Welcome to
new york
The best brands, the biggest selection,
plus
1O% off
*for visitors.
Stop by Macy’s Herald Square and ask for your
Macy’s
Visitor Savings Pass
*, good for 10% off
*thousands of items
throughout the store! Pick up your pass at the new Macy’s
Visitor Center on the Mezzanine Floor where you can plan
your visit and get more savings on all your favorite NYC
events, attractions and tours with nycgo.com. Plus, we now
ship to over 100 countries around the world, so you can
enjoy international shipping online. For details, log on to
macys.com/international
*Restrictions apply. Valid I.D.
required. Details in store.
Ciao, New York! Your table is ready.
Our new dining experience on
6 at Macy’s Herald Square.
Menus, photos and reservations
at stella34.com
NYC OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
NYC & Co (Winter 2013-14) Single
RH Pg
Job #:
54719_M3110056_101 Mo/Wk: Dec Wk3
TRIM: 4 x 8.375” BLEED: (.25”) 4.25” x 8.625”
SAFETY/LIVE AREA: (.375) 3.25” x 7.75
Art Dir: Matt (x:5167)
Writer: Jackie(x:5320)
Coord: Shaleah (x:1331)
Production: Marilyn(x:5527)
2 NYC & Company | Official Visitor Guide
A Letter from the CEO
of NYC & Company
Dear Friends:
New York City is proud to be the nation’s most-popular big city—there is always something new and exciting to do in the five boroughs for people of all ages, from visiting world-famous landmarks and attractions to exploring special places off the beaten path.
NYC is always the perfect place to do some shopping. Festive markets and fairs pop up across the City every winter and, as the world knows, we also have the flagship stores and designer boutiques that make us a fashion capital year-round. But, of course, our annual winter traditions go beyond shopping. We have the world-famous ball drop in Times Square and other celebrations, such as the Lunar New Year Parade and Festival in Chinatown, New York City Ballet’s winter season celebration of Tchaikovsky, the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show at Madison Square Garden and Piers 92/94, the Bronx’s New York Botanical Garden’s Orchid Show and much more.
This year New York City will help host a quintessential American tradition for the first time, Super Bowl XLVIII at MetLife Stadium. With countless people from around the country expected to come watch America’s greatest sporting event, we are rolling out the red carpet with a series of fan-friendly events. We are ready to show everyone that there truly is no place as diverse and exciting as New York City.
For more information about what is happening here this winter, please visit nycgo.com. And once you are here, do not hesitate to stop by any of our Official NYC Information Centers. I hope you have a terrific stay in New York City. We look forward to welcoming you back soon.
Sincerely, George Fertitta CEO
Fun today. Memories forever!
Call
877-247-5223 for reservations,
or go to
americangirl.com for details.
Experience dining designed
with girls in mind!
There’s even a Treat Seat
®for her doll.
Fun today. Memories forever!
Make your
dining reservations
online at
americangirl.com!
® R1300917_NY_VisitorGuide_QC.indd 1 10/28/13 12:06 PMThis is NYC
4 NYC & Company | Official Visitor Guide
Table of Contents
This is New York City
The Boroughs Must-See NYC Events Calendar NYC Essentials Fast Facts
Official NYC Information Centers Getting Here & Getting Around
Transportation Accommodations Shopping
Sightseeing & Tours Arts & Entertainment Museums & Galleries Dining
Nightlife
Sports & Wellness Services
Subway Map Index
Index of Advertisers Reader Reply Card Coupons
Foldout Map
Key to Symbols
A
Wheelchair AccessibleD
Senior/Student DiscountB
Hearing Impaired ServiceE
Kid-FriendlyC
Visually Impaired ServiceF
Gratis/FreeNYC event listings, exclusive deals, fun things to do and more.
nycgo.com
NYC & Company
Chairman |
Emily K. Rafferty
Visitor information
212 484 1222
Advertising
212 484 5423
The NYC Official Visitor Guide is a publication of NYC & Company, Inc. Contents and design © 2014, all rights reserved. Reproduction without written permission is strictly prohibited. Every effort was made to ensure accuracy of the information in this guide as of press time. However, NYC & Company and its agents, partners and affiliates assume no responsibility for errors, changes or omissions. NYC & Company makes no endorsement, representation or warranty regarding the suitability, quality or availability of any goods or services advertised or listed in this publication. Listings and advertisements are provided by the subject companies, and NYC & Company shall not be responsible or liable for any inaccuracy, omission or infringement of any third party’s rights therein, or for personal injury or any other damage or injury whatsoever. Printed in Canada.
006 014 018 027 027 028 030 034 042 071 081 118 144 162 215 226 233 040 238 240 240 back back
Guest Services 212.823.6300
TheShopsAtColumbusCircle.com
58th & Columbus Circle | New York
NYC
EXPERIENCES
NYC
NYCEXPERIENCES
EXPERIENCES
START HERE
VIP Pass and FREE gift
Visit Guest Services
at Time Warner Center
DEVELOPER, MANAGER, EXCLUSIVE RETAIL LEASING AGENT
related.com S P O N S O R E D B Y
nycgo.com | facebook.com/nycgo 7
Winter in New York City always
brings such thrills as a stroll
through snow-covered Central
Park and a skate around the
ice at Rockefeller Center. And
in February this year, there’s
another reason to be in the area:
the Super Bowl—the National
Football League’s championship
game and one of the world’s
big-gest sporting events. Of course,
there are also countless
year-round attractions like the
spec-tacle of Broadway shows, a vast
array of restaurants serving every
cuisine imaginable and museums
showcasing art from around the
globe. No matter what you love,
you’ll find the best of it in NYC.
This guide features tips on how
to get the most out of your New
York City visit, including how to
get around, what to see and do
and where to find special deals.
For up-to-the-minute news and
offers, visit nycgo.com.
Winter in New York City always
brings such thrills as a stroll
through snow-covered Central
Park and a skate around the ice
at Rockefeller Center. And this
February, there’s another reason
to be in the area: the Super Bowl
—the National Football League’s
championship game and one
of the world’s biggest sporting
events. Of course, there are also
countless year-round attractions
like the spectacle of Broadway
shows, a vast array of restaurants
serving every cuisine imaginable
and museums showcasing art
from around the globe. No matter
what you love, you’ll find the
best of it in NYC.
This guide features tips on how
to get the most out of your New
York City visit, including how to
get around, what to see and do
and where to find special deals.
For up-to-the-minute news and
offers, visit nycgo.com.
8 NYC & Company | Official Visitor Guide
The Bronx
url: nycgo.com | ilovethebronx.com area: 42 square miles population: 1.3+ millionsubway travel time from Times Square:
30 minutes
The Bronx is brimming with different cultures and fun activities that are guaranteed to keep visitors of any age and interest satisfied. Families often flock to the 265-acre Bronx Zoo and its accompanying children’s zoo, while those looking for lush green head to the New York Botanical Garden’s indoor floral displays. Visit Wave Hill, where winding, some-times snow-dusted paths give way to sweeping views of the Hudson River, or test your balance on the ice rink in Van Cortlandt Park. Take a tour, too, at Yankee Stadium or with a guide from Tour America or SusanSez NYC Walkabouts. After a day of exploring, warm up inside one of Arthur Avenue’s authentic Italian restaurants and bakeries— some claim they have the best fresh-made provolone, pasta and biscotti outside of Italy.
