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
One World Observatory
Observatory located on floors 100-102 of One World Trade Center, with exhibits & restaurants.
Queens Center
This coliseum-like indoor shopping mall houses dozens of retail stores plus a food court.
Brighton Beach
Legendary beach & boardwalk offering sand sport courts, playgrounds & a few rides.
230 Fifth Rooftop Bar
Chic penthouse bar & lounge featuring a rooftop garden & live music, plus global bites & brunch.
Madame Tussauds New York
Museum chain for life-size wax replicas of famous Americans & historic icons in themed galleries.
The Mall at Bay Plaza
Large retail complex with department, discount & specialty stores, services & food/grocery options.
via Google MapsBarclays Center
Home to the Brooklyn Nets basketball games, plus a venue for concerts & boxing matches.
Citi Field
Modern 40,000+ capacity baseball park hosting Mets games, a small Mets museum & occasional concerts.
via Google MapsJoe's Pizza Broadway
Modern outpost of a longtime counter-serve pizza joint prepping New York-style slices and pies.
Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
Frank Lloyd Wright–designed modern art museum with an architecturally significant spiral rotunda.
American Museum of Natural History
From dinosaurs to outer space & everything in between, this huge museum showcases natural wonders.
via Google MapsCentral Park Zoo
Set within Central Park, this small zoo features penguins, sea lions, monkeys & a petting zoo.
One World Trade Center
Ellen's Stardust Diner
Multi-level '50s-themed diner with memorabilia, singing servers, and an extensive menu of American classics.
Flushing Meadows Corona Park
Enormous greenspace housing World's Fair monuments, plus museums, sports facilities, a zoo & more.
Prospect Park
Sprawling city park featuring the Audubon Center in the historic Boathouse, plus Prospect Park Zoo.
via Google MapsHard Rock Cafe
Rock ’n’ roll-themed chain with a high-energy vibe serving burgers & American classics.
Vessel
Brookfield Place
Towering waterfront office complex offering shopping, dining & ice-skating, plus special events.
Radio City Music Hall
Circa-1932 art deco theater hosting the Christmas Spectacular with the Rockettes, concerts & more.