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With so many incredible activities to partake in within NYC, many tourists, especially initial visitors, donโt even know how to start. Weโve been fortunate enough to have spent numerous years living just a couple of hours from the Big Apple, so we can advise you on what to do in NYC, regardless of your interests.
NYC FIRST-TIME VISITOR TIPS
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Get set to sample the wonders of New York City!
1. Go across the Brooklyn Bridge, the best thing to do in NYC
You can find sights with panoramic perspectives of NYC for free by visiting the landmark Brooklyn Bridge. This notable NYC location is absolutely worth seeing, whether you stroll, jog, drive, or cycle across it. The bridge that is most frequented in New York City is over 130 years old and, at 6,000 feet in length, was the world`s longest suspension bridge from 1883 to 1903.
While crossing the bridge, youโll receive wonderful perspectives of the skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge Park down below. One of NYCโs finest parks, Brooklyn Bridge Park has views of the East River and holds a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. Each area of the park presents different attractions, like playgrounds, sports fields, open spaces, and a carousel.
While exploring the area, check out the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, a pedestrian walkway that provides a picture-perfect view of the Lower East Side.
2. The Statue of Liberty, a famous place to see in NYC
Another essential sight in New York City is the Statue of Liberty, an iconic nationwide symbol of liberty and opportunity. Lady Liberty stands proudly on Liberty Island, surrounded by the New York Harbor.
You can catch sight of the Statue of Liberty from Battery Park in Lower Manhattan, though I suggest taking a boat ride to Liberty Island. A cruise to Liberty and Ellis Islands is incorporated into the New York Pass, or you can book this 4-hour tour, which should afford you sufficient time to explore the islands and museums.
Check our guidance about the Statue of Liberty for more data.
3. Central Park, another beautiful place to visit in New York City
If thereโs one location in New York City thatโs popular with both locals and visitors, itโs Central Park. You could easily spend hours exploring this huge urban park, which is full of woodlands, lakes, playgrounds, waterfalls, and more.
Exploring the scenery within the park is one of the best cost-free activities available in NYC, though with so much to discover, you may consider renting bicycles or taking a bicycle tour of Central Park. Bicycle rentals within Central Park are covered under the New York Pass, too.
Finally, another place that won`t fail to please your taste buds is El Asador del Campesino in Barlovento. Here, they offer traditional dishes typical of the Canary Islands at quite affordable costs, so you`ll get good value for your money with a meal.
Be sure to keep an eye out for sculptures throughout the park too. If youโre visiting NYC during winter, you can go ice skating at Wollman Rink, or, if youโre here during summer, have a picnic in one of the meadows. However, my favorite time to explore is if you come to NYC in the fall since the array of colors is endless. If culture is what you crave, Central Park is dotted with museums and famous landmarks like Belvedere Castle and the Bethesda Fountain. No doubt explaining why this is one of the most popular parks in New York City.
4. See the Empire State Building, a cool thing to do in New York City
One of the highly esteemed attractions found in New York City is the Empire State Building, thus a visit is certainly worthwhile. It maintained the designation of tallest skyscraper on the planet from 1931-1970 and, with 102 levels, it continues to rank among the top 10 highest structures located in New York.
The Empire State Building provides observation decks on the eighty-sixth and one hundred and second floors, and entrance is contained in the New York Pass (you can also reserve a skip-the-line ticket here). I suggest scheduling your visit for just before sunset so you can see the orange glow over the skyline. The view makes this one of NYCโs best observation decks, provided you arenโt afraid of heights!
5. MoMA, The Met, and other must-visit museums in NYC
New York is an iconic area for workmanship, so I suggest going to no less than one workmanship exhibition in the city. On the other hand, history is more your thing, there are plentiful awesome choices, and numerous New York City exhibitions are remembered for the New York Pass:
- The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) showcases works from the 1880s to today, including Van Goghโs Starry Night, PicassoโsYoung Ladies of Avignon, andThe Persistence of Memory by Dalรญ. You can obtain a skip-the-line ticket here.
