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New York City   Travel Guide

34 Best Things to Do in NYC

There are countless reasons to be mesmerized by New York, from its skyscrapers and monuments to its vibrant art, food, fashion and nightlife. Across the city, fresh perspectives are yours to be found; go for a stroll in Central Park or along the High

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Central Park Central Park free

This part-park, part-museum, part-concert hall swallows central Manhattan, and many of the city's most notable attractions are situated next to it or within its limits ( the Guggenheim , the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the American Museum of Natural History , to name a few). But travelers insist that you shouldn't just pass through Central Park on your way to another place. This 843-acre green space is a favorite of New Yorkers and tourists; you can come here to exercise, dine, go to the zoo and more.

Almost everyone has a positive impression of the park, but no one has quite the same experience or recommends that you do quite the same thing. There's an almost impossible amount of sights to see here (hidden treasures, indeed), including more than 20 playgrounds, 48 fountains, monuments or sculptures, and 30 bridges. Here's a shortlist:

National September 11 Memorial & Museum National September 11 Memorial & Museum

The National September 11 Memorial & Museum serves as the primary tribute to the nearly 3,000 victims of the 2001 terrorist attacks, as well as the six lost in the 1993 bombing. The memorial's twin reflecting pools and human-made waterfalls rest as eerie footprints where the World Trade Center's twin towers once stood. The 1-acre pools are enclosed in bronze panels on which the names of every victim are inscribed. The museum spans across 110,000 square feet and relays the narrative of the attacks through a series of multimedia displays, real-time recordings, authentic artifacts and interactive technology.

Recent visitors cited the overall atmosphere of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum as sobering and moving. Many travelers say they were impressed with the site as a whole, noting its respectful and informational displays. Reviewers say you won't want to rush your time here, with some recommending that you budget three to four hours to see all of the exhibits.

Empire State Building Empire State Building

U.S. News Insider Tip: Watch out for "sunset peak" pricing, which adds an extra $10 per ticket for two hours around sunset each evening. But on a clear day, it just might be worth it. – Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

New York City Tourist 101 dictates that you must swing by this landmark structure in midtown Manhattan. And despite the hefty admission fees, the crowds and the long lines, recent visitors insist that you won't be sorry. In fact, taking a trip to the top of the Empire State Building is either the perfect way to begin or end your Big Apple excursion – on a clear day you'll be able to the see the city's major highlights some 1,250 feet beneath you. 

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Metropolitan Museum of Art Metropolitan Museum of Art

U.S. News Insider Tip: Come for the art, stay for the rooftop cocktails. A seasonal rooftop garden bar offers views over Central Park, which is especially coveted at sunset. The roof garden stays open into the evening on Friday and Saturday. – Jessica Colley Clarke

No museum in the United States is as celebrated as the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Spilling over with masterpieces from all over the world, including notable collections from ancient Egypt and classical antiquity, "the Met" is an art experience unlike any other, and like much in New York, it's impossible to see all the museum has to offer in one day (or even two days, for that matter). 

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Statue of Liberty is at the top of many travelers’ must-see lists. A feat of 19th-century technical engineering and a beacon for immigrants arriving at Ellis Island, the statue can be admired from several different vantage points around Manhattan, including Battery Park and the High Line . But to truly appreciate its size and significance, you’ll want to visit the statue and Ellis Island while on your NYC vacation.

The only way to access the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is by using the official National Park Service ferry operator, Statue City Cruises. If you’re departing from the New York side, you’ll hop on a ferry at Battery Park in lower Manhattan. If you’re departing from the New Jersey side, you’ll depart from Liberty State Park in Jersey City. The ferry ride takes approximately 15 minutes.

Brooklyn Bridge Brooklyn Bridge free

One of many signature landmarks of New York City, the Brooklyn Bridge is also one of the oldest suspension bridges in the country and a National Historic Landmark. Its six lanes (and one pedestrian and bicycle walkway) span the East River, connecting Manhattan to Brooklyn. Walking across the bridge remains a tourist pastime.

Some visitors decide to skip the bridge in favor of other attractions, but if you're short on money, this truly is one of the best ways to experience the city and to get a unique view of either borough at no cost. Several reviewers warn that since there is no shade along the bridge, it can get quite hot in the summertime (though there are vendors selling bottles of water). Many also warned that it can get quite crowded, and advised visiting in the morning before 9 a.m. if you don't want to maneuver around crowds.

The High Line The High Line free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning or on a weekday to avoid crowds. If you walk from north to south, add on a visit to The Standard Biergarten or the vibrant Chelsea Market for great people-watching, food and drink. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

Set on an abandoned rail track on Manhattan's West Side, this sprawling, nearly 1½-mile-long landscaped park stretches over three of the city's most lively neighborhoods: the Meatpacking District, West Chelsea and Hell's Kitchen. Standing 30 feet above street level, the High Line offers sweeping views of the Hudson River and Manhattan's cityscape. But the vista isn't the only reason visitors and Manhattanites flock to this manicured green space. Here, you'll find continually changing public art installations, a handful of food vendors and a sprawling picnic and sunbathing area (known as the 23rd Street Lawn).

NYC Food Tours NYC Food Tours

Known for everything from cheap eats to authentic international fare to Michelin-starred restaurants, New York City is a culinary hot spot and undoubtedly one of the best foodie cities in America . However, chances are you won't have time to experience everything the city has to offer in just one trip. One way to get a taste of New York's excellent cuisine across a variety of neighborhoods is to take a food tour.

Whether you want to explore a particular borough or neighborhood, or even a specific cuisine or dish, you'll find a tour to appease your taste buds. Relying on traveler reviews and expert analysis, U.S. News rounded up the best food tours in New York City . Though tours vary in length and price, they all receive rave reviews from past travelers, who applauded the variety of food and the expert knowledge of the guides.

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Washington Square Park Washington Square Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Finding an empty bench in Washington Square Park after visiting one of the neighborhood's independent bookstores – from The Strand to Three Lives & Company to Left Bank Books – is a true lower Manhattan pleasure. – Jessica Colley Clarke

The central gathering place of Greenwich Village is Washington Square Park, an almost 10-acre green space known for its downtown buzz. Here, kids splash in the fountain, musicians perform to a crowd, artists sell sketches or photographs, and chess enthusiasts gather to challenge each other to a game. What was historically a cemetery and later a bohemian hot spot is now a neighborhood institution that draws locals and visitors alike with its kids' playground, sizable dog run and ample shady space for picnics. An arch dedicated to George Washington is the dominant architectural feature of the park. 

Broadway Broadway

U.S. News Insider Tip: Start your day with a stop at the TKTS booth in Times Square or at the Lincoln Center location to snag discounted same-day tickets for an array of Broadway and off-Broadway shows. – Catriona Kendall, Associate Editor

Some out-of-towners spend their entire New York trip at one show or another on the Broadway circuit. And if you like plays and musicals, this is where you should be: "The Great White Way" represents the heart and soul of American theater. Considering that nearby Times Square is a dizzying maze of sights and sounds with no real starting point, some visitors suggest you can see all you need to of that neighborhood just by trundling back and forth between shows. 

One World Observatory One World Observatory

Formerly known as Freedom Tower, One World Trade Center is the main building of the rebuilt World Trade Center complex in lower Manhattan. This observatory sits atop the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and the highest point in the city. You'll find it adjacent to the 9/11 Memorial . At more than 125,000 square feet, the three-level observatory is located on the 100th, 101st and 102nd floors of this office skyscraper. Travelers enjoy the panoramic, 360-degree views, up to 45 miles in every direction on clear days. 

Visitors reach the observatory by direct express elevators known as SkyPods. The trip upward includes a visual presentation showing how New York has changed over the decades, from open land to smaller buildings to skyscrapers. The trip takes less than a minute. Expect a multimedia presentation at the top before stunning views are revealed. A restaurant and bar on the 101st floor are open to guests who have purchased tickets to the observatory. 

Grand Central Terminal Grand Central Terminal free

At this beautiful train station, you can eat some lunch or shop till you drop, but recent travelers most enjoyed just taking in the scenery. Before you enter, be sure to snap a few shots of the exterior's ornate beaux-arts neoclassical architecture. Inside the celebrated main concourse, you're treated to glimmering marble floors, gold and nickel-plated chandeliers and a sky-themed ceiling. Other must-sees include the Information Booth clock, the Whispering Gallery and Grand Central Market, a European-style food market that sells produce, gourmet ingredients and treats. Food options range from the upscale (Cipriani Dolci and The Campbell Bar) to the legendary (the Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant) to the fast and easy (Shake Shack). As mentioned, there are also plenty of shopping options, though most travelers suggest you leave most of Grand Central's pricey merchandise in the store. If you want a train-themed souvenir, visit The New York Transit Museum Store in the shuttle passage.

Travelers call the train station "iconic" and say it's a beautiful space to walk through or to grab a meal and people-watch.

Bryant Park Bryant Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: This Midtown park draws crowds for two seasonal events: summer movie nights under the stars and a holiday market complete with ice skating. For summer picnics or winter shopping sprees, Bryant Park delivers year-round. – Jessica Colley Clarke

Sprawling across nearly 10 acres, Bryant Park sits just south of Times Square – though it feels a world away. Though its lush green space has existed for more than 150 years, Bryant Park was a revitalization project of the 1990s that made it a sanctuary for locals and tourists alike. This is the preferred place for midtown Manhattan professionals to eat lunch, for fashionistas to strut during fashion week and for performers to showcase their talents during annual events like Broadway in Bryant Park and Piano in Bryant Park. If you're interested in learning more about the park's history, consider joining one of its free tours. Tours, which last 45 minutes, are free and offered every Wednesday, year-round. 

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Staten Island Ferry Staten Island Ferry free

Perhaps the most famous ferry service in the United States, the Staten Island Ferry runs daily between the Whitehall Ferry Terminal in lower Manhattan and St. George Ferry Terminal on Staten Island. The city has been operating the ferry service since 1905 and transports some 70,000 passengers across New York Harbor every day. It’s one of the last remaining vestiges of an entire ferry system that served New York City residents before the construction of any bridges.  

But the Staten Island Ferry is more than a transportation service; it’s an attraction, drawing tens of thousands of out-of-town visitors a year for a free ride across the harbor (that’s right, no charge; the service is provided by the City of New York). The 5-mile ride lasts about 25 minutes. Passengers must disembark and then reboard to make the return trip to Manhattan. Travelers remark about the views of the Statue of Liberty , Ellis Island, Manhattan skyscrapers and the bridges of lower Manhattan. 

Museum of Modern Art Museum of Modern Art

You don't have to be an art lover to appreciate the Museum of Modern Art; this airy midtown gallery also doubles as a shrine of pop culture and 20th century history.

Some of the most significant contemporary pieces hang on its walls, including Picasso's "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon," Warhol's "Campbell's Soup Cans," Van Gogh's "Starry Night," Dalí's "The Persistence of Memory," Monet's "Water Lilies," and the list goes on and on. In October 2019, the museum reopened after completing an expansion project that added more than 40,000 square feet of gallery space, as well as a performance studio that features live programming.

New York Public Library New York Public Library free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If you love all things book-related, consider visiting The Morgan Library & Museum nearby, which features J.P. Morgan's stunning 1906 library. The museum offers free admisson (and live jazz music) on Fridays from 5 to 7 p.m. – Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

This main library branch, officially called the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, attracts plenty of book lovers, history junkies and architecture aficionados. Most people swing by the Bryant Park landmark to say hello to Patience and Fortitude (the famous marble lions guarding the entrance) and to admire the lovely beaux-arts design.

American Museum of Natural History American Museum of Natural History

Visitors love the American Museum of Natural History off Central Park West. Whether you're exploring the interactive exhibits on the land, the sea or outer space; user reviews take on a common theme. This museum is incredible. Even the cafeteria and gift shop are worth your notice.

There are more than 34 million artifacts inside, spread across four city blocks, 26 buildings and through 45 exhibition halls, so don't plan on seeing everything in one day. The Rose Center for Earth and Space is a particular favorite, but you should also plan on visiting the dinosaurs, the Dorothy and Lewis B. Cullman Hall of the Universe and the Butterfly Conservatory (accessible November through May), which houses nearly 500 butterflies. Local experts say the institution is one of the city's can't-miss museums , especially for families.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Wander along Brooklyn's Washington Avenue, and you can't avoid stumbling upon this verdant 52-acre park.

A main highlight here is the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, punctuated by wooden bridges and Japanese maples. And if you arrive at the end of April, you can't miss the Cherry Esplanade ( Sakura Matsuri ) when rosy cherry blossoms burst into bloom. Another standout: the Shakespeare Garden, which contains more than 80 plants described in the playwright's works.

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Brooklyn Bridge Park Brooklyn Bridge Park free

Located on the Brooklyn side of the East River, Brooklyn Bridge Park is an 85-acre oasis at the foot of the famous bridge connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn. The park stretches 1.3 miles along Brooklyn’s waterfront, connecting Columbia Heights and Dumbo, an acronym for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, an eclectic neighborhood of boutiques, trendy cafes and restaurants. Travelers rave about the views of the lower Manhattan skyline, the New York Harbor and the bridge.

Among the city’s newest parks, Brooklyn Bridge Park was once an industrial district and home to a transportation terminal that served as an entry point for immigrants. Today, the park features rolling hills, promenades, playgrounds, basketball courts, sports fields, a roller skating rink, gardens, and more among six piers and the riverfront. What’s more, the park is home to more than 12,000 species of plants and wildlife. It also hosts a variety of events and programs throughout the year, such as sunset yoga and stargazing.

The Guggenheim The Guggenheim

The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, or simply, "The Guggenheim," is one of the most well-known art museums in the country, and it's just as renowned for its cutting-edge design as it is for its pieces. The coiled building (designed by Frank Lloyd Wright) stands out on Fifth Avenue at 89th Street. Inside, the halls are chock full of works from the likes of Picasso, Cézanne, Degas, Manet and Van Gogh, among others.

Visitors loved the building's design and architecture, but offered more mixed reviews for the art on display. Some raved about the permanent collection and the special exhibitions, while others felt the cost of entrance tickets was overpriced for the amount of art displayed. Reviewers recommended the Museum of Modern Art over the Guggenheim if you're short on time. 

Off-Broadway Shows Off-Broadway Shows

Off-Broadway may not have the glitter of the Great White Way , but these smaller theaters and their productions are often innovative and are no less engaging. Unlike Broadway, these theaters are not centered around Times Square , but scattered all over Manhattan and generally seat fewer people (between 100 to 499 audience members). Smaller venues provide a more intimate experience for plays, musicals and revues. Many of New York’s most famous productions found their start off-Broadway, such as “Hair,” “Rent” and “In the Heights.”

Tickets also are more affordable, generally between $20 and $75 per person. Look for innovative productions at places like the Public Theater, Cherry Lane Theatre or Playwrights Horizons. The Signature Theatre showcases revivals and new plays.

