tourist traps new york

18 NYC Tourist Traps: What NOT to do in NYC!

By: Author Girl with the Passport

Posted on Last updated: June 11, 2023

Categories New York City

I’m sure we’ve all seen some pretty lame tourist traps across the globe. You know, like that roadside stand offering tickets to see the world’s largest pineapple. Talk about a waste of time and money, although I do love pineapple. But, what are some of the biggest NYC tourist traps? I mean, what attractions should be at the top of your, “What not to do in NYC” list? 

As a long time resident, I’m here to share some of my mildly insightful advice since I’ve experienced a lot of what the Big Apple has to offer. 

Because let’s be real:

There’s nothing worse than that soul-crushing thought of, “OMG Seriously? I just spent my money on THAT?” 

The horror (said totally non-sarcastically)!

I mean, you work hard for your money (you work hard for it honey…), and probably don’t get a ton of vacation time, at least if you’re American.

It’s always gut-wrenching when you waste your precious time and hard-earned money on something overpriced and not particularly enjoyable. 

To help you make the most out of your time in New York City, I’ve created this handy post about what not to do in NYC!

Just because something is on this list, doesn’t mean its awful.

Some of these 18 NYC tourist traps are nice but are listed here since they’re super expensive and way too crowded.

Just try and read with an open mind.

Since this entire article is based solely on my opinions, you may agree with some of what is on this list or hate it all.

And that’s okay because we’re all different. 

This list of top NYC tourist traps is just here to help you find amazing, NYC attractions that are cheaper, less crowded, and generally, more enjoyable.

So onwards my dear friends, as we navigate this epic list of what not to do in NYC!

Since I am incapable of making it rain money, there’s a high chance that this post may contain affiliate links. Please see my  disclosure  for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

***Not sure where to stay in NYC? Then check out 414 Hotel (Rooms at this chic, Hell’s Kitchen hotel start at $159 per night and include fridges, flat-screen TVs and iPod docks. There’s even a working fireplace in the lobby!), The James New York (Chic, modern rooms at this Soho hotel start at $177 per night and feature high ceilings, floor to ceiling windows, glassed-off bathrooms, plush linens made from natural materials, and more), The Bowery Hotel , (Rooms at this 5-star, Nolita hotel start at $300 per night and are cozy, but stylish, with free Wifi, free bike rentals, exquisite city views, and more). and Pod 39 (Located in Murray Hill, this pod hotel sits inside a residential home from 1918. Rooms here start at $120 per night and are cozy and outfitted with queen-size beds or stainless-steel bunk beds with individual TVs and bedside shelves).** *

1. Empire State Building

This 102 story building on Fifth Avenue is a total New York City landmark (even King Kong had an insatiable need to climb this iconic building), so I understand why you’re sitting there thinking, “How can this be an NYC tourist trap?”

I have been to the top and sure, it’s nice enough, until you get bored AF after about five minutes.

The lines to get in are insanely long, even if you purchase your tickets in advance.

And tickets?

Yeah, those will cost you a whopping $43.55 a person! I mean, you could see a deeply discounted Broadway show for that kind of money!

It gets worse. If you actually want to buy skip the line tickets to the Empire State Building , then those bad boys will cost you $80.57 per person.

Yikes! 

That’s why, I suggest skipping the insanity all together. 

There are ways to see the NYC skyline that won’t make you feel like you just spent a small fortune to wait in line.

Instead of doing battle with selfie-stick wielding tourists at the Empire State Building, try walking across the Brooklyn Bridge (an experience that is amazing in and of itself) and enjoying the exquisite, waterside, beauty of the Brooklyn Heights Promenade (AKA the Esplanade).

Located in Brooklyn Heights (right past the iconic DUMBO neighborhood):

This 1,826-foot-long platform and pedestrian walkway is 10,000 times more appealing than the Empire State Building.

Why, you may rightly wonder?

Well, not only are the skyline views here stunning, but this walkway is also free and relatively devoid of tourists.

For my fellow crowd averse, antisocial homies out there, you’re welcome!

2. Junior’s Cheesecake

I’m not saying that Junior’s Cheesecake is bad because, in truth, it’s pretty flippin’ delicious.

This cheesecake giant’s immortal storefront does sit right in the middle of Times Square. 

The line to enter this fine purveyor of desserts can get pretty long, especially after all the nearby Broadway shows let out.

Unless you want to spend 30-minutes in line, rubbing elbows with some poor parent’s overtired child, you might want to skip Junior’s. 

But the good news?

There are a ton of other to-die-for dessert options in NYC that won’t leave you feeling like a hangry mess.

See, you really can have your cake and eat it too!

So, take a hard pass on Junior’s and head straight to Levain Bakery , at either 351 Amsterdam Avenue, 167 West 74th Street, or 2167 Frederick Douglas Boulevard.

The Frederick Douglas Boulevard location is WAY less crowded and a much better option, at least if you can handle schlepping all the way up to Harlem. 

But I promise:

Any trip to Levain Bakery is totally worth it since they have some of the most amazing cookies that I’ve EVER tasted.

These confectionary creations are pure, dessert perfection and come out all warm, moist, chewy, and delicious.

What, not in the mood for a cookie?

Then haul ass to my other favorite dessert place in NYC, Underwest Donuts (638 West 47th street). 

And don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you!

Sure, this place is a total hole in the wall that adjoins a real working carwash, but so what?

Who cares? 

This place can look as dumpy as it wants since these circles of carbohydrate wonder are moist, rich, non-greasy, and decadently delightful.

They come in a variety of wicked awesome, Wily Wonka-esq flavors like Lavender Vanilla.

What more could you ask for, besides a side of Ryan Gosling of course?

3. Madame Tussauds and Ripley’s Believe it or Not

My mother always told me that if you don’t have anything nice to say, then you shouldn’t say anything at all.

So yeah, mums the word (Get it?? Of course, you do! Lame puns are a GO!)

That’s why:

The only thing that I’ll say about these two NYC attractions is that they are crowded, expensive, and left me feeling disappointed.

Personally:

I think the Tenement Museum, at both 97 and 103 Orchard Street, is a much better option.

This museum does a superb job of recreating the dark, dank, dirty, and cramped living conditions that typified immigrant tenements throughout the late 1800s and early 1900s. 

Prepare to step back in time and enjoy the beautiful stories of former NYC immigrants who called the Lower East Side of NYC home.

Through a variety of unique guided tours, within the museum’s two separate buildings, you’ll appreciate many of the unique challenges that different groups of immigrants faced when moving to NYC.

Some of the museum’s available tours include Under One Roof (The experiences of immigrants who settled in NYC after WWII), Hard Times (A look at how immigrants, from the late 1800s and early 1900s, coped with life’s hardships), Sweatshop Workers (Explore the apartments of sweatshop workers in the garment industry and understand how they lived between the 1890s and 1910’), Irish Outsiders (Understand the discrimination that Irish immigrants encountered during the late 1800’s), and more.

Be sure to book your guided tour well in advance since many of these experiences do sell out quickly (that’s because many of these tours only have 12 available slots).

***You could also visit the incredibly underrated, Frick Collection (at 1 East 70th Street), which is a historic, private art collection, turned museum, where you can marvel at masterpieces from iconic artists like Vermeer, Bellini, Rembrandt, Goya and more.***

4. The Book of Mormon on Broadway

Suffice it to say:

I was not a fan and have seen much better shows on Broadway.

Don’t get me wrong:

I love over the top, raunchy humor just as much as the next girl. And I wanted to enjoy this Broadway musical.

But sadly, I did not.

I thought it was overhyped and not worth my time, especially since there are so many other amazing shows on Broadway right now, like Aladdin , The Lion King , etc.

I also wanna give a special shout out to Waitress (256 West 47th Street), a show that I adored.

I thought it was gonna suck and I loved it.

But the best part?

Tickets to Waitress are reasonably priced and relatively easy to get.

Because let’s be honest:

When you travel, stress-free is the way to be ( Click here and find out how to get half-price Broadway tickets the EASY way )

5. Central Park

This immortal NYC park has it all. Strawberry Fields, the Central Park Zoo, Belvedere Castle, etc.

So what’s not to love?

Well, for an anti-social hermit like me, the CROWDS. Everybody visits Central Park and as a result, a trip here can be an anxiety-inducing, claustrophobic experience.

So while it’s a great place to visit:

It’s not ideal for relaxing and taking a quiet afternoon for yourself.

If you’re looking for a bit more peace and quiet within the city that never sleeps, then you may want to steer clear of Central Park.

For a more relaxing park visit:

Try Prospect Park in Brooklyn which, believe it or not, was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, the same two architects who created Central Park. 

Because Brooklyn was far less developed than Manhattan in 1867, these two architectural magicians were given more creative freedom and were able to develop a true oasis of greenery.

Visit this exquisite green space and you’ll find vast wooded areas, a lake, a carousel, a zoo, and even a mile-long meadow, all of which combine to create the perfect escape from the busy insanity of the city, at least for a little while.

To get here:

Just take the Q towards Coney Island and get off at, you guessed it, Prospect Park, subway station.

6. Little Italy

I do love Little Italy. I mean, the streets are charming and filled with exquisite street art that is a must-see for anyone visiting NYC.

For every delicious cannoli that you find here, you’ll also encounter a high price tag, as well as a line of about a hundred tourists waiting to get their hands on that aforementioned cannoli.

And I get it.

If I was tourist, I too would head straight to Little Italy so that I could devour some of the delicious, authentic Italian food that this immigrant neighborhood is known for.

Started in the 1800s by Italian immigrants:

Little Italy is filled with traditional Italian shops, bakeries, tenement buildings, and narrow streets, like Mulberry Street, which is transformed into a pedestrian walkway each weekend during the summer.

Crowds of tourists + narrow streets = no bueno.

If you don’t enjoy feeling like a canned sardine as you walk down the street, then skip Little Italy and head straight to Arthur Avenue.

Located in none other than the boogie down Bronx” (I promise, it’s super safe):

Just take either the Hudson or Harlem MetroNorth railway lines, from Grand Central Terminal, and get off at Fordham (save money by purchasing a round trip ticket before you board the train). 

It’s just a 15 minute walk to the gastronomic bliss that is Arthur Avenue.

This is where all the locals go for delicious, authentic Italian food that is reasonably priced. There are also like zero tourists here so that doesn’t hurt either.

Not sure where to eat?

Try Enzo’s (2339 Arthur Avenue), a restaurant where the only thing bigger than the portions are the personalities of the warm and welcoming people who run this authentic Italian eatery (call to make a reservation).

Red sauce and authentic, Italian parmigiana are a religious experience here so definitely don’t leave without trying either of those things.

Eat here and you definitely won’t leave hungry.

***Other fantastic eateries along Arthur Avenue include Randazzo’s ( seafood market), Calandra’s Cheese Shop (for duh, cheese), Madonia Brothers Bakery, Casa Della Mozzarella, and Borgatti’s Ravioli and Egg Noodle (get the ravioli).***

7. Pedicab Ride through Central Park

Aww, who doesn’t fancy a guided bicycle ride through Central Park?

Isn’t that just the perfect way to create lasting memories of your trip to NYC?

Sure is…if you want to cry every time you remember how much money you spent on a stank (literally since those poor guys sweat up a storm) ride through NYC’s most famous park.

I did this a total of once and vowed never to do it again. It’s just totally overpriced and not worth it at all.

Want to take a romantic bike ride through Central Park?

Then just rent a Citi Bike instead. The bike costs just $10 a day and is a great way to explore Central Park at your own pace.

8. High Tea at The Plaza’s Palm Court

It’s not that high tea at the Plaza is bad, it’s just that you’ll have to wait a matter of months for a reservation to open up (Plus it’s mad expensive since it’s like $75 per person)

Unless you’re willing to plan and make reservations well in advance, I suggest going elsewhere for afternoon tea.

Don’t worry:

Per usual, I’ve got you covered. So get those pinkies up ladies and gents because If you’re short on time, and money, then Bosie’s Tea Parlor in the West Village (10 Morton Street) is the place to be.

High Tea is just $39 for one person and $75 for two people. This service includes 2 teas of your choice, 3 types of sandwiches (Available sandwiches include Farmer’s Egg Salad with thyme, Cucumber with cream cheese and dill, chicken breast with golden raisins and curried mayonnaise, Cheddar Cheese and Branston pickle, etc.), macarons, scones, and cakes.

And while the decor is chic and refined:

The atmosphere is still relatively relaxed, so no need to worry about getting scolded for putting your elbows on the table.

The food here is also exquisitely refined, with subtle French influences that take this afternoon tea experience in NYC to the NEXT level

Plus, with over a hundred teas to choose from:

Bosie Tea Parlor is home to the largest selection of teas in the entire city.

This restaurant is a true delight for any tea and dessert mongers out there, like me!

9. Iceskating at Rockefeller Center

We’ve all seen this quintessential NYC moment immortalized in about a thousand romantic comedies.

Sadly though:

The real life experience doesn’t live up to the hype.

Realistically:

The lines are horribly long and at $25 per ticket (plus $12 for skate rentals), the price is just downright outrageous.

This rink is small, there are people EVERYWHERE, and I can almost guarantee that you’ll get bored after about 2.5 seconds. 

Forgo the buyer’s remorse and skate somewhere else.

Because honestly:

You can ice-skate just about anywhere in the city since ice rinks pop up everywhere throughout the winter in NYC .

Specifically:

Bryant Park, Wollman Rink in Central Park, and Mccarran Rink will all give you those cozy winter vibes you’re looking for but without the added stress and frustration of waiting in line.

Ice skating in Central Park with the city lit up behind you is probably one of the most romantic things to do in NYC.

Remember to bring cash to the rink since many of these places don’t accept credit cards (a total rarity in NYC).

10. Serendipity NYC

I’m sure you’ve heard of this fine purveyor of desserts, which was prominently featured in the quintessential, romantic comedy of the same name, starring John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale.

A restaurant that is undoubtedly doing something right since they currently have three locations in NYC, and many more across the globe.

I am not a fan. I think Serendipity is a total NYC tourist trap that is filled with nothing but long lines, large crowds, and frozen hot chocolates that taste more like chocolate milk than anything else.

I’d skip Serendipity altogether and opt for a more intimate dessert experience at The Chocolate Room (51 Fifth Avenue in Brooklyn, not Manhattan) instead.

You’ll find a dimly lit, cozy cafe that is devoid of screaming children, hurling themselves across the floor because they received chocolate sprinkles instead of rainbow ones.

Be sure to stop by and try any of their decadent brownie sundaes, cakes, or ice cream sandwiches. 

All are insanely delicious and worth every calorie, which is high praise when coming from a dessert addict like me.

11. Grimaldi’a in DUMBO, Brooklyn

I don’t HATE Grimaldi’s since it’s an NYC pizza institution that first started with its flagship store at 1 Front Street in Brooklyn.

Since then:

Grimaldi’s pizzerias have taken over the world, with multiple locations all across the United States.

And while I don’t dislike their fresh, coal-fired, brick-oven pizza (It’s only sold by the pie, not slice), I honestly don’t think Grimaldi’s is the same place it used to be.

