Let’s be real—New York City is magical, but not every famous spot lives up to the hype. I say this as someone who adores this city and walks it daily. Some landmarks are iconic for a reason, but others… feel like expensive detours disguised as must-sees. If you’ve only got a few days here, the last thing you want is to waste time (or money) on an overcrowded photo op that doesn’t deliver. In this guide, I’m sharing a few places often labeled as New York City tourist traps—along with my personal take on whether they’re worth your time. Some may surprise you.
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The best neighborhoods for first timers +2 to avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
Tourist Traps in New York City
Taking photos with the characters in Times Square
Here’s the deal: those costumed characters in Times Square—Elmo, Spider-Man, the Statue of Liberty with sunglasses? They’re not part of some official city attraction. They’re freelance street performers who aggressively hustle tourists for tips. If you take a photo, expect to be asked (sometimes demanded) for $10–$20—per person. It’s one of the most common New York City tourist traps, and unfortunately, it catches a lot of first-timers off guard.
I’ve watched this go down so many times: a family poses for a cute picture, then suddenly five costumed characters swarm, palms out. It can get tense fast. There’s nothing illegal about it, but it’s not exactly the charming NYC welcome most visitors expect. My advice? Skip the photo. Times Square is already chaotic, and this just adds stress. If you really want a souvenir, take a picture of the signs, the lights, or the red steps instead. You’ll get a more authentic memory—and save yourself an awkward moment.
Fake Uber Drivers at the Airport
If you’ve just landed at JFK or LaGuardia and someone approaches you saying “Do you need a ride?”—walk away. This is one of the oldest and most frustrating NYC airport scams. These fake Uber or taxi drivers aren’t working with any legit company, and their “services” usually involve wildly inflated rates, cash-only payments, or worse.
I’ve seen it happen more times than I can count. Tired travelers step off a long flight, a friendly guy with a sign says “Uber?” and they assume it’s safe. It’s not. Licensed drivers never approach passengers inside the terminal—they wait in designated pickup zones and your ride should always be booked through the official app. Anything else is a huge red flag.
New York can feel overwhelming when you first arrive, but don’t let that make you vulnerable. Use airport Wi-Fi, call your Uber through the app, and follow the signs to official ride-share pickups. This is a tourist trap in New York City that’s all too easy to avoid if you know what to look for.
Buying Fake Tickets to the Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is worth seeing—but buying your ticket from a random guy on the street? Don’t do it. This is one of the most frustrating tourist traps in NYC, and it happens constantly around Battery Park and South Ferry. Fake tour guides will promise “skip-the-line” deals, “private access,” or “express ferries”—then hand you overpriced or completely fake tickets that don’t even get you to Liberty Island.
I’ve had friends visit who thought they were on their way to the statue, only to find themselves stuck on a boat that circles the harbor. No pedestal access. No museum. Just $40 lost to a smooth-talking scammer. The only official ticket provider is Statue City Cruises. If you’re not buying online in advance, go straight to Castle Clinton inside Battery Park and buy at the window. That’s it.
This is one of those NYC travel mistakes that’s easy to make, especially when you’re excited and on
Italian Restaurants in Little Italy
Little Italy looks charming—twinkly lights, red-checkered tablecloths, Sinatra playing in the background. But here’s the truth: most of the restaurants lining Mulberry Street are overpriced tourist traps serving mediocre food with inflated “authenticity.” As a local, I rarely eat there. The menus are nearly identical, the pasta’s underwhelming, and you’ll likely pay double what it’s worth.
That said, I get the appeal. It’s cinematic. It feels like New York. But if you’re serious about Italian food, head to Arthur Avenue in the Bronx or check out family-owned spots in Carroll Gardens or the West Village. You’ll get better food, better service, and a real neighborhood vibe.
I always tell visitors: walk through Little Italy, take it in, maybe grab a cannoli—but don’t sit down for a $28 plate of bland fettuccine. There are so many amazing restaurants in this city. Little Italy’s charm is mostly surface-level these days, and while it’s not dangerous, it is one of the most overrated NYC attractions on the food scene..
