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. So, without further ado, let’s cover the best things to do in Midtown
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 our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
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)
- Table of Contents: Top Midtown Activities
- #1. Admire the Plaza Hotel
- #2. Go Shopping on 5th Ave
- #3. Fuel Up with a Bagel From Ess-a-Bagel
- #4. Admire Saint Patrick’s Cathedral
- #5. Visit the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
- #6. Learn About Rockefeller Center
- #7. Top of the Rock Observation Deck
- #8. Admire Radio City Music Hall
- #9. Explore the New York Public Library
- #10. Rest Your Legs at Bryant Park
- #11. Check Out Grand Central Terminal
- #12. Learn About at the Chrysler Building
- #13. Have a Bite at Los Tacos No. 1
- #14. Catch a Broadway Show
- #15. Visit Times Square
- #16. Order a Plate of Mutton Chops at Keens Steakhouse
- #17. Tour Madison Square Garden
- #18. Visit the World’s Largest Macy’s
- #19. Admire the Morgan Library & Museum
- #20. Enjoy a Bowl of Ramen at Tonchin Ramen
- #21. Learn About the Empire State Building
- Have More Time While Visiting Midtown?
- Best Things to Do in Midtown, NYC (Post Summary)
- Map of Midtown Attractions in NYC
#1. Admire the Plaza Hotel
Website: The Plaza Hotel
Address: 768 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019
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.”
#2. Go Shopping on 5th Ave
Speaking of luxury, one of the most iconic 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
#3. Fuel Up with a Bagel From Ess-a-Bagel
Website: Ess-a-Bagel
Address: 831 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10022
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.
#4. Admire Saint Patrick’s Cathedral
Website: Saint Patrick’s Cathedral
Address: 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022
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 is 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.
#5. Visit the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
Website: Museum of Modern Art
Address: 11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019
Home to iconic works like Van Gogh’s The Starry Night, Monet’s Water Lilies, and pieces by Warhol, Basquiat, and Dali, MoMA is a must-visit 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.
#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 iconic 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!).
#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 iconic 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.
#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.
#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 is 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).
#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, this isn’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.
#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 a must-visit 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 iconic buildings in New York City and sees an average of 750,000 visitors daily.
#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 iconic 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.
#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.
#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 offers a unique blend 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).
#15. Visit Times Square
While Times Square can be overwhelming, there’s no denying that it’s one of the most iconic 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 iconic red steps in front of the TKTS booth
- Grab a cream puff from Bibble & Sip
- Shop your way through Times Square
#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 iconic NYC restaurant.
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.
#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 iconic 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.
#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.
#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 a must-visit destination in Midtown.
#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 is 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.
#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 iconic 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.
Gawk at the Flatiron Building
Address: 175 5th Ave, New York, NY 10010
The Flatiron Building is undeniably iconic. 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.
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 Iconic 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
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 Iconic 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
Midtown Manhattan is known for its iconic 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.
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.
Further Reading for Fun Things to Do in New York City
Romantic Things to Do: 19 (Non-Cheesy) Romantic Things to Do in New York City
Free Things to Do: 20 Unique Free Things to Do in New York City to Keep Your Wallet Happy!
Things to Do at Night: 15 Things to Do in New York City at Night
Best Things to Do in NYC: 30 Best Things to Do in New York City
Iconic Spots in NYC Everyone Needs to Try
Best Pizza in NYC: 15 Best Pizza Joints in New York City
Iconic Restaurants in NYC: 10 Iconic 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
I hope you enjoyed this guide as much as I enjoyed creating it! Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions – happy to help!
Cheers!
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