This list of the best things to do in New York City was written by Antonina Pattiz, a 10-year NYC local and the founder of New York Simply. New York Simply creates expert guides on NYC based on firsthand experience and is an official partner of Apple Maps. We’re happy to have you here!
I visited the city six times before making an official move to the Big Apple. As a local, I get to experience the Big Apple from a unique perspective and thought it might be fun to share the best things to do in New York City.
Longtime readers know I’m not keen on small talk, so let’s dive right in!
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The best neighborhoods for first timers +2 to avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
The Best Things to Do in New York City
#1. Stroll (or Bike) Through Central Park
Ask any New Yorker about the best things to do in NYC for first-time visitors and Central Park is bound to come up, which is why it tops the list.
Spanning 843 acres, Central Park is an architectural feat few can resist. Recognized as the first man-made park in the country, it was designed using a new concept (for the time), called landscape architecture.
There’s so many iconic spots to see in Central Park, I suggest reading 15 ICONIC Things to Do in Central Park. Biking is a great way to cover more ground, but walking around is equally enjoyable. Just note, biking in Central Park a very popular activity in New York City, make sure you follow the flow of one-way traffic and keep in the slower lane unless passing.
P.S. Make sure to pack your most comfortable pair of shoes while visiting New York City. If you need some guidance, here’s my guide on the best shoes for walking around NYC (one of our most popular posts!).
#2. Catch Sunset From the Top of the Rock
Seeing the city from above is a feeling you won’t soon forget. I’ve been to all 5 of the city’s observation decks and can confidently tell you that Top of the Rock has the best views.
The large glass panels offer unobstructed views of the city (unlike some of the other observation decks that use outdated fencing), giving you unparalleled access to the city’s most iconic buildings. You’ll see the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, Flatiron Building and the One World Trade Center.
I think that everyone should make an effort to see the city from above, which it why I consider visiting an observation deck as one of the most iconic activities in New York City.
Further Reading: 18 Jaw-Dropping Views of NYC (For All Budgets)
#3. Enjoy Cocktails at the Best Bar in the World (Yes, Really)
Dante dates back to 1915. It served as a staple for the community before slowly fading into oblivion before two Australians decided to breathe new life into this beloved NYC institution. The result was striking, within a few years of opening, Dante was named the best bar in the world in 2019 and appeared on the list again in 2020.
The menu is well curated with small fare and the drinks are perfectly crafted. The hardest part about this experience is getting reservations because this is one of the best things to do in New York City.
Happy Hour: There’s two Dante locations in the West Village, and thankfully both have generous happy hour between 3pm and 5pm daily. Dante West Village offers martinis for $10 and Caffe Dante offers negronis for $10. The price/quality ratio can’t be beat!
#4. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is a must-do for anyone visiting New York City for the first time. Opened in 1883, the bridge took 14 years to build! It spans 1.1 miles across the East River and takes 30 minutes to cross.
My preference is to walk from the Brooklyn side toward Manhattan because the views are better. Take the subway to DUMBO (acronym for “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge”) before making your way up the bridge.
#5. Explore DUMBO
Sandwiched between the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges, DUMBO is one of the coolest areas in the city to explore. But like most neighborhoods in NYC, DUMBO wasn’t always trendy.
This used to be an industrial mecca full of monolithic warehouses. Indeed, it was here where many notable inventions occurred, such as the cardboard box (admittedly this was an accidental invention), Brillo pads and tin cans.
Landlords were having a hard time renting warehouses and office space, so they opened them up to tenants on the cheap (which attracted artists in hordes). But word got around, and over time, DUMBO became one of the hippest parts of town, the area was built out over the past 15 years and is a joy to explore.
Here’s some cool places to check out while exploring DUMBO:
- Time Out Market (grab drinks at the roof top)
- Admire Jane’s Carousel (hand-carved wooden carousel built in 1922)
- Take a photo at Washington & Water St. (very famous photo spot)
- Stroll Brooklyn Bridge Park for some of the best views of NYC.
