New York City, the bustling metropolis known for its iconic skyline, diverse culture, and endless entertainment options, is a destination that captivates every visitor.
From stunning gardens and historic libraries to towering skyscrapers and renowned museums, New York City offers a plethora of experiences.
Here are some of the best things to do in New York, highlighting must-visit attractions that showcase the city’s unique charm.
Best Things to Do in New York
1. Brooklyn Botanic Garden
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a serene oasis in the heart of Brooklyn, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Spread over 52 acres, the garden features a variety of themed gardens, including the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, the Rose Garden, and the Cherry Esplanade.
Visitors can stroll through the beautiful landscapes, explore the conservatory, and enjoy seasonal events such as the Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival.
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a must-visit for nature lovers and those looking to experience a different side of New York City.
Location: Brooklyn, NY 11238, United States.
2. The Morgan Library & Museum
The Morgan Library & Museum, located in Midtown Manhattan, is a cultural gem that showcases the impressive collection of financier J.P. Morgan.
The museum features rare manuscripts, historical documents, and works of art from ancient to modern times.
Highlights include original manuscripts by authors such as Charles Dickens and Mark Twain, as well as drawings by artists like Rembrandt and Michelangelo.
The stunning architecture, including the Renaissance-style library and the modern Renzo Piano-designed addition, adds to the allure of this unique museum.
Visiting the Morgan Library & Museum is a fascinating journey through history and art.
Location: 225 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016, United States.
3. One World Trade Center
One World Trade Center, also known as the Freedom Tower, is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and a symbol of resilience and renewal.
Located in Lower Manhattan, the skyscraper stands at a height of 1,776 feet and offers breathtaking views of New York City from its observation deck.
Visitors can learn about the history and significance of the World Trade Center site at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, located nearby.
A visit to One World Trade Center is a poignant and awe-inspiring experience, making it one of the top things to do in New York.
Location: 285 Fulton St, New York, NY 10007, Amerika Serikat.
4. Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, is an architectural masterpiece and one of New York City’s premier art museums.
Located on the Upper East Side, the museum’s unique spiral structure houses an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art.
Visitors can explore works by artists such as Picasso, Kandinsky, and Pollock, as well as rotating special exhibitions.
The Guggenheim’s innovative design and world-class art collection make it a must-see destination for art enthusiasts.
Location: 1071 5th Ave, New York, NY 10128, United States.
5. Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts is a cultural hub in the heart of Manhattan, home to some of the city’s most prestigious performing arts organizations, including the Metropolitan Opera, New York City Ballet, and the New York Philharmonic.
The center hosts a wide range of performances, from opera and ballet to symphony concerts and theater productions.
Visitors can take guided tours of the stunning venues, enjoy outdoor performances in the summer, and explore the vibrant arts scene.
Attending a performance at Lincoln Center is an unforgettable experience and one of the top things to do in New York.
Location: Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023, United States.
6. Brooklyn Bridge Park
Brooklyn Bridge Park is a waterfront park that stretches along the East River in Brooklyn, offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge.
The park features beautifully landscaped gardens, recreational facilities, and picnic areas, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of amenities, including playgrounds, sports fields, and a roller skating rink.
The park also hosts cultural events, outdoor movies, and seasonal markets.
Brooklyn Bridge Park is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the natural beauty and vibrant community of Brooklyn.
Location: Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States.
7. The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), located in Midtown Manhattan, is one of the most influential modern art museums in the world.
MoMA’s extensive collection includes works by iconic artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Andy Warhol.
Highlights include van Gogh’s “Starry Night,” Picasso’s “Les Demoiselles d’Avignon,” and Warhol’s “Campbell’s Soup Cans.”
The museum also features contemporary installations, photography, design, and film exhibits.
MoMA’s innovative exhibitions and its role in shaping modern art make it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts.
Location: 11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019, United States.
8. Bronx Zoo
The Bronx Zoo, one of the largest metropolitan zoos in the world, is located within Bronx Park.
Home to over 6,000 animals representing more than 700 species, the zoo offers visitors an incredible opportunity to see wildlife from around the globe.
Highlights include the Congo Gorilla Forest, Tiger Mountain, and the Madagascar exhibit.
The zoo also features a children’s zoo, a butterfly garden, and various interactive exhibits and educational programs.
A visit to the Bronx Zoo is a fun and educational experience for all ages, making it one of the top things to do in New York.
Location: 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10460, United States.
9. 9/11 Memorial & Museum
The 9/11 Memorial & Museum, located at the World Trade Center site in Lower Manhattan, is a poignant tribute to the nearly 3,000 victims of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and the 1993 World Trade Center bombing.
The memorial features two reflecting pools set in the footprints of the original Twin Towers, surrounded by the names of the victims inscribed in bronze.
The museum provides a comprehensive history of the events, with artifacts, multimedia displays, and personal stories of those affected.
Visiting the 9/11 Memorial & Museum is a deeply moving experience, offering reflection and understanding.
Location: 180 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10007, United States.
10. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, located on the Hudson River at Pier 86, is a unique museum dedicated to the history of American military and maritime service.
Housed on the aircraft carrier USS Intrepid, the museum features a fascinating collection of aircraft, spacecraft, and maritime artifacts.
Highlights include the Space Shuttle Enterprise, the British Airways Concorde, and a submarine, the USS Growler.
The interactive exhibits and educational programs provide an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.
The Intrepid Museum is a must-visit for history buffs and aviation enthusiasts.
