places to do homework nyc

8 Hidden Escapes Perfect For Studying & Working In NYC

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For most of us, autumn means getting back into the nitty-gritty of our jobs, pounding out endless amounts of work, or heading back to school for some major studying. If you're looking for a new, lesser-known study escape, we've rounded up eight perfect spots throughout New York City where you can go to get all your work done (and chug a coffee or two) while enjoying the scenery and comfort of the space. So instead of rushing to the New York Public Library, check out our slideshow for libraries, cafes, hotel spaces, and more.

[Cover photo via @ thehaikuguys ]

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The 15 Best Places with a Study Area in New York City

1.  New York Public Library for the Performing Arts (LPA)

2.  New York Public Library

3.  B Cup Cafe

4.  Alice Tully Hall

5.  citizenM Hotel New York Times Square

6.  Bean & Bean Organic Coffee

7.  The ELK

8.  The Bean

9.  Think Coffee

10.  Gotan

11.  Ground Central Coffee Company

12.  The Hungarian Pastry Shop

13.  David Rubenstein Atrium at Lincoln Center

14.  Van Leeuwen Ice Cream

15.  Kaffe 1668

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21 Fun Things to Do in NYC for Students: Weekend Guide

They don’t call it the city that never sleeps for nothing.

New York City has something for everyone and depending on the season, you’ll find different things to do around the city.

The best thing about New York is that not everything costs money . That is great news for someone living on a student budget . 

There is so much to do, you’ll be able to do something different each weekend for a year and you’ll have only scratched the surface.

Here you will find a couple of fun things that you can do all year round in the NYC as a young person , whether you came just for a weekend or you study here.

First time in New York? Check this 3-day guide !

Go do Broadway

You can’t say that you have been to New York if you have not seen a Broadway show.

These shows are synonymous with New York and have been running for decades. Shows like the Lion King is still running, but you don’t have to go and see all the major stuff. 

You are bound to find a gem of the show when you least expect it. If you can find cheap flights to New York, you’ll be able to sniff out a good show. You’ll forever regret it if you don’t make a turn. 

Find some more free attractions in this NYC budget guide

A slice for every occasion

Whether it’s after a long day in the streets of New York or the beginning of your night out, you have to make a turn at Paulie Gee’s slice shop . These guys know how to make a pizza. 

They are traditional to the bone with char wood fires, none of that thick base pies and flavor that will blow your mind.

Go for the original cheese and pepperoni or live dangerously with the Hellboy. Mike’s Hot Honey will bring a tear to your eye for a very low price per slice. 

Explore the arts at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the most impressive museums in the world and one of the many that you can visit in New York . This is the perfect destination for those days when you just want to contemplate in peace and quiet. The exhibits are updated regularly and they have plenty for you to see. 

You won’t be able to experience the fullness of the museum in just one day, it is that big. It makes up 13 acres of Central Park and boasts a collection of artifacts that span over 5000 years. 

This sounds like a lot of fun but you must be worried about the school or college assignment? Don’t be as you can  ask Edubirdie to do complicated homework .

It could also be the be term papers, thesis, essays or dissertation. Rest assured as professional writers take care of everything.

Explore Prospect park for a day

Everyone knows about Central Park, but if you want to get away from the secular places and visit a peaceful little slice of heaven, then Prospect park is for you. It is a 526-acre public park in the heart of Brooklyn. 

The park is open during the day and the evening and perfect for stargazing during those clear summer evenings.

During the day you can go for anything from a relaxing picnic to playing just about any sport under the sun. This is the perfect romantic getaway, especially if you go out on the lake with a paddleboat. 

Tired of typical attractions? Find new places to visit in NYC

A view from the top

New York has one of the most impressive skylines in the world and up until recently, if you wanted a view of the city, you had to brave the Empire state building.

This year, the 20 Hudson Yards observation deck opened to the public and it is stunning. 

The observation deck is 1131 feet up in the air and offers unprecedented panoramic views of the city.

This is one of the coolest touristy things that you can do and once you’ve finished viewing the sights, you can go to the 100th floor to the champagne bar and relax the night away. 

If you are a New York student looking for a fun and stylish way to explore the city, consider booking a local Bergen County limo service . It allows exploring NYC’s top attractions with comfort and luxury.

Ice skating in the Central Park

People who live up North will know that skating on a lake or a dam is completely different from skating in a rink.

During Winter, you have to make a turn at one of the Central Park ice rinks. 

You can choose to go to either Wollman Rink or the Lasker Rink , but of a student budget, you can go to the Conservatory Waters . There you can skate for free if you have your skates and the ice is at least 6 inches thick. 

Go for a ferry ride

The State Island ferry is free for all and you can even drink on it. They have some of the lowest beer prices in town. The hour-long trip is worth it if you want to go for some cheap sight-seeing. 

Lady Liberty can be seen in all her splendor as you cross the river. If you are on a tight budget, then you have no choice.

Plus, the atmosphere is electric on the ferry. What more do you want?

Take a stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge

If there is one walk that every local or visitor should make, it would be the Brooklyn Bridge . It is one of the greatest feats of 19th-century engineering. In 1883, it was the world’s longest suspension bridge, spanning an impressive 1.3 miles.

If you are planning a romantic evening, be sure to book a restaurant near the bridge and go for that evening walk over the bridge. Be sure to take a lock with you and join in the love lock tradition. 

Eat your heart out at Smorgasburg

For all the foodies out there, you have to try the Smorgasburg open-air food market. This is one of the biggest markets of its kind in the US and it runs every weekend.

Over 100 vendors make their way to the market every weekend and they have some of the most delicious treats on offer. 

Many culinary experts say that this is the place where new trendy dishes are born. Both the Ramen burger and Wowfulls waffle cone had their origin at this market. This is not one to miss if you want to show your taste buds some love.

Bling it up at the Opera

If you thought that Opera was only for the snooty and super-rich, then you need to have your mind blown.

The Metropolitan Opera House is the perfect place for you to dip your toes into opera. Even if you just want to feel classy for a day, you can get into a show for as little as $25 with a student discount. 

You’ll be supporting some amazing artists and be mesmerized by the talent of the singers at the opera house. If for nothing else, you’ll be able to say that you’ve been to the opera. 

Be a tourist for a day

There are many things that New Yorkers take for granted, but you should step inside the shoes of a tourist for a day and go visit the statue of liberty again.

The statue is the ultimate monument and symbol for liberty and it kind of brings a feeling of nostalgia as you read the history of it all. 

The 305-foot copper has been standing tall since 1886 and is something to behold up close. It’s one of the cheaper expeditions that you can go on and it is worth every penny. 

It isn’t just graffiti

The streets of New York are where street art was born and if you think that graffiti isn’t art, then you haven’t seen the masterpieces of New York . Bowery Road is famous for some of the world’s best wall canvases. 

The art is phenomenal and you will be treated to a visceral experience that you will not find a museum. The work that you’ll see on Bowery Road is not that of your average gangster wielding a spray can.

These guys are professional and they come from all over the world at a chance to exhibit their skills. 

Pay your respects at ground zero

9/11 was one of the most devastating days in recent American history and you can pay your respects to the fallen where the twin towers once stood.

The footprints of where the towers once stood are now two of America’s largest manmade waterfalls and they are surrounded by the names of all the people who lost their lives on that fateful day. 

This is a testament to the resilience of America and a message to everyone out there that when the going gets tough, they stand together. This is one of those goosebump destinations that you cannot miss. 

A different type of movie

If you are a movie lover, then New York is the place to be . You can watch all your favorite blockbusters at any cinema in the country, but Indie movies and foreign films don’t always have a home.

Film Forum is where you’ll get your indie fix and it is open right through the year. 

When it opened in 1970, it was a non-profit joint with fold-out chairs. Today, it is a gem of a cinema and if you are in the mood for something different, then you know just where to go.  

Catch Shakespeare in the park

Summer is an amazing time of the year. In Central Park, it is extra special when the Public Theater wows the crowds with their renditions of Shakespeare’s classics.

High school might have killed it for you, but there is just something special about watching a play in the park. The best part is that these shows are free. 

You have to hurry though because seats are limited and you can get a ticket from the Delacorte Theater at noon on show days. You’ll get a new appreciation for Bard’s words in the park. 

Get your nerd on at the public library

One of New York’s most awe-inspiring sites to visit is the New York Public Library. The building itself is a work of art with super high ceilings, intricate chandeliers, and massive windows to let the light shine in on all that knowledge hidden between the pages. 

You don’t even have to read anything while you are there. Just being in that space makes you feel smarter, but if you feel like it, you can pick up a book on just any topic. 

Buy some indie books

If the library is not your scene, but you still love to read, then you cannot miss the Strand   bookstore. This indie store was founded in 1927 and has been going strong since.

They have over 2.5 million new, used and rare books that you can sink your teeth into. There are too many books to peruse in one day. 

The sign outside says that they have a line of over 18 miles of books. If you are looking for a bargain, go to the $1 shelf. You might just pick up a gem for your library at home.    

Relive the old Amusement park days

If Disney Land and Six Flags is a bit above your budget, you can still get that amusement park feeling at Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park .

They don’t have all the fancy rides of the other parks, but they have a classic Ferris wheel and oodles of classic carnival thrills. You have to make a day of it.

Rockaway beach

Not many people know it, but Ney York has a pretty cool beach where you can have an awesome day of fun in the sun. It has the best of both worlds. 

One part New York attitude mixed with an equal amount of beach bum makes for a pretty unique vibe. 

Forbidden comics

The Forbidden Planet is every comic book fan’s little slice of heaven . If you can think of a comic book, they will have it.

Here you’ll get everything from comic books to figurines and other comic book related toys. Be prepared to spend a lot of time there. 

Go to the ball game

Yankee Stadium is a must-visit location. When a game is on, you have to make an effort to go and experience the hype.

Even if you don’t know a thing about baseball, you are bound to have a good time. The atmosphere alone is enough to make you a fan.    

There is no reason why you should be cooped up in your flat over a weekend.

With so much to do in New York, you’ll never have a dull moment.

The only thing you’ll have trouble with is deciding what to do next.  

Now, you can keep planning your visit by reading about less typical attractions in NYC , getting a New York City pass , and learning some tips on packing your backpack !

Author’s Bio:

Robert Everett worked in the corporate sector in a managerial role before deciding to live life as a travel blogger and vlogger.

He makes money with his vlogs and also through academic writing where he covers essays, term papers and research papers.

In his free time, he watches web series, takes martial arts classes and cooks different cuisines. 

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New York City   Travel Guide

34 Best Things to Do in NYC

There are countless reasons to be mesmerized by New York, from its skyscrapers and monuments to its vibrant art, food, fashion and nightlife. Across the city, fresh perspectives are yours to be found; go for a stroll in Central Park or along the High

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Central Park Central Park free

This part-park, part-museum, part-concert hall swallows central Manhattan, and many of the city's most notable attractions are situated next to it or within its limits ( the Guggenheim , the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the American Museum of Natural History , to name a few). But travelers insist that you shouldn't just pass through Central Park on your way to another place. This 843-acre green space is a favorite of New Yorkers and tourists; you can come here to exercise, dine, go to the zoo and more.

Almost everyone has a positive impression of the park, but no one has quite the same experience or recommends that you do quite the same thing. There's an almost impossible amount of sights to see here (hidden treasures, indeed), including more than 20 playgrounds, 48 fountains, monuments or sculptures, and 30 bridges. Here's a shortlist:

National September 11 Memorial & Museum National September 11 Memorial & Museum

The National September 11 Memorial & Museum serves as the primary tribute to the nearly 3,000 victims of the 2001 terrorist attacks, as well as the six lost in the 1993 bombing. The memorial's twin reflecting pools and human-made waterfalls rest as eerie footprints where the World Trade Center's twin towers once stood. The 1-acre pools are enclosed in bronze panels on which the names of every victim are inscribed. The museum spans across 110,000 square feet and relays the narrative of the attacks through a series of multimedia displays, real-time recordings, authentic artifacts and an interactive table.

Recent visitors cited the overall atmosphere of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum as sobering and moving. Many travelers say they were impressed with the site as a whole, noting its respectful and informational displays. Reviewers say you won't want to rush your time here, with some recommending that you budget three to four hours to see all of the exhibits.

Empire State Building Empire State Building

U.S. News Insider Tip: Watch out for "sunset peak" pricing, which adds an extra $10 per ticket for two hours around sunset each evening. But on a clear day, it just might be worth it. – Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

New York City Tourist 101 dictates that you must swing by this landmark structure in midtown Manhattan. And despite the hefty admission fees, the crowds and the long lines, recent visitors insist that you won't be sorry. In fact, taking a trip to the top of the Empire State Building is either the perfect way to begin or end your Big Apple excursion – on a clear day you'll be able to the see the city's major highlights some 1,250 feet beneath you. 

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Metropolitan Museum of Art Metropolitan Museum of Art

U.S. News Insider Tip: Come for the art, stay for the rooftop cocktails. A seasonal rooftop garden bar offers views over Central Park, which is especially coveted at sunset. The roof garden stays open into the evening on Friday and Saturday. – Jessica Colley Clarke

No museum in the United States is as celebrated as the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Spilling over with masterpieces from all over the world, including notable collections from ancient Egypt and classical antiquity, "the Met" is an art experience unlike any other, and like much in New York, it's impossible to see all the museum has to offer in one day (or even two days, for that matter). 

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Statue of Liberty is at the top of many travelers’ must-see lists. A feat of 19th-century technical engineering and a beacon for immigrants arriving at Ellis Island, the statue can be admired from several different vantage points around Manhattan, including Battery Park and the High Line . But to truly appreciate its size and significance, you’ll want to visit the statue and Ellis Island while on your NYC vacation.

The only way to access the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is by using the official National Park Service ferry operator, Statue City Cruises. If you’re departing from the New York side, you’ll hop on a ferry at Battery Park in lower Manhattan. If you’re departing from the New Jersey side, you’ll depart from Liberty State Park in Jersey City. The ferry ride takes approximately 15 minutes.

Brooklyn Bridge Brooklyn Bridge free

One of many signature landmarks of New York City, the Brooklyn Bridge is also one of the oldest suspension bridges in the country and a National Historic Landmark. Its six lanes (and one pedestrian and bicycle walkway) span the East River, connecting Manhattan to Brooklyn. Walking across the bridge remains a tourist pastime.

Some visitors decide to skip the bridge in favor of other attractions, but if you're short on money, this truly is one of the best ways to experience the city and to get a unique view of either borough at no cost. Several reviewers warn that since there is no shade along the bridge, it can get quite hot in the summertime (though there are vendors selling bottles of water). Many also warned that it can get quite crowded, and advised visiting in the morning before 9 a.m. if you don't want to maneuver around crowds.

The High Line The High Line free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning or on a weekday to avoid crowds. If you walk from north to south, add on a visit to The Standard Biergarten or the vibrant Chelsea Market for great people-watching, food and drink. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

Set on an abandoned rail track on Manhattan's West Side, this sprawling, nearly 1½-mile-long landscaped park stretches over three of the city's most lively neighborhoods: the Meatpacking District, West Chelsea and Hell's Kitchen. Standing 30 feet above street level, the High Line offers sweeping views of the Hudson River and Manhattan's cityscape. But the vista isn't the only reason visitors and Manhattanites flock to this manicured green space. Here, you'll find continually changing public art installations, a handful of food vendors and a sprawling picnic and sunbathing area (known as the 23rd Street Lawn).

NYC Food Tours NYC Food Tours

Known for everything from cheap eats to authentic international fare to Michelin-starred restaurants, New York City is a culinary hot spot and undoubtedly one of the best foodie cities in America . However, chances are you won't have time to experience everything the city has to offer in just one trip. One way to get a taste of New York's excellent cuisine across a variety of neighborhoods is to take a food tour.

Whether you want to explore a particular borough or neighborhood, or even a specific cuisine or dish, you'll find a tour to appease your taste buds. Relying on traveler reviews and expert analysis, U.S. News rounded up the best food tours in New York City . Though tours vary in length and price, they all receive rave reviews from past travelers, who applauded the variety of food and the expert knowledge of the guides.

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Washington Square Park Washington Square Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Finding an empty bench in Washington Square Park after visiting one of the neighborhood's independent bookstores – from The Strand to Three Lives & Company to Left Bank Books – is a true lower Manhattan pleasure. – Jessica Colley Clarke

The central gathering place of Greenwich Village is Washington Square Park, an almost 10-acre green space known for its downtown buzz. Here, kids splash in the fountain, musicians perform to a crowd, artists sell sketches or photographs, and chess enthusiasts gather to challenge each other to a game. What was historically a cemetery and later a bohemian hot spot is now a neighborhood institution that draws locals and visitors alike with its kids' playground, sizable dog run and ample shady space for picnics. An arch dedicated to George Washington is the dominant architectural feature of the park. 

Broadway Broadway

U.S. News Insider Tip: Start your day with a stop at the TKTS booth in Times Square or at the Lincoln Center location to snag discounted same-day tickets for an array of Broadway and off-Broadway shows. – Catriona Kendall, Associate Editor

Some out-of-towners spend their entire New York trip at one show or another on the Broadway circuit. And if you like plays and musicals, this is where you should be: "The Great White Way" represents the heart and soul of American theater. Considering that nearby Times Square is a dizzying maze of sights and sounds with no real starting point, some visitors suggest you can see all you need to of that neighborhood just by trundling back and forth between shows. 

One World Observatory One World Observatory

Formerly known as Freedom Tower, One World Trade Center is the main building of the rebuilt World Trade Center complex in lower Manhattan. This observatory sits atop the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and the highest point in the city. You'll find it adjacent to the 9/11 Memorial . At more than 125,000 square feet, the three-level observatory is located on the 100th, 101st and 102nd floors of this office skyscraper. Travelers enjoy the panoramic, 360-degree views, up to 45 miles in every direction on clear days. 

Visitors reach the observatory by direct express elevators known as SkyPods. The trip upward includes a visual presentation showing how New York has changed over the decades, from open land to smaller buildings to skyscrapers. The trip takes less than a minute. Expect a multimedia presentation at the top before stunning views are revealed. A restaurant and bar on the 101st floor are open to guests who have purchased tickets to the observatory. 

Grand Central Terminal Grand Central Terminal free

At this beautiful train station, you can eat some lunch or shop till you drop, but recent travelers most enjoyed just taking in the scenery. Before you enter, be sure to snap a few shots of the exterior's ornate beaux-arts neoclassical architecture. Inside the celebrated main concourse, you're treated to glimmering marble floors, gold and nickel-plated chandeliers and a sky-themed ceiling. Other must-sees include the Information Booth clock, the Whispering Gallery and Grand Central Market, a European-style food market that sells produce, gourmet ingredients and treats. Food options range from the upscale (Cipriani Dolci and The Campbell Bar) to the legendary (the Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant) to the fast and easy (Shake Shack). As mentioned, there are also plenty of shopping options, though most travelers suggest you leave most of Grand Central's pricey merchandise in the store. If you want a train-themed souvenir, visit The New York Transit Museum Store in the shuttle passage.

Travelers call the train station "iconic" and say it's a beautiful space to walk through or to grab a meal and people-watch.

Bryant Park Bryant Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: This Midtown park draws crowds for two seasonal events: summer movie nights under the stars and a holiday market complete with ice skating. For summer picnics or winter shopping sprees, Bryant Park delivers year-round. – Jessica Colley Clarke

Sprawling across nearly 10 acres, Bryant Park sits just south of Times Square – though it feels a world away. Though its lush green space has existed for more than 150 years, Bryant Park was a revitalization project of the 1990s that made it a sanctuary for locals and tourists alike. This is the preferred place for midtown Manhattan professionals to eat lunch, for fashionistas to strut during fashion week and for performers to showcase their talents during annual events like Broadway in Bryant Park and Piano in Bryant Park. If you're interested in learning more about the park's history, consider joining one of its free tours. Tours, which last 45 minutes, are free and offered every other Wednesday, year-round. 

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Staten Island Ferry Staten Island Ferry free

Perhaps the most famous ferry service in the United States, the Staten Island Ferry runs daily between the Whitehall Ferry Terminal in lower Manhattan and St. George Ferry Terminal on Staten Island. The city has been operating the ferry service since 1905 and transports some 70,000 passengers across New York Harbor every day. It’s one of the last remaining vestiges of an entire ferry system that served New York City residents before the construction of any bridges.  

But the Staten Island Ferry is more than a transportation service; it’s an attraction, drawing tens of thousands of out-of-town visitors a year for a free ride across the harbor (that’s right, no charge; the service is provided by the City of New York). The 5-mile ride lasts about 25 minutes. Passengers must disembark and then reboard to make the return trip to Manhattan. Travelers remark about the views of the Statue of Liberty , Ellis Island, Manhattan skyscrapers and the bridges of lower Manhattan. 

Museum of Modern Art Museum of Modern Art

You don't have to be an art lover to appreciate the Museum of Modern Art; this airy midtown gallery also doubles as a shrine of pop culture and 20th century history. Some of the most significant contemporary pieces hang on its walls, including Picasso's "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon," Warhol's "Campbell's Soup Cans," Van Gogh's "Starry Night," Dalí's "The Persistence of Memory," Monet's "Water Lilies," and the list goes on and on. In October 2019, the museum reopened after completing an expansion project that added more than 40,000 square feet of gallery space, as well as a performance studio that features live programming.

Recent travelers were impressed by the extensive art collection and loved being able to see the museum's famous paintings. The $30 entry fee for adults ($17 for students; $22 for seniors; free for kids 16 and younger) can be hard to stomach for some, but reviewers insist you won't regret the money spent. A few travelers express disappointment with the crowds (which are most common on rainy days), but suggest getting some fresh air at the museum's Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Sculpture Garden.

New York Public Library New York Public Library free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If you love all things book-related, consider visiting The Morgan Library & Museum nearby, which features J.P. Morgan's stunning 1906 library. The museum offers free admisson (and live jazz music) on Fridays from 5 to 7 p.m. – Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

This main branch, officially called the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, attracts plenty of book lovers, history junkies and architecture aficionados. Most people swing by the Bryant Park landmark to say hello to Patience and Fortitude (the famous marble lions guarding the entrance) and to admire the lovely beaux-arts design.

American Museum of Natural History American Museum of Natural History

Visitors love the American Museum of Natural History off Central Park West. Whether you're exploring the interactive exhibits on the land, the sea or outer space; user reviews take on a common theme. This museum is incredible. Even the cafeteria and gift shop are worth your notice.

There are more than 34 million artifacts inside, spread across four city blocks, 26 buildings and through 45 exhibition halls, so don't plan on seeing everything in one day. The Rose Center for Earth and Space is a particular favorite, but you should also plan on visiting the dinosaurs, the Dorothy and Lewis B. Cullman Hall of the Universe and the Butterfly Conservatory (accessible November through May), which houses nearly 500 butterflies. Local experts say the institution is one of the city's can't-miss museums , especially for families.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Wander along Brooklyn's Washington Avenue, and you can't avoid stumbling upon this verdant 52-acre park. A main highlight here is the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, punctuated by wooden bridges and Japanese maples. And if you arrive at the end of April, you can't miss the Cherry Esplanade ( Sakura Matsuri ) when rosy cherry blossoms burst into bloom. Another standout: the Shakespeare Garden, which contains more than 80 plants described in the playwright's works.

Thanks to the garden's extensive collection, which includes 13 gardens and five conservatories, there's plenty of scenery to soak up here. Plus, you can take advantage of year-round exhibits and events, such as children's gardening workshops and Lightscape, the annual wintertime lights display. After you've taken respite in Brooklyn's cherished green space, recent visitors suggest moseying over to two staples located down the street: Prospect Park and the Brooklyn Museum.

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Brooklyn Bridge Park Brooklyn Bridge Park free

Located on the Brooklyn side of the East River, Brooklyn Bridge Park is an 85-acre oasis at the foot of the famous bridge connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn. The park stretches 1.3 miles along Brooklyn’s waterfront, connecting Columbia Heights and Dumbo, an acronym for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, an eclectic neighborhood of boutiques, trendy cafes and restaurants. Travelers rave about the views of the lower Manhattan skyline, the New York Harbor and the bridge.

Among the city’s newest parks, Brooklyn Bridge Park was once an industrial district and home to a transportation terminal that served as an entry point for immigrants. Today, the park features rolling hills, promenades, playgrounds, basketball courts, sports fields, a roller skating rink, gardens, and more among six piers and the riverfront. What’s more, the park is home to more than 12,000 species of plants and wildlife. It also hosts a variety of events and programs throughout the year, such as sunset yoga and stargazing.

The Guggenheim The Guggenheim

The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, or simply, "The Guggenheim," is one of the most well-known art museums in the country, and it's just as renowned for its cutting-edge design as it is for its pieces. The coiled building (designed by Frank Lloyd Wright) stands out on Fifth Avenue at 89th Street. Inside, the halls are chock full of works from the likes of Picasso, Cézanne, Degas, Manet and Van Gogh, among others.

Visitors loved the building's design and architecture, but offered more mixed reviews for the art on display. Some raved about the permanent collection and the special exhibitions, while others felt the cost of entrance tickets was overpriced for the amount of art displayed. Reviewers recommended the Museum of Modern Art over the Guggenheim if you're short on time. 

Off-Broadway Shows Off-Broadway Shows

Off-Broadway may not have the glitter of the Great White Way , but these smaller theaters and their productions are often innovative and are no less engaging. Unlike Broadway, these theaters are not centered around Times Square , but scattered all over Manhattan and generally seat fewer people (between 100 to 499 audience members). Smaller venues provide a more intimate experience for plays, musicals and revues. Many of New York’s most famous productions found their start off-Broadway, such as “Hair,” “Rent” and “In the Heights.”

