I visited the city six times before making an official move to the Big Apple. As a local, I get to experience the Big Apple from a unique perspective and thought it might be fun to share the best things to do in New York City. Longtime readers know I’m not keen on small talk, so let’s dive right in!

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 how spend 2, see our guide to How to Spend 2 Days in New York City (An Expert Weekend Guide).

nyc tourist attractions map, new york city tourist attractions map, new york city attractions map — Download this New York City Tourist Attractions Map

Neighborhood Guides

Explore what each NYC neighborhood has to offer.

The Best Things to Do in New York City

(Table of Contents)

Visiting NYC Things to Do (Table of Contents)

The Best Things to Do in New York City
Things to Do New York City (Seasonal)
Best Time to Visit New York City
- Where to Stay in New York City
- Getting Around New York City
Best Things to do in New York City

P.S. Make sure to pack your most comfortable pair of shoes while visiting New York City. If you need some guidance, here’s my guide on the best shoes for walking around NYC (one of our most popular posts!).

#1. Stroll (or Bike) Through Central Park

Ask any New Yorker about the best things to do in NYC for first-time visitors and Central Park is bound to come up, which is why it tops the list. Spanning 843 acres, Central Park is an architectural feat few can resist. Recognized as the first man-made park in the country, it was designed using a new concept (for the time), called landscape architecture.

There’s so many famous spots to see in Central Park, I suggest reading 15 Famous Things to Do in Central Park. Biking is a great way to cover more ground, but walking is equally enjoyable. Just note, biking in Central Park a very popular activity in New York City, make sure you follow the flow of one-way traffic and keep in the slower lane unless passing.

Website— Central Park
Featured Guide— 12 Great Spots to See Fall Foliage in Central Park

Things to do in New York City with teens, Top of the Rock

#2. Catch Sunset From the Top of the Rock

Seeing the city from above is a feeling you won’t soon forget. I’ve been to all 5 of the city’s observation decks and can confidently tell you that Top of the Rock has the best views.

The large glass panels offer unobstructed views of the city (unlike some of the other observation decks that use outdated fencing), giving you unparalleled access to the city’s most famous buildings. You’ll see the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, Flatiron Building and the One World Trade Center.

I think that everyone should make an effort to see the city from above, which it why I consider visiting an observation deck as one of the most famous activities in New York City.

Website— Top of the Rock
Address— 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY
Featured in— 18 Jaw-Dropping Views of NYC (For All Budgets)

#3. Enjoy Cocktails at the Best Bar in the World (Yes, Really)

Dante dates back to 1915. It served as a staple for the community before slowly fading into oblivion before two Australians decided to breathe new life into this beloved NYC institution. The result was striking, within a few years of opening, Dante was named the best bar in the world in 2019 and appeared on the list again 2020.

If you only do one thing on this list, make it this one.

The menu is well picked with small fare and the drinks are perfectly crafted. The hardest part about this experience is getting reservations because this one of the best things to do in New York City.

Happy Hour— There’s two Dante locations in the West Village, and thankfully both have generous happy hour between 3pm and 5pm daily. Dante West Village offers martinis for $10 and Caffe Dante offers negronis for $10. The price/quality ratio can’t be beat!

Website.Dante
Neighborhood.West Village
Locations. 551 Hudson Street & 79-81 MacDougal Street

#4. Order the Pastrami on Rye at Katz Deli

Omitting Katz Deli from a list of the most famous restaurants in New York City is an inexcusable offense. Serving New Yorkers since 1888, Katz is officially the oldest deli in NYC. Not hard to see why, they make the best pastrami sandwich in New York. Fighting words, I know. But I stand by them.

Charred outer layers, generous seasonings and a texture that melts in your mouth, this stuff is irresistible and well worth the wait. But fair warning, the mile-high pastrami sandwiches are huge! I suggest splitting between two people. And at $25-30 per sandwich, splitting makes the steep prices easier to stomach (some pun intended).

Local’s Tip. Upon entering Katz, you’ll be handed a ticket. Don’t lose it! You’ll use this ticket to order your sandwich and when it’s time to leave, you’ll need to hand the ticket to the cashier to pay. However, if you lose the ticket you’ll be charged $50!