Times Square
additional highlights:
Arthur Avenue Retail Market | arthuravenuebronx.com
Taste flavorful treats from Italian vendors at this classic indoor market.
The Bronx County Historical Society | bronxhistoricalsociety.org | 718 881 8900
Preserves and promotes Bronx heritage through its archival library and two museums.
The Bronx Museum of the Arts | bronxmuseum.org | 718 681 6000
Showcases contemporary art from many cultures; admission is free.
New York Botanical Garden | nybg.org | 718 817 8700
The 250-acre garden features a stunning conservatory and special events.
Van Cortlandt House Museum | historichousetrust.org | 718 543 3344
One of NYC’s distinguished houses of historical and architectural significance. Bartow-Pell Mansion captures
19th-century life in modern New York. MUSEUMS (p. 154)
nycgo.com | facebook.com/nycgo 9
Brooklyn
url: nycgo.com | visitbrooklyn.org area: 71 square miles population: 2.5+ millionsubway travel time from Times Square:
25 minutes
With more than 2.5 million residents, Brooklyn is NYC’s most populous borough—it would be America’s fourth-largest city on its own. Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge from downtown Manhattan, and you’ll find a place that has tremendous life and variety. Sports fans can see National Basketball Association team the Nets at the new Barclays Center; indie-rock aficionados can hear hip bands and shop for vintage duds in Williamsburg. Photographers will love the stunning skyline views in Brooklyn Heights, while nearby DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) is packed with galleries and upscale furniture stores. Family-friendly Park Slope’s restaurants and cafes will please foodies, while there’s no better place for a relaxing stroll than picturesque Prospect Park, whose attractions include a zoo, two ice-skating rinks and even a natural forest.
Times Square
additional highlights:
A Slice of Brooklyn Bus Tours | asliceofbrooklyn.com | 917 678 9733
Taste great pizza or, during the holidays, see stunning Christmas lights.
BAM | bam.org | 718 636 4100
See great theater at this prestigious performing- and cinema-arts center.
Brighton Beach | nycparks.gov | 718 946 1350
Though the beach is closed in winter, visit Russian shops, restaurants and nightspots.
Brooklyn Children’s Museum | brooklynkids.org | 718 735 4400
Experience fun, educational exhibits about history, science and world cultures.
New York Transit Museum | mta.info/museum | 718 694 1600
Learn about New York City’s extensive transit system in a historic subway station. Bargemusic offers intimate chamber performances on a renovated barge.
10 NYC & Company | Official Visitor Guide
Manhattan
url: nycgo.com | mbpo.org area: 23 square miles population: 1.6+ millionhome to Times Square
Many of New York City’s signature snapshots are of Manhattan. There’s an amazing array of things to see and do here, and they all fit into the smallest borough of the City. See a Broadway show in Midtown, browse through the stalls of Chinatown, duck into warehouses converted to art galleries in Chelsea or warm up with a drink and some dancing at clubs and bars on the Lower East Side. Wherever you look, Manhattan is full of energy and adventure. No matter what your interest—arts, culture, entertainment or shopping—this borough serves it up at every turn. So take a walk, ride the subway, hop a bus or hail a taxi and start exploring— Manhattan’s classic images are even more magical up close.
Times Square
additional highlights:
Children’s Museum of the Arts | cmany.org | 212 274 0986
Kids love this enormous play and learning center in SoHo.
Macy’s Herald Square | macys.com | 212 695 4400
Nine floors of shopping in the heart of Midtown, plus cafe-style and sit-down dining.
Radio City Music Hall | radiocity.com | 212 247 4777
The famous art deco performance hall is home to the Rockettes and dazzling shows.
Stone Street | downtownny.com
Walk NYC’s first paved street, now lined with restaurants and bars.
United Nations | visit.un.org | 212 963 8687
Tour the international headquarters of member states of the intergovernmental organization.
City parks are dotted by statues of historical figures. William Tecumseh Sherman rides at the east end of Central Park.
SightSEEiNg & toUrS (p. 90)
Valid 12/19/13-3/21/14
Offer available in store only at FAO Schwarz Fifth Avenue NYC store. Excludes Astro Kids, Ballooniacs, Bugaboo, Build-A-Bear, Bunnies By The Bay, Central Park Zoo, Elope, Evolution, Kurt S. Adler, LeapFrog Enterprises LLC, LEGO, Mamas & Papas, Midtown Comics, Museum of Modern Art, Ottilie and Lulu, Ridemakerz, Skylanders, Taste Buds Kitchen, Zutano, candy store and food-related items, custom dollhouses, electronic learning toys, face painting, gift cards, glitter tattoos, photo kiosks, private parties/tours, Buyer Protection Plan, assembly fees, delivery fees, phone orders, Special Orders and shipping & handling. One coupon per guest. Not valid with any other “R”Us total transaction offer or on prior purchases. Must be surrendered
at time of purchase. Value is forfeited if item is returned. Coupon prorated among eligible items purchased. Only original coupons accepted. Void where prohibited. Valid USA only. Cash value 1/100 of 1¢. (MG102513B) CPN ITEM # 964280 on your purchase of $75 or more
SAVE
$
Learn more about our iconic store–one of the
most fun destinations in all of New York City–
during a private, behind-the-scenes tour before
we open to the public!
This amazing package includes:
•
A 45-minute tour hosted by a world-famous
FAO Schwarz Toy Soldier
•
A store history, highlights–including The Grand Hall
and the Muppet Whatnot Workshop & toy demos
•
An FAO Schweetz “candy raid”
•
Complimentary treat and beverage at FAO Café
For pricing and reservations,
contact FAO Schwarz:
212.644.9400 x4244 or
[email protected]
Tour the Store & Discover
the Wonder Up Close!
767 Fifth Avenue at 58th Street
New York, NY 10153 1.800.426.8697 • FAO.com
12 NYC & Company | Official Visitor Guide
Queens
url: nycgo.com | discoverqueens.info area: 110 square miles population: 2.2+ millionsubway travel time from Times Square:
15 minutes
This vibrant borough is one of the most ethnically diverse places in the world—visiting can feel like an international adventure. There’s fresh seafood in Long Island City, juicy Greek gyros in Astoria, home- made al dente Italian pasta in Corona and a banquet of Szechuan specialties in Flushing. And the delights extend beyond dining: art lovers can explore the newly expanded Queens Museum, experience MoMA PS1’s contemporary works and social events and walk through Socrates Sculpture Park year-round. Kids can have fun at the City’s premier hands-on science and technology center, the New York Hall of Science, while polar bears and friendly winter animals are out to play at the Queens Zoo. Winter is also a great time to take a spin around the ice-skating rink at Flushing Meadows–Corona Park while enjoying the natural sights around the lake.
Times Square
Dine at New World Mall, a bustling indoor food court in downtown Flushing.
additional highlights:
Museum of the Moving Image | movingimage.us | 718 777 6888
Houses the nation’s largest collection of movie and TV artifacts.
The Noguchi Museum | noguchi.org | 718 204 7088
See the varied works of Japanese-American sculpture artist Isamu Noguchi.
Queens Botanical Garden | queensbotanical.org | 718 886 3800 See wintertime holly and shop a seasonal holiday marketplace. Queens Theatre | queenstheatre.org | 718 760 0686
Multicultural performing arts center located in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park.
