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The 37 Best Things to Do in New York City

By Melissa Liebling-Goldberg and Alex Erdekian

One of the most mysterious things about New York City is that the closer you look—even at something as minor as a street corner—the more you see. And the longer you look, the faster it changes before your eyes. People can live here for 100 years and never run out of places to go or people to meet, so deciding the best things to do in New York is daunting; which is why we're narrowing your options. Whether you're a local itching to get out of your neighborhood or an out-of-towner who doesn't know The Met from the Mets, these new and classic activities alike will dazzle you. From wandering Central Park to slurping soup dumplings in Chinatown , these are a few of our very favorite things to do in New York City, from Midtown to Brooklyn.

Read our complete New York City travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Central Park Arrow

To get that Nora Ephron New York experience, you have no choice but to take a stroll through Central Park while in the city. As you step off the crowded sidewalks of 59th Street into a mass of green, you’ll hardly realize what lies before you: 693 acres of man-made gardens, meadows, forests, and  hillsides. If you ambled down every one of Central Park’s pathways, you would walk 58 miles. Along the way, you pass sculptures, bridges, and arches, plus 21 playgrounds, a winter ice-skating rink, even a zoo . But you’d hardly notice the four major crosstown thoroughfares, which cleverly disappear into foliage-covered tunnels. Map your park route to stop at classic Central Park landmarks, like the Bethesda Fountain, Bow Bridge, Belvedere Castle, and the Strawberry Fields John Lennon Memorial.

Chinatown Arrow

 Chinatown is one of the neighborhoods that makes lower Manhattan vibrant and unforgettable. After surfacing from the steps of the Canal Street subway station onto the sidewalk, meandering past thick crowds, neon light shops, and vendors peddling fake designer bags, you’ll find yourself in the narrow streets of Chinatown, where there are bright heaps of produce, succulent ducks hanging in windows, and restaurants old and new. Touching Tribeca, SoHo, Little Italy, and the Lower East Side, Chinatown has a rich history and began being populated by Chinese immigrants as early as the 1850s. You can visit in whichever way makes sense for you. Whether you spend an hour devouring a box of roast pork or duck from street-style Wah Fung No. 1 before you have to proceed elsewhere, or you spend half a day shopping for produce, dining out, and paying a visit to the Museum of Chinese in America , everyone will gain something from a visit to Chinatown.

Whitney Museum of American Art Arrow

The Whitney got a major upgrade when it relocated from the Upper East Side to its vastly-expanded Meatpacking headquarters in 2015. It houses 50,000 square feet of indoor galleries with works by Jean Michel Basquiat, Richard Avedon, and Alexander Calder, four outdoor exhibition spaces and terraces, and a ground-floor restaurant and top-floor bar, both by Danny Meyer, one of the town’s best-known restaurateurs. The floors are connected by two artist-designed elevators (albeit slow-moving, crowded ones). If mobility isn’t an issue, take the stairs instead, which offer uninterrupted views of the Hudson river. The upper floors and sculpture terraces are also connected by a series of exterior staircases, with great views of the downtown skyline, and a rare opportunity to experience art en plein aire.

Yankee Stadium Arrow

A spring or summer day spent cheering at an NYC ballpark is a classic activity for a reason. Located in the Bronx, Yankee Stadium is the home field of New York’s 27-time World Champions. It’s a half-hour subway ride from Penn Station and approximately a 20-minute subway ride from Grand Central Terminal, making it easily accessible from Manhattan. It replaced the 1923 original in 2009 and cost $1.5 billion to build, making it one of the world’s most expensive stadiums. It seats 50,287 fans. New York Yankees games, obviously, are the main event here, but you can also attend concerts, college football, and soccer matches.

Emily Saladino

Mark Ellwood

The Morgan Library & Museum Arrow

The Morgan is like a multi-hyphenate millennial—only instead of actress/model/influencer/whatever, it’s museum/library/landmark/historic site/music venue. Inside the multimillionaire’s personal library, expanded into a must-see museum and cultural space, you'll find rare artifacts, paintings, and books, some dating back to 4000 B.C. that are worth more than your house. In particular the museum is home to one of 23 copies of the original Declaration of Independence; Mozart's handwritten score of the Haffner Symphony; the collected works of African American poet Phillis Wheatley; the only extant manuscript of Milton's  Paradise Lost ; and Charles Dickens’s manuscript of  A Christmas Carol . Swoon.

The Cathedral of St. John the Divine Arrow

The Cathedral of St. John the Divine on 112th and Amsterdam in Upper Manhattan’s Morningside Heights is the largest cathedral in the world and the sixth-largest church by area. Hundreds of thousands of visitors walk through these doors annually for a reason. The cathedral itself—and its remarkable Gothic architecture, story-telling stained glass windows, and 17th century tapestries—is already worth visiting. But there is artwork that is especially meaningful to New York City here as well, including Keith Haring's white gold and bronze altarpiece and a 9/11 memorial sculpture by Meredith Bergmann, which holds debris of the towers in it.  The cathedral holds daily and Sunday worship services, which welcome all. There is no charge to pray, meditate, or contemplate in the cathedral. Visitors who show for sightseeing purposes can enter for $5 admission. Special tours are offered depending on the day of the week. 

Summit One Vanderbilt Arrow

There’s no shortage of jaw-dropping views found throughout the city, but the team behind Summit One Vanderbilt has assembled a bunch of big names to bring together a full experience where you could easily spend a few hours. It starts with the elevator, a light- and sound-filled ride that whooshes visitors up to the 91st floor. There, you’re greeted by a massive, mirrored room that looks out over New York City. Additionally, there are rotating art installations from Kenzo Digital, as well as two special features: Levitation, a glass skybox that lets you feel as if you’re floating one-thousand feet above Madison Avenue; and Ascent, a separate glass elevator that brings you up even higher to gaze over downtown Manhattan. Inside, a Snøhetta-designed Nordic-inspired space serves food and drinks from Danny Meyer’s Union Square Events, including pastrami-stuffed pretzels and ricotta toast; there’s also a wrap-around outdoor terrace that feels like the city's most exciting rooftop bar.

MoMA PS1 Arrow

The sister institution to MoMA   is no ordinary art museum. Located in a striking Renaissance Revival former public school building in Long Island City, Queens, MoMA PS1’s setting is just as interesting as its collection. All manner of cutting-edge contemporary art is shown here, with a collection over 200,000 pieces strong, from the likes of James Turrell and Ai Weiwei. The people-watching can be just as good as the art, as creative types from around the city come here to find inspiration.

Bemelmans Bar Arrow

At Bemelmans, Ludwig Bemelman's illustrations—you might remember them from the Madeline books—adorn the walls. In one panel, a bunny smokes a cigar in Central Park ; in another, a man hands a boy a clutch of balloons. This is a bar where gawking is permissible. The cocktails here very much depend on who’s making them: an Old Fashioned might be a bit watery, a whiskey sour too tart. But often a dirty gin Martini is just perfectly executed. Everything is expensive—it’s clear why you’re here—so take the edge off that sensation by digging into the free, hearty snacks that float your way.

For locals and first-time visitors alike, seeing a Broadway show is a special experience, and one that is exclusive to New York City. Times Square is ordinarily a drag, but when you’re moseying into Midtown Manhattan for a show the bright billboards and lights don’t flash in your face—they dazzle in your eyes. A Broadway show's costumes, sets, songs, and stories are the stuff of dreams. In November, anticipated Spamalot— (parodying Monty Python and the Holy Grail) —and Harmony —a performance telling the true story of the Comedian Harmonists—take the stage.

New York Botanical Garden Arrow

The New York Botanical Garden has carefully manicured flower gardens, lush fields, winding hikes, and impeccable greenhouses. There are spaces that feel deeply intimate, as if you're truly separated from the world, and there are vast expanses where it's hard to believe you're still in the Bronx . In winter, the greenhouses host an annual train show recreating all of New York City in miniature; the warmer months bring every floral delight imaginable, from cherry trees to peonies. Plan to spend at least half a day here and pack a picnic.

Brooklyn Heights Promenade

It’s one thing to be in the midst of Manhattan, on the ground; it’s quite another to look upon it from across the river. In Brooklyn Heights, a couple subway stops away from lower Manhattan, the city’s image looms large before you. Arguably the best view of the skyline in the city, the Brooklyn Heights promenade hovers above the Brooklyn-Queen Expressway. Underlying the peaceful, tree-lined walkway, traffic rumbles below. The promenade stretches from Remsen Street at the south end to Middagh Street at the north. Around the corner, pedestrians can discretely cross a basketball court to access a suspended footbridge that zigzags down to the piers of Brooklyn Bridge Park. While in the picturesque neighborhood, make stops at the New York Transit Museum, the Sardinian trattoria River Deli, and the old-time dive bar Montero.

Grand Central Terminal Arrow

Grand Central Terminal is more than just one of the busiest train stations in the world—it's a window into old New York and into a time when train travel was the ultimate luxury for the wealthy and a necessity for the working man. If you aren't commuting in or out of the city, avoid coming during rush hour, and take your time admiring the landmark architecture and checking out the top-notch dining and shopping.

9/11 Memorial and Museum Arrow

Every American should visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum at least once. As you enter the museum, you descend from the street to bedrock level—the foundation of the former Twin Towers—and are placed in a meditative mindset, forced to recall where you were on that fateful day. The museum itself is a masterful balance: It's grand in scale, contemplative in its construction, and personal in its execution. It pays homage to the enormity of the loss, both physical and spiritual. 

Brooklyn Bridge Arrow

When the Brooklyn Bridge was constructed in 1883—extending 1,595 feet across the East River, connecting lower Manhattan to Brooklyn Heights—it was the longest suspension bridge in the world. Now, it’s a historic staple of the New York City skyline, transporting commuter car traffic underneath and touristic foot traffic above . Standing before arches and rectangles with city skyscrapers rising in the distance, will at once inspire a sense of grandiosity and slightness.

The Cloisters Arrow

Located on four acres in northern Manhattan's Fort Tryon Park, the Met Cloisters is a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and is America’s only museum dedicated exclusively to the art and architecture of the Middle Ages. The building overlooks the Hudson River and actually incorporates five medieval-inspired cloisters into a modern museum structure, creating a historic, contextualized backdrop in which to view the art.

Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Arrow

Located in Midtown Manhattan, the MoMA is larger than it appears as you approach it from the street below. One of the world’s most influential museums—displaying the works of important artists like Van Gogh, Monet, Picasso, Matisse, Rothko, Frida Kahlo, Salvador Dali, and Diane Arbus—it has 630,000 square feet of space and attracts more than a million visitors a year. While making a beeline for the fifth-floor Collection Galleries to take in The Starry Night and Monet’s Water Lilies is understandable, don’t miss the exhibitions, which tell new stories and can only be experienced in a limited time frame. Allocate time to spend pouring over the remarkable books and objects in the famous gift shop, too—an NYC must-visit in its own right.

Apollo Theater Arrow

Countless careers have been made and stars have passed through this world famous, legendary Harlem theater—Duke Ellington, Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, Ella Fitzgerald, Diana Ross, Lauryn Hill, and D’Angelo to name a few. The venue—which began as a white-only burlesque destination until 1934, when under new ownership it began welcoming and becoming central to the Black community—has been active for 88 years, with swing, blues, jazz, R&B, and comedy acts taking the stage. Today, visitors can attend events like Amateur Night at the Apollo, one of the city’s most long-standing, fame-making live shows. Capacity is 1,500, with three levels of seating, and contrary to the way it appears on 'Showtime at the Apollo,' is intimate without much legroom.

Prospect Park Arrow

Prospect Park is in many ways the Central Park of Brooklyn; in fact, it was designed shortly after by the same team of architects, Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, and has many of the same features: sprawling meadows, walking trails, and picturesque bodies of water. In feeling though, it’s more rambling and less manicured than its touristed Manhattan counterpart. Prospect Park Woodlands is Brooklyn’s last remaining forest, with 250 acres of trees, turtles, chipmunks, 200 species of birds, and other fauna and flora. There's also basketball and tennis courts, a carousel, playgrounds, zoo, and a 3.35-mile loop for runners and bikers (they’re fast —watch out!). While there, make a trip to adjacent Brooklyn Botanic Garden , particularly lovely during cherry blossom season.

Bedford Avenue, Williamsburg Arrow

Sip iced coffee in McCarren Park, catch an indie show at Baby's All Right, walk two blocks over to some of the city's most-coveted Italian at Lilia (with a month-in-advance res, of course.) This is the busiest thoroughfare in hip Williamsburg: Bedford Avenue—and the L train that feeds it—might as well be North Brooklyn’s own personal people-watching catwalk. Pedestrians with voluminous pants, dogs with miniature rain boots, and high-speed scooters will swish past you. As you make your way south from the subway station, likely en route from the East Village, you’ll pass local businesses that characterize the area, like Catbird (ethereal, vintage-inspired jewelry), Spoonbill & Sugartown Books (poetry, special design and cookbooks, cards), and Awoke Vintage (best-known for their genuine denim often from the ‘90s.)

Coney Island Arrow

Coney Island has a reputation as a circus-worthy tourist trap, which is exactly what it is. But you may be surprised by the old-timey charms of this beachfront American town. You’ll definitely be impressed by the food and drinks—Totonno's Pizza, Gargiulo's and Coney Island Brewery in particular. Locals and tourists hang out on the beach, eat ice cream cones on the promenade, and stand in line for the famed Cyclone roller coaster. The beach and boardwalk along with spots like Nathan’s are open year-round. The amusement park itself is seasonal. Events like the annual Mermaid Parade (crowded as they may be) are worth watching for the audacity and theatrics you can’t find anywhere else in the world but Coney Island.

Lincoln Center Arrow

World-renowned performing arts center Lincoln Center is always worth visiting when the opportunity arises, and in October 2022, David Geffen Hall, home to the New York Philharmonic, reopened after a major renovation that improved the venue’s acoustics and spiffed it up with a modern look. The sprawling Upper West Side complex is also home to the Metropolitan Opera, the New York City Ballet, the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, and Juilliard. All kinds of music, dance, theater, and films show here; Some highlights from the upcoming calendar include the New York Film Festival, the operas like The Life and Times of Malcom X and La Boheme , and ballets like The Nutcracker . Whether you’re on a special date or reconnecting with old friend when you’re in town, seeing a live performance at Lincoln Center will always make for an elegant and memorable night out.

Washington Square Park Arrow

If people-watching is your sport, Washington Square Park is your place. Entertainment is a given in this intimate, not-quite 10-acre space, filled with career chess players, musicians, performers, students, sunbathers, strollers, and general throngs of Greenwich Villagers, desperate for a bit of fresh air. Take your time as you go through: Pause beneath Washington Arch, honoring our country’s first president (for whom the Park is named), and observe the laurel wreaths and intricate motifs that extend from the base to the keystones, atop which twin eagles perch like constant watchmen. Washington Square Park is the beating heart of this vibrant New York neighborhood.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art Arrow

For nearly a century and a half, the Met has remained the cultural epicenter of New York City, thanks to forward-thinking exhibits and an extensive permanent collection. With its Gothic-Revival-style building, iconic tiered steps, and Central Park location, the building is a sight to be seen. But step inside its Great Hall—as a ceaseless parade of museumgoers move to-and-fro—and you’ll feel the overwhelming sense of possibility and discovery that lays beyond. If you've got limited time or compatriots with limited attention spans, start with the Temple of Dendur, a 2,000-year-old soaring Egyptian temple (the only complete one in the Western Hemisphere)

Blue Note Jazz Club Arrow

Blue Note has been one of the best jazz clubs in New York, and the world, since the 1980s. It offers music every night at 8 p.m. and 10:30, and on Friday and Saturday nights has a late night series at 12:30 a.m., which showcases emerging talent. If you're looking to get a taste of jazz in NYC, you can do no better. Over the years, legendary musicians including Sarah Vaughan, Dizzy Gillespie, and Ray Charles have performed on the Blue Note Stage, as well as contemporary jazz acts such as Wynton Marsalis, Keith Jarrett, and Chris Botti. Tables are intimate, close-set, and all-ages (with the bar being 21-plus).

Union Square Greenmarket Arrow

Union Square is a place of the people, not unlike the agoras of ancient Athens—and no offering of Union Square showcases this quality quite like the bustling Greenmarket. From upstate New York, the Berkshires , New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, vendors sell artisan bread, honey, fresh-cut flowers, heritage meats, pastries, seasonal fruits and vegetables both common and uncommon, and much more. Don't miss the free events, like book signings and more: Cooking demos take place at the Market Information tent daily, beer and spirits pop-ups show seasonally, and the education station offers tours and tastings.

Rockefeller Center Arrow

Rockefeller Center sits in the heart of midtown Manhattan, both in terms of its physical location and its prominent place in the city's folklore and culture. Whether you want to check out a performance on the plaza outside the TODAY show, visit the Christmas tree, or practice your best moves on the ice skating rink, you're in for an iconic, family-friendly experience. If you buy a ticket to Top of the Rock, you'll enjoy spectacular views of the city below. No matter where you are, you're bound to be constantly pointing and shouting “hey, look at that!”

Comedy Cellar Arrow

None of the promoters on MacDougal Street shouting “stand-up comedy tonight!” are trying to get you into the Comedy Cellar, where the show is already sold out. Blockbuster stars like Jerry Seinfeld and Eddie Murphy made their names at the Cellar; if you're lucky, one may show up the night you're there. Seating is intimate and close together, and there is a two-item minimum on food or drinks. It's 21-plus and vaccine-mandatory; be prepared to surrender your phone at the door, too. There's no bad seat in the house, but sit in the front at your own risk of getting (playfully) heckled by the host or a comic.

American Museum of Natural History Arrow

Truly one of the world's great natural history museums, the American Museum of Natural History spans four city blocks just across from Central Park . All aspects of the natural world are represented here, from a vast collection of taxidermy mammals, to depictions of the life of Native American tribes, to an entire hall dedicated to marine life—including a life-size model of a blue whale. The crown jewel is the dinosaur floor, with an imposing Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton that dominates the room. The newest attraction comes in the form of the long-awaited Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation , which opened in May of 2023 and, among many other things, boasts a comprehensive insectarium and vivarium. Breathtaking architecture from New York-based Jeanne Gang doesn't hurt, either.

The Strand Book Store Arrow

With its towering stacks, filled with more than 2.5 million titles, this 94-year-old bookstore is less neighborhood haunt and more globally recognized institution. You could call the Strand's employees tour guides, considering their deft ability to find the exact title you're looking for and recommend a book you may not have otherwise plucked from the shelves. The store will make you question why you don’t read more; and chances are you won’t leave empty-handed.

Bronx Zoo Arrow

With more than 700 different animal species spread across 265 acres of parkland thoughtfully designed to mimic natural habitats, the Bronx Zoo is a great place to escape from Manhattan for the day, especially if you're traveling with kids. Don't miss the giraffe building, the Congo gorilla forest, the house of reptiles, the flamingos in the sea bird aviary, and the sea lions, who always make for an exciting show. If you want to blow the minds of a bunch of kids, you can do no better.

Governors Island Arrow

Located in New York Harbor, only 800 yards from Manhattan and 400 yards from Brooklyn, walking onto quirky, car-free, brick-covered, 173-acre Governors Island feels like being transported to an alternate universe from the city—but in reality it's a quick, affordable ferry ride away. One-way fare is $4 and boats are serviced from Lower Manhattan’s Battery Maritime Building every day, as well as from Brooklyn Bridge Park and Atlantic Basin in Red Hook on the weekends. In the past couple of years, Governors Island has become an even more popular city destination, and has welcomed a slew of new luxury businesses. One is special in particular: Collective, the only place you can stay overnight on the island. Collective is a glamping experience, offering plush beds inside the tents, morning yoga, sunset cocktails, and iconic skyline views—Lady Liberty included, herself. Which is all to say, you’re by no means roughing it here. On the menu at their restaurant, you’ll find grilled seafood, gorgeous spreads of pastries, and more. Another luxury experience new to the island is QC NY Spa, with top-grade saunas and a skyline view-filled pool.

McCarren Park Arrow

Fashion and dogs; dogs and fashion. At McCarren Park, these wonders abound. Located smack between Williamsburg and Greenpoint and bound by Nassau Avenue, Bayard Street, Lorimer Street, and North 12th Street, McCarren is one of North Brooklyn’s best gathering places and community hubs. Activities on offer include softball, volleyball, soccer, handball, and more, but you’ll also see Brooklynites running on the track, rollerblading around the park’s perimeter, and hoisting each other up in acroyoga poses on the grass. Shopping and dining opportunities fringe the park and make for a bustling atmosphere—including the Greenmarket on Saturdays, a thrift market bursting with vintage clothes on the weekends, Awoke Vintage, Forma Pasta, Bernie’s, Frankels, and more.

Elsewhere Arrow

Located in Brooklyn on a hip stretch of Bushwick’s Jefferson Avenue, Elsewhere—a vast, three-story nightclub and live music venue with multiple dance floors, stages, and a rooftop—has become one of the city’s best nightlife destinations. Spinning disco balls and kaleidoscopic lights set the scene. A somewhat recent staple in the city’s nightlife scene, Elsewhere is a converted warehouse that opened in 2017. Blocks away from similar venues like Avant Gardener and House of Yes, Elsewhere stands out for its inclusivity, its intimate vibe in spite of its size, and for lifting up smaller, up-and-coming acts.

Rockaway Beach Arrow

One of the best public beaches you can visit in New York City proper, Rockaway is a sandy, sprawling stretch of surf located in Queens on the Atlantic Ocean, complete with a 5.5-mile boardwalk of delicious concessions. A summery way to get there in style? Take the ferry from Wall Street or Sunset Park, Brooklyn, and let the wind blow through your hair as you take in the city views, sailing under the Verrazano Bridge and past Coney Island on the way. From just about everywhere else in the city, you can also get there via the A train. Each stretch has a different crowd and personality: Beach 90-106 is the busiest section, with the most food and drink options; Beaches 67-69 as well as 90-92 are the surfing zones; between Beach 153 and Beach 169 you’ll find Jacob Riis Park, which is popular with young people and is a summer gathering place for the city’s LGBTQ+ community.

Metrograph Arrow

Located on Ludlow Street in the Lower East Side, Metrograph is an independent movie house and a New York City cinema destination. When you walk in, you’ll notice that the decor is trendy, artsy, and has almost nothing in common with an AMC. You might overhear film buffs opining on French directors you never heard of, but hey, it’s all part of the charm. It shows a curated roster of films that includes exclusive archival screenings, special premiers, and Q&As with notable filmmakers; a few of the films playing on the current lineup in November include The Wall , a 1990 documentary about the Berlin Wall with vérité-style footage; Bill Cunningham New York on 35mm film, introduced by director Richard Press and producer Philip Gefter; and the classic Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf , starring Elizabeth Taylor. Seats are assigned and booked online—to purchase in person, tickets go on sale a half hour before showtime. Seats are red-velvet-cushioned, and pretty comfortable.

Bonus: The legitimate restaurant on site called the Metrograph Commissary serving brunch and dinner, where movie-goers can extend their outing with a meal or a round of drinks. You won’t find your typical movie theater slushies here—espresso martinis, steak tartare, and duck with rosemary are on the menu.

Chelsea's Art Galleries Arrow

If you’ve done the Met and the MoMA a million times but have yet to explore the city’s art gallery scene, get thee to Chelsea. The West Side neighborhood is one of the city’s best-known for art and is home to some of the world’s most respected contemporary art galleries, like David Zwirner —representing legends like Yayoi Kusama, Alice Neel, and William Eggleston—and Gagosian —Damien Hirst, Richard Avedon, Takashi Murakami, and Anna Weyant, whose star is rising. These spaces feel exclusive and glamorous, and you feel special upon walking inside and experiencing their treasures. (And unless you’re an heiress, you’re only window shopping.) The Chelsea gallery scene exemplifies one of New York City’s greatest strengths: walkability. We’d recommend mapping out the spots you want to hit and making half a day out of it—West 24th Street between Tenth and Eleventh Avenues is a prime route.

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15 of the best things to do in New York City in 2024

Mar 23, 2024 • 9 min read

A trip to Central Park is a classic stop on any NYC itinerary © Marco Rubino / Shutterstock

Three life-changing words: New York City .

Millions are drawn to it; some never shake it. Monumental, artistic, cultural, commercial, cosmopolitan – the City That Never Sleeps is everything you've imagined. You'll never be bored here – the only problem is narrowing down what to do from the endless list of possibilities.

To help you get started, here's a list of my favorite inspirational highlights – all perfect experiences for your next trip. However, the big sights lure big crowds, so brace yourself. If you're after a calmer NYC experience, sights in the "outer borough" (beyond Manhattan) will generally be less crowded. 

Ticket costs can also be substantial, so consider purchasing a New York CityPASS , which offers good discounts on top attractions.

1. Visit the iconic Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

The iconic copper-green  Statue of Liberty dominates a small island in New York Harbor, casting a protective shadow over neighboring Ellis Island , the site of a stirring Immigration Museum . Still symbolic today, these two landmarks served as an uplifting gateway through which over 12 million soon-to-be-Americans passed from 1892 to 1924.

Planning tip: Boats to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island leave from The Battery in Manhattan and Liberty State Park in New Jersey. The monuments are often visited on a combined ticket – book well ahead, especially if you hope to spend time in Liberty's pedestal or crown.

2. Soak up the views from the Empire State and Chrysler Buildings

The tallest building in the world when it opened in 1931, the 1454ft  Empire State Building remains a much-loved character on the NYC skyline, although somewhat controversially, street-level views of this New York City skyline icon are about to be obscured by a luxury condo apartment. Vistas from the outdoor, 360-degree view, 86th-floor deck and the indoor 102nd-floor observatory are breathtaking, though – particularly at sunset. Look northeast at the art deco Chrysler Building , also once the world's tallest before being dethroned by the Empire State.

Planning tip:  Buy tickets in advance and devote a few moments to the second-floor Story of an Icon museum.

3. Pay tribute to lost lives at the National 9/11 Memorial and Museum

The National 9/11 Memorial is located where the World Trade Center Twin Towers once stood. It features sobering tributes to the lives lost in the 9/11 terrorist attacks, most poignantly two sunken pools with cascades of water pouring into the fallen towers' footprints. Adjacent to the memorial is a profoundly moving museum with remnants and reminders of the tragic day.

Planning tip:  The memorial is free; museum tickets are best bought online in advance.

4. Have family-friendly seaside fun at Coney Island

Jutting like a Brooklyn thumb out into New York Harbor's Lower Bay, Coney Island boasts a wide beach, a popular seaside boardwalk and a lively amusement park, all reachable by subway in about an hour from Midtown Manhattan. Popular attractions include the family-friendly New York Aquarium , Nathan's Famous hot dogs , Deno's Wonder Wheel and thrill-filled Luna Park , featuring the wooden Cyclone rollercoaster – a city and national historic landmark.

Planning tip:  Walk to nearby Brighton Beach for classic Russian and Ukrainian eats.

5. Tour the vast collections at NYC's major museums

The Met  is NYC's most visited museum for very good reasons. With 5000 years of art from all over the world, two million individual objects and 17 acres of exhibition space, it's massive, astounding and seemingly inexhaustible.

An inside tip – the Met's often bypassed uptown Cloisters were cobbled together from authentic sections of European medieval monasteries. Tickets cover three-day admission to both Met branches.

Directly across Central Park from the Met is another significant museum with a broad scope: the American Museum of Natural History , where your ticket grants you access to more than 50 exhibits and 34 million artifacts!

Art lovers will find modern masterpieces from Warhol, Pollock and more in the Museum of Modern Art ; book ahead to skip the line, particularly at weekends. Somewhat smaller and less crowded, though definitely still comprehensive, is the Brooklyn Museum .

Detour: For something much more contemporary and free of hordes, try Brooklyn's Bushwick Collective Street Art .

Use this guide to plan the ultimate museum tour of New York City .

6. Hang out in Central Park

Hemmed in by buildings, Central Park serves up 843 acres of green space – meadows, groves, gardens and lakes, as well as restaurants, theaters, concert venues, fountains, skating rinks, ballfields, playgrounds and much more. Park Drive, although often crowded, is a favorite route for runners, skaters and cyclists.

Seeking some green space with fewer people? Brooklyn's Prospect Park , created by the same landscapers as Central Park, has all the same charm with far less throng.

Detour: For a leafy overview of Manhattan, consider cycling along sections of the 31-mile Manhattan Waterfront Greenway , especially the Hudson River Greenway segment.

Can't get enough of Central Park? Our local tells you where to find Central Park's best corners .

7. Walk across Brooklyn Bridge to Brooklyn Bridge Park

Undoubtedly NYC's most beautiful river crossing, the 1596ft-long, stone-towered Brooklyn Bridge was one of the world's first steel suspension bridges when it opened in 1883. Today, a walk along its pedestrian passageway delivers delightful Manhattan and Brooklyn skyline views.