Which makes total sense when you realize that Patsy Grimaldi sold his iconic pizzeria back in 1998.

This former owner of Grimaldi’s has opened up another pizza place just down the street, known as Juliana’s.

I’m gonna go a little rogue here since I’m not a HUGE fan of either Grimaldi’s or Juliana’s.

Totally blasphemy, but I can’t help it.

The lines at both places are long, the prices are high (I mean it is just pizza after all), and the pizza was OKAY, but nothing exceptional.

For my money:

I’d buy pizza from Eataly instead. This innovative Italian food market/restaurant creates a unique food experience with fresh ingredients, exciting new flavor combinations, and modern cooking techniques that will leave your tastebuds singing with delight.

Dining here is a multi-faceted experience since this complex offers a comprehensive Italian food experience that includes everything from grocery shopping to upscale restaurant dining. 

Added bonus?

The downtown store is conveniently located at 101 Liberty Street, right next door to the must-see, World Trade Center Memorial.

12. Times Square

I don’t often say this, but I LOATHE Times Square, like with the burning fury of a thousand suns.

Not only is it crowded AF, and filled with tourists who just stop and stare in the middle of the sidewalk, but there is seriously nothing culturally exciting, or redeeming about this place.

I do anything and everything in my power to avoid this overcrowded, cultural wasteland of high prices and perplexed tourists at all costs (In fairness, I’m an anti-social hermit who hates crowds and people in general, so part of this is just me).

I would happily walk an extra fifteen miles just to avoid the madness that is Times Square.

If you’re planning a trip to New York for the first time, then I get why you feel like you need to visit Times Square.

It is practically the center of the universe. Just be careful since everything here is an overpriced, NYC tourist trap.

The restaurants here are overpriced and mediocre at best while the shops carry expensive, low-quality souvenirs that will disintegrate 5 minutes after you purchase them.

Do not try and sneak a photo of those costumed superheroes, Elmos and Mickey Mice (yes and I meant that in plural form) that creepily troll through Times Square.

You might be able to sneak a pic, but if you’re caught, they will be pissed and come after you for a tip, even if you aren’t in the photo yourself!

And they are mad aggressive about it too, so just don’t do it.

13. The Meatpacking District

I think I went here once and vowed never again since it was insanely expensive and I felt like a sardine that was packed into a very tiny tin can.

If you’re in New York and into the clubbing scene, check out Williamsburg, Brooklyn instead.

The atmosphere is much less pretentious and way more down to earth; basically a more relatable social scene that is more my style, not that I actually go clubbing anymore, but you get the idea.

Checking out Brooklyn is a must on every New York itinerary these days. 

***Not sure where to go clubbing in Williamsburg? Then try The Panther Room (State of the art sound system, 452-person capacity, and 2 floors of dancing mayhem), Bembe (International dance club with music from around the world), Black Flamingo (Miami-style cocktail bar and taqueria with nightly dance parties), and The Woods (A chill, canteen-like bar with picnic tables out back and weeknight dance parties).***

14. Yankee Stadium

It pains me to put this one on this list of NYC tourist traps since I’m a die-hard Yankee fan forever and always.

The tickets can be expensive, the stadium is crowded, and the cost of the food and drinks are insane (they even have pour counters on all of the alcohol bottles so that you don’t inadvertently get extra booze).

If I wasn’t a Yankee fan but still wanted to experience all the awesomeness of a baseball game in NYC, then I’d definitely get tickets to see the Mets at CitiField.

Because truthfully:

You’ll get the same experience, except the tickets will be cheaper and the stadium will be less crowded since the METS aren’t exactly known for being a winning team.

If any Yankee fans ask, you didn’t hear this from me.

*** For the best tickets, use StubHub and purchase your tickets about an hour or two before the game (unless it’s a high profile game). This is the time when sellers will start lowering their prices since they’d rather make some money off their tickets than none at all. ***

15. The Statue of Liberty

I get it. 

Who doesn’t want to get up close and personal with the awe-inspiring grandeur of good ol’, Lady Liberty?

Your answer might change when you realize that it’s $23.50 for an adult ticket to see this iconic, New York City monument.

Let’s be honest, there isn’t much to do once you arrive on Liberty Island, besides visit an okay museum. 

You also won’t be snagging any amazing photo ops since you’ll be standing almost right on top of her.

I prefer to see the Statue of Liberty from aboard the Staten Island Ferry. Not only are the panoramic views incredible, but this fantastic ferry service operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!

Sit back, relax, and marvel at the beauty of the Statue of Liberty as you peacefully float across New York Harbor.

This ferry ride typically lasts about 25 minutes and departs from Whitehall Terminal, at 4 South Street, Manhattan, every 30 minutes (and every 15 minutes during rush hour). 

Thank me later:

Because not only are the views of the NYC skyline incredible, but the tickets are FREE, aka the best price tag EVER!

16. Shopping Along Fifth Avenue

Strolling down 5th Avenue, like Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, sounds romantic…until you actually do it.

First of all, everyone and their brother’s, sister’s, cousin’s dog is walking along Fifth Avenue.

And, they all stop short every five seconds so that they can gawk at all the ultra-chic, high-end retailer that calls Fifth Avenue home. 

You know, icons of luxury like Saks Fifth Avenue, Tiffany’s, etc. 

As a result:

Walking is beyond difficult, if not impossible. Add in the fine art of stepping into overcrowded stores as you attempt to try things on, and you may decide to call it a day after walking down a solitary city block.

Most of the stores that sit along Fifth Avenue are high-end brands that are bougie beyond my wildest dreams.

If shopping in NYC is a must for you, then check out some of the city’s more budget-friendly stores. You know, places like INA NYC, Primark, Flirt Brooklyn, etc.

There are a ton of fun, reasonably priced, places to shop. You just have to slowly back away from Fifth Avenue first.

And if you’re in need of some serious shopping inspiration:

Then check out my detailed guide to 12 of the Best Places to Shop in NYC on a Budget.

17. Eating at a Hot Dog Cart

I honestly didn’t even eat at hot dog carts when I wasn’t a vegetarian.

These street vendors (along with the Nuts 4 Nuts guys) are NYC icons.

You see them everywhere, especially around some of NYC’s hottest tourist traps (I’m looking at you Times Square… cue Jaws music).

I can’t blame you for wanting to stop and try a dirty water dog for yourself.

That would be a travesty since this city is home to some of the best food trucks in the entire world.

Think of dining at a hot dog cart as a heinous food crime of epic proportions.

Who knows how long those hot dogs have been sitting in that water.

I highly doubt that you want to spend the rest of your vacation in the bathroom

If you must have a hot dog in NYC, then go to Gray’s Papaya (2090 Broadway). It’s cheap, fast, delicious, and open 24-hours a day.

They also serve a variety of fresh, tropical, fruit juices that will help make you feel healthy (ish), especially after ingesting that nitrate bomb of yours (aka hot dog).

18. Magnolia Bakery (I still love their Banana Pudding. #justsayin’)

I have no problem standing in line for dessert, especially since my love of sugar runs real deep.

There are just so many other dessert shops out there that are infinitely better than Magnolia Bakery.

First of all:

The lines here are so long, that the bakery may actually run out of, well, everything before you get the chance to order.

And while their banana pudding is worth every calorie (and it’s made of banana, which is a fruit, so obviously it’s healthy and the calories don’t count), I just can’t risk leaving without my dessert fix.

Yup, my love of dessert is THAT serious.

So, if you’re looking for another NYC bakery to love, then check out Milk Bar (They have East Village, Chelsea, and Upper West Side locations).

You’ll probably have to wait in line here too, but Milk Bar’s quirky spin on traditional desserts makes this bakery totally worth any and all potential linage.

Their cupcakes may not be as pretty and pristine as the ones at Magnolia.

They still offer a unique variety of sweet treats, like their famous crack pie, b’day truffles, and cereal milk soft serve (not my fave but other people seem to love it), that all combine to create a total must-visit bakery for any dessert lover in NYC.

And I promise:

Everything you order at Milk Bar is just as Instagrammable as what you might get at Magnolia Bakery.

I get it. Navigating your way past NYC tourist traps can be pretty tricky, especially when they’re designed towards, you know… trapping tourists (insert shrugging emoji here).

Thankfully though, many of these top nyc attractions have alternatives that, dare i say it, are even better than the original ; things to do in nyc that won’t force you to wait in 3 hour long lines, or spend your entire life’s savings., and if you’re as hyped as i am about saving all this coin and freeing up all your vacation time, then pin this now and read it again later.

Nicola Lavin

Tuesday 16th of June 2020

I wish I had read this before my last trip to New York. I got sucked right into all of those tourist traps!

girlwiththepassport

Thursday 18th of June 2020

Oh no!!! Well, hopefully, you can go back and see some lesser-known attractions next time! And thanks for reading!

Juli Hamiter

Sunday 17th of November 2019

So excited to read your post! Me and my sister will be in NYC in early December. You verified some things for me and have given me something to look forward to plus, THE CHOCOLATE ROOM. hello, I’d never known about that had I not read your article. We’re also staying close to Prospect Park, can’t wait to tell my sister same designer as Central Park. My big dilemma is: is the Rockettes worth it or should we go to see The Waitress? Thank you for the tips.

Monday 18th of November 2019

I LOVED Waitress. I mean, the Rockettes are great and very Christmasy if you want a show that will get you in the Christmas spirit. But, the show doesn't change much year to year and is really only worth seeing once. But I LOVED Waitress and could easily see that show about 50 times. Have a blast and thanks for the comment and reading! I really appreciate it!

Saturday 17th of August 2019

After reading your article I have decided not to visit NYC. If I need ti avoid Times Square, Statue of Liberty, Rockefeller Plaza, Central Park, Empire State Building, Yankee Stadium, etc. there is really nothing much to do there. To visit a non-famous park I can go to the park in my neighboring city and that takes care of it ? ? ?. Just kidding, thank for your info.

Sunday 18th of August 2019

Haha. For a second I read that and was like, "OMG! NO!!" Lol. Hope it helps!

Friday 5th of July 2019

We will be staying in Secaucus Meadowlands. What do you think of the Meadowlands Horse Racing Track? Do you have any suggestions for that area?

I used to go to that area all the time for Jets Games. It's not bad, especially now that there's a train, but besides the stadiums there's really not that much to do. It's also a bit far from NYC.

Mary Thaler

Friday 28th of June 2019

I have been reading numerous blogs...what about Chelsea Market? Worth it? Any tips on this location?

Yes! I love Chelsea Market. it's also right along the Highline and a perfect stop if you visit the Whitney or Hudson Yards and the Vessel. Hope this helps and thanks for reading!

Privacy Overview

13 Tourist Traps to Avoid in New York City & Where To Go Instead

New York City is packed with iconic sights, but some popular spots are more about draining your wallet than offering genuine experiences.

Here are 13 tourist traps to steer clear of in the Big Apple, along with better alternatives to make the most of your visit.

1. Statue of Liberty (Up Close)

Why it’s a trap: The lines are long, the tickets are pricey, and the experience can be overwhelmingly crowded.

Alternative: Hop on the free Staten Island Ferry for stunning views of the Statue of Liberty without the hassle. You’ll get to see Lady Liberty and enjoy a relaxing ride across the harbor.

2. Times Square

Why it’s a trap: It’s overcrowded with tourists, the restaurants are overpriced, and aggressive costumed characters can be a nuisance.

Alternative: Visit during off-peak hours for a quick look, then head to nearby Broadway for a show. The real magic of New York’s theater scene awaits just a few steps away from the chaos.

3. Empire State Building

Why it’s a trap: Expect long queues, steep ticket prices, and a packed observation deck.

Alternative: Head to the Top of the Rock or Edge for equally impressive views with shorter wait times and a more pleasant experience.

4. Central Park Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides

Why it’s a trap: These rides are overpriced, and there are concerns about the horses’ welfare.

Alternative: Rent a bike or simply walk through Central Park. It’s free and allows you to explore the park’s many hidden gems at your own pace.

5. Madame Tussauds Wax Museum

Why it’s a trap: Tickets are expensive for the novelty of seeing wax figures.

Alternative: Spend your time at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) where you can see world-class art from the likes of Van Gogh, Warhol, and Picasso.

6. Junior’s Cheesecake in Times Square

Why it’s a trap: Long lines and overpriced desserts make this a less-than-ideal stop.

Alternative: Head to Schmackary’s Cookies nearby for a delicious and more affordable local treat that’s just as indulgent.

7. Rockefeller Center Ice Rink

Why it’s a trap: It’s pricey and perpetually crowded, especially during the holidays.

Alternative: Skate at Bryant Park Winter Village for a similar festive experience but with more space and often cheaper prices.

8. Pedicab Rides in Central Park

Why it’s a trap: These rides can cost up to $11 per minute, making them extremely expensive.

Alternative: Explore the park on foot or rent a bike. It’s a great way to see Central Park and get some exercise too.

9. Street Vendors Near Tourist Attractions

Why it’s a trap: The souvenirs are often overpriced and low-quality.

Alternative: Shop at local markets or unique New York stores for authentic and memorable gifts.

10. Fake Monks and Costumed Characters

Why it’s a trap: They aggressively panhandle and are not affiliated with any actual organizations.

Alternative: Politely decline interactions and keep moving. If you want a photo with a character, make sure to agree on a tip beforehand.

11. Boat Tours to Statue of Liberty

Why it’s a trap: Many tours are expensive and don’t get you as close to the statue as you’d think.

Alternative: Again, the Staten Island Ferry offers great views for free. Save your money for other experiences.

12. Williamsburg (As a Representation of “Authentic” Brooklyn)

Why it’s a trap: While trendy, Williamsburg is heavily gentrified and doesn’t fully represent Brooklyn’s diversity.

Alternative: Explore other Brooklyn neighborhoods like DUMBO for waterfront views or Park Slope for a laid-back, local vibe.

13. Broadway Ticket Sellers on the Street

Why it’s a trap: These sellers might offer overpriced or even fake tickets.

Alternative: Buy your Broadway tickets from official TKTS booths for discounted rates or directly from theater box offices to ensure authenticity.

While some of these spots are famous for a reason and can be enjoyable, being prepared for the crowds and costs can help you decide whether they’re worth your time.

With these alternatives, you can experience the authentic charm of New York City without falling into the typical tourist traps. Enjoy your visit to the Big Apple!

Sign Up For NomsMail

Share this story

• 10 Places to Celebrate Oktoberfest Around NYC
• The Hottest Lunch Spots in NYC Right Now
• The Best Vegetarian Restaurants in New York City

14 Tourist Trap Restaurants in NYC That Are Actually Good

Worth the time for visitors and locals

• Share this on Facebook
• Share this on Twitter
• Share All sharing options

Share All sharing options for: 14 Tourist Trap Restaurants in NYC That Are Actually Good

Folks traveling to New York often want to live like a local for a few days, visiting the restaurants and bars where they can just blend in and avoid anything too touristy. But plenty of places across the boroughs blur the line between tourist trap and local safe haven.

The places on this map fill up regularly during primetime with tourists, but locals in the know will sneak in, too. Here now, a list of some of the biggest tourist destinations in New York that are worth a visit. Consider them the next time family or friends come to visit.

