Looking for the best and fun things to do in New York City. Here’s the list with all the travel information to plan a family tour.
Undoubtedly, there’s no other place on the earth like New York City. It is filled with entertainment opportunities, attractive gardens, world-class museums, world-famous landmarks, and many other top tourist attractions.
For example, the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Broadway, Times Square, Staten Island, Metropolitan Museum of Art, and many more.
Check the following list of things to do in New York City and add them to your bucket list.
Things to Do in New York City
1. Things to Do in New York City: Staten Island Ferry
The Staten Island Ferry, the famous, scenic passenger ferry ride in New York that takes you between New York Harbor and Staten Island.
This 5.2 miles ride will take around 25 minutes and offers scenic views of many iconic landmarks in NYC, including the Statue of Liberty and New York Harbor. Therefore, the Staten Island Ferry is definitely on top of the list of every visitor.
And do not forget to check out the St. George neighborhood on your way back. St. George neighborhood is located on the northeastern tip of Staten Island. And it features some picturesque frames of the island.
If you are in New York City with kids, try the Staten Island Ferry in the first place.
Address: 4 Whitehall St, New York, NY 10004, United States Phone: (212) 639-9675
Things to Do in New York City
2. Things to Do in New York City: Statue of Liberty National Monument
“Liberty Enlightening the World” or “The Statue of Liberty” considers the most famous and one of the largest sculptures in the world. Designed by the renowned French sculptor, Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, it was gifted from France to America in 1886.
Symbolizing world freedom, the Statue of Liberty is undoubtedly on top of the list of first-timers in New York City.
The height of the Statue of Liberty is 152 feet, and the weight is around 450,000 pounds. Being America’s most iconic sight, this sculpture represents a robed Roman liberty goddess holding a torch above her head on her right hand and a tabula inscribed the date of the U.S. Declaration of Independence on the left hand.
Although it is visible to the land (from Battery Park and some other places), visitors definitely take a ride take a short boat trip to Liberty Island to get close-ups.
Once you get there, you can tour around the base of the statue, enter the pedestal, or if you can make advance reservations, you get the chance to go right up to the crown too.
Also, you can stop at Ellis Island to explore the Immigration Museum on your way to the Statue of Liberty. The museum located in the historic immigration station complex shows many exciting stories, processes, experiences of immigrants who were processed before entering the United States.
Are you ready for this unforgettable boat ride?? Book your tickets in advance.
Address: New York, NY 10004, United States Phone: +1 212-363-3200
Things to Do in New York City
3. Things to Do in New York City: Central Park
Here’s the largest and most popular park in New York City, Central Park.
Located between the Upper West and Upper East Sides of Manhattan, Central Park covers 843 acres of land area (a half-mile wide and 2.5 miles long). Also, as it is located in the city’s center, it attracts millions of visitors annually.
Central Park features beautiful trees, colorful flowers, Belvedere Castle, a lake, Central Park Zoo, Strawberry Fields, and many other lovely things for the visitors.
So, you can walk along these beautiful walking paths, take a boat ride on the lake, and visit the tourist attractions in the park.
Especially if you are here with kids, indeed visit the park’s zoo. Besides, visiting Central Park is the best free thing to do in New York City by anyone. Actually, this park makes anyone feel that New York City is not just skyscrapers; it is about lovely nature too.
First, visit the visitor center and collect the map and plan your route. It will save you time.
Address: New York, NY, United States Phone: +1 212-310-6600
Things to Do in New York City
4. One World Observatory
Here’s one of the best things to do in NYC with kids, visiting One World Observatory.
One World Observatory is a scenic observatory point located on floors 100-102 of One World Trade Center.
First, kids will love to go on one of the fastest elevators in the world. Also, its surrounding panels show the story of transforming New York City into the current situation.
And then, they will love to get a bird’s eye view of New York City by sitting on one of the tallest buildings in the world. (1,776 feet above the city)
So, surely grab this excellent chance with your kids and make the most fantastic family selfie.
Address: 117 West St, New York, NY 10006, United States Phone: +1 844-696-1776
Things to Do in New York City
5. Rockefeller Center & Top of the Rock Observation Deck
The Rockefeller Center is one of the top tourist attractions in New York City because it is a large entertainment and shopping complex that offers tons of fun things to do.
