Best 20 things to do in New York, United States

Welcome to the bustling streets of New York, where there are more yellow taxis than sensible shoes! If you're looking for the best way to experience the Big Apple, be prepared for twenty unforgettable adventures. From navigating the incomprehensible subway system like a boss to pretending to be a local by hailing a hot dog cart, strap on your walking shoes, brace yourself for the frenzied pace, and get ready to fall in love with the city that never sleeps. Just remember, it's your mission to see the Statue of Liberty, but it's also important to sample twenty different flavors of pizza along the way; New York demands both cultural appreciation and a well-fed stomach!

Save destination

1. Fifth Avenue Shopping

608 5th Ave, New York, NY 10020, USA

Welcome to Fifth Avenue, the glamorous and extravagant shopping mecca of New York! Holding more high-end brands than you can shake a diamond-studded stick at, this iconic avenue is a playground for those with a penchant for fancy labels and absurdly large credit limits. Prepare to rub shoulders with fashionistas, tourists on a shopping frenzy, and more Gucci handbags per square inch than you ever thought possible – just make sure your wallet has been eating its Wheaties! As you wander along this shopper's paradise, be prepared to embark on a journey of extravagant window displays that would make Liberace himself blush. From dazzling lights to towering mannequins wearing very confused expressions, these storefronts are the true definition of retail's version of a "bigger is better" philosophy. Don't be surprised if you find yourself spontaneously breaking into an interpretive dance amidst the overwhelming siren call of an ornate storefront – it's a rite of passage for all Fifth Avenue explorers. But it's not just about shopping till you drop on this illustrious avenue. Take a break from the retail bonanza and visit one of the many upscale cafes or restaurants that line the streets. Sip on an overpriced latte while pretending to ponder life's mysteries or indulge in a decadent cake that costs more per slice than the average person's monthly groceries – because, hey, why not? Just remember that while Fifth Avenue may be a playground for the elite, it's perfectly fine to enjoy the spectacle without splurging your entire life's savings. After all, people-watching is free, and trust us, the characters you'll encounter here are more entertaining than any reality show.

Learn more

2. Rockefeller Center

4.7 (161609)

45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111, USA

Welcome to Rockefeller Center, New York's very own go-getter of a landmark! This sprawling complex in Midtown Manhattan has got it all – from iconic skyscrapers to mesmerizing artwork, making it the true MVP of the concrete jungle. Take a leap of touristy faith and explore the world-famous ice rink where aspiring Olympians and hopeless ice-grippers collide in a symphony of delightful chaos. And don't forget to whisper sweet-nothings to the dazzling Christmas tree, possibly the only plant in existence that can make a New Yorker pause mid-hustle to feel a tiny sprinkle of holiday spirit.

www.rockefellercenter.com

Learn more

3. American Museum of Natural History

4.6 (16868)

200 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024, USA

Welcome to the American Museum of Natural History in New York, where dinosaurs roam freely (well, figuratively speaking) and fossils are more common than traffic jams in the Big Apple. Marvel at exhibitions that make you question your place in the universe, in case you were feeling too grounded lately. And hey, if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of Ben Stiller roaming around, in hopes of reliving the "Night at the Museum" magic. Enjoy your adventure through time and space at this museum that's way cooler than your average history class.

www.amnh.org

Learn more

4. One World Observatory

4.7 (17347)

117 West St, New York, NY 10006, USA

Welcome to One World Observatory, where the sky's the limit for sightseeing and questionable acrophobic decisions! Ascend this marvelously tall building, risking a mild heart attack on the way up, and indulge in breathtaking views that'll alleviate all your concerns about impending doom. Marvel at the twinkling cityscape below, all while secretly plotting your escape route in case the elevator decides to join the Dark Side and malfunction. Prepare yourselves for a Vermeer-worthy tableau of the Big Apple that'll make you forget about your fear of heights, well, at least until it's time to go back down!