Rockefeller Center and Top of the Rock Observation Deck Rockefeller Center and Top of the Rock Observation Deck

This iconic plaza has it all – beautiful sculptures, an enormous skating rink, a fishbowl view of NBC Studios, plus a plethora of stores and restaurants. Though undoubtedly there will be intense crowds, this is an experience that's worth having at least once. During the wintertime holidays, the plaza sparkles with an illuminated Christmas tree and skaters gliding across the ice rink. But don't fret if your New York adventure doesn't take place during the cold months. There's plenty to do year-round. If you plan ahead, you can spend a morning watching a taping of the "Today" show, an afternoon admiring the city from the Top of the Rock Observation Deck and an evening catching a performance at Radio City Music Hall .

Travelers say the Top of the Rock offers some of the best views of Manhattan and say the experience is worth every penny. Visitors recommend booking the Rock Pass ticket that includes a tour of the building and observation deck access.

Little Island Little Island free

New Yorkers have long needed to get creative to maximize space on the island of Manhattan, where space is limited. But with the opening of Little Island in 2021, that creativity stretched beyond the island's borders and into the water. Little Island is an artificial island located on the west side of Manhattan in the Hudson River.

This public park, which is free to visit, offers a new space for locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in nature, art, free events like concerts and one of the most memorable locations in New York City to catch the sunset.

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St. Patrick's Cathedral St. Patrick's Cathedral free

This sprawling cathedral sits amid the hustle and distinctively secular bustle of Rockefeller Center . But that doesn't take away from its otherworldly vibe. Whether you're religious or just making an architectural pilgrimage, you can't help but be impressed by St. Patrick's.

Opened in 1879, the neo-Gothic cathedral spans the length of an entire city block and features 330-foot spires. Its interior is just as impressive thanks to its numerous altars, stained-glass windows, organs and imposing 9,000-pound bronze doors. The church welcomes more than 5 million visitors annually.  

Little Italy Little Italy free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Taste the best of Little Italy at C. Di Palo Wine Bar. With connections to the fine foods store serving this neighborhood for more than a century, this wine bar serves Italian cheeses, meats and wines in a comfortable, modern environment. – Jessica Colley Clarke

Once a thriving enclave of Italian immigrants, Little Italy is now a popular tourist destination (though remnants of the past remain).

Times Square Times Square free

Some say that Times Square is like a five-block metaphor for New York City itself – it's exciting, colorful and always jumping. Others describe this area of midtown Manhattan as artless, overpriced and congested. Perhaps this commercial stretch from West 42nd to West 47th streets is a little of both, and though locals would advise you to avoid it, you should at least catch a glimpse of its neon lights.

Most travelers recommend visiting the area after dark to see the marquee displays. Many add checking out Times Square before or after a Broadway show is the perfect time to fit it into your schedule. However, if you're not a fan of crowds, reviewers suggest you avoid this area altogether.

Fifth Avenue Fifth Avenue free

It's fitting that St. Patrick's Cathedral would be on the same street as stores like Bergdorf Goodman, Tiffany & Co. and Van Cleef & Arpels. That's because for many people, shopping is a religious experience, and here between 34th and 59th streets you'll find the holy grail. 

Even if you're not planning to put your credit card to work at high-end stores, travelers say a stroll along Fifth Avenue is a must. It's one of the top places to shop in the city, according to local experts. Plus, during the winter holidays, the street is decked out in festive decor.

Bronx Zoo Bronx Zoo

According to travelers, these 265 acres sheltering more than 10,000 animals should be near the top of every young family's itinerary in New York. And if you're an older visitor, the Bronx Zoo could be a great way to escape the nonstop activity in Manhattan. This zoo's claim to fame is that it's one of the largest metropolitan animal parks in the country. It's also one of the best zoos in the U.S . Originally opened at 1899, the zoo also houses several famous landmarks, including the Rainey Memorial Gates, the Rockefeller Fountain and the historic Zoo Center, which was constructed to look like a palace.

Among the zoo's popular exhibits is JungleWorld, which aims to recreate the jungles of Asia with animals like white-cheeked gibbons, gharials, tapirs, fruit bats and more. There's also the Wild Asia Monorail, a seasonal outdoor monorail that allows visitors to observe animals like rhinos, tigers and red pandas roaming freely in the outdoor habitat. Other star attractions include the Congo Gorilla Forest, the seasonal butterfly garden, Tiger Mountain and the Children's Zoo. Along with the animals, there are also several rides and experiences, such as a carousel and sea lion feedings.

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Apollo Theater Apollo Theater

U.S. News Insider Tip: Go to BLVD Bistro on 116th St. before or after your visit to the Apollo. They serve breakfast all day and literally have the best grits and pancakes I have ever had in my life. It is also Black-owned! – Lawrence Phillips, founder and CEO of Green Book Global

One of the most famous music halls in the United States, "the Apollo" started as a burlesque theater in 1914. By the 1930s, it transformed into a concert hall that helped launch the career of several black musicians. A then-unknown Ella Fitzgerald, Michael Jackson (with the Jackson 5) and Stevie Wonder all performed on the Apollo stage during an Amateur Night competition. If you're in Harlem on a Wednesday you can still go to Amateur Night, an experience some previous travelers highly recommend.

Metropolitan Opera House Metropolitan Opera House

Stroll through the courtyard of the Metropolitan Opera House even if you're not going inside for a performance. Every element of this opulent building – from the limestone architecture, to the lobby's glittering chandelier, to the acoustics in the concert hall – is gorgeous. Travelers call this opera house a feast for the eyes and ears. Tickets are notoriously expensive (as much as several hundred dollars for the best seats), but the sticker shock evaporates quickly if you're into performing arts. You can try to score a same-day ticket at a discounted rate, plus there are discounts for senior citizens.

The Metropolitan Opera House features spring performances by the American Ballet Theatre and fall and winter performances by the Met Opera Company. Showtimes and ticket prices vary by performance and seating, so check the Met Opera's website for additional details. You'll find the opera house at Lincoln Center Plaza on Manhattan's Upper West Side – take the 1 train to 66th Street.

Radio City Music Hall Radio City Music Hall

It's where Ella Fitzgerald pined for the man she loved, the Rolling Stones couldn't get no satisfaction and Lady Gaga had a "Bad Romance." Among performers, there's no New York concert venue that's quite like Radio City Music Hall. Not only is it the largest indoor theater in the world, its marquee spans a full city block. Opened in 1932, the theater is a New York City Landmark. Today, the theater welcomes musical performers like Ben Platt and Lil Nas X, as well as comedians like Chris Rock.

If you're in town any dates between November and January, consider attending the famous Radio City Christmas Spectacular, which stars the Rockettes. According to recent visitors who attended a show, there's not a bad seat in the house.

The Battery The Battery free

The Battery is a 25-ace park that sits at the very southern tip of Manhattan Island and offers a green respite from the steel and concrete of lower Manhattan. The park, named after artillery batteries that protected the settlement in the 17th century, is popular with visitors because of its views of the harbor and the Statue of Liberty . 

The park is home to perennial gardens, bike paths, grand lawns, an urban farm and a unique carousel, known as the SeaGlass Carousel. On the carousel, riders sit within iridescent fish and glide through a 360-degree aquatic adventure. The carousel’s bioluminescent design honors the waterfront site as well as another landmark, the Castle Clinton, one of the country’s earliest aquariums. 

Coney Island Coney Island

Known as the "the People's Playground," this famous amusement area in Brooklyn has an illustrious past. In the early 1900s, Coney Island enticed New Yorkers to visit with its bathing pavilions, seaside resorts and amusement park. The Great Depression took its toll on the fun-loving spot, causing many attractions to close. But after years of economic instability, Coney Island has reclaimed its place on the Brooklyn map, with a fresh roster of eateries and entertainment (including a July Fourth hot dog-eating contest and an annual Mermaid Parade ) found along the boardwalk. Coney Island now features several separate amusement parks, as well as a museum, which hosts a variety of exhibits and shows.

According to recent visitors, Coney Island is a worthwhile trip in the summer if you have the time and are traveling with young kids who would enjoy the rides. If you're not up for indulging your inner thrill-seeker, you can also walk along the beach, which spans nearly 3 miles and features several sports courts, as well as playgrounds. A walk along the iconic Riegelmann Boardwalk is just as memorable, according to recent visitors.

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Chrysler Building Chrysler Building free

Technically, the Chrysler Building is an office building open Monday through Friday, but you don't need to go inside to appreciate its aesthetic appeal. Recent visitors praised the building's unique architectural style (though a few wished you could still go inside to admire its intricate lobby and elevators).

Built in 1930, the Chrysler had a short-lived run as the tallest building in the city, before it was usurped of its title by the Empire State Building . Nevertheless, this 1,046-foot-high skyscraper remains a favorite among New Yorkers for its classic art deco style. And unlike the Empire State, at this site you won't need an expensive entry ticket, a strong stomach to stand soaring heights or patience for long lines to see what all the fuss is about. You can behold the building's menacing gargoyles and triangular openings from many spots in Manhattan. Though the lobby is currently closed to visitors, there have been talks of building an observation deck, though none is available at this time.

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The 42 Best Things to Do in New York City

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Our selection of the best things to do in New York City has been compiled over several years, with the help of editors and contributors past and present. We all call this place home, or did at one point, and put in the time living like tourists to figure out just how exactly to make the most of its myriad pleasures. What is the best way to see the Statue of Liberty? Where can one get the most “New York” meal, whatever that means to you? How do you get off the beaten path to avoid ceaseless crowds and discover something nobody else is talking about? We've got the answers to all of these questions and more, with recommendations spanning all five boroughs. Read on for the best things to do in New York City.

Read our complete New York City travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Andrea Whittle.

Balthazar Arrow

Keith McNally's flagship restaurant—this is also the master behind such atmospheric Manhattan mainstays as Pastis, the Odeon, Minetta Tavern, and Morandi, each also worth a visit if I may suggest a “Keith McNally crawl”—is a high-ceilinged, brasserie-inspired scene to end all scenes. Martinis are omnipresent at the bar and in deep red-leather booths. So are steak frites smothered in peppercorn sauce. But the asset that's fabulous with the greatest diversity are the patrons—like if that New York magazine cover all convened to share a meal. Alison Roman once told Interview : “The food is so bad, it’s too expensive, I love going there.” She's being facetious for comedic effect—the food is just fine, but it is true that you're really going there to go there. With your expectations duly measured, enjoy an uncomplicated onion soup gratine and some yummy, well-buttered escargot for starters before moving on to the steak frites main event. For dessert, there's nowhere worth going more than the perfect profiteroles, poured with warm chocolate sauce tableside.

Arthur Avenue

Almost every awning along the stretch of The Bronx's Arthur Avenue between D'Auria-Murphy Triangle and Ciccarone Park marks an Italian name possessing something—a pizzeria, a restaurant, a bakery. But just because it's all Italian, all the time along these two blocks doesn't mean all aren't welcome to come and patronize these establishments. It's some of the absolute best Italian food in New York City lined up for your convenience, bustling with life and good eats. Executive editor Erin Florio's relatives still do their Sunday shopping in the market, which she describes as "dusty but great." Poking around and picking a few things up there is really where it's at—bright seasonal produce, sausages of all stripes dangling from the ceiling, fresh-baked bread and vinegar-y imports from the old country line the walls in cans and jars. It's true one-stop shopping.

Film Forum Arrow

This is the last independent, nonprofit cinema in New York City. Little has changed about this humble, unpretentious theater since it first opened in 1970 as a screening space for independent films—there's the big marquee outside, lighting up an otherwise quiet stretch of West Houston; a ticket booth with microphone and glass partition; and a red carpet underfoot. It's retro without feeling dated, a warm place out of time. Behind the concessions counter, by the way, are some very nice people selling some very good espresso and baked goods (try the cakes carrot and orange bundt) in addition to regular sodas and candies. From new and obscure cinema made outside the US to a dazzling assortment of global classics that has most recently included Midnight Cowboy and Le Samourai , you can rest assured that every last thing on the marquee is worth a few hours of your time.

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.

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 Noguchi Museum Arrow

This intimate, meditative museum in Long Island City was conceived and built by Isamu Noguchi himself. Here, his mostly abstract sculptures and often-copied paper lamps are displayed across two levels of exhibition space and throughout a quiet, ivy-covered walled garden. Even if you're not familiar with Noguchi's work, you've probably come across one of his Akari light sculptures—geometric or globular lamps made of washi paper and bamboo that glow softly from within—which have become something of a modern design trope since he started designing them in the early 1950s.

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.

Jewish Brooklyn: Tours of Hasidic Brooklyn Arrow

The pockets of Brooklyn inhabited predominately by the Hasidic are not often explored on the average Big Apple itinerary. There are two guided tours you can take of Hasidic Brooklyn: Frieda Vizel's of conservative Williamsburg and the Friedman family's of the slightly-more-flexible Crown Heights (none yet open us to the cosmopolitan Borough Park.) The former rendezvouses in the bus plaza just below the Williamsburg Bridge, the latter around the dining room table of a family home. From there, you're off to the races learning from people who know and love their subject deeply. You'll also sample kosher sweets and stop at the deli, dip into a toy store or wigmaker, and meet quite a few friendly faces. Both are excellent ways to immerse yourself, for a few hours, in the culture of some of Brooklyn’s more enigmatic inhabitants.

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 $15 admission. Special tours are offered depending on the day of the week.

Staten Island Ferry

One of the first things associate editor Hannah Towey did when she moved to New York City was board the (free! bright orange!) Staten Island Ferry by Battery Park at Manhattan's bottom, watch the sunset over the water on her way to that far-flung borough, and then turn around and get right back on for the return to Manhattan. Forget the outrageously expensive Statue of Liberty cruises and the discomfort of the official ferry (although Ellis Island, unfortunately the next stop on the same trip, is worth a visit)—here you see plenty of Lady Liberty, Governor's Island, and the skyline without opening your purse. It's a dreamy 25 minutes each way, passed easily watching the myriad terns dip into the ship's wake. This is not to say you shouldn't spend a few hours on Staten Island if you have the time—the Botanical Garden is as gorgeous as it is free, and the food is impeccable with abundant Sri Lankan options (try New Asha, although you can't go wrong anywhere) and excellent Italian at Enoteca Maria for nonnas and their appreciators.

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.

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.

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. Shows that could very well run forever include Wicked, The Book of Mormon, and Hamilton , but there's also an ever-rotating selection of revivals and debuts worth checking out. And that's not to mention the more daring fare happening downtown at theaters like the Public, Off-Broadway.

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.

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. 

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.

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 rapturously energetic New York Film Festival (catch the latest films long before they hit theaters, embedded in one of the reactive audiences on this Earth), 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.

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.

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.)

