The Must-Follow NYC Instagram Accounts for Incoming Students 

Moving to New York City is more than just a change of scenery—it’s a whole new lifestyle. Whether you're looking for the best neighborhood eats, the perfect hidden selfie spots, or fashion inspiration straight from the city streets, Instagram can be your key to discovering it all. 

Empire State Building and skyline

To help you hit the ground running, we’ve rounded up the top NYC-based Instagram accounts to follow before arriving. From foodie finds to fashion icons, here’s your ultimate cheat sheet to navigate the city like a pro. 

For the Foodies:  

  • @nyc.date.spots: Contrary to its name, you don’t have to be looking for a date location to follow this account. Providing a treasure trove of locales that pass the vibe check, this account’s story highlights are especially handy when you’re trying to explore options by neighborhood. 
  • @new_fork_city: Showing you the deliciousness of all the food NYC has to offer through photos! 
  • @nycfoodfaves: Want to stay in the know about all the new restaurant openings? Product manager by day and foodie influencer by night, Ali Chilton spotlights some of the hottest spots right as they hit the scene. 
  • @devourpower: There are over 23K restaurants in NYC. This food-obsessed couple will help you sort the mediocre from the mouth-watering. 

For the Fashionistas:  

  • @lastnightatthemet: For the most glamorous Manhattanites, the account’s bio tells you exactly what you’ll find: “Fabulous fashions from the Metropolitan Opera—where the opera is grand, and so is the style.” 
  • @WatchingNewYork: People-watching meets fashion inspiration! Who doesn’t like seeing all the best looks the New York City streets have to offer? 
  • @giannacaldera: Get an insider’s look at the life of an LIM student by following LIM Fashion Marketing major, Gianna Caldera. She regularly shares stylish NYC street looks, trend inspiration, and peeks at fashion-forward happenings in the city. 

For the Photographers:  

  • @nycprimeshot: Get a feel for NYC’s vibrant energy with this account, which features stunning cityscapes and creative shots. 
  • @joethommas: A professional architect by trade, Joe Thomas uses his photography to capture the best city landscapes and street scenes throughout The Big Apple.  
  • @brittanyeliza.photo: As an ambassador for Nikon, Brittany Eliza Kunkel’s page is full of spellbinding photos and reels that capture the beautiful seasons of NYC. 

For the Scene Seekers: 

  • @NYCPlugged: Your go-to source for the latest events, pop-ups, and cultural happenings around the city. From underground parties to exclusive dining experiences, this account keeps you plugged into NYC’s ever-evolving scene 
  • @newyorkcity.explore: A curated guide to events, city hotspots, and local favorites. Whether you’re looking for must-visit restaurants, scenic views, or trending experiences, this account has you covered. 
  • @newyorkbucketlist: From the trendiest restaurants to the coolest rooftop pools, never miss out on a thing with this wildly popular account.   
  • @fomofeed: FOMO is no joke around here. Luckily, this culture vulture account will keep you on top of the city’s latest and hottest happenings. 

For the Urban Adventurers: 

  • @nyc_forfree: You guessed it! This account regularly posts NYC activities that you can access for free.  
  • @thekatieromero: From dumpling-making classes to scenic running spots, this account is a wellspring of city tips and hobby ideas. 
  • @stoopingnyc: New Yorkers often put unwanted furniture and art on the street. This account posts amazing street finds that you can snatch up if you’re lucky.   
  • @landmarksofny: Get to know the city intimately with this delightful account that shares little-known facts about the city’s 36K+ landmarks. 

Lastly, we may be biased, but the NYC account you should definitely follow is @limcollege. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok to get the inside scoop on all things related to food, fashion, and fun in our amazing city!