Things to Do in New York City, United States

Sightseeing

New York City is a unique and vibrant city with much to explore. One of the best ways to experience the city is by sightseeing. From the iconic Empire State Building to the picturesque Central Park, there are plenty of unique attractions in New York City.

Let us take a look at some of the best places to visit for sightseeing in NYC:

Times Square

Times Square is one of the most iconic locations in New York City and the entire United States. In Midtown Manhattan, at the intersection of Broadway and Seventh Avenue, Times Square is home to dozens of world-famous landmarks, including towering skyscrapers, architectural gems, and many popular tourist attractions. Visitors to this iconic intersection will find a frenzy of people, lights, restaurants, and stores that provide an unforgettable experience.

One of the most popular Times Square attractions is its famed pedestrian area, which features over 50 theaters for locals and tourists after amazing live theater or musical experiences. The area is also home to some famous high-end real estate, such as One Astor Plaza, 1 Times Square (the site of the annual New Year’s Eve ball drop), 1166 Avenue of Americas, and Duffy Square. Tourists also flock to see Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium Museum, where they can learn about hundreds of artifacts from all over the world.

Those looking for nightlife can make their way to Planet Hollywood or Hard Rock Café for some drinks with friends or grab a bite at one of the many restaurants found along 46th Street between Broadway & 7th Ave, such as The Halal Guys or Virgil’s Real BBQ. Regardless if you’re looking for a place to stay during your vacation, times square has plenty of lodging options you can choose from, like Renaissance New York Hotel, which provides luxurious amenities with easy access to local attractions & transportation hubs such as Grand Central Station don’t forget to check out M&M World located across from Novotel Resorts!

Empire State Building

The world-famous Empire State Building is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting New York City. Located on Fifth Avenue between 33rd and 34th Streets, the 102-story Art Deco masterpiece affords fantastic views of Manhattan’s skyline. On clear days, you can even see for miles in all directions. But, of course, the best time to visit is at night when the entire city is bathed in electric light.

At 1,454 feet tall and extending up to 1,250 feet high at its antenna spire, the Empire State Building was the world’s tallest building from 1931 until 1970, when it was surpassed by the completion of the World Trade Center twin towers south of Manhattan. It remains one of the world’s most iconic landmarks today and has been designated a National Historic Landmark since 1986.

Suppose you want to get to the top quickly. In that case, you can purchase an express pass or book a VIP tour where your guide will provide insight into history and architecture while taking you directly up to one of two observation decks on the 80th and 86th floors, respectively. You’ll stand over 100 stories above the bustling streets of New York City and witness stunning views in all directions, including Central Park and well beyond upstate NY! So get ready for 360° sights that have made this one of New York City’s top attractions!

Central Park

Central Park is one of the premier attractions in New York City. The Park was founded in 1857. It is the country’s first landscaped public Park and continues to serve as a haven for those who appreciate its natural beauty. Visitors come to Central Park to savor its 843 acres of walkways, meadows, ponds, reservoirs, gardens, and monuments. In addition, individuals or groups can rent a sailboat or rowboat during the summer months to take out on the 22-acre Turtle Pond.

The pond also exemplifies Central Park’s dedication to providing a home for hundreds of birds and other creatures throughout the year.

Central Park boasts several architectural or historical sites for those exploring Manhattan’s history, such as Belvedere Castle and Egbert Viele’s original plan layout. In addition, Central Park offers some beautiful surprises, like secrets hidden around every bend with views that make you appreciate its scenery even more. There is something for everyone here!

With activities for visitors of all ages and performances from local musicians and artists all year round – from summer jazz concerts in Damrosch Park to ice skating at Wollman Rink – there are many ways to spend a day in New York City’s most significant green space!

Museums

New York is home to many prestigious museums ranging from the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, which houses some of the world’s most famous works of art. Apart from these iconic places, several other museums offer a unique insight into the history and culture of the city.

This section will give an overview of the various museums a person should visit while in New York City:

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, located in New York City, is one of the world’s largest and most renowned art museums. Founded in 1870, the museum is home to some two million works representing the span of human history from the dawn of civilization to contemporary times. Its collections include masterpieces of classical antiquity, European paintings, sculptures, and archaeological treasures from Egypt, China, and beyond.

With expansive galleries devoted to American art and its growing collection of Modern and Contemporary artworks, The Met remains a destination for creative inspiration and visual delight.

For more than a century, The Met has been where people connect and find inspiration amid New York City’s dynamic culture. Visitors can explore traditional or cutting-edge exhibitions that feature paintings, sculptures, photography, or ancient artifacts. The museum’s mezzanine galleries host unique installations like temporary fashion exhibits from noted designers or performances from talented musicians. In addition, an array of educational programs bring guests closer to work within The Met’s permanent collection — from stories about ancient cultures around the world to discussions about concepts in graphic design — allowing visitors to experience works on view in new ways.

