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The Local’s Guide to NYC

June 29th, 2020 | By: Jacob Randolph

 

There are endless activities to experience in the city that never sleeps. Once you have seen the main attractions and done the tourist-y things, then it's time to go off the beaten path and discover the real New York City. You can feel like a local for a weekend with this top 10 Local's Guide to NYC. 

 

Stone Street

Explore

There is a lot to discover in New York City and easily something to cater for all interests. A great way to get aquainted with the city is to join one of the New York Highly Rated Tours for a shuttle ride around the city's top sights with expert local guides. There are a fantastic choice of different tours and packages available, so make sure to check them out! Some of the sights you definitely do not want to miss are:

  • Stone Street: Stone Street is steeped in history. It is the oldest paved street in New York City and it is lined with historic buildings that have been converted into restaurants. On a beautiful day, it’s packed with outdoor seating on the cobblestone street. The atmosphere is a great place to get a bite and do some day-drinking. The atmosphere is always lively with locals getting outside and spending time with friends.
  • Brooklyn Rooftop Farms: Many people do not realize there are farms on top of the Brooklyn buildings. You can take a tour of these organic farms and learn how they are creating greenspaces in one of the most crowded places in the US. You also can’t beat the views from the rooftops!
  • Bushwick Street Art: Once you’ve gotten your fill of the classic NYC art museums, then head outside to explore the street art in Bushwick, Brooklyn. The art on the walls here is more than just graffiti, it makes a statement and inspires change. There are plenty of Instagram-worthy shots here, too.
  • Historical Landmarks: Of course, there is the Statue of Liberty, but did you also know that George Washington was inaugurated in New York City? He was the only president to be inaugurated here before the capital was moved to Washington DC. Also, if you’re a fan of the popular Hamilton musical, then it would be worth it to check out the church where Alexander and Eliza Hamilton are buried.

 

Stay

  • The Peninsula: Known as one of the 'Grand Dame' of hotels, you can't find better than this. While the price is steep, the experience is, too. If you can afford to splurge, do so here, as it is one of the best luxury hotels in New York City. 
  • Baccarat: As the flagship of Maison Baccarat, you will only find opulence upon walking through these doors. With marble bathrooms and Parsian -styled bedrooms, you will feel like the true Queen (or King) you are while staying here.
  • Opera House Hotel: Known for its extraordinary service, fun location, and great food, the Opera House Hotel should be on your list of places to stay, particularly if you don't mind being a bit on the outskirts of the city.
  • Hotel 50 Bowery: Hotel 50 Bowery: Located in the heart of Chinatown, this hotel is a chic boutique hotel chain that offers guests Manhatten skyline views, vibrant interiors, and of course, convenient access to some of the best multicultural cuisine in the world. 
  • Arlo Soho: As one of the more affordable and quaint hotels in the city, you can't go wrong with Arlo. Located right on Hudson St, Arlo has a rooftop terrace, cozy interiors, and pristine bedrooms. The rooms are a bit smaller than regular hotel rooms, but for under $200 in NYC, it doesn't get much better. 

 

Yankee Stadium

Relax

  • Catch a Game: Cheer on the NYC professional sports teams alongside the locals! New York has plenty of sports teams to choose from including baseball, basketball, football, and hockey. Even if you are not a huge sports fan, the atmosphere is always lively and energetic. You can get great food and drinks, and enjoy a good time.
  • Greenacre Park: In the midst of the concrete jungle lies this quiet little park with a 25-foot waterfall and a café. There is no wifi, so it’s a great place to unplug and relax. This is a classic local favorite to escape the crowds.

 

Highline Park

Shop

  • Thrift Shop in East Village: East Village is a hip and trendy section of New York City. There are plenty of thrift shops where you can find vintage items at bargain prices. You will always remember your trip to NYC if you bring home some unique pieces from the thrift store. Popular shops include Buffalo Exchange, L Train Vintage, AuH2O, Cure Thrift Shop, and Housing Works in SoHo.
  • Smorgasburg: One of the best food festivals in NYC is Smorgasburg at Williamsburg’s East River Park. It happens every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from April to November. There are over 100 vendors where you can try an assortment of delicious food at great prices.
  • Union Square Market: Pretend to be a local and walk around the market shopping for local fruits, vegetables, jams, flowers, and more. Grab items for a picnic and then head to a local park. You will feel right at home in NYC.
  • Highline Park: This park is unique because it is elevated above the Manhattan streets on a historic freight rail line. It is a hybrid public space where you can enjoy nature, design, and art. There are plenty of food and drink vendors there, too!

 

Want a real local New Yorker to show you around?

If you wish you had a friend in New York City to show you around, well now you do! The tour guides at Manhattan Walking Tour are so friendly and the tours have an 8 guest maximum, so it really feels like you are just exploring New York with a group of friends.  Not only that, but they have a LOT of food on their food tours. Or you could do a combo tour to experience 2 neighborhoods (1 for food and 1 historic neighborhood). The combo tours are my favorite and they are your best bet to experience everything (and they are currently on sale, yay!). On the tours, you will learn the rich history of ever-evolving neighborhoods, such as Greenwich Village, Chinatown, or Hell’s Kitchen. You will see how their inhabitants have changed and shaped the culinary culture of the area. Also, you will walk famous New York areas like The High Line, Central Park, Historic Downtown, or Times Square and learn the history of these incredible spots. You can choose what areas you want to see! The folks over at Manhattan Walking Tour will make you feel like you saw it all, but will leave you wanting to experience New York City even more! 


If you are heading to the big apple during the months of June-September, then check out this guide to summer in New York, with coutless activities and adventures in the city!

 

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Check out other things to do in the USA:

Washington DC in One Day
Top 10 Things to Do in Philadelphia
Top 10 Things to Do at Acadia National Park

 

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About

Hi there! 

We are Jacob and Taylor. Travel is our passion and we love sharing our experiences here at The Travelling Souk. Our hope is that you would be inspired by this little blog to try something new, embrace an adventure, and live life to the fullest. 

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