Brooklyn Bridge Park , the 1.3-mile, 85-acre green space on Brooklyn's East River shoreline, prolongs the pleasure (and the Manhattan views). Check out the waterfront, glass-enclosed Jane's Carousel and multiple revitalized pier-based leisure and activity areas.

Save these restaurants to your Brooklyn itinerary.

8. Gaze upon the Manhattan skyline  

Manhattan's tumble of buildings is a mesmerizing spectacle, changing in natural and artificial light, particularly at dusk and night. Harbor cruises are a fantastic way to enjoy it, but there are also numerous land-based vantage points along the East River.

In Brooklyn, head for Brooklyn Bridge Park, Brooklyn Heights Promenade, East River State Park in Williamsburg and Transmitter Park in Greenpoint. Over in Queens, go to Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City and Astoria Park.

Planning tip:  For a once-in-a-lifetime splurge and unbeatable views, take a helicopter tour over NYC; yes, it's pricey, but it's worth it.

9. See art and architecture on the High Line and at Hudson Yards 

The 1.5-mile-long High Line is one of New York's great surprises. This art-filled, community green space – featuring gardens, events, and amazing city outlooks – was crafted from an abandoned elevated railway. It can be packed on warm evenings when the unique modern architecture on all sides is illuminated.

The northern terminus of the High Line is at the Hudson Yards , Manhattan's newest luxury development, with gourmet restaurants, upscale shops and singular attractions like Vessel , a multilevel public landmark, and The Edge , the city's highest (101st-floor) open-air observatory.

10. Visit the landmark Rockefeller Center

Perhaps best known for its winter backdrop – a world-famous ice-skating rink and New York's giant ceremoniously-lit Christmas tree – the art deco Rockefeller Center is a busy, art-filled national historic landmark all year round.

Named for its entrepreneurial developer – John D Rockefeller Jr, America's first billionaire – it claims highlights such as the 70th-floor Top of the Rock observation deck, the Radio City Music Hall and NBC Studios Tours , as well as plenty of Midtown shopping and dining.

11. Be dazzled by the lights of Times Square and the Theater District

The neon lights really do shine bright on Broadway, especially in Times Square at the heart of the world's most celebrated theater district. Day and night, it provides billboarded sensory overload. In the area are dozens of marquee-fronted playhouses hosting box-office hits, alongside Madame Tussauds and National Geographic Encounter: Ocean Odyssey . Bryant Park, Midtown's small but activity-filled green oasis, and the lion-flanked entrance of the New York Public Library , a national historic landmark, are also nearby.

12. Ride the New York City Subway and Staten Island Ferry

The wheels never stop turning in NYC, aided by its sleepless subway , one of the world's biggest mass transit systems. Another iconic part of the New York transport network is the free, orange Staten Island Ferry , the cheapest way to grab pics of Lady Liberty.

For NYC urban transport history, the kid-friendly Transit Museum has climb-aboard subway cars from all eras. There's a museum annex and shop in Grand Central Terminal , a Midtown beaux-arts wonder with an unforgettably grand main concourse.

13. Support conservation at the Bronx Zoo and New York Botanical Gardens

Who'd have thought the US's biggest and oldest zoo is in NYC? The conservation-minded Bronx Zoo hosts 6000-plus animals in 265 acres of specially designed habitats. Adjacent to it is the New York Botanical Garden , a 250-acre, year-round nature showcase with dozens of indoor and outdoor gardens included in your ticket.

Planning tip: Smaller but impressive alternative zoos can be found at Central Park, Prospect Park and Flushing Meadows Corona Park (Queens). The 50-acre Brooklyn Botanic Garden is famous for its seasonally blossoming cherry trees.

14. Find art and entrepreneurs in Brooklyn

In a city that places a high premium on space, Brooklyn now claims three hip, rehabilitated industrial areas commandeered by entrepreneurs, artisanal makers, retailers, artists, start-ups and nonprofits. Industry City occupies six large warehouses on the Sunset Park waterfront.

Further south, 100-plus companies fill the vast and storied Brooklyn Army Terminal . And east of Downtown Brooklyn, the expansive, historic Brooklyn Navy Yard is a modern made-in-Brooklyn manufacturing hub.

15. Go to a game at a New York stadium

New Yorkers take outsize pride in their sports teams, so how better to absorb the city's energy than at a game? The Bronx's Yankee Stadium and Mets' Citi Field in Queens are grand open-air stadiums, while Manhattan's Madison Square Garden , home of Knicks and Liberty basketball and Rangers hockey, and Brooklyn's futuristic Barclays Center , where the Nets basketball and Islanders hockey teams play, are enclosed, so good for rainy days.

Planning tip:  If you'd prefer to see the Giants and Jets compete in the National Football League, their arenas are in nearby New Jersey .

And now for the hard part: should you go to a Mets or Yankees game? Two local experts weigh in .

Keep planning your trip to NYC:

Find out which NYC neighborhood fits your vibe Find the best time of year to visit Getting around NYC is fairly straightforward –  find out how in our full transportation guide . Even better, read on for top tips to see New York on two wheels .

This article was first published May 25, 2021 and updated Mar 23, 2024.

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35 Best Things to Do in New York City, According to Local Experts

From world-class art museums to public green spaces, here's what to do in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and beyond.

Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure

It’s no secret that New York City is one of the best cities in the U.S., and in the world. A hub for food, culture, architecture, entertainment, and so much more, "The City That Never Sleeps" truly does offer something for everyone. Take it from Fora co-founder and travel advisor Henley Vazquez , who describes New York City as “a true melting pot of cuisines, architectural styles, and things to do.” Travel advisor Camila Alfonso of Valerie Wilson Travel , a Virtuoso agency, echoes that sentiment, telling Travel + Leisure , “The city's energy is unparalleled, and its allure is simply irresistible. Each time I visit, I'm captivated by its unique charm and the myriad of experiences it offers." However, with so many things to see, do, and explore while in town, planning your trip can be overwhelming. To help you uncover all the amazing attractions and sights this beloved destination offers, we’ve rounded up 35 of the best things to do in New York City, including a handful of local-approved activities .

Related: The Perfect Three-Day Weekend in New York City

Hit the beach.

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

Just an hour-long ferry ride from downtown Manhattan, Rockaway Beach in Queens attracts locals and travelers alike with its sandy shorelines and surf. Besides, says Vazquez, “It’s closer than the Hamptons and far more affordable.” If you plan on staying the night, the travel pro recommends booking a room at the chic Rockaway Hotel — a T+L It List award-winner — which offers stylish rooms and suites, a rooftop pool, and free bike rentals so you can cruise the boardwalk in style. 

Stroll the Brooklyn Bridge.

Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure

“I love walking or jogging across the Brooklyn Bridge,” says Vazquez, who adds that “everyone should do it at least once.” The iconic landmark offers some of the best views of Manhattan and Brooklyn, making it one of the top (and most popular) things to do in New York City. To avoid crowds, visit as early in the morning as possible, and be sure to wear comfortable shoes — the walk is about an hour (1.3 miles) each way, assuming you’re going at a leisurely pace.

Visit Fotografiska Museum NYC.

Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, Fotografiska Museum NYC is a must for its fascinating photo exhibits. Housed in an eye-catching, Renaissance Revival-style building in Gramercy Park, Vazquez tells T+L that the museum is especially great for tweens and teens. Don’t leave without checking out one of the on-site drinking and dining venues, including Chapel Bar (housed in a 19th-century chapel) and the swanky Veronika bar and restaurant located on the museum's second floor.

Check out Little Island.

This new-ish public park along the West Side Highway spans just under two-and-a-half acres. Despite its small size, this magnificent floating structure — made up of 280 tulip-like concrete structures — is home to more than 350 species of flora. Little Island hosts a slew of events , including DJ sets, drag bingo, dance parties, and live musical performances.

Wander around The Met Cloisters.

Make your way to Washington Heights in uptown Manhattan to check out The Met Cloisters. The museum, which is part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, is America’s only such venue dedicated specifically to Middle Ages art and architecture. You can easily spend an entire afternoon wandering its indoor and outdoor spaces.

Head to New York Botanical Garden.

The New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) in the Bronx feels worlds away from the bustling city, and the 250-acre site boasts more than one million plants. The blooms vary depending on the time of year. We recommend visiting in the spring, when peonies, daffodils, magnolias, and lilacs are all in season. Other highlights include the rose garden (May through October), the azalea garden (year-round), and the extensive orchid collection (also open year-round).

Peruse Manhattan’s best art museums.

It’s no secret that Manhattan is home to incredible art museums, including The Whitney (known for its collection of 20th-century American works) and The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), which boasts nearly 200,000 works from across the world. Other must-visit museums include the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum , an oasis for contemporary art lovers, and The Metropolitan Museum of Art . One of the world’s largest fine art museums, the latter is home to an impressive collection of works, some of which date back thousands of years.

Stroll through Socrates Sculpture Park.

Socrates Sculpture Park is a favorite of Vazquez’s for its tranquil riverfront locale and “great installations.” Once an abandoned landfill, this outdoor museum hosts year-round events , including yoga and meditation sessions, kids dance classes, and even kayaking in nearby Hallet’s Cove.

Retreat to Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden.

Meredith Sladek

Staten Island is the city’s least populous borough, but don’t let that deter you from visiting. The Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden is, by far, one of the area's best attractions. The waterfront site, set within an 83-acre park, is comprised of 28 historic buildings, 14 botanic gardens, a two-acre farm, and plenty of picturesque scenery.

Walk down Arthur Ave.

Arthur Avenue has gained a reputation as being the city’s lesser-known Little Italy , and Vazquez calls it “the real deal” for its abundance of “Italian bakeries and red sauce restaurants.” A few can’t-miss spots include Tino’s Delicatessen for stuffed heroes, Casa Della Mozzarella for fresh mozz, Dominick’s for large plates of pasta, Tony & Tina’s for pizza, and Madonia Brothers Bakery for cannoli.

Sit down for afternoon tea.

Put those pinkies up for afternoon tea at splurge-worthy NYC staples like Palm Court at The Plaza Hotel , The Whitby Bar at the Whitby (an especially fitting spot, given the hotel’s British roots), or the Grand Salon at the Baccarat Hotel . For a more budget-friendly experience that's still quite special, check out Alice’s Tea Cup , Brooklyn High Low , or Kings’ Carriage House .

Pack a picnic and head to Central Park.

Central Park offers plenty to see and do within its 800-plus acres, which include grassy lawns, eight lakes and ponds, and even a zoo. But the best way to experience the park and its vast natural beauty — an oasis amidst towering skyscrapers — may be to simply sit on the grass or a park bench to enjoy a picnic lunch. While you snack, you're sure to find the people-watching equally enjoyable. To make your picnic even more memorable, consider working with Perfect Picnic NYC , one of several luxury picnic companies that transform basic spreads into gourmet lunches and soirees.

Have dim sum in Flushing's Chinatown.

Though it's often overlooked in favor of Manhattan's Chinatown, this location is just as vibrant. Venture here to feast on delicious dim sum dishes like soup dumplings, pork buns, chicken feet, spare ribs, and shumai, to name a few. While you can’t go wrong with any of the restaurants in this neighborhood, we especially love Asian Jewel , Shangai You Garden , and Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao .

Explore Governor’s Island.

This 172-acre island is an eight-minute ferry ride from downtown Manhattan and a five-minute ferry ride from Brooklyn Bridge Park, making it an excellent day-trip destination. Travelers will find plenty to do here year-round, including a wellness-centric spa and a centuries-old fort . The island also boasts a handful of eclectic drinking and dining venues , a lavender field (open seasonally), and New York City’s only glamping property (also seasonal).

Escape to Coney Island.

Coney Island is a hotspot for families with its abundance of nostalgia-inducing amusement park rides, charming 2.7-mile-long boardwalk, and wide sandy beaches. No trip here is complete without a visit to the New York Aquarium , where you can encounter marine life like sharks, rays, otters, octopus, and more, followed by a hot dog and fries at the flagship Nathan’s Famous .

Have a drink at a few rooftop bars.

“Indulge in the chic and enchanting atmosphere of New York City's rooftop bars , offering stunning views of iconic landmarks like Times Square or the Empire State Building,” says Alfonso, who especially loves Magic Hour Rooftop in midtown. Other year-round options abound, including Westlight at The William Vale in the hip neighborhood of Williamsburg, the rooftop at Royalton Park Avenue , and Panorama Room at the Graduate New York on Roosevelt Island (the views alone are worth the tram ride here).

Visit Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.

These two New York City landmarks are only accessible via ferry. The Statue of Liberty represents freedom and hope, and visitors can climb to its crown, so as long as they don’t mind trekking 160-plus steps. Ellis Island, which welcomed 12 million immigrants into the country, is equally fascinating; today, it’s home to the National Immigration Museum , which houses historical artifacts and exhibits.

Sip vino at an urban winery.

You don’t have to travel to the Finger Lakes or the North Fork of Long Island to sip and savor some of the Empire State’s best wines. Instead, head to one of NYC’s innovative urban wineries. A few of our favorite spots include Rooftop Reds (set on a rooftop in the Brooklyn Navy Yard), Brooklyn Winery (which offers tours and tastings three days a week), The Redhook Winery (a warehouse-turned-winery that uses locally grown grapes) and City Winery , which is a restaurant, winery, and live music and entertainment venue rolled into one.

Set sail on New York Harbor.

Some say that New York is best explored on foot, but we’d argue the city is even more magical when viewed from the water. Don’t just take it from us, though. “Embark on a captivating boat ride through New York Harbor to bask in breathtaking views of the city's skyline and the majestic Statue of Liberty,” says Alfonso. “This iconic experience allows you to appreciate the city from a different perspective.”

Stroll the High Line.

The High Line, which stretches through the Meatpacking District and Chelsea in Manhattan, is one of the city’s most unique public parks — it's an elevated rail track that's been transformed into a greenery-filled walkway spanning 1.45 miles. The park boasts 500-plus species of plants and trees, as well as several striking pieces of art. You’ll find plenty of places to sit and lounge, good people watching, and great vantage points for snapping skyline photos.

Attend a Broadway show.

One of the few places you can spot native New Yorkers and tourists from all over the world mingling together is at a Broadway show . People flock to the city’s Theater District to catch one (or more) of its two-dozen-plus performances, ranging from classics like The Lion King and  Wicked to newer titles like Shucked and Here Lies Love .

Shop in SoHo.

SoHo, which stands for “South of Houston Street," is among New York City’s coolest neighborhoods. With chic boutiques, eclectic galleries, and hip eateries galore, you can spend hours wandering the streets here and popping in and out of shops. And speaking of shopping, your options abound, from big-name brands like Rag & Bone and Anine Bing to local favorites like Kirna Zabête and Henrik Vibskov Boutique NYC .

Taste your way through the Tin Building.

Nicole Franzen

Open since September 2022, the Tin Building by Jean-Georges is New York City’s latest and greatest food hall. Located in lower Manhattan, the 53,000-square-foot oasis is a haven for culinary connoisseurs. Expect a handful of stylish sit-down restaurants, bars, and fast-casual spots serving everything from Chinese cuisine to French fare and more. Don’t miss the sprawling food market, either.

Visit the National September 11 Memorial & Museum.

Located in the World Trade Center, the National September 11 Memorial & Museum aims to educate visitors on the impact and significance of 9/11 through a combination of media and artifacts, plus personal stories of loss and tragedy couple with those of unwavering hope and resilience. While the outdoor memorial is free and open to the public, you’ll need to purchase tickets to enter the museum. Guided tours are also available.

Visit the American Museum of Natural History.

The American Museum of Natural History on Manhattan’s Upper West Side captivates visitors of all ages with its impressive collection of 32 million specimens and cultural artifacts. Prepare to be dazzled by the now-iconic blue whale model , enchanting dinosaur exhibits , and the fascinating display of extinct mammals . This past May, the museum debuted the Richard Gilder Center , which boasts striking architecture and features such as an insectarium and butterfly vivarium.

Take in the city views from One World Observatory.

Travelers can experience the city from new heights by visiting One World Observatory , which is considered the city’s highest point. In addition to panoramic city views, you’ll find a handful of shops, exhibits, and restaurants. Even the 47-second elevator ride to the 1,268-foot summit is thrilling, as it features a CGI timelapse of Manhattan from the 16th century to the present day.

Visit the Empire State Building.

The Empire State Building has become one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks since its 1930 construction. Today, tourists worldwide come here to marvel at the city vistas from the iconic 86th-floor, open-air observatory deck. There's also the 102nd-floor observation deck, where floor-to-ceiling views (and on a clear day, up to 80 miles of visibility) await.

Explore DUMBO.

kolderal/Getty Images

Brooklyn already takes the cake for being the city’s coolest borough , and DUMBO (a.k.a., Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) may just be its coolest neighborhood. The historic waterfront area is teeming with high-end eats (snag a seat outside at Cecconi’s to feast on handmade pasta in style) and shopping (the Brooklyn Flea , which takes place here each Sunday, is perfect for picking up hidden treasures). You'll also find myriad galleries, including Klompching , which showcases incredible contemporary photography, and coffee shops galore (we love Zaruma Gold Coffee , which serves excellent Ecuadorian coffee). Brooklyn Bridge Park is a prime place for people-watching, and it’s also where you’ll find Jane’s Carousel , a must for little ones. 

Venture to Astoria.

Boogich/Getty Images

An easy subway ride from Manhattan, Astoria is chock-full of unique eats and attractions. Film buffs should not miss the Museum of the Moving Image , where they'll learn more about the art, history, and technology of movies. From there, grab a bite at one of many Greek eateries, including the always-buzzing, seafood-forward Taverna Kyclades . Other neighborhood hotspots include Astoria Park (which spans almost 60 acres along the East River), The Bonnie for creative cocktails and bar bites, and the aforementioned Socrates Sculpture Park.

Check out the Edge.

Taylor Crothers/Getty Images

Located in Hudson Yards, the Edge prides itself on being the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. The thrilling attraction is perched more 1,000 feet above the sidewalk, and its glass-bottom floors take the adrenaline-pumping experience to an entirely new level. The outdoor viewing area spans 7,500 square feet and is accessible via a 52-second elevator ride.

Grab breakfast at Tiffany’s.

Courtesy of Blue Box Cafe

Channel your inner Holly Golightly and splurge on breakfast (or lunch, afternoon tea, or dinner) at Tiffany’s — seriously. Inside the jewelry brand’s flagship Fifth Avenue location is The Blue Box Café by Daniel Boulud , where the elegant, Tiffany Blue-hued interior sets the scene for a swanky meal. Menu offerings include Holly’s Favorites (a croissant, butter and jam, fruit juice, coffee or hot chocolate) and the trademark Blue Box Celebration Cake, an Instagram-worthy treat shaped like the brand’s iconic blue box.

Enjoy a Michelin-starred meal.

Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for Blancpain

As of 2022, there were a whopping 72 Michelin-starred restaurants in the city, which means many mouthwatering meals await. The now-vegan Eleven Madison Park is a favorite among foodies and celebrities alike, while Eric Ripert’s Le Bernardin dishes out spectacular seafood. Outside of Manhattan, there's Aska in Williamsburg, which serves seasonal Scandinavian fare, and Mexican haunts like Claro in Gowanus and Casa Enrique in Long Island City.

Catch a comedy show.

Gabe Ginsberg/Getty Images

If you love to laugh, be sure to catch at least one stand-up or improv performance when in town. The city is home to dozens of venues, ranging from nationally renowned staples like the Comedy Cellar , Stand Up NY , and Gotham Comedy Club — all of which are in Manhattan — to hidden gems like The Tiny Cupboard in Bushwick.

Take a helicopter ride.

While the Big Apple is beautiful from every angle, seeing it from up above is an experience like no other. Catch a birds-eye view of your favorite NYC landmarks by embarking on a helicopter ride. The good news it that it won’t cost an arm and a leg: Both HeliNY and Liberty Helicopter offer tours starting at less than $200 per person.

Indulge in a bathhouse visit.

Adrian Gaut/Courtesy of Bathhouse

When you need a break from the city’s bustle, retreat to one of a handful of uber-sleek bathhouses for a rejuvenating soak. The aptly named Bathhouse in Williamsburg is housed in a former 1930s-era factory. Today, it’s a sleek space to relax and unwind, with amenities like thermal pools, heated marble hammams, saunas, a steam room, and treatments like massages and body scrubs — not to mention a stylish on-site bar and restaurant. AIRE Ancient Baths in Tribeca, which, like Bathhouse, occupies a restored building that was originally a textile factory, is another favorite for its wellness-centric offerings and chic ambiance.

Related Articles

22 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New York City

Written by Lana Law Updated Mar 18, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

One of the greatest cities in the world , New York is always a whirlwind of activity, with famous sights at every turn and never enough time to see them all.

Some people come here to enjoy the Broadway shows; others come specifically to shop; and many come simply to see the tourist attractions: the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park, historic neighborhoods, and world-famous museums . As someone who visits regularly, I like to come with friends, try new restaurants, and discover new experiences.

Many of the best places to visit in New York are within walking distance of each other, or just a short ride away, making this city a delight for sightseeing. If you have plenty of time and enjoy the water, touring New York City using the NYC Ferry System offers a unique way to see the sights.

Any time of year and any time of day or night there are an endless array of things to see and do in New York.

See also: Where to Stay in New York City

1. Statue of Liberty

2. central park, 3. rockefeller center & top of the rock observation deck, 4. metropolitan museum of art, 5. broadway and the theater district, 6. empire state building, 7. 9/11 memorial and museum, 8. american museum of natural history, 9. high line, 10. times square, 11. brooklyn bridge, 12. fifth avenue, 13. grand central terminal, 14. lincoln center, 15. one world observatory, 16. the frick collection (frick madison), 17. new york public library, 18. wall street, 19. radio city music hall, 20. st. patrick's cathedral, 21. carnegie hall, 22. bryant park, where to stay in new york city for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to new york, map of tourist attractions in new york city, best time to visit new york, ny.

America's most iconic sight, the Statue of Liberty is at the top of every first-time visitor's list of things to do in New York. It was France's gift to America. Built in 1886, it remains a world symbol of freedom and is one of the top attractions in America .

It is one of the world's largest statues, standing just under 152 feet tall from the base to the torch, and weighing approximately 450,000 pounds. You can see the statue from land, with particularly good views from Battery Park , on the southern tip of Manhattan.

To truly appreciate the Statue of Liberty, the best thing to do is to take a short boat trip to Liberty Island and see it up close. Take a pleasant stroll around the base, and if you have reservations, enter the pedestal or the crown. The crown is open for tours, but book well in advance if you want to enjoy this special experience.

On a tour of the Statue of Liberty, you have the option to stop at Ellis Island and explore the Immigration Museum . This fantastic museum is located in the historic immigration station complex, where thousands of immigrants were processed before entering the United States.

Displays focus on the process, the experiences, and the stories of the people who came through here on their journey to the United States. You can even search the on-site computer database to see a record of immigrants who came through here.

Tickets to go inside the statue sell out. Pre-purchasing tickets is a must during the high season and a good idea at any time of year. The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour takes you to both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. This tour allows reserved access to board the ferry and includes access to the Museum at Ellis Island.

Author's Tip: Buying tickets near the ferry can be tricky, with hawkers swarming you as you exit the subway claiming to be "official representatives" and trying to sell you more expensive tickets before you can find the ticket booth. Be sure to buy in advance at the link above or ignore the hawkers until you reach the booth in Castle Clinton in Battery Park.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in New York State

An oasis of green amongst New York's concrete canyons, Central Park is a sanctuary of peace and quiet for visitors and locals alike.

A walk, pedal, or carriage ride through the crisscrossing pathways of Central Park is a must-do on anyone's New York City itinerary. In winter, you can even lace up your skates and glide across Wollman Rink . This huge park in the city center, a half-mile wide and 2.5 miles long, is one of the things that makes New York such a beautiful and livable city.

Besides being a great place to experience a little nature, Central Park has many attractions within its borders, and most of them are free, making it one of the few cheap things to do in NYC. Some of the most popular places to visit include the Belvedere Castle , Strawberry Fields , the Central Park Zoo , and the Lake . If you are exploring the park on your own, start by picking up a map at one of the visitor centers and plot your route.

Central Park also offers activities throughout the year, from 5km runs and yoga classes to penguin feeding at the Central Park Zoo. Have a look at the park's events schedule for details on what's happening during your visit.

If you're visiting during the summer months, you may want to catch a performance of Shakespeare in the Park at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park. This is a relaxing way to spend an evening in New York City and performances are free.

Read More: Best Parks in New York City

When it comes to New York attractions, Rockefeller Center is on almost all tourists' itineraries. This vast entertainment and shopping complex in the middle of Manhattan is home to NBC-TV and other media, but the centerpiece is the 70-story 30 Rockefeller Plaza , an Art Deco skyscraper that offers awesome views over Manhattan from the famous Top of the Rock Observation Deck .

The "deck," as it's known, includes three floors, located on the 67th, 69th, and 70th floors. Indoor and outdoor viewing spaces offer spectacular views by day or night. You can buy a Top of the Rock Observation Deck Ticket in advance. These tickets come with a flexible voucher redemption policy, so you can change the date if your plans change or the weather doesn't cooperate.

Skating on the outdoor skating rink at the base of the tower is one of the most popular things to do in winter in New York City and a fun activity for families and couples. The rink is typically open from October to April. If you aren't a strong skater, don't worry, the rink is tiny, and for many people, this is their first time on skates, so the skill level is pretty low.

After Thanksgiving, a huge Christmas tree is erected in front of the skating rink, lighting up the complex for the holiday season. Many people visit New York in December just to see this site.

Another point of interest in this area is the famous bronze sculpture of Atlas in front of the International Building. It's a popular subject for photographers.

Address: 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, New York

Read More: Best Places to Go for Christmas

The Metropolitan Museum of Art , or the Met, as it is commonly known, was founded in 1870, and is one of the most famous museums in the United States. The permanent collection of The Met contains more than two million works of art, spanning a period of 5,000 years.

Although the museum has three sites, the centerpiece is The Met Fifth Avenue . Highlights of this collection include American decorative arts, arms and armor, costumes, Egyptian art, musical instruments, photographs, and much more.

Always-changing exhibitions bring some of the world's most famous works to the public.

The Met Cloisters , located in Fort Tryon Park in northern Manhattan, is another extremely popular New York museum. This branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, housed in an outstanding structure, built around medieval cloisters, chapels, and halls, focuses on the medieval art and architecture of Europe.

Address: 1000 5th Avenue, New York, New York

Read More: Top-Rated Museums in New York City

Attending a Broadway show is one of the top things to do in New York City. Considered the pinnacle of American theater, this is the place to see the latest shows and the long-running classics.

Broadway usually refers simply to Broadway theater, which encompasses a large number of theater venues in the Theater District and along the street of Broadway. For the most popular shows , tickets should be purchased well in advance from the website.

Shubert Alley is a famous pedestrian-only alley in the Theater District and home to two well-known playhouses: the Shubert on 221 West 44th Street and the Booth at 22 West 45th Street. Historically, aspiring actors would frequent Shubert Alley looking for opportunities to perform in a play sponsored by theater baron, Sam S. Shubert.

A Chorus Line played at The Shubert for a record 6,137 shows. The musical Oklahoma debuted in 1941 at the St. James playhouse just down the street. Other legendary places include Sardi's restaurant, where many famous actors met, and the Music Box Theater, where Irving Berlin staged The Music Box Revue in 1921.

The Empire State Building is one of New York's most famous landmark buildings and key tourist attractions. The 381-meter-tall, 102-story building was the tallest in the world until the 1 World Trade Center tower rose higher, 41 years later. Topped with a mooring mast for airships, the Empire State Building immediately became a landmark and a symbol for NYC when it opened in 1931.

There are actually two observatories atop the Empire State Building , both offering astounding views. On clear days, you can see up to 80 miles, looking into the neighboring states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Massachusetts.

The 86th Floor Observatory (1,050 feet) is the city's highest open-air observation deck, and what most people are expecting to find when they go up the Empire State Building. If it feels familiar, it's because this area has been featured in countless movies and TV shows.

Reached by high-speed, automatic elevators, it has both a glass-enclosed area, which is heated in winter and cooled in summer, and spacious outdoor promenades on all four sides of the building. The views are incredible. The Top Deck on the 102nd Floor stands 1,250 feet above the bustling streets below. While you are 16 stories higher, the viewing area here is enclosed.

The line to go up the Empire State Building is almost always long; moves slowly; and during peak times, it can be ridiculous, making the whole experience more frustrating than it needs to be. Be aware you can easily burn up half your touring day just at this one attraction.

It's well worth buying the Empire State Building Ticket – Observatory and Optional Skip the Line Ticket that lets you bypass the lines .

