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The 100 best things to do in NYC for locals and tourists

Experience the absolute best things to do in NYC with this epic guide to essential eats, drinks, culture, parks and more

April 2024:   Looking for t he best things to do as  spring blooms  in NYC? Our iconic museums, big attractions,  and favorite restaurants have the coolest exhibits, shows and menus right now. This month, welcome the warmer weather with outdoor festivals, must-see museum exhibits and buzzy Broadway shows.

From its  art museums  (The Met and Frick Madison) to its  attractions  (The Bronx Zoo and sunrises from the Empire State Building), New York City is the best city in the world. Its dining and drinking scenes are still unbeatable and boast killer bars,  restaurants  and offering creative new inventions. Every day, we’re discovering something new and wonderful about our city, whether it’s one of the best parks , some  incredible views , must-see art, or hidden gem stores.

Time Out editors comb through our exhaustive things to do lists, restaurant reviews and theater reporting to highlight and select the best of the best for this ultimate guide each month.

So, c onsider below your NYC Bible. 

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Time Out Market New York

• Restaurants
• price 1 of 4

Time Out Market New York brings together amazing chefs, restaurants and dishes in one place for the perfect culinary sample of NYC—ideal for tourists and locals. Plus,  the fifth-floor rooftop hosts regular live performances on its stage and ongoing art installations can be found throughout the Market. You can find out what's happening every week here .

The 100 best things to do in NYC

1.  Treat your eyes to the cherry blossoms

• Things to do

What is it? Cherry blossoms pop up around New York City each spring, from formal gardens like Brooklyn Botanic Garden to New York Botanical Garden as well as all around the city.

Why go? The pink blooms offer New Yorkers a brief but gorgeous pop of beauty, which is why we flock in droves to see them when they bloom each spring. 

Don't miss: Brooklyn Botanic Garden's Hanami Nights, running from Tuesday, April 23–Thursday, April 25, 2024 on the Cherry Esplanade.

2.  Get artsy at the Whitney Biennial

What is it? The Whitney Museum of American Art’s landmark exhibition series, which pops up every two years. Expect a  gigantic showcase of some of the coolest, newest, and most provocative art at a big New York City museum.

Why go? It’s  the longest-running survey of American Art and this year, it's packed with fascinating pieces.  This year, the Biennial is themed “ Even Better Than The Real Thing” and features the  work of 71 artists and collectives.

Don't miss:  T he survey examines rapidly advancing technologies and machine learning tools; t he body and subjectivity as it pertains to queer identity, body sovereignty, motherhood, the aging body, and the trans body; m aterial agency and the use of unstable media;  and lots more.

3.  Admire the Orchid Show

What is it? New York Botanical Garden's annual show. This year's theme is "The Orchid Show: Florals in Fashion."

Why go? Three up-and-coming designers created massive installations inspired orchids. In one, you'll see orchids turned into avant-garde clothing. Another features a regal orchid queen. The final section draws upon AI to create anthropomorphic creatures who don floral outfits.

Don't miss: 21+ nights! To take the floral fun up a notch, NYBG is hosting several Orchid Nights, adult-only events with music, performances, cocktails, and light bites. Orchid Nights will be held on March 30 and April 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, and 20.

4.  Explore the history of Black New Yorkers in the 1800s

• Events & Festivals

What is it? A new exhibit at The Tenement Museum called "A Union of Hope: 1869." The exhibition tells the story of the Moore family who lived in Soho during and after the Civil War.

Why go? It's the renowned museum's first exhibit highlighting a Black family's story.

Don't miss: The chance to walk through re-creations of the family's two-room tenement, see a neighborhood map from that time, explore Census records, and hear readings of newspaper excerpts. 

5.  Catch "Water for Elephants" on Broadway

• Midtown West Open run

What is it? The Broadway adaptation of Sara Gruen’s 2006 romance novel of the same name, which operates on the level of a fairy tale.

Why go?  Although Water for Elephants is set at a circus, and includes several moments of thrilling spectacle, what makes it so appealing is its modesty, not glitz.

Don't miss:   Where Water for Elephants  soars is in the real-life physical talents on display. Members of the ensemble perform impressive aerial routines on ropes, silks, hoops and straps, and show off a dazzling variety of skills: acrobatics, tumbling, balancing, juggling, Cyr Wheel.

6.  Eat at a hidden pizzeria in a train station

What is it?  A  subterranean pizzeria called   See No Evil Pizza  located  on the concourse level of the downtown-bound 1 train station at 50th Street and Broadway. 

Why go?  Ten, 12-inch varieties are crafted from three-day fermented dough made with artisanal flour from Italy and ladled with raw sauce (tomato pulp, salt, oil, mix), topped with ingredients like mozzarella, mushrooms, hot soppressata and broccoli rabe and baked for about three-and-a-half to four minutes. 

Don't miss:  A rotating lasagna is also on the menu, presently a Sunday gravy-style.

7.  See The Met's history-making Harlem Renaissance exhibition

What is it?   "The Harlem Renaissance and Transatlantic Modernism," a  groundbreaking exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum celebrating Black artists and intellectuals. 

Why go?  The Harlem Renaissance had an indisputable impact on American culture, but chances are that you probably didn’t spend much time learning about it in school. That’s because, even though it shaped global literature, music, and art, Black Americans’ historical contributions have been systematically erased or gone unacknowledged for centuries.

Don't miss:  The exhibit presents 160 works by Black artists from the Harlem Renaissance and delves into many different aspects of the movement, mostly through the lens of paintings and sculpture.  

8.  Dig into life of Langston Hughes

What is it? T he Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture is honoring poet Langston Hughes and his friendship with photographer, filmmaker, and U.S. Foreign Service Officer Griffith J. Davis in its exhibit " The Ways of Langston Hughes ." 

Why go?   The free exhibit at the Schomburg Center's Latimer Gallery in Harlem will include photographs of Hughes and Davis, who met in Atlanta, as well as more of Hughes' friendships through letters, artwork and other memorabilia.

Don't miss: Not only will the exhibit bring to life an important era in New York City’s history, but it is also an intimate look into the friendships that thrived during the Harlem Renaissance. Among other items on display will be a watercolor painting by Joseph Barker of Langston Hughes' home and a letter from Hughes to his playwright friend, Lorraine Hansberry.

9.  Dine at Untable

• Carroll Gardens

What is it?  Untable, a new restaurant in Carroll Gardens, calls itself an "unconventional" Thai restaurant. 

Why go?   It serves some of the best cocktails in the city,  the most vibrant tom yum purée you'll likely taste, knockout tiger shrimp and a fried rice that's out of this world.

10.  Explore 100 years of NYC 'warts and all'

What is it?  A major exhibit by the Museum of the City of New York titled " This Is New York: 100 Years of the City in Art and Pop Culture " explores the contradictions of life in NYC through the lenses of visual art, television, film, music, theater, literature and fashion.

Why go? In this landmark exhibition, the museum showcases more than 400 iconic NYC items, from Carrie Bradshaw’s tutu to poetry by the Young Lords. 

Don't miss: A collection of hundreds of film clips paying homage to the city.

11.  Be awed by 16 miles of colorful ribbons

What is it?  Titled "Divine Pathways," this monumental art installation is made up of more than 1,100 lengths of blue, red and gold fabric. Each ribbon measures 75 feet in length (approximately seven stories high). Find it inside the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in Morningside Heights.

Why go? Not only is the work of art beautiful, it's located inside the world's largest Gothic cathedral. 

Don't miss:  Public programming offering a chance to write yourself into the work by scrawling hopes, dreams and prayers onto the ribbons. Register here . 

12.  Get a bullseye at this cool archery range

• Sports and fitness
• Sports & Fitness

What is it?  Wild Captives, the nation’s first female- and LGBTQ-owned archery studio, which is now open in Brooklyn. It's a place where everyone can "be their own superhero." The studio in Brooklyn’s Industry City offers empowering and fun hour-long introduction to archery classes every weekend for $45/person.

Why go? Each intro class includes a chance to learn about different parts of the bow and safety requirements. After the lesson, you'll get a chance to shoot the bow trying to pop a balloon pinned onto the bullseye. 

13.  Do a day trip to Governors Island

• Parks and gardens
• Governors Island

What is it? Thanks to its strategic position in the middle of New York Harbor, Governors Island was a military outpost and off-limits to the public for 200 years, but it's finally open to the public. The verdant, 172-acre isle still retains a significant chunk of its military-era architecture, including Fort Jay, started in 1776, and Castle Williams, which was completed in 1812 and used as a prison. The 22-acre area containing the forts and historical officers’ residences is now a national landmark.

Why go?  It's open year-round with fun activities for every season. The island provides a peaceful setting for cycling (bring a bike on the ferry, or rent from Blazing Saddles once there). The island hosts a program of events, such as concert series and art exhibitions (see the park's website  for schedule), and where else can you have a picnic directly across from the Statue of Liberty? 

14.  Discover AMNH's new scientific wing

What is it? The architecturally stunning new wing at the American Museum of Natural History officially called the Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education and Innovation. 

Why go? Scientific wonders—including a butterfly vivarium, an insectarium and a 360-degree immersive experience—fill every inch of the space.

Don't miss:  With an insectarium and a butterfly vivarium, bugs get center stage at the Gilder Center. Why? Insects are the most diverse group of animals on the planet—and they play a critically important role in our world. 

15.  Eat at one of the best pizza places in the world

What is it?  The Lower East Side’s Una Pizza Napoletana , which was recently named the best pizza place in America, per the site 50 Top Pizza, billed as a "guide to the best pizzerias in the world."

Why go? The pizzeria's c hef, Anthony Mangieri, first started wood-firing pizzas in New Jersey in 1996, so he's definitely a pro.

16.  Get naked at this comedy show

What is it? True to its name, comedians perform in the buff at Naked Comedy — and the audience is welcome to get naked, too. The show runs monthly in Brooklyn.

Why go?  The comics who perform at The Naked Comedy Show say it's a way to push themselves, and they promise it's a lot of fun. Plus, they insist, you'll never meet a more attentive audience.

Don't miss: The show! Sign up here for updates on upcoming events.

17.  Visit the Museum of Broadway

What is it? The long-awaited Museum of Broadway highlights over 500 productions from the 1700s all the way to the present. 

Why go? You get to see props, ornate costumes, production notes and so much more that you wouldn’t get to see otherwise.

18.  Score a deal at a sample sale

• Sample sales

What is it?  Every week, the city’s fashionistas flock to top-notch sample sales to grab beautiful frocks at a fraction of their original price, plus accessories, outerwear, shoes, home finds and more—why not take a page out of their book to stock up on some awesome holiday gifts instead? 

Why go? To score some designer goods for less whether you're updating your wardrobe, shopping for gifts or refreshing your apartment.

19.  Play with bubbles at NYSCI

What is it? The Big Bubble Experiment, an exhibit at New York Hall of Science (NYSCI) in Queens, celebrating beautiful, buoyant, beguiling bubbles.

Why go? The exhibit encourages kids of all ages to experiment and discover through the joy of playing with bubbles. That includes blowing, stretching, popping and looking closely to see what happens at each move. 

Don't miss: A chance to stretch large sheets of bubble film showcasing the medium's rainbow iridescence—and offering an excellent selfie opportunity.

20.  Stretch out at Little Island

• West Village

What is it?  Since it opened, Little Island has brought in plenty of visitors who flocked to see Manhattan’s newest “floating” greenspace.

Why go? It's filled with open lawns, colorful shrubs and trees and a secret garden. It's free to visit.

Don't miss: The park’s amphitheaters, The Glade and The Amph, offer a spectacular view of the Hudson River.

21.  Head out to Masalawala & Sons

What is it? A  buzzy but warm Indian restaurant from Unapologetic Foods.  

Why go? It’s a “celebration of India’s yesteryears” with wonderful macher dim, keema kaleji and unforgettably comforting rice.

22.  Trip out at the House of Cannabis, NYC’s weed museum

• Weird & Wonderful

What is it? The House of Cannabis (a.k.a. THC NYC) is a weed museum in Soho.

Why go? While the museum boasts plenty of mind-bending multi-sensory bells and whistles, it also showcases art, highlights science and confronts the social justice issues baked into cannabis prosecution.

Don't miss: The Euphorium, a massive spinning record you can sit or lay on while listening to music, from The Doors to Santana. With the room's impressive light show and hazy vibes, it's like a merry-go-round for adults.  

23.  Walk beneath a floral gateway honoring an LGBTQ+ trailblazer

What is it? A colorful floral archway at Marsha P. Johnson Park in Brooklyn in honor of the park's namesake, the late transgender activist.  

Why go?  Beautiful large floral sculptures in pink, blue, red and yellow decorate the top of the archway, with gem-like petal designs along the sides.

Don't miss: Johnson adopted the full name Marsha P. Johnson with the "P" standing for "Pay It No Mind." "To her, this was a life motto and a response to questions about her gender," according to   the New-York Historical Society .

24.  Sip local at Great Jones Distillery

What is it? Great Jones Distilling Co. is Manhattan’s first and only legal whiskey distillery in over 100 years.

Why go?  The 28,000-square-foot venue features a fully functioning distillery, a tasting room and several drinking and dining venues, including an underground speakeasy and full restaurant called The Grid.

Don’t miss: A tour detailing the whiskey-making process ($35), a culinary cocktail pairing experience ($145) and a hands-on mixology class ($110).

25.  Find this secret artwork in Times Square

What is it? Auditory art by the late artist Max Neuhaus. The installation called " Times Square " sounds like the echo of a bell ringing. It's hard to place this droning tone among all the other noises there, especially because the sound emanates from a typical grate right beneath your feet.

Why go? It's a revolutionary art project that's been a part of the city for decades but most people step right over it. It's easy to miss, but once you hear it, you notice it every time you walk past.

Don't miss:  This art! Head to the Broadway Pedestrian Plaza between 45th and 46th Streets (between Broadway and Seventh Avenue) and listen. We recommend visiting in the early morning when the area's a little quieter. 

26.  Stay awhile at Milady’s

What is it?  A  new classic restaurant inspired by the iconic dive bar.

Why go?   Divided into “dive” and “high dive” categories, selections like the former’s jalapeño corn dog poppers and burgers are a treat. The latter’s shrimp cocktail and crab mac and cheese are quite nice, too.

27.  Check out a ‘psychedelic’ sushi conveyor belt restaurant

What is it?   Sushidelic , a psychedelic Kawaii-themed sushi restaurant complete with a sushi counter conveyor belt and plenty of kitschy, neon decor. It's now open at 177 Lafayette Street.

Why go?  It's the first project in the U.S. by Japanese artist  Sebastian Masuda, who is known as  the leading figure behind the Japanese concept of " kawaii ," as well as for his particular unique aesthetic and style.

Don't miss: The six-course "Pure Imagination" sushi tasting. The playful menu starts with an appetizer that looks like a dessert, the main course that is served in a sundae glass and the dessert looks like sushi.

28.  Take the kids to the Bronx Children’s Museum

What is it: The 13,650-square-foot permanent space at 725 Exterior Street near Yankee Stadium is geared for infants through kids in fourth grade, with site-specific installations and exhibits focused on patrons’ relationships with the neighborhood. 

Why go: The destination currently boasts a 35-foot-long water table kids love, plus an exhibit where guests will get to look at animals and plants through a microscope.

29.  Don’t bring anything to this Potluck Club

• Lower East Side

What is it? A  Cantonese-American spot with a  “newish take on old classics.”

Why go?  It’s c asual, fun and easy (probably easiest when you make a reservation since it’s pretty popular) with the room and the mood for groups. 

30.  Chill out at this giant urban bathhouse

What is it? World Spa, a 50,000-square-foot space offering a slew of authentic spa experiences from all around the world smack-dab in the middle of Brooklyn.

Why go? Visitors get to indulge in Eastern European banyas (Russian steam baths with wood stoves), Finnish saunas, cleansing Himalayan salt therapy sessions, Turkish and Morrocan hammams (types of steam baths), Japanese onsens (hot springs) and much more. 

31.  Take a class at the Starbucks Reserve

What is it?  The Starbucks Reserve store at the Empire State Building.

Why go? You can take classes like the Starbucks Reserve Brewtender for a Day, Whiskey Barrel-Aged 101 and Espresso Martini Flight Fundamentals.

32.  Play at nation’s first pétanque bar

What is it?  The  Carreau Club , the nation’s indoor pétanque bar, with indoor and outdoor courts.

Why go? Pétanque (pronounced puh-TONK) is a bocce-ball style French boules sport. Carreau Club makes it a great night out with a full bar, craft beer, wine and cocktails, and a small deli counter.

33.  Immerse yourself in Harry Potter's world

What is it?  The touring show, "Harry Potter: The Exhibition," is now open in Herald Square, and it’s going transport you. 

Why go?  This experience presents more than a display of props and costumes. Through the use of dramatic lighting, set design, interactive technology and even scent, the exhibit will make you feel like you are actually there—in Hagrid’s hut, in potions class, dining in the Great Hall, learning how to fight the dark arts, fighting the Battle of Hogwarts and more.

Don't miss: Countless photos opps. There are numerous scenes set up for you to enjoy being photographed in, from Hagrid’s Hut and his giant chair to Professor Umbridge’s all-pink, cat-encrusted office.

34.  Visit the Jackie Robinson Museum

What is it? A 19,380-square-foot space with 40,000 historical images and over 4,000 artifacts that celebrate the late Jackie Robinson, who was the first African American to play in Major League Baseball in the modern era.

Why go?  Visitors will also get to explore an immersive experience “to better understand the racism and prejudice Robinson encountered beyond the baseball field, as well as stories of his lasting influence on sports, politics and entertainment today.”

35.  Laugh out loud at "The Book of Mormon" on Broadway

What is it? A viciously hilarious treat crafted by Trey Parker and Matt Stone, of South Park fame, and composer-lyricist Robert Lopez, who cowrote Avenue Q . The show brims with cheerful obscenity, sharp satire and catchy tunes, making it the most exuberantly entertaining Broadway musical in years.

Why go?  The high quality of the writing, design and direction. It's more than a collection of offensive jokes about female genital mutilation, bestiality and Mormon kitsch. You'll be left laughing your head off and saying, "wait, did they just say THAT?" 

36.  Get a hole-in-one at Swingers NoMad

What is it? A "crazy mini-golf course" and entertainment complex straight from London with three nine-hole golf courses across 23,000 square feet under 20-foot-high ceilings.

Why go? "Crazy golf" is a British spin on mini-golf, but it's for a 21-and-over audience since craft cocktails are served by caddies on the course. At Swingers NoMad, expect six cocktail bars with signature classic cocktails from London and D.C., as well as 12 cocktails created specifically for NYC, private rooms you can rent, an opulent clubhouse and four gourmet street food vendors—Sauce Pizzeria, Miznon, Fonda and Mah Ze Dahr Bakery.

Don't miss: Taking your photo on the winner's podium.

37.  Swap books at the Free Black Women's Library

What is it?   The Free Black Women’s Library , a new free library in Brooklyn's Bed-Stuy neighborhood, which also serves as a social art project, a reading room, a co-working space and a community gathering center.

Why go? All 5,000 books in the library's collection are written by Black women and non-binary authors. Anybody can visit the space to read, work or hang out. If you want to take a book home, simply bring a book written by a Black woman or Black non-binary author, and you can trade. Whether you decide to bring the book back after you're done reading or keep it for your collection is up to you.

38.  Dine fancy at Le Rock

• Midtown West

What is it? A l ovely, lofty and spacious restaurant with  French-adjacent dishes, including escargots and chicken liver mousse and excellent pasta, bison and duck. 

Why go?  Le Rock’s best plates are high enough above what most of its contemporaries are cooking to catapult it to the realm of very good. 

39.  Get into MoMA for free

What is it?   UNIQLO NYC Nights  offers free admission to NYC residents on the first Friday of every month from 4 to 8pm.

Why go? On these days, you'll get to explore the museum during extended hours and enjoy its second-floor café and Museum store.

40.  Do LES Gallery Nights

What is it? A free, monthly self-guided tour of local art galleries on the Lower East Side. 

Why go? Participating galleries and studios stay open after hours to allow visitors to interact with the work and the neighborhood in a new way. And yes, it’s all free!

Don't miss: It takes place the third Thursday of every month, from 4pm–8pm, with dozens of spaces to stop into, all organized via Google Map . 

41.  Snap a photo with New York's "The Bean" sculpture

What is it?  The New York version of "The Bean," the iconic public artwork by Anish Kapoor that all but defines the city of Chicago. After five years of work, the sculpture officially called "Cloud Gate" is now on view in Tribeca. 

Why go? The mirrored piece weighs 40 tons and is 48 feet long by 19 feet high and sits right at the base of the 60-story tower found at 56 Leonard Street, by many referred to as the "Jenga building" given the particular design reminiscent of the classic game.

42.  Get romantic at The Met's Date Nights

• Sex and dating
• Sex & Dating

What is it?   The Metropolitan Museum of Art 's "Date Nights" gives visitors an opportunity to become acquainted with artwork with informal drop-in gallery chats, the chance to listen in on gorgeous live music and sip on yummy cocktails.

Why go? It's pay-what-you-wish!

Don't miss: Performances like include the celebrated contemporary string quartet ETHEL in the American Wing Café as well as a special edition of Juilliard’s ChamberFest featuring performances in the European Paintings galleries.

43.  Relax at Governors Island's luxury spa

What is it? The luxurious Italian wellness spa QC NY (by QC Terme Spas and Resorts) on Governors Island.

Why go?  The spa has relaxation rooms (each with its own meticulously curated personality, scent, and music), themed saunas, Vichy showers, infrared beds, foot baths, hydro jets, steam baths and other amazingly lush experiences.

Don't miss: The upside-down relaxation room. When you walk in, it's like you're walking on the ceiling—furniture and even a chess board have been painted and affixed to the actual ceiling to create this illusion.

44.  Sit in for a tea ceremony at The Loft

What is it?  Japan Village  at Industry City, which is both a food hall and supermarket full of Japanese groceries, has expanded upward with a 20,000-square-foot second floor it's calling The Loft.

Why go? You'll step into a representation of Japan with cool shops with items straight from the country as well as fun experiences like tea ceremonies and cultural classes.

Don't miss: Daiso, Book Off and tea ceremonies, which are announced on The Loft's website.

45.  Have a night at the intimate piano bar at Fraunces Tavern

What is it?   Fraunces Tavern's intimate Piano Bar Upstairs.

Why go?   The room above The Independence Bar is soaked in a shade of cerulean across its paneled walls, with pops of color on tufted red banquettes and gilded picture frames. Beer, wine, all manner of cocktails and a dedicated list of gin and tonics are all available, in addition to broad-appeal snacks, apps and entrées. Live piano music, of course, is also on the menu. 

46.  Have your coffee brewed in a pan of hot sand

What is it? Sands of Persia, a dessert bar and hookah lounge, serving up Turkish sand coffee brewed in a pan filled with sand and heated over an open flame.

Why go?  Given New Yorkers' dedication to all things coffee, this not-generally-known method of brewing is sure to delight many palates.

Don't miss: The sweets menu (Fingerlime Chiffon Meringue, the Persimmon Wide, the Desert Sunset and the All is Well brownie with soft serve), a mocktail and zero-proof drink list, as well as hookah.

47.  Experience Summit One Vanderbilt

• Sightseeing
• Midtown East

What is it? A heart-pounding immersive experience at  Summit One Vanderbilt  that sits atop the new 67-floor One Vanderbilt super-tall—a 1,401-foot-high—skyscraper.

Why go? It has a totally mirrored infinity room called "Air" that reflects the sky and city views over and over, making you feel like you're walking in the sky or on another plane of existence. Besides the absolutely breathtaking view of the city (where you can see all the major landmarks and bridges), is that it changes with the weather and time of day.

48.  Laugh at this secret comedy show pop-up

What is it? "Underground Overground Comedy," a comedy show that takes place in unexpected NYC shops and venues like a gym, a rooftop, a candy shop, a music studio and a barbershop in a train station.

Why go? Since it only lists shows on its Instagram and each show is pretty small, it feels exclusive when you're one of only a couple dozen being performed to. 

49.  Play ping pong 24/7

What is it? Ping pod pods—appropriately called PingPod—that have popped up around NYC recently. 

Why go? You can play at any time of day. The whole booking process is totally autonomous for some futuristic fun. Balls and paddles are provided, and you can even buy some drinks and snacks while you're there.  

50.  Get sultry at Coby Club

What is it?   Coby Club is a new, subterranean lounge on Seventh Ave that’s inspired by 1960s San Francisco nightlife.

Why go? The lush space pays homage to San Francisco Chinatown nightlife in the 1960s and one woman in particular who was at the heart of it: Miss Coby Yee, the glamorous dancer and owner of the iconic club Forbidden City. Yo u can swing by for craft cocktails and small plates as well as live musical performances and other forms of live entertainment.

51.  Catch "Hamilton" on Broadway

What is it?  Lin-Manuel Miranda's retelling of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton's biography—the greatest American musical in decades. 

Why go?  The show offers a sublime conjunction of radio-ready hip-hop (as well as R&B, Britpop and trad showstoppers), under-dramatized American history and Miranda’s uniquely personal focus as a first-generation Puerto Rican and inexhaustible wordsmith.

52.  Shop at the world's largest Harry Potter Store

What is it? The world's largest collection of Harry Potter merch is now at Harry potter Store New York  (935 Broadway in the Flatiron District).

Why go?  Every detail of Harry Potter Store New York  has been intricately designed, from the decor sitting on the shelves above all the incredible merch (yes, there are full house robes) to the design of the store itself, including  a room full of gorgeous HP stationary by MinaLima, massive models of Fawkes the Phoenix and a spiral staircase that descends into a space made to look like the Ministry of Magic.

Don't miss: Throughout the whole store, props from the films are displayed among the merchandise, from the major characters' actual wands to some of Voldemort's horcruxes like Tom Riddle's journal and the Ravenclaw's diadem. You can see these all up close but also scan a code next to them with the Harry Potter Fan Club app   that'll give you information about the items and a single letter that you will need to solve a puzzle. If you do, you'll get a reward at checkout.

53.  Play games at Cellar Dog (FKA: Fat Cat)

What is it? The venue formerly known as Fat Cat has reemerged with a new name, new games, and custom ice cream. Cellar Dog (75 Christopher St.) is reviving the Fat Cat tradition of late-night basement gaming.

Why go?  Games include pool tables, ping pong, shuffleboard, foosball, checkers and chess, as well as antique and novelty arcade games like Pac Man and many more. Live jazz and additional entertainment will also be booked throughout the week.

Don't miss:  Restored historic furniture familiar to the space, contactless ordering, updated restrooms and a a menu with small bites like movie theater-style nachos, grandma-style pizza, pretzels and custom ice cream. Wine, seltzers, and a variety of beers on tap will be served to drink. 

54.  Belt it out at Ms. Kim’s karaoke lounge

What is it?  Ms. Kim's is a K-town karaoke lounge from Korean beauty entrepreneur Anna Kim that combines sophisticated style with sing-alongs.

Why go? Ms. Kim's offers both communal space and soundproof private karaoke rooms, so guests can customize their experience as it suits their needs.

Don't miss:  Signature drinks from the main bar, which start at $16, that include ingredients like butterfly pea flower, herbal infused syrups and top shelf spirits. Also check out the menu of Japanese and Korean finger foods.

55.  Get sweeping views from the Panorama Room

• Roosevelt Island

What is it? Roosevelt Island's first rooftop bar and lounge.

Why go? Located on the 18th floor of the hotel, the "jewel box" space opens up to incredible views of the boroughs, the bridges and the East River, which shine like stars at night.

Don't miss: Art from artists like Julia Chiang, Spencer Lewis, Alake Shilling, JPW3, Chris Martin, Brian Belott and Ida Eklbad, selected by Venus Over Manhattan partner Anna Furney and designer/creative director Darren Romanelli (aka Dr. Romanelli or DRx). Artist Sophie Parker and her botanical studio, Wife NYC, will also make custom arrangements and sculptural artwork for the lounge.

56.  Check out 4,000 years of history at the NYPL

• Midtown West Until Dec 31, 2025

What is it?  " The Polonsky Exhibition of New York Public Library’s Treasures"  spans 4,000 years of history and includes a wide range of history-making pieces, including the only surviving letter from Christoper Columbus announcing his “discovery” of the Americas to King Ferdinand’s court and the first Gutenberg Bible brought over to the Americas.

Why go?   It's free and fascinating.

Don't miss:   T homas Jefferson’s handwritten copy of the Declaration of   Independence;  stuffed animals that belonged to the real-life Christopher Robin and   inspired the Winnie-the-Pooh stories;  Virginia Woolf’s walking stick ; t he set model for the Off-Broadway production of In The Heights  and more.