You May Enjoy Reading: 20 Top-Notch Things to Do in DUMBO
#6. Get Bagels & Lox at Russ and Daughters
Start your day the true New York way – grab bagel and lox (smoked salmon) from Russ and Daughters in the Lower East Side. This beloved Jewish deli has been serving New Yorkers since 1914 (more than 110 years!).
The bagels are exceptional, as you would expect, but the smoked fish is where they shine. Some of the best in NYC, this popular combo will set you back $25-30, but it’s a true NYC experience that can’t be missed.
Further Reading: You Asked, We Answered: Here’s the 15 Best Bagels in NYC
#7. Visit Washington Square Park
Located in the heart of the charming Greenwich Village, Washington Square Park is one of the most beautiful parks in New York City.
The most notable feature in the park is the monolithic marble arch that sits at the northern entrance of the park, which was built to commemorate the centennial of George Washington’s inauguration.
Serving as the cultural hub of the neighborhood, the welcoming atmosphere attracts street performers, artist and social activists, making Washington Park one of the best parks in NYC for people-watching.
You may enjoy reading: The 15 Best Parks in New York City (Ranked by a Local)
#8. Visit the Largest Museum in America (The Met)
With more than 2 million pieces of art spanning 5,000+ years, the Met is the largest museum in the country and the fifth largest museum in the world. Averaging 6 million visitors per year, it’s one of the most popular things to do in New York City.
Conveniently located within Central Park, it’s an easy addition to any NYC itinerary. Admittedly, the museum can get overwhelming if you don’t have a game plan! Here’s my personal guide on 20 EPIC Things to See at The MET in New.
#9. Catch a Broadway Show
Yes, Broadway Shows are expensive, but the experience is unforgettable. I would suggest budgeting at least one show during your first visit to New York City.
Broadway is a symbol of the city’s rich cultural history, which is why this iconic New York experience attracts millions of visitors a year. There’s so many great shows to choose from! You can easily find something everyone in the group will enjoy.
If you need some guidance, read: 10 Brilliant NYC Broadway Shows You Won’t Soon Forget.
Local’s Tip: Certain Broadway Shows have a lottery system where you can apply to win free tickets in advance. Just go to the website of the show you want to see and apply for the lottery (if they have one). Seems like a long shot, but one of my coworkers won two tickets to Hamilton!
#10. Explore the West Village
There are so many beautiful neighborhoods to explore in New York City, but nothing tops the charm of the West Village.
Known for quaint tree-lined streets, beautiful brownstones (worth $15-30 million!) and meandering cobblestone streets, the area brims with cozy corner cafes, historic jazz clubs and some of the city’s best cocktails bar.
A perfect blend of old-world charm with the modern present, visiting the West Village should be on everyone’s list of the best things to do in New York City. The list of fun activities is never-ending, I suggest reading: 20 Great Things to Do in the West Village (+Helpful Advice).
#11. Visit the 9/11 Memorial (& Museum)
Sometimes I’m hesitant to mention visiting the 9/11 Museum because it’s such an emotional experience (you can’t help but cry). The 9/11 museum is a profound tribute to the 2,977 lives lost on September 11, 2001 and is truly one of the best things to do in New York City. It’s worth the visit, as long as you can emotionally brace yourself.
Whether you go to the museum of not, make sure to see the 9/11 Memorial (right next to the museum). Opened in 2011, the memorial’s design is named “Reflecting Absence” and features twin waterfalls that plunge 30 feet (the largest man-made waterfalls in North America) into pools that sit in the footprints of the former North and South Towers.
Interesting Fact: The One World Trade Center was built to replace the Twin Towers. Reaching an impressive height of 1,776 feet (this is not a coincidence, America declared its independence in 1776), the One World Trade Center is the tallest building in America and the sixth tallest building in the world.
Address: 180 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10007
#12. Visit the New York Public Library
When it opened to the public in 1911, the New York Public Library was officially the largest marble building ever built in the country. No small task, considering it took 16 years to construct this monolithic structure.
The library is free to visit (here’s the opening hours), and I suggest swinging by to take in the grandeur of the building from inside. If time allows, pop into the super cool exhibit called “The New York Public Library’s Treasures.”
