New York: 44 Best Things to Do and See

Having visited New York many times, I’ve explored its vibrant streets from Manhattan to Brooklyn and even Long Island, watching the city evolve over the years. I’ve navigated the subway system and taken in the sights from a convertible—two very different but quintessentially New York experiences!

Today, I’m excited to share my ultimate list of the best things to do and see in New York. Whether you’re interested in iconic landmarks, mouth-watering foods, or hidden gems, this guide covers it all. Plus, I’ll give you tips on where to stay, how to save both time and money, and things to keep in mind during your trip. Dive in and discover the New York that’s waiting for you!

Best Time to Visit New York

If you’re looking for comfortable temperatures, the best times to visit New York are from September to November or April to June, avoiding the peak summer months when the city gets hot and crowded with tourists.

That said, winter in New York City has its own charm, especially around the holiday season or in January and February, when you might experience a beautiful snowfall. Every season in New York offers something special. 😁 I’ve visited during each one, and it’s been a fantastic experience every time!

The great thing about New York is that, no matter the weather—whether it’s hot, rainy, or freezing—there are always countless indoor activities to enjoy, so you’ll never miss out!

Best Hotels in New York

I used to recommend Brooklyn or Manhattan, but now I’m all about Manhattan after some not-so-great experiences in Brooklyn (I’ll spare you the details!). 🤯

Staying in Manhattan is not only safer but also puts you right in the heart of the action. New York is a vast city, and staying outside the center means you’ll spend more time and money on commuting.

For a great stay in Manhattan, consider the highly-rated Artezen Hotel, located right on Wall Street. It’s often fully booked because it offers excellent value for New York City prices.

Another fantastic option near SoHo and Chinatown is the Best Western Plus SoHo Hotel, with beautiful rooms at a more budget-friendly rate for Manhattan.

Budget-Friendly Tips for Your New York City Trip

On our trip with Lukáš, who was visiting New York for the first time, we used the New York CityPASS, which saved us around 34% on admission fees. With the CityPASS, you get access to:

• Empire State Building
• American Museum of Natural History

Plus, you can choose three additional attractions from the following:

• Top of the Rock® Observation Deck
• Ferry Access to Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
• 9/11 Memorial and Museum
• Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises
• Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum
• Guggenheim Museum

Where to buy it? You can easily purchase it on GetYourGuide—I’ll include a link below.

The most interesting sights and buildings in New York

Wondering what to see and do in New York? Be sure to check out the iconic landmarks below—each a defining symbol of the city.

Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is likely the first thing that comes to mind when you think of New York City. Known around the world, this landmark is one of New York’s greatest symbols.

Before diving into practical tips for visiting, let’s explore a bit of its fascinating history!

The Statue of Liberty, also known as Lady Liberty, is a global symbol of freedom and democracy. A gift from France to the United States in 1886, this iconic monument stands proudly on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, greeting all who arrive in New York by sea.

Designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi with a metal framework crafted by Gustave Eiffel, the statue represents the Roman goddess of freedom, Libertas. She holds a torch symbolizing enlightenment and a tablet inscribed with the date of the American Declaration of Independence.

How to Visit the Statue of Liberty: To reach the Statue of Liberty, you’ll need to take a ferry. Ferries depart from Battery Park in Manhattan or Liberty State Park in New Jersey. Tickets, which also include access to Ellis Island, can be conveniently purchased through GetYourGuide.

Ellis Island

A visit to the Statue of Liberty often includes a trip to nearby Ellis Island, a historic immigration station that operated from 1892 to 1954. During this period, approximately 12 million immigrants passed through Ellis Island, making it a significant chapter in American immigration history.

At the Ellis Island Immigration Center, new arrivals underwent medical and legal screenings before being granted entry to the United States. For many, Ellis Island represented the first step toward realizing their dreams of a new life in America.

In 1990, the Immigration Center was transformed into a museum, now part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument, where visitors can explore exhibits on the immigrant experience and the journey toward American citizenship.