57.  Meet friends at the Talea Beer Co. taproom

• Williamsburg

What is it?  This woman-owned brewery with locations in Williamsburg, Cobble Hill, Bryant Park and the West Village serving up perfect pints.

Why go?  It's NYC's first-ever woman-owned and run brewery and taproom and it does beer differently than any other brewery — it's good for beer beginners and aficionados alike.

Don't miss: The Beer cocktails that use brews rather than seltzer or liquor, including The Talea Punch.

58.  Visit the Frick Madison

What is it? The Frick Madison  is now open 945 Madison Avenue—the former home of the Whitney Museum of American Art and the Met Breuer—while Henry Clay Frick's mansion undergoes a massive renovation. This new stint will last two years, and while the Brutalist building by Marcel Breuer is a huge departure from the Gilded Age mansion, the space offers a much different and rare look at the collection.

Why go? Unlike at the Frick Mansion, the Breuer building is a clean slate—stark in contrast, which actually helps to attract the viewer's attention to individual works. Eyes aren't busy looking at ornate furniture here. It's all about seeing the smaller details in the artwork that you might have overlooked at the mansion. 

Don't miss: The room reserved for three Vermeer paintings and Bellini’s St. Francis in   Room 13.

59.  Pay your respects at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum

• Monuments and memorials
• Financial District

What is it?  A moving tributes to the victims of the terrorist attacks on 9/11 and  February 26, 1993 .  

Why go?  Designed by Israeli architect Michael Arad, two of North America’s largest man-made waterfalls mark the footprint of each tower, framing the perimeter and cascading into reflecting pools almost an acre wide. The trees surrounding the area add to the mood of somber, tranquil reflection: Each one was selected from a 500-mile radius of the World Trade Center site, with others brought in from Pennsylvania, Maryland and Washington, D.C., the other places directly affected on 9/11. 

Don't miss:  The museum provides a complete picture of the courage and compassion demonstrated locally, nationally and internationally after the attacks, and it’s interspersed with pieces of the towers and other debris recovered by those who risked their own lives to save others . 

60.  Take in a show at City Winery

What is it? City Winery's flagship location at Pier 57 in Hudson River Park always has a stacked lineup. 

Why go?  In addition to powerhouse entertainement from comedy to live music, you're assured a memorable meal and plenty of wine options.

61.  Get creative at an '80s-style risograph workshop

What is it? A class on  the speedy way to screen print layers of paint-like ink in order to create vibrant designs for posters, comics and illustrations.

Why go? It's a bit more complex but produces a really cool result you can call your own.

Don't miss:  NYC has several incredible riso studios to visit offering private sessions including  Lucky Risograph  and  Secret Riso Club .

62.  Make something at Brooklyn Craft Company

• Arts, crafts & hobbies

What is it? A DIY mecca with workshops on all kinds of crafting skills, from knitting to macrame.

Why go?  They'll put your hands to work and your mind at ease. 

Don't miss:  There's an online store where you can purchase the necessary supplies you'll need.

63.  Order some bagels and lox at Russ & Daughters

• Specialist food and drink

What is it?  Russ & Daughters has been serving lox, herring and other specialty foods on the Lower East Side since 1914.

Why go? Russ & Daughters is already is our go-to spot for Jewish apps shelling out the best lox in town, so stock up on sweets while you're there. The classic black & whites, a stunning iteration of the classic cookies, are a must.

Don’t miss: The   Super Heebster, a mix of horseradish dill cream cheese, wasabi-flavored roe and sublime whitefish salad that forms a holy trinity with an unholy name.

64.  Have a cuppa at Brooklyn High Low

• Prospect Heights

What is it? A hidden tea salon by vintage shop 1 of a Find.

Why go? The locale is meant to be a respite, where you can catch a break from the energetic buzz of New York’s metropolis.  Diners can choose from over 20 teas, from lavender earl grey blends to green tea jasmine.  In the kitchen, head chef Carlos Jimenez gets creative with his ever-changing menu, but guests can always find traditional scones and an assortment of finger sandwiches.

Don't miss:  Antiques and artifacts from Brooklyn's long history strewn about the salon.

65.  Visit the American Museum of Natural History

• Science and technology
• Upper West Side
• price 2 of 4

What is it?  Whether you’re interested in the world below our feet or the cultures of faraway lands or the stars light-years beyond our reach, the American Museum of Natural History is bound to teach you a few things you never knew.

Why go? You can spend a whole day just looking at the taxidermied animals that hail from across the world and the ocean, study the human species and the evolutionary origins of humans and our near (now extinct) cousins, spend the day like a geologist, and be filled with child-like awe in the presence of the Tyrannosaurus Rex, Wooly Mammoth and the Apatosaurus in the fourth floor’s world-renowned fossil collection.

Don't miss: The planetarium show "Worlds Beyond Earth."

66.  Pick up produce at Union Square Greenmarket

• Union Square

What is it?  An outdoor, year-round market featuring seasonal fruits and vegetables, farmstead cheeses, artisanal breads, fresh-cut flowers, wine and more.

Why go?  You’ll find yourself shopping elbow-to-elbow with top chefs for all manner of regionally grown culinary pleasures.

Don't miss: Cooking demonstrations, beer and spirits pop-ups and book signings. 

67.  Snack on some sweet treats at Fan-Fan Doughnuts

• Bedford-Stuyvesant

What is it?  Doughnut fans surely know about Fany Gerson’s cult-favorite treats at Dough Doughnuts. Now she’s gone out on her own with Fan-Fan Doughnuts and the menu looks as good as ever. Be prepared for long lines outside— it’s worth the wait.

Why go?  From Mexican cinnamon to the glazed braided doughnuts, the menu is consistently changing with new sugary surprises.

Don't miss:  Get your hands on a Mensch fan-fan, filled with praline cream and topped with choc-choc glaze and toasted hazelnuts, before they sell out.

68.  Stroll into Eddie's Sweet Shop

• Ice cream parlors
• Forest Hills

What is it? If you want a real trip down memory lane, this old-school soda fountain and diner will tap right into the New York nostalgia you're craving.

Why go? This Forest Hills gem has been in business for more than 100 years and still that attracts all generations to come in for a homemade scoop. Aside from the famous sundaes, the chocolate egg cream is one of the most famous in the city.

Don’t miss:  The sundaes are still served in the same metal tins for the perfect retro touch. 

69.  Explore Central Park like a pro

• Central Park

What is it?   The world's most famous green space.  Why go?   Explore Strawberry Fields, the Sheep Meadow, Cherry Hill, Bow Bridge, the Bethesda Fountain, the Naumburg Bandshell, the Loeb Boathouse, the Hans Christian Andersen Monument, the Alice in Wonderland statue, all in a "New York hour." To get the closest access, take   the subway to 72nd Street and Central Park West, then head east.

Don’t miss:  Head to the shore of the Lake at 72nd Street and rent a rowboat or take a gondola tour. 

70.  Conquer the Empire State Building

What is it? A world-famous landmark that towers above Manhattan.  

Why go? The main deck on the 86th floor offers stunning 360-degree views of the Hudson and East Rivers, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty and more. For some fascinating historical background, duck down to the "Dare to Dream" exhibit on the 80th floor, which honors the 3,400 people who built the 1,454-foot skyscraper and features original photographs, architectural sketches and construction notes. 

Don’t miss:  You can now watch sunrise  from the open-air observatory, with Starbucks coffee and pastries in hand. 

71.  Throw back a pint at McSorley’s Old Ale House

• East Village

What is it? NYC’s oldest continuously operated saloon. Why go?  We love a bar with character, plus you’ll be able to join the ranks of past patrons like Abe Lincoln and John Lennon.  In traditional Irish-pub fashion,  McSorley’s floor has been thoroughly scattered with sawdust to take care of the spills and other messes that often accompany large quantities of cheap beer. Established in 1854, it has became an institution by remaining steadfastly authentic. 

Don't miss: McSorley’s Dark Ale and McSorley’s Light Ale. Both beverages have a lot more character than PBR, though at these prices, it won’t be long before you stop noticing. 

72.  Pick up a tome at Strand Book Store

What is it?  Founded in 1927, Strand is perhaps the most beloved indie bookseller in NYC.  

Why go?  With more than 2.5 million new, used and rare tomes—or as the sign outside says, 18 MILES OF BOOKS—Strand absolutely crams its shelves, with many new titles sold well below list price. Bibliophiles can spend hours checking the staff picks, classic novels, poetry, novels and nonfiction. We suggest walking up to the third floor, where early editions and rare signed copies are available for purchase.

Don’t miss: Perusing the $1 shelves.

73.  Have a classic NYC bagel at Tal Bagels

What is it? An iconic Upper West Side bagel counter. 

Why go? Is there a more distinctly New York (or at least NYC- beloved) dish than the bagel? Maybe. During morning hours? Absolutely not. The fact is that we do this weekend wakeup must—or afternoon stomach-padder, depending on how last night went—better than anyone. And although Tal Bagels provides by no means the most calming bagel experience in New York—for that, head to High Street on Hudson or Sadelle's—OG New Yorkers know that they're best eaten hunched over on park bench or at a bagelry counter top anyway. And we can't think of a better spot than this.   Don't miss:  The everything bagel toasted with scallion cream cheese. Still hungry? Discover all of the best bagels in NYC . 

74.  Walk around and take in impressive street art

• Coney Island

What is it? New York is the city where street art was born, and it’s still the best place to see it in the world. 

Why go? Catching art on the street is a far more visceral experience that seeing it on a museum wall. For proof, check out the Bowery Graffiti Wall on the corner of Houston and Bowery to see what world-class street artist is currently on display (past artists have included Banksy, JR and Shepard Fairey) or peep the rotating lineup of artists at Coney Island Art Walls.

Don’t miss: If you’re looking for an arty outing after dark, head down to the Lower East Side for the 100 Gates Project , which displays impressive works on the grates that cover businesses at night. 

75.  Snag some doughnuts from Peter Pan Bakery

What is it? An old-school bakery famous for their doughnuts. Why go?  Start Sunday with a Bavarian cream from Peter Pan. Peter Pan isn’t a gourmet doughnut shop by any stretch, and in this neck of the woods, thank God for that. Its freshly made fried sweets and legit 1950s environs, complete with an S-shaped counter, means it’s busy daily with regulars. But trust us: The lines are worth it. Don’t miss: Pair your doughnut with one of the bakery’s tasty egg creams.

76.  Take in Brooklyn Heights and the Promenade

• Brooklyn Heights

What is it?  A ridiculously photogentic neighborhood teeming with tree-lined streets and Brooklyn brownstones. 

Why go? Be sure to walk the fruit streets of Brooklyn Heights (Cranberry, Orange and Pineapple) for that "Brooklyn-from-the-movies feel." And there's a nifty backstory: In the mid-1800s, prominent Brooklyn Heights resident Lady Middagh saw the "pretentious" street names in her ’hood—those named after Brooklyn’s wealthy families—and decided to take matters into her own hands by changing the street signs under cover of darkness to Cranberry, Orange and Pineapple. 

Don’t miss: Head to the water and hit the Brooklyn Promenade, a one-third-mile stretch of pavement along the East River overlooking an unforgettable span of NYC’s skyline. 

77.  Adventure to the Queens County Farm Museum

• Special interest

What is it? Though not as easily accessible by public transit as most NYC museums, this Queens County treasure is well worth the bus trek or car ride.

Why go? As the city’s longest continually farmed site in the city (it’s been in operation since 1697), the 47 acres feels like an entirely different world compared to Manhattan. Feed and pet the barnyard animals, including sheep, ponies and goats, hop aboard a hayride and come back during the fall harvest season when you can go pumpkin picking and attempt to find your way through the Amazing Maize Maze.

78.  Pay tribute to those at Green-Wood Cemetery

• Walks and tours

What is it? A beautiful final resting place in Brooklyn filled with Victorian mausoleums, cherubs and gargoyles.  

Why go? If you were alive in the 19th century, one of your goals in life was to reserve a place to rest here. Today, this cemetery boasts over 560,000 residents—including Civil War generals. But there’s more to do here than grave-spot: Check out the massive Gothic arch at the main entrance or climb to the top of Battle Hill, one of the highest points in Kings County and a pivotal spot during the Battle of Brooklyn in 1776.

Don’t miss:   A fan of all things spooky? Take one of the moonlight tours of the cemetery hosted around Halloween.

79.  Hang out at Washington Square Park

• Historic buildings and sites
• Greenwich Village

What is it? A 9.75-acre public park that serves as the beating heart of Greenwich Village.  Why go?  It's one of the most iconic spots in NYC and has a ton of history, serving as the backdrop to many civil rights movements, celebrations and more. Don’t miss:  The chance to people watch, from admiring skateboarders' tricks to enjoying some music by buskers.

80.  Visit Madison Square Park

What is it? Madison Square Park is a green oasis in the Flatiron district—not to be confused with Madison Square Garden.

Why go? There’s always something going in the environs (three streets by one avenue block) from outdoor art exhibits to free concerts.   The park is also home to the first Shake Shack, which still consistently see lines that would make the hottest clubs jealous. Tourists go for Shake Shack, workers go to eat their lunch, pooch owners go for the dog run, guardians go for the children’s playground… and because the park is dotted with benches, it lends for the best leisurely people-watching.

Don’t miss: Stepping onto the southwest corner of the park is debatably the hallowed grounds on which baseball was born.  

81.  Reconnect with wildlife at The Bronx Zoo

• Zoo and aquariums

What is it?  The biggest metropolitan zoo in North America. 

Why go?  If you’ve got a hankering to reconnect with wildlife, check out this Bronx go-to. With more than 265-acres of animals and wildlife, you won’t be able to see everything in one day, so consider taking a two-hour tour of the Congo Gorilla Forest, World of Reptiles or the Himalayan Highlands exhibits. Be sure to pay a special visit to the American Bison, too, which was declared America’s national mammal.         

Don’t miss:  Strapped for cash? “The Bronx Zoo is free on Wednesdays,” points out Danny of Flushing. 

82.  Explore the massive Pelham Bay Park

What is it? A sprawling public park in the Bronx.  Why go?  Explore the trails around Pelham Bay Park teeming with natural wonders. Pelham Bay Park isn’t just the end of the 6 line—it’s a green space three times bigger than Central Park. Among its treasures: two golf courses, a massive historic mansion, a 13-mile saltwater shoreline along the Long Island Sound, plenty of hiking trials and, for you bird watchers, a hearty population of osprey. Don’t miss: The Bronx’s only public beach, Orchard Beach.

83.  Meander the Brooklyn Promenade

What is it?  A perfect place to enjoy a panoramic view of the city.

Why go?  This one-third-mile stretch of pavement along the East River is a favorite destination of residents, tourists and couples looking to make out next to an unforgettable span of NYC’s skyline. Breathtaking views of the Brooklyn Bridge and Statue of Liberty are both visible from here, but the Promenade wasn’t originally built for aesthetic reasons: City planner Robert Moses originally wanted the Brooklyn Queens Expressway to run through Brooklyn Heights. After lots of opposition from the local community, the promenade was built to insulate the mansions and tree-lined streets nearby from highway noise and has been doing so since it opened in October 1950.  

Don’t miss:  Be sure to break off the path and head further inland to explore the beautiful brownstones of Brooklyn Heights. 

84.  Take in a show at The Shed at Hudson Yards

What is it?  The Shed—the much-discussed cultural center in Hudson Yards featuring a retractable roof—is home to powerful shows. 

Why go?  The Shed brings together established and emerging artists to create new work in fields ranging from pop to classical music, painting to digital media, theater to literature, and sculpture to dance. Check their schedule for a show that fits your interests.

85.  Stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge

What is it?  A true feat of 19th century engineering and arguably the one walk every local and visitor must take. 

Why go? This essential trek is is truly romantic, whether you're falling in love with yourself, a partner or the city itself. The 1.3-mile-long stunner was the world's largest suspension bridge when it opened in 1883 it has remained an iconic landmark of the city ever since. 

Don’t miss:  The Brooklyn side of the bridge ends in gorgeous Dumbo, where you can explore  Brooklyn Bridge Park , gaze at Lady Liberty, visit the Brooklyn Flea on Sundays.

86.  Visit The Statue of Liberty

• Liberty Island

What is it?  Since 1886, t he most famous copper statue in the world has held her torch high in New York Harbor as the quintessential symbol of American liberty. 

Why go?  The statue’s massive pedestal houses an observation deck as well as exhibits detailing the fascinating history of the 305-foot copper statue gifted to the U.S. from France to celebrate the friendship of the two nations. Check out the original torch and read the bronze plaque with Emma Lazarus’s poem “A New Colossus” (you know, the tired, poor, huddled masses yearning to be free). 

Don’t miss: Strapped for cash? The Staten Island Ferry is free and sails near the icon so you can get a peek. 

87.  Meander along The High Line

What is it?  Chelsea's above-ground park and garden set on old train tracks offers a natural respite and 1.4 miles of car-free walking space set between the daring skyscrapers of Manhattan's west side.

Why go?   It's an innovative reclaimed space that inpsires no matter how many times you've walked along it.

Don't miss:   A rotating display of artworks that fill the space. Plus, there's a beautiful new bridge called the Moynihan Train Hall Connector , which allows pedestrians to walk all the way from the Meatpacking District straight to Penn Station using the elevated park.

88.  Relax at Brooklyn Bridge Park

What is it?   Brooklyn Bridge Park, with its   grassy expanses, copious bike paths,   public art displays, basketball courts and soccer pitches, holdas a lot of fun attractions.

Why go?   The Pier 2 Uplands, three-acre site that includes a 6,300-square-foot lawn and a water play area, and the Squibb Bridge.

Don't miss:  Brunch or dinner at Fornino's on the waterfront.

89.  Spend a leisurely afternoon in Prospect Park

• Prospect Park

What is it? A 526-acre sprawling public park in the heart of Brooklyn. 

Why go?  While bicycling, warm-weather picnics and weekend runs are a must at this park, you can do pretty much any outdoor activity your heart desires: there’s bird-watching, baseball, basketball and more. Don’t miss: We recommend roller skating or renting a paddle boat at LeFrak, which transforms into an ice skating rink in the winter.

90.  Hang at the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere

What is it?  A 1,131-foot-high-observation deck atop 20 Hudson Yards.

Why go?  To take in panoramic views of the entire city on a 7,500-square-foot triangular platform. 

Don’t miss: If you’re terrified of heights in the open air, but want in on the action, there’s also a champagne bar inside the 100th floor where you can sip cocktails with the same 360-degree views of NYC.  

91.  Bask in art and architecture at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

• Art and design
• Upper East Side
• price 3 of 4

What is it?  A renowned art museum and architectural icon with works by Picasso, Peggy Guggenheim’s trove of Cubist, Surrealist and Abstract Expressionist works, as well as the largest collection of Kandinskys in the United States.

Why go?  Designed by original starchitect Frank Lloyd Wright, it's arguably the only New York museum that shows art inside a work of art. 

Don't miss : What makes the building a global icon is its stunning interior rotunda and oculus. There, along its ascending ramps, you’ll find a world-class collection, as well a full slate of temporary shows.

92.  Get high at One World Observatory

• Towers and viewpoints

What is it? An observation deck affording one hell of a view. 

Why go? Not only does it have the trippiest elevator in the city, One World Observatory is also a fierce contender for best views in the city. Ride up to the 102nd floor surrounded by a VR-like film, then admire the 360-degree views at the top of the tower. 

Don’t miss:  Gawk at the entirety of Manhattan and the Empire State Building on one side and the Brooklyn, Manhattan and Williamsburg Bridges on the other—and then Governors Island and the Statue of Liberty on the other.

93.  Peep paintings at the Whitney Museum of American Art

• Meatpacking District

What is it?  After nearly 50 years in its Marcel-Breur-designed building on Madison Avenue at 75th Street, the Whitney Museum decamped in 2015 to a new home in the Meatpacking District. 

Why go? Founded in 1931 by sculptor and art patron Gertrude Vanderbilt, the Whitney is dedicated to presenting the work of American artists. Its collection holds about 25,000 works by more than 3,500 American artists. Check out musts by  Alexander Calder, Willem de Kooning, Edward Hopper (the museum holds his entire estate), Jasper Johns, Louise Nevelson, Georgia O’Keeffe and Claes Oldenburg.    

Don't miss: The views of the art inside are what you're here for, of course, but don't miss the skyline views from the museum's rooftop bar.

94.  Go back in time at South Street Seaport Museum

What is it? A museum located in the historic Seaport District that tells the story of New York as a port city. There's an extensive collection art and artifacts, a working 19th-century print shop, and a fleet of historic vessels that all work to tell the story of "Where New York Begins."

Why go?  You can step aboard the famous 1885 Wavertree . Plus, admission is pay-what-you-wish.

95.  See world-class works at the Museum of Modern Art

What is it? Institution housing one of the world’s finest collections of art from the 18th century through today.

Why go?  Around nearly every corner of the venerated museum is a seminal piece by an artist trumpeted in art history or coveted by contemporary collectors. During the height of tourist season, around Christmas and again in late spring and summer, expect a shoving-match just to catch a momentary glance at Van Gogh’s Starry Night or Picasso’s Les Demoiselles d’Avignon . 

Don’t miss: Can't swing the entrance free? Visit during MoMA's free Friday nights, held on select evenings.

96.  Immerse yourself in Buddhist culture at the Rubin

What is it? Donald and Shelley Rubin’s impressive collection of Himalayan, Indian and Buddhist art and artifacts on display.

Why go? Spiritual types will love this museum, which is dedicated to Himalayan and Buddhist art and features lectures, movies, music and more. The museum is layered over five gallery floors in the old Barney’s New York space on 17th street. The awe-inspiring works range from classical to contemporary giving visitors a well-rounded experience with Eastern cultures.

97.  Have a feast at Chelsea Market

• Shopping centers

What is it?  One of New York’s most notable food halls that boasts more than 35 vendors. 

Why go? While this  hot spot for foodies and shopping addicts  can get congested with tourists during peak hours, it’s worth throwing some elbows for Middle Eastern bites from Miznon, tacos from Los Tacos No.1 and halva from Seed + Mill.  Aside from finger-lickin’ fare and sweet merchandise, the attraction offers historical charms such as the market’s iconic fountain, which was crafted using discarded drill bits and exposed pipe from the former Nabisco factory. 

98.  Get slimy at Sloomoo

What is it? Part visual splendor, part olfactory wonder and part ooey-gooey sensory fun, Sloomoo Institute’s slime museum welcomes all ages to its home in Soho.

Why go?  While Sloomoo is a highly Instagrammable experience, the founders hope you’ll spend some time away from your phone and immersed in the moment during your 90-minute visit to truly have the slime of your life.

Don't miss: The DIY slime bar where you can make your own slime to take home. 

99.  Make a great escape to the Cloisters

• Washington Heights

What is it?  Set in a lovely park overlooking the Hudson River, the Cloisters houses the Met’s medieval art and architecture collections.

Why go?  Soak it all in by following a path that winds through the peaceful grounds to a castle that seems to have survived from the Middle Ages. (It was built less than 100 years ago, using material from five medieval French cloisters.)  

Don’t miss:  The famous Unicorn Tapestries, the 12th-century Fuentidueña Chapel and the Annunciation Triptych by Robert Campin.  

More great things to do across the globe

The best things to do in the world right now

Music, art, food, nature and the year’s biggest parties—these are very best things to do and see right now, anywhere in the world.

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Best places to visit in new york state in 2024.

New York state captivates both domestic and international travelers with the most populated city in the United States, sprawling state parks and a few beach communities. Whether you want to visit New York City to see Times Square and go ice skating at Rockefeller Center, or retreat to the mountains of upstate New York, there are plenty of one-of-a-kind vacation spots in the Empire State. U.S. News considered sights, culture, adventurous pursuits and the opinions of experts and readers to compile this ranking of the best places to visit in New York state. Read on for vacation inspiration, and don't forget to vote below for the destinations you think belong on this list.

Niagara Falls

Adirondacks, thousand islands, new york city, the finger lakes, the catskills, bear mountain state park, letchworth state park, long island, fire island, saratoga springs, cooperstown, shelter island.

The tumbling, frothy falls – more than 3,100 tons of water flows over the edge every second – are the star tourist attraction in this New York destination that borders Canada. The best way to see Niagara Falls is on a Maid of the Mist boat tour, which takes poncho-clad visitors on an electric tour boat to the base of the falls. Or, more daring visitors can experience this natural wonder on a thrilling whirlpool jet boat tour. Just don't forget to check out the area's other unforgettable attractions, such as Niagara Falls State Park's hiking trails, Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens & Butterfly Conservatory or the nearby casinos.

The Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York span roughly 6 million acres and are home to hundreds of communities, lakes, valleys and trails. Water lovers can canoe or kayak on Saranac Lake or go boating on Tupper Lake; hikers can tackle the area's 2,000-plus miles of trails; and skiers can shred powder on Whiteface Mountain near Lake Placid. Visitors will also want to save some time for checking out history-focused sights like the Lake Placid Olympic Museum and Fort Ticonderoga, as well as sampling regional beverages at local wineries and breweries.

Despite its name, the Thousand Islands region is composed of more than 1,800 islands. The best way to see this vast area, which also stretches into Canada, is during an open-air boat tour. A scenic cruise here will take you past lighthouses, mansions and castles and include commentary about the real-life pirates who used to roam the islands' waters and the Gilded Age magnates who once called the region home. When you're ready to return to land, hike the trails in Wellesley Island State Park or fish in Mary Island State Park, both on Wellesley Island.

A hub for culture, the arts, food and sightseeing, New York City is a must-visit on many travelers' bucket lists – and for good reason. Everyone can find something to enjoy in the Big Apple. You can see a Broadway show, visit the world-famous Empire State Building, walk the High Line, check out the dozens of museums, eat your way through Manhattan's distinct neighborhoods on a food tour or shop till you drop along Fifth Avenue. Don't forget to stroll through iconic Central Park and visit its can't-miss attractions, including the Central Park Zoo and Conservatory Garden.

A romantic New York getaway , the Finger Lakes region appeals to travelers seeking a relaxing retreat with lovely scenery. Skiing at the area's resorts, wine tasting at the Seneca Lake Wine Trail's wineries and boating and hiking at local state parks are all popular activities to enjoy in this part of northwestern New York. The Finger Lakes are known for their spectacular fall foliage, but with their wealth of charming towns and variety of seasonal attractions, the lakes are excellent to visit year-round.

With 98 peaks, southeastern New York's Catskill Mountains beckon to nature enthusiasts. About 40% of Catskill Park's 700,000-plus acres are designated as "forever wild," meaning you'll have access to sprawling spaces ideal for outdoor activities. In winter, the Catskills offer ample opportunities to ski and snowboard. Meanwhile, summer is perfect for hunting, hiking, boating and zip lining, among other activities. After a busy day outdoors, you can check out the region's art scene (the Catskills were home to America's first art movement – the Hudson River School) or enjoy the amenities at one of the area's top resorts .

Located on the western banks of the Hudson River in the Palisades region of New York, Bear Mountain State Park offers sweeping views of the Hudson Valley and the surrounding highlands. The forested park's trails (including a stretch of the Appalachian Trail) take hikers through lakes, gorges and valleys. What's more, Bear Mountain State Park features a zoo, a swimming pool, a hand-painted merry-go-round and a seasonal outdoor ice skating rink, ensuring family fun both on and off the trails. (Note: Portions of this park are closed due to storm damage sustained in July 2023. Please check the park's website for the current operating status.)

Nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the East because of its impressive gorge, Letchworth State Park is a hidden gem for travelers who love the outdoors. The park is home to three large waterfalls and dozens more on tributaries, many of which you can see as you trek some of Letchworth's 66 miles of hiking trails. Additionally, the park offers ample opportunities to go whitewater rafting, kayaking, horseback riding, biking and even hot air ballooning. If you prefer winter sports instead of summer pursuits, arrive when temperatures fall to go cross-country skiing or snowmobiling.

This 118-mile-long island is frequented by New Yorkers looking to escape the city to relax on white sand beaches with a glass of wine. Summer hot spots like the Hamptons and Montauk boast charming seaside allure and can't-miss stretches of sand, like Ditch Plains Beach, a popular place to surf. Meanwhile, family-friendly Jones Beach State Park is a more approachable option with a swimming pool, a mini-golf course and shuffleboard areas, among other amenities. Beyond beaches, Long Island boasts more than 50 wineries and tasting rooms, some of which are part of the island's North Fork Wine Trail.

