Things to do in New York City
New York City is a place where the sheer volume of options can be overwhelming, but the real challenge is choosing what to do first.
Boroughs
Neighborhoods
New York City is a place where the sheer volume of options can be overwhelming, but the real challenge is choosing what to do first. While this guide focuses on the city itself, it is worth noting that the available listings here are limited, so the emphasis is on the experiences that define the five boroughs.
With so much to see, a practical approach is to pick a borough and a theme. You can spend a day exploring world-class museums, catching a Broadway show, or wandering through Central Park. The city's neighborhoods each have their own character, from the historic streets of Lower Manhattan to the vibrant cultural hubs in Queens and the Bronx. Food is a major draw, with everything from street carts to Michelin-starred restaurants.
Frequently asked questions about New York City
What are the best outdoor things to do in New York City?▾
Central Park is the obvious starting point for a walk, a bike ride, or a picnic. The High Line offers a unique elevated park experience on the West Side. For waterfront views, the Brooklyn Bridge Park and the Hudson River Greenway are popular. Check the weather and plan for crowds, especially on weekends.
What can families do in New York City?▾
The American Museum of Natural History is a classic choice, with its dinosaur fossils and planetarium. The Bronx Zoo is another favorite, and the Staten Island Ferry offers a free ride with skyline views. Many museums have interactive exhibits designed for kids, so look for those when planning your visit.
Where can I see a show or performance in New York City?▾
Broadway is the main draw for theater, with dozens of musicals and plays running at any given time. For a different experience, check out off-Broadway venues or the Lincoln Center for dance, opera, and orchestral performances. Prices vary widely, so it is worth booking in advance.
What are some good neighborhoods to explore in New York City?▾
SoHo is known for its cast-iron architecture and upscale shopping. The East Village offers a more bohemian vibe with eclectic restaurants and bars. For a taste of old New York, walk through Greenwich Village and its historic townhouses. Each neighborhood has its own feel, so it is easy to spend a day just wandering.
Are there free things to do in New York City?▾
Yes. The Staten Island Ferry is free and gives you a great view of the Statue of Liberty. Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge costs nothing. Many museums, like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, suggest a donation, though you can pay what you wish. Central Park is also free to enter.
Upcoming events
Eclectic Bands - 3 Band Chamber Jazz Showcase
The Wreck of the Unbelievable
Sofia Laiti - Jazz Vocalist
HARVEY MORRIS & The DEEP COVER GROOVE BAND
Dj Birane - Afro Fusion
Yatenga French Bistro & Bar Happy Hour
Chris Saunders - Reggae Rock
Social Friday Club: Midnight Munchies (Wing Edition)
Kitoko Groove from Congo - Soukous / Groove
From Folk Melodies: Three Piano Trios with Mark Peskanov, Julian Schwarz, and Marika Bournaki
Dj Birane - Afro Fusion
Back to School: Volunteer Opportunities for Teens
The Wreck of the Unbelievable
Yatenga French Bistro & Bar Happy Hour
Jeff Weiss Band - Rock Covers
The Wreck of the Unbelievable
Bill Warfield and The Hell's Kitchen Funk Orchestra
Bruff Da Crowd Pleaser - R&B / Hip Hop / Rock
From Folk Melodies: Three Piano Trios with Mark Peskanov, Julian Schwarz, and Marika Bournaki
Afrobeats and Vybez: Virgo Season - DJ Sets
The Wreck of the Unbelievable
Yatenga French Bistro & Bar Happy Hour
DJ Dakar - REGGAE SUNDAYS
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Things to do in New York City
Nearby
Brooklyn Bridge Park
This urban oasis features shaded picnic tables, hibachi-style BBQ grills & river views.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
A grand setting for one of the world's greatest collections of art, from ancient to contemporary.
Brooklyn Bridge
Beloved, circa-1883 landmark connecting Manhattan & Brooklyn via a unique stone-&-steel design.
St. Patrick's Cathedral
Towering Neo-Gothic church from 1879 with twin spires & storied history opposite Rockefeller Center.
Macy's
Department store chain providing brand-name clothing, accessories, home furnishings & housewares.
Bronx Zoo
Metropolitan zoo with 265 acres that harbors 10,000 animals in replicas of their native habitats.
Edge NYC
Protruding 100-stories-high observation deck, with a glass floor, bar & 360-degree NYC views.
The Battery
Historic park with Ellis Island & Statue of Liberty views, plus ferry service to both islands.
M&M'S New York
Colorful, interactive sweets-themed shop selling M&Ms candy, clothing, home decor & gifts.
Katz's Delicatessen
No-frills deli with theatrically cranky service serving mile-high sandwiches since 1888.
Chelsea Market
Indoor marketplace renowned for its wide range of grocers (fish, produce, etc.), shops & eateries.
Intrepid Museum
Flight museum on an aircraft carrier whose exhibits include a Concorde, submarine & space shuttle.
9/11 Memorial & Museum
Plaza, pools & exhibits honoring victims of 1993 & 2001 WTC terrorist attacks. Free timed admission.
Madison Square Garden
Billed as the "world's most famous arena", this icon hosts pro sports, concerts & other big events.
Top of The Rock
Observatory on top of Rockefeller Center, with an ocean-liner style design, offering city views.
Yankee Stadium
Home of baseball's New York Yankees, this 2009 ballpark replaced the storied House That Ruth Built.
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
The High Line
Popular park 30 feet above street level on an old rail line, with river & city views.
Washington Square Park
Historic Greenwich Village concrete-&-green park known for its stately arch & prime people watching.
The Museum of Modern Art
Works from van Gogh to Warhol & beyond plus a sculpture garden, 2 cafes & The Modern restaurant.