Empire State Building

The Empire State Building, a true icon of New York City, was constructed between 1930 and 1931. This 102-story Art Deco skyscraper stands at an impressive 443.2 meters (including its antenna) and offers some of the best views in the city. It’s also a popular proposal spot, especially on Valentine’s Day. 😁

Tip: Be sure to buy your ticket in advance, as the lines can be very long. We recommend using the GetYourGuide portal for convenient booking.

Admission includes a security screening, similar to an airport check. Once inside, you can explore an interactive exhibit on the second floor that offers fascinating insights into the building’s history.

The Empire State Building is fully wheelchair accessible, with elevators and ramps to ensure easy access for all visitors.

Chrysler Building

The Chrysler Building, one of New York’s most iconic skyscrapers, is a stunning example of Art Deco design. Completed in 1930, it held the title of the world’s tallest building for a brief period before being surpassed by the Empire State Building.

The Chrysler Building’s distinctive crown, crafted from stainless steel and adorned with Art Deco details, draws inspiration from the automobile designs of its era—a nod to Walter P. Chrysler, the automotive magnate for whom the building is named.

• Completion date: 1930
• Height: 319 metres (1,046 feet)
• Interesting fact: Only the lobby is open to the public; the rest of the building is accessible exclusively to tenants.

Cathedral of St. Patrick

St. Patrick’s Cathedral, an iconic Catholic church located on Fifth Avenue in the heart of New York City, sits directly across from Rockefeller Center. This stunning neo-Gothic cathedral, completed in 1878, is one of the most significant religious buildings in the United States and serves as the seat of the Archbishop of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York.

The Vessel

This structure features a network of interconnected staircases, creating a unique tower that resembles an inverted beehive.

Designed by British architect Thomas Heatherwick, The Vessel opened to the public in March 2019. It quickly became one of New York City’s newest landmarks and a popular attraction for tourists.

• Opened: 2019
• Structure: 16 floors, 154 staircases
• Fun Fact: The top offers stunning views of Western Manhattan and the Hudson River.

World’s Thinnest Skyscraper – 111 West 57th Street – Steinway Tower

111 West 57th Street, also known as the Steinway Tower, is an 84-story residential skyscraper completed in 2021. Standing at 1,428 feet (435 meters) and designed by SHoP Architects, it holds the title of the world’s thinnest skyscraper, with an extraordinary width-to-height ratio of approximately 1:24.

The skyscraper houses 60 luxury apartments: 14 in the historic Steinway Hall and 46 in the tower itself. It’s rumored to be home to billionaires like Ken Griffin, Michael Dell, and Liu Yiqian, with the most expensive apartments priced at approximately 1.2 billion crowns. The tower’s façade features a striking combination of glass and terracotta pillars. The original Steinway Hall, a 16-story building at the base, once served as a showroom and concert hall for Steinway & Sons.

Hotel Plaza

The Plaza Hotel is perhaps New York’s most famous hotel, located at the corner of Fifth Avenue and Central Park South, directly across from Central Park.

Since opening in 1907, it has welcomed some of the world’s most renowned personalities, including F. Scott Fitzgerald and Marilyn Monroe.

The Plaza Hotel has been the backdrop for famous scenes from Home Alone 2 and even appeared in The Great Gatsby.

This architectural gem boasts stunning facades and interiors that exude luxury and elegance. Built in the Chateauesque style—a branch of French Renaissance architecture—it features distinctive roofs, ornate gables, and elegant balconies.

Flatiron Building – Fuller Building

Another fascinating New York landmark is the Flatiron Building, also known as the Fuller Building. Designed by architect Daniel Burnham, this architectural gem is instantly recognizable for its unique triangular shape, reminiscent of an iron—hence the name “Flatiron.”

The Flatiron Building was one of New York City’s first skyscrapers to utilize a steel skeletal structure, enabling a taller and more slender design compared to traditional stone or brick buildings.

