New York for First-Time Solo Travelers: What to See Without the Stress

So you’ve booked a solo trip to New York City! Brave. Bold. And possibly questioning all your life choices. Don’t worry, you’re in good company.

I took my first solo stroll through NYC clutching my crossbody like it was a lifeline and side-eyeing every subway map like it might bite. But guess what? I didn’t get lost (much), I didn’t get mugged (at all), and I actually had a blast. So much so that I went back, solo, for 5 weeks a couple of years later! Turns out, this city is pretty magical when you’re exploring it on your own terms.

This list of solo-friendly NYC spots is here to help you see the city without needing a tour group, a selfie stick, or the patience of a saint.

From seeing amazing views to feeling like you're living in a movie because you're there at all the places you've seen your whole life in movies. Here are the places I’d send my daughter, best friend, or you, because let’s be honest, you deserve this!

Feel on Top of the World at the Empire State Building

Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it’s worth it at least once. Just think of Sleepless in Seattle, An Affair to Remember, Elf, not to mention King Kong! (Full list of movie/TV/book ESB appearances)

Use the Empire State Building as a reference point to figure out where you are in the city. It’s not the tallest building there, but has a unique look. Also it’s just so cool! Each time I looked at it it hit me again “I am in the coolest city in the world!”

It’s expensive to go to the top but something to do at least once. Also it’s the only way to get into the gift shop! You can’t just stop by to go to the gift shop, you have to buy a ticket to the top. It's kind of like a DisneyLand ride where you walk straight into the gift shop as you exit the ride. But, trust me, there are plenty of ESB souvenirs available for much less elsewhere in the city.

After my first visit, on subsequent trips I skipped going to the top again because I preferred to see the ESB as part of my view instead of taking pictures from it.

At night the top is often lit up in different colored lights to honor various holidays and events.  You can see what the meaning of the colored lights are in this calendar.

*Tip! FaceTime your friends back home from the top of the Empire State Building! Share the view with them live to brighten their day!

Grand Central Station Surprised Me with Its Magic (Even Without a Train Ticket)

I guess it's technically called “Grand Central Terminal”, but then you can't make the hilarious joke when you're there: “Boy, it's like Grand Central Station in here!” HaHA!

It's really fun to visit here, even if you aren't catching a train or subway. It's free, fascinating, and incredibly easy to navigate. There are signs everywhere, the space is patrolled and safe, and no one will blink if you spend 30 minutes just people-watching or browsing the market stalls.

Another iconic NYC location, seen in so many movies! It is a huge building with beautiful architechture, shops, pop-up markets and charming restaurants.

*Tip! Be sure to check out the clocks I've pictured below.  The clock above the outdoor entrance is the largest Tiffany clock ever made... it's 14 feet in diameter! The four sided clock inside on top of the ticket booth/info kiosk is supposed to be worth $20 million! Not too shabby.

Metropolitan Opera House – My First Fancy Night at The Met -And Why It Was Worth It

I’m no fancy-schmancy person, but I did really want to got to The Met! I’d heard of it and seen it in movies all my life. It felt like such a fancy thing to do! So I got a ticket to see The Marriage of Figaro. This turned out to be kind of like an episode of Three’s Company, with mistaken identities etc. I wasn’t able to get into it, but I think maybe if I was seeing a more serious opera it would have met my expectations more.

However, the building itself did meet my expectations! Such gorgeous fountains in the front of the building! It was amazing to sit in the balcony seats and see the enormous stage. The lobby and theater chandeliers were just beautiful! I couldn’t capture with my camera how sparkly and dazzling they were in person.

Surviving and Loving The Macy’s Parade Without Paying a Fortune

This is one of those bucket list things. It’s not like I’m some parade freak, but I have been watching this on tv for about the past 50 years. Seemed like something I should see once in person!  I'm really glad I did, what a unique experience!

I researched all the options for it. My first plan was to splurge on a parade route facing hotel room. But as I thought more about it I realized it would be a lot of money to spend and I'd probably just end up watching on the hotel room's tv!

I’ll be honest: I was a bit nervous about figuring it all out. They never show that part when you watch on tv: the crowds, the early wake-up, the logistics of where to stand. But with a little planning (and a strong cup of coffee), it turned out to be one of my favorite NYC memories. There’s something about standing among strangers, all buzzing with childlike joy, that makes the city feel warm and small in the best way.

Here’s how to make it manageable:

• Arrive early like 6:30 to 7:00 a.m. for a good spot. It’s worth it.
• Bring a blanket or a towel from your hotel room to sit on while you wait.
• Wear warm layers and comfortable shoes.
• Don’t be afraid to chat with the people around you. Chances are they will be tourists too or if they are from New York you can get some good insider tips from them.
• Bring snacks and something hot to drink, but don't drink too much and have to loose your spot to find a bathroom. (If you must hopefully one of your sidewalk neighbors will save your spot you've marked with your blanket/towel)

*Tip! This is one of the few times you’ll actually feel more comfortable in a big crowd. You’re just part of the shared joy, and there’s no pressure to explain your tears when Snoopy floats by.

Pretend You’re in a Movie at the Plaza Hotel

The Beatles stayed here on their first visit to America! What’s not to like?! There are many iconic movies and people who have been here, take a look at the link!  Another fun thing was visiting the shoe shine stand. My boots have never been so shiny!

Want to feel fancy without the full price tag? Book their afternoon tea in advance. It’s not cheap, but it’s unforgettable, and nobody bats an eye if you’re there solo. In fact, they often treat you like royalty.