Handing Street Performers or Vendors Your Phone
It sounds harmless: a street performer offers to take your photo or hands you a prop and invites you to pose. Next thing you know, they’re asking for $20, won’t give your phone back, or suddenly there are three more people surrounding you, demanding tips. This is a classic New York tourist trap, especially near Times Square, Central Park, and Brooklyn Bridge.
It usually starts with good vibes—music, energy, laughter—and then it turns fast. I’ve seen it happen to tourists who just wanted a cool photo with break dancers or dressed-up “statues.” Once you hand over your phone, the dynamic shifts. They’ve got your attention, your photo, and sometimes your device, which gives them control over the situation.
My advice? Always keep your phone in your own hands. If someone insists on “helping” you take a photo, politely decline. Enjoy the performance, drop a tip if you want to, and move on. The vast majority of NYC’s street culture is fun and harmless, but this particular move? It’s a scam in tourist clothing.
Monks Offering Bracelets
If someone in a robe approaches you near Times Square or Central Park and offers a “free” bracelet or charm—keep walking. These so-called monks are part of one of the most bizarre but persistent New York City tourist traps. They’ll smile, press a bracelet into your hand, and ask for a donation—often in cash, and aggressively.
I once watched a guy get cornered for handing over just $5. The monk shook his head, pointed to a laminated “donation chart,” and demanded more. It’s uncomfortable, and unfortunately, really common. Real Buddhist monks aren’t out here hustling tourists on the sidewalk.
This scam thrives on politeness—on people not wanting to seem rude. But the best thing to do? Avoid eye contact and say “no thanks” firmly. Don’t take anything from someone you didn’t ask for, even if they say it’s a “gift.” This scam isn’t dangerous, but it’s definitely a con—and one of those weird NYC moments you’ll want to skip, not remember.
Food Carts that Don’t List Prices
Street food in New York can be amazing—but not all food carts are created equal. If you walk up to a cart and there are no prices listed, that’s your cue to walk away. These vendors often charge tourists inflated, random prices depending on how lost or foreign you look. I’ve seen hot dogs go for $6… or $12. Same cart. Same day.
I once overheard a vendor charge a family $18 for two pretzels and a bottle of water. They paid, because they didn’t know better. That’s what makes this one of the sneakier tourist traps in NYC—it feels small, but it adds up.
Most reputable food vendors post clear signage. If you don’t see a price, ask before ordering. And if the total sounds off, don’t be afraid to say no. There are plenty of trustworthy carts across the city—especially in Midtown, Financial District, or outside museums. This isn’t about skipping street food altogether—it’s about not getting ripped off for a $3 hot dog that magically costs $7 when you’re not paying attention.
Buying a Mixtape
If a guy on the street offers you his mixtape, just say no and keep walking. He’ll usually say something like, “It’s free—support local artists,” then sign the CD and ask for your name. Once it’s in your hand, suddenly it’s not free anymore. Now he’s demanding $10–$20. Welcome to one of the oldest NYC tourist scams in the book.
This happens a lot around Times Square, SoHo, and even outside big subway stations. The hustle is always smooth, and it preys on people’s good nature. I’ve watched dozens of tourists hand over cash just to make the moment end. It’s awkward, and it’s meant to be.
There’s no music label, no digital link, and usually no actual music worth keeping. Just a burned disc and a weird story. I’ve even seen some scammers ask for your phone, saying they’ll “airdrop you the tracks.” Do not hand it over. Supporting artists is great—but not like this. This is a tourist trap in New York City that’ll cost you more than it’s worth.
Junior’s Cheesecake
Junior’s has the name recognition, the neon signage, and the Times Square location—but when it comes to food? It’s kind of a letdown. Yes, it’s famous. Yes, you’ll see lines outside. But in a city full of incredible bakeries and dessert spots, Junior’s is one of the more overrated NYC attractions, especially for cheesecake.
I’ve tried it a few times—out of obligation, curiosity, and a little hope. And every time, I’ve walked away thinking: that was fine, but not worth the hype or the price. The cheesecake is heavy, overly sweet, and frankly, you can do better. Spots like Eileen’s Special Cheesecake or Veniero’s have more flavor, more variety, and less of a tourist markup.
