How to Visit New York City on Points: A Real Family Guide

Learning how to visit New York City on points can make one of the most expensive cities in the country feel surprisingly doable for families.

Even though we live just a little over an hour from the city, we’ve learned that one of the best ways to visit New York City on points is by treating it like the high-cost destination it is. Hotels, transportation, and food add up fast. That’s why our family uses points and miles to make our twice-a-year visits more affordable without missing out on the fun.

If you want to visit New York City on points, hotels are where you’ll save the most. Over the years, we’ve stayed at several Hyatts in and around Manhattan using points, and we’ve also used our Hyatt free night certificates, most often at the Hyatt Regency Jersey City on the Hudson. It is just one easy train ride away from Manhattan and the free certificates are able to cover the whole cost, unlike the higher cost Hyatts within Manhattan.

Before we learned how to maximize points, we used Hotwire to score surprise hotel deals and last-minute stays. Because we live close enough for a quick trip, we’ve also done plenty of day visits where we skip the hotel entirely and spend the day exploring.

We don’t fly to New York City, but we fly out of it regularly. Newark is one of our home airports. Even though it is not the easiest airport for us to reach, we have flown JFK internationally due to available cheaper direct flights. We’ve even taken a Bermuda cruise that sailed right from the city, which I’ll share more about in a future post. Once we’re in Manhattan, we usually rely on the subway, trains, or taxis to get around.

This guide pulls together everything we’ve learned as a somewhat local family using points strategically for hotel stays, transportation, and activities to make visiting New York City more affordable and more enjoyable.

If you are planning a holiday trip, I also shared our full New York City Christmas itinerary with kid-friendly stops and everything we would prioritize again.

Why You Should Visit New York City on Points

New York City is an incredible place to visit, but it’s also one of the most expensive destinations in the United States. Hotel rates often climb into the $350 to $700+ range for standard rooms. Transportation, meals, and activities all add up quickly. That’s exactly why points and miles make such a huge difference here.

Because NYC has so many hotel brands, airports, and transportation options, there are more opportunities than usual to use points wisely. Hyatt, Marriott, Hilton, and IHG all have multiple properties across Manhattan and the surrounding areas. Chase Ultimate Rewards transfer easily to several programs that work well in New York. Families can also save money by using free night certificates, paying with points through travel portals, or taking public transportation once they’re in Manhattan.

The bottom line is that every dollar stretches farther in New York City when you can cover even part of your trip with points. Whether you book a hotel night with points, reduce transportation costs, or use rewards for activities, the savings add up quickly and make the city much more accessible for families.

Best Ways to Visit New York City on Points and Save Money

There are a few areas where points and miles make the biggest difference in New York City. Hotels are usually the largest expense, but transportation and activities can also add up quickly. Using points in even one or two of these categories can turn an expensive trip into something much more manageable for families.

Using Hotel Points to Visit New York City on Points:

Hotels are where points usually stretch the farthest. New York City rooms are often small and very expensive, so covering even one night with points can make a noticeable difference. We have had great success using Hyatt points and our annual free night certificates, especially when we stay just outside Manhattan and take an easy train ride into the city. Many of our New York City hotel stays have been booked using Hyatt points earned through Chase Ultimate Rewards, since Chase transfers instantly to Hyatt and often gives the best overall value. If you are considering a Chase card that earns these points, here is the one I use:  Chase Sapphire Preferred®. 

We have also used IHG and Marriott points in other cities. Those three brands, along with Hilton, offer a wide range of hotel options at different point levels, making it possible to find something that fits your family’s budget and travel style.

Saving on Transportation When You Visit New York City on Points:

Getting around New York City can be overwhelming, but there are ways to reduce costs. Families can use travel credits from their credit cards, book transportation through points portals, or skip rideshares and rely more on the subway. If you drive into the city, parking apps often save money compared to paying directly at a garage. If you stay outside Manhattan, using a train or ferry can be cheaper and faster than driving.

Activities and attractions:

Many popular New York City attractions can be booked using points, or paid for with statement credits. Points from Chase, Amex, and Capital One can be used to cover tours, observation decks, and museum tickets either directly, or through travel portals. Even if you do not cover everything with points, offsetting one or two big-ticket activities can make a noticeable impact on the total cost of your trip.

Using travel eraser credits:

One of my favorite ways to reimburse travel costs is by using the Capital One travel eraser feature. It lets you book what works best for your family and then erase eligible travel purchases afterward using miles. This flexibility makes it easy to cover trains, ferries, parking, or even some hotel charges. If you are interested in the card we use, here is my referral link: Capital One Venture Rewards Card.

Using a mix of these strategies helps keep New York City trips affordable, even during peak seasons. In the next section, we will look at the specific hotels that work best for families using points.

