Top 5 Mistakes Visitors Make in NYC and How to Avoid Them

New York City is the greatest city in the world. The city is fast-paced, exciting, full of history and memories waiting to happen. But it can also be overwhelming. As a local tour guide who’s walked these streets thousands of times and with travelers from around the world, I’ve seen the same mistakes happen again and again. You can feel the stress as you walk by groups trying how to get to their next destination or are under a time crunch.

Here is my personal list of the top 5 mistakes I see visitors make all the time and how you can avoid them to make your NYC trip smoother and way more fun.

1. Trying to Do Too Much in One Day

Packing your itinerary for a day with8-10 attractions and thinking you’ll breeze through them. New York City is bigger than it looks and can be complicated for newcomers. Travel between neighborhoods takes time and requires careful planning to make sure you are maximizing your day. If not, you’ll end up rushed, stressed, and not fully enjoying anything.

My Solution:
Pick 2–3 main areas or experiences per day you or your family want to do. Build in time to explore, eat, and wander so you have some flexibility. Try to have only one thing that has a hard time on it like a Broad way show or restaurant reservation. Then the rest of the day you can be flexible if an activity or travel takes a little longer. Not being in a rush gives you a better feel for the city and gives you the opportunity to appreciate the history and memories you are making.

2. Sticking Only to Times Square and Midtown

Yes, they are the most popular places butt hey are also heavy with tourists and there is so much more to experience. New York City’s real charm is its neighborhoods.

My Solution:
Explore places like Central Park, the Village, DUMBO,the Real Little Italy in the Bronx, Lower Manhattan etc. Book a local guide(like me 😉) to help plan your experience, discover hidden gems and narrate the history of where you are.

3. Not Using the Subway (Or Getting Lost In It)

Relying entirely on taxis or ride apps—or getting confused and giving up on the subway altogether. You’ll waste time and money. Plus, you're skipping a true NYC experience.

My Solution in 2 parts:
1. Make sure you have your credit card in your wallet on your phone or have your credit card ready. Then you can simply tap the OMNY payment system as you go through the turnstile. Do not stand at a machine and get a metro card. Waste of time and by the end of 2025 they will be completely phased out.

2. Use Google Maps or download the MTA app for easy subway directions. Don’t be afraid to ask New Yorkers for help—we move fast, but we’re happy to point you in the right direction.

4. Dining in Chain Restaurants You Can Find at Home

Eating at Olive Garden or Apple bee’s in Times Square so be against the law. You’re in one of the world’s greatest food cities. Experience as much of the local cuisine as you can. From dollar dumplings to Michelin stars, the options are endless and unique to the city.

My Solutions:
1. Try a classic NYC slice of pizza.
2. Grab bagels from a local deli.
3. Explore a food tour.
4. Use Yelp to read reviews of restaurants that are near you.

5. Stopping in the Middle of the Sidewalk

Pausing on a busy sidewalk to check your phone, take a photo, or read your map is not the best idea. You will annoy us locals, possibly get bumped or pushed, and or a local might give you what I call a colorful New York hello.

My Solution:
If you need to use your phone while you are walking simply move to the side or step into a store alcove. NYC sidewalks are like highways: keep moving and stay alert or you might get a New York Hello from a local.