- The renowned Metropolitan Museum of Art shelters over 2 million artistic treasures across continents and movements, though its Roman and Egyptian collections remain quite popular visitor destinations. One can obtain express tickets to bypass lines here.
- The 9/11 Memorial & Museum pays tribute to the victims of the World Trade Center attacks through bronze inscriptions, two reflecting pools, and poignant exhibits. You are able to obtain a skip-the-line ticket here.
- The Guggenheim is renowned for its selection of abstract and contemporary artworks, as well as its iconic rotunda designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. You can obtain an entry ticket here.
- The Whitney Museum of American Art is your go-to museum for 20th and 21st-century artwork, and you can obtain your admission here.
- The American Museum of Natural Historyโs exhibits educate visitors about biology, ecology, and geology. You can find a discounted entrance fee here.
- The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum at Pier 86 displays historical water vessels, military flight simulators, and the Space Shuttle Pavilion. You can get an entry ticket here.
If you want to visit, this museum is in Presidio Park and you can get your ticket here.
6. Visit Times Square, something to do in NYC at night
If youโre looking for nighttime activities in NYC, you must explore Times Square. There, youโll have access to the cityโs premier entertainment, dining, and shopping options.
A first visit can feel quite overwhelming due to the bright advertising displays, unusual street performers, and hustle and bustle. Some of the most popular tourist spots in Times Square include attractions like M&Mโs World,MTV Studios,Madame Tussauds, and the opportunity to purchase Broadway tickets at up to 50% off at the well-known Red Stairs. Times Square also hosts the most famous New Year`s Eve celebration globally, though many prefer experiencing it from the comfort of home where it`s notably warmer!
Moreover, Times Square is a hub for all kinds of entertaining pursuits in NYC, so spend some time checking out the lively bars, restaurants, shops, and theaters.
7. Walk the High Line and see The Vessel
An enjoyable alternative to the Brooklyn Heights Promenade is the High Line, spanning 1.5 miles from the Meatpacking District through Chelsea. This elevated greenspace and walking path provides an excellent method to tour New York City, and remains one of my preferred hangouts in Manhattan.
The elevated pathway is built on former railway tracks and travels past several notable attractions in New York City, including the Whitney Museum and Chelsea Market. Along the route youโll come across The Vessel, an avant-garde beehive structure overlooking Hudson Yards offering panoramic views. I have never seen anything quite like it, so I suggest checking it out.
My second and most important piece of advice is obtaining travel coverage for Bali and carrying your phone with you at all times because mishaps can occur. Even though renting a scooter in Bali is not risky, you must always be prepared.
8. Take a New York helicopter tour, the most romantic thing to do in NYC
If driving is not preferable, the island`s robust public transportation system allows you to still reach the primary tourist attractions in Gran Canaria. The public transport network is run by Global, and you can inspect timetables, fares, and bus routes here.
As we specified, if you visit Havasu Falls, it is obligatory to spend at least one night in one of its campsites, since you cannot make excursions solely for one day. Book both the tour and the camping permit from the formal website of the Havasupai Indian Reservation.
However, one tour above all others I have taken is this doors-off helicopter photography tour which is ideal for photographers.
If youโre seeking something unique to do for an anniversary or date, this private helicopter tour is perfect for couples.
We have a guide with the primary helicopter tours in NYC that I suggest you review before booking your tour.
9. Go to Grand Central Station & the Chrysler Building, two places you canโt miss in NYC
For a free approach to experiencing the hustle and bustle of NYC, check out Grand Central Station. This iconic train terminal is over 100 years old and was built in the Beaux-Arts style, which you can see reflected in the Main Concourseโs celestial-painted ceiling.
Around 100,000 people visit Grand Central per day, some of which are travelers and others that are visiting for the novelty of it. Besides serving as a hub for the cityโs subway and railway systems, the terminal houses dozens of shops, and restaurants, most notably Grand Central Market. Itโs also worth visiting Vanderbilt Hall, a lavish 1,100ft2 event space.
