Moving to a new neighborhood in New York City can be daunting. No matter where you live in the city, there’s so much going on. It can be a little overwhelming trying to figure out how to get to know your new community. We think these are ten of the best ways to get better acquainted. Before you know it, you’ll be having a full-blown love affair with your new ‘hood.

Research online

The first and easiest place to learn about your neighborhood doesn’t even require that you leave your apartment. There is a wealth of information online that will help you to discover your community. Check out sites like NeighborhoodScout, GreatSchools, and Yelp to learn about demographics, crime rates, schools, restaurants, bars, and more. Search social media sites to find pages and accounts that give you a bird’s-eye view from a current local.

Be a tourist

New Yorkers have a love-hate thing with tourists but consider exploring your neighborhood from a tourist’s perspective. What are the big attractions in the area? Devote a couple of weekends to checking out the famous locations – you never know what you might learn.

Take a long walk

If you have a dog, you already know that taking long walks can lead you to some surprising destinations. Whether or not you have a furry friend, get out there and take a meandering stroll through the neighborhood. Don’t think of it as exercise, think of it as a mission of discovery. Have a long rest on a public bench and just watch the people go by. Who lives and works in your neighborhood?

Get lost

While you’re out on those long walks, try to get lost. We mean it. This is a little easier if you live in a neighborhood south of 14th Street, of course, but you can do it anywhere. Turn down a street you’ve never been on before. Absorb the sights, smells, and sounds of what’s around you. See if you can find an intersection that you’ve never been to before. Take the subway one stop and just wander around.

Switch up your commute

We understand that on most days, it may be a struggle just to get to work on time. But see if you can find a day or two to leave a little early and take a different route to your job. Hop on the bus instead of taking the subway. Even better, walk to your destination. Pay attention to what’s around you and make mental notes of places you’d like to visit along the way.

Check out local meet-ups

Have you discovered Meetup yet? This website allows you to find groups of people in your area that share the same interests as you. Explore the Meetup website or download the app to find meetups that happen in your neighborhood.

Introduce yourself

Not every New Yorker is into meeting their neighbors. But hopefully, that won’t stop you from taking a risk and introducing yourself to them anyway. When you see someone in the hallway or elevator of your building, say hi. It’s so great to have friends that are nearby, and getting to know a neighbor or two can reveal even more about the area in which you live. It’s also nice to know that there’s someone nearby if you ever have an emergency.

Shop local

Resist the urge to buy everything from Amazon or Fresh Direct. Instead, become a regular at your local shops. Try a new cuisine. You’ll find out so much about the culture and residents of your area, and you’ll likely start to see familiar faces each time you shop. It’s also a great way to support local shop owners.

Volunteer

Do you have a cause you love to support? Then research local organizations that do that kind of work and volunteer. Whether it’s an animal rescue group, a food pantry, or a group dedicated to registering voters, you’re sure to find a suitable volunteer opportunity. You’ll meet great people who share at least one of your interests.

Talk to Platinum Properties

Would you like to learn more about the kinds of properties that are available in your area? Then click here or call 646-681-5272 to speak with an agent from Platinum Properties. We love to share what makes each neighborhood unique and are always available to answer your questions.