Empire State Building Arrow

Though many across town are trying, there's still no better way to enjoy Manhattan's cityscape than from the top of the Empire State Building. The 102-story skyscraper was the tallest building in the world for 40 years, and though it's been outgrown by dozens of projects across three other continents, it's just the classic viewing point. There are, of course, always long lines to buy tickets, but that's nothing a little planning and purchasing in advance can't solve. It's also still a functioning office building with a bustling Art Deco lobby, so the people watching on the way up is excellent.

Tenement Museum Arrow

The Lower East Side Tenement Museum is, as the name implies, a historic tenement house (two, if you want to get technical). On a tour of the tenements, you’ll hear personal histories of the working-class individuals who lived there and see how they made do with cramped quarters to build new lives in America. On a neighborhood walking tour—the other way to visit the museum—you’ll learn about the evolution of the Lower East Side and how its thriving immigrant population made it the most densely populated area in the country during the 1900s.

Industry City Arrow

This stretch of waterfront has been a hub of Brooklyn manufacturing since Irving T. Bush first developed his family's rail-marine terminal (then called Bush Terminal) in the mid-1890s to add warehouse structures. The sprawling campus that stands today in the quiet Sunset Park neighborhood is Industry City, the ripe and succulent fruit of decades' worth of redevelopment efforts. The idea here is one-stop shopping: Pick up a coffee from one proprieter and sip it while flitting through the Makers’ Guild’s wonderful artisan shops. There's also a slate of full-service restaurants and outdoor spaces—manicured lawns on-par with what you'd expect from those in a private, luxury apartment building.

Russian Turkish Baths Arrow

This is a really nice place to hang out for half a day—beneath the churning East Village, sweating it out in a no-frills den of functionality. Up a steep, nondescript stoop in that neighborhood and through a heavy door and you’re in, leaving your wallet in a safety deposit box in exchange for a locker room key and then down another stair to the subterranean saunas and steam rooms. They’ve got ‘em all here, from the red hot Russian room (where they also perform the platza venik treatment) to a more bearable Turkish, with a cold plunge and showers for in-between regulation. There’s also a bountiful food menu serving up such classics as borscht and beef stew to keep you nurtured.

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

Mar 23, 2024 • 8 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.

Where Locals Go: NYC locals share their favorite nearby vacation spots

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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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

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!

Ascen Aynat

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

can i get a map of manhatten?

Hi Jeane, You can download the Google map at the end of this article!

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

It’s no secret that New York City is one of the most dynamic cities in the world. It's a global hub for food, culture, architecture, entertainment, and so much more. But with so many things to see and do in NYC, 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 from two experts, Fora co-founder and travel advisor Henley Vazquez and travel advisor Camila Alfonso of Valerie Wilson Travel , a Virtuoso agency.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Broadway is synonymous with NYC, so be sure to get tickets to a show.
• Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is both an NYC must-do and completely free.
• Riding the NYC ferry past landmarks like the Empire State Building is fun and budget-friendly.
• Spread out a picnic in Central Park, New York's iconic green space that's made for people-watching.
• The view from observation deck the Edge is simply breathtaking, with the whole of NYC laid out before you.

From boats and beaches to the world's best museums, here's what they recommend.

Attend a Broadway show.

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

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 .

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 and the number one attraction in Brooklyn. 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. You can start either in DUMBO on the Brooklyn side or in Manhattan, just across from City Hall. Note that you can also cycle across the bridge in the protected bike lane, separated from pedestrians and cars.

Hop on the ferry.

Busà Photography/Getty

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. The best way is also a bargain: a ride on the NYC Ferry costs just $4 (a 10-pack of tickets is $27.50) and will take you up and down the East River, past the Empire State Building and right under the Brooklyn Bridge. You can sit outdoors or in, and there's even a little bar inside. “Embark on a captivating boat ride through New York Harbor to bask in breathtaking views of the city's skyline” says Alfonso. “This experience allows you to appreciate the city from a different perspective.”

Pack a picnic and head to Central Park.

Central Park is Manhattanites' backyard. It 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 — is to simply enjoy lunch on a park bench or set a picnic basket down on the grass. Eat as you enjoy some prime people-watching. 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.

See the view from the Edge, a stunning observation deck.

Located in Hudson Yards on the western edge of Manhattan, the Edge prides itself on being the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. The thrilling attraction is perched more than 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. The view itself is simply breathtaking: the entire city, the Hudson River, and New Jersey are laid out before you.

Go for a swim at Rockaway Beach.

Just an hour-long ferry ride from Pier 11 in downtown Manhattan, Rockaway Beach in Queens attracts locals and travelers alike with its sandy shorelines and surf. “It’s closer than the Hamptons and far more affordable," Vazquez says.

If you plan on staying the night, the travel pro recommends booking a room at the chic Rockaway Hotel — 2021 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. 

Visit Fotografiska Museum NYC.

Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, Fotografiska Museum NYC is a must for its fascinating photo exhibitions, and Vazquez says the museum is especially great for tweens and teens. It's housed in an eye-catching, Renaissance Revival-style building on the border of Gramercy and Flatiron. Don’t leave without checking out swanky restaurant/bar Veronika located on the museum's second floor.

Check out Little Island.

NYC's newest public park opened in May 2021 along the West Side Highway and 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, dance parties, and live musical performances.

Wander around The Met Cloisters.

Make your way to Washington Heights in upper Manhattan's Fort Tryon Park to check out The Met Cloisters. The museum, part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, is America’s only such venue dedicated specifically to medieval architecture and art, much of which is displayed in old French monasteries and abbeys. You can easily spend an entire afternoon wandering its indoor and outdoor spaces, and Fort Tryon Park is a lovely place for a picnic.

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 cherry blossoms in late March-mid April (there are more than 200 flowering cherry trees), 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 Met is home to an impressive collection of works, some of which date back thousands of years.

Stroll through Socrates Sculpture Park.

Socrates Sculpture Park on Astoria's waterfront is a favorite of Vazquez’s for its tranquil riverfront locale and great installations. These include Suchitra Mattai's "We are nomads, we are dreamers", which, the park says, "celebrates the migratory oceanic journeys of... diasporic communities." It's fitting for Queens, where as many as an incredible 800 languages are spoken. 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. You can walk here in 30 minutes from the Staten Island Ferry stop at St George. 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. Staten Island is home to a number of New York's best Sri Lankan restaurants, including New Asha .

Walk down Arthur Ave.

Arthur Avenue has gained a reputation as being the city’s lesser-known but far more authentic 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 Funici A Pizza for pies, Tino’s Delicatessen for stuffed heroes, Casa Della Mozzarella for fresh mozz, Dominick’s for large plates of pasta, Tony & Tina’s for burek, and Madonia 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 .

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 noodle soups, dim sum favorites like shumai and pork buns, dumplings of all kinds, chicken feet, and barbecue spare ribs, 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 car-free 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 year-round on Governor's Island, including biking its perimeter without any honking cars, relaxing at European-style QC Spa , and seeing 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).

Ride the Ferris wheel at Coney Island.

Coney Island is a hotspot for families with its abundance of nostalgia-inducing amusement park rides, including the classic Ferris wheel, 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 Brooklyn's hip Williamsburg , the rooftop at Royalton Park Avenue , and Panorama Room at the Graduate New York on Roosevelt Island (the views alone are worth the fun tram ride here).

Visit Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.

These two New York City landmarks are only accessible via ferry and require tickets. 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.

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.

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 Rag & Bone and Anine Bing to 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 a new brand of 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 crêpes and dosas (at Sweet & Savory) to Chinese-leaning seafood (House of the Red Pearl) and French fare (T. Brasserie).

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 coupled 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. In May 2023, 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 the city’s highest indoor vantage 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 restaurants and attractions. Film buffs should not miss the Museum of the Moving Image , where you'll learn more about the art, history, and technology of movies. From there, grab a bite at one of many Greek eateries — Astoria has the highest population of Greeks in the U.S. — 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 a killer slice of white pizza at Steinway Pizza.

Eat 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.

Melina Mara/The Washington Post

As of 2024, there are 66 Michelin-starred restaurants in New York 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 French-leaning Le Bernardin dishes out spectacular seafood. In Brooklyn, there's Modern American restaurant Clover Hill (Cobble Hill) and Aska  in Williamsburg, which serves seasonal Scandinavian fare. In Long Island City, Queens is Meju , a chic traditional Korean fermentation restaurant.

Catch a comedy show.

Gabe Ginsberg/Getty Images

If you love to laugh — and who doesn't? — 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, Brooklyn.

Take a helicopter ride over NYC icons.

Getty Images

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. This is a short, sweet, and fairly expensive experience: HeliNY 's helicopter tours start from $259 and Liberty Helicopter 's from $249, both for 12-15-minute rides; these exclude the heliport fee which is around $40.

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 1930s-era former 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.

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The 85 best New York attractions that should be on your list

Discover the New York attractions locals love including historical landmarks, stunning NYC parks and more.

Our definitive guide to the best New York attractions is a great place to start whether you're entertaining out-of-town guests or simply want to channel your inner tourist. The list is a compilation of our favorite sights and spots in the city, including everything from great  parks  and  art museums , to food markets and historical venues. The Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty are obviously must-see attractions, but we’ve also highlighted a few of our favorite hidden gems, such as one of NYC's greatest flea markets , Hudson Yard's Vessel , and foodie haven Smorgasburg .

Thirsty for more?  🗽Discover the 50 very best things to do in NYC 🏡Take your pick of  the coolest Airbnbs in NYC 🛥Stay in  the best boat rentals in NYC   ⛴Or how about  the best boat tours in NYC ?

How do we know it's the best of the best? Our lists are expertly curated by our local experts far and wide to offer you the lowdown on where to go, what to eat and what to see. Btw, t his article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click  here .  

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Top New York attractions

1.  one world observatory.

• Towers and viewpoints
• Financial District

Although the One World Observatory occupies floors 100 to 102 of the tallest building of the Western Hemisphere, this observation deck can be reached in just 60 seconds via a set of visually immersive 'Sky Pod' elevators. During the interactive tour experience, guests walk through some of the bedrock on which the building is built before entering the elevators, which are fitted with floor-to-ceiling LED screens showing a video of the city and building's history. Once at the top, the video concludes as the screen lifts up to reveal stunning 360-degree views of the Manhattan skyline. Folks typically spend a couple of hours here including queuing time. 

Time Out tip: After soaking up the sights, head to One Café for casual fare, One Mix for small plates and cocktails or, the gem, One Dine for a full dining experience with large windows looking onto the horizon (reservations required). —Dan Q. Dao

2.  Madame Tussauds New York

• Sightseeing
• Midtown West
• price 4 of 4

When Madame Tussaud first started creating wax figures in Europe in the late 18th century, she immortalized figures from the bloody French Revolution, and later, in her first museum space on Baker Street, London she presented persons involved in sensational crimes. Now, over a 150 years after her death, Tussaud’s legacy lives on with museums in several major cities around the world. Yet, few can compare in either size or popularity with the five-story Times Square, New York edition. Folks hoping to take a memento home with them should splurge for the tickets that include your very own wax hand sculpture–you certainly can’t get something like that at every tourist attraction.

3.  American Museum of Natural History

• Science and technology
• Upper West Side

Beyond the iconic, show-stopping displays–the grizzly bear in the Hall of North American Mammals, the 94-feet long blue whale, the prehistoric Barosaurus skeleton rearing up as if to scare the adjacent Allosaurus skeleton–is an expertly curated, 148-year-old museum that fills visitors of all ages with a curiosity about the universe. Whether you’re interested in the world below our feet, or the cultures of faraway lands or the stars light-years beyond our reach, your visit is bound to teach you a few things you never knew. — Tolly Wright

4.  Legoland New York

You know what we all need more of in our lives? Lego. Because, well, play is fun. And you’ll sure find a lot of Lego at this incredible New York attraction that is dedicated to the stuff. Well, kind of, because really it’s a very family-friendly amusement park that leans nicely on those little plastic bricks and all the pleasing vibes they bring. Plus, the rides are a lot of fun. Take the kids in your life and watch their smiles. Good times.

5.  The Frick Collection

• Art and design
• price 2 of 4

The opulent residence that houses a private collection of great masters (from the 14th through the 19th centuries) was originally built for industrialist Henry Clay Frick. The firm of Carrère & Hastings designed the 1914 structure in an 18th-century European style, with a beautiful interior court and reflecting pool. The permanent collections include world-class paintings, sculpture and furniture by the likes of Rembrandt, Vermeer, Renoir and French cabinetmaker Jean-Henri Riesener.

6.  Helicopter Tours

Fancy coasting around the Big Apple in a chopper? Well, now's your chance. There's arguably no better way to see New York City than flying high in the skies, right? Grab your camera – and your safety belt – sit back and relax as your pilot takes you over one of the most iconic skylines in the world. Not sure which one's the right one for you? Take a look at our top picks of the best helicopter tours in NYC to help you decide. 

7.  See a show on Broadway

Is it possible to visit New York City without catching a show on Broadway? We're not sure it is. It's one of the best ways to experience NYC in all of its live(ly) authenticity and as there are so many wonderful shows to catch, we rate you'll be pretty spoiled for choice. From emotional dramas to belly-laughing comedies, there's a show on Broadway for everyone. Get your glad rags on and head on down to the theater district. The lights are calling your name. 

Time Out tip: Grab a table at Osteria al Dodge for dinner for delicious Venetian-inspired cuisine ahead of the show.

8.  New York Aquarium

• Zoo and aquariums
• Coney Island

Seen all you can on the streets of NYC and looking for an ocean-oriented activity? It's time to head to the New York Aquarium. Whether it's visiting the penguin habitat or working up your own appetite at feeding time, the  oldest aquarium in the US  has so much for you to discover. Be sure to check out the sea lion pool, the recreated reef, and the shark exploration tank – only if you dare.

9.  Westfield World Trade Center Oculus

• Shopping centers

The world’s most expensive train station , the Oculus serves the PATH train and 12 subway lines, and houses a beautiful mall inside of it. Designed by Santiago Calatrava, the exterior resembles the skeleton of a whale, has white metal-clad steel ribs that reach up and out, which symbolize a hand releasing a dove. The structure is a lasting reminder of the attacks of September 11, 2001. It is in alignment with the sun’s solar angles on each September 11, from 8:46 am, when the first plane struck, until 10:28 am, when the second tower collapsed. Its central skylight fits this alignment and washes the Oculus floor with a beam of light. The new shopping center inside has stores like the Apple Store, Aesop, Kate Spade, John Varvatos and others. Dining includes Eataly, Gansevoort Market, Wasabi Sushi & Bento and more.