The presence of two renowned institutions – Ithaca College and Cornell University – makes Ithaca a true college town. But this small town in New York's Finger Lakes region is also known for its stunning natural beauty, so much so that its slogan is "Ithaca is gorges." Ithaca is surrounded by more than 150 waterfalls, as well as gorges and dense forests with hiking and biking trails. What's more, the town overlooks the southern shore of Cayuga Lake, a superb spot for boating, fishing and swimming. For groups with budding naturalists, follow Ithaca's Discovery Trail to must-see attractions like the Sciencenter and the Cornell Botanic Gardens.

Those looking to get away from skyscrapers can travel about 60 miles southeast of New York City to reach this 32-mile-long, car-free barrier island. On Fire Island, you'll find several charming communities, including Ocean Beach (where most of the island's hotels, restaurants and shops are located) and Cherry Grove and Fire Island Pines (two of the island's top LGBTQ-friendly areas). Plus, Fire Island is home to Fire Island National Seashore, a protected area that welcomes bird-watchers and campers in droves. If you'd rather spend your vacation swimming, surfing or sunbathing, head to Robert Moses State Park in summer to enjoy its beautiful beaches.

Ever since the Mohawk people came to Saratoga Springs and discovered its mineral waters, which were believed to have restorative properties, the town has blossomed into a popular vacation destination. Visitors can still drink from or soak in the town's mineral springs, 12 of which are located in Saratoga Spa State Park. However, many travelers now flock to Saratoga Springs to see one of the country's oldest racetracks, the Saratoga Race Course. Take a walking tour of the facility to learn more about its history and horseracing, or visit in August to attend the venue's premier event, the Travers Stakes.

Cooperstown may be small, but it attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year thanks to its ties to America's pastime. Although most experts agree that baseball wasn't invented here, Cooperstown remains a mecca for sports lovers because of its must-visit sight, the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. However, the village offers other kinds of attractions, too. Travelers can visit the Fenimore Art Museum to see impressive works of art or check out The Farmers' Museum's exhibits about local agriculture. Cooperstown also features beautiful neoclassical buildings, such as Hyde Hall, and a variety of breweries and wineries.

Situated between the North and South forks of Long Island, Shelter Island features a quiet, laid-back atmosphere perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of New York City. One-third of the island is occupied by the Mashomack Preserve, a protected area with more than 200 bird species and hiking trails through meadows and salt marshes. The rest of Shelter Island boasts charming Victorian-era buildings that house boutiques and eateries, plus stunning stretches of sand with calm waves ideal for swimming, such as Crescent Beach and Wades Beach.

New York's capital city teems with culture and history. Visitors can admire the elaborate beauty of the New York State Capitol building on a tour and observe natural history exhibits at the New York State Museum (both of which are free), or explore Albany's Dutch heritage at Crailo State Historic Site and the Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site. Meanwhile, art enthusiasts can view landscape paintings from the Hudson River School at the Albany Institute of History & Art. Beyond the tourist attractions, travelers can stretch their legs in Washington Park, grab a local craft beer or catch a show at The Egg.

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The 41 Absolute Best New York Attractions In 2024

What to do in new york we've got you covered.

With famous New York landmarks like the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center or the Brooklyn Bridge around every corner, it can be hard picking the attractions that you want to see on your trip to NYC.

Below you will find a list of our favorite attractions that we think you have to see in New York City. In addition to that, I’ve included really beautiful and unique places that you should definitely visit! Further down, you will find the 👉 best New York attractions on a map .

TOP Attractions in New York

New York has so much to offer! If you don’t have much time, you should visit these eight TOP attractions in New York:

• Summit One Vanderbilt
• Edge Hudson Yards

Central Park

Brooklyn bridge, times square.

• Statue of Liberty
• The 9/11 Memorial
• High Line Park

You can easily do these in two days. My list of the best sights in New York below in the article is ideal for a visit of 5 days to a week.

Buy New York sightseeing tickets online

New York City is just as busy as it was before the pandemic – in fact, it feels a little busier now that many are taking their postponed New York trips. Many of New York’s attractions require you to book time slots in order to visit them. Therefore, you should buy your ticket online in advance! These are the most visited attractions in NYC:

My budget tip: many attractions are included in the New York sightseeing passes – so you can save a lot of money on tickets. Which New York Pass is the best for you, I show you in my New York Pass comparison .

New York Attractions Map

Our tips for visiting the top New York attractions on a budget!

If you are on a family holiday, or visiting the city with a group of friends and need to book 4 tickets for each attraction, or are alone but just have a tight budget set for your trip, we have something really special for you. NYC sells discount attraction passes which allow you to visit all of the must-see NYC attractions for less while giving you the flexibility of deciding what you want to see once you get there!

Offering discounts of up to 70% on many sights, tours, and attractions  New York City sightseeing passes  are the ultimate way to save money. Find out which one will save you the most based on the attractions you want to see here:

Try Our Savings Calculator

These are my favorite NYC attractions

While the mention of NYC undoubtedly brings to mind many of its famous buildings and attractions, it can be very difficult picking which ones you want to visit during your trip. Our list below of the best attractions in New York is in no particular order and is based on our experiences with each attraction as well as what we think makes for a good trip to the Big Apple!

The Edge Observation Deck

The Hudson Yards observation deck called Edge is New York’s newest and highest open observation deck. It opened in March 2020 and we were there – the view from up here is just sensational, and through the glass floor you can see over 100 floors straight down!

Are you looking for the ultimate thrill? Then check out the Edge City Climb !

Empire State Building

The first of our must-see New York attractions is the world-renowned Empire State Building . The view from the observation platform of the Empire State Building will take your breath away and is a sight that you won’t soon forget. An absolute must-see during a visit to New York! We have compiled everything you need to know about the Empire State Building, including our tips & tricks, important info regarding ticket options, and whether going to the 102nd floor is really worth it.

OUR TIP: EITHER GO REALLY EARLY OR VERY LATE AT NIGHT!

That’s when queues are not as long. Even better –   Tickets with Fast Lane access are available here  – or get one of the New York discounts passes that includes tickets to the Empire State Building !

An official city landmark and the second of our must-see New York attractions: the Brooklyn Bridge. Be sure to walk across the bridge to enjoy the fabulous views onto the city skyline, especially in the early evening hours! The view from Brooklyn across the East River is also spectacular and is definitely a must-see. New tours are available that take you across the bridge into Brooklyn and these are quite popular.  You can find the most popular tours on this page .

Our tip: Make a day out of it! We recommend you check out the beautiful Brooklyn Bridge Park and spend the afternoon walking around DUMBO if you time it right you can head back across the Brooklyn Bridge at sunset when the views are especially beautiful. If you get hungry, don’t pass on pizza at Juliana’s, the line may be long but this is definitely some of the best pizza you can get in NYC!

Top of the Rock

The next activity on our list of must-see New York attractions is the observation platform on the top of the Rockefeller Center. The Top of the Rock observation deck will give you fantastic outdoor views of New York and is one of our favorite places to view the city from above.

The best thing about this observation deck is that you have a great view of downtown Manhattan, the Empire State Building as well as Central Park in the other direction. This attraction ranks high among our top 10 things to do as this is where most iconic pictures of the Empire State Building are shot from. If you’re in town during the holiday, make sure to check out Rockefeller Plaza and the famous Christmas tree in NYC.

OUR TIP: GO IN THE LATE AFTERNOON!

The Top of the Rock observation platform is also less crowded than the Empire State Building making the view much more enjoyable.  Tickets for the observation platform are available here – or get one of the New York discount passes that include a ticket to the Top of the Rock!

9/11 Memorial and Museum

The 9/11 Memorial Museum is located at the 9/11 National Memorial and is probably one of the most emotional museums in New York. It is mostly located underground and displays debris from the former Twin Towers in addition to many of the personal belongings of those buried. Among them are fire trucks deformed by heat, a part of the antenna of the North Tower, a scorched elevator motor, the saving stone staircase (Survivor’s Staircase) as well as remains of sidewalks, street signs, bicycles and baby carriages that were in front of the World Trade Center.

Get personal tips & tricks, specifically tailored to your trip!

We will provide you with individual tips & tricks as you prepare for your trip. How to plan, save money and make sure you experience the most of NYC are only some of the topics covered!

Specify dates

One World Observatory

One of the newest activities in this list of top 10 New York attractions is the observation platform on top of the One World Trade Center.  The OWTC is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and is close to where the Twin Towers once stood.

OUR TIP: GO FIRST THING IN THE MORNING OR IN THE EVENING!

With a height of 1,776 feet (541 meters), the One World Observatory gives you amazing views of Manhattan and the surrounding boroughs. The 9/11 Memorial and Museum is also one of the best New York attractions that we highly recommend visiting. You can order tickets online here !

There are few parks as unique as the High Line. The elevated freight rail line was repurposed as a public green space that opened in 2009 and now offers amazing views of the city, as well as a place to relax and unwind. Its plant life is based directly off what was growing there while it was abandoned, giving this park a unique and interesting atmosphere! The High Line stretches from The Meatpacking District all the way to Hudson Yards-34th Street.

There is no doubt that you cannot miss this must-see New York attraction. Times Square always has something going on and is packed with people at all times of the day. Being in the middle of the buzz and watch the thousands of people and cars go by is definitely an experience.

The best of Times Square has to offer, however, is at night. That’s when the LED screens light up the whole square as if it were broad daylight! There is also a pedestrian zone where you can sit down and relax or several rooftop bars right around the corner that offer sensational views!

Staten Island Ferry

Manhattan’s Wall Street is home to the New York Stock Exchange and the headquarters of numerous banks. It is definitely one of the most popular 10 things to fo in NYC on this list, as it has been featured in countless movies and tv shows. One icon of Wall Street is the Charging Bull statue, which is located near the Stock Exchange.

It is at its current location in the plaza at Bowling Green in an act of “guerrilla art”. Guided tours through the Financial District as well as the Wall Street Insider Tour are hugely popular.

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.

Bryant Park

Bryant Park is located right in central Manhattan and is a quiet oasis between 40th and 42nd Street. Bryant Park is right in the cetner of Midtown Manhattan between 40th and 42nd Street, yet it still lends you the peace and quiet you need to get away for a few moments from the bustling city. Withg many small cafés dotted throughout the park this is the perfect place to unwind or relax when the weather is nice.

Brooklyn Bridge Park

You will find the beginning of Brooklyn Bridge Park just below Brooklyn Bridge. With amazing views of the skyline across the water and some great places to sit and enjoy the view, this park is a must-visit! For those of you who like running, this is an amazing place to do so, especially with the amazing Manhattan skyline view. There are also tons of green spaces, basketball, volleyball courts, and soccer fields.

The Vessel Hudson Yards

The Vessel is an attraction in the Hudson Yards – and it’s free! Designed by British Thomas Heatherwick (designer of the “Rolling Bridge and UK Pavilion at Expo 2010), “The Vessel” offers around 2,500 steps to climb up and down. The symmetrical steel structure, connected by 154 interwoven stair segments, attracts tourists from all over the world to climb the vertical distance of about one mile!

Note: The Vessel is unfortunately still closed at the moment. You can only enter at the bottom, the stairs are still closed and it is not known if and when they will be open to the public again.

One Vanderbilt The Summit

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.

Flatiron Building

The Flatiron Building is one of the most popular, beautiful and iconic buildings in NYC. The triangle shaped building likens the shape of a iron, hence the name. As one of the most photogenic spots in NYC this is definitely worth the visit for every tourist.

New York Public Library

The New York Public Library is one of the most famous buildings in NYC. Having featured in countless films and photographs, this is one of the best public libraries in the United Sates. The New York Public Library is not only a place for students, professors, and bookworms but also a must visit for toruists of the Big Apple.

Grand Central Terminal

You can’t visit New York City and not have a peek of the stunning Grand Central Station . The Grand Central Station is the largest train station in the world and is the busiest building in New York City in terms of visitors.

Did you know: the painting on the ceiling (image of the sky) was painted in its mirror image. The painter accidentally held the image upside down! The official reason, of course, is that this effect was by design. The painter claimed that the image reflects God’s view of the sky from the celestial sphere, i.e., from above, and not from below. It’s a must-see and absolutely worth going.

Roosevelt Island Tramway

This is one of my favorite things to do in New York City and should be on your list if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a few hours. Most NYC visitors don’t know that we actually have a tramway leaving from Manhattan, the Roosevelt Island Tramway . The final destination is Roosevelt Island , which is a small island between Manhattan and Queens. While riding the tramway is already an attraction on its own, Roosevelt Island is worth exploring as well.

American Museum of Natural History

The American Museum of Natural History is one of the more popular museums in NYC. If the name sounds recognizable it’s because the museum was the center of attention in the movie, Night at the Museum featuring Ben Stiller. Regardless of it’s Hollywood fame, the Natural History Museum is a huge institution that features numerous exhibits. This is a great place for families with kids so they can learn about the world’s geography, plants, different animal species and many other things.

The American Museum of Natural History is located in the Upper West Side in Manhattan and is the largest natural history museum in the world.

Domino Park

This beautiful park opened up in Williamsburg in 2018. It’s called Domino park because the former Domino Sugar factory was located at that very spot. Now, it’s filled with greenery, food vendors and a playground for kids. It is located directly on the East River and you have a great view of the city from here. The park invites you to play volleyball or have a picnic.

Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

The Museum of Modern Art houses a variety of contemporary artworks ranging from architecture and design to photography, paintings, and sculptures. Designed by Yoshio Taniguchi, the Museum of Modern Art reopened after renovations. Coinciding with MoMA’s seventy-fifth anniversary, the museum opened its redesigned space for exhibitions, education, and scholarly research. It is a must-do if you’re into art. Especially after their reopening, it is really worth it going.

MoMA has a reputation for displaying the world’s finest collection of modern and contemporary art. The MoMA reopening will bring new galleries and spaces for performances and events to the visitors. Visitors can expect a bigger, more diverse MoMA after the reopening. Masterpieces have been cleaned and touched up; galleries are completely reorganized. Read more about what has changed at the MoMA in New York City  here.

Guggenheim Museum

First off, The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum is an architectural masterpiece. Second, but most importantly, it is the permanent home of a large collection of art named after its founder. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright the bizarrely shaped building is one of the most famous in NYC. Not only is the outside spectacular, but it is constantly expanding its permanent collection. Also, many special exhibitions are showcased here throughout the years. It is definitely worth a visit!

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island (Ferry & Stop)

The fact that the Statue of Liberty is missing from the top 10 list is not an accident. It is always too busy and crowded and you can take much better pictures of the Statue from further away. Instead, we recommend you take a boat tour around Manhattan that makes a brief loop around the Statue of Liberty giving you a good photo opportunity, or take a ride on the Staten Island Ferry!

Just recently, there is a new museum, the Statue of Liberty Museum , that opened on Liberty Island. It tells you everything about the history of the Statue of Liberty. First-timers often visit the Statue of Liberty. Be aware though that it will take away at least 4-6 hours of your day if you want to see everything from the Statue of Liberty to the Immigration Museum.

A beautiful places to visit in NYC: Grand Banks

Water, a great view of Manhattan and a great atmosphere – the location is simply the best. You are sitting on a historic ship called F/V Sherman Zwicker on the Hudson River and can enjoy New York from the water when the weather is fine. The place also serves great drinks and seafood.

Governors Island

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 $4.

Since 2021 Governors Island is open all year round!

Jane's Carousel

In the middle of the Brooklyn Bridge Park there is a beautiful carousel for young and old all year round. From there you can also enjoy the great view of the Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan Bridge.

Pier 54 - Little Island

Not far from the Meatpacking District and the High Line, Little Island is one of the newest attractions in New York and is something very special: a park on 132 beautiful tulip-shaped concrete stilts in the Hudson River!

So beautiful: Gallow Green Rooftop

Gallow Green is a unique rooftop bar located above McKittrick Hotel. What makes it so special is its quaint and green atmosphere. The whole bar is overgrown with foliage and certainly does its name justice: It looks like a garden! Not to be forgotten are the delicious drinks that are served there. It’s even listed in our Rooftop Bar Guide as one of the 43 Best Rooftop Bars in New York .

This is one of the NYC attractions that you definitely shouldn’t miss! All you need is a subway ticket to take the cable car across the East River at heights of over 200ft. The views from the cable car are amazing and equally as impressive from Roosevelt Island!

One of the most instagrammed places in NYC: DUMBO

Don’t forget to capture the most famous photo on Washington Street in Dumbo: With the Manhattan Bridge and the tiny Empire State Building in the background, the street is popular with all tourists to take the perfect photo. Manhattan Bridge is the second famous bridge in Dumbo. If you like, you can also cross it on foot and enjoy the great view of the skyline as well as the Brooklyn Bridge from there.

Wall Street

Manhattan’s Wall Street is home to the New York Stock Exchange and the headquarters of numerous banks. It is definitely one of the most popular things to do in NYC on this list, as it has been featured in countless movies and tv shows. One icon of Wall Street is the Charging Bull statue, which is located near the Stock Exchange.

It is at its current location in the plaza at Bowling Green in an act of “guerrilla art”. Guided tours through the Financial District as well as the Wall Street Insider Tour  are hugely popular.

Washington Square Park

Washington Square Park, centrally located in the Village, extends over almost 4 hectares. Close to New York University with its distinctive Washington Square Arch, a triumphal arch inaugurated in 1895, the park is a popular place to be when the weather is fine. Through the Arch you have a wonderful view along 5th Avenue to the top of the Empire State Building. 

If you are lucky, you can even enjoy a free jazz concert from the many jazz artists of the Village. Here, friends and family meet to relax, play chess, or just in general have a good time.

A park with a waterfall at Rockefeller Center: The Paley Park

The entrance to the park, which is only 390 square metres in size, is at 53rd Street – and what immediately catches the eye: the 6-metre high waterfall. During the day in summer the waterfall’s spray mist is wonderfully cooling. And: it “swallows” all surrounding sounds and the park is such a spot with a really fascinating atmosphere! Midtown’s Paley Park is one of those secret places in New York that almost nobody knows about. A normal tourist doesn’t even consider the existence of such a park, but a New Yorker doesn’t either. The fact is that it is an oasis that radiates an aura of peace in the middle of the New York hustle and bustle.

Enjoy the sunset at Brooklyn Crab (Redhook)

Brooklyn Crab is a real insider spot, which you can reach within 20 minutes from Manhattan on the IKEA Ferry. The seafood is sensational, you can sit indoors or outdoors and if you stay long enough you can enjoy the sunset over the Statue of Liberty.

Radio City Music Hall: So beautiful a night!

The Radio City Music Hall is a very famous theater building in the middle of New York. It is part of the Rockefeller Center and is located in close proximity to the Top of The Rock and the Museum of Modern Art. When you see the Radio City Music Hall from the outside, it will seem like a journey 80 years into the past. In many movies you can see the old neon sign and therefore it is really famous.

Don't miss the Honorable William Wall on your next New York visit

The Honorable William Wall, affectionately called “Willy Wall”, is the floating clubhouse of the Manhattan Yacht Club. The clubhouse is anchored in New York Harbor north of Ellis Island from May to October. What is so special about it? It’s definitely an insider’s spot, which not only gives you a great view of Ellis Island and of course the Statue of Liberty – you can also enjoy the sunset from here.

My favorite New York neighborhoods

Each neighborhood of New York has its own unique character and is worth exploring. However, if I had to limit myself to the most important neighborhoods that best showcase the city’s diversity, it’s these:

Soho New York

Now known for their many excellent restaurants, shops and tourism, Manhattan’s SoHo, Little Italy and Chinatown neighborhoods offer the most varied stories of New York City. Take a 2-hour tour with a local guide and discover hidden gems and 19th century buildings.

DUMBO & Brooklyn Heights

Home to many wealthy families and business people is the beautiful area in Brooklyn Heights and Dumbo. In this neighborhood you’ll find tree-lined streets, historic brownstone houses, breathtaking views of Lower Manhattan and super stylish lofts in abandoned industrial areas at the foot of the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges. This mixture gives this area of Brooklyn its special charm.

East Village

Originally a part of the Lower East Side, the East Village in New York developed in the 1960s into an exciting identity of its own due to its multicultural influences and thus became its own quarter in the so-called “Village” of New York City.

Meatpacking District

Go on a fun adventure in New York’s only park above street level- the Highline. Experience the Chelsea neighborhood from a whole new vantage point and find out more about the history of the famous Meatpacking District including how it developed into one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in the world.

In 2010, Eataly was opened in New York by master chef Mario Batali. The pizza is very remeniscent of pizza and the wine selection is huge. You will also find a large selection of ecellent pasta, salads, and sandwiches. In terms of price, it has to be said in advance that a pizza starts at $15 and can cost $25. Nevertheless, this Italian food market is for me one of the most beautiful and best in the city!

Astoria Park

One of the most beautiful spots in Astoria, Queens is Astoria Park. This popular park on the East River is a popular retreat for New Yorkers, especially in the summer. On hot summer days, they jump into New York’s oldest public pool to cool off. This is a rare sight, by the way, because you hardly find any outdoor pools in New York. Astoria Park just recently went under renovation as well and has revamped its track and field. 

Not only do you have a beautiful view of Manhattan, but you’re also right under the RFK Bridge and have a direct view of Hells Gate Bridge.

Williamsburg

Brooklyn is famous for its bold and bright street art, but it’s not easy to know where to find these creative works. With this walking tour of the Bushwick neighborhood, take in the diversity and culture of the neighborhood’s urban street artists. Check out massive murals and intricate designs as you take to the streets to learn how Brooklyn’s best can turn anything with a surface into a stunning work of public art.

The best attractions of New York on a map

A map with all attractions of New York City with a View can be found here – just click on “FULL MAP” if you want to see more. You can click on each attraction on the map to find out everything you need to know!

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 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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35 Best Things to Do in New York City, According to Local Experts

From world-class art museums to public green spaces, here's what to do in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and beyond.

Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure

It’s no secret that New York City is one of the best cities in the U.S., and in the world. A hub for food, culture, architecture, entertainment, and so much more, "The City That Never Sleeps" truly does offer something for everyone. Take it from Fora co-founder and travel advisor Henley Vazquez , who describes New York City as “a true melting pot of cuisines, architectural styles, and things to do.” Travel advisor Camila Alfonso of Valerie Wilson Travel , a Virtuoso agency, echoes that sentiment, telling Travel + Leisure , “The city's energy is unparalleled, and its allure is simply irresistible. Each time I visit, I'm captivated by its unique charm and the myriad of experiences it offers." However, with so many things to see, do, and explore while in town, planning your trip can be overwhelming. To help you uncover all the amazing attractions and sights this beloved destination offers, we’ve rounded up 35 of the best things to do in New York City, including a handful of local-approved activities .

Related: The Perfect Three-Day Weekend in New York City

Hit the beach.

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

Just an hour-long ferry ride from downtown Manhattan, Rockaway Beach in Queens attracts locals and travelers alike with its sandy shorelines and surf. Besides, says Vazquez, “It’s closer than the Hamptons and far more affordable.” If you plan on staying the night, the travel pro recommends booking a room at the chic Rockaway Hotel — a T+L It List award-winner — which offers stylish rooms and suites, a rooftop pool, and free bike rentals so you can cruise the boardwalk in style. 

Stroll the Brooklyn Bridge.

Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure

“I love walking or jogging across the Brooklyn Bridge,” says Vazquez, who adds that “everyone should do it at least once.” The iconic landmark offers some of the best views of Manhattan and Brooklyn, making it one of the top (and most popular) things to do in New York City. To avoid crowds, visit as early in the morning as possible, and be sure to wear comfortable shoes — the walk is about an hour (1.3 miles) each way, assuming you’re going at a leisurely pace.

Visit Fotografiska Museum NYC.

Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, Fotografiska Museum NYC is a must for its fascinating photo exhibits. Housed in an eye-catching, Renaissance Revival-style building in Gramercy Park, Vazquez tells T+L that the museum is especially great for tweens and teens. Don’t leave without checking out one of the on-site drinking and dining venues, including Chapel Bar (housed in a 19th-century chapel) and the swanky Veronika bar and restaurant located on the museum's second floor.

Check out Little Island.

This new-ish public park along the West Side Highway spans just under two-and-a-half acres. Despite its small size, this magnificent floating structure — made up of 280 tulip-like concrete structures — is home to more than 350 species of flora. Little Island hosts a slew of events , including DJ sets, drag bingo, dance parties, and live musical performances.

Wander around The Met Cloisters.

Make your way to Washington Heights in uptown Manhattan to check out The Met Cloisters. The museum, which is part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, is America’s only such venue dedicated specifically to Middle Ages art and architecture. You can easily spend an entire afternoon wandering its indoor and outdoor spaces.

Head to New York Botanical Garden.

The New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) in the Bronx feels worlds away from the bustling city, and the 250-acre site boasts more than one million plants. The blooms vary depending on the time of year. We recommend visiting in the spring, when peonies, daffodils, magnolias, and lilacs are all in season. Other highlights include the rose garden (May through October), the azalea garden (year-round), and the extensive orchid collection (also open year-round).

Peruse Manhattan’s best art museums.

It’s no secret that Manhattan is home to incredible art museums, including The Whitney (known for its collection of 20th-century American works) and The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), which boasts nearly 200,000 works from across the world. Other must-visit museums include the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum , an oasis for contemporary art lovers, and The Metropolitan Museum of Art . One of the world’s largest fine art museums, the latter is home to an impressive collection of works, some of which date back thousands of years.

Stroll through Socrates Sculpture Park.

Socrates Sculpture Park is a favorite of Vazquez’s for its tranquil riverfront locale and “great installations.” Once an abandoned landfill, this outdoor museum hosts year-round events , including yoga and meditation sessions, kids dance classes, and even kayaking in nearby Hallet’s Cove.

Retreat to Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden.

Meredith Sladek

Staten Island is the city’s least populous borough, but don’t let that deter you from visiting. The Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden is, by far, one of the area's best attractions. The waterfront site, set within an 83-acre park, is comprised of 28 historic buildings, 14 botanic gardens, a two-acre farm, and plenty of picturesque scenery.

Walk down Arthur Ave.

Arthur Avenue has gained a reputation as being the city’s lesser-known Little Italy , and Vazquez calls it “the real deal” for its abundance of “Italian bakeries and red sauce restaurants.” A few can’t-miss spots include Tino’s Delicatessen for stuffed heroes, Casa Della Mozzarella for fresh mozz, Dominick’s for large plates of pasta, Tony & Tina’s for pizza, and Madonia Brothers Bakery for cannoli.

Sit down for afternoon tea.

Put those pinkies up for afternoon tea at splurge-worthy NYC staples like Palm Court at The Plaza Hotel , The Whitby Bar at the Whitby (an especially fitting spot, given the hotel’s British roots), or the Grand Salon at the Baccarat Hotel . For a more budget-friendly experience that's still quite special, check out Alice’s Tea Cup , Brooklyn High Low , or Kings’ Carriage House .

Pack a picnic and head to Central Park.

Central Park offers plenty to see and do within its 800-plus acres, which include grassy lawns, eight lakes and ponds, and even a zoo. But the best way to experience the park and its vast natural beauty — an oasis amidst towering skyscrapers — may be to simply sit on the grass or a park bench to enjoy a picnic lunch. While you snack, you're sure to find the people-watching equally enjoyable. To make your picnic even more memorable, consider working with Perfect Picnic NYC , one of several luxury picnic companies that transform basic spreads into gourmet lunches and soirees.

Have dim sum in Flushing's Chinatown.

Though it's often overlooked in favor of Manhattan's Chinatown, this location is just as vibrant. Venture here to feast on delicious dim sum dishes like soup dumplings, pork buns, chicken feet, spare ribs, and shumai, to name a few. While you can’t go wrong with any of the restaurants in this neighborhood, we especially love Asian Jewel , Shangai You Garden , and Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao .

Explore Governor’s Island.

This 172-acre island is an eight-minute ferry ride from downtown Manhattan and a five-minute ferry ride from Brooklyn Bridge Park, making it an excellent day-trip destination. Travelers will find plenty to do here year-round, including a wellness-centric spa and a centuries-old fort . The island also boasts a handful of eclectic drinking and dining venues , a lavender field (open seasonally), and New York City’s only glamping property (also seasonal).

Escape to Coney Island.

Coney Island is a hotspot for families with its abundance of nostalgia-inducing amusement park rides, charming 2.7-mile-long boardwalk, and wide sandy beaches. No trip here is complete without a visit to the New York Aquarium , where you can encounter marine life like sharks, rays, otters, octopus, and more, followed by a hot dog and fries at the flagship Nathan’s Famous .

Have a drink at a few rooftop bars.