Merely a brief stroll from the terminal is the Chrysler Building, one of the most renowned places in New York City. Towering to nearly 1,050 feet tall, it`s one of the cityโs tallest skyscrapers and an excellent representation of the Art Deco style.
You can admire the buildingโs architecture from numerous vantage points, although my preferred view is from the Tudor City Bridge. If possible, you should visit during Manhattanhenge (the Manhattan Solstice), when the sun aligns with the city streetsโ grid pattern, generating one of the most iconic photographic opportunities in NYC.
10. See a Broadway show, something you must do in New York City
Without question, witnessing a Broadway show is one of the best activities to do in NYC. With over 40 Broadway theaters in the city, you can find permanent productions as well as limited-time musicals and plays. If youโre worried about the price of a Broadway ticket, you can find discounted seats at the TKTS Pavilion at the Red Stairs in Times Square. However, you canโt always choose which show youโll see.
It is unlikely you will see a Broadway musical production that does not entertain you, though if choosing the very best, the New Amsterdam Theatre, Hilton Theatre, Lyceum Theatre, and Belasco Theatre typically receive high praise. Opting for a dinner and show package is one of the finest activities for couples in NYC, or you might look for a fun musical or play to enjoy with the kids.
Thus far, we have viewed Aladdin,The Lion King,The Phantom of the Opera,Wicked, and Chicago, and everything from the stage style and costumes to the performance was wonderful. You are able to find tickets to other shows here.
11. Rockefeller Center & Top of the Rock, a spectacular place to visit in NYC
Visiting the Rockefeller Center is another thrilling thing to do in New York City. This famous complex consists of over a dozen commercial buildings, NBC Studios, and Radio City Music Hall. Constructed in the 1930s, the Art Deco-style structure is recognized as one of the greatest projects to emerge from the Great Depression.
Moreover, this notable NYC location is renowned for its diversity of indoor and outdoor attractions, such as Rockefeller Plaza, which transforms into an ice-skating rink in the winter season. Within the Rockefeller Center, one can go to the underground concourse for all kinds of dining and purchasing options.
Perhaps most notable, the Rockefeller Center is home to one of the premier observation spots in NYC, the Topof the Rock observation deck. This observation platform has multiple levels and is located on the 68th and 69th floors, providing panoramic views of the city including Central Park and the Empire State Building. Visiting this observation deck is highly recommended for any visitor to New York City, and you can obtain admission here or with the New York Pass.
12. Fifth Avenue and St. Patrickโs Cathedral, two more extraordinary places to go in NYC
In addition to all the wonderful things to see in NYC, youโll also find many upscale shops, particularly along Fifth Avenue, one of the most renowned streets in NYC. This is potentially the most renowned avenue in the city, and while itโs known for its lavish clientele, itโs also close to several NewYork City attractions.
Stretching from Washington Square Park in Greenwich Village to 143rd Street in Harlem, Fifth Avenue contains boutiques, shops, historic homes, and high-end apartments. Enjoy window-browsing and perusing stores like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Versace, and stroll past the estates on Millionaireโs Row, between 59th and 96th Streets.
As I stated, Fifth Avenue trails past several landmarks, including Central Park, Trump Tower, the Rockefeller Center, the Empire State Building, and the Flatiron Building, which Iโll reference later in this guide. Fifth Avenue also goes past St. Patrickโs Cathedral, the largest Neo-Gothic Catholic church in the U.S. Even if youโre not religious, this cathedral is a must-see in NYC.
Dedicated to St. Patrick of Ireland, the church stands nearly 330 feet elevated and has large bronze doors with relief sculptures of several patron saints. Inside the cathedral has a 3,000-person capability, several altars and shrines, a replica of Michelangeloโs Pietร sculpture and two huge pipe organs. One of the most beautiful parts of the church is its stained-glass windows and rose window which offer a heavenly glow.
13. Visit the New York Public Library & Bryant Park, a fun thing to do in NYC with kids
If youโre searching for activities to engage in NYC with kids, two popular places you can review are the New York Public Library and Bryant Park.