10.  Summit One Vanderbilt

• Midtown East

Summit One Vanderbilt sits atop the new 67-floor One Vanderbilt super-tall—a 1,401-foot-high—skyscraper. As the city's fourth-tallest building after One World Trade Center, Central Park Tower and 111 West 57th Street, it is just west of Grand Central Terminal, where you first enter the experience underground. After a trip through a mirrored hallway with its own immersive elements, visitors take an elevator up to the 91st floor, where they're 1,000 feet over the streets and sidewalks of NYC. Kenzo Digital has created a totally mirrored infinity room called "Air" that reflects the sky and city views over and over, making you feel like you're walking in the sky or on another plane of existence. Looking above you and below you in this two-story space, you see your reflection repeating forever. After you ascend to the third level of this experience, guests are introduced to "Levitation," a series of transparent glass sky-boxes that jut out of the building at 1,063 feet above Madison Avenue. Here, you can stand over the street with just glass between you and the ground. It's certainly not for the faint of heart.

11.  RISENY

RISENY places thrill-seekers inside a 180-degree, 40-foot projection dome that plays 8K aerial footage to create the sensation of flight. (The ride is similar to Disneyland's "Soarin’ Over California" experience.)  The experience begins with a film by documentarians Ric Burns and James Sanders—narrated by everyone's fave actor Jeff Goldblum—that touches on NYC’s history, specifically Times Square and its global impact. Then visitors are taken to a re-creation of the city’s first subway station at City Hall circa 1904, which transforms into a fully immersive theater with visual and special effects. Eventually, a present-day subway car virtually transports guests to the galleries. While on the subway car, riders see NYC’s vibrant pop-cultural evolution through seven themed galleries— "Finance," "Skyline," "TV/Radio," "Fashion," "Music," "Broadway" and "Film"—that show off historic artifacts, star-studded memorabilia. Once they get through the galleries, visitors are finally whisked into the air, where they'll "soar" around NYC's landmarks (a rendering shows the Statue of Liberty) to a soundtrack with songs like Taylor Swift’s "Welcome to New York" and Frank Sinatra’s "Theme From New York." The full-motion seats will dip, turn, and soar while wind, mist, and scents are blown at riders' faces.

Time Out tip: Visting RISENY on the penultimate day of your NYC trip is the best way to end your trip. It's a real highlight.

12.  Edge Observation Deck

The highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere has landed at Hudson Yards. Sadly, the bird's-eye attraction dubbed Edge won't be open to the public until 2020. But judging by the rendering, it appears to be worth the wait—that is, if you’re not afraid of heights. The building’s outdoor terrace takes you 65-feet into the sky making it the highest public balcony in NYC. The deck not only features panoramic views of our city’s skyline but a killer vantage point below. Brave souls can stand on a large, see-through glass floor and wave to passerby 1,100 feet beneath. Much like the Top of the Rock concept at Rockefeller Center, there’s a 10,000-square-foot bar, restaurant and event space on the 101st floor.

13.  Citi Field

• Sports and fitness
• price 3 of 4

While they haven’t been as successful as their Bronx rivals in recent years, the Mets can certainly be happy about their stadium, which opened in 2009. With great sightlines, fun activities for kids and a prodigious selection of food and booze (including Shake Shack and Blue Smoke outposts), even those with the barest interest in the game will enjoy themselves at the park, which in recent years has also doubled as a concert venue with appearances by mega-stars like Paul McCartney and Nas.

14.  Little Island

• West Village

New York City’s hottest new attraction, Little Island, opened to the public in May 2021 and has since brought in plenty of visitors who flocked to see Manhattan’s newest “floating” greenspace. Open from 6am to 1am, the park is filled with open lawns, colorful shrubs and trees and a secret garden. While entry is free to the park throughout the day, entering between noon and close requires a reservation. For those feeling peckish, there are affordable food and drink options offered by Savory Hospitality. The park’s amphitheaters, The Glade and The Amph, offer a spectacular view of the Hudson River, with a majority of the events being free throughout the summer. Every Monday night at 6pm, the theater hosts Savory Talks & Performances, a free dialogue around food sustainability and industry trends. The lineup includes local farms and sustainable meat and fish companies, discussing the future of food production, including "elements of storytelling and dance" from Perform in the Park artists.

15.  TWA Hotel

• Things to do

You can actually look forward to going to JFK International Airport because of this gorgeous, completely renovated TWA Terminal , which serves as a hotel, food and drink, and convention destination. The i nterior of Eero Saarinen’s landmark 1962 building exudes 1960s chic with 512 guest rooms that offer views of JFK’s runways, a Jean-Georges Vongerichten restaurant, a rooftop pool, and an observation deck. 

16.  Empire State Building

• Monuments and memorials

It's practically impossible to imagine the sparkling New York skyline without the iconic Empire State Building. A famed piece of Art Deco architecture that took over 400 days to structurally complete, the skyscraper reaches an astonishing height of 1,454-feet—and while it's no longer the tallest building in New York, it held that title for several decades following its 1931 completion date. Visiting this illustrious landmark? Keep your eyes peeled for some of the finer details in the lobby (lovingly restored in 2009), as well as the incredibly impressive benefits from a $165m investment completed in 2019 (the second- and 80th-floor galleries really are something). Enjoy visions of the t opper’s three tiers of lights, which illuminate up to nine  colors  at a time and don't miss the rod at the top of the building, which is frequently hit by lightning—yep, you might see sparks (literally) fly.  Oh, and (of course) spend some time on the observation deck—the cityscape is ace, and the slick reservation system makes things seamless. Besides, the Empire State is open 365-days a year, so there's no reason to pass this one by.

17.  Brooklyn Bridge

• Historic buildings and sites

No mere river crossing, this span is an elegant reminder of New York’s history of architectural innovation. When it opened in 1883, the Brooklyn Bridge was a feat of engineering: It was the first structure to cross the East River and, at the time, the longest suspension bridge in the world. (It also made use of steel-wire cables, invented by the bridge’s original designer, John A. Roebling.) Now it attracts thousands of tourists and locals, who enjoy spectacular views of lower Manhattan and other city landmarks (such as the Statue of Liberty and Governors Island) as they stroll its more-than-mile-long expanse. Heads up, though: You may run into the occasional cyclist trying to navigate through the crowds on the pedestrian walkway.  —Amy Plitt

18.  Central Park

• Parks and gardens
• Central Park

To feel truly out of the city, head to the 38-acre wilderness area on the west side of the park known as the Ramble. The area has a storied history (as a gay cruising spot dating back to the turn of the last century, among other things), and it was even proposed as a recreational area in the mid-'50s. Thankfully, the winding trails, rocks, and streams remain, seemingly waiting to be discovered. If you want plenty of sunshine and more of a social vibe, spread out a blanket at Sheep's Meadow, where groups playing guitar and frisbee and tanning topless are sprawled out as far as the eye can see.

Time Out tip: Take your waterside picnic up a notch by hopping on a rowboat and enjoying the lake. Boat rentals go for around $25.

19.  Top of the Rock Observation Deck at Rockefeller Center

• 4 out of 5 stars
• Recommended

Let the world believe the Empire State Building has the best view of New York City–it keeps the crowds slightly more manageable at 30 Rockefeller Center’s spectacular open air observation deck. The bird’s eye view of Gotham from 70 stories up allows visitors to not only see other landmark skyscrapers around midtown–including the aforementioned Empire State building–but also to see the full sprawl of Central Park. Not quite as expensive as that other observation deck (Adults $38, seniors $36, children 6-12 $32), and for those who don't want to wait in line, there's a VIP ticket ($75) that gives guests the chance to skip lines and get priority elevator access. If you’re willing to splurge don’t forget to dress up and stop by the Rainbow Room–the historic lounge on the 65th floor–for exceptional cocktails, fine dining, live music and spectacular sightlines that rival the deck’s, albeit a few stories lower.

20.  The Statue of Liberty

• Liberty Island

Lady Liberty—or Liberty Enlightening the World, as she’s officially known—was a gift from France on America’s 100th birthday. A universal symbol of freedom that welcomed over 10 million immigrants sailing past to Ellis Island during the turn of the 20th century, the copper-plated sentinel stands 305 feet tall from the bottom of her base to the tip of her torch. Reserve well in advance—three weeks or more—to see New York’s skyline from Liberty Island with access to the statue’s crown, and go earlier in the day if you want to also take the ferry to the Ellis Island Immigration Museum.

21.  Vessel

• 3 out of 5 stars

New York’s ever-changing skyline has acquired another sky-high attraction for Gothamites to climb: Vessel. The 60-ton sculpture, located at sleek cultural destination Hudson Yards, resembles a honeycomb, although some New Yorkers joke it looks like a waste can. Others say the larger-than-life art installation designed by British architect Thomas Heatherwick is New York’s version of the Eiffel Tour. We say it looks like a good excuse to exercise and Instagram. Visitors will climb the spiral staircase made up of 154 interconnecting staircases, almost 2,500 individual steps and 80 landings, and while the current sight of construction is less than ideal (the attraction just opened to the public on March 15), the various outlook points offer sweeping views of the Hudson River that will appear mighty dreamy at sunset.  Know before you go visiting and climbing Hudson Yards’ new jungle gym is free, but you must reserve a time slot and get tickets in advance. Every morning at 8am same-day tickets are up for grabs, if you cant get a reservation in advance.

Note: The Vessel is currently closed. Check its website for reopening plans. 

22.  The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Sprawling doesn’t even begin to describe this Manhattan institution: It’s one of the few spots in the city where you could spend literally an entire day and see only a fraction of the holdings. Behind the doors of its iconic neoclassical facade lie 17 curatorial collections spanning countless eras and cultural perspectives, from prehistoric Egyptian artifacts to contemporary photography. Those seeking to satisfy their anthropological curiosity can explore the extensive assemblage of musical instruments, weapons and armor or the Costume Institute’s centuries of wearable art. And for committed museumgoers who have made their way through the permanent collections—an admirable feat—special exhibitions merit return visits year after year. Recent blockbusters have examined the career of the late designer Alexander McQueen and featured the works of Pablo Picasso.  —Carolyn Stanley

23.  Chrysler Building

• Civic buildings

We won’t argue if you want to call this glimmering pinnacle of Art Deco architecture NYC’s most eye-popping skyscraper. 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, the structure pays homage to its namesake with giant eagles (replicas of ones added to Chrysler automobiles in the 1920s) in lieu of traditional gargoyles and a brickwork relief sculpture of racing cars, complete with chrome hubcaps. During the famed three-way race to construct Manhattan’s tallest building, the Chrysler added a needle-sharp stainless-steel spire to best 40 Wall Street—but was outdone shortly after its completion in 1930 by the Empire State Building.  —Tim Lowery

24.  The High Line

When the weather is pleasant, there’s nothing quite like walking the High Line. NYC’s elevated park is certainly one of more popular New York attractions everyone needs to check off their list. To give you a bit of history, the High Line was once a railway line, in use until 1980. In 2009, the 1.45-mile-long strip was transformed into what is now considered one of the most unique parks in NYC. Featuring wildflowers, greenery and outdoor art installations in addition to killer views of New York’s skyline. — Evelyn Derico

25.  Rockefeller Center

You’ll find a  smorgasbord of  New York sites in this distinctive, multi-block complex—in fact, the ground level alone is home to the tourist-packed ice-skating rink, the bronze Atlas statue and the ‘Today Show’ plaza. Higher up, Top of the Rock rivals the Empire State Building in panoramic city views. You may not be able to access the five private rooftop gardens if you’re not a Saturday Night Live cast member, but you can still peek at the spaces from Saks Fifth Avenue’s eighth-floor shoe department if you can't help but be curious. Special credentials are not required, however, to inspect the Art Deco murals that appear in several buildings. Don’t miss the triptych above the outdoor entrance to 5 Rockefeller Center or the rinkside Prometheus statue; both purportedly contain secret Freemason symbols.  —Allison Williams

26.  Grand Central Terminal

For over a hundred years, this transit hub has funneled thousands of daily commuters (over 700,000 a day) through its expansive halls and concourses. Though technically a passageway for those looking to go elsewhere, the building is certainly a destination in it's own right. With its grandiose Beaux Arts framework, the terminal is a spectacle of both form and function. Familiar features include the vaulted, constellation-adorned ceiling and the four-faced opal clock topping the main information booth, both located in the Grand Concourse. Above the 42nd Street entrance find symbolism of Mercury, the god of travel (naturally), and an ornate Tiffany-glass timepiece.  — Dan Q. Dao

27.  Prospect Park

Urban visionaries Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, who most famously designed Central Park, also put their stamp on bucolic, 526-acre Prospect Park. Amenities like the Long Meadow and Nethermead offer plenty of space to pull up on a patch of grass and indulge in some people-watching, and the woodland expanse of the Ravine is a towering forest within bustling Brooklyn. But we also have to give props to Robert Moses: The controversial city planner was behind some of the park’s kid-friendly offerings, including the zoo and LeFrak Center at Lakeside, where roller skating and ice skating goes down.

28.  Brooklyn Museum

Brooklyn’s premier institution is a less-crowded alternative to Manhattan’s bigger-name spaces, though the innovative and impactful items found inside are just as important as anything you'll find in the city. The museum, found on the edge of the sprawling Prospect Park, has a large holding of Egyptian art as well as the famous feminist piece, The Dinner Party, by Judy Chicago. Works by such Impressionists masters as Cézanne, Monet and Degas are also included in the collection along with with prime examples of Early American Art, period rooms and so much more.

Book a New York City tour.

