New York City, the city that never sleeps, pulsates with an energy unlike any other. Whether you’re a wide-eyed tourist or a seasoned local, the Big Apple offers an endless array of experiences.
To help you navigate this vibrant metropolis, here’s a curated list of the 50 best things to do in NYC, encompassing iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and quintessentially New York experiences.
Marvel at the Classics
The Statue of Liberty stands tall in NYC
- Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island:Â Stand beneath Lady Liberty’s torch and delve into the stories of immigrants at Ellis Island, a gateway to America for millions.
- Empire State Building:Â Ascend to the top of this Art Deco masterpiece for breathtaking 360-degree panoramas.
- Rockefeller Center & Top of the Rock:Â Enjoy stunning cityscapes from a different perspective at the Top of the Rock, and soak in the festive atmosphere during Christmas with the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree.
- Central Park:Â Escape the urban jungle in this sprawling oasis. Rent a rowboat on the lake, explore the Conservatory Garden, or simply relax on the Great Lawn.
Immerse Yourself in Culture
Street view of the Museum of Modern Art in Manhattan
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met):Â Lose yourself in a world of art spanning centuries and cultures at the Met, one of the world’s greatest art museums.
- The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA):Â Explore the artistic movements of the 20th and 21st centuries at MoMA, featuring iconic works by Picasso, Van Gogh, and Warhol.
- American Museum of Natural History:Â Journey through time and discover the wonders of the natural world, from dinosaur skeletons to life-like dioramas.
- Broadway & Off-Broadway Shows:Â Catch a world-class performance on the famed Broadway stages, or discover new talent in the intimate Off-Broadway theaters.
Explore Diverse Neighborhoods
Row of old brownstone buildings in the Greenwich Village neighborhood of Manhattan
- Greenwich Village:Â Wander through the charming streets of Greenwich Village, a historic center of bohemian culture and home to Washington Square Park.
- SoHo & NoHo:Â Immerse yourself in the world of high-end fashion and art galleries in SoHo and NoHo.
- Chinatown:Â Experience a vibrant slice of China in the heart of NYC, bustling with markets, eateries, and traditional temples.
- Little Italy:Â Savor authentic Italian fare and stroll along Mulberry Street, the heart of Little Italy.
Go Off the Beaten Path
High Line Park in Manhattan
- The High Line:Â Take a stroll along the High Line, a public park built on a historic freight rail line elevated above the streets, offering unique perspectives of the city.
- The Tenement Museum:Â Step back in time and learn about the lives of immigrants who lived in these historic tenement buildings.
- Green-Wood Cemetery:Â Explore this vast Brooklyn cemetery, a peaceful oasis featuring stunning monuments and historic architecture.
- Governors Island: Escape to this car-free island for stunning city views, art installations, and outdoor activities.
Feast on Foodie Delights
Three New York City Style Pizza Slices on a Tray
- Pizza: Sample a classic New York slice – thin crust, foldable, and bursting with flavor. Explore different neighborhoods to find your favorite pizza joint.
- Hot Dogs: Grab a hot dog from a street vendor – a quintessential NYC experience.
- Brunch:Â NYC boasts a vibrant brunch scene, offering everything from classic eggs and pancakes to innovative sweet and savory concoctions.
- Food Tours:Â Embark on a culinary adventure through diverse neighborhoods, sampling a variety of cuisines from around the world.
Enjoy Entertainment Galore
Starchild Rooftop Bar in NYC
- Catch a Yankees Game:Â Cheer on the legendary New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium, a quintessential American sporting experience.
- Catch a Live Music Performance: Immerse yourself in NYC’s vibrant music scene – from intimate jazz bars to iconic concert halls.
- Comedy Clubs:Â Catch a stand-up comedy show at one of the many comedy clubs, like the Comedy Cellar or Carolines on Broadway.
- Rooftop Bars:Â Enjoy stunning city views and a cool drink at one of NYC’s many rooftop bars, perfect for a summer evening.
Explore Free & Budget-Friendly Activities
Two kids looking at a science exhibit in a New York City Museum, back view
- Staten Island Ferry:Â Take a free ferry ride to Staten Island for stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline.