Tickets also are more affordable, generally between $20 and $75 per person. Look for innovative productions at places like the Public Theater, Cherry Lane Theatre or Playwrights Horizons. The Signature Theatre showcases revivals and new plays.

Rockefeller Center and Top of the Rock Observation Deck Rockefeller Center and Top of the Rock Observation Deck

This iconic plaza has it all – beautiful sculptures, an enormous skating rink, a fishbowl view of NBC Studios, plus a plethora of stores and restaurants. Though undoubtedly there will be intense crowds, this is an experience that's worth having at least once. During the wintertime holidays, the plaza sparkles with an illuminated Christmas tree and skaters gliding across the ice rink. But don't fret if your New York adventure doesn't take place during the cold months. There's plenty to do year-round. If you plan ahead, you can spend a morning watching a taping of the "Today" show, an afternoon admiring the city from the Top of the Rock Observation Deck and an evening catching a performance at Radio City Music Hall .

Travelers say the Top of the Rock offers some of the best views of Manhattan and say the experience is worth every penny. Visitors recommend booking the Rock Pass ticket that includes a tour of the building and observation deck access.

Little Island Little Island free

New Yorkers have long needed to get creative to maximize space on the island of Manhattan, where space is limited. But with the opening of Little Island in 2021, that creativity stretched beyond the island's borders and into the water. Little Island is an artificial island located on the west side of Manhattan in the Hudson River. This public park, which is free to visit, offers a new space for locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in nature, art, free events like concerts and one of the most memorable locations in New York City to catch the sunset.

Most recent visitors praised Little Island for its peaceful atmosphere, splash of greenery and views of the Hudson River and beyond. Some recent visitors recommend planning a visit on a weekday rather than a weekend, when this attraction can be crowded with people picnicking, especially during the golden sunset hours. Regardless of what time of day visitors stop by, almost everyone is left with a positive impression of the park and note its sculptures, family-friendly vibe, impressive variety of plants and free concerts.

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St. Patrick's Cathedral St. Patrick's Cathedral free

This sprawling cathedral sits amid the hustle and distinctively secular bustle of Rockefeller Center . But that doesn't take away from its otherworldly vibe. Whether you're religious or just making an architectural pilgrimage, you can't help but be impressed by St. Patrick's. Opened in 1879, the neo-Gothic cathedral spans the length of an entire city block and features 330-foot spires. Its interior is just as impressive thanks to its numerous altars, stained-glass windows, organs and imposing 9,000-pound bronze doors. The church welcomes more than 5 million visitors annually.  

Travelers love the historical church's beauty and stained-glass windows, but say you don't have to carve out too much time to see it. Previous vacationers also suggest visiting at Christmastime to really see the church in all its glory. 

Little Italy Little Italy free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Taste the best of Little Italy at C. Di Palo Wine Bar. With connections to the fine foods store serving this neighborhood for more than a century, this wine bar serves Italian cheeses, meats and wines in a comfortable, modern environment. – Jessica Colley Clarke

Once a thriving enclave of Italian immigrants, Little Italy is now a popular tourist destination (though remnants of the past remain). Restaurants serving classic Italian dishes on red-and-white checkered tablecloths can still be found in the neighborhood. Among the neighborhood staples is Lombardi’s, a restaurant that has been tossing pizzas since 1905 and claims to be the first pizzeria in the United States. Ferrara Bakery & Cafe, another famous Little Italy eatery best known for its cannolis and espresso, has been around since 1892. 

Times Square Times Square free

Some say that Times Square is like a five-block metaphor for New York City itself – it's exciting, colorful and always jumping. Others describe this area of midtown Manhattan as artless, overpriced and congested. Perhaps this commercial stretch from West 42nd to West 47th streets is a little of both, and though locals would advise you to avoid it, you should at least catch a glimpse of its neon lights. Most travelers recommend visiting the area after dark to see the marquee displays. Many add checking out Times Square before or after a Broadway show is the perfect time to fit it into your schedule. However, if you're not a fan of crowds, reviewers suggest you avoid this area altogether.

Times Square's biggest tourist draw is the annual New Year's Eve ball drop. Revelers crowd the area to see New York's famous Waterford crystal ball descend 77 feet from a pole on the One Times Square building. If you're feeling brave, take a trip to New York and Times Square at this time of year and watch the ball drop for free! Just plan on coming in the early morning and staying all day, and note that the area is super crowded, even by New York standards.

Fifth Avenue Fifth Avenue free

It's fitting that St. Patrick's Cathedral would be on the same street as stores like Bergdorf Goodman, Tiffany & Co. and Van Cleef & Arpels. That's because for many people, shopping is a religious experience, and here between 34th and 59th streets you'll find the holy grail. 

Even if you're not planning to put your credit card to work at high-end stores, travelers say a stroll along Fifth Avenue is a must. It's one of the top places to shop in the city, according to local experts. Plus, during the winter holidays, the street is decked out in festive decor.

Bronx Zoo Bronx Zoo

According to travelers, these 265 acres sheltering more than 10,000 animals should be near the top of every young family's itinerary in New York. And if you're an older visitor, the Bronx Zoo could be a great way to escape the nonstop activity in Manhattan. This zoo's claim to fame is that it's one of the largest metropolitan animal parks in the country. It's also one of the best zoos in the U.S . Originally opened at 1899, the zoo also houses several famous landmarks, including the Rainey Memorial Gates, the Rockefeller Fountain and the historic Zoo Center, which was constructed to look like a palace.

Among the zoo's popular exhibits is JungleWorld, which aims to recreate the jungles of Asia with animals like white-cheeked gibbons, gharials, tapirs, fruit bats and more. There's also the Wild Asia Monorail, a seasonal outdoor monorail that allows visitors to observe animals like rhinos, tigers and red pandas roaming freely in the outdoor habitat. Other star attractions include the Congo Gorilla Forest, the seasonal butterfly garden, Tiger Mountain and the Children's Zoo. Along with the animals, there are also several rides and experiences, such as a carousel and sea lion feedings.

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Apollo Theater Apollo Theater

U.S. News Insider Tip: Go to BLVD Bistro on 116th St. before or after your visit to the Apollo. They serve breakfast all day and literally have the best grits and pancakes I have ever had in my life. It is also Black-owned! – Lawrence Phillips, founder and CEO of Green Book Global

One of the most famous music halls in the United States, "the Apollo" started as a burlesque theater in 1914. By the 1930s, it transformed into a concert hall that helped launch the career of several black musicians. A then-unknown Ella Fitzgerald, Michael Jackson (with the Jackson 5) and Stevie Wonder all performed on the Apollo stage during an Amateur Night competition. If you're in Harlem on a Wednesday you can still go to Amateur Night, an experience some previous travelers highly recommend.

Metropolitan Opera House Metropolitan Opera House

Stroll through the courtyard of the Metropolitan Opera House even if you're not going inside for a performance. Every element of this opulent building – from the limestone architecture, to the lobby's glittering chandelier, to the acoustics in the concert hall – is gorgeous. Travelers call this opera house a feast for the eyes and ears. Tickets are notoriously expensive (as much as several hundred dollars for the best seats), but the sticker shock evaporates quickly if you're into performing arts. You can try to score a same-day ticket at a discounted rate, plus there are discounts for senior citizens.

The Metropolitan Opera House features spring performances by the American Ballet Theatre and fall and winter performances by the Met Opera Company. Showtimes and ticket prices vary by performance and seating, so check the Met Opera's website for additional details. You'll find the opera house at Lincoln Center Plaza on Manhattan's Upper West Side – take the 1 train to 66th Street.

Radio City Music Hall Radio City Music Hall

It's where Ella Fitzgerald pined for the man she loved, the Rolling Stones couldn't get no satisfaction and Lady Gaga had a "Bad Romance." Among performers, there's no New York concert venue that's quite like Radio City Music Hall. Not only is it the largest indoor theater in the world, its marquee spans a full city block. Opened in 1932, the theater is a New York City Landmark. Today, the theater welcomes musical performers like Ben Platt and Lil Nas X, as well as comedians like Chris Rock.

If you're in town any dates between November and January, consider attending the famous Radio City Christmas Spectacular, which stars the Rockettes. According to recent visitors who attended a show, there's not a bad seat in the house. If you're not able to attend a performance, consider signing up for the hourlong Radio City Stage Door Tour. The guided tour includes stops at areas of the historic venue not typically seen by the public, such as Radio City’s secret apartment, The Roxy Suite. You'll also an enjoy an in-depth history lesson about the stage and its iconic art deco design. The tour concludes with a meet-and-greet with a Radio City Rockette. Tours are offered daily starting at 9:30 a.m.; tickets cost $42 per adult and $38 per kid 12 and younger.  

The Battery The Battery free

Also known as The Battery, this 25-ace park sits at the very southern tip of Manhattan Island, and offers a green respite from the steel and concrete of lower Manhattan. The park, named after artillery batteries that protected the settlement in the 17th century, is popular with visitors because of its views of the harbor and the Statue of Liberty . 

The park is home to perennial gardens, bike paths, grand lawns, an urban farm and a unique carousel, known as the SeaGlass Carousel. On the carousel, riders sit within iridescent fish and glide through a 360-degree aquatic adventure. The carousel’s bioluminescent design honors the waterfront site as well as another landmark, the Castle Clinton, one of the country’s earliest aquariums. 

Coney Island Coney Island

Known as the "the People's Playground," this famous amusement area in Brooklyn has witnessed an illustrious past. In the early 1900s, Coney Island enticed New Yorkers to visit with its bathing pavilions, seaside resorts and amusement park. The Great Depression took its toll on the fun-loving spot, causing many attractions to close. But after years of economic instability, Coney Island has reclaimed its place on the Brooklyn map, with a fresh roster of eateries and entertainment (including a July Fourth hot dog-eating contest and an annual Mermaid Parade ) found along the boardwalk. Coney Island now features several separate amusement parks, as well as a museum, which hosts a variety of exhibits and shows.

According to recent visitors, Coney Island is a worthwhile trip in the summer if you have the time and are traveling with young kids who would enjoy the rides. If you're not up for indulging your inner thrill-seeker, you can also walk along the beach, which spans nearly 3 miles and features several sports courts, as well as playgrounds. A walk along the iconic Riegelmann Boardwalk is just as memorable, according to recent visitors.

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Chrysler Building Chrysler Building free

Technically, the Chrysler Building is an office building open Monday through Friday, but you don't need to go inside to appreciate its aesthetic appeal. Recent visitors praised the building's unique architectural style (though a few wished you could still go inside to admire its intricate lobby and elevators).

Built in 1930, the Chrysler had a short-lived run as the tallest building in the city, before it was usurped of its title by the Empire State Building . Nevertheless, this 1,046-foot-high skyscraper remains a favorite among New Yorkers for its classic art deco style. And unlike the Empire State, at this site you won't need an expensive entry ticket, a strong stomach to stand soaring heights or patience for long lines to see what all the fuss is about. You can behold the building's menacing gargoyles and triangular openings from many spots in Manhattan. Though the lobby is currently closed to visitors, there have been talks of building an observation deck, though none is available at this time.

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15 Best Places To Work Remotely In NYC Right Now

Perfect for your WFH meetings, these cafes and venues are the best places in NYC to get some work done!

If you’re lucky enough to pamper yourself to some work time outside the office, New York City is a great place to do it. Between the endless amount of co-working spaces, cute cafes , and hotel lobbies , there are so many aesthetically-pleasing spots to pull off a glamorous “work from home” shift. In this guide we’ll give you all sorts of options…from sipping coffee at a cozy coffee shop to shared spaces with like-minded individuals. Check out our favorite places to work remotely in NYC:

1. The Ace Hotel

Starting off our list is Midtown’s Ace Hotel, where the sleek interior, ample amount of leather couch seating, and elongated tables make for a great place to work for hours on end. Not only is it stylish and offer free Wi-Fi , but it also has all day snacks and sits right in among the hotel bar which has an awesome coffee counter and cocktails once the clock strikes 5.

Where: 20 W 29th St

2. The Hoxton Williamsburg

Nestled right into the heart of the bustling Williamsburg neighborhood sits The Hoxton, whose warmly lit lobby is the perfect place to pull up a chair. Choose to hang out for a few hours in the common area, or up the anti and book one of their bright and beautiful workspace rooms that are perfect for meetings, off-sites, and corporate events . Not to mention there’s some incredible good F&B options around you and rooftop pool seating too in the summertime .

Where: 97 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn

3. Citizens of Soho

This Australian restaurant and cafe is the perfect food/work situation that can get you through your remote work day! Of course it’s a great spot for all coffee lovers since the roasts they offer are immaculate, but the food is incredible too. Come for breakfast and stay awhile past your morning meeting . You may even strike up conversation with their lovely employees!

Where: 201 Lafayette St

4. NeueHouse

If you are either a fully-remote employee or someone who likes collaboration, we recommend NeueHouse near Madison Square Garden. This co-working space is one of the most stunning places to work, and although it comes with a paid membership …it’s worth the price. It’s home to world-class private studios, common areas, broadcast and podcast facilities, conference rooms, private phone booths, and a whole lot more . Learn more about memberships here .

Where: 110 E 25th St

5. Devoción

We may be biased because we love their coffee, but Devoción is just such an inviting remote work option. They have a bunch of locations scattered across NYC, but we always find ourselves at the Williamsburg location. Something about watching the hustle-bustle of the baristas can draw inspiration on the toughest of days, and the soaring open-floor plan day-lit space with tons of plants makes it feel like you’re in a Narnia of coffee botany.

Where: 69 Grand St, Brooklyn

6. citizenM Bowery

CitizenM hotel won’t only just allow you to work peacefully and efficiently, but it was also offer you the best game of iSpy you’ve ever played. This hotel lobby ( “The Living Room” ) is of course filled with communal tables, charging outlets, and lounge seating …but the quirky and modern art memorabilia on the walls and surrounding areas makes it fun to have your eyes wander during a lunch break. Not to mention it has a lovely rooftop bar for after work, as well as a prime LES location right near Russ & Daughters, Freemans, and more.

Where: 189 Bowery

7. Variety Coffee, Multiple Locations

With tons of locations now open around NYC, Variety Coffee is a no frills coffee shop that makes for a good WFH environment. Snag a table for a few hours and spend some time tasting exotic roasts of coffee that you’ll only find at Variety.

Where: Find your location here

8. NYPL Main Branch

We’d be foolish to leave out this gorgeous NYC library where you can spend hours admiring the architecture. The famous Rose Reading Room in Midtown Manhattan welcomes all patrons to quietly work from Monday – Saturday and is a great spot to seek quiet time to hunker down and get to work.

Where: 476 5th Ave

9. Freehold Brooklyn, Williamsburg

The versatility of Freehold Brooklyn is unmatched, and the 8,600 square foot coffee shop and bar/restaurant is award-winning for a reason. You can do just about anything you want here, from working on your laptop in the courtyard to challenging a coworker in the game room. It’s a lovely public space for all which also includes a restaurant, live music nights, comedy shows, and more. You’ve probably never seen such a day-into-night transition as you have here.

Where: 45 S 3rd St, Brooklyn

10. Hunters Point Library

How about a remote work option with a view? Hunters Point Library in Long Island City offers not only waterfront views of Manhattan, but also 22,000 square feet and multiple floors of workspace. There’s always open tables and the WiFi is 100% free!

Where: 47-40 Center Blvd, Queens

11. The Farm SoHo, SoHo

Another paid co-working space is The Farm SoHo, whose fully furnished organic rustic Americana style vibe will make you feel like you’re working in your living room. Of course the downtown location makes it perfectly located, but the amenities like 24/7 access, conference rooms, phone booths, printing & scanning, and more make it worth a membership. There’s also day passes available! Learn more here .

Where: 447 Broadway

12. Book Club , East Village

We think the name speaks for itself with this place. Book Club Bar is where you can get some work done…or scout for your next read. The cozy independent book store and bar is of course filled with shelves of novels, making for the workspace feel of a den. Their selection of coffee, teas, and snacks in the morning pair nicely with the vibe…or you can order alcohol later on for late night workers.

Where: 197 E 3rd St

13. The Ludlow Hotel

Complete with l eather couches, a fireplace , and dimmed lighting , The Ludlow Hotel lobby just feels like home. Cozy into some furniture for a few hours at a time and spend your lunch break browsing the cafes and bakeries around the corner. Trust us, it’s worth it.

Where: 180 Ludlow St

14. 22 Vanderbilt

22 Vanderbilt is incredibly underrated and is the definition of if you know you know . This workspace offers 1.1 million square feet of “hospitality, amenity, and cutting-edge Class A office space across 29 stories with direct in-building lobby access to Grand Central Terminal.” It’s a co-working heaven and is steps away from Bryant Park too where you can grab lunch. Learn more here .

Where: 335 Madison Ave

15. PUBLIC Hotel

Elevate up the Instagram-worthy escalators and secure a spot in the lobby of the iconic PUBLIC Hotel. The space is filled with loads of white couches and wood tables that offer beautiful window views of trees and the NYC skyline. Maybe even challenge a fellow coworker or stranger to a game of pool during your lunch break?

Where: 215 Chrystie St

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The 100 best things to do in NYC for locals and tourists

Experience the absolute best things to do in NYC with this epic guide to essential eats, drinks, culture, parks and more

April 2024:   Looking for t he best things to do as  spring blooms  in NYC? Our iconic museums, big attractions,  and favorite restaurants have the coolest exhibits, shows and menus right now. This month, welcome the warmer weather with outdoor festivals, must-see museum exhibits and buzzy Broadway shows.

From its  art museums  (The Met and Frick Madison) to its  attractions  (The Bronx Zoo and sunrises from the Empire State Building), New York City is the best city in the world. Its dining and drinking scenes are still unbeatable and boast killer bars,  restaurants  and offering creative new inventions. Every day, we’re discovering something new and wonderful about our city, whether it’s one of the best parks , some  incredible views , must-see art, or hidden gem stores.

Time Out editors comb through our exhaustive things to do lists, restaurant reviews and theater reporting to highlight and select the best of the best for this ultimate guide each month.

So, c onsider below your NYC Bible. 

An email you’ll actually love

Time Out Market New York

• Restaurants
• price 1 of 4

Time Out Market New York brings together amazing chefs, restaurants and dishes in one place for the perfect culinary sample of NYC—ideal for tourists and locals. Plus,  the fifth-floor rooftop hosts regular live performances on its stage and ongoing art installations can be found throughout the Market. You can find out what's happening every week here .

The 100 best things to do in NYC

1.  Treat your eyes to the cherry blossoms

• Things to do

What is it? Cherry blossoms pop up around New York City each spring, from formal gardens like Brooklyn Botanic Garden to New York Botanical Garden as well as all around the city.

Why go? The pink blooms offer New Yorkers a brief but gorgeous pop of beauty, which is why we flock in droves to see them when they bloom each spring. 

Don't miss: Brooklyn Botanic Garden's Hanami Nights, running from Tuesday, April 23–Thursday, April 25, 2024 on the Cherry Esplanade.

2.  Get artsy at the Whitney Biennial

What is it? The Whitney Museum of American Art’s landmark exhibition series, which pops up every two years. Expect a  gigantic showcase of some of the coolest, newest, and most provocative art at a big New York City museum.

Why go? It’s  the longest-running survey of American Art and this year, it's packed with fascinating pieces.  This year, the Biennial is themed “ Even Better Than The Real Thing” and features the  work of 71 artists and collectives.

Don't miss:  T he survey examines rapidly advancing technologies and machine learning tools; t he body and subjectivity as it pertains to queer identity, body sovereignty, motherhood, the aging body, and the trans body; m aterial agency and the use of unstable media;  and lots more.

3.  Admire the Orchid Show

What is it? New York Botanical Garden's annual show. This year's theme is "The Orchid Show: Florals in Fashion."

Why go? Three up-and-coming designers created massive installations inspired orchids. In one, you'll see orchids turned into avant-garde clothing. Another features a regal orchid queen. The final section draws upon AI to create anthropomorphic creatures who don floral outfits.

Don't miss: 21+ nights! To take the floral fun up a notch, NYBG is hosting several Orchid Nights, adult-only events with music, performances, cocktails, and light bites. Orchid Nights will be held on March 30 and April 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, and 20.

4.  Explore the history of Black New Yorkers in the 1800s

• Events & Festivals

What is it? A new exhibit at The Tenement Museum called "A Union of Hope: 1869." The exhibition tells the story of the Moore family who lived in Soho during and after the Civil War.

Why go? It's the renowned museum's first exhibit highlighting a Black family's story.

Don't miss: The chance to walk through re-creations of the family's two-room tenement, see a neighborhood map from that time, explore Census records, and hear readings of newspaper excerpts. 

5.  Catch "Water for Elephants" on Broadway

• Midtown West Open run

What is it? The Broadway adaptation of Sara Gruen’s 2006 romance novel of the same name, which operates on the level of a fairy tale.

Why go?  Although Water for Elephants is set at a circus, and includes several moments of thrilling spectacle, what makes it so appealing is its modesty, not glitz.

Don't miss:   Where Water for Elephants  soars is in the real-life physical talents on display. Members of the ensemble perform impressive aerial routines on ropes, silks, hoops and straps, and show off a dazzling variety of skills: acrobatics, tumbling, balancing, juggling, Cyr Wheel.

6.  Eat at a hidden pizzeria in a train station

What is it?  A  subterranean pizzeria called   See No Evil Pizza  located  on the concourse level of the downtown-bound 1 train station at 50th Street and Broadway. 

Why go?  Ten, 12-inch varieties are crafted from three-day fermented dough made with artisanal flour from Italy and ladled with raw sauce (tomato pulp, salt, oil, mix), topped with ingredients like mozzarella, mushrooms, hot soppressata and broccoli rabe and baked for about three-and-a-half to four minutes. 

Don't miss:  A rotating lasagna is also on the menu, presently a Sunday gravy-style.

7.  See The Met's history-making Harlem Renaissance exhibition

What is it?   "The Harlem Renaissance and Transatlantic Modernism," a  groundbreaking exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum celebrating Black artists and intellectuals. 

Why go?  The Harlem Renaissance had an indisputable impact on American culture, but chances are that you probably didn’t spend much time learning about it in school. That’s because, even though it shaped global literature, music, and art, Black Americans’ historical contributions have been systematically erased or gone unacknowledged for centuries.

Don't miss:  The exhibit presents 160 works by Black artists from the Harlem Renaissance and delves into many different aspects of the movement, mostly through the lens of paintings and sculpture.  

8.  Dig into life of Langston Hughes

What is it? T he Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture is honoring poet Langston Hughes and his friendship with photographer, filmmaker, and U.S. Foreign Service Officer Griffith J. Davis in its exhibit " The Ways of Langston Hughes ." 

Why go?   The free exhibit at the Schomburg Center's Latimer Gallery in Harlem will include photographs of Hughes and Davis, who met in Atlanta, as well as more of Hughes' friendships through letters, artwork and other memorabilia.

Don't miss: Not only will the exhibit bring to life an important era in New York City’s history, but it is also an intimate look into the friendships that thrived during the Harlem Renaissance. Among other items on display will be a watercolor painting by Joseph Barker of Langston Hughes' home and a letter from Hughes to his playwright friend, Lorraine Hansberry.

9.  Dine at Untable

• Carroll Gardens

What is it?  Untable, a new restaurant in Carroll Gardens, calls itself an "unconventional" Thai restaurant. 

Why go?   It serves some of the best cocktails in the city,  the most vibrant tom yum purée you'll likely taste, knockout tiger shrimp and a fried rice that's out of this world.

10.  Explore 100 years of NYC 'warts and all'

What is it?  A major exhibit by the Museum of the City of New York titled " This Is New York: 100 Years of the City in Art and Pop Culture " explores the contradictions of life in NYC through the lenses of visual art, television, film, music, theater, literature and fashion.

Why go? In this landmark exhibition, the museum showcases more than 400 iconic NYC items, from Carrie Bradshaw’s tutu to poetry by the Young Lords. 

Don't miss: A collection of hundreds of film clips paying homage to the city.

11.  Be awed by 16 miles of colorful ribbons

What is it?  Titled "Divine Pathways," this monumental art installation is made up of more than 1,100 lengths of blue, red and gold fabric. Each ribbon measures 75 feet in length (approximately seven stories high). Find it inside the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in Morningside Heights.

Why go? Not only is the work of art beautiful, it's located inside the world's largest Gothic cathedral. 

Don't miss:  Public programming offering a chance to write yourself into the work by scrawling hopes, dreams and prayers onto the ribbons. Register here . 

12.  Get a bullseye at this cool archery range

• Sports and fitness
• Sports & Fitness

What is it?  Wild Captives, the nation’s first female- and LGBTQ-owned archery studio, which is now open in Brooklyn. It's a place where everyone can "be their own superhero." The studio in Brooklyn’s Industry City offers empowering and fun hour-long introduction to archery classes every weekend for $45/person.

Why go? Each intro class includes a chance to learn about different parts of the bow and safety requirements. After the lesson, you'll get a chance to shoot the bow trying to pop a balloon pinned onto the bullseye. 

13.  Do a day trip to Governors Island

• Parks and gardens
• Governors Island

What is it? Thanks to its strategic position in the middle of New York Harbor, Governors Island was a military outpost and off-limits to the public for 200 years, but it's finally open to the public. The verdant, 172-acre isle still retains a significant chunk of its military-era architecture, including Fort Jay, started in 1776, and Castle Williams, which was completed in 1812 and used as a prison. The 22-acre area containing the forts and historical officers’ residences is now a national landmark.

Why go?  It's open year-round with fun activities for every season. The island provides a peaceful setting for cycling (bring a bike on the ferry, or rent from Blazing Saddles once there). The island hosts a program of events, such as concert series and art exhibitions (see the park's website  for schedule), and where else can you have a picnic directly across from the Statue of Liberty? 

14.  Discover AMNH's new scientific wing

What is it? The architecturally stunning new wing at the American Museum of Natural History officially called the Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education and Innovation. 

