The Best Things To Do In NYC This Week
Alright, folks of the Big Apple, buckle up! You might think you know what’s going on in this concrete jungle, but let’s be honest: in a city where squirrels engage in theatrical standoffs and the subway musicians could easily win ‘Britain’s Got Talent’, there’s always another layer to peel. Dive headfirst into our hilariously insightful guide on “Things to do in NYC this week“. From the intriguingly odd to the fantastically sublime, NYC’s weekly offerings are a roller coaster you didn’t know you needed.
And if you’re expecting a calm, straightforward list…. well, you clearly haven’t looked at my article with its own personal twist! This week a new Broadway show will start in NYC: The Great Gatsby! Moreover, you can see beautiful tulips at the West Side Community Garden Tulip Festival. My tip: No plans for the weekend, yet? Check out my list of the best things to do in NYC this weekend!
NYC Events This Week
Dive into my curated listicle of free, fun, cheap, and family-friendly events that transform NYC into an exhilarating playground for everyone!
Things To Do In NYC This Week
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01
West Side Community Garden Tulip Festival
Other Events in Upper West SideThe West Side Community Garden Tulip Festival in NYC is an annual event that celebrates the arrival of spring in the city. Visitors can admire the breathtaking beauty of the blooming tulips and participate in various activities. The festival attracts people of all ages and is a popular destination for families, nature lovers, and photographers who want to enjoy the colorful tulip fields.
- When? Daily from mid-April to the beginning of May 2024
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02
Watch the Great Gatsby on Broadway! (from April 25, 2024)
Broadway Show in Theatre DistrictStep into the lavish world of the 1920s as F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic American novel comes to life on the grandest American stage. Featuring Jeremy Jordan (known for Newsies) as the enigmatic millionaire Jay Gatsby and Eva Noblezada (renowned from Hadestown) as the enigmatic Daisy Buchanan, The Great Gatsby makes its Broadway debut following a record-breaking, sold-out run at the Paper Mill Playhouse.
Helmed by director Marc Bruni (of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical fame), this tale of opulence and desire boasts choreography by Dominique Kelley (of So You Think You Can Dance), a script by Kait Kerrigan (from The Mad Ones), and an original score infused with jazz and pop sensibilities by Jason Howland (known for Little Women) and Nathan Tysen (of Paradise Square). Don’t miss out on the extravaganza—secure your tickets now for the musical that The New York Times hails as „sumptuous, enchanting, and stunning!“
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03
Smorgasburg is back!
Food Market in Financial District
The Smorgasburg Food Market is one of the most popular open air food markets in New York City. After the great success of the Smorgasburg concept in Brooklyn, they now can be found at various locations in the city. So also in the Financial District directly at the Ocolus. Every Friday from 11 am – 7 pm you can expect small treats at the corner of Fulton and Church Street, which are super-creative.
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04
Treat yourself with beer & pretzels!
Bar in Lower East Side
Loreley Beer Garden in the Lower East Side is hosting a weeklong Pretzel and Craft Beer Festival from April 18-28 to celebrate National Pretzel Day (April 26). Their outdoor garden will be adorned with spring decor, offering a variety of pretzels in different shapes and sizes alongside craft beers, including their own Loreley Kölsch. From classic Soft Baked German Pretzels to Cheddar Jalapeño Pretzel Balls, there’s something for every pretzel lover to enjoy, making it the perfect spot to soak up the springtime atmosphere with friends.
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05
Enjoy Jazz Nights at Hortus NYC
American Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan
As you step inside Hortus NYC, you’ll be immediately struck by the romantic ambiance. The restaurant’s sleek design and dim lighting create a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a romantic dinner for two. You’ll be treated to a menu filled with tasty options as you take your seat. From seafood and steak to vegetarian dishes, there’s something for everyone at Hortus NYC. And with a well-curated wine list, it’s easy to find the perfect pairing for your meal.
Immerse yourself in the melodic tunes of Chika & Tatsuya and the Jinjoo Yoo Trio, two renowned Asian Jazz ensembles hailing from NYC. Join us at Hortus NYC’s 2nd-floor lounge area from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., where the ambiance will be enriched with sophisticated melodies, providing guests with three hours of delightful entertainment alongside their dining experience.
- When? every Wednesday & Thursday
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06
Whitney Biennial
Other Events in Chelsea
The eighty-first edition of the Whitney Biennial, the longest-running survey of contemporary art in the United States, features seventy-one artists and collectives grappling with today’s most pressing issues. Described as a „dissonant chorus“ by participating artist Ligia Lewis, the Biennial offers a provocative yet intimate exploration of distinct and disparate voices probing the cracks and fissures of the unfolding moment.