29.  Whitney Museum of American Art

When Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney, a sculptor and art patron, opened the museum in 1931, she dedicated it to living American artists. Today, the Whitney holds about 19,000 pieces by nearly 2,900 artists, including Alexander Calder, Edward Hopper, Jasper Johns, Georgia O’Keeffe and Claes Oldenburg. Still, the museum’s reputation rests mainly on its temporary shows, particularly the Whitney Biennial. Held in even-numbered years, the Biennial is among the most prestigious (and controversial) assessments of contemporary art in America. The 2015 opening of the Renzo Piano-designed edifice near the High Line drew acclaim for its sleek and simplistic layout. —Andrew Frisicano

30.  New-York Historical Society

History buffs will love this Upper West Side institution. Built in 1804, it's the oldest museum in New York City. In a nod to the city’s heritage, the museum kept the hyphen in its name, which is how New York was known in the early 1800s. The collection features more than 1.6 million works that explore the history of the city and the country, including exhibits, art and historical artifacts. Don’t miss floor four, where you’ll find the center for Women’s History and a glowing gallery of 100 beautiful Tiffany lamps. — Cristina Gibson

31.  Bronx Zoo Wildlife Conservation Society

Located in the Bronx (obvs) this massive attraction is the largest metropolitan zoo in the country. Spanning 265 acres, it has numerous exhibits, forests, outdoor activities and restaurants. Oh, and don’t forget about the 5,000+ animals! There are lions and tigers and bears (both grizzly and polar), all residing in naturalistic habitats. You can easily spend hours walking the trails past themed exhibits, like the African Plains or World of Reptiles. The zoo also has premium exhibits for an additional fee, but the sea lion feeding is completely free and highly recommended. — Rebecca Fontana

32.  Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

New York’s Guggenheim is as famous for its landmark building—designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and restored on its 50th birthday in 2009—as it is for its impressive collection and daring temporary art shows. The museum owns Peggy Guggenheim’s trove of cubist, surrealist and abstract expressionist works, along with the Panza di Biumo Collection of American minimalist and conceptual art from the 1960s and ’70s. In addition to works by Manet, Picasso, Chagall and Bourgeois, the Guggenheim holds the largest collection of Kandinskys in the U.S. — Howard Halle

33.  Times Square

Manhattan’s heart was once a hub for vice, teeming with sex shops and drug dealers. Over time that notorious reputation has eroded, and now the area can feel like a tourist-clogged shopping mall. Still, changes such as the stairs above the TKTS booth and a pedestrian plaza along Broadway have improved the sightseeing experience…sort of. If the thought of attending the annual glitzy New Year’s Eve celebration gives you hives, you can see the midnight countdown re-created on a smaller scale at the Times Square Visitor Center, thanks to one of the Waterford crystal balls used in years past.  —Allison Williams

34.  New York Botanical Garden

Every city park offers its own brand of verdant escapism, but this lush expanse goes beyond landscaped flora. In addition to housing swaths of vegetation—including the 50-acre forest, featuring some of the oldest trees in the city—the garden cultivates a rotating roster of shows that nod to the world’s most cherished green spaces, such as the regal grounds of Spain’s Alhambra palace and Monet’s alfresco sanctuary at Giverny.  —Sarah Bruning

35.  Brooklyn Flea

• Markets and fairs

Attending an outdoor bazaar is certainly a must here in New York, and Brooklyn Flea is hands-down one of the top flea markets to hit. The market has everything, including an impressive selection of throwback wares and records, which you certainly wouldn’t find in any vintage clothing store or record store in the city. The food selection is also nothing to sneeze at, since the creators also operate one of the city’s best food festivals: Smorgasburg.

36.  Flushing Meadows–Corona Park

Give the city’s fourth-biggest park a day and it’ll show you the world: Its most enduring icon is the Unisphere, the mammoth steel globe created for the 1964 World’s Fair. But there’s also first-rate culture and sports at the New York Hall of Science, Arthur Ashe Stadium and Citi Field (depending on how the Mets are doing). The rolling green fields also encompass a zoo, a boating lake, a skate park, a barbecue area, playfields, and a $66 million aquatic and hockey center. In 2011, wetland plants such as swamp azalea and swamp milkweed were added to better handle the park’s water runoff, improving the catch-and-release fishing in Meadow Lake.  —Allison Williams

37.  Brookfield Place

• Battery Park City

This downtown luxury complex, originally dubbed the World Financial Center, is now home to a number of offices including Merrill Lynch and American Express. On the ground level, however, find a mecca of retail attractions ranging from fashion (Burberry, Hermes, Gucci) to dining (Amada, the food hall Le District). Beyond shopping, stroll around the space to enjoy installations of art in the glass-encased winter garden, or head outdoors for ice skating during cold-weather months. — Dan Q. Dao

See Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, and Battery Park.

38.  Chelsea Market

Once home to a National Biscuit Company (Nabisco) factory, this Chelsea-set food court caters to locals and restaurant-savvy tourists alike. An ever-changing lineup of dining and drinking options range from all-star Philadelphia hummus slingers Dizengoff to the oyster-and-seafood bar Cull & Pistol and the master-sommelier–helmed Corkbuzz Wine Studio, while commercial vendors include Anthropologie, Posman Books and the locally-driven Artists & Fleas. A stone's throw away from High Line Park and the nightlife hub of the Meatpacking District, the market is a must-visit destination when in the area. — Dan Q. Dao

39.  Apollo Theater

This Harlem institution has been the site of more than a few historic moments: Ella Fitzgerald’s first performance happened here in 1934; Live at the Apollo, recorded in 1962, practically launched James Brown into the mainstream; and a young Jimi Hendrix won an Amateur Night contest in 1964. Despite its storied history and grand decor, this living link to the Harlem Renaissance feels rather cozy inside. As of late, the theater has attracted big-name comedians (Aziz Ansari, Tracy Morgan, Jim Gaffigan) and huge rock stars (Paul McCartney, Bruce Springsteen), while still welcoming under-the-radar talent to its famed Wednesday Amateur Night. —Tim Lowery

40.  Brooklyn Heights and Brooklyn Promenade

• Brooklyn Heights

For a great place to enjoy a panoramic view of everything the city has to offer, beeline for Brooklyn Promenade. Opened in 1950, this one-third-mile stretch of pavement along the East River has long been a favorite destination of residents, tourists and couples looking to make out next to an unforgettable span of NYC’s skyline. Breathtaking views of the Brooklyn Bridge and Statue of Liberty are both visible from here. Follow the views with a stroll around the 19th-century row houses down Brooklyn Heights’ tree-lined side streets, or head down to Brooklyn Bridge Park.

41.  Macy’s Herald Square

• Department stores

Holiday windows and enormous balloons may draw gawkers to Macy’s flagship during the winter, but the mammoth department store is a year-round destination for some 20 million shoppers. The $400 million renovation in 2015 outfitted the store with ostensibly Millennial-friendly gear like 3D printers, selfie-walls and laser-imaging tech, but restored the 34th St entrance and iconic rickety wooden escalators that have been at Herald Square since its opening in 1902. This department store is also home to the always stunning and annual Macy's Flower Show .  —Allison Williams

42.  Brooklyn Botanic Garden

• Prospect Park

Those searching for a little peace and quiet would do well to spend a few hours at this verdant oasis. The garden—which abuts two other neighborhood gems: the Brooklyn Museum and Prospect Park—was founded in 1910 and features thousands of types of flora, laid out over 52 acres. Each spring, crowds descend on the space for the Sakura Matsuri Festival, during which many trees bloom along the Cherry Esplanade. But equally impressive are serene spots like the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, the first Japanese-inspired garden displayed in the U.S., and the Shakespeare Garden, brimming with plants (such as primrose and crocuses) mentioned in the Bard’s works.  —Amy Plitt

43.  Yankee Stadium

The Bombers’ current field opened in 2009 to much fanfare and stands opposite the now-flattened original. It may not be the House That Ruth Built, but many elements of the new arena—the limestone exterior, the gatelike frieze around the top—mimic the old, plus cup holders at every seat and a high-def scoreboard are noticeable improvements. A museum behind center field aims to hold signed baseballs from every living Yankees player, but the most potent relic wasn’t allowed to stay on site—in 2008 the construction staff jackhammered out a Red Sox jersey a rival fan tried to install in the structure’s foundation.  —Allison Williams

44.  Union Square

• Union Square

This gathering place was named for the union of two of Manhattan’s busiest thoroughfares: Broadway and Fourth Avenue (formerly Bowery Road). Political activism has played a large role in the site’s history; the square has hosted rallies, protests and assemblies from the Civil War through Occupy Wall Street. Nowadays, its biggest draw might be the year-round Greenmarket—the city’s first, started by a handful of farmers in 1976—which brings locally grown goods to thousands of New Yorkers every week.  —Carolyn Stanley

Go on a customized walking tour.

45.  Flatiron Building

This 21-story Beaux Arts edifice once dominated midtown. Although it’s now dwarfed by other structures, when it debuted in 1902, the triangle-shaped monolith represented the threat and the thrill of modernity: Naysayers claimed it would never withstand the high winds plaguing 23rd Street, while revered photographer Alfred Stieglitz—who captured it in an iconic shot in 1903—wrote that it was “a picture of a new America still in the making.” Today, it’s possibly the least tourist-friendly New York landmark. The space above the ground-floor shops, occupied by publishing house Macmillan, is inaccessible to the public, but during office hours you can admire black-and-white photos and read a few panels on the history of the tower in its lobby. If you want to see the “point” offices (just over six feet wide at their narrowest), we suggest getting to work on the Great American Novel.  —Jonathan Shannon

Book a private walking tour of NYC.

46.  The Cloisters

• Washington Heights

This Middle Ages museum may have been constructed in the ’30s, but it feels much older than that. Set in a bucolic park overlooking the Hudson River, the structure re-creates architectural details from five 15th-century monasteries and houses items from the Met’s medieval art and architecture collections. John D. Rockefeller, who donated the land for the museum, even purchased a tract across the river to preserve the pristine view. Make sure to inspect the tapestries, including the famous 16th-century Hunt of the Unicorn.  —Andrew Frisicano

47.  Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

• Military and maritime
• Hell's Kitchen

Get schooled on the glorious history of American aviation and the brave heroes who pioneered the world's last frontier at this non-profit, educational institution featuring the titular, legendary aircraft carrier Intrepid.  Founded in 1982, the museum also boasts an unparalleled collection of fighter jets, a Blackbird spy plane, a Concorde, the nuclear submarine USS Growler, a prototype space shuttle and a capsule that returned one of the first astrotourists to earth. Permanent exhibits include a harrowing 30-minute video with audiovisual effects about the kamikaze attacks the Intrepid suffered, while new, rotating programs range from a summer movie series (kicking off with Star Trek , fittingly) to an annual Space & Science Festival.  — Dan Q. Dao

48.  Lincoln Center

One of the world's largest campuses for the performing and visual arts, Lincoln Center began its construction in 1959 thanks in part to funding from John D. Rockefeller III. Today, the center houses 30 world-class venues—including the Metropolitan Opera House, the David H. Koch Theater and the Julliard School—as well as 11 resident organizations that collectively host thousands of events every year. At the heart of the complex is the well-recognized Josie Robertson Plaza whose fountain can be seen spouting white-lit jets of water with the golden glow of the Met lobby serving as an elegant backdrop.  — Dan Q. Dao

49.  South Street Seaport

Hurricane Sandy may have temporarily wounded the famed Lower Manhattan sightseeing draw in 2012, but with recent developments by the Howard Hughes Corporation—including a pop-up-friendly Culture District and a fancy dine-in movie theater iPic — prove that the iconic port is back and better than ever. — David Goldberg

50.  National Museum of the American Indian

• Natural history

The life and culture of Native Americans is presented in rotating exhibitions—from Navajo jewelry to ritual tribal-dance costumes—along with contemporary artwork. The Diker Pavilion for Native Arts & Culture, which opened in 2006, has already made its mark on the cultural life of the city by offering the only dedicated showcase for Native American visual and performing arts.

51.  Museum of Modern Art (MOMA)

Sure, you could spend a day getting lost in the permanent exhibits, which showcase all manner of priceless pieces from renowned artists. But just as essential are this museum’s other elements, including an attached cinema that combines art-house fare and more accessible offerings, a sculpture garden with works by Picasso and Rodin, and the Modern, a high-end restaurant and bar run by Danny Meyer. Free Fridays, an alluring prospect considering the sizable entry fee ($25 for adults), are best left to the tourists and penny-scraping students; visit the museum when you can hunker down for a while.

52.  Queens Museum

Located on the grounds of two World’s Fairs, the QMA holds one of Gotham’s most amazing sights:  The Panorama of the City of New York , a 9,335-square-foot scale model of the five boroughs, created for the 1964 exposition and featuring Lilliputian models of landmarks. With an ambitious expansion project in 2009, the museum doubled in size when it reopened in 2013, featuring public events spaces, eight new artists studios and a glass façade featuring Grand Central Parkway. —Andrew Frisicano

53.  St. Patrick’s Cathedral

• Religious buildings and sites

Even though it faces off against the imposing Art Deco Rockefeller Center, architect James Renwick's Gothic Revival building holds it own with intricate marble towers, a cavernous ribbed vault, pointed arches and buttresses. But the real treasures are inside this active house of worship, which is bursting with awe-inspiring works. With a $175 million restoration project completed in 2015, visitors can delight in a shimmering, bronzed and polished new interior. More than 200 saints are represented throughout the church, with many alters helpfully explaining their stories for those who cut Bible studies class. Seek out the alter of Saint Louis, just north of the Lady's Chapel, designed by the Tiffany workshop and donated by Jackie O's father Michael Bouvier. To the south of Saint Louis is an oversized copy of Michelangelo's Pieta, made by the same sculptor who fashioned the lions outside the New York Public Library on 42nd Street.  —Jonathan Shannon

54.  MoMA PS1

• Long Island City

Fans of the Manhattan predecessor won't mind crossing the river to find this Long Island City offshoot, which is unique for its constantly evolving lineup of avant-garde artwork and new programs. And while there's no shortage of world-renowned artists supplying work here (Janet Cardiff, Olafur Eliasson), the venue also curates one of the city’s most popular music events, Warm Up, which pairs innovative installations with live music from up-and-coming acts to challenge visitors’ expectations of what art can be.  — Dan Q. Dao

55.  Chinatown

Take a walk in the area south of Broome Street and east of Lafayette, and you’ll feel as though you’ve entered not just a different country but a different continent. Mott and Grand Streets are lined with stands selling exotic foodstuffs such as live eels, square watermelons and hairy rambutans, while Canal Street glitters with jewelry stores and gift shops. Here you’ll find some of the best restaurants in NYC representing the cuisine of virtually every province of mainland China and Hong Kong, plus Indonesian, Malaysian, Thai and Vietnamese eateries and shops. As Chinatown—NYC's largest Asian community—continues to grow, it merges with neighboring Little Italy and the Lower East Side. — Tazi Phillips

56.  Washington Square Park arch

• Greenwich Village

The beatniks, folkies and hippies who famously flocked to this public space are still there, though sporting slightly different facial hair than their boundary-breaking predecessors. During warmer months, the park is one of the best people-watching spots in the city, as musicians and street artists perform in the shadow of the towering 1895 Washington Arch, a modest replica of Paris’s Arc de Triomphe designed by Stanford White (whose fingerprints are found on more than a few landmark NYC structures). From 2007–2014, the park underwent a controversial, multimillion-dollar renovation, which has yielded more benches, paths, lawn space and vegetation. —Tim Lowery

Go on a two-hour walking tour of Greenwich Village.

57.  Madison Square Garden

• Music venues

Big, beloved and not-so-beautiful MSG is perhaps the most famous sports arena in the world. Perched above Penn Station since 1968, the 20,000 seat venue is not only home to New York basketball and ice hockey teams the Knicks and the Rangers, but also is a favorite spot for college basketball tournaments (The Big East), professional boxing, MMA fighting and, as a destination for WWE. Non-sports fans, however, mainly know the Garden as the best spot in town to catch touring international sensations like Adele, Beyonce and Aziz Ansari and countless other amazing concerts.. To learn about the history of the arena, which existed in several other iterations at other locations for the past 130 years, and for a look at where the athletes get dressed, check out the all-access tour ($26.95, seniors and students $19.95, or with show ticket an additional $16, group rates available), which has stops in the locker rooms, the arena bowl and through exhibits featuring images and paraphernalia from iconic moments in sports and performance history. — Tolly Wright

58.  Socrates Sculpture Park

In 1986, artists and activists created this 4.5-acre city park over a landfill. Now, it hosts large-scale sculpture exhibits year-round, and is one of the few locations in the city specifically designated for artists to create outdoor works. The splendid Queens space looks out over the Manhattan skyline and is open 365 days a year, with a Greenmarket, free yoga and tai chi classes and more.