The Museum of Modern Art

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is a world-renowned art museum established in 1929. This museum is located in Midtown Manhattan and is home to some of the world’s most prestigious modern and contemporary art collections. The museum includes works from well-known artists such as Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Andy Warhol, Jackson Pollock, and many more.

In addition to showcasing its extraordinary collection of paintings, sculptures, installation pieces, photographs, and drawings worldwide, MoMA also hosts special exhibitions focusing on specific themes and movements. Along with an impressive art collection, MoMA also boasts a library with more than 300 000 books and articles from different countries and an audio-visual resource center that is available for use by scholars.

Boasting over 2 million visitors annually and various public programs such as lectures, workshops, and classes intended to engage people of all ages with art, MoMA continues to be one of New York City’s most popular tourist attractions.

The Guggenheim Museum

The Guggenheim Museum is located in New York City and must-see for anyone visiting the city. It’s famous for its unique collection and world-class architecture. The museum focuses on 20th-century modern art, with current works and exhibitions exploring the breadth of contemporary artistic expression, including painting, sculpture, films, photography, new media, architecture, and design. Visitors can also view works from great masters such as Picasso, Kandinsky, and Matisse.

The museum was designed by world-renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright and completed in 1959. Its spiral structure rises from its distinctive limestone base to heighten its visual impact from all angles of view. Inside the building is an impressive 18 1/2-story atrium surrounded by a continuous ramp of walkways leading up to five levels of galleries for exhibit viewing. The galleries are arranged topographically, allowing visitors to explore the full chronological history of modern art from the beginning to current works in progress.

The Guggenheim Museum is open year-round with extended hours during summer months for visitors to enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience in one visit or during multiple stops exploring the museum’s unique offerings at length. Additionally, it hosts several cultural events, including lectures, concerts, and films each year that offer additional opportunities to engage with local culture and appreciate modern artworks in greater depth. Free or affordable tickets are acquired through their website or at the museum’s admissions desk onsite.

Shopping

New York City, United States, is a shopper’s paradise! With a wide range of stores and shopping districts, there are endless options for you to spend your hard-earned money. From designer boutiques to vintage shops and flea markets, there is something for everyone in New York City.

Let’s take a closer look at what kind of shopping options are available in the city:

Fifth Avenue

Fifth Avenue in New York City is a shopper’s paradise. This famous boulevard is home to some of the world’s most upscale and unique stores, from fine jewelry shops to designer clothing boutiques. So whether you’re looking for something stylish or one-of-a-kind, you can find it here.

Beginning at 59th Street and stretching up to 135th Street, Fifth Avenue boasts top retailers like Saks Fifth Avenue, Tiffany & Co., Bergdorf Goodman, and more, as well as countless flagship stores like Apple and Microsoft. This area is also filled with high-end eateries and renowned museums for when you need a break from the shopping scene.

For those on a budget, there are plenty of fast fashion mainstays such as H&M, Uniqlo, Zara, and Gap located both on Fifth Avenue or nearby Third or Sixth avenues. In addition to brick-and-mortar stores, numerous department stores – Macy’s Herald Square is the most popular – offer discounts on handbags and shoes throughout the year. Times Square is another excellent spot for bargains, with stores such as Forever 21 offering trendy clothing at rock-bottom prices.

No matter what kind of shopping experience you’re looking for in New York City, Fifth Avenue remains one of the city’s premier destinations for browsing luxury labels or finding everyday essentials.

SoHo

SoHo, a neighborhood in Manhattan, New York City, is home to fashionable stores, boutiques, and galleries. With its cobblestone streets and brick character-filled buildings, SoHo is a must-visit for anyone shopping in NYC.

No matter what one’s budget or style preference is, there is something available for everyone here in SoHo. The area has high-end luxury shops featuring the latest fashion trends and international designer apparel, unique vintage stores full of hidden gems, and specialty retailers offering hard-to-find items from all over the world. In addition to these popular spots are local boutiques that feature craftsmanship from independent creators, providing visitors with exclusive experiential shopping where they can meet the distinctive makers before buying their items.

Shoppers can also find plenty of eateries around SoHo, ranging from hole-in-the-wall restaurants and bars to five-star restaurants which offer cuisines from all over the globe. It’s an adventurous experience to spend the day shopping and dining at some of New York City’s most iconic locations!

Chelsea Market

A trip to the Chelsea Market is highly recommended for New York City visitors who love shopping. Located in the city’s Meatpacking District, the 14-block area features a mix of retailers, from small artisanal shops to larger chain stores. With over 300 tenants and counting, there’s something for everyone at this indoor market.

