Table of Contents
3 Sentence Introduction
New York City, often simply referred to as NYC, is the largest city in the United States and one of the most populous cities in the world. The city is known for its diverse culture, vibrant arts scene, world-famous landmarks, and iconic skyline. It is home to numerous museums, theaters, and music venues, as well as some of the most famous attractions in the world, including the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and Times Square. Also, located in the southeastern corner of New York State, NYC is a global center for business, finance, media, culture, and entertainment. The city is made up of five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island, each with its own distinct personality and cultural offerings.
Area & Population
The current population of New York City is 20.2 million people (2021)
Avg Weather & Days of Rain
New York City has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons.
Summer (June to August)
The average high temperature during the summer months is around 80-85°F (27-29°C). It’s not uncommon for temperatures to reach the mid-90s°F (around 35°C) or higher during heat waves.
Fall (September to November)
The temperature begins to cool down during the fall, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-60s°F (around 18°C) to the low 70s°F (around 22°C). The city also experiences occasional rainfall during this season.
Winter (December to February)
The winters in New York City can be very cold, with average high temperatures in the low to mid-40s°F (around 5°C). Snow is common during the winter months, with an average of around 25 inches (64 cm) of snowfall per year.
Spring (March to May)
The weather starts to warm up during the spring months, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-50s°F (around 13°C) to the low 70s°F (around 22°C). The city also experiences occasional rainfall during the spring.
Best Season to Travel
The best season to visit New York City depends on personal preferences, as each season has its own unique attractions and events.
Summer (June to August)
During the summer, the weather is warm and there are many outdoor events and activities, such as concerts in Central Park and outdoor movies. However, it can be crowded and expensive, and the high humidity levels can make it uncomfortable for some.
Fall (September to November))
If you enjoy mild weather, than the fall is the best time to visit New York City. The fall foliage in the city’s parks is a beautiful sight, and there are many fall festivals and events, such as the New York Film Festival and the New York City Wine & Food Festival.
Winter (December to February)
If you enjoy the cold, than visiting New York City in the Winter is the best time to go. There are so many activities you can attend such as ice-skating at Rockefeller Center, seeing the holiday lights in neighborhoods like Dyker Heights in Brooklyn and visiting the museums and theaters
Spring (March to May)
If you enjoy mild weather and seasonal blooms than the Spring is the time to be in New York. The cherry blossoms in Central Park and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden are a popular attraction, and there are many outdoor events and festivals, such as the Tribeca Film Festival and the Five Boro Bike Tour.
Canadain Embassy in New York City
The Canadian Embassy in New York City is located at:
466 Lexington Avenue, 20th Floor, New York, NY 10017, United States
Phone Number: +1 (212) 596-1628
Climate
The climate in New York City is generally humid subtropical, with hot summers and cold winters. The average temperature in the city varies throughout the year, with an average high of around 85°F (29°C) in July and August, and an average low of around 28°F (-2°C) in January.
Culture and Traditions in New York City
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is an annual parade held on Thanksgiving Day in New York City. The parade is organized by the department store chain Macy’s and is one of the largest parades in the world.
The parade features giant helium balloons in the shape of popular characters such as Mickey Mouse and Snoopy, as well as floats, marching bands, and performers. The balloons are some of the most iconic features of the parade, with characters such as SpongeBob SquarePants and Pikachu making regular appearances.
The parade route stretches for 2.5 miles from Central Park West to Macy’s Herald Square store. The first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade was held in 1924 and featured live animals borrowed from the Central Park Zoo. Now the parade is much more larger and it is something you must see if you ever visit New York City during Thanksgiving Day.
New Year’s Eve in Times Square
New Year’s Eve in Times Square is a world-renowned event that takes place every year on December 31st. The event culminates with the famous ball drop at midnight, which signals the start of the new year.
The tradition of celebrating New Year’s Eve in Times Square dates back to 1904 when the New York Times newspaper organized a fireworks display to mark the opening of their new headquarters in the area.
The Times Square New Year’s Eve celebration is one of the largest New Year’s Eve celebrations in the world, attracting over a million people to the area each year. The event features live music performances, celebrity appearances, and a spectacular fireworks display at midnight.