RW Prime | rwnewyork.com | 718 215 2828
nycgo.com | facebook.com/nycgo 13
Staten Island
url: nycgo.com | visitstatenisland.com area: 59 square miles population: 491,000+subway travel time from Times Square:
45 minutes
A visit to New York City’s greenest borough almost always begins with a scenic ride on the Staten Island Ferry. Not only is the trip free, but it provides prime views of Lady Liberty and the Lower Manhattan skyline, so get your camera ready. The ferry docks in St. George, a neighbor-hood accented by architectural and historic hidden gems waiting to be discovered. The St. George Theatre, which dates back to 1929, show-cases family-oriented music, comedy and dance, and its interior is in grand baroque style. From here, hop a bus to the Alice Austen House Museum, which displays its namesake photographer’s works, includ-ing images of the island from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It’s also an opportune time to partake in holiday-themed fun at Historic Richmond Town—a village featuring costumed colonial characters living and working amid period buildings, many of which are original.
The Staten Island Zoo houses a wonderful variety of creatures.
SightSEEiNg (p. 102)
additional highlights:
Carreta Tours | carretatours.com | 917 699 7004
Personalized tours led by a lifelong Staten Island resident.
Enoteca Maria | enotecamaria.com | 718 447 2777
Mangia! Sauce-laden Italian dishes are homemade by authentic nonnas.
Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden | snug-harbor.org | 718 448 2500
Stunning tree-lined complex houses impressive gardens and historic buildings.
Staten Island Children’s Museum | statenislandkids.org | 718 273 2060
Fun, educational exhibits and a special play area for kids of all ages.
Staten Island Museum | statenislandmuseum.org | 718 727 1135
Home to fascinating exhibitions, including one of the largest assemblages of cicadas.
Times Square
14 NYC & Company | Official Visitor Guide
Top Attractions
Lower Manhattan | Wall Street9/11 Memorial & Museum 911memorial.org
The memorial requires a pass—free on first-come, first-served basis same day or online for a small fee. The museum opens in spring 2014.
Enter on Albany St., between Greenwich and West Sts.
See Sightseeing page 86.
9/11 Tribute Center tributewtc.org 120 Liberty St. (Church–Greenwich Sts.)
See Sightseeing page 86.
Federal Hall National Monument nps.gov/feha
26 Wall St. (at Nassau St.)
See Sightseeing page 92. New York Skyline
Empire State Building esbnyc.com Fifth Ave. at 34th St. Top of the Rock topoftherocknyc.com Rockefeller Center Enter on 50th St., between Fifth and Sixth Aves.
See Sightseeing pages 90 and 102, respectively. Statue of Liberty | Ellis Island
Ellis Island ellisisland.org New York Harbor See Sightseeing page 92.
Statue of Liberty National Monument nps.gov/stli New York Harbor
See Sightseeing page 90 and Museums page 161.
Statue Cruises statuecruises.com 877 LADYTIX or 877 44 ELLIS
See Tours page 116.
The 9/11 Memorial in Lower Manhattan. Countdown ball, New Year’s Eve.
A view from Top of the Rock.
nycgo.com | facebook.com/nycgo 15
Theatre District | Times Square, Manhattan
livebroadway.com, offbroadway.org, timessquarenyc.org
42nd–47th Sts. and Seventh Ave.–Broadway
See Arts & Entertainment section, starting on page 118.
TKTS Discount Ticket Centers Locations: Midtown Manhattan, triangle at 46th–47th Sts., Broadway–Seventh Ave.; and in Downtown Brooklyn, 1 MetroTech Center (Jay St., MetroTech Rdwy.–Myrtle St.)
Restaurant Row | W. 46th St. between Eighth and Ninth Aves.
See Dining page 204.
Times Square | 41st–53rd Sts., Sixth–Eighth Aves.
See Sightseeing page 108. Museum Mile, Manhattan
81st–105th Sts. on Fifth Ave.
El Museo del Barrio elmuseo.org Fifth Ave. at 104th St.
Guggenheim (Solomon R.) Museum guggenheim.org Fifth Ave. at 89th St. The Jewish Museum thejewishmuseum.org Fifth Ave. at 92nd St. The Metropolitan Museum of Art metmuseum.org Fifth Ave. at 82nd St. Museum of the City of New York mcny.org Fifth Ave. at 103rd St. Neue Galerie neuegalerie.org Fifth Ave. at 86th St.
See Museums section, starting on page 144.
Uptown Manhattan: Harlem, Morningside & Washington Heights & Inwood
welcometoharlem.com, wahichamber.org, harlemonestop.com,
experienceharlem.com, mmpcia.org
Apollo Theater apollotheater.org 253 W. 125th St.
See Sightseeing pages 88, 94, 107 and 110, and Arts & Entertainment page140.
Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine stjohndivine.org Amsterdam Ave. at 112th St. See Sightseeing page 90.
The Cloisters Museum & Gardens metmuseum.org Fort Tryon Park
See Museums page 155.
Columbia University columbia.edu Broadway at 116th St. The Riverside Church theriversidechurchny.org
See Sightseeing page 100.
The Studio Museum in Harlem studiomuseum.org 144 W. 125th St.
See Museums page 161. Central Park, Manhattan
centralparknyc.org, nycgovparks.org 59th–110th Sts., Fifth–Eighth Aves.
See Sightseeing page 90.
Shop, dine or catch a train at Grand Central Terminal.
SightSEEiNg & toUrS
16 NYC & Company | Official Visitor Guide
Brooklyn
Brooklyn Bridgevisitbrooklyn.org Manhattan–Brooklyn, East River
See Sightseeing page 88.
Coney Island coneyisland.com, coneyislandfunguide.com
See Sightseeing page 90.
Brooklyn Botanic Garden bbg.org 1000 Washington Ave. (Eastern Pkwy.)
See Sightseeing page 88.
Brooklyn Museum brooklynmuseum.org 200 Eastern Pkwy.
See Museums page 154.
Prospect Park nycgovparks.org, briconline.org Flatbush Ave.–Eastern Pkwy.–Prospect Park West
See Sightseeing page 98. The Bronx
Bronx Museum of the Arts bronxmuseum.org Grand Concourse and 165th St.
See Museums page 154.
Bronx Zoo bronxzoo.com Bronx River Pkwy. and Fordham Rd.
See Sightseeing page 88.
New York Yankees and Yankee Stadium yankees.com 161st St. and River Ave. See Sports page 232.
New York Botanical Garden nybg.org 200th St. and Southern Blvd.
See Sightseeing page 96.
Queens: Flushing Meadows–Corona Park
New York Hall of Science nyscience.org 47-01 111th St. (48th Ave.), Flushing Meadows–Corona Park
See Museums page 159.
New York Mets and Citi Field mets.com 126th St. and Roosevelt Ave., Flushing Meadows–Corona Park
See Sports page 231.
Queens Museum of Art queensmuseum.org Roosevelt Ave.–Willets Pt., Flushing Meadows–Corona Park See Museums page 160.
US Open Tennis Championships &
USTA Billie Jean National Tennis Center usopen.org, usta.com, Flushing Meadows–Corona Park
See Sports page 232. Staten Island
Alice Austen House Museum aliceausten.org Hylan Blvd. and Edgewater St.
See Museums page 153.
Staten Island Ferry nyc.gov/dot
Whitehall–South Sts., Lower Manhattan; or St. George Terminal, Staten Island
See Transportation page 39 or Sightseeing page 102.
Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden snug-harbor.org Richmond Terrace (Tysen St.) See Sightseeing page 100.
10 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY On 48th Street between 5th & 6th Avenue 646.459.0800 • NintendoWorldStore.com
Nintendo properties are trademarks of Nintendo. © 2013 Nintendo.
The
ultimate
game destin
The
ultimate
ation.
18 NYC & Company | Official Visitor Guide
Calendar Highlights
For more up-to-the-minute events, visit nycgo.com.
Apollo Theater, 80 years
apollotheater.org The famous Harlem
institution marks this milestone with exciting programming, including the return of Apollo Club Harlem and the Africa Now! music festival. Harlem Stage, 30 years
harlemstage.org The state-of-the-art
theater opened its doors in 1979 and has hosted the likes of Bill Cosby, Tito Puente and Nelson Mandela. The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute, reopening
metmuseum.org After a two-year
renovation project, the Costume Institute will reopen in May, featuring a 4,200-square-foot gallery, a new sound system and a refurbished costume-conservation center. New York Hall of Science, 50 years
nysci.org The Corona, Queens,
museum has been bringing hands-on science and technology exhibitions to curious visitors for half a century. E Rubin Museum of Art, 10 years
rmanyc.org The Chelsea institution
marks a decade of displaying art from the Himalayas and nearby regions. Under the Radar Festival, 10 years
undertheradarfestival.com
The Public Theater’s annual festival features exciting new performances from around the world.
Weeksville Heritage Center, new building opening
weeksvillehc.tumblr.com The new
Education and Cultural Arts building will feature classrooms, a media lab, gallery and performance spaces, and an oral-history studio.
Ongoing
Through December 22
BAM Next Wave Festival
bam.org Every autumn, this festival
serves as New York’s most comprehensive and daring survey of progressive arts.
Through December 30
Radio City Christmas Spectacular
radiocitychristmas.com Get in the
holiday spirit as the Rockettes wow with their high-flying kicks. With music, dancing and lights, the show is a fun time for the whole family and a chance for the kids to see Santa Claus in all his glory. E
Through January 4
George Balanchine’s
The Nutcracker
nycballet.com This holiday tradition
has been performed each year by the New York City Ballet since 1954. E
Through January 12
Origami Holiday Tree at the American Museum of Natural History
amnh.org The American Museum of
Natural History celebrates the holidays with 500 folded-paper ornaments inspired by the museum’s exhibits. E
Anniversaries & Other Big Events
See the New York Rangers at the NHL Winter Classic.
nycgo.com | facebook.com/nycgo 19
Through January 12
Holiday Train Show at The New York Botanical Garden
nybg.org Model trains and trolleys
travel along bridges and winding tracks, past scale replicas of New York City landmarks handcrafted by award-winning designers using natural elements. E
December
December 28
Kwanzaa Celebration
amnh.org Experience a full day of
family-friendly programming, including performances, a screening, hands-on activities for children and an international marketplace. E
December 31
Times Square Ball Drop
timessquarenyc.org Count down to
2014 with the annual Times Square Ball Drop. Nothing compares to the exhilaration of watching it live, plus you can catch music and other
performances before and after the midnight hour. F
New Year’s Eve Fireworks in Brooklyn
prospectpark.org Brooklyn hosts its
own New Year’s Eve celebration in Grand Army Plaza, just off Prospect Park. For the best views, pick a spot along Prospect Park West Drive or between Grand Army Plaza and 9th Street. F
NYRR Midnight Run in Central Park
nyrr.org Start the new year on the right
foot with the New York Road Runners’ four-mile Midnight Run in Central Park. Whether you’re a racer or spectator, join in music, dancing and a costume parade before fireworks kick off the race when the clock strikes midnight. F
January 2014
TBA
Winter Jazzfest
winterjazzfest.com This hot midwinter
scene showcases top-quality jazz and experimental music, attracting jazz musicians from around the world.
January 1–5
New York Boat Show
nyboatshow.com Boating and fishing
enthusiasts start their season at this annual Javits Center event. The show is recognized as the place to see the latest and greatest in boating, including yachts and canoes, electronics, and fishing gear. E
January 6
Three Kings Day Parade
elmuseo.org Enjoy music, bright
costumes, floats and live animals in the vibrant neighborhood of East Harlem for the annual Three Kings Day Parade, a festive tradition native to Latin America and the Caribbean. E
January 8–19
Under the Radar Festival
undertheradarfestival.org The Public
Theater presents its 10th anniversary of celebrating new theater from both national and international talents.
January 8–23
New York Jewish Film Festival
thejewishmuseum.org/nyjff Presented
by The Jewish Museum and the Film Society of Lincoln Center, this annual event is a global survey of innovative and provocative movies focusing on the Jewish experience.
January 21–March 2
New York City Ballet Winter Season
nycballet.com The season kicks off
with an all-Balanchine series of performances. Also on the schedule is the extravagant Scenic Delight and the 19th-century comedy Coppélia.
January 29–February 1
Super Bowl Boulevard
This free, interactive, football-themed experience takes place from noon to 11pm on Broadway between 34th and 44th Streets, and includes a toboggan run and photo ops with the Vince Lombardi Trophy and Super Bowl XLVIII Roman numerals. F
February
See colorful dragons and costumes in Chinatown.
February 2
Lunar New Year Parade and Festival
betterchinatown.com Celebrate the
Lunar New Year in the heart of China- town with performances, cultural exhibitions, a market fair and the elaborate, colorful dragon parade. EF
20 NYC & Company | Official Visitor Guide
Super Bowl 2014 comes to MetLife Stadium.
Super Bowl XLVIII at MetLife Stadium
nynjsuperbowl.com The NFL’s biggest
event heads to the New York City area for the first time ever. It’s also the first cold-weather game played in a stadium without a dome. E
February 6–13
Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Fall/Winter
mbfashionweek.com Thousands of
fashion-industry insiders will descend upon Damrosch Park at Lincoln Center for eight days of shows and presentations by some of the world’s most sought-after fashion designers.
Working dogs compete for “Best in Show” at Madison Square Garden. February 10–11
Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show
westminsterkennelclub.org
Considered to be America’s most prestigious dog show, the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show returns to Madison Square Garden and Piers 92/94. E
February 17–March 7
NYC Restaurant Week Winter 2014
nycgo.com/restaurantweek Dine at
some of the most exclusive restaurants in New York City for a fraction of the price. Experience the best in service, food and atmosphere with prix-fixe lunches and dinners.
March
Find exotic orchids on display and for sale at The Orchid Show.
March 1–April 14
The Orchid Show
nybg.org The annual Orchid Show at
The New York Botanical Garden features thousands of orchids in exhibition and for sale and includes tours, Q&A sessions, demonstrations and presentations.
March 4–9
Armory Arts Week
armoryartsweek.com The Armory
Show at Piers 92/94—the week’s flagship event for collectors and casual art lovers alike—showcases hundreds of galleries from around the world. Other events during the week include alternative-art fairs, art tours around the City and parties.
March 7–30
New York International Children’s Film Festival
gkids.com The festival, which
promotes compelling, intelligent and challenging films for children ages 3 to 18, features animated, live action, documentary and experimental films from all over the world. E
March 14–22
Asia Week New York
asiaweekny.com The art and culture
of Asia take over New York City, bringing exhibitions, auctions and special events from 65 participating museums, galleries, auction houses and cultural institutions.
