30 Things We Only See In New York

Pizza Slice Bigger Than Your Head

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When you order a slice in New York, be prepared for a cheesy behemoth. These slices are so large that you'll need to fold them in half to take a bite, and they come loaded with a tantalizing blend of toppings. It's a culinary experience that's as big as the city itself.

Subway Performers Extraordinaire

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As you descend into the subway, you're not just entering a transit system; you're stepping into a world of entertainment. From classically trained violinists to breakdancers defying gravity, the subway platforms become stages for incredible talent. It's a daily dose of culture that's uniquely New York.

Sidewalk Food Vendors Haven

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New York's sidewalks are a food lover's paradise. Whether you're in the mood for a classic hot dog with all the fixings, a soft pretzel dusted with salt, or a flavorful gyro from a halal cart, you'll find it on nearly every corner. These sidewalk vendors are the heartbeat of the city's street food scene.

Sky-High Rooftop Bars

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For an elevated drinking experience, head to one of the city's sky-high rooftop bars. Picture yourself sipping a perfectly crafted cocktail while taking in breathtaking views of Manhattan's towering skyscrapers. It's a slice of luxury nestled among the concrete jungle.

Traffic Jams of Yellow Cabs

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The streets of New York City are a constant ballet of yellow cabs darting through the urban jungle. The cacophony of honking horns and the sight of taxis weaving through traffic create a lively rhythm that's as much a part of the city's soundtrack as any song. It's the organized chaos that defines NYC's streetscape.

Times Square's Blinding Lights

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When night falls, Times Square transforms into a dazzling wonderland of neon lights. The sheer brightness of the signs is so intense that it's been said you might want to bring your sunglasses to this concrete jungle. It's like standing in the midst of a luminous dream.

Street Art Masterpieces

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In New York City, every brick wall can become a canvas. From the thought-provoking murals of Banksy to the iconic figures of Keith Haring, graffiti here isn't just vandalism; it's a vivid expression of the city's creative spirit. Every stroll through the streets unveils a new masterpiece.

Squirrel Whisperers in Central Park

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Central Park isn't just a sanctuary for nature; it's where you'll encounter individuals so in tune with its wildlife that squirrels eat right from their hands. It's a testament to the unique human-animal connection that thrives in the heart of the city.

A Park Inside a Park: High Line Oasis

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Walking the High Line is a bit like discovering a secret garden suspended above the bustling city. Lush greenery, wildflowers, and art installations make this elevated park a serene escape from the urban chaos below. It's a harmonious blend of nature and cityscape.

Bagel Shops on Every Block

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New Yorkers are fiercely loyal to their bagels, and it's easy to see why. Forget fast food chains; the city boasts a bagel shop on practically every block. Each one claims to have the fluffiest, most flavorful bagel with the cream cheese that will change your life.

MTA Subway Creatures

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While commuting underground, you might just spot someone with an unexpected travel companion: a pet turtle. But that's just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to subway oddities. From unique buskers to colorful characters, the subway is a microcosm of the city's diversity.

Sidewalk Art Galleries

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New York City's sidewalks are more than just pathways; they're open-air galleries. Talented street artists use the pavement as their canvas, offering passersby a rotating display of creativity. Every block becomes an opportunity for artistic discovery.

Bodega Cats

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In the heart of the city, many local delis have a quirky solution for pest control – resident felines. These "bodega cats" become beloved members of the store, often seen napping on shelves or curiously exploring the aisles while keeping unwanted critters at bay. They're the fluffy guardians of your late-night snack runs.

Fire Escapes as Second Balconies

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Fire escapes in New York City aren't just for emergencies; they serve as unofficial balconies, where residents perch to enjoy their morning coffee or bask in the city's vibrant atmosphere. These metal structures become extensions of homes and a unique vantage point for people-watching.

City That Never Stops Building

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New York City's skyline is in a constant state of transformation. It feels like there's an eternal ballet of construction cranes, as the city evolves, adding new buildings and architectural marvels to its ever-growing landscape. It's a testament to the city's unceasing ambition.

Steam Rising from Manholes

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The cinematic image of steam rising from New York's manholes isn't just movie magic; it's a regular occurrence. The steam, often accompanied by a subtle hiss, adds an eerie yet oddly comforting ambiance to the city's streets, especially during chilly evenings.

Baggage-Toting Subway Rats

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Even the subway rats in New York City are a testament to the city's hustle and bustle. You might spot these furry commuters scurrying around the platforms, sometimes dragging small objects like discarded bags or pizza crusts. They navigate the underground labyrinth with surprising determination.

