New York City skyline views from Top of the Rock observation deck

Midtown Manhattan is the bustling core of New York City, known for iconic skyscrapers, the bright lights of Times Square and world-class theaters peppered along Broadway.

From the luxury stores on Fifth Avenue, to epic landmarks like the Empire State Building and Rockefeller Center, visiting Midtown Manhattan is a no-brainer for first timers.

Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (10 Best Neighborhoods +3 to Avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s my favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.

For more on list museums, see our guide to List of All the Museums in New York City.

Best Things to Do in Midtown NYC (Self-Guided Tour)

Visiting Midtown Manhattan (Quick Note)

I designed this Midtown Manhattan guide in a way that lets you enjoy the area’s top attractions as easily as possible. The attractions are listed from north to south, making it easy to stop off at anything that piques your interest along the route.

This way your only concern is figuring out which comfortable walking shoes to wear. And don’t worry, we have you covered in that department as well. Read— 10 Best Shoes for Walking Around NYC (By Season)

(Table of Contents). Midtown Manhattan Things to Do

Table of Contents. Top Midtown Activities

Best Things to Do in Midtown NYC (Self-Guided Tour)
Have More Time While Visiting Midtown?
Best Things to Do in Midtown, NYC (Post Summary)
- Further Reading for Fun Things to Do in New York City
- Famous Spots in NYC Everyone Needs to Try
Map of Midtown Attractions in NYC

Street view of the Grand Army Plaza & Plaza Hotel in NYC, William Tecumseh Sherman gold statue

#1. Admire the Plaza Hotel

Website. The Plaza Hotel
Address.768 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019

I never get tired of this view.

The Plaza Hotel is the perfect starting point for our list of the best things to do in Midtown. Situated right outside the southeastern corner of Central Park, the hotel opened in 1907 and is a symbol of luxury and prestige.

Today, it operates as a hotel and condominium, but it comes with a high price tag with rooms starting at $1,000+ per night. Over the years, it has hosted countless celebrities and even presidents. You might recognize it from movies like “Home Alone 2. Lost in New York” and the Broadway play “The Plaza Suite.”

family walking in front of the Cartier building on 5th Avenue

#2. Go Shopping on 5th Ave

Speaking of luxury, one of the most famous things to do in Midtown Manhattan is to stroll down the famous Fifth Avenue. Fifth Avenue is peppered with high-end brands competing for attention through stunning window displays.

I do not use the term luxury lightly. Fifth Avenue is often referred to as one of the most expensive shopping districts in the world. Bopping from store to store (even if it’s just to window-shop) is a top Midtown activity, this Avenue is a place for the loudest, riskiest, and boldest stores in NYC.

One highlight while exploring Fifth Avenue is checking out the Nike flagship store. Made up of five floors, the spot is home to the world’s largest selection of Nike footwear. They sell everything from fashionable sneakers to sport-specific shoes and even have a mini basketball court in the store. There’s also a service called “Nike By You” where folks can customize their new kicks.

Fifth Avenue is considered one of the best places to shop in NYC, some notable stores to check out in the area.

Tiffany & Co.
Uniqlo
Cartier
Saks Fifth Avenue
The Nike Store

Man holding a plain bagel with lox cream cheese from Ess-a-Bagel

#3. Fuel Up with a Bagel From Ess-a-Bagel

Website. Ess-a-Bagel
Address.831 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10022

Come early. Seriously. The crowds hit hard by noon.

After you’ve made your rounds shopping, walk over to 3rd Avenue and East 51st Street for a quintessential NYC bagel experience. Since there are so many exciting things to do in Midtown, naturally you’ll build up an appetite and there’s no better meal in New York City than a fresh bagel filled with a mile-high layer of cream cheese.

Ess-a-Bagel is considered one of the best bagel spots in NYC, churning out delicious bagels since 1976. The bagel’s interior is perfectly airy and chewy while the exterior satisfies with a crunchy texture few bagel shops have mastered to this level of perfection.

Taxis and bikers in front of St. Patrick's Cathedral on 5th ave in midtown Manhattan

#4. Admire Saint Patrick’s Cathedral

Website. Saint Patrick’s Cathedral
Address.5th Ave, New York, NY 10022

This one of those New York moments that makes you fall in love with the city all over again.

