New York is the ultimate urban adventure, blending history, art, nature, and culture. There’s so much to do that it can be hard to know where to start. Whether you’re into museums, looking for outdoor fun, or want to explore historical landmarks, here’s a guide to some of the must-do things in New York City across all these categories to help you make the most of your trip. New York City, referred to as “The Big Apple,” comprises five major boroughs, including Staten Island, Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the Bronx. Each borough is loved and well-known for its reasons. If you plan a recreational trip, you will want to know the best things to do in New York. Check it out!
Read also:
- Ultimate Guide to Public Transportation in New York
- Chicago’s Top Attractions and the 16 Best Things to do in Chicago!
What to do in New York
New York is at the forefront and greatly influences fashion, art, entertainment, tourism, politics, and technology. Unless you plan an extended vacation, visiting all or even the most must-see sites and attractions is impossible. Plan an itinerary and decide on things you cannot miss during your visit.
Statue of Liberty
New York is a metropolitan area that constitutes a prestigious employment area and major entry for legal immigrants. Today, it is home to approximately three million residents who are legal immigrants. The Statue of Liberty was placed in The Hudson River, close to the city, to represent this. The statue is the first thing immigrants see as they travel to New York, hoping for a new life.
Central Park
Central Park is an inner-city park that’s located close to Manhattan. The park covers a whopping 183 acres and contains many crowd-pleasers you want to explore. The Central Park Conservatory is responsible for this gigantic park’s upkeep and handles all maintenance and restoration. Some of the most popular activities in Central Park include:
- Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir
- Ramble and Lake
- Central Park Carousel
- Central Park Zoo
Empire State Building
The Empire State Building was constructed from 1930 to 1931.
New York is at the forefront and greatly influences fashion, art, entertainment, tourism, politics, and technology. Unless you plan an extended vacation, visiting all or even the most must-see sites and attractions is impossible. Plan an itinerary and decide on things you cannot miss during your visit.
RollerJam USA
Roller Jam Usa, Inc. is part of the Arts, Entertainment, and recreation Sector in Staten Island. The roller skating rink opened in 2007 and is the only rink in New York City. Its ultramodern light display and sound system will excite any birthday party or visit.
RollerJam USA is the perfect place to host your kid’s birthday party or have adult fun with your buddies. It is a one-of-a-kind attraction that you will not want to miss!
Staten Island Zoo
Website: Staten Island Zoo
The famous Staten Island Zoo is open year-round except for the three major holidays and is approximately eight acres. Of course, the zoo is full of animals to visit, but they also offer much more. You can also check out the historical collectibles, exhibits, and children’s camps they offer.
Staten Island Museum
Website: Staten Island Museum
Staten Island Museum is the oldest cultural institution on the island and the last general-interest museum in New York. General interest museums were built in the 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries and held collections on multiple subjects. They are also referred to as interdisciplinary museums. Expect a visit full of history, amazement, and fun.
Richmond County Bank Ballpark
The Richmond County Bank Ballpark is located on the north-eastern side of Staten Island. It is home to the Wagner College Seahawks Baseball park. The ballpark site was built overlooking New York Harbor and is a high-priority fun place to visit, especially for baseball enthusiasts.
Famous Broadway Shows
Without question, some of the Best Things To Do in New York are the multitude of world-famous shows it offers. You can find Broadway and off-Broadway shows, which are all fantastic. Besides the famous holiday shows, there are countless memorable shows you don’t want to miss. Some of the most loved shows include:
- Girl From North Country
- Come From Away
- Mean Girls
- West Side Story
- The Lion King
- The Book of Mormon
- To Kill a Mockingbird
Even if you do not love to see plays or are not a big musical fan, you must visit one or more of New York’s fantastic shows for the whole experience. They also offer off-Broadway shows that won’t disappoint. Some of those shows include Jersey Boys, Drunk Shakespeare, and Little Shop of Horrors.
One of the paramount and most enjoyable things to do while visiting New York is to see a show! For most, one show isn’t enough. After the first one, they make it a point to see one or more of them every time they visit New York. Make sure to take advantage of some of the best-performing arts, concerts, plays, and musicals you can see in the entire world.
While visiting, you will also want to stop by “The Time Out Market New York.” There you will find seven adored restaurants and two bars under one roof named DUMBO’s Empire Stores. The bi-level hangout that is also waterfront offers delicious foods and desserts, yummy cocktails, and a spectacular view. The market offers the city’s top chefs, and the food will surely make your tastebuds happy.
Finally, you will want to check out one or more of the speakeasies and hidden bars in New York City. It’s hard to believe that hidden within all the bright lights and bustle are hidden bars unknown to many, but secret gems are waiting for you to discover them. Locating the best places will take a little effort, but you can start with those listed below.
