New York City Tourist Trap Tips by jbel2879

I am not a native New Yorker. I live here now, but you apparently don't become a New Yorker until you live here for like 3 or 4 years. So I think that I can relate quite well to the visitor/tourist mentality in New York - and I have to say, I can't grasp why you'd want to stay in Times Square, eat in Times Square, or do anything for a prolonged period in Times Square. It's thoroughly unpleasant during the day. It's dirty, the stores are chock full of cheap tourist ripoff stuff, and you don't even get a really good view of what Times Square does have to offer. If I were visiting New York, I would stay on Central Park South, in the West Village or Chelsea, or on the Upper West Side. I'm telling you, these areas are so much more pleasant, reflect the true character of New York, and are all well-connected via subway to get you anywhere you want to go.

Leave a Comment

At Least Do This: I DO think that Times Square should be seen at night, when the signs are lit up. It's a one of a kind experience. That's why I say above that TS should be seen for an hour. Ogle the lights, walk around a little bit, then leave.
Alternative: For eye candy that is different from TS but equally cool, check out the very trendy new meatpacking district, which is teeming with expensive restaurants almost impossible to get into, funky galleries, boutique designers, and a new funky hotel, Hotel Gansevoort. It's just fun to walk around there, I think - but not in stilletto heels, as it's all cobblestoned.

A big tip: Pastis, the very popular French bistro in the Meatpacking district is relatively easy to get into for a 10pm dessert.