Close to 60 million tourists visit New York City annually.
But what’s the reason behind this?
With sightseeing like the Empire State Building and Times Square, for example, there’s always something to do.
To give you more insights, we’ll lay down the pillars of New York City, its neighborhoods, and why so many people desire to visit it.
Location & Size
New York City is at the southeastern tip of New York State. It sits at the Hudson River’s mouth (bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the south).
It has an area of about 302.6 square miles (784 km). It’s a sprawling urban center, surrounded by water.
Climate
NYC experiences a humid subtropical climate with all four seasons.
Summers are hot, often reaching around 84°F (29°C), while winters can dip to 27°F (-3°C), on average.
The spring and fall are mild. They are popular with visitors who want to enjoy the city in mild weather.
You can check NYC’s 7-day weather forecast here.
Population & Diversity
New York City has over 8 million residents, making it one of the world’s most diverse cities.
The city’s culture reflects backgrounds from nearly every continent.
Among them are:
- Vibrant Chinatown
- Little Italy
- Latin American neighborhoods in Queens, and others.
NYC’s History
Early settlement
NYC began as New Amsterdam, a Dutch trading post established in 1624 at Manhattan’s southern tip.
By 1664, the British had seized control and renamed it New York in honor of the Duke of York.
The British influence shaped much of the city’s early culture and governance.
Revolutionary war and nation’s birth
New York was key in the Revolutionary War. It was a base for both American and British forces.
After the war, they inaugurated George Washington as the first U.S. president. This marked NYC as the new nation’s first capital.
Immigration and economic growth
The 19th and early 20th centuries saw a few waves of immigrants. People arrived in search of new opportunities.
In short, Irish, Italian, Jewish, and Eastern European immigrants added to NYC’s diversity. Their communities were key to the city’s unique identity.
Industrial boom
The Industrial Revolution made New York City an industrial hub. It spurred the construction of bridges, railroads, and skyscrapers.
As a result, the city’s economy grew, and NYC began to corner the market in finance, commerce, and media.
A Resilient city
From the Great Depression in the 1930s to 9/11, NYC has seen both highs and lows.
In fact, it’s a place where recovery and resilience are key. Each rebuilding period brought the city back to the drawing board. It shaped today’s NYC skyline and spirit.
The famous Twenties and the Jazz Age
In the 1920s, NYC became the epicenter of a cultural revolution.
The Twenties brought wealth, art, and freedom to New York City.
Conversely, Jazz, flapper fashion, and the Harlem Renaissance defined the city’s spirit.
The Great Depression and its impact
The 1929 stock market crash began the Great Depression. It hit NYC hard enough.
High unemployment rates, widespread poverty, and social unrest characterized this challenging period.
The city rebounded through various New Deal programs by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
World War II and Post-War prosperity
During World War II, NYC was a vital hub for military recruitment, industry, and diplomacy.
The post-war era brought prosperity. The city became a center for finance, commerce, and media.
The Civil Rights Movement and Social Change
In the 1950s and 1960s, NYC saw the Civil Rights Movement. Activists fought for racial equality and social justice.
The city became a battleground for protests and marches. They sought social reforms and changed the country’s history.
The 9/11 attacks and the city’s resilience
On September 11, 2001, the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center shook NYC and the world.
The city faced immense tragedy and loss, but its resilience and unity shone through.
The rebuilding efforts and the memorial at Ground Zero stand as symbols of hope and strength.
Contemporary NYC
Today, NYC is a global metropolis, attracting millions of visitors each year. It is a melting pot of cultures, languages, and ideas.
People from all over the world are still drawn to the city’s most famous sightseeing. Among them are Times Square, Central Park, and The Statue of Liberty.
The City That Never Sleeps: NYC Nightlife
NYC’s nightlife is pretty famous for its diversity. The city has endless entertainment options.
Among them are trendy nightclubs, rooftop bars, underground jazz clubs, and comedy shows.
So, if you’re a night owl or want a fun night, NYC’s nightlife has something for everyone.
Here’s a video showing the nightlife of Manhatten, for instance:
You may also like: Manhattan Neighborhoods Map: 11 Neighborhoods Explained
New York City’s 5 Boroughs
New York City has five boroughs, like counties. They are its administrative divisions.
Each of these boroughs has its own distinct neighborhoods and beauty.
1. Manhattan
Manhattan, the heart of New York City, is an island with a high population density. It is the city’s economic and cultural center.
It is home to iconic landmarks such as Times Square, Central Park, and Wall Street.
2. Brooklyn
Being the worst neighborhood in NYC, Brooklyn is still one of the top destinations in New York.
Trendy restaurants and a colorful arts scene draw many visitors to Long Island as well.
In recent years, it’s been one of the most popular places to work for young professionals.
3. Queens
Queens, the largest borough by land area, is an important cultural spot.
The area is occupied by:
- Flushing Meadows-Corona Park
- Citi Field
- And a local immigrant community.
4. The Bronx
The Bronx lies north of Manhattan and is the only borough primarily located on the mainland.
It is known for its rich history.
Besides, the Bronx is the birthplace of hip-hop music and home to the famous Bronx Zoo.
5. Staten Island
Among all the boroughs, Staten Island has the least number of people living there.
The Staten Island Ferry connects it to the rest of the city, giving it a more suburban atmosphere.
You may also like: Long Island vs Staten Island: Which One to Choose?
New York City’s Scenery
New York City may seem like a concrete jungle, but there are plenty of green spaces and parks to explore.
1. Central Park
Central Park is the biggest green spot right in the heart of Manhattan. It offers a much-needed break from the hectic city streets.
All in all, the Central Park spans 843 acres (341 hectares). It offers a break from the city with its lush lawns, winding paths, and lakes.
