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New York City, USA

New York City, often nicknamed "The Big Apple" or simply "NYC," stands as a premier global hub for media, entertainment, arts, fashion, innovation, finance, and commerce. As the vibrant, multicultural core of the world's fourth-largest urban area and the most densely populated city in the United States, it has served as a primary gateway and emblematic metropolis for the nation since its founding as New Amsterdam by Dutch settlers in 1624, later renamed New York in 1664 under British rule.

Iconic symbols abound in this dynamic city, from the majestic Statue of Liberty welcoming visitors in the harbor to the soaring Empire State Building dominating the Manhattan skyline, and from the historic Brooklyn Bridge connecting boroughs to the bustling energy of Broadway theaters. Beneath the streets, the extensive subway system—with over 472 stations and 665 miles of track—pulses with life, while above, the financial might of Wall Street drives global markets as home to the New York Stock Exchange. The neon glow of Times Square dazzles with advertisements and crowds, Central Park offers 843 acres of serene green space amid the urban jungle, and sports venues like Yankee Stadium in the Bronx or the Barclays Center in Brooklyn host thrilling events for teams such as the Yankees, Mets, Knicks, and Nets. Neighborhoods like Harlem, known for its rich African American history and jazz heritage, and Chinatown, with its authentic dim sum and festivals, have become cultural touchstones etched into the national psyche. Here, America's ambition, affluence, and diversity shine through in one of the planet's most recognizable skylines, in street food staples like hot dogs and pretzels available on every block, and in a melting pot of residents hailing from every continent.

Situated at the Hudson River's estuary in the southern tip of New York State, within the heart of the Mid-Atlantic region, New York City comprises five distinct boroughs—Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island—and houses around 8.5 million residents. The broader New York Metropolitan Area, encompassing parts of lower New York, northern New Jersey, and southwestern Connecticut, boasts a population of approximately 19.2 million, ranking it as the nation's largest metro region.

As a powerhouse in international finance, diplomacy, media, cinema, music, style, and culture, NYC ranks among the globe's most pivotal and impactful urban centers. It hosts renowned institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), and the Guggenheim, alongside Broadway's world-famous productions. Headquarters for Fortune 500 giants such as JPMorgan Chase, Citigroup, and tech innovators like Google and Amazon dot the landscape. The United Nations headquarters anchors its role in global affairs, with consulates from nearly every nation present. Choices made in boardrooms and city halls here frequently ripple across the world, influencing economies, policies, and trends.

With immigrants and their families from more than 180 countries—speaking over 800 languages—New York City epitomizes cosmopolitanism, fostering neighborhoods like Little Italy, Koreatown, and Jackson Heights that celebrate global cuisines from falafel to pho. This magnetic allure draws millions of tourists annually, enticed by its unparalleled vibrancy, cultural depth, and endless opportunities.

Boroughs
New York City is divided into five distinct boroughs, each operating as its own county with a rich, individual identity. These boroughs are large and dynamic enough to function as standalone major cities, featuring neighborhoods—sometimes just a handful of blocks—that boast unique atmospheres often celebrated in popular music, movies, and media. The locations where you choose to live, work, or spend your free time in NYC can reveal a lot about your character and lifestyle to fellow residents.

The five boroughs of New York City are:
Manhattan (New York County)
This iconic island, positioned between the Hudson and East Rivers, is renowned for its cluster of soaring skyscrapers and an array of eclectic neighborhoods. It encompasses landmarks like the Empire State Building in Midtown, the expansive Central Park, the bustling Times Square, the financial epicenter of Wall Street, the historic Harlem district, and vibrant creative hubs such as Greenwich Village and SoHo. In Lower Manhattan, you'll find One World Trade Center, which stands as the tallest skyscraper in the Western Hemisphere as of 2025. Manhattan also includes smaller islands like Roosevelt Island and Governors Island, and it's home to the United Nations Headquarters, making it a global hub for diplomacy. With a 2020 population of approximately 1.69 million and the highest density in the U.S. at over 74,000 people per square mile, it's the beating heart of finance, media, entertainment, and culture, boasting a GDP of around $886 billion in 2022 and headquarters for countless multinational companies.

Brooklyn (Kings County)
As the most populous borough, once an independent city before merging with NYC in 1898, Brooklyn lies south and east of Manhattan across the East River. It's celebrated for its thriving artistic community, live music scenes, sandy beaches, and attractions like the historic Coney Island amusement park, which dates back to the 1870s. The area features a long shoreline with spots like Marine Park and Prospect Park, and it's evolved into a hotspot for tech startups, entrepreneurship, and contemporary art since the early 2010s. Neighborhoods like Downtown Brooklyn serve as major commercial cores, while historic districts with 19th-century brownstones add architectural charm. With a 2020 population of about 2.74 million and a GDP of roughly $126 billion in 2022, Brooklyn's ethnic diversity and independent vibe make it a cultural powerhouse.

Queens (Queens County)
Shaped like a U and situated east of Manhattan across the East River, as well as bordering Brooklyn to the north, east, and south, Queens is the largest borough by land area and stands out for its unparalleled ethnic diversity—with over 170 languages spoken, it's considered the most diverse urban area globally. Originally a patchwork of Dutch-founded towns and villages, it now blends bustling commercial zones like Downtown Flushing (home to NYC's largest Chinatown) with more suburban enclaves such as Forest Hills. Key attractions include Citi Field (stadium for the New York Mets baseball team), the U.S. Open Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, and the city's two major international airports: JFK and LaGuardia. Queens has a 2020 population of around 2.41 million and a 2022 GDP of about $122 billion, reflecting its role as a residential and commercial powerhouse.

The Bronx (Bronx County)
Located north of Manhattan and the only borough primarily on the U.S. mainland (with some islands), the Bronx is famed for its green spaces and sports heritage. It houses the Bronx Zoo, the world's largest metropolitan zoo spanning 265 acres with over 6,000 animals; the New York Botanical Garden, a National Historic Landmark; and Yankee Stadium, home to the beloved New York Yankees baseball team. The borough also features Pelham Bay Park, NYC's largest park at 2,772 acres, and Co-op City, the biggest cooperatively owned housing complex in the U.S. Historically part of Westchester County before full integration into NYC in 1914, the Bronx has a 2020 population of approximately 1.47 million and a 2022 GDP of around $52 billion, with a strong emphasis on community and cultural roots, including being the birthplace of hip-hop.

Staten Island (Richmond County)
This expansive island in New York Harbor, south of Manhattan and adjacent to New Jersey across the narrow Kill Van Kull, has a more suburban feel compared to the other boroughs, earning it the nickname "The Forgotten Borough" due to its lack of subway access and relatively lower political clout. Connected to Brooklyn via the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and to Manhattan by the free Staten Island Ferry—which offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island—the borough features vast natural areas like the 2,500-acre Staten Island Greenbelt, one of the city's last undisturbed forests with extensive trails. Originally named Richmond until 1975, it has a 2020 population of about 496,000 and a 2022 GDP of roughly $21 billion, emphasizing residential living and parks over urban density.

Tourist routes

Walking Tours

Self-Guided Manhattan Walking Tour: This route covers about 5 miles from downtown to uptown Manhattan, taking around 1 hour 45 minutes non-stop but ideally a full day (7 hours) with stops. Start in Greenwich Village (options: West Village at St Luke in the Fields Garden or East Village at Tompkins Square Park), head to Washington Square Park (famous for its arch, fountain, and street performers), then Union Square Park (with George Washington statue and markets). Continue to the Flatiron Building and Madison Square Park (iconic triangular architecture and green space), Empire State Building (Art Deco skyscraper with observation decks), New York Public Library and Bryant Park (Beaux-Arts building with marble lions and reading room), Rockefeller Center and Top of the Rock (70th-floor views of the city), The Plaza Hotel and Pulitzer Fountain (luxury hotel and high-end shopping area), and end in Central Park (paths, Bethesda Fountain, lake, and Boathouse for relaxation).

High Line and Chelsea Elevated Park Walk: A 1.45-mile elevated path on an old rail line in west Manhattan, starting at 30th Street and heading south. Features native plants, benches, murals (like Nina Chanel Abney’s “NYC LOVE”), observation decks, and preserved rail tracks integrated with nature. Exit at 14th Street to visit Little Island (a floating park with gardens and art) and Chelsea Market (indoor food hall with vendors like Miznon for Israeli street food or Very Fresh Noodles for Taiwanese dishes).

Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO Crossing: A 1-2 mile out-and-back walk across the East River on the iconic neo-Gothic Brooklyn Bridge, offering wind-swept views of Manhattan skyline. Start in Brooklyn's DUMBO neighborhood for photo spots under the Manhattan Bridge (cobblestone streets and red bricks), then cross the bridge's paved path to Manhattan. Best early morning or sunset to avoid crowds; combine with Brooklyn Flea market on weekends for antiques.

Bus Tours

Downtown Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Loop: This circuit focuses on lower Manhattan, allowing flexible stops at major sites like the Empire State Building, Times Square, Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty, 9/11 Memorial Museum, Flatiron Building, Chinatown, Union Square, Bryant Park, and the Battery. Pre-recorded commentary covers history and tips; ideal for first-timers to get an overview without walking long distances.

Uptown Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Loop: Covers upper Manhattan and Harlem, with stops including Central Park Zoo, Metropolitan Museum of Art, American Museum of Natural History, MoMA, Lincoln Center, United Nations Headquarters, The Frick Collection, and Harlem Market. Includes options for immersive add-ons like the High Line or Brooklyn tours; great for art and culture enthusiasts.

MTA Bus Sightseeing Routes (e.g., M4 or M55): Free with a MetroCard, these public bus lines act as budget-friendly tours. The M4 runs from Midtown to Upper Manhattan, passing Fifth Avenue, Central Park, and Museum Mile. The M55 goes downtown through Broadway and SoHo. Ride end-to-end for panoramic city views from an elevated seat; download the MTA Manhattan bus map for planning.

Multi-Day Itineraries (as Routes)

3-5 Day Comprehensive NYC Route: Base in Midtown for subway access. Day 1: Hell’s Kitchen food tour (samples like Japanese BBQ), Circle Line cruise along Hudson for skyline views (Statue of Liberty, Empire State), Top of the Rock deck, and Victorian bar drinks. Day 2: Central Park stroll (zoo, Bethesda Fountain, statues) to the Met (Greek sculptures, Egyptian temple). Day 3: High Line south to Chelsea Market and immersive theater like Sleep No More. Day 4: Ferry to Governors Island (forts, art, hammocks) and Little Italy/Chinatown food tour (dumplings, cannolis). Day 5: Brooklyn Bridge walk, Manhattan Bridge views, and Tenement Museum (immigrant history tours). Adapt for shorter trips by combining days; includes meals like pastrami sandwiches and Broadway shows.

Scenic Drives (In or Near NYC)

Park Avenue Drive: A wide, clean boulevard in Manhattan's Upper East Side, renovated with grand buildings like the New Waldorf Astoria. Drive north from Midtown for views of luxury architecture and parks; traffic can be heavy, so best off-peak.

Pelham Bay Park Loop: In the Bronx (accessible from Manhattan), this large park offers scenic drives along trails, bay views, and features like Orchard Beach. Includes horseback riding and nature spots; great for a half-day escape from urban hustle.

Orientation

Manhattan, one of New York City's five boroughs, is an elongated and slim island positioned within a protected natural harbor formed by the convergence of several waterways. This geography has historically made it a prime location for trade and settlement since the early 17th century, when Dutch colonists established New Amsterdam there. The island is bordered on the northeast by the Harlem River—a narrow, 8-mile-long tidal strait that connects the East River to the Hudson River and was artificially widened in the late 19th century for navigation—from the Bronx. To the east and south, it's separated from Queens and Brooklyn by the East River, another saltwater tidal strait that's approximately 16 miles long and known for its strong currents, which have influenced the development of numerous bridges like the Brooklyn Bridge (opened in 1883) and tunnels. On the west and north, the broad Hudson River—stretching over 315 miles from its source in the Adirondacks and named after explorer Henry Hudson—divides Manhattan from the state of New Jersey, with iconic crossings such as the George Washington Bridge facilitating connections. To the southwest, Staten Island is situated across Upper New York Bay, a vital part of the larger New York Harbor that opens into the Atlantic Ocean and has been a key entry point for immigrants via Ellis Island.
Within Manhattan, directional terms carry specific meanings due to the island's northeast-southwest alignment: "uptown" or "north" generally refers to the northeast direction, while "downtown" or "south" indicates southwest. For clarity, especially for visitors navigating the bustling streets, it's advisable to rely on "uptown" and "downtown" rather than cardinal directions, as the island's orientation can disorient those accustomed to true north-south grids. Manhattan's famous street grid, established by the Commissioners' Plan of 1811, features numbered streets that increase progressively uptown (northeastward), starting from 1st Street in the south and extending into the Bronx without interruption—though the Bronx deviates from this orderly system with irregular block spacing, such as potentially seven or more blocks between 167th Street and 170th Street due to its hilly terrain and historical development patterns. Avenues, like the renowned Fifth Avenue, run parallel to the island's length in a north-south (northeast-southwest) orientation, dividing the borough into east and west sides and hosting landmarks from Central Park to Times Square.
In contrast, Brooklyn's street numbering system increases as you move southward toward areas like Coney Island, with some streets prefixed by "North" or "South" relative to major thoroughfares like Atlantic Avenue. Queens employs a more systematic perpendicular grid, where street numbers rise as you head eastward from the East River toward Nassau County, and avenues (along with roads and drives) primarily extend east-west, though the borough's layout can be complex due to its origins as a collection of merged towns and villages in the late 19th century. Staten Island, often seen as the most suburban borough, has a limited and relatively insignificant grid system confined mostly to neighborhoods like New Dorp on the east shore, with much of the island featuring winding roads reflective of its rural roots.
The expression "the city" can ambiguously refer to either the entirety of New York City—a metropolis of over 8 million residents spanning 302 square miles—or specifically to Manhattan, the densely populated cultural and financial hub with around 1.6 million people crammed into just 23 square miles, depending on the conversational context. The other four boroughs—Brooklyn (home to diverse communities and about 2.6 million people), the Bronx (known for Yankee Stadium and roughly 1.4 million residents), Staten Island (with its ferry connections and approximately 500,000 inhabitants), and Queens (the most ethnically diverse, boasting over 2.3 million people)—are collectively dubbed the "outer boroughs," a term that highlights Manhattan's central role in the city's identity while underscoring the unique character and contributions of these areas to NYC's vibrant mosaic.