The New York Public Library has been collecting extraordinary items for more than 125 years, and they’ve put them on public display for the first time. You can see an original copy of the Declaration of Independence and the exact stuffed toy that inspired Winnie the Pooh. We were so enthralled with the exhibition, we ended up spending 1 hour looking around.
Fun fact: The two lions in front of the library are called Patience and Fortitude, here’s why.
#13. See Grand Central Terminal
Stepping into Grand Central Terminal for the first time is an experience you won’t soon forget. The Beaux Arts building feels like traveling back in time to an era of opulence few places replicate this well.
The celestial ceiling in the main hall is the star of the show, averaging 750,000 visitors daily. Chances are high that your subway stop might warrant a visit, but if that’s not the case, this gem is definitely worth a detour.
One of the best things to do in New York City is to swing by and snap a picture with the iconic ceiling.
#14. Walk the High Line
The High Line is one of the most unique parks in New York City. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, the elevated tracks this park was built on were originally used by freight trains delivering cargo to the city.
The rise in trucking made freight trains obsolete, and for ages, the railroad track was abandoned until Mayor Bloomberg approved a plan to transform the derelict train tracks into a public park.
The High Line opened in 2009 and became an instant success. The elevated promenade stretches 1.5 miles and receives an average of 8 million visitors annually. It didn’t take long for folks to realize this as one of the best things to do in New York City.
The High Line is a great park in New York City for kids, too! During the warm summer months there’s a handful of vendors selling balloon animals and ice cream.
#15. Visit the Chelsea Market
The Chelsea Market is a famous food hall mixed with unique shops, restaurants, spice markets, and cafes. The market has 35 vendors waiting to impress you with tasty treats and fare.
I had to add the Chelsea Market to my list of best things to do in New York City because it serves so many purposes. It’s easy bringing my out of town guests here for a sit-down meal, a quick bite or a souvenir. There’s always something to do at Chelsea Market or something to show off when visiting.
Highlights at the Chelsea Market include: Warm donuts from the Doughnuttery (what’s better than a warm doughnut?), tacos from Los Tacos No. 1, spices from Spices and Tease and souvenirs from Pearl River Mart.
Fun Fact: The Chelsea Market is housed in the old Nabisco factory building – this building is the birthplace of the Oreo cookie!
#16. Go Shopping in SoHo
SoHo is an acronym for “South of Houston Street.” Home to hundreds of stores and local boutiques, this trendy NYC neighborhood is known for being the shopping mecca of NYC.
Spend some time window shopping, perusing art galleries or absorbing the historic architecture in this (very expensive) neighborhood. Then. rest your legs at one of the many cafes while watching the world go by.
Further reading: 30 SPREE-WORTHY Stores in SoHo (Happy Local’s Guide)
#17. Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Located right off 5th Avenue, this Neo-Gothic style cathedral has been stopping people in their tracks since 1879. The iconic cathedral took 21 years to build because construction halted during the Civil War.
With a seating capacity of 2,000 people per mass, this is one of the largest cathedrals in NYC. Touring the interior is a no-brainer and self-guided tours are free, so swing by if the doors are open. If you want a more in-depth experience, sign up for a guided tour.
The cathedral was recently renovated to the tune of $177 million, so you can bet it’s a sight for sore eyes. Welcoming more than 5 million visitors per year, visiting St. Patrick’s is one of the most popular things to do in New York City.
Further Reading: 12 Breathtaking New York City Churches You Have to See to Believe
#18. Visit Times Square at Night
Times Square might be overwhelming, but it’s one of the most iconic things to do in New York City. As such, seeing Times Square (specifically at night) is something everyone should experience at least once.
The area draws an average of 50 million visitors a year. The appeal? The famous bright lights of New York. In fact, the buildings in this area are required by law to have a minimum amount of lights on display (to live up to the area’s reputation).
When you’re ready to escape the blinding lights of Times Square, head over to Los Tacos No. 1 – easily the best tacos you’ll eat in New York City.
