how not to look like a tourist and act like a local in New York (Liberty: high school, to live in)

[jmims]

I am thinking of visiting NYC next spring. This would be my second time in the city. The first time it was in high school, senior year so I visited all the places that a first timer goes. For this next trip I want to explore what its like to live in New York. My first trip i fe lt and looked like a tourist and so did the people in my group. This is what I want to know,

1. What are some ways a person can make themselves not look like a tourist?

2. How can a visitor act like a local?

[Bobby BK]

1. While it's obvious, it's also true - avoid the more "tourist-y" areas when you can. For example, if you want to see the Statue of Liberty, take the Staten Island Ferry. Tens of thousands of people take it on the daily basis because it's one of the only ways to get to-and-from Staten Island, so you can get a decent view of the Statue (and take photos) without looking blatantly out-of-place.

2. Avoid eye contact with strangers. Don't stare up at buildings. Go from point-a-to-point-b in a nonchalant manner. Don't ask for directions. Use a cell phone map instead of a paper one.

[ShirlMastic Beach]

Cell phone map, good suggestion. Staring at buildings is fine as long as you are walking fast. Basically, do everything faster. Do not obey every pedestrian rule.

[boobiemilez]

I dont live in NYC but tourist here in Chicago annoy me to wits end. So 2 things u can do to not look like a tourist anywhere and not just NYC are as follows: Walk with a purpose from point A to B. Secondly dont stop abruptly in the middle of the sidewalk and take pictures.

[Bobby BK]

Oh, and don't sit in the far corner of a train. Only a tourist (or a homeless person) would make that mistake.

[Northwindsforever]

When you find an elevator, take a leak and youre a true NYer.

[Northwindsforever]

Or this is not my original idea but from one member who got banned.: Munch a slice while on the toilet doing number 2.

[Soviet]

Don't stand in the middle of the street blocking others' way. Just don't.

[Chava61]

Don't stop in the middle of a busy sidewalk rather stand close to the buildings.

Don't carry a (camera case) around your neck. It is better to take photos with your smartphone.

[30to66at55]

Don't stop at the bottom or top of a subway staircase.