New York City is known to have that energy and aura of uncertainty where everything changes within the blink of an eye. Such a place is sure to cause some confusion to the people who are visiting for the first time.
In a city like New York, there is just so much to do and someone new will definitely get lost here. So here we are, with our list of best things to do in New York, where we will talk about anything and everything the first-timers in New York can benefit from.
Let’s talk commute!
While most New Yorkers are habitual of walking around, taking a train or catching a cab, the first-time visitors still have no info on how they can get around in New York. New York City subway is famous for being the option of commute between rush hours, in order to avoid the rush hour traffic.
But catching one of those yellow cabs can be an adventurous thing to do in New York. other than Uber, Lyft, and busses all of those options also exist. You can also rent out a car in case you want to ride in style for the rest of your trip.
26 Best Things to Do in New York: Must-See Places in New York City
New York is full of places that one has to visit because of their cultural and historical significance. Let’s discuss those places one by one in the blog.
1. Statue of Liberty:
Statue of liberty is one of the most iconic landmarks in New York that everyone dreams to see. Whether you are from Americas or not, you are familiar with the statue of liberty. It was gifted to the USA by France as a signet of their alliance and solidarity.
Going to statue of liberty on your trip can be a fun thing to do in New York City this weekend. But be mindful of booking your ticket before planning the trip as tickets are typically sold out. However, if you do find yourself in this situation, and you’re not short on cash, then why not splurge yourself on a helicopter ride to Lady Liberty? Although it may sound like one of the crazy things to do in New York, there are services that do offer these unusual tours.
2. Central Park:
One of the beautiful parks situated right in the heart OF New York, giving a break from the otherwise dark and gothic New York, Central Park is a perfect place to spend some time in nature. And guess what? It is absolutely free. When you are in New York, doing something like this can stop you from going broke while having fun. Which is exactly why it is on the list of things to do in New York for free.
Being so spacious, it’s a great place to spend time with family and friends. Take your kids on a stroll or let them explore. It is great place to do fun things in NYC with your toddler. And coupling your walk to the park on a rainy day, it can be one of the best things to do in New York in the rain.
Also Read: Explore The Top 11 Things To Do Near Niagara Falls, New York
3. Grand Central Terminal:
Another thing on the list of cheap things to do in New York is visiting the Grand Central Terminal. It is the most historic, most magnificent piece of architecture and holds great value in the history of New York.
Due to Grand Central Terminal’s prominence in television, movies, and photography, visitors instantly experience a sense of wonder and déjà vu. Apart from its remarkable architecture and distinctive constellation ceiling, the famous train station boasts an abundance of stores and dining options.
4. Brooklyn Bridge:
Seeing the Brooklyn Bridge is an essential part of any first-time visitor’s experience in New York City. You can take a tour of the Brooklyn Bridge to learn more about its significance to the city and its history or take a walk or cycle across.
When you get to Brooklyn, head to Washington Street and the famously Instagrammable location on Dumbo, which stands for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, where the Manhattan Bridge is enclosed between the buildings. It’s worth the effort to arrive early to get the ideal photo because this location is frequently packed with tourists.
5. American Museum of Natural History:
Located in 26 interconnected buildings, the American Museum of Natural History is the largest natural history museum globally, and it is well-known for its exhibitions that span 45 permanent halls. All 34 million artifacts in its collection are fascinating, from the smallest plant specimens to the massive dinosaur skeletons that dominate the entrance hall.
6. 9/11 Memorial Museum:
The 9/11 Memorial and Museum honors those who lost their lives in the 9/11 attacks on the location where the Twin Towers formerly stood. The event that changed America in 2001 is gently and respectfully retold through poignant memorials and exhibitions featuring a variety of artifacts and unpublished images.
It is one of the bucket list things to do in New York. Every day from 10 AM to 5 PM, the public can visit the 9/11 Memorial, which consists of two enormous reflective canals in the foundation of each tower and is free of charge.
7. MoMA PS1
Explore MoMA PS1, an extension of the Museum of Modern Art located in a historic Renaissance Revival school building in Long Island City, Queens. This venue shows over 200,000 pieces of avant-garde contemporary art, including works by James Turrell and Ai Weiwei.
The venue itself is as compelling as the exhibits. It draws a creative crowd that adds to the vibrant atmosphere, making it one of the most unique things to do in New York.
8. The Orchid Show at NYBG
Don’t miss the fashion-inspired Orchid Show at the New York Botanical Garden, titled “Florals in Fashion.” This year, three designers explore the interplay between botany and couture, complete with an orchid runway. The show runs until April 21. It has a spectacular floral display and a great experience if you’re looking for things to do in New York with teens.
9. COQODAQ
Visit COQODAQ, a trendy new eatery in the Flatiron District, famed for its Korean fried chicken and the largest champagne selection in the country. The restaurant’s chic decor and viral social media presence make it a must-visit for a fashionable dining experience. The place is tucked away, so you can add it to the list of hidden things to do in New York.
10. Summit One Vanderbilt
Experience breathtaking views and artistic installations at Summit One Vanderbilt. Start with a mesmerising elevator ride to the 91st floor, where you’ll find the mirrored Infinity Room overlooking the city.
Don’t miss “Levitation,” a glass skybox, and “Ascent,” a sky-high glass elevator. This makes for an unforgettable experience and helps you make cherished memories, so it’s definitely one of the best things to do in New York with kids.
