Use OMNY to pay for subways and buses by simply tapping your contactless credit card or mobile wallet at the turnstile—no need to buy a physical MetroCard.

Stand on the right side of escalators and keep moving on sidewalks; New Yorkers treat sidewalks like highways and stopping abruptly is considered rude.

Download the "TKTS" app or visit the red booth in Lincoln Center (instead of Times Square) to find 50% off same-day Broadway tickets with shorter lines.

Carry a refillable water bottle; New York City tap water comes from the Catskills and is widely considered the best-tasting municipal water in the U.S.

Visit the "High Line" park at sunrise or on a weekday morning to enjoy the elevated greenery before the heavy tourist crowds arrive at 11:00 AM.

Avoid the "Statue City Cruises" lines at Battery Park by taking the free Staten Island Ferry for a great view of the Statue of Liberty without the cost.

Check for "Pay-What-You-Wish" hours at museums like the Whitney or the Guggenheim; many offer these slots on Friday evenings for NYC residents and visitors.

Avoid the "CD Guys" or costumed characters in Times Square who offer "free" items or photos; they will aggressively demand $10–$20 immediately afterward.

Download the "Resy" or "OpenTable" apps to book dinner reservations at least 2–4 weeks in advance for popular spots in the West Village or SoHo.

Pack a portable power bank; cold weather in winter and heavy GPS usage while navigating the concrete jungle will drain your phone battery quickly.

Shop at "Trader Joe's" or local bodegas for snacks and drinks to avoid the $5–$7 price markups at convenience stores in tourist-heavy zones.

Head to "Koreatown" (32nd St) for 24-hour dining and karaoke; many of the best spots are located on the 2nd or 3rd floors of unassuming buildings.

Avoid the horse-drawn carriages in Central Park if you're on a budget; they are very expensive and you can see the same sights much better on foot.