Fun Things To Do In New York

New York City, otherwise known as The Big Apple, is one of the most iconic cities in the world. Millions of people travel to NYC each year to experience the city’s unique energy and to take part in some of the world’s most exciting activities. From bright lights and bustling streets to iconic attractions and delicious food, NYC offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a life-long New Yorker, here is our guide to the top things to do in New York City.

New York City Overview

New York City has been a cultural and financial hub since the 1600s. It is the most populous city in the United States and is home to more than 8.6 million people. The city is divided into five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx and Staten Island. Each borough offers its own distinct flavor, from art galleries and ethnic cuisine to scenic parks and iconic landmarks.

NYC is renowned for its iconic attractions, from the Statue of Liberty to Central Park. However, there is much more to NYC than these landmarks. The city is a cultural melting pot, home to many different ethnic groups, each of which has left its mark on the city’s architecture, cuisine and culture. The city is also a hub for shopping, dining and entertainment. From Michelin-starred restaurants to Broadway shows and world-famous museums, there is something for everyone in New York City.

Iconic Landmarks

No trip to New York City would be complete without a visit to some of its iconic landmarks. Whether you’re taking in the breathtaking views from the top of the Empire State Building or admiring the grandeur of Grand Central Station, these landmarks are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is one of the most recognizable symbols of freedom in the world. Located on Liberty Island in the harbor of NYC, this colossal copper statue was a gift from France to the United States and was dedicated in 1886. Visitors can take a ferry from Battery Park to Liberty Island to get a close up view of this iconic statue.

Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is an iconic 102-story skyscraper located in Midtown Manhattan. This building has been an integral part of the NYC skyline since its completion in 1931 and has been featured in countless movies and TV shows. Visitors can take an elevator to the 86th floor observation deck for breathtaking views of the city skyline.

Central Park

Central Park is an 843-acre park located in the heart of Manhattan. This sprawling green space features lush lawns, tranquil ponds and winding paths dotted with sculptures and monuments. Central Park is home to numerous attractions including Belvedere Castle, Strawberry Fields and the Central Park Zoo.

Cultural Experiences

New York City is home to many world-class museums, galleries and performing arts venues. From Broadway shows to modern art galleries, there are plenty of cultural experiences to be had in NYC.

Museums

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the most iconic museums in the world. This expansive museum features artwork from ancient Egypt through modern day, including paintings, sculptures and photographs from renowned artists like van Gogh, Monet and Picasso. The American Museum of Natural History is another popular museum located on the Upper West Side. This museum features interactive exhibits on topics such as dinosaurs, ocean life and space exploration.

Galleries

The Guggenheim Museum is one of the world’s premier modern art galleries. Located on Fifth Avenue, this museum houses works by modern artists such as Kandinsky, Pollock and Warhol. The Museum of Modern Art is another iconic gallery located in Midtown Manhattan featuring works by modern masters like Picasso and Matisse.

Broadway Shows

Broadway shows are an integral part of the New York City experience. From classic musicals like The Phantom of the Opera to modern plays like Hamilton, there are countless shows to choose from. Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office for most shows.

Food & Drink

New York City is known for its diverse cuisine, from classic deli sandwiches to authentic ethnic dishes. Here are some of the best places to grab a bite in NYC:

Pizza

Pizza is one of NYC’s most iconic dishes and there are countless pizza places throughout the city. Some of the best places to grab a slice include Di Fara Pizza in Brooklyn, Grimaldi’s in Manhattan and L&B Spumoni Gardens in Staten Island.

Diners & Cafes

From classic diners to trendy cafes, NYC has something for everyone when it comes to casual dining. Some of our favorite spots include Katz’s Delicatessen in Lower Manhattan, Russ & Daughters Cafe in the Lower East Side and Veselka in East Village.

Fine Dining

NYC is home to some of the world’s finest restaurants, from Michelin-starred eateries to casual bistros. Some of our top picks include Per Se in Midtown Manhattan, Blue Hill at Stone Barns near Tarrytown and Le Bernardin in Midtown West.

Popular Tours

In addition to exploring NYC on your own, there are many popular tours that offer an immersive experience of the city. Here are two popular tours that should not be missed:

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

A Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour is one of the best ways to explore NYC at your own pace. This tour allows visitors to explore many different neighborhoods and landmarks while hopping on and off at their leisure. The tour includes stops at popular destinations like Times Square, Central Park and The Empire State Building while providing informative commentary along the way. Book a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour here.

Walking Food Tours

A walking food tour is a great way to explore NYC’s diverse culinary scene. This tour takes visitors through some of NYC’s most iconic neighborhoods like Little Italy and Chinatown while sampling an array of delicious dishes along the way. The tour includes stops at iconic eateries like Katz’s Delicatessen, Di Fara Pizza and Grimaldi’s Pizza while providing an informative overview of each neighborhood’s culture and history. Book a Walking Food Tour here.

With so much to see and do in New York City, it can be hard to narrow down all the options when planning your visit. Whether you’re looking for iconic landmarks or cultural experiences, this guide should help you plan an unforgettable trip to NYC!