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Travel Guide for
New York City

United States

Humid subtropical, cold winters, hot summers

Introduction

New York City dazzles with energy and glamour, set at the mouth of the Hudson River. Founded in 1624, its rich history blends with a modern skyline, iconic Broadway theaters, and world-class museums.

In mid-July, expect warm days, with highs in the mid-80s°F (around 29°C), perfect for rooftop cocktails or private yacht cruises around Manhattan. Revel in five-star dining, designer shopping on Fifth Avenue, and after sunset, explore exclusive lounges or catch a private show—NYC’s luxury experiences make it an unforgettable destination for friends.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleTravelling with friends

Dates11-18 July 2025

BudgetLuxury budget

AccommodationHotel

Interests and Activities:

gastronomyarts and culturenightlife and entertainmentsightseeing and toursfestivals and events

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Picture of New York City, NY, USA

Key Facts

Location

Northeastern United States

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Religion

Christianity (dominant), diverse

Population

8,419,600

Language

English, Spanish, Chinese, others

Electricity

120V, 60Hz, Types A/B plugs

Time zone

UTCEastern Time (UTC-5)

Country code

+1

Internet access

Widely available, high-speed broadband, public Wi-Fi

Climate

Humid subtropical, cold winters, hot summers

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Map

Logistics

New York City is easily accessible by flights from around the world, with three major airports: JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark. Luxury travelers can book direct flights in first or business class and arrange private airport transfers or use ride-share apps for a stylish arrival. Private jet charters are also available for ultimate comfort and privacy.

Trains like Amtrak arrive right in Midtown Manhattan at Penn Station, offering a scenic and relaxed journey from other major U.S. cities. Upscale motorcoach services, private car hires, or limousine services provide a comfortable overland journey for groups of friends. Ferries and private yachts dock at various city ports for those arriving by water.

July weather can be hot and humid, with occasional afternoon thunderstorms, so plan for flexible transfers and indoor arrival lounges for comfort. Book transportation and accommodations well ahead, as this is a peak travel period.

Weather

New York City has a humid subtropical climate, offering four distinct seasons. Winters can be chilly with occasional snow, while spring and fall are mild and pleasant—ideal for sightseeing and cultural events. Summers tend to be hot and humid, perfect for enjoying outdoor festivals and the city’s lively nightlife.

From July 11 to July 18, expect warm, humid days with temperatures typically ranging from 75°F to 90°F (24°C to 32°C). Afternoon thunderstorms are possible, but extreme weather is rare. This is a great time for open-air dining, rooftop bars, art exhibits, and lively entertainment, making the most of New York’s vibrant summer scene.

Food & Drink

New York City is famous for its diverse food scene, from classic bagels and New York-style pizza to gourmet tasting menus. Must-try spots include Eleven Madison Park for innovative fine dining, Katz’s Delicatessen for legendary pastrami sandwiches, and Carbone for upscale Italian-American fare. Trendy bars like The Dead Rabbit in the Financial District offer world-class cocktails in a lively setting.

For breakfast or a coffee stop, visit Café Sabarsky, housed in a museum, or Dominique Ansel Bakery for unique pastries. NYC caters to all dietary needs, with abundant vegan, gluten-free, and international options. A 18-20% tip is customary at restaurants. Make reservations in advance, especially at sought-after venues, and be prepared for a stylish, vibrant dining atmosphere.

A picture of Hamburger

Hamburger

The classic American hamburger is a grilled beef patty served in a soft bun, often topped with lettuce,...

A picture of Barbecue Ribs

Barbecue Ribs

Barbecue ribs are slow-cooked, tender cuts of pork or beef that are generously seasoned with a flavorful dry...

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Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese is a creamy, indulgent dish made with elbow macaroni pasta and a rich, cheesy sauce....

A picture of New York-style Pizza

New York-style Pizza

New York-style pizza is characterized by its thin, hand-tossed crust, generous cheese topping, and a variety of classic...

A picture of Southern Fried Chicken

Southern Fried Chicken

Southern fried chicken consists of juicy, tender pieces of chicken that are coated in a seasoned batter and...

Accommodation

For a luxury friends’ trip, consider top hotels like The Peninsula, The St. Regis, and Five-star gems along Central Park and in Midtown. SoHo and Tribeca also offer chic boutique hotels such as The Dominick and The Greenwich Hotel, which put you near great dining and nightlife.

The Lower East Side boasts stylish hotels like PUBLIC, known for lively rooftop bars and social scenes—perfect for groups. For larger suites, look at Marriott Marquis in Times Square or the Conrad in Battery Park. Book early on platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, or directly on hotel websites—mid-July is popular, and room rates rise quickly due to summer tourism and events.

