If you think you have explored every nook and corner of a city as big and diverse as New York, take our word for it, you have not! You must have missed out visiting several prime destinations that attract millions of tourists from around the world every year. Don’t worry though. We’ve got your back.
If you are planning to visit New York for the first time, you must be interested to know about some of the bucket list things to do in New York. Grab some lunch, take a cab, and start crossing out the following locations as you go!
1. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
Definitely recommended if you are looking for things to do in New York for first timers. You should pay a visit to one of America’s most iconic symbols of freedom, the Statue of Liberty. Take a ferry ride to Liberty Island, where you can marvel at Lady Liberty from a close up and even climb to the crown for a majestic and scintillating view of the city skyline.
The Ellis Island offers a glimpse into the historical experiences, the ancient wanderers had, while exploring the city. The museum located within the island is a source of great inspiration and learning for history buffs. So, if you are into history, it’s a great place to visit.
2. Central Park
One of the best things to do in New York is to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and visit the famous Central Park. You can rent a rowboat at the Loeb Boathouse, stroll through the Shakespeare Garden, and explore the winding paths and hidden waterfalls of this park which is one of the most visited spot in the alpha city.
3. Times Square
If you are looking for fun things to do in New York this weekend then Times Square should be on your list. Dazzling lights and electrifying energy will leave you mesemarized. Reach out to the towering billboards, get loads of snaps, catch a Broadway show, and soak in the atmosphere of this lively spot that attracts millions of visitors from around the world.
4. The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Visiting this historical art museum should be on your list of romantic things to do in NYC if you and your partner have a keen appreciation for art. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the largest museums in the world. With over two million art works spanning over 5,000 years of history, the Met offers something for everyone, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary masterpieces.
5. Brooklyn Bridge
Walk or bike across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge to appreciate the breathtaking view of the Manhattan skyline and the East River that flows under the bridge, Built in 1883, this historic suspension bridge is a marvel of engineering and an enduring symbol of New York City’s undying ambition for progress. It’s a highly recommended place to visit if you are looking for adventurous things to do in New York.
6. The High Line
If you want to visit an extra-ordinary place in New York, taking a stroll along the High Line is a good option. High Line is an elevated park – also known as sky park – built on a historic railway track. You can walk through the neighborhoods of Chelsea and the Meatpacking District, as you get a stunning view of the Hudson River, surrounded by unique vantage points of the city.
7. One World Observatory
If you looking out for some unique things to do in New York as a first-time visitor, we recommend you to visit this place. Ascend to the top of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere catch a surreal view of New York City and beyond. Located on top of One World Trade Center, the One World Observatory offers 360-degree panorama of the city skyline that leaves you awestruck.
8. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
Visiting a museum on a rainy day is always a great experience, and one of the many things to do in New York in the rain. Explore the world of contemporary art at the Museum of Modern Art, home to a diverse collection of modern and contemporary masterpieces. From Picasso and Van Gogh to Warhol and Pollock, MoMA showcases the best of 20th and 21st-century art works that captivate your feelings and leave you with goosebumps.
9. Grand Central Terminal
Step back in time with a visit to Grand Central Terminal, a Beaux-Arts masterpiece and one of New York City’s most beloved landmarks. Observe the scintillating beauty of the celestial ceiling in the Main Concourse, sample gourmet treats at the Grand Central Market, or simply experience the hustle and bustle of this iconic center. It’ll be a great outing if you are looking for free things to do in New York.
10. Coney Island
When you visit the Coney Island, you’re engulfed by nostalgia and excitement. a It’s a historic amusement spot that New Yorkers love to visit. You can ride the iconic Cyclone roller coaster, grab a bite at Nathan’s Famous hot dog, or soak up the sun on the sandy shores of this beautiful island.
11. The Cloisters
Take yourself to Medieval Europe with a visit to The Cloisters, a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art dedicated to the art and architecture of the Middle Ages. Located in Fort Tryon Park in Upper Manhattan, The Cloisters has a stunning and diverse collection of medieval artworks, as well as serene gardens and cloistered courtyards, giving you the sense of a European monastery.
12. Chelsea Market
If you are planning to visit New York, you may want to check out one of New York City’s most beloved culinary destinations at Chelsea Market, a crowded food hall housed in an old historic factory in the Meatpacking District. You can sample artisanal treats from local vendors, visit unique shops and boutiques to have an idea of what’s more is there in New York. We recommend you to take your better half to this place and engage in fun activities in NYC for couples.
13. Yankee Stadium
Experience the thrill of America’s favorite pastime with a visit to Yankee Stadium, home to the legendary New York Yankees. Cheer on the Bronx Bombers as they take to the field, indulge in classic ballpark delicacies like hot dogs and peanuts, and enjoy the electric atmosphere of one of most iconic Baseball stadium.
14. The Bronx Zoo
Go on a wild adventure at the Bronx Zoo, one of the largest metropolitan zoos in the world. Home to over 6,000 animals representing species from around the globe, the Bronx Zoo offers immersive exhibits, interactive experiences, and conservation initiatives that educate and inspire visitors of all ages. Take your kids to the zoo and let them interact with their favorite animals. If you are looking for things to do in NYC with kids, visiting the Bronx Zoo is the perfect option.