oneworldobservatory.com

Learn more

5. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

4.6 (44049)

11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019, USA

Welcome to MoMA, the place where modern art gets its groove on! Nestled right in the heart of New York, this feisty museum is a hub of creativity that'll make your brain do jazz hands. Get ready to marvel at mind-boggling masterpieces, turn your head sideways in confusion, and leave questioning your own artistic talent (or lack thereof). So get your creative socks on, because MoMA is like a rollercoaster that'll tickle your imagination and leave you wanting more!

www.moma.org

Learn more

6. Empire State Building

4.7 (91109)

20 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001, USA

Prepare to have your jaw dropping and your neck craning as you behold the majestic marvel that is the Empire State Building in the heart of New York City. With its 102 floors of pure architectural prowess, it will make you question whether King Kong himself had a hand in its design. Hold your breath as you ascend to the observation deck, where you'll feel like the ruler of all skyscraper-gazing peasants, with a view that will make you shout, "I can see my house from here!"

www.esbnyc.com

Learn more

7. Metropolitan Museum of Art

4.8 (73701)

1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028, USA

Welcome to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where art meets chaos in the most glorious way possible! Prepare to be enthralled by the sheer magnitude of this behemoth museum, which can make even the most avid art lovers feel like bewildered squirrels in a maze. Be sure to wear your walking shoes and bring your trusty map, or else risk getting lost amidst the ancient sculptures and cheeky Renaissance paintings!

www.metmuseum.org

Learn more

8. 9/11 Memorial and Museum

4.8 (61923)

180 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10007, USA

Nestled within the vibrant heart of New York City, the 9/11 Memorial and Museum stands as a solemn yet awe-inspiring tribute to history. Encounter a mesmerizing fusion of architecture and emotion as you traverse the reflective pools that mark the footprints of the fallen Twin Towers. With an understated elegance, the museum gracefully houses countless artifacts, offering visitors an intimate glimpse into a day that changed our world forever.

www.911memorial.org

Learn more

9. Times Square

Times Sq, New York, NY, USA

Welcome to Times Square, the bustling and luminous heart of New York City! Brace yourself for a sensory overload as you stroll amidst a sea of elbowing tourists, like a game of "human Tetris." Let the neon signs guide you like a moth to a flame, while you marvel at the dazzling chaos and wonder how many different ways you can spell "taxi" in a single block.

Learn more

10. Staten Island Ferry

Staten Island Ferry, New York, NY, USA

Welcome aboard the Staten Island Ferry, the aquatic wonder that keeps New Yorkers entertained and tourists bewildered! Hop on this floating extravaganza for a free ride that's worth every penny. Get ready to witness breathtaking views of the cityscape while being serenaded by seagulls who, like all true New Yorkers, refuse to pay the fare. Treat yourself to a cruise on the Staten Island Ferry where you'll learn the ancient art of subway surfing without ever setting foot on land. As you weave through the choppy waters, trust the ferry's expert captains to navigate safely while dodging the occasional misplaced iceberg. Remember to keep your eyes peeled for the fabled Hudson River mermaids who notoriously play hide-and-seek with unsuspecting passengers. For a taste of New York's unique charm, mingle with the local population of pigeons that eagerly await your arrival at the Staten Island Terminal. These fearless birds, self-proclaimed connoisseurs of human cuisine, will gladly accompany you as you disembark into the metropolis. Don't be fooled by their dazzling feathers; they're just here to make sure you truly flock to the city that never sleeps.

