The Best Things to do in NYC this Weekend
What To Do In NYC This Weekend?
Alright, New York aficionados and habitual brunch queue standers! Before you commit to that same old café or try to find solace in your fifth rewatch of a rom-com, consider this: NYC is always up to something. Peel back the curtain (or subway ad) with our sardonic guide on “Things to do in NYC this weekend.”
In true ‘Loving New York’ fashion, expect a blend of the hilariously unexpected and the bafflingly brilliant. There are great things to do in NYC this weekend! How about a trip to the Dyker Heights to see all the beautiful Christmas Lights? My tip: Here you’ll find lots of inspiration for what to do in New York City today.
NYC events this weekend
Wondering what events are happening in NYC this weekend? These are the best events this Friday, Saturday, and Sunday – enjoy!
Things to do in NYC this weekend
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01
See the beautiful Christmas Lights in the Dyker Heights
Bus Tour in Dyker HeightsOur Highlight
This tour through the Christmas Dyker Heights and Bay Ridge in Brooklyn is one of the most popular and most booked tours at Christmas time in New York. In front of the Row NYC Hotel (45th Street and 8th Avenue) you will be picked up by a bus and drive over one of New York’s bridges to Brooklyn – you will have a wonderful view of the New York skyline.
Once in Dyker Heights, you will be guided by a guide through the main streets with the most beautiful Christmas lights. The next stop is the Brooklyn Bridge in DUMBO (about 25 minutes) – the tour ends at Bryant Park Winter Village with the famous ice skating rink. The Dyker Heights tour is guaranteed to get you in the Christmas spirit!
My tip: These are the best Dyker Heights Christmas Lights!
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02
Visit the Origami Tree in the Natural History Museum
Christmas Tree in Upper West SideThe Origami Christmas Tree at the American Museum of Natural History is unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Picture a towering Christmas tree decorated with thousands of meticulously hand-folded origami pieces. It’s an artistic feat that captures the essence of both the season and the museum’s diverse collections. From dinosaurs and galaxies to butterflies and sea creatures, it’s like exploring the whole museum on a single tree.
Additionally, this one-of-a-kind tree stands as a testament to patience and craftsmanship, as each origami figure is created by local, national, and international origami artists. This imaginative and beautiful approach to Christmas tree decoration is sure to fill you with holiday spirit, making a visit to the museum during Christmas an unforgettable experience.
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03
Watch the Nutcracker from November 29 - January 4!
Other Events in Upper East Side
Indiana Woodward and Company in George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker. Photo credit: Erin BaianoThe Nutcracker is one of the world’s most famous ballets and enjoys great popularity among visitors and locals. A true holiday tradition!
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04
Santa's Secret Immersive Holiday Experience
Other Events in Hudson YardsOur Highlight
At Santa’s Secret Immersive Holiday Experience, you’ll make your way through a winter wonderland and into Santa’s secret speakeasy. Enjoy Christmas-themed cocktails, a live band, and an eye-popping variety show of unique acts, all with a holiday twist!
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05
The Rockettes are back!
Broadway Show in Midtown Manhattan
Radio City Music Hall is a distinguished concert and event hall located on Sixth Avenue and can be recognized from a distance by its striking exterior lighting. Throughout the year, concerts and events take place here such as the popular Radio City Christmas Spectacular starring the Rockettes. It is the most famous Christmas Show you can watch in New York!
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06
Watch Elf The Musical at Marquis Theatre
Building in Theatre District
Elf the Musical is returning to Broadway for a limited run at the Marquis Theatre, starting November 9 (only until January 4, 2025). Based on the beloved 2003 film, the show has become a holiday favorite, featuring catchy songs, feel-good dance numbers, and humor for all ages.
It tells the story of Buddy, a human raised as an elf at the North Pole, who travels to New York to find his birth parents. This year’s production stars Tony nominee Grey Henson and is directed by Philip Wm. McKinley. A festive treat, perfect for the whole family!
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07
Frost Fest at Luna Park starts November 23!
Other Attraction in Coney Island & Brighton Beach
Luna Park will transform into an exhilarating winter destination, featuring an ice skating rink, a selection of rides and attractions, festive lights and decorations, opportunities for photos with Santa, a holiday shopping experience, delectable seasonal food options to satisfy both locals and visitors, and much more!
