40+ Things To See and Do in New York City

New York City offers an endless mix of iconic sights, cultural attractions, and unforgettable experiences. This guide highlights 40+ things to see and do across the city, from world-famous landmarks to local favorites. Whether it’s a first visit or a return trip, this list helps plan time in NYC efficiently and confidently.

Madame Tussauds Wax Museum New York

Madame Tussauds New York offers an interactive experience filled with lifelike wax figures of celebrities, historical figures, and pop culture icons. You can pose for photos with the wax figures and explore themed exhibits that blend entertainment with history. It’s a popular thing to do in the city so it can be busy, but it’s worth a visit.
Get Tickets: NYC: Madame Tussauds Entry Tickets

RiseNY

RiseNY combines immersive exhibits with a simulated flying ride that showcases the history and culture of New York City. There are galleries featuring music, fashion, finance, and film before you board the ride. The experience offers a dynamic overview of the city’s past and present.
Get tickets: RiseNY Experience Ticket

Central Park

Central Park offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city streets in the middle of New York City. The park has open lawns, winding paths, and scenic views. Some notable landmarks in the park are Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, and the Great Lawn. While you can absolutely wander the park yourself, it’s huge and it might be helpful to take a guided tour your first trip.
Check out this guided tour: Central Park Small Group Walking Tour

Top of the Rock

Top of the Rock offers panoramic views of New York City from the top of Rockefeller Center. From the top, you can see iconic landmarks such as Central Park, the Empire State Building, and the surrounding skyline. The observation deck provides a memorable perspective of the city both day and night. There are also plenty of photo ops at the top.
Get tickets: Top of the Rock Observation Deck Ticket

Circle Line City Cruise

Circle Line Sightseeing Tours offers a classic way to see New York City from the water, with unbeatable views of landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and the Manhattan skyline. With multiple cruise options and great narrations, it’s a convenient and memorable experience for both tourists and locals. Whether you’re new to the city or showing guests around, Circle Line delivers iconic views and a smooth ride.
Get tickets: 2.5-Hour Best of NY Cruise

The Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is an iconic symbol of New York City with a rich history and Art Deco design. You can check out exhibits and take elevators to the observation decks for sweeping city views. The experience offers a classic and memorable perspective of the skyline.
Get tickets: Empire State Building Tickets – Observatory & Museum

Museum of broadway

The Museum of Broadway celebrates the history and impact of Broadway theater in New York City. Visitors can explore immersive exhibits featuring iconic shows, costumes, and behind-the-scenes stories. The museum offers an engaging experience that highlights Broadway’s cultural influence.
Get tickets: Museum of Broadway Entry Ticket

Visit Ellis Island

Ellis Island offers a glimpse into America’s immigrant history at the iconic gateway to the United States. The Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration features compelling exhibits and preserved facilities that tell the stories of millions who passed through. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a curious traveler, Ellis Island delivers an unforgettable and educational experience.
Get tickets: Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Guided Tour

The Edge

The Edge is a sky-high observation deck in Hudson Yards offering breathtaking views of New York City. You can walk over the glass floor and check out the angled glass walls for a thrilling perspective of the skyline. The attraction provides a modern, unforgettable way to see the city from above.
Get tickets: Edge Observation Deck Admission Ticket

The Vessel

The Vessel is a striking architectural landmark in Hudson Yards known for its honeycomb-like design. You can walk up the interconnected stairways to various platforms to experience unique views from different levels. The structure offers a modern perspective on public art and urban space in New York City.
Get tickets: Vessel at Hudson Yards Admission Ticket

9/11 Memorial and Museum

The 9/11 Museum offers a powerful and deeply moving experience. Artifacts, personal stories, and multimedia exhibits thoughtfully honor the lives lost and the resilience that followed. The space encourages quiet reflection and a deeper understanding of the events and their lasting impact.
Get tickets: 9/11 Memorial & Museum Timed-Entry Ticket

Secrets of Grand Central Terminal Tour

The Secrets of Grand Central Terminal tour reveals hidden details and lesser-known stories behind the iconic landmark. You’ll learn about architectural features, underground spaces, and clever design elements often missed by passersby. The tour adds a deeper appreciation for the history and ingenuity of the terminal.
Get tickets: The Secrets of Grand Central Terminal

Visit Roosevelt Island

Roosevelt Island offers a peaceful retreat from the city with stunning views of Manhattan and the East River. Easily accessible by tram or subway, the island features parks, walking paths, and unique landmarks like the historic Smallpox Hospital ruins and a lighthouse. Whether you’re looking to explore or unwind, Roosevelt Island provides a quiet escape from the city’s hustle.
Walking tour to learn about the island: Roosevelt Island Walking Tour with Tram Ride