March 17
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
nycstpatricksparade.org Every year,
bagpipers, marching bands and assorted revelers march up Fifth Avenue from 44th Street to 86th Street in celebration of Irish heritage.
March 27–May 4
Heart & Lights
heartandlights.com This brand-new
show at Radio City Music Hall features electrifying special effects,
animatronics and a performance by the Rockettes.
La P la caC ohen 2 12 -6 75 -41 06 ubl ic ati on : N YC & C O In ser tio n d ate : D EC EM B ER 19 , 2 01 3 ize: 4" x 8 .3 75 " 4 C M A G
one MET.
many worlds.
where will the met take you?
Fifth Avenue at 82nd Street
metmuseum.org
Open 10 a.m. daily
22 NYC & Company | Official Visitor Guide
March 31
New York Mets Home Opener
mets.com Make your way to Citi Field,
home of the Mets, in Flushing, Queens, to see NYC’s National League baseball team kick off another season. E
April
TBA
Havana Film Festival New York
hffny.com This festival screens
documentaries, full-length features, shorts and animation from Cuba, the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central and South America.
April 1 and 3
National Invitation Tournament (NIT)
nit.org or thegarden.com Catch some
of the country’s best young talent at the oldest tournament in men’s college basketball. Madison Square Garden hosts the semifinal and final rounds.
April 5
New York Tartan Day Parade
tartanweek.com Starting at 2pm, the
Scottish celebration marches up Sixth Avenue, from 45th to 55th Streets. EF
April 7
New York Yankees Home Opener
yankees.com Cheer the Bronx
Bombers at Yankee Stadium, the 27-time World Series champions’ new state-of-the-art stadium. E
April 16–27
Tribeca Film Festival
tribecafilm.com Since 2001, this
downtown festival has showcased a sharply curated mix of films, along with Q&A sessions and industry panels.
April 18–27
New York International Auto Show
autoshowny.com Catering to the
public and industry professionals alike, the Javits Center show features the latest concept vehicles, the best in environmentally friendly technology and more. E
April 20
Easter Parade and Easter Bonnet Festival
The best of the bonnets are showcased along Fifth Avenue from 49th Street to 57th Street. For the best vantage point, pick a spot near St. Patrick’s Cathedral. EF
April 26–27
Sakura Matsuri at Brooklyn Botanic Garden
bbg.org Ring in spring with the annual
cherry blossom festival at the Brooklyn
Hats off to Easter.
Botanic Garden. The celebration highlights Japanese culture with performances, taiko drumming, workshops and more. E
April 29–June 8
New York City Ballet Spring Season
nycballet.com Among the highlights
of the spring season at Lincoln Center are contemporary choreographers who are making waves in the world of ballet and George Balanchine’s
A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
May
TBA
Bronx Week
ilovethebronx.com Festivities include
historic tours, athletic competitions and a parade. The event is sponsored by the Bronx Borough President’s Office. E
May 5–11
Harlem Jazz Shrines Festival
harlemjazzshrines.org The Apollo
Theater, Harlem Stage and Jazzmobile band together for this weeklong, Harlem-wide celebration of jazz.
May 8–10
NFL Draft
radiocity.com See the NFL’s next
generation of stars graduate to the big leagues as pro teams snag their picks at Radio City Music Hall.
May 9–12
Frieze Art Fair
friezenewyork.com Celebrities and
everyday art aficionados converge on Randalls Island for this gallery showcase, now in its third year.
May 21–22
DanceAfrica 2014
bam.org Celebrate African and
African-American dance, music, art and film at BAM’s DanceAfrica, which brings together dance companies from around the world. E
DARK
UNIVERSE
The planets, stars, and everything you can
see are less than 5 percent of the universe.
What is the other 95 percent?
Narrated by
Neil deGrasse Tyson
Tickets at amnh.org
A new Hayden Planetarium Space Show
Dark Universe was created by the American Museum of Natural History,
the Frederick Phineas and Sandra Priest Rose Center for Earth and Space, and the Hayden Planetarium.
Made possible through the generous sponsorship of And proudly supported by
The Museum also gratefully acknowledges major funding from the
Charles Hayden Foundation.
Presented with special thanks to NASA and the National Science Foundation.
Dark Universe was developed by the American Museum of Natural History,
New York (www.amnh.org), in collaboration with the California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco, and GOTO INC, Tokyo, Japan.
24 NYC & Company | Official Visitor Guide
Surf or swim the City’s beaches, opening Memorial Day weekend.
May 26
City Beaches Open
nycgovparks.org Grab sunscreen and
a towel and head for the sand—New York City has more than 14 miles of public beaches to enjoy every summer. Lifeguards are on duty at most beaches 10am–6pm, from Memorial Day through Labor Day. EF
May 26
Memorial Day Parade Honor military members who have died while serving the United States, at one of several parades throughout the City. EF
May 28–June 1
World Science Festival
worldsciencefestival.com The annual
science fest takes place at venues citywide, bringing together Nobel laureates, researchers, artists and writers. E
May 30–June 8
Brooklyn Film Festival
brooklynfilmfestival.org See creations
from independent filmmakers at this annual festival, which seeks to draw worldwide attention to Brooklyn as a center for cinema.
June
TBA
Big Apple Barbecue Block Party
bigapplebbq.org Enjoy the best in
barbecue, cooked on the spot at Madison Square Park by local chefs and barbecue legends from across the country. E
FIGMENT
figmentnyc.org The annual arts event
on Governors Island presents art- work from across all media, including installations, performance, music and children’s activities. EF
NYC Outdoor Public Pools Open
nycgovparks.org The pools are open
daily 11am–7pm, from the end of June to Labor Day weekend. EF
Taste of Times Square Sample delicious signature dishes from Times Square’s best restaurants. Participants can also enjoy classic New York street performers and catch top-notch local entertainment. EF
June 8
National Puerto Rican Day Parade The parade marches up Fifth Avenue from 44th to 79th Streets, attracting tens of thousands of participants and spectators. EF Tony Awards
tonyawards.com Gear up for the big-
gest night in theater. The 68th Annual Tony Awards ceremony, honoring the best in Broadway theater, is held at Radio City Music Hall and broadcast live on national TV.
June 10
Museum Mile Festival
museummilefestival.org Visit some
of the City’s most celebrated museums at a great price—free. Nine museums along Fifth Avenue from 82nd Street to 105th Street participate. There is also live music, street performers and art activities for kids. Rain or shine. EF
June 13
Staten Island Yankees Home Opener
siyanks.com Enjoy Minor League
Baseball at Richmond County Bank Ballpark with the Staten Island Yankees, an affiliate of the New York Yankees. E
June 14
Belmont Stakes
belmontstakes.com Get in on the
excitement of Triple Crown racing at the third and final leg of the famed competition, held at Belmont Park, in Nassau County, just east of Queens.
The Cyclones in play.
Brooklyn Cyclones Home Opener
brooklyncyclones.com Come out for
the chance to see tomorrow’s Major League stars today at the Cyclones’ home opener at MCU Park, in Coney Island. The Cyclones team is an affiliate of the New York Mets. E
Can’t decide on that special something?
Can’t make it to the store for that perfect
gift? Let Us do your shopping for you!
Toys“R”Us Times Square Personal
Shopping is a free service tailored
to your taste, time and budget.