11. The Morgan Library & Museum
Discover the treasures of the Morgan Library & Museum, a hybrid cultural venue that shows rare artefacts, artworks, and ancient manuscripts. Some of the highlights include one of the original copies of the Declaration of Independence and Mozart’s Haffner Symphony score. Not being crowded as much as the other museums, it’s a place where you can spend some alone time, making it fall into the unusual things to do in New York list.
12. Admire Cherry Blossoms in NYC
Welcome spring in NYC by admiring the beautiful cherry blossoms across the city. With early blooms already visible in Central Park, explore these stunning flowers as the seasons change in the city. In some cultures cherry blossoms symbolize love and beauty, and watching them bloom is among the most romantic things to do in NYC for couples.
13. The Cathedral of St. John the Divine
Visit the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in Morningside Heights, the largest cathedral in the world. It’s known for its Gothic architecture and artworks relevant to NYC, including Keith Haring’s altarpiece and a 9/11 memorial sculpture.
14. “The Masked Singer” Exhibit at The Paley Museum
For fans of “The Masked Singer,” The Paley Center for Media offers an exclusive exhibit featuring costumes and memorabilia from the popular TV show. This display is available until May 19. It gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the show’s colourful production. It’s a great place to check out with friends and even one of the weird things to do in NYC.
15. Yankee Stadium
Catch a game at Yankee Stadium, home of the 27-time World Champion New York Yankees. Easily accessible from Manhattan, the stadium also hosts concerts and other sports events, making it a classic New York experience. Being built for more than a decade, it’s a great place to reminisce about the past, while also make new memories with your kid. Do visit, if you’re looking for things to do in NYC with kids.
16. Catch a Broadway Show
Experience the magic of Broadway with its diverse selection of shows, from dramatic plays to musicals and comedies. Broadway’s stunning performances are essential for anyone looking for vibrant cultural entertainment in NYC. This is a great place for couples to enjoy. Check out other fun activities in NYC for couples to attend.
17. Chinatown
Explore the bustling streets of Chinatown, a neighbourhood that offers an authentic slice of New York’s diverse culture. From traditional markets to historic eateries, Chinatown is a centre for food, shopping, and culture.
18. Bemelmans Bar
Step into Bemelmans Bar and immerse yourself in the whimsical world of Ludwig Bemelman’s illustrations, known from the Madeline books. Enjoy expertly mixed cocktails in an atmosphere where each detail, from the wall art to the ambiance, is curated to enhance your experience. This iconic bar offers a peek into a bygone era, making it a perfect choice if you’re looking for things to do in New York at night.
19. See Your Favourite Artist Live
New York City’s renowned music venues host live concerts featuring artists from around the globe. You can do your research to find out who’s performing and experience the best live music the city has to offer.
20. The Cloisters
Visit The Cloisters in Fort Tryon Park, which is dedicated to the art and architecture of the Middle Ages. This branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art provides a unique historical context for its mediaeval collections and it overlooks the Hudson River.
21. Langston Hughes Exhibit at the Schomburg Center
Explore the life and friendships of Langston Hughes at the Schomburg Center’s new exhibit. Through photographs, letters, and artwork, delve into the cultural dynamics of the Harlem Renaissance, which are highlighted by personal items from Hughes’s life.
22. “This Is New York” at the Museum of the City of New York
Don’t miss “This Is New York,” which is a comprehensive exhibit that delves into 100 years of NYC’s art and pop culture. This landmark displays iconic items and film clips that capture the city’s character.
23. Wild Captives Archery Range
Try your hand at archery at Wild Captives, the nation’s first female- and LGBTQ-owned studio in Brooklyn. They offer introductory classes and it’s a fun and empowering way to spend your day in NYC.
24. Divine Pathways at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine
Witness the stunning “Divine Pathways” art installation. This includes long, colourful ribbons inside the Cathedral of St. John the Divine. You can participate in public programs that allow you to add your personal messages to the artwork.
25. Una Pizza Napoletana
Enjoy some of the best pizza in the world at Una Pizza Napoletana in the Lower East Side, recently ranked top in America. Experience the culinary expertise of chef Anthony Mangieri, who has been perfecting his craft since 1996.
26. Sample Sale Shopping
Take advantage of New York’s fashion scene by visiting top-notch sample sales. This is a great opportunity to find designer clothing and accessories at a fraction of the cost, perfect for refreshing your wardrobe or finding unique gifts, especially if it’s your birthday. Imagine going on a shopping spree just to feel good. It’s a fun thing to do only in New York for birthdays.
Conclusion
There you are! A list of best things to do in New York. Now go forth and enjoy your trip to New York and make it an adventure that you are looking for.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should you do in NYC for the first time?
There is no set answer to this. Everyone has their unique preferences and, which is why you must plan ahead and think what exactly you are looking forward to visiting in New York. Is it the historic landmarks in New York, or is it the fun nightlife things and places that attract you the most.
How do I navigate New York for the first time?
The subway is the most practical and efficient way to move around New York City. During your visit to New York, taking the subway is another great way to experience life as a local. Subway trains run seven days a week, twenty-four hours a day. You can also take busses and cabs if you can afford to. Subway is the cheapest for commute.
What part of New York should I stay for first time?
One of the greatest places to stay in New York for visitors is Midtown Manhattan. There are plenty of lodging options to suit every type of traveler, and all the major attractions, including Times Square, Central Park, Broadway, and the MoMA, are easily accessible on foot.
