There are endless things to do in New York City, making it the perfect destination for any traveler. From sightseeing and shopping to dining and nightlife, the city has something for everyone. No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to keep you busy in the Big Apple. Here are some of my favorite things to do in New York.
Times Square
This world-famous square is a must-see for any visitor to New York City. With its bright lights and bustling energy, Times Square is a true New York experience. Catch a show on Broadway, take a picture with the giant Coca-Cola sign, or people-watch in the heart of the city. I wouldn’t recommend spending too much time here as it gets really crowded and touristy.
Top of the Rock
This observation deck offers stunning views of New York City from the 70th floor of the Rockefeller Center. It’s a great place to take in the cityscape, day or night. Sunsets are beautiful from here but they get really popular. If you want to avoid crowds, it’s better to go early in the morning. I would recommend to purchase your ticket in advance anyways.
Address: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York. Enter on 50th St between Fifth and Sixth Ave.
Opening Hours: Daily from 9am-12am
Entrance Fee: Adults $40, Child $34, and Senior $38. I would recommend to book your ticket in advance.
Levels: The first level includes the Radiance Wall and the gift shop. The second level is entirely outdoors with glass screens. The third level is completely open air.
Helicopter ride
If you want to get a bird’s-eye view of New York City, a helicopter ride is the perfect way to do it. You’ll see all the famous landmarks and attractions from a whole new perspective. This was one of the best experiences I have ever had and I highly recommend it when visiting New York.
I booked it with Fly Nyon and they offer different options for you. You can choose doors-on or doors-off, and a 16 min or 30 min ride. A few things you must know. You take off from New Jersey and you must arrive 1 hr 15 min before your schedule time, so plan your day ahead. If you choose the doors-off, you can purchase a “guaranteed shoe selfie” to make sure you are seated on the outer sides. Check their website constantly as they often offer good discounts.
Central Park
No visit to New York City is complete without a visit to Central Park. This 843-acre park is a great place to relax, take a walk, go for a bike ride, or visit one of the many attractions, like the zoo or the Shakespeare Garden. Every corner here is beautiful! Here are some of the spots you don’t want to miss:
Bethesda Terrace (You may recognize this place from different movies and TV shows like Gossip Girl)
Bow Bridge (This place has appeared in movies and TV shows as well like Spiderman 3)
The Lake
Belvedere Castle (It’s free to visit but it’s only open from Wednesday to Sunday from 10am-5pm)
The Mall
Gapstow Bridge
The Vessel
This new attraction in Hudson Yards is a giant, honeycomb-like structure that offers amazing views of the city. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting New York City. Unfortunately you cannot walk through all its levels but you can still access the ground floor for free. It’s open from Monday to Saturday from 10am-8pm and Sunday from 11am-7pm.
The Summit
Take the elevator to the top of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere for 360-degree views of the city. This popular attraction is a glass-enclosed walkway that offers stunning views of the city from the top of the World Trade Center. It’s a must-do for any visitor to New York City. The best time to visit is early in the morning or before sunset. Keep in mind that during sunset it can get really crowded. I recommend to purchase your ticket in advance to ensure your spot.
Address: 45 E 42nd St, New York. Enter through the main concourse of Grand Central Terminal.
Opening Hours: Daily from 9am-10:30pm
Entrance Fee: General admission is $39. There’s an Ascent and Ultimate experience but I think this one is a great option.
Dress Code: There are mirrors in the floor so I would avoid dresses or skirts, and footwear that can damage flooring are not permitted but they give you shoe covers.
Grand Central Terminal
One of the most iconic landmarks in New York City. This beautiful Beaux-Arts building is a must-see for any visitor to the city. Inside, you’ll find a stunning concourse with a ceiling mural, as well as shops and restaurants, and the famous zigzag staircase.
Brooklyn Bridge
Another must-see attraction is the Brooklyn Bridge. This iconic bridge is a great place to take in the sights and sounds of New York City. You can walk or bike across the bridge, or simply admire the amazing views of the Manhattan skyline.
Dumbo
If you’re looking for a trendy neighborhood to explore, head to Dumbo. This charming neighborhood is known for its cobblestone streets, waterfront views, art galleries, and trendy restaurants. For the perfect photo spot, go to Washington St.
Pier 17
This pier is home to a variety of restaurants and shops, as well as a large concert venue. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon or evening, and there’s always something happening here.
Pier 35
This pier is a great place for a walk, and it’s also home to a number of restaurants and bars. It’s a great place to take in the views of the Hudson River and Manhattan skyline.
Little Island
This small island in the middle of the East River is a great place for a picnic or to just relax and take in the views. There’s a small park on the island with benches, and it’s a great spot to watch the boats go by.
Other things you can do
Visit the Statue of Liberty: It’s one of the most iconic symbols of the United States. There are different ways to see the Statue of Liberty depending on your budget. If you want to get to the island where it actually is, you have to take a ferry to Liberty Island and it costs $20.
Take a ride on the Staten Island Ferry: It’s a great way to see the Statue of Liberty and the New York City skyline. It’s free and it runs 24 hrs. You have to debark from the ferry after every trip and re-board even if you are not staying in Staten Island. Tip: Stay on the right side on your way to Staten Island to see the Statue of Liberty and be aware of scammers trying to sell tickets.
Visit the Empire State Building: It’s one of the most famous landmarks in New York City. Get tickets to the 86th-floor observatory for panoramic views of the city.
Visit the 9/11 Memorial and museum: It’s a somber reminder of the events of September 11, 2001.
Eat a hot dog or pretzel from a street vendor: It’s a New York City tradition.
Visit a museum: There are a lot of museum in New York City. My top three recommendations are the Met (The Metropolitan Museum of Art), American Museum of Natural History and MoMA (The Museum of Modern Art).
See where your favorite movies and TV shows were recorded: You can see Friends and Carrie from Sex on the City building, or do a Gossip Girl’s tour.
If you need more help planning your trip to New York, check my New York Travel Guide.
Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase.