Titled „Even Better Than the Real Thing,“ the exhibition acknowledges the complexities of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its impact on our perception of reality. It also addresses how rhetoric surrounding gender and authenticity perpetuates discrimination. Through amplifying the voices of marginalized artists and providing a space for engaging difficult ideas, the Biennial confronts these legacies and fosters dialogue.
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07
Take an iconic picture at The Beam
Building in Midtown Manhattan
The observation deck on top of the Rockefeller Center (Top of the Rock) is one of the most popular attractions in NYC. With amazing views of Manhattan in both directions, it is one of the most iconic spots to take pictures of NYC from. This is the perfect place in NYC to watch a sunset! With amazing views of both the Empire State Building standing tall among Midtown Manhattan and Central Park in the other direction, this is our favorite observation deck and view in NYC!
You probably know the famous 1932 photo showing 11 ironworkers on a beam of steel above the city. You can now recreate this photo and enjoy a sensational view over Central Park with The Beam!
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08
Visit the Color Factory in SoHo
Museum in SoHo
The Color Factory New York is a museum where all ages can embark on an interactive journey through 14 colorful art exhibits. From the bright yellow of New York’s famous cabs to the creamy brown of a delicious street pretzel, the Color Factory celebrates the city’s vibrant colors.
There’s a little surprise for visitors each time they visit, and you can take great photos in the diverse exhibits. All of this was developed by local and international artists and collaborators.
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09
Immerse yourself in the magical world of Harry Potter
Other Art & Culture in Midtown Manhattan
The Harry Potter: The Exhibition is an immersive experience consisting of several themed galleries. The From Page to Screen Gallery showcases a first edition of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone within a Gringotts-inspired vault, surrounded by inspirational videos and literary quotes. In the Hogwarts Castle Gallery, visitors encounter multimedia elements like the Whomping Willow, Dementors, and the interactive Marauder’s Map. The Great Hall Gallery provides a space for celebrating magical moments within its iconic architecture, and the Hogwarts Houses Gallery lets visitors connect with their chosen house, offering a celebratory hall with the Sorting Hat and house crests on stained glass windows.
The exhibition also features the Hogwarts Classrooms Galleries, where guests engage in interactive lessons and games through digital touchscreens, exploring behind-the-scenes secrets of iconic classroom moments. Hagrid’s Hut and The Forbidden Forest offer an immersive Patronus charm experience and the chance to discover iconic creatures. Lastly, an exclusive merchandise collection is available in the onsite retail shop, offering fans a range of themed products, including apparel, jewelry, and edible treats, as well as unique merchandise not found elsewhere in the Wizarding World.
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10
Visit the New York Hall of Science for The Big Bubble Experiment
Museum in Flushing
The New York Hall of Science (NYSCI) is located in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens. It’s the perfect place for families with kids to visit! There are many interactive multimedia displays and the museum offers many ways to teach kids about biology, chemistry, and physics. The Museum was founded during the 1964-1965 World’s Fair and now serves more than half a million teachers, students, and families each year. NYSCI provides the community with a hands-on learning experience through products and services.
The Big Bubble Experiment fosters curiosity and exploration through interactive bubble play. With ten exhibits, visitors can engage in blowing, stretching, popping, and observing bubbles, delving into the science behind them. While prompts are available to kickstart the experience, all activities encourage open-ended exploration, inviting participants to share insights, collaborate, and pursue their own imaginative bubble adventures.
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11
Cold outside? Go watch a movie!!
Other Art & Culture in Midtown Manhattan
AMC theaters in New York City offer an exceptional cinematic experience in the heart of the Big Apple. With multiple locations across the city, AMC theaters boast state-of-the-art technology, comfortable seating, and a wide range of film options, from blockbusters to independent releases. Whether you’re catching the latest Hollywood hit or immersing yourself in a cinematic masterpiece, AMC theaters in NYC provide moviegoers with a top-notch setting to enjoy the magic of the silver screen.
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12
Visit the new Mercer Labs at Museum of Arts and Technology
Museum in Financial District
Mercer Labs presents a groundbreaking transformation of the museum experience through its innovative exhibition. Spanning fifteen experimental spaces, this exhibition is designed to bridge the gap between art and technology in captivating ways. Interactive encounters, immersive installations, and unique listening experiences redefine the viewer’s connection to art.
Within this exhibition, Roy Nachum embarks on a journey of deconstruction and reconstruction, fundamentally reshaping the relationship between art and technology. ‘Limitless’ serves as a physical embodiment of the artist’s dreams, delving into his psyche, childhood memories, and vision of nature. Viewers are invited to step inside his work, traversing the boundary between narrative and abstraction. By leveraging digital tools and machine intelligence, he challenges human perception and explores the intricate spatial framework of source imagery and technical direction.
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13
Visit the SPYSCAPE Spy Museum
Museum in Midtown Manhattan
For a few years now, the SPYSCAPE Spy Museum has been one of the most popular attractions in Midtown Manhattan. Not for nothing is it the first interactive spy museum in the Big Apple. Get ready for some 5,600 square meters of pure excitement, all designed by the former director of training for the British Secret Service.