People

New York City's population is remarkably varied, encompassing everyone from the nation's most affluent celebrities and social elites to individuals experiencing homelessness—a stark reflection of its socioeconomic spectrum. With over 8.8 million residents as of recent estimates, the city's demographic tapestry has been woven by successive influxes of immigrants since its establishment as New Amsterdam by Dutch settlers in the 17th century. This ongoing immigration from nearly every corner of the globe—spanning Europe, Asia, Africa, Latin America, and beyond—positions New York as a monumental real-world laboratory for multicultural coexistence and integration, where diverse customs, languages (with over 800 spoken across the city), and traditions intermingle daily, fostering both harmony and occasional tensions.

This rich ethnic mosaic is vividly expressed through distinct neighborhoods scattered across the five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island. For instance, Manhattan's historic Chinatown in Lower Manhattan continues to thrive as a bustling hub for the Chinese community, featuring iconic spots like bustling markets on Canal Street, dim sum eateries, and annual Lunar New Year celebrations with dragon dances and fireworks. However, it now shares prominence with even larger Chinese enclaves elsewhere, such as the expansive one in Flushing, Queens, which has become a major commercial and cultural epicenter boasting authentic Asian supermarkets, street food vendors, and the largest Buddhist temple in the Western Hemisphere. Additional Chinatowns have emerged, including Brooklyn's vibrant Sunset Park area along 8th Avenue, known for its family-run restaurants and karaoke spots; the growing Elmhurst neighborhood in Queens with its mix of Southeast Asian influences; and the Avenue U corridor in Brooklyn's Homecrest, offering a more suburban feel with specialty grocery stores and bakeries.

Echoes of the Lower East Side's once-dominant Jewish heritage persist amid its now-upscale scene of hip cafes, art galleries, and cocktail bars—think historic synagogues like the Eldridge Street Synagogue turned museum. Meanwhile, robust Hasidic Jewish communities flourish in Brooklyn's Borough Park, Crown Heights (home to the Lubavitcher Hasidim headquarters and lively Sukkot street festivals), and Williamsburg, where Yiddish signage and kosher delis abound alongside trendy lofts. Harlem, in upper Manhattan, is undergoing rapid gentrification and demographic shifts, yet it endures as a cornerstone of African-American culture, highlighted by landmarks like the Apollo Theater for legendary music performances, soul food institutions such as Sylvia's Restaurant, and vibrant street art murals celebrating Black history. Adjacent East Harlem, or El Barrio, has also seen significant upscale development but retains its strong Latino identity, with Puerto Rican flags waving proudly and spots like the Graffiti Hall of Fame showcasing urban art.

Lesser-known to visitors are the substantial Dominican enclaves in Hamilton Heights and Washington Heights in northern Manhattan, where merengue music spills from bodegas, and cultural events like the Dominican Day Parade draw massive crowds with colorful floats and traditional cuisine like mofongo. In Brooklyn, Greenpoint's Polish roots—once the second-largest Polish community outside Warsaw—linger in remnants like pierogi shops and the annual Pulaski Day Parade, though much has evolved with influxes of artists and young professionals. Flatbush, famously tied to the departed Brooklyn Dodgers baseball team (now commemorated in local murals and Ebbets Field echoes), has transformed into a dynamic Caribbean and West Indian stronghold, alive with jerk chicken vendors, calypso rhythms, and festivities like the West Indian American Day Carnival on Labor Day, featuring elaborate costumes and steel drum bands.

Queens and Brooklyn stand out as epicenters for New York's post-1990 immigrant waves, hosting communities from Russians (concentrated in Brighton Beach, aka "Little Odessa," with its boardwalk borscht spots), Uzbeks, Chinese, Irish (in Woodside, Queens, with pubs hosting traditional music sessions), French, Filipinos, former Yugoslavians, Indians (in Jackson Heights with bustling sari shops and Diwali lights), Pakistanis, Bangladeshis (forming enclaves in Kensington, Brooklyn), Japanese, Koreans (in Flushing's Koreatown with KBBQ and K-pop stores), Thais, various African groups (from Senegalese in Harlem to Nigerians in the Bronx), Arabs across the Middle East and North Africa (like the Egyptian hub in Astoria, Queens), Persians, Mexicans (in Corona, Queens, with taquerias and Mariachi bands), Dominicans, Ecuadorians, Puerto Ricans (strong in the South Bronx with salsa clubs), Brazilians (in Astoria's Little Brazil), Colombians, and Jamaicans (in Jamaica, Queens, with reggae spots and patty shops). Remarkably, Queens holds the title as the most ethnically diverse urban area globally, with residents speaking over 160 languages and representing more than 100 nationalities in close proximity, exemplified by neighborhoods like Jackson Heights, where a single block might feature Indian, Tibetan, Colombian, and Irish eateries side by side. This unparalleled diversity not only fuels the city's innovative food scene, arts, and economy but also underscores its role as a global melting pot.

Economy

New York City hosts 43 of the Fortune 500 companies, including major players like JPMorgan Chase, Citigroup, and Verizon. Its gross metropolitan product exceeds $2.6 trillion, making it the largest among U.S. cities and accounting for approximately 9% of the national economy. If considered as an independent country, New York City's economy would rank among the top 10 globally in terms of GDP, surpassing nations like Italy and Brazil.
As a powerhouse for multiple sectors, New York serves as the epicenter for finance, housing the three biggest U.S. stock exchanges—the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), NASDAQ, and American Stock Exchange (AMEX)—alongside numerous banks and investment institutions. While these have historically clustered in the Financial District near Wall Street, many now operate from locations like Midtown Manhattan. Beyond finance, the city dominates in publishing, fashion (with events like New York Fashion Week), accounting, advertising, media (home to giants like NBC and The New York Times), legal services, theater (Broadway's iconic productions), and the arts. Emerging industries such as technology, life sciences, and clean tech are also thriving, supported by initiatives in smart cities and innovation hubs. Additionally, New York features world-renowned hospitals and medical schools—including New York-Presbyterian, Weill Cornell Medicine, NYU Langone, Columbia University's Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, and the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai—which collectively educate more doctors than any other city worldwide.

Language

In New York City, English serves as the dominant language for the majority of residents, yet the streets buzz with a multitude of global tongues, reflecting the city's extraordinary linguistic diversity—with over 800 languages spoken in total and roughly 30% of the population (about 5.8 million people) using a non-English language at home. Neighborhoods teeming with Spanish speakers are widespread, particularly in areas with substantial Latino communities like the Bronx (including Fordham and Tremont), Bushwick in Brooklyn, Corona and Jackson Heights in Queens, and Washington Heights, East Harlem, and West Harlem in Manhattan. For tourists who speak only Spanish, navigating the city is feasible though occasionally challenging, as many businesses in key tourist and commercial zones employ bilingual staff fluent in both English and Spanish. Among the Chinese population, Cantonese remains the predominant dialect, but there's a growing presence of Fuzhounese speakers from Fujian province, alongside Mandarin users—collectively, Chinese ranks as the second most common non-English language, spoken by over 500,000 residents. Russian echoes through sections of southern Brooklyn, such as Brighton Beach and Sheepshead Bay, often dubbed "Little Odessa" due to the heavy concentration of Russian immigrants. In certain Orthodox Jewish enclaves like Borough Park or Williamsburg, Yiddish or Hebrew might be overheard, and while English proficiency varies, those in customer-facing roles, like shopkeepers or service workers, typically communicate well in English.
City government services are multilingual to accommodate this mosaic, offering support in English, Spanish, Chinese (including Cantonese and Mandarin variants), Russian, and increasingly in other top languages like Haitian Creole, Bengali, and Arabic, as mandated by local laws to ensure accessibility for limited-English-proficient (LEP) individuals. Historically, Italian surged in prominence during the massive influx of immigrants from southern Italy in the late 1800s and early 1900s, with dialects like Neapolitan, Sicilian, and Calabrian dominating in places like Little Italy in Manhattan or Bensonhurst in Brooklyn. Today, Italian still holds a spot among the top 10 non-English languages, bolstered by newer arrivals of educated professionals speaking standard Italian, contrasting the earlier waves of working-class southerners.
This babel of languages brings a culinary and cultural boon: While Manhattan boasts international eateries tailored for English-speaking visitors, bolder explorers can venture into the outer boroughs—such as Flushing in Queens for authentic Korean or Taiwanese spots, or Sunset Park in Brooklyn for Mexican taquerias—to discover genuine ethnic experiences at budget-friendly prices, often immersed in the community's native tongue.
New Yorkers have long been known for their unique accents, which vary by borough, ethnic background, and socioeconomic status; for instance, contrast the clipped Queens inflection of former President Donald Trump with the gravelly Brooklyn drawl of Senator Bernie Sanders. These traditional dialects often feature non-rhotic pronunciation (dropping the "r" in words like "park" to sound like "pahk"), a trait shared with only a handful of other American accents, such as those in Boston or parts of the South. You'll still catch these classic sounds among older, blue-collar locals, like the softened "th" turning into "d" or "t" (e.g., "da" for "the" or "tirty-tree" for "thirty-three"), or borough-specific quirks—Brooklyn's nasal tones, the Bronx's quicker pace, Queens' subtle vowel shifts, Staten Island's Italian-influenced rhythm, and Manhattan's more polished variant. The city's sizable Ashkenazi Jewish heritage has infused everyday slang with Yiddish words like "schlep" (to drag something tediously), "kvetch" (to complain), or "nosh" (to snack). Among Black communities, you might encounter African American Vernacular English (AAVE) with New York flair, incorporating rhythmic phrasing and terms like "deadass" for emphasis. Similarly, many Latinos speak New York Latino English, blending Puerto Rican and Dominican Spanish influences into a hybrid dialect with features like "spanglish" code-switching and unique intonation patterns. The enduring Jewish American and Italian-American groups continue to preserve their evolved dialects, audible in family gatherings or neighborhood delis across the five boroughs, adding to the city's auditory tapestry.

Getting here

By plane

New York City, often abbreviated as NYC (with IATA codes covering all its airports), boasts excellent global air connectivity, welcoming flights from virtually every part of the world. The region is served by three primary international and domestic airports, along with a few smaller facilities. The major ones include John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK IATA) in Queens, a bustling hub for airlines like American, Delta, and JetBlue, handling extensive international traffic and known for its six terminals that can get quite congested—plan for at least three hours before international departures and expect potential long waits at customs. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR IATA) in New Jersey, which acts as a key base for United Airlines and offers solid connections, including efficient rail links to Manhattan. And LaGuardia Airport (LGA IATA), also in Queens and closest to Midtown Manhattan, primarily focusing on domestic routes within 1,500 miles, with some limited international flights from places like Canada or the Caribbean; it underwent a major rebuild in the early 2020s, making it much more modern and traveler-friendly. All these airports are managed by The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, ensuring coordinated operations across the tri-state area.

For travelers needing to switch between airports, several options are available, each balancing cost, convenience, and time:
Public transit (bus, subway, or PATH trains): This remains the most budget-friendly way to transfer, typically costing just a few dollars per person (around $2.90 for subway fares), but it often involves multiple connections and can be cumbersome with luggage. For example, moving from LGA to JFK might include the free Q70 LaGuardia Link bus to Jackson Heights, then the E subway to Jamaica, followed by the JFK AirTrain—each segment takes about 15 minutes, but factor in waiting times for a total of 1-2 hours or more. Always allocate at least two hours overall, and consider apps like Citymapper for real-time routing to avoid surprises.
Go Airlink Shuttle: A reliable shared van service that operates between the airports and much of Manhattan, offering door-to-door convenience for groups or those with bags. It's more comfortable than public transit and runs frequently, though reservations are recommended.
Other shared ride van services: Providers like ETS Airport Shuttle and All County Express offer occasional transfers directly between airports, such as JFK to EWR in as little as 45-60 minutes when traffic is light, but schedules can be sparse, so check availability in advance. Additionally, express bus options between JFK and LGA run hourly from 11 AM to 7 PM daily, providing a straightforward alternative for about $20-30 per person.
Taxis or rideshares (like Uber/Lyft): These are the quickest methods for inter-airport hops, especially during off-peak hours, though they can be pricier due to traffic, tolls, and potential surge pricing. A taxi from JFK to LGA typically runs $25-29 and takes around 30 minutes; from LGA to EWR, expect $78 plus tolls for 60-75 minutes; and from JFK to EWR, about $85 plus tolls for a similar duration. Rideshares offer similar estimates but with app-based tracking and upfront pricing—be aware of New York's congestion pricing, effective since January 2025, which adds small fees ($0.75 for taxis, $1.50 for rideshares) if your route enters Manhattan below 60th Street. For a more premium experience, private car services or limos are available through companies like Sonic D Limo, ideal if you're prioritizing speed and comfort over cost.

