We have compiled the top tour tips and must-see attractions in New York to assist you in creating a memorable itinerary.
Do you have an idea of what activities you will do during your trip to New York City? There are numerous famous film locations, cultural activities, and special events to explore in the Big Apple.
Some of the things to do in the vibrant city include strolling in parks, exploring iconic neighborhoods, touring museums with impressive exhibits, ascending skyscrapers for stunning views, attending lively rooftop parties, and enjoying the diverse food options from food trolleys and renowned restaurants.
We’ve compiled the top recommendations for things to do in New York so you can plan your trip efficiently.
In this article, you will find:
- New York’s points of interest
- New York City’s squares
- Musical productions in New York
- New York museums
- Free activities in New York City
- Activities for children in New York City
- Activities in New York City
- Activities to enjoy during the evening in New York
- New York during the Christmas season
- New Year’s Eve celebration in New York
- Shopping in New York City
- New York eateries
- Accommodation options in New York.
- Explore additional suggestions provided by New York.
- FAQs
Attractions in New York City
Some places in New York are essential to visit and should be included on your list of things to do, along with must-see attractions.
Central Park is a public park located in the heart of New York City.
Central Park in New York is a famous and essential sight, attracting 42 million visitors annually who explore its vast gardens, scenic lake, and captivating surprises. The park has also served as a backdrop for numerous films and TV shows.
Don’t overlook the well-known Strawberry Fields, located in front of the residence of John Lennon (where he lived and was killed). The memorial to The Beatles is a noteworthy spot.
During the winter season, the ice skating rink in New York is considered the top choice and also the most affordable option. Keep visiting it.
We advise against riding in the carriages in Central Park due to controversies surrounding the treatment of horses there. Instead, explore the park on foot and wander every corner.
Book a tour with a guide at Central Park.
Times Square – a location in New York City
Times Square is undeniably one of the most iconic places in New York, drawing both lovers and haters alike. Despite the street closure, the area is bustling with activity, including street performers and people selling various entertainment options.
Despite the presence of camera-wielding tourists and the overpowering glow of the surrounding posters, Times Square remains one of the city’s most intriguing locations, boasting a wealth of hidden history and easily overlooked intricacies.
All stores in Times Square are tax-free, making it a great place for shopping. Make sure to check out the Hershey’s and M&M store, as well as the 6-story Forever 21 store in the area.
Be mindful of pickpockets, known for stealing wallets. Keep valuable items in front pockets or inside bags and stay alert to your surroundings. 😉
Book top-rated tours in New York City.
Top of The Rock – The highest point of the rock
One of the views I enjoy most in New York is from the Top of The Rock at Rockefeller Plaza. You can access the 67th, 69th, or 70th floors of the NBC building via elevator. The 69th floor offers a unique color experience where colors move along with you on the wall.
A helpful suggestion is to visit the observatory during sunset for a stunning view of the city skyline transitioning from day to night, with Manhattan’s lights illuminating the darkness.
Book your ticket for Top of The Rock.
One building in the One World Trade Center.
The One World Trade Center in New York, a recent addition to the city’s skyline, offers a breathtaking view and is now a top attraction in the city, replacing the twin towers.
The observatory, located on the 102nd floor, offers a breathtaking view of Manhattan. One of the main attractions is the elevator ride to the top, surrounded by screens showcasing the history of Manhattan from 500 years ago to the present day. The only downside is that the ascent is over in just 47 seconds.
It does not offer access to outdoor terraces like its rivals such as the Empire State Building and the Top of the Rock, but it provides a unique and valuable experience.
Book your ticket for One World Observatory.
9/11 Tribute Site
The 9/11 Memorial commemorates the lives lost in the September 11 attacks by guiding visitors through the events of that tragic day, including the moments before and after. Water mirrors now stand at Ground Zero in the location where the twin towers once stood, making it a poignant and memorable visit.
Book your ticket for the September 11 Memorial and Museum.
Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is a must-see when discussing popular attractions in New York City, as it is one of the most significant symbols in the city and the country.
A ferry ride of approximately 30 minutes departs from Battery Park in Manhattan to reach Liberty Island, offering scenic views of Ellis Island, New York, and New Jersey. The island features the Liberty Island Museum and a visitor observatory located inside the statue’s crown.