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14
You can visit the Whitney Museum for free on Friday evening
Museum in Meatpacking District
The Whitney Museum is one of the most popular art museums in New York City and for a good reason. It’s home to some of the most iconic works of art in the world. The Museum offers free admission every Friday evening from 5 to 10 pm and on the second Sunday of each month. These opportunities provide complimentary access to exhibitions, special programs, scenic views, and additional offerings. While there is no admission fee, tickets are necessary, and there is limited capacity.
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15
Try some delicious Thai food in NYC
Asian Restaurant in Garment District
At Zoob Zib Thai Authentic Noodle Bar you can get really good Thai food! With their dishes, they want you to explore the cultural diversity of the different parts of Thailand. The restaurant is located near Penn Station and Hudson Yards.
Their Pad Thai comes with different options to choose from, for example, grilled chicken, mixed seafood, or crispy duck. Also, the drunken noodles and the red curry are very popular. Guests love this Thai restaurant for its authentic flavors.
My tip: These are the Best Thai Restaurants in NYC!
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16
Enjoy Skyline Views on a Sunset Yacht Cruise
Cruise in Chelsea
Aboard the Manhattan 2, built in the style of a 1920s yacht, this wonderful boat tour takes you from Chelsea Piers south down the Hudson River to the Statue of Liberty and New York Harbor. I love the atmosphere here because it feels much more intimate and personal compared to the larger tourist boats. You can sit both inside and outside, enjoying a drink included in the price and of course the sunset. Fantastic!
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17
Visit an art exhibition
Museum in Gramercy
Fotografiska New York is a wonderful museum in NYC for all art and especially photo art enthusiasts. Originally founded in Stockholm in 2010, the museum also exists in Tallinn (Estonia) and since 2019 in New York. It is located in a beautiful building from 1892 and extends over 6 floors. In addition to changing exhibitions, there is a restaurant and cocktail bar to round out your visit.
This week you can elevate your experience with this: Engage in a Human / Nature-inspired performance by Brooklyn Ballet in their Loft, and rejuvenate with a guided meditation session led by Urban Yoga Foundation.
Check out the best art exhibitions in NYC right now!
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18
Visit the World of AI-magination at Artechhouse
Other Art & Culture in Chelsea
“World of AI·magination” is ARTECHOUSE Studio’s latest creation, a remarkable digital artwork born from the fusion of generative AI and human creativity. This immersive experience pays tribute to the enduring power of imagination, reminding us that no matter our age or role in life, our sense of wonder and exploration never fades. By seamlessly blending generative algorithms and human ingenuity, it transports us into a vast universe concealed within each pixel, igniting our curiosity and nurturing our creative spirit.
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19
Empire State Building
Building in Midtown Manhattan
The Empire State Building is the most famous attraction in New York City. When most people think of NYC, this landmark is usually the first thing that pops into their head. It’s an iconic skyscraper and has been arguably the face of the city. It should definitely be a part of every trip to the city since it features two observation decks! Here’s a fun fact: The Empire State Building even has its own zip code! (NY 10118)
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20
Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
Building in DumboOur Highlight
The Brooklyn Bridge is used by over 120,000 vehicles across its 6 lanes, 4000 pedestrians, and 3000 bikes, per day. The views of NYC from the Brooklyn Bridge are spectacular and it is an absolute necessity that you walk across the bridge during your trip to NYC. Especially at sunrise and sunset this is one of NYC’s most photogenic spots. Just be prepared to be surrounded by a bunch of people.
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21
Watch The Notebook on Broadway
Broadway Show in Theatre DistrictAllie and Noah, hailing from disparate backgrounds, defy the odds to nurture a profound love that withstands the relentless challenges seeking to drive them apart. Based on a bestselling novel with a global readership of millions and a cinematic masterpiece that ranks among the highest-grossing romantic dramas ever, the Broadway rendition of Nicholas Sparks’s The Notebook graces the stage. Following its resounding success during a world premiere run at Chicago Shakespeare Theater in the autumn of 2022, this musical adaptation promises to captivate audiences with its poignant narrative and heartfelt performances.
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22
Enjoy a delicious steak in NYC!
Steak Restaurant in Theatre District
Bacall’s Family Steakhouse is one of the most highly regarded restaurants in NYC, known for its delicious steaks and romantic ambiance. Located in the heart of Manhattan, Bacall’s is the perfect spot for a special dinner with your loved one or a friend.
The restaurant offers a wide selection of succulent steaks, including filet mignon, ribeye, and New York strip, all cooked to perfection and served with your choice of sides. In addition to the steaks, Bacall’s also has a selection of seafood dishes, including lobster tail and pan-seared salmon, as well as vegetarian options.
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