Best Hotels to Book on Points for a Family Trip to New York City

New York City has hundreds of hotels, but not all of them offer good value on points. Some require an extremely high number of points for a standard room, and others do not have layouts that work well for families. Over time, we have learned which brands and locations tend to be the most practical and affordable when traveling with kids.

Hyatt hotels:

Hyatt is usually our first choice when booking New York City with points. Hyatt’s award chart often gives more value per point compared to other programs, and many hotels are conveniently located near major attractions. While most Manhattan Hyatt properties require more points than our free night certificates allow, staying just outside the city can be a smart alternative. The Hyatt Regency Jersey City on the Hudson has been one of our best options because it offers easy access to Manhattan and beautiful skyline views. Our kids loved watching the skyline from the window at this hotel, and the quick train ride right into the city makes it a convenient family base.  

Marriott hotels:

Marriott has a wide selection of hotels throughout the city, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury properties. Some of the midrange hotels, such as Courtyard, or Residence Inn locations, offer rooms that work well for families who need extra space. Marriott points can also be a practical choice for families who earn them through everyday spending, or work travel.

Hilton hotels:

Hilton offers many different properties across Manhattan, and the point requirements vary widely. Some locations are better deals than others, and prices change nightly because of Hilton’s dynamic point system. Hilton can be especially useful for families who like earning points quickly through multipliers or who use Hilton’s free night certificates.

IHG hotels:

IHG hotels can sometimes be a surprising value in New York City, especially for families looking for something simple and convenient. Properties like Holiday Inn Express or Hotel Indigo can provide clean rooms, easy locations, and the benefit of free breakfast at some hotels, which helps keep food costs down. IHG points are straightforward to redeem and can require fewer points than comparable brands.

Each of these hotel groups offers something slightly different, and the best choice depends on your point balances, your family size, and how close you want to be to the major attractions. In the next section, we will walk through how we decide which hotel to book when visiting New York City on points.

How We Book New York City Hotels Using Points

Over time, we’ve settled into a simple routine that makes booking New York City with points much easier. Every family travels differently, but this process has worked well for us and keeps us from feeling overwhelmed by how many hotel options there are in the city.

Step 1: Check which points we have available:

We usually start by looking at our Hyatt balance, or Chase Ultimate Rewards, since these have given us the best value when booking New York City hotels on points. Hyatt points tend to stretch the farthest for our family, especially when we look at options just outside Manhattan. Families who visit New York City on points often choose Hyatt for the best overall value. If you are interested in earning the same points we use, here is the Chase card we rely on: Chase Sapphire Preferred®. 

Step 2: Compare the cash price to the points price:

Before booking anything, we compare the cash rate to the points rate. NYC hotel prices can swing dramatically. Some weekends it feels like every room in Manhattan jumps to $500 or more. Other times, the rate is normal and using points does not make as much sense. This quick check helps us choose the most affordable way to visit New York City.

Step 3: Look slightly outside Manhattan:

One simple way to visit New York City on points is by staying just outside Manhattan. The Hyatt Regency Jersey City has become one of our go-to spots because the rooms are larger, the points cost is reasonable, and the train ride into Manhattan is quick and easy. Our kids talk about the skyline views from the hotel windows, which ended up being such a great part of the trip.

Step 4: Check both the hotel site and the credit card portal:

Sometimes the hotel website has different availability than the credit card travel portals. We check both so we don’t miss an option that might fit better with our schedule or point balance. This step has helped us find award availability during busier times when it can be tougher to book a New York City stay with points.

Step 5: Use Capital One miles to erase travel purchases when needed:

If we decide to pay cash for a stay or cover only part of it with points, we sometimes use Capital One miles afterward to erase the charge. It is one of the most flexible ways we cut down travel costs for NYC trips. If you want to learn about the Capital One card we use, here is my referral link: Capital One Venture Rewards Card.

This process has made booking NYC with points feel much more manageable, and it keeps us from spending hours comparing every option. In the next section, we’ll look at the best ways families can fly into New York City using points, even if we usually travel from these airports rather than to them.

Flying In and Out of NYC When You Visit New York City on Points

Even though we don’t fly to New York City ourselves, we fly out of the area all the time. Newark is one of our home airports for most trips, and we have flown internationally out of JFK in the past. Because we use these airports regularly, we know how they work for families and which points programs tend to offer the easiest redemptions. For anyone visiting New York City from other parts of the country, using points for flights can make the entire trip much more affordable.

The three major NYC airports:

New York City is served by three large airports, and each one works differently for points redemptions. JFK has the most international flights and is widely used by JetBlue and Delta. LaGuardia handles mostly domestic routes and is often the easiest and newest airport for families to navigate. Newark is a major hub for United and usually offers the most consistent award availability for travelers coming from the Midwest or West Coast.

