On your own, New York City is a great place to visit.To plan a fun-filled solo trip, begin by using a map or a tour guide.It is possible to get last-minute tickets to shows.If you want to enjoy some of NYC's amazing parks, you need to research before you eat.If you feel isolated, reach out to other people.Make sure to stay safe and bechoosy with your accommodations.
Step 1: A map or guide can be used.
You can buy a paper tourist guide or download an electronic copy.As you move throughout the city, you can download a travel app to use.Make sure the city map you use is up to date.It is less likely that you will be marked as a tourist if you go with an electronic option.
Step 2: You can find a tour guide.
You can pay to have a guide escort you through Chinatown if you have the money.The Global Greeter Network is a volunteer guide group.Contact the NYC Tourist Board for more information and suggestions.There is a chance that a volunteer option will ask for a donation.A casual tour given by a local may be cheaper than a professional tour.
Step 3: Hit crowded spots after dark.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art is a popular destination.Sometimes they will stay open late on weekends.If you would like to avoid hitting a bar or a similar place on your own, this can provide you with another option.
Step 4: Get last minute tickets.
If you need multiples, you're more likely to get a single ticket to an in-demand play or show.You can inquire about seats at the booth in Manhattan or Brooklyn.You might get lucky if you are prepared to be flexible.You can go directly to a box office, but you may have to wait longer in line.If you ask for a single ticket, you'll get the best discount.
Step 5: Do your research at the restaurant.
To find out which restaurants get the best reviews by single diners, browse NYC tourist websites.If you want to be the most comfortable, you should look for ones with ample bar seating.You can blend in with the crowd while eating at the bar.Breakfast can be eaten at one of the many bakery-cafés spread throughout the city.You can enjoy some great people watching in a traditional restaurant, and feel less self-conscious.Casa Mono is a Spanish restaurant that has large crowds.The kitchen is open for viewing and there is plenty of entertainment in it.The Flatiron district is a grocery-laden area that you can browse.You can sample the wares at some of the mega grocery stores.
Step 6: There is a packed show in a tiny venue.
If you want to see a show while avoiding the hustle and bustle of Broadway, you can go to one of the smaller theaters or even a more intimate music club.You can lose yourself in the crowd if these spaces are packed.If you want to hear original jazz, you could go to The Iridium.Maybe you can attend a reading at the Poetry Project.
Step 7: Get outside.
There are a lot of green spaces in NYC that will give you plenty of places to relax.Some of the spaces, like Central Park, can get crowded, but you can usually find more secluded and quiet areas a bit deeper in.You could go to a local restaurant and eat some finger food.Shakespeare Garden is an example of a more secluded space that is quieter than crowded ones.
Step 8: Look for a good deal.
If you're looking for a bargain, hit a thrift store on the Lower East Side.Black Gold Records is a shop that sells vintage records.If you would like to blend in, this is a great way to spend your time.
Step 9: You should act like a local.
You should go with the crowd on the city streets.You can travel like locals by using the subway, bus, and taxis.The evening is the best time to go to formal restaurants.If you feel isolated, remember that you are not the only one in the city.The Staten Island Ferry is a good way to get to know the city.The Hop On, Hop Off bus tour will give you a good idea of the city.
Step 10: Talk to other people.
Reach out to the people around you as you shop or eat.Ask them what they like to do.If you are sitting next to someone at a bar, you might ask, "Have you been here before?"Is there anything that you would suggest ordering?
Step 11: It's a good idea to bring a book.
It's not possible to reach out to strangers all of the time, so if you're alone, pull out a good book or magazine to read.You will be able to engage with your surroundings and people will watch more than you will.
Step 12: Technology can be used to meet other people.
Before you head out on your trip, or even while in NYC, use your phone or laptop to reach out to the locals.If you want to connect with people with similar interests, you can visit MeetUp.You can use an app like Highlight to see who is in the city at certain times.
Step 13: Allow time to relax.
It is possible to schedule every minute of your trip.Try to incorporate some cooling down periods during your travels.You can get a facial or massage at a local spa.Take in the sights by sitting outside a coffeehouse.These activities are best done alone.
Step 14: You should be aware of your surroundings.
Even if it doesn't feel like it, NYC is still a big city.If you have to take a cab, make sure to plan ahead.Even new friends are still strangers, so be careful who you trust.When you're unsure, rely on your common sense.
Step 15: Trust your gut.
There is a good chance that you are right if you get a feeling that something is not right.Get yourself to a safe place and reach out to people who can help you.If you need assistance, contact the authorities.
Step 16: Emergency contacts should be established.
Get in touch with at least three friends or family members to let them know where you are going.You can also give them your flight information.In case they need to be contacted in case of a medical emergency, you might want to carry one of their numbers with you in your bags.Make sure you have all the necessary medical ID cards with you.If you need certain medications, first responders can help you.
Step 17: It's a good idea to choose safe accommodations.
Do some research online before you go to your hotel to make sure you have a safe stay.Pay particular attention to any comments regarding safety.You can talk to the NYPD about crime reports in your area.