Valet parking is ideal for a number of occasions; whether you don’t have time to spend circling lots for a spot or you won’t be able to walk more than 20 feet in your heels. However, when it comes to valet parking – as with so many other things – New York City does things a bit differently.

NYC Parking is About Garages

First of all, you’ll only find traditional valet parking – as in drop your car at the entrance to your destination – in the outer boroughs of the city. Don’t plan on finding any in Brooklyn or Manhattan (the exception being hotels – some will accommodate guests). It sounds inconvenient, but there are more than enough parking options in these areas that will get you as close as possible to where you’re going where valet parking isn’t necessary. New Yorkers seek out garages. Also, many shops and restaurants negotiate parking deals for patrons in local garages increasing the appeal.

The World’s Best Tetris Players

That being said, most paid parking options will actually include a valet taking your car. Whether in a garage or lot, parking attendants are true experts in fitting the most amount of cars in the least amount of space possible (seriously, check out some of the things they’re able to do behind-the-scenes in a garage if you can.) Of course, this takes a significant amount of headache out of your parking process, since you simply drop off the keys and pick them up, similar to traditional valets.

Valet Parking Doesn’t Mean Luxury Parking

Keep in mind, these valets are parking attendants, as in they will only be parking your car. While traditional valets may be employed or contracted by the location they are in front of and tasked with providing you exceptional service, parking attendants in NYC are handling a heavy volume of parkers leaving their cars for a number of reasons.

They aren’t going to provide you with luxury service or bend over backwards to make sure you’re happy, but they will take good care of your car.

Some tips to keep in mind? Never leave valuables visible (a good idea no matter where you are in NYC) and tip as you would with any other valet.

Parked car image credit: Michelle Brown / Shutterstock.com

Whether driving in for a day or exploring the Big Apple at a leisurely pace, apps hit the sweet spot for visitors. Take advantage of new to be released and current applications for an easier driving (and parking) experience.

Get the Low Down on These NYC Launches

1. Slated for the end of 2016, all parking meters in the metro area will be able to be paid via a mobile payment app. 85,000 metered parking spots will be payable remotely through the app. It is currently being tested on approximately 200 parking meters in the Bronx. Information can be entered via the app. Extra bonuses include the fact that drivers who do not use all of the time for which they have paid for can receive a partial refund and the app notifies motorists prior to the meter expiration time.
2. Even earlier than that, check into the web app, https://www.dotprs.nyc, for NYC DOT municipal garage reservations. Available starting January 27th at 10a.m., this Parking Reservation System (PRS) will allow motorists to make their reservations for the following month and requires a driver’s license check at the garage. This affords visitors that plan ahead a cheaper parking solution.

The Staple Mobile App for iPhone and Android

1. SpotHero is a useful app for NYC drivers. SpotHero, a web and mobile app, can be downloaded on iPhone and Android, allowing users to book discounted parking, up to 50% off, in lots and garages from a phone or computer. Online reservations are required.

Remember to slow down when driving. Once getting out of parking spots, motorists are expected to adhere to 25 MPH speed limits on all NYC streets unless otherwise noted. Drive safe and have an amazing time in NYC.

Visitors driving into NYC should be well aware of Alternate Side Parking (ASP) regulations. No driver needs the hassle and expense of a parking ticket- they are not getting cheaper- or have to retrieve a car that has been towed. Alternate Side Parking regulations were put into effect to allow for street cleaning but inadvertently catches visitors and New Yorkers unaware and adds money to the city’s coffers.

Know everything about ASP to comply with the regulations.

How do you know what parking sign applies to ASP?

A sign with the letter “P” that include a broom running through it, denote an ASP sign and specific times for street cleaning. See below for a picture of the ASP sign. Follow posted signs when in doubt of a suspension due to construction, weather, emergencies or a holiday.

How do you know when ASP will be suspended for emergencies and weather-related conditions?

You can’t just check the calendar and the city does not have a magic eight ball for weather. As a visitor, you can stay abreast by checking the news on local television and radio channels as these outlets cover alternate parking rules suspensions. For the tech-savvy, consider downloading the 311 Mobile App for automatic updates impacting ASP status.

Did you know that there are unusual periods when ASP is not in effect?

February 8th, is the next date that ASP will be suspended. Keep your cars where you like without worrying about a specific time or date. Why February 8th? It’s the Asian Lunar New Year. During many holidays, not always well-known, the ASP will suspend the regulations. Do not disregard other parking regulations and metered parking. Such rules remain in effect on most non-major legal holidays. Get the breakdown and printout the calendar for ASP suspensions in 2016. Keep your car where it is for observances for the Solemnity of Ascension and Eid al-Adha.

Can you ever ignore the ASP regulations?

Yes. ASP is not applied on Sundays. Visitors need not follow the ASP sign on this day or have to pay the meter. Other parking signs for other regulations may still be in effect. Be aware of signs that specifically include Sundays or are in effect every day of the week.

Is there a map for Alternate Side Parking?

Yes. The city maintains a map of all parking regulations at http://www.nycdot.info/. There is also this user-friendly map maintained by NYCparklife.com to see if alternate street parking rules are in effect in your neighborhood.

NYC is an exciting place to explore but can be confusing for first time visitors. Common misconceptions include that when ASP is suspended, so are No Standing Anytime and other no-parking zone regulations. Enjoy your stay and avoid such mistakes.

When New York City is awash in snow, many kids – and kids at heart – set out to the nearest sled hill.

The Department of Parks and Recreation provides a comprehensive list of sled hills in NYC to help you find that perfect spot.

If you decide to drive to your sledding adventure, you can save precious time by booking a parking spot in advance.

Here are some of the NYC favorites where sledders can find convenient nearby parking on SpotHero. Look out below!

Manhattan
Central Park – Pilgrim Hill – iconic Central Park sledding
Central Park – Cedar Hill – tamer altenative to Pilgrim Hill
Morningside Park – Southend Hill, Northend Hill
Inwood Hill Park – Scenic sledding near the Hudson River
Riverside Park – Intense tree-lined sledding, not for the faint of heart

Brooklyn
Prospect Park Sled Hill