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), often abbreviated by its IATA code, stands as New York City's primary international gateway and a key operational base for major carriers like Delta Air Lines (primarily in Terminal 4), American Airlines (Terminal 8), and JetBlue Airways (Terminal 5), alongside dozens of other domestic and global airlines such as Aer Lingus, Air France, Emirates, and Lufthansa. For travelers flying into New York from abroad, JFK is frequently the arrival point, handling millions of passengers annually amid an ongoing $19 billion redevelopment project that includes new terminals and infrastructure upgrades, potentially causing detours and delays—so plan accordingly.
Upon landing from an international flight, non-U.S. permanent residents should anticipate potentially lengthy queues at U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), with average wait times around 24 minutes but occasionally stretching to 1-2 hours or more during peak periods. Mobile phones are prohibited in these lines, so consider packing a paperback book, puzzle, or other offline distraction to pass the time. Global Entry or Mobile Passport apps can expedite the process for eligible travelers.
When preparing to depart from JFK, keep in mind it's a sprawling facility with five active terminals (1, 4, 5, 7, and 8) spread across a vast area, prone to heavy congestion and security bottlenecks. Always verify your airline's terminal in advance via the airport's website or app to avoid mix-ups. To minimize stress, arrive at least 2 hours early for domestic flights and 3 hours for international ones, accounting for check-in, bag drop, and TSA screening—current security wait times average 10-30 minutes per terminal but can fluctuate. The ongoing construction may add extra navigation challenges, so download the JFK app for real-time updates.
For heading into Manhattan from JFK, several options cater to different budgets and preferences. Yellow taxis offer a flat rate of $70 to any Manhattan destination (plus tolls of about $6-10, surcharges, and a recommended 15-20% tip, bringing the total to around $85-95). Ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft are also available from designated pickup areas outside each terminal, with fares typically ranging from $50-100 depending on demand, traffic, and surge pricing—expect longer waits during busy times. For a budget-friendly choice, take the 24/7 AirTrain monorail for $8.50, which connects all terminals to nearby subway or rail stations in about 10 minutes. From the Jamaica Station stop, hop on the NYC subway (E, J, or Z lines) for an additional $2.90 fare, reaching Midtown Manhattan in 50-60 minutes total. Alternatively, the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) from Jamaica provides a quicker ride, zipping to Penn Station or Grand Central in 20-25 minutes for $13.50 off-peak or $15.50 peak (including the AirTrain fee via CityTicket). However, LIRR trains can be packed during rush hours (mornings toward the city, evenings away), and boarding the wrong line could send you off-course—double-check schedules and routes using the MTA app, and note that conductors enforce tickets strictly with onboard surcharges for errors. Public buses like the Q3 or Q10 connect to subway lines for around $2.90, though they're slower and less direct. Shared shuttle services, such as GO Airlink or SuperShuttle, offer door-to-door convenience for $25-40 per person, ideal for groups or those with luggage.
Regardless of your mode—driving, taxi, or otherwise—traffic around JFK is notoriously unpredictable and severe at any hour, exacerbated by construction and the airport's location in Queens. Build in ample buffer time, especially during peak travel seasons or events, to avoid missing flights or connections. If renting a car or using a private transfer, monitor apps like Google Maps for real-time conditions.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is a bustling international gateway located in Newark and Elizabeth, New Jersey, approximately 16 miles west of Midtown Manhattan. As one of the three primary airports serving the New York metropolitan area—alongside John F. Kennedy (JFK) and LaGuardia (LGA)—it ranks as New York's second-busiest international hub, New Jersey's main airport, and a key operational base for United Airlines, which dominates Terminal C with extensive domestic and international flights. Originally opened in 1928 as the first major commercial airport in the United States, EWR has undergone significant modernizations, including a $2.7 billion redevelopment of Terminal A completed in 2023, featuring state-of-the-art amenities like high-tech security checkpoints, expanded dining options (over 60 eateries and shops), and improved accessibility. The airport handles over 40 million passengers annually across its three terminals: Terminal A (primarily American Airlines and regional carriers), Terminal B (international airlines like Delta, Air Canada, and Lufthansa), and Terminal C (United's hub with advanced lounges and gates). It's renowned for its efficiency in handling transatlantic routes and offers conveniences such as free Wi-Fi, electric vehicle charging stations, and pet relief areas.
Travelers heading to New York City from EWR have several transportation choices, ranging from convenient but pricier taxis and rideshares to budget-friendly public transit options. Taxis provide door-to-door service and are readily available at designated stands outside each terminal, with no need for reservations. Fares to Manhattan are zoned and typically range from $60 to $80 base rate (e.g., $60 to Battery Park-W 13th St., $65 to W 14th-50th St., $70 to W 51st-96th St., $75 to W 97th-185th St., and $80 above W 185th St.), plus an additional $5 for East Side destinations between Battery Park and 145th St. Expect to add round-trip tolls (around $6-10 for tunnels/bridges), tips (15-20% customary for good service), a $1 extra per bag over 24 inches, and potential surcharges: $10 during weekday rush hours (6-10 a.m. and 3-8 p.m.) or weekends (noon-9 p.m.), plus a $1.75 airport access fee and possible credit card fees. Travel time to Midtown is about 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic, though it can exceed an hour during peaks. Other taxi services cater to destinations beyond NYC, such as LaGuardia or JFK ($110 each), Hoboken or Jersey City ($56), or MetLife Stadium ($56). Seniors (62+) receive a 10% discount with ID. For similar convenience at potentially variable rates, rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft operate from dedicated pickup zones in the terminals or short-term parking, with fares often mirroring taxis ($70-100+ including surcharges and tips) but subject to dynamic pricing during high demand.
For more affordable alternatives, public transit is reliable and efficient. The NJ Transit train offers a swift connection: First, take the AirTrain Newark monorail (free between terminals, parking, and shuttles, but $8.50 to access the Newark Airport Rail Station—automatically included in NJ Transit tickets) from any terminal to the rail station in about 10 minutes, running 24/7 every 3-5 minutes during peaks. From there, board an NJ Transit train on the Northeast Corridor or North Jersey Coast Line to New York Penn Station (at 34th St. and 8th Ave. in Midtown Manhattan), a 30-minute ride costing $16.80 one-way (including AirTrain), with departures every 15-30 minutes. Trains operate from around 4 a.m. to 1 a.m., with less frequent service overnight. Amtrak also serves the same station for longer-distance travel along the East Coast (e.g., to Boston, Washington D.C., or Philadelphia), but fares are higher ($30-100+ depending on route and class) and NJ Transit tickets aren't valid on Amtrak. This rail link gives EWR a distinct edge over JFK and LGA, as it's on the high-speed Northeast Corridor, accommodating Amtrak Acela and regional trains from as far as Virginia in the south, Massachusetts in the north, and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, in the west, making it ideal for multi-modal trips.
The most economical choice is the NJ Transit Bus #62, which picks up directly in front of all three terminals and heads to Newark Penn Station in about 25 minutes for just $1.80 one-way (exact change required or buy via app/ticket machine). It runs 24/7, including holidays, with frequencies of 10-15 minutes on weekdays, 15-20 on Saturdays, 20-30 on Sundays, and 30 minutes overnight. At Newark Penn, transfer to the PATH train ($3 single ride, or $2.85 with multi-trip SmartLink card) to Lower Manhattan's World Trade Center (25 minutes) or continue to Journal Square and switch to the 33rd St. line for stops along 6th Ave. in Greenwich Village (Christopher St.), Chelsea (9th, 14th, 23rd St.), and Midtown (33rd St.). PATH operates 24/7 with trains every 5-10 minutes during peaks and up to 35 minutes overnight. Total time from EWR to Midtown via this route is around 90 minutes, including waits, making it great for light packers or budget travelers. Reduced PATH fares apply for seniors/disabled ($1.50) and kids under 5 ride free.
Additional shared options include the Newark Airport Express shuttle bus operated by Coach USA, running every 15-30 minutes from 4 a.m. to 1 a.m. to key Manhattan spots like Port Authority Bus Terminal, Bryant Park, and Grand Central Station. Fares are about $21 one-way ($38 round-trip), with a 45-60 minute ride, offering comfort with Wi-Fi and luggage storage—ideal for groups or those avoiding transfers. Private shuttles or vans (e.g., via GO Airlink or SuperShuttle) provide door-to-door service for $20-40 per person, bookable online, with shared rides taking 45-90 minutes depending on stops.
Overall, EWR's strategic rail connectivity and diverse options make it a versatile choice for accessing NYC, especially for those prioritizing speed or affordability over the other airports' sometimes more congested routes. Always check real-time updates via apps like NJ Transit or the airport's site, as construction or events (e.g., NYC congestion pricing starting in 2025, adding potential fees) may impact travel.

LaGuardia Airport (LGA) stands as the smallest of the three major airports in the New York metropolitan area, but it boasts the closest proximity to Midtown Manhattan, making it a convenient choice for travelers heading to the heart of the city. The bulk of its direct flights serve destinations within a 1,500-mile range, focusing heavily on domestic routes across the United States. That said, it also accommodates a selection of international flights originating from nearby countries and islands, including Canada, Aruba, the Bahamas, and Bermuda. Major carriers like Delta Air Lines, which operates out of the newly revamped Terminal C, and American Airlines dominate the scene, alongside budget options such as Southwest and JetBlue. The airport's iconic Art Deco Marine Air Terminal, currently home to Spirit Airlines operations, holds the distinction of being among the oldest airport terminals still in active use globally, dating back to 1939.
Once widely criticized for its outdated and subpar facilities—often dubbed a "dump" by frustrated passengers—LaGuardia has undergone a dramatic $8 billion transformation in the early 2020s, featuring the complete rebuild of Terminals B and C with state-of-the-art amenities, spacious layouts, and enhanced passenger experiences. This overhaul, completed in phases up to 2022 for Terminal B and ongoing refinements into 2025, has earned accolades like the UNESCO Prix Versailles for best new airport, turning it into a surprisingly pleasant and efficient hub with modern dining, shopping, and art installations.

Unlike its counterparts, LaGuardia still lacks a direct rail or subway link to the rest of New York City as of late 2025, though future plans include potential enhancements like improved access to nearby transit stations. For a straightforward trip to Manhattan, opting for a taxi or rideshare service remains the top recommendation, with average fares hovering around $40-45 before adding a tip. Routes crossing the Queens-Midtown Tunnel or RFK Bridge will tack on extra tolls, typically $6-10 depending on the time and vehicle. While traffic jams can turn the journey into a nightmare during morning and evening rush hours (roughly 7-10 AM and 4-7 PM), it's usually smoother outside those peaks, with travel times ranging from 20-45 minutes.

If you're budget-conscious or adventurous with public transit, the MTA's Select Bus Service offers reliable alternatives that operate around the clock. These buses are equipped with dedicated luggage racks to handle your bags, though they can fill up quickly during busy periods. The M60-SBS route whisks you to Upper Manhattan, including areas near Columbia University, by way of Queens' Astoria neighborhood and Harlem's 125th Street, all for the standard local bus fare of $2.90 per person (payable via MetroCard or contactless payment). Meanwhile, the Q70-SBS LaGuardia Link provides a swift, no-cost connection—still completely free as of 2025, a policy in place since April 2022—to bustling transit nodes in Queens' Woodside and Jackson Heights neighborhoods. From there, you can seamlessly transfer to subway lines like the E, F, M, R, or 7, the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), or additional bus services for onward travel throughout the city.

Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP)
Long Island MacArthur Airport, also known as Islip Airport (IATA: ISP), is situated approximately 45 miles east of Midtown Manhattan in Ronkonkoma, within the Town of Islip on Long Island. This regional hub primarily caters to budget travelers and is currently served by major low-cost carriers including Southwest Airlines, Breeze Airways, and Frontier Airlines, offering flights to various domestic destinations. For getting to and from Manhattan, several convenient options are available:

A quick shuttle bus ride (about 10 minutes, costing $5) connects the airport directly to the nearby Ronkonkoma Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) station. From there, passengers can board a train to Penn Station in Manhattan, with the journey typically lasting around 1.5 hours. Fares range from $12.75 during off-peak times to $17.50 during peak hours, and the LIRR provides special discounted packages tailored for MacArthur Airport users to make the trip more affordable.
The Hampton Jitney offers premium bus services from Ronkonkoma to various points in Manhattan for $40–$47; note that the bus stop requires a short taxi transfer from the airport itself.
For a more budget-friendly local option, the Suffolk County Transit (SCT) Route 6 bus runs from the airport to Central Islip Station for just $2.25, though its schedule isn't synchronized with train arrivals like the dedicated shuttle.
Additional modern conveniences include ride-sharing services like Uber, which provide on-demand car options directly from the airport, with estimated travel times of 1–1.5 hours to Manhattan depending on traffic. Private car services such as GO Airlink NYC or SuperShuttle offer sedans, SUVs, or vans for groups, ensuring a comfortable, direct transfer. For those preferring structured shuttles, companies like Prime Time Shuttle and Winston Transportation provide reliable airport-specific rides, often bookable in advance for seamless coordination with flights.

