Welcome to the Voyascape Guide to New York City. Whether you are planning your first visit, returning for another stay, or simply exploring from home, this podcast is designed to help you experience New York more thoughtfully.

This guide is a "best of" bringing together episodes about traveling to New York City from our podcast hosts on the Voyascape Podcast Network. You'll find

• Practical city overviews
• Updated travel advice
• Cultural and historical deep dives
• Neighborhood and hotel insights

This is not a static collection. Whenever a Voyascape show releases a new episode focused on New York City, it will appear here automatically. Follow this feed to keep an up to date, expert guide to New York City in your podcast app.

Let’s explore New York City together.

Instagram: @voyascapemedia

Voyascape Media is a digital-first travel podcast network behind some of the world’s most popular travel podcasts, including Frommer’s Travel Show, Frequent Miler, Travel in 10, and a global portfolio of travel podcasts, reaching travellers in 150+ countries. We help you travel more and travel better. Check out all of our shows at Voyascape.com

We begin at the New York Stock Exchange, but instead of watching the crowds, Susmita leads us to the Federal Hall National Memorial, the “Birthplace of American Government,” where George Washington took the oath of office in 1789. The Doric columns, the bronze Washington statue, and the preserved balcony inside all bring the early republic vividly to life.

Just steps away stands Trinity Church Wall Street, a Gothic masterpiece and the oldest public building still in use in Manhattan. Inside, its stained glass windows glow above the grave of Alexander Hamilton, one of America’s most influential Founding Fathers.

We continue to St. Paul’s Chapel, the Georgian-era sanctuary where Washington prayed after his inauguration, before wandering toward Stone Street, a cobblestone lane dating back to the Dutch colonial era — built by enslaved Africans and now lined with lively restaurants.

Susmita then guides us to Fraunces Tavern Museum, a Revolutionary War landmark where patriots gathered and history unfolded. Across the street, she discovers the preserved remains of 17th‑century New Amsterdam, including the 1667 foundations of the Lovelace Tavern, visible beneath glass panels in the sidewalk.

The journey concludes at the powerful and moving African Burial Ground National Monument, the largest colonial-era burial site for enslaved and free Africans in North America. Rediscovered in 1991, it now stands as a solemn memorial and educational center honoring more than 400 individuals whose labor helped build New York City.

This episode is a thoughtful walk through the origins of the city — a reminder that beneath the financial capital of the world lies a deep, complex, and essential American story.

Written by GoNOMAD contributor Susmita Sengupta.

Explore more than 260 episodes of the GoNOMAD Travel Podcast and discover new places every week.

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Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast

This episode is supported by Smart Travel a new podcast from Nerd Wallet. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Follow Smart Travel wherever you get your podcasts.Smart Travel Podcast

Looking for the best NYC photo spots for your next trip?

➡️ Book a NYC Photo Journeys tour and use the promo code ‘SAVVY10’ to get $10 off any photo tour or photoshoot.

New York City moves fast and it’s easy to spend your trip running from Times Square to Central Park, checking off landmarks without truly taking it in.

I’m joined by Jessie Festa, founder of NYC Photo Journeys, to share the best photo locations in NYC, including underrated spots most travelers miss.

Jessie combines licensed NYC sightseeing tours with professional photography sessions, creating a 2-in-1 experience that helps you explore the city while capturing high-quality images you’ll actually want to frame.

We cover:

• The best NYC photography spots beyond the typical tourist landmarks
• Underrated neighborhoods and hidden gems you may not know about
• Common mistakes travelers make when DIY-planning a trip to New York City
• Why slowing down completely transforms your NYC experience

Whether you’re visiting New York City for the first time or you think you’ve already “seen it all,” this episode will help you discover hidden gems and take in the best views of New York City.

Read blog post: https://thoughtcard.com/nyc-photo-spots/

➡️ Book a NYC Photo Journeys tour and use the promo code ‘SAVVY10’ to get $10 off any photo tour or photoshoot.

Connect with NYC Photo Journeys

Website: https://thoughtcard.com/nyc-photo (Use promo code ‘SAVVY10’)

Follow on Instagram: @nycphototour (Link: https://www.instagram.com/nycphototour/)

Other Episodes You’ll Love

• She Shapes History NYC Walking Tour: Celebrating the Women Who Built NYC - Episode 216
• Best Things To Do in Downtown Manhattan (blog)
• Why Winter is the Best Time to Visit New York City - Episode 186
• Affordable Vacation Spots in the U.S. - Episode 172

Connect With Danielle Desir Corbett

Website: www.thoughtcard.com

Newsletter: ​​https://thethoughtcard.substack.com/

Instagram: @thedaniellecorbett

Work With Me:

Email [email protected] for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

Resources & Recommendations:

➡️ Sign up for a high-yield savings account with Ally Bank

➡️ Sign up for Rakuten and earn cash back on purchases

➡️ Earn points by snapping photos of receipts with Fetch

Support the Show Directly:

• Leave a review in your podcast app—it helps other listeners discover the show
• Share this episode with family and friends who love travel and history

This podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network . For advertising or sponsorship opportunities on this show and across the network, email [email protected] or you can find more information at Voyascape Ads.