Why go? Scientific wonders—including a butterfly vivarium, an insectarium and a 360-degree immersive experience—fill every inch of the space.

Don't miss:  With an insectarium and a butterfly vivarium, bugs get center stage at the Gilder Center. Why? Insects are the most diverse group of animals on the planet—and they play a critically important role in our world. 

15.  Eat at one of the best pizza places in the world

What is it?  The Lower East Side’s Una Pizza Napoletana , which was recently named the best pizza place in America, per the site 50 Top Pizza, billed as a "guide to the best pizzerias in the world."

Why go? The pizzeria's c hef, Anthony Mangieri, first started wood-firing pizzas in New Jersey in 1996, so he's definitely a pro.

16.  Get naked at this comedy show

What is it? True to its name, comedians perform in the buff at Naked Comedy — and the audience is welcome to get naked, too. The show runs monthly in Brooklyn.

Why go?  The comics who perform at The Naked Comedy Show say it's a way to push themselves, and they promise it's a lot of fun. Plus, they insist, you'll never meet a more attentive audience.

Don't miss: The show! Sign up here for updates on upcoming events.

17.  Visit the Museum of Broadway

What is it? The long-awaited Museum of Broadway highlights over 500 productions from the 1700s all the way to the present. 

Why go? You get to see props, ornate costumes, production notes and so much more that you wouldn’t get to see otherwise.

18.  Score a deal at a sample sale

• Sample sales

What is it?  Every week, the city’s fashionistas flock to top-notch sample sales to grab beautiful frocks at a fraction of their original price, plus accessories, outerwear, shoes, home finds and more—why not take a page out of their book to stock up on some awesome holiday gifts instead? 

Why go? To score some designer goods for less whether you're updating your wardrobe, shopping for gifts or refreshing your apartment.

19.  Play with bubbles at NYSCI

What is it? The Big Bubble Experiment, an exhibit at New York Hall of Science (NYSCI) in Queens, celebrating beautiful, buoyant, beguiling bubbles.

Why go? The exhibit encourages kids of all ages to experiment and discover through the joy of playing with bubbles. That includes blowing, stretching, popping and looking closely to see what happens at each move. 

Don't miss: A chance to stretch large sheets of bubble film showcasing the medium's rainbow iridescence—and offering an excellent selfie opportunity.

20.  Stretch out at Little Island

• West Village

What is it?  Since it opened, Little Island has brought in plenty of visitors who flocked to see Manhattan’s newest “floating” greenspace.

Why go? It's filled with open lawns, colorful shrubs and trees and a secret garden. It's free to visit.

Don't miss: The park’s amphitheaters, The Glade and The Amph, offer a spectacular view of the Hudson River.

21.  Head out to Masalawala & Sons

What is it? A  buzzy but warm Indian restaurant from Unapologetic Foods.  

Why go? It’s a “celebration of India’s yesteryears” with wonderful macher dim, keema kaleji and unforgettably comforting rice.

22.  Trip out at the House of Cannabis, NYC’s weed museum

• Weird & Wonderful

What is it? The House of Cannabis (a.k.a. THC NYC) is a weed museum in Soho.

Why go? While the museum boasts plenty of mind-bending multi-sensory bells and whistles, it also showcases art, highlights science and confronts the social justice issues baked into cannabis prosecution.

Don't miss: The Euphorium, a massive spinning record you can sit or lay on while listening to music, from The Doors to Santana. With the room's impressive light show and hazy vibes, it's like a merry-go-round for adults.  

23.  Walk beneath a floral gateway honoring an LGBTQ+ trailblazer

What is it? A colorful floral archway at Marsha P. Johnson Park in Brooklyn in honor of the park's namesake, the late transgender activist.  

Why go?  Beautiful large floral sculptures in pink, blue, red and yellow decorate the top of the archway, with gem-like petal designs along the sides.

Don't miss: Johnson adopted the full name Marsha P. Johnson with the "P" standing for "Pay It No Mind." "To her, this was a life motto and a response to questions about her gender," according to   the New-York Historical Society .

24.  Sip local at Great Jones Distillery

What is it? Great Jones Distilling Co. is Manhattan’s first and only legal whiskey distillery in over 100 years.

Why go?  The 28,000-square-foot venue features a fully functioning distillery, a tasting room and several drinking and dining venues, including an underground speakeasy and full restaurant called The Grid.

Don’t miss: A tour detailing the whiskey-making process ($35), a culinary cocktail pairing experience ($145) and a hands-on mixology class ($110).

25.  Find this secret artwork in Times Square

What is it? Auditory art by the late artist Max Neuhaus. The installation called " Times Square " sounds like the echo of a bell ringing. It's hard to place this droning tone among all the other noises there, especially because the sound emanates from a typical grate right beneath your feet.

Why go? It's a revolutionary art project that's been a part of the city for decades but most people step right over it. It's easy to miss, but once you hear it, you notice it every time you walk past.

Don't miss:  This art! Head to the Broadway Pedestrian Plaza between 45th and 46th Streets (between Broadway and Seventh Avenue) and listen. We recommend visiting in the early morning when the area's a little quieter. 

26.  Stay awhile at Milady’s

What is it?  A  new classic restaurant inspired by the iconic dive bar.

Why go?   Divided into “dive” and “high dive” categories, selections like the former’s jalapeño corn dog poppers and burgers are a treat. The latter’s shrimp cocktail and crab mac and cheese are quite nice, too.

27.  Check out a ‘psychedelic’ sushi conveyor belt restaurant

What is it?   Sushidelic , a psychedelic Kawaii-themed sushi restaurant complete with a sushi counter conveyor belt and plenty of kitschy, neon decor. It's now open at 177 Lafayette Street.

Why go?  It's the first project in the U.S. by Japanese artist  Sebastian Masuda, who is known as  the leading figure behind the Japanese concept of " kawaii ," as well as for his particular unique aesthetic and style.

Don't miss: The six-course "Pure Imagination" sushi tasting. The playful menu starts with an appetizer that looks like a dessert, the main course that is served in a sundae glass and the dessert looks like sushi.

28.  Take the kids to the Bronx Children’s Museum

What is it: The 13,650-square-foot permanent space at 725 Exterior Street near Yankee Stadium is geared for infants through kids in fourth grade, with site-specific installations and exhibits focused on patrons’ relationships with the neighborhood. 

Why go: The destination currently boasts a 35-foot-long water table kids love, plus an exhibit where guests will get to look at animals and plants through a microscope.

29.  Don’t bring anything to this Potluck Club

• Lower East Side

What is it? A  Cantonese-American spot with a  “newish take on old classics.”

Why go?  It’s c asual, fun and easy (probably easiest when you make a reservation since it’s pretty popular) with the room and the mood for groups. 

30.  Chill out at this giant urban bathhouse

What is it? World Spa, a 50,000-square-foot space offering a slew of authentic spa experiences from all around the world smack-dab in the middle of Brooklyn.

Why go? Visitors get to indulge in Eastern European banyas (Russian steam baths with wood stoves), Finnish saunas, cleansing Himalayan salt therapy sessions, Turkish and Morrocan hammams (types of steam baths), Japanese onsens (hot springs) and much more. 

31.  Take a class at the Starbucks Reserve

What is it?  The Starbucks Reserve store at the Empire State Building.

Why go? You can take classes like the Starbucks Reserve Brewtender for a Day, Whiskey Barrel-Aged 101 and Espresso Martini Flight Fundamentals.

32.  Play at nation’s first pétanque bar

What is it?  The  Carreau Club , the nation’s indoor pétanque bar, with indoor and outdoor courts.

Why go? Pétanque (pronounced puh-TONK) is a bocce-ball style French boules sport. Carreau Club makes it a great night out with a full bar, craft beer, wine and cocktails, and a small deli counter.

33.  Immerse yourself in Harry Potter's world

What is it?  The touring show, "Harry Potter: The Exhibition," is now open in Herald Square, and it’s going transport you. 

Why go?  This experience presents more than a display of props and costumes. Through the use of dramatic lighting, set design, interactive technology and even scent, the exhibit will make you feel like you are actually there—in Hagrid’s hut, in potions class, dining in the Great Hall, learning how to fight the dark arts, fighting the Battle of Hogwarts and more.

Don't miss: Countless photos opps. There are numerous scenes set up for you to enjoy being photographed in, from Hagrid’s Hut and his giant chair to Professor Umbridge’s all-pink, cat-encrusted office.

34.  Visit the Jackie Robinson Museum

What is it? A 19,380-square-foot space with 40,000 historical images and over 4,000 artifacts that celebrate the late Jackie Robinson, who was the first African American to play in Major League Baseball in the modern era.

Why go?  Visitors will also get to explore an immersive experience “to better understand the racism and prejudice Robinson encountered beyond the baseball field, as well as stories of his lasting influence on sports, politics and entertainment today.”

35.  Laugh out loud at "The Book of Mormon" on Broadway

What is it? A viciously hilarious treat crafted by Trey Parker and Matt Stone, of South Park fame, and composer-lyricist Robert Lopez, who cowrote Avenue Q . The show brims with cheerful obscenity, sharp satire and catchy tunes, making it the most exuberantly entertaining Broadway musical in years.

Why go?  The high quality of the writing, design and direction. It's more than a collection of offensive jokes about female genital mutilation, bestiality and Mormon kitsch. You'll be left laughing your head off and saying, "wait, did they just say THAT?" 

36.  Get a hole-in-one at Swingers NoMad

What is it? A "crazy mini-golf course" and entertainment complex straight from London with three nine-hole golf courses across 23,000 square feet under 20-foot-high ceilings.

Why go? "Crazy golf" is a British spin on mini-golf, but it's for a 21-and-over audience since craft cocktails are served by caddies on the course. At Swingers NoMad, expect six cocktail bars with signature classic cocktails from London and D.C., as well as 12 cocktails created specifically for NYC, private rooms you can rent, an opulent clubhouse and four gourmet street food vendors—Sauce Pizzeria, Miznon, Fonda and Mah Ze Dahr Bakery.

Don't miss: Taking your photo on the winner's podium.

37.  Swap books at the Free Black Women's Library

What is it?   The Free Black Women’s Library , a new free library in Brooklyn's Bed-Stuy neighborhood, which also serves as a social art project, a reading room, a co-working space and a community gathering center.

Why go? All 5,000 books in the library's collection are written by Black women and non-binary authors. Anybody can visit the space to read, work or hang out. If you want to take a book home, simply bring a book written by a Black woman or Black non-binary author, and you can trade. Whether you decide to bring the book back after you're done reading or keep it for your collection is up to you.

38.  Dine fancy at Le Rock

• Midtown West

What is it? A l ovely, lofty and spacious restaurant with  French-adjacent dishes, including escargots and chicken liver mousse and excellent pasta, bison and duck. 

Why go?  Le Rock’s best plates are high enough above what most of its contemporaries are cooking to catapult it to the realm of very good. 

39.  Get into MoMA for free

What is it?   UNIQLO NYC Nights  offers free admission to NYC residents on the first Friday of every month from 4 to 8pm.

Why go? On these days, you'll get to explore the museum during extended hours and enjoy its second-floor café and Museum store.

40.  Do LES Gallery Nights

What is it? A free, monthly self-guided tour of local art galleries on the Lower East Side. 

Why go? Participating galleries and studios stay open after hours to allow visitors to interact with the work and the neighborhood in a new way. And yes, it’s all free!

Don't miss: It takes place the third Thursday of every month, from 4pm–8pm, with dozens of spaces to stop into, all organized via Google Map . 

41.  Snap a photo with New York's "The Bean" sculpture

What is it?  The New York version of "The Bean," the iconic public artwork by Anish Kapoor that all but defines the city of Chicago. After five years of work, the sculpture officially called "Cloud Gate" is now on view in Tribeca. 

Why go? The mirrored piece weighs 40 tons and is 48 feet long by 19 feet high and sits right at the base of the 60-story tower found at 56 Leonard Street, by many referred to as the "Jenga building" given the particular design reminiscent of the classic game.

42.  Get romantic at The Met's Date Nights

• Sex and dating
• Sex & Dating

What is it?   The Metropolitan Museum of Art 's "Date Nights" gives visitors an opportunity to become acquainted with artwork with informal drop-in gallery chats, the chance to listen in on gorgeous live music and sip on yummy cocktails.

Why go? It's pay-what-you-wish!

Don't miss: Performances like include the celebrated contemporary string quartet ETHEL in the American Wing Café as well as a special edition of Juilliard’s ChamberFest featuring performances in the European Paintings galleries.

43.  Relax at Governors Island's luxury spa

What is it? The luxurious Italian wellness spa QC NY (by QC Terme Spas and Resorts) on Governors Island.

Why go?  The spa has relaxation rooms (each with its own meticulously curated personality, scent, and music), themed saunas, Vichy showers, infrared beds, foot baths, hydro jets, steam baths and other amazingly lush experiences.

Don't miss: The upside-down relaxation room. When you walk in, it's like you're walking on the ceiling—furniture and even a chess board have been painted and affixed to the actual ceiling to create this illusion.

44.  Sit in for a tea ceremony at The Loft

What is it?  Japan Village  at Industry City, which is both a food hall and supermarket full of Japanese groceries, has expanded upward with a 20,000-square-foot second floor it's calling The Loft.

Why go? You'll step into a representation of Japan with cool shops with items straight from the country as well as fun experiences like tea ceremonies and cultural classes.

Don't miss: Daiso, Book Off and tea ceremonies, which are announced on The Loft's website.

45.  Have a night at the intimate piano bar at Fraunces Tavern

What is it?   Fraunces Tavern's intimate Piano Bar Upstairs.

Why go?   The room above The Independence Bar is soaked in a shade of cerulean across its paneled walls, with pops of color on tufted red banquettes and gilded picture frames. Beer, wine, all manner of cocktails and a dedicated list of gin and tonics are all available, in addition to broad-appeal snacks, apps and entrées. Live piano music, of course, is also on the menu. 

46.  Have your coffee brewed in a pan of hot sand

What is it? Sands of Persia, a dessert bar and hookah lounge, serving up Turkish sand coffee brewed in a pan filled with sand and heated over an open flame.

Why go?  Given New Yorkers' dedication to all things coffee, this not-generally-known method of brewing is sure to delight many palates.

Don't miss: The sweets menu (Fingerlime Chiffon Meringue, the Persimmon Wide, the Desert Sunset and the All is Well brownie with soft serve), a mocktail and zero-proof drink list, as well as hookah.

47.  Experience Summit One Vanderbilt

• Sightseeing
• Midtown East

What is it? A heart-pounding immersive experience at  Summit One Vanderbilt  that sits atop the new 67-floor One Vanderbilt super-tall—a 1,401-foot-high—skyscraper.

Why go? It has a totally mirrored infinity room called "Air" that reflects the sky and city views over and over, making you feel like you're walking in the sky or on another plane of existence. Besides the absolutely breathtaking view of the city (where you can see all the major landmarks and bridges), is that it changes with the weather and time of day.

48.  Laugh at this secret comedy show pop-up

What is it? "Underground Overground Comedy," a comedy show that takes place in unexpected NYC shops and venues like a gym, a rooftop, a candy shop, a music studio and a barbershop in a train station.

Why go? Since it only lists shows on its Instagram and each show is pretty small, it feels exclusive when you're one of only a couple dozen being performed to. 

49.  Play ping pong 24/7

What is it? Ping pod pods—appropriately called PingPod—that have popped up around NYC recently. 

Why go? You can play at any time of day. The whole booking process is totally autonomous for some futuristic fun. Balls and paddles are provided, and you can even buy some drinks and snacks while you're there.  

50.  Get sultry at Coby Club

What is it?   Coby Club is a new, subterranean lounge on Seventh Ave that’s inspired by 1960s San Francisco nightlife.

Why go? The lush space pays homage to San Francisco Chinatown nightlife in the 1960s and one woman in particular who was at the heart of it: Miss Coby Yee, the glamorous dancer and owner of the iconic club Forbidden City. Yo u can swing by for craft cocktails and small plates as well as live musical performances and other forms of live entertainment.

51.  Catch "Hamilton" on Broadway

What is it?  Lin-Manuel Miranda's retelling of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton's biography—the greatest American musical in decades. 

Why go?  The show offers a sublime conjunction of radio-ready hip-hop (as well as R&B, Britpop and trad showstoppers), under-dramatized American history and Miranda’s uniquely personal focus as a first-generation Puerto Rican and inexhaustible wordsmith.

52.  Shop at the world's largest Harry Potter Store

What is it? The world's largest collection of Harry Potter merch is now at Harry potter Store New York  (935 Broadway in the Flatiron District).

Why go?  Every detail of Harry Potter Store New York  has been intricately designed, from the decor sitting on the shelves above all the incredible merch (yes, there are full house robes) to the design of the store itself, including  a room full of gorgeous HP stationary by MinaLima, massive models of Fawkes the Phoenix and a spiral staircase that descends into a space made to look like the Ministry of Magic.

Don't miss: Throughout the whole store, props from the films are displayed among the merchandise, from the major characters' actual wands to some of Voldemort's horcruxes like Tom Riddle's journal and the Ravenclaw's diadem. You can see these all up close but also scan a code next to them with the Harry Potter Fan Club app   that'll give you information about the items and a single letter that you will need to solve a puzzle. If you do, you'll get a reward at checkout.

53.  Play games at Cellar Dog (FKA: Fat Cat)

What is it? The venue formerly known as Fat Cat has reemerged with a new name, new games, and custom ice cream. Cellar Dog (75 Christopher St.) is reviving the Fat Cat tradition of late-night basement gaming.

Why go?  Games include pool tables, ping pong, shuffleboard, foosball, checkers and chess, as well as antique and novelty arcade games like Pac Man and many more. Live jazz and additional entertainment will also be booked throughout the week.

Don't miss:  Restored historic furniture familiar to the space, contactless ordering, updated restrooms and a a menu with small bites like movie theater-style nachos, grandma-style pizza, pretzels and custom ice cream. Wine, seltzers, and a variety of beers on tap will be served to drink. 

54.  Belt it out at Ms. Kim’s karaoke lounge

What is it?  Ms. Kim's is a K-town karaoke lounge from Korean beauty entrepreneur Anna Kim that combines sophisticated style with sing-alongs.

Why go? Ms. Kim's offers both communal space and soundproof private karaoke rooms, so guests can customize their experience as it suits their needs.

Don't miss:  Signature drinks from the main bar, which start at $16, that include ingredients like butterfly pea flower, herbal infused syrups and top shelf spirits. Also check out the menu of Japanese and Korean finger foods.

55.  Get sweeping views from the Panorama Room

• Roosevelt Island

What is it? Roosevelt Island's first rooftop bar and lounge.

Why go? Located on the 18th floor of the hotel, the "jewel box" space opens up to incredible views of the boroughs, the bridges and the East River, which shine like stars at night.

Don't miss: Art from artists like Julia Chiang, Spencer Lewis, Alake Shilling, JPW3, Chris Martin, Brian Belott and Ida Eklbad, selected by Venus Over Manhattan partner Anna Furney and designer/creative director Darren Romanelli (aka Dr. Romanelli or DRx). Artist Sophie Parker and her botanical studio, Wife NYC, will also make custom arrangements and sculptural artwork for the lounge.

56.  Check out 4,000 years of history at the NYPL

• Midtown West Until Dec 31, 2025

What is it?  " The Polonsky Exhibition of New York Public Library’s Treasures"  spans 4,000 years of history and includes a wide range of history-making pieces, including the only surviving letter from Christoper Columbus announcing his “discovery” of the Americas to King Ferdinand’s court and the first Gutenberg Bible brought over to the Americas.

Why go?   It's free and fascinating.

Don't miss:   T homas Jefferson’s handwritten copy of the Declaration of   Independence;  stuffed animals that belonged to the real-life Christopher Robin and   inspired the Winnie-the-Pooh stories;  Virginia Woolf’s walking stick ; t he set model for the Off-Broadway production of In The Heights  and more.

57.  Meet friends at the Talea Beer Co. taproom

• Williamsburg

What is it?  This woman-owned brewery with locations in Williamsburg, Cobble Hill, Bryant Park and the West Village serving up perfect pints.

Why go?  It's NYC's first-ever woman-owned and run brewery and taproom and it does beer differently than any other brewery — it's good for beer beginners and aficionados alike.

Don't miss: The Beer cocktails that use brews rather than seltzer or liquor, including The Talea Punch.

58.  Visit the Frick Madison

What is it? The Frick Madison  is now open 945 Madison Avenue—the former home of the Whitney Museum of American Art and the Met Breuer—while Henry Clay Frick's mansion undergoes a massive renovation. This new stint will last two years, and while the Brutalist building by Marcel Breuer is a huge departure from the Gilded Age mansion, the space offers a much different and rare look at the collection.

Why go? Unlike at the Frick Mansion, the Breuer building is a clean slate—stark in contrast, which actually helps to attract the viewer's attention to individual works. Eyes aren't busy looking at ornate furniture here. It's all about seeing the smaller details in the artwork that you might have overlooked at the mansion. 

Don't miss: The room reserved for three Vermeer paintings and Bellini’s St. Francis in   Room 13.

59.  Pay your respects at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum

• Monuments and memorials
• Financial District

What is it?  A moving tributes to the victims of the terrorist attacks on 9/11 and  February 26, 1993 .  

Why go?  Designed by Israeli architect Michael Arad, two of North America’s largest man-made waterfalls mark the footprint of each tower, framing the perimeter and cascading into reflecting pools almost an acre wide. The trees surrounding the area add to the mood of somber, tranquil reflection: Each one was selected from a 500-mile radius of the World Trade Center site, with others brought in from Pennsylvania, Maryland and Washington, D.C., the other places directly affected on 9/11. 

Don't miss:  The museum provides a complete picture of the courage and compassion demonstrated locally, nationally and internationally after the attacks, and it’s interspersed with pieces of the towers and other debris recovered by those who risked their own lives to save others . 

60.  Take in a show at City Winery

What is it? City Winery's flagship location at Pier 57 in Hudson River Park always has a stacked lineup. 

Why go?  In addition to powerhouse entertainement from comedy to live music, you're assured a memorable meal and plenty of wine options.

61.  Get creative at an '80s-style risograph workshop

What is it? A class on  the speedy way to screen print layers of paint-like ink in order to create vibrant designs for posters, comics and illustrations.

Why go? It's a bit more complex but produces a really cool result you can call your own.

Don't miss:  NYC has several incredible riso studios to visit offering private sessions including  Lucky Risograph  and  Secret Riso Club .

62.  Make something at Brooklyn Craft Company

• Arts, crafts & hobbies

What is it? A DIY mecca with workshops on all kinds of crafting skills, from knitting to macrame.

Why go?  They'll put your hands to work and your mind at ease. 

Don't miss:  There's an online store where you can purchase the necessary supplies you'll need.

63.  Order some bagels and lox at Russ & Daughters

• Specialist food and drink

What is it?  Russ & Daughters has been serving lox, herring and other specialty foods on the Lower East Side since 1914.

Why go? Russ & Daughters is already is our go-to spot for Jewish apps shelling out the best lox in town, so stock up on sweets while you're there. The classic black & whites, a stunning iteration of the classic cookies, are a must.

Don’t miss: The   Super Heebster, a mix of horseradish dill cream cheese, wasabi-flavored roe and sublime whitefish salad that forms a holy trinity with an unholy name.

64.  Have a cuppa at Brooklyn High Low

• Prospect Heights

What is it? A hidden tea salon by vintage shop 1 of a Find.

Why go? The locale is meant to be a respite, where you can catch a break from the energetic buzz of New York’s metropolis.  Diners can choose from over 20 teas, from lavender earl grey blends to green tea jasmine.  In the kitchen, head chef Carlos Jimenez gets creative with his ever-changing menu, but guests can always find traditional scones and an assortment of finger sandwiches.

Don't miss:  Antiques and artifacts from Brooklyn's long history strewn about the salon.

65.  Visit the American Museum of Natural History

• Science and technology
• Upper West Side
• price 2 of 4

What is it?  Whether you’re interested in the world below our feet or the cultures of faraway lands or the stars light-years beyond our reach, the American Museum of Natural History is bound to teach you a few things you never knew.

Why go? You can spend a whole day just looking at the taxidermied animals that hail from across the world and the ocean, study the human species and the evolutionary origins of humans and our near (now extinct) cousins, spend the day like a geologist, and be filled with child-like awe in the presence of the Tyrannosaurus Rex, Wooly Mammoth and the Apatosaurus in the fourth floor’s world-renowned fossil collection.

Don't miss: The planetarium show "Worlds Beyond Earth."

66.  Pick up produce at Union Square Greenmarket

• Union Square

What is it?  An outdoor, year-round market featuring seasonal fruits and vegetables, farmstead cheeses, artisanal breads, fresh-cut flowers, wine and more.

Why go?  You’ll find yourself shopping elbow-to-elbow with top chefs for all manner of regionally grown culinary pleasures.

Don't miss: Cooking demonstrations, beer and spirits pop-ups and book signings. 

67.  Snack on some sweet treats at Fan-Fan Doughnuts

• Bedford-Stuyvesant

What is it?  Doughnut fans surely know about Fany Gerson’s cult-favorite treats at Dough Doughnuts. Now she’s gone out on her own with Fan-Fan Doughnuts and the menu looks as good as ever. Be prepared for long lines outside— it’s worth the wait.

Why go?  From Mexican cinnamon to the glazed braided doughnuts, the menu is consistently changing with new sugary surprises.

Don't miss:  Get your hands on a Mensch fan-fan, filled with praline cream and topped with choc-choc glaze and toasted hazelnuts, before they sell out.

68.  Stroll into Eddie's Sweet Shop

• Ice cream parlors
• Forest Hills

What is it? If you want a real trip down memory lane, this old-school soda fountain and diner will tap right into the New York nostalgia you're craving.