Shoppers at Chelsea Market can expect to find classic merchant vendors and high-end choices such as Anthropologie, J Crew, and Nike. And if you don’t want to shell out the big bucks for designer labels, don’t worry; there are plenty of thrift and vintage offerings too! You can browse through an eclectic mix of wares ranging from vintage clothing to antiques while spending an afternoon strolling the cobblestone streets. Besides these exciting finds, you can enjoy international cuisine and local gems like city staples Buddakan NYC and Sarabeth’s with their mouthwatering fares. Or spend some time exploring art galleries dotted throughout the area: Check out Cooper Cole Gallery for modern art or Printed Matter for contemporary book works.

It isn’t just about shopping either — take time for a relaxing break in one of many nearby parks like Gansevoort Plaza or pass some time taking in live entertainment outside of Chelsea Market. Saturday night events like jazz performances draw crowds by giving off a unique energy vibe synonymous with this iconic uptown district. So whether it’s an afternoon spree or a night on the town you seek – Chelsea Market has something special waiting around every corner!

Food & Drink

New York City offers an amazingly diverse range of food and drink experiences. From fine dining and Michelin-starred restaurants to the more casual and street-food scene and the many high-end bars and craft breweries, there is something for everyone in New York City.

Let’s explore the variety of food and drink experiences that New York City has to offer:

Restaurants

New York City offers some of the world’s most unique and diverse dining experiences. From classic New York pizza to trendy fusion restaurants, you can find a wide variety of dining options to suit any budget. Here is a selection of some iconic restaurants throughout the five boroughs:

Manhattan:

  • Magnolia Bakery – Enjoy delicious cupcakes and other treats from this old-school bakery popularized by Sex and the City.
  • Momofuku Noodle Bar – This innovative restaurant serves traditional ramen dishes and Asian-inspired fusion cuisine.
  • Katz’s Delicatessen – Established in 1888, Katz’s Delicatessen is one of NYC’s oldest eateries serving massive sandwiches for take-out or eat-in.

Brooklyn:

  • Juliana’s Pizza – Pizzeria specializing in traditional Neapolitan pizzas from legendary pizza maker Patsy Grimaldi.
  • Grimaldi’s – Legendary coal oven pizzeria in Brooklyn, famous for its crispy pies topped with melted cheese and piquant sauce.
  • Maria’s – This Dominican spot offers a range of Latin American favorites, including yucca fries, empanadas, mofongos, baked plantains, and more.

Queens:

  • Tasty Dumplings – Popular spot serves Chinese dumplings in different styles plus noodles & stir-fries; outdoor seating is available during warmer months.
  • White Bear – Come to this dim sum restaurant for some unique twists on classics like fried turnip cakes; forget to wait in line at popular spots around Queens!

The Bronx:

  • Department of Brewology – Upscale bar offering craft art beers & inventive bar snacks alongside board games & live music events occasionally on weekends.
  • Bronx Beer Hall – Located inside Arthur Avenue Retail Market – it serves craft beers from local NYC breweries with creative takes on small plates & snack boards designed to pair with specific beers.

Staten Island:

  • Rubens House Of Munch – Staten Island favorite for burgers & dogs served up with old-world charm since 1960, plus homemade chili sauce & specialty mozzarella sticks.

Bars

New York City is an excellent destination for bar hoppers looking to experience some of the best drinking cultures. So whether you’re in the mood for a classic cocktail in a swanky speakeasy, an eclectic craft beer from the tap, or a glass of local wine, NYC offers unique experiences for beer and spirit lovers.

From upscale rooftop lounges to lively late-night dives, here are some of New York City’s top bars to check out:

  • Dead Rabbit: Boasting an extensive list of over 200 cocktails crafted from classic recipes to contemporary classics, this Financial District bar is sure to have something for everyone.
  • The Raines Law Room: A favorite among locals, this chic and intimate speakeasy serves delicious concoctions while discerningly playing moody music.
  • McSorley’s Old Ale House: Established in 1854 and still strong today, McSorley’s is one of New York City’s oldest bars offering historic charm along with its signature light and dark ale.
  • Toupè: This lively East Village bar features an array of craft beers on tap, and specialty cocktails served in vintage mason jars designed by local artists.
  • The Hog Pit Saloon & BBQ Joint: A charming replica of a Wild West saloon featuring craft beers on tap and its famous smoked meats barbecue platters.

Cafes

New York City is home to some of the most renowned cafes in the world. From iconic Italian-style espresso bars to cozy restaurants and ethnic eateries, you can find it all here. So whether you’re looking for a place to grab a quick cup of coffee or a leisurely spot to linger over brunch, there’s something for everyone in New York City.

