64 Best Things to Do in New York City, According to a New Yorker | The Exploreist (2024)

By Todd Maurer | Updated: August 31, 2024

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Times Square, with its bright lights, Broadway marquees, crowds of people, honking horns, yellow taxis, and street performers, gives you a bustling introduction to the city that never sleeps. On your first day in New York City, it makes sense to start at this iconic crossroads. You can take the A, C, or E train to Port Authority or the 7, N, R, W, 1, 2, or 3 train to Times Square. Or grab a cab, but expect to pay more.

You can explore Times Square on your own or take a guided tour like the Historic Times Square Tour with Big Onion,The Ride NYC, theself-guided New York audio tour, andthe free walking tour by Hotel Edison and Triumph Hotels. If tours aren’t your kind of thing, check out Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, Gulliver’s Gate, Hershey’s Chocolate World, or Father Duffy Square.

There are also group events and temporary art installations at Times Square, including Lunch Atop a Skyscraper, Wake and Unmoored, yoga classes, Broadway show-themed snow globes, and the world’s biggest bottle of soap. Keep your eyes peeled as you walk through this iconic intersection.

While at Times Square, don’t forget to stop by a gift store and grab a souvenir for your loved ones back home. Disney Store, Line Friends, and M&M’s World are our favorites. They all have items designed with a New York twist — think Minnie Mouse or Ms. Green plushies in Statue of Liberty costumes — and offer plenty of opportunities for Instagrammable photos, too. On the other hand, skip those brightly lit souvenir shops unless they have something you desperately want. Their offerings are cheaper, but the quality is bad too.

3: Watch a Broadway Show

While you look up, down, and all around in Times Square, you’ll notice the Broadway theaters and the billboards advertising what’s playing. Seeing a Broadway show is a quintessential New York experience. Head to the TKTS Booth located on 47th Street and Seventh Ave for discounted tickets for same-day performances, or download the TKTS app to check which shows have tickets on sale that day. If there’s a particular show you want to see, check BroadwayBox.com for advance purchase of discounted tickets.

Not sure which one to pick? You can’t go wrong with classics like Wicked, The Lion King, Dear Evan Hansen, Come From Away, and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.

Read More: The Best New York Broadway Musicals and Shows

4: Overlook the city from the Empire State Building

Read More: The Best Manhattan Skyline Views in New York City

5: A Great Alternative For Majestic Views: Top of the Rock

Looking for a less touristy spot for skyline views? At the top of Rockefeller Center, Top of the Rock’s three levels of indoor and outdoor observation decks offer spectacular, unobstructed views of Central Park and Midtown Manhattan. In addition to Top of the Rock, the city has plenty of rooftop bars with skyline views, including Mr. Purple on the Lower East Side, 1 Rooftop in Brooklyn, 230 Fifth, Refinery Rooftop in Midtown, Le Bain, Top of the Standard in the Meatpacking District, and Westlight atop Williamsburg’s The William Vale.

6: Take a (free) Ride on the Staten Island Ferry

If you’re looking for a free way to see Manhattan’s skyscrapers and the Statue of Liberty, hop on the Staten Island Ferry, which runs between the Whitehall Ferry Terminal in Manhattan and the St. George Ferry Terminal in Staten Island. The ferry operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Check out the schedule if you’re interested. Food and beer concessions are also available on the boat.

7: See the Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty needs no introduction! Tickets can be purchased online or at the Castle Clinton National Monument in Battery Park or Liberty State Park in New Jersey. Admission ranged between $29 and $32. Your trip will begin at Battery Park or Liberty State Park, depending on which is closest to you. After going through security, you’ll board a three-story ferry — all levels have seating and standing room, but the best views are from the open third level.

The ferry ride takes 15 to 20 minutes to reach the destination, during which you’ll pass Ellis Island, home to the U.S. Immigration Museum. Most tours make a quick stop there, so if you’re interested, take the opportunity to explore. Once at Liberty Island, you can walk around, take photos of Lady Liberty, and enjoy the Manhattan skyline. When you’re ready to leave, return to the harbor where you disembarked to catch the ferry, which departs every 20 minutes.

8: Explore Central Park

This vast green space stretches from 59th to 110th Street, 5th to 8th Avenue, and was designed to be an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city that never sleeps. It is managed by the Central Park Conservancy, which works to keep the park beautiful. You can explore the park on your own, take a guided tour, or relax and people-watch. You can also ride the carousel, row a boat on the lake, and pay your respects to John Lennon at the Strawberry Fields memorial. If you visit in the summer, there are also free events like SummerStage.