NBC Studio Tour – Where I Almost Met a Celebrity and Starred in My Own Talk Show

OK, I did go here with other people, but going solo it would be fine… small tour group sizes, a set schedule, and structured fun. You don’t need to make small talk or know anyone, the guide leads the way, and you just soak it all in.

The tour of the NBC studios was one of the highlights of one visit to New York. An NBC page leads your group through the building. It was fun cramming into the elevator and not knowing who you’d see when the doors opened. We happened to glimpse actress Debi Mazar, done up in 1940’s garb.

You get to see the sets of Saturday Night Live, The Tonight Show, Late Night, and the NBC Nightly News set. Your group also gets to star in your own “talk show”. You’re given a script and instructions on where to go on the talk show set. Lots of laughs and fun. Photos aren’t allowed inside so I just have a few in the vicinity. You can enter the building for free and shop at the “Shop at NBC Studios“. The shop includes a Today Show desk which is fun for photos.

*Tip: Book your ticket online to skip any stress. The building is easy to navigate, and there’s great security so you’ll feel safe and looked after the whole time. Bonus: after your tour, pop across to the nearby Rockefeller Center café for a snack and some top-tier people-watching.

Why I Walked Through Times Square Every Day (Even with the Weird Characters)

I’m a proponent of walking thru Times Square multiple times during a visit to New York.  Not really to shop or eat, there are better places, but, man, the atmosphere!  Those lights, the people, Broadway Shows all around on the side streets, and great photo opportunities!  Beware of strange costumed characters there… do NOT take a picture with them.

Sex and the City Tour – From Carrie’s Steps to Cosmopolitans: My Favorite SATC Tour Stops

It was so much fun as a Sex and the City fan to get to see all the iconic spots from the show! I took a 3 1/2 hour bus tour, starting in front of the Plaza Hotel. The tour had very engaging leader who offered history and gossip about the show.

As a solo traveler, I was worried I’d feel awkward surrounded by groups of giggling besties. But honestly? I felt like the cool aunt who knew all the references. I am the same age as Carrie I bragged to these youngsters 😀 The tour guide was hilarious, the vibe was inclusive, and by the second stop, we were all chatting like old friends.

Stops at:

• Carrie’s apartment
• The bar owned by Steve and Aidan
• The store where Charlotte bought her Rabbit
• Buddakan, where Carrie and Big’s wedding rehearsal dinner took place
• Magnolia Bakery

The bus drives by:

• The church where Samantha meets “The Friar”
• The furniture store where Aidan designed his pieces
• New York City Public Library, site of the ill-fated wedding
• SJP’s shoe store
• Jefferson Market Garden where Steve and Miranda got married

*Tip: Don’t be shy about booking a ticket solo: this tour attracts friendly fans of all ages. Bring your favorite pair of sunglasses, sit by the window, and fully embrace your fabulous main-character moment. You’ve earned it.

Central Park – Lennon Tributes, Fairy Tales, and Carriage Rides

Another great spot to wander around.  It will probably take a few visits.  A highlight is seeing the Imagine tribute to John Lennon.  The Dakota building where he and Yoko lived is across the street from the Imagine tribute area.  Apparently they live(d) on the 7th floor where the black railing is.

The restaurants in the park are iconic fun! See my exciting NYC restaurant page for details!

Sky-High Views and Strange Architecture at Hudson Yardss

The Edge is a triangular platform at the top of Hudson Yards.  Apparently it’s the highest outdoor sky deck at 100 stories up.  It even has a “hole” in the floor (covered by glass or whatever) so you can look straight down 100 stories.  When I was there some yahoos were laying down on the glass looking down.  Crazy.

The Edge is a relatively new vista point.  It is pricy (as they all are), about $40 to go to the top. If you’re a Rockafeller you can buy expensive champagne at the top also. It is very impressive! I liked being able to see the Empire State Building as part of the skyline.  

Hudson Yards is a complex with restaurants, shops and other stuff.  The Vessel is one of the things to see there.  It is “an interactive artwork landmark” made up of interconnecting flights of stairs. Unfortunately after it opened a few years ago people used it as a tall place to jump off of to commit suicide and it’s been closed to climb ever since.  It is an odd looking and unique thing to see.

*Tip: the High Line path starts (or ends) here, making it a great launch/end point for your next peaceful NYC walk.

Nosebleeds and Nostalgia – Seeing Billy Joel at Madison Square Garden

My first visit to Madison Square Garden was to see Billy Joel.  I was very impressed with Madison Square Garden. So efficient at moving 20,000 people in and out! I never found myself in a “herd” of people like I inevitably do at the other Arenas.

My seat was in the very last top row, but the view was better than I expected! Plus the video screen was right there, AND there was a snack/ drink bar right behind this row! The bathroom was a nearby elevator ride down one floor. What’s not to like?

Billy Joel still sounded great at age 72. I’ve always liked Billy but never considered myself a huge fan, and I was surprised to find that I knew 99% of the songs he played word for word. As did the rest of the audience. It gave me chills quite a few times hearing the crowd all singing along together. I highly recommend trying to see Billy here at Madison Square Garden if you get the chance, even if you’re just a casual fan!

You Really Can Do This and You’ll Love It

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring NYC solo, I hope this guide helps you say yes. Pack your walking shoes, your curiosity, and maybe even a fancy purse from your grandma, and go see what’s waiting for you in the city that never sleeps. Frank would be proud.

What are your favorite NYC must see spots? Let me know in the comments! Thanks for reading!

Map of Mentioned Sights

Be sure to check out all the posts about New York City

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