Website— Katz Deli
Address. 205 E Houston St, New York, NY
Featured in— 10 Famous New York City Restaurants Every Local Needs to Try

#5. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is a must-do for anyone visiting New York City for the first time. Opened in 1883, the bridge took 14 years to build! It spans 1.1 miles across the East River and takes 30 minutes to cross.

My preference is to walk from the Brooklyn side toward Manhattan because the views are better. Take the subway to DUMBO (acronym for “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge”) before making your way up the bridge.

#6. Explore DUMBO

Sandwiched between the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges, DUMBO is one of the coolest areas in the city to explore. But like most neighborhoods in NYC, DUMBO wasn’t always trendy.

I brought my mom here on her first visit. She still talks about it.

This used to be an industrial mecca full of monolithic warehouses. Indeed, it was here where many notable inventions occurred, such as the cardboard box (admittedly this was an accidental invention), Brillo pads and tin cans.

Landlords were having a hard time renting warehouses and office space, so they opened them up to tenants on the cheap (which attracted artists in hordes). But word got around, and over time, DUMBO became one of the hippest parts of town, the area was built out over the past 15 years and is a joy to explore.

Here’s some cool places to check out while exploring DUMBO.

Time Out Market (grab drinks at the roof top)
Admire Jane’s Carousel (hand-carved wooden carousel built in 1922)
Take a photo at Washington & Water St. (very famous photo spot)
Stroll Brooklyn Bridge Park for some of the best views of NYC.

You May Enjoy Reading. 20 Top-Notch Things to Do in DUMBO

famous New York City restaurants — Russ & Daughters | Things to do New York City

#7. Get Bagels & Lox at Russ and Daughters

Start your day the true New York way – grab bagel and lox (smoked salmon) from Russ and Daughters in the Lower East Side. This beloved Jewish deli has been serving New Yorkers since 1914 (more than 110 years!).

The bagels are exceptional, as you would expect, but the smoked fish is where they shine. Some of the best in NYC, this popular combo will set you back $25-30, but it’s a true NYC experience that can’t be missed.

Website— Russ & Daughters
Neighborhood. Lower East Side
Address.179 E Houston St, New York, NY
Featured in— You Asked, We Answered. Here’s the 15 Best Bagels in NYC

fall foliage nyc, washington square park fall

#8. Visit Washington Square Park

Located in the heart of the charming Greenwich Village, Washington Square Park is one of the most beautiful parks in New York City. The most notable feature in the park is the monolithic marble arch that sits at the northern entrance of the park, which was built to commemorate the centennial of George Washington’s inauguration.

Skip the tourist version and do it like a local. here’s how.

Serving as the cultural hub of the neighborhood, the welcoming atmosphere attracts street performers, artist and social activists, making Washington Park one of the best parks in NYC for people-watching.

Website— Washington Square Park
Featured Guide. The 15 Best Parks in New York City (Ranked by a Local)

This what happens when passion meets a perfect location.

#9. Visit the Largest Museum in America (The Met)

With more than 2 million pieces of art spanning 5,000+ years, the Met is the largest museum in the country and the fifth largest museum in the world. Averaging 6 million visitors per year, it’s one of the most popular things to do in New York City.

Conveniently located within Central Park, it’s an easy addition to any NYC itinerary. Admittedly, the museum can get overwhelming if you don’t have a game plan! Here’s my personal guide on 20 EPIC Things to See at The MET.

Website. Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met)
Address— 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028
Featured in. 15+ Best Things to Do on the Upper East Side

#10. Catch a Broadway Show

Yes, Broadway Shows are expensive, but the experience is unforgettable. I would suggest budgeting at least one show during your first visit to New York City. Broadway is a symbol of the city’s rich cultural history, which is why this famous New York experience attracts millions of visitors a year. There’s so many great shows to choose from! You can easily find something everyone in the group will enjoy.

