New York Travel Guide

NYC Travel Guide: Where to Eat, Stay, and Explore

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The bright lights and big-city action of New York lure more than 60 million annual visitors, who fan out to explore the culture, food, shopping, nightlife, and historic landmarks.

It’s a city on the move, and walking is the way to really get a feel for New York. Just prepare to set daily step count records, between elbowing past commuters in Midtown, strolling the High Line in Chelsea, museum-hopping on the Upper East Side, making your way across the Brooklyn Bridge, or brunching and browsing in Williamsburg. If you need a break, consider catching one of the ferries that ply the East and Hudson Rivers (the Staten Island ferry is free).  

A lifetime, let alone one visit, isn’t enough to do justice to New York. There are five boroughs worth of diverse neighborhoods – with brownstones and soaring skyscrapers – and the event calendar is packed 365 days a year, from Broadway and indie shows to sports events like the US Open.  

To help make the most of your next stay, we’ve pulled together some favorite things to do in New York City with insights from Amex Travel’s local expert Antonia, plus Fine Hotels + Resorts® and The Hotel Collection properties for every type of traveler, and sought-after restaurants available on Resy. Read on for our picks and the benefits that eligible Card Members can enjoy when booking through American Express Travel®.  

Calendar

Best Time to Visit

For temperate weather, spring (April/May) or autumn (September/October) are your best bets. New York’s festive spirit shines in winter but bundle up as temperatures can drop below freezing. Summer brings street fairs and outdoor events, along with humidity.  

Airplane

Getting There

Recommended Flights offers Platinum Card® Members access to lower fares on select routes with Delta.* Plus, Platinum Card Members earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on up to $500,000 per calendar year on flights booked through American Express Travel® or flights purchased directly from airlines.*

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) – 16 miles

LaGuardia Airport (LGA) – 8.5 miles

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) – 17 miles

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