Itinerary

Kick off your New York City adventure with a luxurious start, soaking in classic cityscapes while enjoying gourmet flavors and vibrant neighborhoods with your friends.

Champagne Brunch at The Rainbow Room

Start your NYC journey with a luxurious brunch at The Rainbow Room. Enjoy sweeping skyline views and gourmet cuisine with your friends. Reservation is essential for this iconic Art Deco gem.

Private Yacht Cruise Around Manhattan

Sail along the Hudson and East Rivers for stunning close-ups of the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and Manhattan’s skyline. Toast with bubbly as you soak in the views. Book a luxury yacht for an exclusive experience.

Gallery-Hopping in Chelsea

Explore cutting-edge contemporary art in Chelsea’s renowned galleries. Many spaces feature special summer exhibitions. Ask about private viewings or curator-led tours for a truly upscale experience.

New York CityPASS®

New York CityPASS®

INSTANT

Experience 5 must-see attractions and save up to 41% with New York CityPASS® tickets. With 9 days to use your tickets, you can take your time exploring. Get admission to 5 attractions. Includes: • Empire State Building Observatory • American Museum of Natural History Plus choose 3 of the following: • Top of The Rock® Observation Deck • 9/11 Memorial & Museum • Ferry Access to Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island • Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises • Intrepid Museum • Guggenheim Museum Plan Your Trip: Download and visit the My CityPASS® App to access tickets, make reservations (if required), and view attraction details.

4.3 (2119 reviews)

From $154 USD

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Attractions

4.0 (381 reviews)
Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and 9/11 Memorial Guided Tour

Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and 9/11 Memorial Guided Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Explore New York’s most iconic landmarks on a guided tour of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Wall Street, and the 9/11 Memorial. Choose from English, Spanish, or French guides, and upgrade for reserved 9/11 Museum entry. Start your journey at Battery Park, where your guide sets the stage before you sail to Liberty Island. Learn the history and symbolism of Lady Liberty, enjoy panoramic views, and visit the "Statue of Liberty Museum" during free time. Next, head to Ellis Island to delve into the immigrant experience at the Immigration Museum, hearing stories of resilience and hope. Return to Battery Park by ferry and continue to Wall Street to see landmarks like the New York Stock Exchange and Federal Hall. Conclude at Ground Zero, paying tribute at the 9/11 Memorial Pools and hearing the story of 9/11. Upgrade for access to the 9/11 Museum to explore its powerful exhibits and artifacts in depth. Choose guided tour of the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island ONLY for shorter tour

From $80 USD

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4.3 (2583 reviews)
Washington DC Highlights, 1-Day Tour from NYC

Washington DC Highlights, 1-Day Tour from NYC

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Explore beyond the Big Apple with a full-day tour to Washington DC from New York City. You'll capture the spirit of "the home of the brave and land of the free" as you visit the monuments and memorials of Washington DC. Help create a better planet for everyone to travel and explore. We have partnered with One Tree Planted to plant one tree for every passenger that travels with us along with an extra tree for anyone that books multiple trips.

From $129 USD

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5.0 (1794 reviews)
NYC: Greenwich Village Food Tour with 6 Locals Favorites Dishes

NYC: Greenwich Village Food Tour with 6 Locals Favorites Dishes

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Experience the ultimate New York City food tour in historic Greenwich Village. Led by a local expert, you’ll explore Manhattan’s most iconic neighborhood, famous for its bohemian roots and vibrant culinary scene. This top-rated NYC walking tour takes you behind the scenes to discover where locals eat, combining neighborhood history with the city’s most legendary flavors. Enjoy six authentic tastings, including a classic New York bagel, crispy street-style falafel, and a hot slice of authentic New York-style pizza. Satisfy your sweet tooth with artisanal cupcakes and gourmet doughnuts before uncovering our signature Secret Dish. It’s a mystery specialty revealed only on the day of your tour! Perfect for foodies, this Greenwich Village food tour captures the area’s counterculture past and its modern reputation as a culinary hotspot. Taste the best of the Big Apple and discover the hidden gems that make this Manhattan food experience unforgettable.

From $98 USD

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3.5 (11 reviews)
Chinatown and Little Italy Tour in New York City with Local Expert

Chinatown and Little Italy Tour in New York City with Local Expert

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Take a walking tour through Manhattan’s most storied neighborhoods with an informative guide. Perfect for first-time visitors and anyone who loves New York history, this fully-narrated excursion offers a fascinating overview of Little Italy and Chinatown. You have a chance to see the life of the various groups of immigrants who settled here and learn about the political and social influences they have had on the city. This tour details what motivated the Chinese, Irish, and Italians to immigrant to New York in the 1800's. In addition, it focuses on how the Chinese, Irish, and Italian exiles became the backbone of New York. The men would build New York's bridges and the tunnels. The women would be cooks and maids. And their children, raised in the values and language of their new country, would weave themselves into the tapestry of America. This is the story of America.