Best programs for booking flights with points:

Southwest often offers affordable award rates into LaGuardia, which can be a great option for families who want flexible policies and no change fees. JetBlue has a strong presence at JFK and LaGuardia, and their points can be a good fit for anyone traveling from the East Coast. United’s MileagePlus program is one of the most reliable ways to find award flights into Newark, and we use United frequently since it is one of our home airports. Delta also runs frequent sales into JFK and LaGuardia, which can bring the points cost down more than you might expect.

If you use Amex Membership Rewards, those points transfer directly to Delta and JetBlue. If that is something you are interested in exploring, here is the Amex card we use for earning those points: American Express Gold Card.

Using Chase Ultimate Rewards for flights:

Chase Ultimate Rewards can also be used for flights into New York City by transferring points to United, JetBlue, or Southwest. Because Chase points are easy to earn through everyday spending, they are often one of the most flexible ways to cover flights for families. We use Chase frequently for hotel redemptions in New York City, but it can also be a strong option for airfare depending on availability.

When flying makes sense versus taking the train:

Some travelers prefer booking flights into New York City, while others find the train to be easier. Amtrak can be a convenient option for families coming from the Northeast Corridor, especially if you want to avoid airport lines and security. For shorter distances, the train can end up being faster than flying. For longer distances, using airline miles is usually the better choice.

Flying into New York City with points gives families a lot of flexibility. With so many routes and airlines serving the area, most travelers can find an affordable option that fits their schedule and budget. In the next section, we will look at saving money once you are in the city through transportation choices and attraction discounts.

Transportation Savings Once You’re in the City

Getting around New York City can feel overwhelming at first, but once you know the basics, it’s actually one of the easier parts of your trip. Whether we’re visiting New York City on points for a quick overnight, or doing a full weekend, we rely on a mix of subways, ferries, and occasional taxis to get everywhere we need to go. Honestly? For our kids, transportation is half the fun.

Below are the ways we save money (and time!) getting around NYC, plus some real family photos from our own trips.

Taking the Subway as a Family:

Transportation costs can add up quickly, even when you visit New York City on points. The subway is almost always the most affordable way to get around New York City with kids. We’ve taken it on nearly every trip, and once you ride it once or twice, it’s not so intimidating.

Use OMNY (tap-to-pay) on your phone or credit card. It automatically calculates the best fare and even caps you at the weekly maximum.

Why we use the subway:

• No traffic
  
• Kids love the “city feel”
  
• Cheaper than multiple taxi fares
  
• Gets you almost anywhere in Manhattan or Brooklyn

For families, I recommend planning your day by neighborhood so you’re not zig-zagging across the city.

Family Travel Tip:

I never travel without AirTags anymore. Years ago, after a trip home from Scotland, one of my bags was lost for five days and one was never returned. AirTags give me instant peace of mind, especially in busy cities like New York.

➡️ Here’s the exact AirTag pack we use.

Riding the Staten Island Ferry (Totally Free!):

We’ve learned that you can visit New York City on points without giving up the fun experiences. One of our favorite budget-friendly NYC activities is the Staten Island Ferry. It’s completely free, runs 24/7, and gives you some of the best views of the Statue of Liberty and New York Harbor without paying for a tour.

Our kids look forward to this ride because it’s simple, scenic, and doesn’t cost a thing.

Roosevelt Island Tram (A Fun, Affordable Bonus Ride):

One of our family’s recommendations to anyone visiting New York City on points is the Roosevelt Island Tram. It’s technically part of the public transportation system, so it only costs the price of a regular subway fare. But to kids (and honestly, to us adults too!) it feels like a bonus attraction.

You glide above the East River with incredible views of the Queensboro Bridge and Midtown. The ride is short, but the excitement is big, especially the moment it lifts off and the skyline opens up beneath you. It’s one of those “only in New York” experiences that adds something special to an otherwise budget-friendly day.

We usually take the tram from the Manhattan side, wander around Roosevelt Island for a bit, and then ride it back. It’s such an easy win for families looking to add a memorable experience without spending much. And since you’re visiting New York City on points, this is exactly the kind of little adventure that keeps costs low while still making the day feel fun and full.

When We Use Taxis or Rideshares:

While we mostly stick to the subway, we’ll grab a taxi when:

• We’re going somewhere late at night
  
• We’re carrying bags
  
• The kids are exhausted
  
• It’s raining

Taxis in Manhattan are often cheaper than rideshare apps, especially for shorter distances.

What About Parking or Driving Into NYC?:

When we drive, we either:

• Use SpotHero to book discounted parking
  
• Park in Jersey City and take the PATH train into Manhattan
  
• Avoid Manhattan parking altogether on peak weekends

If you’re visiting New York City on points and staying at a hotel, always check the parking fee — it can be $50–$80 per night.