Westchester County Airport (HPN)
Westchester County Airport (IATA: HPN) lies about 25 miles northeast of Midtown Manhattan, close to White Plains, New York. It serves as a convenient alternative for East Coast travelers and is operated by airlines such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue Airways, United Airlines, and Breeze Airways, focusing on regional and short-haul flights. Transportation links to Manhattan are efficient and varied:

The Bee-Line Bus Route #12 (fare: $2.75; contact +1-914-813-7777 for schedules) provides service to the White Plains Metro-North station. From there, a Metro-North train can take you to stops in the Bronx, Harlem-125th Street, or Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan, with off-peak fares at $9.75 and peak at $12.75. Trains operate roughly every 30 minutes throughout much of the day, and the total rail journey lasts 40–60 minutes.
For faster premium options, helicopter services like BLADE offer a swift 12-minute flight from HPN to Manhattan heliports, ideal for avoiding ground traffic that can stretch 45–90 minutes by car.
Ride-sharing apps and private car services are plentiful; for instance, Majestic Transportation Services or Silver Star Transportation provide tailored limo or sedan transfers, often coordinating with flights for punctual pickups. The airport also connects to nearby colleges like Purchase College (SUNY) and Manhattanville College via the same bus route, making it versatile for students or visitors.

Stewart International Airport (SWF)
Stewart International Airport (IATA: SWF) is located roughly 75 miles north of Midtown Manhattan, near Newburgh, New York. It primarily handles leisure flights, especially to Florida destinations, and is served by carriers like Allegiant Air, Breeze Airways, and Play Airlines, with a focus on affordable vacation routes. Ground transportation to the city includes both public and private choices:

A low-cost shuttle bus ($1, 40 minutes, available Monday–Friday) links the airport to the Beacon Metro-North Railroad station. Passengers can then catch a train to Grand Central Terminal, with fares of $17.50 off-peak or $23 peak, and a travel time of about 90 minutes.
Coach USA's Stewart Airport Express (or Megabus equivalent) runs direct bus services to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Manhattan for around $20, with a duration of 90 minutes. These buses are often timed to align with flight schedules, particularly for international carriers like those from Europe.
For personalized travel, services like GO Airlink NYC offer private vans, sedans, or SUVs, while Uber provides easy app-based pickups for transfers. Majestic Transportation Services specializes in SWF rides, ensuring direct connections to surrounding areas without hassle. Public trains via Metro-North are also accessible, with up-to-date schedules available from providers.

Trenton-Mercer Airport (TTN)
Trenton-Mercer Airport (IATA: TTN) is positioned about 63 miles southwest of Midtown Manhattan in New Jersey, offering limited commercial flights mainly through Frontier Airlines, with Allegiant Air set to launch nonstop services to sunny destinations starting February 2026. For reaching Manhattan, options emphasize a mix of taxis, public transit, and shuttles:

Travelers can hail a taxi from the airport to the nearby Trenton Transit Center, then board New Jersey Transit's Northeast Corridor Line or Amtrak trains to Penn Station in Manhattan. The total journey via bus and train (e.g., Route 608 bus to the station) takes about 1 hour 46 minutes and costs $9–$220 depending on the train choice.
Private shuttle services like Jayride offer shared or exclusive rides, while companies such as Sonic D Limousine provide 24/7 black car options with access to trains and buses at the station.
For budget flyers, direct flights to Trenton make it a smart, less-crowded alternative, and ride-sharing or custom group transports from providers like Trenton Shuttle Bus Company can handle larger parties heading to NYC airports or Manhattan directly.

Teterboro Airport (TEB)
Teterboro Airport (IATA: TEB) remains the top pick for general aviation and business jet operations in the New York City region, located just 12 miles from Midtown Manhattan in New Jersey. As a reliever airport designed to ease congestion at major hubs like JFK and LaGuardia, it handles no commercial passenger flights but excels in private charters. Popular air taxi and charter providers include Private Jets Teterboro, The Early Air Way, Monarch Air Group, Mercury Jets, Jetset Charter, Surf Air, Jet Aviation, Triumph Jets, Centurion Jets, Air Charter Service, Victor, evoJets, and Jet Partners, offering a range of aircraft from luxurious Gulfstreams to efficient piston twins for individuals or small groups. In 2025, expect high demand during peak periods, with services like aircraft fueling, maintenance, de-icing, and passenger handling available through its five fixed-base operators (FBOs). Transportation to Manhattan is typically via private car or limo services arranged through the charters, with quick ground travel times of 20–45 minutes depending on traffic, or helicopter transfers for even faster access. Noise abatement and pilot resources are emphasized for smooth operations.

By train

Amtrak provides passenger rail service across the United States, with customer support available at ☏ +1 215-856-7924 or toll-free at +1-800-USA-RAIL (+1-800-872-7245). All trains arrive and depart from Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station (station code: NYP), located at 351 West 31st Street in New York City (situated beneath Madison Square Garden, spanning between 31st and 33rd Streets, and 8th and 9th Avenues). During peak travel periods, such as rush hours, popular routes can sell out fast, so it's wise to book tickets in advance through the Amtrak website, mobile app, or by phone. You can then collect your tickets at the station using self-service kiosks with a credit card or your booking reference. For added convenience, download the Amtrak app to receive real-time gate notifications and trip updates—gates are typically announced about 15 minutes before departure. Arrive at least 30 minutes early if you don't need baggage assistance, or 45 minutes if you do. On certain leisure-oriented routes, like the one from New York to Montreal, Amtrak journeys may take longer and cost more compared to alternatives such as buses or rental cars, so it's smart to review schedules, fares, and options from multiple providers before finalizing your plans. The station offers various amenities, including free Wi-Fi, vending machines, restrooms, ATMs, a Metropolitan Lounge for eligible passengers (open weekdays from 5 AM to 10 PM and weekends from 7 AM to 9 PM, accessible to Acela First Class travelers, sleeper car users, and certain loyalty members for a fee), and checked baggage services from 5 AM to 10 PM daily. Accessibility features include elevators, high platforms, and wheelchairs upon request, while parking is available nearby for a fee through external providers. Taxis and rideshares can be hailed on 31st or 33rd Streets.
Several Amtrak routes serve Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station, including the following with enhanced details on amenities like onboard Wi-Fi, dining options, and pet policies where applicable:

Acela: This high-speed service runs multiple times each day along the Northeast Corridor from Boston to Washington, D.C., stopping at key locations such as Boston (South Station and Back Bay), Route 128 (Westwood), Providence, New Haven (Union Station), Stamford, New York City, Newark (Penn Station), Metropark, Philadelphia (30th Street Station), Wilmington, Baltimore (Penn Station and BWI Airport), and Washington, D.C. (Union Station). It offers speeds up to 150 mph (240 km/h) for efficient intercity travel. Typical journey durations include about 3.75 hours from Boston to New York City, 3.25 hours from Providence, 1.25 hours from Philadelphia, 2.25 hours from Baltimore, and 3 hours from Washington, D.C. Amenities feature premium seating with extra legroom (more spacious than standard airline seats), free Wi-Fi, power outlets at every seat, a Quiet Car option, and the Cafe Acela serving fresh gourmet meals, snacks, artisan items, and local beverages (with at-seat service in First Class featuring dishes from renowned STARR restaurants). Small pets are permitted in Business Class carriers, and the latest NextGen Acela trainsets (as of 2025) include upgraded Wi-Fi, ergonomic seats, conference tables, spacious luggage storage, priority boarding, and enhanced cafe options like Grab & Go coolers.
Adirondack: Running daily between Montreal and New York City, this scenic route includes intermediate stops like Saint-Lambert, Rouses Point, Plattsburgh, Westport, Port Kent, Port Henry, Whitehall, Ticonderoga, Fort Edward, Saratoga Springs, Schenectady, Albany (Rensselaer), Hudson, Rhinecliff, Poughkeepsie, Croton-on-Hudson, and Yonkers. The full trip from Montreal to New York City takes approximately 10 hours. Onboard, enjoy comfortable Coach Class seating, a Corridor Cafe with light meals and snacks (menus may vary), and the ability to bring small dogs or cats in approved carriers under Amtrak's pet program. This service is supported by the New York State Department of Transportation and offers picturesque views of the Adirondack Mountains and Hudson River Valley.
Cardinal: This train makes three round trips per week between Chicago and New York City, with stops en route including Dyer, Rensselaer, Lafayette, Crawfordsville, Indianapolis, Connersville, Cincinnati, Ashland, Huntington, Charleston, Hinton, White Sulphur Springs, Staunton, Charlottesville, Culpeper, Manassas, Alexandria, Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Wilmington, Philadelphia, Trenton, and Newark. The entire journey spans about 26 hours and 30 minutes. Features include free Wi-Fi, Reserved Coach seats, Business Class with leather upholstery, extra legroom, and complimentary non-alcoholic drinks, plus sleeper options like Viewliner roomettes, bedrooms, suites, and accessible bedrooms for overnight comfort. Dining covers multi-course meals (such as dinner, breakfast, and lunch depending on direction), checked baggage at staffed stations, and pet accommodations for small animals. Access to the Metropolitan Lounge in Chicago is available with a pass.
Carolinian: Operating daily between Charlotte and New York City via Raleigh, Richmond, and Washington, D.C., the route features stops at Newark, Trenton, Philadelphia, Wilmington, Baltimore, Alexandria, Quantico, Fredericksburg, Richmond, Petersburg, Rocky Mount, Wilson, Selma-Smithfield, Raleigh, Cary, Durham, Burlington, Greensboro, High Point, Salisbury, Kannapolis, and Charlotte (plus seasonal stops like North Carolina State Fair and Lexington Barbeque Festival). Travel time from New York City to Charlotte is roughly 13 hours and 30 minutes. Amenities encompass Business Class with seat selection, complimentary beverages, fully refundable fares, and a 25% Amtrak Guest Rewards points bonus; a Corridor Cafe for snacks and meals; and pet-friendly policies for small dogs or cats. The service is primarily funded by the State of North Carolina.
Crescent: This daily service connects New Orleans to New York City through Birmingham, Atlanta, Charlotte, and Washington, D.C., with numerous stops like Newark, Trenton, Philadelphia, Wilmington, Baltimore, Alexandria, Manassas, Culpeper, Charlottesville, Lynchburg, Danville, Greensboro, High Point, Salisbury, Gastonia, Spartanburg, Greenville, Clemson, Toccoa, Gainesville, Atlanta, Anniston, Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, Meridian, Laurel, Hattiesburg, Picayune, and Slidell. The complete trip lasts around 30 hours. Onboard options include Coach Class seats, Viewliner sleepers (roomettes, bedrooms, suites, and accessible rooms), multi-meal dining (breakfast, lunch, and dinner based on travel direction), trainside checked bicycles, and pet allowances for small animals. Connections are available to places like Atlantic City and Ocean City.
Ethan Allen Express: Providing daily connections between Burlington and New York City, including stops in Middlebury, Rutland, Castleton, Fort Edward, Saratoga Springs, Schenectady, Albany (Rensselaer), Hudson, Rhinecliff, Poughkeepsie, Croton-on-Hudson, and Yonkers. The end-to-end ride takes about 7 hours and 34 minutes. Highlights include a Cafe Car with light fare, beverages, and snacks; Business Class featuring leather seats, footrests, complimentary drinks, and refundable tickets; and support for small pets in carriers. This route is backed by the New York and Vermont transportation departments, offering views of the Hudson Valley and Vermont countryside.Amtrak provides passenger rail service across the United States, with customer support available at ☏ +1 215-856-7924 or toll-free at +1-800-USA-RAIL (+1-800-872-7245). All trains arrive and depart from Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station (station code: NYP), located at 351 West 31st Street in New York City (situated beneath Madison Square Garden, spanning between 31st and 33rd Streets, and 8th and 9th Avenues). During peak travel periods, such as rush hours, popular routes can sell out fast, so it's wise to book tickets in advance through the Amtrak website, mobile app, or by phone. You can then collect your tickets at the station using self-service kiosks with a credit card or your booking reference. For added convenience, download the Amtrak app to receive real-time gate notifications and trip updates—gates are typically announced about 15 minutes before departure. Arrive at least 30 minutes early if you don't need baggage assistance, or 45 minutes if you do. On certain leisure-oriented routes, like the one from New York to Montreal, Amtrak journeys may take longer and cost more compared to alternatives such as buses or rental cars, so it's smart to review schedules, fares, and options from multiple providers before finalizing your plans. The station offers various amenities, including free Wi-Fi, vending machines, restrooms, ATMs, a Metropolitan Lounge for eligible passengers (open weekdays from 5 AM to 10 PM and weekends from 7 AM to 9 PM, accessible to Acela First Class travelers, sleeper car users, and certain loyalty members for a fee), and checked baggage services from 5 AM to 10 PM daily. Accessibility features include elevators, high platforms, and wheelchairs upon request, while parking is available nearby for a fee through external providers. Taxis and rideshares can be hailed on 31st or 33rd Streets.