The World Trade Center's twin 110-story towers once dominated the Manhattan skyline but were destroyed by suicide-piloted jetliners on September 11, 2001, with a tragic loss of life. Where the two towers of the World Trade Center once stood, now stand two square reflecting pools, each one acre in size.

Known as the National September 11 Memorial , this area is a moving tribute to the almost 3,000 people killed as a result of attacks on September 11, 2001, and also the six people killed in the earlier World Trade Center bombing in February 1993.

Surrounded by trees and grass, the pools are recessed, with water cascading over the sides and flowing into a seemingly bottomless square. These are the largest manmade waterfalls in North America . Around the pools are bronze panels with the names of all those who were killed in the attacks.

The 9/11 Memorial Museum is located in an architecturally stunning, curving glass building, between the two pools. It features displays that include artifacts, photos, and videos, presenting the story of 9/11, as well as the aftermath and impacts.

The building is constructed around the remnants of the World Trade Center and incorporates the old structures within the extraordinary new museum building. The memorial and the museum are located on the south side of One World Trade Centre, on Greenwich Street.

Also worth seeing in this area, on the opposite side of Greenwich Street, is the eye-catching Westfield World Trade Center , which contains Oculus Plaza . You can't miss this building with its white fins and spaceship-like appearance. This is a public building with shops and high-end stores, but it's worth popping in for a quick look at the architecture.

Tickets to the 9/11 Museum must be purchased online or at the window in advance. This is one of New York's most popular things to do, so booking ahead is essential to avoid disappointment. If you are traveling as a family, be sure to book the discounted family rate for up to five.

When purchasing your tickets, you will have the ability to select a time to visit, and you must make your time slot. On Mondays, museum entry is free from 3:30 to 5pm, but tickets still need to be booked in advance, starting at 7am, and are limited to four per person.

Address: 180 Greenwich St, New York, New York

One of New York City's best museums for a family outing, the American Museum of Natural History has always been an important institution, but now it's even more exciting.

One of the newest additions to the New York City attraction scene is the recent opening of the Richard Gilder Center for Science , in May of 2023. This impressive renovation and expansion is quickly becoming one of the city's top things to see, with a design reminiscent of the imaginative style of Antonio Gaudi.

The stunning four-story wing features flowing concrete in intriguing formations. Once inside, you can explore the brand-new insectarium, butterfly conservatory, research library, and a wealth of educational opportunities. It's an exciting addition to the city's cultural landscape that is sure to inspire visitors of all ages.

The museum's permanent exhibit halls showcase all that's interesting about the natural environment of our planet, from science and the environment to animals and fossils. It also hosts special exhibits that run for a set block of time.

Some of the current exhibits that are well worth seeing include one on sharks, featuring models of these amazing creatures that you can actually touch. Another fascinating display is the rare 22-carat Okavango Blue Diamond.

Address: 200 Central Park West, New York, New York

An exciting, and recently expanded, attraction in New York City, the High Line is a former rail line that has been transformed into an urban walking trail above the city streets.

This unique linear public park has been planted with a variety of plants and trees, many of which are native species. In spring many of these come into bloom. The park is lined with glass railings in most areas, giving it a natural feel, while still offering outstanding views of the city.

This oasis on Manhattan's West Side runs from Gansevoort Street at the south end (just south of West 13th Street) to West 34th Street at the north end, running parallel to 10th Ave most of the way. You can access it at various points along the route, some of which offer stair access only, and others with elevator access.

Although the High Line is only about two to three stories above street level, the views of the city's architecture and the lookouts over the streets offer a whole new perspective. Along the route are art installations and benches , and near the south end is a sitting area with bleacher-style seating and a glass wall looking out onto the city . The trail is heavily used, and on weekends it can be extremely busy, but without the surrounding traffic, it's still a peaceful retreat.

One of the highlights of the High Line is the Hudson Yards overlook, called The Vessel, near 34th Street. This is a stunning multilevel structure.

You'll find other interesting places to visit just off the High Line. The south section runs through the Meatpacking District , with plenty of trendy restaurants and fine dining. The southernmost access point is adjacent to the Whitney Museum of American Art, which is also worth a visit.

If you hop off the High Line at the 16th Street access (elevator access), it's just a short stroll to the popular Chelsea Market , located in a former Nabisco factory, where you'll find restaurants and unique shops.

In the spring of 2023, a new extension called the High Line — Moynihan Connector opened to much fanfare. This extension adds new access points, public spaces, and transit connections via the Moynihan train station. The new additions consist of two new 600-foot-long bridges, one made of steel and one made of wood.

Tours of the High Line are offered year-round and trace the history of the attraction from its industrial beginnings through to the structure it is today. Tours are free and are 90 minutes long in the spring, summer, and fall, and 45 minutes long in the winter.

Although a late-night stroll on the High Line on a hot summer's night or after a concert or Broadway show may sound enticing, the High Line closes at 10pm.

Location: Manhattan West Side

Lined with huge, brilliantly lit billboards and screens, Times Square is the place to go in New York in the evening, but still exciting at any time of day. This is the location of New York's New Year's Eve Celebrations and the famous "ball drop" at midnight, when the square and surrounding streets are filled with people.

Times Square is busy and perpetually crowded but has its own unique appeal. Bleachers set up at one end are a great place to take a break and appreciate the scene.

Formerly Longacre Square, Times Square was named in 1904 after the New York Times tower. The newspaper first posted current headlines along its moving sign, the first of its kind in the world, in 1928.

If you've had your fill of sitting on the bleachers and are looking for something fun to do either as a group or a couple, stroll over to Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum . The eerily life-like wax figurines feature NYC icons like Jimmy Fallon and the set of The Tonight Show , Broadway cast members, and shows where you actually get to dress up and participate. The building's glass dome protrudes over Times Square for awesome views.

Address: Broadway and 7th Avenue, New York, New York

The Brooklyn Bridge, with its Gothic-shaped arches and suspension cables, is one of the city's most recognizable landmarks and has inspired generations of poets, songwriters, and painters. This historic bridge, spanning the East River from Manhattan to Brooklyn, was completed in 1883 and was the world's first steel suspension bridge .

You can see it from many of the ferries, or the east side of Manhattan, but the best way to experience this icon is to take an hour and walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. A wood plank walkway, only open to pedestrians and cyclists , runs above the lanes of traffic. If you are not up for walking the whole distance, at least go as far as the first pillar, where there is a viewing platform, and you can see one of the granite towers up close.

From the bridge are beautiful views over Manhattan, the East River, and beyond to the Statue of Liberty. Biking over the bridge is another option, but pedestrian traffic is often very heavy, and cycling can be slow and challenging on busy days. Be aware that the access to the bridge begins well back from the water's edge.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Brooklyn

One of the most famous shopping streets in America, Fifth Avenue is New York's premier shopping area , where many top designers have their flagship stores. Cartier, Tiffany, Bergdorf-Goodman, the famous Apple Store Fifth Avenue, and of course, Saks Fifth Avenue, as well as many others, line this posh avenue.

Even non-shoppers can enjoy a walk along Fifth Avenue. The best area runs from approximately the south end of Central Park to the New York Public Library, or more specifically, between 60th Street and 40th Street.

Grand Central Terminal , often called Grand Central Station, is a fantastic Beaux Arts building, and it's definitely worth popping in to take a look at this famous landmark. The building first opened in 1913 as a terminal for the subway and train stations.

Outside, the 42nd Street colonnaded faces and the statuary on top are some of the key highlights. Inside, you can't miss the Grand Staircase , where you can stop to gaze out over the concourse. The beautifully restored ceiling here shows a celestial scene.

One of the most iconic sights within Grand Central Terminal is the Main Concourse Information Booth Clock. This four-sided clock has been the site of countless meet-ups (and even a marriage proposal or two) and has been featured in many famous movies including The Godfather , Men in Black , and Midnight Run .

You'll also find an extensive selection of retail shops and restaurants inside the terminal.

Address: 89 E 42nd St, New York, New York

If you plan on taking in one of the performing arts such as ballet, symphony, or opera, it's likely that your plans will involve an evening or afternoon at the Lincoln Center . Musicians, dancers, and performers of all kinds dream of gracing one of the 30 indoor and outdoor stages spread throughout the center.

Throughout the summer from mid-June through to mid-August Lincoln Center is one of New York's cheapest cultural hotspots with hundreds of free events during their Summer for the City series . All kinds of entertainment for all ages are on offer.

The Lincoln Center is home to the New York City Ballet, the New York Philharmonic, the Metropolitan Opera, the Juilliard School of Music, the Lincoln Center Theater, and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, and it's almost a certainty that some sort of event will be taking place during your time in town.

In addition to live performances, Film at Lincoln Center showcases innovative movies on a daily basis.

Location: 70 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, New York

At the top of the newly constructed One World Trade Center building , One World Observatory is the highest observation deck in the city offering outstanding views from floors 100, 101, and 102, 1,776 feet above the ground. The elevator to the top is part of the attraction. As you ascend, the surrounding panels show New York as it transformed over the years, from a rural landscape to the metropolis you see today.

This glass building, which can be seen from all over the city, is a unique structure on the Manhattan skyline, with angles that give it a very distinct appearance. If you stand near the base and look straight up, the tower appears pyramidal.

If you want to go up and see the view, you can buy an NYC One World Observatory Skip-the-Line Ticket to save you some time, but note, you will still need to clear security.

Address: One World Trade Center, 285 Fulton Street, New York, New York

For ambience, the Frick Collection tops the list when it comes to New York City museums. Housed in an early 1900s mansion, the building and the original collection were donated by Henry Clay Frick, who had the mansion built to display his art collection.

However, the original mansion is currently closed for a massive renovation and will be for several more years. A decision was made to move elements of the Frick Collection to the former site of the Whitney Museum. The temporary home is known as Frick Madison .

A visit is still worthwhile — the most notable artwork, which includes a mix of paintings, porcelain, and furniture, are on display, as are works by Monet, Rembrandt, Bellini, El Greco , and many other famous artists.

Temporary Address: 945 Madison Avenue at 75th Street

The New York Public Library's main branch was designed by architects, Carrere & Hastings, in the Beaux Arts style. The library, with its impressive rooms, is a prominent city attraction that has been featured in many movies and TV shows over the years.

Although colloquially known as the main branch, the proper name is actually the Stephen A. Schwarzman building . It opened in 1911 to immediate acclaim. An enormous library, the Main Reading Room alone stretches two city blocks, and the Periodicals Room holds 10,000 current magazines. The collection at this location is vast, to say the least.

Location: Fifth Avenue at 42nd Street, New York, New York

Stretching for eight city blocks from Broadway to South Street is the world-famous Wall Street. This street and the surrounding area are home to some of the most important exchanges in the world, including the New York Stock Exchange, the NASDAQ, and the New York Mercantile Exchange.

Also located nearby are the impressive Trinity Church and Federal Hall . Look for the bronze statue of Charging Bull at Bowling Green, on Broadway. This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Financial District and a popular photo opportunity for visitors.

Lying in the shadow of Rockefeller Center is Radio City Music Hall , a famous entertainment venue and a designated city landmark. This 1932 Art Deco theater offers musical extravaganzas and films and is the home of the dance company, The Rockettes .

The building was built and financed by the Rockefellers during the 1930s and contained the largest indoor theater in the world at the time. Today, the venue frequently hosts major events, including the Grammy Awards and Tony Awards. Its prominent marquee is hard to miss as it curves around the building and stretches down the block.

Address: 1260 6th Avenue, New York, New York

St. Patrick's Cathedral is one of New York's finest examples of Gothic Revival, with its massive bronze doors, white marble façade, 330-foot spires, the Great Organ, rose window, bronze baldachin, 2,400 seating capacity, and the statue of Pieta at the side of the Lady Chapel. With millions of visitors annually, the cathedral is a major destination for believers and tourists alike.

The building was erected in 1879 and has been carefully restored and maintained throughout its existence, including a $200-million renovation that was completed in 2016.

Location: 5th Avenue, between 50th and 51st Streets, New York, New York

Carnegie Hall opened in 1891 as New York's first great concert hall. Musicians from Tchaikovsky, who conducted on opening night, to Leonard Bernstein and The Beatles have filled the hall. It is said to have some of the best acoustics in the world.

While the best way to enjoy the hall is to take in a performance, one of the best ways to learn about it is on a guided tour . The tour offers a comprehensive look at the hall, insight into the construction, and discusses some of the artists who have taken to the stage. Tours end at the Rose Museum.

Address: 881 7th Ave, New York, New York

On a summer's day, it's hard to beat a leisurely afternoon at Bryant Park . The grounds feature monuments and gardens, and "Le Carrousel," a popular carousel. A games area makes available chess boards, checkers, and backgammon boards for a small fee.

Bryant Park was a seedy area known for crime and a hangout for undesirables until 1989, when the city reclaimed it and turned it into a beautiful urban oasis. Locals have embraced this park, and today, it's a pleasure to walk through. If you don't want to play a game, it is still interesting to watch others playing.

When the snow flies and the temperature drops, an outdoor skating rink emerges at Bryant Park. This small rink is free to use, unlike the one at Central Park. Bring your own skates or rent a pair at the concession stand. Don't know how to skate? No problem. Skating aids, similar to walkers that elderly people use, are available to rent. If you can, try to visit on Tuesdays or Thursdays. At 12:40pm, artistic skating performances by the Ice Theater of New York take place.

The park is located adjacent to the New York Public Library.

Location: Between W 40th Street and W 42nd Street, at 6th Ave, New York, New York

The best way to truly experience New York is to stay in Manhattan, rather than trying to commute from the suburbs, which can be time-consuming and a little tiring. The hotels mentioned below are all centrally located in Manhattan and close to many of the major attractions.

Luxury Hotels:

• Known for impeccable service The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park is a New York landmark. The hotel has recently been renovated and upgraded, and now the 253 rooms have all the latest modern features the discerning traveler requires and demands.
• The Mandarin Oriental is an outstanding luxury property with a great location near the south end of Central Park.
• Farther south, near Bryant Park, the New York Public Library, and Grand Central Terminal, the posh 60-story Langham Place, Fifth Avenue is another reliable five-star hotel.
• One of the hot new arrivals on New York's hotel scene is the Crowne Plaza HY36 Midtown Manhattan . This four-star property offers affordable luxury and is located within walking distance to the High Line, Penn Station, and Times Square.
• In a similar price range, near Times Square, is the boutique Casablanca Hotel by Library Hotel Collection .

Mid-Range Hotels:

• With a prime location, within walking distance of Times Square, Central Park, and Rockefeller Center, The Pearl Hotel is at the higher end of the mid-range. It offers quality rooms, great service, and very reasonable rates.
• Another noteworthy mid-range hotel in a good location includes the Kasa, The Duffy Times Square . This small hotel has a B&B-style feel with only 22 rooms and as the name indicates, is close to Times Square.
• The Hilton Garden Inn New York/West 35th Street is located in a great position near the Empire State Building.

Budget Hotels:

• Hotel rates vary considerably depending on the season, but it's usually possible to find a few quality budget hotels offering reasonable rates. Some popular, modestly-priced hotel options include the Econo Lodge Times Square , just north of Times Square.
• Near Seaton Hotel is the more modern and affordable Pod 39 Hotel , with funky, compact rooms featuring en-suite bathrooms, and sociable common areas.

With so much to see and do in New York, purchasing a couple of tours can really help cover all the main attractions and make sightseeing easy and enjoyable. Walking everywhere can be tiring, and figuring out the subway isn't for everyone. There are many tours to choose from, but the following offer a good mix of attractions and experiences, and they are all guaranteed lowest prices.

Explore the City :

• For getting your bearings, seeing the sights, and learning a little history, there is no beating the traditional open-top sightseeing bus. Take a Big Bus New York Hop-on Hop-off Tour to cover all the top sights and save yourself a whole lot of walking, so you will still have some energy to take in dinner or a show in the evening.
• If you are spending several days in the city and plan on sightseeing each day, you can save yourself money and hassle by picking up a New York CityPASS , which covers five major attractions and will allow you to bypass the lines. The pass is good for nine days.

See the Sights from the Water :

• Take a Manhattan Island Cruise to see the city skyline and city landmarks from the water, along with the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. These are 2.5-hour cruises that run in the morning and afternoon and include a live guided narration.

Get an Aerial Perspective :

• Indulge yourself with a Manhattan Helicopter Tour and fly over one of the most amazing cities in the world. These 15-minute shared-occupancy flights take you past the landmark buildings in downtown, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island. This tour will give you a whole new appreciation for the density of the buildings and the size of Central Park.

No matter the season, New York City shines, and there is truly no wrong time to visit this bustling metropolis. The best time to go to New York City depends on what you want your vacation to be. If your idea of New York stems from movies like When Harry Met Sally and You've Got Mail , with idyllic strolls through Central Park as colorful leaves gently fall on your shoulders, autumn is an ideal time.

If seeing the Rockettes after a day of skating under the Rockefeller Christmas Tree and admiring holiday window displays is what you've always dreamed of, winter is a magical time to be in the Big Apple.

But if you are looking for a quieter and more budget-friendly getaway, with perfect weather, spring is your best bet. Locals, happy to be shedding their winter armor, have a spring in their step as they make their way to outdoor dining spots and markets on sidewalks carpeted with spring blossoms.

Summer is hot and humid, but if the balmy months are the only time you can travel with your family, you can still enjoy New York City's many attractions.

High season in New York is from June to August and November to December during the holidays, when you can expect to pay high prices for accommodations and flights. March to May and September to early November are considered shoulder seasons, and you will experience pleasant weather and relatively low prices. Low season is during January and February when it's chilly, but you will get cheap deals.

An ideal New York City vacation involves mild weather and fewer travelers, and the times that have both are spring and fall. Visit the city anytime between April to early June, or around September to early November, when the kids are in school and people aren't swarming major attractions.

Flights and hotels are also less expensive than the summer months and during the holidays in December. Take advantage of the nice weather to walk the streets, have a picnic in a park, and catch sports games.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

The Boroughs of New York City: If you have time to tour areas outside of Manhattan, you'll be pleasantly surprised at what you find. Take a trip on the Staten Island Ferry and discover the sights of Staten Island . Hop on the subway and explore the attractions of Queens . Walk or bike over the Brooklyn Bridge and enjoy the numerous attractions in Brooklyn . Lastly, home to the Yankee Stadium and the largest zoo in the United States, it's worth taking some time to visit the Bronx

Where to Go near New York City: If you want a quick break from New York, have a look at our top day trips from New York City or our best weekend getaways . In summer, you might even want to consider heading out to explore the best beaches on Long Island .

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The 21 best attractions in Manhattan

From the Statue of Liberty to the High Line, these are the best Manhattan attractions in NYC

If you’re planning on making a visit to New York City, it would be ridiculous not to start with Manhattan and its attractions. Though in point of fact neither the biggest borough (that’s Queens !) nor the most densely-populated (that’s  Brooklyn! ), it is the center of the city: historically, geographically, and culturally.

Dominated by some of the world’s most iconic skyscrapers, here you’ll find globally famous attractions like the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, and Central Park. You’ve got some of the best restaurants in New York . And all the biggest and best  Broadway shows  are here because Broadway is literally in Manhattan. Whether you’re just visiting the Big Apple for the weekend or you’re a lifelong New Yorker looking for something new to do, these attractions in Manhattan are essential additions to your bucket list.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best New York attractions   RECOMMENDED: The best non-touristy things to do in NYC

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click  here .

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Best Manhattan attractions

1.  One World Observatory

• Towers and viewpoints
• Financial District

The current tallest building in the United State, the One World Observatory at World Trade Center lets visitors experience panoramic views of NYC on levels 100, 101, and 102. The tour begins with a thrilling trip in the Sky Pod elevators (some of the fastest in the world) which lead to a two-minute video presentation of gorgeous city images on floor 102. Check out City Pulse on the 100th floor, which shows HD videos featuring notable NYC landmarks and neighborhoods. Then it’s time to brave the Sky Portal, where a 14-foot wide circular disc gives you a view of real-time, high-definition footage of the streets below.

2.  Empire State Building

• Monuments and memorials
• Midtown West

Finished in 1931 at the height of the Great Depression, this 1,454-foot Art Deco skyscraper was the tallest building in the world for almost four decades and has long stood as a symbol of American innovation and ambition. Still looming large as ever in New York’s skyline (where it’s still the seventh-tallest building), the Empire State remains one of the most visited attractions in the city. Taking in those awe-inspiring panoramic views from the open-air observation deck on the 86th floor remains a huge draw (reservations are required), but a recent $165m upgrade has added even more appeal. Make sure you also check out the newly revitalized galleries on the second and 80th floors; the sight of King Kong’s clutches coming through the walls really is something. 

3.  The Statue of Liberty

• Liberty Island

In a city where almost everything is iconic, Lady Liberty could just edge it as the icon of icons – certainly where tourists are concerned (New Yorkers famously avoid it like the plague). Our tip is to avoid the foam-crown-sporting masses and pre-book a combo cruise-and-tour ticket . A climb to the crown – and why wouldn’t you? – affords a panoramic view of New York Harbor and the chance to see the literal nuts and bolts of Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi’s creation, which was given to the people of America by the people of France in 1886. We thoroughly recommend stopping in the museum on Liberty Island, if only to marvel at the initial ambivalence of 19th-century New Yorkers when they were asked to fund the construction of the pedestal. 

4.  The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Occupying 13 acres of Central Park, the Met, which opened in 1880, is impressive in terms both of quality and scale: there are some two million items in its permanent collection, from classical antiquity to modern American design. Added in 1895 by McKim, Mead, and White, the neoclassical facade is daunting. But despite its grandeur and vastness, the museum is surprisingly easy to negotiate, particularly if you come early on a weekday and avoid the crowds.

5.  Central Park

• Things to do
• Walks and tours

Surely the world’s most famous public park, the still startlingly enormous Central Park is one of the most beloved attractions in New York City, and an iconic fixture of numerous films, TV shows, and songs. It’s surprisingly easy to forget you’re in Manhattan once you penetrate the idyllic, 843-acre plot, which was first brought to life in the mid-nineteenth century by urban visionaries Frederick Law Olmstead and Calvert Vaux. Their thoughtful design reflects a harmonious balance of scenic elements that live on today: pastoral (the open, picnic-ready lawn of the Sheep Meadow), formal (the liner, tree-lined Mall), and picturesque (the densely wooded paths of the Ramble).

Rent a bike in Central Park.

6.  Chrysler Building

• Civic buildings
• Midtown East

If you want to call this magnificent pinnacle of Art Deco architecture NYC’s most eye-popping skyscraper then we’re not going to argue with you. Triangle-shaped windows in its crown are lined with lights, creating a beautiful effect come nighttime. Oozing a moneyed sophistication oft identified with old New York, you can’t actually go up it as a tourist – it’s still in use as offices – but the go-ahead has been given for a new observation deck, and in the meantime, the magnificent art deco lobby is open to the public.

7.  The High Line

Though it’s spawned many imitators, t here’s something uniquely New York about this wonderful aerial walk, built on an abandoned railway track, an ultra-smart move-in footage-starved Manhattan. What we like best is how the pathway rises above the city while keeping you rooted in urban life: where else can you walk through a field of wildflowers as cabs zip along the street beneath you?

8.  Theater District

When it’s running at full capacity – understandably, things have been pretty patchy since March 2020 – then more than 13 million locals and tourists take in Broadway shows every year. Most of NYC’s 41 Broadway venues – that is to say, professional theaters with a capacity of over 500 – are located in the Theater District. Roughly speaking, that’s 41st Street to 52nd Street between Sixth Avenue and Eighth Avenue. Each season brings a new wave of mega-musicals, plays, and star-driven revivals. Tickets don’t tend to be cheap – although discounts are often available – but you would be crazy to leave New York City without taking in one of the season's best shows.

Get spooked on a haunted Broadway theater tour.

9.  Harbor helicopter tour

For generations, the architects who have worked in Manhattan have known one thing: the only way is up. Take their lead and view the area’s iconic buildings, bridges, parks and statues from the air. Ideal for when your feet need time off from earth-bound site-seeing, a helicopter tour will sweep you up and around the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Empire State Building and so forth, including giving you a view of Central Park normally reserved for the birds. Head to Pier Six on the East River and, well, prepare for lift off.

10.  National September 11 Memorial & Museum

On the former site of the Twin Towers, stand North America’s largest man-made waterfalls. Designed by Michael Arad, its twin reflecting pools bear the names of the 3,000 victims of the 9/11 attacks and serve as a solemn reminder of all that was lost on both September 11, 2001, and the World Trade Center bombing in 1993. For those who wish to learn more about the events, the museum offers first-hand accounts of survivors, picture and video footage of the attacks, and recovered objects such as a wrecked recovery vehicle and the 30-foot National 9/11 Flag.

11.  Rockefeller Center

Built by the fabulously wealthy businessmen John D Rockefeller, the construction of this enormous complex employed over 40,000 workers over nine years. Nowadays, more than 350,000 visitors make their way to the historic landmark every year, starting early in the morning with folks hoping to spot celebrities or appear in the background of the Today Show. Always in demand is the NBC studio tour, which covers the network’s history and sites in 30 Rock. The busiest time to visit, of course, is December when the enormous, 70-foot Christmas Tree stands proudly above the plaza ice rink. 

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12.  Grand Central Terminal

• Historic buildings and sites

This iconic transit hub, which opened in 1913, is used by thousands upon thousands of commuters each day. And it’s also a destination in its own right: its majestic Beaux-Arts architecture is an awesome marriage of form and function. Famous features include the vaulted, constellation-adorned ceiling and the four-faced opal clock topping the main information booth. They’re both located in the Grand Concourse. Meanwhile, ornamentation above the 42nd Street entrance includes a likeness of Mercury, the god of travel (naturally), and an ornate Tiffany-glass timepiece.

13.  Whitney Museum of American Art

• Art and design
• Meatpacking District
• price 2 of 4

In 2015 the Whitney Museum said bye-bye to its Marcel-Breur-designed home of nearly 50 years on Madison Avenue and decamped to a brand new building in the Meatpacking District, conceived by international starchitect Renzo Piano. Right at the foot of the High Line, the all-new Whitney has some 63,000 square feet of both indoor and outdoor exhibition space. Its collection – which is based around American artists of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries – holds about 15,000 pieces by nearly 2,000 artists, including Alexander Calder, Willem de Kooning, Jasper Johns, Louise Nevelson, and the entire estate of Edward Hopper.

Save on the best NYC attractions.

14.  New-York Historical Society

• Upper West Side

One of America’s first cultural and educational institutions, the New-York Historical Society was founded way back in 1804. Instead of the niche view of NYC’s past that some other attractions offer, it offers a comprehensive look at the New York of yesteryear. Exhibits here are wide-ranging, covering all aspects of city life, and the museum’s permanent holdings—you can see a lot of them in the open-storage galleries on the fourth floor—offer a glimpse into daily city life in NYC past, with items such as vintage clothing, toys, and furniture on display.

15.  The Guggenheim Museum

Built in 1959 by Frank Lloyd Wright to house the eponymous philanthropist’s collection, nowadays the iconic concrete spiral is considered as much a work of art as the paintings within it. Alongside great works by European masters such as Manet, Picasso, and Chagall, the institution holds the most Kandinskys in the US, as well as one of the largest collections of Mapplethorpe's in the world. And yes, there really is a correct way to see the exhibits: Wright’s intent was for you to begin at the bottom and work your way around to the top.

16.  Times Square

The heart of Manhattan was once a global byword for seediness and sin, packed to the gills with sex shops and drug dealers. In recent decades, however, its notorious reputation has almost totally evaporated: nowadays the area can feel like a tourist-clogged shopping mall. If you must go – and frankly, it’s pretty hard to totally avoid it – then changes such as the stairs above the TKTS booth and a pedestrian plaza along Broadway have improved the sightseeing experience…somewhat. 

See Times Square on a walking tour.

17.  Chelsea Market

• Markets and fairs

More than six million people a year visit this former biscuit factory turned food hall: a fact that’s unlikely to surprise anyone who has ever braved the epic line for Los Tacos No. 1. In addition to 35-plus eateries, Chelsea Market is home to the rotating boutique selection of Artists & Fleas, plus a selection of other local boutiques. The fact Google snapped the space up for a cool $2.4 billion a few years back only goes to show how iconic it really is.

Explore Chelsea Market and The Highline.

18.  Flatiron Building

When it debuted in 1902, critics thought the Flatiron Building wouldn’t last: they worried that a strong wind might topple the long, thin, pyramidal structure. Fortunately, architect Daniel Burnham’s smart solution to the problem of a triangular lot has proven nothing if not enduring, and the unique architecture is still very much in place. Following the departure of its main tenant Macmillian, the building is empty while a lavish extensive renovation is carried out, due for completion no earlier than 2022.