Why go? This Forest Hills gem has been in business for more than 100 years and still that attracts all generations to come in for a homemade scoop. Aside from the famous sundaes, the chocolate egg cream is one of the most famous in the city.

Don’t miss:  The sundaes are still served in the same metal tins for the perfect retro touch. 

69.  Explore Central Park like a pro

• Central Park

What is it?   The world's most famous green space.  Why go?   Explore Strawberry Fields, the Sheep Meadow, Cherry Hill, Bow Bridge, the Bethesda Fountain, the Naumburg Bandshell, the Loeb Boathouse, the Hans Christian Andersen Monument, the Alice in Wonderland statue, all in a "New York hour." To get the closest access, take   the subway to 72nd Street and Central Park West, then head east.

Don’t miss:  Head to the shore of the Lake at 72nd Street and rent a rowboat or take a gondola tour. 

70.  Conquer the Empire State Building

What is it? A world-famous landmark that towers above Manhattan.  

Why go? The main deck on the 86th floor offers stunning 360-degree views of the Hudson and East Rivers, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty and more. For some fascinating historical background, duck down to the "Dare to Dream" exhibit on the 80th floor, which honors the 3,400 people who built the 1,454-foot skyscraper and features original photographs, architectural sketches and construction notes. 

Don’t miss:  You can now watch sunrise  from the open-air observatory, with Starbucks coffee and pastries in hand. 

71.  Throw back a pint at McSorley’s Old Ale House

• East Village

What is it? NYC’s oldest continuously operated saloon. Why go?  We love a bar with character, plus you’ll be able to join the ranks of past patrons like Abe Lincoln and John Lennon.  In traditional Irish-pub fashion,  McSorley’s floor has been thoroughly scattered with sawdust to take care of the spills and other messes that often accompany large quantities of cheap beer. Established in 1854, it has became an institution by remaining steadfastly authentic. 

Don't miss: McSorley’s Dark Ale and McSorley’s Light Ale. Both beverages have a lot more character than PBR, though at these prices, it won’t be long before you stop noticing. 

72.  Pick up a tome at Strand Book Store

What is it?  Founded in 1927, Strand is perhaps the most beloved indie bookseller in NYC.  

Why go?  With more than 2.5 million new, used and rare tomes—or as the sign outside says, 18 MILES OF BOOKS—Strand absolutely crams its shelves, with many new titles sold well below list price. Bibliophiles can spend hours checking the staff picks, classic novels, poetry, novels and nonfiction. We suggest walking up to the third floor, where early editions and rare signed copies are available for purchase.

Don’t miss: Perusing the $1 shelves.

73.  Have a classic NYC bagel at Tal Bagels

What is it? An iconic Upper West Side bagel counter. 

Why go? Is there a more distinctly New York (or at least NYC- beloved) dish than the bagel? Maybe. During morning hours? Absolutely not. The fact is that we do this weekend wakeup must—or afternoon stomach-padder, depending on how last night went—better than anyone. And although Tal Bagels provides by no means the most calming bagel experience in New York—for that, head to High Street on Hudson or Sadelle's—OG New Yorkers know that they're best eaten hunched over on park bench or at a bagelry counter top anyway. And we can't think of a better spot than this.   Don't miss:  The everything bagel toasted with scallion cream cheese. Still hungry? Discover all of the best bagels in NYC . 

74.  Walk around and take in impressive street art

• Coney Island

What is it? New York is the city where street art was born, and it’s still the best place to see it in the world. 

Why go? Catching art on the street is a far more visceral experience that seeing it on a museum wall. For proof, check out the Bowery Graffiti Wall on the corner of Houston and Bowery to see what world-class street artist is currently on display (past artists have included Banksy, JR and Shepard Fairey) or peep the rotating lineup of artists at Coney Island Art Walls.

Don’t miss: If you’re looking for an arty outing after dark, head down to the Lower East Side for the 100 Gates Project , which displays impressive works on the grates that cover businesses at night. 

75.  Snag some doughnuts from Peter Pan Bakery

What is it? An old-school bakery famous for their doughnuts. Why go?  Start Sunday with a Bavarian cream from Peter Pan. Peter Pan isn’t a gourmet doughnut shop by any stretch, and in this neck of the woods, thank God for that. Its freshly made fried sweets and legit 1950s environs, complete with an S-shaped counter, means it’s busy daily with regulars. But trust us: The lines are worth it. Don’t miss: Pair your doughnut with one of the bakery’s tasty egg creams.

76.  Take in Brooklyn Heights and the Promenade

• Brooklyn Heights

What is it?  A ridiculously photogentic neighborhood teeming with tree-lined streets and Brooklyn brownstones. 

Why go? Be sure to walk the fruit streets of Brooklyn Heights (Cranberry, Orange and Pineapple) for that "Brooklyn-from-the-movies feel." And there's a nifty backstory: In the mid-1800s, prominent Brooklyn Heights resident Lady Middagh saw the "pretentious" street names in her ’hood—those named after Brooklyn’s wealthy families—and decided to take matters into her own hands by changing the street signs under cover of darkness to Cranberry, Orange and Pineapple. 

Don’t miss: Head to the water and hit the Brooklyn Promenade, a one-third-mile stretch of pavement along the East River overlooking an unforgettable span of NYC’s skyline. 

77.  Adventure to the Queens County Farm Museum

• Special interest

What is it? Though not as easily accessible by public transit as most NYC museums, this Queens County treasure is well worth the bus trek or car ride.

Why go? As the city’s longest continually farmed site in the city (it’s been in operation since 1697), the 47 acres feels like an entirely different world compared to Manhattan. Feed and pet the barnyard animals, including sheep, ponies and goats, hop aboard a hayride and come back during the fall harvest season when you can go pumpkin picking and attempt to find your way through the Amazing Maize Maze.

78.  Pay tribute to those at Green-Wood Cemetery

• Walks and tours

What is it? A beautiful final resting place in Brooklyn filled with Victorian mausoleums, cherubs and gargoyles.  

Why go? If you were alive in the 19th century, one of your goals in life was to reserve a place to rest here. Today, this cemetery boasts over 560,000 residents—including Civil War generals. But there’s more to do here than grave-spot: Check out the massive Gothic arch at the main entrance or climb to the top of Battle Hill, one of the highest points in Kings County and a pivotal spot during the Battle of Brooklyn in 1776.

Don’t miss:   A fan of all things spooky? Take one of the moonlight tours of the cemetery hosted around Halloween.

79.  Hang out at Washington Square Park

• Historic buildings and sites
• Greenwich Village

What is it? A 9.75-acre public park that serves as the beating heart of Greenwich Village.  Why go?  It's one of the most iconic spots in NYC and has a ton of history, serving as the backdrop to many civil rights movements, celebrations and more. Don’t miss:  The chance to people watch, from admiring skateboarders' tricks to enjoying some music by buskers.

80.  Visit Madison Square Park

What is it? Madison Square Park is a green oasis in the Flatiron district—not to be confused with Madison Square Garden.

Why go? There’s always something going in the environs (three streets by one avenue block) from outdoor art exhibits to free concerts.   The park is also home to the first Shake Shack, which still consistently see lines that would make the hottest clubs jealous. Tourists go for Shake Shack, workers go to eat their lunch, pooch owners go for the dog run, guardians go for the children’s playground… and because the park is dotted with benches, it lends for the best leisurely people-watching.

Don’t miss: Stepping onto the southwest corner of the park is debatably the hallowed grounds on which baseball was born.  

81.  Reconnect with wildlife at The Bronx Zoo

• Zoo and aquariums

What is it?  The biggest metropolitan zoo in North America. 

Why go?  If you’ve got a hankering to reconnect with wildlife, check out this Bronx go-to. With more than 265-acres of animals and wildlife, you won’t be able to see everything in one day, so consider taking a two-hour tour of the Congo Gorilla Forest, World of Reptiles or the Himalayan Highlands exhibits. Be sure to pay a special visit to the American Bison, too, which was declared America’s national mammal.         

Don’t miss:  Strapped for cash? “The Bronx Zoo is free on Wednesdays,” points out Danny of Flushing. 

82.  Explore the massive Pelham Bay Park

What is it? A sprawling public park in the Bronx.  Why go?  Explore the trails around Pelham Bay Park teeming with natural wonders. Pelham Bay Park isn’t just the end of the 6 line—it’s a green space three times bigger than Central Park. Among its treasures: two golf courses, a massive historic mansion, a 13-mile saltwater shoreline along the Long Island Sound, plenty of hiking trials and, for you bird watchers, a hearty population of osprey. Don’t miss: The Bronx’s only public beach, Orchard Beach.

83.  Meander the Brooklyn Promenade

What is it?  A perfect place to enjoy a panoramic view of the city.

Why go?  This one-third-mile stretch of pavement along the East River is a favorite destination of residents, tourists and couples looking to make out next to an unforgettable span of NYC’s skyline. Breathtaking views of the Brooklyn Bridge and Statue of Liberty are both visible from here, but the Promenade wasn’t originally built for aesthetic reasons: City planner Robert Moses originally wanted the Brooklyn Queens Expressway to run through Brooklyn Heights. After lots of opposition from the local community, the promenade was built to insulate the mansions and tree-lined streets nearby from highway noise and has been doing so since it opened in October 1950.  

Don’t miss:  Be sure to break off the path and head further inland to explore the beautiful brownstones of Brooklyn Heights. 

84.  Take in a show at The Shed at Hudson Yards

What is it?  The Shed—the much-discussed cultural center in Hudson Yards featuring a retractable roof—is home to powerful shows. 

Why go?  The Shed brings together established and emerging artists to create new work in fields ranging from pop to classical music, painting to digital media, theater to literature, and sculpture to dance. Check their schedule for a show that fits your interests.

85.  Stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge

What is it?  A true feat of 19th century engineering and arguably the one walk every local and visitor must take. 

Why go? This essential trek is is truly romantic, whether you're falling in love with yourself, a partner or the city itself. The 1.3-mile-long stunner was the world's largest suspension bridge when it opened in 1883 it has remained an iconic landmark of the city ever since. 

Don’t miss:  The Brooklyn side of the bridge ends in gorgeous Dumbo, where you can explore  Brooklyn Bridge Park , gaze at Lady Liberty, visit the Brooklyn Flea on Sundays.

86.  Visit The Statue of Liberty

• Liberty Island

What is it?  Since 1886, t he most famous copper statue in the world has held her torch high in New York Harbor as the quintessential symbol of American liberty. 

Why go?  The statue’s massive pedestal houses an observation deck as well as exhibits detailing the fascinating history of the 305-foot copper statue gifted to the U.S. from France to celebrate the friendship of the two nations. Check out the original torch and read the bronze plaque with Emma Lazarus’s poem “A New Colossus” (you know, the tired, poor, huddled masses yearning to be free). 

Don’t miss: Strapped for cash? The Staten Island Ferry is free and sails near the icon so you can get a peek. 

87.  Meander along The High Line

What is it?  Chelsea's above-ground park and garden set on old train tracks offers a natural respite and 1.4 miles of car-free walking space set between the daring skyscrapers of Manhattan's west side.

Why go?   It's an innovative reclaimed space that inpsires no matter how many times you've walked along it.

Don't miss:   A rotating display of artworks that fill the space. Plus, there's a beautiful new bridge called the Moynihan Train Hall Connector , which allows pedestrians to walk all the way from the Meatpacking District straight to Penn Station using the elevated park.

88.  Relax at Brooklyn Bridge Park

What is it?   Brooklyn Bridge Park, with its   grassy expanses, copious bike paths,   public art displays, basketball courts and soccer pitches, holdas a lot of fun attractions.

Why go?   The Pier 2 Uplands, three-acre site that includes a 6,300-square-foot lawn and a water play area, and the Squibb Bridge.

Don't miss:  Brunch or dinner at Fornino's on the waterfront.

89.  Spend a leisurely afternoon in Prospect Park

• Prospect Park

What is it? A 526-acre sprawling public park in the heart of Brooklyn. 

Why go?  While bicycling, warm-weather picnics and weekend runs are a must at this park, you can do pretty much any outdoor activity your heart desires: there’s bird-watching, baseball, basketball and more. Don’t miss: We recommend roller skating or renting a paddle boat at LeFrak, which transforms into an ice skating rink in the winter.

90.  Hang at the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere

What is it?  A 1,131-foot-high-observation deck atop 20 Hudson Yards.

Why go?  To take in panoramic views of the entire city on a 7,500-square-foot triangular platform. 

Don’t miss: If you’re terrified of heights in the open air, but want in on the action, there’s also a champagne bar inside the 100th floor where you can sip cocktails with the same 360-degree views of NYC.  

91.  Bask in art and architecture at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

• Art and design
• Upper East Side
• price 3 of 4

What is it?  A renowned art museum and architectural icon with works by Picasso, Peggy Guggenheim’s trove of Cubist, Surrealist and Abstract Expressionist works, as well as the largest collection of Kandinskys in the United States.

Why go?  Designed by original starchitect Frank Lloyd Wright, it's arguably the only New York museum that shows art inside a work of art. 

Don't miss : What makes the building a global icon is its stunning interior rotunda and oculus. There, along its ascending ramps, you’ll find a world-class collection, as well a full slate of temporary shows.

92.  Get high at One World Observatory

• Towers and viewpoints

What is it? An observation deck affording one hell of a view. 

Why go? Not only does it have the trippiest elevator in the city, One World Observatory is also a fierce contender for best views in the city. Ride up to the 102nd floor surrounded by a VR-like film, then admire the 360-degree views at the top of the tower. 

Don’t miss:  Gawk at the entirety of Manhattan and the Empire State Building on one side and the Brooklyn, Manhattan and Williamsburg Bridges on the other—and then Governors Island and the Statue of Liberty on the other.

93.  Peep paintings at the Whitney Museum of American Art

• Meatpacking District

What is it?  After nearly 50 years in its Marcel-Breur-designed building on Madison Avenue at 75th Street, the Whitney Museum decamped in 2015 to a new home in the Meatpacking District. 

Why go? Founded in 1931 by sculptor and art patron Gertrude Vanderbilt, the Whitney is dedicated to presenting the work of American artists. Its collection holds about 25,000 works by more than 3,500 American artists. Check out musts by  Alexander Calder, Willem de Kooning, Edward Hopper (the museum holds his entire estate), Jasper Johns, Louise Nevelson, Georgia O’Keeffe and Claes Oldenburg.    

Don't miss: The views of the art inside are what you're here for, of course, but don't miss the skyline views from the museum's rooftop bar.

94.  Go back in time at South Street Seaport Museum

What is it? A museum located in the historic Seaport District that tells the story of New York as a port city. There's an extensive collection art and artifacts, a working 19th-century print shop, and a fleet of historic vessels that all work to tell the story of "Where New York Begins."

Why go?  You can step aboard the famous 1885 Wavertree . Plus, admission is pay-what-you-wish.

95.  See world-class works at the Museum of Modern Art

What is it? Institution housing one of the world’s finest collections of art from the 18th century through today.

Why go?  Around nearly every corner of the venerated museum is a seminal piece by an artist trumpeted in art history or coveted by contemporary collectors. During the height of tourist season, around Christmas and again in late spring and summer, expect a shoving-match just to catch a momentary glance at Van Gogh’s Starry Night or Picasso’s Les Demoiselles d’Avignon . 

Don’t miss: Can't swing the entrance free? Visit during MoMA's free Friday nights, held on select evenings.

96.  Immerse yourself in Buddhist culture at the Rubin

What is it? Donald and Shelley Rubin’s impressive collection of Himalayan, Indian and Buddhist art and artifacts on display.

Why go? Spiritual types will love this museum, which is dedicated to Himalayan and Buddhist art and features lectures, movies, music and more. The museum is layered over five gallery floors in the old Barney’s New York space on 17th street. The awe-inspiring works range from classical to contemporary giving visitors a well-rounded experience with Eastern cultures.

97.  Have a feast at Chelsea Market

• Shopping centers

What is it?  One of New York’s most notable food halls that boasts more than 35 vendors. 

Why go? While this  hot spot for foodies and shopping addicts  can get congested with tourists during peak hours, it’s worth throwing some elbows for Middle Eastern bites from Miznon, tacos from Los Tacos No.1 and halva from Seed + Mill.  Aside from finger-lickin’ fare and sweet merchandise, the attraction offers historical charms such as the market’s iconic fountain, which was crafted using discarded drill bits and exposed pipe from the former Nabisco factory. 

98.  Get slimy at Sloomoo

What is it? Part visual splendor, part olfactory wonder and part ooey-gooey sensory fun, Sloomoo Institute’s slime museum welcomes all ages to its home in Soho.

Why go?  While Sloomoo is a highly Instagrammable experience, the founders hope you’ll spend some time away from your phone and immersed in the moment during your 90-minute visit to truly have the slime of your life.

Don't miss: The DIY slime bar where you can make your own slime to take home. 

99.  Make a great escape to the Cloisters

• Washington Heights

What is it?  Set in a lovely park overlooking the Hudson River, the Cloisters houses the Met’s medieval art and architecture collections.

Why go?  Soak it all in by following a path that winds through the peaceful grounds to a castle that seems to have survived from the Middle Ages. (It was built less than 100 years ago, using material from five medieval French cloisters.)  

Don’t miss:  The famous Unicorn Tapestries, the 12th-century Fuentidueña Chapel and the Annunciation Triptych by Robert Campin.  

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The Best 100 Things to Do in New York City (Written by a Local)

Overwhelmed by the sheer number of things to do in New York City as you plan your trip?

Don’t fret! I’ve put together this master list of the top 100 New York attractions to help you put together your New York City itinerary. Plus, at the bottom, you’ll find a bonus section with special NYC things to do that happen only around specific holidays.

But why should you trust me when there are so many guides listing the top NYC attractions?!?

I’ve lived in New York City for 20+ years and have long since been made an honorary New Yorker. Nearly everything on this list is a place I’ve personally visited or an experience I’ve tried. So in addition to my local expertise, this list of 100 best things to do in New York has been travel-tested.

So, are you ready to plan your trip to NYC? Let’s go!

New York Attractions Map

I put together this map to correspond with the list below of the best places to visit in New York City. The only things missing are things that are experiences like dining or tours that don’t have a single set location.

As you decide which things are on your NYC sightseeing list, use the map to help plan the things to do to avoid backtracking or planning visits to multiple places that are too far from one another. (i.e. The Met Cloisters and the Financial District probably don’t make sense on the same day.)

New York Sightseeing Pass: Do You Need One?

Sightseeing passes are a great idea if you’re going to make full use of them. Assuming you do, they can help you save money by bundling costs for attraction tickets compared to buying individual tickets.

Go City offers an Explorer Pass which lets you choose the number of sights you want to see. You’ll have 60 days to visit them. This pass could be right for you if you don’t plan on seeing every sight in NYC and/or if you don’t want to sightsee every day.

If you plan to make the most of every minute in New York City, Go City offers an All-Inclusive Pass . Instead of choosing sights, the pass is good for the number of days you purchase. For example, if you choose a 3-day pass, you can visit as many of the included New York attractions as you want in those 3 days.

New York CityPASS also offers a bundled sightseeing pass that includes 5 attractions. Two are set with the pass and the other 3 are of your choosing. The pass is valid for 9 days so it offers some breathing room if you don’t want to see everything on consecutive days.

No matter which you choose, passes like these offer savings and a ton of convenience. You just need to do the math to decide whether they make sense for your New York trip.

The Best 100 Things to Do in New York City

1. Summit One Vanderbilt

The Summit One Vanderbilt attraction is New York City’s most recently built birds-eye view experience. And it does not disappoint! Even for a New Yorker like me who’s seen the Manhattan skyline from above many times, the sweeping NYC vistas in every direction are absolutely breathtaking! The experience is creative and interactive, too, which only adds to the fun.

The most popular time of day to go is just before dusk because you can see the skyline with the daylight and as the sun sets and the lights of the city go on. If you can’t go then, no worries! You can’t go wrong anytime on a blue sky day but if you go earlier in the morning, you’ll have fewer people photo-bombing your shots.

Just be sure to book your timed-entry tickets in advance because Summit One Vanderbilt is one of the most popular things to do in New York City.

2. 9/11 Memorial & Museum

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum consists of the reflecting pools in the original footprints of the Twin Towers and the museum inside. Both are meant to remember the events of 9/11 and honor its many victims.

As you descend into the 9/11 museum, you’ll find an overwhelming display of artifacts, first-person accounts, recordings, and photos to teach about the horrific events of 9/11. It’s an emotional visit, to say the least, and certainly one of the most moving and memorable things to do in New York.

Plan ahead with a 9/11 Museum skip-the-line ticket . The line to buy tickets can be quite long, especially during peak times. You’ll be glad to have a timed ticket to streamline your entrance into the museum. You can also read my full guide on the 9/11 Museum to know more about what to expect inside the museum.

3. Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

Of all the NYC attractions on this list, visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are probably the most famous! You can take a boat to Liberty Island to see the Statue of Liberty up close. While you’re on Liberty Island, you can also visit the Statue of Liberty Museum and enjoy the gorgeous views looking back on Manhattan and New York Harbor.

Statue Cruises offers tickets from Battery Park to Liberty Island and Ellis Island to see the Statue of Liberty from the outside and visit the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. If you want to go inside the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty, you’ll need a separate reservation which you can book here.

Don’t skip the Immigration Museum on Ellis Island, especially if you had any ancestors pass through this gateway! It highlights the journey and the arduous process the millions of people who emigrated to the United States at the turn of the 20th century experienced to enter the country. You can even look for the names of distant relatives on the Wall of Honor outside the museum.

Arriving by boat, I could grasp just a small sense of what it must have been like for my great-grandparents to finally see the Statue of Liberty in the harbor.

4. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge.

The Brooklyn Bridge’s design, position alongside the city skyline, and the incredible story, about how the bridge came to be, makes it one of the most special New York attractions on this list!

Just across from the side of City Hall Park in Lower Manhattan , you’ll see the majestic Gothic arches of the Manhattan Tower and the pedestrian promenade that takes you up onto the center of the bridge.

As you walk, you’ll pass the draping 4 main cables and the suspension cables and diagonal stays that create a gorgeous geometric aesthetic. Think about how the bridge was constructed entirely by hand over 14 years. (It only took 1 year to build the Empire State Building!)

Imagine that the Brooklyn Bridge was the tallest structure in Manhattan when it opened in 1883 and offered the first opportunity for the public to see what the growing city and the East River looked like from overhead.

I recommend this amazing book for kids and adults to get some quick history on the Brooklyn Bridge. If you walk to the Brooklyn side, descend the steps on the left side and make the 5-minute walk to Juliana’s Pizza. It might just be the BEST pizza in all of New York City.

5. Discover Battery Park.

This historic park on the southern tip of Manhattan is named for its former purpose as a military and artillery battery dating back to the late 1600s when the Dutch used it as a strategic vantage point to protect the then colony of New Amsterdam. Before that, the Native Lenape who lived on Manhattan also considered this rocky outcropping to be of logistical importance.

Today, Battery Park has winding pathways leading to numerous monuments, the 19th-Century defense fort Castle Clinton (named for DeWitt Clinton, a former NYC Mayor), and the Seaglass Carousel. Castle Clinton is a National Monument where Park Rangers offer daily guided tours

Boats also leave from docks along the park’s shores heading to the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island, Governor’s Island, and Staten Island.

As you visit the park, consider that the streets just adjacent to the park are among the oldest in NYC. In fact, the building housing the National Museum of the American Indian was the former Alexander Hamilton Customs House. And before that, the building was built at the site of the original Fort Amsterdam, built by the first Dutch settlers.

6. Ascend the Empire State Building.

If this isn’t one of the most iconic New York attractions, I don’t know what is! The Empire State Building is synonymous with New York City.

This art deco building is an absolute classic. You’ll have the opportunity to ride the elevators up to the 86th floor and its 360° open-air observation deck. Or if you’d like to go higher, ascend to the 102nd floor for an ultimate panorama over the city.

Throughout your visit, you’ll pass through several exhibitions. You’ll have the chance to learn about how the Empire State Building was built and how it became solidified as one of the most famous buildings of all time. You might even come face to face with King Kong who famously scaled the building in King Kong the movie!

As with all of the best things to do in New York, get your tickets in advance . The timed entry will guarantee you don’t waste any time waiting in line.

7. Savor Central Park.

Urban parks don’t get any better than the beautifully elegant Central Park. It’s an absolute must on any New York itinerary!

Central Park is a perfect rectangle positioned within Manhattan’s grid street layout. It spans from 59th Street up to 110th Street (about 2.5 miles long) between 5th Avenue and Central Park West (about .5 miles wide). Central Park’s most famous sights are mainly between 59th and 86th Streets. Although, if you go further north in the park, you’ll discover the gems like the Reservoir, the Conservatory Gardens, and Harlem Meer.

Must-see spots to see in Central Park include the Mall leading to the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain area. Walk across and along the paths in and around the Bow Bridge. Take a boat out onto the Lake. Picnic in Sheep’s Meadow. Enjoy the views from Belvedere Castle. Admire the Imagine Mosaic at Strawberry Fields. Hike in the Ramble. Stroll in the area of the Gapstow Bridge. It’s easy to laze away many days in this incredible green space.

Most visitors stroll the park on foot or opt to rent bikes to sightsee throughout Cental Park. You can even join a guided Central Park Bike Tour to see all of the park’s prettiest spots.

It’s also easy to combine a visit to the Metropolitan Museum of New York or the American Museum of Natural History since they’re just across from one other on opposite sides of the park’s fringes.

8. Rocket up to One World Observatory. (The tallest building in NYC!)

If you’ve planned a visit to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, grab the chance to also ascend the 102 stories of One World Trade to the indoor observatory. The building is also known as the Freedom Tower and was built after the attacks of 9/11.