“Indulge in the chic and enchanting atmosphere of New York City's rooftop bars , offering stunning views of iconic landmarks like Times Square or the Empire State Building,” says Alfonso, who especially loves Magic Hour Rooftop in midtown. Other year-round options abound, including Westlight at The William Vale in the hip neighborhood of Williamsburg, the rooftop at Royalton Park Avenue , and Panorama Room at the Graduate New York on Roosevelt Island (the views alone are worth the tram ride here).

Visit Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.

These two New York City landmarks are only accessible via ferry. The Statue of Liberty represents freedom and hope, and visitors can climb to its crown, so as long as they don’t mind trekking 160-plus steps. Ellis Island, which welcomed 12 million immigrants into the country, is equally fascinating; today, it’s home to the National Immigration Museum , which houses historical artifacts and exhibits.

Sip vino at an urban winery.

You don’t have to travel to the Finger Lakes or the North Fork of Long Island to sip and savor some of the Empire State’s best wines. Instead, head to one of NYC’s innovative urban wineries. A few of our favorite spots include Rooftop Reds (set on a rooftop in the Brooklyn Navy Yard), Brooklyn Winery (which offers tours and tastings three days a week), The Redhook Winery (a warehouse-turned-winery that uses locally grown grapes) and City Winery , which is a restaurant, winery, and live music and entertainment venue rolled into one.

Set sail on New York Harbor.

Some say that New York is best explored on foot, but we’d argue the city is even more magical when viewed from the water. Don’t just take it from us, though. “Embark on a captivating boat ride through New York Harbor to bask in breathtaking views of the city's skyline and the majestic Statue of Liberty,” says Alfonso. “This iconic experience allows you to appreciate the city from a different perspective.”

Stroll the High Line.

The High Line, which stretches through the Meatpacking District and Chelsea in Manhattan, is one of the city’s most unique public parks — it's an elevated rail track that's been transformed into a greenery-filled walkway spanning 1.45 miles. The park boasts 500-plus species of plants and trees, as well as several striking pieces of art. You’ll find plenty of places to sit and lounge, good people watching, and great vantage points for snapping skyline photos.

Attend a Broadway show.

One of the few places you can spot native New Yorkers and tourists from all over the world mingling together is at a Broadway show . People flock to the city’s Theater District to catch one (or more) of its two-dozen-plus performances, ranging from classics like The Lion King and  Wicked to newer titles like Shucked and Here Lies Love .

Shop in SoHo.

SoHo, which stands for “South of Houston Street," is among New York City’s coolest neighborhoods. With chic boutiques, eclectic galleries, and hip eateries galore, you can spend hours wandering the streets here and popping in and out of shops. And speaking of shopping, your options abound, from big-name brands like Rag & Bone and Anine Bing to local favorites like Kirna Zabête and Henrik Vibskov Boutique NYC .

Taste your way through the Tin Building.

Nicole Franzen

Open since September 2022, the Tin Building by Jean-Georges is New York City’s latest and greatest food hall. Located in lower Manhattan, the 53,000-square-foot oasis is a haven for culinary connoisseurs. Expect a handful of stylish sit-down restaurants, bars, and fast-casual spots serving everything from Chinese cuisine to French fare and more. Don’t miss the sprawling food market, either.

Visit the National September 11 Memorial & Museum.

Located in the World Trade Center, the National September 11 Memorial & Museum aims to educate visitors on the impact and significance of 9/11 through a combination of media and artifacts, plus personal stories of loss and tragedy couple with those of unwavering hope and resilience. While the outdoor memorial is free and open to the public, you’ll need to purchase tickets to enter the museum. Guided tours are also available.

Visit the American Museum of Natural History.

The American Museum of Natural History on Manhattan’s Upper West Side captivates visitors of all ages with its impressive collection of 32 million specimens and cultural artifacts. Prepare to be dazzled by the now-iconic blue whale model , enchanting dinosaur exhibits , and the fascinating display of extinct mammals . This past May, the museum debuted the Richard Gilder Center , which boasts striking architecture and features such as an insectarium and butterfly vivarium.

Take in the city views from One World Observatory.

Travelers can experience the city from new heights by visiting One World Observatory , which is considered the city’s highest point. In addition to panoramic city views, you’ll find a handful of shops, exhibits, and restaurants. Even the 47-second elevator ride to the 1,268-foot summit is thrilling, as it features a CGI timelapse of Manhattan from the 16th century to the present day.

Visit the Empire State Building.

The Empire State Building has become one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks since its 1930 construction. Today, tourists worldwide come here to marvel at the city vistas from the iconic 86th-floor, open-air observatory deck. There's also the 102nd-floor observation deck, where floor-to-ceiling views (and on a clear day, up to 80 miles of visibility) await.

Explore DUMBO.

kolderal/Getty Images

Brooklyn already takes the cake for being the city’s coolest borough , and DUMBO (a.k.a., Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) may just be its coolest neighborhood. The historic waterfront area is teeming with high-end eats (snag a seat outside at Cecconi’s to feast on handmade pasta in style) and shopping (the Brooklyn Flea , which takes place here each Sunday, is perfect for picking up hidden treasures). You'll also find myriad galleries, including Klompching , which showcases incredible contemporary photography, and coffee shops galore (we love Zaruma Gold Coffee , which serves excellent Ecuadorian coffee). Brooklyn Bridge Park is a prime place for people-watching, and it’s also where you’ll find Jane’s Carousel , a must for little ones. 

Venture to Astoria.

Boogich/Getty Images

An easy subway ride from Manhattan, Astoria is chock-full of unique eats and attractions. Film buffs should not miss the Museum of the Moving Image , where they'll learn more about the art, history, and technology of movies. From there, grab a bite at one of many Greek eateries, including the always-buzzing, seafood-forward Taverna Kyclades . Other neighborhood hotspots include Astoria Park (which spans almost 60 acres along the East River), The Bonnie for creative cocktails and bar bites, and the aforementioned Socrates Sculpture Park.

Check out the Edge.

Taylor Crothers/Getty Images

Located in Hudson Yards, the Edge prides itself on being the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. The thrilling attraction is perched more 1,000 feet above the sidewalk, and its glass-bottom floors take the adrenaline-pumping experience to an entirely new level. The outdoor viewing area spans 7,500 square feet and is accessible via a 52-second elevator ride.

Grab breakfast at Tiffany’s.

Courtesy of Blue Box Cafe

Channel your inner Holly Golightly and splurge on breakfast (or lunch, afternoon tea, or dinner) at Tiffany’s — seriously. Inside the jewelry brand’s flagship Fifth Avenue location is The Blue Box Café by Daniel Boulud , where the elegant, Tiffany Blue-hued interior sets the scene for a swanky meal. Menu offerings include Holly’s Favorites (a croissant, butter and jam, fruit juice, coffee or hot chocolate) and the trademark Blue Box Celebration Cake, an Instagram-worthy treat shaped like the brand’s iconic blue box.

Enjoy a Michelin-starred meal.

Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for Blancpain

As of 2022, there were a whopping 72 Michelin-starred restaurants in the city, which means many mouthwatering meals await. The now-vegan Eleven Madison Park is a favorite among foodies and celebrities alike, while Eric Ripert’s Le Bernardin dishes out spectacular seafood. Outside of Manhattan, there's Aska in Williamsburg, which serves seasonal Scandinavian fare, and Mexican haunts like Claro in Gowanus and Casa Enrique in Long Island City.

Catch a comedy show.

Gabe Ginsberg/Getty Images

If you love to laugh, be sure to catch at least one stand-up or improv performance when in town. The city is home to dozens of venues, ranging from nationally renowned staples like the Comedy Cellar , Stand Up NY , and Gotham Comedy Club — all of which are in Manhattan — to hidden gems like The Tiny Cupboard in Bushwick.

Take a helicopter ride.

While the Big Apple is beautiful from every angle, seeing it from up above is an experience like no other. Catch a birds-eye view of your favorite NYC landmarks by embarking on a helicopter ride. The good news it that it won’t cost an arm and a leg: Both HeliNY and Liberty Helicopter offer tours starting at less than $200 per person.

Indulge in a bathhouse visit.

Adrian Gaut/Courtesy of Bathhouse

When you need a break from the city’s bustle, retreat to one of a handful of uber-sleek bathhouses for a rejuvenating soak. The aptly named Bathhouse in Williamsburg is housed in a former 1930s-era factory. Today, it’s a sleek space to relax and unwind, with amenities like thermal pools, heated marble hammams, saunas, a steam room, and treatments like massages and body scrubs — not to mention a stylish on-site bar and restaurant. AIRE Ancient Baths in Tribeca, which, like Bathhouse, occupies a restored building that was originally a textile factory, is another favorite for its wellness-centric offerings and chic ambiance.

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to New York City – Best Things To Do, See & Enjoy!

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A Brief History to New York City (NYC)

Nyc fact file, john f. kennedy international airport (jfk), newark liberty international airport (ewr), laguardia airport (lga), getting around nyc, top 10 neighborhoods to visit in nyc, top 10 nyc attractions, 10 unique & quirky things to do in nyc, top 10 iconic views in nyc, top 10 restaurants to try in nyc, 5 coffee shops to get your caffeine fix in nyc, top 5 bars to grab a drink in nyc, top 10 sweet treats in nyc, 10 nyc travel hacks, 10 fun facts about nyc, how to stay safe in nyc, final thoughts.

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No matter where you’re from, New York City is probably pretty high on your list of places to visit. And no matter the season, there are always magical things to experience.

If you’re planning a trip to NYC, you can definitely count on having a great time. There is never a dull or quiet moment — which is why New York is known as the city that never sleeps! But with all the things NYC has to offer, who would ever want to?

There’s a reason New York City is one of the most popular tourist cities in the world. Millions of people visit the Big Apple every year, and knowing the best places to see and eat will help you more fully experience the city. That’s precisely why we compiled this comprehensive guide to visiting New York City. We hope it helps you plan your next big adventure!

Before modern-day New York City, the Lenape people were the original inhabitants of the places we call Manhattan, Westchester, northern New Jersey, and western Long Island.

Fur trading changed the lifestyles of the Lenape well before any permanent European settlers stepped foot in this region.

In 1524, the Italian navigator  Giovanni da Verrazzano was the first European to enter the harbor, but the first attempt to settle came in 1624 with a group of settlers sent by the Dutch West India Company. Most of them proceeded upriver to present-day Albany, but a few settlers remained on Manhattan.

Fort Amsterdam was built to protect the little colony. With the Dutch settlement, the Lenape entered into various land deals, effectively “selling” them the land of Manhattan.

Only the third largest American port at the time of the American Revolution, New York gradually achieved trade domination and handled more than half of the country’s commercial trade by the mid-1800s.

After 1900, New York was the world’s busiest port, a distinction it held until the 1950s.

Soaring labor costs shifted business to the New Jersey side of the river after the 1960s, but at the beginning of the 21st century the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey still dominated water trade of the northeastern United States.

For the past 2 centuries, New York has been the largest and wealthiest American city. More than half the people and goods that ever entered the United States came through its port, and that stream of commerce has made change a constant presence in city life.

New York always meant possibility. Once the capital of both its state and the country, New York surpassed such status to become a global city in commerce and culture, and home to the most famous skyline on earth.

It also became a target for international terrorism — most notably the destruction of the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001.

Did you know that 1 in every 38 people who live in the United States call New York City home? Here are some more useful facts and figures to prepare you before your trip:

Population:  8.62 million

Area (including land and water):  468,484 square kilometers

Official Language:  English

Primary Religions:  Christianity & Judaism

Time Zone:  Eastern Standard Time (EST)

Currency:  U.S. Dollar (USD)

Country Dialing Code Prefix:  +1

Emergency Numbers:  911

Michelin Stars:  72

Getting to NYC

New York City is served by 3 main airports: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), and LaGuardia Airport (LGA). Sometimes you don’t have a choice which airport you fly into.

For example, JFK serves as a hub for both  American Airlines  and  Delta Air Lines , and it’s the primary operating base for  JetBlue Airways . If you do have an option, read on for the best airport to fly into based on where you’re headed in the city.

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is located in Queens, 6 miles southeast of Midtown Manhattan. If you’re flying from outside of the United States to New York City, you will likely land at JFK.

This is also a good airport to arrive at if your destination is Park Slope, Brooklyn Heights, Fort Greene, or pretty much any other neighborhood in the borough.

The following airlines service JFK:

Aer Lingus, Aeroflot, Aerolíneas Argentinas, Aeromexico, Aeroméxico Connect, Air China, Air Europa, Air France , Air India, Air Italy, Air Serbia, Alaska Airlines , All Nippon Airways, American Airlines , American Eagle, Asiana Airlines , Austrian Airlines, Avianca, Avianca Brazil, Avianca Costa Rica, Avianca El Salvador, Azerbaijan Airlines, British Airways , Brussels Airlines, Caribbean Airlines, Cathay Pacific , Cayman Airways, China Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Copa Airlines, Delta Air Lines , Delta Connection, Egypt Air, El Al, Emirates , Etihad Airways , Eurowings, EVA Air,  FinnAir, Fly Jamaica Airways, Hainan Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines , Iberia , Icelandair, Interjet, Japan Airlines , JetBlue Airways , Kenya Airways, KLM, Korean Air , Kuwait Airways, LATAM Brasil, LATAM Chile, LATAM Ecuador, LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa , Norwegian Air Shuttles, Philippine Airlines, Qantas , Qatar Airlines, Royal Air Maroc, Royal Jordanian, Saudia, Singapore Airlines , South African Airways, Sun Country Airlines, Swiss International Air Lines, TAME, TAP Air Portugal, Turkish Airlines , Ukraine International Airlines, Uzbekistan Airways, Virgin Atlantic , VivaAerobus, Volaris, Volaris Costa Rica, WestJet, XiamenAir, XL Airways France.

Traveling From the Airport to the City

Once you’ve landed at JFK, you have a few options on how to get into the city.

The cost is $52.50 flat fare (non-metered), plus a potential $4.50 for peak fare travel and added gratuity. It generally takes 30-60 minutes to reach Midtown Manhattan, depending on traffic and road conditions. For more information, call 212-NYC-TAXI or visit the  Taxi and Limousine Commission website .

AirTrain JFK & Subway

The cost is $7.75 ($5 AirTrain fee plus $2.75 MTA subway fare), but children under 5 are free. This generally takes 50-75 minutes, depending on destination. AirTrain links the airport to the subway and Long Island Rail Road. AirTrain also offers free service between points in the airport. For more information, visit  the AirTrain website .

There are many routes to take depending on your final destination. To plan your route and get details on pricing, visit  the City Bus website .

Shuttle Bus

NYC Airporter ,  Go Airlink NYC , and  SuperShuttle  are all options for shuttle service. If you book in advance, tickets can be found for as low as $17/person, but the reviews of all companies are less than stellar. Depending on the number of people in your party, a taxi may be a better use of your time and money.

Note: There are also opportunities to hire a private car service or rent a car, but these are much more expensive options. The  JFK airport website  has tons of great information as well regarding travel from the airport.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is located 15 miles southwest of New York City. If you’re flying United, you will be arriving at EWR — in fact, over 65% of passengers flying through EWR are United customers. If you have a choice, this is the best airport to fly into if you’re traveling to Manhattan.

The following airlines service EWR:

Aer Lingus, Air Canada, Air Canada Express, Air China, Air India, Alaska Airlines , Allegiant, American Airlines, American Eagle, Austrian Airlines, Avianca El Salvador, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Delta Air Lines, Delta Connection, El Al, Elite Airways, Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines, Icelandair, JetBlue Airways, La Compagnie, LEVEL, LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, Norwegian Air Shuttles , OpenSkies, Porter Airlines, Primera Air, Scandinavian Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines , Swiss International Air Lines, TAP Air Portugal, United Airlines, United Express, Vacation Express, Virgin Atlantic, VivaAerobus

Once you’ve landed in EWR, you have a few options on how to get into the city.

This will be a metered fare of approximately $50-$75, plus bridge and tunnel tolls and gratuity. The journey typically takes 45-60 minutes to Midtown Manhattan.

During weekday rush hours (6-9am and 4-7pm) and on weekends (Saturday-Sunday, 12-8pm), there is a $5 surcharge for travel anywhere in New York State except Staten Island.

AirTrain Newark

Costs vary by destination. AirTrain links to the airport via NJ Transit and Amtrak’s Newark (or EWR) train station. The journey typically takes 45-90 minutes to Midtown Manhattan, requiring a transfer from the AirTrain line to Amtrak or the  NJ Transit  line (be sure to keep your ticket after using it to exit the AirTrain station, as it is also used for the NJ Transit fare).

NYC Airporter ,  Go Airlink NYC ,  Olympia Airport Express , and  SuperShuttle  are all options. Prices vary, but are lowest when booked in advance on their websites.

LaGuardia Airport (LGA) is located in Northern Queens and is the third largest airport serving NYC. There is no border control facility at LGA, so this airport only has domestic service and international service for countries with pre-clearance. This is a good airport to arrive at if your destination is Long Island City, Astoria, Williamsburg, or Manhattan’s East Side.

The following airlines service LGA:

Air Canada, Air Canada Express, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, American Eagle, Delta Air Lines, Delta Connection, Frontier Airlines , JetBlue Airways, Rectrix Shuttle, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, United Airlines, United Express, WestJet.

Once you’ve landed in LGA, you have a few options on how to get into the city.

There isn’t a flat fee, but the ride will cost you approximately $29-$37 (metered fare), plus bridge and tunnel tolls and gratuity. It will typically take 20-25 minutes to get to Midtown Manhattan. For more information, visit the  Taxi and Limousine Commission website .

Two express buses serve LaGuardia: the M60 and Q70. The Q70 goes nonstop to Jackson Heights/Roosevelt Avenue, a major subway hub in Queens with 5 lines. The M60 runs to Harlem and connects to all the major subway lines in Manhattan. For details, visit  the City Bus website .

Similar to the advice above for JFK, shuttles are available but not recommended. The main companies are NYC Airporter ,  Go Airlink NYC , and  SuperShuttle .

Private Car Service & Car Rental

Many private car services and rental options are also available; prices will vary.

Hot Tip: Check out how one of our writers used points and miles to plan a weekend trip to New York City .

With 34 lines and 469 stops, the New York City subway system is one of the largest urban mass transportation systems in the world. Traveling to every single stop (without leaving the transit system) would take you almost 24 hours! Of course, the iconic yellow taxis are also a popular option. Here’s how to get around the city once you’ve arrived.

By Public Transportation (Subways & Buses)

If you can’t walk to your destination, mass transit is the next-best way to get around. The city’s rail and bus system is run by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and known as  MTA New York City Transit . It’s inexpensive, environmentally friendly, and a great way to see sights throughout the 5 boroughs — plus it operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The easiest option is purchasing a MetroCard, which you can do at subway stations from either automated machines or booth attendants. When you use a pay-per-ride MetroCard, a single subway or bus ride costs $2.75, and you don’t have to pay for transfers unless you exit the turnstiles.

Subway lines sometimes change routes or temporarily stop running — especially during weekends and late nights on weekdays — so be sure to check for up-to-date MTA service information at  mta.info .

The City’s fleet of yellow taxicabs and green Boro Taxis are licensed and regulated by the NYC Taxi & Limousine Commission. Grabbing a cab can be ideal when tired feet, heavy luggage, or shopping bags weigh you down. Hail taxis whose numbers are lit up on top; that means they’re on duty.

The minimum metered fare is $2.50, which increases 50 cents every 1/5 of a mile or every minute, depending on how fast you’re traveling. There is also an MTA state surcharge of 50 cents per ride and a 30-cent improvement surcharge.

An additional $1 surcharge is added to the meter Monday through Friday, 4–8pm (excluding holidays), and a 50-cent surcharge is added at night (8pm–6am). All taxis accept cash, credit, debit, and prepaid cards…and don’t forget to tip!

If you’re planning to drive around the City, use  Google Maps  to help you navigate New York City roads. Parking is the biggest concern, so make sure you know where there might be a spot for you. You may want to use an app like  SpotHero to compare parking rates and locations. Parking fees can add up fast, so plan accordingly!

If you’re planning on renting a car, check out our guide to help you save some money.

New York City is made up of 5 boroughs, but as a visitor, you’ll most likely be exploring Manhattan and Brooklyn. When planning a trip to the city, it can be overwhelming because the city is huge and spread out.

In our guide, we mainly focus on the areas you’ll visit as a tourist, but there are clearly unlimited options when it comes to great places to stay all throughout NYC on your second or third visit.

Soho is where to stay in New York City if you want to be in one of the most happening, upscale, and artsy neighborhoods. The area is littered with high-end boutiques, designer chain stores, and some of the trendiest spots in NYC. There are countless retail options, including Alexander Wang, A.P.C., Rag & Bone, James Perse, Suitsupply, Oliver Peoples, Film Forum, and Apple’s flagship store.

Also check out galleries including The New York Earth Room and The Leslie-Lohman Museum of Gay and Lesbian Art.

Where to Stay:

• Soho Grand Hotel

2. Greenwich Village

Greenwich Village is where to stay in New York City if you want to experience one of the most desired and charming neighborhoods. The Village is famous for shows like Sex in the City and Friends.

Greenwich Village is young and hip with a great nightlife, and is considered one of the most delicious foodie neighborhoods in the city! Nearby attractions include Washington Square Park, Bleecker Street Records, the famous Comedy Cellar, NYU, and tons of restaurants in the area.

• The Marlton
• The Greenwich Hotel
• Washington Square Hotel

3. Chelsea/Gramercy

Stay in Chelsea if you want to be in one of the city’s cultural hubs known for its art galleries, foodie scene, incredible location, and gorgeous brick apartment buildings. As this is one of the most desired places to live in NYC, staying here will increase your chance of bumping into celebrities.

If you want to explore other parts of NYC, it’s only a 20-minute subway ride to just about everywhere else in Manhattan.

• The New York EDITION
• The Gramercy Park Hotel
• Selina Chelsea NYC

Just across the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges lies this trendy neighborhood. You can’t help but fall in love with this area filled with independent boutiques, restaurants, trendy cafes, and killer views. Sadly, there aren’t a lot of options here for hotels, which make the available choices pretty pricey.

Nearby attractions include the famous Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge, Brooklyn Bridge Park, Jane’s Carousel, and amazing views of Manhattan’s skyline.

• 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
• Wythe Hotel
• Hampton Inn Brooklyn Downtown

Tribeca is where to stay if you’re here on business and don’t necessarily want to be in the heart of the Financial District. This is also a great spot if you want to be in one of the coolest parts in the city while still in a convenient location for getting almost everywhere in Manhattan. It’s also an easy commute to Brooklyn from here.

Nearby attractions include the World Trade Center, Oculus, City Hall, Hook & Ladder Company 8 (think Ghostbusters!), and Hudson River Park.

• Sheraton Tribeca
• Hilton Garden Inn New York/Tribeca

6. Upper East Side

This is where to stay in New York City if you are a luxury traveler who wants to be in the heart of Manhattan with easy access to the rest of the city.

Nearby attractions include designer shopping along Madison Avenue, Museum Mile (including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim, and El Museo del Barrio), and of course Central Park.

• The Sherry Netherland
• Courtyard New York Manhattan/Upper East Side

7. Upper West Side

The Upper West Side is for the general traveler who is a lover of culture and arts. It’s home to the Lincoln Center and the Natural History Museum as well as conveniently located next to Central Park. With beautiful brownstones and manicured streets filled with adorable cafes and nice shops, this is another lovely neighborhood to pick in New York City.

• Mandarin Oriental
• Arthouse Hotel
• La Quinta Inn & Suites New York Central Park

8. Meatpacking District

The Meatpacking District is another great option for where to stay in New York City if you want access to some of the best shopping and nightlife. Once home to the city’s slaughterhouses and packaging plants, this is now a cool neighborhood filled with great restaurants, upscale shopping, and bars.

Nearby attractions include half of the High Line, the Samsung Experience, the Whitney Museum of Art, Chelsea Market, Gansevoort Market, and the West Village.

• Gansevoort Meatpacking
• The Standard, High Line
• The High Line Hotel

9. Financial District

Stay here if you’re a business traveler. This is also a great place to be in lower Manhattan that is easily accessible to Brooklyn, Staten Island, and the rest of the city.

Nearby attractions include Wall Street, the Charging Bull and Fearless Girl statues, the Statue of Liberty, Battery Park, Staten Island Ferry, the World Trade Center, 9/11 Memorial, and Chinatown.

• The Beekman
• The Wagner Hotel
• Doubletree by Hilton NYC Financial District

10. Midtown

Midtown is where the tourists stay in New York City, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing! Besides Times Square, Broadway, and Rockefeller Center, Midtown also boasts quick access to Grand Central Terminal, Radio City, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Top of the Rock.

Midtown is especially recommended for anyone who is coming on a short trip, since you’re centrally located with easy access many of the city’s tourist hot spots.

• The Knickerbocker
• JW Marriott Essex House

You won’t see everything in a single trip, so it’s definitely important to prioritize your wish list in a place like New York City. Here are a few of our favorite “must-see” attractions!

1. Walk the High Line

There are few places more pleasant than a sunny afternoon on the High Line . NYC’s only elevated park is one of Manhattan’s most popular destinations, and it’s easy to see why.

Formerly a rail track that went out of use in 1980, the High Line was resurrected as a 1.45-mile green space in 2009, running from Hudson Yards to the northern edge of Chelsea. Today it’s a break from the concrete jungle planted with wildflowers and grass.

Visit: No admission fee. The Highline is open from 7am all year round. Closing times depend on the season.

Get There: Mostly located in Chelsea, but check their  website for details on how to best access the area.

You don’t have to be an art lover to appreciate the Museum of Modern Art; this museum is a shrine of pop culture and 20th-century history. Some of the most significant contemporary artists have multiple works hanging on the walls, including Picasso, Warhol, Van Gogh, Dali, and Monet. There is also an attached cinema, a sculpture garden with works by Picasso and Rodin, and a high-end restaurant and bar that are worth a stop as well.

Visit: Admission is $25 for adults, free for kids 16 and younger. Open Saturday-Thursday from 10:30am-5:30pm and Fridays from 10:30am-8pm. Admission is free on Friday evenings.

Get There:  11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019

Hot Tip: The MoMA is one of the museums you can access for free when you register for a free Cultivist membership that is available with any Capital One credit card through June 22, 2024.

3. 9/11 Memorial

The 9/11 Memorial honors the victims of the September 11th attacks, and is a solemn but important stop on any trip to New York. One World Trade, a gleaming 104-story building, is located on the former site of the Twin Towers. One World Observatory is next door and offers 360-degree views of the City.

Visit: Open to the public from 7:30am-9pm every day, no ticket necessary. However, you will need a ticket to get into the accompanying  9/11 museum , and these can be reserved up to 6 months in advance.

Get There: 180 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10007

4. Afternoon Tea at the Plaza

The Plaza Hotel  is iconic, and the afternoon tea served inside the Palm Court is considered a quintessential New York experience. While definitely a splurge at $90/person, the luxury can’t be beat. There is a preset menu of tea, sandwiches, scones, and sweets with a glass of champagne to wash it all down. Be sure to make reservations in advance, especially if you’re visiting around the holidays.

Visit: Head to  their website  to make reservations and see the current menu selection.

Get There: 768 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019

5. Central Park

In pretty much all seasons, this vast expanse of open green space calls out to anyone eager to spread out a blanket for a picnic, catch a concert or play, or just stroll through the various landscapes for a soul-soothing break from the grind. If you’re visiting Manhattan with kids , Central Park is a must!

You can’t really go wrong choosing a Central Park entrance, from bustling Columbus Circle to the much quieter, tree-lined Central Park West or Fifth Avenue.

Aim to see some of the architectural highlights like Bethesda Terrace, Strawberry Fields, the Conservatory Garden, and the Loeb Boathouse.

Visit:  No admission fee. The park unofficially closes at 1am.

Get There:  Visit the Central Park website for the best way to get there.

6. Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island

With her impressive 305-foot stature, Lady Liberty is one of the most recognized symbols of America. She also looks pretty great in a selfie! Take a ferry to go see her up close and personal. If you have a relative who was one of over 12 million immigrants who passed through Ellis Island , this is especially meaningful. Tickets to Ellis Island Immigration Museum are included in the ticket price.

Visit:  Tickets start at $18.50 for adults and $9 for kids, but upgraded tickets are available as well. Check the website for departure times.

Get There:  From Manhattan, the ferry leaves from Battery Park. There is a ferry that departs from New Jersey as well.

7. American Museum of Natural History

This museum is a great activity for the whole family! The Rose Center for Earth and Space is a favorite exhibit, but you should also plan on visiting the dinosaurs, the Hall of the Universe, and the Butterfly Conservatory. There are approximately 32 million artifacts inside spread across 4 city blocks, 25 buildings, and 45 exhibition halls…so don’t even try to see everything in 1 day!