- Central Park:Â Explore the many free attractions within Central Park, from museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art (pay-what-you-wish admission) to Shakespeare in the Park performances during the summer.
- Grand Central Terminal:Â Marvel at the grandeur of Grand Central Terminal, a historic landmark with beautiful architecture and unique shops.
- The New York Public Library:Â Explore the magnificent main branch of the New York Public Library, a haven
Make Family Fun Memories
Siberian “Amur” tiger in the Bronx Zoo
- Bronx Zoo:Â Encounter a diverse range of animals from around the world at the Bronx Zoo, one of the largest urban zoos in the world.
- American Museum of Natural History:Â Spark children’s curiosity with interactive exhibits and dinosaur skeletons at the American Museum of Natural History.
- Children’s Museum of Manhattan:Â Let kids loose in this interactive museum designed for hands-on learning and exploration.
- FAO Schwarz:Â Step into a wonderland of toys at the iconic FAO Schwarz flagship store, a dream come true for children of all ages.
Embrace Outdoor Adventures
Castle Williams on Governors Island in New York Harbor
- Brooklyn Bridge:Â Walk or bike across the Brooklyn Bridge, an iconic landmark offering stunning views of the city skyline.
- Governors Island:Â Explore this car-free island for picnicking, biking, kayaking, and enjoying stunning cityscapes.
- Bryant Park:Â Relax on the lush lawns of Bryant Park, a midtown oasis perfect for people-watching or enjoying a free movie screening during the summer.
- Kayaking on the Hudson River:Â Paddle along the Hudson River and experience NYC from a unique perspective.
Go on A Shopping Spree
Street sign of Fifth Ave and West 33rd
- Fifth Avenue:Â Indulge in a luxurious shopping experience on Fifth Avenue, lined with iconic designer stores.
- Macy’s Herald Square:Â Explore the vast expanse of Macy’s Herald Square, a flagship department store offering everything from clothing and cosmetics to home goods.
- Vintage Shopping:Â Hunt for unique vintage treasures in neighborhoods like Williamsburg, Brooklyn, or the East Village.
- Flea Markets: Browse through vibrant flea markets like Brooklyn Flea or Hell’s Kitchen Flea Market for antiques, collectibles, and handmade crafts.
Embrace History in NYC
The North Reflecting Pool illuminated at twilight with view of One World Trade Center
- 9/11 Memorial & Museum:Â Pay your respects at the 9/11 Memorial, a powerful tribute to the victims of the September 11th attacks. Learn more about the events at the museum.
- Federal Hall National Memorial:Â Stand where George Washington took his oath of office as the first President of the United States.
- The Frick Collection:Â Explore the opulent mansion of Henry Clay Frick, now an art museum showcasing masterpieces by European masters.
- Tenement Museum:Â Step back in time and learn about the lives of immigrants who lived in these historic tenement buildings.
Delight in Nightlife
NYC Nightlife Tour at Chinatown
- Broadway Shows:Â Catch a world-class performance on the famed Broadway stages, with dazzling lights, captivating stories, and talented actors.
- Jazz Bars:Â Immerse yourself in the sounds of live jazz at iconic venues like The Blue Note or Village Vanguard.
- Rooftop Bars:Â Enjoy stunning city views and a vibrant atmosphere at rooftop bars like 230 Fifth or The Roof at Public.
- Comedy Clubs:Â Catch a stand-up comedy show at one of the many comedy clubs, where up-and-coming comedians and established stars test out their new material.
NYC Has The Perfect Things to Do for Everyone
New York City contains a diverse tapestry of experiences, appealing to every taste and preference. The city is vibrant and diverse, featuring recognizable sites such as the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building, as well as hidden jewels like the High Line and Greenwich Village.
Its cultural institutions, gastronomic delights, and vibrant districts provide limitless exploring opportunities. Whether meandering around Central Park, immersing oneself in the art at MoMA, or eating a traditional New York slice, every moment in the Big Apple exemplifies the city’s unrivaled vibrancy and attraction. In New York City, the options are as endless as the city itself.