Local’s Tip. Certain Broadway Shows have a lottery system where you can apply to win free tickets in advance. Just go to the website of the show you want to see and apply for the lottery (if they have one). Seems like a long shot, but one of my coworkers won two tickets to Hamilton!

If you need some guidance, read.10 Brilliant NYC Broadway Shows You Won’t Soon Forget.

#11. Explore the West Village

There are so many beautiful neighborhoods to explore in New York City, but nothing tops the charm of the West Village. Known for quaint tree-lined streets, beautiful brownstones (worth $15-30 million!) and meandering cobblestone streets, the area brims with cozy corner cafes, historic jazz clubs and some of the city’s best cocktails bar.

A perfect blend of old-world charm with the modern present, visiting the West Village should be on everyone’s list of the best things to do in New York City. The list of fun activities is never-ending, I suggest reading.20 Great Things to Do in the West Village (+Helpful Advice).

#12. Visit the 9/11 Memorial (& Museum)

Sometimes I’m hesitant to mention visiting the 9/11 Museum because it’s such an emotional experience (you can’t help but cry). The 9/11 museum is a profound tribute to the 2,977 lives lost on September 11, 2001 and is truly one of the best things to do in New York City. It’s worth the visit, as long as you can emotionally brace yourself.

Whether you go to the museum of not, make sure to see the 9/11 Memorial (right next to the museum). Opened in 2011, the memorial’s design is named “Reflecting Absence” and features twin waterfalls that plunge 30 feet (the largest man-made waterfalls in North America) into pools that sit in the footprints of the former North and South Towers.

Interesting Fact.The One World Trade Center was built to replace the Twin Towers. Reaching an impressive height of 1,776 feet (this not a coincidence, America declared its independence in 1776), the One World Trade Center is the tallest building in America and the sixth tallest building in the world.

Website— 9/11 Memorial & Museum
Address.180 Greenwich St, New York
Featured in— 15 Unforgettable Things to Do in the Financial District

#13. Tour the New York Public Library

When it opened to the public in 1911, the New York Public Library was officially the largest marble building ever built in the country. No small task, considering it took 16 years to construct this monolithic structure. The library is free to visit and I suggest swinging by to take in the grandeur of the building from inside.

Better still, the library has an extraordinary collection of rare items that they’ve recently put on public display for the first time ever. You can see Thomas Jefferson’s handwritten copy of the Declaration of Independence and the toys that inspired Winnie the Pooh. We were so enthralled with the exhibition, we ended up spending 1 hour looking around.

Website— The New York Public Library
Address— 476 5th Ave, New York, NY
Featured in— 10 FREE New York City Museums (That Don’t Suck)

Instagram spots in NYC Grand Central Terminal

#14. Admire Grand Central Terminal

Stepping into Grand Central Terminal for the first time is an experience you won’t soon forget. The Beaux Arts building feels like traveling back in time to an era of opulence few places replicate this well.

The celestial ceiling in the main hall is the star of the show, averaging 750,000 visitors daily. Chances are high that your subway stop might warrant a visit, but if that’s not the case, this gem is definitely worth a detour. One of the best things to do in New York City is to swing by and snap a picture with the famous ceiling.

Website— Grand Central Terminal
Address— 89 E 42nd St, New York, NY
Featured in— 20 Famous New York City Buildings (You Should Know)

Local tip. Pro tip that most travel blogs won’t tell you. visit on a weekday afternoon for the most authentic experience.

#15. Spend an Evening at a Jazz Club

I’m not big on jazz (sorry!) but even I know better than to pass up an opportunity to spend a cozy evening at a famous jazz club in NYC. If you’d like to make your trip feel extra special, I suggest making reservations at a jazz club for a romantic NYC experience you won’t soon forget.

15 Best Jazz Clubs in New York City (You Won’t Soon Forget!)

Greenpoint Things to Do NYC Bar Blondeau

#16. Grab Drinks at a Rooftop Bar

There’s something magical about rooftop bars. Watching the stunning skyline light up for the night while sipping a delicious cocktail, it’s a great feeling! So, if you’d like to take your special someone on a surprise date while visiting NYC for the first time, head to a rooftop bar for the evening. There’s SO many great rooftop bars to choose from, but one of my go-to spots is Bar Blondeau in Greenpoint.