On a visit to One World Observatory, you’ll zoom to the top in just 47 seconds while getting a quick history lesson of the island from the time when Native Americans lived on the wild island of Mannahatta to now as a global city teeming with skyscrapers and activity.

At the top, be rewarded with sweeping panoramic views of the NYC skyline and the waterways surrounding the island of Manhattan. You can also have a snack, a drink, or a meal at the restaurant and bar on the 101st floor which also comes with jaw-dropping views!

As with many top things to do in NYC, get your skip-the-line ticket in advance to maximize the time you spend visiting.

9. Shop at The Oculus.

You can’t miss the white modern structure across from the 9/11 Memorial & One World Observatory. The Oculus was built as part of the 9/11 redevelopment plan. Its purpose was to replace the transit hub that existed below the Twin Towers. And the design was meant to inspire. It symbolizes a dove flying out of the hands of a child.

In addition to the many train lines that converge at the Oculus, you’ll find shops, bathrooms, and a cool photo-op spot near the entry overlooking the atrium inside. It’s also a convenient place to warm up, cool off, or escape the weather if you’re visiting the Financial District on a less-than-ideal day.

10. Stroll Fifth Avenue.

World-famous Fifth Avenue is in the heart of Manhattan. In fact, it’s the dividing line between the east and west sides of the island. People come from all over to sightsee, window-shop, and maybe even splurge at the avenue’s high-end shops.

Focus on the area from the luxury department store Bergdorf Goodman on Fifth Avenue between 57th and 58th Streets to the main New York Public Library Building on Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street.

In between these 16 blocks, you’ll find places like Tiffany & Co., Louis Vitton, Cartier, Ferragamo, Saks Fifth Avenue Department Store, as well as Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Bryant Park. As far as things to see in New York goes, Fifth Avenue has it all.

ProTip: If you were to continue further down Fifth Avenue past 42nd Street, you’ll see the Empire State Building at 34th Street and Fifth Avenue and the Flatiron Building between 22nd and 23rd Streets.

11. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

This top New York City sight needs no introduction. MoMA is the most popular modern art museum in NYC. When planning a visit here, get a skip-the-line ticket to avoid wasting time in a long line.

Once inside, you have your pick of masterpieces by Van Gogh, Andy Warhol, Frieda Kahlo, Salvador Dali, Henri Matisse, Jackson Pollack, and more. There are also temporary exhibitions which you get access to with your ticket.

Unlike many museums in New York City, MoMA is open on Mondays and it tends to be busy. Avoid Mondays if possible. MoMA is also free on Fridays between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. Arrive early if you intend to take advantage of this because as you might imagine there are lots of people who like free.

Audio guides are included with your ticket and, if you’re visiting for the first time, begin on the 5th floor and work your way down.

ProTip: If you’re in MoMA’s neighborhood and feeling hungry, grab a pita or platter from the Halal Guys food cart at 53rd Street and 6th Avenue. It’s just down the block from MoMA and will likely have a line of people waiting for some deliciousness.

12. Visit Rockefeller Center.

This is one of the most popular places to visit in New York and even more so at Christmastime when the famed Rockefeller Center tree is sparkling over the ice rink below.

Outside of the holiday season, the plaza is buzzing with activity from the shops, restaurants, art, gardens, temporary exhibitions, and TV studios within its borders. The most visible is the popular TODAY Show which is filmed here and where the show’s summer concert series takes place.

No matter when you visit, it’s nearly obligatory to take a few photos with Rockefeller Center as the backdrop!

13. Admire the View from Top of the Rock.

Also situated in Rockefeller Center is the famed 30 Rockefeller Skyscraper. This is where the Saturday Night Live Studios and the NBC Studios are located. It’s also home to the Top of the Rock observation deck.

The indoor and open-air observation terraces at the Top of the Rock cover viewing spaces across 3 levels culminating on the 70th floor. You’ll have spectacular unobstructed views over the city in all directions.

Undoubtedly, the best time to make the ascent is at night. The NYC night skyline is breathtaking and from the Top of the Rock, you can get front-and-center views of the Empire State Building in your photos, as well as One World Observatory in the distance.

Avoid waiting in the long lines that develop, especially during peak seasons, and get your Top of the Rock tickets in advance.

14. St. Patrick’s Cathedral

This Gothic Revival Cathedral on Fifth Avenue welcomes thousands of visitors each day. It opened in 1879 after taking 21 years to build and still is the largest cathedral of its kind in the United States.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral stands next to Saks Fifth Avenue Department Store and across from Rockefeller Center so it’s easy to stop in to admire the architecture and the stained glass. In addition to being one of the things to see in NYC, the Cathedral still holds Masses throughout the week. Check the website for exact times depending on when you visit.

15. Bryant Park

Bryant Park is located behind the main New York Public Library building, along 42nd Street between 5th and 6th Avenues. This public park space in the heart of midtown Manhattan is a bustling hive of activity all year long.

In the winter, it’s where you’ll find the most popular New York City Christmas Market and an ice rink. Outside of this time, the park’s green space becomes a spot to picnic, watch movies (in summer), take part in dance parties, stroll, dine, watch a chess match, play ping pong, read, and people-watch. It’s truly beloved by local New Yorkers and visitors, alike.

In between NYC sightseeing spots from Fifth Avenue to Times Square, Bryant Park is the perfect place to pause and enjoy the urban park vibe.

ProTip: Bryant Park also has some of the best public restrooms in the entire city. They are staff-attended, well-kept, and centrally located.

16. Eat Wafels & Dinges.

It’s no exaggeration to say this will probably be the best waffle you’ll ever eat. Imagine a Belgian waffle encased in a sweet glaze-y crunchiness and topped with heavenly sweet toppings from Nutella to ice cream to whipped cream. (In fact, I’ll BRB!)

There are several locations around the city but if you’re in Bryant Park, there’s a Wafels & Dinges kiosk on the corner of 42nd Street and 6th Avenue. Don’t pass by without trying one! You can build your own with the toppings of your choice or go with one of their “legendary” options.

17. See a Broadway Show.

New York City is known for its world-class theater! Seeing a musical or a play on Broadway is a rite of passage and absolutely one of the best things to do in NYC.

New York Citys Theater District stems in and around the Times Square area. If you’re walking along Broadway in the W.40s and W.50s, look left or right down any of the streets. You’ll almost always see the bright lights of a Broadway marquis or two shimmering with the name of the show playing at that theater.

You can get discounted tickets at the TKTS booth on 47th Street in Times Square for both Broadway and Off-Broadway shows or you can book your tickets in advance. If there is a particular show you’d like to see, be sure to book those tickets online before your NYC trip. The selection at TKTS changes daily so there is no guarantee that the show you want to see is listed.

Keep in mind, the line at the TKTS booth can get quite long.

If you’re flexible about what show you see, you could wait until about 30-60 minutes before show time to buy tickets for a show with tickets available. You could also visit the TKTS location near Lincoln Center on 62nd Street just off Broadway which tends to be less crowded. Sometimes, it’s even worth a visit to the actual theater’s box office to see what their best-priced tickets are for performances that day.

ProTip: Download the TKTS app to see what shows are available that day. You’ll still need to go to one of the booth locations to buy the tickets and availability changes quickly. Mondays have the fewest shows available as it’s typically the day when most theaters are closed.

18. Marvel at Times Square

Times Square is the absolute ground zero for New York sightseeing. If you’re visiting NYC, you have to take at least a few moments to marvel at the flashing bright lights of Times Square with its pedestrians, traffic, and street performers crisscrossing in seemingly every direction.

The best vantage point is from the top of the red stairs just behind the TKTS booth at 47th Street and Broadway. From here, you get a birds-eye view of the entire frenzied, flickering, nonstop scene.

If you’re in Times Square at night, check out the “Midnight Moment.” From 11:57 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. each night, all 90+ digital display boards in Times Square pause their ads and show the works of today’s brightest artists. For these moments, Times Square becomes the largest public art display in the world!

19. Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Met, as it’s affectionately called, is one of the most popular art museums in the world. It’s the biggest in the Americas and draws comparisons to the Louvre in Paris. So it comes as no surprise that this is among the top New York tourist attractions.

Even if you’re not a “museum person,” the Met is one of those places where you should at least spend a couple of hours. The museum contains 2 million+ works of art from paintings to sculptures to objects, furniture, and armor. These works represent over 5,000 years of history and culture from around the world

Highlights include the Temple of Dendur in the Egyptian section of the museum. It’s an actual Egyptian Temple that stood along the banks of the Nile 2000 years ago. There are self-portraits by Van Gogh and Rembrandt and an epic painting by Emanuel Leutze called “Washington Crossing the Delaware” in the museum’s American wing.

While you’re at the museum, be sure to check out the gorgeous view from the terrace! You can see Central Park and the skyscrapers that border the greenery on all sides.

Purchase tickets ahead of time online or use the automated kiosks at the museum to avoid waiting in line.

20. Hudson Yards & the Vessel

Located on Manhattan’s far west side, Hudson Yards and the Vessel are between W. 30th and W.33rd Streets in between 10th and 11th Avenues. There are over 100 shops and 20+ restaurants, including the delicious Mercado Little Spain which is a combination market and eatery. The shops skew luxury but you’ll also find favorites like H&M, Zara, Uniqlo, and Madewell.

The Vessel is a nest-like structure that climbs 16 levels with 80 different landings visitors can use to take in the Hudson River views. Unfortunately, the Vessel is temporarily closed but it’s still well worth going over to take photos of this architectural piece of art.

The #7 subway train was extended years ago to add a Hudson Yards stop after Times Square so it’s easier than ever to get to this part of the island. Not to mention, Hudson Yards has bathrooms which are not always easy to find when you’re out and about for a day of NYC sightseeing.

21. Edge Observation Deck

Atop Hudson Yards is the outdoor Edge Observation Deck . Edge is one of Manhattan’s premiere observation decks! It soars 100 stories over the city and has 360° views. There’s also a bar and a glass floor!

What truly sets it apart from other observation decks in Manhattan is its location on the far west side. You get a totally unique vantage point. Go just before sunset. The sunset to the west of the Hudson River casts gorgeous warm light over the cityscape. And, as the sky darkens, you’ll also get to see the city light up.

22. City Climb

Are you someone who loves a thrill? Then, add the City Climb Experience to your NYC itinerary!

You’ll get to channel your inner (quasi) Spiderman and climb 30 Hudson Yards, a 1,200-foot high skyscraper, using a 45° angled staircase. (Code for exceptionally steep!) And in case you’re wondering, that staircase is out in the open, high above New York City. Then, if you dare, you can lean out over the Manhattan skyline for a total adrenaline rush!

This experience also includes access to Edge at Hudson Yards. Keep in mind you need to be 13+ to take on this challenge. Climbers must also be between 4’9″ and 6’7″ and 65 lbs. to 310 lbs.

23. Walk the High Line.

This elevated urban park is one of NYC’s true gems and is rightfully included on many what to do in NYC lists. The High Line stretches from W. 34th Street and the Hudson Yards area to Gansevoort St. in the West Village along old rail tracks above the street. It’s the perfect blend of repurposing urban structures to preserve the past while transforming the space for modern use.

As you walk the High Line, enjoy the city and river views, street art, the plants and flowers growing among the former train tracks, and the modern architecture that runs along either side of the pathway. Sometimes, there are temporary art exhibitions along the way, too.

When you need a rest, stop for a snack or even a beverage at one of the food carts. You can exit or enter the High Line from 12 different access stairways. The next item on this list is one of the main reasons to temporarily pause your walk.

24. Sample Bites at Chelsea Market.

Chelsea Market is one of the best New York City attractions, especially for foodies and anyone who loves good eats! The market takes up an entire city block in a building that once was the old Nabisico factory and where the Oreo was made and invented.

Today, the market is home to popular eateries like Los Tacos No.1, Miznon, and Very Fresh Noodles. There are also bakeries, gelato, and other sweets like the halva at Seed + Mill and the Doughnuttery. You’ll also find some shops like Pearl River Market and Imports from Morocco where you can shop for goods from Asia and Morocco.

Chelsea Market gets crowded midday for lunch. Unless, you’re one of the lucky few to find a seat somewhere in the market, be prepared to grab and go or head to one of the seating areas that line the sidewalk outside. Regardless, it’s worth the hype and the crowds!

25. ARTECHOUSE NYC

Below Chelsea Market on W. 15th Street, ARTECHOUSE transforms a utilitarian space into a digital art display. The interactive and immersive displays are projected onto the walls, floors, and ceiling and show the vibrant work of different media artists. The exhibitions change, too, so it’s possible to have a different experience on a return visit.

The artwork projections run on a loop and you’re welcome to stay for as long as you want. It could be a great way to sit and just enjoy the show if you’re legs are tired from too much nyc sightseeing or you just need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. ARTECHOUSE would also make a fun stop on a rainy day in New York.

If you want to guarantee entry at a specific time, get your ARTECHOUSE tickets in advance.

26. Little Island Park

As you walk along the High Line, you’ll likely spot Little Island Park in the Hudson River. From a distance, it might appear to be giant golf tees or a group of heels from high-heeled shoes all bunched together and at different levels.

The park is a creative outdoor space that attracts a lot of visitors. It’s open daily and, in the warmer months, offers free and low-cost performances and educational programming for kids put on by various artists.

Stroll the pathways to admire the many plants and flowers on display and to take in the Hudson River views. From the park, you can see the rounded edge of Lower Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, and the Verazzano Bridge in the distance.

27. Manhattan Helicopter Tour

While it’s most certainly one of the priciest New York activities, a helicopter tour over the city is an unforgettable way to experience the city’s incredible beauty.

Depending on which option you choose, you’ll be in the air for anywhere between 12-30 minutes. From the sky, you’ll see NYC’s most iconic sights like Central Park, the Empire State Building, the Financial District, the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island, and more. The views are absolutely breathtaking!

The tour also includes narration to give context to what you’re seeing and floor-to-ceiling windows for optimal birds-eye sightseeing!

28. Enjoy Greenwich Village.

When you arrive in historic and chic Greenwich Village, you’ll have left the steel and glass towers of midtown behind for smaller and much quieter tree-lined blocks. Greenwich Village is home to classic cafes, shops, celebrity homes, and cultural and historical landmarks. It’s the type of neighborhood meant for strolling!

You can walk past the Friends apartment building at the corner of Grove and Bedford Streets. People watch in Washington Square Park. Find the cutest cafes tucked into the cobblestone lanes weaving through the neighborhood. Go boutique shopping. Or have a fun night out singing show tunes at Marie’s Crisis!

You can check out my complete Greenwich Village guide to help you plan your visit. The neighborhood is also the setting for many popular walking tours including this neighborhood tour .

29. Washington Square Park

If you’re only passing through Greenwich Village and want to make just a quick stop, visit Washington Square Park. The park is in the heart of NYU’s urban campus so you’re likely to notice groups of students. But in addition to that, the park is a microcosm of New York City life.

You’ll see people chatting on park benches and chess players deep in thought as they strategize over their next move. Artists, musicians, acrobats, activists…you’re likely to see a bit of everything in this historic park. There are plenty of grab-and-go eats from pizza to falafel just outside the park. Bring your snack into the park and join in the scene.

Take a moment to admire the Washington Square Arch which was built to remember the 100th anniversary of George Washington’s inauguration. And years before, when New York was just a growing colony, Washington Square Park was used as a potter’s field. This is why it’s a prominent stop on many Greenwich Village ghost tours.

30. American Museum of Natural History

NYC has no shortage of family-friendly activities when you’re planning an NYC trip with kids. But truly, this Upper West Side gem is a space for all ages to marvel at animals from prehistoric to modern times, fossils, the biodiversity of the planet, human origins, and early civilizations.

Visit the Hayden Planetarium to gaze at the stars and transport yourself through the vast universe. In addition to the planetarium, the Rose Center for Earth and Space has exhibitions that walk you through the history of the universe and help you imagine the vastness of Outer Space.

New in 2023, the museum’s newly opened Gilder Center is 230,000 square feet of space spread over 4 floors. The new science center has immersive exhibits that are all new and are designed to teach visitors about the natural world from butterflies and insects to ecosystems and DNA. It’s a new addition not to be missed!

At the time of rewriting and updating this guide (2023), it was still necessary to have a timed entry to visit the American Museum of Natural History. If you purchase your ticket in advance , you’ll still need to go to the AMNH website and select a specific time on your date.

31. Cathedral of St. John the Divine

St. John the Divine, a Romanesque and Gothic revival cathedral on the Upper West Side, sits on Amsterdam Avenue between W. 110th Street (a.k.a Cathedral Parkway) and W. 113th Street. When you see the cathedral, you’re bound to scratch your head at its unusual appearance.

Despite construction starting over 100 years ago, the cathedral remains unfinished and has a mix of styles due to changes in design, funding issues, and fire. Yet, St. John the Divine, with its gorgeous stained glass rose window, is one of the largest churches in the world.

You can visit with a timed entry ticket or join one of the public guided tours including the Vertical Tour which takes you up to the top of the cathedral. Tickets are available on the cathedral’s website.

ProTip: For 20 years, a trio of peacocks, Jim, Phil, and Harry, lived the good life wandering the 13 acres of the cathedral grounds. However, if you were hoping to see them, they are no longer there (although there is a possibility of a new trio at some point). They’ve been moved to an animal sanctuary to receive care and comfort as they live a happy retirement.

32. General Grant National Memorial

This hidden gem National Memorial is tucked in between Harlem and the Upper West Side of Manhattan at the northern edge of Riverside Park near W. 122nd Street.

The mausoleum is the final resting place of President Ulysses S. Grant and his wife, Julia. The site is managed by the National Park Service and park rangers are onsite to retell the history and stories of this President and the era in which he lived.

The Memorial is open Wednesday-Sunday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. At the time of rewriting and updating this guide (2023), the Memorial Site was still limiting the number of people allowed inside the mausoleum at any given time. Additionally, the mausoleum and mosaic bench areas close at 4 p.m. while the other areas of the National Monument are open until 5 p.m.

And with no ticket needed to visit, it’s absolutely one of the most interesting free things to do in NYC.

ProTip: Riverside Park is beloved by NYers. Particularly beginning in the low 100s, you’ll find grand open walkways, river views, and monuments like the Firemen’s Memorial at 100th Street. You can also rent Citibikes and ride along the Hudson River Greenway to the Battery Park area in lower Manhattan.

33. Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts

Lincoln Center is home to iconic cultural institutions including the New York City Ballet, the Metropolitan Opera, the New York Philharmonic, the Lincoln Center Theater, the Julliard School, and the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, among several others.

It’s situated between W. 62nd and W. 65th Streets just where Broadway and Columbus Avenue intersect. At night, the lights of the buildings illuminate around the center fountain. If you’re planning to see a show at one of the theaters or performance spaces at Lincoln Center, you’ll be taking part in a quintessential NYC performing arts outing.

If you like jazz, take a look at the Jazz at Lincoln Center performance schedule. Part of Lincoln Center, though performances take place in Columbus Circle, a show at a place like the Allen Room or Dizzy’s Club comes with fantastic Columbus Park and Central Park views.

34. Grand Central Terminal

This famous train station is both a National Historic Landmark and Beaux-Arts masterpiece, as well as a connection point for NYC’s subway and many commuter trains. It’s also got shops, a food court, the famous Oyster Bar, and even a gourmet market. It’s almost a small city unto itself!

Take a moment to look at the constellations on the domed green ceiling in the main concourse. Walk the ramps to the lower level to arrive in front of the Oyster Bar. You might notice other people talking into one of the corners just outside the Oyster Bar. Because of the acoustics in the space, you can talk into one of the corners while another person at the opposite diagonal corner can hear every word you say.

Grand Central is on 42nd Street between Park and Lexington Avenues. It’s just a quick 5-minute walk from Fifth Avenue and Bryant Park. It’s also just next to Summit One Vanderbilt with internal access between the buildings.

35. Chrysler Building

If you’re walking down 42nd Street toward Grand Central Terminal, look up! You can’t miss the iconic Art Deco Chrysler Building. It was completed at the end of May in 1930 and, for about 1 year, was the tallest building in the world until the Empire State Building was completed.

In fact, there was a race to build the tallest building among the Chrysler Building, 40 Wall Street, and the Empire State Building. 40 Wall Street was completed first and was the tallest for just a couple of months.

In secret, the former business partner of the guy at 40 Wall Street who also happened to be building the Chrysler Building, had the building’s spire made within the building. Once the building was finished and the spire added, the Chrysler Building had (temporarily) won the race to the sky.

Although there are no tours or observation decks to visit the Chrysler Building, you can go inside to admire the lobby on weekdays between 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. The best close-up sky views of the Chrysler Building are from atop Summit One Vanderbilt.

36. The FRIENDS Experience

Can’t get enough of Rachel, Monica, Phoebe, Ross, Chandler, and Joey? Here’s your chance to immerse yourself in the show!

Across 2 levels, you can visit the apartments, Central Perk, recreate your own couch-moving “pivot” photo-op, and see many original props and costumes from the show. It’s a ton of fun for fans of the show, who, let’s admit it, always wanted to join the “Friends” group at Monica’s apartment!

The experience is located at the corner of E. 23rd Street and Lexington Avenue. Get your tickets in advance to select the time and date you’d like to visit. There are a limited number of people allowed in at any given time so that you can enjoy the experience and take photos without crowds of people.

37. Museum of Broadway

Finally, Broadway has a museum to celebrate its fascinating history! Opened in November 2022, the museum is broken into 3 parts to show visitors the evolution of Broadway shows over the decades, information about New York City’s theater district, and exhibits that explain the making of a Broadway show.

The museum is full of original costumes, props, and set designs. There are rooms dedicated to specific shows depending on where you are in the Broadway timeline. And the interactive displays let you have your moment in the spotlight of your favorite show. Ever wanted to be Mimi from Rent singing “Out Tonight” on the staircase? You can climb the staircase there and pose for your perfect Mimi shot!

The Museum of Broadway is located in the theater district, of course! It’s on W.45th Street between 6th and 7th Avenues. It’s open 7 days a week, from 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. The museum is one of the top things to do in NYC for theater lovers!

38. Intrepid Sea Air, & Space Museum

The Intrepid is a permanently docked American naval history museum along the Hudson River at Pier 86 (W. 46th Street) on the far west side of Midtown Manhattan. This famous aircraft carrier served in World War II, the Cold War, the Vietnam War, and helped Nasa as a recovery vessel.

Today, you’ll find military planes, a submarine, and other vessels on board, as well as a real U.S. Space Shuttle and a Concorde. There are a ton of exhibits and interactive activities for all ages to enjoy. If you have a question while you’re visiting, ask one of the retired Navy Sailors who volunteer their time.

As with nearly all top things to do in NYC, avoid the line by booking your Intrepid ticket in advance .

39. Get a Hudson River Perspective on a Circle Line Cruise.

In my opinion, everyone who visits NYC should see it at least once from the water. It’s the best vantage point to understand that Manhattan is truly an island, as well as pass under bridges and see the city from a different angle. And the view is even more stunning when you go at night and see the city skyline lit up.

Circle Line offers several sightseeing cruises. This Harbor Lights Cruise is about 2 hours long and takes you from Pier 83 (W. 43rd Street) in Midtown Manhattan south into New York Harbor, around the southern tip of the island, and then up the east side as far as the Williamsburg Bridge.

Along the way, you’ll pass by the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Brooklyn Bridge, One World Trade Center, the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, the Intrepid, and more. There are indoor and outdoor decks, as well as a place to buy snacks and drinks.

40. Guggenheim Museum

Even before you go inside to see the exhibits, stop to admire the Guggenheim’s exterior. It was designed by master architect Frank Lloyd Wright and completed in 1959. It’s since been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The building works in tandem as a piece of art containing numerous contemporary exhibitions on display inside. The works change so check the exhibitions that are on at the time of your visit.

The Guggenheim sits along Fifth Avenue between E. 88th and E. 89th Streets and is part of New York City’s Museum Mile. Once inside, you begin at the top and experience the exhibits as the rotunda spirals lead to the works of art being shown.

The museum is just a few blocks from The Metropolitan Museum of Art and is opposite Central Park. It’s easy to combine museum visits or combine time at the Guggenheim with some exploration in this part of Central Park including the Reservoir and its popular loop path.

You can get your tickets in advance to avoid the line.

41. Visit Chinatown NYC.

A visit to Chinatown has to be one of the most fun things to do in NYC, especially if you’re a foodie! There are a seemingly endless number of places to taste dumplings, noodles, pork rolls, and the like. The key is knowing where and how to allocate you’re valuable stomach real estate. You can get all my tips in my Chinatown NYC guide !

In addition, a stroll through the neighborhood (especially along Mott Street) during the day gives a glimpse of the lively fish and produce markets lining the streets. Chinatown is also known for its shopping, particularly for knock-off designer items. You’ll find these types of goods on Canal and the side streets in between.

I prefer to spend money in local shops like Ting’s Gift Shop at the corner of Pell and Doyers Streets after indulging in some of my favorite dishes at Wo Hop.

42. Manhattan Bridge Arch & Colonnade

While you’re in Chinatown, walk a few minutes along Canal Street to the Bowery. This is also where the entrance to the Manhattan Bridge is. The arch and the colonnade of the bridge date back to 1915. Together, they create a half-circular monument with columns and sculptures and have been recognized as an NYC landmark.

Aside from viewing the arch and the colonnade from street level, you can go to The Crown, a rooftop bar (all ages welcome with someone 21+ during the day) that overlooks the city and provides a spectacular view of the bridge’s arch and colonnade.

If you have a little time, walk onto the pedestrian walkway of the Manhattan Bridge. It’s located on the right side if you’re facing the arch and colonnade. There are several great photo spots of the city and the bridge even if you walk just a bit of the pathway.