Visit:  While there isn’t a set admission fee, the “suggested” admission price is $22 for adults, $17 for seniors and students with an ID, and $12.50 for children ages 2-12. Open daily from 10am-5:45pm.

Get There: Central Park West & 79th St, New York, NY 10024

8. Chinatown

Mott and Grand Streets are lined with stands selling exotic foods like live eels, square watermelons, and hairy rambutans, while Canal Street glitters with jewelry stores and gift shops. Remember to come hungry! Here you’ll find some of the best restaurants in NYC representing the cuisine of virtually every province of mainland China and Hong Kong, as well as Indonesian, Malaysian, Thai, and Vietnamese eateries and shops.

Wander past steamy windows with hanging Peking ducks, street carts vending drinkable coconuts in the summer, and countless restaurants serving up a variety of delicious Chinese cuisine. From delicious dumplings to dim sum, you’ll definitely leave stuffed!

Visit:  Open all the time with no admission fee

Get There:  Chinatown is an area in Lower Manhattan bordered by the Lower East Side to its east, Little Italy to its north, Civic Center to its south, and Tribeca to its west.

9. Top of the Rock

Want to get a bird’s eye view of the city? Skip the Empire State Building and head to Top of the Rock. The view of NYC from the Top of the Rock is awesome and allows you to get the Empire State Building  in  your photos! Rockefeller Plaza is famous for its  Today Show  tapings (often accompanied by free concerts in the summer), as well as its enormous Christmas tree and skating rink in the colder months.

You have a few options on how to visit. If you don’t want to pay $37 plus tax for the 70th-floor observatory, go to the bar at the Rainbow Room’s Bar SixtyFive, where a $20 cocktail gets you similar views just 5 floors below. Plus, this way you get to drink!

Visit:  The elevator is open from 8am-12:30am (the last ride up is at 11:55pm).

Get There: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112

10. Brooklyn Bridge

Constructed over a span of 14 years in the late 19th century, this massive suspension bridge was a much-needed alternative to ferrying between Manhattan and Brooklyn. At the time, it was the tallest structure in the Western hemisphere! Ideally, try to walk from Brooklyn to Manhattan so you’re facing the skyline.

To avoid crowds (and get the best pictures), head across in the early morning hours and avoid sunset. Nerd out on engineering trivia and read the plaques detailing the bridge’s fascinating history along the way.

Visit:  No admission fee. The walk takes about 45 minutes with stops for pictures and reading.

Get There: This will vary depending on the direction you want to walk, but your best bet is to take the subway.

Hot Tip:  For more ideas, check out our dedicated post: The 15 Best Tours and Activities in New York City .

This incredible city is so much more than just the Empire State Building or the Statue of Liberty! There are tons of offbeat options to help you explore the city more deeply. So while this is a great list to look at if you’ve explored all of the “must-sees,” it’s also great to help you develop an itinerary that’s a bit different from everyone else’s.

1. The Gold Vault

Want to feel a bit like Scrooge McDuck? Beneath the New York Federal Reserve Bank, you will find the largest concentration of gold in human history. It contains a government-operated vault built in bedrock that includes deposits from central banks around the world.

In total, there are about 7,000 tons of gold bars, or 5% of all gold ever mined! Surprisingly, anyone can tour the vault with the Federal Reserve Bank, but visitors must register 30 days in advance of the  tour .

Visit: 44 Maiden Ln, New York, NY 10038. Admission is free, with tours Monday-Friday at 10am.

2. Touch the Berlin Wall

After the fall of the Berlin Wall, parts of the wall were distributed around the globe, with 5 pieces ending up across New York City. The concrete hunks include artwork from artist Thierry Noir, who began painting the west side of the Berlin Wall in the 1980s to make it seem less threatening. Make a day of it and try to locate them all!

Visit: 5 locations throughout the city are open 24 hours a day

3. Tenement Museum

New York City has always been a magnet for immigrants looking for a better life. Per their website, the  Tenement Museum , located on the Lower East Side, “enhances appreciation for the profound role immigration has played and continues to play in shaping America’s evolving national identity.”

This historical museum takes visitors back in time to give them a glimpse of what it was like to be an immigrant in New York in the late 19th-early 20th centuries. Housed in a 5-story brick building, it is estimated that about 7,000 people from over 20 countries lived in this historic site.

Visit: 103 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002. Tickets start at $25 for adults. The museum is open from 10am-6:30pm Friday-Wednesday and 10am-8:30pm on Thursdays.

4. Dirt Room

It’s hard to believe 280,000 pounds of soil hides in a random New York room, but that’s exactly what can be found in one spacious Soho loft. The art installation, known as the “ New York Earth Room ,” was created by Walter De Maria in 1977…and the same dirt the artist installed 35 years ago remains today.

The Earth room contains a 22-inch deep layer of dirt spread across the 3,600-square-foot gallery. So if you need a bit of nature in the concrete jungle, you know where to go!

Visit: 141 Wooster St, New York, NY 10012. Admission is free, open Wednesday-Sunday 12-6 pm (closed from 3-3:30 pm).

5. The Cloisters

This quiet spot in northern Manhattan offers a welcome respite from the hectic pace of NYC.  The Cloisters , a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, house the museum’s extensive collection of art and architecture from Medieval Europe.

Same-day entrance is included here when you buy a ticket for the Met. To save time and skip the big line at the museum, it is recommended to buy your tickets online.

Visit: 99 Margaret Corbin Dr, New York, NY 10040. Open 10am-5:15pm daily.

6. Coney Island

Whatever kind of offbeat adventure you’re looking for, you’ll find it on Coney Island . It’s the perfect dreamlike summer escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. From Nathan’s Famous hot-dog eating contest and P.T. Barnum’s infamous “Feejee Mermaid” to an authentic circus sideshow, there are plenty of quirky attractions to be found.

Visit:  Traveling to Coney Island is easy: just take the D, Q, N, or F train to Stillwell Avenue

7. Explore Abandoned Subway Stations

New York’s subway system is one of the oldest in the world, so many of its former stations have been closed or abandoned. The most famous of them all is the City Hall station, which you can visit by joining this tour . You can also get a glimpse of the City Hall station and 2 other abandoned stops from one of the trains by staying on the 6 train while it turns around.

Visit:  The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and costs $35. It meets on the north side of the Jacob Mould Fountain, facing City

8. Kayak the Hudson River

Looking for a way to be active in the city? Try kayaking on the Hudson River! The  Manhattan Community Boathouse  is a nonprofit organization that offers free kayaks to use during summer, so this activity is even friendly on your pocketbook (though donations are accepted). Kayaks are offered on a first-come first-served basis, so show up early to ensure your spot.

Visit: 56th Street in Hudson River Park. Hours vary with the seasons:

• May 26-October 7: Saturday-Sunday 10am–6pm
• June 4-August 29: Monday-Wednesday 5:30pm-7:30pm

9. Brooklyn Flea Market

This has been ranked as one of the top markets in the United States! The  Brooklyn Flea  features over a hundred vendors selling furniture, vintage clothing, antiques, jewelry, and much more. If you are looking for a perfect and unique souvenir from your trip, you’ll probably find it here!

Visit: Open every weekend from April-October, 10am-5pm, with 2 locations:

• Saturdays: 241 37th St., in Industry City
• Sundays: 80 Pearl St., in DUMBO at the Manhattan Bridge Archway

10. Ellen’s Stardust Diner

One of the most popular things to do when coming to NYC is to go to a Broadway show. Luckily you can experience Broadway without the Broadway ticket prices! Ellen’s Stardust Diner is home to the world-famous singing waitstaff and located in Times Square.

Known as a halfway house to Broadway, the talent level in this place is insane, and the turnover rate is high due to the waitstaff getting discovered for Broadway roles. There is ALWAYS a line, so be prepared to wait.

Visit: 1650 Broadway, New York, NY 10019. Open daily from 7-midnight, so you can drop by anytime!

NYC led the pack in 2017 as the most-Instagrammed city in the world. There is clearly no shortage of iconic sights, but here are a few to fill your Instagram feed with.

1. Top of the Standard

Located on the rooftop of the Standard High Line hotel, this restaurant boasts some of the most iconic views in NYC. They serve tea and drinks in the afternoon, and in the evening they offer a small-plate menu and specialty cocktails with live jazz music. Reservations recommended.

Visit: The Standard, High Line, 848 Washington St, New York, NY 10014

2. Manhattanhenge

Twice a year, the setting sun aligns perfectly with New York City’s grid streets, creating a sunset framed by concrete and glass skyscrapers that you’ve definitely seen pop up on your feed. You can still get a great photo of the centered sun for a few days on either side of official Manhattenhenge if the crowds are too much to bear.

Visit:  The best cross-streets are 14th, 34th, 42nd, and 57th (they’re wide streets framed with architecturally beautiful buildings). Check the local news for best dates to catch it!

3. Wall Street

Home to the financial district of NYC, you’ll find world-famous landmarks and beautiful architecture here. Don’t miss the New York Stock Exchange or the Charging Bull and Fearless Girl statues. The statues tend to get incredibly busy during the day, so go early if you want a good photo!

Visit: Wall Street, New York, NY 10005

4. Brooklyn Heights Promenade

Head to the promenade for some incredible views of Lower Manhattan’s skyline and the New York harbor. This would be a great place to watch the sunset or just experience a different view of the city.

Visit: Montague St & Pierrepont Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11201

5. The Oculus

The Oculus is actually the main transportation hub for the World Trade Center, but it’s also one of the most popular sights in NYC. Head to the top floor and take a picture of the stunning skylight, and then over to the 9/11 Memorial to make a day of it.

Visit: Church St, New York, NY 10006

6. Flatiron Building

The Flatiron Building has become such an iconic landmark of Lower Manhattan that the entire area is now referred to as the Flatiron District. For over 100 years, the Flatiron Building has been an architectural icon and an international tourist attraction. It’s still a private office building, but that doesn’t detract from the wonder it stirs up when you see it for the first time.

Visit:  175 5th Ave, New York, NY 10010

7. Top Floor of the Mandarin Oriental

Head to the top floor of the Mandarin Oriental for a stunning view of the city, including wonderful views of Central Park. It’s the perfect place to have a drink, and you can visit their Asiate restaurant for brunch with a view.

Visit: 80 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10023

8. Times Square

Surrounded by energetic, buzzing crowds and the bright lights of digital billboards, there’s no more iconic view than that of Times Square. Head there at night for some truly Insta-worthy photos, but don’t expect to get the place to yourself. It is definitely one of “the” spots to go for tourists in NYC.

Visit: Manhattan, NY 10036

9. Empire State Building

If you actually want pictures OF the Empire State Building, then Top of the Rock may be a better bet…but there is definitely something special about seeing the building up close. The 102-story art deco skyscraper located in Midtown is a cultural icon, and it stood as the world’s tallest building for nearly 40 years.

Visit: 350 5th Ave, New York, NY 10118

10. Rooftop at Hotel Hugo

For beautiful views over the Hudson River, Freedom Tower, and Statue of Liberty, check out the 20th floor of Hotel Hugo in Soho. They have an incredible rooftop bar that has to make any list of the most Instagrammable places in NYC! Don’t leave early — there are some stunning views at sunset.

Visit: 525 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10013

New York City is one of the best places in the world for foodies. Here are 10 restaurants that won’t let you down!

1. Joe’s Pizza

This is your spot for a quintessential, cheap, classic New York slice. The original Bleecker Street location has been shut down since 2005, but the Carmine Street location continues to serve hot, gooey slices of flawless, foldable pizza until long after the local bars close. It’s a pretty simple shop with only a few menu options, but the price (under $3) and ambiance can’t be beat.

Visit: 7 Carmine St, New York, NY 10014. Open daily from 10am-4am or 5am depending on the day.

Get There:  Check out their website  for more details. There are countless subway stations within walking distance, so your best bet is to plug it into Google from your current destination.

2. Jack’s Wife Freda

This restaurant is a Mediterranean-inspired cafe with delicious cocktails in a couple of cute NYC neighborhoods (Soho was the original). Their brunch and late-night offerings are the most popular. If you want my ideal order, it would be the grilled haloumi, peri-peri chicken with chopped salad, or cheeseburger with fries, finished off with a fruit crisp. Yum!

Visit: The original is 224 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012. Open from 8:30am-late. Reservations are accepted for groups of 6 or more. For details about their second location, see their website .

Get There:  The closest station is Spring Street, and can be accessed by the 4, 6, or 6X train.

3. Momofuku Noodle Bar

Momofuku has the original pork bun that spurred a million copycats. By now, most people are familiar with David Chang’s culinary empire (or at least his Netflix show). New York City offers many Momofuku-associated venues offering cocktails, pastries, and fine-dining, but we like this option because of the ramen. Chang jump-started the NYC ramen craze in 2004, and any variety you choose will be one of the best you’ve ever had.

Visit: 171 1st Ave, New York, NY 10003. Open daily from noon-4 or 4:30pm. Reopens from 5:30pm-11pm (1am on weekends). Check their website for the menu.

Get There:  The closest station is at 1st Ave, taking the L.

4. Katz Delicatessen

There’s no more “New York” meal than the towering hand-carved pastrami on rye at this Lower East Side institution. Katz’s is a living portrait of frenetic customers clutching loaves of golden rye, butchers in blood-soaked aprons, and a study in the best pastrami sandwich in the city (and perhaps the world). With 4 stars and almost 10,000 reviews on Yelp, this is a pretty safe bet.

Visit: 205 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002. On weekdays, they open at 8am and close around 10:45. On weekends they’re open 24 hours.

Get There:  The F train at 2nd Ave is the closest station.

5. Russ & Daughters

This 100-year-old shop is still the place to go for the city’s finest Jewish fare. You can’t go wrong with the timeless combo cut by expert fish slicers: sesame bagel, schmear, and smoked salmon. There is always a line (welcome to New York), but it’s worth it for this classic taste of the city.

Visit:  The original shop is at 179 E Houston Street, New York, New York, 10002. Open most days from 8am-6pm.

They also have a cafe at 27 Orchard Street, New York, New York, 10002. Open from Monday-Friday from 9am-10pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 8am-10pm.

Get There:  This will be based on your preferred destination, so check their website for more details.

6. Mercer Kitchen

The in-house eatery at the Mercer Hotel showcases local ingredients in a Mediterranean fusion menu that changes with the seasons. Sample dishes might include sashimi and horseradish pizza, butternut squash soup served in an individual kettle, and salmon glazed with kaffir and lime. The atmosphere is relaxed and lively, and there’s a lovely brunch and a fun bar scene to boot.

Visit:  Located in The Mercer hotel at 99 Prince St, New York, NY 10012. Open daily from 7am-late.

Get There:  The closest station is at Prince St, access by the N & R.

7. The Butcher’s Daughter

Visit:  Nolita, West Village, and Williamsburg all have a location. Hours vary, but all 3 locations open at 8am.

Get There: Check their website for specifics based on your desired location.

8. Luke’s Lobster

The best lobster roll in NYC. The sauce is light, delicious, and not too overbearing. Luke’s gets shipments from Maine delivered daily, so you know it’s always fresh. They opened their first location in the East Village in 2009, but now have multiple across the city, in addition to a food truck!

Visit: There are 20 locations throughout the U.S. now, but 13 are in the NYC area. Check   their website  for address and hours.

Get There:  Since there are so many locations, Google is your best friend here!

This dining option with 3 Michelin stars is one of the fanciest places in NYC, but getting a table isn’t the only hard part to stomach. The tasting menu runs over $300/person (not including drinks), so you and your wallet should be prepared! That being said, you will come away fully satisfied from your 3-hour multi-course dinner. It’s an event not to be missed, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion in the Big Apple.

Visit: 10 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10019. Open daily for dinner from 5:30-11:30pm. Open Friday-Sunday for lunch from 12-1pm.

Get There:  The closest station is 59th St–Columbus Circle, which can be accessed by the 1, 2, A, B, C, & D trains.

10. Eleven Madison Park

Also on the fancier end, Eleven Madison Park was rated the World’s Best Restaurant in 2017, and they serve “European food with a New York twist.” There is a tasting menu (similar to Per Se), and some of the dishes include honey lavender roasted duck, celery root cooked in a pig’s bladder, and honey-glazed duck with turnips and huckleberries. See their website to secure reservations.

Visit: 11 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10010. Open daily for dinner from 5:30 pm. Open Friday-Sunday for lunch from 12-1pm.

Get There:  The closest station is 23rd St, which can be accessed by 7 different trains.

New Yorkers drink 7 TIMES more coffee than people in other cities, so you know there are bound to be plenty of great cafes and shops to grab your daily (or twice daily…or more) cup. Hey, you have to fit in, right?

1. Paper Coffee

This beautifully designed cafe inside the MADE Hotel is backed by Brooklyn’s Devocion Roasters, who lend a hand to a standard menu of espresso-milk drinks, plus a few specialty items like a matcha lemonade and the Vietnamese (a layered macchiato with condensed milk, espresso, and milk foam). Pastries come from Patisserie Chanson, and the black sesame kouign-amann is especially delicious.

Visit: 44 W 29th St, New York, NY 10001. Open daily from 7am-5pm.

2. Saltwater Coffee

This East Village neighborhood cafe has quickly claimed a large fan base despite its tiny size. Head to Saltwater Coffee for an expertly pulled espresso, flat white, or seasonal special like ube and charcoal vanilla chai made with Australian-style coffee. Baristas dose higher than most coffee shops and run their shots shorter, so customers get a sweeter, fuller-bodied taste with minimal acidity.

Visit: 345 E 12th St, New York, NY 10003. Open Monday to Friday from 7am-7pm, and weekends from 8am-7pm.

3. Blue Bottle

This California company uses sustainably-sourced beans from developing coffee regions all over the world, and offers seasonal menus of tasty bites like olive oil shortbread, cookies, liege waffles, pastries, and more. The Bella Donovan blend coffee and Hayes Valley Espresso are among its most popular brews. Blue Bottle is influenced by the Japanese-style small shops that serve coffees prepared carefully 1 at a time.

Visit:  There are currently 11 cafes all over New York with more on the way. Hours also vary, but most open up around 6:30am. Check their website for specifics.

4. Daily Provisions

Daily Provisions provides an atmosphere that is equal parts cozy, energizing, and intimate. Opened in February 2017, it quickly became the cafe of choice for those in the neighborhood, serving up JOE Coffee and its famous crullers (maple is their signature), plus gougéres, sandwiches, and breads. They also have a hearty evening menu if you feel like making a return trip!

Visit: 103 E 19th St, New York, NY 10003. Open Monday-Friday from 7am-9pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 8am-9pm.

5. La Colombe

Popular among New York’s pretty people, La Colombe is famous for its draft lattes. This East Coast coffee roaster from Philly comes out with various seasonal draft lattes in addition to its core draft latte menu (Black and Tan, Pure Black, and Draft Lattes). This summer it’s the Honeysuckle Latte made with natural honeysuckle extract.

Visit:  There are 8 locations throughout NYC; see their website for the location nearest to you.

New York has a roster of bars that are second to none. Depending on your preference for old-world charm, fantastic rooftop bars, or something a bit more unique, you will have no problem finding some first-class cocktails. Here are our picks for the best bars in NYC.

1. The Campbell

One of the classic New York drinking establishments, the Campbell is located inside Grand Central Terminal. It was formerly home to the offices of American financier John W. Campbell; after his death in 1957, it served as a storage closet for decades before the grand space was restored to its former glory. It now houses a chic cocktail bar that serves all the classics with light food.

Visit: 15 Vanderbilt Ave, New York, NY 10017. Open daily from noon-2am.

2. Bar SixtyFive

Set atop 30 Rockefeller Plaza, Bar SixtyFive is the lounge component of the recently reopened Rainbow Room. Modern furnishings sit beneath a geometric ceiling, and a wraparound terrace provides excellent views from the Empire State Building to Central Park…what you’re really paying for are the views! It’s best to reserve your spot in advance, and note the $65 minimum per person for the rooftop terrace.

Visit: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, 65th Floor, New York, NY 10112. Open Monday-Friday 5pm-12am and Sundays 4-9pm. Closed Saturdays.

3. Mother of Pearl

This lively tiki bar brings Hawaiian flair to the Big Apple. Owned and designed by East Village restaurateur Ravi DeRossi, it features a white-and-green tiled bar, vintage-looking tropical upholstery, and banana-leaf wallpaper. The drinks are true to the tiki theme with punchbowls and assorted fruity cocktails. For dinner, there is tuna poke, Kahlua pork belly with ginger glaze, and pineapple kimchi to choose from.

Visit: 95 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009. Open Monday-Wednesday 5pm-1am, Thursday and Friday 5pm-2am, and weekends 3pm-2am.

4. The Library Bar

The NoMad Hotel’s 2-level library, with its custom furnishings and an extensive book collection, is a unique haven for cocktail and literature lovers. Located in the heart of the Flatiron District, only guests of the NoMad Hotel are granted access to the bar after 4pm (meaning it’s rarely busy). Try the pineapple juleps, hot apple cider cocktail, or one of their other unique creations.

Visit: 1170 Broadway, New York, NY 10001. Open Monday and Tuesday from 5pm-12am and Wednesday-Saturday from 5pm-2am. Closed Sundays.

5. Ophelia Lounge NYC

There is a great 1920’s aesthetic at this bar atop the landmark Beekman Tower. Think arched glass panels restored from the original rooftop and vintage artifacts on display. Cocktails are creative, the price point is reasonable, seating is ample, service is top-notch, and advanced reservations are available online . And then, of course, there are those 360-degree views of the East River and Manhattan skyline.

Visit: 3 Mitchell Pl 26th floor, New York, NY 10017. Open Monday-Thursday 5pm-2am, Friday and Saturday 5pm-4am, and Sundays 12pm-2am.

If you’re a sucker for sweet treats and looking for something new to try, then look no further than these spots in New York City!

1. Magnolia Bakery

Magnolia Bakery  has been serving up legendary cupcakes for as long as we can remember, but they really hit the jackpot with the banana bread pudding. The classic banana flavor never disappoints, and if you’re feeling adventurous you can try out their chocolate bread pudding or rotating flavors of cupcakes.

Visit:  There are 6 locations in NYC; see their website for locations and hours.

2. Serendipity 3

Serendipity 3  has been doing dessert right since 1954. Their frozen hot chocolate is perfect for sharing, making this luxurious drink not just a cool treat but a social experience. It’s more than a milkshake — it tastes like a liquefied fudge brownie. You have to try it at least once in your life!

Visit: 225 E 60th St, New York, NY 10022. Open daily from 10am-1am.

3. Levain Bakery

Perfectly photogenic, these chocolate chip cookies are anything but boring.  Levain Bakery  has grown famous for the melty, gooey inside of their chocolate chip cookies. There are numerous cookie types to try, as well as scones, sticky buns, and freshly-baked breads to choose from.

Visit: 167 West 74th Street, New York, NY 10023 is the original location. Open Monday-Saturday from 8am-7pm and Sunday from 9am-7pm. Check their website for details of their other 3 locations.

4. Black Tap

These outrageous milkshakes have been trending on every social media channel there is.  Black Tap  is building the sugar-lover’s dream dessert fully loaded with toppings like M&Ms, cotton candy, rock candy, and chocolate chip cookies. They also serve gourmet burgers and fries, which of course make the perfect starter to a milkshake.

Visit: 529 Broome St, New York, NY 10013. Open Sunday-Thursday from 11am-12am, Friday and Saturday from 11am-1am.

5. Dominique Ansel

Dominique Ansel Bakery is a must-try on your trip to NYC. They are known for their cronut, but have plenty of other tasty treats if you don’t feel like waiting in a line for hours to try this particular pastry. Their Milk and Cookie shot is completed by pouring cool milk into a baked cookie glass right before your eyes. This dessert isn’t just a treat: it’s an experience. They also have seasonal dishes like their Hawaiian malasadas with lilikoi curd, frozen smores, and the summer strawberry tart.

Visit: 189 Spring St, New York, NY 10012. Open Monday-Thursday 8am-7pm, Friday and Saturday 8am-8pm, and Sundays 8am-7pm.

6. Squish Marshmallow

At Squish Marshmallow you can satisfy your sweet tooth with unique creations like Marshmallow Ice Cream Cones, Marshmallow Donuts, and a Dessert Bacon Egg and Cheese. For the less adventurous foodies, there are homemade marshmallows available in flavors like Apple Pie, Rocky Road, Banana Pudding, and traditional S’mores…all of which can be roasted right in front of you with a blowtorch. They’re most famous for their chocolate marshmallow tacos.

Visit: 120 Saint Marks Place Store 1, New York, NY 10009. Open Monday-Saturday from noon-10pm and Sunday from noon-9pm.

7. La Bella Ferrara Bakery

With secret recipes that span 3 centuries, this fifth-generation family-owned bakery continues to handcraft Italian desserts from the same location in NYC’s Little Italy since 1892. Ferrara’s specialty tiramisu and made-from-scratch cannoli should be a requirement for every visitor to Manhattan.

Visit: 195 Grand St, New York, NY 10013. Open daily from 9am-12am.

Have you ever wanted to eat raw cookie dough and not make yourself sick? Enter DŌ. The shop offers scoops of 13 classic cookie flavors (including fluffernutter), as well as seasonal confections like cannoli and lemonade. They have gluten-free and vegan options as well. The dough is made with pasteurized eggs and heat-treated flour, making it safe to eat raw but also engineered for baking. It can also be frozen for up to 30 days.

Visit: 550 LaGuardia Pl, New York, NY 10012. Closed Monday. Open Tuesday, Wednesday & Sunday from 10am-9pm. Open Thursday and Friday from 10am-10pm.

9. Big Gay Ice Cream Shop

This shop started as an ice cream truck in June 2009, became an East Village shop in November 2011, and now has 2 other locations in NYC. They take ice cream to a whole new level, offering treats such as The Salty Pimp (vanilla ice cream, dulce de leche, sea salt, and chocolate dip), The Ben Arthur (vanilla ice cream, dulce de leche, and crushed Nilla wafers), and The American Globs (vanilla ice cream, pretzels, sea salt, and chocolate dip).

Visit:  Check the website for details on all 3 NYC locations. You can also find pints in local grocery stores!

10. Emack & Bolio’s

Unlike most ice cream and froyo places, Emack & Bolio’s uses live cultures and nonfat milk to make their frozen yogurt. They have some unique flavors like Space Cake, S’moreo, Caramel Moose Prints, or Cosmic Punch. They’re most known for their outrageous cones, such as one covered in Rice Krispies, marshmallows, and Fruit Loops.

Visit:  There are 3 locations in NYC; see their website for addresses and hours.

1. Staten Island Ferry

The  Staten Island Ferry  is a public passenger ferry service that’s totally free to ride and runs 5 miles through New York Harbor. Skip the pricey harbor cruises and hop on the ferry instead to enjoy beautiful views of the city skyline, the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty.

2. Restaurant Week(s)

Restaurant Week  happens in New York twice a year (January/February and July/August). While they say it’s a week, it’s really more like 3 weeks so you have time to take advantage. Get 3-course meals at some of New York’s hottest restaurants at a fraction of the regular price!

3. Bryant Park NOT Rockefeller Center

If you are dying to go ice skating in New York in the Wintertime, head to  Bryant Park’s Winter Village . They offer free admission to the rink, so bring your own skates. If you don’t have any, you can rent theirs for a fee…even if you do, it’s still significantly cheaper than other (more famous) skating options.

4. Brooklyn Brewery

Brooklyn Brewery offers  free brewery tours  on the weekends with a sample at the end. The tour is for all ages, but the sample at the end is 21 and up.

5. TV Show Tapings

There are tons of great shows taped in New York City, and you can request tickets to attend a taping. Tickets are free but limited. Some shows have standby tickets to fill extra seats, so if you miss tickets give that a shot! Here are a few shows you can try:  The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon ,  The Daily Show ,  The Dr. Oz Show ,  Good Morning America ,  Late Night with Seth Myers ,  The Late Show with Stephen Colbert ,  The Rachael Ray Show , and more!

Yes, public transit in NYC is plentiful…but New York City is a great walking city too! There are so many cute boutiques, eateries, little art galleries, and neighborhood bars. You will see so much if you walk where you need to go.

7. Free Museum Days

New York is home to some of the most famous museums in the world, like The Met, The Guggenheim, MoMA, and the Museum of Natural History. Admission to some of them is over $20, but they all offer free or “pay what you wish” days each week. Save a trip to the museum for these days if you happen to be in town then.

Read our comprehensive guide to to discover the best museums in New York .

8. Happy Hours

Dining and drinking in New York are really expensive, with dinner being the priciest meal by far. If you’re up for eating early, hit up restaurant happy hours. You can get great deals on food and drinks and save big.