Read More: The Best Things to Do in Central Park, New York

9: Take a Horse Ride

In NYC, horses symbolize a bygone era when there were no cars, buses, or trains. Instead, it was those loyal racers that carried New Yorkers from place to place. Over time, they became iconic in the history of Manhattan. Now, the horse carriages can be found lined up year-round at the following pickup zones. Each carriage can accommodate up to 4 people and costs between $68 and $150. It’s a great way to explore Central Park, especially in winter when it’s blanketed in snow and holiday lights or in the fall when the leaves change color.

• Grand Army Plaza: Center lane at Fifth Avenue and East 60th Street entrance.

• Sixth Avenue: Within the park entrance north of Central Park South.

• Seventh Avenue Entrance: The east curb, about 20 feet from Central Park South.

Read More: Your Guide to Central Park Horse Carriage Rides

10: Watch a Free Movie at Bryant Park

Grab a chair to crack a book or catch up with an old friend over coffee at this 9.6 acres of green. In summer, the park transforms into an outdoor theater playing classic movies like Little Miss Sunshine, Big Daddy, and Coming to America. Also, every year from July to August, actors from current Off-Broadway and Broadway shows make appearances in Bryant Park from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM, wowing audiences with song-and-dance numbers — it’s free! If you visit during Christmas, come and skate at The Rink, an ice rink that opens at the end of October and stays open until January.

11: Take an Iconic Shot with Flatiron Building

If you’ve roamed the Flatiron District, you won’t miss this iconic NYC landmark — a triangular 22-story, 285-foot office building. It is one of the city’s oldest surviving skyscrapers and a key building in the Beaux-Arts Classicist movement. For the best shot, head to 23rd Street on the sliver of the sidewalk area.

12: Visit the American Natural History Museum

The American Museum of Natural History is divided into seven sections, each highlighting different aspects of human cultures, nature, and the universe. If you're into wildlife, the Alaska Brown Bear, Blue Whale Model, Mammoth Skeleton, and Tyrannosaurus rex exhibitions are where you should be. If human culture is your thing, check out the Origami Holiday Tree, Great Canoe, and Rapa Nui (Easter Island) Moai Cast. There are also special displays, and The Butterfly Conservatory is our favorite, where a winding path leads you through an indoor rainforest of over 500 fluttering butterflies.

13: Listen to live Jazz at Lincoln Center

The world’s leading performing arts center, Lincoln Center on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, brings thousands of performances to life each year. During your visit to New York City, be sure to stop by to catch a live jazz performance, watch a play, or take a guided tour of the many impressive theaters inside this 16.3-acre complex. If you’re traveling on a budget (who isn’t in one of the most expensive cities in the world?), Lincoln Center also offers a variety of free shows and events throughout the year, which you can find here.

14: Go to the Metropolitan Museum of Art

Also called The Met, The Metropolitan Museum of Art is the country’s largest art museum, with over two million works divided among 17 departments. It’s so massive that you could easily spend several days here. In addition to appreciating its world-class collections, our favorite thing to do is roam and take photos in the Temple of Dendur, which is beautifully lit on sunny days by natural light streaming through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Tickets, starting at $17, include access to all exhibitions and are valid for three consecutive days.

Read More: The Most Instagrammable Places in New York City

15: Stop by The “Life Underground” Figures

Even New Yorkers don’t know about this attraction — the “Life Underground” tiny bronze figures that decorate the 14th Street and 8th Avenue subway stations. Designed by artist Tom Otterness, these playful, cartoon-like statues precisely depict the small details, history, and myths of New York City. Take the A, C, or E train to the 14th Street station or the L train to the 8th Avenue station, and follow the signs to the A, C, or E platform. Some statues are on the upper level, while most are on the train platforms, with many under stairwells.

Read More: The Most Beautiful Subway Stations in New York City

16: Go to the World Trade Center

While you’re in NYC, check out the World Trade Center Transportation Hub, which connects you to 11 different subway lines, the PATH rail system, the Battery Park City Ferry Terminal, Brookfield Place (one of the city’s best destinations for shopping, cultural events, and art exhibits), and the World Trade Center Towers, the main building of the rebuilt World Trade Center complex.

The Oculus

Come out of the subway through its furthest exit, and you’ll find yourself in The Oculus, a white-winged architectural masterpiece that serves as the centerpiece of the World Trade Center Transportation Hub. Here, you can shop at designer boutiques, with brands including Kate Spade, Lacoste, Forever 21, and Apple, or grab a bite at the Hudson Eats food court, which features 14 chef-driven eateries, including Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar and Umami Burger.