#19. Explore Wall Street
The seat of the country’s financial power, Wall Street is a small subset of the Financial District. Between you and me, the area isn’t very lively (mostly corporate office buildings). However, visiting is non-negotiable because the area is full of historic significance and shouldn’t be skipped.
Walk down Wall Street and take in the iconic New York Stock Exchange (featured in so many films). Then, head over to the famous Charging Bull and take a photo (one of the most popular things things to do in NYC).
While exploring the neighborhood, make sure to swing by Trinity Church (right next to the New York Stock Exchange). This is the church where George Washington came to pray after his inauguration (which took place at Federal Hall). The church’s graveyard is the final resting place of Alexander Hamilton and his wife, Eliza.
#20. Grab Drinks at the Oldest Bar in NYC
Located in the Financial District, Fraunces Tavern dates back to 1762, which officially makes it the oldest restaurant in New York City.
It’s best known for being the place where the Sons of Liberty secret society met during colonial days. This is also where George Washington bid an emotional farewell to his troops before assuming the office of President. there, too.
Hamilton negotiated the end of the Revolutionary War here & even attended a meeting alongside Burr one week before the infamous duel that took Hamilton’s life.
History buffs love this place, but you don’t need to know much about history to enjoy a cocktail or two. The tavern’s bar is well stocked and one of the best whisky bars in NYC not to mention these bartenders know how to make a mean cocktail.
Best Scotch Whisky Bars NYC: 20 Best Scotch Whisky Bars in New York City
#21. Try the Famous Chocolate Chip Cookie at Levain Bakery
Levain makes the most famous cookies in New York City. Warm, gooey, rich and chocolatey — this bakery has re-imagined the childhood classic in a way most bakeries dream of. There’s a few locations in town (the original on the Upper West Side), each boasting long lines most days.
The biggest draw is the original chocolate chip walnut cookie that put them on the map. But fair warning, these cookies are massive! You can easily split one between two people. Any way you slice it, visiting Levain is one of the best things to do in NYC for foodies.
#22. Visit Rockefeller Center
A passion project of John D. Rockefeller Jr. (one of the wealthiest men of all time), Rockefeller Plaza was built during the Great Depression. Construction started in 1930 and lasted nearly 10 years (completed in 1939).
The project was a significant source of employment during the country’s most difficult economic times. At its peak, there were more than 40,000 construction workers tied to the job, when the country’s unemployment rate neared 25%.
In a lot of ways, Rockefeller Center was an investment in the future of NYC when things were looking bleak. The building was originally built to house the Metropolitan Opera but after the stock market crash in 1929, Rockefeller reimagined the space as a complex of commercial buildings alongside public areas.
As a whole, Rockefeller Center covers 22 acres and includes 19 commercial buildings, the most famous being 30 Rockefeller Plaza (which offers the best views of NYC, in my opinion) and Radio City Music Hall.
#23. Visit the American Museum of Natural History
Welcoming 5 million visitors per year and spanning all aspect of the natural world, the American Museum of Natural History in New York City is considered one of the greatest natural history museums in the world.
Don’t miss the Hall of Ocean Life where you’ll have an opportunity to see a life-size model of a 94-foot blue whale — it’s an experience you won’t soon forget. Also, the taxidermy mammals are remarkable and have captivated both children and adults for years.
#24. Try the World-Famous Cronut (Dominique Ansel Bakery)
The best way to describe Dominique Ansel Bakery would be: Michelin-star quality at a fraction of the price. Often considered one of the most innovative bakeries in New York City, the Cronut (half croissant, half doughnut) put them on the map in 2013 and the lines (still) wrap the block, 10 years later.
The popularity of the cronut is so extreme, the bakery runs out within hours. The reason why trying the cronut is one of the best things to do in New York City (aside from the obvious) is that the flavors rotate every month and never repeat. Get it while you can!
#25. Check out the Morgan Library & Museum
The Morgan Library & Museum allows visitors to step inside the private library of J.P. Morgan, which he bequeathed to the public after his death. The library is quipped with three floors of metal-enclosed walnut bookshelves, chock full of rare books.
Most notable items in the library include a handwritten score by Mozart , an original copy of the Declaration of Independence (there’s only 23), the only surviving manuscript of Paradise Lost and Charles Dickens’ manuscript for A Christmas Carol.