In 1989, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places and is also recognized as an official New York City landmark.

Parks and places to visit in New York City

Now let’s explore some must-visit places and parks in New York beyond the main buildings and landmarks. Here’s a look at the hidden gems and beautiful spots worth discovering.

Central Park

Wondering which park to visit in New York? No trip to the city is complete without a stop at Central Park—one of the most famous parks in the world.

Covering 341 hectares in the heart of Manhattan, Central Park was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux and opened in 1858. It’s a quintessential example of the English landscape style, blending natural beauty with thoughtfully crafted design.

There’s never a dull moment in Central Park, which boasts over 25,000 trees, a variety of bird species, fish, and other small animals, along with concerts, theater performances, and film screenings.

The park also features several iconic attractions, including Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, The Mall and Literary Walk, Central Park Zoo, Strawberry Fields (a memorial to John Lennon), playgrounds, and even an ice rink you may recognize from famous films.

Rockefeller Center and the best view of the city Top of the Rock

This expansive complex of 19 commercial buildings is an Art Deco masterpiece, with its most famous attraction being the Top of the Rock observation deck.

From Top of the Rock, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Empire State Building and Central Park—views that many find even better than those from the Empire State Building itself. To skip the lines, be sure to buy your tickets in advance on GetYourGuide.

In the winter months, Rockefeller Center becomes a magical destination, featuring a giant Christmas tree and a festive ice rink.

The complex is also home to renowned studios, including those where Saturday Night Live and The Tonight Show are filmed.

Times Square

Times Square, often called the “Crossroads of the World,” is likely the busiest spot in New York City, attracting over 50 million visitors each year. My first visit left me completely awestruck! Known for its massive, brightly lit billboards and neon signs that shine around the clock, it’s a spectacle like no other.

Must-Visit Shops in Times Square:

• Hershey’s Chocolate World: Create your own Reese’s cup or shop for unique souvenirs and gifts for loved ones.
• Grand Slam New York: One of the most popular New York City-themed souvenir shops, offering everything from snow globes to playing cards, as well as Yankees, Mets, and Giants sports apparel and memorabilia.
• M&M’s World: A favorite in Times Square, this three-story store at Broadway and 48th Street is a paradise for M&M’s lovers. You can create personalized M&M’s with your own picture or text and sample special flavors not commonly available elsewhere.
• Midtown Comics: A comic book fan’s paradise, featuring multiple floors of comic books, merchandise, and clothing. From anime characters to collectible Marvel and DC comics, you’ll find it all here.

Brooklyn Bridge

Another iconic New York landmark is the Brooklyn Bridge, one of the oldest suspension bridges in the United States, which opened in 1883. Designed by John A. Roebling, its construction was a groundbreaking feat of engineering, combining steel cables with gothic stone towers to create a structure that was both functional and visually stunning.

Spanning the East River, the bridge connects Manhattan and Brooklyn and stretches approximately 1.8 kilometers (1.1 miles). Tragically, during its construction, John A. Roebling passed away after sustaining injuries, and his son, Washington Roebling, who took over the project, was also severely injured. He ultimately directed the remainder of the construction from his apartment overlooking the site.

The bridge features a pedestrian and cyclist promenade, making it a wonderful way to walk across and take in the views.

Grand Central Station / Grand Central Terminal

If you’re a fan of the Mila Kunis movie Friends with Benefits, you might want to visit Grand Central Terminal.

Often mistakenly called Grand Central Station, Grand Central Terminal is an iconic train station and cultural landmark located in the heart of Manhattan, at 42nd Street and Park Avenue. Opened in 1913, this major transit hub is one of the largest and most famous stations in the world.

Grand Central Terminal also offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and markets. One of its main attractions is the Grand Central Market, where visitors can browse and purchase fresh, gourmet foods.