The centerpiece of the celebration is the famous Times Square Ball, a crystal ball that is dropped from a pole at the top of One Times Square building at midnight. The ball is covered in over 32,000 LED lights and weighs over 11,000 pounds.
This event is something that everyone must experiences at least one so if you have the time and the money make sure to come to New York City during the Christmass and New Years holidays.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade is an annual event that takes place on March 17th in New York City. The parade is a celebration of Irish heritage and culture and is one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the world. The parade features marching bands, bagpipers, dancers, and floats. The parade route stretches for 1.5 miles from 44th Street to 79th Street along Fifth Avenue in Manhattan. The grand marshal of the parade, who is typically a prominent Irish-American figure, leads the parade along with other dignitaries and politicians. While the parade is the main event, there are many other St. Patrick’s Day celebrations that take place throughout the city, including concerts, cultural events, and pub crawls.
Chinese New Year Parade
The Chinese New Year Parade is an annual event held in New York City’s Chinatown to celebrate the Lunar New Year. The parade typically takes place in February or March and features colorful floats, dragon and lion dancers, traditional music, and fireworks. The parade is led by the Chinese lion dance, which is believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits. The parade route stretches for 1.5 miles through the heart of Chinatown in Lower Manhattan. The streets are decorated with red lanterns and other decorations to mark the occasion. In addition to the parade, there are many other Lunar New Year celebrations that take place in New York City’s Chinatown. These include food festivals, cultural events, and performances by Chinese musicians and dancers. If you can not visit Asia for Chinese New Years than make sure to visit New York City as it one of the largest celebrations of its kind outside of Asia
Broadway Shows
One thing that New York City is really known for is that it has some of best theatrical performances, Broadway Shows, in the world. The Broadway shows are produced in one of the 41 professional theaters located in the Theater District of New York City. Some of the most popular Broadway shows of all time include “The Phantom of the Opera,” “Les Misérables,” “Wicked,” “The Lion King,” and “Hamilton.” Broadway shows cover a wide range of genres, including dramas, comedies, and musicals, and many productions have won Tony Awards, which are presented annually to recognize excellence in live Broadway theater. If you are ever in town make sure to see one of these shows as it will be a show to remember.
Packing List for Each Season
Spring (March to May)
- Lightweight jacket or coat
- Umbrella or raincoat
- Layering pieces like cardigans and scarves
- Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
- Lighter fabrics like cotton or linen
- T-shirts and blouses
- Jeans or pants
Summer (June to August)
- Lightweight clothing like shorts, sundresses, and tank tops
- Sandals or open-toed shoes
- Sunglasses and a hat
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Swimsuit and beach towel if planning to visit the beach or pool
- A lightweight jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
Fall (September to November)
- Light to medium weight jacket
- Scarf and hat for cooler days
- Closed-toed shoes or boots
- Jeans or pants
- Long-sleeve shirts and sweaters
- Layers like a cardigan or vest
Winter (December to February)
- Heavy coat or parka
- Warm hat, scarf, and gloves
- Snow boots or waterproof shoes
- Sweaters and thermals
- Jeans or pants
- Thick socks
- Umbrella or raincoat in case of snow or rain
Top 5 Famous People You’ll be Surprised are from New York City
Lucy Liu
Lucy Liu is an actress known for her roles in films such as “Charlie’s Angels” and the TV series “Elementary.” She was born and raised in Queens, New York.
Anne Hathaway
Anne Hathaway is an actress known for her roles in films such as “The Princess Diaries” and “Les Misérables.” She was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York.
Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga is a singer, songwriter, and actress known for her pop hits such as “Bad Romance” and “Born This Way.” She was born and raised in Manhattan, New York.
Alicia Keys
The singer and songwriter was born and raised in Manhattan’s Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is a retired professional basketball player and one of the greatest players in NBA history. He was born and raised in Harlem, New York.