If you’re in Times Square and want a quick dessert, fine. But don’t go out of your way thinking Junior’s is the ultimate New York cheesecake experience. It’s a tourist favorite, sure, but not necessarily a local one. This isn’t a scam—it’s just one of those NYC food spots that coasts on reputation more than flavor.
Pedicabs and Horse Carriages in Central Park
They look charming—pedicabs with speakers blasting music, or horse-drawn carriages trotting through Central Park. But both come with hidden costs and a fair amount of regret. These rides are some of the most overpriced tourist traps in New York City, and I say that as someone who’s watched dozens of people get lured in and then charged $150+ for a 20-minute loop.
Pedicab drivers often don’t disclose rates clearly, and once you’re in and rolling, they’ll charge per minute—not per ride. I’ve heard stories of couples paying $200 for what felt like a casual lift through the park. Horse carriages aren’t much better. The animals work long shifts in crowded traffic, and the rides offer little more than a few photo ops with questionable ethics behind them.
If you’re looking to explore Central Park, walk it. Rent a bike. Or better yet, take a walking tour with a guide who knows their stuff. Pedicabs and carriages seem romantic, but they’re rarely worth the cost—or the guilt.
Tourist Traps in New York City that are *Actually* Worth It
A tourist trap is defined as an establishment that caters to tourists and overcharges for their goods and services. Having said that, there are a few places that should still be experienced at least once.
Katz’s Deli
Katz’s Delicatessen is one of the most iconic restaurants in New York City, and it boasts wraparound lines daily. The crowds can’t resist the $28 world-famous pastrami sandwich.
Touristy? No doubt. Overpriced? Some would call it highway robbery. Worth it? Absolutely.
The folks who claim it’s one of the biggest tourist traps in New York City don’t know what they’re talking about. You’re missing out on a piece of history (and a hell of a sandwich) by skipping over Katz’s.
Cruises around Manhattan
There are a number of cruise companies that sail around Manhattan, but sadly most locals write the experience off as another New York City tourist trap.
It’s a shame because a cruise can be a real treat. The best way to make sure you get a good value is to hop aboard a cruise during the off-season. There are less tourists and the lack of demand drives down prices.
Christmas Markets (Seasonal)
You’d be making a mistake if you avoid the Christmas markets in New York City. Even if it’s just to window-shop, visiting is a great way to get into the holiday spirit.
The vendors sell goods at a premium, but the stalls are full of unique gems. Some folks consider the markets annual tourist traps in New York City, but it’s one of the best way to support small businesses and celebrate the holidays.
Tips for Avoiding Scams in New York City
Don’t Break Stride for Peddlers
Most of the tourist traps in New York City can be avoided by steering clear of peddlers on the street.
As uncomfortable as it might be, act like you can’t hear them and don’t slow down. Don’t give them the opportunity to give you a sales pitch. Keep it moving and you’ll look like a local in no time.
Agree to Prices Before Accepting a Service
You can apply this tip to most things in life, discuss pricing before accepting goods or a service. Whether it’s a street vendor, a pedicab or a food cart – talk about the cost to avoid being blindsided later.
If you do find yourself in the middle of a New York City tourist trap turn the products down and walk away. Most scammers assume you’ll want to avoid confrontation and shell out the cash to
Do Your Research Before Traveling
All it takes is a little research to avoid falling victim to the most prevalent tourist traps in New York City. Decide which restaurants and attractions you want to visit before settling for a place that’ll rip you off.
New York City Tourist Traps (Post Summary)
In short, he’s a roundup of the scams in New York City you should be aware of.
- Taking photos with the characters in Times Square
- Fake “Uber” Drivers at the Airport
- Buying Fake Tickets to the Statue of Liberty
- Italian Restaurants in Little Italy
- Handing Street Performers/Vendors your Phone
- Food Carts without Pricing in Touristy Areas
- Climbing to the Top of the Empire State Building
- Buying a Mixtape
- Junior’s Cheesecake
- Pedicabs and Horse Carriages
- Rolf’s German Restaurant (Seasonal)
I hope this article helps you steer clear of tourist traps in New York City.
Until next time. Cheers!
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