As the most famous and most visited city in the United States, there are plenty of things to do in New York. Situated on the east coast of the country, this imposing city of gigantic dimensions is a true urban gem.
No matter what time of year you visit, the charm and magic of this city will leave you spellbound from the very first second you set foot in it. You’ll feel the time fly by as you get to know its countless monuments and landmarks. As well as stroll through its impressive Central Park, one of the largest and most famous urban parks on the planet. If you want to find out more about this exciting city, keep reading our post!
Things to do in New York
Top of the Rock
Inside the iconic Rockefeller Center is one of the best viewpoints to see in New York: the Top of the Rock. From the top of this imposing 70-storey building you can enjoy one of the most breathtaking views of the Big Apple.
Located in Midtown Manhattan, this place is one of the most famous and crowded spots in the city. Also, it has to be at the top of your list of things to see in this impressive city. Once at the top, you’ll be mesmerised by panoramic views of New York, as well as the majestic Empire State Building.
This visit will fascinate you either way, but for the ultimate experience, don’t hesitate to schedule your visit during sunset. The colours and the scenery will become a sight you will never forget. Don’t hesitate to get your ticket to enjoy this impressive viewpoint.
High Line
The High Line is one of the most beautiful and interesting passages to see in New York. It is a long walkway of several kilometres where an elevated train track used to be located. Today it is one of the most flourishing areas of the city.
You can take a pleasant stroll through a curious landscape that combines buildings and nature. Also, along the way, you will see different points of great architectural value. You can also choose to rest on one of the benches while you have a bite to eat and enjoy the atmosphere. The best time of day to visit this area is early in the morning, as you’ll avoid most of the crowds and enjoy the idyllic lighting in an incredible setting.
Grand Central Terminal
You’ve probably seen this place in countless movies, but the excitement you’ll feel when you set foot in this place will be as if you’re seeing it for the first time. Grand Central Terminal is one of the most iconic sights to see in New York, as well as being an architectural gem.
In addition to being fascinated by its majestic interior decoration of vaulted ceilings and constellation ceiling. You can be entertained for hours just watching the people passing by on the platforms. The most emblematic feature of this place is undoubtedly its great golden clock located in the centre of the great hall. Don’t hesitate to get up close and take a picture!
Times Square
Although it’s no longer a surprise, there’s no doubt that Times Square is the most iconic place to see in New York. As well as being the main protagonist on every postcard of the city. This place captures the frenetic essence of the city that never sleeps.
Times Square is a set of wide streets full of light and colour, mainly due to its huge illuminated signs. This area is the busiest in the whole city, where travellers flock to enjoy its lively atmosphere, street performers and street vendors. This place will impress you at any time of the day, but if you visit it at night, you will live an experience you will never forget. You can’t miss it!
Wall Street
If you want the authentic experience of getting lost among New York’s towering skyscrapers, Wall Street is the place to be. This impressive financial district is home to some of the world’s most valuable economic landmarks.
On your visit to Wall Street, you can’t miss a visit to the spectacular New York Stock Exchange building or the beautiful Federal Hall, which was once the city’s City Hall. You’ll be fascinated by the sheer scale of the buildings and the number of people in suits you’ll see along the way. Before leaving this area, don’t forget to take a photo with the famous Wall Street Bull and the Girl with No Fear, both of which are loaded with symbolic value.
Central Park
Central Park is a vast park located in the heart of Manhattan, and is one of the favourite places to see in New York for locals and travellers alike. This large rectangular space of nature covers more than 3.41 square kilometres and is considered to be the lungs of New York. Being in the middle of the city, it is the place chosen by locals and travellers alike to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Thanks to its size, you can lose yourself among its countless trees, lakes and gardens without tiring yourself out. It is also the ideal place to prepare a picnic or simply take a stroll at the end of the day while enjoying a unique natural environment. A visit not to be missed for anything in the world.
Brooklyn Bridge
Crossing the Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most classic things to do in New York and is sure to become one of your favourites. This famous bridge, besides being one of New York’s most iconic landmarks, is one of the longest suspension bridges in the world.
The most characteristic feature of this bridge is that it is a walkway and link between the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn. It is the perfect way to get a change of scenery and get to know the very interesting borough of Brooklyn. Along the way, you’ll be able to enjoy incredible views of the river and the city skyline. It’s also open to both pedestrians and cyclists, so it’s a good option to rent a bike. We recommend crossing it at sunset to enjoy a completely unique atmosphere.
Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic symbols to see in New York. As well as having an important message representing freedom and democracy. It is located on Ellis Island, as it was once the main access point to New York by boat.
This French gift to the Americans has become one of the most significant and recognisable elements not only of New York, but of the whole country. Although there are different ways to see the statue, if you want to see it for free, we recommend taking the Staten Island Ferry. From there you can see the sculpture from a reasonably good distance. Don’t forget to bring your camera!
9/11 Memorial
Located at Ground Zero is the 9/11 Memorial, one of the most historically significant things to see in New York. This impressive memorial honours the victims of the terrorist attacks that took place in September 2001.
This monument is made up of two large reflecting pools, which occupy the space where the Twin Towers once stood before they were demolished. In its stone material you can see the engravings of all the victims who died that day. This memorial is, without a doubt, a place where you will breathe a different air that will invite you to reflect on what happened twenty years ago.
Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.
What to do in New York with children?
American Museum of Natural History
The American Museum of Natural History is a must-see in New York. Here you’ll enjoy an incredible collection and countless rooms dedicated to both young and old.