The renowned New York Public Library, located in New York City, is among the top libraries in the United States and offers its services free of charge. It has 92 locations throughout the city, with the principal branch situated in Bryant Park in Manhattan. This neoclassical structure is the third largest library globally, containing four levels, 20 rooms, and nearly 53 million items. The ground floor focuses on children`s books, while the initial level hosts the reference section and computer lab. The second floor provides a study area with a marble fireplace, and the towering third floor displays the McGraw Rotunda.
Directly outside the library is Bryant Park, a garden and park styled after French designs that contains many fun activities in NYC. It includes a sizable fountain, several sculptures, a carousel, food vendors, and ping-pong, making it one of the best parks in NYC ( best parks in NYC). During the Christmas season in NYC ( Christmastime in NYC), it transforms into a Winter Village, where visitors can go ice skating and enjoy the holiday lights display.
14. Browse Chelsea Market, one of the best things to do in New York City
Another primary attraction in NYC that I advise exploring is Chelsea Market. Occupying an entire city block, the market is in a former Nabisco factory. Currently, the market boasts dozens of food stalls, as well as shops and office spaces for companies like Google and YouTube.
Starting on the underground floor of the marketplace, you can peruse the foodstuff market for fresh produce, artisan cheeses, sweets, and cultural cuisine. Youโll also see craft and clothing stalls and Pearl River Mart, a well-known Asian-American retailer.
Coupled with real-time music throughout the week, Chelsea Market also hosts ARTECHOUSE, an immersive exhibit that combines art, science, and engineering in a novel manner. Itโs an amazing event to experience in New York City after savoring some delicious meals, and you can obtain your pass in advance here.
15. Take a bus tour of Harlem, the Bronx, Queens, and Brooklyn
The five districts that make up New York City are worth exploring. However, if it`s your inaugural visit, I suggest this bus excursion, highlighting the most famous neighborhoods of New Yorkwhile covering 4 of the 5 districts. It`s one of the quintessential tours in NYC for newcomers.
To begin with, Harlem(which is part of Manhattan) is among the coolest places in NYC and is most renowned for its African American roots. During the Great Migration of the 1920s and 30s, Black culture took center stage, which you can experience today at locations like the Apollo Theater, the Jazz Museum, and the Museo del Barrio. Harlem is also known for its strong Christian presence and soulful gospel choirs, so if you want to learn more about this neighborhoodโs culture, you can plan to attend a Harlem gospel service on Sunday.
The Bronx is another borough in NYC that deserves attention, thanks to its diverse culture and attractions. Visitors will tour this area, known as the birthplace of famous singers like Jennifer Lopez, during the second half of the bus tour. The Bronx is renowned for hip-hop, graffiti art, and Latin music. This borough is home to Yankee Stadium,New York Botanical Garden, the Bronx Museum of the Arts, and the Edgar Allan Poe Cottage. More things to do in The Bronx can be found here.
Following that, you will explore Queens, a borough with diverse communities and cultures in addition to an appreciation for the arts. Here, you can witness the neighborhoodโs punk rock and jazz influences and take in attractions such as MoMA PS1, Socrates Sculpture Park, and the American Museum of the Moving Image. During the tour, you will stop at Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, where youโll find the stadium of the Mets and the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. You will also visit Roosevelt Avenue, one of the main roads in the borough.
The bus tour then heads to Brooklyn, offering some of the finest attractions around NYC, like the Brooklyn Bridge, the artistic Bushwick Collective, the DUMBO neighborhood, as well as the Jewish Quarter in Williamsburg, one of the top neighborhoods in Brooklyn. Lastly, youโll cross the Brooklyn Bridge and end up back in Manhattan, in the Little Italy and Chinatown areas, two popular neighborhoods in Manhattan that are well-known among food aficionados.
Little Italy is a small hub of Italian culture where culinary delights like Neapolitan pizza and cannoli can be indulged. Moreover, NYCโs Chinatown possesses one of the largest Asian populations external to China, as well as hundreds of restaurants and cafes, so itโs a place that must be visited!