One World Trade Center

One World Trade Center, the main building of the rebuilt World Trade Center, offers a breathtaking view of the city from the 102-story One World Observatory. At the top, the Forever Theatre audio-visual exhibition welcomes you to the city that never sleeps, and the interactive displays and presentations help you explore New York’s diverse culture and history. Looking for thrills? Check out the Sky Portal, a glass floor that looks down onto the streets 100 stories beneath you.

9/11 Memorial & Museum

The Foundation Hall, located next to One World Trade Center, contains the remains of the surviving wall of the original World Trade Center structure. Here, you can still see inscriptions, memorials, and missing posters from the aftermath of 2001. Every year after that, from dusk to dawn on the night of September 11, the Tribute in Light will be presented, with twin bright beams from the roof of the Battery Parking Garage reaching up to 4 miles into the sky, honoring those killed in the tragedy and celebrating the unbreakable spirit of New York.

If you are in town in May or July, don’t miss this incredibly photogenic event in Manhattan called Manhattanhenge. Manhattanhenge is a rare and beautiful sight when the setting sun perfectly aligns with the Manhattan street grid, creating a radiant glow of light across Manhattan’s brick and steel canyons. This magical event usually occurs once in May and once in July, but the times may vary. The best spots to see Manhattanhenge are 14th, 34th, 42nd, 57th, and 79th Streets. We also recommend going east for the best views.

Read More: What is Manhattanhenge and When and Where to See It?

18: Watch a Free Comedy at Peoples Improv Theater

Located on123 East 24th Street, Manhattan, Peoples Improv Theatre, also known as The PIT, is a comedy theater and training center that hosts improvisational comedy, sketch comedy, stand-up comedy, andvariety shows each night. The shows are organized by house teams and outside (often amateur) comedians. If you go on Wednesday, all the comedy shows are free, including themusical improv troupeVern, which has performed weekly since 2014. After getting your tickets, stop at the bar for a co*cktail or beer before the show.

19: Watch “Shakespeare in the Park” Live Performance

If you’re a Shakespeare fan, you can’t miss this! Plus, it’s completely free. Each summer (often between May and September), the Public Theater presents two Shakespearean shows in Central Park’s Delacorte Theater, with free tickets distributed in the park and other locations around the city. In 2019, the shows that graced the stage were the rollicking comedy Much Ado About Nothing and the dark political drama Coriolanus, ending with a special Public Works presentation of Hercules, an adaptation of the 1997 Disney movie.

20: Try One of the Michelin Restaurants

NYC is home to some of the world’s best restaurants. If your budget allows, treat yourself to a pre-fixe meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant. The quality of the food, the ambiance, and the service are far beyond what you’d find at the pizza place downstairs from your apartment. Don’t be scared by the title “Michelin,” as it doesn’t always mean they’re expensive. We’ve been to quite a few, and our favorites are Gabriel Kreuther, Daniel, and The Modern, where you can enjoy world-class food without making a big dent in your bank account.

Read More: The Best Michelin-starred Restaurants in NYC

21: Climb the $200 Million Vessel in Hudson Yards

This $200 million beehive-shaped structure in Hudson Yards, known as the Vessel, was designed by Thomas Heatherwick, who also created the “Rolling Bridge” and the UK Pavilion at the World Expo 2010. The Vessel stands 16 stories tall, with 154 interconnected staircases and 2,500 individual steps. The views from the Vessel are nice any time of day but particularly beautiful at sunset. Tickets are free during the first hour of operation and $10 at other times. While each ticket has a timed window of an hour, you can stay as long as you want.

Read More:The Vessel in Hudson Yards is Set to Reopen Later in 2024 After Almost 4 Years of Closure

22: Splash at One of the Free Outdoor Pools

Despite being one of the world’s most expensive cities, New York offers plenty of free things to do — some that even New Yorkers don’t know about. For example, did you know that many of the city’s outdoor pools are free to the public? Here is a full list, and our all-time favorite is the one at the Highbridge Recreation Center, which was featured in the movie In the Heights.

Located on West 173rd Street and Amsterdam, the pool is open from April to August, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It has two pools—a shallow one for kids and one with varying depths for adults. There are also free lockers, but you need to bring a lock to secure your belongings, so you can splash around with peace of mind.

A funny story: The production team of In the Heights actually reached out asking to use the image above as a reference for the movie.