Working our way down Fifth Avenue, we find St. Patrick’s Cathedral. This Neo-Gothic-style cathedral has been stopping people in their tracks since 1879. With a seating capacity of 2,000+, this one of the largest churches in NYC. Touring the interior is a no-brainer and one of the best free things to do in Midtown NYC so swing while in the area.

Guided tours offer a deeper understanding of the cathedral’s history, architecture, and significance. A 50-minute, self-guided audio tour is available in English, Spanish, Italian, French, and Portuguese, and VIP guided tours are offered once daily. If at all helpful, we created a full guide to exploring St. Patrick’s Cathedral covering all the can’t-miss details.

People waiting in line for MoMA Museum in Midtown Manhattan

#5. Visit the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

Website. Museum of Modern Art
Address.11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019

Home to famous works like Van Gogh’s The Starry Night, Monet’s Water Lilies, and pieces by Warhol, Basquiat, and Dali, MoMA is worth visiting Midtown attraction in New York City for modern art enthusiasts. Established in 1929, the museum has played a vital role in collection of modern art.

Regardless of your art background, MoMA’s ever-growing collection, coupled with its history and renovations, cements its status as one of NYC’s most popular museums. If you’re not sure where to start, download the MoMA app. It has maps, audio tours, and info on current exhibits. Plus, there’s a restaurant and a few cafes if you need a break or a snack.

Gold flags and flag pole in front of Rockefeller Plaza, 30 Rock Building

#6. Learn About Rockefeller Center

Website. Rockefeller Center
Address.45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111

Constructed during the Great Depression, Rockefeller Center consists of 19 tall buildings spread across 22 acres. The complex of buildings was completed in 1939 and served as a major provider of jobs during one of the nation’s toughest economic periods.

At its peak, there were more than 40,000 construction workers tied to the job, when the country’s unemployment rate neared staggering rates of 25%. Famous for the famous Art Deco architecture, Rockefeller Center houses some of Midtown’s top attractions, like the Top of the Rock Observation Deck and Radio City Music Hall.

If you’re visiting New York City during the holidays, one of the best things to do in Midtown is to check out the epic Rockefeller Christmas tree (often towering over 75 feet!).

Girl admiring the New York City skyline from Top of the Rock observation deck. Views of Empire State Building and Freedom Tower

#7. Top of the Rock Observation Deck

Website. Top of the Rock Observation Deck
Address.30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112

New York City’s captivating skyline, adorned with landmarks and skyscrapers, is a sight to behold. Nowhere is this more evident than at Top of the Rock, an observation deck located on the 70th floor of 30 Rockefeller Plaza.

Offering unobstructed views of the city’s famous landmarks, swinging by (especially during sunset) is one of the best things to do in Midtown. The observation deck spans three floors, including indoor and outdoor viewing areas.

Fun fact. There’s a famous photo (called Lunch atop a Skyscraper) where 11 men eat lunch along a beam. That photo was taken atop Rockefeller Plaza during construction as part of a campaign to promote the building.

People crossing the street at Radio City Music Hall at night

#8. Admire Radio City Music Hall

Website. Radio City Music Hall
Address.1260 6th Ave, New York, NY 10020

Opened in 1932, Radio City Music Hall is one of the most popular spots to see in Midtown. The world-famous venue has been around for nearly 100 years, making countless appearances in movies and TV shows over the decades.

The venue was originally built for the Metropolitan Opera House but, unfortunately, plans for the opera house were canceled in 1929. So it became a massive 5,960-seat music hall most famous for hosting the Rockettes every Christmas season.

Outside of the holidays, Radio City Music Hall’s event calendar is filled to the brim with world-famous musicians and performers. To see what’s on offer during your visit, see the event calendar.

Even if you don’t have a performance to catch, swing by for a photo of the outside, the neon lights are as memorable as anything you’ll see in New York City. It’s especially worth the extra effort to visit at night when the lights are fully illuminated, making it one of the best Instagrammable places in NYC.