43. See Historic Little Italy.

Just next to Chinatown, you’ll find the remaining streets of NYC’s Little Italy. In fact, for a truly one-of-a-kind look at how close these neighborhoods are, stand at the corner of Canal Street and Mulberry Street. If you look one way down Mulberry Street, you’ll see the hanging lanterns of Chinatown, while the other direction has the tinsel, lights, and Italian welcome to Little Italy.

Mahattan’s Little Italy is centered on the north side of Canal Street in and around the Mulberry, Baxter, Hester, and Grand Streets. The neighborhood is lined with restaurants and shops selling Italian pastries, cheese, and fresh pasta.

It pays to do a little homework before eating in Little Italy. There are more than a few mediocre restaurants catering to tourists.

Parm has excellent eggplant and meatball heroes. Il Cortile and Umberto’s Clam House are both delicious spots to sit down and enjoy a meal. Rubirosa and Lombardi’s (a little north of Little Italy in “Nolita”) both are classic spots for pizza. And for Italian pastries, go straight to Ferrara’s Bakery, open since 1892.

44. Catacombs by Candlelight

The Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral, or Old St. Patrick’s, is a Catholic church that was built in the early 1800s. It’s on Mulberry Street between Prince and Houston Streets. It was built because of the increasing number of Catholics who were immigrating to the United States, mainly from Ireland and Italy. Today the cathedral is both a New York City Landmark and on the National Register of Historic Places.

Included in the cathedral’s past is its Catacombs, which can be toured with a guide. While touring the catacombs may be one of the more unique things to do in NYC, it’s a fascinating way to learn about the cathedral and hear little-known historical tales about the neighborhood as it experienced waves of change due to immigration in the 1800s and 1900s.

The Catacombs by Candlelight tour is about 90 minutes and gives you access to non-public areas of the cathedral, including 2 enclosed cemeteries where many high-profile figures have their final resting place.

45. The Frick Collection

The Frick Collection is comprised of the paintings and decorative art pieces that once belonged to Henry Clay Frick, a wealthy businessman and art patron. The small museum is one of the most important in the entire country and is a favorite among New Yorkers and visitors alike. It’s a can’t-miss for art lovers visiting NYC.

The collection includes works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Monet, Goya, and Bellini among many others. There are also valuable pieces of 18th-century furniture, sculptures, and porcelain pieces. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions.

Typically, the collection is housed in Frick’s former mansion on E. 70th Street at Fifth Avenue. However, for the past few years, the space has been undergoing renovations. In the interim, the Frick Collection has been moved to a temporary location called Frick Madison on Madison Avenue at E. 75th Street. There are hopeful signs the Frick Collection will re-open in its original location in 2024.

You can visit the museum’s website to purchase tickets.

46. United Nations Headquarters

We all know what the United Nations is but it may be less clear to understand what the United Nations does on a daily basis. That’s why this is one of those New York activities that is truly noteworthy.

The United Nations offers daily 1 hour tours in a variety of languages. The Standard Guided Tour takes you through the history and work of the United Nations, as you pass through the same spaces as diplomats from around the world. You’ll get to see the General Assembly Hall and the Security Council Meeting room, among other important spaces. There are also themed tours focusing on the architecture of the building, women’s rights, black history, and even a tour geared toward children.

To book the Standard Guided Tour, visit the United Nations booking page .

The United Nations Headquarters occupies several city blocks between E. 42nd and E. 48th Street on Manhattan’s far east side along the FDR Highway overlooking the East River. If you’re visiting Grand Central Terminal or near the Chrysler Building, walk east across any street from 42nd to 48th until you reach The United Nations Plaza. You can also take the M42 bus across town.

47. New York Public Library

The main branch of the New York Public Library along Fifth Avenue is a prominent midtown landmark and the 2nd biggest library in the country after the Library of Congress. The Beaux-Arts building opened in 1911 and has millions of books, manuscripts, and objects in its collection.

It’s also been the filming location for countless movies and TV shows including the library ghost scene in Ghostbusters and the place where Carrie Bradshaw gets left standing at the altar in the first Sex and the City movie.

The library is open to the public. Even before you truly admire the architecture of the building, you’ll pass the 2 lion statues, named Patience and Fortitude. Once inside, you can visit Astor Hall, the McGraw Rotunda with its painted ceiling, the Map Collection, and, of course, the stunning Rose Room and Gallery.

The best way to see the Rose Room and Gallery, in particular, is by joining one of the docent-led tours which take place Monday-Saturday. There are full building tours which last 1 hour and Rose Reading Room tours which are just 15 minutes. These tours are free and are available to a limited group of 20-25 people on a first-come-first-serve basis.

You can book online for the full tour starting on Sunday for the upcoming week. For the 15-minute tour, sign up in the McGraw Rotunda up to 30 minutes before the tour starts. For tour times, visit the NYPL’s website for the most current information.

48. South Street Seaport

South Street Seaport is one of the oldest parts of the city and has been brightly revitalized. You’ll come across historic buildings and restored ships, cobblestone streets, shops, and dining. And from the piers, you’ll have beautiful views of the harbor.

This area is on the southern end of the island, situated on the east side near the Financial District and the East River. The South Street Seaport Museum on Fulton Street highlights the area’s history. The museum also includes access to the Wavertree, a 19th-century cargo ship that is also the largest ship made of iron afloat today.

One of my favorite spots is Brown & Co. Stationers on Water Street. Printing was big business for maritime companies needing to print invoices, cargo lists, and the like. Today, the business still has its 19th-century printing presses and customers can print cards, stationery, and other novelty items.

49. Street Art in Bushwick

The Brooklyn neighborhood of Bushwick is a mecca for New York City’s street art scene. The Bushwick Collective is the organization behind the murals that cover the walls of the neighborhood’s industrial spaces.

The street art movement here has transformed the neighborhood for the better, with artists from around the world coming to share their work with the public. Murals and works of art in Bushwick are part of a “living” exhibition. Murals change regularly so on a visit today, you’ll see works that are different from a few years ago. If your timing is right, you might even see an artist in action creating a new mural!

You can take the “L” subway train to Bushwick and get off at the Jefferson Street station to wander the neighborhood. A better plan is to go on a guided walking tour . Not only will the guide know where all the best murals are, but you’ll also get background on the neighborhood and the artists who create the public art.

You can read my review of the Bushwick Street Art Walking Tour.

50. Shop and Stroll in Soho.

This iconic NYC neighborhood is known for its architecture, shopping, cobblestone streets, art galleries, and cafes. Soho is situated between 6th Avenue and Crosby Street from west to east and Houston and Canal Streets from north to south. The name itself refers to its location which is SO uth of HO uston Street.

From big-name brands to trendy boutiques and vintage shops, Soho is a shopper’s delight! Whether you’re looking for new shoes, used books, or a one-of-a-kind piece of clothing, simply wander along Broadway and streets stemming from it in a westward direction (toward the Hudson River if you’re looking at a map).

While you explore the neighborhood, it’s impossible to miss the gorgeous cast-iron buildings! The construction of this type of architecture was short-lived, mainly during the latter half of the 19th century, before giving way to the skyscraper. I highly recommend the Cast Iron Soho Walking Tour app (it’s free) to help you find Soho’s prettiest buildings and learn more about their history.

During your time in Soho, be sure to taste a cronut from the famed Dominique Ansel Bakery. You might even want to reserve a table for a classic NYC brunch at Balthazar or have some pub bites at the historic Fanelli Cafe.

51. Tenement Museum

At the start of the 20th century, New York City welcomed millions of immigrants in search of a better life. Many of them stayed in NYC, particularly in the tenement housing on the city’s lower east side.

The Tenement Museum, located in the same neighborhood where these new arrivals lived and worked, tells the stories of some of these immigrants.

The museum is unique in that a guide takes you through a specific tenement apartment and/or even through parts of the neighborhood. During the visit, you’ll get an intimate look at what life was like for that particular person or family.

The Tenement Museum has a varying schedule of tours. So, even if you visit once, you can always return for a different-themed tour and a fresh perspective. If you’re planning a visit to Ellis Island, this can be a great way to expand your understanding of these hopeful new arrivals.

52. Merchant House Museum

If you visit The Tenement Museum (and even if you didn’t), plan an hour or so at the Merchant House Museum .

Less than a mile from The Tenement Museum, this family house turned museum shows the opposite side of life in the late 18th and early 19th century in NYC. Home to a wealthy New York family, the historic house has been preserved fully intact.

The Tredwell family raised their 8 children here, with the youngest Gertrude, living in the house up until she died in 1933. At that point, the house was closed as it was (like a time capsule) until a cousin saved the house in 1936 from demolition and turned it into a museum.

Today, you’ll see the house just as the wealthy family left it, complete with many of their personal possessions. You might also catch a glimpse of Gertrude herself! The house has been nicknamed the most haunted house in NYC.

53. Essex Market

Just near the Tenement Museum between Essex and Ludlow Streets, Essex Market is an indoor market with vendors at ground level selling fruits, vegetables, meats, cheese, and other gourmet food items. There’s also a craft beer-tasting bar and shop.

Downstairs, you’ll find a food court with an eclectic mix of cuisines from Mexican, Turkish, Vietnamese, Japanese, Indian, Chinese, Moroccan, and Ukrainian.

This historic market is a great spot on the lower east side to stroll indoors and find a delicious respite from the busy NYC streets.

54. Relax at a Rooftop Bar.

There’s no denying how spectacular the New York City skyline is when seen from above. And while you can see it from numerous highrise experiences, enjoying the view from a rooftop bar is a quintessentially NYC thing to do.

As you might expect, there’s no shortage of NYC rooftop bars to choose from! The location of the rooftop bar will determine what buildings you’ll see up close. There are also rooftop bars that are more of a party scene versus others where you can lounge with a cocktail and enjoy the view. Some, like The Crown in Chinatown, even welcome children (when accompanied by an of-age adult) during the daytime.

The rooftop bar at 230 Fifth Avenue might just be the most famous rooftop in New York City. There’s no denying that its front and center views of the Empire State Building are incredible.

For a bit of a more special experience, check out the Ophelia Lounge at the top of the Beekman Tower near 1st Avenue and E.49th Street in Midtown East. The views of the East River and the 59th Street Bridge are stunning at night. And the 360° views from the wrap-around terrace let you look gaze at the full scope of Manhattan’s gorgeous skyline.

Gallow Green wins the award for the most beautiful rooftop. And if you’re up for an adventure, take the tramway to Roosevelt Island to enjoy a cocktail from the Panorama Room. You’ll be rewarded with sweeping NYC skyline views!

55. Rubin Museum of Art

This museum in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood flies under the radar compared to New York City’s more famous spots like The Met or MoMA. Yet, this gem of a museum is worth a bit of your time!

The exhibits include works from the Himalayas, India, and Central Asia. Paintings, photographs, tapestries, artifacts, and sculptures are all part of the permanent collections, with temporary exhibitions serving as a complement.

The Rubin is an extremely peaceful place, too. I particularly love the Shrine Room! For a moment, you just might forget you’re in loud and chaotic New York City! The also museum hosts events as well including mindful meditation sessions and family-themed experiences so that all ages can take advantage of the museum’s interactive experience.

You can book your tickets for The Rubin Museum in advance to enjoy this unique New York City cultural site.

56. Tour Filming Locations.

We can all name movies or TV series that took place in New York City. One of them may have even inspired you to plan a trip to NYC. As a local NYer, I can confirm that it’s a common occurrence to see film trailers around the city shooting TV episodes and movie scenes. Even still, I can’t resist stopping to see what they’re filming and perhaps even glimpse a celebrity.

While I can’t guarantee you’ll see something actually being filmed, you can take a fun tour to visit the filming locations of your favorite TV show or movie.

On Location Tours has TV and movie-themed tours, as well as show-specific tours for die-hard fans of shows like Sex and the City, Gossip Girl, or The Sopranos.

57. Union Square Greenmarket

The Greenmarket in Union Square is chock full of vendors selling local fruits, vegetables, cheeses, meats, baked goods, fish, and homemade foods from the farms closest to New York City. It’s beloved by NYers and visitors alike. You’re guaranteed to see local shoppers picking up some of their favorite foods!

Spend a little time walking through the open-air market, talking with the food sellers, sampling, and buying fresh foods. The market hosts events like cooking demonstrations and cookbook signings, too.

Union Square Greenmarket is located along the north and west sides of Union Square Park between E.14th and E.17th streets. It runs all year on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

58. Strand Book Store

The Strand is a New York institution with a few locations around the city. However, the flagship space is near Union Square on Broadway and E.12th Street.

What’s so special about a bookstore? The original Strand is nearly 100 years old. Opening in 1927, its founder wanted it to be a place for true book lovers to browse, read, and talk about books. Today, Strand has 2.5 million used, new, and rare books for sale, which is nearly 18 miles of books! Some are for sale for as little as $1 for a total NYC steal!

Its staff are passionate bibliophiles who are experts at helping you find what you’re looking for…even if you’re not sure yourself! If you’re like me and love books, add this stop to your New York City itinerary. Perhaps you’ll discover a perfect, gently-used, dog-eared souvenir to take home with you.

59. Admire the Flatiron Building.

When you come upon the Flatiron Building, you’ll know it instantly. Its characteristic triangular shape makes it one of the most recognizable skyscrapers in the world. It actually looks like an iron you’d use on your clothes!

The building sits on a triangle-shaped block where Broadway and 5th Avenue crisscross at E.23rd Street. The building isn’t open for visits but it’s still too photogenic to miss. Stand in one of the pedestrian plazas just north of the building to get the best photos.

ProTip: If you walk to the corner of E. 26th Street and 5th Avenue, look north for a great photo-op with the Empire State Building and some New York City street art.

60. Mangia at Eataly!

Once you’ve taken in the views of the Flatiron Building, you and your appetite should head into Eataly on 5th Avenue between E. 23rd and E.24th Streets. It’s NYC’s original Eataly location with over 50,000 square feet of delicious Italian foods.

You can sit down and have pizza, wine, coffee, or gelato. There are also prepared foods available to take away. Others shop for Italian cheeses meats, products, and ingredients that may not be sold elsewhere in the U.S. (except at other Eataly locations).

Another highlight of Eataly’s combined marketplace and eatery is the rooftop restaurant, Serra. Make a reservation, though, because seats fill up quickly.

61. Search for History on Wall Street & in the Financial District.

New York City’s economic headquarters is undoubtedly Wall Street. The New York Stock Exchange is at the corner of Broad and Wall Streets and is one of the most well-known places in the city.

But in and around the Wall Street area, there are several other sights not to miss.

The famed “Fearless Girl” statue stands proudly staring at the Stock Exchange building. The popular “Charging Bull” statue is just 3 minutes south of Wall Street on Broadway.

If you’re standing on Wall Street itself, next to the New York Stock Exchange, look down. Find the wooden squares on the road. These are the former wooden posts that were used for the actual wall built by the Dutch colonists. That’s how Wall Street got its name!

62. Federal Hall

When you’re on Wall Street looking at the New York Stock Exchange, you can’t miss Federal Hall with its giant statue of George Washington overlooking the square.

The building that is Federal Hall today was built in 1842. However, at this site, also stood a building that served as the United States’ first capital, hosting the first congress and the inauguration of George Washington.

Today, Federal Hall is managed by the National Park Service and is a National Monument.

Inside, you’ll find a small museum with artifacts and information about the American Revolution and George Washington’s inauguration. Park rangers also lead guided tours. You may even run into George himself! He occasionally appears to greet visitors and talk about the Revolutionary War.

Federal Hall is without a doubt one of the most interesting free things to do in New York City!

63. Trinity Church & Cemetery

At Broadway and Rector Street in the financial district and close to Wall Street, you’ll find the Trinity Church Cemetery. It’s one of the oldest official burial sites in all of New York City. In fact, one of the graves dates back to 1681 which is 16 years before Trinity officially purchased the land to be used as a churchyard.

The cemetery also happens to be the final resting place of many influential New Yorkers. Alexander Hamilton is undoubtedly the most famous, along with his wife Eliza, sister-in-law Angelica, and son Philip. Other graves are those of American Revolutionary figures like American spy Hercules Mulligan and famous early American military officials, congressmen, and senators.

You can also visit the inside of Trinity Church. It’s actually the third Trinity Church to stand in this spot. It was built in 1846. The first was built in 1698 but was burned in the Great Fire of New York in 1776. The second was irreversibly damaged during a snowstorm in 1839.

64. Stone Street

To continue on your lower Manhattan history tour, head south on Broad Street from the New York Stock Exchange until you reach Stone Street.

Stone Street is one of the oldest streets in the city. Back when New York was New Amsterdam and controlled by the Dutch, some of the local housewives complained about the dust and debris constantly messing the front of their houses. As a result, Stone Street became the first paved road in the colony.

Today, the street is still cobblestoned but is now lined with restaurants and bars. The street is closed to car traffic which makes it a picturesque spot to sit down for a drink and some snacks.

65. Fraunces Tavern

While you’re in the Financial District near Stone Street, walk one more block to the corner of Pearl and Broad Streets.

Fraunces Tavern is a historic restaurant with a connection to George Washington and the Revolutionary War. Once the American Revolution had been won, George Washington held a private dinner here to thank his officers, talking to each one individually.

Today, Fraunces Tavern is both a restaurant and a museum. Inside, you’ll find maps and artifacts from the colonial and American Revolutionary days. The building and the immediate neighborhood are part of the National Historic Registry.

In addition to its restaurant and museum, Fraunces Tavern also has a piano bar with live performances every night except Monday.

66. Ride the Staten Island Ferry.

If you’re looking for free things to do in NYC, take the 25-minute ferry ride to Staten Island and see New York Harbor, the Manhattan Skyline, and Lady Liberty before catching a return ferry from the terminal on Staten Island.

You won’t get to visit the Statue of Liberty but you’ll get a close-up view. On the return trip, the views are equally as beautiful as the boat approaches lower Manhattan.

The Staten Island Ferry departs from the Whitehall Ferry Terminal (a.k.a. South Ferry) on Manhattan’s southern tip. Depending on the time of day, ferries depart every 15-30 minutes. It is possible to take the ferry to Staten Island and hop on the next boat back for an immediate return trip.

If you decide to ride the ferry, try to do it outside of commuting hours when it’s naturally more crowded.

67. Take a Trip to Governors Island.

New York Harbor has several islands open to the public, including Governors Island . However, visitors (and even some NYers!) may not be all that familiar with this NYC hidden gem. Would you believe it’s just 5 minutes by boat from lower Manhattan!? And yet, feels as if you’re worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The island is home to 2 former military buildings, Fort Jay and Castle Williams, which are now managed by the National Park Service and also a combined National Monument. These military outposts were built after the Revolutionary War as the city and the new nation worked to improve coastal defense. During the Civil War, they served as military barracks for new soldiers and a Confederate POW prison.

Today both are open to the public to visit on weekends in the summer, with Park Rangers giving free guided tours.

The rest of the island hosts art exhibitions, free walking tours, and cultural events. Some of these exhibitions are in the former houses of the military families who used to live on the island.

There are bike paths and open outdoor spaces, as well. Bikes are available to rent on the island. Or if you prefer to simply take in the amazing Manhattan views, sit back at one of the waterside restaurants. There’s even the QC NY, a luxury spa on the island where you can indulge in all types of body treatments.

Take the ferry from the Battery Maritime Building at 10 South Street on the lower tip of Manhattan. You’ll also likely see signs pointing in the direction of the Governors Island ferry. The island is open every day year-round with ferries departing lower Manhattan at 7 a.m. and returning until 6 p.m. At the time of rewriting/updating this guide, round-trip ferry tickets are $4.

68. Morgan Library & Museum

This gem of a museum stems from the collection of rare books, historical manuscripts, drawings, and objects that once belonged to Pierpont Morgan. His son, J.P. Morgan, gifted the collection so that it could be used and admired by the public, be it for cultural enrichment or research.

Visitors today can see incredible pieces of history including an original Declaration of Independence, sheet music in Mozart’s handwriting, and an original manuscript of a Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. Objects date back 4000 years and the Morgan Library also is the only place to have 3 Gutenberg Bibles, the first book printed with a printing press.

The building itself is a work of architectural art. From its rich wood interior and frescoed ceilings to the modern Renzo Piano entrance, the Morgan Library building should be equally as admired as the works in the library’s collection.

The Morgan Library is located on Madison Avenue between E. 36th and E 37th Streets and is open every day except Monday. It’s easily one of the best places to visit in New York City.

69. Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Botanical gardens are always impressive to me, given my total lack of a green thumb. But the Brooklyn Botanic Garden even more so because of its location in the heart of Brooklyn. Like many green spaces in New York City, it’s (pleasantly) surprising and also perhaps temporarily disorienting to go from a concrete jungle to a verdant oasis.

Situated on 52 acres next to Prospect Park, the botanical gardens take you along winding paths through themed gardens showcasing roses, daffodils, a Japanese-style garden, and 12,000 more plant species. There are also a variety of guided tours through the gardens that are free with your entry ticket.

Visiting the Botanic Gardens is a great way to escape the island of Manhattan (the gardens are accessible by subway) for a couple of hours and see one of the best things to do in Brooklyn.

70. Get Spooked on an NYC Ghost Tour.

New York City has been lived in by millions of people over hundreds of years. Some of these past residents have found it hard to leave. I bet you never thought of “the city that never sleeps” in this way before!

Truth be told, NYC has its fair share of haunted places and spooky tales. From private homes, hotels, taverns, restaurants, and even popular places like the Empire State Building and Washington Square Park, they’ve all had reports of ghostly sightings.

If you’re brave enough, join an NYC ghost tour to visit and hear some of the city’s most haunted places. This ghost tour takes you through neighborhoods like Chinatown and Little Italy with a focus on mafia-related ghost stories. While this ghost tour focuses on Greenwich Village, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods.

71. Attend a Sporting Event.

New York City is home to some of the best sporting venues and world-famous teams. Depending on when you’re in town, go to a Yankees Game (or Mets…not trying to offend)! The New York City subway runs directly to both baseball stadiums.

Visiting outside of baseball season? Grab seats to a New York Knicks or Brooklyn Nets basketball game. Or watch the New York Rangers or New York Islanders battle it out on the ice.

72. Jackie Robinson Museum

Open in the Fall of 2022, the Jackie Robinson Museum honors the life and work of this remarkable American and his achievements as an athlete and a Civil Rights advocate. In fact, it’s the first museum in New York City to highlight the Civil Rights Movement.

The museum’s collection contains thousands of artifacts, some of which have come directly from Jackie Robinson’s family.

If you don’t know much about the life of Jackie Robinson, I highly recommend spending some time at this museum. He’s an incredible historical figure who, through his passion to just play baseball, has left behind countless lessons on character and equality that are impactful for people of all ages.

The Jackie Robinson Museum is located on the corner of Varick and Canal Streets in the Tribeca neighborhood. The museum is open Thursday-Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and tickets can be purchased on the museum’s website.

73. Sing at a Koreatown Karaoke Bar.

If you’re traveling with a group of family or friends, look no further than Korea Town for an unforgetable and fun night out. You can rent a private room with waiter service at one of the neighborhood’s Karaoke bars and sing your heart out just amongst your group without the pressure of an entire bar staring at you.

I’ve done this with friends and even a group of teachers who I worked with. Each time, it was a night full of laughs and good times!

Each karaoke bar will have different packages for rooms, amount of time, and optional food and drinks included. As you compare options, take a look at Gagopa Karaoke, Space Karaoke, and Spot Karaoke.

74. Eat Pizza. Lots of It.

I will be completely upfront and say I have planned entire days out in NYC that revolved around tasting different pizzas. And, I highly encourage you to eat as much pizza as your body will allow during your trip to New York. Eating pizza is absolutely one of the best things to do in New York! (For the record, the best pizza I’ve ever had in NYC is at Juliana’s in Brooklyn, just a few minutes walk from the end of the Brooklyn Bridge.)

There are pizza tours you can do like this one . You can also put together your own DIY pizza tour by looking up some of the best pizzerias around the 5 boroughs of NYC and use the subway to hop from place to place.

Here’s an NYC pizza itinerary going from Greenwich Village to Soho.

Start at Bleecker Street Pizza for a Nonna Maria slice. Turn left on Bleecker Street for a stop at John’s of Bleecker Street or Keste. Both sell full pies only so it’s best to choose one of them and not overstuff yourself yet.

Then, at the end of Bleecker, turn left onto Carmine Street and taste a classic cheese slice from Joe’s. Cross over 6th Avenue and walk up Minetta Lane. Turn left on MacDougal and sample a Sicilian slice from Ben’s Pizzeria. Then trace your footsteps back on MacDougal for an artichoke slice from Artichoke Pizza. This is a slice that’s shareable among a few people…trust me!

If you have it in you for one more slice, make the 15-minute walk to Prince Street Pizza. Go for a pepperoni square and/or a square with their vodka sauce. At this point, you’ll be in pizza coma heaven.

75. Coney Island

Coney Island, on the southern end of Brooklyn, is famous for its sandy beaches and retro amusement rides at Luna Park. And it’s all just a subway ride away from Manhattan using the D, F, N, or Q trains.

The most famous ride at Coney Island is the Cyclone at Luna Park . This wooden roller coaster has been running for nearly 100 years and is now the 2nd steepest wooden roller coaster in the world. It’s even a New York City and National Historic Landmark!

In addition to the amusement rides at Luna Park, walk the Coney Island Boardwalk and maybe even walk along the beach and dip your toes in the Atlantic Ocean. Your friends and family back home won’t believe you when you tell them you went to the beach in New York City!

76. Eat up at Smorgasburg!

Calling all foodies…and anyone who likes to eat! Smorgasburg is a sweet and savory New York experience not to be missed. It’s extremely popular and on blue-sky days, expect to see a mix of locals and NYC visitors.