Open on select weekdays & Holidays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from November 23, 2024 to January 1, 2025.
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08
Visit Santa Clauses' Winter Wonderland at Pier 17
Other Events in Financial District
Disney’s The Santa Clauses’ Winter Wonderland is transforming The Rooftop at Pier 17 into a magical North Pole experience inspired by Disney’s The Santa Clause movie.
Visitors can enjoy activities such as rooftop ice skating, exploring Santa’s sleigh, a mini slide, private cabin dinners, and indulging in seasonal treats and hot cocoa.
There’s also a cozy Santa’s living room for memorable photos by the fireplace. It’s a unique holiday experience right in the heart of Manhattan with stunning city skyline views.
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09
Lightscape at Brooklyn Botanic Garden (Nov. 22, 2024 - Jan. 5, 2025)
Other Events in Park Slope
Brooklyn is home to many wonderful Christmas light displays, including the illuminated trail known as Lightscape, found at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. This after-dark light spectacular features all-new works of art and many returning favorites. At this experience, visitors make their way through the winding trails of the Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s trails, which are all awash with artistic light designs.
Along the journey, you’ll encounter color effects on BBG trees, water features, monumental lighted sculptures, and more. Lightscape sold out last year, so book your visit on their website early.
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10
Visit Bryant Park Winter Village
Christmas Market in Midtown ManhattanOur Highlight
Starting in October (and running through March), it is time once again for the best winter market in New York City to open its doors. The Winter Village in Bryant Park is not only the largest Christmas market in the city but also by far the nicest on account of its adjacent ice rink and places to shop and eat.
This along with its amazing location among all the skyscrapers makes for an amazing Christmas experience.
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11
Go Ice Skating!
Other Attraction in Midtown Manhattan
The Rockefeller Rink, just below the Rockefeller Center’s Christmas Tree, is considered one of the classics. It’s open since October. Come here during the night and experience greatness.
The Rink at Rockefeller Center is one of the most popular destinations to go ice skating in New York, which is why you are likely to wait in line to skate here. If this rink is on your bucket list, know that there are a few tickets you can purchase in advance to avoid standing in line for too long.
My tip: Check out the best ice skating rinks in NYC!
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12
Visit Governors Island
Other Attraction in Outside of New York City
When the weather is beautiful in New York City and you want to escape for a moment from the noise, the hustle and bustle, then a trip to Governors Island is something to consider. The Governors Island Ferry will take you across the East River for $5.
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13
Eat something delicious at the Bronx Night Market every Saturday
Other Events in Bronx
The Bronx Night Market is one of the best places to find foods that celebrate New York City’s most northern borough. Each spring, this event supports the Bronx’s food scene by offering world-class events that are affordable. Be ready to celebrate cuisine and culture, as it represents NYC’s diverse offerings and encourages people from all around the city to experience this borough.
You’ll find just about every type of food, from ice cream, latkes, and pastries, to tamales, soul food, and vegan options. There are also other types of local merchants and live entertainment.
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14
Enjoy a hot chocolate at Loreley Beer Garden
Bar in Lower East Side
Here the Rhine metropolis Cologne meets New York. The owner, Michael Momm, a real “Kölscher Jung”, opened this piece of Germany in the middle of New York in 2003. Here you will find a large selection of German beers (including Kölsch, of course) and good German wines at fair prices, as well as a delicious selection of German dishes.
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15
Smorgasburg is back!
Food Market in Prospect Heights
Smorgasburg is a popular food festival in New York City. You can find many different dishes from local vendors. The food festival, also known as the „Woodstock of Eating,“ is held every Sunday from April to October in Prospect Park in Brooklyn.
More Smorgasburg:
- Williamsburg: every Saturday
- World Trade Center: every Friday
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16
Visit the bitforms gallery
Gallery in Lower East Side
The bitforms gallery is a contemporary art gallery that features mid-career artists utilizing the latest technologies in New York City. The bitforms gallery was founded in 2001 with the idea that A world-renowned contemporary visual art gallery, bitforms is home to established artists and those on the rise.
bitforms is a cutting-edge gallery that represents established and emerging artists with new technologies in their work. It’s no surprise that technology is recognized as an important niche in the market at large. Nowadays we are used to seeing images projected onto tablets during live performances but not that long ago this was unheard of.