59.  AKC Museum of the Dog

• Exhibitions

Here’s a pawsh art musem for pups. On February 8, the AKC Museum of the Dog reopend in midtown, and New Yorkers have been panting in excitement ever since. The American Kennel Club moved the original exhibit, formerly doghoused in the New York Life Building, closer to its home turf and library. To be clear: This is not a relentlessly Instagrammable Museum of Ice Cream or Museum of Pizza situation. So, why dig up the 15 bones to enter? For the photo booth that reveals which dog breed you look most like. Have your pup-arazzi moment!

60.  Snug Harbor Cultural Center

• Staten Island
• price 1 of 4

Sitting just a ferry ride away from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan, this Staten Island gem, a former home for retired sailers, is still somewhat of a secret. Spread across 83 acres, the area boasts an enormous botanical garden and cultural center surrounded by cobblestone streets and tiny paths of Victorian and Tudor homes. One of the most popular attractions here is the Chinese Scholar’s Garden, fitted with magnificent rocks meant to resemble mountains inspired by the poetry and paintings of Confucian, Buddhist and Taoist monks, as well as a bamboo forest path and Koi-filled pond.

61.  Bryant Park

Hitting up midtown's most beloved park? Situated behind the New York Public Library lies a a well-cultivated retreat that hosts a dizzying schedule of free entertainment during the summer, including the popular outdoor movies. In the winter, visit the Bank of America Winter Village for the free ice skating rink and pop-up shops for the holidays.

62.  Smorgasburg

New Yorkers love eating outside, whether it’s at one of the city’s best waterfront restaurants, elevated rooftop bars or open-air food flea markets like Brooklyn’s famed Smorgasburg. A favorite amongst locals and tourists alike, Smorg features nearly 100 vendors selling seriously delicious and graciously cheap snacks. It’s open from April to November (11am-6pm) at Williamsburg’s East River Park on Saturdays and at Prospect Park’s Breeze Hill on Sundays. — Christina Izzo

63.  Museum of the Moving Image

• Movies and TV

Only 15 minutes from midtown, the Museum of the Moving Image is one of the city’s most dynamic institutions. Rubbing elbows with Kaufman Astoria Studios, it includes a three-story extension that features a state-of-the-art 267-seat cinema and expanded gallery spaces. Meanwhile, the museum’s “Behind the Screen” exhibit examines every step of the filmmaking process, with artifacts from more than 1,000 different productions, and 14 classic (playable!) video games, including Asteroids, Ms. Pac-Man and Space Invaders . And do not miss its fairly new Jim Henson exhibit, where you can "meet" all your favorite Muppets and Sesame Street characters.

Book NYC tours and attractions.

64.  New Museum of Contemporary Art

• Lower East Side

The New Museum takes its name from The New School, where it originally opened in 1977. After a move to Soho, where the it became a fixture througout the ’80s and ’90s, the New Museum moved into its current location in 2007. It houses three main gallery levels, a theater, a café operated by Hester Street Fair and roof terraces. The New Musem focuses it program on emerging—and important but under-recognized—artists. 

65.  The Jewish Museum

The Jewish Museum, housed in the 1908 Warburg Mansion, mounts temporary exhibitions of contemproary and modern art and also has a substantial collection of artworks of art and Judaica. There is a permanent exhibit specifically for children, as well as a restuarant that includes an Uptown outpost of Russ & Daughters, the iconic Lower East Side purveyors of Kosher delicacies like lox, sable and whitefish.

66.  The 9/11 Memorial and Museum

In the footprints of where the Twin Towers once stood are North America’s largest man-made waterfalls, the bottoms of which seem to be impossible to see. The twin reflecting pools, the 9/11 Memorial designed by Michael Arad, are a solemn reminder of all that was lost during the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 and the World Trade Center bombing in 1993. Lining the pools, each one acre in size, are bronze panels with the names of the 3,000 deceased victims from the attacks, including the rescue personnel who died helping the other victims. For those who wish to pay their respects to the tragedy and learn more about the events that transpired, the museum serves as the leading collection of artifacts and documentation of September 11. Inside, visitors can hear first-hand accounts of survivors, see picture and video footage of the attacks and see recovered objects such as wrecked recovery vehicles, large pieces of warped metal foundation and the 30-foot National 9/11 Flag. — Tolly Wright

67.  Blue Note

The Blue Note prides itself on being "the jazz capital of the world." Bona fide musical titans (Eddie Palmieri, Ron Carter) rub against hot young talents, while the close-set tables in the club get patrons rubbing up against each other. Arrive early to secure a good spot—and we recommend shelling out for a table seat.

68.  Theater District

Each year, about 13 million locals and tourists take in Broadway shows at one of NYC's 40 Broadway theaters. Most of those venues are located in the theater district—roughly, 41st Street to 52nd Street and Sixth Ave to Eighth Ave. Each season brings a new wave of megamusicals, plays and star-driven revivals. Some boast gold from the Tony Awards. At the height of the fall and spring seasons, be sure to check our homepage for new critics picks, reviews and cheap broadway tickets. The savvy consumer can find discount tickets at most Broadway shows. NYC hurry—the curtain’s about to rise! — David Cote

69.  The Noguchi Museum

This 12 gallery space occupies a former photo-engraving plant, and the entire building was designed by the artist and sculpturer Isamu Noguchi to be a meditative oasis amid its gritty, industrial setting. As well as some of his most iconic sculptures, drawn, painted and collaged studies, architectural models, and stage and furniture designs, there is a garden populated with Noguchi’s work.

70.  Coney Island Cyclone

• Arcades and amusements

You can guarantee that the majority of New Yorkers have ridden the Cyclone. After all, it’s stood on the banks of the Coney Island Channel since 1927, which is a fair feat considering it’s constructed from wood. Thanks to a cash injection from Astroland, an organization that took over in the ’70s, this rollicking ride is still going strong, which will bring some comfort to remember when you’re being flung around the old thrill ride. — Danielle Goldstein

Experience the magic of New York City.

71.  Queens Night Market

Consider yourself a travel-loving foodie? Queens Night Market is your one-stop-shop in NYC to discover bites from 80 countries. Beginning in April through October, t ry a diverse range of grub that runs the gamut from Middle Eastern stews and Barbadian fishballs to Romanian-Hungarian chimney cake and tacos al pastor. The open-air bazaar operates from 5pm to midnight every Saturday, but the market has more to offer aside from fulfilling your late-night food cravings.  There’s always a great lineup of live music and performances such as Bollywood dancers, Indian electronica tunes, DJs and more. Check out  queensnightmarket.com  for the schedule. 

72.  Radio City Music Hall

New York City is full of legendary performance venues, but few match Radio City Music Hall in terms of sheer elegance. The Art Deco concert hall remains one of the prettiest in the city: Designed by Donald Deskey, its interior features opulent chandeliers and lush carpets, while the stage and proscenium are meant to resemble a setting sun. Although Radio City is probably best known as the home of the Rockettes, a plethora of noteworthy performers have graced its boards, including huge pop stars (Lady Gaga, the Jonas Brothers) and indie faves (Pulp, Grizzly Bear).  —Amy Plitt

73.  New York Public Library, Stephen A Schwarzman Building

The century-old main branch of the NYPL is about as regal a setting for reading—either on your laptop or those old dusty things called books—as you’ll find in the city. Two massive Tennessee-marble lions, dubbed Patience and Fortitude, flank the main portal and have become the institution’s mascots. Once inside, check out the cavernous Rose Main Reading Room, spanning almost 300 feet and outfitted with chandeliers and stunning ceiling murals. Though it’s a classy setting in most instances, it’s also where Bill Murray uttered, “Are you, Alice, menstruating right now?” and “Back off, man, I’m a scientist” in Ghostbusters .  —Tim Lowery

74.  Governors Island

The Hills on Governors Island are alive but not necessarily with the sound of music. Instead, you can hear the hum of parkgoers and their bicycles as they tool around the island’s two-plus-mile promenade, the gleeful squeals of folks slithering down one of the four massive slides and the delighted gasps of visitors ogling perfect views of the New York Harbor and Lower Manhattan. While much of the green space’s landscape has changed (and, oh, is it hilly), preexisting features such as Hammock Grove and Picnic Point are still major focal points.  —Jennifer Sugnet

See lower and midtown Manhattan on a 90-minute cruise.

75.  The Rubin Museum of Art

Opened in 2004, this six-story museum (once home to Barneys New York) houses Donald and Shelley Rubin’s impressive collection of Himalayan art and artifacts, as well as large-scale temporary exhibitions.

76.  Get a taste of the Lower East Side

You know, the only real way to the heart of a city it's through its belly. So what better way to dive into the history of this cultural melting pot one mouthful at a time than by sampling the best food spots on the Lower East Side – all the while discovering the rich immigrant history that gives this concrete jungle its unique cosmopolitan flavor. The tour consists of four main food stops with several sites along the way like the African Burial Ground Monument and St Patrick's Old Cathedral – a significant landmark for the Irish Catholic community. You'll cut through Chinatown as well as Little Italy and taste the beloved knish – originating from the  Ashkenazi Jewish community –  for the first time.

Time Out tip:  This is your kind of vibe if you've got three hours to kill, and are looking for something fun for under 100 bucks. Steal. 

77.  Village Vanguard

After more than 80 years, this basement club’s stage still hosts the crème de la crème of mainstream jazz talent. Plenty of history has been made here—John Coltrane, Miles Davis and Bill Evans have grooved in this hallowed hall—and the 16-piece Vanguard Jazz Orchestra has been the Monday-night regular since 1966. Thanks to the venue's strict no cell phone policy, seeing a show here feels like stepping back and time. It's just you and the music. 

78.  The Tenement Museum

This fascinating museum—actually a series of restored tenement apartments at 97 Orchard Street—is accessible only by guided tour. Costumed "residents" give glimpses into the daily lives of immigrant clans that called the building home over the decades, bringing to life the stories in an engaging and captivating way.

79.  Fotografiska

• Photography

The Fotografiska gallery in Stockholm, Sweden has opened a New York Branch in the heart of the  Flatiron   District that features three floors of exhibition space as well as Verōnika, a dining room and bar.  The gallery itself mounts temporary exhibits featuring photos from “grand masters and emerging talent” that range from “easily accessible to hardcore conceptual.”

80.  Merchant's House Museum

New York City’s only preserved 19th-century family home is an elegant, late Federal-Greek Revival house stocked with the same furnishings and decorations that filled its rooms when it was inhabited by hardware tycoon Seabury Treadwell and his descendants from 1835 to 1933.

81.  The Morgan Library & Museum

• Murray Hill

This Madison Avenue institution began as the private library of financier J. Pierpont Morgan and is his artistic gift to the city. Building on the collection Morgan amassed in his lifetime, the space houses first-rate works, including drawings by Michelangelo, Rembrandt and Picasso; three Gutenberg Bibles; a copy of Frankenstein annotated by Mary Shelley; manuscripts by Dickens, Poe, Twain, Steinbeck and Wilde; sheet music handwritten by Beethoven and Mozart; and an original edition of Dickens’s A Christmas Carol that’s displayed every yuletide. This is certainly not your average library.

82.  Neue Galerie New York

• Upper East Side

This elegant addition to the city’s museum scene is devoted entirely to late-19th- and early-20th-century German and Austrian fine and decorative arts. The brainchild of the late art dealer Serge Sabarsky and cosmetics mogul Ronald S. Lauder, it houses the largest concentration of works by Gustav Klimt (including his iconic Adele Bloch-Bauer I ) and Egon Schiele outside Vienna. You’ll also find a bookstore, a chic (and expensive) design shop and the Old World–inspired Café Sabarsky, serving updated Austrian cuisine and ravishing Viennese pastries.

83.  Museum of Sex (MoSex)

• Special interest

Situated in the former Tenderloin district, which bumped-and-grinded with dance halls and brothels in the 1800s, MoSex explores the subject within a cultural context—but that doesn’t mean some content won’t shock the more buttoned-up visitor. Highlights include a permanent collection ranging from a silicone Real Doll torso through to a nine-foot steel-framed love pen donated by a local dominatrix, to sex machines created by keen DIYers, such as the “Monkey Rocker,” constructed from a dildo and exercise equipment. Maybe not one to visit with your mom...

84.  El Museo del Barrio

• East Harlem

Located in Spanish Harlem (a.k.a. El Barrio), El Museo del Barrio is dedicated to the work of Latino artists who reside in the U.S., as well as Latin American masters. The 6,500-piece permanent collection ranges from pre-Colombian artifacts to contemporary installations. The space also features updated galleries, an exposed courtyard for programming and events, and a Pan-Latino cafe that serves tacos, chili, and rice and beans.

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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.

Statue of Liberty

Central park, rockefeller center & top of the rock observation deck, metropolitan museum of art, broadway and the theater district, empire state building, 9/11 memorial and museum, american museum of natural history, times square, brooklyn bridge, fifth avenue, grand central terminal, lincoln center, one world observatory, the frick collection (frick madison), new york public library, wall street, radio city music hall, st. patrick's cathedral, carnegie hall, bryant park, 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

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 .

More on New York

27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Manhattan (New York)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Last updated: October 16, 2023

The most densely populated city in all of the US, Manhattan is packed full of life, culture, and history.

As such, the City That Never Sleeps, The Big Apple, or Gotham, is one of the most interesting and exciting places to visit in the US.

Manhattan is a small island surrounded by the New York Harbor and the Hudson River; the city is chock full of ethnocentric neighborhoods, overall diversity, and incredibly vibrant culture at every turn.

If you’re looking for fun and exciting things to do in Manhattan, you’ve landed in the right place.

Herein, you’ll find some of the most iconic activities and attractions to do when you’re in Manhattan.

From historical landmarks to incredible entertainment and world-class museums to fabulous dining and shopping, you’ll never be at a loss for fun activities in Manhattan.

So dig in and get ready to hear about some of the coolest things Manhattan has to offer.

Table of Contents

1. Central Park

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This iconic Manhattan park is so much more than a park.

Central Park is one of the top 10 things to do in Manhattan.

A New York institution, Central Park is situated amid the Upper West and Upper East sides of Manhattan.

It’s an urban park that comprises nearly 900 beautiful acres.

Best of all, the park is fraught with many tourist attractions.

The park boasts picturesque landscapes, child-friendly playgrounds, an astounding castle, and an on-site zoo.

