A Local Photographer's Guide to Avoiding Tourist Traps in NYC
Every major city has its share of tourist traps, and New York City is no exception.
I've been photographing visitors around New York City for more than 15 years, spending thousands of hours in places like Times Square, Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge, DUMBO, and Fifth Avenue. During that time, I've watched countless tourists accidentally spend far more money than they expected—or simply end up in uncomfortable situations because they didn't know how things worked.
This article isn't meant to scare you away from visiting New York. Quite the opposite.
New York City is one of the most incredible places in the world, and millions of people visit every year without any problems. These are simply a few things I've personally observed over the years that I think first-time visitors should know before arriving.
1. Be Careful with Costumed Characters in Times Square
If you've never been to New York before, the giant Mickey Mouse, Spider-Man, Elmo, Cookie Monster, Minnie Mouse, and other characters walking through Times Square look like they're there simply to entertain tourists.
In reality, this is how many of them make a living.
Here's what often happens.
One character approaches you and offers a photo. You agree because it seems fun. Within seconds, several more characters suddenly appear and join the picture.
After the photo is taken, every single character expects a tip.
I've watched this happen countless times while photographing clients nearby. Visitors are often surprised because they assumed it was simply a free photo opportunity.
The old excuse of "Sorry, I don't have cash" usually doesn't work anymore either. Many characters now accept Venmo, Zelle, Cash App, and other digital payment methods.
My advice?
If you'd like a photo and you're happy to tip everyone involved, go for it.
If you don't, simply smile, say "No thank you," and keep walking.
Most importantly, don't feel intimidated. You don't need to run away or argue. A polite but confident "No, thank you" is perfectly acceptable.
2. Be Wary of People Offering You "Free" Bracelets or Gifts
You may encounter people dressed as Buddhist monks who approach tourists and offer bracelets, small trinkets, or other gifts.
In many cases, the item is placed directly into your hand before you've even agreed to take it.
Once you accept it, you're asked for a donation—and often it's much larger than you expected.
Whether they're genuine monks or not isn't something I can verify, so I won't speculate. I can only share what I've repeatedly witnessed while working in tourist areas.
The easiest solution is simply to decline politely and continue walking.
Nothing more needs to be said.
3. Don't Take the "Free" CDs
Another common encounter happens around Times Square.
Someone walks up to you holding a CD, tells you they're an artist, signs it with a marker, and hands it to you.
The moment you take it, they begin asking for money.
Sometimes they'll pressure you into making a donation or buying the CD.
The simplest solution?
Don't take it in the first place.
A quick "No thanks" while continuing to walk is all you need.
4. Always Agree on the Price Before Taking a Pedicab
Pedicabs (the bicycle rickshaws you see around Central Park and Times Square) can actually be a really fun experience.
The drivers often play music, give little tours of the city, and it's a unique way to explore New York.
The problem isn't the ride itself.
The problem is pricing.
One of my clients told me she ended up paying around $500 for a ride because she didn't realize how the pricing worked until the trip was over.
On the other hand, I've personally taken a short pedicab ride for around $20.
That's a huge difference.
Before you sit down, ask exactly how much your ride will cost.
Don't assume.
Don't rely on what's written in tiny print on the side of the bike.
Simply ask:
"How much will this ride cost in total?"
If the answer isn't clear, walk away and find another driver.
There are plenty of them.
5. If You Want a Cool NYC Photo, Ask a Police Officer
This one surprises a lot of people.
Over the years, I've photographed hundreds of visitors around Times Square, and many of them wanted a classic New York photo with an NYPD officer.
Almost every officer I've asked has been happy to smile for a quick picture.
Of course, they're working, so if they're busy or responding to something important, don't interrupt them.
But if they're simply standing nearby, politely asking usually works.
It's one of my favorite authentic New York photo opportunities.
6. The Naked Cowboy Is Actually One of My Favorite Times Square Personalities
If you've been researching New York, you've probably heard about the Naked Cowboy.
Unlike many other Times Square performers, my personal experience with him has always been positive.
I've never seen him chase tourists for money or pressure anyone after taking a photo.
Instead, he usually hands people a business card with his Venmo information and lets them decide whether they'd like to leave a tip.
That's a much more relaxed experience.
If you take a photo with him, I do encourage leaving a tip. He's still performing and entertaining visitors, and that's part of his livelihood.
My Biggest Piece of Advice
Don't let stories about tourist traps make you nervous about visiting New York City.
New York is an amazing place filled with incredible museums, restaurants, parks, Broadway shows, neighborhoods, and unforgettable experiences.
Like any major tourist destination, there are simply a few situations where knowing what to expect can save you money—and a little stress.
Most of these encounters are easy to avoid.
A polite "No, thank you."
Keep walking.
And enjoy your trip.
A Quick Note
Everything in this article is based on my own personal observations after more than 15 years working around New York City's busiest tourist locations. These experiences may not reflect every visitor's experience, but they're patterns I've personally witnessed many times and wanted to share to help first-time visitors feel more prepared.
Continue Exploring New York City
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