19.  American Museum of Natural History

• Science and technology

If the American Museum of Natural History only contained the 94-foot blue whale model in the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life and the 122-foot cast of the Titanosaur fossil in the Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Orientation Center, then it would be worth visiting on those grounds alone. What’s that, you want more ? Fair enough: you can also consider the vast collection of taxidermied animals, check out the dazzling Hall of Gems and explore the heavens in the awe-inspiring Hayden Planetarium during your visit.

20.  Macy’s Herald Square

• Department stores

Though it’s no longer the biggest department store in the world, the original Macy’s location is no slouch, covering a prodigious 2.2 million square feet. You could spend days shopping in this 11-floor building, but buying stuff isn’t the only draw. Visit in the spring to peep the extravagant Macy’s Flower Show, or wait until after Thanksgiving to take in the festive holiday windows and drop off your Christmas list to Old Saint Nick himself.

21.  New York Public Library, Stephen A. Schwarzman Building

• Libraries, archives and foundations

Catch a glimpse of this monumental library’s Beaux-Arts facade and you’ll see why it took nine years and $9 million to construct (when $9 million was a lot of money). The grand columns, Tennessee marble lions dubbed Patience and Fortitude and spectacular Rose Main Reading Room make the library one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. The contents aren’t too bad either: bibliophiles shouldn’t pass up the chance to look through the vast collection of books and literary ephemera, including the original Winnie-the-Pooh bear and first folio editions of William Shakespeare's Comedies, Histories, and Tragedies .

Looking for more things to do?

The best bike tours in NYC

For those looking to experience the city like a locals, hop on two wheels and join of the best bike tours NYC has to offer

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45 Things to See and Do in New York City

Here are the best things to do, see, eat, and buy when you're in the Big Apple.

From the best shops and restaurants to experiences you won't find anywhere else, here's how to get the most out of New York City.

Have breakfast at Tiffany's.

More : The 7 Best Places for Afternoon Tea in New York City

Take in outdoor theater at Shakespeare in the Park.

“Seeing a Broadway show is great, but if you’re in New York in the summertime, nothing beats Shakespeare in the Park . It’s a free series put on by the Public Theater in an open-air venue in Central Park, and combines astonishing performances from incredible talent with a night under the stars for an unbeatable theatrical experience.” —Adam Rathe, Senior Editor (Arts and Culture)

Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

"Every time I go, I encounter a room I’ve never been to before. But I never leave without visiting the medieval armor on the first floor."— Jamie Rosen, Contributing Editor

Go for a walk in Central Park.

843 acres are open to visitors in America's most-visited urban park, which was designed in 1858 by landscape architects Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux after they beat out 32 competitors for the project. Now a National Historic Landmark, the park is full of places to explore, starting with its zoo , Bethesda Fountain, the Boathouse , the mall ( shown here ), and Woolman Rink. Even the Metropolitan Museum of Art technically falls within its confines.

See a show at the Park Avenue Armory.

The expansive 55,000-square-foot drill hall plays host to year-round events, including the Winter Show , TEFAF New York , and its own cultural programming . But what you might not know is that visitors can tour other areas like the first-floor period rooms and restored Board of Officers Room and Veterans Room with a guide. To learn more about the events at the Armory, visit its website here .

Walk around the Columbia University campus.

Even if your college days are in the past, you can still explore the city's only Ivy League institution. Head out on a self-guided tour or choose one of the options with a guide, including one that covers the history, architecture, and sculpture of the Morningside Heights campus. For more architectural splendor in the neighborhood, don't miss the Cathedral of Saint John the Divine .

Go skating in Central Park.

Ice skating at Woolman Rink is a quintessential New York experience—and has been for more than 70 years. Book your tickets here .

Take in a show at the Café Carlyle.

There isn't an Upper East Side experience more traditional than drinks at Bemelmens Bar and a show at Café Carlyle . The cabaret theater has hosted luminaries like Alan Cumming and Judy Collins since its debut in 1955.

Source some rare bottles on Madison Avenue.

Collezione New York is New York's first luxury spirits boutique, and it fits right in among the designer shops on Madison Avenue (Oscar de la Renta is a few steps away). Founder and CEO Stefano Pileggi, a third-generation retailer, emigrated from Italy in 2011. After amassing an enviable Scotch collection, Pileggi decided to offer fellow spirits collectors a better shopping experience. And while you can find extremely rare offerings like a vertical of every 18-year-old Macallan bottled between 1954 and 1986 (available as a lot for $250,000), Collezione also stocks bottles ideal for kicking off a casual dinner at home—like Via Carota's craft cocktails .

Wander around The Cloisters.

Located on four acres overlooking the Hudson River in Upper Manhattan's Fort Tryon Park, this annex of the Metropolitan Museum of Art includes four cloisters and a group of reconstructed chapels and halls from medieval French monasteries and abbeys.

Check out the New York Botanical Garden.

The 250-acre National Historic Landmark in the Bronx hosts more than a million visitors annually. One of its top draws?The Holiday Train Show, which has been on view during the holiday season for 30 years and features more than 190 replicas of New York landmarks.

Explore the history of design at the Cooper Hewitt.

America's only museum dedicated solely to design has been a branch of the Smithsonian since the 1960s. It now has a collection of more than 210,000 design objects that span 240 years, all housed in industrialist Andrew Carnegie's former mansion on the Upper East Side. Plan your visit here .

Tour the Frick Collection.

The Gilded Age mansion of industrialist Henry Clay Frick is one of the most visually interesting places to visit in the city today. But through late 2024, the Frick won’t be where we’ve always known it. While the museum is being upgraded by architect Annabelle Selldorf, its treasures are a few blocks away in the Frick Madison, the building Bauhaus architect Marcel Breuer designed for the Whitney Museum of American Art in the mid-1960s.

Pick up cheese (and a lot more) at Zabar's.

"The king of the old-school appetizing shops, Zabar's is not a deli, as you can’t order lunch. It’s not a supermarket, as there’s no produce (well, not much), and you can’t get paper towels or dish soap. But it has the best selection of cheeses on earth (not an exaggeration), many of them very inexpensive. And prepared foods. And outstanding, reasonably priced coffee. And loose tea of several dozen kinds. And who else has a lox counter—just lox, nothing else. And I haven’t even mentioned the kitchenwares department upstairs, which is one of New York’s best-kept secrets." —James Lochart, Copy Chief

Pay a visit to Lincoln Center.

The Metropolitan Opera, New York Philharmonic, Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, and New York City Ballet all perform here. The latest change is the newly renovated David Geffen Hall, the home of the New York Philharmonic.

Visit the Museum of the City of New York.

Located at the northern end of Fifth Avenue's Museum Mile, MCNY offers exhibitions on the city's art and history, including the recent " Food in New York: Bigger Than the Plate ," which was first developed at London's Victoria and Albert Museum before being adapted to examine eating and food systems in New York City.

Go to the American Museum of Natural History.

Founded in 1869, the American Museum of Natural History now has more than 32 million specimens and cultural artifacts in its collection. Stroll through the museum's 570,000-square-foot space on Central Park West, which includes 45 permanent exhibit halls including dinosaur fossils, stunning dioramas, and, in the Milstein Family Hall of Ocean Life, a 94-foot-long, 21,000-pound model of a blue whale suspended from the ceiling.

Dine at one of the world's best restaurants (without breaking the bank).

The city is home to 73 Michelin-starred restaurants , but eating at them doesn't require spending your entire paycheck in one fell swoop. Here's a handy guide with a few tips for making the most of the culinary scene on a tight budget .

Sam Dangremond is a Contributing Digital Editor at Town & Country, where he covers men's style, cocktails, travel, and the social scene.

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66 Fun Things to Do in NYC – Cool and Unusual Activities

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Aptly named The City That Never Sleeps, this skyscraper-filled, fast-paced metropolis is a source of cultural pride for locals and visitors alike — not to mention one of the most bucket-listed destinations on the planet.

Always buzzing with events, New York City offers an unparalleled array of activities and experiences for visitors of all ages, from checking off iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and Brooklyn Bridge to wandering through historic areas like Harlem, Chinatown and Tribeca, this mega-city will always have something new and exciting to offer.

Spread across the five diverse, eclectic boroughs — Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, The Bronx and Staten Island — New York has something for everyone. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, an art lover (don’t miss the Met and the MOMA) or a foodie fanatic (Little Italy awaits), the Big Apple will deliver an incredible sense of awe… every, single, time.

Throw in world-class museums, a-grade sporting events, old-school Coney Island, ghost tours, Broadway theaters and an array of rooftop bars, and you will soon discover why over 8.5 million people call this bustling city home.

So, without further ado, let’s take a look at the top fun things to do in NYC !

1 – Try indoor skydiving at iFLY Westchester

Experience the thrill of skydiving without any of the danger. iFly Westchester is a themed wind tunnel for indoor skydiving. So there is no jumping, no bad weather, no danger, just a jolly good time to spend with your friends or family!

• indoor skydiving in NYC

2 – Fly on a helicopter and be stunned by the view of NYC

Tours by helicopters are one of the most famous and fun things to do in NYC, especially for first-time visitors. It is the most thrilling way to see NYC’s top landmarks, the Hudson River and its bay. Soar high above the New York City skyline and enjoy the panorama.

• Compare Helicopter flights in NYC

See also: Helicopter Tours in New York City – Which One Is the Best?

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Uncover the Magic: Navigate the Museum of Illusions, NYC

When exploring the vibrant tapestry of New York City, there’s an abundance of entertainment options to satisfy every taste. Among the myriad attractions, the Museum of Illusions stands out as a must-visit destination.

Offering a whimsical journey through optical illusions and mind-bending exhibits, this museum captivates visitors of all ages with its interactive displays and immersive experiences.

Step into a world where perception is challenged, where walls shift and gravity defies expectation. From holograms that seemingly materialize before your eyes to rooms that distort reality, each exhibit sparks curiosity and wonder.

Whether you’re snapping mind-boggling photos for your Instagram feed or simply enjoying a day of exploration with friends and family, the Museum of Illusions promises a unique and unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Big Apple.

3 – Explore the catacombs of the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral

Ready for a spooky night? Go behind the scenes at the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral. Get access to the off-limits and hidden areas of the Basilica grounds, and step into the only active catacombs in New York City.

• New York City Catacombs tickets

4 – Take a spin on The Beast

Hold on to your hats as you blast across New York Bay on the ride of your life. The Beast is a luxury jet boat and one of the fun things to do in NYC for adrenaline junkies.

Take in the panoramic sights of midtown and lower Manhattan and bounce along to live music on this watery roller coaster journey. Keep your cameras handy for the Statue of Liberty!

• The Beast tickets

5 – Recover a priceless painting in 60 minutes or less!

Challenge your friends to solve an art heist in this escape room! One of five available adventures at The Escape Game , The Heist will immerse you and your friends in a one-of-a-kind adventure, where you must steal back a priceless Monet painting before the art curator returns.

You’ll have to work with your team to solve clues and overcome challenges in order to complete your mission.

You have 60 minutes max, so be quick! Can you escape in time?

• Escape games in NYC

6 – Watch a famous Broadway show

Broadway is the bright beating heart of NYC’s performing arts scene. Watching a Broadway show is one of the most fun things to do in New York City at night , an guaranteed to be an experience like no other.

There is no better place in the world to watch famous worldwide musicals, such as The Lion King , Aladdin , The Phantom of the Opera , Wicked , The Book of Mormon , Hamilton , Chicago , and many more!

• tickets for Broadway shows

Hot tip: check out the best Broadway shows to see right now !

7 – Admire the spectacular view of Manhattan over the Hudson

From street level, Manhattan is a bustling, vibrant city of towering skyscrapers, meandering paths and people in every direction. But from above, from one of the several jaw-dropping observation decks around the city, the Big Apple really shows off its majestic beauty.

But in a city literally packed to the brim with skyscrapers, which provides the best Insta-worthy views?

The observation deck of the One World Observatory – part of the 541-meter-tall Freedom Tower which stands on the site of the former World Trade Center – offers dramatic city views that turn magical at sundown. Located high upon the 100th, 101st, and 102nd floors, this observation deck devliers incredible views of Midtown and Lower Manhattan.

The 443-meter-tall Empire State Building is another great choice for a bird’s eye view of the city. Located in Midtown, its observation deck stands on the 86th floor of this near-century-old building – an absolute must-see for first-time visitors to the Big Apple and a great spot to take in magnificent views over Central Park.

Thanks to its location in Lower Manhattan near the 9/11 Memorial , the One World Observatory also offers fantastic views of the Statue of Liberty , Ellis Island , and the harbor.

But if it’s panoramic views OF the Empire State Building you’re after, you can’t beat Top of the Rock . Perched 70 floors above Rockefeller Plaza, the observation deck of this art deco-style skyscraper gives visitors an unobstructed view that extends for miles.

But there’s more. Located over in Hudson Yards, Edge Observation Deck holds the title of the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere, towering in the open air at 345 meters and 100 stories high. Meanwhile, the ultra-modern SUMMIT One Vanderbilt , which opened in 2020, offers an immersive art-meets-technology experience to complement the impressive views of Midtown and Lower Manhatten from atop its tower.

No matter which observation deck you end up choosing, these unique perspectives of New York’s iconic skyline will leave your camera roll full for days!

8 – Visit famous filming locations

All the best movies and TV shows are filmed in New York, and this is your chance to visit some of the big screen sights.

Hop onboard a comfortable coach and cruise around Manhattan, stopping at iconic locations from Gossip Girl , Sex and the City  and The Sopranos .

Relive the glory days outside the Friends apartment and pose beside the iconic Ghostbusters Fire station.

• Movie tours in NYC

Hot tip: check out the best TV & movie locations tours in New York City

9 – Cheer for the Knicks at the Madison Square Garden

Sports fans, listen up. While some might associate the Big Apple with baseball (the Yankees), and hockey (the Rangers) and football (the Jets), its basketball heritage runs deepest – and a visit to the legendary Madison Square Garden will make that even clearer.

• Madison Square Garden tickets

Here, you’ll find the infamous New York Knicks — one of the NBA’s original teams that have played in New York City since 1946 — gracing the court in one of the most iconic venues in modern sports and entertainment.

And when it’s not game day or concert night, you can join an exclusive Madison Square Garden tour and explore the arena inside and out, checking out places like the locker rooms, the Garden’s TV studio, and the court itself. Either way, when the stadium’s packed with 20,000+ diehard fans, you’ll see (and hear) why it’s considered one of the best things to do in NYC for sports nuts.

• Madison Square Garden tours

10 – Balance your mind and body at Aire Ancient Baths

In an industrial building from 1808, the AIRE is an experience of sensations that runs through different thermal baths, massages as well as other experiences which you will find absolutely delightful!

11 – Listen to unique concerts at candlelight

Enjoy music concerts in a unique candlelight atmosphere. Live the Vivaldi, the Queen or Jazz music notes while sipping a glass of wine or having dinner. Candlelight creates a magical atmosphere that will let you appreciate even more the fantastic concerts.

• Candlelight concerts tickets

12 – Have fun in Central Park

No visit to New York is complete without popping over to Central Park, the iconic green hub sitting pretty in the middle of Manhattan. The grounds are a great place for a picnic or horse-drawn carriage ride, and the wild inhabitants of Central Park Zoo are a favorite with families.

Feeling energetic? Then jump in the saddle for a guided bike tour around the park and nearby sights, or join one of the scooter tours which whisk through the park’s winding paths and impressive bridges.

Throw in walking tours, moonlit ghost tours, and a plethora of food and drinks options, and you’ve got an unbeatable day out – no wonder the 843-acre park attracts over 40 million visitors every year and it’s one of the best things to do in New York City with kids !

Don’t forget to check out the iconic Bethesda Terrace too — stroll along the terrace’s grand walkways, and admire its ornate arches and carvings that have been gracing the park since the 1860s.

And if you’re up for some culture, pay a visit to The Metropolitan Museum of Art, located at the park’s east side – where you can admire more than 5,000 years of history! With so much to do and do, it’s clear that you’ll never run out of things to do in Central Park .

• Central Park tours

13 – Visit the Statue of Liberty

A must-see tourist attraction in New York City , a landmark as iconic as the city itself, The 305-foot-tall Statue of Liberty stands proudly on Liberty Island, a symbol of freedom and hope to the millions of immigrants who have come through New York harbor.

Go on a ferry tour around the Statue and explore its grounds, or take in spectacular views from The Crown or pedestal – it’s one attraction you won’t want to miss!

Most Lady Liberty tours are combined with Ellis Island and its museum. Here, you’ll learn all about the fascinating history of immigration to the United States — a see first-hand how New York because a cultural melting pot.

• Statue of Liberty tours

Hot tip: if you’re looking to save a few bucks, try to get your hands on some of the last-minute Statue of Liberty tickets .

14 – Embrace the outdoors

New York is a surprising hub for several outdoor experiences. For ultimate thrills, ride a jet ski along the Hudson River and see the city skyline from the water.

Outside town, you can take to the skies by hot air balloon for scenic New Jersey and Pennsylvania views. Or join a Sunday kayaking tour down the Delaware River – wine tasting and downtown transfers included!

AirOtic Soirée: Sensational aerial cabaret in NYC

• See price & reviews

15 – Experience the city from a unique vantage point

The waters of the Hudson River are not just perfect counterpoints to Manhattan’s bustling streets but also offer stunning views of NYC’s most famous landmarks. Boat tours take you sightseeing at remarkable points in American history, engineering, and architecture.

The Circle Line around Manhattan or the Harbor Lights Cruise are the most popular experiences on the water in New York City.

• Cruises in New York City

Read more info on our latest article about the best NYC boat tours .

16 – Wander around the Guggenheim Museum

Tucked away in the Upper East Side, the Guggenheim Museum somehow still flies under the radar. While it may not be as immediately recognizable as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the modernist building designed by Frank Lloyd Wright is a landmark in its own right – and well worth a visit.

Inside, you’ll find a wealth of modern art — from iconic works by 20th-century masters like Picasso, Pollock and Kandinsky to more contemporary exhibitions such as ‘Young Picasso in Paris’ and ‘Experimental Art in South Korea’.

With its rotating collections, unique architecture and vast variety of artwork, it’s considered a terrific rainy-day activity for art lovers and culture vultures alike.

• Guggenheim Museum tickets

17 – Meet a Tyrannosaurus Rex at the Museum of Natural History

Come face to face with dinosaurs at the American Natural History Museum – one of the most fun things to do in NYC. See real Night at the Museum exhibits and size up to an enormous blue whale.

It is not often you can travel to the depths of the Pacific Ocean and visit far-off galaxies all in the same building!

• See price and reviews

18 – Find peace and quiet in the New York Botanical Garden

Hidden away up in Bronx Park, the New York Botanical Garden offers a welcomed change of pace from the hustle and bustle of downtown Manhattan.

With about 12,000 species of colorful flora and fauna on display, this 250-acre green space is paradise for nature lovers — with themed gardens (such as the Native Plant Garden and Conifer Arboretum), workshops, guided tours and special events seven days a week.

Stroll through the sprawling grounds and take in the beauty of its monuments and lesser-known areas too – from the Twin Lakes to the Blue Oak collection or Herb Gaden. The Enid A. Haupt Conservatory and the Tram Tour are both must-sees, while the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden is justifiably popular for families.

If you’re staying in Brooklyn, the 52-acre Brooklyn Botanic Garden hosts 12,000 species of its own – tucked away in the sprawling Prospect Park.

• New York Botanical Garden tickets

19 – Unleash your inner wizard at The Cauldron NYC

Are you ready for a spellbinding experience in NYC?

Join The Cauldron and unleash your inner wizard with Potion Making – an immersive cocktail class that’ll take you back to your childhood dreams! Put on your cloak, grab your wand, and get ready for some molecular mixology!

Cast spells, interact with magical creatures and brew your own elixirs at a high-tech, magic wand-interactive work station. With a selection of different potions, each with unique properties and effects, there’s something for every taste. Don’t miss out on this enchanting experience!

Discover A Sensational Japanese Dining Experience

Celebrate with an unforgettable twist at Dining in the Dark, where a blindfolded dinner elevates your senses of taste and smell. Perfect for couples, families, and friends looking for a distinctive dining experience, this event invites you to explore flavors and aromas in a completely new way.

20 – Have an unforgettable baseball experience at the NYC Yankee Stadium

An emblematic baseball team, the NYC Yankees will show you the soul of the American sports culture as well as the enjoyment it creates all around it!

• New York Yankees tickets

21 – See the roaring Niagara Falls on a day trip

Where over six million cubic feet of water fall every minute, Niagara Falls is one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in North America.

Sitting on the international border between the United States and Canada, this thunderous beauty has evolved into much more than just a waterfall over the years — it’s now an adventure playground and entertainment Mecca, home to all sorts of activities, museums, restaurants and attractions.

On a day trip to Niagara Falls, you’ll get to experience a mixture of outdoor adventure and sightseeing — from taking an exhilarating journey on the Maid of the Mist boat cruise to exploring the fascinating nature trails along the Niagara River.

Hot tip; Make sure to check out our selection of the best things to  do in Niagara Falls .

Since it’s located close to 7 hours drive away, you can either join a tour that flies you there in a helicopter/plane, or drive in a comfortable luxury coach (for a multi-day trip). Either way, don’t leave this marvel off of your list of things to do in the Big Apple.

• Niagara Falls tours from NYC

22 – Hit the rink and join the Roller Wave

Roller skating is not just something out of the 1980s disco scene — it’s as cool, fun and expressive as ever!

Lace up your skates, hit the rink and join The Roller Wave in Brooklyn for an invigorating time out.

If you’re new to the sport, you can even sign up for classes and find your balance before spinning circles around your friends.

23 – Take a hop-on hop-off bus tour

See the city on your own terms on a fun hop-on hop-off bus tour around New York. You can choose when and where to get off, giving you the time you need at your favorite sights.

Visiting iconic locations like Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge and the Empire State Building has never been so easy. For the best views choose seats on the top deck.

See also: Hop on Hop off NYC Bus Tours – Which One is Best?

24 – Explore outstanding photographs in immersive exhibitions at Fotografiska

Discover photography from a new perspective in this unique museum and gallery space.

New York’s groundbreaking photography museum, Fotografiska showcases eclectic captivating exhibits, featuring some of the most interesting contemporary artists and photographers.

It houses three floors of galleries, displaying everything from landscapes and intimate portraits to documentary exhibits and abstract works.

After the immersive gallery experience with expertly curated collections, check out the museum’s cafe and bar for delightful meals and drinks.

• Fotografiska tickets

See also: Best museums in New York City

The Drunk Shakespeare Society: where cocktails and classics meet

Mix cocktails and classics for an unforgettable evening at the Drunk Shakespeare Society. A hidden gem behind the Ruby Theatre, NYC. sets the stage for five fearless actors. While sipping on a variety of alcoholic beverages, the Shakespearean show will be played in a funny way, creating a unique way every time.

25 – Stroll along the High line

Stretching all the way from the Chelsea Market in the Meatpacking District to The Vessel in Hudson Yards, the High Line is a 1.45-mile elevated walkway built on abandoned railway tracks.

While once a hub for industry, the urban park is now a popular destination for locals and tourists alike – an oasis of green that stands out in Manhattan’s concrete jungle.

Best of all, it’s totally free to wander the pathway, which is lined with carefully curated gardens and installations. On sunny days, it’s a great spot to people-watch or just relax on one of its benches; come dusk, you’ll get some of the most breathtaking views of the NYC skyline.

• High line tours

Hot tip: Don’t miss our selection of the best walking tours in NYC and check out the best NYC city tours

26 – Visit the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum

Have you ever been on a submarine? You can do just that at this museum, which proudly charts America’s military and maritime history from Word War II to the space race.

Explore the Space Shuttle Pavilion and be amazed at original artifacts from the Marine Corps and NASA. There is an aircraft carrier and a supersonic reconnaissance plane to check out too.

• Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum tickets

27 – Hone your secret agent skills at Spyscape

Channel your inner supersleuth and dive into the mysterious world of spies at this interactive museum. 007 fans love the James Bond exhibition which includes one of the original cars.

Uncover the truth about codebreaking and discover real-life gadgets used out in the field. You will be tasked with several Skyscape challenges, so get ready to crack clues and tackle laser rooms.

• Spyscape tickets

28 – Marvel at the chaos of Times Square

The epicenter of Manhattan, Times Square is a must-see for any first-time visitor. From the Naked Cowboy to international tourists taking selfies to the flashing neon lights of Broadway, this iconic intersection attracts millions of visitors from all corners of the globe.

With so many things to do in Times Square , you can spend an entire day within a 5-block radius and still barely scratch the surface. Take in some of the area’s biggest attractions such as Madame Tussauds wax museum and Ripley’s Believe It or Not; marvel at the towering billboards and colorful street performers.

Here’s a twist to the tale of towering billboards: why not be on one? Like we did at TourScanner, seize a whimsical moment of fame by getting your picture or video featured on a colossal billboard. Platforms like TSX liveboard offer a chance for a 15-second spotlight amidst the electrifying ambiance of Times Square, adding a personal touch to the myriad of lights and colors.

Then, grab a bite to eat at one of the area’s many restaurants, catch a Broadway show, or head up to the roof of the iconic Marriott Marquis for some stunning views of Midtown.

29 – Meet your heroes at Madame Tussauds

Rub shoulders with the Hulk and snap photos with George Washington as you explore this mind-boggling waxwork world. Nowhere else would politicians and popstars stand side by side with Spiderman and the Kardashians.

Stroll down the runway at fashion week and take center stage in a Broadway show – just all in a day’s work at Madame Tussauds.

• Madame Tussauds tickets

Swift on Broadway: A Night of Taylor’s Greatest Hits!

Experience the magic of Taylor Swift’s songs like never before! Broadway Sings Taylor Swift transforms her greatest hits into a spectacular live concert, complete with a full 14-piece orchestra and the brightest stars from Broadway shows like Hamilton and Wicked. Dive into an evening of thrilling, high-energy performances that will have you dancing and singing along in one of NYC’s most beautiful music venues.

30 – Take the first virtual reality journey through Earth

Learn more about this globe we call home and how our small actions can affect its future in the first multi-sensory and augmented reality journey through Earth.

With AR, VR, project mapping and interactive art installations, Arcadia Earth will take you on a journey to see the world from your own perspective.

• Arcadia Earth tickets

31 – Encounter residents of the marine kingdom

For one of the most fun things to do in NYC, head to the famous New York Aquarium on Coney Island and come face to face with sea lions, sharks, and even a giant octopus. Or let your imagination run wild at the Lost City of Atlantis-themed Long Island Aquarium .

32 – Head to Greenwich Village

Foodies, this one is for you. Sandwiched in between the West Village and SoHo lies the vibrant neighborhood of Greenwich Village – littered with cobblestone streets, historic brownstones and cozy cafes.

For a true taste of NLC-style dining, take a food tour and get an insider’s perspective on local eateries — from classic pizzerias to hidden speakeasies.

As you make your way to a handful of the most famous eateries (such as Minetta Tavern, Olio e Più and Don Angie), as well as hidden bars and hole-in-the-wall pizza joints, you’ll learn all about the history of the neighborhood and its culinary scene.

Food aside, don’t forget to visit Washington Square Park – a hangout for local NYU students and a hotbed for street performers.

• Greenwich Village tours

Hot tip: Check out the best food tours in NYC every foodie must experience!

33 – Admire international art

Enjoy a journey around the world at some of the top art museums in New York. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is the biggest in the country, with everything from Rembrandt paintings to an ancient Roman bedroom excavated after the eruption of Vesuvius.

For something more contemporary, head to the Museum of Modern Art or the Guggenheim , and to learn about American art, choose the Whitney Museum .

34 – Journey to The Hamptons for a day trip

In need of a slow-paced escape from the city? Pack your bags and take a day trip out to the Hamptons, New York’s favorite seaside getaway. From quaint boutique-lined streets and rolling vineyards in Riverhead to golden sand beaches in The Peconics, a visit to this region is one of the best things to do in Long Island , with something for everyone.

On a guided tour of the Hamptons, you’ll get to visit small historic towns like Southampton and Sag Harbor, sample local wines in the numerous wineries, take a boat cruise on Peconic Bay, or explore picturesque nature trails. You can even shop ’til you drop in one of the outlet malls that dot the region, like the Tanger Outlets in Riverhead.

• The Hamptons tours from NYC

35 – Join a scavenger hunt

Explore a whole new side of New York City during a scavenger hunt. Visit many of the iconic landmarks and have fun with your friends. Find the best Scavenger Hunts !

36 – Cycle over Brooklyn Bridge

Pedal across New York’s most famous bridge and take in views of skyscrapers across the East River on a fun bike tour.

Connecting the vibrant borough of Brooklyn with Manhattan Island, the bridge is one of the best places to visit in New York City and offers an epic way to see the sights.

See if you can spot movie filming locations in Brooklyn Bridge Park and marvel at the engineering of the world’s first steel-wire suspension bridge.

• Brooklyn Bridge bike tours

Hot tip: If you are a big fan of urban exploration on two wheels, don’t miss our complete list of the best bike tours in New York City .