It is home to NBC-TV, other media centers, 70-story 30 Rockefeller Plaza, and the Empire State Building’s excellent viewpoint, Top of the Rock Observation Deck.
Also, the Empire State Building (a 102-story building) features the city’s highest open-air observation deck on its 86th floor.
On the other hand, the Top of The Rock Observation Deck is located on the 67th, 69th, and 70th floors, and it offers indoor and outdoor viewing spaces for visitors. Whether you visit in day or night, it ensures spectacular views of the city. If you like day times, choose a clear sky day.
Aside from that, the Rockefeller Center becomes more attractive during the Christmas season when it decorates with the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. (It is a large and colorful Christmas tree)
Also, there’s an outdoor skating rink in front of the Rockefeller Christmas Tree. So, families, couples, and friends visit here for skating while enjoying the beauty of the Christmas tree.
Do not miss taking a photo of the bronze sculpture of Atlas located in front of the International Building.
All this information says that Rockefeller Center is filled with fun and entertainment. So, come on, grab them all.
Address: 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111, United States Phone: +1 212-588-8601
Things to Do in New York City
6. South Street Seaport Museum
South Street Seaport Museum is a fantastic place to learn about boats, ships, and the USA’s maritime history.
This maritime museum features ship models, five historic ships, scrimshaw, paintings, and many other impressive things related to maritime. And also, South Street Seaport Museum features some kids-friendly activities like doing a letterpress.
Since it has a friendly staff, they are always ready to guide you.
In the end, South Street Seaport Museum offers you a chance to take a tour of the Harbor in an excursion vessel. Kiddos will love it.
Address: 12 Fulton St, New York, NY 10038, United States Phone: +1 212-748-8600
Things to Do in New York City
7. Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art or “The Met” is is the largest art museum in the United States. Founded in 1870, it is still one of the most famous museums in the United States.
The museum contains over two million impressive artworks throughout 17 curatorial departments.
Also, there are three major sites, and the centerpiece is The Met Fifth Avenue. It features American decorative arts, Egyptian art, arms and armor, musical instruments, costumes, photographs, and many more.
And The Met Cloisters is located in Fort Tryon Park in northern Manhattan. It is also an attractive site of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Housed in an outstanding structure with medieval cloisters, halls, and chapels, the Met Cloisters represent impressive medieval art and architecture of Europe.
If you are into art, add the Metropolitan Museum of Art to the top of the list.
Address: 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028, United States Phone: +1 212-535-7710
Things to Do in New York City
8. Children’s Museum of the Arts
Do your kiddos love art?? Take them to the Children’s Museum of the Arts.
Located at 103 Charlton Street, Manhattan, the Children’s Museum of the Arts was founded by Kathleen Schneider in 1988.
This museum exhibits thousands of paintings and drawings done by kids from all over the world. So, your kids will get inspired and try to enhance their artistic skills.
Children’s Museum of the Arts is always ready to help kids by organizing art workshops, classes, and other art programs.
Address: 103 Charlton St, New York, NY 10014, United States Phone: +1 212-274-0986
Things to Do in New York City
9. Things to Do in New York City: Broadway and the Theater District
Here’s one of the most entertaining things to do in New York City. Visiting Broadway means you are getting a chance to catch the latest shows, theaters, and the long-running classics.
Broadway theater in the Theater District features a large number of theater venues. So, if you walk along the street of Broadway, you can participate in the most popular shows in the United States. Do not forget to purchase tickets in advance.
On the other hand, Shubert Alley is a famous pedestrian-only alleyway that features well-known playhouses named the Booth at 22 West 45th Street and the Shubert at 221 West 44th Street.
These theaters mostly play classical hits like A Chorus Line. Actually, The Shubert has a record of playing A Chorus Line 6,137 times.
Another famous playhouse on Broadway is St. James which debuted musical Oklahoma in 1941. Aside from that, Broadway features the Music Box Theater, Sardi’s restaurant, and many other iconic places.
Are you ready to have fun?
Things to Do in New York City
10. New York City Fire Museum
Opened in 1904, the New York City Fire Museum is located in a renovated 1904 firehouse with Beaux-Arts at 278 Spring Street. It is a museum dedicated to the New York City Fire Department in the Hudson Square neighborhood of NYC.