People sitting on the steps of the New York Public Library with a red banner that says "Libraries make us stronger", Marble architecture

#9. Explore the New York Public Library

Website. New York Public Library
Address.476 5th Ave, New York, NY 10018

The New York Public Library is a standout attraction in Midtown, largely thanks to the building’s incredible architecture. It’s even more impressive inside, swing by the Rose Main Reading Room to see an extensive collection of valuable books and manuscripts.

This the New York Public Library’s main branch, the beauty makes a statement! While you’re exploring the library, make sure to swing by The Polonsky Exhibition. The exhibit displays remarkable treasures from a vast 56 million-piece collection, spanning 4,000 years of history.

From ancient manuscripts to modern artworks, you’ll be privy to an original copy of the Declaration of Independence, among other things, all for free. The collection is so impressive, in fact, that I included it in my round-up of 10 FREE New York City Museums (That Don’t Suck).

People sitting at tables having lunch in Bryant Park during the summer

#10. Rest Your Legs at Bryant Park

Website. Bryant Park
Address.Bryant Park

Bryant Park is directly behind the New York Public Library, it’s the closest thing we have to a European park in NYC. Clocking in at 9.6 acres, thisn’t the largest park in New York City by any stretch of the imagination, but it often feels the most full. It’s a great place to stop and rest your legs with a cup of coffee.

In the winter, Bryant Park transforms into an adorable holiday market equipped with various vendors and a large ice-skating rink. During summer, the park’s calendar is filled with daily activities for all ages, including watching movies on the lawn. There’s always something fun going on!

Local’s tip. Bryant Park has some of the best public bathrooms in NYC. There’s almost always a line, but it moves quickly. Take advantage; public bathrooms (especially clean ones) aren’t easy to find in NYC.

Man walking with a suitcase towards the Grand Central Terminal, Outside view of Grand Central Terminal in Midtown Manhattan with taxis waiting

Local tip. Insider move. ask for the off-menu special.

#11. Check Out Grand Central Terminal

Website. Grand Central Terminal
Address.89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017

Found five minutes from Bryant Park, Grand Central Terminal is worth visiting attraction in Midtown. The transportation hub opened its doors in 1913 and was built out of necessity. Up until that point, there wasn’t a central station for the 3 major railroad lines servicing NYC.

Who knew it’d become one of the most beautiful things to see in Midtown nearly a decade later? The stations is renowned for Beaux-Arts architecture, featuring a majestic concourse with a celestial ceiling mural.

Over the years, Grand Central Terminal has undergone renovations to maintain its historic charm while accommodating modern needs. Today the Grand Central Terminal is one of the most famous buildings in New York City and sees an average of 750,000 visitors daily.

Close up of one of the most famous buildings in NYC the Chrysler Building

#12. Learn About at the Chrysler Building

Website. Chrysler Building
Address.405 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10174

Completed in 1930, the Chrysler Building was part of the race to construct the world’s tallest building. When construction was official over, the famous skyscraper stood at 1,046 feet, briefly holding the coveted title before being surpassed by the Empire State Building.

Completed in 1930, this gleaming Art Deco skyscraper, with its distinctive terraced crown and sleek stainless steel cladding, reaches a height of 1,046 feet. It briefly held the title of the world’s tallest building before being surpassed by the Empire State Building two years later.

What makes the Chrysler Building stand out is the ornate design inspired by Chrysler cars. Topped with eagle gargoyles and radiator cap sculptures adorning its facade, the building isn’t open to the public, but it’s a marvel to behold from an observation deck.

Adobada and Carne Asada tacos with guacamole from Los Tacos No. 1

#13. Have a Bite at Los Tacos No. 1

Website. Los Tacos No. 1
Address.Multiple Locations

Los Tacos No. 1 stands out as perhaps the most renowned taqueria in New York City, with well-deserved hype. Originating from Tijuana and California, the founders identified a gap in authentic tacos in the city and brought the true Mexican flavor to Manhattan.

With three convenient Midtown locations, you won’t be hungry after a day of exploring. Choose from spots in Times Square, near Grand Central Terminal, and right outside Madison Square Garden. Clear standouts are the Adobada taco (complete with pineapple slivers) and the carne asada taco.