Best of all, the park is full of spectacular free things to do.

So if you’re looking for iconic Manhattan attractions on a budget, Central Park is your place.

Sprawling meadows, gorgeous fountains, lush gardens, and interesting bridges, are just a few of the things you can check out at no cost.

Other park features include a carousel, strawberry fields, and a centric lake.

Finally, “The Mall and Literary Walk” is a paved walking or cycling path that’s sprinkled with park benches for observance or literary endeavors.

A quintessential Manhattan attraction, Central Park is the perfect place to visit today, tomorrow, or this weekend.

Address: New York, NY, United States

2. Empire State Building

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This Midtown Manhattan skyscraper is synonymous with the Art Deco movement.

Built in the early 1930s, the Empire State Building is a 102-story building that houses businesses, restaurants, apartments, and beyond.

One of the most popular tourist attractions, the Empire State Building even lends its name to one of the city’s many nicknames: The Empire State.

Rich in history, the building has been a mainstay of the New York City skyline since its establishment and is archetypal in that visitors to the city immediately recognize it.

One of the best ways to drink up all the Empire State Building has to offer is by buying tickets for one of its two observation decks, both of which offer sweeping views of the city.

The main deck on the building’s 86th floor is an open-air deck while the top deck, situated on the 102nd floor is enveloped in floor-to-ceiling windows.

Besides the observation decks, the building is home to many restaurants and shops, so you can make a whole day of your visit.

Before leaving the Empire State Building be sure to snap a picture from outside: the building is famous for its ever-changing light themes.

Address: 20 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001, United States

3. Times Square

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Times Square is a Manhattan mecca for shopping, entertainment, dining, and sightseeing.

A proverbial crossroads where all of the city’s energy and vibrance comes to life, Times Square is a must see New York attraction.

Situated in Midtown Manhattan, Times Square is central to all of the city’s happenings.

Adjacent to Broadway, a few blocks from 5th Avenue, and surrounded by tons of culture, it’s a must that you plan a visit to Times Square when visiting the city.

Although there are tons of attractions centrally located here, simply wandering about the area is entertaining in and of itself.

Giant, bright billboards surround its perimeter, all walks of life shuffle through, and film crews frequently tape from the intersections, and many other entertaining things live and pass through Times Square by the minute.

People watch, observe the sights, and breathe in the culture.

Enjoy a hot dog or pretzel from a street vendor or poke about the bevy of souvenir shops.

No matter how you spend your time in Times Square, you surely won’t be disappointed.

Address: Manhattan, NY 10036, United States

4. Bryant Park

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This much-loved city park is situated just a few short blocks from Times Square.

The nearly 10-acre park is located in Midtown Manhattan and is a beautiful place to stroll, shop, dine, and observe.

Within Bryant Park are small, village-style shops fraught with local artists, crafters, and shop owners.

Small eateries, a bar, and a magical carousel are other sweet features that smatter the park.

During the winter months, an ice skating rink, that’s central to the other park attractions, is a fun draw to the park for visitors.

Though the park is open year-round, no time is more magical than the Christmas season.

Christmas lights, ice skating, hot chocolate, and holiday shopping against the soundtrack of holiday tunes make for a remarkable way to spend a day in Manhattan.

During the summer months, you can enjoy outdoor entertainment, recreational activities such as ping pong, and so much more.

If you’re looking for fun stuff to do when visiting Manhattan, be sure to add Bryant Park to your itinerary.

Address: New York, NY 10018, United States

5. American Museum of Natural History

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If you’re interested in history and the arts, New York is chock full of amazing museums.

The American Museum of Natural History is by far one of Manhattan’s most popular museums.

Located on the Upper West Side of the city, this museum showcases some of the world’s most amazing natural wonders.

Founded in 1869, the museum’s goal is to share artifacts and history relevant to humanity, cultures, and the natural world.

Known for its scientific collections, the museum is home to an incredible dinosaur, shark, a biodiversity corridor, and environmental halls all of which serve as permanent exhibits.

Other exhibits cover topics on birds, amphibians, reptiles, planetary sciences, fossils, human origins, and cultural showcases.

Lastly, the museum regularly hosts special programs for children, teens, and adults.

The most well-rounded natural history museum in the world, the American Museum of Natural History is one of the most incredible places to see.

Address: 200 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024, United States

Visiting other parts of New York? Why not check out some of the things to do in Buffalo, NY & some of the things to do in Brooklyn ?

6. National September 11 Memorial & Museum

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This national memorial site and museum commemorate the tragic terrorist attack and lives lost during the September 11th attack on the World Trade Center.

Situated in the Financial District at the very sight of the fallen Twin Towers, is this memorial.

Honoring those killed in both the 2001 and 1993 attacks on the Twin Towers, the memorial is an epic fountain that names and honors the nearly 3,000 lives lost.

A salute to the ultimate sacrifice, bravery, and memory of those who gave the most, each of the names of the deceased is indelibly engraved on the fountain.

The museum showcases artifacts and relics collected in the aftermath of the fallen towers.

From significant debris collected from the crash site to noteworthy artifacts leading up to the attack and so much more.

Museum tours are guided by 9/11 survivors whose firsthand experiences and knowledge make the tours ever more impactful.

Museum tours may take up to 90 minutes to experience fully, but the experience is breathtaking.

A cultural beacon of shared memory, a visit to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum answers the question of what to do in Manhattan; it’s one of many important things to do in downtown Manhattan.

Address: 180 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10007, United States

7. Top of the Rock

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Top of the Rock in Rockefeller Center’s famed observatory deck.

With 360° panoramic views of the city, there are so many amazing things to see from the Top of the Rock.

This spectacular attraction provides visitors with access to three astounding observation decks, one with better views than the next.

The first deck is home to the famed Radiance Wall and a gift shop while the second deck has a lovely open-air breezeway.

The third and most spectacular deck sits atop the 70th floor and is completely outdoors.

The perfect setting for a date, an engagement, or just some epic photo opportunities, this deck is a must see.

Best of all, when you’ve completed your Top of the Rock experience, the attraction is surrounded by many wonderful restaurants and exciting shopping opportunities.

Finally, tickets for Top of the Rock are by reservation, so plan accordingly.

Address: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112, United States

8. Madison Square Garden

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Madison Square Garden , often endearingly referred to as just The Garden, is a premier entertainment venue centered in the heart of downtown Manhattan.

Home to the NBA’s New York Knicks and the NHL’s New York Rangers, if you plan your visit well you may be able to catch a professional sporting event.

Besides hosting professional sports teams, Madison Square Garden is a large concert venue too.

Major headliners, as well as famed resident artists such as Billy Joel, can be enjoyed for the price of a ticket.

Madison Square Garden is an amazing place to catch a show or game, but it’s also a cool establishment to tour for its historical value.

As such, you can treat yourself and your family or friends to a private tour of The Garden by reservation.

From the arena to the stage and the rink to the restaurants, you’ll see it all during a tour of Madison Square Garden.

A must do tour, make sure to find room in your itinerary for The Garden.

Address: 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10001, United States

9. Radio City Music Hall

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This theater and entertainment venue sits adjacent to Rockefeller Center in Midtown Manhattan.

With a nickname like “Showplace of the Nation,” you can be sure you’re in for a treat when visiting Radio City Music Hall .

Radio City Music Hall opened its doors in the wake of the stock market crash of 1929 and it still maintains its historical architecture, aesthetics, and sensibilities to this day.

Moreover, the hall is best known as home to the Rockettes; if you’ll be in town around the holidays, be sure to reserve tickets to see these iconic dancers.

Beyond the famous Rockettes, the theater is open all year long for all sorts of productions.

From concerts to the opera and comedy shows to the ballet, there’s no telling what will be playing during your visit to New York.

So be sure to check out the events calendar in advance of your visit.

One of many cool things to check out when visiting Manhattan, be sure to plan a trip to Radio City Music Hall when you’re in town.

Address: 1260 6th Ave, New York, NY 10020, United States

10. Union Square

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A hub of lively cultural experiences, Union Square answers the question of what to do when you’re visiting New York.

Union Square is a pedestrian plaza surrounded by an array of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, shopping, and dining.

A beautiful place to stroll, shop, and sightsee, Union Square draws locals and visitors alike.

Littered with historical statues, picturesque gardens, and a gorgeous fountain, there are many sights to see in Union Square.

Furthermore, Union Square is also home to The Greenmarket, which is open year-round to shop for local produce.

During the holiday season, the Union Square Holiday Market hosts nearly 100 craftsmen and vendors for one-of-a-kind shopping opportunities.

Another popular pastime to either participate in or observe is street chess: al fresco chess matches that you have to see to believe.

A great New York City setting to explore, Union Square is one of the best places to visit.

Address: New York, NY 10003, United States

Exploring other areas of New York? Why not check out some of the things to do in Rochester, NY & some of the fun things to do in Lake George ?

11. The Theater District

Just west of Midtown Manhattan, beginning at Times Square and stretching a few blocks beyond, is New York’s famed Theater District .

Teeming with world-class entertainment, there’s nothing more iconic that catching a Broadway or even Off-Broadway show.

The near proximity to Times Square allows you to kill two proverbial birds with one stone; in fact, amid Times Square is the famed red staircase from whence you can purchase all of your show tickets in person.

This old-timey purchasing method has not only withstood the test of time, but it means you don’t have to pre-plan your shows in advance of your arrival in the big city.

From colorful musicals to gut-wrenching dramas, there are always outstanding, acclaimed shows running in the Theater District.

Some of the city’s longstanding shows include “The Phantom of the Opera” which has been running since 1988 as well as “Wicked,” “The Lion King,” “Chicago,” and “Avenue Q” to name a few.

What’s more, the Theater District is chock full of amazing eateries to check out before or after your show.

Whether you’re looking for things to do today, at night tonight or this weekend, the Theater District is your ticket (pun intended).

12. 5th Avenue

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If you’re wondering where to find the best shopping in all of Manhattan, be sure to plan a day on 5th Avenue .

Home to the finest shopping and dining in all of the city, 5th Avenue is one of the most quintessential things to do in Manhattan.

Stretching all of Manhattan, from the south end to the north end, 5th Avenue is also known as Millionaire’s Row.

Decisively glamorous and luxurious, 5th Avenue draws shoppers from far and wide.

Even if just to window shop, a stroll down 5th Avenue is one of the coolest places to go.

Speaking of windows, 5th Avenue’s department stores are famed for their incredible window displays.

From perfectly curated fashion muses to holiday magic, the windows along 5th Avenue are a sight to see in their own right.

Furthermore, some of the incredible stores you’ll come across as you meander down 5th Avenue include Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, Saks, Louis Vuitton, and Salvatore Ferragamo to name a few.

So pack your credit card and your walking shoes, because 5th Avenue is a Manhattan shopping mecca.

Address: 5th Ave, New York City, NY 10118, United States

13. St. Patrick’s Cathedral

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Famous for its Neo-Gothic architecture, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is a Manhattan institution that you have to see to believe.

Whether you’re Catholic or not, this Roman Catholic cathedral is worth paying a visit.

Renowned for its historical value, the cathedral has been drawing visitors of all religious backgrounds since its establishment in the late 1800s.

Besides its incredible architecture, the cathedral is outfitted with titanic bronzed doors, thousands of stained glass windows, and an astounding high altar.

Notably, the doors of St. Patrick’s Cathedral are always open to the public so it’s a great place to visit when passing by.

If you’re lucky, you might catch a mass, but if not, you’re welcome to pursue this history-rich cathedral or light a candle for a loved one.

If you’d like a more thorough look at the inner workings of the cathedral, you can schedule a guided tour.

The cathedral is also home to a lovely gift shop that’s worth visiting too.

If you’re wondering what to do with a few down minutes in Manhattan, consider checking out St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

Address: 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022, United States

14. Chinatown

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This colorful Manhattan neighborhood is fraught with culture and full of life.

Chinatown is a densely populated subsect of New York City that draws visitors from far and wide.

The busy streets of Chinatown are fun to explore; from street entertainment to unique shopping and amazing restaurants to quaint cafes, there are tons of things to see and do in Chinatown.

Speaking of, one of the biggest draws to this neighborhood is undoubtedly the Chinese and Southeast Asian cuisine at every turn.

If you’re looking for the best noodles, dumplings, and bubble tea in town, Chinatown is your spot.

Street vendors, souvenir shops, market goods, and beyond are all at your disposal in this colorful Manhattan neighborhood.

Moreover, Chinatown is also home to the Museum of Chinese in America which is one of many unique things to do in this Chinese-centric region of the city.

With so many things to see in one place, a visit to Chinatown is a must.

Address: Canal Street to Bayard Street, New York City, NY 10013, United States

15. Little Italy

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This Lower Manhattan neighborhood is home to a Euro-centric, specifically Italian population.

Similar to Chinatown, Little Italy is rife with amazing eateries, historical landmarks, and many wonderful specialty shops.

Mulberry Street is Little Italy’s most popular thoroughfare, teeming with restaurants and bars, many of which have been graced by the gangsters of the Rat Pack of historic infamy.

If you happen to be visiting New York in the first few weeks of September, Little Italy hosts one of the city’s most famous festivals: The Feast of San Gennaro.

During this lively celebration, the streets are packed with food vendors, crafters, specialty shops, live music, and amusements.

Though the merchants of Little Italy take to the street during the festival, any time of year is a good time to visit this amazing Manhattan neighborhood.

If you’re looking for great places to visit in Manhattan, be sure to check out Little Italy.

Address: Mulberry Street, New York City, NY 10013, United States

Looking for more thrills around New York? Be sure to check out some of the top Long Island attractions ! & some of the top Albany attractions !

16. Statue of Liberty

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Though it may require a bit of a journey out of the city (a subway ride, a short walk, then a ferry ride), the Statue of Liberty is near enough to Manhattan to make it totally worth it.

This historical US landmark is a beacon for freedom, emigration, and the American dream.

As such, if you’re as close to Lady Liberty as Manhattan, it’s a must that you go for a visit.

Best of all, it’s one of a few free things to do when visiting New York.

Surrounded by a national state park, there are many lovely and picturesque vantage points from which to observe the Statue of Liberty.

Liberty State Park has informational plaques as well as many awesome picture points.

Within the park, you can enjoy a picnic lunch, a game of frisbee, or a leisurely stroll all with the most iconic piece of American history as the backdrop.

Address: New York, NY 10004, United States

17. Rockefeller Center

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Rockefeller Center sits on a 22-acre tract that comprises commercial buildings, a plaza, quintessential New York shopping, and so much more.

Located in Midtown Manhattan between 48th and 51st streets, Rockefeller Center is home to some of the city’s most famous attractions including The Rainbow Room, Top of the Rock, and the NBC Studios.

Some of the recognizable shops you’ll happen upon in Rockefeller Center include the Nintendo Store, F.A.O. Schwarz, Anthropologie, and Brooks Brothers to name a few.

