New York City is one of the most special places in the world and definitely a MUST when traveling in the USA!
Visiting NYC is a dream come true for millions of people around the globe. That’s why it’s always full of tourists and people taking pictures in front of its many sights, ready to post them on their social networks and show them to their friends as soon as they return home.
However, no matter how great enjoying New York as a tourist on vacation in USA, it’s even better to discover the habits of people who actually live there and what their lives are like.
So, if you wish to experience New York as a real local, here are a few things you should do!
Watch entertainment in NYC
Not that many people know how amazingly artistic New York is, and that you can find a theater, a cinema or a performance spot at basically every corner.
So, if you’re spending more than a few days at this amazing place, be sure to check out its rich cultural life and experience it like a real New Yorker.
This isn’t something most tourists do because they think it’s a waste of time and money, but if you think differently than discover some of the most popular plays and musicals.
After all, there’s a huge chance you’ll see a few of your favorite Hollywood stars on the stage as well!
Visit some hidden gems of NYC
If you’re one of those more traditional tourists, yet still don’t want to spend time around the Empire State Building or the Statue of Liberty, we have great news for you – New York is full of other places that are just as exciting and interested, but not nearly as crowded.
Find less-known sights like:
- Fort Tryon Park,
- Morgan Avenue,
- High Line,
- New York Public Library
- check out more NYC hidden gems.
These places will teach you all there is to know about this wonderful city, but you won’t be bothered by thousands of other tourists. Moreover, you’ll actually be able to see a few locals here as well!
Editor’s note: on the picture above you can see High Line which is an old railway turned into the amazing elevated park above the city! It’s 2.km ling and offers some peaceful & relaxing time, amazing views and events.
Staying in New York like a local?
NY offers every type of accommodation but they all have one thing in common! You’re guessing right, it’s the price, and hotels will always feel like hotels.
To live like a local, there is no better advice than searching for an apartment and best for that is, of course, Airbnb. If you’ve never tried, now it’s the time.
If you are on a budget then you should have a look at our recent article about Best Hostels in NYC. You’ll get the best advice on local activities from the backpacker’s community.
Go watch a game!
New York Yankees, New York Rangers, New York Jets or New York Knicks? Sounds familiar? These are the most popular New York teams that have a long history in US sports.
Going to a game is a wonderful experience where you can see all the local patriots supporting their team with passion and joy. What can be more local than that?
Grab yourself a ticket and go have some fun!
FYI!
- New York Yankees – Baseball Team Schedule
- New York Rangers – Ice Hockey Team Schedule
- New York Jets – Football Team Schedule
- New York Knicks – NBA Team Schedule
Where & what to drink like a New Yorker?
New Yorkers are famous for their cool lifestyle and most of their free time revolves around their favorite bars and cafés. This has become so iconic that you can define certain TV shows that take place in New York by the establishments they take place in
- from How I Met Your Mother’s MacLaren’s Bar
- to Friends’ Central Perk and Seinfeld’s Monk’s Coffee Shop
You’ll feel like a real local in a great bar in just a few minutes, and the best way to enjoy it is by getting interested in the amazing art of mixology in NYC – it’s the art of mixing drinks and serving them in a visually attractive and unusual way.
This is what all New Yorkers do, and they just love having drinks that are beautiful and tasty at the same time.
Shopping in NYC is a must!
Again, this is what all people in all NYC-based TV shows and movies are doing, so if you get a day off while visiting NY, be sure to spend it shopping.
Of course, you don’t have to stick to the Fifth Avenue only, but look around a bit, get into a few smaller and less popular streets, and you’ll find an astonishing offer of clothes that are just perfect for you.
Don’t be afraid to look for sales, special offers and bargains because you can easily save a ton of money this way. Just imagine telling all your friends your new attire comes right from the best stores in NY– you’ll feel like a million dollars wearing it and you’ll get so many compliments!
EDITOR’s note: In the above picture you can see world-famous Macy’s in Manhattan on 6th Avenue & 34th Street. DO NOT MISS THAT ONE!
Eating in New York like a local?
New York is home to so many different people coming from all parts of the world, and all of them made its food scene rich, versatile and exciting!
That’s why you simply have to indulge in its great selection, forget about your regular dieting regime and eat delicious food like a real New Yorker.
Though this sounds too expensive at first, it actually isn’t, and all you need to do is start with a few new things you don’t usually eat. Whether it’s pizzas, bagels, sandwiches, hot dogs, pretzels or something else, you simply have to try it.
Also, try to visit at least one high-end restaurant, but don’t forget about the famous food trucks, bodegas, and take-outs either.
Acting like a real New Yorker takes some time and practice, but if millions of people can do it every single day, you’ll surely know how to do it for a week or two as well.
Just be open to different suggestions, don’t be afraid to try out new things, and explore ideas you’ve never explored before – after all, that’s what all the locals are doing!
Please feel free to comment below with your suggestions, we would love to extend this list in the future. Enjoy mighty New York City.
Disclaimer: This article on how to visit NYC like a local contains affiliate links that can help us to earn a commission from your purchase. This income helps us to run a magazine and we appreciate your support.