This weekly open-air food market is an eclectic mix of cuisines by some of the best local food sellers in the tri-state area. Visitors can walk through the market deciding which tempting bites are simply too much to resist.

Smorgasburg has 3 locations (in 2023). On Fridays, you can find the market in the Financial District along the side of the Oculus near the 9/11 Museum. On Saturdays, head to Marsha P. Johnson State Park in Williamsburg Brooklyn. And Sundays, you’ll find Smorgasburg in Prospect Park in Brooklyn. The market starts at 11 a.m. and runs through the day.

77. The Met Cloisters

The lovely Cloisters Museum focuses on medieval art that will transport you back to the Middle Ages. Located in the far northern reaches of Manhattan on a hill in Fort Tryon Park, The Cloisters combine artifacts, gardens, architecture, and tapestries to shed light on the artistry of the dark ages.

If you’re like me, you’ll be completely swept away by the beauty of this place! It’s hard to believe you’re still technically in Manhattan. Of the 3 sections of the museum, the spectacular Unicorn Tapestries stole the show for me. Made around 1500, the panels show the pursuit to catch the mythical unicorn. It’s mind-bending to think how skilled one would need to be to create such an intricate piece of art.

When you’re done in the museum, walk the grounds outside. From this perch, you’ll have sweeping Hudson River views.

The Cloisters Museum is an extension of The Met. In fact, your ticket is good for both places as long as you visit both on the same day. The quickest way to reach The Cloisters is by subway. Take the A train uptown to 190th Street. Then, walk for about 10 minutes up Margaret Corbin Drive until you reach the museum.

78. Try a Bagel with Lox.

Bagels are as synonymous with New York City as pizza is! You can’t leave without trying at least one.

Visitors usually go for their favorite bagel type with a schmear of cream cheese. But, if you want a classic NYC bagel experience, order a bagel with cream cheese, Lox, tomato, and red onion. You won’t taste this any better, anywhere else!

Russ & Daughters is one of the most famous places to try a bagel with Lox. Their location at 179 E. Houston Street has been open for more than 100 years. They’re clearly doing something right!

I’m also a big fan of Leo’s Bagels in Hanover Square in the Financial District, as well as Absolute Bagels (cash only) on the Upper West Side between W. 107th and W. 108th Streets on Broadway. Don’t be surprised to find lines out the door at either place.

79. Belt Out Showtunes.

If you can’t get enough of Broadway, spend an evening singing your heart out at a piano cabaret bar. There are plenty to choose from it just depends on what type of experience you’re looking for.

Marie’s Crisis on Grove Street just off 7th Avenue in the West Village is an all-time favorite of mine. The pianist plays a mix of musical theater songs while either a performer or the entire bar belts it out. It’s a lot of fun and laughs and a uniquely New York City thing to do!

Others like Don’t Tell Mama in the theater district, The Duplex in the West Village, and Sid Gold’s Request Room in Chelsea are all fun nights out. Singing here is optional if you just prefer to sit back with a cocktail and let the rotating cast of performers (who often also dub as bartenders and waitstaff) perform their favorite show tunes.

80. New York Transit Museum

Have you ever wondered what the subway system in New York City looked like 100+ years ago? Head to downtown Brooklyn to see how the transit system the city can’t live without got its start.

The museum is spread over 2 floors with the lower level being an actual unused retro 1940s train station with vintage train cars that you can go inside. You can even see old signs and advertisements that were in the subway cars decades ago, which I must admit, are pretty funny to see today.

The rest of the museum has exhibits showing the history of the transit system with the information presented in a way that’s friendly for all ages. If you’re traveling to NYC with young kids, put the New York Transit Museum on your itinerary.

81. Attend a Live Music Performance.

New York City is full of amazing musicians who perform every night of the week at the city’s many music venues. No matter what you’re preferred music is, you’re guaranteed to find it playing live somewhere in NYC.

Famed music venues like Radio City Music Hall, Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Madison Square Garden, and The Beacon Theater to name a few will feature headliner performers.

But there are smaller venues dotted across the city where you can enjoy everything from jazz to indie rock. Best of all, the settings are more intimate allowing you to be a part of the experience with the musician(s).

Check out who’s playing at places like The Iridium, Village Vanguard, and 54 Below during your time in NYC.

82. Laugh Hysterically at a Comedy Show.

Besides music and theater, New York is home to legendary and hole-in-the-wall comedy clubs alike. Whether it’s the Greenwich Village Comedy Club, Comedy Cellar, West Side Comedy Club, or Gotham Comedy Club, your sides will ache as you listen to the up-and-coming comedians practice their latest material.

Most of these places are small venues with a laid-back vibe. Plus, you never know when someone big like Chris Rock or Jerry Seinfeld will stop in as a surprise guest for an impromptu set.

83. Splurge on a Fine Dining Experience.

New York City has incredible restaurants in every cuisine you can imagine in every price range. But once in a while, perhaps on a trip to New York City for a special occasion , it’s fun to get dressed up and go for a gourmet meal. So why not indulge in a memorable NYC dining experience?!

Consider making reservations at Le Bernardin, Gotham, Per Se, Daniel, Gramercy Tavern, Marea, Eleven Madison Park, or Blue Hill and savor an expertly prepared meal in a luxurious and romantic setting.

Most of these restaurants refresh at least part of their menus seasonally. They also may offer set menus with a specific number of courses and/or a la carte options. So be sure to check the restaurants’ websites to make the menu suits your palate.

84. Go for a Quintessential NYC Brunch.

Weekend Brunch is a New York institution! Whether you’re in the mood for a more classic brunch menu or want an ethnic twist on the cuisine, you’re likely to find it somewhere in New York City! It’s also not uncommon for an NYC brunch to include alcoholic beverages (although they’re always optional).

If there’s a particular place you’d like to go for brunch, try making a reservation. While it’s not always necessary, it’s not surprising to arrive for brunch only to find there’s a (considerable) wait for a table.

For a few brunch ideas, take a look at Jacob’s Pickles, Good Enough to Eat, Clinton Street Baking Company, Shuka, Cafe Luxembourg, Balthazar, or Jack’s Wife Freda. And if you happen to be on the Upper West Side and prefer somewhere a little more low-key than these suggestions, try neighborhood favorite, Fred’s Restaurant.

85. Katz’s Delicatessen

Katz’s Deli has been stacking sandwiches since 1888. And when I say stack, imagine sandwiches that you can only try to get your mouth around! If it’s your first time in New York City or you’ve never been, it’s worth a stop to taste one of these epic sandwiches.

Katz’s Deli is most famous for its pastrami on rye. People line up to get one because it’s worth the hype! (The matzo ball soup is also really tasty!) The deli was also a filming location for the movie “When Harry Met Sally” and its famous I’ll have what she’s having scene.

Despite what seems like chaos when you arrive, Katz’s is one of the legendary and fun places in New York that you just have to experience!

86. Have a Drink at a Historic Pub.

New York City’s roots as a port and rapidly growing city means pubs were some of the earliest businesses established here. Merchants, sailors, locals, and famous figures are all a part of New York’s pub history.

Pete’s Tavern is one of a few bars claiming to be the oldest continuously operating bar in New York having disguised itself as a flower shop during Prohibition. It opened in 1864 and aptly has an 1864 ale that’s worth a taste!

McSorley’s dates back to 1854 and is the oldest Irish pub in the United States. Complete with sawdust on the floor and years worth of memorabilia layered on the walls, McSorley’s is a true time capsule.

The Ear Inn is also a worthy historic pub for a stop, not to mention a historic building in its own right. The Federal-designed building is one of the last standing in the city. When you’re there, imagine that this used to be where the shore of the Hudson River met the island of Manhattan before the coastline was extended with landfill.

If you prefer, join a historic pub tour to learn more about specific pubs and some history of prohibition in New York City.

87. Watch a Foreign Film.

One of the advantages of seeing a movie in New York City is the variety. From mainstream to indie to foreign films, there’s something for everyone. But going to an independent theater or arthouse is one of those cool things to do in NYC. In fact, it’s typically something unique to big cities like New York because you can find films you can’t see in most other places.

The Walter Reade Theater on the Upper West Side and the IFC Center and the Angelika Film Center, both in Greenwich Village, are great spots to find independent, foreign, and cult movies. Check the schedules and times to see what’s playing and when during your trip to New York.

88. Shop the Grand Bazaar.

This year-round market takes place every Sunday at W. 77th Street and Columbus Avenue on Manhattan’s Upper West Side from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. And, it’s the perfect spot to find that one-of-a-kind NYC souvenir to take home with you!

Each Sunday, different themed vendors come to sell their crafts and products. You can find handmade items from local artists, curated collectibles, antiques, clothes, art, furniture, and even international goods.

The Grand Bazaar supports local sellers by providing a venue and also contributes some of the proceeds to a few local public schools.

89. Party in NYC Nightlife Scene.

New York City isn’t only for sightseeing! The nightlife is also legendary.

If you’re looking for a night out in New York City, you have your pick from heart-thumping nightclubs to swanky lounges to more laid-back cocktail bars. Neighborhoods like the Meatpacking District, the East Village, Chelsea, Midtown, and Nolita offer a plethora of choices.

Admittedly, it’s been a few years since I was out clubbing, but it was always the type of night where you walk away with the type of memories you laugh about with your friends years later!

When you head out for a night of drinking and dancing, expect to pay cover charges to get in, as well as drink minimums of table charges if you have a seated area. Also, check the dress code. Some places don’t allow sneakers or other casual wear.

Tao in Chelsea is one of the most famous spots for nightlife in New York City. Lavo in Midtown East lets guests enjoy a meal first before they head upstairs for a night of house and techno music on the dancefloor.

90. Eat at a Classic New York City Diner

Looking for some comfort food in a classic New York City setting? Head to the nearest diner and choose from favorites like grilled cheese, burgers, french fries, and, of course, breakfast any time.

Many NYC diners have booth seating and a counter with stools where you can imagine a day when milkshakes were being served while the jukebox was playing. Today, though, diners are casual spots for no-frills favorites.

You’ll find diners in nearly every neighborhood around the city, some like the Waverly Diner or the Tick Tock Diner are even open 24/7 for those late nights when you need something after a night out.

Seinfeld fans may even want to make the trip up to Broadway and W. 112th Street to Tom’s Restaurant, otherwise known as the fictional setting for Monk’s Cafe in the hit sitcom. And if you’re in the theater district, the Red Flame Diner is on W. 44th Street and 6th Avenue and is open until 11 p.m. every night. A lifesaver when you want a quick post-show bite without breaking the bank!

91. City Winery

This epic restaurant, wine bar, and performance venue has everything you need within its 32,000-square-foot location for a memorable afternoon or evening in NYC.

City Winery is situated on Pier 57 along the Hudson River in New York’s Tribeca neighborhood and comes with gorgeous views and sunsets. Wine is made on-site with grapes sourced mainly from the west coast. You can do tastings and winery tours.

The patio and dining areas serve a full menu of food, and in winter there are also private heated bubbles (igloos) for visitors to keep warm while still enjoying the food.

The winery also boasts a full schedule of live music and comedy shows, of course, all enjoyed while sipping on one of the winery’s vintages.

City Winery is quite popular. So if you have a specific time of day you want to be there (i.e. sunset), make a reservation.

92. Get Tickets for a Live Show Taping.

Numerous TV shows are filmed right in the heart of Manhattan. Watching or being a part of the studio audience is one of those unique and fun things to do in New York City. The trick is getting tickets!

Luckily, there are a few where all you need to do is show up. The TODAY Show is filmed in Rockefeller Center and no tickets are needed to be part of the crowd gathered outside.

For shows like The Tonight Show, Good Morning America, and Live with Kelly and Mark, check this website to request tickets or join a waitlist for a specific date.

Saturday Night Live is also exciting to see but tickets can be somewhat difficult to get. If you do snag a few seats, you’ll likely have to arrange your trip to New York City around the date of your tickets versus the other way around.

SNL ticket requests can typically only be made in August. Audience members are selected from a lottery system. The great news is you win the lottery, your tickets are free. This SNL website details the procedure for getting SNL tickets and is updated yearly.

93. Fotografiska New York

Fotografiska is a photography museum that stems from the original museum location in Stockholm. Now there are several Fotografiska’s around the world all with the same purpose.

The museum’s exhibits highlight fantastic photographers whether they’re famous or just getting started. Through their photos, you get an intimate look at the story each photo portrays. I’ve been to the Fotografiska in New York and Stockholm and found each visit to be an experience that drew me into the scene the photographer was capturing.

Fotografiska New York is in a renovated Renaissance-Revival landmark building dating back to the late 1800s. Exhibitions rotate regularly so there are always fresh photos to see. Find the museum on Park Avenue South between E. 21st and E. 22nd Streets.

94. Discover Harlem.

Rich in culture, history, and great food, a trip up to Harlem is a great way to get out of the bright lights of midtown to experience one of NYC’s most authentic neighborhoods.

Along Frederick Douglas Blvd between W. 110th and W. 125th streets is Harlem’s own restaurant row. There’s an eclectic mix of cuisines from southern comfort dishes at Melba’s to Caribbean-inspired seafood delights at Lolo’s Seafood Shack.

The historic Apollo Theater opened in 1913, with performances continuing today. The legendary Amateur Night at the Apollo is one of the most famous weekly talent shows and the place where many artists, including Ella Fitzgerald, got their start. Check the Apollo Theater’s website for the calendar of shows and ticket information.

To go deeper into Harlem’s unique culture and history, consider joining a Harlem Highlights and Gospel Tour or a guided neighborhood walking tour .

95. New York Botanical Garden

The New York Botanical Garden is the largest botanical garden in any city across the United States. It has 50 different garden areas, indoor exhibits and attractions, as well as special events like the annual Orchid Show and the much-loved Holiday Train Show.

One of my favorite areas at the Botanical Garden is the Thain Forest. It’s the largest piece of old-growth forest remaining in New York City. It winds past the Bronx River and into thick areas of forest which can help you imagine what the island of Manhattan looked like 400+ years ago. You might even spot a beaver, an animal that continues to make a comeback in NYC.

The New York Botanical Garden is located in the Bronx, one of the 5 boroughs of New York City. Instead of taking the subway, use the Metro-North Harlem Local line from Grand Central to the Botanical Garden Station. The ride is just 20 minutes from midtown Manhattan.

96. Take the Tram to Roosevelt Island.

If you’re on the far east side of Manhattan close to E.59th Street, you may see the Roosevelt Island Tramway overhead gliding along its cables in between Manhattan and Roosevelt Island. This intriguing island sits in the East River between Manhattan and Queens. And besides the tramway, the F train also stops on Roosevelt Island.

Blackwell Island, as it was called during the 17th and 18th centuries, has a dark past. The island once housed an active smallpox hospital, a prison, and a lunatic asylum, to name a few. Roosevelt Island’s location was a perfect place to isolate unwanted members of the population.

Today, these historic and eerie institutions have started to be restored and open for visitors to see. Roosevelt Island also has one of the city’s oldest farmhouses dating back to the late 1700s.

You can do a DIY walking tour like this one to learn more about the history of the island. Or if you prefer to go with a guide, take a look at this guided tour . It doesn’t run often but is led by expert guides. If you want your “what to see in New York list” to be filled with unusual, off-beat places, Roosevelt Island is for you.

97. Levain Bakery

In a city like New York with a seemingly endless number of things to do, is it wrong to feature a bakery and its cookies on a list of top things to do in New York? Not in the case of Levain.

Their cookies are more like colossal indulgences that come in at nearly 1/2 pound (6 oz to be exact). In fact, they’re the best “meal replacement” I’ve ever had! The cookies are baked fresh daily which certainly accounts for their perfect balance of gooey and crispy.

The chocolate chip walnut or double chocolate are my personal favorites, but you can’t go wrong no matter what you choose. Levain’s original location is on W. 74th Street between Amsterdam and Columbus Avenues. It’s a hole-in-the-wall shop that you could walk right by if it wasn’t for the to-die-for-smell coming from inside and the people waiting in line outside.

98. Gray’s Papaya Hot Dog

I bet you never expected “hot dog” to come after “papaya!”

Gray’s Papaya has become a New York City icon after 50 years of serving the finest hot dogs around paired with fruit juices like papaya or coconut.

The location on the corner of W. 72nd Street and Broadway is the original location. You can’t miss it as you exit the 1, 2, or 3 train at 72nd Street.

Top your frank with ketchup, mustard, relish, sauerkraut, onions, cheese, and/or chili. If you’re extra hungry, go for the “Recession Special” which includes 2 hot dogs and a drink for a flat rate.

99. Tour the Boroughs of NYC.

New York City is made up of 5 boroughs, Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Staten Island. Together, there is an endless number of places to discover, eateries to sample bites, and cultures to experience.

It’s normal for a trip to New York City to center around Manhattan with its Broadway Theaters, museums, and sights. But if you can spare some time, visit one or more of the other boroughs to get a fuller sense of how incredible New York City is with its diverse neighborhoods and the customs and traditions that have become part of the city’s melting pot.

If you’re up for an adventure, take the subway to a neighborhood like Greenpoint, Williamsburg, or Bushwick in Brooklyn. Or instead, head to Flushing or Astoria in Queens. These are great neighborhoods for first-time exploration beyond Manhattan and are relatively easy to get to with public transportation.

You can also join a guided bus tour which will take you to different spots around the 5 boroughs to show you the contrasts that make New York City such a fascinating city.

Either way, it’s a fun and terrific thing to do in New York City to expand your perspective on the city’s true essence.

100. Take a Sunset Yacht Cruise.

If you’d like to see New York City from the water but want to avoid a larger sightseeing or dinner cruise, this sunset yacht cruise might be the perfect choice!

The boat is a bit smaller and the ride is just an hour and a half. So, it’s a great way to see the skyline and relax after a day of sightseeing without sacrificing your evening plans.

Toast to a day of spectacular sightseeing while you pass by some of New York City’s most iconic spots aglow in the orange hue of sunset and as the lights are switched on to illuminate the night sky.

Bonus! Holiday & Seasonal Things To Do in New York City!

In addition to the countless year-round New York attractions, different times of the year come with special events and things to see. This would be an extensive list on its own so instead I’ve handpicked a few of the more popular activities should they match up with your trip to New York.

If you’re planning Christmas in New York , take a look at my detailed guide for this special season, as well as these Christmastime mistakes to avoid in NYC .

101. See the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Balloons Come to Life.

You’ve undoubtedly heard of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. But, what about the balloon inflation party that happens the night before?

Each year along the streets in and around the American Museum of Natural History on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, thousands of people come the evening before the parade to see the balloons take shape.

Balloon handlers inflate each tethered balloon on the Wednesday night before Thanksgiving. They stay there on display until the next morning when the parade starts. Visitors can stream past and photograph each balloon.

This event has become increasingly popular. If you go, watch for signs pointing you to the entry point, typically W. 72nd Street and Central Park West. From there, you move toward the balloons.

After you see the balloons, head to a local restaurant along Columbus or Amsterdam Avenues for a fun festive meal.

102. Ice Skate in Central Park.

Ice skating at Wollman Rink in Central Park is one of the most iconic things to do in New York in December and throughout the cooler months.

While skating on the large rink, you’ll be surrounded by the park’s gorgeous scenery (and hopefully a dusting of snow, too)! Towering above the treeline are some of New York City’s most expensive high-rise apartments. It’s a beautiful setting that has been used as a backdrop for countless films and TV shows.

If you don’t have ice skates, not to worry. You can rent them there.

103. Immerse Yourself in the Christmas Spirit at Rolf’s.

Dripping in Christmas decorative decor, a visit to Rolf’s during a Christmas holiday trip is a must! This German restaurant in Gramercy Park takes holiday decorating to another dimension. There are lights, ornaments, and sparkles in every direction you look.

Of course, it’s very crowded in the Christmas season. Expect to wait in line even just to grab a drink at the bar. If you’d like a table, be sure to make a reservation well in advance.

104. Photograph the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree.

Yes, it’s the ultimate in touristy holiday sights, but if you’re in NYC for the Christmas holiday season, braving the crowds to glimpse the tree is a must!

The tree is typically lit the first Wednesday after Thanksgiving. The lights stay on until early January.

105. Admire the Department Store Holiday Windows.

From Bergdorf Goodman on Fifth Avenue and 57th Street down to Macy’s in Herald Square, holiday store windows are a sight to see!

Saks Fifth Avenue is opposite Rockefeller Center and adds an evening light show to complement its store windows. Expect crowds and a lot of jostling to get the perfect viewing angle and photos.

106. Stroll the Bryant Park Winter Village.

Bryant Park is the most famous Christmas Market in New York City.

Kiosks and huts circle the ice rink (installed for the season) at the center of the park with vendors selling all types of goods from novelty gifts, clothes, food, art, jewelry, home decor, and more. Many of these vendors are local artisans who typically sell only online and/or at markets like this one.

The festive atmosphere puts everyone in the Christmas spirit! If there is one holiday market you visit during your NYC Christmas trip, it has to be the one in Bryant Park.

107. Watch the Ball Drop on New Year’s Eve.

The New Year’s celebration in Times Square is one of the most famous in the world. I did it once in my early 20s and had a great time. When the countdown begins and the ball drops, it’s an unforgettable moment to be part of a cheering crowd in Times Square with confetti and balloons falling from the buildings overhead.

That being said, it’s a commitment. For the closest/best possible spots, you’ll need to start your wait hours (and hours) beforehand. Once you’re in your place, you can’t leave because you won’t be able to come back.

What’s my advice? If you’re in NYC for New Year’s Eve and you’re on the fence about going, look at the weather. If it looks to be a decent weather night (no rain/sleet/arctic temps), then go for it. It’s one of those once-in-a-lifetime events.

108. See Shakespeare in Central Park.

Every summer, Shakespeare productions are performed at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park. The featured play or plays change each summer, oftentimes with a well-known Broadway actor appearing in a title role.

Tickets are free but you need to wait in line to get them. Or you can use the TodayTix app to enter a digital lottery. People tend to line up early to be ready for the noon ticket distribution time. Each person in line is eligible to receive 2 seats.

109. Wear Spooky Halloween Costumes.

The annual Greenwich Village Halloween Parade is the place to be if you’re in the city on October 31st. Dress up in your most creative goblin and head to the village for the festivities.

The parade travels up 6th Avenue from King Street to W.15th Street. You can line up for free along the parade route (get there early) or buy tickets for access to a VIP viewing location. Better yet, if you’re wearing a costume and a related mask, you can join the parade by heading to Canal Street and 6th Avenue!

Each year, the parade has a theme that inspires many of the costumes you’ll see. I guarantee they’ll be some of the most original Halloween costumes you’ve ever seen!

110. Watch the NYC July 4th Fireworks.

New York City puts on a massive fireworks display to celebrate July 4th. If you’re in New York, don’t miss the chance to see the show as up close as possible.

The fireworks are set off from barges in the East River. The FDR, the highway along the east side of Manhattan, closes to traffic and people walk the entry ramps to get a front-row seat to the fireworks display over the East River. Access points tend to be from E.23rd, E.34th, and E.42nd Streets.

If you can’t get to the FDR, find a spot along the East Side of Manhattan where you can see the river. Better yet, if you have a friend or family member with access to a rooftop, hit them up for a favor!

111. Celebrate San Gennaro in Little Italy.

Every year, Little Italy’s streets fill with booths and festivalgoers for the Feast of San Gennaro.

For roughly a week and a half starting in the middle of September, Mulberry Street is transformed into a street party honoring San Gennaro of Naples who was a martyred Bishop from Benevento in Italy. Aside from all the delicious food, there are concerts, a cannoli-eating contest, and parades.

112. Photograph Mahattanhenge.

If you haven’t heard of it before, Manhattanhenge is when the setting sun is perfectly positioned between the east and west streets of Manhattan’s grid layout. This phenomenon usually happens around May, June, and July.

Find a vantage point along a wide crosstown street like 14th to see the sunset line up perfectly between the buildings and shine across Manhattan from west to east for a fantastic New York City photo-op!

Bottom Line: Best Things to Do in New York City

New York City is an absolute treasure trove of culture, arts, spectacular food, and one-of-a-kind sightseeing experiences! You can spend a lifetime here and still continually discover more.

For your trip to New York, decide which New York activities are at the top of your list. Then, set off on an unforgettable adventure as you enjoy all NYC has to offer!

What questions do you have about what to do in NYC?

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28 thoughts on “the best 100 things to do in new york city (written by a local)”.

What an incredibly comprehensive list! Wow! It must have taken you forever to compile this! I’ve only visited New York once, when I was 16, back in 2001…a trip to the States is long overdue 🙂 I will keep your list in mind for my trip!

Thanks, Tess! I’m glad the list will be helpful for when you’re able to make it back to the U.S. NYC is a must! 🙂

Thanks for such an awesome list! I still haven’t visited New York, but am hoping to in 2017 – bring it on!

Thanks, Shandos! Glad the list will be useful for your 2017 NYC travel plans. 🙂

Great list! I’ve gone through about a 1/4 of it. I’ll have to make an effort to cross off the rest the next time I’m in NY.

Thanks, Jeh-C! New York has so many great things to see and do. Hope you can cross off some more on your list next time! 🙂

This is the perfect list for the NYC traveler! I’ll have to keep it in my back pocket for the next time I head to the city for a trip!

Thanks, Carmen! Glad it’ll come in handy for you!

Wow! What a fantastic list! It must have taken you forever to complete. I’ve experience a lot of them but over many years. I think have so much to see there though.

