Local Customs & Etiquette in Manhattan, United States
1. Times Square Etiquette
Navigating the bustling crowds and knowing where to stand during performances is essential for a smooth experience in Times Square.
- Crowd Navigation: Learning how to move through large crowds efficiently can help avoid delays or discomfort.
- Performance Etiquette: Understanding the unspoken rules for viewing performances, such as not standing too close or blocking others' views.
- Awareness of Street Performers: Recognizing when it's appropriate to tip street performers and showing appreciation for their talents.
2. Subway Etiquette
Knowing where to stand, giving up seats to elderly or pregnant individuals, and not eating on the subway are essential practices for riding the NYC Subway.
- Standing Etiquette: Standing near the center of the car or against the doors can help maintain balance and space for others.
- Seat Consideration: Giving up seats to those who need them more, such as the elderly or pregnant individuals.
- Food Regulations: Respecting other passengers by not eating or drinking on the subway during peak hours.
3. Tipping at Restaurants
Understanding the customary tipping percentages (15-20%) is crucial for a positive dining experience in Manhattan restaurants.
- Customary Tipping Percentage: Knowing the expected range for tips, which can affect the service received.
- Service Charge vs. Tip: Distinguishing between a service charge and tip to avoid confusion when paying the bill.
- Tip for Delivery or Takeout: Understanding whether to tip for delivery or takeout orders, as well as how much is appropriate.
4. Hailing a Taxi
Recognizing when it's appropriate to hail a taxi and knowing the proper way to exit the vehicle is important for avoiding confusion.
- Proper Hailing Technique: Signaling a taxi driver by waving or using a hand signal to get their attention.
- Exit Etiquette: Exiting the taxi quickly and efficiently, especially during busy times, so that the next passenger can enter.
- Payment Options: Being aware of the various payment options, such as cash or credit card, to avoid any inconvenience.
5. Central Park Rules
Knowing the rules for activities like biking, picnicking, or jogging can help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to Central Park.
- Bike Safety: Understanding the rules for biking in the park, such as staying on designated paths and wearing helmets.
- Picnic Consideration: Respecting other visitors by cleaning up after picnics and not disturbing wildlife.
- Leash Regulations: Keeping pets on a leash at all times, especially in areas where signs indicate leash requirements.
6. Statue of Liberty Etiquette
Learning the proper etiquette for visiting the Statue of Liberty, including respecting park rules and being courteous to fellow visitors.
- Respect for Park Rules: Adhering to park rules, such as not littering or smoking in designated areas.
- Courtesy to Fellow Visitors: Maintaining a considerate attitude towards other visitors by allowing them space and being mindful of their experiences.
- Guided Tour Etiquette: Following the guide's instructions during guided tours, including standing quietly and listening attentively.
7. Broadway Show Etiquette
Respecting other audience members by turning off cell phones, not talking during the performance, and applauding appropriately.
- Cell Phone Usage: Turning off or silencing cell phones to avoid disrupting the performance.
- Talking During Performance: Avoiding conversation during the show to ensure everyone can enjoy the experience.
- Appropriate Applause: Clapping at the appropriate times and being mindful of other audience members' reactions.
8. Empire State Building Rules
Following the rules for visiting the Empire State Building, such as not leaning on railings and being mindful of other visitors.
- Safety Measures: Avoiding unsafe behaviors like leaning on railings or obstructing stairways.
- Consideration for Other Visitors: Moving carefully and being mindful of other visitors, especially in crowded areas.
- Photography Guidelines: Understanding the rules for taking photos, including tripod usage and flash restrictions.
9. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Etiquette
Respecting the artwork by not touching it, maintaining a quiet atmosphere, and following museum guidelines.
- Artwork Respect: Avoiding physical contact with artwork to preserve its condition.
- Quiet Environment: Speaking softly and maintaining a quiet atmosphere to allow others to focus on the art.
- Flash Photography Rules: Understanding when flash photography is permitted and where it's prohibited within the museum.
10. High Line Park Etiquette
Following the rules for visiting High Line Park, such as staying on designated paths and being courteous to other visitors.
- Staying on Designated Paths: Remaining on the marked paths to protect park vegetation and infrastructure.
- Courtesy to Fellow Visitors: Avoiding obstruction of walkways and moving carefully in crowded areas.
- Leash Regulations: Keeping pets on a leash at all times, especially in areas where signs indicate leash requirements.
11. Madison Square Park Rules
Respecting the park rules and artwork by not touching it, maintaining a quiet atmosphere, and following park guidelines.
- Artwork Respect: Avoiding physical contact with artwork to preserve its condition.
- Quiet Environment: Speaking softly and maintaining a quiet atmosphere to allow others to focus on the park and art.
- Leash Regulations: Keeping pets on a leash at all times, especially in areas where signs indicate leash requirements.
12. 9/11 Memorial Etiquette
Showing respect by maintaining a quiet atmosphere, following museum guidelines, and being mindful of other visitors.
- Respectful Atmosphere: Speaking softly and maintaining a solemn atmosphere out of respect for the fallen.
- Museum Guidelines: Following museum rules, such as not touching memorial items or taking flash photography.
- Courtesy to Fellow Visitors: Avoiding obstruction of walkways and moving carefully in crowded areas.
13. Central Park Zoo Etiquette
Respecting the animals by not feeding them or disturbing their habitats, maintaining a quiet atmosphere, and following zoo guidelines.
- Animal Respect: Avoiding physical contact with animals to preserve their health and wellbeing.
- Quiet Environment: Speaking softly and maintaining a quiet atmosphere to allow others to focus on the animals.
- Zoo Guidelines: Following zoo rules, such as not feeding the animals or littering in their habitats.
14. Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET) Etiquette
Respecting the artwork by not touching it, maintaining a quiet atmosphere, and following museum guidelines.
- Artwork Respect: Avoiding physical contact with artwork to preserve its condition.
- Quiet Environment: Speaking softly and maintaining a quiet atmosphere to allow others to focus on the art.
- Flash Photography Rules: Understanding when flash photography is permitted and where it's prohibited within the museum.
15. Staten Island Ferry Etiquette
Knowing the proper etiquette for riding the Staten Island Ferry, including standing during busy times and showing consideration to fellow passengers.
- Standing During Busy Times: Staying standing during peak hours to make room for more passengers.
- Courtesy to Fellow Passengers: Giving up seats to those who need them more, such as the elderly or pregnant individuals.
- Fare Payment: Understanding that the ferry is free for passengers and knowing where to validate tickets if needed.