16. One World Observatory & 9/11 Memorial and Museum
Along with the Empire State Building and the Top of the Rock, the One World Observatory is a viewpoint you must see in NYC. This observation deck is between the 100th and 102nd floors of One World Trade Center, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.
The structure towers 1,776 feet tall, and the observatoryโs height reaches 1,268 feet, making it one of the coolest places in NYC. From up there, youโll have sweeping panoramic views of Manhattan, including the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge. On the 100th floor, you can see the Sky Portal, a 14-foot-wide glass disc that portrays a high-definition video feed of the streets below.
This location also features a dining establishment, a theatre facility, and the memorable 9/11 Museum, housing tens of thousands of artifacts related to the catastrophic events at the World Trade Center. Outside, visitors can view the reflective 9/11 Memorial pools situated where the Twin Towers formerly stood.
Visiting the 9/11 Museum is worthwhile, and One World Observatory is one of New York City`s top viewing platforms, so consider reserving a combination pass for both destinations. Both are covered in the New York Pass, but if solely visiting the observatory, you can purchase a ticket here.
17. Wall Street, a top-rated place to visit in New York City
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While touring this region, be sure to pause at Bowling Green, the oldest public park in NYC. Here, you can see the Charging Bull sculpture, one of the top attractions for visitors to NYC. The 7,100-pound, 11-foot-tall bronze bull is viewed by some as a national symbol of prosperity.
In the year 2017, the renowned Fearless Girl sculpture debuted on International Womenโs Day, originally placed opposite Wall Street`s iconic Charging Bull statue prior to being relocated nearer the entrance of the NYSE building. This free sightseeing tour venture passing by Wall Street offers glimpses of Fearless Girl, or alternatively, one may book this specialized Wall Street excursion focusing solely on the Financial District, an ideal selection for those interested in finance.
18. See the Flatiron Building, something interesting to do in NYC
I had pointed out earlier that there are numerous sights to witness on New York City`s Fifth Avenue, and one of those is the Flatiron Building, one of the most recognizable structures in New York City. Positioned at the intersection of Broadway and Fifth Avenue, this 22-story triangular architectural structure is one of the most uniques places to witness in NYC.
The buildingโs design was influenced by the Beaux-Arts architectural style and includes a rounded apex and double columns. At its narrowest corner, the Flatiron Building is just 6.5 feet wide, creating a 25ยฐ angle.
As one circumnavigates the 285-foot-tall architecture, lightheadedness or a sense of instability may surface. That said, the hardy metallic framework can withstand strong winds, so there are no concerns. Furthermore, recognize that the building houses office spaces, thus internal access is unavailable. Nonetheless, visiting the exterior presents an engaging, free activity to partake in within NYC, and is nearby Madison Square Park.
19. The Edge at Hudson Yards, one of the nicest views over New York City
I have an additional suggestion if you`re seeking incredible views of the city. Soaring 1,100 feet high, The Edge at Hudson Yardsis one of the newest elevated observatories in Manhattan.
Whatโs uniquely notable about The Edge is that it protrudes out at the Eastern Point, where itโs spacious enough for a single individual to stand and feel at the apex of the world. Angled glass walls create a more immersive (and somewhat frightening) sensation.
The observation platform also has a transparent flooring surface, so if youโre daring enough, you can look down 100 stories to the road below. In addition to the stunning 360ยฐ views, there is a sheltered gazebo and champagne bar, making this one of the premier locations in New York for couples. The Edge observation deck is included in the New York Pass, or you can reserve your ticket here.
20. Go to Madison Square Garden, an exciting thing to do in NYC
Two of the most popular undertakings in NYC involve shopping and attending Broadway, although you can also view a basketball match in NYC at Madison Square Garden. Sports admirers in the city flock to see the New York Knicks play at this 20,000-person-capacity event space. You should book your passes beforehand.
The stadium is also home to the New York Rangers, so if hockey is more your taste, reserve tickets to a game in advance.