Ground Zero – memorial to the 9/11 attacks. 2001

Ground Zero stands as a solemn reminder of the tragic events of September 11, 2001, where the iconic World Trade Center Twin Towers once stood. Today, the site features a memorial and museum honoring the thousands of victims of the attacks. The museum, which opened on May 21, 2014, often has ticket queues, so we recommend purchasing tickets online through GetYourGuide to save time.

One World Trade Center – the sixth tallest building in the world

One World Trade Center, also known as the Freedom Tower, is a skyscraper in New York City that officially opened in 2014. It stands on the site of the original World Trade Center, which was destroyed during the 9/11 terrorist attacks in September 2001.

Standing at 541 meters (1,776 feet)—a symbolic height representing the year of U.S. independence—One World Trade Center is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and the sixth tallest in the world. Designed by architect David Childs of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, its architecture combines modern aesthetics with advanced durability and safety features, making it one of the most secure buildings globally. The structure’s unique octagonal shape tapers upward, ending with a large, asymmetrically placed antenna.

One World Trade Center also features the One World Observatory, an observation deck at 381 meters (1,250 feet) that offers breathtaking views of New York City, including Manhattan, Brooklyn, New Jersey, and beyond. To avoid long lines, we recommend purchasing tickets in advance through GetYourGuide.

Wall Street

Besides 5th Avenue, Wall Street is likely New York’s most famous street, known primarily for its association with the financial world.

Located in Lower Manhattan, Wall Street is home to the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and numerous major banking institutions. The street’s name originates from the wooden and stone wall built by the Dutch to protect their colony.

For those interested in delving deeper into Wall Street’s history, consider booking a Wall Street Insider Tour through GetYourGuide. Please note that the tour is available only in English.

Charging Bull

The Charging Bull, also known as the Wall Street Bull, is a bronze sculpture symbolizing a strong and prosperous financial market.

Artist Arturo Di Modica unofficially installed the statue in 1989 as a gift to New York City, initially placing it in front of the NYSE. The sculpture weighs over 3,200 kg (7,100 lbs) and stands nearly 3.4 meters (11 feet) tall.

SoHo

SoHo, short for “South of Houston Street,” is one of New York City’s most upscale neighborhoods. Located in Manhattan, it’s renowned for its impressive cast-iron buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, considered some of the finest examples of cast-iron architecture worldwide.

In the 1960s and 1970s, SoHo became the center of New York’s art scene, as many vacant industrial buildings were transformed into studios and living spaces for artists.

Today, SoHo is one of New York City’s premier shopping destinations, featuring high-end boutiques and international fashion brands.

As one of the city’s most famous art districts, SoHo also boasts numerous notable galleries, including the Jeffrey Deitch Gallery, Eden Gallery, Chase Contemporary, and June Kelly Gallery.

For something unique, you can even visit the Museum of Ice Cream!

Greenwich Village

Greenwich Village, often called “the Village,” is one of New York City’s most bohemian neighborhoods.

In the 1960s and 70s, it became the epicenter of the civil rights, feminist, and LGBT movements. The Village was also home to many iconic artists, writers, and musicians, including Bob Dylan, Andy Warhol, and Jackson Pollock.

Greenwich Village is also home to New York University, one of the largest private universities in the United States.

Little Italy

Historically, Greenwich Village was home to a large Italian community that settled here during waves of immigration in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, Little Italy serves as a symbolic reminder of this heritage, although many Italian families have since moved to other parts of the city and country.

The heart of Little Italy is Mulberry Street, the neighborhood’s main thoroughfare, lined with Italian restaurants, bakeries, and shops offering traditional Italian foods and products.

Each year in late September, Mulberry Street comes alive for the vibrant San Gennaro Festival—the largest Italian festival in New York City. This celebration of Italian culture and heritage features numerous food stalls, games, music, and traditional processions.

Despite demographic shifts and the expansion of nearby Chinatown, Little Italy has preserved its unique charm and character.

Chinatown

If you’re looking to escape to another world, step into New York City’s Chinatown. As one of the largest and oldest Chinatowns in North America, this vibrant neighborhood might make you forget you’re still in New York.