Book your visit to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
Brooklyn Bridge
The famous Brooklyn Bridge, which opened in 1883 to link Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn across the East River, is a widely known symbol of New York City’s history and is frequently featured in movies and TV shows. A stroll along its pedestrian walkway is a must-do activity when visiting the Big Apple.
The entrance on the Manhattan side is located at Park Row and Center Street, across from City Hall Park. On the Brooklyn side, you can enter through Cadman Plaza East or Boerum Place. Exploring Brooklyn’s attractions after crossing the bridge is highly recommended.
Book your visit to the Brooklyn Bridge and the Dumbo area.
Financial District located on Wall Street.
The Financial District is situated in Manhattan, positioned between Wall and Broad Streets. It is known for landmarks such as the Church of the Trinity, the New York Stock Exchange, and the iconic Charging Bull sculpture, which is believed to bring luck if you touch it. 😉
Do not overlook the initial capital of the United States and the location where George Washington was sworn in as the country’s first president.
Book your New York tours.
Empire State Building
The Empire State Building, situated in Midtown Manhattan, offers more than just a famous view and is a top attraction in New York. Visitors can explore the lobby, Art Deco murals, historical exhibition “Dare to Dream”, and take in breathtaking views of New York from the outdoor observatory.
Reserve your ticket for the Empire State Building.
Elevated Line
The High Line park, constructed on a disused elevated railway line, has transformed the former landscape and now provides unparalleled views of Manhattan’s west side, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and gathering amidst the city’s attractions.
Book your tour on the High Line.
Collections of TV shows and movies
New York is a prominent backdrop in many Hollywood films, offering iconic locations like the Friends building and the “Magnolia Bakery” from Sex & The City that attract tourists.
There are numerous iconic film locations in New York, including ‘The Plaza’ hotel, the Flatiron Building, Washington Square, Little Italy (Powerful Boss), Soho, and the Upper East Side featured in Gossip Girl, among others.
Purchase your tickets ahead of time for fantastic tours in New York.
New York City’s squares
When you stumble upon a square in New York, you will likely recognize it from a movie or TV show you’ve seen. Union Square is known for its weekend market, and the Barnes & Noble bookstore is located nearby.
- Washington Square is a location in the city of Washington, D.C.
- Union Square is the name of the place.
- Battery Park is the subject of the text.
Explore additional fantastic tour options for a complete New York travel experience.
Musical performances in New York
Broadway in New York City is considered the center of the arts scene and a visit to the city is not considered complete without experiencing a Broadway musical in Midtown Manhattan near Times Square. Make sure to include this in your list of activities in New York.
Every day of the week offers a Broadway musical performance, with top picks being The Lion King and the latest show from Aladdin.
A ticket for a Broadway show typically has a price of approximately $250. By purchasing tickets ahead of time, you can save nearly 50% on the cost.
Purchase your tickets several months ahead to secure the most competitive rates for Broadway performances. Explore popular musicals for options.
- The Lion King tickets cost $131.
- Tickets for Aladdin cost $77.
- Moulin Rouge tickets cost $87.93.
- Tickets for Chicago are priced at $111.
- Tickets for MJ, the musical by Michael Jackson, cost $215.
Purchase your Broadway show ticket ahead of time through Civitatis.
New York’s museums
The museums in New York, such as MoMa and the Natural History Museum, should definitely be included in your New York itinerary. These museums offer a diverse collection of contemporary artwork and historical artifacts from around the world. Some essential New York museums to visit include MoMa and the Natural History Museum.
- MoMA admission costs $30.
- The MET, also known as The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
- Admission to the Guggenheim Museum costs $30.
- Museum of Natural History
- Intrepid Sea Air & Space Museum admission costs $36.
Explore additional incredible tours for a complete New York travel experience.
Free activities in New York City
There are numerous complimentary tours available in New York that allow visitors to explore the city’s key landmarks, iconic sites, and vibrant neighborhoods known for their famous activities and settings.
In the options provided, travelers are expected to give a tip at the end of the tour, and English is the spoken language. It is also beneficial to know about saving opportunities on attractions in the Big Apple.
- New York’s tour at no cost.
- Village tour at no cost
- Chinatown and Little Italy offer complimentary guided tours.
- Brooklyn’s graffiti tour is free to attend.
- Tour of Hell’s Kitchen offered at no cost
Explore additional fantastic tours for a complete New York experience.