Therefore, the New York City Fire Museum features vintage fire equipment, the history of New York City firefighters, and interesting firefighting stories.
So, come along with your family to know more about firefighting and see impressive fire equipment.
Address: 278 Spring St, New York, NY 10013, United States Phone: +1 212-691-1303
Things to Do in New York City
11. Things to Do in New York City: Brooklyn Bridge Park
Founded in 2008, Brooklyn Bridge Park is an 85-acre park located on the Brooklyn side of the East River in New York City.
And it is a perfect family destination that is filled with fun activities. And also, since the park stretches for 1.3 miles along the East River, it offers scenic views too.
Aside from that, Brooklyn Bridge Park features six refurbished piers with playgrounds, a vintage carousel, and a roller-skating at Pier 2.
So, surely visit there and have fun with your family.
Address: 334 Furman St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States Phone: +1 718-222-9939
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Things to Do in New York City
12. National Museum of Mathematics
The National Museum of Mathematics or MoMath is one of the most important places to visit with kids. Founded in 2009, this museum is dedicated to mathematics in Manhattan, NYC.
If your kids find math scary or nerdy, the National Museum of Mathematics will guide them to a new perspective. Although this place is quite underrated, this is a great place to visit with kids.
This museum exhibits a lot of valuable and unique exhibits related to math, science, and technology. For example, a range of quizzes, puzzles, square-wheeled tricycles, digital canvas, and many more.
You can have a fun time with kiddos.
Address: 11 E 26th St, New York, NY 10010, United States Phone: +1 212-542-0566
Things to Do in New York City
13. Things to Do in New York City: The High Line
The High Line is one of the top attractions in New York City. Located around three stories above the city streets on a former New York Central Railroad, it is a 1.45-mile-long elevated linear park. (from Gansevoort Street at the south end to the West 34th Street at the north end)
And this unique urban walking trail features various plants and trees, including native many native species. Incredibly, many of these trees offer colorful flowers during the spring. So, it is perfect for a romantic walk too.
Since most areas are covered with glass rails, you can get outstanding city views along the trail.
The High Line offers several access points along the route, including elevator access and stair access. When you walk along the trail, you can enjoy art installations, a relaxing sitting area with benches, and scenic views of the city.
For example, Hudson Yards overlook, or The Vessel, is one of the most highlighted views from the High Line. And also, the south section of the trail offers access to the Meatpacking District and its plenty of delicious restaurants.
If you continue further, the High Line’s southernmost access point is close to the Whitney Museum of American Art or “The Whitney,” a famous art museum. On the other hand, its 16th Street elevator access is close to the famous Chelsea Market, which features many restaurants and shops.
That’s why the High Line considers one of the best places to experience New York City life.
Address: New York, NY 10011, United States Phone: +1 212-500-6035
Things to Do in New York City
14. Things to Do in New York City: Bryant Park
Bryant Park is a privately managed 9.6-acre public park in the New York City borough of Manhattan. And it is one of the best places to visit with family during winter.
Bryant Park features an ice-skating rink where you can have fun with your kids. And it opens from 8 am to 10 pm.
On the other hand, Bryant Park is awesome during summer too. You can enjoy its “Le Carrousel,” a famous carousel, monuments, and gardens with your family. Aside from that, there’s a game area with chess boards, backgammon boards, and checkers where you can play for a small fee.
This beautiful urban oasis is adjacent to the New York Public Library. So, after playing games, check out the library too.
Address: New York, NY 10018, United States Phone: +1 212-768-4242
Things to Do in New York City
15. Things to Do in New York City: Times Square
Times Square is undoubtedly a major tourist attraction, commercial intersection, and entertainment center in New York City.
The best time to visit Times Square is in the evening because you can see plenty of huge, brilliantly lit billboards and screens. But, it doesn’t matter the time; Times Square is filled with fun. Although it is too busy all the time, there are so many things to see and do.
Especially, this is the place where people celebrate New York’s New Year’s Eve and Times Square Ball Drop at midnight.
