10 Things Not to Do in New York City

Following up our series on “Things to avoid in …”, today I present you Things not to do in New York City.  Previous entries in this series include things to avoid in Barcelona, Oman, Seoul, and Madrid. I hope you enjoy these!

This post was written by Melissa from “Navigation Junkie“. She has the insights and tips of almost a local and some interesting recommendation for your next trip to New York City. If you enjoyed this content, go and check out her blog or Twitter account!

10 Things Not to Do In NYC 

NYC is perhaps one of the most visited and well known cities in the United States. I could go on and on about what to do while you are visiting NYC, from the World Trade Center Memorial, One World Trade Observation Deck, Time Square, The Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and of course the many great local restaurants and cuisine. But what about what not to do in New York City? This is a much less discussed topic, but of equal importance. Here are 10 things you should never do in New York City. 

One of the most important things not to do when visiting New York City: Do not Enter the City Without a Plan 

New York City is huge. There are countless things to do and something for every member of your travel party. However, if you think you are just going to show up and make your way through the city without a plan, especially for first timers, you will be overwhelmed and will not get to experience the city like you should!  You don’t need to plan out every minute of every day, but know what you want to see and do and research a little bit about the locations. Whatever you do, do not go to New York City without planning. 

Don’t Attempt to Drive in New York City 

Traffic in New York City is a nightmare. Don’t even attempt it! If you don’t know the streets and don’t know where you are going you will only frustrate yourself and others. You may even get a few honks, fist raises, or nasty words. Not only this, but getting around will take much longer than using public transportation (mainly the subway) or walking. Plus, with walking you will see much more of the off the beaten path city. This is one of the main things you should not do in New York. Especially if you are a first timer! 

Don’t Talk to Street Vendors 

There are people lined on the streets all over the city who will attempt to sell you something. Something that you most likely do not need or want. Do not stop and talk to them. If you stop, they will think you are interested and will continue to try to sell stuff to you. Some of these are scams, some are not, but nonetheless do not get dragged into buying something you don’t want. Simply say no thank you and continue walking. Do not be rude, just do not engage them. 

Another thing not to do: Be Afraid Of Not Waiting for Traffic Lights

There are a lot of people in New York City and a lot of traffic. If you stand by and wait for somebody to let you pass by or let you cross the street, it may not happen! As you will see by observing people once in the city, sometimes you just have to go. Cars will be attempting to get through an intersection, sometimes even if your crosswalk light is on. Do not hesitate to go, you will not be alone. Don’t be stupid and get yourself hurt, follow the rules and be safe. And don’t be rude to those around you. But overally, do not wait around hoping someone will let you pass. Don’t be afraid not to wait. 

Don’t Stop in the Middle of the Sidewalk 

While walking through the streets of New York City you will be surrounded by sky high buildings, many of which are world famous. It can be very tempting to stop and admire them or snap a photo for your instagram account. Take it from a frequent New York City visitor, this will anger locals and tourists alike. The streets in New York City are very, very crowded. If you stop out of nowhere to snap a photo, you will be backing up those crowds and slowing locals down who may be on their way to work or wherever. If you must stop and take a photo, try to do it in a less crowded area. Or maybe visit at a less crowded time of day, but do not stop in the middle of a crowded sidewalk. 

Don’t Eat at a Chain Restaurant 

New York City is full of great local restaurants as well as chain restaurants. Don’t waste your time and money (because most times you will end up paying more at the chain restaurants in NYC than you would at home). Do a little planning, find some local restaurants, unique cuisine, and don’t be afraid to ask the locals for recommendations! Experience something new, but never limit yourself to chain restaurants in New York City. 

One of the most important things not to do in New York: Don’t Hesitate to Leave Manhattan

Manhattan is home to many of the world famous New York City attractions. However, there is much more to New York City than Manhattan. Don’t skip Manhattan, but don’t be afraid to venture out into the other boroughs, including the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, or Staten Island. You will get a much more local experience and you will explore the culture of the city at a much greater depth. Do not get it in your head that the only place in the city worth visiting is Manhattan. 

Do not avoid asking for directions

There seems to be a popular notion that New Yorkers are rude people. And I can see how someone may make this assumption after visiting the city many, many times. However, this is not the case. More New Yorker’s than not are friendly and willing to help. Do not be afraid to stop and ask someone for directions. If you are unsure of where you are going, it is not difficult to get lost in New York City. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations for local attractions, markets, shops, and restaurants. Don’t be afraid to talk to the locals.  

Don’t Be Afraid to Skip the Main Attractions

While I won’t sit here and tell you that some of New York’s main attractions are not worth the visit. I will tell you not to be afraid to skip them.  If you want to avoid the loads of tourist crowds and line waits, these are some of the things not to do in New York City: the main touristy spots at peak horus. Don’t be afraid to skip a few of them and visit some of the lesser known, local attractions, shops, and restaurants. Travel off the beaten path. 

One of the last things to not do in New York: Don’t Forget to Carry Cash 

One of the main things not to do in New York City is to carry only plastic money. There are loads of local shops and restaurants in the city that accept only cash. Don’t get yourself caught up having to pay the high ATM fees in order to withdraw cash and be able to purchase from local businesses. Think ahead and bring some cash with you. And always keep in mind that you will need to safely store the cash out of reach of pickpocketers (like in Barcelona), but do not forget to bring some cash with you.