Learn more

11. Grand Central Terminal

4.7 (6328)

89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017, USA

Welcome to the magnificent Grand Central Terminal in the city that never sleeps! Step into this bustling transportation hub and prepare to be awestruck by its majestic beauty. With its glamorous celestial ceiling adorned with constellations, it's like gazing up at the heavens, only with more stressed commuters running for their trains. Comprising of 44 platforms, Grand Central Terminal is the epitome of organized chaos. It's a place where New Yorkers miraculously transform from sleepy-eyed zombies into speedy locomotion experts. Keep an eye out for the iconic four-faced brass clock, a planetary object of its own, where no one ever seems to be on time, but at least it makes for a fabulous selfie backdrop. If you're lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the Whispering Gallery, prepare to have your mind blown! Stand at one end of the Oyster Bar restaurant, whisper sweet nothings, and trust me, your voice will carry across the 2,000 square-foot cavernous space. It's like being on a poor man's version of America's Got Talent, where instead of talent, they just have secrets. Shh, don't tell anyone!

www.grandcentralterminal.com

Learn more

12. Coney Island

4.6 (4476)

Coney Island, Brooklyn, NY, USA

Welcome to Coney Island, the playground of the eccentric and the birthplace of beachside quirkiness! This colorful peninsula in New York is known for its vibrant boardwalk, where you can indulge in the art of people-watching while balancing an impressively tall ice cream cone. Feel the adrenaline rush as you brave the twists and turns of the iconic Cyclone roller coaster, and don't forget to unleash your inner child as you dive into the deep waters of the quirky Mermaid Parade - a peculiar blend of mythical creatures, sequins, and hipster-mermen.

Learn more

13. Brooklyn Bridge

4.8 (63867)

New York, NY 10038, USA

Welcome to the captivating Brooklyn Bridge, New York's quirky masterpiece that's bound to make you feel like you've stepped into a magical world where giants play hopscotch. With its towering presence and distinctive gothic architectural charm, this stunning bridge boasts an enchanting assortment of steel cables that will make you feel like you're walking through a colossal cat's cradle. Get ready to snap some Instagram-worthy pictures and brace yourself for a quirky journey you won't soon forget, as you traverse this iconic symbol of New York's unyielding love for traffic jams.

www.nyc.gov

Learn more

14. Top of the Rock Observation Deck

4.7 (49132)

30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112, USA

Want to feel like the king or queen of New York City? Look no further than Top of the Rock Observation Deck, a true gem perched atop Rockefeller Center. As you step into this towering playground, brace yourself for breathtaking views that will have your jaw dropping faster than a hotdog disappearing during a lunch rush. With a vantage point that makes pigeons jealous, this deck lets you soak in the glimmering Manhattan skyline while casting a scornful gaze at other buildings' sad attempts to steal the spotlight.

www.rockefellercenter.com

Learn more

15. Brooklyn Museum

4.7 (9029)

200 Eastern Pkwy, Brooklyn, NY 11238, USA

Welcome to the Brooklyn Museum, the city's finest destination for art enthusiasts and enthusiastic selfie-takers alike. Prepare yourself for a visual extravaganza as you navigate through a maze of quirky yet sophisticated exhibits, showcasing an impressive assortment of paintings, sculptures, and everything in between. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the elusive "I-don't-get-it" masterpieces - they're like a secret code for a free upgrade to art connoisseur status.

www.brooklynmuseum.org

Learn more

16. Central Park

4.8 (250653)

New York, NY, USA

Welcome to Central Park, the tranquility oasis in the middle of the concrete jungle that is New York City! Nestled between skyscrapers and hipster coffee joints, this lush green paradise offers a temporary escape from the relentless honking and questionable fashion choices. Take a leisurely stroll and discover the wonders of Central Park, where you're more likely to spot a squirrel balancing a cronut on its head than an actual New Yorker.

www.centralparknyc.org

Learn more

17. The Cloisters Museum and Gardens

4.8 (6605)

99 Margaret Corbin Dr, New York, NY 10040, USA

Welcome to The Cloisters Museum and Gardens in beautiful New York City! Nestled in Fort Tryon Park, this enchanting gem will transport you to medieval Europe faster than a knight charging into battle with a GPS. Immerse yourself in the collection of religious art and exquisite artifacts, and don't forget to enjoy a scenic stroll through the gardens where even the squirrels seem to have taken a vow of silence, for they dare not disturb the serene ambiance.