In addition to the stadium, there is the smaller Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden, which hosts concerts, comedy shows, and other performances. So, whether you prefer sports or a show, you can find an event matching your interest!
Most of the haunted excursions and attractions are found in Manhattan, and this Greenwich Village ghost tour represents one of the finest ghost tours in New York City. Throughout the span of two hours, youโll visit some of the creepiest spots in the neighborhood, for instance the Hanging Tree in Washington Square Park and the Murder House, which is said to house 22 spirits.
21. Take a sunset cruise around Manhattan, the best thing to do in NYC for couples
Manhattan frequently fosters romantic occasions, and one of the top shared activities for pairs in NYC involves taking an evening river cruise as the sun descends.
Among the various cruise possibilities featured with the New York Pass, I particularly favor this Harbor Lights night cruise, which flows past the glittering Manhattan skyline under the cover of darkness. During the 2-hour journey, passengers can purchase drinks from the bar and capture nighttime photos of popular monuments like the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building.
For an even more romantic activity to partake in NYC, I suggest this champagne cruise, which sails past the Manhattan skyline during sunset. The cruise involves a complimentary drink of your choosing, which you can sip while admiring the glittering lights on the New York Harbor. That is why this is one of the top boat tours in New York City.
22. One Vanderbilt, another great place to go in New York City
Brooklyn Bridge Park is one of the top-rated parks in NYC thanks to scenic views along the East River. It also has plenty of engaging activities and areas of interest, like sports facilities, green spaces, and Janeโs Carousel. The park contains distinct sections for activities such as basketball, bocce, and others.
The Summit offers views unlike any other observatory in the city owing to its glass-encased balconies projecting from the exterior. From these spaces, landmarks of Midtown Manhattan like famous NYC destinations such as Central Park, the East River, and the Empire State Building can be seen. The Summit also accommodates dining and drinking, making it possible to experience as a visit. Be certain to obtain tickets in advance here.
It is also worth mentioning that One Vanderbilt connects to Grand Central Station through a transit hall, so its placement is remarkably convenient.
23. Little Island, a unique place to visit in New York
If youโre visiting the city as a family, Little Island at Pier 55 is one of the top spots to explore in NYC with children. This artificial island is on the Hudson River and covers 2.4 acres, making it a small oasis and one of the most unique activities to participate in New York City.
Little Island is a lovely green area amid the urban sprawl of NYC, and you can visit during morning, afternoon, or nightfall. The entire park has a picturesque landscape full of perennial plants, grasses, shrubs, and trees. Scattered throughout the island are scenic overlooks and plazas where you can relax and admire the vista. There are also performance areas, food stalls, and a children`s arts and crafts space, so you could easily spend a couple of hours here.
24. Visit Coney Island, something you must do in New York
A voyage to Coney Island is something you absolutely must do in NYC, whether youโre a local or a visitor. This place offers something for all ages, from thrilling amusements to a tranquil beach.
Coney Island is most pleasurable during the summer months, when you can explore Luna Park and DenoโsWonder Wheel Amusement Park, one of the countryโs oldest and most renowned amusement park in New York. Here, you can ride the legendary Cyclone wooden rollercoaster, the historic B&B Carousell, and the famous Wonder Wheel, which features stationary carriages and several others that travel on tracks to opposite sides of the wheel.
If a more laid-back activity is preferred, a stroll along the beach or boardwalk can be taken. Additionally, the neighborhood has a sizable Russian-speaking population, which is reflected in the regionโs bakeries and shops.
25. Go shopping at the outlets, something to do in NYC if it rains
Finally, itโs a good idea to have a backup plan of things to do in NYC during rainy weather. Shopping at the Woodbury Common Premium Outlets is something to do if youโre looking for high-end items or you want a cheaper substitute to the stylish boutiques on Fifth Avenue. These are the most convenient outlets you can visit from New York City.
Here, visitors can peruse 220 stores and grab a bite to eat at over 20 restaurants and cafes. The shops range from domestic brands to international retailers, with discounts reaching up to 65% off. So, if youโre looking for things to do in NYC on a day off or if plans get rained out, you can take a trip to the outlets.
