As a local NYC tour guide, I have non-traditional work hours and since most of my friends work during the day, I do many things alone in New York City.
For those of you visiting NYC alone, I’ve got some suggestions for how to enjoy New York City on your own!
Below are nine of the best things for solo travelers to do in New York City.
But you can find hundreds more from our ultimate list of things to do in NYC.
Also in this article, I include safety tips, ideas for where to dine, how to meet people and hotels suited to solo travelers.
I've also used some of the ideas from people like you, who are members of our popular NYC Travel Tips Facebook group.
- Things to Do Alone in NYC
- Best Hotels For Solo Travelers
- Dining Solo
- How To Meet People
- Is New York Safe For Solo Travelers?
- Things To Do In NYC
THINGS TO DO IN NYC ALONE
Explore Central Park
What’s nice about visiting Central Park on one’s own is that there are always people in the park alone.
You won't have any group envy here! I love to sit and read a book or have a solo picnic.
As you wander through the park, you’ll come across musicians playing music of all kinds.
I recently came across an unbelieve jazz quartet from nearby Julliard Music School.
I will say that the park is quite large with many interesting landmarks and features so you should consider using some sort of guide.
You can use our self-guided tour, or join one of our Central Park walking tours.
TIP: Taking a walking tour is a great way to meet other solo travelers. I’ll mention some tours in this article for you to consider.
See a Broadway Show
One of the challenges I have when traveling on my own is how to spend my evenings.
I don't let that stop me from going out though -- I'm not going to sit in my hotel and waste precious hours discovering a new city.
Seeing a performance of some sort is perfect for solo travelers since there’s no need for a companion to talk to - you’ll be too busy enjoying the show!
In this video, my fellow tour guide Katie (our theater expert), here at Tours by Foot NYC, explains the many ways to get discounted Broadway show tickets.
If you are on a budget, as I am when I travel, there are ways to get cheap tickets to Broadway shows, even for the best shows like Hamilton or The Lion King.
Our article on things to do at night in New York City has so many more options for you to do after dark that are suitable for solo travelers.
Hang Out in Greenwich Village
Known as the Village, this neighborhood is awesome for solo travelers.
It’s got a very relaxed vibe and there are lots of inexpensive delicious places to eat.
Head over to Washington Square Park (below), one of my favorite places to go alone.
It’s great for people-watching and there are always impromptu jams with people playing all sorts of instruments and people singing along.
I encourage you to join in even if your voice isn't so great (mine isn’t). There are no judgements in Washington Square Park.
Read about all the great things to do in Greenwich Village or see if one of Greenwich Village tours interests you.
Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge
I’ve lived in New York my whole life and I love walking over what I think is the most beautiful bridge in the world.
Sure I am biased as a Brooklynite, but I hear from so many of my tour guests how much they liked walking over the bridge.
The views of the harbor are breathtaking!
Walking over the bridge takes about 20 minutes if you don't stop for more than a few minutes.
You can extend your walk by exploring one or both of these great neighborhoods right next to the Brooklyn side of the bridge: Brooklyn Heights and DUMBO.
Read our article on making the most of your walk across the Brooklyn Bridge.
Go to a Museum
I know this is an obvious one, but that doesn't mean it’s a bad idea!
NYC has 145 museums (!) across the five boroughs, so whatever your interests are, there's a museum just for you.
That's pretty overwhelming so see our list of the best museums in NYC to narrow down your choices.
If you love art, NYC is heaven. The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is a stand-out.
Two other fantastic museums are The Guggenheim and the Whitney Museum.
Both have pay-what-you-wish entry so take advantage of this opportunity to save money.
The Guggenheim is free on Mondays and Saturdays from 4 pm to 5:30 pm. The Whitney is free on Fridays from 5 pm to 10 pm.
See what other NYC museums that are free or nearly free.
TIP: When I go to the Whitney, I spend some time before or after at the High Line, which I write about just below.