Established in the mid-19th century with the arrival of the first Chinese immigrants, Chinatown gradually grew into a thriving community.

Its streets are lined with traditional Chinese shops, restaurants, markets, and bakeries, offering an array of authentic Chinese foods and products. The district is also famous for its colorful festivals and celebrations, especially Chinese New Year, which draws thousands of visitors each year.

Beyond its culinary and cultural attractions, Chinatown is home to several historic and cultural landmarks, including the Mahayana and Man Mo Temples, which serve as important centers of Chinese religious and cultural life.

Roosevelt Island

Roosevelt Island is a narrow island in New York City’s East River, situated between Manhattan and Queens. Renamed in 1973 in honor of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, it was previously known as Welfare Island and, before that, Blackwell’s Island.

The island has a rich and varied history. In the 19th century, it was home to hospitals, mental asylums, and prisons. Today, Roosevelt Island has transformed into a modern residential community with beautiful parks and promenades, offering stunning views of Manhattan and the East River.

One of Roosevelt Island’s most iconic landmarks is the Roosevelt Island Tramway. Opened in 1976, it was one of the first aerial tramways in North America and connects the island to Manhattan.

Another highlight of Roosevelt Island is Four Freedoms Park, a memorial designed by renowned architect Louis Kahn to honor President Roosevelt and his iconic Four Freedoms speech.

The island is also home to the Cornell Tech campus, a hub of innovation and research, recognized as one of the most modern university campuses in the country.

Battery Park

Battery Park, a 25-acre public park at Manhattan’s southern tip, is named after the artillery batteries once stationed here to defend the city in early American history. This green oasis offers beautiful views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the harbor.

The park is home to several notable monuments, including The Sphere, a symbol of peace that originally stood between the Twin Towers at the World Trade Center. After being damaged in the 9/11 attacks, it was relocated to Battery Park as a tribute.

The park also features the East Coast Memorial, which honors American soldiers who lost their lives in the western Atlantic during World War II, and Castle Clinton, a War of 1812-era fort that later served as an immigration station before Ellis Island opened.

High Line Park

Curious about where the locals go? Head to the High Line. This innovative public park in New York City was built on an abandoned elevated rail line in Manhattan. Opened in 2009, it has quickly become one of the city’s most popular and celebrated public spaces.

So, what makes it so popular? Beyond its unique location and lush greenery, the High Line frequently hosts temporary art installations and exhibitions. It’s also a venue for cultural and social events, drawing in locals and visitors alike.

Museums: which ones to visit in New York?

Even if you’re not a huge art or history enthusiast, some museums in New York are absolutely worth a visit. Let’s take a look at the city’s most famous ones.

Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, commonly known as the Met, is one of Manhattan’s most renowned cultural institutions, located on Fifth Avenue and overlooking Central Park.

The Met’s vast collection includes over two million works of art, spanning thousands of years of global culture—from prehistoric artifacts to contemporary masterpieces. The exhibits are organized into various departments, including American art, ancient Near Eastern art, arms and armor, costumes, decorative arts, Egyptian art, European paintings, photography, medieval art, musical instruments, modern and contemporary art, and more.

Beyond its extensive collections, the Met is renowned for its exhibitions, educational programs, and special events, including the Met Gala—one of the most prestigious events in the fashion world. The museum also operates two additional locations: The Met Cloisters, located in northern Manhattan and dedicated to the art and architecture of medieval Europe, and The Met Breuer, which focuses on modern and contemporary art.

Highlights of the Met’s Collection:

• Egyptian art: Mummies, sarcophagi, and ancient artifacts.
• Asian art: Works from India, China, Japan, and other Asian countries.
• Greek and Roman antiquity: Ancient sculptures and applied arts.
• Islamic art: Carpets, miniatures, calligraphy, and more.
• European painting: Masterpieces by artists like Vincent van Gogh, Rembrandt, Vermeer, Cézanne, and Titian.
• American Wing: Decorative arts and design spanning from colonial America to the present.