Our highly trained Personal
Shoppers will provide you with
the individual attention you need to
select the ideal gift from our fabulous
selection of toys, games and electronics.
Shopping for your company?
We’re ready to fulfill any of your special
requests. Ask our expert team about our
Gift Card, Corporate Gifting progams
and Corporate bulk orders.
Get started today!
Personal Shopping is located on the
second floor of the Barbie Dollhouse.
You can also call us toll-free at
866-742-6423. Or if you prefer,
email us at:
[email protected].
Let Us Get
that for YoU!
Visit the Personal Shopping Dept. on the 2nd floor of
the Barbie Dollhouse for a special savings coupon!
Excludes baby food, diapers, formula, wipes, Red Hot Deal & Hot Price items, Baby Jogger, BOB, Boppy Bare Naked Pillow, Britax, Bugaboo, ERGObaby, Mamas & Papas, Maxi-Cosi car seats, Motorola, Pediped, Peg Pérego, Phil & Teds, Quinny, Robeez, Thyme Maternity, electronic learning toys, netbooks, tablets, video game hardware, video games, Apple products, FAO Schwarz toys, Isis products & classes, Buyer Protection Plan, gift cards, phone orders, Special Orders, assembly fee, breast-pump rental fee, delivery fee, and shipping & handling. One coupon per guest. Not valid with any other “R”Us total transaction offer or on prior purchases. Must be surrendered at time of purchase. Value forfeited if item is returned. Coupon prorated among eligible items purchased. Only original coupon accepted.
Void where prohibited. Valid at Toys“R”Us Times Square store only. Cash value 1/100 of 1¢. (MG102513A) 1514 Broadway at 44th St. • ToysrusTimesSquare.com
SaVe
$
5
on your purchase
of $25 or more
Valid 12/19/13-3/21/14
CPN ITEM # 964279Only at
MG102513A_NYCOfficalVistorGuide_TS_3.indd 1 10/21/13 10:29 AM26 NYC & Company | Official Visitor Guide
June 15
Harlem Skyscraper Cycling Classic
rockstargames.com/skyscraper
classic Spend Father’s Day outdoors
at the Harlem Skyscraper Cycling Classic, open to NYC residents ages 7 and up, as well as to members of the US Cycling Federation. EF
June 21
Mermaid Parade
coneyisland.com/mermaid.shtml
Each year, the Mermaid Parade in Coney Island pays homage to the neighborhood’s forgotten Mardi Gras, which took place from 1903 to 1954. Come see festive floats and costumes while celebrating the sand, sea and summer. F
Every day in New York City feels like Pride Week.
June 22–29
NYC Pride Week
nycpride.org Celebrate Pride Week
with rallies, concerts, dance parties and a 5-mile road race. The week culminates with a grand parade down Fifth Avenue. EF
For additional events, visit nycgo.com.
Summer Series
Celebrate Brooklyn!
bricartsmedia.org
Experience Prospect Park with one of New York City’s longest-running outdoor art festivals, featuring music, dance, theater, film and specially commissioned projects. EF Harlem Meer Performance Festival
centralparknyc.org Enjoy jazz, salsa
and gospel in Central Park on summer Sundays from mid-June through Labor Day. The concerts are held on the lakefront plaza of the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center. EF HBO Bryant Park Summer Film Festival
bryantpark.org Watch a movie under
the stars for free in Midtown’s Bryant Park. The event draws a big crowd, so arrive early. Bring food and a blanket for an inexpensive twist on dinner and a show. EF Lincoln Center Out of Doors
lcoutofdoors.org Performers from
around the world gather at Lincoln Center’s plazas for a summer of free music and dance, events, world, US and New York premieres, family performances and specially commissioned works.
New York Philharmonic Concerts in the Parks
nyphil.org Bring a lawn blanket
and relax to the sweet sounds of free classical music. Concerts are held in parks in all five boroughs. F River to River Festival
rivertorivernyc.com From Battery
Park to South Street Seaport, the celebrated performing-arts festival features more than 500 music, dance, film and cultural events—all free. EF Shakespeare in the Park
publictheater.org For more than
50 years, the Public Theater has been presenting a free season of Shakespeare in the open air at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park. F
SummerStage
summerstage.org Enjoy free live
music of all genres at SummerStage, the annual outdoor concert series at parks around the City. Rain or shine. EF
Warm Up at MoMA PS1
momaps1.org This long-running
dance party in Long Island City brings DJ sets and musical performances to MoMA PS1’s courtyard on Saturdays throughout the summer.
nycgo.com | facebook.com/nycgo 27
NYC
Essentials
Fast Facts
Forecast
Though cold and snowy, winter is often blanketed with sunny blue skies. Spring in NYC brings budding flowers, light winds and rain. Summer offers bright, sunny, hot days, with sunset late in the evening. And the fall season is cool, crisp and a good time to wear layers. Averages follow.
Central Park as winter wonderland.
rain high low
jan 3.7" 36˚F (2˚C) 23˚F (–5˚C) feb 2.9" 40˚F (4˚C) 24˚F (–4˚C) mar 4.1" 48˚F (9˚C) 32˚F (0˚C) apr 4.1" 58˚F (14˚C) 42˚F (6˚C) may 4.5" 68˚F (22˚C) 53˚F (12˚C) june 3.5" 77˚F (25˚C) 63˚F (17˚C) july 4.2" 83˚F (28˚C) 68˚F (20˚C) aug 4.1" 81˚F (27˚C) 66˚F (19˚C) sep 4.1" 74˚F (23˚C) 58˚F (14˚C) oct 3.5" 63˚F (17˚C) 47˚F (8˚C) nov 4.0" 52˚F (11˚C) 38˚F (3˚C) dec 3.9" 42˚F (6˚C) 28˚F (–2˚C)
Geographic
Orientation
The City’s five boroughs—the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens and Staten Island—are linked by bridges, tunnels and ferries. Manhattan is an island 13.4 miles long and 2.3 miles wide (at its widest). Except at its southern and northern tips, it has avenues running north and south, and streets running east and west. Traffic generally travels one way, going east on even-numbered streets and west on odd-numbered streets. Fifth Avenue divides Manhattan into east and west sides. Street addresses increase with their distance from Fifth Avenue, usually by 100 per block. Twenty north-south blocks equal a mile and street numbers increase as you go uptown.
Phone Numbers
• Emergencies (police, fire or ambulance): 911
• NYC government agencies (nonemergency): 311 or 212 NEWYORK • Directory assistance: 411 • Multilingual visitor information counselors: 212 484 1222 • Printed NYC literature: 800 NYCVISIT or 212 397 8222 • Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities: 212 788 2830
Sales Tax
Buyers take note: while a price tag may say one thing, prices marked typically don’t include tax. New York City sales tax on goods and services is 8.875%. There are some exceptions: • No sales tax on clothing or footwear under $110 (seasonal exceptions). • No sales tax on food items purchased at grocery stores, or on prescription drugs.
28 NYC & Company | Official Visitor Guide
Smoking
Throughout New York City, smoking is prohibited in all public areas, including parks, beaches, subway stations, taxis, restaurants and bars. Cigar bars that register with the City are permitted to allow cigar smoking.
