New York, often called “The City That Never Sleeps,” “The Big Apple,” or “The Center of the Universe,” continues to be one of the world’s top tourist destinations. With a seemingly endless list of activities and attractions, there’s something for everyone, making it the perfect place for exploration. Start planning your trip and experience the magic of NYC. Below, we’ve rounded up the top 12 must-do activities in New York:
- The Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island
- Climb up to the statue’s famous crown
- Explore Ellis Island’s historical past
One of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, the Statue of Liberty is a must-see when in New York City. Located just a short ferry ride away on Ellis Island, which also houses the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, the statue offers incredible views of the city and its surroundings. To reach the crown, ticket prices vary based on how high you wish to go—but the panoramic views from Lady Liberty’s crown are well worth it!
- The Empire State Building, 5th Avenue
- View the city from the 86th floor observatory
- Less than one minute’s ride up to the top
The Empire State Building is another iconic attraction in New York. Located in the heart of the city, visitors can take an elevator ride to the 86th floor for stunning views of New York. With numerous photo ops and souvenir shops, it’s a must-see landmark. Once the tallest building in the world until 1970, the Empire State Building remains a can’t-miss part of the New York experience.
- New York Library, 5th Avenue at 42nd Street
- Visit the largest library in the United States
- Observe stunning 20th Century architecture
Located near Times Square and Grand Central Station, the New York Public Library is the largest in the United States and the fourth largest in the world. Built in 1911, the library’s impressive architecture still captivates visitors today. Daily guided tours offer the chance to explore iconic spots like the Rose Reading Room, renowned for its beautifully painted ceiling.
- Times Square, Broadway at 42nd Street
- Experience the sights and sounds on Broadway
- Watch MTV and ABC show recordings
Times Square is probably one of the most recognisable New York City images. With its electronic billboards and advertisements, theatres, street performers and family-friendly shops like Disney, M&Ms and Toys ‘R’ Us, Times Square embodies the lively, bustling spirit of the city. You can even catch a recording of ABC’s Good Morning America, visit MTV’s headquarters or watch the famous ball drop on New Year’s Eve.
- Central Park
- Visit the city’s 800-acre urban park
- Lots to see and do, including Central Park Zoo
This sprawling architectural landmark covers most of midtown Manhattan; Central Park has become an oasis of peace and beauty in the heart of the city. Visitors to the park can walk to the centre and race boats on the water, take a horse and carriage tour, ride on gondolas or even just lay down on the grass and relax. Central Park Zoo is state-of-the-art and world famous, so definitely an attraction to see if you have kids.
- The Museum of Modern Art, between 5th and 6th Avenue at 53rd Street
- Discover New York’s finest modern artworks
- Open seven days a week
The Museum of Modern Art, or MoMA, as it’s often called, is a famous art museum located in midtown Manhattan. You’ll see the most unusual and forward-thinking exhibitions in the world, and experience the thrilling work of leading painters, sculptors and performance artists. The museum is open every day except for Thanksgiving and Christmas, and the admission price includes access to all special exhibitions and galleries.
- Coney Island, Brooklyn, NYC
- Fairground rides and attractions for all the family
- Only 60 minutes from midtown Manhattan
Located on the southwestern tip of the island in the neighbourhood of Brooklyn, Coney Island is an amusement park and leisure destination that is open between Easter and Halloween. Coney Island is the birth place of the hot dog, and features classic fairground rides and roller-coasters for all the family to enjoy. There are fireworks every night during the summer, and Coney Island can be reached on the train easily from midtown.
- Rockefeller Center, between 5th and 6th Avenue at 48th Street
- Attractions all year round, including Christmas
- View the city from dizzying heights at the Top of the Rock
The Rockefeller Center is New York’s top tourist attraction, and for good reason – there’s something to do here any time of the year. At Christmas, its home to the city’s enormous Christmas tree, and one of the world’s most famous outdoor ice rinks. You can view the city from the Top of the Rock Observation deck and visit Radio City Music Hall – an art deco landmark that hosts classic seasonal shows, and is home to the Radio City Rockette dancers.
- Bronx Zoo, Bronx, NY
- One of the largest metropolitan zoos in the world
- All the world’s animals under one roof
The Bronx is a well-known borough of New York City, and is also home to the largest metropolitan zoo in the United States. See every animal from big grizzly bears to lions and tigers, sea lions and rare reptiles. There’s also camel rides, a monorail, animal feeding and a 4-D movie theatre. Bronx Zoo is a perfect attraction if you’re visiting New York with kids or animal lovers of any age.
- Yankee Stadium, Bronx, NY
- Visit the home of the New York Yankees
- Take a tour or catch a game in season
The New York Yankees baseball team is famous all over the world, and you can visit the home of the team when you’re in New York. As well as getting tickets to a game, there are stadium tours and an opportunity to see and hold important artifacts in baseball history, such as Babe Ruth’s bat and the World Series trophy. The onsite shop is stocked full of souvenirs bearing the instantly recognisable Yankees logo, and is the best stop to buy authentic team jerseys and balls.
- Broadway, Theater District
- Visit one of 40 theatres in the city
- See world-class performances of old and modern classics
The number of people visiting New York’s theater district climbs every year, and it’s not hard to see why – Broadway musicals shaped American popular culture in a big way, and continue to make thousands of people happy every day. Broadway is home to classics such as The Lion King, Wicked and The Phantom of the Opera; if you’re visiting New York City, seeing a Broadway show is the perfect way to experience the true dramatic nature of the city.
- Grand Central Terminal, Park Avenue at 42nd Street
- Visit the busiest station in the United States
- Experience stunning 19th Century architecture and history
Grand Central is not just New York’s biggest commuter rail station and the busiest in the country, it’s an internationally-recognised landmark and architectural triumph. The 19th Century terminal boasts lofty ceilings, marble and brass furnishings, spiral staircases and, of course, the Grand Central clock (its four faces are rumored to be made of opal and worth up to $20 million). For those who are just visiting, there are also a number of shopping and dining options in the terminal.
Now that you’ve identified the top 12 best activities in New York – it’s time to Make sure that your seats are reserved – Book with Bookmundi.