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17
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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18
RiseNY
Other Tours in Theatre District
Get ready to journey through New York City’s history in a mesmerizing and engaging manner. Begin with a compelling film from esteemed documentarian Ric Burns that transports you to the past and shows you the cultural and industrial factors that contributed to the formation of the city that never sleeps.
Next, step into the museum-like galleries that guide you through the city’s vast evolution in pop culture. These galleries exhibit significant pieces from television, Broadway, music, and fashion.
Lastly, embark on an exhilarating simulated flight above the city’s iconic skyline. Hover 30 feet in the air and prepare to rekindle your love for New York. Experience the sensation of wind coursing through your hair as you soar above the world’s most remarkable architecture, look down on the colorful foliage of Central Park in fall, breathe in the crisp pine aromas of NYC’s quintessential Holiday season, and feel the rush of excitement as you become a part of the Times Square Ball Drop on New Year’s Eve.
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19
Marvel at the beautiful flowers at Brooklyn Botanic Garden...
Park in Park Slope
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is the natural wonder of New York City and is especially popular during the cherry blossom season. Many people come to the botanic garden in Brooklyn just to see this natural spectacle. This place always has a special aura to it, as there is something wonderful blossoming here in any season. It’s located right inside Prospect Park in Park Slope, Brooklyn.
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20
...or take a walk in Central Park
Park in Midtown ManhattanOur Highlight
Central Park spans from Midtown Manhattan all the way up to Harlem. There are about 340 hectares of land and is a popular meeting place for New Yorkers. With about 35 million visitors per year, the man-made park is an attraction not only for tourists. New Yorkers love Central Park and its tranquility.
Many events are held here such as the NYC Marathon. There are also tons of green spaces, walking lanes, and bike lanes. Central Park is home to Sheep’s Meadow, Bow Bridge, Bethesda Terrace, Central Park Zoo, and many other things as well.
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21
The RIDE
Bus Tour in Theatre District
The Ride offers tours in midtown Manhattan and now downtown as well. The Downtown Experience is much more historical than The Ride in Midtown. If you are looking to learn more about how New York came to be, this is for you! Enjoy the state-of-the-art tour bus with theater stadium seating and your experience is also enhanced through virtual reality visualizations.
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22
Visit the Field of Light at Freedom Plaza (open Thu - Sat)
Other Attraction in Murray Hill
Covering more than six acres on the east side of Manhattan, between 38th and 41st streets east of First Avenue, the Field of Light is presented at Freedom Plaza. This installation features 17,000 light fixtures that gradually change color. Visitors can immerse themselves in the installation by walking along a winding path through this landscape surrounded by New York’s iconic skyline and the East River waterfront. The Field of Light at Freedom Plaza is brought to you by the Soloviev Foundation and is free to the public.
When?
- Thursday – Saturday | 5:00 – 9:00 pm
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23
Go shopping at the American Dream Mall
Outlet in Outside of New York City
Attention shoppers: the Greater New York City area is now home to one of the largest malls in the nation – the American Dream mall. After many years of waiting and constant delays, the massive shopping and entertainment complex are already open.
The American Dream complex is much more than just a mall. Besides hundreds of shops, you will also find an unbelievable number of entertainment facilities here. As a matter of fact, the complex is almost split evenly amongst shopping and entertainment.
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24
Try delicious Omakase
Asian Restaurant in SoHo
Situated in Soho, the trendy Kintsugi Omakase is an intimate sushi atelier designed for 10 patrons, offering three distinct tiers of premium omakase dining experiences. These include the top-tier Kintsugi Omakase, a comprehensive 20-course tasting menu priced at $195; the mid-range Soho Experience, which encompasses 17 courses and costs $155; and the budget-friendly Grand Street Classic, featuring 14 courses for $95.
Every omakase journey encompasses seasonal appetizers, sushi creations, a sushi chef’s choice of handroll, gourmet miso soup, tamago, and a dessert that aligns with the season. The beverage selection at Kintsugi Omakase spotlights rare Japanese whisky, gin, and sake, enhancing the overall dining experience.