The Empire Service runs twice daily from Niagara Falls, NY, to New York City, with key intermediate stops including Buffalo (Exchange Street), Buffalo (Depew), Rochester (Louise M. Slaughter Station), Syracuse (Regional Transportation Center), Rome, Utica, Schenectady, Albany-Rensselaer, Hudson, Rhinecliff, Poughkeepsie, Croton-Harmon, and Yonkers. Additional daily trains provide service between Albany-Rensselaer and New York City, offering multiple departures throughout the day for flexibility. The full journey from Niagara Falls to New York City takes approximately 9 hours, while from Buffalo it's about 8.5 hours, from Rochester around 7.25 hours, and from Albany-Rensselaer roughly 2.75 hours (with an overall route time listed as 7 hours 20 minutes for core segments). Amenities include Business Class seating with leather upholstery, footrests, complimentary non-alcoholic drinks on select trains, and a 25% Amtrak Guest Rewards point bonus, plus onboard Wi-Fi, Cafe Service for snacks and beverages, and pet-friendly policies for small dogs or cats in carriers. The route showcases scenic highlights like the Hudson River Valley and attractions such as New York City's Central Park and Empire State Building, or Niagara Falls' Maid of the Mist boat tours, and is supported by New York State Department of Transportation funding.
The Keystone Service operates multiple trips daily between Harrisburg, PA, and New York City, stopping at locations like Elizabethtown, Mount Joy, Lancaster, Parkesburg, Coatesville, Downingtown, Exton, Paoli, Ardmore, North Philadelphia, Cornwells Heights, Trenton (NJ), Princeton Junction, New Brunswick, Metropark, Newark (Liberty International Airport and Penn Station), and Philadelphia (William H. Gray III 30th Street Station). The end-to-end travel time is about 3 hours 50 minutes. This route emphasizes historical and cultural experiences, from Philadelphia's Independence Hall and museums to Lancaster's Amish markets and Hershey's chocolate attractions, with funding partly from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. Onboard features vary but include comfortable seating (forward or backward-facing, not guaranteed), pet accommodations for small animals, and a focus on regional exploration like Civil War sites in Harrisburg.
The Lake Shore Limited provides daily service from Chicago to either Boston or New York City, with comprehensive stops along the way (skipping some smaller stations). The train combines cars from both branches between Chicago and Albany-Rensselaer before splitting. Key stops from Chicago to Albany-Rensselaer include South Bend, Elkhart, Waterloo, Bryan, Toledo, Sandusky, Elyria, Cleveland, Erie, Buffalo (Depew), Rochester (Louise M. Slaughter Station), Syracuse (Regional Transportation Center), Utica, and Schenectady. From Albany-Rensselaer to New York City, it stops at Rhinecliff, Poughkeepsie, and Croton-Harmon; the Boston branch includes Pittsfield, Springfield, Worcester, Framingham, and Boston's Back Bay. The trip from Chicago to New York City lasts around 21.25 hours (officially 19 hours for the core route). Notable aspects include Viewliner sleeping accommodations like Roomettes and Bedrooms with private restrooms and showers, traditional dining options (breakfast, lunch, and dinner varying by direction), Cafe service, Wi-Fi, and pet-friendly policies. The route traverses scenic areas such as Lake Michigan's south shore, the Erie Canal, Finger Lakes, and Berkshires, highlighting Native American history, regional wines, and city landmarks like Chicago's Magnificent Mile or Boston's Freedom Trail.
The Maple Leaf runs daily from Toronto, ON, to New York City in collaboration with VIA Rail Canada. Stops from Toronto to Niagara Falls (NY) include Oakville, Aldershot, Grimsby, St. Catharines, and Niagara Falls (ON), while the U.S. segment mirrors the Empire Service with stops like Buffalo (Depew and Exchange Street), Rochester, Syracuse, Rome, Utica, Amsterdam, Schenectady, Albany-Rensselaer, Hudson, Rhinecliff, Poughkeepsie, Croton-Harmon, and Yonkers. Border processing occurs at Niagara Falls, requiring passengers to exit with baggage. Crew switches from VIA Rail in Canada to Amtrak in the U.S. The full journey from Toronto to New York City takes about 13 hours (listed as 12 hours 30 minutes). Features include Business Class with extra legroom and complimentary drinks, Cafe service accepting VIA Rail gift cards in Canada, Wi-Fi, carry-on bicycle options (U.S. side), and pet allowances. Scenic draws encompass the Hudson River Valley, New York's wine country, and attractions like Toronto's CN Tower or Niagara Falls' Old Fort Niagara.
Amtrak's Northeast Regional, its most popular regional route, links Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and numerous points in between, with some trains ending at Springfield (MA) instead of Boston and others extending south from Alexandria (VA) to branches like Newport News, Roanoke, or Norfolk. It offers frequent daily departures, including hourly morning options from Richmond (VA). Major stops span Route 128 (MA), Providence (RI), New London (CT), New Haven (Union Station), Stamford (CT), Newark (NJ), Trenton (NJ), Philadelphia (30th Street), Wilmington (DE), Baltimore (Penn and BWI Airport), and more, with connections to Hartford Line services. Travel times vary, but the full span can be up to 12 hours 30 minutes. As a more affordable alternative to Acela, it features similar routing but with additional stops, slightly slower speeds, Coach Class with ample legroom and outlets, a Quiet Car, Business Class perks like seat selection and refunds, Cafe offerings, and pet-friendly rules. Partnerships include Virginia for southern extensions and DATTCO buses for Providence connections to areas like Martha's Vineyard.
The Palmetto connects Savannah, GA, to New York City daily as part of the Silver Service, with stops including Charleston (SC), Florence (SC), Raleigh (NC), Richmond (VA), Washington, D.C. (Union Station), Baltimore (MD), Philadelphia, Newark (NJ), and more, extending south to Tampa or Miami on related routes. Travel time is up to 28+ hours for longer segments. It includes Business Class with leather seats and complimentary beverages, Cafe service, pet accommodations, and highlights like Charleston's historic plantations or Savannah's Historic District.
The Silver Meteor and Silver Star link Miami, FL, to New York City via Savannah, with shared stops such as Jacksonville (FL), Orlando, Tampa, Charleston (SC), Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and Newark (NJ). Both run daily, with times around 28+ hours. The Silver Meteor offers First Class private rooms with meals and showers, while the Silver Star was temporarily merged into the Floridian (Chicago to Miami via D.C.) due to tunnel work but appears operational with its own timetable as of late 2025. Features encompass traditional dining, Coach and sleeping options, and scenic views of Florida beaches and Deep South history.
The Vermonter travels daily from St. Albans, VT, to Washington, D.C., stopping at Essex Junction (Burlington), Waterbury-Stowe, Montpelier-Berlin, Randolph, White River Junction, Windsor-Mt. Ascutney, Claremont (NH), Bellows Falls, Brattleboro, Greenfield (MA), Northampton, Holyoke, Springfield, Windsor Locks (CT), Hartford, Meriden, New Haven, Bridgeport, Stamford, New York City, Newark (NJ), Trenton (NJ), Philadelphia, Wilmington (DE), Baltimore (Penn and BWI), and New Carrollton (MD). The journey takes about 13 hours 45 minutes. It boasts Business Class amenities, Cafe menu, pet policies, and scenic New England charm, including Vermont ski resorts like Killington. Funded by partnerships with Vermont, Massachusetts, and Connecticut transportation agencies.
Travel from California, Oregon, or Washington to the East Coast typically spans 2-3 days (or up to 4 with connections and waits), requiring a train change in Chicago. Routes include the Coast Starlight (from Seattle/Portland/Los Angeles to Chicago), Empire Builder (Seattle/Portland to Chicago), or California Zephyr (San Francisco area to Chicago), then continuing east on trains like the Lake Shore Limited or Capitol Limited to New York or Washington, D.C., offering stunning views of the Rockies, Great Plains, and more.
Amtrak's Metropolitan Lounge (formerly ClubAcela) at New York Penn Station's Moynihan Train Hall, located near the main entrance, provides a relaxing space with comfortable seating, complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, snacks, free Wi-Fi, newspapers, magazines, clean restrooms, and attendant assistance. Access is available to sleeping car passengers, Acela First Class ticket holders, Amtrak Guest Rewards Select Plus or Executive members, or via a single-visit pass (purchasable for expanded eligibility), with entry limited to three hours before departure.

Commuter rail
New York City benefits from three major commuter rail networks that connect the urban core with surrounding suburbs and regions, offering efficient alternatives to driving or flying for longer-distance travel within the metro area. These include the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), Metro-North Railroad, and NJ Transit Rail Operations. Each system caters to different geographic areas, with varying levels of service, crowding, and user-friendliness, making them particularly handy for day trips, airport access, or exploring beyond the city limits. While primarily designed for daily commuters, they can be valuable for tourists seeking scenic routes or quick escapes to beaches, historic towns, or sporting events—though advance planning is recommended due to peak-hour rushes and fare variations.
The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), the busiest commuter railroad in North America with around 250,000 weekday riders on 947 daily trains, primarily links Midtown Manhattan's Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station or Grand Central Madison, Downtown Brooklyn's Atlantic Terminal, and Queens stations like Hunterspoint Avenue or Long Island City to an extensive network of suburbs across Long Island. It spans over 700 miles of track on 11 branches, serving 126 stations in Nassau, Suffolk, Queens, Brooklyn, and Manhattan, from as far east as Montauk. Key stops within the city include bustling hubs like Jamaica (a major transfer point), Nostrand Avenue, and Woodside, as well as smaller local stations. For tourists, the LIRR isn't always the first choice due to its complexity, but it's ideal for seasoned travelers heading to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) via a quick connection at Jamaica Station, or for summer outings to Long Island's beaches like those in the Hamptons or Fire Island—check the MTA's beach guides for seasonal schedules. Trains run 24/7, though frequencies drop overnight, on holidays, or on less-traveled lines, and some routes may suspend service during off-hours. Expect heavy crowds during rush hours (mornings into the city and evenings out) or weekend nights when partygoers fill cars heading to nightlife spots, sometimes leading to rowdy atmospheres. Ticketing includes peak (higher fares during weekday rush periods) and off-peak options, with prices scaling by distance—ranging from a few dollars for short hops to over $30 for longer trips. Buy tickets in advance via the MTA TrainTime app, online, or at station kiosks to avoid surcharges for onboard purchases; packages like 10-trip or monthly passes offer savings for frequent users. Recent updates as of 2025 include upcoming 2026 fare policy changes and enhanced real-time tracking features in the app for better reliability.
Metro-North Railroad, operated by the MTA, delivers a more relaxed and approachable commuter experience compared to the LIRR, serving northern and northeastern suburbs from Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan (its primary hub) and extending to Connecticut, with additional stops like Harlem-125th Street in Manhattan and Yankees-East 153rd Street in the Bronx (especially useful on game days for Yankee Stadium access). It operates five main lines—Harlem, Hudson, New Haven, Port Jervis, and Pascack Valley—plus three branches, covering 124 stations over 385 route miles, with about 255,700 daily weekday riders. The Harlem Line reaches up to Wassaic in Dutchess County, passing through Westchester and Putnam; the Hudson Line follows the scenic Hudson River to Poughkeepsie, stopping at charming spots like Tarrytown (home to Sleepy Hollow) and Cold Spring for hiking or antiquing; the New Haven Line hugs the coast to New Haven, with branches to Danbury, Waterbury, and New Canaan, allowing transfers to Amtrak or Shore Line East for further Connecticut travel. Tourists often favor Metro-North for day trips to the Hudson Valley's wineries, historic estates like Kykuit, or fall foliage views, as it's generally calmer than other systems—though peak-hour trains (inbound 6-10 a.m., outbound 4-8 p.m. weekdays) can still pack in. Service isn't 24/7, with reduced off-peak, weekend, and holiday schedules; diesel-powered sections (beyond electrified zones) may have limited runs. Fares vary by distance and time, with peak rates higher during rush periods and off-peak applying otherwise, including weekends—expect $5-7 CityTicket options for intra-NYC travel. Purchase tickets online, via app, or at stations to dodge onboard fees; discounts include 10-trip, weekly, or monthly passes, plus reduced rates for seniors, students, or via the phasing-in OMNY contactless system. As of 2025, updates feature a new Heritage Series locomotive honoring veterans, planned 2026 extensions to Albany, and the upcoming 2027 Penn Station Access project adding Bronx stations like Co-op City for easier connections.
NJ Transit Rail Operations rounds out the trio, focusing on connections between New York City and New Jersey, with extensions into the lower Hudson Valley via partnerships with Metro-North. As the third-busiest commuter rail in North America, it handles about 59 million annual riders across 13 lines and 165 stations, emphasizing service to and from Penn Station New York (the main NYC terminal) and Hoboken Terminal. Key routes include the Northeast Corridor Line from Penn Station to Trenton (with some to Jersey Avenue), the North Jersey Coast Line to Long Branch or Bay Head (great for Jersey Shore beaches), the Raritan Valley Line from Newark or Penn Station to High Bridge, the Montclair-Boonton Line to Hackettstown (with Midtown Direct options), and the Morristown Line to Gladstone. Other lines like the Bergen County and Meadowlands Rail serve northern New Jersey spots, ideal for events at MetLife Stadium. For tourists, NJ Transit is excellent for exploring Princeton University, historic Newark, or even transferring to PATH for Jersey City waterfront views, and it's a budget-friendly way to reach Newark Liberty International Airport via a quick AirTrain link. Trains operate with varying schedules—electric during peaks on major lines, diesel on branches—with limited overnight or weekend service on some routes; check for seasonal adjustments, like extra trains to Monmouth Park racetrack. Crowding peaks during commutes, but off-hours are more relaxed. Ticketing features one-way, round-trip, weekly, or monthly options, with fares based on zones and distance (higher during peaks); buy via the NJ Transit app, online, or at stations to avoid surcharges—integration with contactless payments is expanding. Recent notes as of 2025 include ongoing safety enhancements following past incidents and calls for infrastructure expansions, though specific tourist-focused updates are limited; always verify real-time alerts for disruptions.

