New York City

The dos & don’ts for beginners

There is a lot to do and see in the city that never sleeps!

With so much to do, it’s hard to figure out what not to do.
Here are some don’ts to consider while exploring
the Big Apple.

Don’ts

The Sidewalk

The sidewalks of NYC are very busy. Think of sidewalk etiquette like you would a busy highway. Here are some don’ts to consider while you are a pedestrian in NYC.

businessman and cell phone user stopped
DON’T stop in the middle of the sidewalk. Move to the side if you need to stop.
businessman and traveler with luggage
DON’T take up the whole sidewalk. If you’re in a large group, stick to the right.
mom and daughter asking directions
DON’T be afraid to ask for directions. Just don’t stop traffic while doing so.
bicyclist
Do keep an eye out for fast pedaling bike messengers.

Subway System (MTA)

If you plan on staying in the city, there is no reason to rent a car. NYC has A vast and efficient subway system. When using the MTA, here are some don'ts.

searching for MetroCard searching for MetroCard
DON’T hold up the line by looking for your MetroCard at the last minute.
couple taking selfie couple taking selfie
DON’T block the subway doors. When you board the train, move to the center.
couple considering empty train car couple considering empty train car
DON’T board an empty train car during rush hour. There is an unpleasant reason it’s vacant.
subway seats
Do give up your seat to an elderly, disabled or pregnant person, or a small child.
How to

Taxis

There are a lot of don’ts when trying to hail a cab in NYC. Here are some quick tips to lock down a taxi and be on your way.

1

Look at the taxi’s top light to see if it’s available.

taxi sign 2

It's easiest to hail a taxi that is on the same side of the street as you.

3

Make yourself visible by finding a good spot and stepping into the street a bit. (Street corners are best.)

4

Stick your arm up and out. There is no need whistle or holler at the driver.

5

Make eye contact with the driver.

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taxi signs
taxi
Dos

NYC is yours to explore and it’s more about the dos than the don’ts. Here are some money-saving tips that you may not see advertised.

wallet
Sometimes, the entrance fee at a museum is a suggested price. If the fee is outside your budget, offer what you can afford.
computer monitor
If you plan on attending a Broadway show, search for discount codes online or check out discount booths the day of the show.
Staten Island Ferry
Skip the expensive boat cruise to the Statue of Liberty and take the Staten Island Ferry for free.
outer boroughs
Do visit the outer boroughs of New York (Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, and the Bronx). Shopping and dining is usually cheaper.
To avoid large crowds, do take the road less traveled. Consider visiting one of these hidden gem locations.
The Staten Island Boat Graveyard

The Staten Island Boat Graveyard

Where: 2453 Arthur Kill Road,
Staten Island, NY 10309

Secret Garden at St. Luke in the Fields

Secret Garden at St. Luke in the Fields

Where: 487 Hudson St.,
New York, N.Y. 10014

Whispering Gallery in Grand Central Terminal

Whispering Gallery in Grand Central Terminal

Where: 89 E. 42nd St.,
New York, N.Y. 10017

One-room Discrete Houdini Museum

One-room Discrete Houdini Museum

Where: 421 7th Avenue, Third Floor,
New York, N.Y., 10001

One last to-do:
Have a wonderful trip!