9. Broadway for Less

If seeing a Broadway show is on your NYC bucket list but you’re not picky about which one, the  TKTS Booth  is a great choice. Visit one of 3 locations  for same-day discounted tickets to Broadway shows. Some pros recommend hitting the Times Square booth around 5 p.m. — apparently, that’s when theaters might pop out additional tickets.

10. Taxi Payment on the Go

Just a bit of a time-saving tip: you don’t have to wait until the end of the ride to swipe your card. NYC taxis let riders swipe at any point during the ride, so you can get to the action quicker!

1. A U.S. Capital?

In 1789 it became the first capital of the United States for 1 year. Interestingly enough, New York City isn’t even the capital of New York — that’s Albany!

2. Many Millionaires

One out of every 21 New Yorkers is a millionaire. So maybe try to make a friend or 2 during your trip!

3. The Big Apple

Although many people considered the origin of the term “Big Apple” to be a mystery, researchers at Missouri University of Science and Technology managed to determine the probable origin. “Apple” referred to many of the big horse racing courses around NYC. The first known usage was by John J. FitzGerald in The New York Morning Telegraph when he mentioned going to the “Big Apple” to mean getting big money at the races.

4. Illegal Honking

Except for emergencies, honking your car horn is actually illegal in New York City. And yes, we know…everybody does it anyway.

5. A True Melting Pot

Over 37% of New Yorkers were born in another country, so it’s unsurprising that the city’s residents speak a wide range of languages (over 800 in fact)! Plus, some of the languages — like Quechua or Garifuna — are extremely rare or dying out even in their countries of origin.

6. What, How Much?

It can cost nearly $300,000 to operate a hot dog stand around Central Park!

7. Pizza  Tradition

Pizza is probably the food most frequently associated with New York City. Italian immigrants introduced the delicious, cheesy snack to the city all the way back in 1905, and New Yorkers have never looked back. Today, there are approximately 1,600 pizza restaurants in the city.

8. Moving Day

From colonial times through the beginning of the 20th century, May 1 was Moving Day in NYC…nearly everyone who needed to move apartments did so on that day. The custom caused chaos and traffic jams as the streets became clogged with horse-drawn moving vans and furniture. Fortunately, this odd practice began to die down in the 1920s, and of course modern New Yorkers can move whenever they want.

9. Foodie Roots

The ice cream cone, pasta primavera, and eggs benedict were all invented in New York City.

10. Densely Populated

New York City has more people than 39 of the 50 states in the U.S.

Despite having a population of more than 8 million people, New York City consistently ranks in the top 10 safest large cities (those with more than 500,000 people) in the United States. Violent crimes in New York City have dropped by over 50% in the last decade as well.

However, visitors should be aware that many swindlers and thieves are skilled at identifying “out of towners” and folks who may seem disoriented or confused to prey upon. While this shouldn’t scare you away from New York City, using common sense should keep you safe.

Emergency Contacts in New York City

• If you have an emergency of any kind, call  911 .
• If you need to contact the police about a non-emergency (including information), call 311 .
• If you left your property on any form of public transit, you need to direct your call to the appropriate agency. Here is a link that contains most of them.

Stay Safe in the City

• Pickpockets and thieves operate all over the world; be aware of your surroundings.
• If you are walking along the street, keep valuables on your other side. Thieves have been known to grab purses and bags as they pass by in cars or motorcycles.
• Never accept drinks from strangers, and always keep yours with you in crowded bars.
• Avoid deserted areas, especially at night. This includes popular tourist destinations like Central Park.
• If you feel uncomfortable or lost, approach a police officer or a friendly store owner to get your bearings or directions.

Public Transit Safety Tips

• Only ride in marked taxi cabs.
• When in doubt of your destination or the safety of a neighborhood, take a cab (especially late at night).
• Many business districts are desolate at night — keep this in mind when deciding whether to walk or take a cab.
• During peak times, the subway can be very crowded. If you can’t avoid travel during these times, be aware of your bags at all times.
• If taking the subway late at night, stand near the “During off hours trains stop here” sign or in view of the MetroCard booth. Ride in cars with more people and preferably in the conductor’s car (you will see him look out the window of the train when it stops).

At Your Hotel

• Always keep your valuables in a locked room safe if available.
• Hotels are open to the public, and security may not be able to screen everyone entering. Always lock your room door. Don’t assume that once inside your hotel you’re automatically safe.

Emergency Alerts

Just as important as being prepared for an emergency is staying informed, and New York City offers a variety of ways to receive emergency information.

Notify NYC is the city’s source of information about emergency events. Notify NYC is available through email, text, telephone, RSS, Twitter, and in many cases American Sign Language videos. To register for Notify NYC, call 311, 212-639-9675, or 711 for Video Relay.

Wireless Emergency Alerts are alerts sent to wireless phones by authorized governmental officials (such as Amber Alerts). You don’t need to register for these; as long as you have cell service, they will automatically be sent to you based on your location.

New York City is a huge place with a lot to do, and this list barely scratches the surface. We know we mainly stuck to Manhattan in this guide, and didn’t even really touch on all the amazing things to do in the boroughs like Queens and Brooklyn. Guess you’ll just have to make a few more trips!

So, have you traveled to New York City before? What tips do you have to guarantee a great trip to the city?

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the best places to eat in new york city.

You can’t go wrong with New York staples like Joe’s Pizza, Katz Deli, or if you’re feeling fancy, Eleven Madison Park.

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About Christy Rodriguez

After having “non-rev” privileges with Southwest Airlines, Christy dove into the world of points and miles so she could continue traveling for free. Her other passion is personal finance, and is a certified CPA.

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17 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in New York State

Written by Shandley McMurray and Lana Law Updated Sep 16, 2022

The task of choosing a handful of top attractions to represent the entire state of New York is not an easy one thanks to its nearly endless number of things to see and do. From the historic to the most contemporary, New York State overflows with interesting places to visit.

New York City is undeniably the state's most popular tourist destination, and it's packed with famous attractions, restaurants, and shops. The borough of Manhattan is home to many of the city's top destinations, like Central Park, Times Square, the Empire State Building, and much more.

Upstate New York, as locals call pretty much anything north of the city, offers year-round vacation possibilities. In summer, the many lakes and mountains, along with New York's charming small towns , are the main attractions.

Winter is also a popular time to visit due to the ski resorts and luxury hotels and lodges that make great getaways.

Plan the perfect escape any time of year with our list of attractions and places to visit in New York State.

1. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

2. niagara falls, 3. central park, 4. times square, 5. finger lakes, 6. lake placid, 7. lake george, 8. storm king art center, 9. cooperstown, 10. thousand islands, 11. the adirondacks, 12. the catskills, 13. letchworth state park, 14. darwin d. martin house complex, buffalo, 15. watkins glen state park, 16. george eastman house and the international museum of photography and film, rochester, 17. kingston.

The Statue of Liberty is the nation's most iconic monument , a symbol of hope to millions of immigrants on their way to Ellis Island.

Tourists can visit both attractions via a ferry operated by the National Park Service that meets passengers at Battery Park and runs continuous loops throughout the day.

The first stop is the statue, where visitors can enjoy views of both the monument and the New York City skyline at no charge. You can also purchase tickets to access the pedestal or crown, although crown passes sell out at least six months in advance.

Be sure to wander through the museum in the base of the statue and check out the extensive educational signs, statues, and historic markers.

The ferry stops next at Ellis Island, where there is a museum on the first floor of the main building, an architectural masterpiece that once served as the main processing center and hospital from 1892 to 1954. On the upper level, tourists can wander the rooms of the quarantine wing and see some of the original bunks and facilities used by those hoping to start new lives.

Inside are poignant exhibits, with walls of photos, documents, and personal stories that capture defining moments in American history, one person at a time.

Tourists should plan at least a half day to enjoy sightseeing at both attractions, or if pressed for time consider hopping aboard the ferry and using the ride to get phenomenal views of these New York City landmarks from many angles.

Official site: www.nps.gov/stli

Niagara Falls is one of the natural wonders of North America, drawing millions of visitors each year. Located along the border of Canada and the United States, there are actually three waterfalls within the park: Bridal Veil Falls, American Falls, and Horseshoe Falls. Horseshoe Falls is the widest and tallest, dropping 167 feet from a 2,700-foot-wide ledge.

For the best panoramic view of all three falls, go up the observation tower, or take the famed Hornblower boat tour into the basin of Horseshoe Falls. It's one of the most popular things to do in Niagara Falls . In addition to park information and tour tickets, the visitor center has a gift shop, several dining options, and a theater that shows a 40-minute film about the history and legend of the falls.

The park also provides nighttime illumination of the falls and hosts spectacular fireworks shows on special occasions.

In winter, the falls transform into a frozen spectacle of massive icicles, freezing fog, and ice-covered trees and railings. On clear, calm days, the plume of mist rising off the falls stretches high into the sky and can be seen from as far away as the CN Tower in Toronto.

Official site: www.niagarafallsstatepark.com

Although it may appear on a map as a small patch of green within the grid of Manhattan streets, Central Park is an expansive space that contains enough sights and things to do to last for days, if not longer.

Central Park is home to a wide range of attractions , from impressive architecture and peaceful gardens to skating rinks.

Bethesda Terrace is known for its stunning Bethesda Fountain, and the Mall , an idyllic, broad pathway canopied by the arching limbs of centuries-old American elms, begins at the terrace. Tourists will find several peaceful spots to relax, like the formal Conservatory Garden , the Shakespeare Garden , or the famed Chess & Checkers House .

Kids will enjoy the Central Park Zoo , which features sea lions, penguins, and other animals, and the younger ones will want to ride on the historic Carousel . The park also has, of course, expansive green lawns and enough playgrounds to keep kids busy for days.

Heckscher Playground lies mid-park between 61st and 63rd streets and boasts an extensive sprinkler area to help little ones cool off on a hot summer day. It dates to 1926 and also has slides, a giant sandbox, and climbing structures, as well as lots of open space to run around.

The Billy Johnson playground near the zoo features a stone slide beloved by kids. Be sure to bring a newspaper, or better yet, the lid of a pizza box to sit on while sliding, as it makes the ride faster.

Several ponds are also on hand to enhance the ambience. Pack a picnic and enjoy your meal with a side of people-watching.

Central Park can be toured by horse-drawn carriage for the ultimate romantic sightseeing experience.

Official site: www.centralparknyc.org

There are weeks' worth of attractions and things to do in and around Times Square, but even a brief visit to experience the bigger-than-life excitement is worth the trip. The heart of Times Square is at the junction of Broadway and 7th Ave, where you will be mesmerized by the massive screens that announce everything from the newest films and shows to special presentations.

The pedestrian areas are full of artists, performers, and tourists taking in the cacophony of the city and the enticing smells wafting from the food trucks that line the streets. While in the neighborhood, a visit is not complete without dinner at Sardi's Restaurant and a show in the world-famous Theater District .

Traveling with the kids? You'll find plenty of family attractions, including Madame Tussauds , which has not only amazing waxworks and interactive exhibits but also offers a new perspective from the glass-walled viewing platform that protrudes over the sidewalk.

Times Square is also home to a staggering number of stores, big and small, and no visit is complete without a stop at M&M World where you can't help but smile. The Empire State Building , another NYC icon, is within walking distance of the square and is open until 2am for breathtaking views of the city below.

According to Iroquois legend, the long, narrow lakes in the landscape west of Syracuse were formed by the impression of the fingers of the Great Spirit. The numerous lakes that make up the Finger Lakes region offer a range of outdoor opportunities in a visually stunning landscape.

Cute towns and Finger Lakes resorts are dotted along the lakeshores of the main lakes, most of which are particularly busy during the summer months. Some interesting ways to explore the area are on the Cayuga Trail, the Seneca Lake Trail, and the Keuka Trail.

The town of Corning is home to the living history museum Heritage Village of the Southern Finger Lakes , as well as The Rockwell Museum , which features a variety of artwork. Auburn is also home to several attractions, including the Harriet Tubman House , the Seward House Museum , Willard Chapel, and the Fingerlakes Mall. Additional attractions include the Finger Lakes Museum in Branchport and the Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Park.

Seeing the falls at Watkins Glen State Park ; riding in a hot air balloon over Letchworth State Park , and having an adventure at Greek Peak Mountain Resort are among the best things to do in the Finger Lakes .

The world-famous winter sports resort of Lake Placid, at the foot of Whiteface Mountain , has twice hosted the Winter Olympics (1932, 1980). Today Lake Placid is a major tourist center , located in beautiful natural surroundings with lakes and hills.

While it is perhaps best known internationally for its winter recreation, particularly skiing, the town is a popular summer destination as well. All kinds of unique shops and restaurants line the main tourist strip in Lake Placid. Beautiful resorts are found along the shores and in the rolling landscape.

In addition to the actual body of water named Lake Placid, there is also the incredibly scenic Mirror Lake , which is a centerpiece of the town. The setting for this lake makes it one of the most beautiful lakes in New York State .

The town of Lake George is located at the southern end of a 32-mile-long lake of the same name. The town is a major tourist destination in the summer, and the lake itself is the main attraction.

Many of the islands on the lake have been developed for camping, and the area is particularly popular with motorcyclists.

Million Dollar Beach , on Beach Road, provides swimming, picnic facilities, and volleyball courts. Sightseeing cruises are also a fun way to see the lake. Prospect Mountain offers a high scenic point for a view out over the lake and surroundings.

Historical points of interest around Lake George include Lake George Battlefield Park and the Fort William Henry Museum .

Wear comfortable shoes when you visit Storm King Art Center, which was named for the nearby mountain overlooking the Hudson River. This magnificent outdoor sculpture gallery set among 500 acres of bucolic landscape is by far one of the most captivating attractions in New York state – and you'll want to walk around it all.

Not a walker? No worries. There's a tram on-site to take you past most of the massive sculptures, but you'll want to download the site's app to get the most detailed information about each piece. Also, since this is an open-air attraction, plan your visit for a nice day to get the most out of your trip.

Many of the ambitious works on display throughout the fields and hills of this unique exhibition change frequently, and the art looks different in every season. That means you're in for a new experience with every visit. And trust us, going once really isn't enough!

Storm King is open Wednesdays to Mondays from 10am to 5:30pm. Last entry is at 4. It will take at least two hours to explore the area, more if you'd like to stop and appreciate the impressive works, so plan your trip accordingly. There's a café on-site offering healthy lunches, drinks, and snacks to help ward off hunger pangs during your journey.

Address: 1 Museum Road, New Windsor, New York

Official site: https://stormking.org/

Cooperstown sits at the southern tip of Otsego Lake in central New York state. It is best known as the home of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum , where baseball aficionados can admire the sport's legends and view memorabilia.

The Heroes of Baseball Wax Museum is a fun follow-up to the Hall of Fame, and although it is on the smaller side, it is fun to pose with baseball's greats in a laid-back atmosphere and enjoy their "baseball bloopers" film in the small theater.

Cultural attractions in Cooperstown include the Fenimore Art Museum and the Alice Busch Theater , which hosts the Glimmerglass Festival, an annual international opera event. There are also historic sites like Hyde Hall , once a sprawling colonial estate, as well as The Farmer's Museum , where life on Lippitt Farmstead and a historic village is brought to life.

Dotted all over a 50 mile stretch of the St. Lawrence River are thousands of little islands. They are located along a granite shelf extending from the Canadian Shield to the Adirondack Mountains in the United States, with the boundary actually running between the islands. It is an area of great scenic beauty any time of year, but especially vibrant in autumn during foliage season.

Operating between mid-May and mid-October, boat tours among the maze of islands show ever-changing vistas and include glimpses of holiday homes that range from the plainest of log cabins to the most luxurious of summer villas. One of the most amazing sights in the Thousand Islands is the stunning Boldt Castle dating from 1900.

The Adirondacks are a scenic range of forest-covered hills in northern New York state, with numerous lakes and recreational opportunities. The hills are part of the Canadian Shield and reach a height of over 5,000 feet.

The highest peak is Mount Marcy at 5,345 feet. The Adirondacks are a favorite holiday destination for New Yorkers. People come here to enjoy hiking, canoe on the extensive waterways, and relax at lakeside cottages and resorts in the Adirondacks .

This is a beautiful area to photograph in the fall, with an incredible display of New York autumn colors .

Another popular destination to experience nature in New York State is the Catskills. The rugged countryside of rolling hills and peaceful lakes is perfect for recharging your mental batteries. You can be as active as you like by undertaking activities like biking, canoeing, and hiking; or as lazy as you like by sitting by the pool, snoozing, or visiting the spa at one of the many top resorts in the Catskills.

In the winter, the Catskills transform into a snowy wonderland and draw skiers from far and wide to some of the finest ski resorts in New York .

Letchworth State Park is home to three sets of waterfalls along the dramatic Genesee River Gorge. Steep cliff walls line the gorge, which is surrounded by forest, and it is often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the East."

Middle Falls is the largest, with a 107-foot drop, and is illuminated at night from May through October. It's dubbed one of the best waterfalls in New York for good reason! Upper Falls is just as captivating, but only drops about 70 feet. It is surrounded by stunning rock cliffs and crossed by the photo-worthy Portage High Bridge.

The park offers a full range of facilities, from campsites and cabin rentals to trails, swimming, a playground, and concessions. Winter activities include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and designated snowmobile trails.

One of the most memorable experiences in Letchworth State Park is definitely the hot air balloon rides that soar high above the phenomenal landscape, offering views that truly can't be beat. Book one during fall for the most impressive display of Mother Nature's best color show.

Darwin and Isabelle Martin commissioned Frank Lloyd Wright to build a multi-structure complex in 1904, which he did at the height of his Prairie House era. It is considered by many to be his finest such work.

One of the top things to do in Buffalo , the house is open to the public and can be toured on either a Basic Tour or an In-Depth Tour, with guides who can direct viewers to the details and enhance visitors' understanding of the structure. Portions of the estate that were torn down over the years are being reconstructed.

Address: 125 Jewett Parkway, Buffalo, New York

Official site: www.darwinmartinhouse.org

Watkins Glen is located at the southern tip of Seneca Lake within the Finger Lakes State Parks . The glen extends for two miles, dropping a total of 400 feet over 19 waterfalls, past 200-foot cliffs that were carved by the water.

In addition to admiring the gorge from its rim trails, visitors will find many things to do, including fishing, hiking, and even swimming in the park's Olympic-sized pool. The park has campsites for both tents and RVs, as well as picnic areas for day visitors. Guided tours of the gorge are available in season.

Official site: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/142/

The 50-room George Eastman mansion was completed in 1905 and originally included a stable, garage, barn, five greenhouses, and many gardens. Located in Rochester, the house has been restored to its appearance in the early 1900s, with photographs made by Eastman, as well as letters and notes that assisted in the restoration.

The outstanding International Museum of Photography and Film is located on the grounds and will be of interest to anyone with a passion for photography. The museum also showcases a number of traveling exhibits and movies on a regular basis. Be sure to check their website to see what's coming up.

Address: 900 East Avenue, Rochester, New York

Official site: https://www.eastman.org/

Kingston is a quaint waterfront town that lies on the outskirts of the Catskills, about two hours north of Manhattan. It's a popular place to spend a weekend in New York , with a slew of fun things to do, especially during summer.

When the warm sun shines, this unassuming town really comes to life–in the form of outdoor concerts, festivals, and other fun events. Grab a bite on an outdoor patio by the Hudson River, hop on a cruise, or tour one of the area's multiple museums.

The Hudson River Museum is particularly interesting if you're a fan of all things nautical, while train lovers could spend hours in the Trolley Museum of New York .

Save time to practice a little retail therapy in the boutique shops Uptown , but do not miss a wander along the streets of the Stockade Historic District . This region is comprised of eight blocks of fairy-tale worthy buildings and so much charm, you'll want to stay longer.

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Here are some the best places to visit in new york city:, statue of liberty.

A colossal neoclassical sculpture on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic places to visit in New York City. It is a copper statue; the Statue of Liberty Enlightening the world was gifted by France to the United States for friendship. 

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Times Square

Located at Broadway, 7th Avenue cornered by 42nd and 47th Streets, Times Square is a major commercial intersection, tourist destination, entertainment hub, and one of the major New York City attractions. Dating back to the 1880s, its original name was Long Acre Square. However, the mayor of New York renamed it Times Square, in 1904, after the popular daily The New York Times took up residence in the building. 

Central Park

Central Park is the fifth largest urban park in New York City and is located between the Upper West and Upper East sides of Manhattan. The park has lots of popular attractions for its visitors. Some attractions are historically significant but all of them are beautiful, such as artificial lakes, meadows, waterfalls, and wooded areas. These attractions also include Belvedere Castle, and Blockhouse, a remaining Fort from the War of 1812.

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Metropolitan Museum Of Art

Locally known as “the met,” the Metropolitan Museum of Art is the largest art museum in America. It has a rich collection of over two million words, divided among seventeen curatorial departments. One of the world’s largest and finest art museums, you get the artworks of over 5,000 years representing the world’s culture, from prehistory to the present and from every corner of the Earth. 

Broadway And The Theater District

Broadway is the name of the oldest north-south running, diagonal road that begins from State Street at Bowling Green. The Theater District is an area in Midtown Manhattan, New York, where 41 major Broadway theatres are located. Also known as the Broadway Theater district, it is amongst the prominent New York City attractions, especially for theatre lovers. Home to the city’s best theatres, it is recognized as the heart of the entertainment industry.  

The Museum Of Modern Art

MoMA or the Museum of Modern Art is one of the most popular places to Visit in New York City known for its world’s largest collection of artefacts. A fusion of creativity, the museum plays a crucial role in preservation, development and collection of modern art. MoMA was established in 1929 and a permanent collection was brought into the realm in 1952.

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World Trade Center

A large complex of several buildings, the World Trade Center is located in the Financial district of Lower Manhattan in New York City. The twin towers of the World Trade Center, the north and south, were devastated to an extent sufficient to shake the nation’s spirit in the 9/11 attack. The buildings were then rebuilt and opened to people in 2014. 

Rockefeller Center

The Centre is a complex of nineteen commercial buildings in Midtown Manhattan, as well as one of the major New York City Attractions. Named after John D. Rockefeller Jr., the centre was created over 100 years ago. To bring his idea of a “city within a city” to ground reality, a fusion of art, style, and entertainment, the centre has every bit to offer what the city has.

Empire State Building

A 102-storey Art Deco modernist skyscraper in the heart of New York, Midtown Manhattan, the building is named after the nickname of New York, ‘Empire State’. One of the most distinctive and famous buildings in the United States of America, the Empire State building is listed amongst the renowned New York tourist attractions. It also tops America's favourite architecture list, and stands tall at 1250 feet.

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9/11 Memorial And Museum

The memorial and museum commemorates the terrorist attacks on September 9th, 2001, in which the Al Qaeda terrorist organisation hijacked four passenger-laided aeroplanes. During the rebuilding of the devastated twin towers of the World Trade Center, the 9/11 memorial and museum was established.

High line is a 1.45 mile long elevated linear park on the West Side of Manhattan. It is maintained by Friends of the High line, a non-profit organisation. The organisation is dedicated to reimagining the public spaces and its role to create connections, healthy neighbourhoods and cities. Walk through the garden, explore artworks, experience performances, cherish delicious food, and build connections with friends and neighbours. 

Brooklyn Bridge

The first fixed crossing of the East river, the Brooklyn bridge is a cable-stayed/ suspension bridge that connects the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn. It was the first bridge to use steel for cable wires. It is also considered as an amazing feat of the nineteenth century engineering marvels. 

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Fifth Avenue

Also known as the shopping district, Fifth Avenue is the area between 49th and 60th streets in Manhattan. It does not fail to reserve its name in ‘places to visit in New York City’. Fifth Avenue is one of the most expensive shopping districts on the Earth. It is also one of the most picturesque streets and avenues in Manhattan with museums, hotels, restaurants and luxurious buildings.

One World Observatory

It is basically an observation deck at the top of One World Trade Center. The observatory floors were located on 100-102 floors of the centre, with dining options at the ONE Dine and exhibits. The Observatory provides space to host events, for example, ASPIRE, a 9000 square foot space, which provides an unparalleled vantage point in the city to enjoy and host events. 

Wall Street

An eight-block long street located in the financial district of Lower Manhattan in New York City, the Wall Street is a 800 metre long stretch. The Wall Street extends in the West from Broadway to South Street and the East river in the east. Since ages, Wall Street has been headquarters of some of the largest Brokerages and Investment banks of the United States of America.

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New York Public Library

Home to 53 million items and spread over 92 locations, the public library is listed as one of the most popular places to visit in New York City. It is also the second largest public library in the United States and the fourth largest in the world. People from anywhere can attend the public programs and access the facilities available in the Library, by showing an ID proof.

St. Patricks Cathedral

A Catholic Cathedral in Midtown Manhattan, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of New York and the Parish Church. Enjoy the stunning architecture of the Cathedral, and pray the rosary during evening hours. The largest neo-Gothic Cathedral spreads over an entire city block and is visited by millions of visitors annually. 

Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum is an art museum that exhibits collections of modern and contemporary art, presenting new ideas on modernism. The museum has housed the art-collecting activities of Solomon R. Guggenheim and is part of UNESCO World Heritage . It’s one of the most famous places to visit in New York City attracting visitors with its unique architecture and collection.

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Bryant Park

The park is a recreational area with walking paths, cycling paths, artificial lakes, and boat rentals for its visitors. One of the busiest public places in the World, Bryant Park is famous for its winter village theme, with cosy igloos and other winter sports activities. Mecca for arts and culture, the Park has engaging and captivating events, festive, delicious food, and fitness classes to offer its visitors.

Carnegie Hall

A concert venue in Midtown Manhattan, Carnegie Hall is famous for its history, rooted in its acoustics, beautiful interiors, and concert halls.One of the most prestigious facilities in the world, the gallery has been one of the ultimate badges of musical honour. The mission of Carnegie Hall has been to present music and musicians and to transform the power of music.

American Museum Of Natural History

As the name suggests, the American Museum Of Natural History is a natural history museum situated on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. Home to around fifty exhibits, the museum is considered one of the world’s largest and most notable museums. The museum is a renowned institution and offers both education and entertainment. Explore the museum’s landmark, the rose centre for Earth and Space. 

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Washington Square Park

The Greenwich Village neighbourhood of Lower Manhattan has this beautiful Washington Square Park that stretches over 9.75 acres. It is one of the New York City attractions, a well known public park, is used for meetings and as a centre for cultural activities. The greenery around the park, walkways and the beautiful stone-rimmed fountain has spectacular views and sights to offer its visitors.

Radio City Music Hall

An entertainment venue and theatre, the Radio City Music Hall falls within the Rockefeller Center. Located in Midtown Manhattan, it is nicknamed “The Showplace of the Nation” and it is the Headquarters for the Rockettes. The night shows, performances, comedian shows, and chart-tapping musical art, the Hall has everything to offer to its attendees.

Liberty Island

An island owned by the federal government, Liberty Island is one of the famous New York tourist attractions that holds historical and national significance. It is located in Upper New York Bay in the United States. The island is dedicated to the notable Statue of Liberty, which is also its most notable feature. 

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New York Harbor

The opening of the Hudson river, the New York harbour empties into New York Bay near the East River Estuary. One of the most beautiful places to visit in New York City, the harbour is one of the largest natural harbours in the world. It plays a vital role in the region's economy, wherein it transports millions of kilograms of cargo, through thousands of water vessels.

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Upstate New York bucket list: 50 Places to visit in 2021

• Updated: Feb. 26, 2021, 10:04 a.m. |
• Published: Feb. 22, 2021, 6:00 a.m.
• Chuck D'Imperio

With so much to offer in history, beauty and fun, here’s a starting sampler “Bucket List” for any first-time visitor or longtime resident in Upstate New York to seek out.

Please note: In this time of pandemic, many of these places may be temporarily closed, or have modified hours. Visit their websites before heading out. And if you find your favorite destination to be closed for now, please keep this list and revisit them in the future when things return to normal.

Tibbetts Point Lighthouse at the mouth of the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario August 6, 2020. N. Scott Trimble | [email protected] N. Scott Trimble | strimble@syra

1. Tibbetts Point Lighthouse (Cape Vincent; Jefferson County)

58-foot tall historic lighthouse located “where the lake and the river meet.” Point of land where the St. Lawrence River joins Lake Ontario. Built in 1854. Gorgeous sunsets.

Website: https://www.tibbettspointlighthouse.org/

2. Walkway Over the Hudson (Poughkeepsie; Dutchess County)

One of Upstate’s greatest man-made wonders. Old train bridge which crosses the Hudson River now turned into the world’s longest pedestrian walkway. Hundreds of thousands walk over the river here each year.