Helpful Guide— 12 Memorable Rooftop Bars in Brooklyn

High Line during fall New York City park

#17. Walk the High Line

The High Line is one of the most unique parks in New York City. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, the distinctive tracks this park was built on were originally used by freight trains delivering cargo to the city. The rise in trucking made freight trains obsolete, and for ages, the railroad track was abandoned until Mayor Bloomberg approved a plan to transform the derelict train tracks into a public park.

The High Line opened in 2009 and became an instant success. The distinctive promenade stretches 1.5 miles and receives an average of 8 million visitors annually. It didn’t take long for folks to realize this as one of the best things to do in New York City. The High Line is a great park in New York City for kids, too! During the warm summer months there’s a handful of vendors selling balloon animals and ice cream.

Website— The High Line
Featured Guide— 15+ EPIC Things to Do in New York City With Kids

#18. Visit the Chelsea Market

The Chelsea Market is a famous food hall mixed with unique shops, restaurants, spice markets, and cafes. The market has 35 vendors waiting to impress you with tasty treats and fare.

I had to add the Chelsea Market to my list of best things to do in New York City because it checks all the boxes (food, shopping and fun!). It’s easy bringing my out of town guests here for a sit-down meal, a quick bite or a souvenir. There’s always something to do at Chelsea Market or something to show off when visiting.

Fun fact. The Chelsea Market is housed in the old Nabisco factory building, the birthplace of the Oreo cookie!

Website— Chelsea Market
Address— 75 9th Ave, New York, NY
Featured in— 20 Epic Things to Do in Chelsea

#19. Go Shopping in SoHo

SoHo is an acronym for “South of Houston Street.” Home to hundreds of stores and local boutiques, this trendy NYC neighborhood is known for being the shopping mecca of NYC. Spend some time window shopping, perusing art galleries or absorbing the historic architecture in this (very expensive) neighborhood. Then. rest your legs at one of the many cafes while watching the world go by.

Further reading. 30 SPREE-WORTHY Stores in SoHo (Local’s Guide)

#20. Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Located right off 5th Avenue, this Neo-Gothic style cathedral has been stopping people in their tracks since 1879. The famous cathedral took 21 years to build because construction halted during the Civil War.

With a seating capacity of 2,000 people per mass, this one of the largest cathedrals in NYC. Touring the interior is a no-brainer and self-guided tours are free, so swing by if the doors are open. If you want a more in-depth experience, sign up for a guided tour.

The cathedral was recently renovated to the tune of $177 million, so you can bet it’s a sight for sore eyes. Welcoming more than 5 million visitors per year, visiting St. Patrick’s is one of the most popular things to do in New York City.

Website— Saint Patrick’s Cathedral
Address— 5th Ave, New York, NY (5th Avenue & East 50th Street)
Featured in. 12 Breathtaking New York City Churches

Best Things to do in New York City with teens

#21. Explore Times Square at Night

Times Square might be overwhelming, but it’s one of the most famous things to do in New York City. As such, seeing Times Square (specifically at night) is something everyone should experience at least once. The area draws an average of 50 million visitors a year. The appeal? The famous bright lights of New York.

In fact, the buildings in this area are required by law to have a minimum amount of lights on display (to live up to the area’s reputation). When you’re ready to escape the blinding lights of Times Square, head over to Los Tacos No. 1 – easily the best tacos you’ll eat in New York City.

Helpful Guide. 20 Epic Things to Do in Times Square (Perfect for First Time Visitors)

#22. Explore the Financial District

The seat of the country’s financial power, exploring the Financial District is one of the best things to do in NYC for history buffs. Between you and me, the area isn’t very lively (mostly corporate office buildings). However, visiting is non-negotiable because the area is full of historic significance and shouldn’t be skipped.

Walk down Wall Street and take in the famous New York Stock Exchange (featured in so many films). Then, head over to the famous Charging Bull and take a photo (one of the most popular things things to do in NYC).