For convenience, tickets can be purchased through GetYourGuide to avoid waiting in lines, as we learned from experience!

Intrepid Museum

The Intrepid Museum, officially the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, is a one-of-a-kind cultural institution in New York City. Located in Manhattan, it features the historic aircraft carrier USS Intrepid, which served in World War II and now operates as a floating museum.

Exhibits and Attractions:

• Aircraft and helicopters: A collection of well-preserved military aircraft and helicopters displayed on the deck of the ship.
• Shuttle Enterprise: An authentic NASA space shuttle, offering a glimpse into American space exploration history.
• The Growler: The only American diesel-powered spy submarine open to the public.

Guggenheim Museum

The Guggenheim Museum in New York is one of the world’s most renowned modern art institutions. Located on Manhattan’s Upper East Side along the famous Museum Mile on Fifth Avenue, it’s a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

Founded in 1939 by Solomon R. Guggenheim, it was originally known as the Museum of Non-Objective Painting. Its iconic current building, designed by the celebrated architect Frank Lloyd Wright, opened in 1959, shortly after Wright’s passing.

The Guggenheim’s collection spans from the late 19th century to the present day, featuring works by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, Wassily Kandinsky, and many others.

Tip: Purchase tickets online, for instance through GetYourGuide, to avoid waiting in line.

American Museum of Natural History

The American Museum of Natural History is one of the world’s premier natural history museums and also one of the most visited, attracting over 5 million visitors each year. (To skip the lines, consider purchasing tickets online through GetYourGuide.)

Founded in 1869, the American Museum of Natural History has expanded into a complex of 28 interconnected buildings, featuring 45 permanent exhibition halls, a planetarium, and an extensive library.

Main attraction:

• Dinosaur Halls: Showcasing impressive skeletal remains of dinosaurs.
• Hall of Biodiversity: Celebrating the diversity of life on Earth.
• Rose Center for Earth and Space: Focused on astronomy and planetary science.

New York Public Library

The New York Public Library is an iconic cultural institution located in Manhattan. One of the largest public libraries in the United States, it’s known not only for its vast collections but also as a significant landmark and hub of urban culture.

Founded in 1895, the library system includes its main building—the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building—located at Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street, along with over 90 branches throughout the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island.

The NYPL’s main building, an architectural gem opened in 1911, is renowned for its grand staircase flanked by two iconic stone lions and its stunning interior, which includes the magnificent Astor Hall. The main reading room, over 90 meters long, is one of the largest in the world, known for its high ceilings and monumental windows.

The library’s extensive collection boasts over 53 million items, including books, manuscripts, maps, rare prints, photographs, and digital archives. It also houses some of the most significant literary and historical treasures, such as an original copy of the Declaration of Independence, the Gutenberg Bible, and a vast collection of Shakespeare’s works.

The Cloisters

The Cloisters, an extension of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, focuses on the art and architecture of medieval Europe. Located in Fort Tryon Park in northern Manhattan, it is named after four European monasteries, parts of which were transported and reconstructed on-site.

The Frick Collection

The Frick Collection, one of New York’s most distinguished small art museums, is celebrated for its remarkable collection of European art. Located in Manhattan at the corner of Fifth Avenue and East 70th Street, it occupies the former residence of industrialist and philanthropist Henry Clay Frick.

The collection features masterpieces by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, Goya, Turner, Renoir, Bellini, and El Greco.

Tenement Museum

If you’re interested in New York’s immigration history, the Tenement Museum is a must-visit. Originally home to thousands of immigrants from various countries and cultures in the 19th and early 20th centuries, this historic building offers a unique glimpse into the immigrant experience.

Visitors can explore restored apartments, meticulously reconstructed to reflect the living conditions and stories of specific families who lived here across different eras.