Kimberly Akimbo Broadway entrance in Times Square Theater District

#14. Catch a Broadway Show

Seeing a Broadway show in New York City is an unforgettable experience. From the award-winning ballads of Hamilton to the magical journey of Wicked, each show has a mix of storytelling and entertainment. There are currently 26 shows on Broadway ready to entertain.

Whether you’re a seasoned theater nut or a first-time visitor, one of the most memorable things to do in Midtown is checking out a Broadway show.

Can’t decide which show to catch? We did the hard work so you don’t have to! Here are 10 Brilliant Broadway Shows in New York City (For All Interests).

Taxis and cars driving through Times Square in Midtown Manhattan, Billboards and bright lights in NYC

#15. Visit Times Square

While Times Square can be overwhelming, there’s no denying that it’s one of the most famous attractions in Midtown. Witnessing Times Square, especially at night, is an essential experience for everyone (no seriously, this area attracts 50 million visitors a year).

True to its reputation, the buildings in this area are required by law to have a minimum amount of lights on display. We’ve put together a guide to help you navigate the chaos while visiting Times Square’s.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick round-up of the best things to do in Times Square.

Customize your own chocolates at M&M’s World
Snag a photo on the famous red steps in front of the TKTS booth
Grab a cream puff from Bibble & Sip
Shop your way through Times Square

Bar full of bottles of whiskey, keens pub bar, best scotch whisky bars new york city

#16. Order a Plate of Mutton Chops at Keens Steakhouse

Website. Keens Steakhouse
Address.72 W 36th St., New York, NY 10018

Despite its name, Keens Steakhouse is renowned for their 1.5 pound mutton chops (serving more than 400 orders a week). Established in 1885, this restaurant stands as one of the oldest in NYC, making it a top choice for history buffs looking to enjoy a meal in Midtown.

The unique ambiance adds to the experience, featuring over 90,000 smoking pipes adorning the ceilings and walls. This quirky touch has historical roots – in the past, patrons were required to check their pipes (similar to coat checks) before dining, and the abandoned pipes found a permanent home on the walls of this famous NYC restaurant.

Mutton Chops from Keens Famous Restaurants NYC — The mutton chops at Keen’s Steakhouse (chef’s kiss!)

Some of the most famous patrons of the Pipe Club included Teddy Roosevelt, Babe Ruth, Will Rogers, Albert Einstein, J.P. Morgan and “Buffalo Bill” Cody. Today, Keens Steakhouse owns the largest collection of churchwarden pipes in the world, another reason why visiting is one of the best things to do in Midtown.

Views of the Empire State Building near Madison Square Garden, Crowds of people exiting the subway stop in Midtown Manhattan

#17. Tour Madison Square Garden

Website. Madison Square Garden
Address.4 Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10001

Madison Square Garden, the oldest major sports facility in New York with a 20,000+ seating capacity, is renowned for hosting famous events. From legendary music and comedy acts to two popes, its true glory lies in sports. Most notable was the historic “Fight of the Century” between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier.

Offering guided tours, visiting this NYC icon for the rich history, is one of the top things to do in Midtown.

Families shopping outside of Macy's in Herald Square, nyc Macy's Christmas decorations

#18. Visit the World’s Largest Macy’s

Address.151 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001

Macy’s flagship store in Herald Square is the largest department store in the world. The store covers an entire city block and spans more than 1.1 million square feet, seeing it in all its glory is a unique experience while visiting Midtown.

Beyond shopping, Macy’s holds a special place in the country’s heart because it host the Thanksgiving Day Parade every year. A tradition dating back to 1924, the parade ends at Macy’s doorstep, which means you’ve probably seen this store on TV many times over the years.

Morgan Library & Museum walnut bookshelves holding rare books and artifacts, Free museums in New York City

#19. Admire the Morgan Library & Museum

Website. Morgan Library
Address.225 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016

The Morgan Library & Museum stands out as one of the best things to do in Midtown, allowing visitors to explore J.P. Morgan’s private library. With three floors of walnut bookshelves holding rare books and artifacts, the museum is home to treasures like an original Declaration of Independence and a handwritten Bach score.