Health experts consider dining out to be a high-risk activity for the unvaccinated; it may pose a risk for the vaccinated, especially in areas with substantial COVID transmission.

Arthur Avenue Retail Market

This food hall and retail market has been open in the Bronx’s Little Italy since 1940, focused on classic Italian-American goods. Food runs from fresh mozzarella to overstuffed heroes, but Eater critic Robert Sietsema most highly recommends eating at charming Sicilian counter Café al Mercato for some focaccia sandwiches, tripe soup, baked pastas, and other hot entrees. Beyond food, find freshly rolled cigars, tons of dried pasta, craft beer, and even gardening supplies. To make the stop a full tour of the neighborhood, follow Sietsema’s walking guide .

• Open in Google Maps

Open since 1962, Sylvia’s is a Harlem tradition — an essential restaurant, period, for classics like ribs, cornbread, fried chicken, and collards. What started as a luncheonette has expanded to over 200 seats with catering and remains a go-to for politicians and celebrities. Since founder Sylvia Woods died in 2012, the family has been running the business.

Also featured in:

The Most Iconic Dishes in NYC

The 38 Essential Restaurants in New York City

Gray's Papaya

The dogs at Gray’s , on the Upper West Side and open 24/7, have been widely loved for decades, particularly as a popular drunken stop for locals. With its Recession Special still going strong — two franks and a medium drink for $6.95 — it’s little wonder why.

30 Snappy, Standout Hot Dogs Around NYC

Magnolia Bakery

Magnolia has a reputation for cupcakes after Sex and the City made it famous. But that’s the rookie move — instead, go for the decadent banana pudding or an airy icebox cake.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Magnolia Bakery (@magnoliabakery) on Apr 4, 2019 at 11:43am PDT

The Halal Guys

Lines snake down the block constantly at this chicken and rice phenom . Its flagship cart sits on West 53rd Street off Sixth Avenue, prime location for tourists going to the Museum of Modern Art and the Midtown lunch crowd. Get the combo platter, and get the sauces.

12 Excellent Downtown Boston Restaurants That Deliver

NYC’s 26 Most Iconic Meat Dishes

Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant

This oyster bar has reigned inside Grand Central’s subterranean space since 1913, and it welcomes commuters just as much as tourists daily. The smart move is to sit at the bar with a plate of raw oysters during the late lunch hour. Order the love-it-or-hate-it  oyster pan roast , and decide which side to choose.

Sign up for the newsletter Eater NY

Sign up for our newsletter.

Thanks for signing up!

Check your inbox for a welcome email.

Oops. Something went wrong. Please enter a valid email and try again.

Chelsea Market

An anchor of West Chelsea for more than 20 years, Chelsea Market is one of the city’s best food courts . It’s always a mob scene and it’s hard to find seating. But it’s a market that locals actually use, for both its stellar restaurant vendors — Ayada, Los Tacos No. 1, and Miznon rise above — and market stands.

John's of 12th Street

This red-sauce spot opened in 1908 and remains a restaurant from another era that we’re happy to revisit in real life and on TV (by way of “the Sopranos” and “Boardwalk Empire ” ). This onetime speakeasy made wine and booze in the basement and today pays homage to Italian American items like pasta fagioli, clams oreganata, chicken parm, or spaghetti and meatballs. It’s also a super vegan friendly menu.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by John's of 12th Street (@johnsof12thstreet)

22 Restaurants That Define the East Village

Veniero's Pastry

This Italian pastry shop has been going strong since 1894, where cannoli, tiramisu, sfogliatelle, and gelato are all required orders. Devotees of the bakery know to grab a table under the stained glass ceiling just before Veniero’s closes (midnight during the week, and 1 a.m. on weekends).

Cozy Up to a Fireplace at These Restaurants and Bars

18 Outstanding Desserts in the East Village

Dominique Ansel Bakery

Ever heard of a little pastry called the Cronut? Suckers line up at 6 a.m. for the croissant-doughnut hybrid that took the world by storm — but locals know to go later in the day for pastry chef Dominique Ansel’s stellar kouign amann , frozen s’mores, or any of the other pastries in the case, really.

The Best Restaurants in Soho Right Now

This behemoth French brasserie from restaurateur Keith McNally has had a huge influence on the NYC dining scene. Its red leather banquettes, soft lighting, and bistro fare keep it serving one million meals every year . Rather than sit down for a full meal, head to the bar for some steak tartare and frites, wash it down with Champagne, and drink in the Balthazar experience.

• Book with OpenTable

23 Classic Restaurants Every New Yorker Must Try

Russ & Daughters

Four generations of family ownership and over one hundred years of business give this place a certain sense of gravitas, but it’s the quality that keeps people coming back. Consider the Classic, a bagel with cream cheese and smoked salmon (maybe with tomato, capers, and onion, too). Take a peek behind the long counter as staff assembles your order. And if you want to try and pass for a local, don’t order your bagel toasted.

12 Latkes for Celebrating Hanukkah in NYC

22 Restaurants Still Offering NYC’s Most Iconic Dishes

Katz's Delicatessen

Few sandwiches are as famous as a pastrami from Katz’s, and perhaps none have had quite the Hollywood treatment. Sure, it fills up to the brim in here daily, but New Yorkers know to file in near closing time, 11 p.m. most weekdays, midnight on Friday, or any time of night on Saturday (the only night it’s open 24 hours). Katz’s also serves one of the city’s best hot dogs, properly topped with sauerkraut and mustard.

The Best Late-Night Food in New York City

Nathan's Famous

It’s a fact that the dogs served at the original Nathan’s are superior to any from its many franchise locations. They are also better than many of the other hot dogs found in New York. Go on any day that isn’t the Fourth of July.

More in Maps

• Where to Eat Lunch Right Now in NYC

Related Maps

Follow eater ny online:.

• Follow Eater NY on Twitter
• Follow Eater NY on Facebook
• Follow Eater NY on Youtube
• Follow Eater NY on Instagram

Site search

• Los Angeles
• New Orleans
• Philadelphia
• Portland, OR
• San Francisco
• Twin Cities
• Washington DC
• Neighborhoods

Tourist Traps in NYC: What to Avoid in the Big Apple

Hollywood paints New York City as a picturesque city where all your dreams come true.

Between the glitz and the glamor they see in the media, tourists often come to the Big Apple with stars in their eyes. This, unfortunately, makes it all too easy for visitors to fall for the many NYC tourist traps.

From outlandish prices of the old World Trade Center ‘s memorabilia to unnecessary souvenirs of the Empire State Building , the city is filled with tourist traps and scams targeted at first-time visitors. Don’t fall for these common NYC tourist traps during your vacation in the Big Apple.

Times Square Tourist Traps

Times Square is one of the worst tourist traps in NYC. Since it is your first time in New York City, you should experience Times Square. However, be warned — this area of Manhattan is crawling with tourist traps.

Costumed Characters

Quite possibly the most notorious of NYC tourist traps is the costumed characters lurking around Times Square, thus topping our tourist traps NYC list. You’ll quickly realize this is a scam by looking at the condition of the costumes.

Mickey Mouse looks a bit off, huh? While many tourists won’t go near the creepy characters ( and you shouldn’t either ), others, sadly, fall for the trick. To date, this is still one of the most profitable tourist traps New York has for scammers.

The scam is fairly simple:

Tourists want their picture taken with Donald Duck or Superman in Times Square. The character plays along as the visitors take their picture. The next thing you know, Superman is asking you for money. That picture wasn’t free!

Plus, these characters are not contracted employees of entertainment companies such as Disney, DC Comics, Marvel, or Sesame Street.

You should also know that NYC has strict laws in place that limit the activities of these characters in Times Square. Those two facts alone should be enough to deter you from taking a picture with any of the suspicious characters.

Caricatures

One of the latest NYC tourist traps in Times Square is caricatures. These over-the-top portraits are available at every theme park, festival, and carnival around the world. Yet, people continue to want a goofy painting of themselves when on vacation in New York City.

In Times Square, these whimsical drawings can cost you a pretty penny. Before you hand over your cash, think to yourself, “ Do I really need a weird drawing of myself surrounded by bright commercials, TV screens, and buildings?” The answer is most likely “ no ”.

Ticket Scalpers

To access many of the Broadway shows and theaters, you need to venture through Times Square. On your way, you’ll likely run into individuals looking to sell you Broadway show or concert tickets. They’re who you need to avoid in New York. Yes, scalpers are also notorious tourist traps in New York!

We hate to break it to you, but $50 orchestra-level tickets to Hamilton are one of the biggest NYC tourist traps. Should you fall for this scam, good luck entering the theater with a fake ticket? There’s a reason tickets are scanned before you enter the theater.

First, Broadway shows do not sell tickets through individuals — no matter what the scalper tells you . You should only purchase Broadway show tickets through the show’s box office, a trusted 3rd party such as Tripster New York City , or at the TKTS booth in Times Square.

A rule of thumb —  if the ticket price seems too good to be true, it is.

Chain Restaurants

Due to the hustle and excitement of Times Square, it can be all too easy to be sucked into the NYC tourist traps. Perhaps the worst trap is the over-the-top chain restaurants such as Bubba Gump Shrimp and Olive Garden .

Additionally, supposedly must-try dessert shops like Magnolia Bakery may not be worth the long line. The cold, hard truth is that as per locals, Magnolia’s cupcakes aren’t that good.

Related Post:  New York Hidden Gems – Unveiling 14 of the Big Apple’s Best-Kept Secrets

You’ve traveled all the way to NYC — the land of endless, remarkable food — and you dine at an Olive Garden in Times Square? These chain restaurants are just as much of a tourist trap as the costumed characters.

You’ll eat the same exact food as you would back home but for an astronomical price. Plus, the wait is far too long. Why wait hours to eat at a chain restaurant when local NYC restaurants surround you?

Is Times Square a Tourist Trap?

Times Square is undoubtedly a tourist hub with bright lights, characters, and chain restaurants catering to those crowds. However, whether it’s a “trap” depends – for first-timers, it’s an iconic experience, but locals generally avoid it unless they work or see a Broadway show there.

Central Park Tourist Traps

Every first-time NYC visitor needs to experience Central Park . No matter what time of year you visit, the spacious park is wonderful. However, while visiting the renowned park, do not fall for these notorious NYC tourist traps.

Bike Taxis/Pedicabs

If you’re visiting Central Park, walking around and seeing the sights is the best part. However, some tourists fall for the allure of a pedicab or bike taxi. No matter if the convenience of sitting down sounds appealing or if you want to get to your destination faster, pedicabs make a fortune off of tourists.

Pedicabs are available all over the city like in Brooklyn Heights promenade ( especially Manhattan ) but target Central Park as a way to hike up their rates. Depending on the pedicab company and/or driver, you could be charged anywhere from $5 to $11 ( or more ) per minute. Sounds a bit ridiculous, right? That’s because it is.

Related Post:  Where to Stay in New York City on a Budget – Live it Up in The Big Apple Without Breaking the Bank

On top of all that, these NYC tourist traps are not that convenient. A bike pedaling multiple individuals in a cabin can be slower than walking. When visiting Central Park, take your time, look around, and soak it all in. Don’t fly through on a pedicab that depletes your entire vacation budget in a single sitting.

However, if you are interested in biking through Central Park, be sure to check out one of the many bike tours or even rent a Citi bike.

Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides

While a horse and carriage ride through Central Park is unbelievably romantic, be sure to do your due diligence before hopping in any nearby carriage.

Certain carriages are not regulated through a tour company, nor do they charge a reasonable price. To avoid these NYC tourist traps, make sure your chosen carriage ride company is legitimate, such as the horse and carriage rides through Central Park Sightseeing.

While Central Park is absolutely worth the trip for those visiting the Big Apple for the first time, those who aren’t a fan of crowds should head to other NYC parks such as Prospect Park , the Hudson River Park , Brooklyn Bridge Park , and Astoria Park .

How Do I Stop Looking Like a Tourist in NYC?

Ditch the obvious “I ❤️ NY” shirt and bulky fanny pack. Dress comfortably in darker colors for a more city-chic look.

Confidently walk at a brisk pace, and use the subway to get around to blend in with New Yorkers navigating their day.

Rockefeller Center Tourist Traps

Those who visit New York City during the winter months naturally want to see the enormous Christmas tree and skate on the famous ice rink. But we’d advise that you skip this.

Ice skating at Rockefeller Center is expensive and honestly, exhausting. Unless you magically visit when no one is there, you’ll wait in line for what seems like an eternity before you skate a few laps around the rink.

Related Post:  Free Things to Do in New York City – 20 Amazing Activities

With the extraordinary amount of people skating at one time, you end up skating at one specific speed the entire time. From the skate rental to the actual admission cost, ice skating at Rockefeller Center is quite the tourist trap.

If you’re set on ice skating, head over to Bryant Park for cheaper admission/skate rentals and a more “Winter Wonderland” landscape. It’s one of the best places to visit in NYC that aren’t tourist traps.

Little Italy Tourist Traps

Tourists flock to Little Italy to experience what they believe is the real deal. Of course, you can get pizza, pasta, and espresso here, but you’ll also experience:

• Never-Ending Crowds
• High Prices
• A Commercialized Neighborhood

To avoid another set of NYC tourist traps, skip shopping and eating in Manhattan’s Little Italy and head to Arthur Avenue in the Bronx. Here you’ll find genuine Italian-American food, families, culture, and more.

Additionally, if you really want to experience New York City’s finest and get your time and money’s worth, we suggest booking activities like the Statue of Liberty and Staten Island ferry or Lady Liberty cruises instead.

Shopping in NYC Tourist Traps

Picture this:

You’re walking along the street in NYC when you come upon a street vendor with a Coach purse for only $75. What a deal, right? Wrong.

Related Post:  Best Time to Visit New York City – An In-Depth Seasonal Guide

Street vendors are as frequent as pedicabs in NYC. Although it may be tempting to purchase that totally real autographed vinyl of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller”, we can assure you that it’s another one of the many NYC tourist traps.

Don’t fall for one of the most expensive New York tourist traps. Save your money and skip shopping at the street vendors!

Hotels in NYC

Once your day of sightseeing is done, get some shut-eye in “The City That Never Sleeps”! It’s no secret that staying in a luxurious city like New York can come with a price tag. However, if you’re looking for a deal, you’ve come to the right place!

At Tripster, hotel savings are one of our specialties. Here are some of our favorite New York City stays for a steal:

• Club Quarters Hotel, World Trade Center
• Hotel Boutique at Grand Central
• Park Terrace Hotel

New York City Attractions

Go new york city explorer pass.

Visitors to the New York City area should take advantage of the Go New York City Explorer Pass .

Currently offered at a discounted price via Tripster, save even more on travel as the pass lets you get into up to 10 NYC attractions for less than the original price.

The Museum of Modern Art – MoMA

Fill your day with authentic inspiration with a visit to the leading museum of modern art in the world. Grab tickets to MoMA New York City and feast your eyes on a variety of exhibitions with paintings from modern art masters, daily film and video screenings, gallery discussions, and much more.