Read More: The Best Free Outdoor Pools in New York City

23: Join the New York City Marathon

New Yorkers sit a lot, more than 7 hours a day, but most do try to stay healthy by fitting physical activities into their lives, and the marathon is a perfect example. This annual marathon courses through five boroughs, making it the world’s largest marathon! Anyone over 18 can participate, but most must go through a lottery to enter. If you just want to spectate, head to the south perimeter of Central Park, one of the best viewing spots flanked by fall foliage. It’s also the final 3 miles of the race, often cheered on by thousands, and the atmosphere alone makes it worthwhile to watch.

24: learn the life of NYC immigrants at Tenement Museum

The Tenement Museum, housed in two historic buildings that were home to 15,000 people from over 20 nations between 1863 and 2011, vividly depicts the lives of immigrants who lived there in the 1800s and 1900s. The museum also offers a documentary film and tours with costumed interpreters to portray the lives of the building’s former residents. While there, check out the exhibition Under One Roof, which opened in 2017 and explores the lives of a Holocaust refugee family, a Puerto Rican migrant family, and a Chinese immigrant family.

25: Enjoy the City’s Festive Atmosphere

No one celebrates the holidays like New Yorkers do! Whether it’s the colorful balloons floating through the city during the Thanksgiving Day parade, the bright lights of the famous Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, or the incomparable excitement of a million people coming together to watch the ball drop during the world’s biggest New Year’s Eve celebration in Times Square, we celebrate almost everything and anything. If you happen to be in the city during any of the holidays, look for events and activities you won’t want to miss.

26: Chill out on the High Line

Snaking above the industrial West Side neighborhood is a 1.45-mile-long park, the High Line, where you’ll overlook the beautiful Hudson River, massive murals, and the Downtown skyline. There are plenty of opportunities for dining, downtime, and people-watching in the area. This spot is popular during warmer months when the flowers and plants are in full bloom. Sunset is also a popular time, so opt for a morning or afternoon walk if you can. There are also rotating works of sculpture, art installations, stargazing nights, and cultural events.

27: Be wowed By Guggenheim Museum

First opened on the Upper East Side, the Guggenheim Museum features both a permanent collection and an ever-changing rotation of exhibits. Twenty years later, in 1959, the museum moved from its rented space to its current building, a landmark of 20th-century architecture designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. The sheer wonder of the building will incite an incredible feeling of awe, and the unique interiors make it fun to photograph inside and out. Admission starts at $18 and is pay-what-you-wish on Saturdays from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

28: Kayak on the Hudson River for Free

Whether you are a beginner or a pro, kayaking on the Hudson River is undoubtedly a great way to spend an afternoon — and it doesn’t cost a penny. The Downtown Boathouse at Pier 26 in Hudson River Park offers free kayaks and expert lessons all season. Here is the boathouse’s schedule. When you finish, you’ll end up on the other side of the river in Jersey. Take some time to explore Hudson River Park and grab a quick bite or drink before taking the bus back to New York. Or, if you still have any energy left, you’re welcome to kayak back.

Read More: The Best Free Things to Do in New York City

29: Roam through Washington Square Park

This park might be small, but it is one of NYC’s most recognizable spots, having been featured in When Harry Met Sally, I Am Legend, Avengers: Infinity War, and Inside Llewyn Davis. Here, you can play chess or bocce ball, read on a bench, and people-watch. During select times, there are also shows and cultural events. One of our favorites is the Washington Square Music Festival, a free outdoor concert that takes place every Tuesday in June. You can bring a blanket and food for a picnic dinner with live music.

Just like Bryant Park, there are movies in the park on select summer nights during Movies Under the Stars. Space opens at 6:00 PM on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to arrive early to snag a spot. The movie will start at around 8:30 PM. Hot dog lovers? Come and see the park filled with hundreds of dachshunds and their proud owners during the annual Dachshund Parade, which happens every April. There are all kinds of hot dogs for you to try.

30: Celebrate with Graduates from World-class Schools

New York is home to many prestigious schools, including New York University, Columbia University, Fordham University, and Syracuse University. If you visit the city at the right time — most graduation ceremonies take place in May or June — you can walk onto the campuses and celebrate with some of the brightest minds in the world as they mark their transition into adulthood.

31: Gaze at the Grand Central Terminal’s Celestial Ceiling

Unlike some transportation hubs, Grand Central Terminal isn’t a cesspool of filth but one of the world’s most stunning train stations. You can people-watch, grab some banana pudding from Magnolia Bakery or coconut creme donuts from Doughnut Plant, and photograph or admire the celestial ceiling. Couples can head to the Whispering Gallery, stand at opposite corners of the concourse, and whisper sweet nothings across the hallway.

This Beaux-Arts-style subway station is also a famous filming location, having been featured in dozens of films like Friends With Benefits, One Fine Day, I Am Legend, and Men in Black. During Christmas, be sure to visit as it transforms into a holiday market that sells a wild array of handmade goods, including collectible toys, games, accessories, bath and body items, and more!

