20 Ultimate Things to do in New York City

Your New York City bucket list

New York City is not called the city that never sleeps for no reason! There is always plenty of things to do in New York City, in any month, at any hour. From popular events, festivals, attractions, tours, entertainment, and free activities New York City has a lot to offer.

In this article, we narrow down the absolute best things to do in New York City all over the best NYC neighborhoods so that you can create your very own NYC bucket list:

What are the top attractions to visit in New York City?

20 Ultimate Things to do in New York CityThe list of top attractions in New York City is long and pretty spread out all over the NYC neighborhoods. There are many exciting things for you to choose from. You can pick everything from the highest outdoor observation deck in the western hemisphere to relaxing cruises to the Statue of Liberty. Most of the New York attractions are actually also on my list of best things to do in Manhattan. 

Find comfort in the quietness of Central Park or visit Times Square during the night. Check this article for a complete overview of New York City’s top attractions:

Top Attractions in NYC

What are the best outdoor activities in New York City?

View of the Empire State building from the High Line

Especially during the warmer months and great weather, you should take advantage of the best outdoor activities in New York City. My personal highlights are visiting one of the many parks in the city, go for a run, ride my bike or enjoy a fresh breeze on the Hudson River. So if you’re wondering hat is there to do outside today in NYC, here are my favorite things to do outdoors:

What are the best day trips from New York City?

Day trip to Bear Mountain nature

Of course, New York made it to the top of your list, but considering the size of the country, other big cities are not too far away. One of my favorite cities that aren’t too far away is the nation’s capital Washington D.C. and Philadelphia. In case you want to head up North you can go to Boston – all those can be conquered in a single day! Other popular day trips from NYC that are easily accessible include Atlantic City.

If you’re wondering where should I go for a one day trip you should also consider more nature during your trip to switch things up from the concrete jungle. Day trips to Bear Mountain, the Hamptons or the Niagra Falls are amazing things to do while traveling to New York City.

The best Events in New York per month

thanksgiving parade NYC

Plan your time in New York with our favorite events of the very best activities, summer events and our best picks from theater, sports events, and concerts. You can choose from our seasonal or monthly guide and explore the best things to do in New York City per month.

Broadway Musicals in New York

The Lion King MusicalDon’t miss one of my favorite things to do in New York City: Watching a Broadway musical. There are plenty of Broadway shows to select from and regardless of which you’ll decide, you will be amazed.

No other city has as much entertainment to offer as New York City, especially when it comes to shows. Watching musical or play is something nobody should miss out on. Here, you can find all current Broadway Shows in NYC’s famed theater district.

Best Broadway Shows NYC

Art, culture & museums in New York

20 Ultimate Things to do in New York CityVisit one of the many museums in New York City and add our favorites to your list of things to do in New York City. From the famous MoMA and the Museum of Natural History to art installations and outdoor exhibitions, there is truly something for everyone. Discover the museums in New York City with these essential guides.

 
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Our Neighborhood Guides for New York City

20 Ultimate Things to do in New York CityLet’s break it down into the NYC neighborhoods and explore the many things to do in SoHo, Williamsburg, Midtown and many more. Our neighborhood guides provide you with everything you need to know about the best areas NYC has to offer.

 
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New York passes: save up to 70% on Sightseeing in New York City

Now you know everything about the best things to do in New York City, but how do you save money on most of the NYC attractions? Learn everything about the different Sightseeing Passes in New York, from what they are, how they work, what they include and how much they cost.

Find out what attractions are included in the New York Pass, the Explorer Pass or the CityPASS and make a free consultation which passes works best for you.

Profilbild Steffen Kneist
About the author
Steffen

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 20 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide. Also check out my hotel finder for New York!

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Roxane bowser

I’ve always wanted to go to New York. And I travel here and there. But I don’t know which airport to land it. I want to See Statue of Liberty, the Empire State building, Times Square, Central Park. Yeah amazing bagel your pie find juniors cheesecake I don’t fall far from each other. I lived in Virginia when I was little. And I really wanna go back to Washington DC. Go to the Philadelphia football dong

Steffen

Hi Roxane,
my recommendation is Newark Airport because the transfer from the airport to Manhattan doesn’t take long 🙂 I wish you an amazing time in New York!!

All the best!!
Steffen

PS: I looooove Junior’s!!!

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