Circle Line Best of NYC: Full Manhattan Island Cruise

Hop aboard the Circle Line Best of NYC to experience parts of The Big Apple as you’ve never before! See stunning skyline views and over 130 iconic landmarks including the Statue of Liberty, and the Empire State Building–all while learning about the history and culture of NYC from an expert tour guide.

Don’t Fall For The NYC Tourist Traps

At one point or another in our travels, we’re all tourists. However, that doesn’t mean we need to fall for the extravagant traps, prices, and scams targeted toward first-time visitors who just want to see the NYC skyline without breaking the bank.

When visiting the Big Apple, be on the lookout for these NYC tourist traps and save yourself time, money, and your sanity.

Have Any Tips to Add?

Leave us a comment below!

Written by Nicole King

There are only two things that make Nicole really happy–books and travel! When her head’s not buried in a book, she’s most likely...

Have something to add? Post it here: Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Are you a Tripster?

Create an account to get access to exclusive pricing and rewards.

Book Your Trip

Tagged in this post, read more about.

• Published Work
• Work with Me
• Privacy Policy

Tourist traps to avoid when visiting New York City [here’s what a New Yorker recommends doing instead]

The Big Apple is one of the most beloved tourist destinations. Every year, there are thousands of people visiting the city. That being said, not everyone knows what to expect and many get lost. Here are ten tourist traps to avoid in New York City.

Table of Contents

NYC Tourist Trap #1  See the sights from the top of Empire State Building; Instead Go to the Brooklyn Heights Promenade

The Empire State Building is undeniably one of the most famous symbols of the United States while also being a tourist destination in the “top priority” list of any traveler. That being said, the entrance ticket is quite expensive, so if you are on a budget, you might want to save that money for something else.

Moreover, getting on top of that building is ultimately not worth it. Instead, you could go for a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge to the Brooklyn Heights Promenade. This will allow you to see the city’s skyline absolutely for free both during the day and at night.

On the Urban Adventures tour of Brooklyn (DUMBO) you’ll visit the ultra hipster Time Out Market

NYC Tourist Trap   #2 Spend all your time in New York’s Central Park; Instead have a stroll in Prospect Park

For anyone who has ever been to Central Park, this tip will be an obvious one. For those who haven’t, it might seem strange. The thing is that while Central Park is incredibly beautiful, it is also insanely crowded which might prevent you from enjoying its beauty.

Fortunately, there is a great alternative for anyone who wants to visit one of New York’s famous parks. Brooklyn’s Prospect Park was created by the same architects, so it is quite similar to Central Park. Nevertheless, there are fewer people there and it will even give you the impression that you are in a completely different place rather than being in the great NYC.

NYC Tourist Trap  #3 Buy discounted designer fashions in Century 21; Instead hit up a real NYC sample sale

Century 21 is a great store for everyone who wants to find discounted designer clothes. On the other hand, it is not a very good store for those who like shopping: the endless lines, the clothes-hungry crowds, and everything that comes with them are definitely not a pleasant sight.

What you could do instead is go to one of NYC’s sample sales. The clothes are no worse than at the aforementioned store, and there are actually more places to visit (260 Fifth Avenue and SoHo among others).

Rent a bike and get some exercise while you are in New York City.

NYC Tourist Trap  #4 View the city from the tour bus; Instead Walk around

Of course, one of the most beloved ways among tourists to travel in cities is by bus. You can get a feel of the atmosphere and listen to the guide explaining to you the most important facts about different sights. However, what would be much cheaper and environmentally-friendly is simply walking.

There are plenty of tourist walking routes that you can find online. If you do some research, you could have a predetermined route for yourself, but even going for a walk without a certain aim in your head can be quite refreshing and you will definitely find interesting things to see.

Urban Adventure Brooklyn walking tour is pretty cool!

NYC Tourist Trap  #5 Spend too much time in Times Square; Instead go anywhere else

Did you know that New York City is huge ? It’s enormous! Times Square is not the only place you can visit! There are so many other things to see from shops to restaurants, from cultural attractions to historic sights, from neighborhoods to boroughs.

That being said, you should still visit Times Square at one point or another. Go there, have a stroll, take some pictures, and never go back again. Spend your time seeing things that you wouldn’t expect other tourists to see and make your trip truly special. Brooklyn is fast becoming one of the hot spots for tourists, yet it still remains artsy and definitely not a tourist trap. Once of the best things you can do if you don’t feel comfortable on your own, is take a tour with Urban Adventures ! This tour, called the DUMBO tour was so small, and intimate – plus our tour guide, Sasha was amazing!! 

The Empire State Building is perfectly framed in this popular Brooklyn spot for instagrammers

The small group tour of Brooklyn was amazing – we went to a bakery (Jacques Torres) and had ice cream, hot cocoa (actually we made our own ice cream sandwiches) So fun! We got to visit an artist’s loft and hear about her creations and see the art up close. Plus there were ample opportunities to photo opps. Yes, were were taken to some totally Instagram worthy spots on this Brooklyn tour!

NYC Tourist Trap  #6 Eat “Italian” food in Little Italy; Instead Eat in Arthur Avenue in the Bronx

You might know that Little Italy is located not far away from Chinatown and supposedly has everything you would expect such a place to have. However, it’s not entirely true. A much better place to visit if you want to find something genuinely Italian in New York City.

The best place is Arthur Avenue in the Bronx. There are many great places on this avenue that you should definitely check out. For example, Casa Della Mozzarella is perfect for finding fresh cheese while Cosenza’s has a wide range of different types of fish. There are also many good bakeries if you are a fan of such.

NYC Tourist Trap  #7 Go clubbing in the Meatpacking District; Instead Go clubbing in Williamsburg

This bookstore, called the Powerhouse Arena, features a disco ball, wine and fun music! Park of the Urban Adventures tour

You probably already know that the Meatpacking District in New York City is usually full of celebrities and models. But what you might not know is that it is also very expensive to go clubbing in the District. In addition to that, not everyone is able to get past the door because the entrance has limitations sometimes.

On the other hand, there is Williamsburg, a suburb in New York City. The bars and nightclubs are cheaper, the people are less pretentious and annoying, the variety of nightlife is still intact. In other words, it’s a sure way to have fun while not having to overpay for it.

NYC Tourist Trap  #8 Take a pedicab ride; Instead Rent a Citi Bike

Pedicabs are considered to be an integral part of New York City life. They are quite popular among tourists, especially those who are hanging out around Central Park and midtown. Those are the parts where it’s hard to catch a cab. Nevertheless, pedicabs can be quite expensive and somewhat slow. 

What you can try instead is rent a Citi Bike. It is easy and relatively cheap to sign up for an entire day pass and then ride around the city yourself. Besides, it will be a pleasant trip for those who usually enjoy riding a bicycle.

NYC Tourist Trap  #9 Eat cupcakes at Magnolia Bakery; Do: Eat cookies at Levain Bakery or Jaques Torres

So, what is NYC actually known for? Magnolia Bakery sells some of the tastiest cupcakes you will ever find. The downside is that due to this quality, the bakery is usually full of people (not to mention the health violations this bakery had in the past).  A great alternative would be to visit Levain Bakery located on the Upper West Side. This bakery is known for its delicious cookies which – though they do cost more than you would expect – are absolutely gigantic, so you won’t regret them at all.

Or, if you go on the Brooklyn Tour like I did – head to Jacques Torres (aka Mr. Chocolate) – amazing chocolate chip cookies!

NYC Tourist Trap   #10 See sex toys and exhibitionist exhibits at the Museum of Sex; Instead Go to a show at Galapagos Art Space

Last but not least, visiting the Museum of Sex to see sex toys and exhibitionist exhibits might seem like an exciting idea. After all, the name itself attracts a lot of attention. However, the price is actually not worth it when you consider the crowds and all the other nuances.  But if you still want something unexpected, you can get tickets for a burlesque show at Galapagos Art Space. There is a variety of performances that you will definitely enjoy if you are looking for something truly unique.

Whether this is your first time to New York City or you’ve been there many times, make sure to broaden your horizons and step out of your comfort zone a bit. There are many amazing things you can see in New York City without having to go to the regular tourist places. Do some research or perhaps make conversation with some other travelers at your hotel and you will discover that there many interesting and unconventional things you could do in New York City.

Frank Hamilton  has been working as  an editor at review service  Online Writers Rating .  He is  a professional writing expert in such topics as blogging, digital marketing and self-education.   He also loves traveling and speaks Spanish, French, German and English.

About the author

Malika bowling.

Malika is the author of several books including Culinary Atlanta: Guide to the Best Restaurants, Markets, Breweries and More! and the founder of Roamilicious. She is also a Digital Marketing and Social Media Consultant. Follow us @Roamilicious on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest for the content not shared on the blog. And don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter (subscribe box below) and never miss a contest, giveaway or the latest must visit restaurant!

You may also like

Booked a cruise? Don’t book shore excursions until you read...

7 Reasons the Grand Hyatt Buckhead is the Ultimate Staycation...

Traveling Madrid: 5 Hidden Gems That Will Take Your Breath Away

Is there Uber in Athens, Greece?

7 reasons this is the best hotel in Savannah, GA [fun romantic...

Chattanooga’s Rock City lights up at night with new Flora...

8 Tourist Traps To Avoid In Times Square

From the porn shop and peep show capital of the early 1980s to today's family-friendly tourist attraction, Times Square is an iconic destination that nearly 360,000 pedestrians travel through every day. Times Square, now filled with pedestrian plazas, is where Broadway, 42nd Street and 7th Avenue converge. Visible from outer space with its lit-up buildings, Times Square is home to some of the world's most famous live theaters—and some of the kitschiest and trite tourist traps. Some will even go so far as to claim that the entire area is a tourist trap, a pricey place that locals avoid unless they are going there to work. 

However, if you are going to visit New York City, it's hard to resist the siren call of such an iconic neighborhood — and near-impossible to avoid if you're looking to take in Broadway shows. However, a trip to Old Broadway and Times Square doesn't mean you have to fall into the snares that lure tourists to part with their money for little value in return. Be on the lookout for these eight tourist traps and find alternatives that will make your stay memorable. 

Beware the monks in orange

Who doesn't want to support world peace and accept the blessings of seemingly benign monks on the streets of Times Square? As you wander around taking in the sights and sounds, the bald monks in orange robes seem to offer just that at first glance. They'll slip wood-beaded bracelets on your wrist and ask you to sign their book supporting the building of a Tibetan temple. The problem is that if you don't give what they consider a sufficiently large enough donation — a minimum of $20 — they'll harangue you and chase you down the street demanding money.

The thing is, they're not really Buddhist or Tibetan monks. Actual New York Buddhist monks have sounded the alarm that these are "fake monks" who are not affiliated with any Buddhist temple. Their aggressive and hostile tactics have nothing to do with raising money for a temple and are just a different form of panhandling. If you are approached by someone in orange robes offering you a small gift, whether a bracelet, medallion, or prayer card, don't take it. Say no and keep on moving.

Skip the wax museum

Madame Tussauds is in no way a scam. It's quite a legitimate wax museum, one of the world's most famous of the genre and an Instagrammer's dream. It's an even better way to get pictures with celebrities and costumed characters than some of the tourist traps listed below. Yet, in a city that loves its museums — there's one for everything from sex to immigration to the subways, along with the more famous art and history museums — why spend your time going to a museum that can be found in 21 cities worldwide? You could drop $38 to $55 for a ticket and see a reproduction of the New York subway system, or you could visit the actual NYC subway system for free just blocks away. 

If you're really looking for an authentic Times Square museum experience that you can't get elsewhere, check out The Museum of Broadway where, for $34, you can spend hours learning about the history of live theater in the United States with exhibitions you won't find anywhere else. This new museum opened on Nov. 22, 2022, providing a four-floor, 26,000-square-foot space dedicated to sharing the history and glamour of Broadway shows through the ages. Plus, a portion of each ticket sale goes to Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS .

Overlook the chain restaurants

As tempting as those bottomless soup and salad bowls are with the buttery breadsticks, going to Olive Garden — or any chain restaurant, really — in Times Square is a costly tourist mistake in multiple ways. It will cost you time waiting in lengthy lines, money as you pay premium prices that are higher just because of the location, and the opportunity to experience real NYC food that you can't get anywhere else. Chains such as the Olive Garden, Red Lobster, and Bubba Gump Shrimp are mainstays on the Great White Way, perhaps because they appeal to people who want to know for certain what they are getting and are seeking the comfort of a familiar menu. 

If you're in Times Square to catch a show, there are  great places near Broadway  to eat that offer a genuine New York City experience that can't be had elsewhere. While they may be unfamiliar, there is no shortage of recommendations to be had from Yelp or your friendly hotel clerk. Everyone has a favorite, and you could eat a month of meals and still not experience all of the unique dining options in Times Square and the surrounding area. Even grabbing street food from one of the vendors up and down the sidewalks will provide you with memorable fare and a taste of real Times Square.

Don't get scalped

Tickets to Broadway shows ain't cheap. And when the big stars are playing the stage or the hottest show is sold out, it can be tempting to buy a ticket from the person on the street selling them for a song. If you give into temptation, you may find that you'll be singing that song on the street locked out of the show you wanted to see. Too often the scalpers are selling you fake tickets and you'll be turned away at the door of the theater when the ushers scan the bill of goods that you've been sold. 

Not that all scalpers are selling fake tickets — some work with ticket brokers and simply sell last-minute or marked-up tickets, which is legal as long as they stay 500 feet away from the door of the theater. One way to distinguish between the real and fake ones is to ask to photograph the seller. People selling legitimate tickets should have no objection. 

Better yet, tap into some of the safe ways to get discounted or rush tickets to Broadway shows. Download TodayTix , which is considered one of the best apps to download for visiting New York City , and get access to last-minute tickets and the added perk of being able to skip the lines. It's also worth visiting TKTS Times Square, where you can get rush tickets to Broadway and off-Broadway shows for sometimes up to half-off! 

Shop for bargains, not counterfeits

Spread out along the sidewalks of Times Square are vendors offering you the latest in designer purses and other goodies at a discount. While Canal Street is the most famous location for discount shoppers who want to snag fake designer items at a low price, the vendors can be found throughout the city and you can't go far in Times Square without walking by a blanket covered in purses, watches, or sunglasses. 

Be aware that if you buy what appears to be a designer item, it could be (and likely is) counterfeit. In fact, New York Police occasionally raid the streets, confiscate millions of dollars in fake goods, and arrest the vendors selling them. If you want a look-alike, you're likely to be better served by shopping online or at outlet stores. When that bag you've been looking for forever catches your eye on the streets of Times Square and you decide you really must have it, then make sure you know what you're getting. Also, be prepared to haggle and walk away if the vendor gets too pushy.

Costumed characters expect tips

It's a very touristy thing to do, and many people head to Times Square because they want their pictures taken with the costumed characters wandering the streets. Whether you consider them panhandlers or performers making a living, be aware that these characters aren't there to give you free photos. In fact, some actors are very insistent about demanding tips once you have taken your picture with them. While it is legal to ask for a tip, getting aggressive and forcing you to hand one over is not. It's also good to know that most of these licensed characters are not being portrayed by the studios that own them. They're freelancers looking to make a quick buck off of unwitting tourists.

