Senior travel: New York
An easier pace for an older traveller: how many stops fit in a day, which places are step-free, and what the guide says about getting around, medicines and stairs.
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Pace for a day
About 1 stop a day. 5 h out − 45 min rest, divided by an average visit of 100 min (from this city’s guide) + 30 min to move.
Places, easiest access first
- Grand Central TerminalStep-free: yes · about 45 minRamps and lifts between the concourse and the lower level; the subway station has limited step-free routes (check).
- Washington Square ParkStep-free: yes · about 45 minPaved paths, level ground; nearby subway stations vary.
- 9/11 Memorial and MuseumStep-free: yes · about 150 minStep-free paths at the plaza and lifts at the museum.
- The Metropolitan Museum of ArtStep-free: yes · about 180 minRamp at the accessible entrance, lifts and wheelchairs at the desk.
- Brooklyn Bridge walkStep-free: partial (check before you go) · about 70 minThe promenade is a gentle slope with ramps; the ends have steps at some points; cyclists share the deck.
- Central Park: Bethesda Terrace and the LakeStep-free: partial (check before you go) · about 110 minPaved main paths; the terrace has steps and a ramp; accessible toilets at the boathouse and visitor centres (check).
Getting around in New York
Buses and taxis are the reliable accessible options; only part of the subway has lifts, and older buildings have steps.
- Streets:
- Curb ramps at most corners; pavements are busy and sometimes uneven.
- Public transit:
- All buses are accessible; about a third of subway stations have lifts (check the MTA map).
- Hotels:
- Newer hotels have lifts and roll-in showers; ask before booking.
- Toilets:
- Accessible toilets in museums, stations and department stores.
Medicines and health on the ground
- Travel insurance · before flying: High medical cover (US$1 million+ recommended).
- Heat and cold:
- Summer heat can top 35 degC and winter can drop below freezing; dress for the season.
- Water:
- Tap water is safe to drink.
- Walking:
- You will walk 10–20 km a day; comfortable shoes matter.
- Pharmacies:
- CVS and Duane Reade; some are open 24 hours.
- Insurance:
- Medical bills are very high for visitors; buy travel insurance with high medical cover.
More: how much medicine to pack, medicine times across time zones.
Ask your insurer
Age limits and prices differ by policy and the guides do not hold them, so put these to the insurer before you buy.
- What is the oldest age the policy covers, at purchase and on the last day of the trip?
- Does the price or the cover change after a certain age?
- Are existing conditions covered, and what must be declared?
- Does the cover include medical evacuation and trip interruption?
Not medical advice. This page does not know anyone’s health. Ask a doctor before the trip, and carry a list of medicines and conditions.