Hidden Gems in New York
Dive into NYC’s Art Scene at World-Class Museums
National 9/11 Memorial and Museum
The National September 11 Memorial is a breathtaking and heartfelt memorial to the nearly three thousand people killed on September 11, 2001. The attraction goes through September 11th and the weeks that followed. You will find in-depth details of all the victims killed that day in the Twin Towers and other parts of the country.
The exhibits include the aircraft fragments, the last standing column, and the damaged fire truck. You will find these artifacts and more while visiting the following sites:
- The Memorial
- The museum
- The reflecting pools
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
- Address: 11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019
- Open hours: 10:30 – 17:30 daily
- Contact: +1 212-708-9400
- Website: www.moma.org
If you’re an art lover, MoMA is like a wonderland. The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in Manhattan, opened in 1929, was the first museum to focus on modern art. Today, it has a huge collection covering everything from famous European paintings to modern films and sculptures. Highlights include Monet’s Water Lilies, Van Gogh’s The Starry Night, and Picasso’s Les Demoiselles d’Avignon.
MoMA also has an affiliate, MoMA PS1 in Queens, dedicated to contemporary art, where you can find exciting new installations and live performances. There’s also a beautiful sculpture garden where you can breathe between galleries.
Guggenheim Museum
- Address: 1071 5th Ave, New York, NY 10128
- Open hours: 10:30 – 17:30 daily
- Contact:+1 212-423-3500
- Website: www.guggenheim.org
Even if you’re not a huge art buff, the Guggenheim is worth visiting just for the building. This spiral masterpiece designed by Frank Lloyd Wright is a New York icon and a work of art on its own. Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, Modern, and Contemporary art featuring artists like Kandinsky, Picasso, and Pollock. The circular walkway lets you view the art as you spiral up, creating a unique experience where architecture and art take center stage.
This is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and is more than just a museum. It’s a spot where artists and critics talk about modern art, with classes for all ages, from teens to adults. There are also live performances and film screenings to enjoy. Plus, you can join a guided tour led by experts who’ll show you around and share all the cool details about the exhibits.
Whitney Museum of American Art
- Address: 99 Gansevoort St, New York, NY 10014
- Open hours: 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM daily, closed on Tuesday
- Contact: +1 212-570-3600
- Website: whitney.org
The Whitney has a cool, industrial vibe that fits right into its Meatpacking District location. It’s dedicated to American contemporary art, focusing on living artists and cutting-edge exhibitions that often tackle current social issues. Here, you’ll find exciting exhibitions featuring today’s hottest artists alongside iconic works by legends like Edward Hopper, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Jacob Lawrence.
The Whitney’s rooftop terraces also offer some of the best views of downtown Manhattan and the Hudson River, making it a great spot for snapping photos and taking in NYC’s stunning cityscape. You can also take free tours, try family art activities, and shop for cool, art-inspired gifts. Plus, grab a bite at Frenchette Bakery or the new Studio Bar.
Enjoy the Great Outdoors in NYC
Bronx Zoo
- Address: 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10460
- Open hours: 10:00 – 17:00 weekdays | 10:00 – 17:30 weekends
- Contact: +1 718-220-5100
- Website: bronxzoo.com
The Bronx Zoo, part of the Wildlife Conservation Society, is the perfect place to learn about and appreciate animals worldwide. With over 6,000 animals across 265 acres, the zoo re-creates natural habitats to give visitors an up-close look at diverse wildlife.
Open year-round, it offers a unique experience no matter the season. Check out Tiger Mountain or Himalayan Highlands in winter, where big cats thrive in the cold. Then, warm up by visiting the World of Reptiles or JungleWorld for a glimpse of tropical creatures. Some exhibits and attractions are seasonal, so visit their website to plan.
Coney Island
- Address: Surf Avenue, Brooklyn, NY, 11224
Just an hour from Times Square, Coney Island is the perfect day trip from New York City, right by the Atlantic Ocean. Coney Island is pure nostalgia. Its iconic boardwalk, thrilling amusement rides, and classic treats make it a place to let loose and enjoy yourself. The amusement park here has been around for over a century, and you can still ride the historic Cyclone roller coaster if you’re feeling brave!
Grab a famous Nathan’s hot dog, play a few carnival games, and take in the seaside vibes at this legendary New York destination. Coney Island is a must-visit while in NYC!
Visit NYC’s Most Famous Landmarks
Times Square
- Address: Manhattan, NY 10036
- Website: www.timessquarenyc.org
The neon lights, giant billboards, and bustling crowds of Times Square make it the true heart of New York City’s entertainment district. This is where Broadway and 42nd Street meet, and it’s one of the most recognizable places on the planet.
Stop here to people-watch, take photos, and soak in the energy. While you’re here, grab a ticket to a Broadway show or explore the flagship stores, street performers, and pop-up events that make Times Square endlessly entertaining.