2. The Hudson River
The Hudson River runs along Manhattan’s western edge.
stretches approximately 315 miles from the Adirondack Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean.
It was first explored by Henry Hudson in 1609. Since then, it’s been called the “Hudson” river.
3. The East River
The East River separates Brooklyn and Queens and offers transport and scenic views.
Besides, the city’s bridges, like the Brooklyn and Manhattan, offer stunning views.
You may also like: 10 Best Hotels in NYC With a View
Economy and Employment
New York City boasts a robust economy and is a global financial hub. It is home to Wall Street, the NYSE, and many multinationals.
Some of the top industries in the Big Apple are:
- Technology and Media Industry
- Smart Cities and Clean Tech Industry
- Life Sciences Industry
- Fashion Industry
- Food and Beverage Industry
- Finance Industry
- Other Industries
Education and Culture
New York City has over 1800 public schools and 980,000 students.
Overall, the city contains numerous prestigious universities, business schools, and colleges.
Conversely, NYC has world-class museums, theaters, art galleries, and music venues.
That’s also another reason why people consider it one of the best places to live.
You may also like: 10 Best Things to Do Alone in NYC
What Else Can You Learn About NYC?
The Statue of Liberty
Standing tall in New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty is an enduring symbol of freedom and democracy. It is a must-visit landmark that represents the values upon which America was built.
The Empire State Building: A Towering Icon
The Empire State Building is one of the main visit cards of NYC.
It’s one of the most famous skyscrapers not only in the city of New York but also worldwide.
You can explore about Epire State Building in this article.
Times Square
Times Square is a bustling intersection and a hub of entertainment and bright lights. Known for its iconic billboards and Broadway shows, it’s a place where the city truly comes alive.
Renting an Apartment in NYC
Renting an apartment in New York City can be very challenging.
As one of the most populous and dynamic cities in the world, it’s essential to be well-prepared and informed.
Here’s a short overview of the renting an apartment in NYC:
- Rental Costs: Prices differ profoundly. So it depends where exactly your space is based and how big it is. For example, studios rent ranges from $1,800 to $2,500, one-bedrooms from $2,250 to $3,750, and two-bedrooms rent from $3,500 to $6,500. The housing market is most competitive from April to September so keep it in mind. Winter (January and February) may offer better deals. And the top expensive period is around Christmas.
- Required Documents: Applicants usually need a valid ID, a letter verifying their employment and salary. Plus, be ready to provide also the recent financial records, and a $20 application fee.
- Income Requirements: Property owners often require renters to earn 40 times the rent. If this is not relevant, the landlord can require a guarantor with a higher income.
- Broker Fees: If using a broker, expect fees of 10-15% of the annual rent. For example, a $2,500/month apartment could incur a fee between $3,000 and $4,500. Some listings may not require broker fees.
- Application Process: Prepare all necessary documents in advance. Otherwise, it can cost you the apartment you’re trying to rent. Once you find an apartment, apply in no time. Desirable units can go fast. Even after approval, be ready to sign a lease agreement that typically lasts for 12 months.
So keep in mind that it’s not cheap and you should think about this in advance.
You may also like: 15 Best Places to Find Sublets in New York City
Let’s also explore some of the most interesting things to do and visit in New Amsterdam.
Broadway
People know Broadway for its famous theaters.
Broadway’s musicals and dramas showcase the best talent in the performing arts. They attract theater-lovers from around the world. New York City
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art has a vast art collection. It spans thousands of years and many civilizations.
It is a haven for art lovers and other people interested in history, for example.
Food overview
New York City offers a variety of foods.
From street food carts to Michelin-starred restaurants, the city has it all.
Explore some of the food-related articles we’ve covered below:
- 10 Unique & Coolest Restaurants in NYC For Dinner
- 13 Best Steakhouses in NYC
- Best Pizza in NYC: 17 Best Places + Local Tips
- 5 Best Seafood Restaurants in NYC
- 10 Places to Enjoy the Best Burgers in Midtown NYC
- 20+ Places to Enjoy the Best Brownie in NYC
Also, you can enjoy the Drift In NYC restaurant which offers a great view of the city that never sleeps.
Public Transportation
New York City can be intimidating for first-time visitors.
But, its public transportation is efficient and extensive. The subway and bus can reach every corner of the city.
So you can easily explore the urban jungle.
Explore more about the NYC transportation system here.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What are the coordinates of New York City?
New York City’s coordinates are 40.730610° N, -73.935242° W. It is on the U.S. northeastern coast, at the mouth of the Hudson River.
How do I get to the Statue of Liberty?
To reach the Statue of Liberty, take a ferry from Battery Park in Manhattan or Liberty State Park in New Jersey.
What is the best time to visit New York City?
New York City is a year-round destination. But spring and fall are best. They have nice weather and fewer crowds.
Are there any free attractions in New York City?
Yes, the city has several free attractions. They are Central Park, the High Line, and the Brooklyn Bridge.
How can I experience Broadway shows?
You can buy tickets for Broadway shows online. Or visit the TKTS booth in Times Square for discounted same-day tickets.
What is the best way to explore New York City’s neighborhoods?
Walking and using the subway are great ways to explore the city. They let you experience different neighborhoods like a local.
Why is New York called the Big Apple?
The nickname “The Big Apple” for New York City has a fascinating history that dates back to the 1920s. John J. Fitz Gerald, a sportswriter for the New York Morning Telegraph, popularized it. In the 1970s, a New York tourist campaign made the nickname popular.
Conclusion
New York City is a captivating place. It has many attractions, cultural experiences, and many things to create great memories.
Whether you’re an artist or a travel enthusiast, you’ll find something to do there.
Cheers!!