Talk to your kids before you head to Times Square and decide ahead of time if you're going to get a family shot with the costumed characters. If you do, be prepared to tip them. Better yet, ask them upfront how much they expect to avoid a scene. Most are looking for between $5 and $10. Have the money in-hand before you take the pictures and give it to the performer as you have the shots you want.

You'll sing a sad song with these CDs

New York is filled with the rich and famous, and those seeking celebrities can easily get star-struck. While there are many actual artists performing on the streets of New York who put out tip jars, beware of those proclaiming their fame while not performing. If someone hands you a CD or DVD, don't take it. It's not just a Times Square tourist trap, it's a scam.

These supposedly up-and-coming "artists" will tell you they are on the verge of stardom and you can hear their music on the CD they're offering you. They might even offer to sign them, giving you a valuable collectible and an "I knew them when" story to tell your grandchildren. The only story you're likely to tell to your grandchildren if you take the CD is how they chased you down demanding money for their "gift." When you get home and try to play the CD, you'll find the media is often blank or illegally produced and the seller has no relation to any music that might be on there.

Skip the high-priced souvenir shops

When you have all those friends waiting at home for their "I heart N.Y." t-shirts or miniature models of the Statue of Liberty, those floor-to-ceiling windowed shops with all the souvenirs you can dream of offer a mighty temptation. Just know that if you choose to buy your souvenirs at a Times Square souvenir shop, you're going to be paying premium dollars. The shops are counting on tourists not knowing the city and not knowing that the exact same goods can be found for half the price just a few neighborhoods away.

Tour guides and travel blogs offer several alternatives, with most first citing Chinatown and the famous Canal Street as a place where you can get t-shirts and other goodies at rock-bottom prices. Another alternative is the shop Memories of New York on Fifth Avenue, which has been selling officially licensed goods for 30 years. Better yet, head over to the Meatpacking District and visit the sprawling Chelsea Market , where you can find a wide selection of souvenirs, including those made by local New Yorkers rather than stuff imported from China.

• Destinations
• United States

11 Tourist Traps To Skip When You Visit Times Square

Visiting Times Square when traveling to New York is a rite of passage; you should see it at least once. Bright lights, award-winning Broadway shows, window shopping, diverse restaurants, and eclectic performers are among the top reasons to explore this famous spot. Add one-of-a-kind people-watching to the list, and you'll find an endless number of things to do there. That said, there are quite a few places (and people) that you'll want to avoid when touring this Manhattan hub. The popular square (it sees about 360,000 visitors daily, according to the  official website ) is rife with people willing to exploit unsuspecting tourists, which is a big reason locals steer clear of the area. From costumed characters who can become aggressive to dishonest ticket sellers and overpriced chain eateries, there are plenty of tourist traps to skip when you visit Times Square.

Our list will help you navigate the seediest areas for a safer, more enjoyable, and more authentic experience. We pulled on our first-hand experience as former New Yorkers to determine where you should avoid. Years spent weaving our way through these streets and encountering deceptive scams have made us authorities on the most important spots to miss. Be vigilant while you're visiting. Times Square is entertaining and glitzy, so it's easy to get distracted. Any busy tourist spot is a prime target for pickpockets, and Times Square is no exception. Also, be sure to tip any "character" you take a photo with (or of); otherwise, things could get ugly.

Hard Rock Café

It's no secret that the  Hard Rock Café is a tourist trap; it has a gift shop, after all, which is a dead giveaway. That said, many tourists love visiting these restaurants — that's why you can find them in many major U.S. cities. This particular Hard Rock is bemoaned for its overcooked meat, slow service, and overpriced menu. One recent  Yelp reviewer wrote, "I am convinced this Cafe is called 'Hard Rock' because their steaks have the texture of being hard as a rock." Inside, you can see paraphernalia from iconic stars like Led Zeppelin, Bruce Springsteen, and The Beatles, and you can buy merch to add to your collection, but when it comes to food, we say skip this joint!

To be honest, any chain restaurant in Times Square (we're looking at you, Applebee's Grill + Bar and Olive Garden) is a tourist trap. Plus, if it's a chain, you can visit it pretty much anywhere in the U.S. and it's bound to be cleaner and quieter than this buzzy locale. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. is no exception and it, too, boasts a gift shop. While reviewers on Yelp have commended the friendly service, tasty drinks, and views over Times Square, we say, hit the store so you can say you've been there, bought the t-shirt. Then, head to Victor's Café , a fun and funky eatery where locals flock for a tasty Cuban bite. It's on 52nd Street between 7th and 8th Avenues.

Paparazzi photographers

Recently, a new brand of rip-off artist made their mark on Times Square. Calling themselves paparazzi, these randos appear with large, fancy-looking cameras (or sometimes just a cell phone) and take photos of tourists while admiring the sights or merely walking through the streets with their travel buddies. You might feel like a fashionista walking a runway for a moment, but things can quickly turn uncomfortable if the photographer is pushy. Now you can understand how stars like Taylor Swift might feel.

Once the photographer finishes clicking, they'll turn the camera around to show you the shot, often saying "paparazzi" as they do so. If you walk away, they might follow you for a bit, asking (or sometimes yelling at) you to buy the photos they snapped. As a rule of thumb, anyone trying to sell you something on a street in Times Square is attempting to scam you in some way. If you want a memorable photo from your holiday, ask another tourist to immortalize your family with a picture or organize a professional shoot before you visit.

Costumed characters

Elmo, the Hulk, Minnie, and Mickie Mouse can all be found in Times Square, sometimes in varying states of undress. Speaking of undress, the  Naked Cowboy has also been known to hang out here, although, luckily, he wears tighty whities to hide his bits. You never know what or who you'll encounter when wandering through the main pedestrian area (between 42 nd and 47 th streets). And if you dare to take a photo with, or of, a costumed character without offering a tip, they can get pretty nasty. We're talking F-bomb and insult-throwing nasty. In 2023, a group of characters chased a UK tourist who took photos of them without tipping. Minnie Mouse even dropped her pants, aggressively mooning the tourist. In 2019, a Times Square "Elmo" grabbed the backside of a 14-year-old girl as she posed for a picture. Sadly, those weren't isolated incidents.

According to The New York Post , 47 percent of New Yorkers reported having an "unpleasant interaction" with one of these characters. Another 22 percent of New York residents said they experienced "unwanted physical contact" with one of the creepy creatures. To make Times Square a more enjoyable place to explore, New York's Department of Transportation has created sections called "chill zones" for people to sit and relax, "express lanes" for others to walk without being bothered by photographers or ticket sellers, and "designated activity zones" to house costumed characters so they don't impose themselves on people elsewhere.

M&M's Times Square

Chocolate lovers may disagree with adding M&M's Times Square to this list of tourist traps to skip when you're in the area, but hear us out. Yes, this is a giant, three-story-tall store filled with candy. And yes, that candy is vibrantly colored and accompanied by adorable plush characters that will unleash your inner child. So, what's not to like? Well, the crowds, for one. It seems no matter what time you visit this store, it's packed. As local parents to M&M-obsessed kids, we were begged to visit this shop on multiple occasions. While we often found excuses to avoid trudging through the mayhem, we did cave occasionally. Here's why we won't return any time soon.

In addition to having to elbow your way through crowds, the cost is a significant factor here. Expect to pay about $18 per pound of candy, excluding tax. Then, you'll likely be swindled (probably by your child) into purchasing even more overpriced merch. From t-shirts to stuffed M&Ms to pillows to mugs to dog toys, they have it all. On the upside, the store features a personalized printer that allows tourists to create customized M&Ms in about two minutes; plus, they can make their own M&M combo from a selection of 15 colors. Cool, right!? Be prepared to wait your turn, though.

Chain clothing stores

There's no lack of shopping in Times Square. Whether you're looking for cheesy souvenirs, sweets from Hershey's Chocolate World, or a watch from Swatch, you'll find it within the borders of this tourist zone. Times Square is also home to a bevy of chain stores. Target, Express, Forever 21, Levis, H&M, and Old Navy are just a few of the bigger names plunked in the heart of this raucous neighborhood. While it may be tempting to dash inside for a peek, these stores can be uber-crowded and sometimes dirty. Plus, they won't offer anything different than what you'd find in your local chain store; if you live in America, that is (we'll give international visitors a pass on shopping at these chain stores in Times Square).

In a city known for its fabulous shopping districts (hello, Chelsea Market, Fifth Avenue, and NoLita), don't waste your time in a box store that lacks the charm and eccentricity you can find in spades elsewhere. Instead, head to Williamsburg for some epic vintage shopping, visit a pop-up shop in SoHo, or blow your savings at the luxury stores on Madison Avenue. You may spend more than you would on a chain store T-shirt, but the eclectic finds you bring home will be more memorable and unique.

Caricature artists

If you're one of those people who have trouble saying "no," visiting Times Square might feel extra stressful. Whether it's someone selling fake Louis Vuitton purses or an "Avenger" pressing you to take a photo with them, plenty of strangers want your money and will do almost anything to get it. Caricature artists are members of this group. They're generally less pushy than the costumed characters, and most of these artists have talent -– there's no denying that. But do you really need an ink-drawn caricature of yourself or your kids?

First off, these unique and strange drawings can be expensive. Second, you should strongly consider what you will do with this drawing when you return home. Do you plan to frame the art and put it on a wall or shove it in a drawer, never to be seen again? If you're sure it's the latter, you may want to smile politely and take a pass. If you're determined to buy one as a keepsake, you can always try to haggle over the price.

Counterfeit peddlers

No matter what time of day or year you visit Times Square, you're bound to encounter peddlers selling counterfeit goods. Spread across blankets that line the dirty sidewalks, fake purses, sunglasses, wallets, and more entice travelers with an eye for designer brands. Don't get sucked in! There are so many reasons against buying counterfeit goods. Most importantly, these fake items are illegally created and sold and could be supporting the use of forced labor or human trafficking. According to  U.S. Customs and Border Protection , counterfeit goods are also poorly made and potentially harmful. Plus, this illegal business takes money (and even jobs) away from legitimate companies.

The good news for tourists who still have their hearts set on fake merchandise is that buying counterfeit goods on the black market is not illegal in New York (per  The Fast Law Firm, P.C. ). Manufacturing and selling the items, however, is what lands people in the slammer. These types of arrests happen frequently in New York, most often on Canal Street. If you're still determined to purchase a knock-off, negotiate the price and be prepared to walk away with a subpar product.

Pedicabs can certainly look fun and romantic, especially if you've just exited a Broadway show or restaurant to find one adorned with colorful, twinkly lights. Essentially a bicycle with a carriage on the back, these unique "taxis" are pedaled in high-tourist areas (i.e., Times Square) across the city. By law, pedicab drivers are permitted to set their rates, which must be posted at the front of the cab so potential passengers can easily see them. Ask about their charges before sitting in the cab, which could indicate that you agree to their prices. Some unsuspecting tourists have been charged up to $600 for a ride, found an inquiry completed by  ABC's 7 On Your Side Investigates .  

According to  NYC Pedicabs , the standard pedicab rate should not exceed $3 to $7 per minute. If the driver tells you that it's more, don't get in. Search for another pedicab instead. Also, ask to see the pedicab driver's license and agree to the price upfront. Or make your way to Central Park, where you can take an iconic  Horse Carriage Ride . It will cost more (a 45-minute ride costs about $140), but this unforgettable experience is a bucket-list thing to do for many first-time visitors.

Unauthorized ticket sellers

No matter how much time you spend in Times Square, you're guaranteed to be approached (or screamed at) by someone. Often, these encounters involve a person trying to sell something -– like the fake products we mentioned earlier, a photo, or even a city tour. Frequently, these deals sound too good to be true, which most likely means they are. Instead of falling for a scam, be wary. Don't buy tickets to a Broadway show from someone selling them on a street corner. The tickets may be incredibly overpriced or, worse, fake. Yes, some might be legitimate, but is it really worth the risk?

Instead, buy last-minute discount seats from TodayTix , visit the box office of your dream show as soon as it opens, or stand in line at TKTS. If you want to embark on a tour of the city, great! Just buy your passes from an authorized online seller like Viator or NewYorkSightseeing . The same goes for comedy clubs, museum passes, and other tourist sites. It's safest to purchase your tickets in person at the attraction or from an official website.

The NYE Ball Drop

Seeing the ball drop in Times Square on New Year's Eve is a bucket-list adventure for some. And yes, it will be an adventure — one that starts hours (8 or more) in advance if you're hoping to secure a good viewing locale. Access points are found at 49 th , 52 nd , and 56 th Street from 6 th and 8 th Avenues. The festivities don't begin until 6 p.m. when the Waterford crystal ball is raised on the pole above One Times Square. Musical performances start around 7 p.m., and the countdown, of course, begins at 11:59 p.m.

Once you arrive, you'll be put into a viewing "pen." If you leave the pen, you pretty much can't return, so there's no chance of going to the bathroom (even if you could find one) for hours. Some revelers wear diapers in preparation. Add to that the fact that it's likely cold, raining, or snowing, and you can't bring an umbrella or folding chair, and you could be in for a pretty uncomfortable time. You'll also be surrounded by hundreds of thousands of people. One  Reddit user's comment sums up the Times Square NYE Ball Drop experience: "I'm happy for the memory, but it was pretty miserable. No intention of ever doing it again."

Ellen's Stardust Diner

Ellen's Stardust Diner could be deemed another controversial addition to our list of tourist traps to skip when you visit Times Square. A place that New Yorkers avoid, you can expect to dole out $24 for a sandwich or $25 for a burger. That's not outrageous, considering this is New York, but the fact that you may have stood in line for hours for this pleasure makes the price more painful. Not a fan of singing, dancing, or Broadway? You'll want to miss this quirky attraction. Set at the corner of 51 st and Broadway, this restaurant has been around since 1987, feeding and entertaining the Times Square crowd for over 37 years. Inside, the décor is 50s-themed, and when it first opened, the servers wore poodle skirts and sang while serving their customers.

Today, you'll still find singing waitstaff, many of whom are aspiring (or current) Broadway actors. In fact, this popular diner has been deemed "a breeding ground for singers." You'll hate this restaurant if you're shy or don't like a scene. The waitstaff constantly sings and may even put props on you (i.e., a hat) while you await your food. If you hate standing in line, you'll also want to steer clear of Ellen's Stardust Diner, especially during popular tourist times like summer or before or after Broadway shows. This eatery doesn't take reservations, and the line can extend anywhere from about 15 minutes (at off-times) to two hours.

How we chose the Times Square tourist traps to skip

We've spent multiple years exploring the city as current and former New Yorkers. As travel writers, we've visited (and often dragged our families to) every touristy thing we could find -– art museums, history museums, science museums, children's museums, dress-up spots, concert halls, theaters, and of course, Times Square. Times Square is the most vibrant, buzzy, and touristy attraction of all the places we've toured. It is also one of the seediest spots to visit in New York City. This heady square is filled with people showing off eclectic outfits, offering unique services, and even showcasing stellar vocals when you least expect it. Sandwiched between chain restaurants, overpriced tourist shops, and enough stores to keep you shopping for days, the pedestrian area is where most of the action takes place. Trust us, it's never dull in Times Square.

