30 Top Things To Do In New York
New York is one of my favourite cities! There is always something new to see and do, so I have updated this list of things to do in New York to help you make the most of your trip.
New York is one of the few places that I have re-visited many times, but the wow factor never goes away. I always feel like I am part of a movie set, and even the most simple thing like hailing a yellow cab, gives me joy. Wandering around New York’s iconic streets and soaking up the atmosphere is all part of the experience, but there are so many top things to do in New York that you simply shouldn’t miss. I hope this list helps you love this city as much as I do.
I have linked these top things to do in New York individually, but it is worth pointing out that good value can be found by booking multiple attractions together. New York’s City Pass is designed to save you up to 41% on five New York attractions.
Read: Where to stay in New York – my ultimate guide to hotels and apartments
1. Spend a few hours in Central Park
I love Central Park, and it doesn’t matter when you visit – it has something different to offer at every time of year. Try to have brunch in the Boathouse – I can highly recommend it. The John Lennon memorial is also a lovely spot to visit.
There are many activities available too, from cycling to Segways, you can try ice skating in the winter, or even visit the zoo! Central Park is massive, so a few hours will only scratch the surface, but its a great spot if you fancy a change from the bustling city.
2. Visit the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
No trip to New York would be complete without a trip to the iconic Statue of Liberty. It is one of the top things to do in New York, so if you want to climb into the crown, make sure you book in advance.
While you are there it would be a shame not to visit neighbouring Ellis Island. This moving museum gives incredible insight into American immigration. You can even search for your relatives in their database of over 51 million records.
3. Have lunch at one of the markets
A mixture of an Italian food court and a gourmet market, the world famous Eataly is the perfect choice for a quick bite.
Or if you are visiting Dumbo in Brooklyn ( I highly recommend it ), the Time Out Market there is another great choice. Its rooftop terrace offers superb views of the Manhattan Skyline. You are guaranteed to find something in both of these markets to suit all tastes, and best of all, prices are reasonable too!
4. See the Skyline from one of New Yorks’ 5 Observatory Decks
Years ago the Empire State Building was the best place to take in the views of New York’s skyline. Nowadays its a little more complicated – there are five observatory decks in Manhattan, each offering something a little different. While I don’t expect you to visit all five, I have listed them all here as they each deserve a place on this list of top things to do in New York. Let me explain what each offers below:
5. Visit The Top of the Rock
The Top of the Rock is superbly located at the Rockefeller Centre and allows you to see most of New York’s famous landmarks, including the Empire State Building and Central Park – something that can’t be seen from some of the other observation decks. An interactive lift takes you to a modern and spacious indoor and outdoor observation deck, and there are other exhibits on display here too.
Adrenaline junkies will enjoy the newly opened attraction at the top – The Beam. This attraction was influenced by the 1932 photo depicting 11 workers on a steel beam. You can now replicate this photo by sitting on a beam for 90 seconds, but you will have to pay extra for the privilege.
5 . Go Interactive at The One World Observatory
The One World Observatory is another one of the observation decks in New York that is worth visiting, in fact the interactive lift is probably worth the visit alone. It takes you to the 102nd floor in under 60 seconds, where you will experience a virtual time-lapse that recreates New York’s skyline from the 1500’s to present day.
Note the observation deck here is indoor only. Its location Downtown means it doesn’t provide the same Midtown views as the some of the other observation decks. However, the indoor experience is handy during winter time, and it does offer great views of the Statue of Liberty which the others don’t.
6. Check out the Sky Deck on The Edge
One of New York’s newest attractions, The Edge opened to rave reviews, and it wasn’t long before it was considered one of the top things to do in New York.
Many believe The Edge is the best observation deck in New York, because you can see the Empire State Building, Central Park, One World Trade Center, and the Statue of Liberty from its massive outdoor skydeck.
There is also a glass floor on the sky deck, where you can see New York’s streets 1000 feet below. You don’t have to walk over this if you are feeling nervous, you can simply take in the views from various viewing points.
Adrenaline junkies can also do the Edge Climb – the highest open air building ascent in the world! If being 1,200 feet above the ground isn’t scary enough, you then lean out from the top for the ultimate rush!
TOP TIP: The Edge is located in a superb shopping centre in Hudson Yards, and is also next to the High Line. Combine these with brunch at nearby Friedmans and you have a great New York itinerary.