37 – Unleash your inner Viking at Live Axe NYC

Discover Live Axe in vibrant Soho, NYC’s unique Axe Throwing Venue and Rage room. Ideal for adrenaline seekers, it offers a one-of-a-kind adventure to unleash your inner Viking.

Enjoy crafted cocktails and a contemporary menu in this top-rated spot, perfect for birthdays, bachelor parties, or team buildings.

38 – Support the Giants at the MetLife Stadium

If you’d rather experience an American football game, head to the MetLife Stadium – home to the New York Jets and New York Football Giants.

Located in East Rutherford (New Jersey), you will be amazed by the size of the stadium, 82,500 seats.

• MetLife Stadium tickets

39 – Uncover new visual perspectives of NYC in a futuristic exhibition

Visit an alternative museum to experience art and technology in a new immersive way. ARTECHOUSE is a futuristic museum with exhibitions covering the relation between art and science and the role of the individual observer.

The ongoing exhibition, Machine Hallucination: NYC, aims to unveil how our perception of this ever-changing iconic city can be altered through new forms of visual representation.

• More info & tickets

40 – Hunt ghosts at the Ghostbusters Firehouse

Are you a fan of the mythic Ghostbusters saga? You may want to check out the Ghostbusters’ HQ then. Hook and Ladder 8, the building used for the exterior shots, is a working firehouse that has been around for more than a century.

The firehouse is located at 14 North Moore Street at its intersection with Varick Street in the Tribeca neighborhood of Manhattan.

41 – Satisfy your cravings at the Museum of Ice Cream

A sweet tooth’s paradise, the Museum of Ice Cream in New York City is a funky, interactive and highly Instagrammable experience designed for the whole family.

From an immersive sprinkle pool to the flying pink ice cream subway train — not to mention unlimited ice cream — this museum is about as delicious as a museum can get.

All up, the SOHO museum has 13 magical installations, each more photo-worthy than the last. You can sample the flavors of their signature soft serve, then make your own dream cone before day’ end.

• Museum of Ice Cream tickets

42 – Tour contrasting neighborhoods

The best way to get to know the real New York is to visit some of its diverse districts. The Bronx is a gritty yet trendy place, with powerful street art and a thriving cross-cultural heart.

Check out the Yankee Stadium and stop at the “Joker Steps” for photos.

Continue to up-and-coming Queens and visit Flushing Meadows Corona Park – home of tennis championships and the Unisphere globe.

• Contrasts tours in NYC

43 – Laugh out loud at the iconic Comedy Cellar

Discover the greatest stand-up comedians (and underground talents) and have a great night

44 – Discover Harlem and attend a gospel mass

Harlem is a neighborhood in which religious life is very strong, especially in the black community.

Gospel masses and the energetic singing of its choirs have become famous worldwide.

• Discover Harlem with a Gospel Tour

45 – Watch hilarious Drunk Shakespeare

A New York Times critic’s pick, Drunk Shakespeare brings comedy central’s ‘drunk history’ to the stage. Join five professional New York actors, one of whom has had at least 5 shots of whiskey.

46 – See who’s playing at the Barclays Center

Regularly hosting some of the biggest names in entertainment, catching a show or a game at the Barclays Center is one of the best things to do in Brooklyn , at one of the most iconic sports and performing venues in New York City.

Any time you’re here, you can expect to find a variety of events — from basketball games featuring the Brooklyn Nets to concerts by legends like Jay-Z and Justin Bieber.

Simply check the event schedule for the latest line-up and buy your tickets online. The Center is also a stone’s throw from the Atlantic Terminal Mall – with its great range of restaurants and shops, it’s an excellent way to kill time before the show starts.

• Barclays Center tickets

47 – Try the legendary Di Fara Pizza

Are you looking for an experience that excites your taste buds? Di Fara is a typical family-owned and operated pizzeria and regarded as one of the best pizzerias in New York City.

? 1424 Ave J Brooklyn, NY 11230

48 – Taste the best burgers at J.G Melons

A great burger is a beautiful thing, as simple as it is delicious.

Established in 1972, the J.G Melons firm was called a few times the best burger in the city by famous frequenters — such as the restaurateur Danny Meyer.

It’s even called the “best burger” in the world by previous NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg.

J.G. Melon, 89 Macdougal St

49 – Taste the best steak in the US at Peter Luger

Peter Luger’s Steakhouse , located in Brooklyn, serves one of the most delicious and iconic slabs of meat that you can get anywhere on the planet.

If you are a meat addict and visiting NYC for the first time, this is a must-try.

178 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11211

50 – Enjoy the famous pastrami at Katz Delicatessen

Katz’s Delicatessen is a kosher-style delicatessen located on the Lower East Side in Manhattan. Established in 1888, this is arguably the best place in the city for a pastrami sandwich.

205 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002

51 – Explore Manhattan’s Chinatown

Located in lower Manhattan, Chinatown district is a highly populated neighborhood that draws foodies and tourists to its numerous Asian restaurants and unusual attractions from karaoke bars to cute shops.

Chinatown is also a true New York story, the American Dream in action. The are many cheap walking tours that guide you to Chinatown , Soho and Little Italy.

• walking tours in NYC

52 – Watch a movie on a Manhattan rooftop

For a movie experience unlike any other, head to the Rooftop Cinema Club ! Located atop Skylawn Embassy Suites, this outdoor theater has a large LED screen, cozy chairs and personal headsets.

Even better, you can sip on drinks and snack on food from the hotel bar, all while watching your film of choice set against the Manhattan skyline.

53 – Go backstage at Radio City Music Hall

Arguably the United States’ most iconic performance venue, Radio City Music Hall has been dazzling crowds since 1932.

As the largest indoor theatre in the world (the auditorium measures 160 feet from back to stage), it’s no surprise that this 1936 Art Deco masterpiece is steeped in decades of show-business history — from legendary performances by the likes of Judy Garland to modern shows like ‘The Rockettes Christmas Spectacular’.

• Radio City Music Hall tickets

Today, Big Apple visitors can tour backstage and learn all about the building’s architecture and stage mechanics; see photos of past performers; wander through the foyer and the historic Lounge; and even mingle with the beloved Rockette dancers.

By tour’s end of your Radio City Music Hall stage tour, you’ll see why this place has been dubbed “The Showplace of the Nation”.

• Radio City Music Hall tours

54 – Watch & listen to the New York Philharmonic Orchestra

Founded in 1842, the New York Philharmonic is by far the oldest symphony orchestra in the United States and one of the oldest in the world.

It plays a leading cultural role in New York City, the United States, and the world.

• New York Philharmonic Orchestra tickets

55 – Finish your night at Brooklyn Mirage

After partying till sunrise at Output club, why would you have to stop the party? Join the other party adepts at Brooklyn Mirage at the Avant Gardner — a huge complex decked with thousands of plants!

The Brooklyn Mirage owns a KV2 Audio System designed to keep your senses sharp!

• Brooklyn Mirage tickets

140 Stewart Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11237

56 – Find Wafels & Dinges’ Waffle truck and enjoy sublime waffles

“All the world is a wafel, and all of us are merely Dinges.”

Wafels & Dinges rules over the food truck scene in New York. This canary-yellow food truck travels around the city, dispensing ethereal waffles and rich toppings.

57 – Get a tattoo at Bang Bang

Located in NYC on the lower East Side, Keith “ Bang Bang ” McCurdy is considered one of the most successful tattoo artists in the industry.

Many superstars such as Rihanna, Cara Delevingne, and Justin Bieber have all been tattooed by him.

58 – Go shopping at the Woodbury Common Premium Outlets

Shopaholics, listen up. Located about an hour north of Manhattan, the Woodbury Common Premium Outlets boasts over 220 stores with big discounts (up to 65% off) on designer brands such as Michael Kors, Coach, Nike and more – it’s every bargain hunter’s paradise.

To get the most out of your shopping spree, hop on a guided tour. Not only will you have roundtrip transport from the city included, but you’ll also get an overview of the outlets so you can plan ahead and make sure to hit up all the places (and deals) you want.

Hot tip: if traveling with a group, consider the lavish limousine shopping tours!

• Woodbury Common Premium Outlets tours

59 – Get your music fix at the mythic Cotton Club in Harlem

Cotton Club is a legendary nightspot in the Harlem district and one of the most famous jazz venues in the city, delivering some of the greatest music legends of the Jazz Age such as Duke Ellington or Louis Armstrong among many others.

• Jazz concerts and tours in NYC

Read more about the best New York City night tours

60 – Visit the Museum of Sex

The Museum of Sex , also known as MoSex, has showcased fascinating exhibitions exploring the art, science, and the study of human sexuality. It’s probably the most stimulating museum in New York ! 🙂

61 – Admire street art in Bushwick

New York City is a mecca for graffiti and street art, making it a very attractive playground for artists from around the world. Bushwick is a working-class district on the north side of Brooklyn where you admire amazing street art.

Check how Barry McGee made this mural in Brooklyn. Watch Barry McGee’s Brooklyn Mural from Jason Schmidt on Vimeo . Discover NYC’s street art scene with a walking tour starting from 20$.

• NYC street art tours

62 – Go on an NYC architecture tour

The architecture in New York is truly something to write home about, with everything from designer skyscrapers to historic landmarks waiting to be discovered.

Your camera will be working hard as you visit sights like Grand Central Station, Times Square, and the Chrysler Building. Watch as the light enhances your perspective and listen as the guide shares insider secrets about this beguiling city.

• Architecture tours in NYC

63 – Walk through Little Italy and Soho

Head to Soho and Little Italy on a relaxed walking tour for a dose of authentic New York life. Keep an eye out for celebrities as you stroll past cast-iron buildings in fashionable Soho, and hear stories of immigrants and gangs in Little Italy.

You will visit iconic sights like Spring Street, Mulberry Street, and Columbus Park on this journey through history.

• Soho and Little Italy tours

64 – Visit the Museum of the Moving Image

The Museum of the Moving Image is a media museum located in Astoria, Queens in a former building of the historic Astoria Studios.

It houses a comprehensive collection dedicated to educating the public about the art, history, technique, and technology of film, television, and digital media.

65 – Get a little wild on a pub crawl

Looking to let your hair down? With literally thousands of bars and pubs scattered across the five boroughs, New York City is a great place to let loose. And if you’re looking for an epic night out on the town, there’s no better way than with a pub crawl.

Whether you’re hopping down historic Stone street in the Financial District, joining a literary pub crawl in Greenwich Village or Times Square, a prohibition-themed excursion in Hell’s Kitchen, or visiting some of the best bars in Williamsburg, Brooklyn and beyond – a pub crawl is one of the best ways to explore New York City’s vibrant nightlife and meet fellow thirsty travelers along the way.

With knowledgeable guides leading the way, you’ll get to sample craft beers and cocktails, learn about NYC’s nightlife culture, and most importantly – have a whole lot of fun.

• pub crawls in NYC

66 – Experience the best speakeasy bars in NYC

Although the Prohibition era is over, this doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the thrill of secret bars with hidden entrances. If you’re looking for a truly unique night out in New York City, check out those 2 speakeasy bars and have fun!

Live in Marie Antoinette’s quarters in Le Boudoir

Created by the owner of “Chez Moi” Le Boudoir is a Marie Antoinette-themed bar. To get in, you will need to find the hidden door at 135 Atlantic Avenue near Henry Street.

Drink a unique cocktail at Attaboy bar

Attaboy bar is an intimate, semi-hidden craft cocktail bar located on the Lower East Side. The cocktails range from familiar standards to unique creations that are among the city’s best.

To get in you’ll have to ring the buzzer at 134 Eldridge St (look for a window marked with M&H Tailors and Alterations) and pray they have space for you.

How to get to NYC?

New York City has three major airports within its limits — JFK, LaGuardia and Newark, plus a host of smaller ones in the surrounding metropolitan area. Various airlines offer flights to these airports from most cities around the world, making it easy for visitors to get here.

For the most hassle-free arrival experience, book an airport transfer in advance. You’ll get picked up from the airport and taken directly to your destination.

If you’d rather take public transportation, then Amtrak is your best bet – trains arrive daily at Pennsylvania Station from nearby cities like Washington, Boston and Montreal, to name a few.

Where to stay in NYC?

When it comes to accommodation, The Big Apple has something to suit all budgets. If you’re looking for luxury and a central location, then Manhattan is your best bet. The affluent Upper East Side is home to some of the city’s most iconic 5-star hotels, such as the Ritz Carlton and The Plaza .

If you’re on a tight budget, then head to Brooklyn or Queens where you’ll find many reasonably priced Airbnbs and hostels. For something in between, look out for mid-range chain hotels like Hampton Inn & Suites and Holiday Inn Express . Alternatively, consider renting an apartment in one of NYC’s vibrant neighborhoods; Williamsburg, Bushwick and Harlem are all great options.

Need more suggestions? In Times Square, the W New York is a great pick for travelers who want to be close to all the action. In Lower Manhattan, the Conrad Hotel Downtown is a modern and stylish hotel for those seeking Hudson River views. Meanwhile, Hotel Chelsea is the ideal spot for art and culture enthusiasts.

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. No matter where you choose to stay, you’ll have plenty of options and find a place that suits your needs. Just make sure to book in advance — hotels fill up quickly!

• best hotels in NYC

Visiting NYC on a budget?

If you’re pinching pennies, there are several tips to help you explore New York City without breaking the bank. Consider opting for public transport – the subway system is extensive, direct, and often much cheaper than taking a taxi. Additionally, take advantage of free attractions like Central Park and Brooklyn Bridge Park to have fun without spending a dime.

Make sure to join a few of the free walking tours in NYC , as they are a great way to see the sights and get your bearings. And don’t forget to take advantage of NYC city passes like the Explorer Pass and the Sightseeing Flex Pass – these can save you up to 50% on admission fees at many popular attractions.

Not sure which one to choose? We’ve written up a New York City Passes price comparison cheat sheet to help you out.

Where to go next?

From New York, you can easily explore the rest of the Northeastern U.S., with many exciting destination possibilities. Head south to Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington DC., or head north to Boston, Maine and Montreal.

Philadelphia is famous for its historical sites like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, while Baltimore is known for its unique culture and lively Inner Harbor. Meanwhile, Washington DC offers endless attractions from iconic monuments to world-class museums.

Heading northbound? Boston is a great spot for foodies; between New England clam chowder, craft beer and seafood dishes, there’s something to suit all tastes. Plus, the city is home to many excellent universities and a rich history, with landmarks like The Freedom Trail and Boston Common.

No matter which route you take, you’ll be sure to find plenty of fun experiences around the Northeast!

While these cities might need at least a couple of days to see properly, there’s no shortage of noteworthy day trips from New York City either. From The Hamptons to New York’s Hudson Valley to Atlantic City, you’ll find a host of interesting sites and attractions, all within easy reach.

Final thoughts

Well, that’s a wrap! From Broadway to the Brooklyn Bridge and everywhere in between, the list of things to do in New York City is longer than anywhere else.

Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, there’s something to suit every taste in this amazing part of the world.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today and see why NYC is considered the city of all cities.

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The 31 Best Things Do in New York City

New York City . It’s one of my favorite cities in the world and one of the most popular destinations in the US. Sprawling, busy, exciting — there’s a reason people call it the city that never sleeps!

It has something for everyone — including lots of budget-friendly activities for travelers looking to stretch their pocketbooks. Whether you’re looking for history, nightlife, food, or art, this city won’t disappoint.

Since I’ve written a guidebook to this city, lived there for over five years, run tours there, and explored as much as I could in pursuit of knowing the best things to do in NYC, I want to share my favorite activities to do in New York City.

New York is impossible to “see” in one visit. This city is home to thousands of restaurants, hundreds of museums, attractions, plays, and quirky things to do but here are the best things to see and do in New York City — no matter your budget! They’ll give you the essence of the city!  

1. Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island

Here, you can learn about the immigrant experience and get a sense of the people who helped build NYC (you’ll even find my family’s name inscribed on the wall). There’s such a great sense of history there that you can’t help but be impressed.

You can do a self-guided tour of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island on your own, but if you want to walk away with a deeper knowledge of Liberty and Ellis Islands, this Take Walks tour is invaluable ($69 USD).

+1 212 363-3200, nps.gov/stli/index.htm. Open daily 9am-5pm. There is no admission fee for the island but the ferry ticket costs $24 USD .  

2. Central Park

If you want to take a guided tour around the park to learn more about the statues and sculptures, ponds, parks, and famous filming sites, take a guided tour with Manhattan and Beyond Tours ($25 USD).  

3. World Trade Center & 9/11 Memorial and Museum

To get a deeper understanding of 9/11 and the events that unfolded, visit the museum. It’s home to moving exhibits that illuminate the scope and significance of the tragedy.

180 Greenwich Street, Financial District, Lower Manhattan, +1 212 266 5211, 911memorial.org. Memorial open daily from 10am-5pm. Museum open Thursday-Monday from 10am-5pm. The memorial is free to visit; museum entry is $19.50 USD ( you can purchase your ticket here ). Free entry on Mondays from 7am-5:30pm (tickets must be booked online).  

4. Wall Street

The Wall Street Insider guided tour The Wall Street Experience costs $35 USD and covers the history as well as the highs and lows of the (in)famous finance hub from someone who’s worked on Wall Street!  

5. Battery Park

6. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

Inside Out Tours offers guided walking tours where you’ll learn more about the history of the bridge. You’ll also take a stroll around DUMBO, the Brooklyn neighborhood on the other side of the bridge.  

7. Grand Central Terminal

To learn more about the station and its history, my favorite walking tour company Take Walks, offers The Official Grand Central Terminal Tour ($35 USD).

There’s also an amazing eatery in the basement called the Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant. For fancy (and expensive) cocktails while you’re here, visit The Campbell and step back into the 1920s (dress code enforced). It was once the office of John W. Campbell, a member of the New York Central Railroad’s board of directors and finance tycoon from the 1920s.

89 E. 42nd Street, Midtown, grandcentralterminal.com. Open daily from 5:30am–2am.  

8. Trinity Church

The graveyard dates back to the 1700s and is the resting place of many famous Americans, including Hamilton and his wife Elizabeth, Francis Lewis (signatory on the Declaration of Independence), John Alsop (Continental Congress delegate), and Horatio Gates (Continental Army general).

74 Trinity Place, Financial District, Lower Manhattan, +1 212 602 0800, trinitywallstreet.org. Open daily from 8:30am–6pm (the Churchyard closes at 4pm).  

9. The Guggenheim Museum

1071 5th Avenue, Upper East Side, +1 212 423 3500, guggenheim.org. Open Sunday-Friday from 11am-6pm (Saturdays until 8pm). Admission is $30 USD ( get your timed entry ticket, which includes an audioguide, here ). Pay what-you-wish is available on Saturdays from 5pm-8pm.  

10. City Hall

New York’s City Hall is a great piece of historic architecture. It also has a beautiful little park nearby that’s filled with office workers during lunch (in the summer anyway). To learn about the building’s history, art, and architecture, take one of the guided tours. They’re free, but reservations are required, and they get booked up quickly! On a tour, you’ll be able to see the rotunda, the city council chamber, Governor’s Room, and the City Hall Portrait Collection. It’s a great place to learn about the city and how it functions.

City Hall Park. Free, pre-reserved tours are offered for groups (10–20 people) on Tuesdays at 10:30am and for individuals on Wednesdays at 12pm and Thursdays at 10am.  

11. Rockefeller Center

30 Rockefeller Plaza, +1 212 698 2000, topoftherocknyc.com. Open daily from 9am-11pm. Admission starts at $43 USD to visit the Top of the Rock observation deck ( get your advance tickets here to avoid the line ).  

12. Times Square

13. The Metropolitan Museum of Art

To dive even deeper, I recommend taking a tour with my favorite walking tour company, Take Walks. They offer an extended guided tour of the museum led by an art historian as well as a highlights tour .

1000 5th Avenue, Central Park, Upper East Side, +1 212 535 7710, metmuseum.org. Open Sunday–Tuesday and Thursday from 10am–5pm, Fridays and Saturdays from 10am-9pm. Admission is $30 USD (includes same-day entrance to the Cloisters).  

14. American Museum of Natural History

Central Park W. at 79th Street, Upper West Side, +1 212 769 5100, amnh.org. Open daily, 10am-5:30pm. Admission is $28 USD (special exhibitions not included).  

15. The Frick Collection

Established in 1925 after industrialist Henry Clay Frick bequeathed the city with his private collection, this small collection features paintings by famous European artists as well as 18th-century French furniture and intricate rugs from Asia. To be honest, you have to really love Dutch artists to want to spend time here (which I do). Expect to see works from Bellini, Goya, Rembrandt, Turner, and more. Fortunately, they also host a lot of wonderful temporary exhibits so there is often a lot of other art to see in addition to their main collection.

1 East 70th Street, +1 212-288-0700, frick.org. Open Thursday-Sunday from 10am-6pm. Admission is $22 USD. Thursdays from 4pm-6pm is pay-what-you-wish admission. The Frick Collection building on East 70th Street is currently undergoing renovations in 2024. Their temporary exhibit is at 945 Madison Avenue at 75th Street.  

16. The Museum of the City of New York

This museum can tell you everything you ever wanted to know about New York City. Architecture, parks, streets, as well as its people, culture — it’s all covered! There are multiple rooms that highlight various time periods in NYC history featuring interviews, maps, interactive exhibits, profiles of historical figures, and various artifacts. It’s the best history museum in the city. There’s a cool exhibit here where you can create the future NYC a la Sim City style (it’s great for kids!).

1220 Fifth Avenue at 103rd St., +1 212-534-1672, mcny.org. Open Monday, Thursday, Friday from 10am-5pm, Saturday and Sunday from 10am-6pm. Admission is $20 USD.  

17. Empire State Building

350 5th Avenue, Midtown, +1 212 736 3100, esbnyc.com. The observation deck hours vary greatly by season (with week to week differences). Check the website for updated hours. Admission to the Main Deck starts at $44 USD. The Main and Top Deck start at $79 USD. You can get advance tickets here.  

18. Broadway Show

• The Lion King
• The Phantom of the Opera
• Book of Mormon

Ticket prices vary greatly by show. However, you can find discounted theater tickets at the TKTS offices around the city (Times Square, South Street Seaport, and downtown Brooklyn) for shows that day. They also have an app where you can see what they offer too. Expect to spend at least $75-95 USD.  

19. The Cloisters

The building and its stunning cloistered garden are very, very peaceful and beautiful. It’s one of the best things to do in the city. There are free tours each day that explain the history of the museum and the paintings and exhibits.

99 Margaret Corbin Drive, Fort Tryon Park, +1 212 923 3700, metmuseum.org/visit/visit-the-cloisters. Open Thursday–Tuesday: 10am–4:30pm. Admission is $30 USD and includes same-day entry to The Met.  

20. The High Line & Whitney Museum

The Whitney Museum of American Art (a museum that collaborates with the Met) is located in the Meatpacking District nearby. Even if you don’t go inside, the exterior of the building is worth seeing as it is a work of art in itself (it has a very unique, modern design). But I would recommend going inside as there is a wonderful exhibit of American art.

99 Gansevoort Street, Chelsea, +1 212 570 3600, whitney.org. Open Wednesday-Monday, 10:30am-6pm (Fridays until 10pm). Admission is $25 USD ( get advance tickets here to skip the line ). Free on Fridays from 5pm-10pm and the all day on the second Sunday of the month (advance tickets highly recommended as capacity is limited).  

21. Lower East Side Tenement Museum

This is a fascinating museum that offers visitors a chance to visit former tenement apartments on the Lower East Side. You’ll learn how immigrants from around the world lived during the late 1800s and early 1900s as they tried to make it in America. It’s an insightful museum and a good follow-up to what you see on Ellis Island. You can only visit this museum via guided tours and they need to be booked in advance. Personally, I like that they use live actors to bring history to life and share the story of newly arrived immigrants.

103 Orchard Street, Lower East Side, +1 877 975 3786, tenement.org. Open daily from 10am-6pm. Admission is $30 USD.  

22. Take a Walking Tour

NYC is home to dozens of walking tour companies — and many of them are free! Be sure to take one of the many, many walking tours the city has to offer to get a unique and cultural look at the city that never sleeps from a local guide. There are all sorts of focused tours on street art, history, food, and much more! Three walking tour companies not to be missed are:

• Free Tours by Foot
• Bowery Boys Walks

Get Your Guide is an online tour marketplace where you can find a ton of walking tours (as well as food and museum tours) too. There’s something for every interest and budget!

But, for way more suggestions, check out my favorite NYC walking tours . There’s a walking tour for any topic you can think of in New York!  

23. Take a Food Tour

• Scott’s Pizza Tours
• Foods of NY
• Famous Fat Dave’s Five Borough Eating Tour
• Secret Food Tours
• Beyond the Plate

24. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

Want to see lots of beautiful (and weird) modern art? You’ve come to the right place! Personally, I hate modern art. I just don’t “get” it. But, while I dislike modern art, the MoMA does have Van Gogh’s Starry Night as well as other post-impressionist art which makes it worth visiting. If you love modern and contemporary art, the MoMA (I’m told) is one of the best in the world.

18 W. 54th Street, Midtown, +1 212 708 9400, moma.org. Open daily from 10:30am-5:30pm (7pm on Saturdays). Admission is $30 USD ( get your advance tickets here ). The MoMA’s Sculpture Garden is free of charge to the public daily from 9:30am–10:15am.  

25. Prospect Park and the Brooklyn Museum

200 Eastern Pkwy, +1 718 638 5000, brooklynmuseum.org. Open Wednesday-Saturday, 11am-6pm. Admission is pay-what-you-can, with a suggested donation of $20 USD.  

26. Bronx Zoo

Head north for a look at one of the oldest and biggest zoos in the United States. Opened in 1899, the zoo spans almost 300 acres and sees over 2 million visitors each and every year. Home to over 650 different species, it’s a great place to visit with kids. Gorillas, birds of prey, bison — there is a huge assortment of animals here and you’ll definitely learn a lot during your visit!

2300 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, +1 718 220 5100, bronxzoo.com. Open daily from 10am-5pm (5:30pm on weekends, and 4:30pm during the winter). Admission starts at 28 USD.  

27. Yankees/Mets/Rangers/Knicks Game

Prices vary, but you can often find tickets for around $20-35 USD .  

28. See a TV Show

TV shows like Saturday Night Live, The View, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, The Daily Show, Last Week Tonight, Late Night with Seth Meyers, and The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon all offer free tickets to their tapings. Tickets need to be reserved long in advance so you’ll need to plan ahead but if you do, you’ll be rewarded with a pretty cool and unique experience. For taping details, see each show’s website for specific details and information on making reservations.  

Walk through the narrow aisle of the Je Bon Sushi restaurant in the East Village, and head down the tiny stairway to find this hidden dinner theater. This four-person improv comedy competition takes place within the structure of a high-energy Japanese game show, with slapstick theatrical performances. Go with friends to enjoy some sushi, sake shots, and a night of ridiculous fun.

67 1st Avenue, East Village, +1 347 985 0368, batsulive.com/new-york. Shows Tuesday-Saturday at 7pm, additional shows on Friday and Saturday at 10pm. Tickets from $45 USD.  

30. Ellen’s Stardust Diner

Since 1987, this diner has been home to an incredible waitstaff of singers and dancers. Between tours and musical performances, actors and actresses wait tables at Ellen’s, where they belt out songs as they serve you slightly pricey, very American diner food (think shakes, burgers, and lasagna) in uniforms from the 1950s. It’s incredibly cheesy but good fun — especially if you’re a theater fan!

1650 Broadway, Times Square, +1 212 956 5151, ellensstardustdiner.com. Open daily, 7am-midnight. There’s usually a line so be sure to plan ahead!  

31. Stand-Up at the Comedy Cellar

117 MacDougal St, +1 212-254-3480, comedycellar.com. Showtimes range by day, so check their website for the most updated schedule. Tickets range between $14-25 USD but they also have a two-item minimum per person (food or drinks).

No matter how long you’re here for — and no matter what you’re interested in — New York City will have something for you. While it’s not the most budget-friendly city in the country, there are plenty of free activities, lots of budget-friendly things to see and do, and cheap eats to keep you busy, entertained, and well-fed.

And if you want to splurge? Well, you’ve come to the right place!

With so many things to see and do it’s no surprise that tourists love to re-visit this diverse, lovely, and eclectic city. But don’t take my word for it — put this list to the test and let me know what you think!

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to New York City!

For more in-depth tips on NYC, check out my 100+ page guidebook written for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel in the city that never sleeps. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on- and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Book Your Trip to New York City: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned. Start with Skyscanner first though because they have the biggest reach!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

• HI NYC Hostel
• Jazz on Columbus Circle
• Pod Times Square

If you’re looking for more places to stay, here is my complete list of my favorite hostels the city. Additionally, if you’re wondering what part of town to stay in, here’s my neighborhood guide to NYC!