Top 5 Interesting Facts About New York City
The First Pizzeria in the United States was Opened in New York City
Lombardi’s Pizza is a historic pizzeria located in the Little Italy neighborhood of Manhattan in New York City. It was opened in 1905 by Gennaro Lombardi and is considered the first pizzeria in the United States. Lombardi’s Pizza is known for its coal-fired brick oven pizzas, which are made with fresh ingredients and a thin, crispy crust. The pizzeria has been featured in numerous food guides and was even named “Best Pizza in America” by the Food Network in 2009. The restaurant has a casual, old-world atmosphere and has been frequented by both locals and tourists for over a century.
The Statue of Liberty was a Gift from France:
The Statue of Liberty is a world-renowned symbol of freedom and democracy, located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. Rhe statue was a gift from France to the United States, and it was dedicated in 1886. The statue was designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and its metal framework was designed by Gustave Eiffel, the same engineer who designed the Eiffel Tower in Paris.The statue stands at 151 feet tall, with an additional 154 feet for the pedestal. The statue has become an iconic symbol of the United States and is one of the most visited tourist attractions in New York City.
New York City has the largest subway system in the world
New York City Subway covers approximately 373 kilometers and has 27 lines with 472 stations. The Subway remains one of the busiest subway systems in the world, with an average weekday ridership of over 5 million passengers. It also has the highest number of stations in the United States and serves as a vital transportation network for residents and tourists alike.
New York City was briefly the capital of the United States
New York City currenlty has one of the largest subway system. It has 472 stations and 27 subway lines which covers a total of 245 miles (394 kilometers) of track. The system operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and serves millions of commuters and tourists each day. The subway system covers the entire New York City metropolitan area, including the boroughs of Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island.
Top Beaches in New York City
Rockaway Beach
Rockaway Beach is located in the Rockaways neighborhood of Queens, New York City. The beach is long and contains many amenities for the visitors. The beach is known for its lively atmosphere, especially on weekends and holidays, with beachgoers enjoying swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. The boardwalk, which runs the length of the beach, is a great place to take a stroll or bike ride and offers beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean.The beach is easily accessible by public transportation, with subway and bus options available. There are also plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops in the area, making it a fun place to spend a day or weekend.
Coney Island Beach
Coney Island Beach can be located in the Coney Island neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York City. The beach contains a wide boardwalk, amusement park rides, and it has a lively atmosphere. The beach is a great place to swim, sunbathe, and people-watch, and it’s also a popular spot for fishing. Visitors can also take a stroll on the boardwalk, which is home to various food vendors, restaurants, and shops. During the summer months, Coney Island hosts several events, including the Mermaid Parade, Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, and Friday night fireworks. The beach is easily accessible by subway, and there are several parking lots available for those who choose to drive.
Brighton Beach
Brighton Beach can be found in the the southern part of Brooklyn, New York City. It is situated along the southern shore of Brooklyn and faces the Atlantic Ocean. The neighborhood is known for its beach, which is relatively quieter and less crowded than other nearby beaches, such as Coney Island. Brighton Beach has a strong Russian community and is often referred to as “Little Odessa” because of the large number of immigrants from the Ukrainian city of Odessa who settled there. Visitors to Brighton Beach can enjoy swimming and sunbathing on the beach, as well as exploring the many Russian restaurants, shops, and markets in the area. The neighborhood is easily accessible by subway, and it’s a great place to spend a relaxing day near the ocean.
Top Tours in New York City
Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour
The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour allows visitors to explore two of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The tour begins with a ferry ride to Liberty Island, where visitors can get up close to the statue and learn about its history and symbolism from a knowledgeable guide. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the pedestal of the statue, which offers panoramic views of the city skyline and the harbor. Next, the ferry takes you to Ellis Island, where you can learn about the history of immigration in the United States at the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration. The museum features exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays that tell the stories of the millions of immigrants who passed through Ellis Island in search of a better life. The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour is a must-do for anyone visiting New York City, and it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
Central Park Bike Tour
The Central Park Bike Tour is a fun and active way to explore one of the most iconic landmarks in New York City. With over 843 acres of green space in the heart of Manhattan, Central Park has something for everyone, from beautiful gardens and scenic paths to historic landmarks and cultural attractions. The bike tour starts at the southern end of Central Park, where you’ll meet your guide and get fitted for a bike. Your guide will take you on a leisurely ride through the park, stopping at some of the most notable landmarks and attractions, such as the Bethesda Fountain, the Central Park Zoo, and the Shakespeare Garden. The tour is suitable for all ages and skill levels, and the pace is relaxed and easygoing, with plenty of time for photo opportunities and sightseeing.