Website: https://walkway.org/

3. Farmers Museum (Cooperstown; Otsego County)

A glimpse of life in Upstate New York in the 1800s. Home of the Cardiff Giant, which was once known as “America’s Greatest Hoax.”

Website: https://www.farmersmuseum.org/

4. Anchor Bar (Buffalo; Erie County)

Birthplace of the No. 1 appetizer in the country, chicken wings. The Buffalo hot wings were invented at this neighborhood bar on March 4, 1964 and since then it has become one of the city’s top destination restaurants.

Website: https://anchorbar.com/

5. Pratt Rock (Prattsville; Greene County)

A mountaintop canyon with white carvings along the stone walls. All were done by Zadock Pratt who owned the world’s largest tannery in the village named for him. Has been called “New York’s Mount Rushmore.”

Website: https://www.greatnortherncatskills.com/outdoors/pratt-rock-new-yorks-mount-rushmore

6. Corning Tower (Albany; Albany County)

This is the tallest building in New York State outside of New York City. The glass-walled observation deck on the 42nd floor offer visitors an amazing view of the city and mountains in the distance. One of the best free things in Albany.

Website: https://empirestateplaza.ny.gov/corning-tower-observation-deck

View from the top of Little Whiteface at Whiteface Ski Center, Lake Placid, N.Y., Saturday, January 16, 2016. Scott Schild | [email protected]

7. Whiteface Mountain (Wilmington; Essex County)

Take a drive to the top of New York State’s fifth highest mountain. On a clear day you can even see the skyscrapers of downtown Montreal, Canada. The 8-mile Whiteface Veterans Memorial Highway to the top is a toll road.

Website: https://whiteface.com/

8. Rod Serling Carousel (Binghamton; Broome County)

Recreation Park is one of Binghamton’s oldest parks. It has a 1925 Herschell carousel which has been enjoyed by visitors since 1925. Playwright Rod Serling, a native of Binghamton, wrote an episode of his famed “Twilight Zone” television show about this park. The episode, titled “Walking Distance,” aired on October 30, 1959.

Website: https://www.facebook.com/binghamtonrecreationpark/

9. Moosewood Restaurant (Ithaca; Tompkins County)

Popular vegetarian restaurant opened by a group of friends in 1973. Restaurant is very popular with college students, college alumni, locals and tourists. Famed for their cookbooks with more than a dozen in print, they are among the bestselling recipe books in the country.

Website: https://moosewoodcooks.com/

10. Northeast Classic Car Museum (Norwich; Chenango County)

A dazzling auto museum with one of the largest collections of Franklin cars in the country. Over 160 vehicles with many dating from 1899 to post-World War II.

Website: https://www.classiccarmuseum.org/

Over a period of 37 years Harvey Fite (1903-1976) created the monumental world-acclaimed 6 ½-acre bluestone sculpture now known as Opus 40 in the town of Saugerties, NY. David Lassman | [email protected]

11. Opus 40 (Saugerties; Ulster County)

Amazing outdoor sculpture park constructed in a quarry. Intricate man-made stairways, passages, and stone walls. Gorgeous bluestone setting. Popular with tourists and as a wedding site.

Website: https://opus40.org/

12. Rondout Area (Kingston; Ulster County)

Kingston was the first capital of New York State. The Rondout is the city’s historic waterfront area. Many fine shops, restaurants, and museums in area.

Website: https://www.thekingstonwaterfront.com/

13. Jell-O Museum (Le Roy; Genesee County)

Le Roy is the birthplace of Jell-O. A Jell-O museum here tells the story of the beginnings of “America’s Favorite Dessert” through exhibits, audio and visual presentations and many examples of rare Jell-O ephemera from the past century.

Website: https://www.jellogallery.org/

14. Andes Hotel (Andes; Delaware County)

A historic tavern, inn and motel built in 1853. Great weekend destination in the autumn months. The wide front porch here is a half-block long and is perfect for dinner, drinks and people watching (or leaf peeping).

Website: https://www.theandeshotel.com/

15. Strong National Museum of Play (Rochester; Monroe County)

A museum dedicated to the concept that play is not only good for all ages, but also is healthy! Home of the National Toy Hall of Fame. Yes, this is where your Etch-A-Sketchs, spinning tops, Candyland games and your little red wagon all came to be immortalized.

Website: https://www.museumofplay.org/

16. Lucille Ball Grave (Jamestown; Chautauqua County)

Hometown girl Lucille Ball is buried in Lake View Cemetery here. Thousands come to Lucy’s grave each year to pay their respects. City is home to the National Comedy Museum and a museum dedicated to Lucy and Desi and their groundbreaking show “I Love Lucy.”

Website: https://comedycenter.org/

In this April 15, 2020 photo, a lone pedestrian makes their way through the Ithaca Commons in Ithaca, N.Y. Most of the almost 24,000 students at Cornell University and 6,200 more from Ithaca College effectively vanished in March when the pandemic struck, leaving behind struggling restaurants and shops. Locals still reeling from the outbreak and resulting exodus are wondering when - or if - things will get back to normal. (John Munson/Cornell University via AP) AP

17. Ithaca Commons (Ithaca; Tompkins County)

A groundbreaking pedestrian mall in the heart of the downtown business district. All vehicular traffic routed around the commercial district. A popular gathering place for shopping, dining, festivals, concerts and with over 100 independently owned specialty stores and businesses. The Commons today is the cultural and retail heart of the city of Ithaca.

Website: https://www.downtownithaca.com/visit-downtown/the-commons/

18. 1890 House Museum (Cortland; Cortland County)

One of Upstate’s great old mansions that is open for public tours. Was the former home of millionaire Chester Wickwire. He made his millions producing woven wire products, such as screens, horse muzzles, popcorn poppers, stove sieves, etc. At one time more than half of the adults in Cortland were employed by Wickwire’s company. The mansion is a Victorian-era stunner.

Website: http://the1890house.org/chester-f-wickwire/

19. Brooks House of Bar-B-Q (Oneonta; Otsego County)

Now in the hands of a third generation of Brooks family members, this is one of New York’s most famous family chicken restaurants. Winner of the James Beard Classic American Restaurant Award. Barbecue chicken is cooked on the largest indoor charcoal fire pit east of the Mississippi (38-feet long).

Website: https://brooksbbq.com/restaurant/

20. USS Slater (Albany; Albany County)

This ship, docked in the Hudson River in Albany, is a floating military museum unlike any other. Of the 563 Destroyer Escorts that were built and employed during World War II, the Slater is the last surviving one still afloat. Today it is an amazing museum which offers tours of the ship from top to bottom. Most of the docents are retired naval officers who give interesting details about the ship and its crew as you go from the bunk room, to the engine room, to the captain’s dining quarters and even to the gun turrets (the kids like this part the best).

Website: https://ussslater.org/

21. Canandaigua City Pier (Canandaigua; Ontario County)

This Finger Lakes community of 10,000 residents acts as a gateway to this popular tourism region of Upstate New York. At the lake front is a long pier which allows the visitor to walk far out over the water and enjoy a spectacular view of the lake and the surrounding shoreline. Near the end of the pier is a famous cluster of gaily colored small boat houses that have become a bit of a charming icon of the city. Rarely do you view the pier and boat houses without seeing artists or photographers capturing this image in paintings and pictures.

Website: https://www.visitfingerlakes.com/listings/canandaigua-city-pier/566/

22. John Boyd Thacher State Park (Voorheesville; Albany County)

A fantastic state park located 18 miles from the Capital District. The park offers all recreational amenities associated with a state park, with a few exceptions. The view from the park, which is located at the top of the Helderlberg Escarpment, is breathtaking. In the distance you can see the foothills of the Adirondacks, the Green Mountains of Vermont, and the skyscrapers of Albany’s Empire Plaza. The famed Indian Ladder Trail allows a visitor to descend a 60-foot metal ladder and then walk along a narrow path which clings to the face of a cliff. The path takes you under a waterfall so intrepid visitors are bound to get a little wet.

Website: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/128/details.aspx

23. Oldest Miniature Golf Course in U.S.A. (Irondequoit; Monroe County)

This is fun and historic. The oldest operating miniature golf course in the United States. The Parkside Whispering Pines Mini-Golf is a real slice of Americana. The course is decidedly old-fashioned, but fun to play. The theme here is the ocean (or the Great Lakes since the course is a 9-iron drive from Lake Ontario). It is dotted with lighthouses, lobster traps, colorful buoys, and carved pelicans. And American flags. Lots of American flags. Opened in 1930. A 1950s-style diner adjoins the course.

Website: https://parksidediner.com/

24. Olana (Hudson; Columbia County)

The magnificent estate of famed artist Frederick E. Church. This Moorish-like castle crowns the top of a mountain overlooking the Hudson Valley. Church lived here for years and oversaw the building and expansion of the home. The large windows of the living quarters “frame” the magnificent Hudson paintings that he was famous for. Tours of the mansion as well as the 250-acre grounds are fascinating. Don’t forget to ask your tour guide for the story of the four teapots on the roof!

Website: https://www.olana.org/

The bird's nest allows you to look out over the treetops at the beautiful mountains of the Adirondacks. Stefani Reynolds for nyup.com

25. The Wild Center (Tupper Lake; Franklin County)

Since opening in 2006 this has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Adirondack Park. Although basically a natural history education center, the highlight is the Wild Walk. Here, through a series of intricate suspension bridges, pathways and platforms, the visitor can gradually walk up and over the canopy of forests far below, getting a literal bird’s eye view of the scenery.

Website: https://www.wildcenter.org/visit/wild-walk/

26. Erie Canal Museum (Syracuse; Onondaga County)

The Erie Canal is one of the great jewels in New York State (and American) history. Called “the greatest engineering marvel of its day,” it is a bit tricky to consume it all in one swoop. Unless you travel the 363 miles of the canal. But the Erie Canal Museum does tell a comprehensive story of this incredible feat and the museum tells it all in a historic building. Its home is in the Weghlock Buildng, the last of several giant buildings which weighed canal boats as they passed through, assessing fees according to the weight. Be sure and get a selfie out front with “The Mule Named Sal,” which honors the engine power of the mules who pulled the canal boats from Albany to Buffalo.

Website: https://eriecanalmuseum.org/

27. Seneca Falls (Seneca County)

One of the most historic communities in Upstate New York. Known as “The Birthplace of the Women’s Rights Movement,” many consider any education of the social movement for women’s causes to be incomplete without a visit to this famous village. There are museums, historical markers, famous homes, and impressive statues throughout the village all illustrating the legacy of Seneca Falls. And while visiting, be sure and explore the village’s connection to the famous movie classic “It’s A Wonderful Life.” It is a great story!

Website: https://www.senecafalls.com/visit-seneca-falls.php

28. The TePee (Cherry Valley; Otsego County)

At onetime, NYS Rt. 20 was the most important east-west road in Upstate New York. It was dotted with roadside motels, ice cream stands, old-fashioned diners, and busy towns. With the advent of the New York State Thruway (1954) just a few miles north of Rt. 20, the highway became an afterthought and many of the businesses and small towns faced hard times. One iconic souvenir from the past perseveres, however. The TePee was built in 1950 and is still in business today. A fifty-foot-tall metal tepee, the store sells New York State products, Native American gifts and jewelry, clothing, and folk art. Thousands stop by for a touch of nostalgia every year. And across the road is a breathtaking view of the Mohawk Valley.

Website: http://thetepee.biz/

29. Medina Toy Train Museum (Median; Orleans County)

A fantasy land for all baby boomers who have electric toy trains. This museum has the largest toy train layout in the East. It sprawls over 200 feet long and it 15 feet wide. At any given time, you can see trains of all vintages making their way through miniature settings of cities, farms, wilderness and small towns. This is the place where your toy dreams live on forever.

Website: https://www.medinarailroadmuseum.org/

30. National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum (Cooperstown; Otsego County)

It is hard to fathom the fact that more than a quarter million visitors a year come to Cooperstown, a little village of less than 2,000 residents. The Hall is a mecca for generations of baseball lovers to come and enjoy, learn and pay tribute to the “boys of summer” from their own past. The Hall of Plaques, where only the best are honored, is a place of quiet reflection and reminiscence. This is the state’s greatest sports museum.

Website: https://baseballhall.org/

Contemporary Glass (1975-2000) Corning Museum of Glass, Corning November 3, 2016. Michael Greenlar | [email protected] SYR SYR

31. Corning Museum of Glass (Corning; Steuben County)

Another of Upstate’s world class museums. The city is the home of Corning Glass and the entire city pay homage to the industry and the company in many ways. First and foremost is a visit to the Corning Museum of Glass. The story of the company’s beginning is told in audio and visual exhibits and examples of some of the glass artisan’s most impressive works. Do not miss the glass-blowing demonstration in the little amphitheater. You may be lucky enough to take home a one-of-a-kind “made before your eyes” piece of glass art. The museum also has one of the best museum gift shops in the state.

Website: https://home.cmog.org/

32. Animal Adventure Park (Harpursville; Broome County)

A wonderful animal park for all ages to enjoy. Youngsters will thrill at the chance to feed any of the 300 varieties of animals on site. The park gained international fame when it live-streamed the birth of a giraffe, Tajiri, in 2017. More than a million people watched it on the park’s YouTube channel.

Website: https://theanimaladventurepark.com/Page/home

33. Our Lady of Victory Shrine and Basilica (Lackawanna; Erie County)

One of the most beautiful churches in North America. This enormous cathedral was the inspiration of Father Nelson Baker, known locally as “The Padre of the Poor.” It was built at a cost of $3.2-million dollars and Father Baker served his first mass there on May 25, 1926. The interior of the basilica is a wonder. The stained-glass windows, elaborate altars, Italian marble columns, and remote sanctuaries are exquisite. When Father Baker died, in 1936 at the age of 94, he was buried in the churchyard. Later it was discovered that he may have contributed to miracles taking place and he began his path to sainthood. His remains were moved to an impressive grotto inside the church which was constructed out of black lava rock from Mt. Vesuvius in Italy.

Website: https://www.olvbasilica.org/

34. United States Military Academy (West Point; Orange County)

Public tours are given at this historic training ground for officers of the U.S. Army. Of special note on these grounds is the West Point Cadet Chapel, which houses the world’s largest chapel organ (23,511 individual pipes). One of the highlights of any tour of the academy is the West Point Cemetery. Here, as you walk along the solemn rows of graves of some of America’s most storied soldiers, you will recognize the names of Maj. General George Goethals (builder of the Panama Canal), General Norman Schwarzkopf, Jr. who led American troops during Desert Storm, General George Armstrong Custer, who was killed at the Battle of Little Big Horn, and others.

Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/

35. Hanford Mills Museum (East Meredith; Delaware County)

One of the last working gristmill and sawmills from the 1800s in the state. Built in 1820, the mill still retains the patina of old-fashioned ingenuity and craftsmanship of a long gone yesteryear. Tours take you into several of the mills’ working buildings to watch handcrafted items being made. A special treat is to observe a giant 1926 Fitz overshot waterwheel come to action powering the entire grounds with water power. As the wheel turns and thousands of gallons of water pour into the wheelhouse from a nearby creek, the display of power can be quite unforgettable.

Website: https://www.hanfordmills.org/

Howe Caverns Adventure Park is located at 255 Discovery Drive in Howes Cave, N.Y. The park includes the famous Howe Caverns. Stephen D. Cannerelli | Syracuse.com

36. Howe Caverns (Howe Cave; Schoharie County)

New York’s most famous “hole in the ground.” For several generations of young people, a trip “upstate” in the summer meant a stop at this venerable tourist attraction. An elevator takes you 156-feet below the ground, where the temperature is always 56 -degrees. Your tour takes you through amazing displays of rock formations that have been in place for millennia. All are quite beautifully back-lit for dramatic purposes. One of the most popular stops on the underground tour is the Bridal Chapel. Here, on a bright red heart-shaped piece of calcite, more than 600 couples have said “I Do” in an underground ceremony. A boat ride on an underground river is also one of the many fun parts of a visit to Howe Caverns.

Website: https://howecaverns.com/

37. Franklin D. Roosevelt Home and Grave (Hyde Park; Dutchess County)

The magnificent home of our nation’s 32nd president has long been a popular destination in the Hudson Valley. Roosevelt was born at this Hyde Park mansion on January 30, 1892 and was buried here after his death in 1945. Public tours of the home are given. A gift store sells a wide variety of FDR and other presidents’ memorabilia and souvenirs. The final resting place of FDR and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, in the family’s rose garden, is open to the public without taking a tour of the home.

Website: https://www.nps.gov/hofr/index.htm

38. Stamford Fire Tower (Stamford; Delaware County)

There are a number of Adirondack and Catskill Mountain fire towers which have been in use for decades, In the Catskills, there is only one fire tower left that is available to drive to by vehicle. Mount Utsayantha, which rises 3,214 feet above the village of Stamford, has a tower and small public park at the summit. The tower is accessible to visitors. The view from the park and the tower, especially in autumn, is one of Upstate’s best.

Website: https://www.cnyhiking.com/MountUtsayantha.htm

39. Hyde Hall (Cooperstown; Otsego County)

Brendan Gill, the esteemed architecture critic of The New Yorker magazine has called Hyde Hall, “one of the three or four great buildings of its time.” The mansion was built between 1817 and 1834 for George Clarke, whose grandfather was the governor of colonial New York. The mansion is located at the northern tip of Otsego Lake. Philip Hooker, a prominent American architect designed the home. The neoclassical home is open for public tours. They give an eye-opening glimpse of the glamour of wealthy country life two centuries ago. Your tour will take you through the kitchen, the main dining hall, the bedrooms, courtyards, and private family rooms used by a series of Clarke generations. Plus, you will also see, tucked underneath a curving staircase, the first working flush toilet west of the Hudson River! The view of the lake from the front lawn of the mansion is beautiful.

Website: https://hydehall.org/

40. Mark Twain Country (Elmira; Chemung County)

Famed writer and riverboater Mark Twain had a close personal relationship with the Southern Tier city of Elmira. He spent nearly two dozen summers at the home of his wife’s sister in Elmira. Today, the small writing gazebo that he wrote in while there is located on the campus of Elmira College. It is said that the author penned large portions of his adventure books about Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn in that gazebo. Twain is buried in Woodlawn Cemetery in Elmira, section G. Prominent signs will direct you to his final resting place.

Website: https://www.friendsofwoodlawnelmira.org/

41. Arkville Train (Arkville; Delaware County)

There are several options if you are looking to take a train ride in Upstate New York. You can see the fall leaves in the Adirondacks, go on a Santa’s Polar Express in Western New York, and several others. One of the best is a ride on the Delaware and Ulster Railroad in southern Delaware County. You can ride in the vintage rail cars (both open and closed) and enjoy some of Upstate’s most beautiful scenery as you roll along the tracks following the Upper Delaware River. Rides go through the end of October, but the fall trips book up fast. Also, ask about the “train robbery” excursions. The kids love them!

Website: https://durr.org/

42. Vidler’s 5&10 (East Aurora; Erie County)

The has been called the “most famous five and dime store in America.” It is also the largest. It covers almost an entire block in this historic Western New York village. Tens of thousands of items pack the shelves with the emphasis on nostalgia. Penny candy anyone? You get the idea. While here don’t forget to look up. Way up. A two-ton statue of octogenarian Ed Vidler, of the store’s founding family, sits with his legs straddling over the roof of the store. Locals love him and call him “Vidler on the Roof.”

Website: https://www.vidlers5and10.com/

43. Saratoga Race Course (Saratoga Springs; Saratoga County)

Even if you are not a horse racing fan, a day at this venerable park is a fun, exciting and (hopefully) a winning experience for you. Known as “The August Place to Be” the track is a major tourist destination in the region during the summer months. A walk around the grounds, the rails, the clubhouse, the horse paddocks and the vending area under the trees gives you a glimpse into why this place ranks among New York’s top attractions. It is one of the oldest sports venues in the country, including all sports. Opened in 1863.

Website: https://www.saratogaracetrack.com/

Taughannock Falls towers 215 feet, making it the single drop tallest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains. July 17, 2020. N. Scott Trimble | [email protected]

44. Taughannock Falls State Park (Trumansburg; Tompkins County)

Beautiful park just north of Ithaca. The star here is a waterfall, of which Upstate has no shortage of. Taughannock Falls is the centerpiece of this 750-acre park and features a dramatic plunge which plummets 215-feet. That not only makes it the tallest single drop waterfall East of the Rockies, but the waterfall is actually higher than the mighty Niagara Falls (the Horseshoe Falls at Niagara drops “just” 167 feet). Plenty of pathways to explore in the park as well as viewing areas to observe (and photograph) the falls itself.

Website: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/taughannockfalls

45. Point Lookout (East Windham; Greene County)

A perennial tourist stop which offers a grand view of five states. From this promontory you can see (on a clear day) the forests and rivers of New York, Connecticut, Vermont, Massachusetts, and the White Mountains of New Hampshire. An inn and “lookout” has been located at this site to cater to tourists with meals and souvenirs for over 75 years ago.

Website: https://www.greatnortherncatskills.com/attractions/five-state-lookout

46. World’s Largest Kaleidoscope (Mount Tremper; Ulster County)

The Emerson Resort is one of the most exquisite resorts in the Catskills. But it is not too fancy to offer up an exciting adventure inside an old barn silo. The silo, which is 60-feet tall, has been transformed into a dazzling kaleidoscope. Visitors enter through a bottom door and watch in amazement as hundreds of pieces of crafted colored glass dance across the ceiling to the accompaniment of music and a light show. A unique experience to be sure!

Website: https://emersonresort.com/worlds-largest-kaleidoscope/

47. Safe Haven Museum (Oswego; Oswego County)

One of New York’s smallest and yet most important museums. Located near the grounds of historic Fort Ontario, the Safe Haven Museum is the last standing building of what was America’s only Jewish refugee center during World War II. The story it tells inside is chilling and inspirational. 982 Jews from war ravaged Europe made a harrowing trip from Italy to Oswego in 1944 where they were housed in a camp as “personal guests of President Franklin D. Roosevelt.” This was the only place in the country where refugees were accepted. The museum features photographs, documents, oral histories, and artifacts from the period.

Website: https://www.safehavenmuseum.com/

48. Woodstock Concert Site (Bethel; Sullivan County)

Now known officially as the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, this is perhaps the most famous concert site in the world. Nearly a half-million young people converged on the hallowed field here for the 1969 rock concert that will live for eternity. The concert field, then a dirty mud field, is now a beautifully landscaped rolling lawn. There is a Woodstock monument and a great museum near the top of the hill. Concerts are still held here.

Website: https://www.bethelwoodscenter.org/

49. Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome (Rhinebeck; Dutchess County)

So much fun here. This is a living museum that offers many old-time airshows using authentic vintage planes. Thousands attend these shows all season long, and marvel as a dozen or more planes take flight and soar overhead. The biggest applause is always saved for the 1909 Bieriot, the oldest flying airplane in the Western Hemisphere, or any of the several vintage biplanes, plus an exact replica of Lucky Lindy’s famous “Spirit of St. Louis.” A great family outing!

Website: https://oldrhinebeck.org/

50. Susan B. Anthony Grave (Rochester; Monroe County)

Ms. Anthony’s grave is the most visited in this expansive historic cemetery in Rochester. Mt. Hope is the final resting place of 350,000 thousand people, many of them famous. Anthony, the towering figure of the Women’s Rights Movement, is buried in Section C, Lot 93 of the cemetery. Hundreds of women walk to her grave each year during election time to place their “I Voted” stickers on her tombstone in tribute to the woman who fought so long for their right to vote.

Website: https://freethought-trail.org/trail-map/location:susan-b-anthony-gravesite/

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World Atlas names 13 of New York's most underrated towns to visit. See what they offer

New York is home to some of the most beautiful towns and scenery in the country. Are you looking for somewhere unique to visit?

According to World Atlas , a website publishing information on geography, sociology and travel, here are New York's most underrated towns. They are remarkable for preserving their culture and charm, which has attracted many visitors eager to explore. Their top picks include Cold Spring and four other towns in the Hudson Valley:

Cold Spring

Cold Spring is a hidden gem, an historic village that prides itself on maintaining its traditional charm and resisting modernization. Situated just 58 miles from New York City in Putnam County, it offers a unique opportunity to experience a slower pace of life in the Empire State. Established in 1730, Cold Spring's beauty and historic atmosphere , combined with its thriving small businesses, make it a special place to visit.

Cold Spring offers a glimpse into old-time New York with its unique shops and historic landmarks. Visitors can explore the town's natural beauty by hiking popular trails like Old Cornish Estate and Breakneck Ridge .

More: Check out Cold Spring's historic sites, places to go through photos in lohud on location

See the list: World Atlas names 5 Hudson Valley towns the most picturesque in New York.

Goshen is a great destination for families, especially since Legoland opened in 2021. This town has been gaining popularity among tourists of all ages. Visitors can explore the town's history at places like the Harness Racing Museum & Hall Of Fame or enjoy live horse races at the Goshen Historic Track , one of the oldest venues in operation.

Located 65 miles from New York City, in Orange County, Goshen is an ideal weekend getaway for city residents. It can also be part of a charming small-town tour in the Empire State, with stops like the Orange County Arboretum , a beautiful 35-acre garden easily accessible from I-84. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a fun family outing, Goshen has something for everyone.

Woodstock  ranks as an underrated city that appeals to creative tourists and artists. While it is renowned for its association with music and the iconic 1969 rock festival, Woodstock also showcases its artistic side through captivating sculptures and delightful boutiques lining Tinker Street . Surrounded by lush nature, this town becomes an ideal destination for those yearning for a blend of art and outdoor activities.

Apart from its artistic allure, Woodstock caters to visitors with a diverse range of accommodations. Whether one prefers a cozy homestay in the vibrant downtown area or a nature-focused retreat on the outskirts of town, there is something to suit everyone's taste. The Woodstock Inn on Millstream, Hotel Dylan, and the Howland House are among the highly-rated establishments that offer a serene and nature-filled setting.

New Paltz is unique among small towns in New York due to its historic waterfront architecture, lively student atmosphere, and well-preserved historic sites. The town's historic district features Old Stone houses , with some dating back to 1689. Notable homes to visit include the Jean Hasbrouck House, Bevier-Elting House, and the Abraham Hasbrouck House from 1721. Visitors can also stay at the famed Mohonk Mountain House , a Victorian Castle-like building that's over a century old.

Scenic places to visit: Sleepy Hollow named one of the most picturesque places in NY

Kingston offers a unique shopping experience and is a great destination for those who love to support local businesses. The town is decorated with colorful street art and murals that enhance its charm. Visitors can explore the Farmers Market at the Dutch Club for a variety of products from local vendors, or stroll along Broadway, filled with cafes and dining options. From Mexican cuisine at La Hacienda to American classics at Broadway Lights Diner & Cafe, and healthy options at Sonder, there is something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to take a nostalgic trolley ride at the Trolley Museum of New York , starting at T.R. Gallo Park and ending at Kingston Point Beach .

Lockport , out west in Niagara County, sets itself apart with its aquatic adventures, farming community, wineries, and more. Blackman Homestead Farm, Arrowhead Spring Vineyards, and Honeymoon Trail Winery are among the town's agricultural highlights that bring a rural feel to the lively urban area. Enjoy your time in Lockport by taking Erie Canal Tours , discovering the Lockport Caves, and dining at top restaurants like Shamus, Kalamata Family Restaurant, and Tom’s Diner for a memorable old-fashioned experience.

Geneva , located in the Finger Lakes Region, has often been overlooked by tourists. This charming town is known for its elegant atmosphere, with stunning views of the water, historic buildings, and a thriving wine industry. When visiting Geneva, make sure to explore its rich history by visiting landmarks such as Geneva Belhurst Castle , the Smith Opera House , and Rose Hill Mansion . Nature enthusiasts will also enjoy the 151-acre Seneca Lake State Park , where they can partake in activities like kayaking, swimming, and hiking. And of course, no trip to Geneva is complete without indulging in the town's renowned vineyards and wineries.

Cooperstown

Cooperstown  is a top destination for discovering American history, boasting attractions like the National Baseball Hall of Fame and The Farmer’s Museum . Established by William Cooper in the late 1700s, the town offers something for everyone, from live performances at Glimmerglass Opera to historic businesses like Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard.

Oswego , a former transportation hub for railroads in Central New York, is now a port town. Despite being underrated, it offers a wide range of engaging events. Visitors are encouraged to actively participate in the local culture. One of the town's main events is Harborfest, which takes place in July. The Oswego Farmers Market showcases the best of local creativity with its homemade crafts and fresh produce. Porchfest, an annual event, allows visitors to experience live music performances on homeowners' porches.