From $99 USD

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4.6 (71 reviews)
Central Park Horse Carriage Ride Short Loop (Up to 4 Adults))

Central Park Horse Carriage Ride Short Loop (Up to 4 Adults))

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Welcome to our delightful Short Central Park horse carriage tour! Starting at the corner of 59th Street and 6th Avenue, our journey takes you along a brief trip on 59th Street, providing a glimpse of the city before immersing you into the beauty of Central Park. Along the way, we'll make a stop at a picturesque spot, allowing you to capture stunning photographs or simply take in the surroundings for a few minutes. As you gaze upon the diverse scenery, the tour transforms depending on where your eyes wander. In both New York City and Central Park, people from around the United States and the world gather, creating an atmosphere that is festive day and night, regardless of the temperature. Being in a horse carriage in Central Park during the early evening or night offers a panoramic view of New York City, showcasing its vibrant energy and the global community that flocks to this city that "never sleeps."

From $115 USD

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5.0 (9 reviews)
Lower Manhattan & 9/11 Memorial Walking Tour Semi-Private 12ppl

Lower Manhattan & 9/11 Memorial Walking Tour Semi-Private 12ppl

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Go back to New York’s origins on this 2.5 hour semi-private (12 Guest Maximum) guided walking tour of Lower Manhattan, welcoming up to 12 guests. Explore Lower Manhattan with NYC’s Top-Rated Guides. Discover the heart of Lower Manhattan with an expert guide who brings NYC’s history, culture, and resilience to life. On this semi-private tour (12 guests max), you’ll journey through iconic landmarks such as Wall Street, the Oculus, and the historic St. Paul’s Chapel. Your experience culminates with a moving visit to the 9/11 Memorial, where your guide provides rich context and meaningful stories that make this an unforgettable tour. With the highest-rated guides in New York City, this is more than a tour—it’s a deeply personal journey through one of the most significant chapters in NYC’s history. A must-do for anyone seeking a deeper connection to the city.

From $52 USD

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4.7 (41 reviews)
5-Day Niagara Falls, Toronto, Montreal and Quebec City from NYC

5-Day Niagara Falls, Toronto, Montreal and Quebec City from NYC

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Visit four spectacular famous cities in Eastern Canada: Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, and Quebec in five days! Experience an unforgettable waterfall view and enjoy the colorful night view of the Niagara Falls! Ride on the Hornblower Cruise to experience the waterfall views of Niagara Falls from multiple angles. Complimentary Skylon Tower ticket is included. You may enjoy authentic French food in Quebec at your own expense. The tour will not visit Thousand Island after 10/15/2022 since it will close. Room Details All hotel rooms are based on two Full / Double beds or one King/Queen bed depends on what hotel availiable on the day. The maximum occupancy per room is four travelers. One Room Selection If you are a party of more than four guests or desire to have separate rooms, please provide a separate booking. Avoid traveling in a different bus? If you have more than one booking, please provide all confirmation numbers once your bookings are complete.

From $1216 USD

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4.7 (636 reviews)
New York Helicopter Tour: New York City Skyline Tour

New York Helicopter Tour: New York City Skyline Tour

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Enjoy an unforgettable 25–30 minute flight from Linden Airport, New Jersey, offering breathtaking aerial views of New York City’s world-famous skyline. Choose from a daytime, sunset, or nighttime tour and capture breathtaking sights of the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. Fly over the George Washington Bridge and cruise along the Hudson River, taking in landmarks like the Chrysler Building, the Vessel, Little Island, and Summit One Vanderbilt. This is the only sightseeing flight available on Sundays, departing exclusively from Linden New Jersey —just a short ride from Linden Station NJ. After sunset, watch the city light up beneath you, with Times Square glowing and Manhattan shimmering under the night sky. Whether you're a visitor or a local looking for a new perspective, this unique flight offers a one-of-a-kind New York City experience you won’t forget. *HeliNY is Wingman/TOPS certified!