Beyond shopping, Rockefeller is also home to the world-famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting each year; for nearly two months each year, the center draws millions of visitors who come to see this magical attraction.

Beautiful fountains, statues, and architecture all surround the plaza and during the winter months, an open-air ice skating rink takes center stage.

Finally, Rockefeller Center is home to many wonderful restaurants too.

With so many things to do in Manhattan, it may be hard to narrow down an itinerary but surely don’t miss out on Rockefeller Center.

Address: 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111, United States

18. The High Line

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The High Line is one of the coolest places to visit in New York.

This nearly one-and-a-half mile-long rail-trail was built by the city in 2009 and has been one of the most fun, free things to do since its inception.

This elevated park was built on a decommissioned railroad spur and rises above a small neighborhood on the west side of Manhattan that runs from Gansevoort Street to 34th Street.

One of the city’s most beloved parks, The High Line provides wonderful opportunities for outdoor activities with epic views of the city and some of its most prized historical landmarks.

Built in and around the old train tracks, the park is a verdant expanse of lovely parkland.

Of note, the park is home to benches perfect for taking in the sights, picnic areas, and a fabulous walking/biking trail.

Furthermore, there are lovely areas for children to play and walking tours are available to learn about the park’s surrounding history.

Address: New York, NY 10011, United States

19. One World Observatory

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If you’re looking for fun and interesting things to do in Manhattan, be sure to check out One World Observatory .

This observatory, which is situated on the 100th floor of the World Trade Center provides visitors with some of the most epic city views.

Though there’s more to do from the observatory than simply observing, simply enjoying the sights is one of a few cheap things to do by Manhattan standards.

Besides the 360° scenic views, you can also tour a multimedia presentation, ride the 102-floor sky pod, and enjoy a breathtaking cinema experience.

Interactive tour guides will usher you in and out of some truly spectacular New York City exhibits while you learn all about the history of Manhattan.

Additionally, One World Observatory is home to an incredible bar and restaurant from whence the spectacular city skyline is your backdrop.

Truly an amazing and fun experience, One World Observatory is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Address: 117 West St, New York, NY 10006, United States

20. The Metropolitan Museum of Art

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The Metropolitan Museum of Art , or the Met as it’s known to locals, is one of the most fun Manhattan attractions to experience.

Spectacularly, this is the largest museum in all of the Western Hemisphere and therefore a must-see when you’re in Manhattan.

A quintessential New York attraction, The Metropolitan Museum of Art has been a city mecca since its opening in the late 1800s.

Located in Central Park, The Metropolitan Museum of Art is easily accessible and near many other Manhattan attractions.

Exhibiting 5,000 years’ worth of art, the Met is truly remarkable.

With art from all around the world and collections that will appeal to nearly any sensibility, you’re truly in for a treat when visiting the museum.

With showcases of the world’s rarest and most beautiful exhibits, the Met is an art lover’s paradise.

What’s more, the Met features work by some of the most famous artists in the world including Rothko, Picasso, Cassatt, and Courbet to name a few.

If you’re planning a trip to Manhattan, be sure to include The Metropolitan Museum of Art on your itinerary.

Address: 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028, United States

Have more time? Why not check out some of the things to do in Syracuse, NY ?

21. Chrysler Building

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If you’re wondering what to do during your upcoming trip to Manhattan, be sure to check out the Chrysler Building .

This art-deco skyscraper boasts some of New York’s most interesting history and it’s a piece of American history that you’ve got to see to believe.

Situated on the East Side of Manhattan, the Chrysler Building is one of the city’s most famous buildings, long ago solidifying its place on the New York City skyline.

With a whopping 71-floors that rise to an elevation of over 1,000 feet, visiting the Chrysler building is a fun and thrilling experience.

The building houses apartments and office spaces and though official tours are not available, visitors can tour the astounding lobby anytime the building is open.

A quick, free thing to do, a visit to the Chrysler Building is a piece of American history and a photo-op you don’t want to miss.

Address: 405 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10174, United States

22. The Waldorf Astoria

Felix Lipov / Shutterstock

One of the best vacation spots in all of Manhattan, The Waldorf Astoria is a historical luxury hotel that has to be seen to be believed.

Embodying glamor and opulence since its establishment in the early 1930s, this gorgeous hotel is where fun meets sophistication.

Even if you don’t plan to stay at this majestic hotel, its palatial architecture is worth seeing.

Having hosted global icons such as the Queen of England and pop-culture sensations such as Andy Warhol and Tina Turner, a visit to the hotel allows you to walk in their footsteps.

If you plan to make hotel reservations, The Waldorf Astoria will provide luxury accommodations with world-class service.

If you’d like to just visit for the day, you can explore the opulent, marble lobby or historical lounges.

Other amenities to enjoy during your visit include gorgeous gardens, a gaming room, as well as three incredible restaurants.

A mesmerizing New York sight to see, be sure to check out The Waldorf Astoria.

Address: 301 Park Ave, New York, NY 10022, United States

23. The Plaza Hotel

MISHELLA / Shutterstock

One of the most iconic Manhattan attractions, The Plaza Hotel is a landmark hotel situated adjacent to Central Park.

Not only is the hotel a historical masterpiece and an architectural beacon, but it’s also synonymous with elegance.

What’s more, the hotel has been the setting of many a Hollywood blockbuster such as “Home Alone,” “Sleepless in Seattle,” and “Truman Capote.”

Whether booking your Manhattan stay at The Plaza or you are simply interested in touring this awesome landmark, the hotel is one of the coolest places to go in the city.

The Plaza Hotel’s rooms are extravagant and elegant and the service and amenities are second to none.

Some of the special touches you can experience at the hotel include afternoon tea in The Palm Court, cocktails and light fare in the Champagne Room, shopping at the hotel boutique, and incredible spa or salon treatments.

A truly lavish experience, The Plaza Hotel delivers on all fronts.

Address: 5th Avenue at, Central Park S, New York, NY 10019, United States

24. Graffiti Hall of Fame

Ajay Tallam / flickr

One of the many unique places to visit in Manhattan is the Graffiti Hall of Fame .

Of note, New York is considered the birthplace of graffiti.

It’s on the walls of this city that artists took to the streets, tagging colorful names, words, phrases, and depictions in an act of both self-expression and city beautification.

The Graffiti Hall of Fame is simply a concentration of this vibrant artwork in a neighborhood of the city.

If you’re looking for things to do in Manhattan that give you a sneak peek into the vibrant culture of New Yorkers, this is the place to visit.

The Harlem neighborhood wherein this “hall of fame” is contained is teeming with culture and vibrance The hall of fame is essentially a schoolyard with surrounding walls that have been colorfully adorned with the city’s most astounding street art.

Because it’s a schoolyard, however, it can only be visited on weekends when school is not in session; best of all, this is an awesome free thing to see in Manhattan.

Address: Park Ave, New York, NY 10029, United States

25. Goldbar

This upscale lounge is one of the coolest Manhattan attractions to visit for cocktails.

Whether visiting the city today or this weekend, any time is a good time to kick back with one of Goldbar ‘s fun and creative libations.

For starters, the lounge’s aesthetic is an incredible sight; the walls, fixtures, accents, and decor are all dripping in gold embellishments.

The walls are adorned with hundreds of gold skulls, gold chain link drapes, gold paintings, and so much more.

Along the perimeter of the gold walls are burgundy, velvet banquettes that are simply luxurious.

What’s more, many of the lounge’s signature cocktails feature the same threaded gold theme.

A great after-hours spot, Goldbar is a swanky place to let loose with friends, enjoy special drinks, and dance the night away.

Finally, Goldbar is a small spot with a big draw, so get there early otherwise you risk waiting in line to gain entry.

Regardless, this Manhattan spot is a fun lounge with a terrific ambiance.

Address: 389 Broome St, New York, NY 10013, United States

26. Chelsea Market

gabriel12 / Shutterstock

If you’re looking for things to do in Manhattan that the locals do, check out Chelsea Market .

Of all the places to go to eat, Chelsea Market has the best variety in the most casual setting.

A food market and shopping hall, Chelsea Market is a wonderful space to spend an afternoon meandering among local vendors, crafters, and shop owners.

Situated amid the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan, the market houses a collection of unique merchants.

When visiting Chelsea Market, be sure to go on an empty stomach; the halls of the market are teeming with vendors serving amazing delectables; from a patisserie to a bread shop and a salumeria to a gelato shop, there’s something for every palette.

In addition to all of the delicious eats you’ll enjoy at this Manhattan mainstay, the shopping is second to none.

From global franchises and luxury boutiques to local artisans and small shops, there are tons to peruse at Chelsea Market.

Address: 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011, United States

27. Tenement Museum

This National Historic Site, situated in the heart of Manhattan on the Lower East Side, is one of the city’s most valuable places to visit.

Notably, the Tenement Museum celebrates the many walks of life that called the two museum buildings home from the 1860s to the 1930s.

The two apartment buildings, which were left shuddered for more than 50 years before their establishment as a museum, house the remnants of lives and experiences that once lived there.

Of all the places to go in Manhattan, the Tenement Museum is one of the most interesting.

Within its walls are tucked historically restored apartments that tell the shared stories of our ancestors.

Giving visitors a glimpse into history, the Tenement Museum has exhibits that showcase tenement women of the early 1900s, an old saloon, and an immigrant home of the 1860s.

Visiting the museum is a truly fun and eye-opening experience.

Address: 103 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Manhattan

Manhattan is fraught with incredible sights, historical landmarks, exquisite dining, spectacular accommodations, and thrilling fun.

If you’re looking for exciting and iconic things to do in Manhattan, use these recommendations to narrow down the best itinerary for your sensibilities.

With so many quintessential Manhattan places to visit, you surely won’t be disappointed.

Happy travels.

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This Greenwich Village Bar Is Hosting Trump in New York

The campaign is also reported to be heading to a Williamsburg restaurant

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The Trump campaign trail is taking the presidential candidate to a Greenwich Village bar and Williamsburg restaurant this week.

Pubkey , a Manhattan bar that’s crypto-currency-themed — and stationed near the NYU campus, where his son, Barron Trump, is a freshman — is a stop for Donald Trump today, ahead of his rally on Long Island.

“It’s definitely amazing that, you know, he wants to come here and, you know, experience some of the Bitcoin community while he’s in town,” Pubkey CEO Thomas Pacchia told the New York Post of the first former U.S. president convicted of felonies . Eater has reached out to Pubkey for more information.

The bar was presumably selected as Trump announced his own crypto business earlier this week.

Ahead of the Pubkey visit, nearby Greenwich Village residents blasted Taylor Swift’s music from their apartments, according to the Post, perhaps a reference to the fact that Trump had long courted the pop singer's support before she endorsed Kamala Harris for president. A few protesters were picketing in front of the bar, the Post reports.

Trump arrived at Pubkey at 4:40 p.m., reports NY Post , staying for around 20 minutes, “handing out burgers and beer to customers, signing autographs, and answering reporters’ questions.” While he was there, Trump made a Bitcoin transaction to buy food and drinks for the crowd. The stop was a turnaround from his visit to Miami’s Versailles restaurant, where he promised to buy “ food for everyone ” and didn’t follow through .

Trump has been labeled a “picky eater” known more for eating overcooked steaks with ketchup and drinking Diet Coke . But he has made several restaurant visits throughout his campaign trail in 2024, including recently to a Vietnamese restaurant in Eden Center, a Falls Church shopping area in Virginia.

Meanwhile, it was reported that on Thursday, the Republican nominee seems to be headed to Williamsburg to stop by longtime kosher restaurant Gottlieb’s — in a part of the neighborhood marked by its Orthodox and Hasidic Jewish community, according to Yeshiva World News . The campaign stop comes on the heels of Trump’s continued support for the Israeli government following the devastating October 7 Hamas attack , after which more than 40,000 Palestinians have been killed, prompting protests on college campuses and around the world .

Secret service agents were reported to be scoping out Gottlieb’s this week, the publication stated. The Forward, another Jewish publication, speculated whether it would actually be a stop for Trump’s vice president choice, JD Vance, who himself recently had blunders in a food service establishment this year when videos circulated of an “awkward” encounter inside a doughnut shop. Gottlieb’s restaurant owner Menashe Gottlieb told the publication he believed it would be Trump himself.

Updated 9/18/2024 at 8:30 p.m. to reflect Donald Trump’s visit to Pubkey.

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Meteor passed over NYC, Statue of Liberty Tuesday: NASA

Users on social media across new york and new jersey reported feeling a shaking or hearing a loud noise just after 11 a.m. it's unclear if the meteor was responsible for what residents felt., by brad luck • published july 16, 2024 • updated on july 17, 2024 at 6:34 am.

A number of tri-state area residents reported feeling a shaking or hearing a loud boom Tuesday morning leading to quite the mystery.

NASA is estimating a meteor passed through the area between 10 a.m. and noon and would account for people saying they saw a fireball in the sky. NASA said simultaneous military activity in the area may account the shaking or boom residents felt.

The reports came on social media shortly after 11 a.m. with some users saying they felt shaking like an earthquake and another saying they thought they heard thunder. Some of the reports included parts of northern New Jersey, Brooklyn and Queens.

24/7 New York news stream: Watch NBC 4 free wherever you are

The American Meteor Society website does show around 20 fireball reports across New Jersey, New York and Connecticut, with additional reports in Delaware, Pennsylvania and Maryland, during that timeframe.

NASA said as a result of the reports, it was able to come up with a "very crude" determination of the trajectory of the meteor . The fireball was first sighted over the New York Harbor moving 34,000 miles per hour before it descended at a steep angle, NASA said. The space agency said it estimates the meteor passed over the Statue of Liberty before disintegrated 29 miles above midtown Manhattan.

Get Tri-state area news delivered to your inbox. Sign up for NBC New York's News Headlines newsletter.

New York City's emergency management department said it was aware of the reports and was not aware of any impacts to the city.

No meteorites were produced by this fireball, according to NASA.

The USGS website is not showing any earthquakes on its "latest earthquakes" maps , which shows recent earth quakes of a 2.5-magntitude or higher. A USGS spokesperson said it received reports of shaking in northeast New Jersey and Staten Island, but "An examination of the seismic data in the area showed no evidence of an earthquake. The USGS has no direct evidence of the source of the shaking."

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NBC New York called the Department of Defense to see if any military aircraft or exercises could have been responsible. A press officer at the Pentagon said they were not tracking anything that could be responsible for the reports. North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) tells NBC New York it too was not tracking any activity that could account for what residents felt.

NASA said "There are reports of military in the vicinity around the time of the fireball, which could explain the shaking and sounds reported to the media."

The FAA said only a military aircraft could be responsible for any sonic booms and referred NBC New York to the military.

NASA stresses its information is preliminary and not finalized as it continues to gather information and confirm reports.

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