We wrote this article based mostly on our experiences as seasoned travel writers, parents, tourists, and locals. To create this piece, we chose the tourist traps we would most definitely skip when visiting Times Square. At times, we consulted reviews on Yelp or Reddit to back up our claims (there's no way you'll catch us dining at Hard Rock Café in Times Square when there are so many better, cheaper, quieter, and less kitschy spots only blocks away). With all that combined research, you can rest assured that we've saved you from some scams you were prepared for and many you might not have been aware of. Stay vigilant, have fun, and enjoy the bright lights and excitement that only Times Square can provide.

Recommended

10 Tourist Traps To Skip In New York City, Plus Alternatives To Visit Instead

Your changes have been saved

Email is sent

Email has already been sent

Please verify your email address.

You’ve reached your account maximum for followed topics.

• There are plenty of NYC tourist traps with alternatives instead; one is to avoid the crowded and expensive Rockefeller Center Ice Rink and skate at Bryant Park Winter Village.
• Skip Madame Tussaud's and visit the MOMA instead for less money and more art.
• Get the same skyline views for a lower price tag at Top of the Rock instead of the Empire State Building!

New York City can be a dream destination for new and seasoned travelers. Walking through iconic Times Square and its unmissable spots , seeing a Broadway show, witnessing the Statue of Liberty, and grabbing a slice of New York pizza are all exciting rites of passage when visiting the Big Apple. However, there's a hive of NYC tourist traps to avoid; falling prey to them may cause visitors to shell out their time and money at overrated touristy spots.

The good news is that visitors don't have to completely skip out on visiting New York City to avoid the tourist traps. There's tons of amazing sights to see; the key, though, is either finding alternatives to NYC tourist traps or ways to experience them without getting scammed. These are some of the biggest tourist traps in New York City and alternatives instead - and where to find them!

10 Things To Do In New York City: Complete Guide To The Big Apple

Enjoy the trip of a lifetime to New York City by learning everything there is to know about visiting the Big Apple.

10 The Rockefeller Center Ice Rink

Rockefeller ice rink is expensive and always crowded; skate at bryant park winter village instead.

Yes, the Rockefeller Center is beautiful and a must-see area in New York City! With hundreds of movie scenes with characters ice-skating together here, as well as pictures and videos on social media of people proposing on the ice, it's hard not to see why the Rockefeller ice rink is iconic. However, Rockefeller ice skating ticket prices are through the roof, and it's always crowded over the holidays.

Visitors are better off ice skating at the Bryant Park Winter Village , which has a much larger ice rink, more ice activities, and is much cheaper. Byrant Park's skating rink is open from October to March and offers fun activities like bumper cars on ice, a tree-lighting show, and a food hall. Plus, during the holidays, Bryant Park Winter Village has a spectacular Christmas market that's worth visiting in December .

• Location: New York, NY 10018
• Cost: Prices start at $15 for skating
• Hours Of Operation: 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily

9 Madame Tussaud's

Madame tussaud's is a waste of money; instead, the moma is less expensive, with lots of art.

Madame Tussaud's in Times Square is one of the very common tourist traps in NYC to avoid. Tickets are usually $40-60 per person just to see some celebrity wax figurines. Instead, visitors should walk about 14 minutes away between Trump Tower and Radio City Music Hall to the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA).

The MOMA showcases around 200,000 pieces of art from the last 150 years , including several pieces by Van Gogh, Picasso, Henri Matisse, and Claude Monet. Tickets are $2 cheaper online, but even if guests purchase tickets at the doors, it's still cheaper than seeing Madame Tussaud's - and there's so much more to see at the MOMA.

• Location: 11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019
• Cost: $28 for adults and $15 for students
• Hours Of Operation: 10:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. daily (except Saturdays close at 7 p.m.)

8 The Empire State Building

See the same (if not better) skyscraper views for less money at top of the rock.

The NYC skyline is picture-perfect and a must-see experience when visiting New York. Still, while the Empire State Building is an iconic landmark, it's become a classic NYC tourist trap, promising the best view of New York City while charging visitors $79 to get to the highest observation deck !

People can see an incredible skyscraper view of NYC from the Top of the Rock Observation Deck plus a view of the Empire State Building for a much lower price. It's best to visit Top of the Rock in the morning for fewer crowds or during the sunset for unbeatable views of the city.

• Location: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112
• Cost: Tickets start at $40 for adults and $34 for children
• Hours Of Operation: 9 a.m. - 12 a.m. daily

NYC Is More Than The Empire State Building And Central Park

Just because you're a tourist in NYC doesn't mean you need to hit up typical "touristy" spots, check out these lesser-known locations instead!

7 Central Park Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides

Don't get scammed into a carriage ride; central park is walkable and free (rent a bike for less instead).

While a horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park may sound like a romantic activity, it's actually not. It's probably one of the biggest scams in New York City. The drivers are allgedly quite pushy and overcharge tourists, the horses are said to stink, and the blankets are questionable.

Travelers are much better off walking through Central Park for free or renting a bike for $11 per hour . Walking through Central Park and enjoying the beautiful scenery is a great budget-friendly option that gives visitors the freedom to spend their money on other attractions that are worth it.

• Location: New York, NY
• Hours Of Operation: 6 a.m. - 1 a.m. daily

Horse and carriage rides in Central Park could be banned in the near future, as animal rights activists and elected officials have called on New York City to pass Ryder's Law . Most New Yorkers support the potential ban, too, with 71% of polled NYC voters favoring outlawing horse-drawn carriage rides . Electric carriages could replace horse-drawn ones instead.

6 Junior's Cheesecake

Avoid overcrowded and overpriced cheesecakes by heading to schmackary's cookies instead.

Times Square is home to many high-end stores and chain restaurants that are overpriced and packed with tourists. Junior's Cheesecake is one of them! While most people would agree that they serve some of the best cheesecake in New York, it's almost not worth standing in a long line in the already crowded Times Square for 1–2 hours for a $24 piece of cheesecake.

For a more local, less-expensive, out-of-this-world delicious dessert, skip this tourist trap in NYC and head a few blocks down to Schmackary's . Schmackary's is right in the Broadway Theater District, which inspires many of the cookie names and flavors. There are new flavors to try every day and each cookie is only $2.75. It's the perfect New York City treat before a show!

• Location: 362 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036
• Cost: $2.75 per cookie
• Hours Of Operation: 9 a.m. - 11 p.m. Wednesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 11 p.m. Sunday - Tuesday

5 Statue Of Liberty Boat Rides

Ride the staten island ferry instead, which is free and offers the same views of lady liberty.

The Statue of Liberty is known around the world as one of the most famous US icons, and rightfully so! Every traveler should see the Statue of Liberty in NYC at least once. Don't purchase tickets for a crowded boat tour to see the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, though. Instead, take the Staten Island Ferry for free!

The ferry leaves from Whitehall Station , and it takes about 40 minutes for a round-trip. Passengers can head up to the top deck to get a sweeping view of the city and a front-row seat to the Statue of Liberty without paying a dime.

• Location: 4 Whitehall St, New York, NY 10004
• Hours Of Operation: 24/7

To avoid large crowds, try to schedule a time to hop on the ferry after 9 a.m. and before 4 p.m.

4 Little Italy

Skip little italy and explore arthur avenue for more authentic italian restaurants.

Little Italy used to be a hub for the best Italian food in New York City. In recent years, however, it's become a bit run-down. There are a few good Italian restaurants left, but it's mostly overpriced food and waiters heckling tourists to come try their food. Skip this NYC tourist trap and head to Arthur Avenue in the Bronx for real Italian food!

Arthur Avenue is now considered the "real Little Italy" and has much more than just Italian restaurants. Travelers will find the Arthur Avenue Retail Market filled with shops that display sausages, pastries, coffee, bread, gourmet meats, gift shops, and more. Need a bite after all that shopping? Hungry folks can take their pick of the best Italian restaurants on Arthur Avenue . Afterward, with a full belly, they can check out the wide variety of great things to do in the Bronx .

• Location: Bronx, NY
• Cost: Average $25-30 per meal

Is Little Italy Worth The Hype? Here's Why A New York City Trip Is Worth It

This Manhattan neighborhood is often seen as touristy, but a closer look can lead to good Italian food and cultural finds.

3 Shopping In Times Square

Times square is incredibly crowded at all times, so go to union square instead.

This may be controversial, but Times Square is one of the biggest tourist traps in NYC to avoid. While it's definitely iconic and beautiful to see lit up at night, Times Square is packed with people all day (and night) long, along with scammers and creepy costumed characters trying to hustle tourists for money. It's so crowded that even the locals tend to steer clear of it. For a more laid-back but still lively atmosphere, tourists should spend time in NYC's Union Square instead.

Union Square is known for its popular green market that's filled with rows of fresh produce, canned goods, flowers, jewelry, and more! Travelers will also find plenty of cute cafés, more shopping, and a quaint park in Union Square to sit and enjoy the vibe.

• Location: New York, NY 10003

2 Grimaldi's Pizza

Grimaldi's pizza is crowded and expensive; alternatively, ignazio's has the best pizza in brooklyn.

Everyone comes to New York City looking for a classic New York slice of pizza. For a long time, Grimaldi's Pizzeria was one of the best pizza places in New York City but has since become one of the many big NYC tourist traps to avoid, with lines out the door.

Luckily, only a few doors down under the Brooklyn Bridge is Ignazio's , which is one of the best pizza joints in Brooklyn. They're well known for their thin crusts and large, shareable pizza pies that would give any Italian a run for their money.

• Location: 4 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
• Cost: Average $24 for a whole pizza
• Hours Of Operation: 12 - 8:30 p.m. daily

1 NYC Bus Tours

Don't waste time in new york city traffic jams; walk or rent a citi bike instead.

Stuffy bus tours are one of the biggest tourist traps to skip in New York City, mainly because people will pay a lot of money to just sit in traffic - and if there's one thing New York City is consistently notorious for, it's the traffic. Endless car horns and sitting on a crowded tour bus in a stand-still traffic jam for hours is not a great way to see the Big Apple.

Alternatively, tourists can see New York City so much better by simply walking or renting a Citi Bike ! Citi Bikes allow visitors to go literally anywhere around New York City for a small single-ride fee or a $19 day pass . It's easy to get around, much faster, and eco-friendly!

• Cost: Single ride is $4.79 on Citi Bike
• Top Sights In New York City

by Here Be Barr

Nyc scams and tourist traps to avoid (read before you visit).

Visiting New York City can be exciting if you’re new to the area or just spending a few days on vacation. The area is absolutely loaded with tourist attractions, plenty of great restaurants, and decent hotels.

But, New York is also home to some of the biggest scams and tourist traps in the country. So, we’re going to go over some of the best ways to save some money while on your trip and avoid being scammed by locals preying on the naive.

The Empire State Building

The Empire State Building itself isn’t the scam, but paying $32 for the view is a little insane. In fact, there’s really no need to go to the Empire State Building to see the “unbeatable” view that you can see in plenty of other locations around the city.

Head down near Madison Square Park and visit 230 5th , which is home to one of the best rooftop bars in the area. While up there, you can enjoy a nice meal and drinks with family and friends, view the sunset if you get there between 2 and 7 PM, and see the entire New York skyline unobstructed.

Statue of Liberty Boats

As soon as you get off of the subway, you’ll be swarmed with locals attempting to sell you tickets to Statue of Liberty Cruises that aren’t officially sanctioned. Though there’s no doubt that you’ll be seeing the Statue of Liberty, shelling out $20 isn’t worth the truly brief glimpse you’ll be getting. The OFFICIAL Statue Boats that go to Liberty Island are worth it however.

A cheaper option is to take a FREE ride on the Staten Island Ferry and you can get an incredible view of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan. Just remember to sit on the right side of the ferry and keep in mind that the ferry is absolutely free, so don’t give in to anyone attempting to sell you tickets to the Staten Island Ferry. BONUS TIPS: Stick around Staten Island , there’s a lot going on near the pier.

Times Square

Times Square is an incredible walkthrough, especially at night. But, don’t be fooled by those dressed in furry and superhero costumes looking to dig a little money out of your wallet for even taking a picture somewhere near them (even if they aren’t even in it).

While you’re at it, avoid the “museums” and chain restaurants that make themselves home in Times Square. These locations are incredibly overpriced and definitely not worth the money. If you want high-quality food, check out Los Tacos No. 1 in Manhattan for some of the greatest tacos in the area without the additional price of Times Square food.

Everybody has to start somewhere when they’re looking to launch their music career, but watch out for these “CD guys” hustling on the streets of the city. They’re usually wannabe rappers that’ll hand you a CD for free and then demand a tip or additional money. If you do appreciate the fine arts, it’s better to just spend your money on street performers and musicians where you can actually see or hear their talents.

Train and Bus stations

Traveling within the city can be a bit hectic when you look like a tourist with your suitcases and bags. You’re definitely going to be approached by locals at the Port Authority claiming to need money for a bus ticket, but you won’t even realize that the same guy is pulling that scam on unsuspecting tourists all day, every day.

You also need to watch out for the “broken bottle” scam. You might accidentally “bump” into a local who then produces a broken bottle or broken glasses and then demands money from you to pay them back for the damage you caused them. Just walk away and offer to bring the matter to the police if they really want their money.

Little Italy, Manhattan

Little Italy has great food and draws tons of visitors every year simply for the allure of going to Little Italy. But, the food is extremely overpriced and there are plenty of other cheaper alternatives in the city.

If you want authentic Italian food with a much lower price tag, head down to Arthur Avenue in the Bronx. Or, you can just visit the Ferragosto Festival that takes place every September, which is one of the coolest events in NYC if you’re into Italian cuisine.

Central Park

There’s just something about Central Park that draws millions of visitors every year. And local businesses 100% try to swindle out-of-towners out of their hard-earned money by offering “once in a life-time” experiences like pedicabs and carriage rides.

Yet, you’ll be spending sometimes over $5 a minute for pedicab rides and up to $50 for 15 minutes on a horse-drawn carriage. Save yourself a little money and get yourself some much-needed exercise by renting a citi bike for 24 hours at a mere $12, which can get you from location to location for cheap.

NYC Airports

When your plane lands at JFK or LaGuardia, you’re going to be approached by supposed taxi or Uber drivers ready to take you to your hotel or your first attraction. The only issue is that these are unmarked taxis, so they can really charge you whatever they want, usually at least 25% more than a regular cab.

The best way to avoid this is by going to the actual official taxi line at the airport and waiting for a marked yellow taxi to arrive. Also, keep in mind that no Uber driver will enter the airport looking for clients, so don’t fall for the Uber trick either.

The Hotdog Scam

All tourists want to come home from their trip to the city bragging to their family and friends that they ate a “New York City hotdog.” While I consider hot dogs overrated to begin with.. if you insist on buying one, you need to make sure that you’re buying from a hot dog stand that lists the price on the outside of the stand.

Legally, the state requires business and food stands to advertise their prices clearly. If the price isn’t listed and you buy a hotdog anyway, you might be spending anywhere between $20 and $30 for the allure of eating an NYC hotdog.