While exploring the neighborhood, make sure to swing by Trinity Church (right next to the New York Stock Exchange). This the church where George Washington came to pray after his inauguration (which took place at Federal Hall). The church’s graveyard is the final resting place of Alexander Hamilton and his wife, Eliza.

Helpful Guide— 15 Unforgettable Things to Do in the Financial District (Local’s Guide)

#23. Grab Drinks at the Oldest Bar in NYC

Located in the Financial District, Fraunces Tavern dates back to 1762, which officially makes it the oldest restaurant in New York City. It’s famous for being the place where the Sons of Liberty secret society met during colonial days. This also where George Washington bid an emotional farewell to his troops before assuming the office of President.

Hamilton negotiated the end of the Revolutionary War here & even attended a meeting alongside Burr one week before the infamous duel that took Hamilton’s life. History buffs love this place, but you don’t need to know much about history to enjoy a cocktail or two. The tavern’s bar is well stocked and one of the best whisky bars in NYC not to mention these bartenders know how to make a mean cocktail.

Levain makes the most famous cookies in New York City. Warm, gooey, rich and chocolatey. this bakery has re-imagined the childhood classic in a way most bakeries dream of. There’s a few locations in town (the original on the Upper West Side), each boasting long lines most days.

The biggest draw is the original chocolate chip walnut cookie that put them on the map. But fair warning, these cookies are massive! You can easily split one between two people. Any way you slice it, visiting Levain is one of the best things to do in NYC for foodies.

#23. Visit Rockefeller Center

A passion project of John D. Rockefeller Jr. (one of the wealthiest men of all time), Rockefeller Plaza was built during the Great Depression. Construction started in 1930 and lasted nearly 10 years (completed in 1939).

The project was a significant source of employment during the country’s most difficult economic times. At its peak, there were more than 40,000 construction workers tied to the job, when the country’s unemployment rate neared 25%.

In a lot of ways, Rockefeller Center was an investment in the future of NYC when things were looking bleak. The building was originally built to house the Metropolitan Opera but after the stock market crash in 1929, Rockefeller reimagined the space as a complex of commercial buildings alongside public areas.

As a whole, Rockefeller Center covers 22 acres and includes 19 commercial buildings, the most famous being 30 Rockefeller Plaza (which offers the best views of NYC, in my opinion) and Radio City Music Hall.

35 Best Things to Do in New York City (For First Time Visitors)

#25. Visit the American Museum of Natural History

Welcoming 5 million visitors per year and spanning all aspect of the natural world, the American Museum of Natural History in New York City is considered one of the greatest natural history museums in the world.

Don’t miss the Hall of Ocean Life where you’ll have an opportunity to see a life-size model of a 94-foot blue whale. it’s an experience you won’t soon forget. Also, the taxidermy mammals are remarkable and have captivated both children and adults for years.

Website— American Museum of Natural History
Address— 200 Central Park West, New York
Featured Guide— 15 Best Things to See at the American Museum of Natural History

#26. Try the World-Famous Cronut (Dominique Ansel Bakery)

The best way to describe Dominique Ansel Bakery would be.Michelin-star quality at a fraction of the price. Often considered one of the most innovative bakeries in New York City, the Cronut (half croissant, half doughnut) put them on the map in 2013 and the lines (still) wrap the block, 10 years later.

The popularity of the cronut is so extreme, the bakery runs out within hours. The reason why trying the cronut is one of the best things to do in New York City (aside from the obvious) is that the flavors rotate every month and never repeat. Get it while you can!

Website— Dominique Ansel
Address. 189 Spring St, New York, NY 10012

#27. Check out the Morgan Library & Museum

The Morgan Library & Museum allows visitors to step inside the private library of J.P. Morgan, which he bequeathed to the public after his death. The library is quipped with three floors of metal-enclosed walnut bookshelves, chock full of rare books.

Most notable items in the library include a handwritten score by Mozart , an original copy of the Declaration of Independence (there’s only 23), the only surviving manuscript of Paradise Lost and Charles Dickens’ manuscript for A Christmas Carol.

