We’ve researched over 100 things to do places in NYC, and out of these, we selected the 18 best things to do in the city. You will experience the absolute best things to do in NYC with this epic guide to essential eats, drinks, culture, parks, and more.
1. Admire International Art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art
If you’re looking for the best things to do in NYC then this is the first that you should try out. A grand setting for one of the world’s greatest collections of art, from ancient to contemporary. The Met presents over 5,000 years of art from around the world for everyone to experience and enjoy. The Museum lives in two iconic sites in New York City—The Met Fifth Avenue and The Met Cloisters.
2. Explore World Famous Statue of Liberty
Iconic National Monument opened in 1886, offering guided tours, a museum & city views. The Statue of Liberty is one of the most well-known and beloved monuments in America. If you’re looking for a place where you can feel a beautiful experience then this is one of the worth visiting places for you.
3. American Museum of Natural History
This place is an absolute classic. It is probably the best museum of its kind in the world. Great museum with many interesting exhibits. A lot of animals, figures of people from different parts of the world and different times. You can also see many ancient tools, dishes, and pieces of art. Definitely worth visiting.
4. Do Fun Things at Central Park
Sprawling park with pedestrian paths & ballfields, plus a zoo, carousel, boat rentals & a reservoir. Family-oriented fun place to visit. Has many vendors, park areas for kiddos, and other fun stops along the way. Having a fun thing at the central park might be another best things to do in NYC
5. See Amazing Arts at The Museum of Modern Art
This is an essential Manhattan destination. The Museum of modern art really makes you look at many things in a different way. Some of the pieces were very outlandish and thought-provoking, while others were mundane yet done in such a way that makes you rethink your own realities.
6. Walk With Your Family or Friends at The High Line
This place is wonderful. Inspired, and free to walk across. It is an oasis of calm above a very bustling city. The high line is a unique experience. It gives you an amazing perspective of New York City and it is very beautiful. All of the plants and trees on this path are incredible.
7. See The Stunning View From Empire State Building
Iconic, art deco office tower from 1931 with exhibits & observatories on the 86th & 102nd floors. There’s no other building more iconic than the Empire State Building. The view from the top is amazing! You can’t go wrong visiting this great building when visiting New York City!
8. Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
The Guggenheim is very fun to visit, for both its wild architecture and its art exhibitions. This is a great mix of very recent and slightly older modern and contemporary art. The walk through the rotunda is a great way to explore the exhibits, and the architecture is lovely.
9. Grand Central Terminal
This is an iconic train station known for its grand facade & main concourse, also offering shops & dining. GCT is a must-see and totally worth your time to visit and explore. A lot of shops and some hidden treasures. You can spend hours just watching around and get inspired.
10. Have Fun at Times Square
Having fun at Times Square might be one of the best things to do in NYC. This is a bustling destination in the heart of the Theater District known for bright lights, shopping & shows. There are no words to describe Times Square. It is simply fascinating. You are dazzled by the light of LEDs both during the day and at night. It is definitely worth a visit to spend time admiring the billboards.
11. Brooklyn Bridge
It’s one of the iconic locations in New York City, and you can see the fantastic view of the city’s skyline. You can enjoy the walk and can cross the bridge and see the beautiful pictures. If you are planning to do that, then I would suggest going early morning when you won’t find many people and can enjoy the walk.
12. See The Amazing Views of NYC From One World Observatory
An amazing, powerful, inspirational, and beautiful place to visit. The One World Trade Center was a masterpiece of architecture. The views from the observation deck are stunning. I suggest going up 1 hour before the sunset for the best views and the best scenery.
13. Top of The Rock
The Top of the Rock Observation Deck at Rockefeller Center offers breathtaking 360-degree views of New York City. Explore three levels of indoor and outdoor viewing areas as you admire unforgettable sights of Central Park, Midtown, and iconic landmarks and skyscrapers.
14. New York Botanical Garden
Enjoy a sprawling spot of 50 gardens, 30,000 trees & landmark glasshouse with rain forest & cactus displays. The Botanical Gardens ground is a great place to hang out and take photos 📸 too and it’s free for Bronxites if you have the NYC ID.
15. Whitney Museum of American Art
The Whitney Museum of American Art is a must-see museum in New York City, located at the southern entrance of the High Line in Manhattan’s Meatpacking District. Museum exclusively features 20th-century & contemporary art by American artists, most still living.
16. Enjoy Indoor Skydiving at iFLY
The most enjoyable you can be in less than two hours. Go out of your way to do something. Without any risk, experience the exhilaration of skydiving. A themed wind tunnel for indoor skydiving is called iFly Westchester. Therefore, there is no jumping, poor weather, or risk; just a fun time with friends or family.
17. Take a Taste of Helicopter Over NYC
I am sure that this might be one of your favorite things to do in NYC. It is the most exciting way to see the Hudson River, its harbor, and NYC’s most famous monuments. Soar high above New York City’s skyline to take in the view. There are many helicopter ride companies in New York City. Check out pricing and review details by clicking the below button.
18. Explore NYC Through Big Bus Tours
Take a fun through Big Bus Tours throughout New York to explore the city at your own pace. You have the freedom to decide when and where to alight, giving you the time you require at your favorite attractions. It has never been so simple to visit famous places like Central Park, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Empire State Building. Select seats on the upper deck for the finest views.