JFK Airtrain Hustle

When you get to JFK with your suitcases and luggage in hand, you’re once again going to be approached by people looking to buy swipes from you. Well, your swipes were your ticket to the AirTrain and, unfortunately, unlimited Metro Cards aren’t going to work here. So now you have to spend even more money buying a new Metro Card that’ll get you on the AirTrain.

Outdoor ATMs

Outdoor ATMs are convenient when you’re waltzing down city streets from attraction to attraction, but they’re also one of the biggest scams in the city. You might not even realize that you’re being watched from afar as you use these machines or that the machine was tampered with and is now swiping card numbers.

Your best bet here? Go to indoor banks that have cameras, which are definitely much less likely to have been tampered with. These are much safer alternatives.

Electronic Stores

Watch out for the smaller electronic stores. Without you even realizing it, you might be buying a product advertised as “brand new” that’s actually defective or refurbished.

When the product eventually stops working or needs to be repaired, you’ll bring it back to the same shop only to realize that the refund policy at the shop won’t really help you out at all. So, make sure you’re checking online reviews and choose a reputable shop.

Parking Rip-Offs

Tourist tip: Don’t bring a car when you go to the city. For the most part, you’ll be spending at least $12 for 30 minutes, which eventually adds up if the play or concert you’re seeing goes on for 5 or 6 hours.

You’ll also be charged an additional 18% tax for parking. The best choice here is to use the SpotHero app to find the cheapest local spots or book your parking before you head to the city.

Be wary about parking on the street and make sure you’re following all signs and local laws. Some local tow businesses will watch for tourists who are illegally parking and tow your car even after a few minutes of stepping into a store.

“Good Samaritans”

There are some real Good Samaritans out there in the city. There are also some fake ones in the city. If a local approaches you offering some assistance on how to get to your destination or your subway, you don’t owe them money. If they ask for a tip, just walk away.

Buying a Swipe

When you’re looking to reload your MetroCard, it’s pretty common for the machine not to work. Well, that’s because somebody that might have intentionally tampered with the machine is now conveniently there to help you when you need it.

They might offer to sell you their own MetroCard, but there’s no guarantee that it has the same amount of money on it or any money at all. Just find another machine that’s working.

Street Performers & Tips

When you see a street performer, try your best to tip at least a dollar. But, remember that you don’t have to tip them and don’t give in to any aggressive street performers that try to pressure you into leaving a larger tip than you’re comfortable with.

Rip Off Comedy Shows

When you’re walking in Times Square, it’s common to be approached about local comedy shows with some “big name” acts. These predators are looking to scam you out of $20 for a show that definitely doesn’t have those big names.

Just go down to Greenwich Village and catch some free shows that have some of the best up-and-coming talents that the city has to offer.

Simply put: Monks will not ask you for money. It’s common to pass by a monk on the streets who is willing to give you a bracelet or other meaning object, but then be demanded to pay a tip. They might even open up a notebook of names of other people who have donated but don’t fall for it.

Additional Tips

A lot of restaurants in the city will actually add an 18% gratuity to your bill automatically when you purchase food. So, make sure you’re checking your bill to see if this automatic gratuity was already added.

Otherwise, you might be paying an additional 20% tip and not even realize it. The worst part is that companies don’t even have to tell you that they’re doing this, so you really need to scour your receipts closely.

Fake Sublets & Tenants

This is probably the most expensive of NYC scams. If you check out Craigslist, you might notice apartments listed in the city with the current tenant looking to sublet. Without even seeing the apartment in person, you’ll be asked for a security deposit that you’ll definitely never be seeing again.

Also, keep an eye out for the fake tenant scam. For this scam, you’ll actually be able to see the apartment and meet the tenant in person. But, they don’t actually own the apartment and are really just renting it out as an AirBNB or something similar. They’ll collect your security deposit, give you the keys, and when you return, they’ll be gone and the keys won’t work.

What you can do in these situations is speak with the super of the building, check the tenant’s license and see that it matches the apartment, and then ask to see the current lease.

Final Thoughts

Your trip to the Big Apple should be adventurous and fun, but it can also be dangerous and leave you with a bare wallet. So, you want to make sure that you’re watching out for the most common New York tourist traps.

By being more careful and knowing what to look for, you can save yourself a little extra cash and avoid the embarrassment of being swindled by predatory locals looking to cash in on naive tourists.

Add a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

The 14 Worst Tourist Traps In New York City — And Where To Go Instead

People love to visit New York City.

But tourists, especially those seeing the Big Apple for the first time, often get sucked into expensive and overrated tourist traps.

These are the places you should skip, and alternatives that are more authentic, cheaper, and more fun.

Instead of seeing the sights from the top of the Empire State Building, take in the city skyline (for free) on the Brooklyn Heights Promenade.

The Empire State Building has great views of the city, but it’s not worth the expensive ticket and long lines.

A better way to take in New York’s amazing skyline? Go across the Brooklyn Bridge to the Brooklyn Heights Promenade. It’s free, beautiful, and one of the best places to see NYC’s skyline, day or night.

Instead of being gouged for “Italian” food in Little Italy, go to Arthur Avenue in the Bronx.

Little Italy is a sad little strip nestled right above Chinatown. The real Little Italy — with its amazing Italian-American food — is on Arthur Avenue in the Bronx.

You can find fresh cheese at Casa Della Mozzarella, an amazing selection of fish at Cosenza’s, and a slew of fantastic Italian-American bakeries.

Instead of taking a pedicab ride, rent a Citi Bike.

Pedicabs are a part of life in NYC, especially around Central Park and midtown where it can be hard to catch a cab. But they can be expensive and slow.

We recommend trying a Citi Bike. You can sign up for a day pass for $10 and ride around the city yourself. Read more about how to use a Citi Bike here .

Instead of waiting months to have high tea at the Plaza Hotel's Palm Court, have a tea party at Bosie Tea Parlor.  

High Tea in the Plaza Hotel’s Palm Court is iconic, but even with a reservation, you’ll likely be waiting for your table and tripping over tourists in the process.

Your tea and pastries will be much cheaper at Bosie Tea Parlor in the West Village. High Tea for two is only $55 and comes with 2 teas of your choice, three types of sandwich, macaroons, scones, and cake.

Instead of battling tourists at Central Park, head to the more low key (and gorgeous) Prospect Park.

Don't get me wrong, Central Park is great, with Shakespeare Gardens, grassy knolls, and a gorgeous double skyline with skyscrapers rising above the trees. But man, is it crowded.

Brooklyn’s Prospect Park was created by the same architects — Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux — but they had much more free reign with their Brooklyn design and were able to create a real pastoral haven. With woods, a lake, and a mile-long meadow, anyone who visits Prospect Park will forget they’re in NYC for a little while.

Instead of cupcakes at Magnolia Bakery, try the amazing cookies at Levain Bakery.

Magnolia Bakery's cupcakes may be tasty, but with its long lines and last year's health code violations , this tourist stop is highly overrated. A much better option is the beyond-delicious Levain Bakery on the Upper West Side.

The cookies are gigantic (they look more like scones than cookies), and though they cost $4 per cookie, they are the tastiest, softest, and most scrumptious cookies I've ever tried. Try the chocolate chip and walnut cookie and thank me later.

Instead of going to Century 21 for discounted designer fashions, hit up a real NYC sample sale.

The racks at discount designer store Century 21 can be fun to pick through, but more often than not these stores are chock full of deal-seeking shoppers and tourists, long lines, and picked-through inventory.

A better idea is to hit up some of NYC’s amazing sample sales. There’s usually always something going on 260 Fifth Avenue ( sign up for email updates here ) or in SoHo — Racked NY always has a great rundown .

Instead of spending a fortune to ice skate at Rockefeller Center, skate at the less-crowded McCarren Rink in Brooklyn.

To skate at Rockefeller Center, it costs $27 for an adult ticket ($15 for kids) plus $12 for skate rental. That’s a total of roughly $40 to skate with 150 other people for an hour and a half.

McCarren Rink in Brooklyn is a better option that is both less crowded and cheap. It costs $8 for adults ($4 for children), skate rental is only $5, and you can skate as long as you want.

Instead of watching the city flash by on a tour bus, go walk around.

New York City tour buses can help new arrivals get a feel for all of NYC’s neighborhoods, but a much better (and healthier, cheaper) option is to just walk around.

From the Upper West Side to the Financial District, every area in New York has a distinct personality. If you want a more in-depth look at each neighborhood, there are walking tours you can sign up for .

Instead of going clubbing in the Meatpacking District, head to where all the cool kids are in Williamsburg.

The Meatpacking District may be where certain celebrities, big shots, and models hang out, but for the rest of us, it’s expensive and you may not even be able to get past the door.

Williamsburg has awesome (and cheaper) bars and nightclubs like Output , plus way less pretentious and annoying people. There's a wide variety of nightlife, too, from watering holes for cocktails snobs to drunk bowling.

Instead of sharing a frozen hot chocolate sundae at Serendipity III, have a romantic night at The Chocolate Room.

The made-from-scratch treats at The Chocolate Room in Brooklyn far exceed those at Serendipity III, and the ambiance is much more romantic. Perfect for a birthday or a date, the restaurant is dimly lit and cozy.

If you’re not sure what to order, try the brownie sundae and their ice cream sandwiches. All their cakes — from classic chocolate to chocolate almond — are also delicious.

Instead of Grimaldi’s Pizza in DUMBO, head down the street to Juliana’s Pizza.

Grimaldi's has slowly become more and more of a tourist trap through the years. Patsy Grimaldi sold Grimaldi’s pizza parlor in 1998 , but he opened another little pizza place down the street recently that he calls Juliana’s.

And while Grimaldi’s is just okay, Juliana’s is the real gem  — its ingredients are fresh and vibrant, the pizza isn’t greasy, and they make a truly amazing sauce. Don’t forget to try the homemade Brookie deserts (a combination of a brownie and cookie).

Instead of seeing sex toys and exhibitionist exhibits at the Museum of Sex, go to a burlesque show at Galapagos Art Space.

The Museum of Sex might raise eyebrows, but it's underwhelming, crowded, and not worth the price for admission. If you’re in the mood for a risqué attraction, get tickets to a burlesque show at Galapagos Art Space.

With fire breathing, aerial performances, “tantric yoga,” and more, this will definitely be a far more entertaining way to spend your evening. Plus, the venue is gorgeous.

Instead of going to Times Square, go literally anywhere else.

Seriously — this city is huge with plenty of boroughs, neighborhoods, shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions to explore.

Walk through Times Square if you must, take your pictures, and then never, ever go there again.

• Main content

• The Best Rappers from New York
• NYC Then & Now
• Bodega Guys: The True Heroes
• The Greatest Fictional New ...
• New York's 25 Tallest Build...
• The Greatest Comedy Movies ...
• Where to Find New York's Be...
• Historical Pics of Coney Is...
• Historical Pics of Old New ...
• Ridiculous Things You Can O...
• Relatable Infuriating NYC M...

15 New York Tourist Traps And Scams (And How To Avoid Them)

Anyone who loves NYC knows that among its greatness there are all sorts of New York tourist traps and schemes. With that said, you can make your life easier with these tips from the locals on how to avoid grifts in New York! Check out this list of "unnoticed" but very common New York grifts and traps to avoid.

No Directions No Attention

From Redditor u/ FreightProgram :

If anyone talks to you for more than a few minutes, even seconds, before getting to the point.

Most tourists or people looking for directions will almost immediately say "how do I get to/where is..." while anyone who is trying to get money off you will start with some bullsh*t intricate story.

The White Van Trick

From Redditor u/ drkcloud123 :

White van [grift]. Some guys driving around in a van saying that they had a mess up on a shipment of something expensive like speakers and they show you a box of an actual speaker with the price listed online and try to sell it to you direct. Either the inside of the box is old *ss speakers or the product is outdated and there's not much stock online so the prices are messed up.

Either way, steer clear, I saw them at Costco once pulling this sh*t.

"You Dropped My Phone"

From Redditor u/ esbianfridge :

“You broke my/made me drop my ____, you have to pay for it now”

"Oh shoot. Tell you what, let me get a cop over here and they can help us sort this out."

Then watch them run.

"Gift" Bags

From Redditor u/ crazydodge :

Guys going around offering gift bags to girls, then charging them, claiming the contents of the bag are way more expensive and they're doing a promotion

I have had multiple people come up to me saying "sweetie check out my new brand" and I immediately ask "is it free" and they laugh at me. I keep walking.

The 'No Gas No Money' Scheme

The "I got no gas and no money [grift]". Someone walks up asking you for money to fill up gas near a gas station. They might throw in a sob story about how they are stuck on vacation and have a car nearby with their family (they are a part of it) but are out of gas and have no money. they also might be carrying around an empty gas canister. I encountered this twice and I literally offered to BUY a filled gas canister and walk with him and unsurprisingly he rejected and walked away.

Literally, everyone that gives a sob story or causes a situation where they ask for your money tends to be a [trick].

AirBnB Scams 

From Redditor u/ Successful_Guitar628 :

I got scammed by a guy who rented out an AirBnB and did showings in it. Gave me a tour & answered all my questions, had me sign a fake lease & pay a deposit. Came to move in a few days later & the locks were changed & the building owner had no idea who I was. Never got my money back but for the future found websites to show who the building owner is and make sure to pay with checks. Squeeze as much research as you can out of your landlord/realtor!

Just Walk Away

From Redditor u/ Utsuro_ :

Anyone that comes up to you offering something you just keep walking.

Fake Salt Scrubs

From Redditor u/ maybe1dayy :

Those stores that sell scrubs with “salt from the Dead Sea” that’ll “brighten your skin”… it’s all overpriced plastic garbage. There’s one in SoHo next to Dominique Ansel bakery. They’ll bait you by complementing your outfit so you have to respond by saying thank you, then they’ll try to strike up a convo, offer a free sample, and draw you into the store to make you buy their sh*t. STAY AWAY!

The Glitter Guy And Fake Parking Spots

From Redditor u/ mad0666 :

The guy in Williamsburg that throws glitter on you then asks for money. Random apartment rentals on Facebook or AirBnB. Salons offering free haircuts but then try to get you to pay. The monks on the trains. The people who claim you broke something of theirs and demand money. Parking companies that connect drivers to “parking spots” that don’t exist. The guys that try to offer you a cheaper ride than the regular taxis at JFK or PABT. Fake tickets outside any venue. Double tips. Pedicabs. CD guys though I haven’t seen any in a while.

The "Green Energy" Scheme

From Redditor u/ nuclearsalt :

I had one of these “Green Energy” people knock on my door asking me to look at my Con-Ed bill and accused me of “using too much power”. Ok.

I said “have a nice day” and shut the door, and he moved on.

Apparently, they snag your account number from the bill and add you to their service which costs way more than what you normally pay. Hmmm, very upstanding, yes.

The Monks And Their Bracelets

From Redditor u/ innerpce :

The monks, who give you a card/beaded bracelet and then ask for a donation.

People on the street trying to sign you up for a “good deal” for a hair salon and it turns out to be a crappy experience.

A Rando asking your name and signing a cd with it real quick and then pressuring you to buy it.

Don't look at them and you'll be fine.

Dent Repair Scheme

From Redditor u/ iflippyiflippy :

Dent repair [grifts]! Don't believe anyone that says they can promise you to take off that dent from your car in less than fifteen mins and if they approach you first.