Website— The Morgan Library & Museum
Address— 225 Madison Ave, New York, NY
Featured in. 15 Exciting Museums in New York City (& What to See at Each)

#28. See the Statue of Liberty

A gift from France, the monolithic Statue of Liberty stands as a symbol of freedom and democracy. She holds a torch above her head with her right hand, and in her left hand, she carries a tablet inscribed with the date of the American Declaration of Independence.

The statue’s internal structure was engineered by Gustave Eiffel (yes, the same guy who built the Eiffel Tower!). Over the years, Lady Liberty has welcomed millions of immigrants to America, signifying the end of an arduous journey to the Land of Freedom.

As such, is it any wonder why we can’t talk about the best things to do in New York City without mentioning the Statue of Liberty? She is the symbol of our country, and you’d be remiss to pass on this unique opportunity.

The Statue of Liberty is perched on Liberty Island you’ll need a ferry to reach it. But, if you’re okay simply seeing the statue up close – I suggest taking the Staten Island Ferry (which is free) and sails right near the Statue of Liberty.

#29. Visit the Strand Bookstore

Founded in 1927, the Strand is the only remaining bookstore from “Book Row” which was a coalition of 48 bookstores that lined Fourth Avenue. Every single bookstore, with the exception of the Strand, closed during the Great Depression.

Today this large NYC bookstore is home to 2.5 million books and serves as a safe-haven for insatiable bookworms far and wide. Visitors are welcome to donate books and peruse the bookstore in search of something new. Definitely spend time exploring the deals on the racks outside the store as well, you might score a deal. The Strand has several locations but I suggest visiting the flagship store in the East Village.

Website— Strand Bookstore
Address. 828 Broadway, New York, NY 10003
Featured in. 12+ Charming New York City Bookstores You Can’t Help But Love.

#30. Visit the Tomb of President Ulysses S. Grant

Ulysses S. Grant was a decorated General and the 18th President of the United States. Grant’s wish was to be buried next to his wife when he passed. Seems like a simple request, right? Not quite. At the time of his death, his options for a final resting place were limited because women were not allowed to be buried in military cemeteries at the time.

When Grant died from throat cancer in 1885, the mayor of New York offered to have him buried in NYC. His wife, Julia Grant, supported the offer and a fundraising effort to build what would become the largest tomb in North America ensued.

Grant’s Tomb is undoubtedly one of the most famous buildings in NYC due to its significance, making this a great New York City experience for history buffs. You can get free tours of the mausoleum through the National Park Service.

Website— General Grant’s Tomb
Address— W 122nd Street & Riverside Drive
Featured in. 11 Important National Park Sites in New York City

best things to do in New York City with kids

#31. Soak in the City Lights from the (Public) Ferry

If you’re anything like me and jump at any opportunity to feel like you’re in a movie- listen up! Catching the city skyline from a ferry in general is pretty epic, but at night. well, it’s unforgettable. The ferry is an extension of the city’s public transportation network, so the fare is affordable ($4 per person). One of my favorite New York City experiences with out of town guests is taking the ferry from DUMBO to Wall Street.

It’s a quick 5-minute ride, but it offers breathtaking views of Manhattan’s skyline from the water. In my mind, it’s one of the best things to do in New York City on a budget, especially with kids. There’s something special about being on the water, even more so when you’re in the Big Apple.

Local’s Tip.Download the ferry app so that you can see the schedule and purchase tickets in advance. Once you buy the tickets you just scan your QR code at the dock before boarding. It’s an easy system to figure out!

#32. Order the White Pie from Juliana’s Pizza

Juliana’s white pie is easily the best in New York. The ingredients are minimal (mozzarella and garlic), so the flavors really shine through. And don’t even get me started on the crust – oh that dough!

Most evenings, the line is out the door and around the block, but if you go during lunch your wait time should be shorter/nonexistent. Pies run around $25 a piece and feed two. Eating authentic NYC pizza on your trip to the Big Apple is one of the best things to do in New York City, don’t miss it.

Website— Juliana’s Pizza
Address.19 Old Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY
Featured in— 15 Famous New York City Pizza Joints
Good to know. Juliana’s doesn’t accept reservations, first come, first served only. Lines move quickly!