Special-Service Needs
The City’s 24-hour public trans- portation system is accessible for hearing/visually challenged passengers. Subways have auto- mated voices indicating stops, and all buses and select subway stations are wheelchair accessi-ble. Many attractions, theaters and museums also provide services. In addition, Big Apple Greeter (bigapplegreeter.org, 212 669 8159) offers special-needs tour guides. More info is available at NYC’s hotline
(311 or 212 NEWYORK); and the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities (nyc.gov/mopd, 212 788 2830, TTY: 212 504 4115).
Tipping
Many people in service industries (hotels, restaurants and transpor- tation) have tips factored into their wages. Here’s a suggested guide: • Hotel doorman: $1 for hailing a taxicab.
• Porter/bellhop: $1–$2 per bag. • Housekeepers: $1–$5 per day. • Waitstaff and bartenders: 15%–20% of total bill. • Taxi drivers: 15%–20% of total. • Tour guides: $5–$20 or 10%–15% of purchase price of a ticket charge.
• Tips for other service personnel (e.g.: theater ushers and coat checkers) are always appreciated.
The Official NYC Information Centers are one-stop shops for up-to-the-minute news and transit tips about the City, one-on-one guidance, theater tickets and money-saving offers. For more information, call 212 484 1222.
Midtown
810 Seventh Ave. (bet. 52nd and 53rd Sts.)
Subway: 1 to 50th St.; B, D, E to
Seventh Ave.; N, Q, R to 49th St.
Hours: seven days, including holidays.
Times Square Museum & Visitor Center
Seventh Ave., bet. 46th and 47th Sts.
Subway: 1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R to
42nd St./Times Sq., N, R to 49th St.
Hours: seven days, including holidays.
Macy’s Herald Square
(mezzanine level)
151 W. 34th St. (bet. Seventh Ave. and Broadway)Subway: 1, 2, 3,
B, D, F, M, N, Q, R to 34th St./Herald Sq. Hours: seven days, including holidays.
City Hall Kiosk
Southern tip of City Hall Park on the Broadway sidewalk at Park Row
Subway: 2, 3 to Park Place; 4, 5, 6,
R to Brooklyn Bridge/City Hall; A, C to Broadway/Nassau St.; E to WTC/ Chambers; J, Z to Fulton St.
Hours: seven days, including holidays.
Chinatown Kiosk
Triangle where Canal, Walker and Baxter streets meet
Subway: 6, J, N, Q, R, Z to Canal St. Hours: seven days, including holidays.
GO BEHIND THE SCENES AT
RADIO CITY MUSIC HALL
®!
Get a backstage look at the Showplace of the Nation. Learn the history of the Great Stage, meet a Rockette®, plus much more!
TOURS RUN DAILY 11:00AM TO 3:00PM
1260 Avenues of the Americas at 50th Street
Info: 212-247-4777 Groups: 212-465-6080 Visit: radiocity.com/tours
SA
VE
$3
* PER TICKET USE C ODE : NYCT OURSA
VE
$4
* PER TICKET USE C ODE : MSGNY C*Must use code MSGNYC to take advantage of the offer. 19 ticket limit per order. Offer not valid on previously purchased tickets and cannot be combined with any other offer. Offer not applicable to children or group rates. All sales are fi nal-no refunds or ex-changes. Discount is calculated off of the original box offi ce price. A $5 facility fee is included in the price of each ticket. Service charges may apply to phone or online orders. Offer may be revoked or modifi ed at any time without notice. Offer subject to avail-ability; other restrictions may apply. Offer expires June 30, 2014 at 11:59pm. Tickets for people with disabilities may be purchased over the phone by calling MSG’s Disabled Services Department at 212-465-6034. ©2013 MSG Holdings, L.P. All rights reserved.
212-465-6080
866-858-0008
MSGAllAccessTour.com
GROUPS
INFO
VISIT
DISCOVER THE SECRETS OF THE TRANSFORMED GARDEN
Get an insider’s look at The World’s Most Famous Arena
®!
TOURS RUN DAILY 10:30AM to 3:00PM
4 Pennsylvania Plaza (32nd St. and 7th Ave.)
*Must use code NYCTOUR to take advantage of the offer. 19 ticket limit per order. Offer not valid on previously purchased tickets and cannot be combined with any other offer. Offer not applicable to children or group rates. All sales are fi nal-no refunds or exchanges. Discount is calculated off of the original box offi ce price. A $5 facility fee is included in the price of each ticket. Service charges may apply to phone or online orders. Offer may be revoked or modifi ed at any time without notice. Offer subject to availability; other restrictions may apply. Tickets for people with disabilities may be purchased over the phone by calling Radio City Music Hall’s Disabled Services Department at 212-465-6115. ©2013 MSG Holdings, L.P. All rights reserved.
30 NYC & Company | Official Visitor Guide
Getting Here
Airports
There are seven airports within 30 to 90 minutes of Midtown Manhattan. Those closest to the City are JFK, LaGuardia and Newark.
Transportation between
airports and New York City is available via several options: taxi, bus, private car and the MTA New York City Transit system. Light-rail AirTrain links terminals at both JFK and Newark, and also provides quick service to airport parking, car rental companies and mass transit stations that connect to the City’s five boroughs.
Getting Around
The MTA—NYC’s
Mass Transit System
The best way to get around NYC is through a combination of walk- ing and mass transit. NYC’s sub- ways and buses are inexpensive, operate 24/7, provide a fun way to extend sightseeing and get you where you need to go, fast. Other ways to get around include ferries and even an aerial tramway.
Getting an MTA MetroCard is your first step to navigating the City by subway or bus. You can purchase a MetroCard at any subway station from multilingual machines (which accept cash, ATM cards and credit cards) or booth attendants.
Riders can choose a single-ride, multi-ride or an unlimited-ride MetroCard. If you purchase a single-ride card, the fare is $2.75 but if you purchase multiple rides on one card, the fare drops to $2.50. The unlimited MetroCard is offered at various flat rates and enables users to ride as often as they like within fixed time periods. Added discounts are given for seniors (age 65 and up) and disabled riders. Go to mta.info for updates.
The MetroCard is your pass to NYC’s mass transit system.
The Atlantic Ave./Barclays Center station joins subways and the Long Island Rail Road.
nycgo.com | facebook.com/nycgo 31
Subways & Buses
The easiest—and quickest— way to travel through NYC is by subway. Subway trains operate 24/7 and are often much faster than street-level transport. For only $2.75 (for a single ride or $2.50 for a multi-ride card) you can use the system citywide and transfer at
designated stations as many times as you need, so long as you don’t exit the system through a turnstile. You can even transfer for free from bus to subway or vice versa within two hours of first swiping your MetroCard. Subway trains travel both above- and underground (most Manhattan subway stations
NYC’s subway system is the fastest way to travel long distances.
32 NYC & Company | Official Visitor Guide
and routes are underground).Uptown trains head north; downtown trains head south; and crosstown trains travel east and west.
Subway stations are generally 8 to 10 blocks apart. Pick up a free subway map from booth attendants or at any Official NYC Information Center. Use the map in this section of the guide to familiarize yourself with the layout of the subway system. You can also visit tripplanner.mta.info for a customized subway or bus route.
(Note: Subways do not go to Staten Island from other boroughs. To get there from Manhattan, you need to board the Staten Island Ferry.) The MTA’s Staten Island Railway and buses transport visitors around the island, from the St. George Ferry Terminal in the north to Tottenville in the south.)