32: Check out One of the City’s Desert Shops

Anyone with a sweet tooth? You’re in luck because NYC is no stranger to innovative, delicious desserts. One of our favorite places is Spot, tucked away in a residential building near NYU and best known for its creative treats like Chestnut Butterscotch, Golden Toast, and Matcha Lava. Other top dessert shops include Eggloo, which offers a beautiful dessert combining authentic Hong Kong egg waffles with your favorite flavors of ice cream, and Taiyaki NYC, popular for serving ice cream in open-mouth, fish-shaped waffle cones.

Read More: The Best Desserts to Eat in New York City

33: See World-class Art at the Museum of Modern Art

The MoMA building is a six-floor complex, with each floor divided into galleries and hallways. It offers an extensive overview of modern and contemporary art, including works of architecture and design, drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, and more. Wide entrances allow the rooms to flow into each other seamlessly. First time visiting? Starting from the top and working your way down is the best approach. The 4th and 5th floors house some of the museum’s most famous works, including The Starry Night by Vincent Van Gogh. Admission ranges between $14 and $25.

34: Have a Hot Night out at One of the Gay Bars

New York City is one of the world’s most open-minded cities, where love between all genders, races, and ages is equal and worth celebrating. In addition to the colorful Pride parade that runs through the city every June, NYC is home to many gay bars that provide a safe and fun place for the LGBTQIA+ community. The most popular gay bars are in Hell's Kitchen, Williamsburg, and the West Village. We’ve visited a few in the past, and some of our favorites are Cubbyhole, The Stonewall Inn, Branded Saloon, Ginger’s Bar, and Suite Bar.

35: Get Frisky at the Museum of Sex

At the Museum of Sex, the city’s friskiest collection of exhibits, you can pick up gears you typically only find at a sex shop, put on VR goggles and walk into a strip club, and jump away your inhibitions in a boob-themed bounce room. Other highlights include erotic galleries with heart-pounding artworks, a RuPaul palm reading station, a uniquely shaped slide, and a colorful kaleidoscope-like tunnel perfect for photos. The museum’s goal is to offer visitors a stimulating experience while preserving and presenting the history, evolution, and cultural significance of human sexuality.

36: Try Gun Shooting at Westside Rifle & Pistol Range

While New York has strict regulations for purchasing, possessing, or carrying firearms, places like Westside Rifle & Pistol Range allow you to legally try this sport. You’ll start by filling out a risk acceptance form and watching a safety video before picking up your ear and eye protection gear, guns, and bullets. When you’re ready, step into the range. It might be terrifying for first-timers to hear the gunfire, but relax, follow the instructors’ directions, and keep the gun locked when not in use. You’ll soon loosen up and might even picture yourself as the next James Bond dodging the rain of bullets.

37: Seek some peace at the New York Public Library

It can be overwhelming to visit a city that never sleeps. If you’re looking for a quiet place to escape the noise and hustle, head to the New York Public Library. The best part is that it’s free and open until 8:00 PM. While there, be sure to check out the beautiful Rose Main Reading Room, the highlight of this Beaux-Arts library. You’re sure to walk away with tons of Instagrammable photos.

38: Listen to Live Music at Rockwood Music Hall

Rockwood Music Hall on the Lower East Side started as a single-stage venue but has since grown into a club with three stages, each offering different music genres from international and local artists. Stage 3 is our favorite — an intimate underground club. Every show has a one-drink minimum for those standing and a two-drink minimum for those seated. Stage 3 is always fully seated. There is no admission fee, but you must be 21 to enter. Artists who have performed here include Norah Jones, Lady Gaga, and Billie Joe Armstrong.

39: Feast on delicious Chinese Food in Chinatown

If you think you’ve had Chinese food before, think again! In this part of the city, you’ll find some of NYC’s best Chinese restaurants, including Taiwan Pork Chop House, Golden Unicorn, Wo Hop, Great N.Y. Noodletown, and Big Wong — and all my Chinese friends can guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

40: Travel Back in Time at The Met Cloisters

Serving as a branch of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Met Cloisters is a beautiful garden in Fort Tryon Park that features medieval European architecture, sculpture, and decorative arts. Step into The Cloisters, and you'll feel like you've been transported back in time to 1935 Europe. Roam through about 2,000 artworks, bask in the sun, or linger at Iford Manor Gardens for some tranquility. The best times to visit are late spring, summer, and early fall when the plants and flowers are in full bloom. Admission is included if you have visited The Met, which starts at $30 per person.