Initially, it was Longacre Square. Then, after building the New York Times tower, the name converted into Times Square in 1904. When the newspaper posted current headlines along with its moving sign in 1928, it got the world’s attention. Yeah, it was the first of its kind.
Address: Manhattan, NY 10036, United States
Things to Do in New York City
16. New Victory Theater
New Victory Theater is a wonderful performing arts theater dedicated to entertaining kids. Located at 209 West 42nd Street, between 7th and 8th Avenues, in Midtown Manhattan, it is an off-Broadway theater.
This nonprofit theater features theater classes, dancing performances, musical shows, circus shows, and some other entertaining shows for all ages.
Especially, New Victory Theater features autism-friendly shows with alerts before loud noises or low lighting.
Come along with your kids and have fun.
Address: 209 W 42nd St, New York, NY 10036, United States Phone: +1 646-223-3010
Things to Do in New York City
17. Things to Do in New York City: Fifth Avenue
Located in the borough of Manhattan in New York City, Fifth Avenue considers one of the most expensive streets in the world.
Also, being one of the most famous shopping streets in the United States, Fifth Avenue features many top designers’ flagship stores. For example, Cartier, Apple Store Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf-Goodman, Tiffany, Saks Fifth Avenue, and many others.
The best area of Fifth Avenue stretches from the south end of Central Park to the New York Public Library (between 60th Street and 40th Street). And it attracts thousands of visitors to its luxury shops.
Actually, no need to shop. It is totally worth it to take a walk and enjoy this posh avenue. Who doesn’t like to walk along New York’s premier shopping area?
Things to Do in New York City
18. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
Are you an aviation or maritime enthusiast?? The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is the perfect place for you.
Located at Pier 86 at 46th Street (along the Hudson River) in the Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood, Manhattan, this American military and maritime history museum features American history in the sea, air, and space.
You can see the iconic aircraft Intrepid, an impressive collection of museum ships, and many historical stories.
So, bring your kids and teach them about history.
Address: Pier 86, W 46th St, New York, NY 10036, United States Phone: +1 212-245-0072
Things to Do in New York City
19. Grand Central Terminal
Grand Central Terminal or Grand Central Station is a commuter rail terminal located at 42nd Street and Park Avenue, NYC.
Representing Beaux-Arts architectural style, Grand Central Terminal is an impressive building in the city. And this famous landmark was opened as a terminal for the subway and train stations in 1913.
Therefore, tourists visit there not only for transport needs but also to observe the beauty. It’s outside; the Grand Staircase, beautifully restored ceiling and historical looks are totally worth checking out.
Address: 89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017, United States Phone: +1 212-340-2583
Things to Do in New York City
20. Things to Do in New York City: SPYSCAPE
Are you a fan of the 2001 blockbuster Spy Kids movie series?? Then, do not miss Spyscape in Midtown Manhattan, New York City.
It is a private, for-profit espionage museum that features spy-themed puzzles, Mission Impossible-style activities, dodging of lasers, James Bond exhibition, and many other exciting things throughout its seven main experience zones.
Do you like to get Ethan Hunt n Mission Impossible or Jame Bond experiences? Just visit Spyscape with your kids.
Address: 928 8th Ave, New York, NY 10019, United States Phone: +1 212-549-1941
Things to Do in New York City
21. Roosevelt Island and Tram
Roosevelt Island Tramway is the most modern aerial tramway in the world.
It runs for two miles over the East River from 59th Street and Second Avenue in Manhattan to Tramway Plaza on Roosevelt Island. Usually, it runs every 7-15 minutes. So, you can easily catch one.
Once you get there, you can visit Southpoint Park near the river, the North Point Lighthouse, and Franklin D Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park.
Address: Roosevelt Island New York, NY 10044, United States
Things to Do in New York City
22. Things to Do in New York City: Wall Street
Located in the Financial District of Lower Manhattan in New York City, Wall Street stretches from Broadway to South Street (8 blocks).
The world-famous Wall Street is home to some of the most important exchanges in the world. For example, New York Stock Exchange, the New York Mercantile Exchange, and the NASDAQ.
Since Wall Street is nearby the impressive Trinity Church, the bronze statue of Charging Bull, and Federal Hall, you can check them out too.
Do not take a selfie on Wall Street, New York City.