Stroll the High Line
The High Line is an amazing urban park built on repurposed elevated railroad tracks. You'll get great views of Midtown Manhattan and the Hudson River.
What I love about the High Line is the juxtaposition of the greenery of the park and the innovative architectural styles of the buildings that line the High Line.
Plus, there are some fascinating stories about the history of the park and the surrounding neighborhood.
Walking along the High Line is a lovely experience, but I feel that you’ll have a richer experience by taking some kind of guided tour.
Here's our free downloadable PDF and a list of High Line tours.
You might enjoy our High Line audio guide too.
Take the Free Staten Island Ferry
The Staten Island Ferry is one of the very best free things to do in NYC alone.
It's a quick round trip from Lower Manhattan and you'll get amazing views of the tip of Manhattan, all of New York Harbor and Brooklyn.
The ferry passes right by the Statue of Liberty so you will have an up-close look.
Read more here about taking this great free ride.
TIP: If you want to go to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, which is a fantastic thing to do alone, see our article explaining ticket options.
Enjoy Free Activities in Bryant Park
Bryant Park in Midtown Manhattan always has something going on and there are dozens of activities year-round, most of which are free.
Lots of locals come here to eat their lunch alone, so you won't be the only one on your own.
I always attend the free outdoor movie nights and concerts in the summer.
In the winter you can go ice skating and browse the wonderful holiday market.
Bryant Park is a perfect spot to sit and read a book - they even have a "Reading Room" where you can borrow a book.
Speaking of books, the stunning New York Public Library, just next to the park, offers free tours.
TIP: There is free Wi-Fi in the park. See where else in NYC you can pick up free Wi-Fi.
Hunt for a Good Book to Read
I've written above about places that are prime for relaxing and reading a book.
If you don't have a book in mind, Strand Books carries over 2.5 million used, new, and rare books, covering every topic imaginable.
The used books are very cheap and the books on the $1 cart outside the shop are even cheaper!
The store also hosts events like readings and lectures by today's most interesting provocative personalities.
BEST NEW YORK HOTELS FOR SOLO TRAVELERS
You should limit your hotel search simply because you are traveling alone.
By all means, look into any hotels that interest you. Still, there are some considerations when choosing a hotel.
Here are some things I keep in mind when picking accommodations when I travel alone. These apply to New York City as well.
1. Narrow down your choices by finding a neighborhood that is safe and lively.
The more people around, the better you will feel returning to your hotel late at night.
2. You’ll want a neighborhood with lots of cafes and restaurants that are good for dining alone.
3. Some hotels have a built-in social scene, with scheduled activities, game rooms, and lounges that are welcoming to solo travelers.`
4. Look for hotels within a few blocks of a subway station. You will also have a quick, safe walk to your hotel at night.
5. If you want to meet fellow solo travelers, consider staying at a hostel.
These hotels are good options for those traveling alone in New York City:
The Pod hotels are reasonably priced and lean toward social atmospheres. Some have playrooms and very welcoming lobbies and lounges.
They have several locations: Pod 51, Pod Times Square, Pod 39 and Pod Brooklyn.
Pod 39 in particular is a great solo traveler hotel. They pride themselves on being “all about connectivity – be it to the city, our staff, or your fellow urban nomads.”
Plus, there is a fantastic rooftop bar!
Ace Hotel is in NoMad, a safe and central location near Midtown Manhattan. There’s a subway on the corner and it’s within walking distance of many popular attractions.
Better still, the hotel holds social events every night in the lobby. This is a perfect opportunity to meet other travelers.
Leo House is a Catholic guesthouse but there is no requirement that you have certain religious beliefs. Many solo women travelers report that it feels very safe and homey and that it is a good atmosphere overall.
Leo House is located in Chelsea, a lively neighborhood that has many peaceful spots as well. You are within walking distance of the High Line, a must-see urban park.
See our article on Where to Stay in New York City organized by neighborhood.
