NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwired - Jan 10, 2014) -  Planning a vacation to New York City can be overwhelming especially for someone who has never been to the Big Apple. With so many options, visitors find it difficult to find the best ways to get around the City, how to avoid crowds, and how to get the best value for their money. 

"Getting a few insider secrets and tips is key to saving time and money when planning travel to New York," says Erica James, editor at NYCTourist.com. Erica continued, "There are specials, packages, deals and promo code offers offered by most hotels, and many of the Broadway shows offer ways to save money on tickets. Tour companies offer regular promotions and limo companies are very competitive to and from the airports to Manhattan."

Here are a few NYCTourist.com favorite secrets and tips for the 2014 New York City traveler:

1. Getting around - Although it may seem daunting to some, the subway can be the most efficient and cost-effective way to get around the Big Apple. Do a little research ahead of time to get familiarized with the system and how it works. Before embarking on a subway adventure that you didn't plan for, be sure and map out exactly where you want to go and how to return to your "home" station. Here is a helpful printable NYC Subway map.

2. Best view of NYC - Opt for the Top of the Rock for the best views of New York City. The Top of the Rock has spectacular panoramic views 70 stories high and often offers value-deals on its website.

3. Learn about NYC - A private walking tour with an educated and experienced tour guide is the best way for visitors to learn about New York City's rich history and avoid the crowds. The editors at NYCTourist.com suggest a historical walking tour for people looking to discover the deep history that is New York City. Walking tours are often less than a bus tour, and for larger groups and families, the more intimate setting is perfect.

4. Best kept secret - New York City can be expensive when it comes to accommodations, but there are a few secrets that when known, can save big time bucks! Virtually all hotels have a "Specials & Packages" section that list special offers designed to attract specific travelers. Many of these offers target mid-week or off-season stays so if flexible, there's a deal to be had with discounts as high as 40% off regular room rates. These same hotels list "promo codes" and "coupon codes" from time to time on their site and on sites like NYCTourist.com that can be input into the hotel's booking engine when searching or making a reservation. If you can't find a promo code offer, input "AAA," "AARP," "SUMMER" or "SAVE" which are commonly used promo codes. Also, book early or book last minute. Often times the best rooms at the best rates are only available when booking early. Hotels also drop rates in the days preceding a date but only when inventory is high (meaning they have a lot of rooms left that clearly aren't going to sell by the target date). Lastly, stay off the beaten path. Staying in Times Square may cost a chunk of change but staying less than 20-30 minutes away in Brooklyn will save a few bucks. Here is a list of several current NYC hotel promo code offers: http://www.nyctourist.com/new-york-promo-codes

5. Best tip to see a Broadway show - If at all possible buy tickets in advance to save the most money and to get the best seats! For a list of the best broadway shows at the best rates, visit: http://www.nyctourist.com/broadway.asp. For super last minute deals, visit the TKTS booth in Manhattan -- note that tickets available at the TKTS booth are last minute offers and are subject to change at any moment. Tickets are often last minute unsold inventory which means the hottest, most popular shows are typically not available. 

6. Airport transportation tip - People don't need to cram onto a cattle car shuttle or bus to and from any of the big NYC airports. Limo companies price rides to and from Manhattan competitively and as low as $50 one-way. So shop, save some time and ride in a bit of style. See http://www.nyctourist.com/newyorkcity/limousines_shuttles_carrentals.htm for reliable options. 

NYCTourist.com is one of NYC's most popular travel & tourism sites helping people research & plan travel to New York City since 1997.