Activities for children in New York
We have chosen a variety of fantastic activities to enjoy with kids in New York. This includes exciting amusement parks, theme museums, and beautiful squares perfect for outdoor picnics and family relaxation. Here are a few options to consider:
- Luna Park admission costs $69.
- LEGOLAND New York admission costs $84.
- SPYSCAPE admission ticket costs $47.91.
- Nickelodeon Universe admission ticket costs $69.
- New York Ice Cream Museum Admission – $56
Explore additional family-friendly tours and a complete travel experience to New York.
Activities to Experience in New York
Don’t allow the rain to prevent you from enjoying New York City. Despite the weather, there are plenty of indoor activities to explore, such as museums, libraries, bookstores, restaurants, basketball games, and Broadway musicals.
- New York’s museums
- New York Public Library
- Magnolia Bakery
- Grand Central Station is the name of the text.
- Skip the lines at Hard Rock Cafe New York for $37.50.
- NBA ticket for the New York Knicks costs $140.
Explore additional essential tours to enhance your New York travel experience.
Activities to enjoy in New York City after dark
chsyys/UnPlash
New York is renowned as the city that never rests due to its wide array of activities available at all hours, particularly during the night. Various bars and rooftop venues host vibrant parties against the backdrop of the city’s dazzling lights, alongside options like boat excursions and romantic dining experiences. Explore exciting nighttime options in the Big Apple.
- SummitOne Vanderbilt admission cost – $45.74
- The cost of The Edge Ticket is $41.37.
- One ticket for the One World Observatory costs $47.91.
- New York Night Cruise is priced at $49.
- New York Dinner Cruise price is $258.
- New York City night helicopter tour costs $274.
- New York Night Tour priced at $55.
- Manhattan hidden bars excursion costs $36.
- New York rooftop bars excursion costs $79.
Explore additional essential tours for a complete New York travel experience.
New York during the Christmas season
Anyone opting to celebrate Christmas in New York can anticipate a festive atmosphere, complete with street activities, themed musical performances, and elaborate decorations adorning houses throughout the city. Immerse yourself in this enchanting world with the various rides and attractions listed below.
- New York offers a Christmas Lights Tour for $60.
- Manhattan’s Christmas Tour costs $49.
- Ticket for The Rockettes Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall
- Christmas tour for visiting locations where series and films were shot costs $58.
Explore additional fantastic tours for a complete Christmas vacation in New York.
New Year’s Eve celebration in New York
Celebrating New Year’s Eve in New York offers various exciting options, such as rooftop parties, romantic cruises, and the iconic countdown at Times Square. Explore these fantastic choices for a memorable experience.
- The globe fell in Times Réveillon Square.
- New Year’s Eve celebration in Central Park
- New York Road Runners hosts a race.
- New York Dinner Cruise along the Hudson River costs $258.
- Fires ablaze on Brooklyn Bridge
- 230 Fifth Avenue is the location.
- Elsie Rooftop is the name of the establishment.
- Refinery Rooftop is the original text.
Explore additional fantastic tours to enhance your New York New Year’s Eve experience.
Transfers in New York: Moving from one place to another within New York City.
A good suggestion for exploring New York City is to use a transfer service, which provides transportation from the airport to your hotel and allows for convenient travel to various neighborhoods in the city.
For the complete experience, you can opt to ride the famous yellow taxis or use the city’s extensive public transportation system.
- Transfers in New York start at US$ 99.
Shopping in New York City
Shopping in New York City is such a common activity that it often happens spontaneously between sightseeing stops. Even if you didn’t intend to shop, you’re likely to find something to bring home, whether it’s a souvenir, a book, clothing, electronics, or other items. Additionally, there are outlet shopping options available in the area, such as Woodbury Common and Jersey Gardens.
Explore the top shopping destinations and streets in New York City.
- Apple store located on 5th Avenue
- All the stores on Fifth Avenue
- B&H Photography
- CVS Pharmacy
- Purchase
- Forever 21 at Times Square
- Macy’s department store
- Bloomingdale’s
- Lord & Taylor
- Bergdorf Goodman
- Saks Fifth Avenue
- Hershey’s and M&M shop
- Woodbury Common Outlet.
- Jersey Gardens – A shopping destination.
Purchase your ticket ahead of time for a shopping excursion at New York retail stores.
New York dining establishments
It’s time to begin compiling a list of restaurants in New York, in addition to the list of things to do in the city.