Fashion from Runway to Sidewalk

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In the fashion capital of the world, style is everywhere. You can witness the full spectrum of fashion, from high-fashion models strutting down runways during Fashion Week to everyday New Yorkers effortlessly showcasing their unique style on the streets. Fashion here isn't just clothing; it's an art form.

Immersive Street Performances

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Walking through the city can feel like stumbling upon impromptu performances. From dancers twirling gracefully in parks to magicians wowing crowds on street corners, the city streets become stages for talented individuals who bring joy and wonder to passersby. It's an ever-changing spectacle.

Dogs in Strollers

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In a city where walking is a way of life, even dogs have adapted to the fast-paced lifestyle. Pampered pooches often ride in style in pet strollers, a common sight on sidewalks. It's a testament to the deep bond between New Yorkers and their furry companions, ensuring no dog gets left behind.

Subterranean Speakeasies

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Beneath the city's busy streets lies a hidden world of speakeasies, reminiscent of the Prohibition era. These clandestine bars, accessible through secret entrances, transport you to a bygone era of jazz, glamour, and crafted cocktails. It's a glimpse into the city's secretive and stylish nightlife.

Traffic Directors at Gridlock

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When Manhattan's gridlock reaches its peak, unsung heroes emerge – traffic directors who navigate the chaos with precision. They use a mix of hand signals and charisma to keep the endless stream of cars flowing. It's a testament to the city's determination to maintain order amidst the hustle.

"Only in New York" Celeb Sightings

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In NYC, celebrity sightings are part of the daily routine. Whether it's catching a glimpse of an A-list actor filming on the streets or spotting a famous musician at a local cafe, New Yorkers take it in stride. The city's nonchalant attitude towards fame is part of its charm.

Staircases to Nowhere

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Among the city's architectural quirks, you'll find buildings with staircases that seemingly lead to the clouds. These decorative but functionally perplexing staircases are relics of a time when aesthetics took precedence over practicality. They add a touch of whimsy to the city's skyline.

Pigeons and Pigeon Feeders

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In a city where pigeons are urban royalty, there are always kind-hearted souls who scatter birdseed in parks, attracting flocks of feathered friends. These impromptu bird feeders create a serene contrast to the city's hustle, offering a moment of tranquility amidst the chaos.

Public Art That Stops You

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New York's public art installations are more than just decoration; they're thought-provoking masterpieces that command attention. From colossal sculptures to interactive exhibits, these artworks challenge the way you perceive the world around you. They're a reminder that creativity knows no bounds in the city that never sleeps.

A Park for Every Mood

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New York City's diverse parks cater to every emotional need. Central Park offers a peaceful retreat from the urban bustle, with tranquil lakes and tree-lined paths. Bryant Park, on the other hand, buzzes with activity, featuring open-air libraries and vibrant events. Whether you seek solitude or socializing, NYC's parks have you covered.

Hail a Water Taxi

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NYC's water taxis aren't just a means of transportation; they're a unique way to experience the city's skyline. Commuters and tourists alike can hop on these boats to enjoy breathtaking views of iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge. It's a waterborne adventure amid the city's concrete canyons.

Iconic Brownstone Streets

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New York's picturesque brownstone streets, like those in Brooklyn's Park Slope or Manhattan's West Village, transport you to a bygone era. These charming neighborhoods boast rows of historic brownstone townhouses, each with its unique character and story. It's a step back in time amidst the modern cityscape.

Late-Night Bagel Cravings

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In the city that truly never sleeps, your bagel cravings don't adhere to regular business hours. Fortunately, 24/7 bagel shops are scattered throughout New York, ensuring you can always satisfy that late-night urge for a warm, chewy delight slathered in cream cheese. It's a testament to the city's round-the-clock energy and appetite.

Eating Pizza No Matter The Time Of Day

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Not only do you have the biggest pizza slices imaginable in New York, it's also acceptable to eat them any time of day - and we're talking pizza for breakfast, for lunch and dinner. And for brunch. And supper. No one is going to bat an eye if you're ordering pizza at 6am.

Knowing Way Too Much About Broadway Shows

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New York is known for its epic Broadway shows, of course, but people from anywhere else in the world might only know vague details of the shows on in their area. In this city, though, pretty much every person is going to know the full headlining cast of every show, and all the juicy details.

'Black' Being The Acceptable Color Choice For Summer

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Black is just the done/worn thing in New York, no matter the weather or no matter the vibe. So if you're planning a trip there and you're worried about wearing too many dark clothes or if black is all you have, don't worry - you're going to blend in perfectly with the locals!