New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) delivers extensive commuter rail services, linking major hubs like Moynihan Train Hall at New York Penn Station or Hoboken Terminal in Hoboken, New Jersey, with numerous destinations across New Jersey. Established in 1983 following the consolidation of several predecessor railroads, NJ Transit operates as the third-busiest commuter rail network in North America, serving over 59 million passengers in 2024 across 13 lines and 165 stations. Notably, it remains the sole commuter railroad servicing New York City that operates independently of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), focusing primarily on routes in North and Central Jersey, the White Horse Pike corridor in South Jersey, and even extending into the lower Hudson Valley in New York State.
The system is split into two divisions: the Hoboken Division (drawing from the former Erie Lackawanna Railroad) with mostly low-level platforms and diesel or dual-mode locomotives, and the Newark Division (from the former Pennsylvania Railroad, Central Railroad of New Jersey, and New York and Long Branch Railroad) featuring high-level platforms and extensive electrification. NJ Transit maintains a modern fleet of over 175 locomotives (including ALP-45DP dual-mode and ALP-46 electric models) and more than 1,200 passenger cars (such as Comet and Multilevel series), with key maintenance facilities like the Meadows Maintenance Complex in Kearny. Electrification uses 25 kV 60 Hz AC power, with expansions like the Long Branch extension completed in 1988. Many lines share tracks with freight operators such as Norfolk Southern, Conrail Shared Assets Operations, and short lines, though passenger service takes priority during peak hours.

Transfers enhance connectivity: Secaucus Junction (opened in 2003) allows seamless switches between Hoboken- and Penn Station-bound trains, while the Waterfront Connection (1991) and Kearny Connection (1996) enable cross-division routing. From Hoboken, PATH trains or ferries provide links to northern routes. NJ Transit also coordinates with Amtrak on the Northeast Corridor for intercity options.
Regarding ticketing, NJ Transit fares are distance-based and zoned, with prices varying by travel length (e.g., a short suburban ride might cost $3–$5, while NYC to Trenton could exceed $15). Tickets are available via the NJ Transit mobile app, website (njtransit.com), ticket vending machines, or offices at stations before boarding. Onboard purchases are permitted but come with a substantial surcharge (typically $5 extra), making them pricier. Monthly passes, multi-trip tickets, and reduced fares for seniors, students, or military personnel are offered, with contactless payment options like Apple Pay increasingly supported for convenience. Always validate tickets where required to avoid fines.

PATH (Port Authority Trans-Hudson)
The PATH is a rapid transit rail system operated by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, linking Manhattan in New York City with several destinations in New Jersey, including Hoboken, Newark, Jersey City, Harrison, and various locations along the Hudson River's western shore. Originally opened in 1908 as the Hudson & Manhattan Railroad, it now serves as a vital commuter link, carrying millions of passengers annually across four main lines: Newark–World Trade Center (blue line), Hoboken–World Trade Center (green line), Journal Square–33rd Street (yellow line), and Hoboken–33rd Street (red line), with some variations during off-peak hours. These lines cross beneath the Hudson River via century-old tunnels, with trains entering Manhattan at two primary points: one terminating at the World Trade Center (WTC) in Lower Manhattan, and the other at 33rd Street in Midtown near Herald Square. Note that the 33rd Street PATH station is separate from and not directly connected to the nearby Penn Station, which serves Amtrak, NJ Transit, and Long Island Rail Road. For a visual reference, interactive maps and schedules are available on the official PATH website or via the RidePATH mobile app, which also provides real-time updates on delays, service changes, and alerts.
As of December 2025, PATH operates on varying schedules to accommodate commuter patterns: weekdays from 6 AM to 11 PM with more frequent service, weeknights from 11 PM to 6 AM with reduced operations, and weekends/holidays with adjusted timetables that may include construction-related changes (for instance, from June 2025 through January 2026, certain Journal Square-bound trains on the 33rd Street line add a stop at Exchange Place). Some stations, like 9th Street and 23rd Street in Manhattan, close nightly from 11:59 PM to 5 AM for maintenance, so riders should plan to use alternatives such as Christopher Street, 14th Street, or 33rd Street. Trains generally run every 5-10 minutes during peak hours and up to every 35-40 minutes overnight, but always check the app for the latest info, especially during holidays or unplanned disruptions.
The standard fare for a single ride is $3.00 for adults, with children aged 5 and under riding free when accompanied by a paying adult. Seniors (65+) and individuals with qualifying disabilities can access reduced fares of $1.50 per ride using a specialized PATH Senior SmartLink Card or an approved contactless method via TAPP after verification. PATH offers several flexible payment methods to suit different needs:

Contactless Payments via TAPP (Total Access PATH Payment): This system, now fully implemented across all stations (no longer a pilot), allows riders to tap a contactless credit or debit card, smartphone wallet (e.g., Apple Pay or Google Pay), or a reusable TAPP Card directly at dedicated turnstiles for seamless entry. Reusable TAPP Cards can be purchased at stations using cash or cards, making it ideal for quick, touchless travel without needing a separate fare card.
SmartLink Card: This RFID-based stored-value card provides discounted multi-trip options for frequent users, such as $28.50 for 10 trips ($2.85 per ride), $57.00 for 20 trips, or $114.00 for 40 trips. Unlimited passes are also available, including a 1-day option for $11.50, 7-day for $39.25, or 30-day for $120.75—perfect for commuters. The card itself costs $5 to purchase (or bundled with trips, e.g., $57 including 20 trips), and it must be used at non-TAPP turnstiles. Note that unlimited passes are limited to one use per station within an 18-minute window to prevent sharing.
MetroCard Integration: PATH accepts Pay-Per-Ride MetroCards from the MTA system (deducting $3.00 per ride), but not Unlimited Ride or EasyPay versions. For visitors commuting daily from New Jersey, buying a MetroCard can be convenient and cost-effective for combined use on PATH and NYC subways/buses, though there's no free transfer between the systems—meaning you'll pay separately for each leg. Special PATH 2-Trip MetroCards are available for $6.00 (cash only from dispensers), and standard Pay-Per-Ride cards can be bought or refilled at vending machines (with a $1.00 new card fee waived for the 2-Trip version). Importantly, MetroCard sales and refills will cease on December 31, 2025, so riders should transition to TAPP or SmartLink soon; existing balances remain valid until used up.
SingleRide Ticket: For occasional riders, a $3.00 paper ticket valid for two hours from purchase is available from large vending machines using cash, debit/credit cards, or transit benefits prepaid cards.

It's worth noting that TAPP and SmartLink operate independently from New York City's OMNY contactless payment system used by the MTA. PATH does not accept OMNY cards, and trips on PATH do not count toward OMNY's weekly fare caps or any MTA promotions. For refunds, PATH doesn't issue cash returns but may reimburse trips during major service interruptions—contact customer service or use the feedback portal on their website. If planning a trip, consider downloading the RidePATH app for fare calculators, station accessibility info (e.g., elevators at major hubs like WTC and Newark Penn), and integration with other transit apps for seamless multi-modal journeys across the region.

By bus

The most important bus station, which is used not only by the nationwide operating bus company Greyhound, but also by many regional providers, including airport buses, is the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Manhattan. Other bus stations in the city area are (details in the district articles):
Brooklyn (288 Livingston St, Corner Bond St)
Manhattan: Corner of State St & Bridge St (serves only occasionally)
Manhattan: Corner of Church St & Chambers St (serves only occasionally)
Manhattan: Corner of Church St & Worth St (serves only occasionally)
Queens: Queens Village (corner of Hillside Ave & Springfield Blvd)

The following regional transit companies operate bus routes in New York City and beyond:
Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) operates a dense network of regional and local buses in all five boroughs of New York City and in Nassau County.
New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) operates many regional and local bus routes in New Jersey, some of which also serve Manhattan.

In the street
Irrespective of the fact that you should think twice about driving to New York (the city has the traffic of a real metropolis and the understanding of New Yorkers for drivers who are uncertainly looking for their way is limited and it will be really exciting to get rid of the car), numerous highways reach the city, including the east coast highway Interstate 95, which runs from Florida to Maine. It should be noted that four of New York's five boroughs are on islands and can only be reached via bridges or tunnels, all of which are toll roads.

Since New Yorkers and people coming to New York for work tend to leave the city for the weekend, expect the roads leading out of the city to be congested from Friday afternoon through Saturday morning. Conversely, on Sunday afternoons, the roads leading into the city are congested. The New York traffic jam calendar can shift slightly around the American holidays. As a rule of thumb, however, if you have to travel to New York City by car, the best time to do so is on weekends. Parking is usually cheaper on weekends than on weekdays.

By boat

You can also arrive by ship. In the spring of 2004, the Queen Mary 2 of the Cunard fleet took over the liner service from Southampton to New York, and a few times each summer it also starts from Hamburg to New York. The terminal of the QM2 is in the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal. Other cruise terminals include Manhattan Cruise Terminal and Cape Liberty Cruise Port in Bayonne, NJ.

Getting around

In the street

Better not to drive into town unless it is unavoidable! A "gridlock" in particular - when the intersections are blocked again and nothing is moving forward or backward - can be very nerve-wracking. Parking space is also scarce and expensive, especially in Manhattan. Half an hour of parking can cost $10

Taxi

Yellow cabs mostly move in Manhattan or are at the airports. In other districts they are rarely found. Pricing starts at $2.50 base fee and $0.50 in taxes, with an additional $0.40 for every half mile. There is also a night surcharge of $0.50 between 8pm and 6am and a rush hour surcharge of $1 between 4pm and 8pm Monday through Friday. Tipping is common practice in all parts of America. All Yellow Taxis accept Visa, MasterCard and AmericanExpress for payment. In the unlikely event that the card reader is defective, the taxi driver will point this out to you before the journey. To hail a taxi, stand at the curb (not in the way of traffic) and raise your arm above your head. The illuminated sign on the taxi provides information about the status of the taxi:
When the lighted sign is off, the taxi is occupied or otherwise unavailable.
If the sign is on, you can use the taxi.
Borough Taxis were introduced outside of Manhattan in 2013 due to the shortage of Yellow Cabs. In contrast to the yellow cabs, the taxis are light green. These vehicles are not allowed to pick up parts of Manhattan and the airports, although they are allowed to drop off passengers in these areas as well. The tariffs and rules are otherwise identical to those of the Yellow Cabs.
Gray or black cars, better known as "car services" or "livery cabs", can only be requested by phone and are not tied to taxi rates. Be sure to ask about the tariff on the phone so that you don't get any nasty surprises. The underside of the license plates says "Livery" or "TLC".

Taxi basic rules

All licensed taxis (yellow for Manhattan and green for other boroughs) and limousines are authorized to carry four passengers, three in the back seat and one in the front passenger seat. Some newer minivans and SUVs are licensed to accommodate more than four passengers. Larger vehicles can be ordered from one of the many companies in the yellow pages, which is also useful for arriving at or departing from the airport with a lot of luggage.

Subway and bus

The best way to see New York is to walk through the urban canyons. But if it rains again or your feet hurt, you can take a ride on the New York subway. A one-way fare is $2.75 when purchased from the bus driver. Otherwise you use a MetroCard, on which you load credit. The single ride then costs $2.75 (reduced $1.35), the weekly ticket $33 (price 2020). The card itself, with no credit, costs $1.

By 2024, the MetroCard will be replaced by OMNY, which can be used directly with contactless credit cards and via NFC smartphones (Apple Pay, Google Pay). Instead of holding the MetroCard, you simply hold it directly at the entrances/entrances and at the end of the day you pay for the required day pass at most. However, like today's MetroCard, OMNY is still available as a plastic card.