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Need a Guide? New York has some really interesting tours. My favorite company is Take Walks . They have expert guides and can get you behind the scenes at the city’s best attractions. They’re my go-to walking tour company!

Want More Information on NYC? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on NYC for even more planning tips.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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25 Best Things to Do in Manhattan, New York

Home | Travel | North America | United States | New York | NYC | 25 Best Things to Do in Manhattan, New York

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There are all kinds of things to do in Manhattan since this is one of the most popular boroughs in NYC . From the Broadway theaters and luxury shops of Fifth Avenue to the iconic landmarks and beautiful urban parks, Manhattan offers something for everyone in every season.

As you’ll see in this guide, there are lots of fun places in Manhattan , so I’m sure your to-do list will fill up with museums, observation decks, and other attractions in no time. For this reason, I recommend investing in an NYC attraction pass , which will help you save money on the top activities and sights. For first-timers, we recommend the New York Pass since it includes over 100 NYC attractions. It also includes the Big Bus Tour , one of the best hop-on hop-off bus tours in NYC , which goes to many of the places that I’ll recommend in this article.

So, if you’re ready to plan your ultimate adventure in Manhattan , keep reading to see the 25 best things to do in Manhattan!

1. Rockefeller Center (Top of the Rock), one of the coolest places in Manhattan

If heights aren’t a concern, then you must visit the Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center, one of the most famous buildings in NYC . This Manhattan landmark offers beautiful panoramic views of NYC , and the vista is especially pretty at sunset.

Of course, any time of day or night is a great time to visit this observatory even if you have only 2 days to spend in NYC . The speedy Sky Shuttle elevators will take you up 850 feet to the viewing platform, which takes up the 67 th and 69 th floors. You can also step onto the 70 th floor’s outdoor deck if you’re feeling adventurous. From all the way up here, you can see other NYC hotspots like Central Park, Times Square, and the Empire State Building, so bring your camera!

Moreover, the Top of the Rock is one of the best observation decks in NYC , so I can’t recommend it enough. If you want to go, you can use your New York Pass or get a ticket online .

While you’re at Rockefeller Plaza, it’s worth checking out the other attractions here, like Radio City Music Hall . This is one of the coolest places in Manhattan , especially if you’re a fan of show biz. You can even take a tour like this one , which brings you behind the Stage Door of this iconic venue.

2. Times Square, a lively place in Manhattan you must see

The flashy lights, the wacky street performers, the vibrant bars and restaurants… Times Square is unlike any other tourist attraction in Manhattan . Here, you can find everything from entertainment and people-watching to kid-friendly attractions and high-end shops.

Times Square never has a dull moment, and while you can visit 24/7, you’ll get the full experience at night, when the area is glowing with billboards and neon ads. Once you go, you’ll see why it’s one of the best things to do in NYC at night .

If you’re visiting with kids, check out M&Ms World or Madame Tussauds. You could also check out the TKTS Pavilion at the Red Stairs to snag Broadway tickets at a steep discount. The Broadway Theater District is part of Times Square, so there are plenty of show venues, like the PlayStation Theater.

Whether you’re just strolling through this area, or you stay in one of the best hotels in Times Square to check out the attractions, there is nothing quite like Times Square, and everyone should visit at least once!

3. Central Park, another free place to go in Manhattan, NYC

Central Park is an urban green space where many Manhattan activities take place, so be sure to check it out. Spanning over 840 acres, it has everything from public art and playgrounds to wooded areas, lakes, and historic landmarks, so it’s one of New York’s best city parks .

Depending on your interests, you may enjoy the sculptures and statues here, such as the Bethesda Fountain and Cleopatra’s Needle. There are also several impressive buildings in the park, like Belvedere Castle , a decorative Gothic-style castle with an observation deck.

If you prefer to immerse yourself in nature, you’ll find all kinds of lush areas where you can escape the city noise. Among the wooded forests, lakes, and gardens, the Great Lawn and Sheep Meadow are two of the most popular green spaces in the park.

Again, Central Park is huge, so if you want to get around more quickly, consider renting a bike (rentals are included in the New York Pass ), or taking a bike tour .

4. Visit the Empire State Building, something fun to do in Manhattan

If you’re looking for another observation deck in NYC, the Empire State Building is an excellent choice. Formerly the world’s tallest skyscraper, this iconic landmark is still impressive, at 102 stories high.

Moreover, the Empire State Building has observatories on the 80 th , 86 th , and 102 nd floors, so you can get a variety of viewpoints. There are also indoor and outdoor viewing platforms, which is nice if you’re afraid of heights or the weather isn’t great. From the observation decks, you’ll have 360° views of NYC, including famous attractions like Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and the Hudson River.

I recommend visiting right before sunset when the Empire State Building feels like the most magical place in Manhattan . You’ll see the sun lowering behind the skyline, bathing everything in pinks and purples. Without a doubt, it’s one of the best things to do in New York City , especially with your loved ones.

If you want to go up to the observatories, I suggest buying your ticket in advance or getting the New York Pass .

5. Wall Street, an interesting place in Manhattan to visit

Located in Lower Manhattan , Wall Street is NYC’s financial district and one of the top places of interest in Manhattan . Among the historical buildings here are the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), Federal Hall, and New York’s first City Hall. The vibe here is definitely all-business, and some of the most significant banks have headquarters here, such as Deutsche Bank, Goldman Sachs, and Lehman Brothers.

Wall Street takes up eight city blocks between Broadway and South Street, so the best way to see all the highlights is on this walking tour . It includes a guide who will take you to landmarks like Trinity Church and Bowling Green, the oldest public park in the city. You’ll also see the famous Charging Bull sculpture and the Fearless Girl statue.

6. Grand Central Terminal, one of the most popular places in Manhattan, NY

You probably passed through Grand Central Terminal if you arrived in NYC by public transportation. This huge train station connects the city’s subway and rail systems and serves over 20 million people annually. While a terminal may not sound exciting, it offers a few free things to do in Manhattan , so it’s worth checking out.

First, Grand Central Station is over 100 years old, so it contains some historical treasures, like the Main Concourse Clock, its chandeliers, and other Beaux-Arts-style elements. If you look closely, you’ll notice the artwork throughout the station, like the celestial-painted ceiling in the Main Concourse. There is also a Cornelius Vanderbilt statue, cast-iron eagles on the terminal’s façade, and temporary art installations throughout the year.

Besides the art and transportation services, the terminal has a variety of shops and restaurants, including Grand Central Market. Also, the station is next to the Chrysler Building , another Manhattan landmark , so you might want to walk by it before or after visiting Grand Central.

The Chrysler Building is a famous Art Deco-style skyscraper, and looking up at the 1,046-ft building from ground level is quite impressive. The interior is full of corporate offices, but you can go into the lobby to see more Art Deco architecture.

7. See New York from above at One World Trade Center Observatory

The observatory at One World Trade Center is one of the best places to visit in Manhattan and one of the most important sites in the city. It’s worth visiting the entire World Trade Center complex, which includes the 9/11 Memorial & Museum and the observation deck at One WTC.

The observatory is between the 100 th and 102 nd floors of One WTC, which currently stands as the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. The skyscraper is 1,776 feet tall, while the observation deck is 1,268 feet tall.

As you can imagine, the sweeping views from up here are breathtaking and stretch for miles. You’ll get a panorama of the city, including the Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty . Along with the views, you can check out other attractions in the observatory, like the theater or the Sky Portal , a glass platform with a camera feed of the city streets below.

Visiting the observation deck is a popular thing to do in Manhattan, so be sure to get your ticket or New York Pass in advance. If you also plan on visiting the 9/11 Museum, which I’ll mention next, you can get this combo ticket .

8. 9/11 Memorial & Museum, a reflective place to visit in Manhattan

The 9/11 Museum honors the memory of those killed in the 2001 World Trade Center attacks and the 1993 bombing. While it’s a heart-wrenching event to remember, it’s an important part of U.S. history, and the museum does a wonderful job of commemorating the victims, so it’s a must-see in Manhattan .

Inside, the museum features over 58,000 photos, audio recordings, videos, and other artifacts, including a surviving staircase from one of the Twin Towers. At the exact site where the Twin Towers once stood, there are now two beautiful reflecting pools. The 9/11 Memorial also includes bronze plaques inscribed with the 2,983 victims’ names, and the “Survivor Tree,” a pear tree that survived the World Trade Center’s collapse.

There was clearly a lot of thought that went into the 9/11 Museum, which is why it’s one of the top museums in NYC . Admission is included in the New York Pass , or you can get a museum ticket or combo ticket to the museum and observatory.

9. MoMA and other popular museums in Manhattan

Speaking of the best Manhattan museums , you can’t miss the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). This fun museum has three floors of architecture, paintings, drawings, photographs, and other exhibits.

Some of the collection’s highlights include Picasso’s Les Demoiselles d’Avignon , Van Gogh’s Starry Night , and Monet’s Water Lilies . If you like architecture, be sure to check out the Mies van der Rohe archives and works by Frank Lloyd Wright and Isamu Noguchi. MoMA even has a small video game collection, so it’s a fun place to visit in NYC with kids , too. You can get a skip-the-line ticket here .

Besides MoMA, there are other great museums in Manhattan, like the Metropolitan Museum of Art , the Guggenheim , and the Whitney Museum of American Art . If you’re not an art lover, the American Museum of Natural History is an incredible institution featuring biological and geological specimens.

Most of these museums are included in the New York Pass , and we have a guide to NYC’s free museums that’s also worth checking out.

10. St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a tranquil place in Manhattan you should see

Among all the impressive architecture in Manhattan, St. Patrick’s Cathedral has some of the best design elements and iconography. It’s also the largest Neo-Gothic Catholic church in New York and the entire United States, so it’s a must-see in Manhattan .

Even if you aren’t a religious person, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is a beautiful place to visit, both for its spiritual significance and its artistic splendor. Built in 1878, the cathedral stands nearly 330 feet tall, with a bell tower containing 19 church bells. Two large bronze doors measuring 16.5 feet tall and weighing 9,200 pounds depict Saint Patrick, Saint Joseph, archangels Michael and Gabriel, and other religious figures.

Inside, the nave has 32 marble columns and 12 dedicated altars, while the sanctuary can accommodate 3,000 parishioners. Lovely stained-glass windows adorn the inner sanctuary, and a replica of Michelangelo’s Pietà sculpture sits nearby. The cathedral also has two huge pipe organs that still function, and a crypt containing the remains of several members of the Archdiocese of New York.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral is an NYC designated landmark in Manhattan , and it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places, making it one of the most famous churches in the country and a sight you can’t pass up.

11. Fifth Avenue, the best place in Manhattan to go shopping

Speaking of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, it’s on Fifth Avenue , one of the most famous streets in New York that runs through Manhattan from Washington Square Park to West 143 rd Street. This avenue is famous for its luxury shops and retailers, but it also goes past several tourist attractions in Manhattan , so it’s a good place to check out.

The name that’s most synonymous with Fifth Avenue is probably Saks Fifth Avenue , a high-end department store with a long history in NYC. The first Saks store opened in New York City in 1902 and featured seven floors of retail space. The store is still there today in Herald Square, along with five other Saks shops, including Saks Fifth Avenue.

Other luxury and name-brand retailers on Fifth Avenue include Armani, Bergdorf Goodman, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Salvatore Ferragamo, and Valentino.

As I said, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is also on this street, specifically at Fifth Avenue and East 51 st Street. If you’re in this area, you won’t be far from other popular sites in Manhattan like the Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall, and MoMA. So, whether you want to shop or sightsee, this main thoroughfare is a hotspot you can’t miss.

12. The High Line, a beautiful place in Manhattan you can’t miss

Walking along the High Line is one of the top things to do in Manhattan with friends, family, or even by yourself. These renovated train tracks have been transformed into an elevated park and walkway that stretches 1.5 miles from Manhattan’s Meatpacking District to Chelsea.

I recommend taking your time to stroll the High Line and admire its green spaces, gardens, and public art. Besides being a beautiful addition to the city, the High Line goes past several attractions like the Whitney Museum and Chelsea Market, which I’ll talk about later.

It also winds past The Vessel , an awesome observation deck in NYC that’s unlike any other. The Vessel’s beehive shape is quite dizzying, but it’s a lot of fun to ascend the multi-level viewing platforms and experience the different lookout points. You can learn more about The Vessel and the High Line on this guided tour , which is also included in the New York Pass .

That said, the High Line is a completely free thing to do in NYC , so if you’re not sure where to go in Manhattan , explore this attraction and see where it leads you!

13. Manhattan helicopter tour, the best thing to do in Manhattan as a couple

Without a doubt, the coolest thing to do in Manhattan is to take a helicopter tour . There are all kinds of helicopter tours over NYC , so I’m sure you can find a suitable option for your budget and timeline.

For example, this basic Manhattan Island helicopter tour lasts for 20-30 minutes and takes you over the most iconic places in the city, like Central Park, the Empire State Building, and the Statue of Liberty.

If you want to capture amazing photographs, I recommend this doors-off helicopter tour , which is the one we took during our trip. We got awesome aerial views of Liberty and Ellis Islands, New York Harbor, Battery Park, and other landmarks.

Finally, this private heli-tour is a romantic thing to do in Manhattan at night , especially with your significant other. The two of you can soar over the city at sunset or after dark, taking in the glittery lights and skyline. It’s a sensational experience you’ll never forget!

14. Go to Broadway, one of the top things to do in Manhattan

Another great couples’ activity in Manhattan that can cap off your night is a Broadway show . There are dozens of venues in the Broadway Theater District, so I’m sure there’s a show for anyone.

We’ve seen Aladdin , The Lion King , The Phantom of the Opera , Wicked , and Chicago , and everything was wonderful, from the set design and the costumes to the acting. If you want to browse tickets to other shows, you can check this website .

Another option is visiting the TKTS Pavilion at the Red Stairs in Times Square, which sells tickets at a steep discount. While you can’t always choose which show you’ll see, all the musicals and plays, from the mainstays to the limited-time showings, are spectacular.

Experiencing a Broadway show for yourself is something you must do in Manhattan at least once. That said, if you’re a theater fanatic, you’ll love this walking tour of Broadway , which is led by a professional New York City actor.

15. Bryant Park, a lovely outdoor place in Manhattan, New York

No matter the time of year, a visit to Bryant Park is a great thing to do in Manhattan . You can find this popular park along Fifth Avenue, between 40 th and 42 nd Streets.

Bryant Park is modeled in the French style, with lots of sculptures, statues, and memorials. The sprawling lawns and walking paths make it the perfect place to go in Manhattan if you want to stretch your legs and get some fresh air. If you’re visiting with kids, be sure to check out Le Carrousel Magique , a charming merry-go-round that plays French music. Also, if you’re in New York during Christmas , you can experience the park’s Winter Village, which features holiday activities and an ice skating rink.

Of course, it’s always a good time to go to the park, and while you’re there, you should also visit the New York Public Library . Located in the eastern part of Bryant Park, this Neo-Classical building is the NY Public Library’s main branch and the third-largest library in the world. Among its 20 rooms are a children’s library, a computer lab, and a study with a marble fireplace. You can’t take out any books without a library card, but it’s still worth going inside and exploring this literary paradise.

16. Go to The Battery, a fun thing to do in Manhattan

At the southern end of Manhattan, you’ll find The Battery , also known as Battery Park. This 25-acre public park offers relaxing pockets of nature, exciting attractions, and kid-friendly activities, so visiting it is a great thing to do in Manhattan with family .

The Battery faces New York Harbor, so it boasts lovely waterfront gardens and views. Among the perennial plants and flowers, there is also an urban farm, a woodland area, and contemplative green spaces tucked away in the trees.

If you want to just pass through the park, you can use the bike path or take a stroll along Monument Walk, which features nearly two dozen memorials. That said, I suggest spending some time here, taking in the sights and the fun attractions. For example, Castle Clinton , a 19 th -century fort, served as the first immigration station in the U.S. between 1855 and 1890. It predates Ellis Island, so it’s a cool historic landmark in Manhattan that’s worth seeing.

During the summer, cool off at Bosque Fountain , which has water jets that spray 15 feet into the air. Then, lounge or have a picnic on the two-acre lawn at The Oval . For the kids, there are several playgrounds and the SeaGlass Carousel. Battery Park also has a ferry terminal, so you can take a ride to Staten Island or do a Statue of Liberty tour like this one .

17. Visit Chinatown, Little Italy, & SoHo, something to do in Manhattan with friends

Of all the places to visit in Manhattan , you can’t miss Chinatown . Home to the highest concentration of Chinese people in the Western Hemisphere, Lower Manhattan’s Chinatown is one of the best and most famous Chinatowns in the country. It’s also the perfect way to experience the Chinese diaspora in one place, thanks to the grocery stores, markets, produce stalls, restaurants, and noodle houses lining the streets. The best dim sum in the city can be found here, as well as all kinds of unique shops and vendors.

Bordering Chinatown to the east, you’ll find Little Italy , another Manhattan neighborhood worth visiting . Besides hosting cultural events and religious festivals, Little Italy serves the best authentic Italian cuisine, so arrive hungry.

In fact, one of the best ways to experience these neighborhoods is through an NYC food tour , although this walking history tour is also very good. Along with Chinatown and Little Italy, you’ll also explore SoHo and Tribeca, two of the best neighborhoods in NYC .

SoHo is an artsy area known for its galleries, artists’ lofts, trendy boutiques, and vintage shops. It’s part of the larger Tribeca neighborhood, which borders Chinatown to the west. Home to the Tribeca Film Festival, this area is recognized for its industrial buildings, many of which have been converted into private residences. The Hudson River Park and a secondary branch of the New York Public Library are also in Tribeca.

18. Visit the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum and ride The BEAST

I already mentioned some of the most popular museums in Manhattan, but another one that I want to recommend is the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum . The museum is inside the USS Intrepid , an aircraft carrier and National Historic Landmark. Today, the watercraft is berthed on the Hudson River at Pier 86, but it was first launched in 1943. Throughout its career, the Intrepid survived numerous War World II kamikaze attacks and took part in the Vietnam War.

Visitors to the museum can explore the Intrepid ’s hangar and flight decks, as well as the Space Shuttle Pavilion and other museum galleries with additional aircraft. Among the 28 restored models, there is a Concorde SST, a Lockheed A-12, submarines from the Cold War, and spy planes. Admission is included in the New York Pass , or you can get a ticket here .

While you’re at Pier 86, consider taking a ride on The BEAST speedboat . This jet-powered thrill ride is one of the coolest boat rides in NYC , so if you want to make a splash with the kids, it’s a great thing to do in Manhattan with family . The BEAST boasts 1400 BHP-horsepower and a maximum speed of 45 mph, so you’ll feel the need for speed as you cruise down the Hudson River, past the Statue of Liberty, and back to the pier. The ride is about 30 minutes of twists and turns, so it’s the perfect daytime activity.

19. Join a Gospel service in Harlem, a unique thing to do in Manhattan

Without a doubt, Harlem is one of the coolest places in Manhattan , as it’s a neighborhood rich in culture, art, and history. While it originally began as a Dutch settlement, the Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s and 30s brought Black culture to the forefront, leaving behind a legacy of African American music, literature, and fashion.

Among the landmarks here are the historic Apollo Theater , the Jazz Museum , and the Museo del Barrio , one of the best museums in NYC . The northern end of Central Park trails into Harlem, and the Bronx borders the neighborhood’s eastern edge.

That said, Harlem is unique in its own right and most certainly worth exploring. As you walk the city streets, you may notice many churches, and this is because there is a strong religious influence in Harlem. The neighborhood has over 400 churches, and some are even designated historic landmarks. It’s not uncommon to hear soulful gospel music emanating from these religious buildings, and if you want to experience the power and emotion of the gospel choirs, consider taking a Sunday morning gospel tour. I recommend spending one full day in Harlem if you’re planning a 10-day itinerary to NYC . But if you don’t have enough time, a quick morning visit should be enough.

20. Browse Chelsea Market, one of the coolest attractions in Manhattan

Chelsea Market is a mainstay in the city and a fun place in Manhattan to visit day or night. The former Nabisco factory takes up a full city block and sells everything from food and specialty items to arts, crafts, and clothing.

Perusing the vendor stalls at Chelsea Market is a great Manhattan activity for friends and the perfect thing to do on a rainy day. Don’t forget to check out Pearl River Mart, a popular Asian American retailer.

Chelsea Market is also home to office spaces for Google, YouTube, and other tech giants, and one of the most recent additions is ARTECHOUSE . This immersive exhibit is part virtual reality, part art gallery that combines cutting-edge technology and digital art. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience, so book your ticket in advance.

Speaking of art, one of the best things to do in Chelsea, Manhattan is to browse the various galleries and art stores. The High Line also runs right past the market, so this walking tour is the best way to ensure you don’t miss anything.

21. Stroll through Greenwich Village, a must-see in Manhattan, New York

Greenwich Village is one of the coolest neighborhoods where you’ll find some of the best things to do in Manhattan . It rose to prominence in the 1960s as the Bohemian capital of the world and, today, Greenwich Village is an artsy district full of colorful shops, trendy stores, and jazz theaters.

If you go here, you’ll be able to walk past some historic landmarks like the Stonewall Inn , a gay bar and the location of the Stonewall riots of 1969. There is also the Hotel Albert , which housed writers and artists like Mark Twain, Walt Whitman, Salvador Dalí, and Jackson Pollock. You’ll also see lots of places to watch a cabaret performance or jazz concert, so consider taking in a show.

Along with its emphasis on alternative lifestyles and LGBTQ+ rights, Greenwich Village has several parks and playgrounds, with Washington Square Park being the most well-known. Also, this neighborhood is home to the largest Halloween parade in the U.S., so be sure to check it out if you’re visiting during this time.

Finally, Greenwich Village is a hotspot for foodies, with a wide range of cafes, restaurants, and bakeries. Consider indulging in an NYC food tour like this one , which visits several eateries and shops that you’ll only find in this neighborhood.

22. See the views from The Edge at Hudson Yards

The EDGE is an incredible observation deck overlooking NYC’s Hudson Yards that boasts some of the most impressive architecture in the city. It opened in 2020 and has quickly become one of the best things to see in Manhattan  since it’s one of the best places to take photos in NYC .

What makes this sky deck different is its glass floor that protrudes from the 100 th story, creating a feeling of floating in mid-air. Not only that, but one edge of the observation deck narrows into a small, triangular area big enough for one person. If you stand here, you’ll be 80 feet from the edge of the building and 1,100 feet above the ground.

There are other activities at The EDGE, like the City Climb, in which you scale the building from 1,200 feet up. However, you don’t have to do that to enjoy some amazing sightseeing in Manhattan , not to mention a drink or two!

If you want to experience The EDGE for yourself, you can get a ticket here or use your New York Pass .

23. See a game at Madison Square Garden, something fun to do in Manhattan

If sports are your thing, then visiting Madison Square Garden is a must-do in Manhattan . This famous indoor arena has an over 19,000-person capacity and hosts all kinds of sporting events, such as boxing and wrestling. You can also see a New York Knicks basketball game (here you have a guide with all the information to get NBA tickets in NYC ) or watch the New York Rangers hockey team battle it out on the ice.

Besides sports, this multi-purpose stadium is a popular venue for ice shows, concerts, and other special events. Some of the most famous names in the world have performed here, including Elton John, Katy Perry, and Lady Gaga. Moreover, along with the main arena, Madison Square Garden has the smaller Hulu Theater for more intimate concerts and events.

The arena is also close to other tourist attractions in Manhattan , like the Empire State Building, so it’s the perfect landmark to add to your list. If you want the full experience, we did the Madison Square Garden tour and we liked it. You can book this tour here (it’s also included in the New York Pass ), to go behind the scenes and see the arena’s Defining Moments and Retrospective exhibits, and witness the view from the VIP box seats.

24. One Vanderbilt, another thing to do in Manhattan as a couple

If you’re visiting the city with your sweetheart and you’re looking for couples’ things to do in Manhattan , I recommend going to One Vanderbilt . This observation deck is unlike any other and sits atop the 4 th -tallest skyscraper in NYC. Here, you’ll be 1,210 feet above the city, granting you incredible views of Manhattan and the surrounding boroughs.

Another great thing about this observation deck is that there are different areas to visit. For example, the Levitation section features two all-glass balconies that protrude from the side of the building, so you feel like you’re floating above the ground. If you go to the Infinity Room, you can grab a drink and enjoy a digital art installation showcasing the views from One Vanderbilt.

If you do plan to go to this amazing NYC rooftop , I recommend going just before sunset, especially if you’ll be with your partner. Here, you can watch an amazing sunset over the Manhattan skyline, so you won’t regret it. Just be sure to book a ticket in advance, so you can secure your spot.

25. Go to Little Island, a fun thing to do in Manhattan with kids

Finally, if you’re looking for things to do in Manhattan with family , I recommend going to Little Island . Located at Pier 55, it’s a charming artificial island that provides a nice break from the concrete jungle of New York City.

More specifically, Little Island is an urban green space jettied on the Hudson River. It’s only 2.4 acres, so while it’s small, it’s a nice little oasis and a great place to visit in Manhattan for free . Plus, if you’re with kids, you’ll find activities and attractions to keep them occupied here. There are performances spaces, food stalls, and an arts and crafts area scattered among the gardens.

Even if you just want to visit Little Island and walk among the landscaped grasses, trees, and plants, it’s one of the best free things to do in Manhattan . The walking paths slope upwards and downwards, and there are several lookout points and plazas where you can take a seat and enjoy the views.

Where to stay in Manhattan

If you’re looking for a place in Manhattan to stay for the night, we have a couple of recommendations for you:

• The Bowery Hotel – This hotel full of contemporary, European-inspired decor, is one of the best hotels in   Lower Manhattan .
• Doubletree by Hilton New York Times Square West – We stayed here several times and liked that it was close to Times Square, but still very comfortable and safe. Plus, the views from the rooms are very nice.
• Pod 51 – This accommodation is one of the best cheap hotels in NYC and within walking distance of several Manhattan landmarks like the Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

These are some of our favorite lodging options, but if you want more hotels, you can read our guide on where to stay in New York City .

Map of Manhattan

I hope this guide helps you get excited and inspired for your next trip to NYC! Here is a downloadable map of all the places in Manhattan I mentioned. Keep it handy so you can quickly locate all the spots you want to hit!

As always, if you have any questions or you’d like to share your favorite things to do in Manhattan , don’t hesitate to leave me a comment. I’ll get back to you as soon as I can. Have a safe trip!

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2 replies on “ 25 Best Things to Do in Manhattan, New York ”

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Joni Sweet is an editor and freelance writer who focuses on travel, lifestyle, and more. Joni's work has appeared in National Geographic, Forbes, and other publications. 

TripSavvy / Brakethrough Media

The area in which you stay sets the tone for your trip to New York City. Gotham is a hodgepodge of neighborhoods that each come with their own distinctive atmosphere, attractions and architecture. You might have to look hard for the area that speaks to you, but when you find it, you’ll feel right at home. Here are the NYC neighborhoods you should know about. 

The Upper East Side

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The Upper East Side is a tale of two cities. On the one hand, its got some of the city’s swankiest townhouses, the Mayor’s mansion, Museum Mile and luxury shopping galore. And yet, you can also find a more down-to-earth side in micro-neighborhoods like Yorkville, with old churches, dog parks, sports bars, casual eateries and stroller-pushing families taking in the views from the East River Esplanade. 

The Upper West Side

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Home to Columbia University, Lincoln Center , the American Museum of Natural History and the New York Historical Society, the Upper West Side is where the city’s theatrical and intellectual elites raise their families. The residential neighborhood’s quiet, tree-lined streets and proximity to Central Park make it one of the most expensive places to live in New York. Despite moving at a slower pace than downtown neighborhoods, the Upper West Side boasts a solid dining and nightlife scene.

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Between its soul food restaurants, intimate jazz clubs and lively streetscapes, Harlem hits all five of your senses. The historically African American neighborhood is one of the largest and most diverse locales in the city. By day, wander around streets lined with brownstones and colorful art, or visit The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture . And once the sun sets, catch comedy acts and performing arts at the world-famous Apollo theater.

East Harlem

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Nicknamed “El Barrio” (or, “the neighborhood”) by its Latin American community, East Harlem exudes culture and history. It’s come a long way since Keith Haring painted his “Crack Is Wack” mural (expected to be back on public view in 2019 ) in the mid-1980s and now boasts new condos, chic cafes and countless restaurants. 

Washington Heights, Fort Tryon & Inwood

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It might feel like a trek getting to the northern reaches of Manhattan, but it’s worth the journey. The neighborhoods are filled with hidden treasures that will transport you back in time. The Dyckman Farmhouse , a preserved home from 1785, tells the story of this concrete jungle’s rural roots. The Cloisters, a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art , showcases medieval artworks (including the famous Unicorn Tapestries) in structures from French monasteries and abbeys. Hilly streets and lush parks make northern Manhattan one of the best places for lazy weekend strolls. 