Visiting the Morgan Library & Museum is one of the best things to do in New York City for history buffs and book lovers alike.
Address: 225 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016
#26. See the Statue of Liberty
A gift from France, the monolithic Statue of Liberty stands as a symbol of freedom and democracy. She holds a torch above her head with her right hand, and in her left hand, she carries a tablet inscribed with the date of the American Declaration of Independence.
The statue’s internal structure was engineered by Gustave Eiffel (yes, the same guy who built the Eiffel Tower!). Over the years, Lady Liberty has welcomed millions of immigrants to America, signifying the end of an arduous journey to the Land of Freedom.
As such, is it any wonder why we can’t talk about the best things to do in New York City without mentioning the Statue of Liberty? She is the symbol of our country, and you’d be remiss to pass on this unique opportunity.
The Statue of Liberty is perched on Liberty Island and you’ll need a ferry to reach it. But, if you’re okay simply seeing the statue up close – I suggest taking the Staten Island Ferry (which is free) and sails right near the Statue of Liberty.
#27. Visit the Strand Bookstore
Founded in 1927, the Strand is the only remaining bookstore from “Book Row” which was a coalition of 48 bookstores that lined Fourth Avenue. Every single bookstore, with the exception of the Strand, closed during the Great Depression.
Today this large NYC bookstore is home to 2.5 million books and serves as a safe-haven for insatiable bookworms far and wide. Visitors are welcome to donate books and peruse the bookstore in search of something new. Definitely spend time exploring the deals on the racks outside the store as well, you might score a deal.
The Strand has several locations but I suggest visiting the flagship store in the East Village.
Address: 828 Broadway, New York, NY 10003
#28. Visit the Tomb of President Ulysses S. Grant
Ulysses S. Grant was a decorated General and the 18th President of the United States. Grant’s wish was to be buried next to his wife when he passed. Seems like a simple request, right? Not quite. At the time of his death, his options for a final resting place were limited because women were not allowed to be buried in military cemeteries at the time.
When Grant died from throat cancer in 1885, the mayor of New York offered to have him buried in NYC. His wife, Julia Grant, supported the offer and a fundraising effort to build what would become the largest tomb in North America ensued.
Grant’s Tomb is undoubtedly one of the most famous buildings in NYC due to its significance, making this a great New York City experience for history buffs. You can get free tours of the mausoleum through the National Park Service.
Address: W 122nd St &, Riverside Dr, New York, 10027
Further reading: 11 Important National Park Sites in New York City
#29. Soak in the City Lights from the (Public) Ferry
If you’re anything like me and jump at any opportunity to feel like you’re in a movie- listen up! Catching the city skyline from a ferry in general is pretty epic, but at night — well, that’s downright unforgettable.
The ferry is an extension of the city’s public transportation network, so the fare is affordable ($4 per person). One of my favorite New York City experiences with out of town guests is taking the ferry from DUMBO to Wall Street.
It’s a quick 5-minute ride, but it offers breathtaking views of Manhattan’s skyline from the water. In my mind, it’s one of the best things to do in New York City on a budget, especially with kids. There’s something special about being on the water, even more so when you’re in the Big Apple.
Local’s Tip: Download the ferry app so that you can see the schedule and purchase tickets in advance. Once you buy the tickets you just scan your QR code at the dock before boarding. It’s an easy system to figure out!
#30. Order the White Pie from Juliana’s Pizza
Juliana’s white pie is easily the best in New York. The ingredients are minimal (mozzarella and garlic), so the flavors really shine through. And don’t even get me started on the crust – oh that dough!
Most evenings, the line is out the door and around the block, but if you go during lunch your wait time should be shorter/nonexistent. Pies run around $25 a piece and feed two. Eating authentic NYC pizza on your trip to the Big Apple is one of the best things to do in New York City, don’t miss it.