Caution is advised when choosing trains/lines: Expressways do not stop at all stations, so it can happen that you suddenly find yourself in an area that you didn't want to go to (or that you even want to leave as quickly as possible). There are also the locals who stop at every station. When it comes to buses, it should be noted that there are also express buses that cost $6 and where the weekly pass is not valid.

By boat

New York is a city on the water, so some distances can also be covered by boat. It's rarely the quickest way. However, in any case, there is also the aspect of the view.

Staten Island Ferry. (Line 1Line R South Ferry - Whitehall Street) offers a complimentary sightseeing cruise with good views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty. The ferry runs every 20 minutes and it is best to try to be quite far ahead when getting off so that you can go back again straight away. Simply sitting down is not allowed and usually not worthwhile either, as another ferry leaves earlier. It is best to be at the ferry terminal as early as possible and try to get on the ship as early as possible in order to get a good place to stand at the railing. On the right side of the ferry (from Manhattan towards Staten Island) you can see the Statue of Liberty and have a very good view of Manhattan.
East River Ferry. The East River Ferry is also an alternative to the subway and. In addition, you have a very nice view of the skyline of the eastern part of Manhattan. Above all, you can see the Brooklyn Bridge very well from it. It starts in Manhattan on East 34th Street and travels through Brooklyn to Wall Street. A single ride costs $2.75.

By bicycle

The network of bike lanes in New York is constantly being expanded and cyclists have long been a common sight in the urban canyons of Manhattan. Even as a tourist you can stay on the surface if the weather is right and simply take the bike instead of the subway.

On foot

The distances in Manhattan are enormous. For example, it takes about 1.5 hours to drive from Battery Park (southern tip of Manhattan) to Central Park. The distance is 7.7 km (!). On the sidewalks (especially on the avenues) there is a dense stream of pedestrians, so that you can't move too quickly there either. As a result, New York isn't all that pedestrian-friendly, although side streets are often far more laid-back. Therefore, if possible, you should use the subway, at least for longer distances.

In addition to the usual bicycle rental options, Citi Bike is a rental system in New York that can be used by everyone with fixed locations (similar to the Call-a-Bike system in Germany). Here you need a credit card with which you can make the booking at the machines, you pay $12.00 for 24 hours or $24.00 for three days and can then rent a bike anywhere for a maximum of 30 minutes as often as you like within this time. Use and return at any station. Surcharges apply for longer use in one go. Rentals lasting several hours (i.e. for bicycle tours outside the station area) are therefore unattractively expensive. The next bike can be borrowed from 2 minutes after a successful return. Attention: A security deposit of $101 per bike will be blocked on the credit card with use! The station density is medium and the area served includes almost all of Manhattan and parts of Brooklyn. A road map with cycle paths and all stations is available at each station, so that you can also plan longer tours through the city, including changing bikes.

A maximum of two bicycles can be rented with one credit card. Groups should therefore have several credit cards with them.

Caution: when returning the bike to the station, make sure that the bike clicks into place correctly (first yellow, then green light and confirmation tone), otherwise the bike will not be considered returned and it can get really expensive. Sometimes it helps to lift the bike up at the back.

Sights

For prospect addicts
The best-known vantage points are where the city is built dramatically vertically: in Manhattan. Observation decks are z. B. on the Empire State Building (Tenderloin) and on the Rockefeller Center (Midtown). The observation deck on the 100th floor of One World Trade Center (Financial District) has also been open since 2015. However, the spectacular view that can be enjoyed from the following points is completely free:
Brooklyn Bridge
Frank Sinatra Drive in Hoboken, NJ

Museums

The largest number of museums can be found in Manhattan (see there). These include famous institutions such as the American Museum of Natural History, the Guggenheim and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

What is less well known is that New York City's other boroughs are also home to many top-notch museums:
The Bronx is home to Fort Schuyler and the Maritime Industry Museum.
In Brooklyn one can visit the Brooklyn Children's Museum, the Brooklyn Historical Society Collections, the Brooklyn Museum, the Jewish Children's Museum, the Living Torah Museum, the Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Arts, the New York Transit Museum and the Weeksville Heritage Center.
Queens is home to the American Museum of the Moving Image, Fisher Landau Center (now closed and no longer open to the public), Museum of African Art, New York Hall of Science, Noguchi Museum, P.S.1 Contemporary Art Center, Queens County Farm Museum, Queens Museum of Art, SculptureCenter and Socrates Sculpture Park.
Staten Island is home to Historic Richmond Town, the Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art, the Staten Island Children's Museum and the Staten Island Institute of Arts.

Zoos and aquariums

1 Bronx Zoo (Bronx) . the largest and most attractive zoo in the city.
2 Central Park Zoo (Manhattan) . small animal park in Central Park
3 New York Aquarium (Brooklyn) .
4 Prospect Park Zoo (Brooklyn) .
5 Queen's Zoo (Queens) .
6 Staten Island Zoo (Staten Island) .
The 7 American Museum of Natural History on Manhattan's Upper West Side has a Butterfly Conservatory. You can see animals in the pet shop for free. Many pet shops offer a wide variety of crawling animals, fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and small mammals and are as entertaining as parks where you have to pay to enter. It's worth checking the Yellow Pages.

National Memorials

Not every tourist is interested in American history. Some memorials are still worth seeing.

National Monuments - found in New York City
1 Castle Clinton National Monument. Fortifications in Battery Park City
2 Governors Island National Monument . Fortifications on Governors Island
3Statue of Liberty National Monument. Statue of Liberty and Immigration Museum.
4 African Burial Ground. historic burial ground in the Civic Center neighborhood

National Memorials

5 Federal Hall (in the Financial District) . This is where George Washington took his oath of office and this is where the Bill of Rights was passed.
6 General Grant National Memorial . Mausoleum of the 18th President of the USA in the Morningside Heights district
7 Hamilton Grange National Memorial. Home of Alexander Hamilton, one of the Founding Fathers of the USA, Hamilton Heights

What to do

New York City is deservedly famous for its unique stage and theater scene. The majority of theaters are located in Manhattan and here again especially in the Times Square area. Opera lovers will get their money's worth at the Met and the New York City Opera (both on the Upper West Side).

For stages and theaters in Manhattan see there.
But there are also stages and ensembles in the other boroughs that don't need to hide:

In the Bronx you can visit the Bronx Opera.
Brooklyn is home to the Opera Company of Brooklyn, the Brooklyn Academy of Music, and the Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts.

 Haunted legends and abandoned places

New York City, with its layered history spanning centuries of immigration, wars, epidemics, and urban decay, is a hotbed for ghostly tales and forsaken sites. From Revolutionary War-era mansions to forgotten industrial relics, these locations blend eerie legends with tangible remnants of the past. Many abandoned spots carry haunted reputations, fueled by tragic deaths, unsolved mysteries, and paranormal reports. Below, I'll delve into some of the most notable ones, drawing from historical accounts and eyewitness stories.

Iconic Haunted Locations and Their Legends
Morris-Jumel Mansion
Located at 65 Jumel Terrace in Washington Heights, this 1765 Palladian-style home is Manhattan's oldest surviving residence. It served as George Washington's headquarters during the Revolutionary War in 1776 and later became the home of Eliza Jumel, who married Aaron Burr there in 1833 after her husband Stephen's suspicious death in a carriage accident. Eliza herself died in 1865 after a mental decline. The mansion is reportedly haunted by at least five spirits: Eliza (who once shushed a group of schoolchildren in 1964), Stephen, Burr, a suicidal servant girl who jumped from a window, and a Revolutionary soldier whose portrait comes alive. Paranormal teams like those from Ghost Adventures have captured EVPs (electronic voice phenomena) and apparitions of Hessian soldiers. Visitors often feel cold spots and hear whispers, making it a staple for ghost tours.

The Dakota
This Gothic apartment building at 1 West 72nd Street, built in 1884, gained infamy as the site of John Lennon's 1980 murder and as the filming location for Rosemary's Baby. Yoko Ono, who still resides there, reported seeing Lennon's ghost playing the piano. Other spirits include a "Crying Lady" apparition that Lennon himself encountered, a playful girl in a yellow taffeta dress, and a short man in an outdated wig. Residents hear phantom footsteps, moving objects, and unexplained noises, attributing them to the building's dark history of suicides and accidents.

House of Death (14 West 10th Street)
A stately 1850s brownstone in Greenwich Village near Washington Square Park, this home is linked to over 22 deaths, earning its grim nickname. Mark Twain lived here briefly in 1900-1901 and claimed to have debated Satan in the space; his ghost in a white suit has been spotted smoking a cigar on the staircase. Actress Jan Bryant Bartell documented paranormal terror in her 1974 memoir Spindrift, describing a "monstrous moving shadow." Tragedies include the 1987 murder of six-year-old Lisa Steinberg by her adoptive father. Up to 20 ghosts are said to haunt it, with reports of violent poltergeist activity.

One if By Land, Two if By Sea
Housed in a 1767 carriage house at 17 Barrow Street, once owned by Aaron Burr, this romantic restaurant is plagued by up to 20 spirits. Burr and his daughter Theodosia (lost at sea in 1813) are primary haunts—diners report being shoved down stairs, paintings tilting, lights flickering, plates flying, and earrings mysteriously removed from women's ears. A Ziegfeld Follies girl and a woman in black also appear, causing some staff to quit due to the intensity of the activity.

Hotel Chelsea
At 222 West 23rd Street, this 1884 Victorian Gothic hotel was a bohemian hub for icons like Dylan Thomas (who died here in 1953), Sid Vicious and Nancy Spungen (her 1978 stabbing death in Room 100), and others including Janis Joplin and Andy Warhol. Ghosts include Thomas wandering the halls, Spungen's screams echoing, and a Titanic survivor named Mary on the fifth floor. The building's renovation hasn't quelled reports of apparitions and cold drafts.

Merchant’s House Museum
This 1832 Federal-style townhouse at 29 East 4th Street was occupied by the Tredwell family until Gertrude Tredwell's death in 1933 at age 93. Now a museum preserving their artifacts, it's haunted by Gertrude's spirit in a tattered brown dress. Staff report unexplained piano music, flickering lights, floral scents, and doors slamming. Paranormal studies during the 2020 lockdown captured anomalies, linking them to the family's reclusive life.

White Horse Tavern
Established in 1880 at 567 Hudson Street, this Greenwich Village bar was Dylan Thomas's final drinking spot before his 1953 death. His ghost is seen at his favorite corner table, sometimes downing shots. The tavern's literary history with Beats like Jack Kerouac adds to its haunted allure, with patrons feeling watched or hearing whispers.

Empire State Building
The iconic skyscraper at 20 West 34th Street has seen over 30 suicides since 1931. The most famous is Evelyn McHale's 1947 leap from the 86th-floor observatory, landing on a limousine in what was dubbed "The Most Beautiful Suicide." Her ghost, dressed in 1940s attire with red lipstick, is spotted muttering about her fiancé before vanishing over the edge.

Washington Square Park
At the foot of Fifth Avenue, this park was a potter's field and execution site, with an estimated 20,000-125,000 bodies buried beneath—including from yellow fever epidemics. The "Hangman's Elm," a 350-year-old tree, was used for hangings. Ghosts include shadowy figures mistaken for students at night, a headless Revolutionary War horseman, and whispers in the trees.

Prominent Abandoned Places with Eerie Histories
Renwick Smallpox Hospital (Roosevelt Island)
This 1850s Gothic ruin, designed by James Renwick Jr., quarantined smallpox patients and is now a crumbling landmark overgrown with ivy. Lit at night, it evokes a haunted castle; urban explorers report cold spots and whispers, tying into its history of suffering and death.

North Brother Island
A 20-acre forbidden isle between the Bronx and Rikers, it housed Riverside Hospital where "Typhoid Mary" Mallon was quarantined until 1938. Abandoned since 1963, buildings are engulfed by vines and wildlife, including a heron sanctuary. Hauntings include Mary's ghost and cries from patients; access is restricted, amplifying its mystique.

Red Hook Grain Terminal (Brooklyn)
Built in 1922, this massive concrete silo complex on the waterfront processed Erie Canal grain but was abandoned due to obsolescence. Peregrine falcons nest in its rust-streaked towers, and explorers hear echoing winds like moans. It's a prime spot for graffiti and photography, with rumors of industrial accidents fueling ghost stories.

Ellis Island Hospital Complex
On Ellis Island's south side, these 22 decaying buildings from the early 1900s treated immigrants with diseases. Abandoned since 1954, they feature peeling walls, a morgue with autopsy tables, and artist JR's ghostly photo installations of patients. Visitors on hard-hat tours report unease and apparitions, linked to the isolation and deaths of thousands.

Fort Tilden (Rockaway Peninsula)
A World War-era coastal defense site with concrete bunkers and batteries, abandoned post-Cold War. Now part of Gateway National Recreation Area, it's buried in dunes and adorned with graffiti. Hauntings are minimal, but the isolation evokes wartime echoes, with views of the ocean and skyline adding surreal beauty.

Westchester Avenue Station (Bronx)
An ornate 1908 rail station by architect Cass Gilbert, abandoned and in limbo. Its Beaux-Arts details are fading, with urban legends of trapped spirits from early 20th-century commuters.

Neponsit Health Care Center (Queens)
A beachfront hospital abandoned in 1998 after secretive patient relocations. Overgrown and vandalized, it's said to echo with moans from its nursing home days.

