The 10 New Yorkers You Must See in New York
New York isn't just monuments and skyscrapers. New York is also about the New Yorkers! Here are 10 iconic New Yorkers you should definitely encounter during your visit.
1/ New York Firefighters
- New York firefighters are genuine celebrities! Yet they keep their feet on the ground and remain very approachable. If you pass a firehouse and spot one or more firefighters, don’t hesitate to say hello. If the station is quiet, you might even get a close look at the trucks.
2/ New York Police Officers
- New York police officers are different from most others around the world. Few cities make it as easy to chat with police as New York does. On Times Square, officers are used to interacting with tourists. If your English is limited, simply ask for a photo with them.
3/ The Naked Cowboy
- Here’s a New York character you have to see: the Naked Cowboy of Times Square. Rain or shine, this cowboy roams Times Square with his guitar, wearing nothing but underwear, a hat, and boots. Only in New York! 🙂 He’s genuinely friendly and welcomes tourists for photos in exchange for a few dollars.
4/ The Attendants at Top of the Rock
- Top of the Rock offers more than just the best views of New York. The staff here is genuinely welcoming. Once at the top, strike up a conversation with the attendants. They welcome it—the days are long! They’ll happily point out landmarks and share stories about life in New York.
5/ National Park Service Rangers
- Despite being a major metropolis, New York is home to rangers like those in the parks of the American West. Head to Liberty Island, where the Statue of Liberty stands under National Park Service care. You’ll spot rangers easily—they wear a distinctive wide-brimmed brown felt hat. Don’t hesitate to approach one and ask questions about the Statue of Liberty. They’re knowledgeable and always friendly! 🙂
6/ Taxi Drivers
- What would New York be without its yellow cabs? Take a ride if you get the chance—it’s a great way to chat with a driver. Here’s a pleasant surprise: many New York taxi drivers are Haitian and speak French. When you get into a taxi in New York, ask the driver if he speaks French!
7/ Subway Operators
- The subway is essential to New York, and trains don’t run themselves. Each train has two operators: one drives the train, while the other, positioned in the middle, manages passenger safety. This operator controls the doors, making sure everyone has boarded or exited. When you’re on the platform, you’ll see the middle operator’s head sticking out. A uniquely New York job!
8/ Wall Street Traders
- If you loved the film Wall Street or more recently The Wolf of Wall Street, you’ll feel the action in New York. Visit the Financial District on a weekday, especially Wall Street, to feel the pulse of global finance. Stand outside the New York Stock Exchange between 10 am and noon—you’ll spot traders stepping out for a quick cigarette between multimillion-dollar deals.
9/ Sandwich Board Carriers
- In New York, you’ll find a profession that has nearly vanished in Europe: sandwich board carriers. These workers wear large signs advertising shops or restaurants. They spend their days on the sidewalk, largely ignored. Stop and chat with one!
10/ Street Musicians
- You’ll find musicians throughout New York’s streets, parks, and subway corridors. Many are quite talented! Stop and leave a dollar if you enjoyed the impromptu performance. Here’s the principle: if a musician has caught your attention and you’ve listened for a few minutes, give them something.