in 2026?
New York State is a safe destination for domestic and international travelers. New York City has one of the lowest crime rates per capita of any large US city and is generally safe for solo travelers, families, and LGBTQ+ visitors. Standard urban precautions apply, and upstate areas require awareness of wildlife and weather conditions. Emergency services: police at 911, medical at 911.
What is the best time to visit New York?
The best time to visit New York is April–June and September–October. New York State has a continental humid climate with four distinct seasons. New York City enjoys relatively mild winters (average low 27°F / -3°C in January) and hot, humid summers (average high 84°F /
Do I need a visa to visit New York?
Entry requirements follow United States federal rules. Most international visitors require either an ESTA (for Visa Waiver Program countries) or a US visa obtained in advance. Citizens of Canada and certain other countries may enter without a visa for short stays. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in New York?
The currency in New York is the US Dollar (USD). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in New York?
The main language(s) spoken in New York: English, Spanish, Chinese. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in New York?
The top attractions in New York include Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island, Central Park, Metropolitan Museum of Art, and Niagara Falls State Park. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.