Solo Traveling in New York

Feature Photo by Courtney Cook on Unsplash

No travel bucket list is complete without a trip to New York City on it – probably located somewhere near the top!

Although interestingly, New York City is often seen as a bit of a couple’s paradise, or somewhere to travel and explore with close friends, not forgetting the families that choose to spend their vacation days here each year!

But if you’re travelling solo, is New York City really worth experiencing alone? Do you need someone by your side to soak up the atmosphere with? 

In my opinion – no! There’s so much to see, do, and experience in the Big Apple that travelling solo to the City that Never Sleeps means that you can focus on your own bucket list of must-dos and must-sees without missing a beat.

Although solo travel can certainly be daunting, especially in one of the most densely populated cities in the world, if you plan your trip well, you can enjoy every minute in NYC at your own pace. Check out my suggestions for visiting New York as a solo traveler.

Where to Stay

New York is bursting with accommodation options for every kind of traveller. But there are some options that are probably better suited to those travelling solo, after all, your needs will certainly be different from those travelling in larger groups.

But, solo travel doesn’t have to mean you can’t enjoy luxury – check out some tips for where to stay on your trip.

• Consider hostels with a good social vibe: HI NYC Hostel, The Local NY, and Freehand Hotel have great reputations for fun and engaging solo stays.
• Try a Pod Hotel: If hostel life isn’t for you then why not try a pod hotel, these offerings are smaller than average hotel rooms but are central, secure and affordable.
• Co-Living Spaces: To feel more like a local, consider renting a room on Airbnb, which can help you connect with locals and have a more authentic experience.
• Choose the right Neighborhood: Choose neighborhoods like the Lower East Side, Williamsburg, or Midtown for a good mix of convenience and things to do!

Best Things to Do Solo in NYC

When you’re travelling solo in NYC, the world is your oyster and your time is your own. So, how should you spend it? Here are some top suggestions:

• Check out NYC’s Bar Scene: New York has plenty of bars, speakeasies, and rooftop bars that offer solo seating, great menus, and a fun atmosphere. It’s a great way to experience NYC’s nightlife.
• See a Broadway Show: Solo seating on Broadway is often much cheaper than buying multiple tickets! Travelling solo also means you’re more likely to grab last-minute tickets at discounted prices and not miss out on your favourite show.
• Explore NYC’s Indie Bookstores: If you’re a reader or fancy something a little more mindful to experience during your solo trip, why not explore NYC’s Indie bookstores? Here you can pore over unique books, each store’s specific collection and speak with owners who can give you personalised recommendations.
• Take Yourself on a Food Tour: NYC’s food scene just has to be experienced! Solo travellers can grab bites in all the different cultural neighborhoods in the city. Grab something in Chinatown, indulge your tastebuds in Little Italy, or head to Chelsea Market for some seafood.
• Visit the Museums: When it comes to museums, NYC visitors are spoiled for choice. Visit attractions like MoMA, The Met, and The Whitney at your own pace. Take in the hundreds of collections, learn something new, take a guided tour and soak in some culture.
• Enjoy People Watching: Sit with a coffee in hand or a hotdog, take a seat in Central Park or Washington Square Park and watch the world go by. Catch your breath for a moment and people watch, it’s a great way to soak up the city, feel a bit more like a local and truly immerse yourself in the Big Apple.

How to Capture the Moments

If you’re heading to NYC, then there are plenty of incredible photo opportunities you won’t want to miss, such as the Empire State Building, Times Square, and the Statue of Liberty.

But just because you’re travelling solo, doesn’t mean you can’t feature in the pictures too! Consider bringing a mini tripod along to take some quick photos during your visit, don’t be afraid to ask other tourists to help you out (most people are obliging), and remember to practice your selfies!

Safety Tips for Solo Travellers

As a solo traveller, it’s important to take extra precautions when visiting a new destination. And NYC is certainly no different.

It’s a big city, and although it is considered incredibly safe for tourists, solo travelers must take their safety seriously. Here are some helpful tips for staying safe in the Big Apple.

• Always stick to well-lit and well-populated areas at night.
• Trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, leave and make your way to safety.
• Don’t feel pressured to engage with overly persistent strangers, this applies whether they are NYC locals or fellow tourists.
• Never travel in empty subway cars. Always choose those with other passengers.
• Navigate where you’re going with confidence by using apps like Citymapper and Google maps. Don’t forget you can download these maps ahead of time so you can use them even without a WiFi connection.
• Keep your valuables secure and hidden. Make use of inside pockets, money belts, anti-theft bags, and never have excessive valuables on show, such as expensive cameras, tech, or jewellery.

Embrace Your Solo Time

Travelling solo is a truly remarkable experience. You’ve given yourself the opportunity to reconnect with yourself, find out who you truly are, and enjoy some much-needed you time!

Don’t forget to reflect and recharge in peaceful spots like the New York Public Library, or a museum garden, or take yourself out to a nice dinner during your visit – solo dining and days out are considered to be totally normal in NYC!

While you’re exploring, consider adding a touch of sustainability to your trip: walk or use the subway instead of taxis, carry a reusable water bottle, and support local businesses and eateries. It’s a small way to make a big city adventure a little kinder to the planet.

In the end, a solo trip to New York City isn’t just about exploring a world-renowned metropolis, but about discovering a new side of yourself and enjoying the freedom to experience the city on your own terms.

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