9/11 Memorial and Museum Tour
The 9/11 Memorial and Museum Tour is a guided tour that takes visitors through the National September 11 Memorial and Museum, which is located at the site of the former World Trade Center. The tour typically begins at the 9/11 Memorial, which consists of two large reflecting pools set in the footprints of the original Twin Towers. The pools are surrounded by bronze panels inscribed with the names of the victims of the 9/11 attacks and the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. Visitors are encourage to pay their respects and reflect on the impact of the attacks at the Memorial. The tour then moves to the 9/11 Museum, which is located underground and tells the story of the 9/11 attacks and their aftermath through a series of exhibits and artifacts. The exhibits include photographs, videos, and personal artifacts from the victims, first responders, and survivors of the attacks. Some of the most notable exhibits include a surviving staircase that served as an escape route for many people during the attacks and a collection of artifacts recovered from the site, including twisted steel beams and crushed emergency vehicles. The 9/11 Memorial and Museum Tour is a powerful and emotional experience that pays tribute to the victims and heroes of September 11, 2001, while also providing a deeper understanding of the impact of the attacks on New York City and the world.
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
The Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour is designed to allow you to explore the city’s top attractions without having to worry about transportation or navigating the busy streets. The tour operates on a loop system, with multiple routes and stops throughout the city. You can board the bus at any of the designated stops, and then hop off at any stop to explore the surrounding area. When you’re ready to continue the tour, simply board the next bus that comes along.Along the way, you’ll see many of New York City’s most famous landmarks and neighborhoods, such as Times Square, the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, and Central Park. The Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour is a great option for first-time visitors to New York City, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the city’s top attractions, and allows you to explore them at your own pace.
Wall Street and Financial District Tour
The Wall Street and Financial District Tour is a guided tour that takes visitors through the heart of New York City’s financial center, which includes Wall Street, the New York Stock Exchange, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, and other important financial institutions. The tour may allow you to visit to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, where you can see the gold vault and learn about the role of the Federal Reserve in the financial system. Throughout the tour, the guide will share interesting facts and stories about the history of Wall Street and the financial industry in New York. Visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the financial center’s influence on the global economy and its impact on everyday life.
Top Parks & Gardens
Central Park
If you every heard of New York City than you must have also heard about how wonderful Central Park is. Central Park is a world-renowned urban park located in the heart of Manhattan, New York City. It was designed in the mid-19th century by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, and it spans over 800 acres. There are numerous walking paths, bike trails, and scenic overlooks throughout the park. Central Park is also home to many iconic attractions, such as the Central Park Zoo, the Great Lawn, the Bethesda Fountain, and the Central Park Conservatory Garden. The park offers a wide range of recreational activities, such as horseback riding, boating, ice-skating, and baseball. If you are visiting New York City than Central Park is a must see place.
Brooklyn Botanic Garden
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a 52-acre botanical garden located in the Prospect Park neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York City. It features over 14,000 species of plants from around the world, arranged in various gardens and collections. While visiting the park you need to see the Cherry Esplanade, which features rows of flowering cherry trees; the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, which is designed to evoke the landscapes of Japan; and the Cranford Rose Garden, which boasts over 5,000 roses of various colors and varieties. The garden also has several conservatories, including the Steinhardt Conservatory, which houses a variety of tropical plants, and the Aquatic House, which features a collection of aquatic plants and animals. Throughout the year, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden hosts various events and exhibitions, including the Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival in the spring and the Chile Pepper Festival in the fall. If you already have been to Central Park than the Brooklyne Botanic Garden is something you should consider to visit.
