Ten Things Not to Do in New York City (Reizen)

If you're planning a trip to New York City, you need travel advice from someone who knows her way around. Because while there's a lot to do in New York City—plenty of iconic places to eat and drink and see—there are also a lot of things not to do: Crowded tourist traps, overhyped eateries, and not-so-authentic experiences are among the ones you should feel free to skip, especially if your time in town is limited. (On the other hand, even locals agree that a few of New York City's most famous tourist attractions are actually worth every elbow bump, every admission dollar, and every minute you spend in line: the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island, to name a few.)

What not to do in New York is a touchy subject that's bound to inspire some strong reactions. Which is precisely why we couldn't resist putting forth our own list: Like most New Yorkers, the Concierge.com staff has an opinion or two (or two thousand) about what's really worth doing and what's not. For your enjoyment, outrage, and debate, therefore, here are ten of New York's most played-out, overrated, nonessential nonattractions—and what to do instead. Take it from the locals.

Published in June 2009

If you need a ride, don't…
TAKE A PEDI-CAB

Pause on any street corner near Times Square or Herald Square and an insistent pedal-pusher will attempt to take your wallet for a ride—quoting as much as $25 to tow you 20 blocks. Since no self-respecting New Yorker will stand for the price-gouging, hopping aboard will flag you as a tourist faster than strapping on a fanny pack or donning a Red Sox cap. And skip the taxis, too: expensive, often terrifying, and bad for the planet.

Instead…
TAKE THE SUBWAY

On an average weekday, straphangers take over 5 million trips on the NYC subway system. That's because it's safe, fast, easy to navigate, environmentally friendly, in operation 24/7, and cheap. Savvy visitors also know that subway cars offer better people-watching than Greenwich Village and more cultural immersion than the United Nations: Board any car and you'll be surrounded by a cross section of city dwellers, from artists to bankers to just-off-the-boat immigrants. (Just try not to stare.) Remember, too, that NYC is a great walking city. At the fast clip favored by locals, you can hoof it from Times Square to Central Park in less than 20 minutes.—Lynn Suhrie