Starbucks On Every Corner

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Most places in the world will have a Starbucks or two, but New York City takes it to the next level with a Starbucks literally on every street corner. If one looks too busy, you won't have to look very far for another one... and another one... just keep going, you'll never run out of coffee.

Taking A Subway Everywhere Except For The Airport

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The subway is a very handy way to get around the big city, of course, but people here can take this to the extreme in using the subway for pretty much every single journey, no matter how hop-on hop-off short it is. But the only time it's acceptable not to is when taking an Uber to the airport.

Taking A Random Class First Thing In The Morning

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It's the city that never sleeps, of course, so there's going to be nothing weird about taking a dance class, a music class or a fitness class at 5 in the morning - nothing weird about that at all. This is a city that has something going on any time of the day, and hey, some people like to dance before their morning coffee and not after!

Owning A Bike (But Never Using It)

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It just seems a done thing for most people living in New York to have a bike parked in the hallway of their apartment building or trailing it around on the street - but there's a catch. They never actually use it. It's like owning a bike is a rite of passage but nobody added a clause about actually needing to ride it.

Pool Parties On The Roof

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Pool parties in New York are a very done thing, but it's not really a pool party if it's not on a very high roof, now, is it? No pool party would be complete if you don't have a full aerial view of the big city while you're in your swimwear and sipping on a cocktail under the bright lights.

Spending Your Full Wage At A Farmer's Market

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You're not really living in New York if you don't blow your full rent check in one weekend when the farmer's market comes to town - or should we say, city. Farmer's markets are so popular that the number of them happening have actually been growing - so bad news for your bank account.

Yoga On The Roof

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Yoga is a great way to keep fit, but in New York - just like with their pool parties - it doesn't really count if you're not doing it on top of a roof. There's just something about yoga first thing in the morning as the sun is coming up over the buildings - or in the evening just as it's setting.

Wearing Jeans At A High End Restaurant

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If there's one thing New York is known for its a ton of high-class, Michelin star restaurants, so you might think it's an unspoken rule to dress up rather formally to go eat at them. Surprisingly, it's accepted to just wear jeans and casual clothing to any fancy restaurant you find.

Taking Any Fitness Class In Central Park

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Fitness classes in New York aren't just going to be in some hot, tiny studio - if they can get outside, they will. No fitness class can be considered as such if they haven't had at least one session outside, slap bang in the middle of Central Park, for everyone else to see.

Never, Ever Wanting A Hot Dog - Until Now

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You've spent your life not really being a big fan of hot dogs. If you could order any food you wanted at any restaurant, a hot dog would never even cross your mind. But suddenly you're in New York and you're buying far too many hot dogs - just because you can, and because they're everywhere.

Designer Shades At All Times

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One thing you'll want to pair with those consistently black outfits everybody is wearing around New York is a pair of designer shades, of course. Any other cheap pair of sunglasses just won't cut it when you're in the big city - they need that big name, and you need everyone to be able to see it.

Being Okay With Waiting For Hours For Something Trendy

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Many new trends hit New York City all the time, and especially relating to food, and for some reason it's acceptable in this state to be happy waiting in line for hours at a time to get a taste at something new being peddled on the street, or to get into that new store that's just opened.

Any Skyline/Big Building Selfie

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No selfie in New York is complete without a huge building purposefully in the background - points if it's the Empire State. If you're looking to post pictures of your trip to New York on your social media feed, then do like the locals and make sure you have the skyline taking up 90% of the photo.

Having To Take A Ferry To Work

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Most of us would complain about a car drive for a commute, or a packed train - but it's just a normal thing in New York to actually have to take A WHOLE FERRY JOURNEY just to get to work! It's no biggie, it's as normal as taking the subway or eating a massive slice of pizza for breakfast.

Times Square Being No Big Deal

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For most travelers, Times Square is one of the biggest must-sees on the to-do list, but for locals it's very much become background noise. It's no big deal walking through Times Square, and they probably aren't even giving a second - or first - glance to any of the signs.

The Cost Of Tiny Apartments

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New York City is also known for its extortionate real estate prices where you don't get very much for your big buck. The cost of tiny apartments in the city are not only very, very high, but most people are also paying it and getting very little amenities and space in return!

Ordering A Coffee - With A Side Of Espresso

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There's a Starbucks on every corner, so it's no surprise coffee is such a big deal in this city, but what is very common in New York specifically is a coffee with a side of another coffee: espresso. For such a vibrant city, it's no surprise that most people need a shot of coffee before they're awake enough to drink their other coffee.