Must Do In New York: A City Guide for Tourists Visiting for the First Time

New York City is one of the most popular destinations in the world. Whether you’re looking for a city break or planning a longer vacation, New York has something for everyone. From iconic landmarks to world-class restaurants and shopping, this sprawling metropolis is sure to impress.

A Brief History of NYC

The history of New York City is long and complex. The area was first inhabited by the Lenape Native Americans before Europeans arrived in the 16th century. The Dutch established the colony of New Amsterdam in what is now Lower Manhattan, and the English took control of it in 1664, renaming it New York after the Duke of York. The city went on to become a major trading center, and hundreds of thousands of immigrants arrived in its ports throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries. In 1898, New York City became the first capital of the modern United States with the consolidation of Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, and the Bronx.

Today, New York City is one of the most populous cities in the world, with an estimated 8.4 million people living in its five boroughs. It is home to iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building, as well as world-class museums, universities, and performing arts venues.

Things to See and Do in NYC

New York City is a vibrant destination full of things to see and do. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a second trip, here are some of the must-do activities in NYC:

Central Park

No visit to New York City is complete without a visit to Central Park. This iconic 843-acre park is located in the heart of Manhattan and is home to numerous attractions, including Belvedere Castle, The Mall, Bethesda Terrace, Strawberry Fields, and the Central Park Zoo. During the summer months, visitors can also enjoy free concerts at Summerstage and movie screenings at the Central Park Film Festival.

Staten Island Ferry

The Staten Island Ferry is one of the best ways to take in the stunning skyline of New York City. This free ferry service runs 24 hours a day, seven days a week and offers views of Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, and Manhattan’s skyscrapers. The ride takes about 25 minutes each way, giving you plenty of time to take in the sights.

Times Square

Times Square is one of the most iconic spots in New York City. This bustling corner of Midtown Manhattan is known for its bright lights and massive digital billboards. It’s also home to some of the city’s top attractions, including Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, and the M&M’s World store.

Broadway Shows

For theater fans, seeing a Broadway show is an absolute must. From classic musicals like The Lion King to modern hits like Hamilton and Dear Evan Hansen, there’s something for everyone on Broadway. Don’t forget to check out Off-Broadway shows as well – there are plenty of smaller theaters offering unique live performances that can be just as enjoyable as their Broadway counterparts.

Museums

New York City is home to a multitude of world-class museums. The Metropolitan Museum of Art houses a vast collection of art from ancient times to present day, while the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) boasts works by Matisse, Picasso, Monet, and more. Other popular museums include the American Museum of Natural History, Whitney Museum of American Art, and Intrepid Sea-Air-Space Museum.

Popular Tours in NYC

One of the best ways to experience New York City is through an organized tour. Here are two popular tours that will give you an insider’s look at this vibrant city:

NYC in One Day Bus Tour

This comprehensive tour provides an overview of all that New York City has to offer. The tour begins with a drive around Manhattan’s most famous neighborhoods and landmarks, including Central Park, Times Square, Rockefeller Center, and more. You’ll then hop on a boat cruise that takes you around Manhattan Island with views of the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge. The tour ends with a stop at One World Observatory for stunning views of Lower Manhattan and New Jersey. Book an NYC in One Day Bus Tour here.

NYC Night Tour

This tour takes you on a journey through New York City’s illuminated nightscape. You’ll visit iconic sites like Times Square and Central Park while learning about the history and culture of New York City. As you travel through various neighborhoods such as Harlem and Greenwich Village, you’ll gain insight into the city’s vibrant nightlife scene. At the end of the tour, you’ll have unparalleled views of Manhattan from Brooklyn Heights Promenade – easily one of the best places to get a photo of the glittering skyline. Book an NYC Night Tour here.

Conclusion

New York City is a vibrant destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or planning an extended stay, there are plenty of must-do activities in this incredible city. From iconic landmarks like Central Park and Times Square to world-class museums and Broadway shows, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in NYC. For an even more immersive experience, don’t forget to book one of the popular tours available – you won’t be disappointed!