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25
Visit the Bronx Zoo
Other Attraction in Bronx Park
Do you want to experience the largest metropolitan zoo in the US? Then go check out the Bronx Zoo. It’s perfect for families and especially kids. At the Bronx Zoo, you can experience your wild side and explore a national treasure in the Bronx.
The Bronx Zoo is known as one of the best in the country and offers many different species from all over the world. The Bronx Zoo is one of my absolute highlights in the area and something you shouldn’t miss.
On select dates from November 22 you can join a beloved family tradition at the Bronx Zoo: the Holiday Lights!
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26
Join a free High Line Walking Tour on Saturday
Walking Tour in West Village
The High Line Park takes you along the old tracks of the elevated railway to the Meatpacking District. Thanks to the initiative „Friends of the High Line“ the park exists at all, because originally the construction was supposed to be torn down. And the best thing? They offer free tours!
When?
- Saturdays at 12:00 PM
Where?
- At the Gansevoort Street entrance
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27
Visit one of the Rooftop Bars
Rooftop Bar in DumboOur Highlight
Be sure to check out the 1 Hotel Rooftop and Garden Bar, even if you don’t decide to stay there. You can enjoy a fantastic view of the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridge. The bar serves great drinks and finger food.
My tip: These are the best rooftop bars in NYC right now!
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28
Try some delicious Craft Beers
Walking Tour in Downtown Brooklyn
An equally exceptional and wonderful activity for January is this guided tour of not one but three breweries in New York. New York is known for its many small breweries that exist in every borough – on this tour, you’ll start at Circa Brewing at 141 Lawrence St in Brooklyn. As you make your way through some of the city’s hottest neighborhoods, you’ll visit 3 world-class breweries. Led by your expert beer guide, you’ll gain VIP access and learn more about the unique brewing process while sampling their delicious craft beer.
Drinks are also accompanied by a complimentary beer snack as you indulge your taste buds on an unforgettable 3.5-hour beer tour.
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29
Do a Cupcake Tour in the beautiful Greenwich Village
Walking Tour in Greenwich Village
If you’re into sweets and desserts you should try the famous Cupcake Tour. Sample colorful cupcakes at boutique bake shops, and build your own custom cupcake during this 2-hour tour in Greenwich Village. New York clearly has the best cupcakes and this will be the chance to try the best of them.
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30
Marvel at the Manhattan Skyline from a boat
Cruise in ChelseaOur Highlight
The architecture boat tour takes you around Manhattan in 2.5 hours. On a 30 meter long wooden ship in the style of the 1920s you can relax and learn a lot of interesting facts about the many small and large buildings of the city. The tour is super-relaxing and the price includes a drink (vino, soft drinks) and small snacks.
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31
Go shopping at Macy's
Other Shopping in Midtown Manhattan
Macy’s at Herald Square is the flagship of Macy’s department stores and it shows! With more than 2100ft² this is the biggest department store in the USA! The 10 floors of shopping space have developed into a NYC icon for shopping over the past 150 years and as soon as you set foot through its doors, you will see why.
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32
Visit Madame Tussauds
Museum in Midtown Manhattan
One of NYC’s most popular attractions is the Madame Tussauds Wax Museum right by Times Square. Great for kids and adults alike you will see countless celebrities recreated with amazing details as wax figurines. If you have always been hoping for a perfect selfie with one of your favorite celebrities then this is just the spot for you!
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33
Enjoy a delicious Brunch at Ophelia Lounge
Bar in Midtown Manhattan
Ophelia Lounge NYCEvery Sunday you can get the ultimate “Top of the Tower” cocktail brunch at Ophelia. In addition to carefully selected cocktails like Ophelia’s Mimosa or a Watermelon Refresher, you’ll get a great à la carte menu with delicious crab, Belgian waffles and more. You’ll also find a selection of 3-tiered brunch towers on the menu, giving you everything your heart desires. How about smoked salmon or a savory quiche with caviar, for example?
My tip: These are the best brunch spots in NYC right now!