Things to Do in New York City
23. American Museum of Natural History
Here’s the world’s largest collection of dinosaurs. Yeah, the American Museum of Natural History features information about dinosaurs with skeletons, rare artifacts, and many impressive things related to natural science.
If you are looking for an educational place visit with kids from 5-12 years, they will love the American Museum of Natural History.
Also, do not miss Hayden Planetarium, one of the best planetariums in the world.
Address: 200 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024, United States Phone: +1 212-769-5100
Things to Do in New York City
24. New York Aquarium, Brooklyn
Here’s the oldest continually operating aquarium in the United States, the New York Aquarium.
Located on the Riegelmann Boardwalk in Coney Island, this place was first founded in 1896 at Castle Garden in Battery Park. Then, it was moved to Coney Island in 1957.
We all know that coney island is known for fun activities. Visiting the New York Aquarium is definitely one of them. It features a variety of underwater creatures, including marine animals and some saw-toothed predators.
Especially, its “Ocean Wonder: Sharks” is one of the most attractive areas in the aquarium.
Address: 602 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224, United States Phone: +1 718-265-3474
Things to Do in New York City
25. New York Botanical Garden, Bronx
New York Botanical Garden is a unique and relaxing botanical garden located at Bronx Park in the Bronx, New York City.
The garden was founded by the famous American botanist Nathaniel Lord Britton in 1891. And now this 250-acre park considers as a living museum, plant research and conservation, and an educational institution.
New York Botanical Garden also features many exhibitions, shows, and events annually. For example, the famous annual Holiday Train Show in winter.
Come with your family and have fun.
Address: 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458, United States Phone: +1 718-817-8700
Things to Do in New York City
26. St. Patrick’s Cathedral
St. Patrick’s Cathedral is undoubtedly one of the top tourist attractions in New York City. It is an impressive Catholic cathedral in the Midtown Manhattan neighborhood.
Being the seat of the Archbishop of New York St. Patrick’s Cathedral shows fine Gothic Revival architecture.
For example, it features massive bronze doors, 330-foot spires, a white marble facade, the Great Organ, the statue of Pieta at the side of the Lady Chapel, 2,400 seating capacity, rose window, and bronze baldachin.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral attracts millions of believers and tourists annually. So, surely add it to your list.
Address: 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022, United States Phone: +1 212-753-2261
Things to Do in New York City
27. Things to Do in New York City: Carnegie Hall
Let’s watch a great concert at Carnegie Hall, New York’s first great concert hall.
Opened in 1891, Carnegie Hall features almost all the world-famous musicians. For example, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Leonard Bernstein, The Beatles, and some of the best acoustics in the world.
After catching a great show, do not forget to take a guided tour around Carnegie Hall. And it will offer you a chance to discuss some of the artists and observe the interior and the stage.
Address: 881 7th Ave, New York, NY 10019, United States Phone: +1 212-247-7800
Things to Do in New York City
28. Things to do in New York City: Governors Island
Governors Island is a 172-acre island located around 800 yards south of Manhattan Island. So, you have to take a ferry ride to get there.
This island looks like a beautiful park. But, it was a military base of buildings and lawns in the past. Due to its historical value, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1985.
Governors Island features winding paths, playgrounds, some of the best food trucks, historical buildings with impressive architecture, and, most importantly, a cool ocean breeze.
End your New York City journey by visiting the fantastic Governors Island.
Address: Governors Island, NY 10004, United States Phone: (212) 440-2200
Things to Do in New York City
- Staten Island Ferry
- Statue of Liberty National Monument
- Central Park
- One World Observatory
- Rockefeller Center & Top of the Rock Observation Deck
- South Street Seaport Museum
- Metropolitan Museum of Art
- Children’s Museum of the Arts
- Broadway and the Theater District
- New York City Fire Museum
- Brooklyn Bridge Park
- National Museum of Mathematics
- The High Line
- Bryant Park
- Times Square
- New Victory Theater
- Fifth Avenue
- Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
- Grand Central Terminal
- SPYSCAPE
- Roosevelt Island and Tram
- Wall Street
- American Museum of Natural History
- New York Botanical Garden
- St. Patrick’s Cathedral
- Carnegie Hall
- Governors Island
Things to Do in New York City