41: Get Some Holiday Cheers At Governors Island

Just a few minutes’ ferry ride away, Governors Island makes you feel like you’re no longer in the city that never sleeps. You can explore the island on foot or by bike and take in some picturesque sights. Bring your own bicycle or rent one from Blazing Saddles — there are also several Citi Bike stations on the island. Governors Island is a popular spot where New Yorkers come together to celebrate. Each season, the island hosts a robust calendar of special events, from pumpkin carving on Halloween to the LuminoCity Festival, which lights up the island every November through January.

42: Have fun at a bar with games

There are plenty of bars in New York, and some also offer great games. Yes, New Yorkers take fun seriously, and we believe pairing craft beer and strong co*cktails with games is a great way to spice up your nightlife. One of our favorites is Kick Axe Throwing, where you pay $35 for the opportunity to throw an ax at a large wooden target. It might sound alarming at first, but it’s a lot of fun and operates in a highly controlled environment with an “ax-pert” to guide you.

Read More: Fun New York City Bars With Games and Activities

43: Visit NYC’s Hottest Park — Little Island

NYC is a city of fancy (and sometimes quirky) architecture. Think of the Flatiron Building, the beehive-shaped Vessel, and Barney’s staircase. In 2021, Little Island at Pier 55 took the internet by storm. This 2.4-acre green space has a whimsical design that makes it look like it’s emerging from the Hudson River, which earns it the nickname “Floating Island.”

Admission is free. You can walk up the meandering stairways teeming with 350 species of shrubs, flowers, and trees for stunning views, dine and drink at the Playground area, or catch an eclectic performance at the 687-seat amphitheater by a rotation of solo artists and small bands representing a variety of genres.

Read More: Everything You Need to Know About Little Island

44: Overlook the city from SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

Opened in October 2021, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt blends elements of art, technology, and architecture. Occupying the top three floors of One Vanderbilt, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is no traditional observation deck. It offers an immersive, multi-sensory experience with art installations (think mirrored rooms and glass skyboxes) by Kenzo Digital, floor-to-ceiling windows, and, of course, stunning views. At 1,401 feet, One Vanderbilt is NYC’s fourth tallest building, after One World Trade Center, Central Park Tower, and 111 W 57th Street, and one of the top 30 tallest buildings in the world.

45: Put your fear of height to the test with Climb NYC

Thanks to its unique design that suspends the observation deck in mid-air, the Edge, which opened in 2020, allows you to experience the feeling of floating in the sky with 360-degree views of the city that never sleeps. Adding to the thrill is the triangular glass floor in the middle that gives you a killer view below. A year later, in 2021, the Edge added City Climb NYC to the experience. If you consider yourself a true adventurer, give it a shot. You’ll wear a harness and climb outside the skyscraper to the Apex. At 1,271 feet, it’s the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere.

46: Appreciate Graffiti Art in Brooklyn

If you’re into art, head to Brooklyn, where you can discover an exciting world of street graffiti. The best area to spot them is Williamsburg — its low cost of living has long attracted “starving” artists, turning the area into a breeding ground for graffiti. Check out works by artists like Os Gemeos at North Third Street and Wythe Avenue, R. Robots at North Third Street and Bedford Avenue, and Nick Walker at Roebling Street and Metropolitan Avenue.

Manhattan has graffiti too — if you don’t want to venture far into Brooklyn—but the New York graffiti scene there isn’t as concentrated, so you might need to travel a bit to see them. Some of our favorites are the High Line in Chelsea, the Graffiti Hall of Fame in East Harlem, the Bowery Graffiti Wall on the Lower East Side, Banksy’s “Hammer Boy” on 79th Street between Broadway and Amsterdam, and “Crack Is Wack” on 128th Street at Second Avenue.

Read More: The Best Places to See Stunning Street Art in NYC

47: Cross the Iconic Brooklyn Bridge

Connecting Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn, this cable-stayed bridge is an iconic landmark every visitor should see. It spans the East River and offers views of Brooklyn, Manhattan, and the Statue of Liberty. The bridge is worth visiting at any time of day, but sunset is particularly beautiful. As a popular attraction, the Brooklyn Bridge is safe to visit at any time. If you go early in the morning or late at night, bring a light jacket — it can get chilly on the bridge.