Location: Pier 86, W 46th St, New York, NY 10036, United States.
11. The High Line
The High Line is an innovative public park built on a historic freight rail line elevated above the streets of Manhattan’s West Side.
Stretching from Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District to 34th Street, the park offers beautifully landscaped gardens, art installations, and stunning views of the city and the Hudson River.
Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk along the High Line, relax on the benches, and explore the various cultural events and programs hosted throughout the year.
The High Line is a perfect example of urban renewal and one of the top things to do in New York.
Location: New York, NY 10011, United States.
12. Prospect Park
Prospect Park, designed by the same landscape architects who created Central Park, is Brooklyn’s flagship green space.
Covering 585 acres, the park features a variety of recreational facilities, including sports fields, playgrounds, and boating on the lake.
Key attractions within the park include the Prospect Park Zoo, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and the historic Lefferts House.
The park also hosts numerous cultural events, concerts, and festivals throughout the year.
Prospect Park offers a tranquil escape and a variety of activities, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors.
Location: Brooklyn, NY, United States.
13. Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center, located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, is a historic landmark and entertainment complex.
The center is home to the famous ice-skating rink, the annual Christmas tree lighting, and the Top of the Rock Observation Deck, which offers panoramic views of New York City.
Visitors can also explore the NBC Studios, Radio City Music Hall, and the many shops and restaurants within the complex.
The Art Deco architecture and vibrant atmosphere make Rockefeller Center a quintessential New York experience and one of the best things to do in New York.
Location: 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111, United States.
14. The Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, commonly known as The Met, is one of the largest and most prestigious art museums in the world.
Located on Fifth Avenue along Central Park, The Met’s extensive collection spans over 5,000 years of art from every corner of the globe.
Highlights include ancient Egyptian artifacts, European masterpieces, American art, and modern and contemporary pieces.
The museum’s vast and varied exhibits ensure that there is something for every art enthusiast to enjoy.
A visit to The Met is an essential cultural experience and one of the top things to do in New York.
Location: 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028, United States.
15. Washington Square Park
Washington Square Park, located in Greenwich Village, is one of New York City’s most iconic public spaces.
The park is known for its distinctive Washington Arch, beautiful fountains, and vibrant atmosphere.
It is a popular gathering spot for students, artists, musicians, and visitors alike. The park often hosts street performances, art displays, and various community events.
Washington Square Park’s lively ambiance and historic charm make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring New York City.
Location: Washington Square, New York, NY 10012, United States.
16. New York Botanical Garden
The New York Botanical Garden, situated in the Bronx, is a sprawling 250-acre oasis of lush gardens, plant collections, and natural landscapes.
The garden features over one million plants, including themed gardens such as the Rose Garden, the Rock Garden, and the Native Plant Garden.
Visitors can explore the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, a stunning Victorian-style glasshouse with tropical and desert plants, and the Thain Family Forest, the largest remaining tract of old-growth forest in New York City.
The New York Botanical Garden offers a peaceful retreat and a chance to connect with nature in the heart of the city.
Location: 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458, United States.
17. Empire State Building
The Empire State Building, an iconic symbol of New York City’s skyline, offers breathtaking views from its observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors.
Located in Midtown Manhattan, this Art Deco skyscraper has been a favorite attraction for visitors since it opened in 1931.
The observation decks provide panoramic views of the city, including Central Park, the Hudson River, and the Statue of Liberty.
The building also features exhibits on its history and construction.
A visit to the Empire State Building is a quintessential New York experience and one of the best things to do in the city.
Location: 20 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001, United States.
18. Bryant Park
Bryant Park, located in Midtown Manhattan, is a beloved green space surrounded by skyscrapers.
The park offers a variety of activities and amenities, including free outdoor movie screenings, ice skating in the winter, and an outdoor reading room.
Visitors can relax on the lawn, dine at the park’s cafes, or participate in yoga classes and other fitness programs.
The park’s beautifully landscaped gardens and vibrant atmosphere make it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Bryant Park is a delightful urban oasis and a must-visit destination in New York City.
Location: New York, NY 10018, United States.
19. Vessel
Vessel, located in Hudson Yards, is a striking and contemporary architectural landmark that has quickly become a favorite attraction in New York City.
This honeycomb-like structure consists of a network of interconnected staircases, offering unique perspectives and views of the city.
Visitors can climb the 154 flights of stairs, comprising nearly 2,500 steps, to enjoy panoramic views of the Hudson River and the surrounding area.
Vessel’s innovative design and interactive experience make it a modern must-see in New York.
Location: 20 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001, United States.
20. Flatiron Building
The Flatiron Building, one of New York City’s most iconic and photographed landmarks, is located at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Broadway.
This triangular-shaped building, completed in 1902, is a stunning example of early skyscraper architecture.
While the building itself is not open to the public, visitors can admire its unique design from the surrounding streets and nearby Madison Square Park.
The Flatiron Building’s distinctive shape and historical significance make it a notable stop on any New York City itinerary.
Location: 175 5th Ave, New York, NY 10010, United States.
Conclusion
New York City is a destination that offers a diverse array of attractions, from lush gardens and historic libraries to iconic skyscrapers and world-renowned museums.
Whether you’re exploring the serene Brooklyn Botanic Garden, delving into history at the Morgan Library & Museum, or taking in the breathtaking views from One World Trade Center, there are countless things to do in New York.
Each attraction provides a unique experience, ensuring that every visit to New York City is both memorable and inspiring.