What You’ll See in the Museum:

• “Ir Scher’s Tailor Shop”: A seamstress shop from around 1900.
• “Confino Apartment”: A reconstructed apartment of a Greek immigrant family from 1916.
• “Moore’s Irish Pub”: A replica of a pub run by Irish immigrants.

MoMA (Museum of Modern Art)

If you have even a slight interest in art, you’re likely already familiar with MoMA. The Museum of Modern Art in New York is arguably the most important museum of modern art in the world.

Located in Midtown Manhattan on 53rd Street between 5th and 6th Avenues, MoMA was founded in 1929 by a group of progressive, visionary philanthropists, including Abby Aldrich Rockefeller.

Famous Works You’ll See Here:

• Vincent van Gogh – Starry Night
• Pablo Picasso – Les Demoiselles d’Avignon
• Henri Matisse – Dance
• Salvador Dalí – The Persistence of Memory
• Andy Warhol – Campbell’s Soup Cans series

The museum also features works by Francis Bacon, Henri Rousseau, Max Ernst, Jackson Pollock, Frida Kahlo, and Piet Mondrian.

Tip: To skip the lines, consider buying tickets in advance through GetYourGuide or other ticket platforms.

My favorite museum in New York is the New Museum on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. Specializing in contemporary art, this museum is a must-visit for us nearly every time we’re in the city.

New York Botanical Garden

Spanning over 250 acres in the Bronx, the New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) is one of the largest and oldest botanical gardens in the United States, founded in 1891 and designated a National Historic Landmark.

Highlights include the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, a stunning Victorian-style glasshouse filled with tropical and subtropical plants, and the Peggy Rockefeller Rose Garden, celebrated for its thousands of beautiful roses.

Attractions and performances in New York

To fully experience New York, consider buying a Broadway ticket, attending a concert, or catching a hockey game.

Broadway

If you’re wondering what to see in New York, Broadway is a great place to start. This famous street runs north to south through Manhattan and even extends into the Bronx.

When people mention “Broadway,” they’re usually referring to the Broadway theaters, especially those around Times Square and Midtown Manhattan, where the largest concentration of professional theaters in New York City is located.

Broadway theaters are famous for their spectacular musicals and feature productions. To qualify as a “Broadway” theater, a venue must have a seating capacity of 500 or more. Smaller venues are classified as Off-Broadway or Off-Off-Broadway, depending on their size and location.

Madison Square Garden

Prefer a concert or a hockey game over Broadway? Head to Madison Square Garden.

Often called MSG or The Garden, this world-famous arena in New York City is known as the home of the New York Knicks (NBA) and the New York Rangers (NHL). It’s also a prime venue for major boxing matches, concerts, and other large events.

With a seating capacity of over 20,000 for both sports and concerts, MSG is one of New York City’s largest indoor stadiums. Opened in 1968, it’s one of the oldest arenas in the NBA and NHL. While it’s not the first building with this name, today’s MSG is an iconic landmark in American sports and entertainment.

Coney Island

Running out of things to do in New York? Head to Coney Island. One of its main attractions is the historic amusement park, featuring iconic rides like the Cyclone—a classic wooden roller coaster and one of the oldest in the world—and the Wonder Wheel, a giant Ferris wheel with stunning views of the area.

Coney Island is also famous for its expansive public beach, which draws large crowds during the summer months.

The area hosts a variety of cultural and entertainment events each year, including the famous Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest and the Mermaid Parade, a colorful celebration marking the start of summer.

Hudson Yards

Hudson Yards is a vibrant, innovative district in Manhattan, New York City, that has become a must-visit in recent years thanks to its impressive new architecture.

One of the most striking structures in Hudson Yards is The Vessel, an interactive sculpture and observation tower designed by Thomas Heatherwick, which has quickly become an iconic symbol of the area.

Another notable building is The Shed, a cultural center dedicated to various art forms. What’s unique about The Shed is its adaptable design—half of the structure is attached to a high-rise building, while the other half is a movable extension that can cover part of the adjacent plaza, creating a temporary auditorium that seats 1,250 or accommodates up to 2,000 standing guests.