Thanks, Lesley! To be honest, I got the idea for the post and didn’t really understand what I was getting involved with until I was knee-deep! NYC is one of those cities, though, you have to return to over and over. There’s just so much to do! 🙂

2 trips to New York and i’ve only done 19 of these. Guess I need to go back 😉 Great list. I love New York (and congrats on the 100th post)

Thanks, Claire! It’s best not to rush through all of them at once. Come back and enjoy a few more when you can! 🙂

Great list! I love NYC! We’ve done quite a few on the list. I would also add the Kramer tour (if it still runs) for all the Seinfeld fans out there. It was such a fun day out! We’ll have to return and complete the rest of the list next time! 😉

Thanks, Kim-Ling! The Kramer tour still runs and looks like a good time! Thanks for the suggestion. 🙂 Hope you make it back to NYC soon!

That is really impressive! You really know your city! I haven’t done all the things from your list but there is always a reason to go back to NYC! Thanks for sharing!

Thanks, Jey! Reasons to return to such a great city are never a bad thing! 🙂 Hope you make it back soon!

There’s just so much to do in NYC! I’ve only been once, but I loved it and I can’t wait to go again! Oh, and congrats on the 100th post 😉

Thanks so much Vicky and Buddy! You definitely need to get back here and check out some of these 100 awesome things! 🙂

What a list! And it’s a good one! I bookmarked this for future use! Thanks for the post!

Thanks, Joe! Hope you get to NYC soon and start checking off each one! 🙂

I’m pleased to say I did many of the things on your list whilst visiting NYC in May 2016. The most amazing city ever! One thing not on your list, that I truly believe deserves to be there is – Levain bakery – those cookies are to die for! Awesome blog post, thanks for sharing. x

Patrice, you must have had an amazing NYC trip! How great! You are so right about Levain Bakery. I have to actually plan detours away from that place!! I will be adding it to my next 100 things to do in NYC. 🙂

Traveled to NYC for the first time last fall. Had a wonderful time and even home stayed to make it more enjoyable. There was so much to see and do in the short time. We did walk the Brooklyn Bridge and have pizza at Grimaldi’s! As luck had it, we even got to see a Yankee’s game. 🙂

Awesome trip, Robert, and fall really is the best time to visit! I love that pizza at Grimaldi’s! It’s so delicious. Hope you’ll be able to make it back to NYC for another getaway. There’s always more to do. 😉

Thank you so much to sharing it. this will make our trip Awesome. But i have a week to spend my holiday in New York after this my Visa will be expired. Could you suggest me some top places where i should need to visit And i feel I really have seen something.

Thanks for reading, Jackson. Visitors love the main sights in NYC like the Empire State Building or Times Square. But, make sure to visit Lower Manhattan and walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. For more NYC info, you can also get itinerary ideas here.

Ride the Staten Island ferry was the coolest thing in NY. I like that too much. Thanks.

Glad you liked the ferry, Lana. The view of NYC and Lady Liberty are great from the boat.

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Places to Do Homework

The majority of students are unaware of the significance of finding the right places to do homework . They don’t always know that they aren’t as productive as they should be.

As you already know, doing homework in a crowded and noisy setting is not a good idea. It’s impossible to do when your friends call you on the phone, or your Facebook account is open on your computer in front of you. 

The best places to do homework aren’t always where you’d expect to find them. You’re in luck if you can spot one. You will be able to increase your speed, grades, and GPA . 

What is the reason for this? And you will be able to maintain your concentration.

You’ll make it even more exciting if you can find many such locations. Going to the same location over and over again will not bore you. That is why so many students use Google to look for “places to do homework near me.”

Why are you looking for a place to do your homework?

Table of Contents

Do you wish there were other Places to Do Homework where you could do your homework to keep things interesting? When you need peace, you may want to go somewhere else. 

Other times, you can need more room or simply a change of environment to boost productivity. Personal preferences play a role in determining where to go to complete schoolwork assignments. 

When it comes to space, you’ll have to think about what you like and hate. In today’s blog, we share some suggestions to help you decide when you can do your schoolwork.

Explaining why you need to find great places to do homework because you avoid using the screen, TV, or PlayStation as a diversion source, You’ll find the calm you need to concentrate on your work. Gradually, the grades should rise.

Why Finding Good Homework Locations is Important

Encourage your child to try a different place if he has trouble concentrating in a specified homework area. Because

• Productivity has increased
• Boredom is broken
• Friends, stay away
• There are fewer distractions
• Make your homework more effective

The most serious thing for high school, graduate, and college students is not getting to class. It’s not even about doing homework; it’s about finding the right places to do homework in comfort, satisfaction, and without feeling rushed. Most students, especially those pursuing MBAs and PhDs, prefer to complete their homework assignments in pleasant surroundings. It’s the same thing about homework – finding areas conducive to learning.

It’s just not about searching for the perfect place to do your homework; it’s about finding a spot where you can rest, innovate, relax, and finish your work on time. It’s insane to do coursework anywhere. For example, you can’t compose an essay at a railway station, a cafe, or a picnic. For obvious reasons, doing homework at home may be off your checklist.

Features That Make a Place Great for Doing Homework

• It is well lit
• There is silence
• Distraction-free
• It’s relaxing

Best Ideas For Places to Do Homework

At Home, the Best Place to Do Homework

There are several other places to do homework now, some of which might be just around the corner from your house.

Here are a couple of the best Places to Do Homework at home to do work.

• Kitchen 

The kitchen may be an outstanding study spot if so many distractions do not exist. Most kitchens have good lights and seats so you can sit up.

• Your Bedroom

Due to its convenience and comfort, this can be an excellent study spot. All your study materials can also be provided easily. However, a bedroom is not always the best place to study if there is too much entertainment or comfort.

The Best Nearby Places to Do Your Homework

These are the following places to do homework near me, it is such as;

Public Library

Teachers constantly remind students to visit the library and do further study. If you can’t concentrate at home, the library can help you learn. Yeah, it may sound cliche, but there’s a reason why even professionals go to public libraries when they need to concentrate. 

You can find books, free Wi-Fi, and research materials in libraries . And, with everyone else preoccupied with their affairs, you will find the motivation to complete your homework without interruption. 

Social networking and phone calls would be unaffected because libraries have a phones-off or silent mode policy. 

There are also printing rooms where you can print your reading materials for a low price.

Coffee Shop

Coffee shops are well-known haunts of authors for a cause. Though caffeine will help you write page after page of excellent fiction, coffee shops often sell snacks, meals, and juices to keep you fueled and efficient.

Learners also turn to this staple of studying for a caffeine boost when preparing for an exam or getting through a report. While a coffee shop has more background music than a library, it can be a pleasant substitute for a radio or TV sound for certain people.

These can be relatively quiet areas, similar to libraries. For inspiration, sit on a bench in front of your favorite painting or sculpture.

On a break, sitting on a bench near inspirational paintings or taking in the natural history will refresh your mind and provide an opportunity to get some work done in a different environment.

Try buying an annual membership and using the museum as your office from time to time if you enjoy a local museum.

While it may seem to be an unusual location for doing homework, the point is to remind you that time is money. As you wait for your laundry to finish, you will undoubtedly have some free time, which you will rarely use productively. Think about it: you can shoot two birds with one rock, then why not?

Quick Link: Pay someone to do my homework for me

Book Stores

Consider working in a bookstore if you like the library atmosphere but don’t want to be completely alone. Many bookstores offer free Wi-Fi and a calming atmosphere where customers can read and work. In contrast to libraries, bookstores normally have cafes where you can get some snacks or a cup of coffee. In New York, several bookstores have a cafe where beer and wine are served.

If the teacher is okay with you sitting in their empty classroom, go ahead. This environment may be ideal for studying. Since class sessions are based on schoolwork, merely being in the classroom can cause your mind to adopt a studied attitude automatically.

Try sitting in an empty classroom if you’re having trouble concentrating on work in other ways.

As a result, if your brain immediately moves to a research mentality, you will learn more effectively.

Coe Library

Coe Library is the most visible research spot on campus. The library has plenty of comfortable seats, couches, and countless tables and computers and a range of reservable study spaces . 

These study rooms are ideal for obtaining an empty, quiet space to study for a test or simply complete homework. 

The library’s other best research spot is by the windows on a quiet study level. Working by a window with natural daylight makes things seem more accessible and less crowded, and working on a quiet study floor helps people work in peace.

Friend’s House

Cooperating spaces are becoming more popular, and you can get some of the same benefits by simply visiting a friend’s house. 

It’s a strong desire to accomplish tasks for someone else, regardless of whether the partner is from a different social class. This also has the added advantage of masking your flaws. 

For example, you might ask a friend who studies math to help you understand your math homework. Remember to bring something with you everywhere you go. You’d have to be a good house guest in general.

A little sunshine and a gentle breeze will work wonders. It clears your mind and gives you more focus, and it’s a perfect caffeine substitute. 

Your performance will benefit from studying in such a calming and relaxing environment. Clear your mind of all your concerns and focus solely on the task at hand.

Bookshops are ideal for study since they are relatively quiet and focus on school work. Moreover, everyone in the shop reads, learns, and educates himself. Consequently, when you are learning and doing work, you feel better concentrated.

These shops allow you to rest and maybe read a book or two. This not only helps you read, but it also encourages you to research and learn new knowledge. Be sure that this action is encouraged in the bookstore.

The park can be a great place to write or read a few chapters, particularly if you’re doing some creative writing . It’s unlikely that you’ll be completely silent, but the sounds you do hear will be calming. You’ll be listening to natural noises like the waves on the beach and the wind in the trees.

More Extra Sites to Learn and Complete Homework

• Shopping Malls
• Hotel Lobby
• Your Local Library
• Botanical Gardens
• Bus or Train Station
• Local Universities
• Co-Working Spaces
• Public Park

Conclusion (Places to Do Homework)

In conclusion, there are many different good places to do homework. It ultimately depends on an individual’s personal preferences and needs. Some people prefer quiet, isolated places like libraries, bedrooms, or coffee shops to minimize distractions. Others prefer the social atmosphere of a study group or a co-working space. It’s important to find the right balance between comfort and productivity when choose places to do homework. Additionally, having a designated study area can help create a routine and improve focus, leading to better results. Whatever the choice, it’s crucial to establish a comfortable and organized workspace to get the most out of studying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you do your homework at starbucks.

People can go to Starbucks to do their homework, whether students or adults. Starbucks is also a great third meeting place to catch up on homework, projects, presentations, etc.

Can I pay someone to do my homework for me?

Yes, it is 100% legal to pay people to do your homework is just like asking a parent or guardian for help.

How much is homework per credit hour?

Research suggests that students should spend 2-3 hours per credit hour studying to be successful in their courses.

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Feds to NYPD cops: Stop parking on NYC sidewalks, or we’ll take you to court!

The Department of Justice has warned the NYPD to stop allowing officers to park their cars on sidewalks and in crosswalks outside precincts — lest the feds be forced to sue the city for violating the civil rights of people with disabilities.

Damian Williams, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York (SDNY), sent a letter on March 29 to the Police Department’s legal bureau to report the findings of a DOJ investigation into precinct parking behaviors, and to warn the department that the widespread scofflawery must end.

“The sidewalks and crosswalks adjacent to NYPD precincts are subject to frequent obstructions by both the private and police vehicles of NYPD members, resulting in inaccessibility of the pedestrian grid,” wrote Williams, citing last year’s study by University of California, Berkeley professor Marcel Moran finding illegal sidewalk parking at 91% of the city’s 77 precincts, including every single one in Brooklyn and the Bronx .

“The City of New York (and, more specifically, the NYPD) has failed to ensure that the pedestrian grid is ‘readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities,'” Williams continued.

Don’t even think of parking there! 

For years, the phenomenon has been visible at virtually every police precinct in the city, where officers “combat park” both their squad and personal vehicles perpendicular or diagonal to the curb, or even entirely on the curb, often blocking a significant share of the sidewalk. Impounded vehicles are also often parked this way outside precincts.

At some precincts, police have even illegally painted parking lines onto the street and sidewalk to make officers’ illicit parking look more legitimate.

While annoying to most New Yorkers, the practice can be dangerous for those who rely on wheelchairs for mobility, forcing them into the street when they are unable to navigate a sidewalk blocked by officers’ vehicles.

The issue is personal for Jean Ryan, the president of Disabled in Action NY and a wheelchair user. She used to go to meetings at a Midtown building across the street from, ironically, the NYPD’s Citywide Traffic Task Force on 30th Street, where officers have long parked diagonally on the sidewalk in illegally painted spaces.

“There is a fine line between being seen by your driver and being hit by a car because you are in the street,” Ryan recounted. “Isn’t it disgusting that our police force think they can have inaccessible precincts and block sidewalks, that we aren’t the public, too?”

These practices by police officers are not only illegal under city law, which generally prohibits city vehicles being parked on the sidewalk. It’s also, Williams contends, a violation of the Americans With Disabilities Act, the landmark federal statute prohibiting state discrimination against people with disabilities.

Williams instructed the city to adopt new parking rules around precincts ensuring accessibility of the pedestrian grid, retraining officers on parking enforcement and their own practices, and to establish a procedure where members of the public can complain about illegally obstructive parking by city vehicles.

On the last point, the NYPD must provide quarterly reports to SDNY on the complaints received, as well as resolution of complaint, “including the remedy imposed by the NYPD with respect to the driver and responding officer, if any.”

“In the event we determine that we cannot secure compliance voluntarily to correct the deficiencies identified in this letter, the Attorney General may initiate a lawsuit pursuant to the ADA,” Williams wrote.

Letter under review

Parking behavior at precincts does not appear to have meaningfully changed since the letter was sent, although the New York Post reported earlier this month that police brass were warning officers to stop parking illegally around their worksites, citing a “high ranking police source.” That came after a report by the city’s Department of Investigation , required by a 2020 city law, found the problem to be widespread and egregious, but before the DOJ letter’s existence was first reported by Streetsblog last week.

Whether the NYPD will heed by the strongly-worded letter is anyone’s guess, as city laws and Department policies on parking are often openly flouted. NYPD bylaws call for command discipline, from “oral admonishment to a 5-day penalty,” for illegal parking, and parking placards are supposed to be yanked after three instances of misuse under city law. But Williams said the NYPD submitted data showing only 80 instances of discipline or permit revocation from 2021 through 2023, despite the phenomenon being visible at almost all precincts.

The cops also appear to be ticketing cars with placards, for NYPD or other agencies, less than non-city vehicles. Police issued summonses to the vehicles in 2.8% of complaints for illegal sidewalk parking of city vehicles between 2021 and 2023, compared to 10.7% of non-city vehicles, Williams said.

“We have spoken with numerous individuals with disabilities who have explained their personal experience with the difficulty navigating around City Vehicles parked on sidewalks,” said Williams. “And many reported that no matter what efforts they made to resolve the problem— contacting the local precincts, submitting 311 reports, or attending community board meetings — things had either not improved or gotten worse in recent years.”

Ryan’s experiences, with the NYPD and other agencies, have been consistent with what Williams described, based on his interviews with members of the disabled community. Ryan, a Bay Ridge resident, said she often deals with not only parked cars on the sidewalk outside FDNY Engine 242 on 5th Avenue, but sometimes moving cars on the sidewalk.

Asked at a City Council hearing last year to explain and justify the ubiquitous outlaw parking, Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey, the NYPD’s highest-ranking uniformed officer, said it happens because “a lot of people work at the precinct and there’s not enough parking spots.”

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Man dies after setting himself on fire near Trump trial courthouse in NYC

By Graham Kates , Pat Milton , Jericka Duncan

Updated on: April 20, 2024 / 8:38 PM EDT / CBS News

A man who set himself on fire outside the New York City courthouse where former President Donald Trump's hush money trial is underway has died, police said. 

Witnesses said that they saw the man — identified by the New York Police Department as 37-year-old Max Azzarello — pour liquid over his head and set himself on fire at 1:39 p.m. local time on Friday. 

In a briefing immediately after the incident, the NYPD said Azzarello, a Florida resident who had arrived in New York City earlier in the week, walked into Collect Pond Park, opened a book bag, and scattered papers and pamphlets on the ground before setting himself ablaze. Police described the materials as "like a conspiracy-theory type of pamphlet." 

Azzarello then fell on a police barrier. Civilians and court officers used coats and extinguishers to try to put out the fire, the NYPD said, and the New York City Fire Department responded, finally extinguishing the fire. 

The FDNY said that Azzarello was transported to New York Presbyterian-Weill Cornell Medical Center, which has a burn center, in critical condition. 

The NYPD confirmed to CBS News overnight that Azzarello had died on Friday night. 

Four officers who responded to the fire suffered minor injuries.

Azzarello had posted a statement on social media, officials said. Although the incident took place close to the court where Trump's trial is taking place, officials said Azzarello did not appear to be targeting any particular person or group and added that he seemed to be a conspiracy theorist.

One witness described pamphlets that Azzarello threw, apparently while making allegations about New York University.

 "I heard this clattering, and it was those papers that he had flung up in the air," the witness said. "That caught our attention and — caught my attention, anyway ... then he pulled out a can and he poured it over himself. And at that point, I thought, 'Oh ... this is gonna be awful." 

"It happened so fast — what do you do?" another witness said. 

Graham Kates is an investigative reporter covering criminal justice, privacy issues and information security for CBS News Digital. Contact Graham at [email protected] or [email protected]

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Prosecutors argue Trump "willfully and flagrantly" violated gag order, seek penalty

The New York Sun

With tiktok ban now in place, what about communist china’s other apps aimed at america’s youth .

Do we want more insidious apps that tutor tots and help our children with their homework?

As President Biden prepares to sign into law legislation requiring Bytedance, a Communist Chinese technology company tied to Beijing, to divest from TikTok or cease the social media app’s American operations, the question arises: Who is next? What about China’s other apps and strategic investments in education technology? TikTok’s challenge skims the surface of a sea of concerns, all rooted in Beijing’s aim of a new global order.

Consider other, more insidious Chinese-run apps. Gauth, formerly Gauthmath, is a tutoring app to help with homework. The so-called “AI Study Companion” is the third most popular education app in Apple’s app store, targeting primary and high school students. Initially centered on science and math, it now covers economics, literature, and the social sciences. Students capture images of difficult problems for Gauth to solve.

So what? What’s the harm to a student using an app to solve an integral or parse Mark Twain? There are several. Yet, fundamentally, apps such as Gauth are one tool in China’s wider efforts to subvert and indoctrinate future American and global generations. The apps operate in tandem with other soft power strategies such as student associations, educational exchanges, and financial aid designed to mold educational content.

For Xi Jinping and the Chinese Communist Party, youth “play a vanguard role in realizing national rejuvenation.” Mr. Xi’s vision of a new world order hinges on its endorsement by future leaders — or otherwise their ineptitude and inability to counter it. While in China then, TikTok’s algorithms promote largely educational content, in America we’re fed inane videos and harmful viral trends. Gauth often gets the homework wrong.

When a people loses its ability to reason critically, as apps like Gauth and their kind discourage, it becomes more pliable and susceptible to control. To a great extent, that’s what we’re now seeing across American college campuses. Decades of political correctness, moral relativism, and what Jonathan Haidt terms intellectual “coddling,” have left a generation unable to parse fact from fiction, ensnared by a leftist ideology.

How encouraging this must be for Beijing. Like the Marxists, Islamists, and their unwitting allies who have for years silently toiled to infiltrate and undermine American intellect, China, too, plays a long game. Should it fail to intellectually enfeeble us, Beijing hopes it might yet sway us to its ways. The implications of a China-owned app instructing on, say, American or world history, or democratic theory, would be vast.

Not least because Beijing has its own interpretation of events. It contends , for instance, that “China was directly involved in designing and building the international order,” and democracy should reflect, in part, “the will of the state.” Since 2022, Beijing, through the Primavera Capital Group, has owned Tutor.com, an on-demand personal tutoring website. Tutor.com has contracts with K-12 schools, universities, and the Defense Department.

Tutor.com for American Military Families is an online service funded by the Defense Department. It offers virtual homework aid and tutoring for American service members and their families. Given China’s ambitions, it’s conceivable that Beijing might leverage the platform to influence our troops, if it hasn’t already. Primavera Capital is tied to the CCP. It is invested in Bytedance.

Gauth, too, is owned by Bytedance. The core issue with such apps is that they are tools for indoctrination and subversion wielded by an adversarial state. A secondary concern pertains to the known issue of data security. In its short-termism, the popular narrative has misaligned the sequence of these concerns. This is not to suggest data considerations do not matter — they do. Apps like Gauth could be used as instruments of espionage.

Gauth utilizes a phone’s camera, allowing users to snap pictures of homework problems and feed it into its engine. Harmless enough. Yet it also requires access to a user’s entire photo library and location data. This is puzzling if the aim is to solve for ‘x’ or summarize Huckleberry Finn. Yet it makes sense if the objective is to establish “ patterns of life ,” to find connections between persons of interest, or to monitor military movements.

Such functions inform Beijing’s strategy, the aim of which is to topple America and supplant its leadership with Xi Jinping’s new world order. Yet, over time, persons of interest may shift, new conflict domains might emerge, and the value of certain data might diminish. But a cohort of global leaders steeped in Xi Jinping Thought or so intellectually enfeebled as to be unable to resist it? Priceless.

Ms. Gadzala Tirziu is a contributing editor of The New York Sun, covering foreign affairs. She is also Senior Fellow with the Atlantic Council, Visiting Fellow with the Independent Women's Forum, and lecturer in international relations at the University of Zurich.

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Guest Essay

Do Not Make Survival Even More Difficult for People on the Streets

By Laura Riley

Ms. Riley is the director of the clinical program at the School of Law at the University of California, Berkeley, and the author of “Homeless Advocacy.”

In 2013, Grants Pass, Ore., came up with a strategy to deal with a growing homeless population in the city of roughly 40,000, one that might best be described as kicking the can down the road.

Through a series of ordinances, the city essentially made it illegal to sleep outside in public. In particular, anyone sleeping anywhere in public with bedding, a blanket or a sleeping bag would be breaking the law.

“The point,” the City Council president explained at the time, “is to make it uncomfortable enough for them in our city so they will want to move on down the road.”

Unhoused individuals wouldn’t have much choice. There are no homeless shelters in Grants Pass. At least 600 people in the city were unhoused in 2018 and 2019, according to counts by a local nonprofit that serves the unhoused.

Now the United States Supreme Court is being asked whether the enforcement of the city’s camping regulations, which apply to all of the city’s residents but affect them in vastly different ways, violate the Eighth Amendment’s prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment. Oral arguments are scheduled for Monday.

Of course, weighing the legality of camping obscures the real issue, which is how, in a nation with roughly 650,000 unhoused people, the federal, state and local governments can make sure there are enough beds for people to sleep in. Forcing unhoused people to the next town does not create housing that is affordable or available.

The case is an appeal to a ruling by the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit that prohibited Grants Pass from using citations to enforce its public camping ordinance. The Ninth Circuit had earlier prohibited cities from enforcing criminal restrictions on public camping unless there was access to adequate temporary shelter.

In the decision being challenged by Grants Pass, the Ninth Circuit concluded that the city “cannot, consistent with the Eighth Amendment, enforce its anti-camping ordinances against homeless persons for the mere act of sleeping outside with rudimentary protection from the elements, or for sleeping in their car at night, when there is no other place in the city for them to go.”

Which there rarely is, in Grants Pass or elsewhere, and which is why people often have no choice but to sleep outside.

In a friend of the court brief, the National Homelessness Law Center argued that Grants Pass had “rejected” its obligation to care for unhoused residents and that vulnerable groups would continue to be marginalized unless the court decides once and for all that those ordinances are cruel. In its brief to the court, the Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund noted that the laws disproportionately affect people with disabilities and don’t serve any rehabilitative or deterrent interest.

If nothing else, one thing this case has done is unite many officials on the left and the right of the political spectrum, from San Francisco to Arizona. They have complained in briefs to the court that the Ninth Circuit has hamstrung their communities in dealing with homeless encampments.

But homelessness arises from policy decisions, not from a ruling by an appellate court. The Supreme Court should uphold the Ninth Circuit’s ruling. Otherwise it will open the door for communities to pass local laws that effectively punish unhoused people for existing within their borders, making what is clearly cruel permissible.

It would not be unexpected for the Supreme Court’s conservative majority to give the green light for the kind of camping bans at issue. Unhoused people would be pushed further to the margins, increasingly out of sight and mind. They will still be out there, parked in cars in rural areas or subsisting on urban streets, perhaps after being fined or jailed for the crime of trying to survive without a roof over their heads.

This case shines a light on the abdication of responsibility by governments at all levels to their unhoused residents. Instead of arguing about the legality of bans on sleeping in public, we should be asking: Why move people down the road to another community, one that is likely also short on shelter beds?

There is no doubt that the path to creating permanent housing (and more temporary shelter) is politically challenging and expensive. But there are many solutions along this path that go beyond what lawyers and the courts, even our highest one, can accomplish, and that the public should be demanding.

Governments at all levels should invest in homelessness prevention programs and strategies. Those include providing housing subsidies to people who otherwise could lose their housing and supportive transitional services for those leaving mental health treatment and correctional centers.

People on the brink of homelessness should have a right to counsel in eviction proceedings and should be offered the possibility of mediation in housing courts to give them a chance to remain in their houses or apartments.

Businesses should be increasing employment opportunities by not requiring a permanent address in job applications. Lawmakers should create more pathways for people to clear their criminal records, some that arise from targeted enforcement of low-level, nonviolent offenses, because those records can make it much more difficult to get a job.

For populations with unique needs, such as young people and veterans, social service agencies should pursue particularized interventions that address the underlying reasons that pushed individuals into homelessness.

And, of course, we should be building more housing, plain and simple, and we should be providing affordable housing incentives in areas with grocery stores and medical care nearby.

The Supreme Court should not further criminalize homelessness. But whether it does or not, this case should put governments at all levels on notice that humane policies can help to reduce homelessness. We don’t have to let this crisis continue.

Laura Riley is the director of the clinical program at the School of Law at the University of California, Berkeley, and the author of “Homeless Advocacy.”

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