Brooklyn Bridge
- Address: New York, NY 10038
- Website: www.nyc.gov
Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is a classic NYC experience. It offers sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline, the East River, and the Statue of Liberty in the distance.
Built in 1883, it’s one of the oldest suspension bridges in the U.S. The walk takes about 30 minutes, and if you go early in the morning or close to sunset, you’ll avoid the crowds and get the best lighting for photos.
Grand Central Terminal
- Address: 89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017
More than just a train station, Grand Central is a breathtaking historic landmark with its magnificent Beaux-Arts architecture and a ceiling painted with constellations. Grand Central has evolved, with the East Side Access Project adding more space for the Long Island Railroad. Despite all the changes, it remains a must-see landmark in New York.
The station hides some cool secrets, like The Campbell, a hidden bar once a tycoon’s office, and two valuable clocks – one on the outside and another inside worth $20 million. Oak and acorn motifs are scattered throughout, honoring the Vanderbilt family. The Whispering Gallery offers a fun acoustic trick, and the ceiling’s constellations were accidentally painted backward.
Hit the Beach in New York
Orchard Beach
- Address: Park Dr Bronx, NY, 10464
Orchard Beach in the Bronx is perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed, family-friendly beach. Known as “The Riviera of New York,” Orchard Beach offers calm waters, sandy shores, and plenty of picnic areas. You’ll find volleyball courts, playgrounds, and shaded areas to cool off, making it a great spot for a low-key beach day without leaving the city. If you want a break from the sand, walk along the promenade with shops and food vendors to check out.
Coney Island Beach
- Address: 37 Boardwalk E, Brooklyn, NY 11224
When you’re done with the boardwalk and rides, head to Coney Island’s beach for a refreshing swim or sunbathing. It’s a nearly 3-mile lively beach with lifeguards on duty, and during summer, you’ll find events, concerts, and even fireworks on Friday nights.
The atmosphere is always festive, and there’s nothing quite like the mix of beach and boardwalk that makes Coney Island a one-of-a-kind experience. If you’re looking for more than just relaxing, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. You can play beach volleyball, handball, or basketball.
Rockaway Beach
- Address: Beach 2nd St (to Beach 149th St) Queens, NY, 11693
Rockaway Beach in Queens is the place to be if you’re into surfing. This place is popular in the summer, with its huge sandy beach and 8.8-kilometer boardwalk. Families come here to swim, soak up the sun, or play sports like volleyball and surfing. The vibe is laid-back and fun, with seasonal vendors selling pizza, arepas, and Italian ice, plus lively bars with outdoor seating.
Surfing is big here; you’ll see surfers catching waves all year. The area is a mix of light-colored apartments and houses, many rebuilt after Hurricane Sandy in 2012, and some old-school 1960s apartment buildings along the streets.
Explore NYC’s Best Markets
Chelsea Market
- Address: 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011
- Open hours: 7:00 – 22:00 daily
- Contact: +1 212-652-2111
- Website: www.chelseamarket.com
Chelsea Market is a popular food hall in New York City’s vibrant Meatpacking District. It’s a must-see for food lovers. The market offers various options, from fresh produce and artisanal cheeses to prime cuts of meat and imported Italian goods.
The atmosphere is lively, and the array of vendors allows you to try a little of everything. Beyond food, the market also has unique retail shops, making it a fun stop for souvenirs or just some window shopping. It’s a favorite for locals and tourists, so if you want a quieter experience, visit early or late in the day.
Union Square Greenmarket
- Address: Union Square W &, E 17th St, New York, NY 10003
- Open hours: 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays year-round
- Contact: +1 212-788-7900
- Website: www.grownyc.org
The Union Square Greenmarket is the largest in New York City and the perfect place to stock up on fresh, local goodies. This market is open four days a week – Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. Here, you’ll find over 140 stalls filled with everything from fruits and veggies to meats, cheeses, artisan bread, and more.
It’s also great for unique finds like jams, pickles, fresh flowers, local wines, and ciders. If you’re hungry, try world-famous Martin’s Handmade Pretzels, or pick up some special gifts like cozy alpaca wool socks. It’s especially vibrant in the fall, with seasonal produce and activities like pumpkin picking.
Essex Market
- Address: 88 Essex St, New York, NY 10002
- Open hours: 8:00 – 20:00 daily
- Website: www.essexmarket.nyc
Essex Market on the Lower East Side has been a staple since the 19th century, and its recent renovation has turned it into a modern food hall perfect for adventurous eaters.
With over 30 vendors, it’s the perfect place to grab some quality eats or check out something new. Plus, there’s always something going on, whether it’s a cooking class, a special event, or just the lively vibe of the market.
In conclusion, being prepared is important when you visit New York City. Wear comfy shoes, bring a MetroCard, and check the weather so you can dress accordingly. If you want to hit popular spots, plan and make reservations. Lastly, keep a portable charger on hand and set a budget to enjoy the city without stress.
