Other Tips for New York

Look, forget the touristy helicopter tours. The tram costs $2.90 and gives you aerial Manhattan views that'll blow your mind. Runs every 7-15 minutes, takes 3 minutes each way. Best at sunset. F train to Roosevelt Island station.

134 Eldridge St... If you can find the unmarked door. No menu, no reservations, just tell the bartender your mood and they'll craft something perfect. Gets packed after 10pm but worth the wait. Cash only, drinks $16-18. J/Z to Delancey-Essex, walk 3 min.

Weekend service is a mess with construction. Check mta.info or use Citymapper app before leaving your hotel. Trains get rerouted, express becomes local, stations close randomly. That 20-minute trip can become an hour-long nightmare without planning.

The MTA app shows which elevators are working before you travel. Stations like Union Sq, Times Sq, and Columbus Circle have multiple elevators but they break constantly. Always have backup routes planned. 14th St-Union Sq has 6 elevators across different entrances.

Skip the crowded Brooklyn Bridge walkway with strollers. Pier 6 playground has water features, slides, and amazing Manhattan views without the tourist chaos. Kids can run around while you get those Instagram shots. A/C to High St-Brooklyn Bridge.