What Are the Must-Do Activities in New York City?

New York City is an exciting, vibrant metropolis teeming with activities for a range of people. There is something for everyone, regardless of interests or preferred kind of entertainment. Whether you’re a culture buff looking for some of the world’s best art and music offerings, or a fan of the outdoors looking for opportunities to explore the great outdoors, New York City is the best place to find something unique, memorable, and exciting.

But with so many activities, events, and hot spots to choose from, figuring out just what to do during your time in NYC can be a bit overwhelming. We’ve rounded up a few of our absolute favorite things to do in this bustling city to help you get the most out of your visit.

Exploring Iconic Landmarks

The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are two iconic landmarks that have come to define the city’s skyline. Visiting these two sites is a must-do for anyone visiting New York City. The iconic Lady Liberty will be a symbol of freedom that you remember forever, and Ellis Island possesses a wealth of information about America’s rich and diverse history.

The Empire State Building is also an absolute must-see. You’ll get some of the best views of the city from the building’s observation decks, and snap some truly beautiful photos to take home. Similarly, checking out the Brooklyn Bridge Walk is another great option for outdoor adventure-seekers. This 6,000-foot-long pedestrian walk allows visitors to take in the bridges multiple piers, and some amazing views of the Manhattan skyline.

More Cultural Fare

Culture buffs can visit some of New York City’s world-famous museums, theaters, and other attractions that offer something for everyone. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the largest and most comprehensive art institutions in the world, boasting over 2 million works. Similarly, The American Museum of Natural History offers visitors the opportunity to explore various facets of nature and learn about the world’s diversity.

And finally, stopping by one of the city’s incredible Broadway performances – such as Hamilton or The Lion King – is a must-do activity during any NYC visit. It isn’t just some of the world’s best theatre – it’s part of our culture. Broadway has something for everyone – comedy, drama, music, romance… you name it!

Shopping Heaven

A trip to New York City isn’t complete without at least a little bit of shopping. The city is home to some of the world’s best stores and boutiques – from Macy’s in Manhattan to Wilson’s Leather near South Street Seaport. There are countless opportunities to satisfy your shopping needs and find a wide selection of items you won’t see anywhere else.

Untraditional Options

If you prefer something slightly off-the-beaten-track, why not join a literary pub crawl tour that takes you through historic Times Square? Now it’s not just easier to get those hard-to-find books, but you can literally walk through NYC while partaking in a unique activity. On this tour, you’ll experience four bars while being guided on a literary journey considering such topics like Prohibition, celebrities who frequented these spots and also hear some interesting works from renowned authors with plenty of time to have drinks and discuss what you’ve heard. It makes for a truly unique NYC experience.

If you feel like immersing yourself in history and culture while having a few drinks, New York City Times Square Literary Pub Crawl is a must-do activity during your trip.

Foodie Haven

What list would be complete without food? NYC offers visitors a diverse selection of restaurants ranging from ultra fancy to seeking out food that doesn’t cost the earth. You can try out some of the finest restaurants or step away from the tourist hubs and explore local favorites. From classic Italian fare to unique ethnic dishes, there’s something on every menu to suit any budget. Another popular option is grabbing classic street food like pizza slices, pretzels and hot dog stands to take with you as snacks on your adventures!

Don’t Miss Out

New York City has an array of activities and events suitable for individual travelers, couples and families alike! Whether you enjoy luxury or budget activities or attractions, there’s something here in NYC that appeals to everyone’s tastes. So if you’re planning your next adventure, don’t miss out on any of these incredible must-do experiences in this amazing city.

An Insider’s Guide to New York City: Must-Do Activities

If it is your first time in New York City, you may feel overwhelmed with so many sites and attractions to explore. While visiting New York’s famous landmarks, such as the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and Times Square, should be on your itinerary, the city has much more to offer. As a local, I know of several unique and lesser-known spots that only true insiders know. Here is an insider’s guide to New York City’s must-do activities.

Local Attractions

New York City is renowned for its iconic attractions, but it also boasts some fantastic secret spots. One of my favorites is the High Line Park, an elevated park built on an old railroad track stretching over two kilometers. Take in breathtaking views of the Hudson River and the city’s skyline as you wander through public art installations and lush greenery.

For a unique cultural experience, visit the Louis Armstrong House Museum in Queens, where legendary jazz musician Louis Armstrong and his wife lived from 1943 until his death in 1971. Tour the house and explore Armstrong’s life and legacy through his personal artifacts and recordings.

Dining Spots

New York City is undoubtedly a foodie’s paradise. Home of the classic street food, the hot dog, and the famous New York pizza, there is no shortage of fantastic eats in the city. But if you want to explore the local cuisine beyond the usual fast food and sit-down restaurants, head to Chinatown for some authentic Chinese food. Some of my favorite spots include Xi’an Famous Foods, Joe’s Shanghai, and Wo Hop.

For an inside look at New York City’s food culture, take a walking or bike tour with Foods of New York or the Brooklyn Pizza Walk. These tours will take you through some of New York’s most iconic neighborhoods, offering insights into the city’s diverse culinary history.

Cultural Experiences

New York City is home to some of the world’s most significant cultural institutions, including the Met, the American Museum of Natural History, and MoMA. However, it’s the city’s more intimate cultural experiences that offer a unique insight into the city’s diverse community. Check out the Nuyorican Poets Cafe in the East Village for a night of spoken-word poetry, or head to Harlem to experience gospel music at one of the churches.

One of my favorite cultural experiences in New York is the West Indian American Day Carnival, held annually on Labor Day weekend. The festival is a colorful celebration of Caribbean culture, featuring music, dance, and food.

Local History

New York City has a rich and vibrant history, and there are plenty of interesting stories and anecdotes that go beyond the typical historical facts you may find in guidebooks. One fascinating story is that of Belle da Costa Greene, the first director of the Morgan Library and Museum, who passed as white for most of her life. She was the daughter of a mixed-race man and his white wife, and she altered her identity to fit into white society, leading a fascinating double life.

Another interesting historical site is the Tenement Museum, which offers a glimpse into the lives of immigrants who lived in the Lower East Side at the turn of the 20th century.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to experience a unique side of New York City, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path activities to explore. For a unique art experience, visit the Museum of Modern Art’s PS1 satellite in Queens, a former public school turned contemporary art space.

For a once-in-a-lifetime view of the city, book a helicopter tour or a hot air balloon ride. These tours offer breathtaking views of the city and its landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building.

In conclusion, New York City serves up an extraordinary range of sights, sounds, and flavors that makes it a top destination for tourists from around the world. From cultural experiences to hidden gems, there is always something new to discover in this bustling metropolis. So, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, use this insider’s guide to craft an unforgettable New York City adventure.