Walking in New York City: Everything You Need to Know

It may sound obvious, but keep a low profile. As a matter of fact, the best way to avoid trouble in NYC is to look and act like a New Yorker. This shows immensely in the way you walk.

New Yorkers’ favorite mode of transportation is their feet. It has even become a timing tool. If it takes a minute to walk a block and the destination is 10 blocks away, they know it will take them 10 minutes to get there. To unlock this master walk level, here are some quick tips:

• Keep to your right. Walking always on the right will help you go with the flow of traffic and be part of the crowd.
• Don’t stop short. If you see something or forgot where you are walking to, don’t just suddenly stop. Move to the side of a building and stay put. Finish your business and then keep walking.
• Pick up the pace. New York is known for moving fast and so will you, if you want to fit in.
• Be confident. Don’t cling onto your bag as if you are afraid a mugger will steal your Prada out of nowhere. That only makes you an easier target. Walk confident and check your route before you leave, this way it will seem like this is your usual morning stroll to the Central Park Zoo.

If you are walking with all your family, keep the two-by-two rule. Our sidewalks aren’t wide enough for your party of 5 people. Try to divide in pairs, especially since you will definitely look like a tourist, and potentially a target, if you are surrounded by a bunch of people wearing I ❤︎ NYC shirts. Walk with a buddy and keep the streets flowing. This way it will be less likely that someone approaches you.

If someone does try to approach you in an aggressive way, grab your friend or family member and step into the nearest store. If questioned, inform the clerk that you were either being followed or someone made you uncomfortable. Then, thank them and who knows? Maybe you stepped into the right store to buy that missing souvenir for your coworker back at home.

If this is your first time walking in NYC, you might be thinking you will finally have time to take all those Instagram worthy pictures. The truth is, while you will have time to snap a few pics, don’t make this your top priority. If you stay on a spot for too long trying to get the “perfect selfie” you might find yourself in trouble. This also applies to Google maps, messaging apps, and phones overall. Don’t spend too much time with your phone out in the open. Be aware of your surroundings and you should be just fine.

If you decided to hang out during the night, make sure to stay on well-lit streets. Don’t choose shortcuts through dark alleys or decide to investigate that corner everyone is avoiding. If you don’t think walking is the best option, always carry some emergency cash to grab a cab by the end of the night. It’s best to be safe than sorry.

Common sense should keep you safe enough! And if you see something suspicious, report it to the authorities. NYC is a welcoming city and we promise you will have the best time of your life.

The Lombardy Hotel is located in the Middle of Manhattan. We are on a walking distance to the best restaurants and entertainment stops in New York City. Make sure to enjoy our relaxing spa installations after your walk around Manhattan. Or if walking isn’t your thing, be sure to stay in motion in our perfectly equipped gym, free to all our guests and opened 24/7. Whether you are visiting NYC on business or pleasure, we look forward to hosting you.