Apollo Theatre

The Apollo Theater, founded in 1914 as a burlesque venue, rose to fame during the Great Migration of African Americans to the North in the 1920s and 30s, becoming a hub of African-American culture and musical arts.

The Apollo is best known for its “Amateur Night” shows, which began in 1934 and still run today. These shows have launched the careers of many aspiring artists, helping to discover iconic talents such as Ella Fitzgerald, James Brown, Michael Jackson, and many more.

New York Aquarium

If you’re looking for kid-friendly activities in New York, take them to see the penguins at the New York Aquarium, located at the end of Coney Island.

Founded in 1896, it’s the oldest continuously operating aquarium in the United States. A significant portion of the aquarium is also dedicated to educating visitors about shark conservation.

Bronx Zoo

Another great spot to take the kids in New York is the Bronx Zoo. Spanning over 265 acres, it’s one of the largest zoos in the United States and attracts more than two million visitors each year. Opened in 1899, the zoo is home to over 4,000 animals representing more than 650 species.

Helicopter flight over New York

Looking for a unique New York experience or an unforgettable birthday gift? Consider booking a helicopter flight over Manhattan through GetYourGuide.

What to taste in New York

If you think New York cuisine is all about burgers, think again. Alongside a diverse range of international restaurants, New York City offers some unique local specialties.

Local favorites include the cronut—a delicious blend of croissant and donut—and the classic New York porterhouse steak. You also can’t miss the city’s famous New York-style pizza with its signature thin crust, or the iconic bagels, especially popular with salmon (lox) for their exceptional flavor.

For meat lovers, there’s the classic pastrami and corned beef sandwich, while soup enthusiasts can enjoy a comforting bowl of matzo ball soup.

Don’t miss out on trying the iconic New York hot dog, Manhattan clam chowder, and if you have a sweet tooth, indulge in New York cheesecake, black and white cookies, or soft pretzels—alongside those delicious cronuts!

Security in New York

As I mentioned earlier in the accommodation section, we encountered some scams, particularly unpleasant ones in Brooklyn. Here are the most common scams and issues to watch out for in New York:

• Unofficial Airport Taxis: Even in New York, unlicensed taxi drivers may approach you at the airport. Stick to trusted options like Uber or official taxi lines.
• Subway Scammers: Scammers often hang around metro stations offering MetroCards at a “discount” or with a “free first ride.” Never fall for these offers!
• Pickpockets on the Subway: Watch out for pickpockets on the subway. It’s best to avoid backpacks and keep valuables in your front pockets.
• “Broken Glasses” Scam: We experienced this one firsthand, though it was a broken wine bottle instead of glasses. A scammer bumps into you, drops something, and then aggressively demands money for the “damage.” A local New Yorker helped us out in Brooklyn, but it could have ended differently.
• Characters in Times Square: People dressed as famous characters may ask for money in exchange for photos. If you don’t want to pay, it’s best to avoid taking photos with them.
• CD Scam: We encountered this on our first trip to New York over 10 years ago. The scammer forces a signed CD on you, then demands payment. Avoid engaging and don’t give out your name.
• Comedy Show Tickets in Times Square: Scammers may sell fake tickets to nonexistent comedy shows. Don’t buy tickets from street vendors!
• Fake Event Tickets: Be cautious when buying event tickets outside official outlets, as they may be counterfeit. Use trusted sites like GetYourGuide.
• Fake Staten Island Ferry and Statue of Liberty Tickets: Some scammers sell tickets for the free Staten Island Ferry or offer overpriced tickets to the Statue of Liberty. Again, we recommend booking through GetYourGuide for security and peace of mind.

Where to next?

Plan your New York trip with our customizable itinerary options, including:

• What to see in New York in 3 days,
• what to see in New York in five days.

Frequently Asked Questions