Despite what you may hear in the news, now is actually an excellent time to visit New York City. As a lifelong New Yorker and professional tour guide, I can assure you—this city is still full of life, history, culture, and of course, incredible bagels.
Your presence here doesn’t just support local businesses, it adds to the vibrancy and spirit that makes New York so unique. While I have a vested interest in encouraging tourism (I run Ben’s Bagel Tours, after all), this sentiment extends far beyond my own business. The entire hospitality sector—hotels, theaters, restaurants, museums, and walking tours—relies on the energy and enthusiasm that visitors bring.
Domestic Travel Is Strong, But We Miss Our International Friends
Currently, most tourists in New York are coming from within the U.S., while international travel has slowed, likely due to global politics, border concerns, and complicated travel experiences. I’ve seen this trend personally: in years past, I welcomed guests from all over the world, including Canada. For 2025, those international bookings have nearly disappeared.
This isn’t just a concern for me; it has a ripple effect. The city invested over $12.5 billion in tourism-related sectors in 2024, and projections for 2025 show a decline in visitors of over 17%. That’s 150,000 hotel rooms to fill and nearly 300,000 tourism-related jobs that rely on strong visitor turnout.
So, Why Visit Now?
Because New York is still New York. From iconic landmarks and legendary neighborhoods to hidden gems and local institutions, the city remains one of the most fascinating and dynamic destinations in the world. And right now, you can experience it with fewer crowds and more breathing room.
Bagels, Stories, and Sights: Join Me on Tour
Ben’s Bagel Tours offers more than just great food (though we definitely have that too). I offer immersive, educational walking tours that connect you to New York’s layered history through its neighborhoods, people, and yes, its bagels. From the Lower East Side Nosh Tour to the Chinatown & Little Italy Tour, Grand Central’s Open Sesame Tour, and the Wall Street Egg Bagel Tour, each experience is rooted in the rich stories of this city.
One of the most common questions I get is, “Where can I find the best bagel in New York?” I love pointing people to the authentic, sometimes hidden, bagel shops that represent generations of tradition and community pride. The bagel isn’t just a snack; it’s a cultural symbol of New York’s immigrant past and enduring spirit.
Come See for Yourself
I invite you to visit New York, whether it’s for a day, a weekend, or longer. You’ll be supporting local businesses, learning about one of the most influential cities in the world, and enjoying some of the best bagels you’ll ever eat.
Let’s remain hopeful about 2025 and beyond. And wherever you are, don’t forget to support your neighborhood bagel shop—and if you’re in New York, join me for a Ben’s Bagel Tour. Every tour starts with a fresh, authentic New York bagel… and a great story.
Ready to explore?
Check out our full lineup of walking tours like the Lower East Side Bagel Tour, Chinatown & Little Italy, Grand Central: The Open Sesame Tour, and Wall Street’s Egg Bagel Experience.
Book your spot today at bensbageltours.com and let’s walk and explore together.
