What to Do Around Penn Station NY: A Comprehensive Guide

Penn Station NY is a bustling transportation hub located in Midtown Manhattan. It is the busiest train station in North America, serving over 600,000 passengers daily. For travelers arriving in New York City via train, or for locals passing through, there are plenty of activities to do in the area. In this guide, we will explore the best things to do around Penn Station NY and the surrounding neighborhoods.

1. Visit the Empire State Building

One of the most iconic landmarks in New York City is the Empire State Building. Located just a few blocks away from Penn Station NY, the Empire State Building is a must-visit attraction for anyone in the area. Visitors can take an elevator to the observation deck on the 86th floor and enjoy a breathtaking view of the city.

2. Explore Madison Square Garden

The world-famous Madison Square Garden is a short walk from Penn Station NY. This venue hosts concerts, sporting events, and other shows throughout the year. Check their calendar to see if there are any events that interest you.

3. Visit the New York Public Library

The New York Public Library is a short walk from Penn Station NY and is one of the largest libraries in the world. With a collection of over 50 million items, including rare books, manuscripts, and photographs, it’s an excellent place to explore and learn about the history of New York City.

4. Walk the High Line

The High Line is a 1.5-mile-long park built on an old elevated railroad track. It’s a peaceful escape from the bustling city and offers fantastic views of the skyline. The closest access point to the High Line is just a few blocks from Penn Station NY.

5. Visit the Museum of Modern Art

The Museum of Modern Art is a must-visit for art lovers. This museum is home to some of the most famous modern art pieces in the world, including works by Van Gogh, Picasso, and Monet. The museum is located just a few subway stops away from Penn Station NY.

6. Shop at Macy’s

Macy’s is another iconic New York City landmark located just a few blocks from Penn Station NY. It’s one of the largest department stores in the world, and visitors can find everything from clothing to home goods.

7. Take a Stroll through Koreatown

Koreatown is a few blocks away from Penn Station NY and is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood. Visitors can enjoy Korean cuisine, shop at Korean stores, and even participate in Korean karaoke.

8. Visit the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is located just a few blocks from Penn Station NY and is an excellent place to learn about America’s military and space history. The museum is located on the USS Intrepid, an aircraft carrier used in World War II, the Cold War, and Vietnam.

Conclusion

Penn Station NY is a gateway to New York City, but it is also an excellent destination in its own right. From world-famous landmarks to quaint neighborhoods, there are plenty of things to do around Penn Station NY. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned New Yorker, there’s always something new to discover in this exciting part of the city.

An Insider’s Guide to New York City: What to Do Around Penn Station NY

New York City, the city that never sleeps, is the cultural, financial, and entertainment hub of the world. Penn Station, located in Midtown Manhattan, is a transportation hub that connects the local NJ Transit, Long Island Rail Road, and Amtrak services with the underground subway system. It’s a perfect starting point for exploring the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do around Penn Station NY.

Local Attractions

New York City is a bustling metropolis that’s overflowing with iconic attractions and world-renowned landmarks. Here are some must-see attractions around Penn Station NY:

– Empire State Building: This Art Deco skyscraper stands tall at 1,454 feet and offers breathtaking views of the city skyline from its observation deck.
– Times Square: This bustling commercial intersection is famous for its bright billboards, Broadway theaters, and bustling crowds. It’s truly the heart of the city.
– Madison Square Garden: This multi-purpose arena hosts numerous sports events, concerts, and shows throughout the year.
– Macy’s Herald Square: This iconic department store is the largest in the world, offering a unique shopping experience with its wooden escalators and art deco architecture.

Dining Spots

New York City is a food lover’s paradise with an abundance of dining options for every budget and palate. Here are some dining spots around Penn Station NY:

– Keens Steakhouse: This historic steakhouse is famous for its delicious cuts of meat, cozy atmosphere, and distinctive decor.
– Best Bagel and Coffee: This no-frills bagel shop serves up the best bagels and coffee in the city, perfect for breakfast on the go.
– The Pennsy: This food hall next to Penn Station features five vendors under one roof, offering a variety of cuisines to suit everyone’s taste buds.
– Korean Town: Located just a few blocks south of Penn Station, this vibrant neighborhood is a must-visit destination for Korean barbecue, Korean fried chicken, and other Korean dishes.

Cultural Experiences

New York City is home to numerous museums, galleries, and artistic institutions that showcase the city’s rich cultural history. Here are some cultural experiences around Penn Station NY:

– The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): This renowned museum features an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works from famous artists like van Gogh, Warhol, and Picasso.
– The Morgan Library and Museum: This hidden gem features a library with rare manuscripts and a museum with a collection of art, books, and historic objects.
– The High Line: This urban park is built on a former elevated railroad track and offers stunning views of the city skyline, public art installations, gardens, and more.
– The New York Public Library: This iconic library features historic architecture, rare books, and interactive exhibits that showcase the city’s history and culture.

Local History

New York City has a rich and fascinating history that’s shaped the city into what it is today. Here are some local history spots around Penn Station NY:

– The Flatiron Building: This iconic building was once the tallest in New York City and is one of the first steel-framed skyscrapers in the world.
– The New York Historical Society Museum and Library: This museum displays artifacts and documents that showcase the city’s history and cultural heritage.
– The Empire State Building: This Art Deco skyscraper was built during the Great Depression and has become a symbol of the city’s resilience and optimism.
– The American Museum of Natural History: This museum houses a vast collection of scientific specimens, cultural artifacts, and interactive exhibits that explore the history of the natural world and human civilization.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

New York City is a city of surprises and hidden gems, waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers. Here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions around Penn Station NY:

– The Manhattan Bridge: This bridge offers stunning views of the Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan skyline, and East River, with fewer crowds than the Brooklyn Bridge.
– The Grand Central Oyster Bar: This historic seafood restaurant is located inside Grand Central Terminal and has been serving up delicious oysters and seafood specialties since 1913.
– The Morganstern’s Finest Ice Cream: This vintage ice cream parlor serves up unique flavors like burnt honey vanilla, malted chocolate, and black coconut ash.
– The New York Transit Museum: This museum is located in an abandoned subway station in Brooklyn and showcases the history of the city’s transportation system through exhibits and historic artifacts.

New York City is a city that will fascinate and inspire you. Start your adventure around Penn Station NY and discover all that this amazing city has to offer!