Nicknamed the city that never sleeps, New York is one of the world capitals of fashion, art and culture. A must-visit destination for tourists from around the world, this cosmopolitan metropolis stands out for its majestic skyscrapers, trendy neighborhoods, bustling streets, bohemian cafes and iconic attractions. Not only does it lend itself to tourist activities, but it also offers a wide choice of possibilities for entertainment, socializing and immersing oneself in daily urban life. Planning a visit to New York City? Discover our advice to not miss anything of this city where glamour, fashion and discovery combine to create a memorable experience.
Get a tourist pass to discover the city
To get the most out of your stay in New York City (NYC), it is necessary to have a tourist pass. This access card allows you to discover many emblematic sites and hundreds of attractions at a lower cost. It allows you to take advantage of free guided tours, bus or boat tours, discounts in certain stores and many other exclusive advantages. You save up to 60% on the total amount of tickets that you would have had to take separately.
To explore the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty or another monument of the city nicknamed “the Big Apple”, you have the choice between several types of tourist passes such as:
- the classic New York pass,
- THE City Pass,
- the explorer pass,
- the sightseeing pass,
- the flex pass.
Available in electronic or printable version, these passes are sold at tourist offices, specialized sites and approved counters. They include variable and flexible options, whether in terms of validity period, prices, accessible attractions and exclusive offers.
We advise you to make a comparison of the New York pass in order to choose the ticket that best suits your budget and your interests. This solution not only allows you to compare offers from different ticket providers, but also to plan your visits according to the length of your stay in New York.
Once the tourist pass bought, do not hesitate to adopt a dress style that is both elegant and casual to fully enjoy your days of exploration. For example, opt for fitted jeans combined with a trendy blouse and chic sneakers. You can also bring a light jacket or a cardigan to protect you effectively against temperature variations during the day.
Begin your tour with iconic New York landmarks
It is almost impossible to visit New York without going through the emblematic sites that make it famous. Start your visit with the majestic Statue of Liberty which is erected on the bay of Liberty City. A universal symbol of hope, courage and freedom, this 93-meter-tall masterpiece (base included) immerses you in the history of immigration to the United States. To access this monument, you must reserve a place on a ferry or sightseeing boat departing from Battery Park or New Jersey.
Exclusive tickets are offered to admire the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty at 47 meters high, as well as its crown at 80 meters high. Knowing that hundreds of steps have to be climbed to reach these observation posts, it is necessary to be in good physical condition and to put on casual outfits. So choose a light shirt, fitted denim pants and flat shoes.
Times Square is another must-see site that immerses you in the heart of the excitement of the city that never sleeps. With its giant billboards, its multicolored neon lights and its incessant flow of passers-by, this iconic square in the Manhattan district immerses you in a magical spectacle. To soak up the atmosphere of this mythical place, we advise you to go there in the evening. For the occasion, bet on a bold outfit such as a little warm dress, accompanied by a metallic handbag and oversized sunglasses.
Continue your visit to the “Big Apple” with a detour to immigration museum at Ellis Island. Then go to the Brooklyn Bridge, this impressive suspension bridge that offers a panoramic view of the Manhattan skyline. Improvise a photo shoot there by showcasing your trendy fashion accessories: slim jeans, graphic t-shirt, leather jacket, trendy sneakers, etc.
During your stay in New York, be sure to climb to the top of the Empire State Building, the One World Observatory or the Top of the Rock. Also feel free to book an evening at broadway theater to enjoy performances by artists from all parts of the United States and the world. Madison Square Garden, Central Park, Rockefeller Center, Wall Street and Fifth Avenue are other must-see sites to explore during your time in the city that never sleeps.
Take a tour of the city by boat or helicopter
Want to discover New York City (NYC) from a different angle? Let yourself be tempted by a boat or helicopter ride. Many companies in the city give you the opportunity to buy tickets to live these unique experiences. All you have to do is reserve a place, specifying the departure time, the route and the stopovers that suit you.
By choosing a boat cruise departing from Battery Park, Manhattan or the South Street Seaport, you will have the opportunity to sail on the East River and the Hudson River. These waterways are lined with many skyscrapers, bridges, museums and other attractions of the metropolis. You will be amazed by the beauty of the New York skyline as well as by the unique panorama offered by these monuments from a ship. Don’t hesitate to take souvenir photos near the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge and the Chrysler Building.
Furthermore, the helicopter rides give you a never-before-seen aerial perspective of New York City. You will fly over sumptuous buildings (Central Park, World Trade Center, etc.), striking landscapes and picturesque neighborhoods such as Greenwich Village, SoHo and Chelsea.
As helicopter tours have baggage and weight restrictions, we recommend that you respect the instructions for use given by the company. For your clothing, avoid loose or bulky clothing that could interfere with wearing the seat belt. Opt instead for fitted pants, a light blouse and closed shoes.
Walk through Central Park
Stretching over 4,000 meters long and 800 meters wide, Central Park is one of the largest urban parks in the world. A hike in this vast green space of 340 hectares will allow you to discover its lakes, its fountains, its green expanses, its long winding paths, its zoo and its emblematic buildings.
To not miss anything of this place rich in discoveries, start your exploration at the foot of the Belvedere Castle. It is a castle with Gothic architecture that offers a panoramic view of the entire park. You can take souvenir photos here before taking the alley called “The Mall”, which leads to the fountain of Bethesda Terrace. Surrounded by statues, sculptures, trees and fountains, this space is animated by street artists and musicians from various walks of life.
Continue your visit by crossing the Conservatory Garden and the Bow Bridge, then take a break at the famous Metropolitan Museum of Art. This will be an opportunity to explore the new exhibitions of this museum and to keep unforgettable memories. For lovers of outdoor activities, the park offers horse-drawn carriage, boat or bicycle rides. If you go with your children, you can let them enjoy the playgrounds and colorful rides of the Central Park Carousel. Don’t miss the outdoor concerts and plays that take place at the Great Lawn. Renowned artists perform there throughout the year, offering the public a unique cultural experience.
To fully enjoy your walk in Central Park, we advise you to wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking. Canvas pants, low-rise jeans, a soft cotton t-shirt and a cap make you feel light. Sneakers with shock-absorbing soles, ballet flats or flat sandals are also an interesting option to have a more feminine look and be free in your movements.
Shop in trendy NYC neighborhoods
Deprive yourself of one shopping spree in the trendy shops of New York is simply inconceivable during a visit to the city. So go to Fifth Avenue in NYC, a veritable temple of fashion, where international brands offer a large collection of trendy accessories. Browsing the stores in this fashionable district, you can pick up high-end tulle dresses, elegant heels, luxury jewelry and handbags from famous designers.
The SoHo district is another must-see destination for lovers of shopping. With its concept stores (theme shops), art galleries and avant-garde fashion stores, this space is full of essential accessories for an urban, retro-chic, bohemian, glamorous or futuristic look.
Feel free to explore as well other NYC neighborhoods, such as Greenwich Village, Meatpacking District, Lower East Side and Chelsea Market. These places will meet all your shopping expectations, whether you are looking for luxury pieces, vintage clothing or original creations.