48: Overlook the Manhattan Bridge from DUMBO

DUMBO, short for “Down Under Manhattan Bridge Overpass,” is a once-industrial neighborhood that has transformed into an artsy hub filled with shops, restaurants, and start-ups. Here, you’ll find the famous pizzeria Grimaldi’s, Jacques Torres Chocolate, Ann’s Warehouse, and plenty of art venues. Of course, you have to take a photo of the Manhattan Bridge from the intersection of Plymouth Street and York Street, where the bridge aligns perfectly with the street and red-bricked buildings — a sight that has appeared on many, many postcards.

49: Feast Street Food at Smorgasburg

As the largest weekly open-air food market in America, Smorgasburg attracts over 20,000 people to Brooklyn every weekend to enjoy food from 100 local vendors. The market is held in Williamsburg and Prospect Park, as well as the World Trade Center in Manhattan, and it opens on Fridays and weekends from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, April through November. Some of our favorite dishes include jianbing from Jianbing Company, duck wings from Duck Season, lamb skewers from D’Abruzzo, and Portuguese pasteis de nata for dessert.

50: Explore the Innovative Food at DeKalb Market Hall

Showcasing more than 40 vendors, including a show kitchen, co*cktail bar, and daily live programming that reflect Brooklyn’s cultural and ethnic diversity, DeKalb Market Hall is the go-to place for food lovers, artists, and explorers alike. Some of our favorites here are doner kebab — a dish of Turkish origin made of meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie, which is delicious — from Hotti, mushroom corn from Tacos, and banana chocolate crepe from Eight Turn Crepe. If you’re a student, bring your ID, as some vendors offer discounts for students.

51: Enjoy the Dyker Heights Christmas Displays

Our favorite season in New York City is Christmas, during which you can attend the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting ceremony, watch the daily light show in front of Saks Fifth Avenue, or visit Dyker Heights for its amazing light display. Most homeowners will start hanging their Christmas lights and decorations the weekend after Thanksgiving. However, the best time to see the lights is mid-December through New Year’s Eve and anytime between dusk and 9:00 PM, as most houses will turn their displays off after 9:00 PM.

Read More: Your Guide to Dyker Heights Christmas Lights

52: Spend a Leisurely Afternoon in Prospect Park

This 585-acre space offers family-friendly fun year-round! Take a boat tour, ride horses, go fishing, or take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful grounds. Prospect Park is also home to well-known landmarks and attractions, including Grand Army Plaza, Lefferts Historic House, and the Prospect Park Zoo, while the LeFrak Center at Lakeside Prospect Park offers roller skating in the summer months and ice skating in the wintertime.

Bird lovers? Head to Prospect Park Boathouse and Audubon Center to learn about over 240 species of feathered friends that visit the park each year. The center is open year-round and offers bird-centric activities, including birdwatching tours. There are also free events likeCelebrate Brooklyn,Philharmonic in the Parks, and theMetropolitan Opera in the Parkin the summer.

53: See Cherry Blossom at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden

If you’re in town between February and May, visit a botanical garden, such as the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, when spring blooms are in full swing. The cherry blossom season in Brooklyn often runs from mid-March to late April, with different kinds of cherry trees in the garden blossoming at different times, making the cherry blossom season over several weeks. Brooklyn Botanic Garden also has a Cherrywatch that highlights its various trees and when they bloom. There are also cherry blossom viewing events like the Sakura Matsuri Festival.

Read More: The Best Places to See Cherry Blossom in NYC

54: Relax In the Brooklyn Heights Neighborhood

Brooklyn Heights, best known for its shaded streets and brownstone houses, is the perfect spot if you’re overwhelmed by Manhattan’s skyscrapers and want some idle time. Meandering through the neighborhood is the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, also called the Esplanade, a 1,826-foot-long walkway. Take a stroll, enjoy incredible views of Downtown Manhattan, and watch the locals as they read or draw on benches. To get to the promenade, take the 2 or 3 train to Clark Street, the R to Borough Hall/Court Street, or the 2, 3, 4, or 5 to Borough Hall.

55: Bring your little ones to the New York Aquarium

The New York Aquarium is the country’s oldest continuously operating aquarium! It was originally founded at Castle Garden in Manhattan’s Battery Park before relocating to Coney Island in 1957. Operated by the Wildlife Conservation Society, the aquarium’s mission is to save wildlife and their habitats through science, conservation action, and education. Within its 14 acres, you’ll find 266 species of aquatic animals, including sea otters, sea lions, harbor seals, penguins and more, along with five different exhibits to explore.

56: Scream at Coney Island Luna Park

Luna Park, NYC’s most iconic destination for fun and thrills, opened in 2010 at the site of Astroland and Dreamland, featuring 28 rides, 13 carnival-style games, and an arcade for both kids and adults! The prices are reasonable, and the waiting time is usually short, except during spring break or holidays. Daredevils will love the park’s Soarin’ Eagle, Power Surge, and ThunderBolt, while the little ones will find plenty to keep themselves busy. Be sure to check out the Wonder Wheel, where the blue and red cars actually swing in the air for a fun, thrilling ride.