Ithaca is a destination known for its natural beauty and small-town charm. It offers a variety of experiences, from waterfalls to a vibrant community atmosphere. The town is also home to Cornell University , adding a lively student vibe to the area. Don't forget to check out the Museum Of Earth and State Theater and Johnson Museum Of Art for a taste of the town's unique culture.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a top spot in New York for travelers seeking natural beauty. Enjoy the famous Maid Of The Mist tour, Cave Of The Winds path, and ziplining adventures. Families can have a great time at the Aquarium and stay at the Seneca Niagara Casino. You can also explore the Canadian side of the falls.

Saranac Lake

Saranac Lake in New York offers a perfect blend of mountain views, small-town charm, and a forest atmosphere, making it an ideal underrated destination for a wilderness getaway. Visitors can enjoy train rides through the forests and hike up Baker Mountain for stunning lake views. In addition to nature, visitors can explore local art galleries in the town's central business district.

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: World Atlas names 13 of New York's most underrated towns to visit. See what they offer

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Vote for your favorite summer travel destination!

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Whether you're hitting the road with the family or embarking on a solo adventure, summer is the peak season for travel in the United States. There are so many endlessly compelling sights to see and things to do throughout this country's millions of square miles, from picturesque national parks to sleepy mountain towns to breathtakingly beautiful beaches. An expert panel has nominated their 20 must-see places for a summer vacation, and we need your help to crown the best of the best. Which summer travel destination is your favorite spot? Vote once per day until voting ends on Monday, May 13 at noon ET. The 10 winners will be announced on Wednesday, May 22.  Read the official Readers' Choice rules .

Whether you're hitting the road with the family or embarking on a solo adventure, summer is the peak season for travel in the United States. There are so many endlessly compelling sights to see and things to do...   Read More

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Photo courtesy of The Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce

Bar Harbor, Maine

Located on Mount Desert Island, this quaint small town is known as a gateway to iconic Acadia National Park and is a popular cruise stop. During a visit, be sure to spend time in Bar Harbor's idyllic downtown, which is home to a plethora of top-tier eateries, small boutiques, and art galleries.

Photo courtesy of Melanie LeDuc / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Black Hills & Badlands, South Dakota

Situated in South Dakota, set about 70 miles apart, the Black Hills and Badlands offer an experience full of history, geological wonders, and stunning views. The area is home to the famous Mt. Rushmore, which receives more than 2 million visitors a year.

Photo courtesy of pabradyphoto / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Capitol Reef Country, Utah

Nestled in southern Utah, Capitol Reef Country incorporates Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Arches national parks. Because of their proximity to each other, this makes for an excellent road trip adventure where you’ll get to see the striking geologic strata that makes this area unique. 

Photo courtesy of Jasper Chamber / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Catalina Island, California

Catalina Island, which stretches 22 miles, is an ideal coastal destination in California. Historically significant because it’s been the filming location for more than 500 films, TV shows, and commercials over the past 90 years, this family-friendly destination is also well-known for its pristine beaches, outdoor activities, and sumptuous seafood. 

Photo courtesy of Cody Yellowstone

Cody, Wyoming

This rugged mountain town is the gateway to Yellowstone National Park, and it's known as the "Rodeo Capital of the World," offering you a glimpse into the Wild West. Named after Buffalo Bill Cody, Cody, Wyoming, features sweeping views, hearty and authentic cowboy fare, and many opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Photo courtesy of Dan Eggert/Destination Door County

Door County, Wisconsin

For an unexpected lakeside vacation spot, it’s hard to beat Wisconsin’s Door County, home to 300 miles of shoreline along Lake Michigan and every water sport you can imagine. Paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, water skiing, and even scuba diving around shipwrecks are all among the aquatic activities available throughout this Midwestern destination. For those who prefer staying on land, there’s also a solid beer and wine scene, art galleries to explore, plus hiking, biking, and more at their five state parks. 

Photo courtesy of UpdogDesigns / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Finger Lakes, New York

New York's Finger Lakes region comprises 11 lakes in upstate New York, offering an ideal summer getaway by the water. The area is well-recognized for its rieslings, so you’ll want to book a wine tasting at one of the many wineries while visiting. And if you have little ones in tow, visit the Seabreeze Amusement Park, where you can enjoy a number of rides and attractions. 

Photo courtesy of Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama

Alabama's Gulf Coast offers 32 miles of pristine white sand beaches and cerulean blue waters, and it's home to an amazing restaurant scene. This spot is popular with families because of the many outdoor activities available for all ages. Whether you want to relax on the beach, head out on a kayaking expedition, or venture to an amusement park, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. 

Photo courtesy of Jody O for Travel Juneau

Juneau, Alaska

Juneau is an eclectic mountain town boasting over 250 miles of hiking trails, as well as a walkable, charming downtown. Situated on Gastineau Channel, the city offers plenty of opportunities to get on the water. It's also home to diverse wildlife, rich in Indigenous history, and full of lovely accommodations. You’ll find this one of Alaska’s ultimate gems, especially in the summer.

Photo courtesy of Alex Byers

Laurel Highlands, Pennsylvania

If you love the great outdoors, you’ll be smitten with Laurel Highlands, which sits in southwestern Pennsylvania. It’s approximately 3,000 square miles and includes three counties: Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland. Visit Fallingwater, which is recognized as a National Historic Landmark and one of architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s most acclaimed works. For thrill-seekers, book a white-water rafting excursion in Ohiopyle State Park. The park also offers numerous challenging hikes where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views.

Photo courtesy of Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, you’ll find Mackinac Island, where you’ll ride on horse-drawn carriages along car-free roads, observe fudge being made (and then sample it), and tour the historic Fort Mackinac. This Lake Huron-based continental island is also home to Mackinac Island State Park, where you can hike, bike, kayak, and take photos of the local natural beauty, including the stunning limestone Arch Rock.

Photo courtesy of Ocean City, MD Tourism

Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City, Maryland, is the quintessential beach town, offering laid-back vibes, old-fashioned boardwalk treats, and beautiful sandy beaches. Head over to a bustling arcade, get in line for a thrill at Trimper Rides, or simply sit back with a good book and dig your feet into the sand.

Photo courtesy of Ocean City Chamber of Commerce

Ocean City, New Jersey

This family-friendly vacation spot on the Jersey Shore is known for its exciting boardwalk, with shops and eateries galore, views of the Atlantic, plus vintage amusement parks. Playland’s Castaway Cove is one such park, with go-karts, thrill rides including roller coasters, a fun house, and mini golf. And if parks aren’t your thing, there’s miles and miles of relaxing beaches on which to get in some sun and swimming.

Photo courtesy of Katie Jones via San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau

San Juan Islands, Washington

While there are some 176 islands and reefs that make up the San Juan Islands, the main four — San Juan, Orcas, Lopez, and Shaw — are serviced by the state ferry system and offer accommodations for tourists. While these islands are diverse and offer different experiences, they all feature spectacular vistas of the Salish Sea, with plenty of water and land activities to keep everyone busy. Accommodations range from hotels and resorts to small inns, vacation rentals, and camping sites.

Photo courtesy of Shores & Islands Ohio

Sandusky, Ohio

Home to Cedar Point amusement park, which has over 150 rides and attractions, Sandusky is an ideal family-friendly vacation spot. The town is also home to a picturesque downtown with art galleries, boutiques, and a thriving culinary scene. Visit the Maritime Museum of Sandusky for a look at the city’s history, or head to the Sandusky State Theatre and take in a performance. 

Photo courtesy of Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism

Sevier County, Tennessee

Sevier County, Tennessee, is widely known as a gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the most visited national parks in the United States. Three towns are ideal spots for setting up base camp while visiting the region: Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg. Offering everything from picture-perfect scenery to Dollywood to the state’s only ski resort, there's plenty to see and do in the area.

Photo courtesy of NPS Photo/J. Baird

South Rim - Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Probably the exact location you're picturing when you think of the Grand Canyon, the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park is an iconic American destination worthy of many a bucket list. Check out Grand Canyon Village during a visit, which offers a range of attractions and accommodations. It’s also the site of the Grand Canyon Railway Depot, which is still in service today and takes visitors on a scenic ride, where you might spot wildlife such as elk, deer, and mountain lions.

Photo courtesy of Space Coast Office of Tourism

Space Coast, Florida

Situated on Florida’s Atlantic shore, the Space Coast area is recognized as the home of the Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, where Apollo 11 lifted off for its moon landing mission. The region is also a hub of activities, including water sports, cruise excursions, fishing, and golfing. It's also a great spot for lazy beach days.

Photo courtesy of Swain County NC Chamber of Commerce

Swain County, North Carolina

Swain County, home to charming Bryson City, is a gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The area is overflowing with hiking trails, scenic waterfalls, golfing, and water activities. You'll find opportunities for tubing, as well as white-water rafting, with the Nantahala Outdoor Center offering 500 acres of adventure.

Photo courtesy of OKRAD / E+ Getty Images

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach’s 3-mile long boardwalk is a major draw for those that visit this town, known for its maritime history and family-friendly appeal. It comprises three beach areas: Virginia Beach, Chesapeake Bay, and Sandbridge Beach, which stretches for 35 miles, making it the world’s longest pleasure beach in the world. With a flourishing downtown and amazing restaurants, Virginia Beach makes for a great summer escape.

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Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for Naples, Florida and the Caribbean — has been covering the destination for 30 years. Her top-selling  Sarasota, Sanibel Island, and Naples  guidebook (Countryman Press) is in its sixth edition. She was contributing editor for  Caribbean Travel & Life  for 12 years and has written guidebooks on the Bahamas. A veteran travel writer, Chelle has published thousands of articles for  Miami Herald, USA TODAY, Latitudes;  has written/contributed to a dozen guidebooks, and produces travel shows for the local PBS station.

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Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50 countries, many of them with her children in tow. She loves visiting everything from theme parks to ancient ruins and packs strictly carry-on-only. Jamie can be reached at [email protected].

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Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance travel journalist, who writes and edits for a variety of international travel and lifestyle outlets including Fodor’s Travel, Travel + Leisure, and Business Insider among others. She's lived on both coasts from Massachusetts to California and has so far made Greater Boston, the San Francisco Bay Area, San Luis Obispo, Barcelona, and Los Angeles her home.  Molly earned her journalism degree at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo on the Central Coast of California and since then has worked professionally in the fields of hospitality and travel PR and most recently, as a freelance travel writer and editor. Molly especially enjoys covering feature profiles about interesting people doing interesting things such as chocolate making, beekeeping, wing-walking, and interesting destinations like under-the-radar wine spots, the best brewery towns, and lesser-known ski destinations.  She also loves to write about a boutique hotel with a good story. When she's not writing, Molly enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring new coffee shops and breweries, and of course, traveling.  Her favorite city in the world (so far) is Barcelona, Spain, but she loves traveling anywhere that offers sunny weather and ample hiking opportunities. She loves spending time in the mountains, enjoys connecting with nature through camping and glamping adventures, and is always up for learning about the world through fun, immersive experiences (and then sharing those stories!).  You can connect with Molly here:  Instagram: @metropolitanmolly Twitter: @Molly_A_OBrien Facebook: @MetropolitanMolly LinkedIn: @mollyannobrien www.metropolitanmolly.com

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Rob Taylor is the author of  The Road Trip Survival Guide  (being released May 25, 2021) and  the founder of 2TravelDads , the original LGBT Family Travel blog. Focusing on ecotourism and education, 2TravelDads inspires LGBT families (and traditional families also) to go beyond their usual getaways and use travel to learn about and be part of a bigger world. 2TravelDads blazes the way for other two-dad and two-mom families to travel to previously overlooked destinations or places we as gay people would normally avoid. We share the struggles we've faced and the surprising gems and welcomes we've had along the way. Traveling as a family is one thing, traveling as an LGBT family is completely something else.

Tamara Gane

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Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. She's based in Reno/Lake Tahoe and in addition to USA Today 10Best, her work has been published in Travel & Leisure, Fodor's Travel, The Washington Post, SF Gate, Houston Chronicle, Lonely Planet, and more.

10Best Editors

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USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

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The Mets may have caught Brett Baty’s left hamstring tightness early enough to prevent an injured list stint.

Baty was absent from Wednesday’s starting lineup, a day after he was removed from the game with discomfort in the leg, and manager Carlos Mendoza expressed optimism the third baseman won’t need an extended absence.

“It looks like we caught it early here,” Mendoza said before the Mets beat the Pirates 9-1 at Citi Field. “Early reports are encouraging.”

Baty experienced the tightness after beating out an infield hit.

He remained in the game to play defense in the bottom of the inning before he was removed.

Thursday’s scheduled off day ahead of the Mets’ weekend series at Dodger Stadium will provide Baty with an extra day of rest.

Zack Short got the start at third base on Wednesday, a night after Joey Wendle entered the game in that spot.

Baty’s fast start has been a significant factor in the Mets’ offensive surge after an 0-5 start.

Over his last 11 games Baty is 14-for-41 (.341) with a .372 on-base percentage.

Francisco Lindor delivered a sixth-inning single against Hunter Stratton, raising his .098 average (5-for-51) as a left-handed hitter.

His early-season struggles have been less pronounced batting right-handed.

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“Him being right-handed dominant, I think that right hand gets there with ease,” Mendoza said. “With the left side there’s more mechanics. It’s just one of those things right now where from the right side he is seeing the ball better and working through some things on the left side.”

The Mets claimed reliever Michael Tonkin off waivers from the Twins.

To create roster space, reliever Tyler Jay was designated for assignment. Tonkin was previously DFA’d by the Mets this season.

The Mets trailed 1-0 before scoring nine unanswered runs.

It was a seventh comeback victory for the Mets, tying them for first in MLB with the Orioles in that category.

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U.S. Targets Unlikely to Be on List in Possible Iranian Attack, Officials Say

In anticipation of the Iranian strikes, several countries, including the United States, issued new guidelines to their citizens about travel in Israel and the surrounding region.

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By Eric Schmitt ,  Farnaz Fassihi ,  Aaron Boxerman and Thomas Fuller

American intelligence analysts and officials said on Friday that they expected Iran to strike multiple targets inside Israel within the next few days in retaliation for an Israeli bombing in the Syrian capital on April 1 that killed several senior Iranian commanders.

The United States, Israel’s pre-eminent ally, has military forces in several places across the Middle East. But Iran is not expected to target them in order to avoid a direct conflict with the United States, according to U.S. and Iranian officials who spoke anonymously about the expected attacks, which they were not authorized to discuss publicly.

Any Iranian strike inside Israel would be a watershed moment in the decades of hostilities between the two nations that would most likely open a volatile new chapter in the region. Israel and Iran do not maintain any direct channels of communication, making the chances far greater that each side could misread the other’s intentions. And an Iranian attack would heighten the risk of a wider conflict that could drag in multiple countries, including the United States.

In remarks to reporters on Friday, President Biden said that he expected a military attack against Israel “sooner than later,” and that his message to Iran was “don’t.”

“We are devoted to the defense of Israel,” he added. “We will support Israel. We will help defend Israel and Iran will not succeed.”

In anticipation of an Iranian strike, several countries, including the United States, have issued new guidelines to their citizens for travel in Israel and the surrounding region. The Israeli military said its forces were on high alert.

The U.S. State Department barred its employees on Thursday from traveling to large parts of Israel, the first time the U.S. government has restricted its employees’ movement this way since the war in Gaza began more than six months ago.

On Thursday, Britain told its citizens that they “should consider leaving” Israel and the Palestinian territories “if it is safe to do so.” On Friday, India told its citizens “not to travel to Iran or Israel till further notice.” And France advised people not to travel to Israel, Iran or Lebanon, and evacuated the families of French diplomats from Iran.

Details about Iran’s potential attack on Israel are closely guarded, but American and Israeli officials have assessed that it might involve drones and missiles. Iran has the largest arsenal of ballistic missiles and drones in the Middle East, including cruise missiles and anti-ship missiles, experts say, as well as short-range and long-range ballistic missiles with ranges up to 2,000 kilometers (about 1,250 miles).

Iran also has a large inventory of drones that have a range of about 1,200 to 1,550 miles and are capable of flying low to evade radar.

The exact form an attack on Israel might take, what kinds of targets would be involved and the precise timing all remain unclear.

The top American military commander for the Middle East, Gen. Michael E. Kurilla, traveled to Israel this week to coordinate a response should Iran attack, U.S. officials said.

“Our enemies think that they will divide Israel and the United States,” the Israeli defense minister, Yoav Gallant, said in a statement on Friday, after meeting with General Kurilla. “They are connecting us and are strengthening the relationship between us.”

If Iran attacks, he added, “we will know how to respond.”

On Thursday, the Israeli military’s chief spokesman, Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, said the armed forces were “highly alert and prepared” for any action from Iran.

Iran has publicly and repeatedly vowed revenge for the April 1 airstrike on its embassy complex in the Syrian capital, Damascus, which killed three generals and four officers from its elite Quds Force, an arm of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps.

But analysts say Iranian leaders want to calibrate their response so that it is big enough to send a message at home and abroad that Iran is not impotent in the face of conflict, but not so big that it spirals into a full-fledged war with Israel or draws an American attack.

In the first months of the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip, Iran-backed militias regularly attacked U.S. troops in Iraq, Syria and Jordan. But after a drone strike killed three Americans in Jordan in January and the United States launched retaliatory strikes , Iran stopped the attacks by its proxies, fearing a more powerful U.S. response.

Despite the clashes and hostile rhetoric, both Iranian and U.S. leaders have made it clear they want to avoid an all-out war.

John F. Kirby, the White House’s national security spokesman, told reporters on Friday, “We are certainly mindful of a very public and what we consider to be a very credible threat made by Iran in terms of potential attacks on Israel, and that we are in constant communication with our Israeli counterparts about making sure that they can defend themselves against those kinds of attacks.”

How Israel would respond to an Iranian attack on its soil is unclear. The Israeli military “continues to monitor closely what is happening in Iran and different arenas,” Herzi Halevi, chief of the Israeli general staff, said in a statement on Friday. He added, “Our forces are prepared and ready at all times and for any scenario.”

Iran believes it can generate international support for a retaliatory strike by focusing attention on the attack against its embassy complex and arguing that it was merely defending itself, the Iranian officials said.

International law generally treats embassies and consulates as exempt from attacks. But Israeli officials have argued that the building they destroyed was diplomatic in name only, and was being used as a Revolutionary Guards base, as evidenced by the high-level commanders who were meeting there when they were killed.

A strategist for the Revolutionary Guards said Iran wanted to take advantage of the widening rift between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel and Mr. Biden over Israel’s conduct of the war against Hamas — and not unite them in hostility to Iran.

The Biden administration has not only criticized the level of death and destruction wrought by Israeli forces in Gaza, it has also voiced fears that increased clashes across Israel’s northern borders, primarily with Iranian proxies like Hezbollah, could escalate into a broader regional war.

In an apparent response to international pressure , including from the United States, to do more to alleviate the hunger and deprivation produced by the war in Gaza, the Israeli military said on Friday that it had begun allowing humanitarian aid trucks to enter northern Gaza through a new crossing.

The military did not specify the location of the new crossing, and it remained unclear how many trucks had crossed, what aid agency they belonged to and when the crossing might be open for wider use.

Jamie McGoldrick, a top U.N. relief official in Jerusalem, said that U.N. officials planned to head to the crossing on Saturday to examine it. He said the crossing would be a significant improvement “if it can go to scale and is not temporary.”

After Israeli strikes killed seven aid workers on April 1, Mr. Biden told Mr. Netanyahu by phone that the United States could withhold military support for Israel unless it did more to protect civilians and ensure adequate supplies for Palestinian civilians.

Mr. Gallant, Israel’s defense minister, pledged on Wednesday to “flood Gaza with aid” and said he expected to ultimately see 500 relief trucks entering the enclave on a daily basis. U.N. figures show that an average of about 110 aid trucks have entered Gaza daily since the war began on Oct. 7.

Mr. Gallant also said that Israel would soon open the port of Ashdod, an Israeli city north of Gaza, to accept aid shipments, without providing a time frame.

Liam Stack contributed reporting.

Eric Schmitt is a national security correspondent for The Times, focusing on U.S. military affairs and counterterrorism issues overseas, topics he has reported on for more than three decades. More about Eric Schmitt

Farnaz Fassihi is the United Nations bureau chief for The Times, leading coverage of the organization, and also covers Iran and the shadow war between Iran and Israel. She is based in New York. More about Farnaz Fassihi

Aaron Boxerman is a Times reporting fellow with a focus on international news. More about Aaron Boxerman

Thomas Fuller , a Page One Correspondent for The Times, writes and rewrites stories for the front page. More about Thomas Fuller

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• A Fidi Office Building With a Wait List

The couple behind Palm Heights has developed what is probably the most appealing office building in the city.

Most people find new office space on a tour with a commercial broker or by trawling websites featuring photos and floor plans. Not the tenants at 161 Water Street. They were recruited. The editor of Office Magazine met the management team at a dinner in Paris. Devin B. Johnson, a figurative painter , was tapped by an art curator. Many more learned about the building while vacationing in the Cayman Islands — specifically, while vacationing at Palm Heights, a beachfront hotel run by the British couple Matthew and Gabriella Khalil . “I would have never ever, never ever thought that I would end up here,” said Michael Goldberg, who leads the marketing firm Something Special Studios and recently moved in his staff from the Lower East Side after connecting with the Khalils at Palm Heights. “Fidi wasn’t exactly an area I was targeting.”

161 Water Street, a 700,000-square-foot, 31-story tower being rebranded as WSA, for Water Street Associates, is in one of the least alluring parts of the Financial District — a wide, windblown stretch where its corporate neighbors include S&P Global and EmblemHealth. Even here, the building is particularly corporate, a 1982 temple of reddish marble and curving tinted glass. Then there’s the building’s past. It’s better known by its former address, 175 Water Street, which it went by as the headquarters of AIG, the insurer that backed subprime mortgages, got bailout money, and then handed out bonuses to its executives.

But inside, the space has been transformed into something entirely different — a place where artists schmooze with editors and curators, then stop for elevator selfies. This kind of cultivated scene hidden behind a banal exterior has become the trademark of the Khalils, who run the space and have been expanding their footprint across the city lately — with Happier, an Erewhon-ish grocery store on Canal Street , and 154 Scott Avenue, an industrial warehouse that holds the popular-on-TikTok restaurant Habibi and has hosted fashion shows that drew Beyoncé . Before opening this spring, 161 began hosting events, kicking off with Emily Ratajkowski’s après-Met party thrown by KMJR last May. (The event planner became tenant No. 1 in a set of downstairs offices.)

What’s drawing small boutique businesses to rent here isn’t just the clout — it’s a total reimagining of the modern office, a plan for layouts, event spaces, and amenities that has also convinced the city to hand the building a tax break . “This is not a ‘Let me gussy up the lobby,’” kind of project, said Melissa Román Burch, the COO of the New York Economic Development Corporation. “This is a transformative renovation.” The hope is that the tax break will allow the developers to draw what they’re calling FACT tenants (fashion, arts, creative, and technology) to a building whose giant floor plates were designed to lure FIRE tenants (finance, insurance, real estate, and legal).

On a tour with the building’s chief of special projects, Sam Wessner (who also oversees Palm Heights), I saw a handful of the floors that have been refurbished or are about to be completed, with workers scurrying in and out from behind plastic sheeting. The interiors were overseen by Gabriella Khalil, who holds the title of creative director. She played into the building’s 1980s bones, giving the place a villainous American Psycho vibe that’s undercut with a dose of humor. Instead of stuffing plants into odd corners, Khalil grouped more than a hundred in reflective chrome planters that stretch around the lobby’s curving glass window to create a cross between a lush jungle and a Yayoi Kusama mirror room. Just below them, commanding the lobby, is a hokey full-size bed in a frame designed by Frank Oelke that looks like two human feet with bulbous upturned toes. In a commissary at the top of an escalator, an original cabinet by Memphis Group founder Ettore Sottsass holds branded WSA merch.

Recently, several artists have moved into a row of studio spaces on the seventh floor, all furnished with industrial sinks. They include Eric N. Mack, a textile artist who has shown with Hauser & Wirth; Jeffrey Meris, who came from a residency at the Studio Museum in Harlem; and Johnson, a painter of moody work who moved from a warehouse in Flushing that he found “very solitary.” Johnson said he has met the other artists while working out of the space; upstairs are tenants who could help these artists get attention. (Reported neighbors include: V Magazine , Cultured, Office Magazine, and Elephant , which threw a party in the offices last year that drew the designer Telfar Clemens and the artist Mickalene Thomas.)

Only a few months in, getting an office here requires joining a wait list, and the tenants who are already here seem to have known the Khalils for years. Raul Lopez, the designer behind the label Luar, was stuck at Palm Heights for months during a COVID lockdown; he has an office upstairs. The team behind Ghetto Gastro, a Bronx-based food collective, was there for the lockdown too and now runs the lobby commissary. Tillies, the Palm Heights hotel restaurant, runs a catering service for 161’s events, including a Free Arts NYC gala. Everyone in the know may be getting a deal. Tenants I spoke to said they are paying market rate, but in their application filed with the city , the developers described how “attractive starting rents as low as $12/SF would be aligned with creative tenant budgets and offered to the right small businesses. As tenant budgets grow, rents will grow,” an approach they describe in that application as “landlord as incubator.” “If you actually understand culture and the relationships they have and how the people who go to the resort are all aligned,” said Kevin McIntosh Jr., the planner who threw Ratajkowski’s Met Ball after-party, “it all kind of makes sense.” In the lobby, he has run into fashion photographers and Vogue editors — the kind of people who book him. This week, he recognized the GQ editor Miles Pope. Last week, the building’s Instagram featured pictures of Erykah Badu at an event and an elevator selfie by Stephanie Ketty, the vice-president of business development for BFA. “There’s always someone in the building,” McIntosh said.

Despite the project’s massive scale, everything that’s in development, and the Khalils’ involvement, it’s not clear if the couple actually owns the building. Or who does own it. Or who owns Palm Heights, 154 Scott, or that grocery store, for that matter. Nor is it clear how the Khalils came to run any of these spaces in the first place. But the people who are drawn inside don’t seem to care, even as the Khalils seem to be rapidly developing across New York. In a rare interview with Bustle last month, Gabriella Khalil gave a glimpse into how she might have gotten into real estate: She was a Sotheby’s Institute grad who was working in art galleries in London when she met her husband. He asked her to help stage homes to assist with his business, and they shifted to working on a hotel because of an “opportunity that came up,” she said.

That opportunity seems to have come from Ken Dart, a reclusive billionaire who profited off the Greek financial crisis and has more recently been making contrarian investments in big tobacco . On its website, Dart’s company, Dart Enterprises, describes how it helped flip the Hyatt that would eventually become Palm Heights. Local news reports claim Dart still owns it , but the PR firm representing the Khalils says they do. (Dart did not return a request for comment.) According to The Real Deal, Dart was also in talks to buy 175 Water Street before reportedly withdrawing over the negative publicity. Instead, the building sold to an LLC . (The PR rep for the building said Dart isn’t involved.) In documents filed with the city, Matthew Khalil, lead of the property-development company Khalil & Kane , is listed as one of two principals. The other is Dawson Stellberger of developer Bushwack Capital, who is also partnering with the Khalils at 154 Scott Avenue.

Whoever does officially own it, the space will continue to grow over the next year. A cafeteria, photo studio, recording studio, screening room, test kitchen, a place to film in XR, and a lounge with a bar are all slated to open. There are already conference rooms for client meetings and event spaces to host readings or galas. The tax-break application outlines future plans to turn the third and fourth floors into a kind of Dover Street Market where brands with offices upstairs can sell what they make or source — like the vintage finds of Marcus Allen, the archivist of ’90s and aughts streetwear who runs the Society Archive and has reportedly moved onto the 19th floor. Above that future department store are two floors of museum-class exhibition space overlooking the river. In some spots, ceilings have been ripped out to create double-height rooms worthy of monumental sculptures. The tax-break application outlines plans to open the amenities to outsiders who won’t necessarily rent office space but may want in on the perks: a planned gym and a spa with two indoor-outdoor pools will be accessible to “individuals who purchase memberships.”

For now, at least, the Khalils have created something that doesn’t really exist anywhere else in the city: an office so effortlessly cool it’s turning prospective tenants away. “To me, what really creates a place is the people,” said Simon Rasmussen, the editor-in-chief of Office Magazine . “You can fill a space up with gold and diamonds, but if it’s not the right people, it won’t have the right vibe.”

• return to office
• financial district
• gabriella khalil
• palm heights
• influencers
• happier people management

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