7. Take a glass lift to the Summit One Vanderbilt
Officially home New York’s newest observation deck, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt was our favourite of the five observation decks in New York. While the views may not be as good as Edge, this is an immersive experience that offers much more than just great views.
Ascending 1200 feet in a glass lift is a great way to start the experience, but the real fun happens when you step into a massive room with mirrored walls, floors and ceilings. There are two floors like this but both offer a different view. There is another room with floating silver balls, as well as a glass skybox 1000 feet above Madison Avenue that you can step out onto.
There are amazing views from all rooms and the experience ends in the small open air rooftop where you can enjoy one of their signature cocktails. We spent almost 2 hours here and thoroughly enjoyed it, it is without a doubt one of the best things to do in New York.
TOP TIP: Sunglasses are recommended due to the reflections of light, and sharp pointed shoes or high heels are not allowed in case they scratch the glass.
8. Stay Traditional at the Empire State Building
Despite the influx of more modern observation decks, many people still choose to visit the the Empire State Building simply because it is one of New York’s most iconic buildings.
There are two viewing platforms, the one the 102nd floor is more expensive, but has an indoor area which can be handy during winter time. There are also some exhibits here too, although not as high-tech as what is available at the other observation decks.
9. Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum
For most of us we will remember the event personally, so a visit to the memorial museum is a truly emotional experience, and a must visit in New York. The whole area has been rejuvenated – the reflecting pools are a tribute to those who lost their lives in the terror attacks, and the Oculus building is an architectural masterpiece.
10. Walk across Brooklyn Bridge
I walked across Brooklyn Bridge recently and don’t know why I left it so long to do it, it must be one of the best free things to do in New York!
I suggest catching the Subway to Booklyn Bridge and walking across from Manhattan into Brooklyn – it only takes about 30 minutes, and that includes many stops for photos!
Many choose to do it the other way around, but by doing it this way you can spend some time in DUMBO ( Down Under Manhatttan Bridge Overpass ) and enjoy the superb views and great choice of restaurants that are located here.
TimeOut Market offers a wide selection of cuisine and great views from its rooftop terrace. However, as much as I like TimeOut Market, I think no visit to Brooklyn would be complete without trying the legendary Grimaldis Pizza – trust me, it is the best pizza in New York! Children will love it too, it as one of the best places to eat with kids in New York.
After lunch catch the 5 minute ferry back to the Seaport in Manhattan and take in the views for just $4, then walk up to Wall Street to catch the subway back. This is a wonderful full day itinerary in New York.
11. Shop till you drop!
Whether you choose Macys or Bloomingdales, discount stores, or boutique shopping in Soho, New York is one of the world’s best cities for shopping!
However, with the exchange rate not as good as it once was, prices are on the expensive side. If you want the best shopping in New York then take a trip to the outlets at Woodbury Common. These are amazing outlets for shopping at a fraction of the cost at home. It takes about an hour to get there by bus but can get tickets here.
TOP TIP: Sign up to the VIP Club online, its free and you will get even more savings!
12. Take time out at the High Line
Locals think the High Line is one of the cool things to do in New York. Personally I prefer Central Park, but if you want to live like the locals, then you have to walk it. This elevated park was once an old railroad track, and is situated 30 feet above the city in New York’s newest neighbourhood, Hudson Yards.
Stretch out on one of the large loungers, eat a pretzel from a street vendor, or have a cocktail at the luxury Standard Hotel – its all part of the New York experience, and its one of the free things to do in New York.
Top Tip: Combine your visit with a trip to The Edge Observation Deck located close by – see number 6 above.
13. Take in a Broadway show
Chicago, Phantom, Wicked – you name it, if it’s on, it’s on in Broadway. With over 40 theatres it is THE place to catch the best shows.
14. Eat a pastrami sandwich from a real New York deli
If you try nothing else in New York, you have to try a Pastrami sandwich from a New York deli. It’s like coming to Dublin on your holidays and not trying Guinness! Piled high with what always looks like about 10 slices of pastrami, it tastes so good, I bet you will manage to finish it.
Katz, one of New York’s oldest delis, and the home of the famous Meg Ryan scene in When Harry Met Sally, is one of the iconic places to visit in New York. However, if you can’t face the queues, Friedmans do a great pastrami toastie, this is probably the next best thing.
15. Take a hop on hop off bus tour.
This is the perfect way to get your bearings, especially if it’s your first time to visit. Try to get a seat up top and get the best views of New York’s iconic landmarks as you pass by. Big Bus Tours are one the most popular – book tickets here.
