Visiting The Big Apple is an unforgettable experience. From the bright billboards of Times Square to the serenity of Central Park, there are just so many things to do. To help you make the most of your stay, I have made a collection of the best things to do in NYC. Covering iconic landmarks, museums, and things to do.
Walking through NYC is like entering a movie set, and that’s one of the reasons I love this city so much. Here are some of my favourite landmarks to visit.
1. Visit The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
A trip to New York City isn’t complete without visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Start with a ferry ride from Battery Park for stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. Once at Liberty Island, admire the Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom. Then, visit the Immigration Museum on Ellis Island to learn about the immigrant experience that shaped America. Remember to book your tickets in advance.
Read our dedicated blog with budget tips for visiting the Statue of Liberty.
2. Central Park: New York’s Urban Oasis
Central Park is the perfect escape from the city’s chaos. With 843 acres of beautiful landscapes, it’s ideal for a walk, picnic, or morning jog. Discover gems like Bow Bridge, Bethesda Terrace, and Strawberry Fields.
There’s so much to do in Central Park, we’ve dedicated a blog to visiting Central Park.
3. Get a sensory-overload at Times Square
Admire the towering billboards with all the colourful lights, and enjoy one of the endless entertainment options. A visit to New York City would not be complete without experiencing the energy of Times Square.
Make sure to visit Times Square at different times of the day. Visiting in the evening and during the day gives you a different experience.
4. Walk across Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge, one of the oldest and most recognisable bridges in the world, connects Manhattan to Brooklyn. Take a day to cross this historic bridge on foot. Enjoy the stunning Manhattan skyline and, while in DUMBO, visit trendy local eateries or explore the art scene.
5. Walk the High Line park
This elevated walkway used to be a freight rail line, that is why it is called the High Line park. It starts at Hudson Yards and stretches all the way through Chelsea & the Meatpacking District. You can see the city from a unique perspective with urban gardens and benches, making it a great spot to visit.
6. Have a drink and snack at Chelsea Market
Chelsea Market is a popular food hall in the Meatpacking District. It offers a variety of dining and shopping options while you are in the area. The industrial-chic halls are filled with the smell of fresh-baked goods and international dishes. Chelsea Market is ideal for a midday snack.
7. Visit some of the best museums in the world
New York City offers some of the best museums in the world. They are all very different, so there’s usually one that fits your taste. For a more detailed guide, check out our blog about must-visit museums in NYC.
Here is a list of my favourite museums:
Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City has over 2 million artworks from 5,000 years, including ancient Egyptian artefacts and famous works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Rembrandt, along with unique themed exhibits.
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in Midtown Manhattan is a must-visit for modern art lovers, displaying key works by Picasso, Pollock, and Warhol, as well as great temporary exhibitions.
American Museum of Natural History
The American Museum of Natural History in Manhattan’s Upper West Side has many exhibits, such as dinosaur skeletons, animal displays, and the Hayden Planetarium.
Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, famous for its unique spiral design by Frank Lloyd Wright and its remarkable collection of modern and contemporary art, is a must-visit in New York’s Upper East Side.
Whitney Museum of American Art
The Whitney Museum of American Art in Manhattan’s Meatpacking District showcases American art from the 20th and 21st centuries, featuring works by well-known and up-and-coming artists like Edward Hopper, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Alexander Calder.
8. Pay respects at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum
September 11th, 2001 is one of the darkest days in the history of New York City. At the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, you can learn about that tragic day and feel pride in the city’s resilience. Outside, take a moment to reflect at the two pools that sit in the footprints of the Twin Towers. Here you can honour the lives that were lost through this tragic event.
For tickets & opening times, make sure to visit the 9/11 website.
9. View New York City from above
Nothing is more iconic than viewing the city skyline. Thanksfully, there are multiple options to view the city from above. Here’s a list of skyviews you should visit if you can. In my opinion, each comes with its own unique experience and point of (city)view.🏙️
For more details and budget tips, check out our blog about the best skyviews in NYC.
