Last updated: November 2026 · How we research our guides · Report a correction
💡 About New York
As many as 800 languages are spoken in New York City, making it one of the most linguistically diverse urban areas on Earth — a living testament to centuries of immigration from every corner of the globe. The city's iconic skyline took shape in the early 20th century as architects and developers competed fiercely to build the world's tallest skyscraper, giving Manhattan its unmistakable silhouette. Central Park, masterfully designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, covers 843 acres in the heart of Manhattan and receives over 42 million visitors per year — more than any national park in the United States.
The Statue of Liberty, gifted by France in 1886 to celebrate the shared values of freedom and democracy, stands 93 metres tall on Liberty Island and has welcomed millions of immigrants arriving by sea. New York's subway system, opened in 1904, operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year — one of the very few in the world to run through the night without interruption. The city is made up of five distinct boroughs — Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx and Staten Island — each with its own character, culture and cuisine.
Wall Street, a narrow lane in Lower Manhattan, is the symbolic heart of global capitalism and home to the New York Stock Exchange, which processes trillions of dollars in trades every single day. Broadway, the world's most celebrated theatre district, has been the heart of American theatre for more than a century and sells over 12 million tickets in a typical season. New York City has produced more Nobel Prize winners than most countries, and its universities, hospitals and research institutions are among the finest in the world.
The city experiences all four seasons dramatically — blistering summers, spectacular autumn foliage in Central Park, occasional blizzards in winter, and a glorious spring that sees the cherry trees of the Brooklyn Botanic Garden burst into bloom.
⭐ Known For
🏛️ Top Attractions
- Statue of Liberty
- Central Park
- Metropolitan Museum of Art
- Times Square
- Brooklyn Bridge
- Empire State Building
- High Line
🍽️ Local Food
- New York pizza
- Bagels with lox
- Hot dogs
- Pastrami on rye
- Cheesecake
- Buffalo wings
🍽️ Where to Eat in New York
See all 5 →An 1888 institution serving towering hand-carved pastrami sandwiches — a New York rite of passage.
📍 View on MapsA converted factory turned buzzing food hall beneath the High Line.
📍 View on MapsThe quintessential New York slice joint, serving foldable perfection since 1975.
📍 View on MapsA cash-only Brooklyn steak temple since 1887 — no-frills, all-flavour.
📍 View on Maps🧳 Before You Go: Local Rules in United States
The rules visitors to New York most need to know, checked against official sources (10 November 2026).
- LawThe drinking age is 21 everywhereSource: UK government travel advice (FCDO) for the USA
- LawCannabis is illegal under federal law, even where states allow itSource: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
- LawDeclare all food, plants and animal productsSource: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
- LawSevere penalties for illegal drugsSource: UK government travel advice (FCDO) for the USA
- LawMost fruit, vegetables and plants are bannedSource: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
🔍 How to Recognise New York in a Photo
The details that give New York away in a photo, for players of our photo games and anyone who wants to know the city better.
- A rigid street grid full of yellow cabs, with steam rising from vents in the road.
- A skyline with the Empire State Building, the Art Deco crown of the Chrysler Building and One World Trade Center, and wooden water towers on the rooftops.
- Brick tenements with zig-zag fire escapes on the front, and brownstone row houses with high front steps (stoops).
- Green street signs and subway entrances marked by green globe lamps.
Easy to mix up with
- Chicago: A river with many lift bridges runs through downtown, elevated “L” trains rattle over the streets and the lake looks like a sea.
- Toronto: The tall, needle-like CN Tower and red streetcars give it away.
Five photos: some show New York, others show cities that are easy to mix up with it. Pick the right city for each one.
❓ New York: Quick Answers
When is the best time to visit New York?
The best time to visit New York is April–June, September–November. New York has a humid continental climate, so check the forecast for your dates before packing.
Is New York expensive to visit?
New York is one of the more expensive cities in our guide. Expect high prices for hotels and eating out, and look for free museums, parks and set lunch menus to save money.
Is New York safe for tourists?
We rate New York 7/10 for safety: generally safe for visitors. As in any big city, watch your belongings in crowded areas and on public transport, and check your government's latest travel advice before you go.
What currency is used in New York?
The currency in New York is the US Dollar ($). Check how widely cards are accepted before you go, and carry some cash for markets, taxis and small purchases.
What language is spoken in New York?
The main language in New York is English. A few local words, such as hello and thank you, are always appreciated.
What is New York known for?
New York is best known for Times Square, Broadway, Statue of Liberty and Central Park.
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