16. Walk through Times Square
Times Square is loud, brash, tacky, but you gotta love it! You have to stroll around it to soak up the atmosphere. You can’t help but be blown away by the dazzling billboards and high rise blocks – and it is one of the top things to do in New York.
Complete the cliche by getting a selfie with the naked cowboy, and if travelling to New York with kids, make sure to breakfast at Ellen’s Stardust Diner.
Travelling with kids? Read 12 Things to do in New York with kids
17. Take a stroll through the West Village
While Times Square may be New York’s biggest tourist trap, the West Village is polar opposite. It’s got charm, character and chic nightlife – you almost feel like a NewYorker when you stroll through its back streets.
Its brownstone buildings, quirky boutiques and the local cafes gives off a completely different vibe to mid town Manhattan. It’s the kind of place I could live in very easily! Don’t forget to visit Sarah Jessica Parker’s Sex and the City House while you are there.
18. Have late night supper in Balthazar
From midnight on Friday or Saturday and 11pm on Sundays, Balthazar bistro on Spring Street serves up just what you need after a night on the town.
19. Visit the Intrepid Air & Space Museum
The Intrepid Air and Space Museum is a superb outdoor museum located on the Hudson River. Visit the legendary Intrepid air craft carrier, step inside a submarine and see the latest space exhibition.
20. Haggle for bargains in Chinatown
If Bloomingdales prices are getting you down, check out the stalls in Chinatown. This the place to get copies of designer clothes, bags and jewellery, but don’t forget to haggle.
21. Take a Movie & TV tour
From Sopranos, to Sex and the City, take a movie or TV tour to see your favourite locations, while taking a tour of the city at the same time.
22. Take the Subway!
Ok so this may not seem like one of the top things to do in New York, but it is one of my top tips for visiting New York. If you are staying uptown near Central Park and you want to go to Soho at night time, cabs can be expensive. Live like a New Yorker and take the subway! Not only will it save you a ton of money, but you wont spend hours battling the city traffic.
23. Visit an art museum
The Guggenheim’s cutting edge design has made it one of New York’s most iconic landmarks, while the Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the largest art museums in the world – with over 2 million works of art, you will need plenty of time for this one!
24. Take a trip down Wall Street
Although you may think Wall Street is just another street of high rise blocks, it is worth visiting and inevitably you will end up close to here, as it is near Battery Park ( for Statue of Liberty visits ) or the Brooklyn Bridge if you take my advice in number 10 above.
Admire the well dressed New Yorkers, check out the New York Stock Exchange, and get the obligatory picture with the charging bull.
25. Have lunch al fresco
There are many al fresco dining options in New York that offer great skyline views, particularly in DUMBO. However, Manhattan has its fair share too, notably in the Seaport and Brookfield Place.
Located across from the World Trade Centre, Brookfield is a great choice for lunch after a morning at the 9/11 Memorial Museum. Located on the Hudson River, you can also see the statue of Liberty in the distance.
26. Take in a cruise
Whether you cruise around the Statue of Liberty or enjoy a Harbour Lights evening cruise, there are lots of sightseeing cruises available in New York.
These can be a lovely idea during the summer months, when the water may be preferable to city traffic. You can also enjoy a cruise on The Beast – New York’s wild speedboat cruise.
27. Sip a cocktail at the Plaza
Opposite Central Park, this historic landmark is one of New York’s best hotels. A timeless classic, I have no doubt having a cocktail here will still be one of the top things to do in New York in twenty years time.
28. Take a helicopter ride over New York’s skyline
If you are having difficulty in deciding between New York’s five observation decks, go one better and see the skyline from a helicopter instead! You can book helicopter tours via Viator, who have the world’s largest selection of experiences and attractions – this tour has received a Badge of Excellence.
29. Soak up the atmosphere in Soho
Soho’s mix of cutting edge designer shops and trendy foodie spots make it a must visit when in New York.
30. Have a night cap in Bar 230
Have a cocktail in one of Manhattan’s best roof top bars and enjoy great views of the Manhattan skyline. 230 Rooftop is one of the few roof top bars in New York that allow children. Kids are allowed at any time except Friday and Saturday nights.
For lots more things to do in New York and all there is to see across New York City’s five boroughs, visit nyctourism.com.
I hope you liked this post on my favourite things to do in New York. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, attractions and descriptions are subject to change.
Note some of the links in this post contain affiliate links, where I receive a small commission if a booking is made, but at no additional cost to you.