15. Smorgasburg
Indulge your taste buds at Smorgasburg, the largest outdoor food market in America. With locations in Brooklyn and Queens, Smorgasburg offers some of the best culinary delights, leaving your tastebuds craving for more. The market features over 100 local vendors serving up all sorts of confectionaries and snacks, from artisanal ice cream to gourmet tacos.
16. Queens Night Market
If you visit Queens, one of New York’s most popular neighborhoods, you must take your time to visit the lively night market. You can sample dishes from around the world, check out handmade crafts and artisanal goods and soak in the lively atmosphere of this locality. It’ll be one of the many fun activities in NYC for couples.
17. Governors Island
To avoid the constant rush of the city, and relax yourself, you can visit Governors Island, a car-free escape in the heart of New York Harbor. You can explore historic forts, lush green spaces, and scenic waterfront views to enjoy your time.
18. Jazz at Lincoln Center
Jazz and NYC are a match made in heaven. If you are in New York, you can catch up or book a Jazz concert at Lincoln Center, a world-renowned venue dedicated to celebrating one of the most authentic art forms. From intimate club performances to star-studded concerts in the iconic Rose Theater, Jazz at Lincoln Center is where you need to be if you are into music. 19. The Frick Collection
Step into a world of elegance and refinement at The Frick Collection, a Gilded Age mansion-turned-art museum located on the Upper East Side. Home to a priceless collection of European paintings, decorative arts, and sculptures, The Frick Collection offers visitors a glimpse into the history and evolution of art. We recommend you to visit this place if you are looking for weird things to do in NYC.
19. Arthur Avenue in the Bronx
Discover the rich flavors and tantalizing tastes of Italy in the heart of the Bronx at Arthur Avenue, the borough’s own Little Italy. You can sample fresh pasta, artisanal cheeses, and authentic pastries from family-owned shops and eateries that have been serving the community for generations. It is also one of the many fun things to do in New York for birthdays because this area is famous for bakery goods.
20. The Apollo Theater
Once in New York, you must step into the halls of the Apollo Theater, an iconic venue in Harlem that has played a pivotal role in shaping American music and culture. From its origins in the 1930s to its status as a cradle for emerging talent, the Apollo Theater has hosted some of the greatest performers of all time, including Ella Fitzgerald, James Brown, and Aretha Franklin. Catch a live show or take a guided tour to learn more about the theater’s history.
21. The Brooklyn Botanic Garden
The Botanical Garden in Brooklyn is like a small oasis in the heart of Brooklyn among the huge skyscrapers. It spans 52 acres in Prospect Park. You can explore themed gardens, including the serene Japanese Garden and the fragrant Rose Garden, or wander through the sprawling Cherry Esplanade, where thousands of cherry trees bloom during the annual Sakura Matsuri festival, marking the start of spring season. Don’t miss the iconic Brooklyn Botanic Garden Conservatory, home to rare and exotic plants from around the world.
22. The Tenement Museum
Looking for unusual things to do in New York? Then, step back in time and experience the history of the city firsthand at the Tenement Museum, one of the most visited sites on Manhattan’s Lower East Side. From Irish and German immigrants in the 19th century to Jewish and Italian immigrants in the early 20th century, the Tenement Museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the stories that made NYC what it is today.
23. The Museum of the Moving Image
If you are into movies, then this place is perfect for you to visit while in New York. Celebrate the art and history of cinema at the Museum of the Moving Image, located in the Astoria neighborhood of Queens. Home to a vast collection of artifacts, props, and memorabilia from cinema and TV, the museum offers exhibits, screenings, and special events that highlight the impact of moving images on the American culture and society.
24. The New York Transit Museum
If you are looking for educational things to do in NYC with teens, then, it’s a good idea to visit New York Transit Museum. It details the history of the city’s public transport system. Located in a historic subway station in Brooklyn Heights, the museum showcases the evolution of mass transit in the city through interactive exhibits, vintage subway cars, and historical artifacts. You can ride on a vintage subway train, try your hand at operating a bus simulator, and learn about the engineering and technology behind NYC’s vast transit network.
Conclusion:
New York has much more to offer that goes beyond your imagination. The city that never sleeps is a melting pot of cultures. It’s has got everything – from tastey cuisines, to grooving music, from contemporary shopping malls, to historical museums, and from thrilling excursions, to towering skyscrapers – you ask for it, New York is home to it.
It’s not an exhaustive list. If you want to visit New York, you should plan your trip whenever you are ready. Do remember to keep an eye on weather conditions, the clothes you pack, and the flight you take to the city. If you are on a budget, you should book an affordable and budget-friendly flight to New York. Want to learn more? Check out our list of crazy things to do in New York.
What should you do in NYC before moving out?
If you have everything sorted out and have decided to move out of New York, it’s better to to take a nostalgic trip down memory lane. Visit the places you have always loved, like Central Park or the Metropolitan Museum, and let the experience sink in for one last time. You might not get a chance again.
Is NYC safe for tourists right now?
While New York City remains a popular destination for tourists, it’s essential to stay informed about the current happenings to ensure your safety. Generally, NYC is considered a safe city for visitors, but you should remain cautious in crowded areas, stay aware of your surroundings, and follow all the traffic guidelines to stay safe.
What is the new attraction in New York City?
One of the latest tourist attractions in New York City is the recently opened Edge at Hudson Yards. This observatory deck, situated on top of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, offers a breathtaking view of the city skyline from 1,100 feet above the ground. It also features a glass floor and an outdoor sky deck.