MTA buses are excellent for reaching destinations not con- venient to a subway stop. Local City buses accept MetroCards as well as exact coin change (express bus fares must be paid before boarding the bus at the bus station machine). As with the subway system, riders may pay $2.75 for a single ride, $2.50 per ride with a multi-ride card or use
an unlimited card (on local buses) to ride any distance till the end of the route. Express buses cost $6. Buses also operate 24/7 (there may be exceptions in more remote areas of the City). Waiting times vary, but usually run 10–20 minutes depending on time of day. While slow when there’s traffic, buses are great for sightseeing.
Bus stops are on alternating blocks on avenue routes and on every block on crosstown routes. Late at night, from 11pm to 5am, Request-a-Stop bus service allows riders to get off the bus anywhere the driver can safely stop. Simply inform the bus driver where you want to get off.
Taxicabs
NYC’s licensed, yellow taxicabs operate 24 hours, provide door- to-door service and accept cash or credit cards.
To hail a taxi, stand at any curb and look for a yellow cab with an illuminated white number on top. Off-duty cabs display the illumi- nated words “Off Duty” on the same sign. Board and exit a cab curbside. At your hotel, the door- man can hail a cab for you (a $1 tip is customary for this service). Bus stops dot every other
nycgo.com | facebook.com/nycgo 33
NYC’s ferry network is a scenic way to travel.
trANSportAtioN
(p. 39)
There is a minimum meter fare of $3 ($2.50 plus 50¢ New York State tax surcharge), and prices increase based on the distance and duration of the trip (assume prices are higher during peak rush-hour traffic). A variety of surcharges apply above the meter price and drivers appreciate a 15%–20% gratuity at the end of a trip. Bridge and tunnel tolls are extra (and not included in the taxi’s metered fare).
Other Travel Modes
Walking and public transit are easy ways to get around, but you can also travel NYC by bike, pedicab, ferry or even tramway. The community-sharing program —Citi Bike—provides 6,000 bikes at 330 street-side stations. Unlock a bike, ride, then return to any station. There are daily, weekly and annual passes.
There are already more than 700 miles of greenways—linear, open spaces linking parks and communities—in NYC and more green is being added. They’re great for walking, jogging, biking and in-line skating. In addition, Times Square now offers pedes- trians a car-free environment, and foot-powered pedicabs are a common sight in Midtown and the Theatre District.
Manhattan is home to an extensive ferry system that’s great for sightseeing and taking you uptown and downtown, as well as across NYC’s rivers. The Staten Island Ferry connects Manhattan and Staten Island, while the East River Ferry links Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn and Governors Island.
Special-Needs
Access
The City’s public transportation system is accessible to hearing and visually impaired people and wheelchair-bound passengers. Some subways have automated voices indicating stops, and all buses plus select subway stations are wheelchair access- ible. In addition, many street- hail taxis now accommodate wheelchairs.
For further information about wheelchair-accessible taxicabs, call NYC’s hotline 311 (within the City) or 212 NEW YORK (if calling from outside NYC) or the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities (nyc.gov/mopd) at 212 788 2830, TTY: 212 504 4115.
34 NYC & Company | Official Visitor Guide
Transportation
New York City is one of the easiest urban sites
to navigate. Not only are many transportation
choices available 24/7, but all five boroughs
interconnect via an affordable mass transit
system. The fastest and most inexpensive
option is the energy-efficient subway system,
which connects practically every NYC
neigh-borhood. Buses, cabs, ferries and a tram are
also great alternatives for visitors looking for
scenic options. If you want to take in the
sights at a leisurely pace, bundle up and let
your feet lead the way; even in winter, walking
remains a great way to explore the City. For
more adventure, a helicopter ride is the most
thrilling panoramic experience with up-close
views of the City’s most famous attractions.
Read on for details about airports and our
around-the-clock network of transportation.
nycgo.com | facebook.com/nycgo 35
Getting Here
By Air
Major Airports
Several airports are within one hour of Midtown Manhattan. Kennedy, LaGuardia and Newark are considered the major hubs. Once here, you’ll find navigating the City accessible and cost effective. See Getting Around the City in this chapter.
John F. Kennedy International
Airport (JFK)
kennedyairport.com 718 244 4444 Queens International airport operates 24 hours and is composed of nine passenger terminals. The cheapest (but not fastest) transfer from JFK into the City is $5 on the AirTrain (which connects to the City’s $2.50 MTA A, E, J, Z subways). Alternate trans-fers/costs: $16–$20 for van or coach bus, $52.50 flat rate for yellow taxi (not including tolls), or more for
private limo car service. AB
Distance to Midtown: 15 miles Time to Midtown: 50–60 minutes
LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
laguardiaairport.com 718 533 3400 Queens The closest airport to Midtown Manhattan and used pri-marily for domestic flights. The cheapest option into the City costs $12–$20 for van or coach bus, $30–$50 for yellow taxi (not including tolls), or more for private limo car
service. AB
Distance to Midtown: 8 miles Time to Midtown: 30 minutes
Newark Liberty International
Airport (EWR)
newarkairport.com 888 EWR INFO Newark, NJ Serves international and domestic carriers and operates 24 hours. The cheapest transfer into NYC is the airport’s AirTrain (fee $12.50), which connects to the NJ Transit train into NYC’s Penn Station. Alternate transfers and costs: $16–$20 for van or coach bus, $60–$75 for New Jersey taxi (not including tolls), or more for
private limo car service. AB
Distance to Midtown: 16 miles Time to Midtown: 40–60 minutes
Airlines
Many airline carriers service New York City. This is a sampling.
American Airlinesaa.com
212 557 2820, 800 433 7300 | 360 Lexington Ave., NYC 10017 The world’s largest airline, serving more than 250 cities in more than 40 countries.
Delta Air Linesdelta.com
800 221 1212 | 140 E. 45th St., NYC 10017 Delta offers customers more flights to more domestic and interna-tional destinations from NYC’s two preferred airports combined, JFK and LaGuardia, than any other airline.
JetBlue Airwaysjetblue.com
800 JETBLUE, groups: 888 JETBLUE 118-29 Queens Blvd., Queens 11375 Low fares to NYC, new planes and 35 free channels of DirecTV at every
seat. A
Unitedunited.com 800 525 0280,
groups: 800 525 1700 | 1212 Sixth Ave., 20th fl., NYC 10036 Serves LaGuardia and Newark Liberty International Airports. Tickets: Penn Station, Eighth Ave. (32nd St.), Amtrak level, NYC 10001 | Ticket office open Mon.–Fri., 9am–5:30pm.
Airport Transfers
See also Car Rentals and Limousines & Vans at the end of this chapter.
AirTrain JFKairtrainjfk.com
877 535 2478 | 402 Pan Am Rd., Queens 11430 Light-rail system links JFK’s terminals, car-rental agencies and long-term parking to mass transit connections in Queens: the A subway line’s Howard Beach station and the Jamaica transportation center.
AirTrain JFK fare $5. AB
AirTrain Newarkairtrainnewark
.com 888 EWR INFO 397 4636, 973 961 6000 | Serves international and domestic carriers and operates 24 hours. The cheapest transfer into NYC is the airport’s AirTrain ($12.50), which connects to NJ Transit train into NYC’s Penn Station. Alternate transfers and costs: $16–$20 for van or bus, $60–$75 for a New Jersey taxi excluding tolls and $17.50 sur-charge), or more for private limo car
service. AB