Visit The Bronx Zoo

The Bronx Zoo offers an immersive experience with a wide variety of animals from around the world. It features themed habitats, interactive exhibits, and educational programs that highlight wildlife conservation. The zoo provides both excitement and learning, making it a favorite destination for families and animal lovers.
Get tickets: Bronx Zoo Entry Ticket

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is a one-of-a-kind attraction located on a historic aircraft carrier docked on the Hudson River. Featuring real fighter jets, the space shuttle Enterprise, and hands-on exhibits, it offers an up-close look at military and aviation history. Whether you’re a history buff or visiting with family, the Intrepid delivers a powerful and educational experience.
Get tickets: Intrepid Museum Entry Ticket

Pebble Beach

Pebble Beach in Brooklyn offers a quiet waterfront spot in DUMBO with incredible views of the Manhattan Bridge and skyline. Located along the East River, it’s a great place to relax, snap photos, or enjoy the sunset. Whether you’re exploring Brooklyn Bridge Park or just passing through, Pebble Beach is a scenic stop worth visiting.
Learn more about visiting: Pebble Beach NYC

Grand Ferry Park

Grand Ferry Park is a small but peaceful waterfront park in Williamsburg with clear views of the Manhattan skyline and East River. It’s a quiet spot to relax on a bench, enjoy the breeze, or take in the sunset away from the crowds. Whether you’re on a walk or looking for a moment of calm, Grand Ferry Park offers a simple, scenic escape.
Learn more about visiting: Grand Ferry Park Brooklyn NY

Little Island

Little Island is a one-of-a-kind public park built on the Hudson River, offering a blend of nature, art, and design. With elevated pathways, performance spaces, and landscaped gardens, it’s a standout destination for both locals and tourists. Whether you’re here for a show or a stroll, Little Island delivers a fresh take on the NYC park experience.
Learn more about visiting: Little Island NYC

Pier 57

Pier 57 is a revitalized waterfront destination in Hudson River Park that combines rooftop views, local food vendors, and public gathering spaces. With its spacious rooftop park and access to the James Beard Market Hall, it’s a go-to spot for relaxing, dining, and taking in the city skyline. Whether you’re visiting for lunch or sunset views, Pier 57 offers a modern take on New York’s historic piers.
Learn more about visiting: Pier 57 NYC

North 5th Street Pier and Park

North 5th Street Pier and Park is a peaceful waterfront escape in Williamsburg with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. The park offers a mix of open space, shaded seating, and a scenic pier perfect for strolling or relaxing by the water. It’s an ideal spot to unwind, take photos, or catch the sunset in the heart of Brooklyn.
Learn more about visiting: North 5th Street Pier And Park

Bushwick Inlet Park

Bushwick Inlet Park is a modern green space on the Williamsburg waterfront that blends recreation, sustainability, and skyline views. Featuring sports fields, native plant gardens, and eco-friendly design, it’s a go-to spot for both locals and visitors. Whether you’re here to play, relax, or explore, this park delivers a refreshing escape in the heart of Brooklyn.
Learn more about visiting: Bushwick Inlet Park

Marsha P. Johnson State Park

Marsha P. Johnson State Park is a vibrant waterfront destination in Brooklyn that honors the legacy of LGBTQ+ activist Marsha P. Johnson. With scenic views of the Manhattan skyline, open green spaces, and community-centered art installations, it’s a unique spot for relaxation and reflection. Whether you’re planning a weekend picnic or exploring local history, this park offers a meaningful and memorable experience.
Learn more about visiting: Marsha P. Johnson State Park: A Place Of Pride

Union Square Park

Union Square Park in NYC offers a lively blend of city energy and open green space. Street performers, chess players, and the nearby greenmarket create a vibrant and authentic atmosphere. Visitors can relax on benches while taking in the constant flow of people and activity around them.
Learn more about visiting: Exploring Union Square Park in NYC

The Highline

The High Line is an elevated park built on a former railway line on Manhattan’s West Side. Visitors can stroll along landscaped paths while enjoying views of the city, the Hudson River, and surrounding architecture. The park blends nature, art, and urban design into a unique public space. While you can enjoy this for free on your own, there are walking tours where you can learn about the history of the High Line and New York.
Learn more about visiting: High Line New York: An Elevated Oasis In NYC

Dine at Rolf’s

Dining at Rolf’s German Restaurant in New York City during the holidays is like stepping into a winter wonderland. Famous for its elaborate decorations, the restaurant has thousands of shimmering ornaments, twinkling lights, and lush garlands that create a cozy, festive atmosphere. Paired with hearty German cuisine, it’s a must-visit destination for an unforgettable seasonal experience.
More things to do during the holidays: 11 Festive Things To See and Do in NYC This Holiday Season

Bryant Park

Bryant Park provides a peaceful retreat surrounded by Midtown Manhattan’s towering buildings. Visitors can enjoy the green lawn, seasonal activities, and people watching throughout the day. The park’s relaxed atmosphere makes it a favorite spot to pause and recharge in the city. In the winter, there’s a Christmas Market and a skating rink.