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34
Enjoy skyline views from The Summit
Building in Midtown ManhattanOur Highlight
The New York City skyline is one of the most famous and recognizable skylines in the world. It’s a city filled with skyscrapers and tall buildings. In most recent years, it has been expanding which made way for new observation decks. The newest observation deck is located at the top of the One Vanderbilt Building and is called The Summit. This deck is the second-highest outdoor deck in NYC which follows the Edge and has been open since October 2021.
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35
Visit an art exhibition
Gallery in Lower East Side
Alexandre Gallery has two locations. The 25 E 73rd Street location has been around for 20 years, and will stay open for private viewings, and American Modernists from the Stieglitz Circle. It will be appointment only. The late 19th early 20th century is a special focus for Alexandre Gallery. Famous artists such as John Marin, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Joseph Stella have paintings on display at the 73rd Street location.
Alexandre Gallery opened its new location at 291 Grand Street in the Lower East Side of Manhattan on September 9, 2021 with Lois Dodd doing a one-person exhibition. The gallery has 2,000 square feet, and was previously used by James Cohan.
My tip: These are the best art exhibitions in NYC right now!
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36
Immerse yourself in the world of illusions
Museum in West Village
The Museum of Illusions is one of the most fun museums in NYC for kids and adults right now. It’s an interactive museum that will make you question your sense of reality with optical illusions. The museum guarantees a great time, lots of laughter, and the funniest photos. The exhibits will stimulate your cognitive abilities in a way that it will be hard for you to believe your eyes.
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37
Go see a Broadway Show
Broadway Show in Theatre District
If you are on vacation in New York, you should see one of the many great musicals. One of them is Wicked. For 10 years this famous musical has been on Broadway. It tells the so-far mysterious story of the Witches of Oz around the green-skinned witch Elphaba and her special friendship with the witch Glinda.
For more shows and musicals check out my article about the best Broadway shows in NYC here.
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38
Rent a bike in Central Park
Bike Tour in Midtown Manhattan
There are numerous ways to go sightseeing in NYC. One great way is by biking. You can familiarize yourself with many districts and streets that you might not discover on foot or on a bus tour. If you just want to discover New York by bike for a few hours, the classic bike rental is the cheapest option.
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39
Explore the Brooklyn Public Library
Building in Prospect Heights
The Brooklyn Public Library at Grand Army Plaza was designed in the 1930s by architects Alfred Morton Githens and Francis Keally. The main facade of the building is made of limestone and features a relief of the writer Walt Whitman, whose works are kept in the library. Another feature of the Brooklyn Public Library is the entrance, which is flanked by two 30-foot-high columns made of granite. Inside the library, many details have been preserved, such as the original light fixtures and furniture.
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40
Visit the House of Cannabis
Museum in SoHo
There’s a new museum in New York City: The House of Cannabis (THC NYC)! Spread over three floors, there are a total of ten different immersive exhibits that guide visitors through the many dimensions of cannabis. On this multi-sensory journey, you’ll learn about cannabis’ influence on music, fashion, and art, as well as the history of cannabis culture.
The ground floor features a store and cafe, as well as a meet-up space for social events. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
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41
Enjoy delicious sushi
Japanese Restaurant in Hudson YardsOur Highlight
Suram Sushi & Ramen is a Japanese restaurant located near Hudson Yards. On the menu there are various sushi creations as well as ramen. The restaurant is quite small, but has a modern interior and the service was perfect during our visit! The staff was attentive and very friendly, the sushi was freshly prepared and was incredibly good!
My personal recommendation: Salmon Crispy Rice! The rice is deep fried, which gives the sushi a really nice crunchy texture. The salmon on top is just sensationally delicious!
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42
Take a great picture of 42nd Street and the Chrysler Building
Other Attraction in Murray Hill
The Tudor City Bridge is a small bridge over 42nd Street and it is just a short walk away from Grand Central Terminal. The bridge itself is not that exciting, but the view over 42nd Street to the west including the Chrysler Building is even more beautiful. Definitely a great photo opportunity – and completely free.
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43
Dive into the history of Broadway
Museum in The Battery
The Museum of Broadway in New York City will be the first and only museum that is fully dedicated to the importance and history of Broadway. Here you will learn everything about the beginnings of Broadway and the Theatre District and their development to the present day, including information about the most famous musicals.
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44
Watch a movie at an AMC Theatre
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.
My tip: You can save money if you book your tickets right here!
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