Thanks to J.P. Morgan’s generosity, this cultural gem is open to the public, solidifying its place as don’t skip this destination in Midtown.

Ramen with a poached egg, seaweed and pork. Tonchin Best Ramen New York City — Image Courtesy Tonchin

#20. Enjoy a Bowl of Ramen at Tonchin Ramen

Website. Tonchin Ramen
Address.13 W 36th St., New York, NY 10018

Tonchin is a family business, founded in Japan in 1992 by brothers Katsuhiro and Motohiro Sugeno. When Katsuhiro’s son opted to take the business international heaven rejoiced, because ramen this good shouldn’t be gate-kept.

Every dish at Tonchin is prepared fresh daily, but the specialty is the tonkotsu ramen. The broth is made from scratch and the noodles are made in house too, so it’s no surprise this the best ramen New York City has to offer. Don’t just take my word for it, the Michelin Guide gave Tonchin a Bib-Gourmand rating, which is given to good value restaurants.

So, if you find yourself hungry while exploring the area, make no mistake. getting a bowl of ramen at Tonchin is one of the best things to do in Midtown.

Skyline views of New York City, Unobstructed views of Empire State Building and Freedom Tower

#21. Learn About the Empire State Building

Website. Empire State Building
Address.20 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001

The Empire State Building, towering at 1,454 feet, held the title of the world’s tallest building for 40 years (from 1931–1971). Remarkably, this famous New York City landmark was built in just 20 months. With 102 floors, it’s an Art Deco masterpiece and an engineering marvel.

There are two ways to enjoy this Midtown attraction. First, you can take in the views from afar (from the Top of the Rock observation deck, pictured above) or you can check out the Empire State Building’s observation deck. The observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors attract over 4 million visitors each year, offering stunning views of the city and one of the best things to do in Midtown.

Have More Time While Visiting Midtown?

Enjoy Live Music at the Birdland Jazz Club

Website. Birdland Jazz Club
Address.315 W 44th St #5402, New York, NY 10036
Cover Charge & Minimum— $20-40 per person with a $20 minimum spend

Opened in 1949, Birdland quickly became a jazz mecca, hosting legendary performances by Count Basie, John Coltrane, Dizzy Gillespie, Thelonious Monk, and Miles Davis. The club attracted celebrities like Frank Sinatra, Ava Gardner, Gary Cooper, Marlon Brando, and Marilyn Monroe.

However, the rise of Rock & Roll in the 1960s led to a decline, causing the original 52nd Street location to close in 1965. It took two decades for Birdland to reopen on the Upper West Side, and in 1966, it returned to Midtown, making it one of the best things to do in the area, where it continues to thrive today.

Catch a Late Night Show

Attending the live-taping of popular late night talk shows in NYC, like Jimmy Fallon’s, is one of the best things to do in Midtown. It’s a very unique experience!

While tickets are free, getting them requires applying in advance and being patient with waitlists. But the opportunity to see your favorite show live makes the effort worthwhile. Tapings usually start around 5pm and are open to those 16 years or older.

taxi passing in front of the Flatiron Building in midtown Manhattan

Gawk at the Flatiron Building

Address.175 5th Ave, New York, NY 10010

The Flatiron Building is undeniably famous. Its distinctive triangular shape has made it a beloved and famous landmark in New York City since its construction in 1902. Located at the bustling intersection of Fifth Avenue and Broadway, it remains one of the city’s most photographed spots and a top Midtown attraction.

Despite initial doubts from New Yorkers about its unique design and height, the Flatiron Building has not only stood the test of time but has become a cherished symbol of the city. It’s now hard to imagine New York without this enduring and beloved structure.

Something to Note. The Flatiron Building is presently undergoing construction, with scaffolding covering its exterior. The completion date for the project is currently unknown.

Family walking into Eataly in Midtown Manhattan near the Flatiron Building

Enjoy a Glass of Wine at Eataly

Website. Eataly
Address.200 5th Ave, New York, NY 10010

Exploring Eataly is a must-do activity in Midtown for food lovers. This bustling Italian marketplace offers a diverse range of top-notch Italian products, artisanal foods, and fresh ingredients.