Chelsea Market

Chelsea Market offers a lively indoor space filled with diverse food vendors and unique shops. The mix of international cuisine, fresh ingredients, and local flavors make it a popular destination. Walking through the market feels energetic and bustling, with something interesting around every corner.

the Oculus

The Oculus in Lower Manhattan impresses visitors with its striking white, wing-like architecture. Sunlight floods the interior, creating a bright and spacious atmosphere despite being underground. Exploring the transportation hub and shops inside feels both futuristic and distinctly New York.

See A Show At Radio City Music Hall

Seeing a show at Radio City Music Hall is a memorable experience in one of New York City’s most iconic venues. The grand Art Deco interior and impressive stage design add to the excitement of the performance. The combination of history, atmosphere, and live entertainment makes the visit feel special.

230 Fifth Rooftop Bar

230 Fifth Rooftop Bar is New York’s largest indoor and outdoor bar. It offers stunning panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, including the Empire State Building. The large rooftop combines a lively atmosphere with comfortable seating and seasonal decor.

Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral

St. Patrick’s Cathedral stands out with its stunning Gothic architecture amid the surrounding skyscrapers. The detailed stained glass, soaring ceilings, and quiet interior create a sense of calm and reverence. Visiting the cathedral offers a peaceful pause and a glimpse into the city’s rich religious and cultural history.

Times Square

Times Square surrounds visitors with towering digital billboards and constant movement at all hours. The bright lights, crowds, and street performers create an intense and energetic atmosphere. Visiting the area feels overwhelming yet unforgettable, capturing the nonstop pace of New York City. If you want it to be as empty as it was in this photo, go early in the morning.

Walk Over The Brooklyn Bridge

Walking over the Brooklyn Bridge is a must-do New York City experience, offering sweeping views of the skyline, Statue of Liberty, and East River. The iconic span connects Manhattan and Brooklyn with a dedicated pedestrian path perfect for sightseeing and photos. Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, this walk always delivers a classic NYC moment.

See A Show On Broadway

Seeing a show on Broadway is a classic New York City experience filled with world-class performances. The talent, live music, and impressive stage production create an unforgettable atmosphere. Each show offers a unique blend of storytelling and spectacle that leaves a lasting impression.

Dine at Westway diner

Okay, so this one is SUPER niche, but if you’re a fan of Seinfeld, this spot is worth checking out. This diner was the birthplace of the show Seinfeld! While it’s cool to check out just for that alone, the food was really good when we dined in.

American Girl Place New York

The American Girl Store in NYC isn’t simply a store, it’s an experience. This is a great kid-friendly spot to visit in the city as there’s plenty to do in addition to shopping! Even as someone in their 20s, I really enjoyed the store, especially seeing the retired dolls. I had a Kailey Hopkins American Girl Doll growing up because it was so rare to find anything that had my name spelled correctly.

Nintendo NEW YORK

Nintendo NEW YORK offers an immersive experience for fans of the brand and its iconic games. You can explore interactive displays, exclusive merchandise, and memorabilia from Nintendo’s history. The store provides a lively atmosphere that celebrates gaming culture in the heart of the city. My sister loved this spot.

Apple Fifth Avenue

It might sound weird to visit an Apple store for fun, but this isn’t your typical Apple store. They offer free daily workshops! My sister and I designed our own emojis when we went!

Rockefeller Park

Rockefeller Park is a vibrant green space in Battery Park City offering waterfront views, walking paths, and public art installations. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxing stroll, outdoor exercise, or enjoying the city skyline. Whether you’re a local or visitor, Rockefeller Park provides a peaceful urban oasis in Lower Manhattan.

Domino Park

Domino Park is a lively waterfront park in Williamsburg that combines history, green space, and stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. Featuring unique playgrounds, a waterfront promenade, and remnants of the old Domino Sugar Factory, it’s a must-visit spot for relaxation and recreation. Whether you’re meeting friends or enjoying a solo stroll, Domino Park offers a fresh perspective on Brooklyn’s waterfront.

Take The Ferry To Staten Island

Taking the Staten Island Ferry is a free and iconic way to see the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan skyline from the water. The ferry runs frequently between Staten Island and Manhattan, offering stunning views without the cost of a tour. Whether you’re commuting or sightseeing, the Staten Island Ferry is a must-do New York experience.

Little Red Lighthouse

Visiting the Little Red Lighthouse offers a charming and historic stop beneath the George Washington Bridge. This small, iconic lighthouse is a unique piece of New York City’s maritime history and a great spot for photos and quiet reflection. Whether you’re exploring Fort Washington Park or just passing by, the Little Red Lighthouse is a hidden gem worth seeing.