Throughout history, women played a powerful role in shaping the city we know today.

I’m joined by Beth Santos and Nikki Padilla Rivera, passionate storytellers from She Shapes History NYC, who are leading walking tours exploring the hidden stories of women who challenged power, rewrote laws, organized communities, and built lasting change across New York City.

Read blog post: https://thoughtcard.com/she-shapes-history-nyc-tours/

We also talk about what makes this guided New York City walking tour different from others, the types of travelers and locals who will love this experience, and what participants can expect to walk away with.

If you love meaningful travel experiences, cultural storytelling, and discovering the untold stories behind famous places, this episode is for you.

➡️ Book a She Shapes History guided walking tour using the promo code ‘TTC100’ to get (2) tickets for $100. (Link: https://thoughtcard.com/she-shapes-history)

Connect with She Shapes History NYC

Website: https://sheshapeshistory.com/new-york

Follow on Instagram: sheshapeshistorynyc (Link: https://www.instagram.com/sheshapeshistorynyc)

Other Episodes You’ll Love

1. Why Winter is the Best Time to Visit New York City - Episode 186
2. Affordable Vacation Spots in the U.S. - Episode 172
3. How To Achieve Your Travel Goals Step-by-Step - Episode 182

Connect With Danielle Desir Corbett

Website: www.thoughtcard.com

Newsletter: ​​https://thethoughtcard.substack.com/

Instagram: @thedaniellecorbett

Work With Me:

Email [email protected] for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

Resources & Recommendations:

➡️ Sign up for a high-yield savings account with Ally Bank

➡️ Sign up for Rakuten and earn cash back on purchases

➡️ Earn points by snapping photos of receipts with Fetch

Support the Show Directly:

1. Leave a review in your podcast app—it helps other listeners discover the show
2. Share this episode with family and friends who love travel and history

Pauline Frommer discussed her newly released guidebook "Frommer's New York City 2026" and what the top culinary trends in the city are right now. She also talked about what it's like to visit NYC's newest observation deck, and how The Studio Museum, Sotheby's and The Jewish Museum have reinvented themselves. Then Kevin Long, CEO of TheDyrt.com, talked about how many new campers there were in 2025, what people can do when there's no room at the campsite, and how this form of vacation is evolving.

Takeaways:

1. The latest edition of Frommer's New York City guidebook was released this fall, highlighting recent changes and attractions in the city.
2. New York City has exciting new attractions and revamped iconic sites.
3. The introduction of a new observation deck in Times Square offers unique nighttime views.
4. A number of new high-end Caribbean restaurants and innovative wine bars are reshaping the city's culinary scene.
5. .Over half of campers had difficulty finding room at their first choice campgrounds in 2025

Companies, products and websites mentioned in this episode:

1. Frommer's New York City 2026
2. Frommers.com
3. Swarovski Crystal
4. One Times Square
5. The Jewish Museum
6. The Studio Museum of Harlem
7. Sotheby's
8. The Dyrt
9. Toyota Trucks
10. Ha's Snack Bar
11. Sunn's Wine Bar
12. Kabawa
13. Lei Wine Bar (this is the name of the restaurant Pauline couldn't remember)

🎄Planning a holiday trip to New York City? NYC Christmas markets are one of the most magical ways to experience the holiday season, but they can also be crowded and overwhelming if you don't know what to expect.

I'm sharing our best NYC Christmas market tips to help you shop smarter and make the most of your time.

Read 'NYC Christmas Markets' blog post: https://thoughtcard.com/christmas-markets-nyc/

🎒Shop Rachel Bloom Anti-Theft Bags

1. Crossbody Bag
2. Smart Mini (I have this one!!!)
3. Smart Crossover

Other Episodes You'll Love

1. How To Outsmart Theives While Traveling with Rachel Bloom - Episode 194
2. Christmas in NYC with a Baby: Festive Things To Do - Episode 116
3. How To Achieve Your Travel Goals - Episode 182

Connect With Danielle Desir Corbett

Website: www.thoughtcard.com

Newsletter: ​​https://thethoughtcard.substack.com/

Instagram: @thedaniellecorbett

Work With Me:

Email [email protected] for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

Seth Kugel, the Tripped Up columnist for the New York Times, shared a shocking tale of an Airbnb stay that went wrong. He also gave advice on how to keep yourself safe in a vacation rental. Then Jason Lucking of pAIback.app, discussed this new flight savings tool.