57: Roam Along the Coney Island Beach

After you scream your heart out at Luna Park, head to Coney Island Beach for a picnic or a relaxing stroll. The beach is enjoyable at any time of day, but it’s particularly beautiful at sunset or sunrise. It can get especially crowded in the summer, so arrive early to secure a spot or consider walking to its quieter counterpart, Brighton Beach, also known as “Little Odessa,” thanks to its tight-knit Russian and Eastern European communities.

58: Try Chinese Food at New World Mall Food Court

If you think you’ve had Chinese food before, think again — because you haven’t eaten at New World Shopping Mall’s food court. Since its opening in 2011, it has become one of Flushing’s most popular dining destinations, known for its diverse Chinese and Asian cuisines, affordability, and generous portions. With more than 20 Asian cuisines to choose from, our all-time favorites are Chong Qing Xiao Mian, Lanzhou handmade noodles, and malatang, a street food that consists of a spicy hot pot soup base with various meats and vegetables.

59: Satisfy Late-Night Cravings at Queens International Night Market

The Queens Night Market is an open-air food and drink festival that celebrates the city’s diverse food and vibrant culture, with over 100 vendors churning out dishes and libations from around the world, including Indonesia, Ukraine, Haiti, Peru, Cambodia, Portugal, the Philippines, Colombia, and Mexico. It takes place on Saturday nights from late spring through October. New vendors join each year, along with some all-time favorites. After your meal, head to the beer garden to loosen up with beer from its rotating list of New York State craft breweries and wait for the tunes to start.

Read More: Your Guide to Queens Night Market: What to Eat and Tips

60: Try your luck with claw machines at Sweet Cats Cafe

This pink cafe in Flushing serves all kinds of bubble tea and cakes, complete with plush-filled claw machines and explosions of pink. Test your skills to win an adorable plush in the back or downstairs of the store, and grab a shopping cart to carry all your prizes as you move through the cafe. Try specialty drinks like Tinkle Bell, Purple Paradise, or Frozen Volcano, and their milk tea and crepe cake selection is practically endless. Then, snap Instagrammable photos in the all-pink ball pit or on the swinging chair under a blooming sakura tree.

61: Watch a baseball game at yankee stadium

If you’re a baseball fan, seeing a game at Yankee Stadium is a must and part of the New York experience. Check here for information on tickets and seasonal passes. Before the game, grab a Yankees hat to keep your competitive spirit well-fed, or check out the museum behind the right field, which holds signed baseballs from every Yankees player. The stadium also offers excellent food, including Bareburger, Mighty Quinn’s BBQ, and Tater Kegs, to pair with your game.

62: Eat Fresh Seafood at Sammy’s on City Island

At the end of the main and only road on City Island is Sammy’s Shrimp Box. You’ll walk past several tanks of lobsters and crabs before entering a colorful room where you’ll dine under neon lights. The chef told us that everything on the menu was good, but the best option, price and portion-wise, was the Captain’s Platter. It’s a mix of some of the area’s best seafood, including a lobster tail, scallops, broiled and stuffed shrimp, salmon, and clams casino! Across the street is Sammy’s Fish Box, run by the same owner, with a more fish-focused menu.

63: Spend an afternoon at the Bronx Zoo

The Bronx Zoo is one of the country’s largest zoos and the largest metropolitan zoo, spanning 265 acres of parkland and naturalistic habitats separated by the Bronx River. The zoo features 843 animals in 22 exhibits, and it’s so vast that you might want to plan a full day or at least a full afternoon to see everything it has to offer. Our favorite exhibits so far are World of Birds, Mouse House, Butterfly Garden, Sea Lion Pool, JungleWorld, and the Carter Giraffe Building.

Read More: The Bronx Zoo: Everything to Know and Tips

64: See NYBG’s holiday train show

Shrink down to the size of a fairy as you step into the New York Botanical Garden and “board” a vintage train, zipping through a charming display of over 170 iconic New York landmarks made from materials like seeds, leaves, tree bark, acorns, and pine cone scales, all spread out across four rooms in the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory.

Along the way, you’ll see the Empire State Building, Radio City Music Hall, the Statue of Liberty, One World Trade Center, and Rockefeller Center. You can also purchase a combo ticket with access to GLOW, an outdoor, 1.5-mile color-and-light experience that looks just as incredible as it sounds.