Here are just some of the fantastic cafes you can find in New York City:

  • Abraço: A tiny but intimate restaurant located on East 7th Street, Abraço serves up expertly crafted espresso drinks and handmade pastries that are sure to please.
  • Joey Campanelli’s Perfect Cup: This cozy cafe on Sullivan Street serves both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee drinks and traditional Italian treats like biscotti and paninis.
  • Café Habana: An eclectic spot featuring Cuban cuisine and strong espressos, Café Habana is sure to be the perfect place to relax with friends or treat yourself after a long day.
  • Birch Coffee: Birch Coffee is located on 25th Street and features an extensive selection of both artisanal brewed coffees as well as several specialty espresso drinks, including cappuccinos, lattes, macchiatos, mochas, and cortados.
  • Seventhirtyam Cafe: Located on Third Avenue near Spring Street, this popular cafe offers an array of light breakfast items, including croissants, muffins, egg sandwiches, and scones, alongside its signature specialty coffee drinks like French Vanilla Latte Tiramisu or Coconut Cashew Macchiato Roasted Almonds.

Entertainment

New York City is an entertainment hub with many attractions and activities. So whether you’re looking for a place to go dancing, mingle in the music scene, watch a live show, or relax and enjoy the city, New York has something for everyone.

From Broadway shows to theme park rides to world-class museums, let’s take a look at some of the fantastic entertainment New York City has to offer:

Broadway Shows

New York City is the home of the world-famous Broadway theater district and is often referred to as ‘The Great White Way.’ Since the early 1900s, countless musicals, plays, and dramas have captivated audiences for years. The sheer variety of shows supported by NYC’s strong theatrical community means that there’s something for everyone.

Broadway shows typically run seven days a week, with evening shows on weekdays and matinee performances available on weekends. Depending upon availability, same-day tickets are sometimes an option. Still, it is recommended to book ahead of time to ensure you secure a seat at one of these popular performances. Regarding pricing, tickets range from discount rates to premium seating, with prices usually reflecting the popularity of each show. However, there are many deals available, so be sure to keep your eyes open.

Broadway offers a wide array of international feature performances such as Aladdin, created by Disney, or local favorites like The Book Of Mormon by South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone. Other beloved classics like Hamilton and Frozen still attract crowds by appealing to older audiences and children alike. But no matter what type of performance you’re interested in seeing, NYC has something for everyone!

Comedy Clubs

New York City is the place to be if you’re looking for a good laugh! Known for its vibrant entertainment scene, the city that never sleeps has a wide variety of comedy clubs where you can enjoy stand-up and improv shows. Many of these venues feature both up-and-coming comedians as well as established stars. Here’s a guide to some of the best comedy clubs in NYC:

  • Gotham Comedy Club – Located on West 23rd Street, this club is one of the most established in New York City, and it has been featured on Comedy Central and off-Broadway productions. There are two separate spaces – a lounge area with an open mic night and the main showroom, which hosts top talent.
  • Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre – This venue fosters new comedic talent, featuring improvisation workshops that spotlight local artists and shows from significant network sketch comedy troupes. It’s also home to Spike TV’s “Wild ‘N Out” show and “The Chris Gethard Show.”
  • Carolines on Broadway – Located in Times Square, this location hosts some of the biggest acts in comedy with shows every night and hosts international guest performers throughout the year. Among some of its regular performers are Saturday Night Live cast members Pete Davidson, Leslie Jones, and Colin Jost; actors/comedians Amy Schumer, Tracy Morgan, and Trevor Noah; podcast personality Marc Maron; late-night host Stephen Colbert; comedian Dave Chappelle and many more.
  • Comic Strip Live – Located on Second Avenue near St Mark’s Place, this club features comedians who have been featured in films such as “Trainwreck” (Amy Schumer) and “Anchorman” (Will Ferrell). It was founded by Robbie Shannon, who subsequently passed away at 89 years old from cancer in 2018, but his legacy still lives on through his successors at this historic venue.

Jazz Clubs

For a truly unforgettable night out, visit one of the many renowned jazz clubs in New York City. From classic clubs with rich histories to modern venues hosting up-and-coming talent, these are popular hotspots for residents and visitors alike. So whether you’re looking for a serene lounge atmosphere or an energetic show, there is a jazz club to suit your needs.

Jazz clubs are scattered throughout the five boroughs, each featuring its unique style and sound. Visit Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola for a classic venue filled with history — this beloved club is well known for its breathtaking view of Central Park and its affiliation with respected artists such as Wynton Marsalis. Other popular highlights include the Red Rooster Harlem and Le Poisson Rouge in Manhattan, which offers an eclectic mix of performances guaranteed to impress even the pickiest music aficionado.

Experience something extraordinary at one of New York’s finest jazz clubs! With options ranging from intimate piano bars to standing-room-only venues, there is something for everyone when it comes to enjoying some post-work relaxation or weekend fun with friends. Enjoy a sophisticated evening filled with smooth rhythms and captivating performances — jazzing up your time in NYC beyond belief!