From $355 USD

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4.0 (1873 reviews)
Go City: New York Explorer Pass: 100+ Things to Do Including Edge

Go City: New York Explorer Pass: 100+ Things to Do Including Edge

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

With the New York Explorer Pass by Go City you get access to your favorite 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 attractions or tours, from over 90 things to do, and save up to 50%* (compared to buying individual attraction tickets). Admire sweeping views from the Empire State Building Observatory, Top of the Rock, Edge and One World Observatory. See the city from a Hop on Hop off Bus, take a Sightseeing Cruise, or indulge your tastebuds on a Food on Foot walking tour. There's something for everyone! Create your own itinerary and sightsee the Big Apple at your own pace - you have up to 30 days to use your pass. Your pass includes access to the Go City app and a digital guide to plan your trip. Make sure to check which activities require advance reservations, then show your pass on your mobile device at the entrance. *Savings based on sample itineraries on the Go City website.

From $89 USD

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4.3 (497 reviews)
The Big Apple Helicopter Tour of New York City

The Big Apple Helicopter Tour of New York City

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

See the Big Apple’s most iconic landmarks and building up close on this popular helicopter tour of New York City, while taking off and landing out of Manhattan Heliport. This is a one-of-kind pilot narrated modern and historical tour. As you soar above the city that never sleeps, take a look at all NYC has to offer. You’ll see attractions such as: One World Trade Center, Empire State Building, Times Square, The Intrepid Museum, Central Park, Yankees Stadium and Columbia University.

From $279 USD

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4.9 (364 reviews)
NYC in a Day Tour: Statue of Liberty, Times Square and More

NYC in a Day Tour: Statue of Liberty, Times Square and More

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Immerse yourself in a one-of-a-kind Big Apple experience. On this 6-hour guided tour, enjoy an authentic New York experience. With a small group (less than 15 people) you will be able to move fast and see more. Walk, subway and ferry to see New York’s must-see attractions in one action-filled day!

From $89 USD

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5.0 (448 reviews)
Private Guided New York City Tour by SUV

Private Guided New York City Tour by SUV

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Explore New York City in a luxury SUV on a private, customized tour. This 4, 5, or 6-hour tour of the Big Apple is geared to match individual or group interests and preferences. Whether you are an architecture buff, celebrity hound, or sightseeing aficionado, your tour will be unique to you. Travel in a luxury SUV with a native New Yorker and licensed tour guide. Endless possibilities include: Wall Street, the 9/11 Memorial, Central Park, Grand Central Terminal, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, or lesser toured areas of NYC like Brooklyn, Queens, or the Bronx.

From $1396 USD

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3.7 (10 reviews)
New York City Fortune Tour 1-Day Sightseeing Adventure

New York City Fortune Tour 1-Day Sightseeing Adventure

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Discover the forces that built New York City into a global powerhouse on this immersive Fortune Tour. Travel through Wall Street, Midtown, and Times Square as you explore legendary financial institutions, iconic skyscrapers, and historic landmarks where wealth, ambition, and influence shaped the modern world. From the New York Stock Exchange and Federal Hall to Rockefeller Center and the bright lights of Times Square, this tour connects the stories behind the buildings that changed history. Enhance your experience with optional add-ons including One World Observatory, a Statue of Liberty cruise, or RiseNY for a deeper look at the city’s past, present, and future.

From $106 USD

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4.4 (30 reviews)
Washington D.C.& Philadelphia 2-Day Tour from New York City

Washington D.C.& Philadelphia 2-Day Tour from New York City

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL

Explore the heart of American history and democracy on a full-day tour of Philadelphia and Washington, D.C.This tour takes you from New York to visit the birthplace of American independence and iconic national landmarks,offering a comprehensive experience of the country’s historical and political heritage.From the Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia to the famous memorials and monuments of Washington, D.C.,this journey promises a deep dive into the rich tapestry of U.S. history. 2025 Buy 2 Get 2 Free Promotion(3rd and 4th guest free) ensuring that all participants share accommodations in a single room. Promotion price as what you see. Please note that additional charges, including admission fees and other expenses, will apply to all participants. Take advantage of our 2025 Buy 2 Get 2 Free offer (3rd/4th guest free), ensuring all participants share accommodations in a single room. Exclusive tour rates apply only when booking for 3 or 4 travelers at once.

From $363 USD

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4.6 (18 reviews)
Holiday Lights Extravaganza Walking Tour

Holiday Lights Extravaganza Walking Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This holiday tour is jam-packed with fun facts, stories of holiday traditions, visits to view NYC's most spectacular holiday decorations and lights, sing-a-longs, and is guided by a fun and lively Guide. Your expert, licensed, local Guide knows all the top spots for viewing the absolute best decorated sites. They will provide expert commentary for all sites visited along the route and may assist with photo taking, if help is needed. The style of the tour is lighthearted and gay and with a genuine Christmassy vibe. All along the route, you are encouraged to take lots of memorable photographs while reveling in all the amazing sights and sounds of the holidays in super-sized, New York City style!

From $62 USD

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