This huge museum houses exhibits on everything from science and astronomy to archaeology and is a place where you’re sure to find something to interest you. Offering more than 30 million exhibits, you can spend an entertaining morning or afternoon with the family as you wander through the halls and learn in style. The area dedicated to dinosaurs is the most popular with the little ones, as they are fascinated by their shapes and sizes, especially the T-REX skeleton. You’ll have a blast!
Brodway Musical
Another must-do if you’re travelling to New York with children is to attend one of the Brodway musicals. You can choose from a wide variety of shows according to your interests and enjoy a pleasant evening with your family.
The musicals take place in some of the city’s most beautiful theatres, all scattered throughout Broadway. Among the huge range of shows on offer, we recommend opting for a Disney musical such as Aladdin or the world-famous Lion King show. These are sure to be enjoyed by young and old alike. You’ll experience breathtaking scenery while singing your lungs out to the most famous songs of all time. An unforgettable experience for the whole family!
Roosevelt Island Cable Car
Between Manhattan and Queens lies Roosevelt Island, or Roosevelt Island, home to a tiny percentage of New York’s population. What can be fun about this visit, especially for the little ones, is riding the cable car that provides access.
You’ll enjoy a short ride up high as you gaze at the Queensboro Bridge or some of the beautiful streets of the Big Apple. Once on the island, you can visit some of the most interesting spots in the city and end the visit in one of its parks while the little ones play and have a great time. You can get on the cable car with a single metro ticket.
What to do around New York?
Washington
Among all the interesting places to see near New York, a visit to Washington D.C. is a must. As the political capital of the United States, there are a huge number of places and landmarks to visit in this great city.
Located just 4 hours away from New York, Washington is where the most important decisions of state are made and is named after the first president of the United States, George Washington. Here you can enjoy some of the most famous buildings in the country, such as the White House, the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument. Don’t miss a visit to this magnificent city on your trip to New York.
Niagara Falls
Considered one of the most beautiful natural sites in the United States, Niagara Falls is located on the country’s border with Canada. It is located just 4 hours away from New York, making it the perfect destination for a day trip.
On your excursion, you’ll be able to enjoy a beautiful natural park where you can do much more than just see the waterfalls. Some of the attractions you can access are the Cave of the Winds or Maid of the Mist. You will enjoy a boat tour that will get you as close as possible to the falls. We recommend leaving early in the morning to make the most of the day. Don’t forget to bring a mackintosh!
Philadelphia
Philadelphia is located in the state of Pennsylvania, just two hours from New York City. As well as being one of the most populated cities in the United States, it is a city of great historical and cultural value.
Thanks to its proximity to the Big Apple, it can be the perfect day trip. Once you’re there, you can’t miss its main attractions: the Liberty Bell, the famous Philadelphia Museum of Art, Independence National Historic Park and, last but not least, Independence Hall. Before leaving the city, don’t hesitate to wander the streets and soak up the city’s atmosphere – you won’t regret it!
Itineraries for your trip to New York
What to see in New York in 1 day?
- Stroll through Central Park
- Visit Wall Street
- See Times Square
- Climb to the Top of the Rock
What to see in New York in 5 days?
- Enter Grand Central Terminal
- Walk the High Line
- Cross the Brooklyn Bridge
- Enter the American Museum of Natural History
- Ride the Roosevelt Cable Car
- Escape to Philadelphia
What to see in New York in 10 days?
- Stroll through Brooklyn
- See the 9/11 Memorial
- Ride the ferry to see the Statue of Liberty
- See a Musical on Broadway
- Escape to Washington
- Take a trip to Niagara Falls
Frequently Asked Questions
The New York CityPASS allows you to visit 6 of New York’s top attractions and save up to 42% off the price of attractions purchased individually. This pass includes visits to these attractions: Empire State Building, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Top of the Rock, Statue of Liberty, American Museum of Natural History, 9/11 Memorial and Museum.
Located in the SoHo neighbourhood is Black Tap, a burger joint particularly famous for its impressive milkshakes. Despite the hefty price tag, it’s definitely worth trying one to share.
If you’re looking for the best pizza in New York City, don’t hesitate to head to Rizzo’s. This friendly place serves both square and round pizzas, as well as a wide variety of toppings.
Burger Joint is the place where they serve no less than the third best burgers in the world, as rated by the World Burger Competition. It is hidden inside the prestigious Le Meridien hotel.
There are plenty of museums to see in New York, here is a list of the ones you can’t miss.
– First of all, you can’t miss the Metropolitan Museum of Art, also known as the MET. Being the largest museum in the city, you will be able to enjoy a wide collection of art.
– Secondly, we recommend a visit to The Brooklyn Museum, where you will find an extensive exhibition of African and Egyptian artefacts.
– Thirdly, you can’t leave New York without visiting its famous American Museum of Natural History. Here you will find a wide variety of collections covering different fields.
There are different ways and means of transport to get to Niagara Falls from New York.
The quickest way to get there is by plane, landing at Buffalo Airport. Once there, we recommend renting a car and driving to the falls, which takes less than an hour.
Another option is to rent a car in New York and drive directly to the falls, but keep in mind that this is a long drive and can take up to 6-7 hours.
How to plan your itinerary of the places you want to see in New York?
Download the Passporter app and plan your trip in the most organised way.
With the app you can:
- First, be inspired by the experiences of other travellers.
- Later, save valuable information about the destinations you want to visit that you have found on ours post. Just install the Chrome extension and save everything useful for your trip.
- Also, organise your route on google maps with your accommodation as the starting point or any other that you indicate.
- Finally, save and publish as you go your own photos and experiences.
If you’re interested in learning more about how to use and get the most out of the Passporter app, you can read our post: How to create a travel itinerary on Passporter.
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