With authentic dishes from different regions of Italy, it’s a fantastic spot to enjoy a delicious meal and discover unique gourmet products. The lively atmosphere, helpful staff, and various dining options make Eataly a straightforward and enjoyable experience for anyone looking for fun things to do in Midtown, NYC.

Best Things to Do in Midtown, NYC (Post Summary)

In sum, these are the top activities in Midtown, Manhattan.

Admire the Plaza Hotel
Go Shopping on 5th Ave
Fuel Up With a Bagel from Ess-a-Bagel
Admire St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Visit the MoMA
Learn About Rockefeller Center
Top of the Rock Observation Deck
Check Out the Famous Radio City Music Hall
Explore the New York Public Library
Rest Your Legs at Bryant Park
Check Out Grand Central Terminal
Gawk at the Chrysler Building
Eat at Los Tacos No. 1
Catch a Broadway Show
Visit Times Square
Order a Plate of Mutton Chops at Keens Steak House
Snap a Pic of Madison Square Garden
Visit the World’s Largest Macy’s
Swing by the Impressive Morgan Library & Museum
Enjoy a Bowl of Ramen at Tonchin Ramen
Learn About the Empire State Building
Enjoy Live Music at the Birdland Jazz Club
Catch a Late Night Show
Gawk at the Flatiron Building
Enjoy a Glass of Wine at Eataly

Frequently Asked Questions. Things to Do Midtown, New York City

How do I spend a day in Midtown NYC?

Admire the Plaza Hotel
Go Shopping on 5th Ave
Fuel Up With a Bagel from Ess-a-Bagel
Admire St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Visit the MoMA
Learn About Rockefeller Center
Top of the Rock Observation Deck
Check Out the Famous Radio City Music Hall
Explore the New York Public Library
Rest Your Legs at Bryant Park
Check Out Grand Central Terminal
Gawk at the Chrysler Building
Eat at Los Tacos No. 1
Catch a Broadway Show
Visit Times Square
Order a Plate of Mutton Chops at Keens Steak House
Snap a Pic of Madison Square Garden
Visit the World’s Largest Macy’s
Swing by the Impressive Morgan Library & Museum
Enjoy a Bowl of Ramen at Tonchin Ramen
Learn About the Empire State Building
Enjoy Live Music at the Birdland Jazz Club
Catch a Late Night Show
Gawk at the Flatiron Building
Enjoy a Glass of Wine at Eataly

What is Midtown known for?

Midtown Manhattan is known for its famous landmarks, including Times Square, Grand Central Terminal, and the Empire State Building. It’s a bustling commercial and entertainment hub, offering upscale shopping on Fifth Avenue and hosting numerous Broadway theaters. With its central location and vibrant energy, Midtown stands as the epitome of urban life in New York City, drawing in locals and tourists alike.

What is Midtown Manhattan close to?

Midtown Manhattan is surrounded by key NYC landmarks and neighborhoods. To the north is Central Park, while Lower Manhattan, with One World Trade Center, is to the south. The Hudson Yards and the High Line are to the west, and Murray Hill and Turtle Bay are to the east. Midtown’s central location also ensures easy access to various parts of the city through efficient public transportation.

Famous Spots in NYC Everyone Needs to Try

Best Pizza in NYC. 15 Best Pizza Joints in New York City
Famous Restaurants in NYC. 10 Famous New York City Restaurants Every Local Needs to Try
Mouthwatering Bagels in NYC. 15 BEST Bagels in New York City
Unbelievable Brunch Spots in NYC. 18 Prime Brunch Spots in New York City Worth the (Inevitable) Wait

Map of Midtown Attractions in NYC

What are the must-do activities in Midtown, Manhattan?

We highlight the top activities and attractions in Midtown, Manhattan in this comprehensive guide, from popular landmarks to hidden local favorites.

Is Midtown, Manhattan worth visiting?

Absolutely! Midtown, Manhattan offers a unique mix of experiences that we detail in this guide.

I hope you enjoyed this guide as much as I enjoyed creating it!

Cheers!

Final Thoughts

That wraps up our guide to Famous Things to Do in Midtown, Manhattan (NYC Bucket List Items). Have a favorite spot we missed?

Planning a visit soon?

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