One World Observatory
Located in Lower Manhattan you find The Freedom Tower, also known as One World Trade Center. As you go up to the 102nd floor, you’ll be amazed by the floor-to-ceiling windowsview. The elevator ride features a time-lapse video showcasing the city’s historical development. Once you are at the top, you can grab a bite at the café and simply take in the breathtaking sights. The Observatory offers an unmatched 360-degree view of the city.
Top of the Rock Observation Deck
For an amazing view of The Empire State Building and Central Park you need to be at the Top of The Rock! This three-level deck at Rockefeller Center provides an open-air experience.
Edge
The Edge is an extraordinary observation deck. It’s the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere. Edge offers a unique experience with its glass floor. Here you can literally feel like you’re walking on air! You can enjoy a Champagne bar or a gourmet meal at the restaurant.
Summit One Vanderbilt
The newly constructed One Vanderbilt building is a great place for an interactive experience. It is more than just a sky view, with plenty of things to see and do. One highlight is The Mirror Platform, an art installation that combines stunning visuals, allowing you to capture incredible photos for your Instagram.
Empire State Building (should you visit?)
Surely, many people want to visit the Empire State Building. It’s a great experience, but I recommend visiting Top of the Rock over this one. The reason for this, is so you can enjoy a view of the Empire State Building itself. In my opinion this is the most iconic view.
10. Financial District Art: The Charging Bull and The Fearless Girl
Visit New York City’s Financial District to see the New York Stock Exchange and the nearby statues. Take a photo with the Charging Bull, a symbol of financial optimism, and The Fearless Girl, which represents courage. Both statues are close to each other and provide great photo opportunities.
11. Feel the magic of a Broadway Musical
Visiting a Broadway Show is one of my favourite things. Many theaters line this street showcasing the best musicals, both classics such as The Lion King and Chicago, to smaller (but lovely) productions. I have made a list of the best Broadway Shows you can catch during your stay in New York. A night out on Broadway is a magical experience and worth every penny!
Speaking of penny’s. A broadway show can become expensive! If you are looking for a bargain, buying same-day or next-day tickets is perfect for you. There are two TKTS booths in the city center where you can find last-minute tickets for many shows with up to 50% discount. Apart from the Disney shows, all other shows usually have tickets here. Of course, you will have to be a little more flexible about which show you want to see, but there are really good ones most of the time. Both booths offer the same tickets, so pick the one closest to you.
TKTS booth locations:
TKTS Times Square – View on Google Maps
TKTS Lincoln Center (shorter waiting time) – View on Google Maps
12. Exploring the boroughs of NYC
New York is a city of neighbourhoods (boroughs), each with its own unique charm and character. That is why I always recommend friends and family to bring good walking shoes. The best way to discover NYC is on foot! Explore Greenwich Village, SoHo, or Chelsea for art galleries and trendy boutiques.
For a more detailed guide, read our blog about popular boroughs of NYC.
Greenwich Village
Greenwich Village, or “The Village,” is a lively historic neighborhood in Lower Manhattan, NYC. It has a rich bohemian, artistic, and LGBTQ+ heritage. Its charming streets, unique shops, and cultural landmarks create a cosy atmosphere that encourages creativity and a progressive culture in the busy city.
Soho and Noho
Soho and NoHo in NYC are popular neighbourhoods famous for their art scene, stylish shops, nice restaurants, and unique architecture.
Dumbo
Dumbo is a neighbourhood in Brooklyn, NYC, known for its cobblestone streets, converted warehouses, and views of the Manhattan skyline. It’s a cultural hub with art galleries, trendy boutiques, and top restaurants and cafes, attracting locals and tourists.
Harlem
Harlem is a neighbourhood in Upper Manhattan famous for its important African American culture and influence on the arts, especially during the Harlem Renaissance. The area is known for its historic brownstones, lively jazz clubs, soul food restaurants, and landmarks like the Apollo Theatre.
Each activity on our list will offer you an unforgettable experience and a different perspective of the city. So, grab your camera, put on your walking shoes, and discover the magic of New York City.