Urban Legends and Folklore
Beyond specific sites, NYC brims with folklore. The "Ghost of Captain Kidd" haunts Liberty Island, searching for buried pirate treasure. "Cropsey," a boogeyman from Staten Island, scared kids away from the Willowbrook State School ruins (now a college). Subway myths include alligators in tunnels, pizza-eating turtles, and mole people begging underground. The "Curse of the Red Room" at The Dakota brings misfortune, while "Rat Kings" (tangled rat masses) lurk in sewers. Disappearances like Judge Crater in 1930 inspire phrases like "pulling a Crater." Other tales involve the Devil's Footprint at Trinity Church and mysterious Toynbee Tiles embedded in streets.

These sites and stories highlight NYC's shadowy underbelly. Many are off-limits or require tours for safety, but they continue to inspire ghost hunters, historians, and thrill-seekers alike.

History

Pre-Colonial Era
Before European arrival, the region that would become New York City was inhabited by the Lenape people, an Algonquian-speaking Native American group. They lived in about 80 settlements across the area, with an estimated population of around 15,000. The Lenape referred to Manhattan as "Manahatta," possibly meaning "island of many hills" or a place for gathering wood for bows. Their society was organized into bands named after their territories, such as the Raritan on Staten Island, Canarsee in Brooklyn, and Hackensack across the Hudson. They thrived on the abundant natural resources, using sophisticated techniques like slash-and-burn agriculture, fishing vast quantities of shellfish, and hunting with controlled burns to manage forests. Waterways served as vital routes for trade, travel, and warfare, and many modern streets, like Broadway, follow ancient Lenape paths. The landscape was a mix of marshlands, streams, and hills, supporting a balanced ecosystem. However, European contact brought devastating diseases, conflicts, and land dispossession, reducing the Lenape population to about 200 by 1700 and forcing a diaspora to places like Oklahoma, Canada, and Wisconsin. Today, around 100,000 Indigenous people (about 2% of the city's population) live in New York, with many tracing roots to the Lenape.

Colonial Period (Dutch and British Rule)
European exploration began in 1524 when Italian navigator Giovanni da Verrazzano, sailing for France, entered New York Bay and encountered the Lenape. However, sustained settlement came with the Dutch. In 1609, Henry Hudson explored the region for the Dutch East India Company, noting rich beaver populations that fueled the fur trade. The Dutch West India Company established Fort Amsterdam in 1626 on Manhattan's southern tip, founding New Netherland. Peter Minuit famously "purchased" Manhattan from the Lenape in 1626 for goods worth about 60 guilders, though Indigenous concepts of land differed from European ownership. Under directors like Willem Kieft and Peter Stuyvesant, the colony grew, incorporating New Amsterdam as a city in 1653 with a population of around 1,500 Europeans and 375 Africans, many enslaved for labor in building walls and infrastructure. Conflicts like Kieft's War (1643–1645) against local tribes resulted in Dutch victories but high casualties. The beaver trade boomed, depleting populations and altering ecosystems.
In 1664, during the Second Anglo-Dutch War, English forces seized New Amsterdam without resistance, renaming it New York after the Duke of York. The Dutch briefly recaptured it in 1673 as New Orange but ceded it permanently in 1674. Under British rule, the city grew as a trading hub, with slavery integral—by 1703, 42% of households owned slaves, peaking at 20% of the population (2,500 people) by the 1740s. Rebellions like the 1741 slave conspiracy trials led to executions amid paranoia. The city's economy shifted to grain milling and coastal trade, with population expanding rapidly. Place names from Dutch times, like Harlem and Brooklyn, endured, and structures like the Wyckoff House (1652) survive as remnants.

Revolutionary War and Independence
Tensions with Britain escalated in the 1760s over taxes like the Stamp Act (1765), leading to the Stamp Act Congress in New York, a pivotal moment in colonial unity. Groups like the Sons of Liberty erected Liberty Poles, sparking clashes. During the American Revolution, New York was a strategic prize. In 1776, the Battle of Long Island saw a major British victory, forcing George Washington to retreat from Brooklyn to Manhattan. The British captured the city after battles like Fort Washington, using it as a base for seven years. It became a Loyalist refuge and prison site, where thousands of American captives died on ships in Wallabout Bay—more than in all battles combined. Fires in 1776 destroyed parts of the city, blamed on both sides. Washington achieved his first win at the Battle of Harlem Heights. The British evacuated on November 25, 1783 (Evacuation Day), after the Treaty of Paris. Post-war, treaties like Fort Pitt (1778) with the Lenape promised alliances but collapsed, exacerbating Indigenous displacement.

Early Republic and 19th Century Expansion
New York briefly served as the U.S. capital (1785–1790), hosting Washington's inauguration at Federal Hall and the Bill of Rights' drafting. Alexander Hamilton's policies as Treasury Secretary bolstered its financial role. The city's growth exploded with the Erie Canal's completion in 1825, linking it to the Midwest and making it America's premier port. Population surged from 33,131 in 1790 to over 500,000 by 1850, overtaking Philadelphia. The Commissioners' Plan of 1811 imposed a grid system on Manhattan, facilitating urban expansion. Infrastructure like piped water (1842) and institutions such as the police department (1845) and public schools emerged. The Great Irish Famine drove massive immigration, making Irish a quarter of the population by 1850. Universities like NYU (1831) were founded. The Civil War divided the city due to Southern trade ties; the 1863 Draft Riots, fueled by anti-conscription sentiment among Irish workers, targeted Black neighborhoods, killing over 100.

Immigration and Industrialization in the Late 19th Century
Waves of European immigrants—Irish, Germans, Italians—transformed New York into an industrial powerhouse. Political machines like Tammany Hall, led by figures like Boss Tweed, dominated, often through corruption but also aiding immigrants. Central Park, America's first landscaped urban park, opened in 1857. The Statue of Liberty was dedicated in 1886 as a symbol of welcome. The 1898 consolidation merged Manhattan with Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island, creating the modern five-borough city with a population exceeding 3 million by 1900. Industrialization brought factories, railroads, and tenements, but also disasters like the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire (1911), which killed 146 workers and spurred labor reforms.

Early 20th Century (World Wars and Great Depression)
By 1900, New York led in finance, media, and culture, with over a quarter of top U.S. companies headquartered there. The subway opened in 1904, revolutionizing transit. The Great Migration brought African Americans from the South, fostering the Harlem Renaissance in the 1920s amid Prohibition's speakeasies and jazz. Immigration restrictions post-WWI slowed European inflows. The Great Depression hit hard, but Mayor Fiorello La Guardia (1934–1945) reformed government, while Robert Moses built parks, bridges, and highways. Iconic skyscrapers like the Chrysler (1930) and Empire State Building (1931) rose, symbolizing resilience. Population peaked at 7.5 million in 1940.

Post-War Boom and Mid-20th Century
Post-WWII, veterans and immigrants fueled a boom, with the G.I. Bill enabling suburban growth in Queens and beyond. The United Nations headquartered in Manhattan in 1951, affirming global status. The economy shifted to services like finance and tourism as manufacturing declined. Containerization modernized ports, but deindustrialization led to job losses. Social movements included the Black Panthers and Young Lords organizing community services. The 1960s saw riots and rising crime, contributing to white flight and population decline.

Late 20th Century (Fiscal Crisis, Crime, and Revival)
The 1975 fiscal crisis nearly bankrupted the city, resolved with federal loans and austerity. Crime peaked in the 1980s–1990s, with events like the 1977 blackout looting and Son of Sam murders. Neighborhoods like the Bronx decayed but began reviving in the late 1980s through community efforts. Mayors like David Dinkins (first Black mayor, 1989–1993) and Rudy Giuliani (1994–2001) oversaw crime drops via policing reforms and economic resurgence. Wall Street boomed, Silicon Alley emerged with tech, and areas like Williamsburg gentrified. Population rebounded to over 8 million by 2000, with diverse influxes from Asia and Latin America.

21st Century (9/11, Economic Growth, and Recent Developments)
The September 11, 2001, attacks destroyed the World Trade Center, killing 2,606 and reshaping security and skyline; One World Trade Center opened in 2014. Under Mayor Michael Bloomberg (2002–2013), the city focused on tech, green initiatives, and recovery. Occupy Wall Street (2011) highlighted inequality. Hurricane Sandy (2012) caused massive flooding and $19 billion in damage. Bill de Blasio (2014–2021) expanded affordable housing and pre-K education but faced criticism on homelessness and police relations. The COVID-19 pandemic (2020) devastated the city, with over a third of early U.S. cases and economic shutdowns. Eric Adams became mayor in 2022, emphasizing crime reduction, but was indicted in 2024 on federal corruption charges. Population grew to 8.8 million by 2020, driven by immigration and urban renewal, making New York a hub for finance, culture, and innovation amid challenges like climate change and inequality.

Geography

New York City, often simply referred to as NYC, is situated in the northeastern United States, specifically in southeastern New York State. It lies at the mouth of the Hudson River, where it meets the Atlantic Ocean, forming part of the New York–New Jersey Harbor Estuary centered around the naturally sheltered New York Harbor. This strategic coastal position has historically made it a major port and gateway for immigration and trade. The city's geography is characterized by its dense urban environment, limited land availability, and extensive modifications through human intervention, contributing to it being the most densely populated major city in the U.S. Its layout promotes energy efficiency and reduces automobile dependency compared to other American cities.

Topography and Landforms

NYC's terrain has been significantly altered since colonial times, with extensive land reclamation along waterfronts, particularly in Lower Manhattan (e.g., Battery Park City). The natural topography varies across the boroughs but has been largely evened out for development. The city spans an estimated land area of about 304.8 square miles (789.4 km²), though older estimates put it at 321 square miles (830 km²). Elevations range from sea level along the coasts to higher points inland. The highest natural elevation is Todt Hill on Staten Island, reaching 409.8 feet (124.9 m) above sea level—the tallest hill on the Eastern Seaboard south of Maine. This summit is wooded and part of the Staten Island Greenbelt. In Manhattan, the West Side remains hillier in Upper Manhattan, while the East Side has been flattened, with exceptions like Duffy's Hill in East Harlem.
Geologically, NYC straddles the boundary between the eastern coastal plain and the Newark Basin, a Triassic-era sunken crustal block from the breakup of Pangaea. Brooklyn and Queens sit on a massive moraine formed by the Laurentide Ice Sheet during the last ice age. Manhattan's bedrock consists of strong metamorphic mica schist (Manhattan schist), ideal for skyscraper foundations, with outcrops visible in Central Park, such as Rat Rock. The bedrock dips and rises across the island, influencing but not solely determining building locations. Seismic risks are relatively low, with a 2014 USGS analysis noting reduced hazards for tall structures due to less likelihood of prolonged shaking.

Boroughs and Islands

The city is primarily built on three main islands: Manhattan Island, Staten Island, and the western portion of Long Island (encompassing Brooklyn and Queens). It is divided into five boroughs, each coextensive with a county, showcasing diverse geographical and cultural features:

The Bronx (Bronx County): The northernmost borough and the only one primarily on the U.S. mainland (except for Manhattan's Marble Hill enclave). It features rolling terrain and is home to Yankee Stadium and Co-op City, the largest cooperatively owned housing complex in the U.S.
Brooklyn (Kings County): Located on the western end of Long Island, it's the most populous borough with a long beachfront, including Coney Island. Its landscape includes diverse neighborhoods and a mix of flat coastal areas and gentle hills.
Manhattan (New York County): A narrow island bounded by rivers, it's the densest borough with iconic skyscrapers. Divided into Lower, Midtown, and Upper regions, its geography is dominated by modified lowlands and parks like Central Park.
Queens (Queens County): The largest borough by area on Long Island, it's mostly flat and residential, with enclaves of wealth and ethnic diversity. It hosts Citi Field and the U.S. Open tennis venue.
Staten Island (Richmond County): The most suburban and isolated borough, featuring hilly terrain, woodlands, and the former Fresh Kills Landfill (now Freshkills Park, one of the largest urban parks globally). It's connected by bridges and ferries.

Water Bodies and Harbors

Water plays a central role in NYC's geography, with the city surrounded by tidal estuaries, rivers, and the Atlantic Ocean. The Hudson River, flowing from the north, becomes a tidal estuary as it enters New York Bay, separating Manhattan and the Bronx from New Jersey. The East River, actually a tidal strait, runs between Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. The Harlem River, another tidal strait, divides Manhattan from the Bronx. New York Harbor, one of the world's largest natural harbors, facilitates global shipping and includes Upper and Lower New York Bay. These waterways have been dredged and engineered for navigation, but they also pose risks like flooding and sea-level rise vulnerability.

Climate and Environmental Aspects

NYC experiences a humid subtropical climate (bordering on humid continental), with hot, humid summers, cool winters, and moderate precipitation year-round. Its coastal location moderates temperatures but exposes it to nor'easters, hurricanes, and rising sea levels due to climate change. Environmentally, the city emphasizes sustainability through green policies, public transit, and urban parks like Central Park (nearly twice the size of Monaco), which once included reservoirs for water supply. Density-related challenges are managed to make NYC more sustainable than most U.S. cities, though it remains at risk from environmental threats.