The High Line
The High Line is a public park located on Manhattan’s West Side, built on an abandoned elevated railway track. The park stretches for 1.45 miles from Gansevoort Street to 34th Street and offers stunning views of the city’s skyline and the Hudson River. The High Line features beautiful gardens and green spaces, as well as public art installations and several seating areas. It is designed as a linear park, with walking paths and stairs leading visitors up and down the various levels of the old railway structure. The park is divided into three sections, each with its own distinct character and landscape. The High Line is open year-round, and it’s a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, especially during the summer months when it hosts various events and activities, such as stargazing, guided tours, and outdoor concerts.
Battery Park
Battery Park is a public park located at the southern tip of Manhattan Island in New York City. It covers 25 acres and offers spectacular views of New York Harbor and the Statue of Liberty. The park features a variety of gardens, lawns, and walking paths, as well as several monuments and memorials. One of the most notable attractions in Battery Park is the Castle Clinton National Monument, which was built in 1811 as a fort to protect New York Harbor. The park is also home to the SeaGlass Carousel, a unique and interactive carousel that features 30 fiberglass fish that light up and move in unison. Visitors can take a ferry from Battery Park to visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Battery Park is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a peaceful respite from the bustling city and a glimpse into New York City’s rich history.
Transportation options in the city
Subway
Subway in New York City is one of the largest and most extensive rapid transit systems in the world. It is operated by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and serves the four boroughs of Manhattan, the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens. The subway system consists of 27 interconnected subway lines, with a total of 472 stations. The New York City subway system is known for its iconic design, including its tile work, signage, and distinctive colors. The subway operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with frequent service during peak hours and reduced service during off-peak hours. The fare for a single ride is currently $2.75, with discounts available for multiple rides and various payment methods. There are several subway tours available for those interested in learning more about the history and design of the subway system.
Bus
New York City’s bus system consists of more than 300 routes, with over 5,700 buses serving approximately 2.5 million passengers every weekday. The buses run 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with frequent service during peak hours and less frequent service during off-peak hours. The bus system is an affordable option for getting around the city, with a single ride costing $2.75. Various payment options are available, including the MetroCard, which can be used on both the bus and subway systems. There are several resources available to help, including route maps, online trip planners, and customer service representatives at bus stops and stations for when you need help. Additionally, there are several bus tours available for those interested in seeing the city’s sights from the comfort of a bus.
Taxi
New York City has one of the largest and most extensive taxi systems in the world. The iconic yellow cabs are an important part of the city’s transportation network and provide a convenient and efficient way to get around. To hail a taxi in New York City, you can stand on the side of the road and wave your hand. If the taxi’s roof light is on and the numbers on the side of the car indicate that it is available, the driver should pull over to pick you up. There is a base fare of $2.50, and the meter increases based on both distance and time, with additional fees for tolls and tips. In addition to traditional taxis, there are also ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft available in New York City. These services typically operate at a slightly higher price point than traditional taxis, but they offer the convenience of being able to book a ride through a smartphone app and track the driver’s progress in real-time. It’s worth noting that New York City has strict regulations on taxis and ride-hailing services, including licensing requirements and fare structures. As a passenger, it’s important to make sure you’re using a licensed and legal taxi or ride-hailing service to ensure your safety and avoid any potential legal issues.
Ferry
The ferry system in New York City is an increasingly popular mode of transportation, offering scenic views of the city’s skyline and waterways. The ferry system is a relatively new addition to the city’s transportation network, with the first route launching in 2017. Since then, the system has expanded to include several routes connecting Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx. The ferries run on a regular schedule, with frequent service during peak hours and reduced service during off-peak hours. Fares for the ferry system vary by route and range from $2.75 to $7.00 per ride, with discounts available for frequent riders and various payment methods. The ferry system is also included in the unlimited ride MetroCard options. The ferry system provides connections to several major transit hubs, such as subway and bus stations, making it an integrated part of the city’s transportation network.
Vaccine Requirements
As of April 21, 2023, all individuals ages 12 and older are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to participate in certain activities in New York City, including indoor dining, indoor fitness, indoor entertainment, and indoor performances. This requirement applies to both residents and visitors.
It’s important to note that the specific vaccine requirements may be subject to change based on the evolving situation with the COVID-19 pandemic. Individuals should regularly check the official websites of the New York City government and relevant agencies for the latest updates and guidance on vaccine requirements.