Hell’s Kitchen

Richard Levine / Contributor

When you hear the name Hell’s Kitchen, you instantly wonder what kind of trouble this neighborhood might be cooking up. Don’t worry, though—the biggest hassle you’ll face here is scoring a table at one of the area’s trendy restaurants. While Hell’s Kitchen is just a short walk from famous Broadway theaters , it has its own thriving performing arts scene and is a gay nightlife destination as well.

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Those skyscrapers and traffic jams you picture when you think of New York become reality in Midtown. This is the neighborhood that draws New Yorkers to their office buildings, and travelers to the sensory overload that is Times Square . Still, Midtown is elegant if you know where to look. The main branch of the New York Public Library has handsome architecture (and even more glorious interiors), while there’s always something spectacular on view at the Museum of Modern Art . 

Midtown East

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If you like architecture, you’re in for a treat in Midtown East. The neighborhood is a wonderland of Beaux Arts and Art Deco splendor, rooted in renowned structures like Grand Central Terminal and the Chrysler Building. When you’re done gazing at the buildings, it’s time to shop. Midtown East is where you’ll find Bergdorf Goodman, Bloomingdale’s and other famous department stores. 

Flatiron District

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The Flatiron District is a foodie’s delight. Named for the landmark iron-shaped building, this neighborhood is home to just about any kind of dining experience you could ask for. Whether you want to feast on Shake Shack burgers in the park, dress up for an epic tasting menu at a Michelin-starred restaurant or carbo-load at Eataly ( a 2018 Editors' Choice Awards winner ), you definitely want to bring an appetite to the Flatiron. 

Union Square & Gramercy

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Vibrant urban life is on full display at Union Square Park. On any given day, you’ll find outdoor vendors hawking second-hand books and incense, chess players contemplating their next move, activists exercising their First Amendment rights and skateboarders shredding on the steps. The serenity of Gramercy Park, just a few blocks north, sure looks appealing after all that action, but you’ll need a key to enter this private space.

Passionate about contemporary art? You’ll fit right in in Chelsea, where you can spend your days hopping in and out of cutting-edge galleries. But art isn’t the only thing that defines this Manhattan neighborhood. It’s also one of the most LGBTQ-friendly areas of the city, where you’ll find clubs, book stores and nonprofits catering to this community. 

Greenwich Village

Greenwich Village is arguably the most romantic neighborhood in the city. Between its history as a bohemian enclave, its maze of tree-shaded streets and its distinctive small-town vibe, this neighborhood charms visitors and locals alike. Even though many of the artists and writers who once called this neighborhood home have long been priced out, their creative spirit lives on in the comedy clubs, jazz clubs, theaters and independent cinemas around the Village. 

The East Village

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The vibrant East Village offers something for everyone. Consistently good hole-in-the-wall eateries appeal to both NYU students on a budget and trend-focused 20- and 30-somethings, eager to savor the viral dish du jour. Punks and vagabonds hang out among the piercing parlors and tattoo shops in St. Mark’s Place. And pretty much everyone gets down with the area's innovative cocktail lounges, comedy clubs and theaters. 

The Lower East Side

The coolest part about the Lower East Side isn’t its Instagram-worthy restaurants, trendy boutiques or avant-garde art—it’s the neighborhood’s deep sense of history as the place where hundreds of thousands of immigrants settled during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. See how they lived by taking a tour of the Tenement Museum and taste some of their traditional foods at the humble delis and bakeries that have been here for decades. 

Little Italy

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You want a big bowl of spaghetti and meatballs? Or a cannoli and an espresso? How about a scoop of gelato? As you might have guessed, this is where to go when you’re craving Italian cuisine. The best time to visit Little Italy is in September. That’s when the neighborhood hosts its annual Feast of San Gennaro , a highly popular 11-day street fair. 

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SoHo is the place to go when you’re in need of retail therapy. This shopping-focused neighborhood has all your favorite chain stores, sample sales, luxurious boutiques, home goods, tea shops, perfumeries and tons of other great stores. Plus, the fashion influencers snapping photos outside the cast-iron buildings makes for prime people-watching opportunities.

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Prepare to be star-struck in Tribeca, where you’re almost bound to spot a celebrity. The chic area with cobblestone streets and ultra-private lofts has become home to countless A-listers, like Robert de Niro, Taylor Swift, Beyoncé and Justin Timberlake, to name a few. 

Home to a diverse community of immigrants not only from China, but all over Asia, Chinatown is where you can get your fix of savory dumplings , spicy noodles and late-night dim sum. When you’re not feasting, you can visit Buddhist temples or bargain for knock-off handbags that can almost pass for the real thing. Or, walk along hip Orchard and Ludlow streets, where boutiques and the trendy Metrograph movie theater have moved in.

The Financial District

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Jutting out from lower Manhattan, the Financial District was the birthplace of American capitalism. The ambitious energy of Wall Street and the World Trade Center pumps through the neighborhood throughout the week. It’s also the jumping off point for the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. 

Astoria, Queens

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Since the days of silent films, Astoria has served as an entertainment production hub. Countless movies and TV shows (including “Sesame Street”) have been shot at Kaufman Astoria Studios. And the Museum of the Moving Image lets movie buffs get up close to famous props, costumes and antique photos from Old Hollywood. Astoria's European immigrant community makes the neighborhood a great destination for a Greek salad or a spanakopita , too.

Flushing, Queens

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Between the Mets at Citi Field and tennis greats at the U.S. Open, sports draw many New Yorkers over to Flushing. For a blast from the past, head to Flushing Meadows Corona Park —the open fields still have delightfully retro-futuristic structures (like the iconic Unisphere) from the 1964-1965 World’s Fair. Flushing is also one of NYC's largest Chinatowns, and a major destination for exploring eaters.

Long Island City, Queens

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Everything’s shiny and new in Long Island City, a former manufacturing hub that’s since been re-developed into a mini Manhattan with views of the skyline that can’t be beat. The thriving arts community revolves around MoMA PS1, one of the oldest contemporary arts institutions in the country. 

Greenpoint, Brooklyn

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The coolness of Williamsburg has seeped into Greenpoint, evident in its cocktail bars and sleek restaurants. But this neighborhood stays true to its humble roots, with traditional Polish restaurants, old-school butchers and no-frills doughnut shops. It’s got the best of both worlds.

Williamsburg, Brooklyn

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Epicenter of all things cool and ironic, Williamsburg is the hipster darling of New York City. Weekends here start early, with crowds chowing down on street food at Smorgasburg , then making their way to Bedford Street for shopping. As for nightlife, Williamsburg keeps the party going long after bars in other neighborhoods have shut down for the night.

Bushwick, Brooklyn

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If Williamsburg had an edgy younger sibling, it’d be Bushwick. Hypnotic street art has transformed industrial buildings into larger-than-life outdoor galleries, exploding with color. The interiors of those warehouses have also gotten the creative treatment, converting into theaters and dance parties after dark. 

Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn

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The beautiful Victorian brownstones of Bed-Stuy have helped the neighborhood retain its cozy residential feel, despite an influx of tourists and new residents. It’s anything but boring, though—block parties, bars and some of Brooklyn’s best fare make it worth a visit. 

Crown Heights, Brooklyn

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Crown Heights unites its diverse community around some of the most popular attractions in the borough: the Brooklyn Museum , the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and the Brooklyn Children’s Museum. The neighborhood turns into a huge party during the West Indian American Day Parade every September. 

Downtown Brooklyn

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Don’t let Downtown Brooklyn’s initial appearance as a crowded business center form your opinion of this area—the neighborhood also boasts an incredible cultural district. Take in classic drama and Shakespeare at the Theatre for a New Audience or catch live music and performing arts at BRIC House.

Brooklyn Heights

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No skyscrapers here—just some of the neighborhood's prettiest row houses and quiet streets that offer plenty of photo ops. The picture-perfect vistas continue along the promenade , where you’ll get panoramas of lower Manhattan and a glimpse at what makes this peaceful neighborhood so appealing to local families. 

TripSavvy / Deanna Mazzola

The area Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass (DUMBO) boasts endless things to do . You’ll find outdoor art shows on the cobblestone streets, one-of-a-kind boutiques, indie bookstores and a robust calendar of performing arts events at St. Ann’s Warehouse . Plus, the views of Manhattan might make your jaw drop. 

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Life in Park Slope revolves around Prospect Park , the large expanse of lush greenery with meandering walkways and top-notch bike paths. Summertime brings live outdoor performances from world-renowned orchestras to the park, while all-season farmer’s markets and a carousel make this a year-round escape. 

Sunset Park

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Large communities of Chinese and Latin Americans have made Sunset Park one of the most interesting destinations for eating in the city. It’s also home to Industry City — a series of warehouses home to offices, creative spaces, a food hall, art experiences and shops — and the Green-Wood Cemetery, a landscaped landmark where many prominent figures have been laid to rest. 

Michael Marquand/Getty Images 

With picturesque views of the Statue of Liberty, casual bars and restaurants and cobblestone streets, this laid-back waterfront locale makes for a great place to hang out and unwind on the weekends . And if you happen to need some new furniture, NYC's Ikea is right there. 

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Best places to visit in new york state in 2024.

New York state captivates both domestic and international travelers with the most populated city in the United States, sprawling state parks and a few beach communities. Whether you want to visit New York City to see Times Square and go ice skating at Rockefeller Center, or retreat to the mountains of upstate New York, there are plenty of one-of-a-kind vacation spots in the Empire State. U.S. News considered sights, culture, adventurous pursuits and the opinions of experts and readers to compile this ranking of the best places to visit in New York state. Read on for vacation inspiration, and don't forget to vote below for the destinations you think belong on this list.

Niagara Falls

Adirondacks, new york city, the finger lakes, thousand islands, lake george, bear mountain state park, the catskills, sleepy hollow, letchworth state park, long island, fire island, saratoga springs, cooperstown.

The tumbling, frothy falls – more than 3,100 tons of water flows over the edge every second – are the star tourist attraction in this New York destination that borders Canada. The best way to see Niagara Falls is on a Maid of the Mist boat tour, which takes poncho-clad visitors on an electric tour boat to the base of the falls. Or, more daring visitors can experience this natural wonder on a thrilling whirlpool jet boat tour. Just don't forget to check out the area's other unforgettable attractions, such as Niagara Falls State Park's hiking trails, Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens & Butterfly Conservatory or the nearby casinos.

The Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York span roughly 6 million acres and are home to hundreds of communities, lakes, valleys and trails. Water lovers can canoe or kayak on Saranac Lake or go boating on Tupper Lake; hikers can tackle the area's 2,000-plus miles of trails; and skiers can shred powder on Whiteface Mountain near Lake Placid. Visitors will also want to save some time for checking out history-focused sights like the Lake Placid Olympic Museum and Fort Ticonderoga, as well as sampling regional beverages at local wineries and breweries.

A hub for culture, the arts, food and sightseeing, New York City is a must-visit on many travelers' bucket lists – and for good reason. Everyone can find something to enjoy in the Big Apple. You can see a Broadway show, visit the world-famous Empire State Building, walk the High Line, check out the dozens of museums, eat your way through Manhattan's distinct neighborhoods on a food tour or shop till you drop along Fifth Avenue. Don't forget to stroll through iconic Central Park and visit its can't-miss attractions, including the Central Park Zoo and Conservatory Garden.

A romantic New York getaway , the Finger Lakes region appeals to travelers seeking a relaxing retreat with lovely scenery. Skiing at the area's resorts, wine tasting at the Seneca Lake Wine Trail's wineries and boating and hiking at local state parks are all popular activities to enjoy in this part of northwestern New York. The Finger Lakes are known for their spectacular fall foliage, but with their wealth of charming towns and variety of seasonal attractions, the lakes are excellent to visit year-round.

Despite its name, the Thousand Islands region is composed of more than 1,800 islands. The best way to see this vast area, which also stretches into Canada, is during an open-air boat tour. A scenic cruise here will take you past lighthouses, mansions and castles and include commentary about the real-life pirates who used to roam the islands' waters and the Gilded Age magnates who once called the region home. When you're ready to return to land, hike the trails in Wellesley Island State Park or fish in Mary Island State Park, both on Wellesley Island.

Home to "The Queen of American Lakes," this town in New York's vast Adirondack mountain region is a vacation destination unto itself. Swim in Lake George's crystal-clear waters at Million Dollar Beach, or try your hand at aquatic activities like parasailing, water skiing, kayaking and more. Away from the lake, history buffs can brush up on their knowledge of the French and Indian War at the Fort William Henry Museum while adventurous travelers hike to the summit of Prospect Mountain for breathtaking vistas. Families will also appreciate the region's countless amusement parks and mini-golf courses.

Located on the western banks of the Hudson River in the Palisades region of New York, Bear Mountain State Park offers sweeping views of the Hudson Valley and the surrounding highlands. The forested park's trails (including a stretch of the Appalachian Trail) take hikers through lakes, gorges and valleys. What's more, Bear Mountain State Park features a zoo, a swimming pool, a hand-painted merry-go-round and a seasonal outdoor ice skating rink, ensuring family fun both on and off the trails. (Note: Portions of this park are still closed due to storm damage sustained in July 2023. Please check the park's website for the current operating status.)

With 98 peaks, southeastern New York's Catskill Mountains beckon to nature enthusiasts. About 40% of Catskill Park's 700,000-plus acres are designated as "forever wild," meaning you'll have access to sprawling spaces ideal for outdoor activities. In winter, the Catskills offer ample opportunities to ski and snowboard. Meanwhile, summer is perfect for hunting, hiking, boating and zip lining, among other activities. After a busy day outdoors, you can check out the region's art scene (the Catskills were home to America's first art movement – the Hudson River School) or enjoy the amenities at one of the area's top resorts .

Made famous by author Washington Irving in his 1820 short story, "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow," this small town about 30 miles north of New York City is a must-visit on any Hudson Valley itinerary. Begin with a trip to Kykuit, the Rockefeller Estate, before heading to nearby Tarrytown to explore the grand Lyndhurst Mansion. In the evening, stroll through the famed Sleepy Hollow Cemetery on a lantern-lit guided tour. Keep in mind that this town becomes inundated with travelers around Halloween, so book your accommodations early if you are planning on visiting during the fall.

Nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the East because of its impressive gorge, Letchworth State Park is a hidden gem for travelers who love the outdoors. The park is home to three large waterfalls and dozens more on tributaries, many of which you can see as you trek some of Letchworth's 66 miles of hiking trails. Additionally, the park offers ample opportunities to go whitewater rafting, kayaking, horseback riding, biking and even hot air ballooning. If you prefer winter sports instead of summer pursuits, arrive when temperatures fall to go cross-country skiing or snowmobiling.

This 118-mile-long island is frequented by New Yorkers looking to escape the city to relax on white sand beaches with a glass of wine. Summer hot spots like the Hamptons and Montauk boast charming seaside allure and can't-miss stretches of sand, like Ditch Plains Beach, a popular place to surf. Meanwhile, family-friendly Jones Beach State Park is a more approachable option with a swimming pool, a mini-golf course and shuffleboard areas, among other amenities. Beyond beaches, Long Island boasts more than 50 wineries and tasting rooms, some of which are part of the island's North Fork Wine Trail.

Those looking to get away from skyscrapers can travel about 60 miles southeast of New York City to reach this 32-mile-long, car-free barrier island. On Fire Island, you'll find several charming communities, including Ocean Beach (where most of the island's hotels, restaurants and shops are located) and Cherry Grove and Fire Island Pines (two of the island's top LGBTQ-friendly areas). Plus, Fire Island is home to Fire Island National Seashore, a protected area that welcomes bird-watchers and campers in droves. If you'd rather spend your vacation swimming, surfing or sunbathing, head to Robert Moses State Park in summer to enjoy its beautiful beaches.

Ever since the Mohawk people came to Saratoga Springs and discovered its mineral waters, which were believed to have restorative properties, the town has blossomed into a popular vacation destination. Visitors can still drink from or soak in the town's mineral springs, 12 of which are located in Saratoga Spa State Park. However, many travelers now flock to Saratoga Springs to see one of the country's oldest racetracks, the Saratoga Race Course. Take a walking tour of the facility to learn more about its history and horseracing, or visit in August to attend the venue's premier event, the Travers Stakes.

The presence of two renowned institutions – Ithaca College and Cornell University – makes Ithaca a true college town. But this small town in New York's Finger Lakes region is also known for its stunning natural beauty, so much so that its slogan is "Ithaca is gorges." Ithaca is surrounded by more than 150 waterfalls, as well as gorges and dense forests with hiking and biking trails. What's more, the town overlooks the southern shore of Cayuga Lake, a superb spot for boating, fishing and swimming. For groups with budding naturalists, follow Ithaca's Discovery Trail to must-see attractions like the Sciencenter and the Cornell Botanic Gardens.

Cooperstown may be small, but it attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year thanks to its ties to America's pastime. Although most experts agree that baseball wasn't invented here, Cooperstown remains a mecca for sports lovers because of its must-visit sight, the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. However, the village offers other kinds of attractions, too. Travelers can visit the Fenimore Art Museum to see impressive works of art or check out The Farmers' Museum's exhibits about local agriculture. Cooperstown also features beautiful neoclassical buildings, such as Hyde Hall, and a variety of breweries and wineries.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Shelter Island

Governors Island

Rochester, NY

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10 Unique Things to Do in NYC: Tips and Ideas From Locals

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New York City , the city that never sleeps, is an iconic metropolis that needs no introduction. Whether you’re living in NY ,  or a wide-eyed visitor exploring the vast opportunities the city has to offer, NYC is a pulsating hub of energy, culture, and diversity. With its towering skyscrapers, world-renowned landmarks, and a rhythm that courses through its streets, this urban playground is a constant source of excitement and inspiration. In this Redfin article, we’ll navigate the bustling neighborhoods and uncover hidden gems, providing you with an insider’s perspective on the best experiences the city has to offer. Get ready to dive into the vibrant tapestry of New York City.

1. Explore NYC like a photographer

Explore the city like a local photographer and uncover the most picturesque spots hidden from the typical tourist eye. These are the places where seasoned photographers go to capture the true essence and beauty of the urban landscape. 

“Two of my favorite outdoor photography spots in New York City are Fort Tryon Park and Central Park ,” suggests FJA Photography .

“Fort Tryon Park, perched at the highest natural point in Manhattan, offers a breathtaking canvas for photography enthusiasts, especially during the soft morning hours. The warm morning light along the Hudson River creates a magical ambiance, making it an ideal location for various photo sessions, including maternity shoots, weddings, and milestone celebrations like Sweet 16s and Quinceaneras. From lush greenery to river views, every corner of Fort Tryon Park provides a picturesque backdrop for capturing life’s precious moments.

Central Park, boasting numerous beautiful locations, stands out for me, with Bethesda Terrace and the Bow Bridge being particularly ideal for engagement sessions and weddings. In my exploration of Manhattan’s gems, I’ve had the privilege of capturing the diverse beauty of both Fort Tryon Park and Central Park.”

Courtesy of FJA Photography

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Emmanuel Lavoie from a local short-term rental platform in NYC, Jetstream Hospitality Solutions , recommends to visitors and taco lovers that his “favorite discovery in New York City was Los Tacos No. 1 which now has multiple locations across the City. I’ve traveled the world looking for the best tacos, and I never would have thought I would find the best and most authentic tacos in NYC. It’s super casual, stand-up counter only, and incredibly affordable. On a 4-day visit to the Big Apple, we went three times.”

3. Visit these NYC parks 

Erin Fortin Photography   shares, “As a NYC family photographer, one of my favorite Manhattan locations is Battery Park , near Tom Otterness Real World Sculptures. With refreshing open space, stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and lower and upper Manhattan, this gem is the perfect place to bring young kids, a good book, or a picnic between sightseeing activities. 

Courtesy of Erin Fortin Photography  

Another Manhattan hidden gem, perfect for NYC family photos and IG-worthy backdrop is Pier 35 . Be sure to arrive just before sunset and find yourself a spot on one of the larger-than-life swings. Your whole family will be able to fit!

4. Chelsea Flea Market

“While I realize flea markets are often discussed, I don’t think people have an appreciation for the history behind some of the items you find,” says Joe Jenkins Photography . “I once met a woman who purchased a box of photos from a vendor at the Chelsea flea market. In that box was an image of a man at a parade. About six months after her purchase, she saw that very same man at a record store in the East Village, walked up to him, and said, ‘I have a photo of you at a parade at so and so.’ Six years later, they were married. So, with this being said, I always have an appreciation for the Chelsea flea .

Courtesy of Joe Jenkins Photography

Lastly, there’s a grey, seamless stucco wall at West Fourth Street and 6th Avenue that I’ve seen used in more headshots, advertisements, and portraits than I can count. It marks the boundary of a fish market but has been used not only by myself but also by every other burgeoning photographer in NYC more times than is recordable. It gets painted over once a year, and so there’s a wax and wane to how it performs as a backdrop, but every time I see it in a photographer’s portfolio, I smile a little.”

5. Tribeca in the rain

“If you find yourself in NYC during a rainy day, take the opportunity to look up, not down,” recommends Joe Jenkins. “The building tops in NYC take on an ethereal, befogged quality that likely represents a sizable percentage of the fine art photography world and provides a mass of photo ops. Tribeca is the best place for this, as the buildings are varied and singular enough that you won’t end up taking the same building top repeatedly, and the architecture is insanely interesting.

Additionally, it’s home to the famous skybridge, which, while not off the beaten path, has produced some of the most iconic fashion photos ever created. Moreover, while Bow Bridge in Central Park is literally packed with people from sunup to sundown and impossible to photograph by itself, the Tribeca skybridge is always open, deserted, and waiting for image creators.

Furthermore, there are more rooftop gardens in Tribeca than in any other area of the city that I’ve seen. They’re fun to photograph and make you wonder what they look like and who inhabits them.”

6. NYer’s favorite Central Park locations to check out

Loren Matthew, an Event Photographer in NYC shares, “While my work often captures the city’s dynamic events and personalities, I’ve also discovered that NYC offers photogenic locales perfect for both photography enthusiasts and sightseers. Here are three Central Park recommendations from my portfolio”:

Exploring the Architectural Marvels at Gapstow Bridge

“Begin your photographic journey at Gapstow Bridge , an idyllic spot offering vintage charm against the modern city skyline. It frames the park’s changing seasons, providing a haven for photographers seeking that quintessential NYC shot. Whether draped in autumnal gold or the fresh green of spring, Gapstow is perfect for a leisurely stroll, photography workshops, or simply observing the harmonious blend of city life and nature.”

Capturing Serenity at the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir:

“ For a serene escape, visit the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir . The calm waters reflecting the sky and surrounding architecture provide a moment of peace in the city that never sleeps. It’s a fantastic location for landscape and wildlife photography, as well as for practicing reflections and sunrise or sunset shots. Joggers, bird watchers, and photographers share this space, creating a community appreciating the quieter side of city life.”

The Colorful Display at the Conservatory Garden

Lastly, the Conservatory Garden is an enchanting oasis within Central Park. As a photographer, I’m drawn to the kaleidoscope of colors in meticulously maintained flower beds, especially during the tulip season in spring. It’s ideal for macro photography, portraits, and even event photography, providing a romantic backdrop for weddings and celebrations. Photography classes often meet here, making it a great place to learn new techniques and meet like-minded individuals.

7. Walk down Freeman Alley

“I love visiting and photographing in Freeman Alley, in the Bowery,” suggests Ed Lefkowicz Photography . “It’s one of the few spots in the city where graffiti is not just allowed but encouraged—spray paint, wheatpaste posters, tags, all there, all ever-changing. You never know what will cover existing art, as anyone can contribute, from local street artists to those internationally known.

Courtesy of Ed Lefkowicz Photography

8. Watch (or play) Pétanque in Bryant Park

Ed Lefkowics also recommends, “New York is a sports town, with the Yankees, Mets, Rangers, Nets, Knicks, Giants, and Jets coming to mind. However, some of the most interesting sports are found in the least likely places. Pétanque, for example, a game from the south of France related to bocce, can be watched in Bryant Park .The local club is La Boule New Yorkaise, but anyone can play for free. It’s slow-paced, making it easy to watch and understand the action..”

9. Stroll through one of many NYC parks

“Some of my favorite places in New York are in Brooklyn ,” says NYC wedding photographer, Erica Camille . “Greenwood Cemetery is great for strolling around if you want somewhere a bit quieter than Prospect Park. Coney Island, specifically for the annual Coney Island Mermaid Parade, is always a fantastic spectacle.”

Thinking about moving to the area?

10. have a night out in town .

Erica Camille gives a few recommendations on how to spend a night in NY, recommending “For those that love an underground speakeasy, Shanghai Mermaid is a long-running party held every few months. There’s also the famous House of Yes in the artist neighborhood of Bushwick. Finally, for the holiday season there’s no better place to roam around than the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights display.”

Holly is part of the content marketing team and enjoys writing about home improvement and lifestyle. Her dream home would incorporate both an industrial and biophilic design.

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16 Of The Most Beautiful Towns In New York You Should Visit

• Explore the charming town of Lake Placid in the Adirondack Mountains for stunning lake views and outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, and kayaking. It's a year-round destination with something for everyone.
• Saratoga Springs offers a mix of healing mineral springs, cultural vibrancy, and historic charm. Discover the Saratoga Spa State Park, horse racing at Saratoga Race Course, and explore the lively downtown with shops and restaurants.
• Beacon, a favorite destination for art lovers, is famous for its Dia Beacon Museum and offers a great weekend getaway with delicious food, beautiful parks, and opportunities for art, theater, and outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking.

New York is always synonymous with colossal skyscrapers and Empire State Building is its signature of it. The “Upstate New York” which is north of New York City and Long Island is defined as anything outside the dense forests of the metropolitan areas—many of these places are excellent places to visit during fall .

There are unexplored areas of New York that are quite underrated and deemed as the most beautiful towns. Here are the 16 most beautiful towns in New York that are worth exploring for those looking for an escape that's fun and free from the hustle and bustle of the city.

UPDATE: 2023/08/20 19:33 EST BY LUANA FERREIRA

Upstate New York has many beautiful towns that are a perfect scape year-round thanks to their natural attractions and history. This list was updated to include more towns for visitors looking to plan their next getaway within New York.

Related: These Chill Wellness Retreats Are A Short Drive From NYC

Lake Placid

Lake Placid is one of the best Adirondack Mountains cities travelers can visit . This charming town offers stunning lake views and many outdoor activities.

Travelers can explore the Olympic sites, from the ski jumps to the ice rinks, or embark on scenic hikes and water adventures. In winter, it's a haven for snow sports, while summer brings opportunities for kayaking, hiking, and more. Autumn showcases a tapestry of colors. Whether drawn by its sporting legacy or breathtaking landscapes, Lake Placid promises year-round allure that shines from May through October.

• Where? Essex County
• Things To Do In Lake Placid: Skiing in winter, Fall foliage during autumn, hiking and kayaking

Saratoga Springs

Saratoga Springs offers a blend of healing mineral springs, cultural vibrancy, and historic charm. Visitors can discover the Saratoga Spa State Park, where relaxation and natural beauty converge, experience world-class horse racing at Saratoga Race Course or explore the lively downtown, brimming with shops and restaurants.

The Saratoga Performing Arts Center hosts renowned performances. With its mix of wellness, culture, and history, Saratoga Springs is undeniably worth visiting. Summer is the favorite time for many visitors, as they can enjoy the park's greenery, outdoor attractions, bustling arts, and racing seasons.

• Where? Saratoga County
• Things To Do In Saratoga Springs: Congress Park, Saratoga Spa State Park, Saratoga Race Course

One of the prettiest towns in New York and a favorite destination for art lovers, Beacon is famous for its Dia Beacon Museum, an enormous museum exhibiting a huge collection of contemporary and modern art. This small Hudson Valley town is only 60 miles from New York City and has a lot to offer, making it a great weekend getaway. Visitors can enjoy delicious food, beautiful Mount Beacon Park, shopping at antique stores and local boutiques, attending events at a cultural center, swimming at The River Pool, and hiking in the Hudson Highlands.

• Where: Dutchess County, New York, United States
• Things To Do In Beacon: Art, theater, dining, shopping, sightseeing, visiting historical sites, hiking, nature walks, swimming, boating, canoeing, fishing, etc.

Narrowsburg

Narrowsburg is a serene Sullivan County hamlet in the foothills of the Catskill Mountains on the banks of the Delaware River. Its appealing Main Street is packed with cool shops, such as Maison Bergogne, and there's plenty to explore, such as art and theater. The town also offers a variety of exciting activities, such as yoga and fitness classes, as well as thrilling adventures, such as hiking, kayaking, canoeing, and so on. There are numerous restaurants that cater to foodies with a wide range of regional dishes and delectable wood-fired pizzas.

