Intro…
New York City consists of five boroughs located at the point where the Hudson River flows into the Atlantic Ocean. Central to the city is Manhattan, a highly populated borough that ranks among the globe’s key commercial, financial, and cultural hubs. Its famous landmarks feature towering skyscrapers like the Empire State Building and the vast expanse of Central Park. Broadway performances are held in the brightly illuminated Times Square.
What is New York City typically recognized for?
New York serves as a worldwide hub for finance and trade, culture, technology, entertainment and media, education and scientific achievements, the arts and fashion, and, being the location of the United Nations headquarters, international diplomacy.
The Ultimate Local’s Travel Guide to NYC
New York City is a vibrant place where the excitement is relentless, and the variety of its neighborhoods provides something for everyone. While visitors swarm to the main attractions, residents understand that the city holds even more treasures waiting to be uncovered. Here’s a guide to help you experience NYC like a true New Yorker, stepping away from the typical tourist destinations.
1. Local’s Best Kept Secrets for Food
a. Katz’s Delicatessen (Lower East Side)
It’s well-known, but locals still rave about it for the finest pastrami sandwich in the city. Arrive early to beat the rush, or visit later in the day for a more relaxed atmosphere.
b. Xi’an Famous Foods (Multiple Locations)
If you love spicy, hand-pulled noodles and lamb dishes, this is the spot for you. The Spicy Lamb Noodle Soup is a popular choice with devoted fans all over the city.
c. Prince Street Pizza (Nolita)
New York pizza holds a legendary status, but locals often claim that Prince Street Pizza in Nolita has the best slice in Manhattan. Their pepperoni slice is crispy, cheesy, and slightly greasy—absolute perfection.
d. Smorgasburg (Brooklyn)
A culinary paradise every weekend. Smorgasburg is an open-air market in Williamsburg offering the finest street food vendors. It’s seasonal, but the perfect spot to sample unique dishes—from Korean BBQ tacos to gourmet donuts.
2. Local’s Favorite Outdoor Spots
a. Roosevelt Island
This small isle nestled between Manhattan and Queens features tranquil parks, picturesque views, and the Roosevelt Island Tramway, providing spectacular aerial views of the East River. Be sure to visit Four Freedoms Park, a serene and often neglected area conceived by Louis Kahn.
b. The High Line (Chelsea)
Despite its popularity among tourists, this elevated park in Manhattan remains a favorite for locals, offering breathtaking views of the Hudson River, art installations, and lush greenery in the heart of the city. Visit early to dodge the crowds and enjoy a coffee from Blue Bottle at the entrance of the park.
c. Prospect Park (Brooklyn)
A vast green area designed by the same planners who designed Central Park, Prospect Park offers a peaceful atmosphere and a genuine neighborhood vibe. Residents enjoy walking their dogs, picnicking, and attending summer concerts at the Bandshell.
d. Governors Island
This island, free of cars and situated in the harbor, is an ideal summer retreat. Locals often enjoy biking around the island, discovering The Hills (a collection of man-made mounds with wonderful views), and taking in outdoor art displays.
3. Shopping Where Locals Shop
a. The Strand (East Village)
A 24-hour bookstore with more than 2.5 million titles, it’s a must-see for any book lover, and if you’re fortunate, you might stumble upon a rare first edition or something truly unique in their discount bins.
b. SoHo’s Boutique Stores
While tourists tend to flock to chain retailers, locals prefer the smaller boutiques scattered along Greene Street and Spring Street. From distinctive clothing outlets to vintage shops, these stores are perfect for discovering unique items.
c. Brooklyn Flea (Multiple Locations)
The Brooklyn Flea is the ultimate destination for vintage treasures, local artisan crafts, and antiques. It’s the perfect place to shop for distinctive souvenirs that aren’t typical NYC trinkets.
4. Nightlife for Locals
a. Cocktail Bars with No Signage
Explore hidden gems like Please Don’t Tell (PDT) or Employees Only, which are intimate, speakeasy-style bars. These venues usually fly under the radar, so you’ll need to look for them.
b. Live Music Venues
For live music, The Bowery Ballroom in the Lower East Side or Brooklyn Steel in Williamsburg consistently feature a great mix of indie, rock, and local talent.
c. Dive Bars with Character
For a genuine NYC drinking experience without any frills, consider visiting dive bars such as McSorley’s Old Ale House (the oldest bar in NYC) or The Bell House in Gowanus for affordable drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Final Thoughts:
New York City is a mosaic of cultures, experiences, and hidden treasures. By venturing into these places, you’ll experience the city as a true local, seeing it beyond the typical tourist perspective. The best part? There’s always something fresh to discover around every corner.