Where to Go Instead of Times Square When Visiting NYC

To be clear: Youre allowed to visit Times Square!

Thats like going to Disney World and deciding everyone in Florida is named Mickey Mouse.

And I dont mean superior for New York snobs, I mean better for you, the visitor.

Some are cheaper, some are more special, most are both.

And some are still a secret to many New Yorkers.

And those stores are surrounded by much more relaxed, welcoming neighborhoods in every direction.

Or try the boutique shops sprinkled throughout the area, just a few blocks east of Broadway.

Fancy Candy Stores

The giant M&Ms store at Times Square is pretty one-note.

Dylans also has stores at Union Square, Columbus Circle, and JFK airport.

Or try the more working-classEconomy Candyon the Lower East Side.

Broadway shows are good!

The actors and playwrights often have Broadway, TV, and film credits to their name.

If you come in June, youll see far more scintillating costumes at Coney Islands annualMermaid Parade.

Dont be a hipster.

Save the Olive Garden for home, where its cheaper.

Instead, go pretty much anywhere in Little Italy.

Its crowded, but for a good reason.

Just find any local magazines list of best restaurants, like the annual winners ofNew YorksBest of New York.

Something light and unbreakable, like a tea towel.

Those giant blinking LED billboards in the Square are beautiful!

But they look just as good in pictures.

Check out what theHouston Bowery Walllooks like this month.

You know whats cooler than staring up at tall buildings, or quoting movies from 2010?

Staring down from tall buildings.

you’re able to be touristy!

Just be touristy at the good stuff.

And hey, if you go to the World Trade Center, stop by theIrish Hunger Memorial.

The city disappears for a second and youll feel like you walked through a portal into a windswept moor.

Then youll walk up and see the Jersey skyline emerge.

The experience is moving.

Youll never seeeverythingin New York.

No one does, even if we live here.

So make the most of your time here, and see the good stuff.