Things To Do In New York Manhattan

New York City has been a cultural, economic, and artistic hub for over a century. Manhattan, located in the heart of the city, is arguably the most iconic of its five boroughs, with amazing attractions and experiences everywhere you turn. From soaring skyscrapers and iconic landmarks to trendy neighborhoods and hidden gems, it’s no wonder why New York City is one of the world’s top tourist destinations. Whether it’s your first time visiting Manhattan or you’re a New York City local looking to explore, here are some of the best things to do while you’re in town.

Explore the Iconic Neighborhoods

From the bustling streets of Midtown Manhattan to the chic boutiques of SoHo, each of Manhattan’s many neighborhoods has its own unique flavor and personality. Whether you’re looking for a bustling nightlife scene or a tranquil escape from the city, there’s something for everyone in Manhattan. Here are some of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods to explore:

Midtown

Midtown is the heart of Manhattan, home to some of the city’s most iconic attractions. Here you’ll find world-famous sites like Times Square, Rockefeller Center, and the Empire State Building. Midtown is also home to some of the city’s best shopping destinations, including high-end stores like Barneys and Saks Fifth Avenue, as well as some of the city’s best restaurants.

Lower Manhattan

Lower Manhattan is home to some of Manhattan’s most famous sites, including the Statue of Liberty, Wall Street, and the Financial District. This picturesque neighborhood is also home to some of the city’s oldest buildings, with some dating back to the 1600s. Explore the cobblestone streets of the South Street Seaport and take a stroll along the Hudson River Promenade.

Upper West Side

The Upper West Side is one of Manhattan’s most affluent neighborhoods and is home to some of the city’s top attractions. Explore Central Park’s vast green space, visit the American Museum of Natural History, and take a stroll down Broadway. The Upper West Side is also home to some of the city’s best restaurants, including Shake Shack and Sarabeth’s.

Upper East Side

The Upper East Side is one of Manhattan’s most upscale neighborhoods, home to chic boutiques, high-end restaurants, and some of the city’s most prestigious institutions. Here you’ll find world-renowned museums such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim Museum, and the Whitney Museum of American Art. The Upper East Side is also home to Central Park and Madison Avenue, one of the world’s premier shopping destinations.

Take in The City’s Iconic Landmarks

Manhattan is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks and attractions. From soaring skyscrapers to beautiful parks, here are some of the city’s must-see landmarks:

Empire State Building

Towering over Midtown Manhattan, the Empire State Building is one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks. Take in breathtaking views from the top of this 102-story Art Deco masterpiece and explore its observation decks. For an unforgettable experience, opt for a sunrise or sunset visit to take in spectacular views of the city at different times of day.

Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is one of New York City’s most famous symbols and stands as a symbol of freedom and hope throughout the world. Located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, you can take a ferry from Lower Manhattan or New Jersey for a unique view of this iconic statue. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even book a visit to the pedestal or crown for breathtaking views from inside the Statue of Liberty.

Central Park

Central Park is one of New York City’s most beloved attractions and spans 843 acres in the heart of Manhattan. Here you’ll find picturesque walking paths, tranquil ponds and lakes, rolling hills and meadows, and plenty of activities to enjoy year-round. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city or planning an outdoor adventure, Central Park has something for everyone.

Get Your Culture Fix

Manhattan is home to some of the world’s best museums, theaters, and galleries. Here are some cultural attractions you won’t want to miss while you’re in town:

Museums

New York City is home to some of the world’s best museums, from world-renowned repositories like The Metropolitan Museum of Art to interactive galleries like the Guggenheim Museum. Explore an array of art from classic masters to emerging contemporary artists at some of Manhattan’s top museums.

Theater

Broadway is world-renowned for its live theater performances. From classic shows like The Phantom of the Opera to modern hits like Hamilton and Dear Evan Hansen, there are plenty of shows for theater lovers to enjoy in New York City. Get tickets for a show during your stay for an unforgettable experience.

Galleries

Manhattan is home to an array of art galleries showcasing everything from classical works to modern masterpieces. Explore iconic galleries like The Whitney Museum or trendier galleries like The Drawing Center in SoHo. Whether you’re a seasoned art connoisseur or just getting started with collecting art, there are plenty of galleries to explore in Manhattan.

Book a Tour

If you’re short on time or just want to get an insider’s look at New York City, consider booking one of these popular tours:

New York City Food Tour

Get an insider’s look at New York City on this food tour through Lower Manhattan. Explore iconic neighborhoods such as Chinatown and Little Italy while sampling food and drinks from local vendors along the way. This 3-hour tour will introduce you to authentic dishes such as cannoli, pizza and more while giving you an inside look into New York City’s culinary history and culture.

New York City Night Tour

Explore New York City’s illuminated landmarks and attractions on this 2-hour night tour through Manhattan’s iconic neighborhoods. From Times Square to Central Park and more, see top sights such as The Empire State Building lit up against the night sky from your comfortable seat on an open-air double decker bus. You’ll also learn about each landmark from your expert guide along the way.

New York City Helicopter Tour

Get a bird’s eye view of New York City with this thrilling helicopter tour over Manhattan’s iconic landmarks. Take off from Downtown Manhattan towards Central Park for stunning aerial views before soaring over Times Square and The Empire State Building. This 15-minute tour will give you unparalleled views over one of the world’s most iconic cities in a way few will ever experience it!

Experience Unique Events & Festivals

From vibrant festivals to iconic parades, there’s always something happening in New York City! Here are some unique events and festivals taking place in Manhattan throughout the year:

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

Every year on Thanksgiving morning, hundreds of thousands of people gather along 6th Avenue for Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade – an age-old tradition since 1924! Enjoy exquisite marching bands along with larger-than-life inflatable character balloons while snacking on delicious treats from vendors along 6th Avenue! This iconic parade is one event you won’t want to miss while in New York City!

New York City Shakespeare in the Park

Enjoy a live performance of classic Shakespeare plays such as Romeo & Juliet or A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Central Park’s Delacorte Theater every summer! This beloved outdoor theater hosts free performances throughout July and August – perfect for a summer night under the stars! Arrive early to secure your spot or reserve your tickets online for guaranteed entry!

Sample Delicious Cuisine

New York City is home to an abundance of delicious restaurants representing cuisines from all over the world! Here are some can’t-miss restaurants for all your culinary cravings:

Chinatown Dim Sum Tour

Get an authentic taste of Chinatown on this 3-hour food tour! Sample delicious dim sum dishes such as steamed buns and dumplings while exploring vibrant Chinatown with your guide! Along with filling up on delicious food, learn about Chinese culture while visiting traditional Chinese shops and temples throughout this fascinating neighborhood!

Little Italy Food Tour

Take a gastronomic journey through Little Italy on this 3-hour food tour! Sample traditional Italian dishes such as pizza and cannoli while exploring this vibrant neighborhood with your guide! Along with filling up on delicious food and drinks like espresso and gelato, get an inside look into Little Italy’s unique culture while strolling through its picturesque streets!

Conclusion

Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re a local looking for something new to do in Manhattan, there are plenty of things to keep you busy during your stay in New York City! From exploring iconic neighborhoods to taking in top attractions and sampling delicious cuisine, you won’t want to miss out on all that Manhattan has to offer!