DINING ALONE IN NEW YORK
In New York City, lots of people enjoy their meals without companions. I certainly do!
Bring a book, play on your phone, or people-watch, something that New Yorkers love to do.
Restaurants have no issue with you being a solo diner, though I've found in my travels that solo diners sometimes get seated in the back of the restaurant.
I find this just awful! Don't be shy to ask for a better table.
If you want to enjoy your food with others and meet other solo travelers, take a food tour like our pay-what-you-wish food tours.
Your best bet for meals is small cafes and restaurants. Of course, you must get a slice of New York pizza.
A lot of New Yorkers have a bagel and coffee for breakfast. Try it and you will see why so many do this!
In nice weather, get some take-out food and enjoy it in a park.
You can also opt for food courts, restaurants with communal tables, and restaurants that cater specifically to solo travelers.
In this video, my fellow tour guide Katie and I introduce you to the foods that you could get in the Lower East Side.
Food Halls
I really appreciate the number of food halls and markets there are in NYC.
I never feel strange dining alone at these places and the range of cuisines to try is fantastic.
Chelsea Market has lots of different kinds of foods to enjoy there or to take out. Since it is next to the High Line, grab some food to bring with you and eat.
Essex Market on the Lower East Side has lots of space to sit and is light and spacious inside.
If you are thinking of going to Essex Market, why not join us for our food tour of the Lower East Side instead?
Time Out Market is located in DUMBO in Brooklyn. It has a roof deck to bring your food and enjoy views like this!
Gansevoort Market is inside the Oculus in the World Trade Center.
Citizens at Manhattan West is a 40,000-square-foot space with nine separate food hall kiosks.
It’s located in Chelsea in Hudson Yards within walking distance to the High Line as well as the observation deck Edge.
DeKalb Market Hall is a very lively dining hall located in downtown Brooklyn within walking distance of Brooklyn Heights.
Communal Tables
Le Pain Quotidien is a very good chain restaurant and quite affordable.
Roberta's serves some of the absolute best pizza in town.
It’s in Bushwick, home to the Bushwick Collective where you can see some of the best street art and murals from world-famous artists.
Clinton Hall has communal tables and serves great food in a friendly atmosphere.
They have several locations. The location in Lower Manhattan is perfect if you plan on visiting the 9/11 memorial or taking the free Staten Island Ferry.
Want To Be Alone While Dining Out?
Ichiran is a restaurant that is perfect for those who want to dine alone in some private space.
They have brought their Japanese solo-dining booth concept to New York City along with fabulous ramen!
There are four locations, Midtown Manhattan, Times Square, and Downtown Brooklyn and Bushwick also in Brooklyn.
Ichiran is so popular that there can be a wait, but it is worth it!
HOW TO MEET PEOPLE IN NEW YORK
New York City is an excellent destination for solo travelers, for both men and women.
There are so many people living here - including me - who spend time on their own.
I am always on the lookout for group activities as I love meeting new people.
If you do want to meet other travelers and locals, there are a few ways to do so.
Join a Walking Tour
Taking walking tours and food tours is a great way to learn about the city and meet new people.
Our walking tours and food tours attract travelers from all over the world and quite a lot of solo travelers.
Our guides are very friendly and they always make sure that no one feels left out of the tour experience!
NYC Meetups
If you are familiar with Meetup.com, use it as a resource for spending time with other people.
Many New York City groups arrange all sorts of activities.
Often, the people who turn up don't know each other so they are in the same boat as you!
I'm a member of several local Meetup groups including one to meet international travelers.
At Your Hotel
Many hotels and hostels have common spaces, like the lobby, a game room, a TV lounge, and a bar or restaurant.
You’ll be surrounded by other travelers who may be looking to connect with other people.
IS NEW YORK SAFE FOR SOLO TRAVELERS?
It’s normal to be concerned with safety when traveling alone, even more so in such a huge city like New York.
