How to Tour New York City

Decide your travel arrangements. The New York City /Tri-State area is the most densely populated region of the United States. Depending on your location, you may use one of many different means of arrival. If you will be traveling from some distance, plane travel is often inexpensive to New York City. It is a popular destination hub from all over the world, and is served by two busy airports--La Guardia and John F. Kennedy. By booking well in advance, you can often save great amounts on airfare.

If you are coming from nearby, travel by train and car are valid options. The Metropolitan Transit Authority, which services the New York City region, operates a rail line called Metro North which services the Connecticut and the northern suburbs of New York. NJ Transit offers options for those coming from New Jersey. New York City is also a destination for the highly traveled Northeast Corridor by rail. This region, which spans from Washington DC to Boston, is serviced by Amtrak with a train stopping in New York City frequently. Amtrak passengers will find much cheaper fare if they book well in advance.

The New York City mass transit system is important but it is vast, and often confusing for new travelers. The Metropolitan Transit Authority has maps of both subway and bus routes available at its website, http://www.mta.info. If you intend to leave Manhattan, consider proximity to public transit when you make your travel plans. It may be cheaper to stay in parts of Queens, but this could mean cab rides or walking on foot if you are not careful about location.

Those who prefer to walk should stay in a central Manhattan location, such as the Times Square or other midtown regions. This will offer close walking proximity to all areas of the city and all major tourist hubs.

Taxi transit is also a good option in New York City. Cabs often outnumber private vehicles, and finding an available taxi is easy on all but the most busy of nights. When you hail a cab, be advised that there is a very specific system used. If only the middle light above the cab is on, it is available to take passengers. If all lights are on, or no lights are on, the cab is busy or off-duty.

Choose your site. With the Empire State Building, the Top of the Rock, famous destinations such as the Roseland Ballroom and Stonewall Inn, the Statue of Liberty and fantastic architecture spanning from the era when the city was New Amsterdam all the way to modern skyscraper, New York offers no shortage of tourist options. Both modern luxury and antiquarian sentiment will be well-served, although the region of the city you visit will be greatly impacted by your desire.

The far downtown and uptown portions of Manhattan are the oldest, and feature historic streets and New Amsterdam era buildings such as those found in Greenwich Village. The Upper West and Upper East side also feature many pre-war mansions that will surely be of interest. Central Manhattan is mostly very populated and very modern, with glowing signs and a dense skyscraper concentration. It is the typical caricature of Manhattan, and is where Broadway theaters abound. This district, known as midtown, is the most popular destination for tourists and there are no shortage of boutique experiences.

Golfers will find that the three tiered, 30-acre Chelsea Piers in downtown Manhattan may be to their liking. Located at 23rd Street and Hudson, it is a popular location for golf tourists. More information and deals can be found at their website, http://www.chelseapiers.com .