#33. Explore Chinatown

Chinatown in New York City (one of the oldest Chinatowns in the country) is home to the largest Chinese population in the Western Hemisphere. The vibrant neighborhood has an authentic feel few areas can emulate. Full of endearing shops and incredible restaurants, there’s so many fun things to do in New York City’s Chinatown. Whether you’re exploring the area as a foodie or culture enthusiast, one thing is certain – you’re bound to have a great time.

Complete Guide— 15 Exciting Things to Do in Chinatown (Local’s Guide)

#34. Grab a Beer at McSorely’s Old Ale House

If you’re searching for one of the best historic things to do in the East Village, consider stopping by McSorley’s Old Ale House for some ale. Opened sometime between 1854 and 1862 (the exact year is debated), McSorley’s Old Ale House is one of the most historic bars in New York City.

So entrenched in history, not a single item has been removed from the walls since 1910. You can find Houdini’s handcuffs on a bar rail and wishbones hung by young men going off to World War I.

This beloved NYC pub has hosted notable patrons throughout the years. Famous names include Abraham Lincoln, Ulyssess S. Grant, Theodore Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, John Lennon, Houdini and E.E. Cummings.

Website— McSorley’s Old Ale House
Address. 15 E 7th St, New York, NY 10003
Featured in. 15 Famous East Village Activities

The One World Trade Center in the Financial District

#35. Admire the One World Trade Center

The One World Trade Center (also known as the “Freedom Tower”), soars to a symbolic height of 1,776 feet (the year America declared its independence). Not only is this the tallest building in the country (and 6th tallest building in the world), but it serves as a stark reminder of the tragic events of September 11, 2001.

Completed in 2014, the building has 104 floors and is topped with a 408-foot spire that adds to its famous stature of this famous New York City building. You can gawk at the building from the ground level. However to truly appreciate its size, I suggest visiting the observation deck for panoramic views of NYC.

Representing the resilience of the American people, the One World Trade Center is arguably the most important building in New York City.

Website— One World Observatory
Address— 17 West St, New York

Best Time to Visit New York City

My favorite time to visit New York City is during the holiday season (late November to December) because of the Christmas markets and decorations. My second favorite time to visit is during fall (mid-October to mid-November) because of the mild temperatures and beautiful fall foliage.

But there’s no bad time to visit New York City. Just know that winters can be brutally cold (between January and mid-March). And the summer heat and humidity is tough to handle (between July and August).

Where to Stay in New York City

Lodging in New York City will not be cheap. Anyway you slice it, sleeping in the city that never sleeps is expensive. In fact, lodging will probably be the biggest hit to your budget.

With that said, for first time visitors, my recommendation is to stay in Greenwich Village or SoHo.

My favorite mid-range hotel in New York City is the Soho Grand Hotel. SoHo has a calmer feel than other parts of New York City.

Airbnb Note — Due to the current housing shortage crisis in New York City, the city prohibits rentals of entire apartments or homes for less than 30 days without the owner present in the unit. Essentially, it’s okay to book through Airbnb if you’re staying in a private room while the owner is present. You might be surprised to hear that prices are not any cheaper for this arrangement.

Getting Around New York City

Walking is a great way to get around

You will be doing a lot of walking during your first visit to New York City. The subway is efficient but sometimes it’s better to walk between places to absorb more of the city.

Uber and Lyft

Using Uber and Lyft is a great way to get around New York City, especially if traveling in a larger group. The last time I visited NYC with a group of friends Uber and Lyft were sometimes cheaper than the subway split between the 4 of us.

The subway

The subway is quite the New York City experience. I personally love taking it whenever I can but be warned – it gets terribly crowded during commute hours.
Also, in the summer, some of the subway stations are hot and muggy. Since the itinerary takes you to every corner of Manhattan, I suggest getting a MetroCard during your 4 days in New York.

Taxis

What is more famous than a bright gold New York City taxi? To know if a taxi is available for pick up, check the light on top of the cab. If the light is illuminated, the taxi is eager to take you! Credit cards accepted.

