Best Indoor Activities in NYC for Tourists

Visiting New York City for the first time can be a thrilling experience. The Big Apple is bursting with life and activity, from the hustle and bustle of Times Square to the iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building and Brooklyn Bridge. But after a full day of sightseeing, tourists may find themselves a bit exhausted or looking for some indoor activities to enjoy. Whether you are visiting NYC in the middle of summer or in the dead of winter, there are plenty of indoor activities to choose from. From exploring the vibrant culture and art scene, to enjoying a leisurely stroll through some of the city’s most renowned museums and galleries, here are some of the best indoor activities to do in NYC for tourists.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the largest and most visited museums in the world, and is home to some of the world’s finest art collections. The museum’s permanent collection includes thousands of works of art from all over the world, ranging from antiquity to modern times, including ancient Egyptian artifacts, Renaissance paintings and sculptures, and contemporary works by world-renowned artists. Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries on their own or take a guided tour to learn more about the museum’s collections and get a behind-the-scenes look at the works of art. The museum also offers special exhibitions throughout the year and educational programs for visitors of all ages.

Guggenheim Museum

The Guggenheim Museum is another renowned art museum located in NYC. The museum was designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, and is home to a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art from around the world. Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries on their own or opt for a guided tour to learn more about the artists and artwork on display. The museum also offers special exhibitions and educational programs for visitors of all ages.

Museum of Modern Art

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is a must-see for any art enthusiast visiting NYC. The museum is home to one of the world’s largest collections of modern and contemporary art, featuring works from renowned artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, and Jackson Pollock. Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries on their own or opt for a guided tour to gain insight into the artworks on display. The museum also offers special exhibitions and educational programs for visitors of all ages.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium is an interactive museum located in Times Square that features more than 500 fascinating artifacts from around the world. Visitors can explore the museum at their own pace and check out some of the most bizarre items on display, including mummies, shrunken heads, and other oddities. The museum also offers a range of interactive exhibits that allow visitors to get up close and personal with some of the weirdest items in the collection.

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in military history and science. Located on an aircraft carrier docked in Hudson River Park, the museum is home to an impressive collection of aircraft and interactive exhibits that explore space exploration and aviation. Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries on their own or opt for a guided tour to learn more about the history behind the artifacts on display. The museum also offers special exhibitions and educational programs for visitors of all ages.

Madame Tussauds Wax Museum

Madame Tussauds Wax Museum is one of the most popular attractions in NYC and a great way to spend an afternoon indoors. The museum is home to an extensive collection of lifelike wax figures of iconic celebrities, historical figures, and other famous personalities from around the world. Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries on their own or opt for a guided tour to gain insight into the famous figures on display. The museum also offers special exhibitions and educational programs for visitors of all ages.

National Geographic Encounter: Ocean Odyssey

National Geographic Encounter: Ocean Odyssey is an interactive virtual reality experience that allows visitors to dive deep into the world’s oceans and explore some of its most fascinating creatures. The immersive experience features stunning visuals, realistic soundscapes, and interactive touchscreens that allow visitors to get up close with some of the most exotic sea life on Earth.

New York City Bus Tours

For those looking for something a bit more adventurous than strolling through a museum, New York City Bus Tours offer an exciting way to explore the city and see some of its most iconic sites. The tours offer a great overview of NYC’s most popular sights, including Central Park, Times Square, the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty, and more. Tours are available in both English and Spanish and feature an audio guide with interesting facts about each site along the way.

Escape Games NYC

Escape games are a great way to challenge yourself while having fun in NYC. Escape Game NYC offers a variety of escape rooms designed for different levels of difficulty and experience. Each room has its own unique theme that takes players on an adventure through puzzles that require teamwork and problem-solving skills to solve.

Paint Nite NYC

Paint Nite NYC is an interactive painting experience that allows guests to create their own masterpieces while enjoying drinks at local bars. Paint Nite provides all the necessary materials (paint, brushes, canvas) as well as a guide who will help guests create beautiful works of art in an enjoyable atmosphere.

Popular Tours

These are just a few ideas for indoor activities to do while visiting NYC. If you are looking for something even more unique and exciting, you can also consider taking one of these popular tours:

NYC Helicopter Tour

Experience NYC from above with this thrilling helicopter tour! This tour offers stunning views from above of Manhattan’s most iconic sights including Central Park, Times Square, the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge and more. Get ready for an unforgettable aerial experience! Book a NYC Helicopter Tour here.

Grand Central Station Tour

Visit one of New York’s most iconic landmarks with this guided tour of Grand Central Station! The tour will take you through this historic station’s history as well as its architectural marvels such as its main concourse with its famous clock tower and constellations ceiling. Book a Grand Central Station Tour here.

Broadway Show Tour

Experience one of New York’s biggest attractions with this Broadway Show Tour! This tour will take you behind-the-scenes at one of Broadway’s most popular shows before settling into your reserved seats for an unforgettable performance. Book a Broadway Show Tour here.

Whether you are looking for an educational experience or some good old-fashioned fun, there are plenty of indoor activities to do in NYC for tourists. From exploring some of the world’s finest museums and galleries to taking a thrilling helicopter tour over Manhattan or attending a Broadway show – no matter what you choose to do during your stay in NYC you will be sure to have a memorable time!