• Where: Sullivan County, New York, United States
• Things To Do In Narrowsburg: Admiring nature, shopping, fishing, dining, kayking, canoeing, sightseeing, Yoga, fitness classes, art, theatre, etc.

Aurora, located on the eastern shore of Cayuga Lake, offers a variety of exciting activities, the majority of which revolve around the town's most famous attraction, the Inns of Aurora. A bike excursion through this charming village and its main street, dotted with historic structures, is another exciting activity. Visitors will enjoy a morning trip to the lake, a day learning about regional pottery or painting techniques, or wine tastings along the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail. The best way to spend an evening is to eat and drink at a well-known restaurant like 1833 Kitchen & Bar or Fargo Bar & Grill.

• Where: Cayuga County, New York, United States
• Things To Do In Aurora: Sightseeing, boating, canoeing, pottery and painting classes, dining, hiking, nature walks, bird watching, wild life spotting, shopping, etc.

Despite being only 1.5 square miles in size, Tivoli town has everything one needs for a memorable countryside vacation. The hipster-meets-traditional Irish pub with an amazing whisky selection and All That Java, a tiny mobile coffee house concept, are what attract New Yorkers to it. Other attractions in the town include Traghaven and Fortunes, both of which are popular with visitors for their Instagrammable appeal. Tivoli also has many scenic hiking trails, kayaking opportunities at Tivoli Bays, and cultural performances at Kaatsbaan Cultural Park.

• Where: Dutchess County , New York, United States
• Things To Do In Tivoli: Paddling, rafting, kayaking, boating, canoeing, sightseeing, biking, hiking, dining, shopping, etc.

Skaneateles

Considered the Jewel of The Finger Lakes Region, the village of Skaneateles is a town basking in beauty throughout the year.

Be it a display of art or history, its local food, bustling restaurants, unique shops, or fashion boutiques, this upscale downtown enjoys the view of Skaneateles Lake and offers a relaxing vibe. This town is among the best small towns in New York for a weekend getaway, it has gorgeous inns, wine tasting at vineyards, boat tours at the lake, serene parks, and beautiful houses dotted across the street. It is only 5 hours drive from New York City.

• Where: Onondaga County, New York, United States
• Things To Do In Skaneateles: Enjoying natural beauty, boating, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, shopping, sightseeing, dining, etc.

The town of Ithaca is a mosaic comprising urban, rural, and suburban landscapes. With lush green hillsides, gorges, and hiking trails (not to mention gorgeous waterfalls along said trails ), this town is quite close to nature. The cultural vibrancy is quite vivid in this town, it has museums, lively bars, eclectic restaurants, historic buildings, creative murals, and so on. Also, it's home to one of the most prestigious universities in the world, Cornell University with its Gothic, Victorian, and Neoclassical style architecture.

• Where: Tompkins County, New York, United States
• Things To Do In Ithaca: Hiking, biking, trekking, nature walks, nightlife, dining, shopping, sightseeing, etc.

Related: Don't Go Alone: 10 Creepy Places To Visit In New York

Cold Spring

A popular weekend destination for New Yorkers, Cold Spring is a quaint place replete with 19th-century architectural buildings, this town is located at the deepest point of the Hudson River and in the Hudson Highlands Region. Hudson Highlands State Park offers endless hiking and walking trails, Bannerman Island with its incredible combination of nature and history, Magazzino Italian Art Museum devoted to Italian art, Breakneck Ridge Loop known for its natural beauty, Stonecrop Gardens, Library, and Museums galore, as well as Hudson River expeditions, are few of its primary attractions. The town is also filled with shopping outlets, boutiques, and restaurants.

• Where: Putnam County, New York, United States
• Things To Do In Cold Spring: Exploring historical places, enjoying nature, spotting wildlife, hiking, boating, fishing, canoeing, dining, shopping, etc.

Sleepy Hollow

Located around 25 miles north of New York City and less than an hour from Manhattan, the town of “Sleepy Hollow” offers an incredible blend of natural beauty and modern amenities . Celebrate the largest Halloween event, Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze with 7000 carved pumpkins, take a tour of Kykuit, the Rockefeller Mansion, view the gorgeous artwork of Union Church of Pocantico Hills, see the picturesque Tarrytown Lighthouse, explore the walking trail of Old Croton Aqueduct, peep the fall foliage in Patriot’s Park, and try the fresh farm produce at Farmer’s market as well as a couple of restaurants. Sleepy Hollow is extra fun in fall, of course, thanks to the spooky season!

• Where: Westchester County, New York, United States
• Things To Do In Sleepy Hollow: Visit historical attractions, cross spooky headless horseman bridge, sightseeing, admire nature, dine on farm to table food, shopping, etc.

Located only 31 minutes away from New York City, Tarrytown is steeped in history dating back to the 17th century. Nestled between Sleepy Hollow in the north and Irvington to the south, Tarrytown allures with its ancient, modern, and natural attractions. Be it Lyndhurst Mansion which is Tarrytown’s top attraction, Old Dutch Church which is the oldest church in New York, Tarrytown’s Lake Parks, Lighthouse, Music Hall, Demeter’s Tavern, and Sports Bar, one of the busiest bars in town, Tappan Zee Bridge, an architectural wonder, Ona, a gift boutique and art gallery featuring unique merchandise, or stately buildings, classic artworks, scenic vistas, and local pubs, it gives us every reason to visit it.

• Where: Westchester County, New York, USA
• Things To Do In Tarrytown: Sightseeing, dining, shopping, nightlife, unwinding in nature, nature walks, hiking, etc.

A historical and cultural hub, the town of Woodstock has a close association with art and history. Nestled in Georgia, it has plenty of attractions such as Elm Street Cultural Arts Village, Downtown Woodstock, Summer Concert Series offering pop, classic, and country music. There is no shortage of exciting activities in Woodstock, from hot air ballooning over Northern Georgia, enjoying food at Donovan’s Irish Cobbler, a renowned restaurant, racing at Dixie Speedway, and touring around berries and pumpkins at Berry Patch Farms to sampling beers at Reformation Brewery.

• Where: Ulster County, New York, USA
• Things To Do In Woodstock: Attending a concert or show, visiting historical sites, museums, and galleries, sampling local beers and food, shopping of local craft, etc.

The appealing aesthetic of this charming town, New Paltz located has a backdrop of evergreen forests, charming architecture, boutique cafés, and shops. A few of its charming attractions include the historic Huguenot Street, the oldest museum street for history lovers, Wallkill Valley Rail Trail for bicycle and jogging lovers, Twin Star Orchard serving wood-fired pizza and craft cider, Dressel Farms for apple and strawberry picking activities, and Minnewaska State Park having the views of white rock cliffs, forests, and mountain views. Also try Tavola Trattoria, a local Italian restaurant with its rustic style ambiance. It’s also worth recommending Sweet Potato Gnocchi and the Orecchiette, Coppersea Distilling, a local distillery famous for New York Whiskey, scotches and ryes and so much more.

• Things To Do In New Paltz: Shopping at Main Street, exploring historical sites, sightseeing, biking, trekking, dining, witnessing natual scenery and bird watching

The town of Saugerties is located between the Hudson River and the Catskill Mountains. With its scenic surroundings dotted with coffee outlets and quirky food outlets along the street, the town exudes a quiet relaxing vibe. Indeed, a postcard-worthy town, this place has plenty of relaxing as well as adventurous activities . Be it HITS-on-the-Hudson hosting various Olympic-level horse shows, visiting Woodstock Museum or Saugerties Lighthouse, Lox of Bagels with the best breakfast cafeteria, Dutch Ale House infusing Southern flavor and Dutch cuisine, or Black-Eyed Suzie’s Upstate for its exceptional meals, the town has enough to explore on every front.

• Things To Do In Saugerties: Spotting wild life, hiking, trekking, camping, enjoying views from the lighthouse, dining, shopping, etc.

Related: 14 Best Small Towns In New York's Hudson Valley

The town of Rhinebeck lies in the northwestern part of Dutchess County whereas Rhinebeck also refers to “Rhinebeck village” located in the town itself. Rhinebeck offers artisanal shops or eateries, enchanting architecture, historical sites, hotels and inns, botanical gardens or forest preserves, Dutchess County fairgrounds, its New York State Sheep and Wool Festival, and camping at Mills Norrie State Park.

• Things To Do In Rhinebeck: Sightseeing, camping, hiking, dining, shopping, trekking, nature walks. bird watching, etc.

Town of Lake George

The town of Lake George is one of the most popular New York towns to visit among tourists. Beholding lake George, the Queen of American Lakes, it has unique scenic vistas complementing it. The town has plenty of activities such as hiking trails on Prospect Mountain or relaxing on the shores of Million Dollar Beach, trekking to Shelving Rock Falls or ziplining and rope walking through the Adirondack Extreme, kayaking, paddleboarding, rafting, or canoeing at Lake George, visiting museum or winery and lot more. If a weekend break is needed, the town of Lake George can be a perfect destination, and the town is ​easily accessible from New York City by car, train, and bus.​​​​​​

• Where: Warren County, New York, United States
• Things To Do In The Town Of Lake George: Hiking, biking, camping, boating, dining, sightseeing, shopping, ziplining, etc.

Hector's Cafe & Diner

Review Highlights

“ The food was great, crispy corned beef with fried eggs, a perfectly grilled corn muffin, plates of pancakes and decent coffee. ” in 5 reviews

“ So next time you finish watching the sunset from the Highline , head over to Hectors for a cheeseburger deluxe and fries. ” in 5 reviews

“ Great casual lowkey place in the meatpacking district with a full menu, friendly staff and great food. ” in 11 reviews

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44 Little W 12th St

New York, NY 10014

West St & 10th Ave

Meatpacking District, West Village

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123 reviews

Loved it here! We were in the area and were looking for some good food. Most of the food options in the Meatpacking District are more high end. But, we stumbled across this place. I'm so glad we stopped by! I had the omelette with sweet potato fries. I also ordered a hot chocolate. Everything I had was so good! There were a few other people here when I got here, which was about an hour before they closed. Our server was friendly and attentive. I'm glad we found this place! I'll definitely stop back here for the affordable food options and the retro vibes. I recommend this spot if you're looking for food in this area.

See all photos from Colette H. for Hector's Cafe & Diner

The fresh lemonade (not pictured) was too sweet, iced latte alright but the omelette was really good with fries. Good toast too. Great little spot for a classic diner experience.

How can I best describe this spot? Hmm..Let's see. For one, nostalgic comes to mind. Imagine going to Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, and squeezed in between all of those designer brick and mortars is a humble, unassuming, little diner. Yes, this is how Hectors Cafe & Diner can be best described. Est. in 1949, Hector's withstood Covid-19, while high end designer stores closed their doors and now replacement designer stores are reopening around them. This Cafe & Diner has stood the test of time, remaining unscathed with its quaint out of place exterior, as well as seemingly unchanged interior, serving a variety of plentiful diner food in the Meatpacking District. Upon first look it seems to sit in a sense, out of place. Though Hector's provides comfort in knowing they remain steadfast, offering a glimpse of NYC history not swallowed up by the surrounding gentrification. Food, Service and Cost 4.5 Stars.

Hector's is the best. Had dinner here with my daughter tonight. Well I had breakfast, very good standard swiss cheese omelet, good fries. Fried Mozzarella sticks were very good. Standout was the Steak Taco.... very high quality actual steak, because this is still the Meatpacking District, and they get their meat from next door. Real old school, the way I like it.

The ladies are LOVELY here. Meet and greet you. Please, thank you's and your welcome's abound. Plus the food pretty darn good. The staples of breakfast food is good, but veer off your normal "diner fare" path and go with the specials like I did. 2 simple tacos. Amazing and authentic. Short walk to the Whitney and you can make it a nice day with these nice people. Thank you.

Lunch special. Awesome and filled me up. About $12.95 and worth every penny.

This is exactly what it looks like - a classic NY diner. If you go in with that expectation, it's exactly what you're going to get. I enjoyed the interior because they're not trying hard and it's really a true New York restaurant joint. I ordered a burrito without rice and thought it was good. Nice and fresh. I'd come back but again for what is a humble, warm experience at a corner joint. Love a good diner in nyc!

I have a deep affection for businesses that have survived decades in New York City, especially when it comes to diners. So many diners have been disappearing (with seemingly increasing speed over the last decade) it is almost a relief to see one that has continued to operate long after waves of gentrification have struck an area. Hector's is one such example. There's nothing extraordinary about the appearance of Hector's. The exterior is brick and flat. Nothing crazy ornate. You go inside and there's a candy/cashier counter (classic) and lots of old skool style seating with various prints and decorations hanging on the walls. There is also a long counter you can sit at, which I find to be a crucial part of a classic diner. The service was very efficient. Not gruff, but not overly friendly either. I ordered a cheeseburger with onion rings on the side and felt it was okay. Average at best. The burger was not super juicy, nor was it dry. The onion rings were not as crisp as I would have liked, but they were not soggy either. Everything was pretty mid food-wise, but I'm not holding this against the place. I figure if I try something else they could blow me away. I really enjoyed the "classic NYC" experience of eating at Hector's and I look forward to my next visit.

Solid food. Good service we sat down quick, ordered quick, and ate at a reasonable pace. It's an old school small diner what else can you ask for? Good coffee too. Plus we parked outside the place I would go back.

Parking out front!!

My buddy Jeffrey would dig it the most! Great little diner with bomb Mexican breakfast options at *Breaking Bad voice* Hectorrrrrrr's

Hector's from the street

Breakfast tacos and chilaquiles

Solid no frills diner perfect for a simple affordable quality meal in meatpacking. Great place for a breakfast or lunch.

9 other reviews that are not currently recommended

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J W. said "Great ambiance. Good food. It was a pleasure taking the family for breakfast. My son asked to go back everyday. Very entertaining, the staff are real professionals." read more

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9 places to nosh on bagels in southern Maine

From old-school spots to foodie favorites, there's a 'hole' lot to try.

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Bread and bagels at The Works Cafe in downtown Portland. Photo by Aimsel Ponti

From New York-style boiled bagels to Montreal-inspired wood-fired ones, there’s lots of great bagels in southern Maine and several shops have the accolades to back that up.

In 2023, Bon Appetit named bagels from Rose Foods and Rover Bagel among the best in the country.

Two years before that,  Food & Wine Magazine put Rover, Forage and Scratch Baking Co. on its list of best bagels in the U.S.

Whether you like yours toasted with cream cheese or as the bread for your breakfast sandwich, you can find plenty of styles and flavors from Biddeford to Brunswick.

BEACH BAGELS

The offerings at Beach Bagels include a French toast and marble bagel, and the cream cheese menu comprises spreads like strawberry, olive and honey walnut. Along with breakfast sandwiches, Beach Bagels has hearty breakfast options like omelets and pancakes. Best of all, you’re steps away from a beach stroll. Just don’t let the seagulls steal your bagel. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily WHERE: 34 Old Orchard St., Old Orchard Beach. beachbagels.yolasite.com ______________

Dutchman’s opened in 2022 as a pop-up housed at Nomad pizza in Brunswick’s Fort Andross building. It’s since become a permanent fixture there and uses the pizzeria’s wood-fired ovens to bake its bagels. The hand-shaped, honey-boiled bagels come in plain, roasted garlic, poppy and a bagel-of-the-day flavor.

WHEN: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday to Sunday WHERE: Fort Andross, 14 Maine St., Brunswick. dutchmans.me ______________

FORAGE MARKET

Making bagels at Forage Market involves a two-day aging process. The bagels are naturally leavened with wild yeast starter and baked next to a hardwood fire. There are usually five flavors available, including sesame and garlic. Breakfast sandwiches (including vegan options) are available. Forage also has a location in Lewiston. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 123 Washington Ave., Portland. foragemarket.com _____________

MISTER BAGEL

There are 10 or so Mister Bagel locations in Maine, including South Portland and Falmouth. It all began with the Portland location, which was the first bagel shop to open in Maine. The late Rick Hartglass started Mister Bagel in 1977, and it is still a family business. Music fans will appreciate the breakfast sandwich menu, which includes The David Bowie (bacon, egg and American cheese), the Jimmy Buffett (egg with roast beef and cheddar) and The Lady Gaga (avocado, salt and pepper, with or without egg).

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to noon Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to noon Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 599 Forest Ave., Portland. misterbagelforestave.com ______________

At Rose Foods, the menu varies depending on the day, but there are usually six to eight flavors available. For example, should you pop in on a Friday, you’ll find a poppy and onion bialy (a cousin of the bagel that is not boiled). Rose Foods also makes a number of bagel sandwiches, including the Classic Nova with Nova lox and the Classic Whitefish. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily WHERE: 428 Forest Ave., Portland. rosefoods.me

______________

ROVER BAGEL

At Rover Bagel, you’ll find wood-fired plain, poppy, sea salt, sesame and everything bagels available most of the time, and the spread game here is strong with cream cheese options like lemon-thyme-honey cream and chili-garlic.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 10 West Point Lane Suite 10-204, Biddeford (Pepperell Mill). roverbagel.com

______________ Advertisement

SCRATCH BAKING CO.

You haven’t lived until you’ve experienced the line of devoted fans waiting for Scratch Baking Co. to open, especially on weekend mornings. Along with the popular Maine sea salt, plain and other everyday flavors, Scratch has a daily special bagel. There’s honeyed rosemary on Wednesday and jalapeno cheddar on Thursday. Scratch is also famous, at least to locals, for its P-Cheese spread. It’s a pimento cheese recipe made with cheddar, mayo, roasted red peppers and seasoning and was passed down to co-owner and head baker Allison Reid by her grandmother, Mern.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 416 Preble St., South Portland. scratchbakingco.com ___________

THE MAINE BAGEL

The Maine Bagel is a drive-thru with several breakfast and other kinds of sandwiches available. With a bagel list that features egg and bialy among the standards, the family-owned spot is the perfect place to stop on your way to Pine Point Beach. The Maine Bagel really shines with a dozen kinds of cream cheese spreads, including raisin-walnut, lox, strawberry, cranberry-nut and bacon-chive.

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. WHERE: 117 Route 1, Scarborough. themainebagel.com Advertisement

THE WORKS CAFE

The Works Cafe is an institution on the edge of the Portland’s Old Port. It opened in 1990 as Bagel Works before it changed its name in 2002. The original shop in this regional chain opened in Manchester, Vermont, in 1988, and there are 11 locations around New England, though just the one in Maine. Gone are the ’90s-era banana-walnut bagels and cold pizza cream cheese, but The Works Cafe is still a reliable place to grab a salt, multigrain or cinnamon raisin bagel, among others. The menu also has bowls, sandwiches and smoothies.

WHEN: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily WHERE: 15 Temple St., Portland. workscafe.com

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Fed Holds Rates Steady, Noting Lack of Progress on Inflation

The Federal Reserve left interest rates unchanged for a sixth straight meeting and suggested that rates would stay high for longer.

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By Jeanna Smialek

Federal Reserve officials left interest rates unchanged and signaled that they were wary about how stubborn inflation was proving, paving the way for a longer period of high borrowing costs.

The Fed held rates steady at 5.3 percent on Wednesday, leaving them at a more than two-decade high, where they have been set since July. Central bankers reiterated that they needed “greater confidence” that inflation was coming down before reducing them.

“Readings on inflation have come in above expectations,” Jerome H. Powell, the Fed chair, said at a news conference after the release of the central bank’s rate decision.

‘Lack of Further Progress’ on Inflation Keeps Interest Rates High

Jerome h. powell, the fed chair, said that the central bank needed “greater confidence” that inflation was coming down before it decided to cut interest rates, which are at a two-decade high..

Today, the F.O.M.C. decided to leave our policy interest rate unchanged and to continue to reduce our securities holdings, though, at a slower pace. Our restrictive stance of monetary policy has been putting downward pressure on economic activity and inflation, and the risks to achieving our employment and inflation goals have moved toward better balance over the past year. However, in recent months, inflation has shown a lack of further progress toward our 2 percent objective, and we remain highly attentive to inflation risks. We’ve stated that we do not expect that it will be appropriate to reduce the target range for the federal funds rate until we have gained greater confidence that inflation is moving sustainably toward 2 percent. So far this year, the data have not given us that greater confidence. In particular, and as I noted earlier, readings on inflation have come in above expectations. It is likely that gaining such greater confidence will take longer than previously expected.

The Fed stands at a complicated economic juncture. After months of rapid cooling, inflation has proved surprisingly sticky in early 2024. The Fed’s preferred inflation index has made little progress since December, and although it is down sharply from its 7.1 percent high in 2022, its current 2.7 percent is still well above the Fed’s 2 percent goal. That calls into question how soon and how much officials will be able to lower interest rates.

“What we’ve said is that we need to be more confident” that inflation is coming down sufficiently and sustainably before cutting rates, Mr. Powell said. “It appears that it’s going to take longer for us to reach that point of confidence.”

The Fed raised interest rates quickly between early 2022 and the summer of 2023, hoping to slow the economy by tamping down demand, which would in turn help to wrestle inflation under control. Higher Fed rates trickle through financial markets to push up mortgage, credit card and business loan rates, which can cool both consumption and company expansions over time.

But Fed policymakers stopped raising rates last year because inflation had begun to come down and the economy appeared to be cooling, making them confident that they had done enough. They have held rates steady for six straight meetings, and as recently as March, they had expected to make three interest rate cuts in 2024. Now, though, inflation’s recent staying power has made that look less likely.

Many economists have begun to push back their expectations for when rate reductions will begin, and investors now expect only one or two this year. Odds that the Fed will not cut rates at all this year have increased notably over the past month.

Mr. Powell made it clear on Wednesday that officials still thought that their next policy move was likely to be a rate cut and said that a rate increase was “unlikely.” But he demurred when asked whether three reductions were likely in 2024.

He laid out pathways in which the Fed would — or would not — cut rates. He said that if inflation came down or the labor market weakened, borrowing costs could come down.

On the other hand, “if we did have a path where inflation proves more persistent than expected, and where the labor market remains strong, but inflation is moving sideways and we’re not gaining greater confidence, well, that could be a case in which it could be appropriate to hold off on rate cuts,” Mr. Powell said.

Investors responded favorably to Mr. Powell’s news conference, likely because he suggested that the bar for raising rates was high and that rates could come down in multiple scenarios. Stocks rose and bond yields fell as Mr. Powell spoke.

“The big surprise was how reluctant Powell was to talk about rate hikes,” said Michael Feroli, chief U.S. economist at J.P. Morgan. “He really seemed to say that the options are cutting or not cutting.”

Still, a longer period of high Fed rates will be felt from Wall Street to Main Street. Key stock indexes fell in April as investors came around to the idea that borrowing costs could remain high for longer, and mortgage rates have crept back above 7 percent, making home buying pricier for many want-to-be owners.

Fed officials are planning to keep rates high for a reason: They want to be sure to stamp out inflation fully to prevent quickly rising prices from becoming a more permanent part of America’s economy.

Policymakers are closely watching how inflation data shape up as they try to figure out their next steps. Economists still expect that price increases will start to slow down again in the months to come, in particular as rent increases fade from key price measures.

“My expectation is that we will, over the course of this year, see inflation move back down,” Mr. Powell said on Wednesday. But he added that “my confidence in that is lower than it was because of the data that we’ve seen.”

As the Fed tries to assess the outlook, officials are likely to also keep an eye on momentum in the broader economy. Economists generally think that when the economy is hot — when companies are hiring a lot, consumers are spending and growth is rapid — prices tend to increase more quickly.

Growth and hiring have not slowed down as much as one might have expected given today’s high interest rates. A key measure of wages climbed more rapidly than expected this week, and economists are now closely watching a jobs report scheduled for release on Friday for any hint that hiring remains robust.

But so far, policymakers have generally been comfortable with the economy’s resilience.

That is partly because growth has been driven by improving economic supply: Employers have been hiring as the labor pool grows, for instance, in part because immigration has been rapid.

Beyond that, there are hints that the economy is beginning to cool around the edges. Overall economic growth slowed in the first quarter, though that pullback came from big shifts in business inventories and international trade, which often swing wildly from one quarter to the next. Small-business confidence is low . Job openings have come down substantially.

Mr. Powell said Wednesday that he thought higher borrowing costs were weighing on the economy.

“We believe that our policy stance is in a good place and is appropriate to the current situation — we believe it’s restrictive,” Mr. Powell said.

As the Fed waits to make interest rate cuts, some economists have begun to warn that the central bank’s adjustments could collide with the political calendar.

Donald J. Trump, the former president and presumptive Republican nominee, has already suggested that interest rate cuts this year would be a political move meant to help President Biden’s re-election bid by pumping up the economy. Some economists think that cutting in the weeks leading up to the election — either in September or November — could put the Fed in an uncomfortable position, drawing further ire and potentially making the institution look political.

The Fed is independent of the White House, and its officials have repeatedly said that they will not take politics into account when setting interest rates, but will rather be guided by the data.

Mr. Powell reiterated on Wednesday that the Fed did not and would not take into account political considerations in timing its rate moves.

“If you go down that road, where do you stop? So we’re not on that road,” Mr. Powell said. “It just isn’t part of our thinking.”

Jeanna Smialek covers the Federal Reserve and the economy for The Times from Washington. More about Jeanna Smialek

Everything you need to know about the 2024 Met Gala: Date, time, guest list and more

The Party of the Year. The Oscars of the East. Fashion's Biggest Night.

The Met Gala has a lot of names, and even more lore. The annual event reliably draws the biggest stars, showcases the most daring looks and spurs the internet's most iconic memes .

Here is everything you need to know about this year's Met Gala.

What is the Met Gala?

The Met Gala, officially known as the Costume Institute Benefit, is an annual fundraiser held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.

The event is traditionally held on the first Monday in May and is considered to be the highest-profile fashion event of the year. This year, the Met Gala will be held May 6.

The Costume Institute is now called the Anna Wintour Costume Center, honoring the editor-in-chief of Vogue who has helmed the event for nearly three decades.

What time does the Met Gala start?

The red carpet arrivals typically begin around 5 p.m. ET and end around 8 p.m. ET. Most red carpet livestreams, including Vogue's , will begin at 6 p.m.

But some of the most well-known guests tend to show up on the later side: Last year, Rihanna made her red carpet appearance at about 10 p.m.

What is this year's Met Gala theme?

Monday's inevitable social media discourse will not only evaluate celebrities' looks in isolation, but their adherence to the ever-elusive "theme."

The theme is simply the title of the Costume Institute’s new exhibition, "Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion." In addition to the theme, which describes the overall concept of the event, the Met Gala also has a "dress code." This year's dress code is "The Garden of Time."

The dress code is derived from a 1962 short story of the same name, written by J.G. Ballard. Vogue has suggested the dress code might evoke many floral and botanical looks on this year's carpet.

The exhibit will feature around 250 rare items from the Costume Institute’s collection, including designs by Schiaparelli, Dior and more. It will comprise three main “zones” — Land, Sea and Sky — to represent natural resources and sustainable design.

While the theme is, of course, open to interpretation, expect to see plenty of vintage and archival revivals on the red carpet.

Who are the Met Gala chairs?

This year's Met Gala hosts are Zendaya, Jennifer Lopez, Bad Bunny, Chris Hemsworth and, of course, Wintour.

Jonathan Anderson, creative director of Loewe, and Shou Chew, CEO of TikTok, serve as honorary chairs.

Zendaya, who is fresh off the media tour for her movie "Challengers," will likely be wearing one of the most highly anticipated looks of the night.

The 27-year-old actor has attended five times, frequently collaborating with celebrity stylist Law Roach. Zendaya's Joan of Arc-inspired look from 2018 and her light-up Cinderella ballgown from 2019 are among the Gala's most iconic fashion moments.

Who is on the guest list?

Technically, the Met Gala guest list is a secret.

We won't know for certain who will be in attendance until the evening before the event. However, a few of the Gala's regulars have given some indication of whether they plan to attend.

The event always brings together A-listers across industries, from Oscar winners to Grand Slam champions. For the rich but not famous, tickets can be purchased for $75,000. Final approval of the guest list and the seating chart must go through Wintour.

Taylor Swift, who will embark on the European leg of her Eras Tour on Thursday in Paris, is reportedly not expected to attend . Rihanna, Gisele Bundchen and Kendall Jenner are likely to grace the Met steps on Monday, according to Page Six .

How do you watch the Met Gala? What channel is the Met Gala on?

Vogue will livestream the red carpet arrivals on its website. Content creator Emma Chamberlain is slated to return as the magazine's special correspondent. Actor Gwendoline Christie, producer and actor La La Anthony and model Ashley Graham are serving as carpet hosts for the publication's official stream.

The event will also be broadcast on “Live From E!” on the E! network.

Social media platforms like X, TikTok and Instagram are typically bastions of memes, hot takes and outfit reviews on Met Monday.

We will be live blogging the festivities here at NBC News.