New York offers a wide range of dining options, from top-tier restaurants to affordable $1 pizza slices. Whether you prefer upscale dining or budget-friendly options, enjoying coffee, donuts, or hotdogs from street vendors is a quintessential New York experience.
Another option for nighttime activities in New York is to appreciate the rooftop bars with tasty drinks and food. Make sure to explore our recommendations for dining out in New York to fully enjoy these experiences.
- Restaurant with Ninja theme
- Ellen Stardust Dinner – A restaurant named Ellen Stardust Dinner.
- New Mexico is the subject at hand.
- Halal Guys
- DB Bistro
- Gallow Green is the text.
- The Ides at Wythe Hotel
- The swimming pool at Hotel Americano
- Asia is the largest continent on Earth.
Secure your New York tickets ahead of time at Civitatis for a convenient and enjoyable experience.
Accommodation options in New York City
Many travelers face the dilemma of choosing where to stay in New York when planning their vacation in the Big Apple. Each neighborhood, whether in Manhattan or Brooklyn, offers various options catering to different preferences, such as budget-friendly accommodations, attractive cost-benefit options, or luxurious and sophisticated hotels.
Our team has already chosen the top hotels in New York for you, so you don’t have to spend hours searching through numerous options. Would you like to see our selection?
- citizenM New York Bowery offers daily rates starting at US$ 149, with a rating of 9.1.
- The Mark New York offers daily rates starting at $1,000, with a rating of 9.0.
- Trump International New York offers rooms starting at $595 per day with a rating of 9.0.
- Hotel Beacon is available for booking at a daily rate starting from US$ 191, with a rating of 8.8.
- Roxy Hotel New York offers daily rates starting at $199 with a rating of 8.8.
- The Pierre, A Taj Hotel in New York offers daily rates starting at $695, with a rating of 8.8.
- Loews Regency New York Hotel is available for $499 per day, with a rating of 8.7.
- Pod Brooklyn offers accommodations starting at $79 per day, with a rating of 8.6.
Explore all accommodation choices available in New York.
Check out additional advice from New York.
The tips continue! Here is a list of full posts to help you plan your trip.
- New York City
- New York Museums
- Screenplay taking place in New York
- Activities to enjoy in New York City after dark
- Broadway’s Aladdin
- Broadway’s production of The Lion King
- New York eateries
- Activities in Brooklyn
- New Year’s Eve celebration in New York
- Empire State Building
- Hotels close to JFK Airport in New York
- Hotels in close proximity to LaGuardia Airport in New York
- Accommodations close to Newark Airport
- Hotels in close proximity to Times Square
- Hostels located in New York
- Affordable accommodations in New York City
- Luxury accommodations in New York City
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are unsure about what to include in the script, refer to additional FAQs and answers about the destination.
The top activities to do in New York include exploring Central Park, wandering around Times Square, visiting landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building, exploring museums such as MoMa and the Natural History Museum, enjoying a Broadway musical, and exploring neighborhoods like Chinatown and the Upper East Side. Find more sightseeing options in New York at Civitatis.
In one week, you can explore popular attractions, see more musicals, take park strolls, and dine at tasty restaurants in New York City. Key activities include visits to Washington Square, the Guggenheim Museum, SummitOne Vanderbilt, and The Edge. Explore all sightseeing opportunities in New York with Civitatis.
First-time visitors to New York should explore popular attractions such as Times Square, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and the Natural History Museum. They can also catch a show like The Lion King and visit iconic rooftops like 230 Fifth Avenue. Find various sightseeing options for New York at Civitatis.
You can explore various New York City squares like Washington Square and enjoy a leisurely stroll in Central Park for free. Additionally, there are guided tours that will show you around the Village, Chinatown, Little Italy, and Brooklyn neighborhoods. Discover all the sightseeing opportunities New York has to offer through Civitatis.
At night, the city comes alive with various activities such as watching the sunset from Summit One Vanderbilt or The Edge, going on a night cruise, visiting rooftop bars, or taking a helicopter ride.
Families traveling with children can explore various attractions in New York such as the Ice Cream Museum, LEGOLAND, Nickelodeon Universe, Luna Park, and enjoy a memorable picnic in Central Park.
Visit famous landmarks like the MoMa and the Natural History Museum, explore Central Park, enjoy panoramic views from skyscraper rooftops like the Empire State Building, take a boat ride to see the Statue of Liberty, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, and experience iconic neighborhoods like Chinatown and Little Italy.