Final Thoughts on Getting Around NYC

Transportation doesn’t have to be stressful. With a mix of subways, ferries, and short taxi rides, you can explore NYC affordably and easily, and your kids may love these “in-between” moments just as much as the major attractions.

Before You Plan the Rest of Your Trip…

If you’re putting together a full New York City itinerary, these guides pair perfectly with everything in this post:

🎄 2 Days in New York City at Christmas

If you’re visiting during the holidays, our full Christmas itinerary walks you through window displays, Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park, and kid-friendly stops you can reach easily by subway or taxi. Check out our New York City Christmas itinerary.

🗽 More NYC guides coming soon

I’ll be adding posts on NYC cruises, Hyatt stays on points, and more ways to stretch your travel budget in and around the city.

If you’re wondering whether it’s okay to travel during the school year, here’s teacher + mom take on kids missing school for vacation

If your family enjoys walkable East Coast cities like NYC, you would probably also enjoy our Boston itinerary for tweens and teens.

Activities You Can Offset With Points, Credits & Smart Savings

Once your hotel is covered with points, you can save even more by using credit card perks, statement credits, and a few NYC hacks that make activities more affordable.

Using Chase Ultimate Rewards:

If you have Chase points, you can redeem them toward:

• SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
• Top of the Rock
• Empire State Building
• Circle Line cruises
• Statue City Cruises
• Museum tickets

The redemption value isn’t as high as Hyatt transfers, but if you want fewer out-of-pocket costs, it’s a helpful option.

Credit Card Travel Credits:

Depending on your cards, you may be able to offset:

• Taxis or rideshares
• Subway passes
• Baggage fees (if flying into NYC)
• Tours booked through travel portals

Cards like the Amex Gold, Capital One Venture, and Amex Platinum come with statement credits that you can use toward NYC transportation and activities.

Free or Almost-Free Things to Do When You Visit New York City on Points

These are favorites for both parents and kids (and pair perfectly when you visit New York City on points):

Staten Island Ferry — A Free Way to See NYC on Points:

One of our favorite simple NYC wins: the completely free Staten Island Ferry. It runs every 30 minutes, gives you postcard-worthy views of the Statue of Liberty, and costs exactly $0. When you’re trying to visit New York City on points, this is a must-do because it saves money and feels like an attraction all on its own.

Central Park — A Must When You Visit NYC on Points:

Central Park is always at the top of our list — playgrounds, climbing rocks, wide open space, and iconic views everywhere you turn. Whether it’s your first or fifteenth time visiting New York City on points, Central Park is an easy, low-cost activity that the whole family loves.

Brooklyn Bridge Walk:

If your kids can handle a bit of walking, the Brooklyn Bridge is fun, unique, and full of skyline photo spots. It’s completely free and gives you an amazing sense of the city’s history and architecture.

Roosevelt Island Tram — A Budget Experience During Your NYC on Points Trip:

This is one of the best hidden gems when you’re trying to visit NYC on points. The Roosevelt Island Tram runs on the same MetroCard swipe as the subway, but feels like an aerial ride through the skyline. Kids love it, and the views of the East River and midtown are incredible.

Rockefeller Center Window Shopping (Especially at Christmas):

You don’t have to buy anything. Just walk around Rockefeller Center, see the seasonal displays, and enjoy the energy. During Christmas, this area is pure magic.

Times Square and Broadway District Wandering:

Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s also iconic. Even 10 minutes in Times Square gives kids that “Wow, we’re in New York City!” feeling without spending anything.

These free and low-cost activities make it easier to visit New York City on points without overspending on every little thing.

🗽 Sample NYC on Points Itineraries

These sample itineraries show how families can turn points into meaningful trips, even if you’re somewhat local like us.

Final Thoughts on How to Visit New York City on Points

Our goal is always to help other families visit New York City on points confidently and affordably. After years of exploring NYC as a family, here are the things that help us the most, especially when we want to visit New York City on points without overthinking it:

• Book hotels early, especially for Christmas or summer weekends.
• Compare points vs. cash — some dates are better for points redemption than others.
• Use OMNY for subway rides — it’s easy and family-friendly.
• Take advantage of free activities — NYC has more than almost any other city.
• Be flexible — NYC always has something amazing to offer.

Most of all, remember that trips don’t need to be fancy or expensive to be memorable. Some of our best NYC memories are the simple ones: watching the skyline from the ferry, grabbing street pretzels, or just wandering together through the streets.

When you combine those moments with smart points planning, NYC becomes a destination your family can enjoy again and again, without the giant price tag!

If you’re planning a holiday visit, here’s our full guide to New York City at Christmas.

See more United States travel ideas on our United States Destinations page.

New York City family travel photography © Stack the Miles. All family and attraction photos were captured during our New York City vacations. Select scenic and landmark images courtesy of trusted stock sources and tourism archives.

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