The shopping center Woodbury Common Premium Outlets is around an hour outside the city, and you can reserve transport to the stores here.
Best day trips from NYC
Thanks to its convenient location, there are lots of excellent day excursions from NYC. If youโre going to spend time in the area for a more extended period and youโre wondering what places to see around NYC, consider renting a vehicle and checking out these locales:
Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is one of the top places in New York state, however itโs about 7 hours away, so, if you prefer to not drive, think about a Niagara Falls bus tour from NYC like this one.
Philadelphia
Philly holds a special place in our hearts since we lived in the area for approximately five years. Itโs only about 2 hours away from NYC, so you could easily spend a day exploring Philadelphia from New York like this one.
Washington D.C.
Around 4 hours from NYC by vehicle, you can see the nationโs seat of government, Washington D.C.
This city is renowned for world-famous museums, iconic landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial, and of course, the White House. A day trip from NYC to Washington DC like this one is a perfect way to learn more about U.S. history while enjoying famous sights.
Boston
Four hours in the opposite direction, youโll find Boston, another interesting place to go near NYC. Boston`s appeal lies in a harmonious blend of history shown through era-defining structures and a progressive spirit discernible through innovative initiatives, an experience obtainable on an out-and-back journey from NYC like this one.
The city is home to delightful squares, bustling commercial centers, parks, and the Old South Meeting House, where the Boston Tea Party started in 1773.
Where to stay in NYC
There are so many things to experience and activities to partake in while visiting NYC, so itโs wise to reserve lodging at one of the top hotels in the city. Below are a few of our absolute favorites, though we also have a full guide on places to sleep in New York City.
- Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown: This lavish hotel is like a home away from home, with a gym, spa, and restaurant. Itโs one of the best 5-star hotels in NYC.
- Doubletree by Hilton New York Times Square West: We have chosen to lodge here repeatedly as it is conveniently located in the heart of the city (it represents one of the most affordable accommodations near Times Square).
- Pod 51: This is one of the most affordable lodgings in New York City and it doesnโt compromise on quality, plus it has a rooftop garden and itโs near the Rockefeller Center.
For reviews and ratings of top lodgings in New York City, click here:
NYC foods you must try!
Without question, your visit to New York City isnโt complete without trying some famous New York foods. Arrive hungry because there are all kinds of delicious options waiting for you!
- Pizza: Some claim itโs the New York water that gives NY-style pizza its renown, but credit could also go to that brick-oven flavor. For the finest pizza in NYC, head to Lombardiโs,Johnโs of Bleecker Street,Patsyโs Pizzeria,Grimaldiโs Pizzeria, or Julianaโs Pizzeria.
- Hotdogs: A classic sandwich particular to New York City is an all-beef sausage topped with zippy mustard, sauerkraut, and relish made from onions. For the finest hotdogs in NYC, head to Nathanโs Famous Hot-Dog Stand,GrayโsPapaya, or Papaya King.
- Breakfast foods: If you want to feel like a New Yorker, have a bagel for breakfast, preferably from Leoโs Bagels, Absolute Bagels, or Tal Bagels.
- Burgers: For a highly tasty burger, head to Burger Joint or Corner Bistro. Here is our guide to the best burgers in NYC.
One of the top rated restaurants is El Jardรญn de la Sal, located on the salt flats of Fuencaliente. In addition to deliciously prepared local dishes, youโll enjoy magnificent sunset views while dining.
Last but not least, I propose this pastry tour through Greenwich Village if you have a sweet tooth. Itโs one of many wonderful culinary explorations in NYC, so be certain to check out our guide.
Map of New York City
I hope you enjoyed learning about all the awesome things to do in New York City! Be sure to download this New York City tourist map so you can effortlessly find all the locations you wish to visit during your trip.
As you can see, there are plenty of amazing places to explore in New York, so if you have any questions or would like to share your recommendations, provide me a comment.