You May Enjoy Reading: 15 Important New York City Pizza Joints (You Can’t Afford to Miss)
#31. Catch a (FREE) Outdoor Movie at Bryant Park (Summer Activity)
If you’re visiting New York City in the summer, Bryant Park hosts “Movies in the Park” every Monday night from mid-June through August. The lawn opens at 5pm and movies start around sunset (8pm).
Seeing an outdoor movie in Bryant Park is one of the most romantic things to do in New York City. Make sure to bring a cozy blanket and arrive early because it gets busy! Note: Beer and wine available for purchase onsite.
Things to Do New York City (Seasonal)
Best Time to Visit New York City
- My favorite time to visit New York City is during the holiday season (late November to December) because of the Christmas markets and decorations.
- My second favorite time to visit is during fall (mid-October to mid-November) because of the mild temperatures and beautiful fall foliage.
But there’s no bad time to visit New York City. Just know that winters can be brutally cold (between January and mid-March). And the summer heat and humidity is tough to handle (between July and August).
Where to Stay in New York City
Lodging in New York City will not be cheap. Anyway you slice it, sleeping in the city that never sleeps is expensive. In fact, lodging will probably be the biggest hit to your budget.
With that said, for first time visitors, my recommendation is to stay in Greenwich Village or SoHo.
- My favorite mid-range hotel in New York City is the Soho Grand Hotel. SoHo has a calmer feel than other parts of New York City.
Airbnb Note: Due to the current housing shortage crisis in New York City, the city prohibits rentals of entire apartments or homes for less than 30 days without the owner present in the unit. Essentially, it’s okay to book through Airbnb if you’re staying in a private room while the owner is present. You might be surprised to hear that prices are not any cheaper for this arrangement.
Getting Around New York City
Walking is a great way to get around
- You will be doing a lot of walking during your first visit to New York City. The subway is efficient but sometimes it’s better to walk between places to absorb more of the city.
Uber and Lyft
- Using Uber and Lyft is a great way to get around New York City, especially if traveling in a larger group. The last time I visited NYC with a group of friends Uber and Lyft were sometimes cheaper than the subway split between the 4 of us.
The subway
- The subway is quite the New York City experience. I personally love taking it whenever I can but be warned – it gets terribly crowded during commute hours.
- Also, in the summer, some of the subway stations are hot and muggy. Since the itinerary takes you to every corner of Manhattan, I suggest getting a MetroCard during your 4 days in New York.
Taxis
- What is more iconic than a bright gold New York City taxi? To know if a taxi is available for pick up, check the light on top of the cab. If the light is illuminated, the taxi is eager to take you! Credit cards accepted.
Best Things to do in New York City
In sum, these are the best things to do in New York City during your first visit.
- Stroll (or bike) through Central Park
- Sunset at Top of the Rock Observation Deck
- Lox bagels from Russ and Daughters
- Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
- Visit Washington Square Park
- Explore DUMBO
- Catch a Broadway Show
- Shop in Soho
- White pie from Juliannas Pizza
- Marinara pie from Rubirosa Pizza
- Visit the 9/11 Memorial (and Museum)
- Explore the Oculus Mall
- New York Public Library (& Bryant Park)
- Catch an outdoor movie at Bryant Park
- Photo with the Flat Iron Building
- Explore the Chelsea Market
- Cronut from Domonique Ansel Bakery
- Walk the Highline
- Visit MoMA
- Visit the MET
- Explore Grand Central Terminal
- Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral
- Visit Times Square
- Stroll the Brooklyn Promenade
- Raging Bull and Wall Street
- Burger from Shake Shack
- Levain Bakery cookies
- Eat your way through Essex Market
- Visit the tomb of President Ulysses S. Grant
- Hang out on Little Island
- Soak in the city lights from the Ferry
- Explore the Turnstyle Underground Market
- Check out the iconic Friends Apartment Building
- Get a treat at the original Magnolia Bakery
- Get lost in Industry City
- Have a drink at the best bar in the world
- Explore a new neighborhood
- Picnic in Central Park
Map of the Best Things to Do in NYC
I hope you enjoyed this guide as much as I enjoyed creating it! Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions – happy to help!
Cheers!
The post 30 Best Things to Do in New York City (For First Time Visitors) appeared first on New York Simply.