www.metmuseum.org

Learn more

18. High Line

4.7 (51550)

New York, NY 10011, USA

Welcome to the High Line, a majestic elevated park in the heart of New York City that had the world collectively asking, "Why didn't we think of this earlier?" Once an old railway line, it has now transformed into a sassy green oasis, offering weary urban souls a chance to escape the concrete jungle and get their nature fix. Stroll amidst beautiful gardens, indulge in some people watching, or try out your stealth ninja moves while avoiding selfie sticks.

www.thehighline.org

Learn more

19. Statue of Liberty

4.7 (90369)

New York, NY 10004, USA

Welcome to the Big Apple! Don't worry, this isn't about a fruity dessert, but rather a towering lady holding a giant torch. Let me introduce you to the Statue of Liberty, a colossal copper beauty standing tall on Liberty Island. She may not have a killer dance move, but she sure knows how to make America look iconic. So grab your camera and prepare for a selfie with the diva of New York!

www.nps.gov

Learn more

20. Broadway show

4.6 (22)

242 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036, USA

Welcome to the vibrant world of Broadway in New York, where the energy is as dazzling as the neon lights! Get ready for a dramatic collision of larger-than-life characters, toe-tapping tunes, and jaw-dropping sets that make you wonder if these actors have secret teleportation powers. Prepare to have your emotions tossed around like a salad, as these talented performers seamlessly whisk you away to a magical realm where it's perfectly normal for people to express their deepest thoughts through song and dance.

broadway.com

Learn more

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to New York City by plane would be to fly into John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), which is the main international airport serving the New York City metro area. Other airports within close proximity include Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and LaGuardia Airport (LGA).

Car

The best way to get to New York City by car would be to take the major highways leading to the city, including the New York State Thruway, the Garden State Parkway, and the New Jersey Turnpike, among others. However, driving in the city can be challenging with heavy traffic and limited parking options.

Train

The best way to get to New York City by train would be to take the Amtrak, which provides both regional and long-distance train service to New York City with Penn Station as the primary rail hub.

Boat

The best way to get to New York City by boat would be to take a ferry or cruise ship, which provides a scenic and relaxing way to arrive in the city. Ferries depart from various ports within the metropolitan area and nearby cities, while cruises usually dock at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal or the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal.

Bus

The best way to get to New York City by bus would be to take the Greyhound or Megabus, which offer frequent service to New York City from major cities throughout the United States.

More guides

Big Apple Romance - A 3 Day Getaway in New York!

Experience the vibrant energy of the Big Apple with a romantic trip to New York. Take a stroll through Central Park hand in hand, catch a Broadway show, and explore the city's diverse culinary scene. End your day with a romantic walk along the iconic Brooklyn Bridge and watch the city sparkle from above.

The Ultimate Romantic 5-Day New York Adventure

A trip to New York for a romantic getaway would entail exploring some of the world's most iconic landmarks such as the Empire State Building, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty. With its bustling city atmosphere and many diverse neighborhoods, visitors can experience a range of cultures and cuisines from around the world. Lastly, a romantic trip to New York would not be complete without dining at Michelin-starred restaurants, checking out Broadway shows, and viewing striking sunsets from the top of skyscrapers.

New York Family Fun: The Ultimate Big Apple Adventure

A family friendly trip to New York, United States is an exciting adventure for all ages. Explore iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and Central Park, where kids can enjoy playgrounds, carousel rides, and picnics. Take in breathtaking views of the city from the observation decks of the Empire State Building and Top of the Rock, and don't forget to visit the numerous museums, such as the American Museum of Natural History, that offer interactive exhibits tailored for children.

Romantic Weekend in New York City

Experience the magic of the city that never sleeps with a romantic trip to New York. Explore the iconic sights such as Central Park, the Empire State Building, and the Statue of Liberty. Take a leisurely stroll through the streets to discover amazing restaurants and admire the stunning skyline together.