Was a tired fool after work, though he was a PDR specialist. Their tactic is to smear some sort of dark mixture to cover the sh*tty job they did and tell you to remove it in 24 hours to let the "paint settle/repair".

Thankfully my insurance covered it and chalked it off as [defacing property]. My premium did go up a few bucks because of it but f*ck it, better than my 2020 vehicle rusting like it' s from the 90s . The paint was f*cked. Quarter panel destroyed. Had to replace and of course get the surrounding panels painted to have everything blended together.

The City Isn't As Advertised

From Redditor u/ InToTheWoodsWeGo2 :

NY being advertised as "If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere". You can make it here, but likely end up dead if you were to go to Antarctica after. The city does not prepare you to thrive in such a hard cold dry climate.

Also grocery stores like DAG NYC or Gristedes. Overpriced non-sense don't go.

Fake Locksmiths

From Redditor u/ gayrainnous :

Fake locksmiths. You find yourself locked out of your office/home, etc, and look for a nearby locksmith. You'll probably find a result that looks promising and has lots of pictures on the Google MyBusiness page and stunning reviews. Check the address, though -- it's almost 100% a fake address. If you don't notice that or the often bizarre URL (like .business.site.nyc), you place a call and a CALL CENTER dispatches 1 or 2 guys that show up in an unmarked van or one that's wrapped with the name of a different locksmith company. Once they get to your door, they'll make a weird face and say, probably in purposely broken English, that they can't pick that kind of lock. They'll quote you some number that sounds fine like $65 and then get the drill out. Now they tell you that you need to pay more for the new lock. This time they'll say something absurd like $200 or $300 and your door lock is broken so in a panic you are likely to agree. Then after installation, they give you a total of $700 or so, claiming that you understood that the $65 was for the call-out, $300 was for the drilling, and whatever else was the fee for the new lock and installation.

This is all bullsh*t and I had to learn the hard way as a young woman who was new to living alone, didn't know my neighbors yet, and was faced with two scary guys yelling at me for not wanting to pay $700 for something that NEVER costs that much. Avoid this by getting a referral for a locksmith from someone you know, being extra skeptical when looking for one online, and stopping any "locksmith" from doing anything after they claim your very basic apartment lock is "impossible to picked."

Also, get to know some of your neighbors as soon as you move into a new neighborhood. If this happened to me now, I'd have a [group] of guys in their 50s and 60s ready to beat down anyone who tried to mess with me.

Coney Island Games

From Redditor u/ korbendallas35 :

Double or nothing trying to knock down the milk bottles in Coney Island. Lost 80 bucks because my ex wanted the f*ckin giant teddy bear. It’s the only time I’ve ever fallen for a [grift], and the last bottle standing was 100% glued down. The worst part is that I’m a native Brooklynite. The power a pretty woman can have over you, lemme tell ya.

• Places/Travel

Lists about New York, New York—the city so nice, they named it twice.

15 Tourist Traps In New York You Should Avoid

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

Get us in your inbox

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city and beyond

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best of New York for free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy New York without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Time Out Market
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Attractions
• Los Angeles

The most chaotic tourist trap in the world is right here in NYC, according to a study

It's exactly what you think it is.

No one really comes to New York City to relax. If you find yourself here on vacation here, expect chaos, rats and lots and lots of noise. Because of all of these factors, it should not come as a surprise that a recent survey found that the most chaotic tourist trap in the world is located in New York and, yes, it's Times Square.

The survey was conducted by the language learning platform Preply, which analyzed more than 81 popular tourist attractions and surveyed thousands of people about which they thought were overrated, overcrowded and just generally not worth the time.

RECOMMENDED: Limited-edition Ice Spice MetroCards are now available at four subway stations

We get it, Times Square is loud, stinky, and the  Frozen characters posing for pictures are a little bit scary.

In the Preply survey, 1,761 people called the area "overrated," "underwhelming" or "a tourist trap." One reviewer wrote that they had "high hopes and expectations and high disappointment. Times Square to us was crowded, grimy and overrated." Tell us something we don't know.

Even though they're absolutely right about the area, we must admit that it's hard not to get defensive. New Yorkers don't step foot in Times Square unless they absolutely have to it's different when we're our own haters.

Besides, if you have such a big problem with Times Square, there's so many things to do in the city that are relaxing and decidedly not tourist traps. For example, you can take a Tiki Boat ride at Jamaica Wildlife Refuge , enjoy a series of free meditative experiences throughout the city  or spend all day at a spa on an island that is about to get some major upgrades . 

The other attractions that were considered major tourist traps by those surveyed was (in order from worst to best) Checkpoint Charlie in Berlin; the Eiffel Tower; The Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen; Las Ramblas in Barcelona; Manneken Pis in Brussels; The Blue Lagoon in Iceland; the Hollywood Walk of Fame in L.A.; the London Eye; and the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin.

You can check out the full list of the top 20 most stressful tourist traps here . 

Preply also looked at the least stressful tourist hotspots in the world, and Switzerland's Lake Caumasee took the number one spot, followed by Uluru in Australia and Monastiraki Market in Athens. 

Again, there's nothing surprising about us making the top of the list, so there's no use in trying to defend Times Square. All we're saying is there are many other things to do if you're not the type who likes crowds, so please be respectful of this great city of ours.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Popular on Time Out

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Copyright agent
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Claim your listing
• Local Marketing Solutions
• Advertising

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Destinations

30 Hidden Gems In New York City

Published: September 17, 2024

by Cherish Spitzer

New York City, known for its iconic landmarks, has many hidden gems waiting to be explored. Beyond the hustle and bustle of Times Square and Central Park, the city offers unique spots that often go unnoticed. Have you ever wondered about the secrets tucked away in the Big Apple? From quaint bookstores to serene gardens, these lesser-known places provide a different perspective on city life. Whether you're a local or a tourist, discovering these hidden treasures can make your NYC experience even more special. Ready to uncover some of the best-kept secrets in the city that never sleeps? Let's dive in!

Secret Gardens and Parks

New York City isn't just skyscrapers and busy streets. Hidden green spaces offer a peaceful retreat from the urban hustle. Here are some secret gardens and parks you might not know about.

Greenacre Park : A small oasis in Midtown Manhattan, featuring a waterfall, trees, and seating areas. Perfect for a quick escape.

The Elevated Acre : Located in the Financial District, this hidden park offers stunning views of the East River and Brooklyn Bridge.

Paley Park : Another Midtown gem, this park features a 20-foot waterfall and plenty of seating, making it a great spot for lunch.

The Lotus Garden : A community garden on the Upper West Side, filled with flowers, trees, and even a koi pond.

Teardrop Park : Nestled between residential buildings in Battery Park City, this park features unique rock formations and a water play area for kids.

Unique Museums

New York City is home to some of the world's most famous museums, but there are also lesser-known ones that offer unique experiences. Check out these hidden gems.

The City Reliquary : A quirky museum in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, showcasing New York City artifacts and memorabilia.

The Museum of the American Gangster : Located in the East Village, this museum delves into the history of organized crime in the U.S.

The Morbid Anatomy Museum : Found in Gowanus, Brooklyn, this museum explores the intersections of death, beauty, and culture.

The Museum of Food and Drink (MOFAD) : Located in Williamsburg, this museum offers interactive exhibits about the history and culture of food.

The Skyscraper Museum : Situated in Battery Park City, this museum focuses on the history and design of skyscrapers.

Hidden Historical Sites

New York City is rich in history, but some historical sites are less well-known. Discover these hidden historical treasures.

The New York Earth Room : An art installation in SoHo featuring 250 cubic yards of earth spread across a gallery floor.

The Tenement Museum : Located on the Lower East Side, this museum offers guided tours of restored tenement apartments, telling the stories of immigrant families.

The Merchant's House Museum : A preserved 19th-century home in the East Village, offering a glimpse into the lives of a wealthy merchant family.

The Morris-Jumel Mansion : Manhattan's oldest house, located in Washington Heights, once served as George Washington's headquarters.

The African Burial Ground National Monument : A memorial in Lower Manhattan honoring the African men, women, and children buried there during the 17th and 18th centuries.

Quirky Attractions

For those who love the unusual, New York City has plenty of quirky attractions to explore. Here are some offbeat spots worth visiting.

The Houdini Museum : Located in the Fantasma Magic Shop in Midtown, this museum showcases artifacts from the life of the famous magician.

The Mmuseumm : A tiny museum housed in a freight elevator in Tribeca, featuring rotating exhibits of everyday objects.

The Museum of the Moving Image : Situated in Astoria, Queens, this museum explores the history, technology, and art of film, television, and digital media.

The Troll Museum : A quirky museum in the Lower East Side, dedicated to troll dolls and their history.

The Museum of Interesting Things : A traveling museum that brings collections of antiques and oddities to various locations around the city.

Hidden Bars and Speakeasies

New York City's nightlife scene includes hidden bars and speakeasies that offer a unique experience. Discover these secret spots for a memorable night out.

Please Don't Tell (PDT) : Accessed through a phone booth inside Crif Dogs in the East Village, this speakeasy offers craft cocktails and a cozy atmosphere.

The Back Room : A Lower East Side speakeasy that serves drinks in teacups, reminiscent of the Prohibition era.

Bathtub Gin : Hidden behind a coffee shop in Chelsea, this bar features a vintage bathtub and a 1920s vibe.

Angel's Share : A hidden gem in the East Village, offering expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate setting.

Employees Only : Located in the West Village, this speakeasy-style bar is known for its creative cocktails and lively atmosphere.

Unusual Shops

New York City is a shopper's paradise, but some stores offer more than just retail therapy. Check out these unusual shops for a unique shopping experience.

The Evolution Store : Located in SoHo, this shop sells natural history collectibles, including fossils, taxidermy, and unique gifts.

Obscura Antiques & Oddities : A quirky shop in the East Village, offering a wide range of unusual antiques and curiosities.

The Strand Bookstore : While not exactly hidden, this iconic bookstore in the East Village offers 18 miles of new, used, and rare books.

Tannen's Magic Shop : The oldest magic shop in New York City, located in Midtown, offering magic tricks and supplies for magicians of all levels.

Fishs Eddy : A unique shop in the Flatiron District, selling vintage and quirky dishware, glassware, and kitchen items.

Discover New York City's Hidden Gems

New York City is more than just Times Square and Central Park. Hidden gems like the Cloisters, Roosevelt Island, and the Tenement Museum offer unique experiences. Exploring these spots gives a fresh perspective on the city's rich history and culture. Don't miss the High Line for a peaceful walk above the bustling streets or the Whispering Gallery in Grand Central Terminal for a fun acoustic trick.

Venture into neighborhoods like DUMBO and Astoria for local vibes and great food. Each hidden spot adds a layer to your understanding of NYC. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these lesser-known places make the city feel new every time. So next time you're in New York, skip the usual tourist traps and dive into these hidden treasures. You'll find the city has much more to offer than you ever imagined.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Advertisement

Israel Planted Explosives in Pagers Sold to Hezbollah, Officials Say

Small amounts of explosive were implanted in beepers that Hezbollah had ordered from a Taiwanese company, according to American and other officials briefed on the operation.

• Share full article

By Sheera Frenkel and Ronen Bergman

• Sept. 17, 2024

Israel carried out its operation against Hezbollah on Tuesday by hiding explosive material within a new batch of Taiwanese-made pagers imported into Lebanon, according to American and other officials briefed on the operation.

The pagers, which Hezbollah had ordered from Gold Apollo in Taiwan, had been tampered with before they reached Lebanon, according to some of the officials. Most were the company’s AR924 model, though three other Gold Apollo models were also included in the shipment.

The explosive material, as little as one to two ounces, was implanted next to the battery in each pager, two of the officials said. A switch was also embedded that could be triggered remotely to detonate the explosives.

At 3:30 p.m. in Lebanon, the pagers received a message that appeared as though it was coming from Hezbollah’s leadership, two of the officials said. Instead, the message activated the explosives. Lebanon’s health minister told state media at least 11 people were killed and more than 2,700 injured.

The devices were programmed to beep for several seconds before exploding, according to three of the officials.

The American and other officials spoke on the condition of anonymity given the sensitive nature of the operation.

Hezbollah has accused Israel of orchestrating the attack but has described limited details of its understanding of the operation. Israel has not commented on the attack, nor said it was behind it.

On Wednesday, Gold Apollo sought to distance itself from the devices used in the attack, saying that they had been made by another manufacturer, B.A.C. Consulting, which Gold Apollo said had an address in Budapest and made the pagers under a license. Efforts to contact B.A.C. were not immediately successful, and calls to a number listed on its website rang unanswered.

Independent cybersecurity experts who have studied footage of the attacks said it was clear that the strength and speed of the explosions were caused by a type of explosive material.

“These pagers were likely modified in some way to cause these types of explosions — the size and strength of the explosion indicates it was not just the battery,” said Mikko Hypponen, a research specialist at the software company WithSecure and a cybercrime adviser to Europol.

Keren Elazari, an Israeli cybersecurity analyst and researcher at Tel Aviv University, said the attacks had targeted Hezbollah where they were most vulnerable.

Earlier this year, Hezbollah’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah, strictly limited the use of cellphones, which he saw as increasingly vulnerable to Israeli surveillance, according to some of the officials as well as security experts.

“This attack hit them in their Achilles’ heel because they took out a central means of communication,” Ms. Elazari said. “We have seen these types of devices, pagers, targeted before but not in an attack this sophisticated.”

Over 3,000 pagers were ordered from the Gold Apollo company in Taiwan, said several of the officials. Hezbollah distributed the pagers to their members throughout Lebanon, with some reaching Hezbollah allies in Iran and Syria. Israel’s attack affected the pagers that were switched on and receiving messages.

It remained unclear on Tuesday precisely when the pagers were ordered and when they arrived in Lebanon.

Sheera Frenkel is a reporter based in the San Francisco Bay Area, covering the ways technology impacts everyday lives with a focus on social media companies, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, YouTube, Telegram and WhatsApp. More about Sheera Frenkel

Ronen Bergman is a staff writer for The New York Times Magazine, based in Tel Aviv. His latest book is “Rise and Kill First: The Secret History of Israel’s Targeted Assassinations,” published by Random House. More about Ronen Bergman

Our Coverage of the Middle East Crisis

Deadly Pager Attack:   Hundreds of pagers carried by Hezbollah members exploded simultaneously across Lebanon , a day after Israeli officials said they were ready to step up attacks against the Iranian-backed militia.

Netanyahu Considers Firing Gallant:   Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel is reportedly contemplating dismissing his defense minister , Yoav Gallant, a move that would remove a frequent critic at a time of mounting tensions with Hezbollah .

Hamas’s Future in Gaza:   One of Hamas’s most senior officials said in an interview that the militant group expects to play a decisive role in the enclave  when the war with Israel is over.

A Struggle to Celebrate:   Since the Oct. 7 attacks and the start of the war in Gaza, marking major holidays has been completely upended for three religions in the region .

How UNRWA Became a Flashpoint:   The U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees has survived 75 years of Israeli-Palestinian strife. Can it survive the latest conflict ?