The Frommer's Travel Podcast was named one of the 13 best for travel by the New York Times. It is hosted by Pauline Frommer, the Publisher of the Frommer's guidebooks and Frommers.com, with new episodes issued weekly.

Today on GoNOMAD, we explore the architectural treasures of lower Manhattan, delving into the rich history and vibrant culture that this area has to offer with GoNOMAD freelance writer Susmita Sengupta.

Our journey begins at the Merchant House Museum, Manhattan's first official landmark, where we step back in time through its preserved Greek Revival interiors. Moving on, we find ourselves in Washington Square Park, a lively gathering spot that captures the essence of New York life, perfect for people watching and soaking in the city’s energy.

Our tour continues through Soho, home to the world’s largest collection of cast-iron buildings, now transformed into boutiques and galleries. We also visit the Tenement Museum, which tells the compelling stories of immigrants who shaped America, and conclude at the Eldridge Street Museum, a stunning synagogue that showcases intricate stained glass and architectural beauty. Each stop provides a glimpse into the diverse narratives that define lower Manhattan.

Planning a trip to NYC? You may be wondering when is the best time to visit New York. Well, you might not expect me to say this, but as a New Yorker who moved away but visits regularly, I can confidently say that WINTER is secretly the best time to experience the city at a deep discount.

If you are looking for the best deals, fewer crowds, and wildly fun adventures, here's why you should book a winter New York City trip.

Read blog post: https://thoughtcard.com/best-time-to-visit-nyc/

Other Episodes You'll Enjoy

1. Trips vs Vacations: What's the Difference? - Episode 179
2. Why You Need a Travel Fund (and How To Start One) - Episode 2

Book Recommendations:

1. Affording Travel
2. We Are Financially Savvy Travelers
3. Other Budget Travel Book Recommendations

Connect With Danielle Desir Corbett

Join my newsletter: https://thethoughtcard.substack.com/

Website: www.thoughtcard.com

Follow on Instagram: @thedanielledesir

Follow on Threads: @thedanielledesir

Work With Me:

Email [email protected] for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

The most significant development in New York City in 2025 is the implementation of the congestion pricing scheme, which has resulted in a remarkable reduction of 26,000 vehicles per day in Manhattan, thereby halving the accident rate in the area.

This transformative initiative reflects a broader commitment to enhancing urban mobility and safety. In addition to the congestion tax, the city has witnessed an expansion of iconic venues such as the High Line, the popular walking path, which is now extended to connect with the Moynihan Train Hall, and the introduction of new electric ferries that align with sustainability goals.

Furthermore, the theatrical landscape remains vibrant, featuring productions like "MJ the Musical" and the latest Harry Potter play, which continue to draw enthusiastic audiences.

Read more at

https://www.gonomad.com/254089-new-york-city-in-2025

The evolution of New York City in 2025 is marked by significant transformations in urban planning and transportation, epitomized by the introduction of congestion pricing. This innovative policy has notably diminished vehicular traffic by 26,000 vehicles daily, thereby halving the accident rate, which speaks to the city's commitment to enhancing public safety and reducing congestion.

As we traverse Manhattan, it becomes clear that the streets feel less cacophonous, providing a more pedestrian-friendly environment. This transition reflects a broader movement towards sustainability, with various initiatives, including the expansion of bike lanes and the introduction of electric ferries, working in tandem to foster a greener urban ecosystem.

The modernized Moynihan Train Hall stands as a testament to the city's architectural renaissance, offering travelers an inviting and luminous gateway to the heart of New York.

Takeaways:

1. In 2025, New York City's congestion pricing has successfully reduced vehicular traffic by 26,000 daily, significantly enhancing urban mobility.
2. The implementation of electric ferries and expanded bike lanes demonstrates the city's commitment to sustainable transportation initiatives.
3. The recent extension of the High Line now connects to the Moynihan Train Hall, providing a seamless transit experience for pedestrians.
4. Broadway continues to thrive in 2025, showcasing remarkable productions such as MJ the Musical and the latest Harry Potter play, attracting large audiences.
5. New York City's public transportation has been modernized with contactless payment options, revolutionizing the convenience of riding the subway.
6. The Museum of Modern Art has unveiled a $450 million expansion, emphasizing its dedication to digital art and immersive experiences for visitors.