But rest assured, you will be fine if you follow some safety tips.
The tips below are for everyone. These are the things I do as a local.
However, women solo travelers face challenges that men solo travelers typically do not.
Here are two in-depth articles for women traveling alone:
I found the tips and suggestions helpful on my solo trips abroad.
Always Pay Attention To Your Surroundings
You probably do this already, but take it up a notch in NYC.
If you find yourself in a densely crowded area, be aware of who is in your immediate surroundings.
Pay extra attention on the subway during rush hours when the trains can be packed.
Speaking of the subway, save yourself time and confusion by reading our article on using the subway before you arrive in New York City.
Be vigilant when you are on unpopulated streets at night.
Many neighborhoods will be lively on their main streets, but side streets can be very quiet and you may not see a single person.
As best you can, stay on streets that are well-lit and fairly populated.
Do not listen to music on the streets at night. Take those earbuds out and listen to who and what is around you.
Try To Blend In With The Locals
There is no shame in being a solo traveler in NYC.
Carry yourself with confidence. Act like you own the city.
Read up on the areas you are going before heading out so you will have a lay of the land.
Never Leave Your Bag Unattended
This is a given in most cities. Be sure at all times to have your bag and other belongings with you.
Don’t leave your purse or phone on a table while you go off to use the restaurant restroom.
Keep your bags closed and any valuables out of sight. Don’t have your phone sticking out of your back pocket.
More Safety Tips
Read up on even more safety tips from our article, Is New York Safe to Visit for Tourists? as well as 15 Mistakes to Avoid in New York City.
TIPS FROM LOCALS AND TRAVELERS
This article is based primarily on my experiences doing things alone in NYC but I thought it would be good to get some suggestions from our New York Travel Tips Facebook group.
A question that comes up quite frequently in our group is from someone who wants to visit New York City but is reluctant to do so alone.
Hundreds of reassuring comments poured in!
Many solo travelers post in our group seeking suggestions of where to stay.
Hotels of all kinds were recommended, but the Pod hotels stood out. Read more about them above.
The Edison was mentioned several times. It is one of the most liked hotels by members of our Facebook group.
As we mentioned, hostels are a good option for solo travelers as they provide opportunities to meet people.
Hosteling International came highly recommended by many solo travelers as did the YMCA, one of the affordable places to stay in the city for those traveling alone or with others.
As for what to do here when you are alone? There isn't anything you can't do!
We were proud to see our tours listed as a great activity for those traveling alone. Our guests are always friendly to each other, whether solo or not.
Plus, our guides keep an eye out for solo travelers to make sure you don't feel left out.
Don’t rule Broadway out. It can be easier to get a single ticket than two!
Over and over, group members suggested the free Staten Island Ferry ride. It’s a highlight for anyone coming to NYC.
So is walking over the Brooklyn Bridge. Bost tourists and locals love it!
Parks are also popular. They can make for great people-watching!
One big concern that solo travelers have is about dining options. It’s not fun to have every meal in your room alone.
Nearly every group member who commented on this concern said this is simply not something to worry about in NYC!
It’s quite normal to see solo diners in NYC. There won't be any discomfort about it.
Nor will any restaurant turn you away. So choose any restaurant your heart desires!
Not only can you dine anywhere, but you may have better luck getting a spot at restaurants where tables are completely booked.
Plus, bartenders and other guests dining at the bar are usually friendly!
Women traveling alone to New York City can take comfort in the dozens and dozens of comments about safety.
Both locals and travelers say it’s safe, but did encourage using the common sense safety precautions listed in this article.
Quite a few soon-to-be solo travelers wanted to know if they would be able to get others to take photos of them rather than bringing a selfie stick.
Not a single group member said not to bother others. To the contrary. It was encouraged as New Yorkers really do like helping tourists!
If you have any more questions about traveling alone to NYC (or anything else about NYC) that we haven't covered here, check out our New York Travel Tips Facebook group!
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