Alum Advice: Get Around NYC Like a Pro!

MaryAnn Barone, Cafme's vice president last year and a 2011 grad now living in New York, shares her tips for adjusting to the Big Apple and getting around.

Hi everyone! I’m writing this post to give you all some tips on navigating New York City. I graduated from UNC in May and am currently living in northern New Jersey with family. My extended family has always lived in and around NYC, so the busy sidewalks, the crowded subways and name-changing streets don’t faze me. I know CAFME went on an amazing trip to NYC this past spring break, and I’m sure this special event will be done again soon. To help the club for future trips to the city and for those living or thinking about living here, I’ve put together this little list of need-to-knows I use to navigate the city.

The best app:
I use one from the Apple iTunes App Store called NYC Way. This single app is divided into smaller apps. For example, it has a subway map, dining recommendations, a list of local events depending on where you are, traffic cameras and even a restroom locator.

The best maps:
I know there are a million different maps of the city, but my favorite one comes from the Transit Museum Gallery and Store at Grand Central Station. It’s a $10 laminated one that’s durable and has clearly labeled subway lines and easy-to-read street names.

The best websites:
Local magazines like Time Out New York and New York Magazine have extensive websites with listings of things to do. Whether you’re looking for the best food truck or the hottest secret club in the city, these websites have got you covered. Yelp and other review websites can also be handy to gauge prices, service and atmosphere. All of these sites are really great for maps and traveling directions.

Specifically for the subway, Hopstop.com (and its app) are great for those unfamiliar with the subway system. You simply plug in where you are and where you want to go and the website tells you how to get to the nearest subway, what subway line to take, how long the trip is and how far it is to walk to your destination.

The best discounts:
For food, sign up ASAP for the Groupon and Living Social emails. I ate with a date at Amity Hall last month for $15 for two people with Groupon. Our meals would’ve been $60 without it! Also check city-based websites, magazines and Twitter feeds for daily deals, news on sample sales and coupons.