Visiting New York City for First Time (Post Summary)

In sum, these are the best things to do in New York City during your first visit.

Stroll (or bike) through Central Park
Sunset at Top of the Rock Observation Deck
Lox bagels from Russ and Daughters
Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
Visit Washington Square Park
Explore DUMBO
Catch a Broadway Show
Go Shopping in Soho
White pie from Juliannas Pizza
Marinara pie from Rubirosa Pizza
Pastrami Sandwich at Katz
Visit the 9/11 Memorial (and Museum)
Explore the Oculus Mall
New York Public Library (& Bryant Park)
Spend an Evening at a Jazz club
Explore the Chelsea Market
Grab Drinks at a Rooftop Bar
Cronut from Dominique Ansel Bakery
Walk the High Line
Visit the MET
Explore Grand Central Terminal
Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Visit Times Square
Stroll the Brooklyn Promenade
Explore the Financial District
Levain Bakery cookies
Eat your way through Essex Market
Visit the tomb of President Ulysses S. Grant
Hang out on Little Island
Soak in the city lights from the Ferry
Have a drink at the best bar in the world
Grab a Beer at McSorely’s Old Ale House
Picnic in Central Park
Explore Chinatown
Admire the One World Trade Center

First Trip to NYC (FAQ)

(FAQ)

How do I plan my first trip to New York?

NYC is one of the largest cities in the world, so proper planning is key (that’s where we come in!). I suggest reading— 20 Helpful Tips for Visiting New York City for the First Time (Local’s Guide) and our guide to.4 EPIC Days in New York City Itinerary.

What is the number one attraction in New York City?

The biggest attraction in NYC is the Statue of Liberty, but not all first time visitors choose to visit. The reason? It’ll eat up half a day! If you’re interested in history, definitely add the Statue of Liberty to your itinerary, otherwise, feel free to skip! This list will give you plenty to do in NYC for your first visit.

What is the coolest thing in New York City?

If you’re short on time, my personal list of the 3 coolest things to do in NYC is. walk the Brooklyn Bridge, visit the Top of the Rock Observation Deck and get a pastrami sandwich at Katz. I consider these can’t-miss attractions for first time visitors.

Map of the Best Things to Do in NYC

20 Epic New York City Summer Activities
10 Foolproof New York City Souvenir Ideas (Local’s Guide)
Christmas in New York City. 20 MAGICAL Things to Do (5 to Avoid)

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!

Final Thoughts

That wraps up our guide to Things to Do in New York City (For First Time Visitors). Have a favorite spot we missed?

What would you add to this list?

If you liked this guide, you might also enjoy exploring my other local recommendations.

Comments

Norman Prelypchan says

March 21, 2023 at 3:01 am

One place missed…
Martinis at Sardis
(Lunch, followed by a Broadway Show Matinee optional)

Mackenize says

December 26, 2023 at 11:08 am

I’ve read a lot of articles on what to do in NYC and yours is by far the best, thank you so much for taking the time to write such a helpful guide. I’m so excited to visit NYC soon and plan to do most of the stuff on your list, thank you a million times over!

PALMINA LUCCHESE says

January 10, 2024 at 5:47 pm

I would like to visit on easter wknd are the main attractions opened

- Antonina says
  
  January 10, 2024 at 6:00 pm
  
  Hi Palmina, yes, most (if not all) of these attractions will be open Easter Weekend. Enjoy your time in NYC!
  
Jacqui Warren says

September 6, 2024 at 1:05 pm

Hi Antonia, I love your guide, thank you! I want to see the painting by Lorenzo Monaco, The Intercession of Christ and the Virgin at the Met. Could you please tell me where in the Museum it will be located please?
Many thanks, Jacqui Warren

- Antonina says
  
  September 10, 2024 at 1:44 pm
  
  Hi Jacqui, thank you for the kind words!
  
  The The Intercession of Christ and the Virgin by Lorenzo Monaco is located in Gallery 305 (Medieval Sculpture Hall) at the Met. Make sure to peruse my guide on the 20 best things to see at the Met if you’re planning to spend a full afternoon at the museum. Cheers!

Explore