18 of the Best Things to Do in New York City
New York City is known by many names such as Gotham, The Big Apple, The City of Dreams, Concrete Jungle, The City That Never Sleep (which is so fitting when my neighbors are up at 4 am having their weekly fight outside), The City So Nice They Named It Twice, and let's not forget The Capital of the World. There is something so magical about this city that the rest of the world looks to it for inspiration in fashion, music, and food. In 2018, the bright lights of this awe-inspiring city drew close to 65 million tourists coming from all over the world. To put the number of people who visit NYC into perspective, the population of France is nearly 65 million people. Check out my list of places and things to do while visiting this busy city.
Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridge
These two grand bridges allow for an easier commute between two of the most popular boroughs of New York City. The Brooklyn Bridge is more pedestrian-friendly and the most common to walk. Fun fact about the Manhattan Bridge is that it was painted blue because Manhattan's official color is "Manhattan Bridge Blue," and initially, the bridge was painted grey.
Views of Manhattan Bridge from Dumbo
The Vessel in Hudson Yards
The Vessel is the newest landmark added to New York City and is considered walkable art. This bronze landmark is 150 feet tall, and once you reach the top, you are rewarded with amazing views of The Big Apple and the Hudson River. Free tickets to this landmark are available in advance or same-day while booking directly through their website.
Times Square
Because did you really go to New York City if you didn’t go to the iconic Times Square? If you need some time to sit down and bask in the glory of the place referred to as “The Center of the Universe,” then grab a seat on the Red Stairs located near 47th and Broadway.
The Apollo
This has been a Harlem landmark since 1934 and a place where African Americans could be entertained with music and other variety shows. Check out the Walk of Fame that has celebrated musical legends such as Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Billie Holiday, and others. Today you can still catch an Amateur Night or a musical performance, and purchasing tickets is easy on their site.
Roosevelt Island
What's 2 miles long, 800 feet wide, and located on the East River between Manhattan and Queens? I call it the suburbs of Manhattan, but the official name of this land that is accessible by the country's first aerial tram is Roosevelt Island. I recently ran a poll, and more than 60% of New Yorkers who responded stated they have NEVER been to Roosevelt Island. To see all of what Roosevelt Island has to offer check out my previous post.
Chinatown
This neighborhood is always a destination for foodies, where you can indulge in some of the most authentic Chinese cuisines in Manhattan. From dumplings to hand-pulled noodles, you will find only the best. If you are looking for NYC souvenirs as well, there is no shortage in this neighborhood. Chinatown also borders Little Italy as well, so it is truly the best of both worlds.
Statue of Liberty
Our gift from France is easily the most identifiable landmark of New York City but also serves as a beacon of light to immigrants entering this city for better opportunities. You can purchase tickets to view Lady Liberty up close and personal by clicking here.
Central Park
Famous movies such as Breakfast at Tiffany's, Ghostbusters, Maid in Manhattan, and Home Alone 2 have all have been filmed in Central Park. With 9,000 benches, you are sure to find a place to grab a seat and take in the beauty of the most visited urban park in the United States. Tired from all walking throughout the city? You can view the perimeter of the park via a horse carriage ride.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET)
The MET is home to 5,000 years of artwork and the third most visited art museum in the world. You can easily spend hours here, and luckily your ticket allows you to visit for three consecutive days. Purchase your tickets ahead by clicking here.
Empire State Building
This historical building stands 103 stories tall and took one year and 45 days to build. At night this is one of the most identifiable buildings in the New York City skyline. Typically the tower will light up white, or on special occasions, the lights will change to honoring a cause, organization, or historical moment. To find out what color it is tonight and why click here.
The High Line
This elevated green space that was built on top of a historic freight rail line and the is the perfect place to take a casual with overlooking views of West Chelsea. The High Line also includes contemporary artwork and plenty of seating areas.
Grand Central Terminal
This commuter terminal is the third busiest in North America and allows passengers to seamless transfer between NYC subways and rail-lines that travel outside of the NYC metropolitan area. Popular movies such as I Am Legend, Men in Black, and Armageddon were filmed here.
Top of the Rock
In the heart of Mid-town Manhattan the Rockefeller Center offers some of the best views at the Top of the Rock, and you can purchase your tickets in advance here.
9/11 Memorial and one world observatory
The 9/11 memorial was built to commemorate the September 11th, 2011 attack and 1993 World Trade Bombing and to celebrate the lives of the almost 3,000 people that we lost. Where once the Twin Towers stood now lies two memorial sites where the names of the loved ones are now etched into bronze parapets to never be forgotten. The One World Trade Center was the building built in place of the Twin Towers and is currently the tallest building in the United States. To purchase tickets to get a birds-eye view of Manhattan and surrounding areas click on the link here.
Coney Island
Coney Island is open year-round is famous for the beach, amusement park rides, food, boardwalk, and let’s not forget the annual hot dog eating contest that takes place on the 4th of July.
Smorgasburg
What is not to love about the largest weekly open-air food market? With much success here in The Big Apple, this food euphoria has expanded to the west coast as well.
Washington Square Park
This park is located in the Greenwich Village neighborhood and know as a meeting place. On any given day you can witness students studying, dance competitions, or catch a chess game in action.
What are your favorite attractions or activities in New York City? Click the links below to explore more of The Big Apple!
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