New York City is a global capital of culture, entertainment, history, and innovation. From world-famous landmarks to vibrant neighborhoods, the city offers experiences that cater to every travel style, interest, and budget.
In this guide to Things to Do in New York City, you’ll discover top attractions, cultural highlights, and unique experiences to help you plan your time efficiently and explore the city like a well-informed traveler.
- 1. Visit the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
- 2. Stroll Through Central Park
- 3. Experience Times Square After Dark
- 4. Explore the Metropolitan Museum of Art
- 5. Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge
- 6. Watch a Broadway Show
- 7. Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum
- 8. Enjoy Skyline Views from the Empire State Building
- 9. Walk the High Line Park
- 10. Visit Rockefeller Center & Top of the Rock
- 11. Explore the American Museum of Natural History
- 12. Shop Along Fifth Avenue
- 13. Discover Harlem’s Culture & History
- 14. Visit One World Observatory
- 15. Visit The Edge at Hudson Yards
- 16. Take the Staten Island Ferry
- 17. Visit Chelsea Market
- 18. Relax in Bryant Park
- 19. Explore Wall Street
- 20. Experience Madison Square Garden
- FAQs
1. Visit the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
Exploring the Statue of Liberty is among the top things to do in New York City for first-time visitors. You take a ferry across New York Harbor, tour Liberty Island, and learn about immigration history at Ellis Island through interactive exhibits and preserved arrival halls.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.7/5
- Location:Statue of Liberty
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Price:USD 22 (INR~1977)
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2. Stroll Through Central Park
A walk through Central Park is one of the most relaxing things to do in New York City for tourists. You can explore scenic trails, lakes, iconic bridges, and open lawns while enjoying a peaceful break from the city’s fast pace in the heart of Manhattan.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.8/5
- Location:Central Park
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM
- Price: Free
3. Experience Times Square After Dark
Experiencing Times Square at night ranks high among night things to do in New York City. You witness giant LED screens, street performances, and nonstop energy as crowds gather for photos, shopping, and late-night dining in one of the world’s busiest intersections.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.6/5
- Location:Times Square
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Price: Free
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4. Explore the Metropolitan Museum of Art
Visiting the Met is one of the most rewarding must-see places in New York City. You explore ancient artifacts, European paintings, American art, and global collections spread across vast galleries, making it ideal for culture lovers and history enthusiasts.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.8/5
- Location:Metropolitan Museum of Art
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Price:USD 30 (INR 2700) Per Adult Ticket
5. Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge
Walking the Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most scenic things to do in New York City today if you enjoy photography and skyline views. The elevated walkway offers stunning perspectives of Manhattan, the East River, and Brooklyn, especially during sunrise or sunset hours.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.7/5
- Location:Brooklyn Bridge
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Price: Free
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6. Watch a Broadway Show
Watching a Broadway performance is among the most fun things to do in New York City for entertainment seekers. You experience world-class acting, music, and stage production across genres, from musicals to dramas, in legendary theaters around Times Square.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.8/5
- Location:Broadway Theater
- Timings: Evening shows, matinees available
- Price: USD 60–200
7. Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum
The 9/11 Memorial & Museum offers one of the most meaningful things to do in New York City for tourists interested in history. You reflect at the memorial pools and explore exhibits documenting the events, personal stories, and global impact of September 11.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.7/5
- Location:9/11 Memorial & Museum
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Price:USD 36 (INR~3600) for an adult ticket
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8. Enjoy Skyline Views from the Empire State Building
Visiting the Empire State Building observation deck is one of the most iconic must-see places in New York City. You get panoramic views of Manhattan, nearby boroughs, and beyond, making it perfect for first-time visitors and nighttime city views.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.7/5
- Location:Empire State Building
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Price:USD 44 (INR 3950) For an Adult Ticket
9. Walk the High Line Park
Walking the High Line is one of the most relaxing things to do in New York City today. This elevated park blends urban views, public art, landscaped gardens, and Hudson River scenery, offering a peaceful stroll above busy streets in Manhattan’s West Side.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.7/5
- Location: The High Line
- Timings: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Price: Free
10. Visit Rockefeller Center & Top of the Rock
Rockefeller Center is among the top things to do in New York City for panoramic skyline views. You can explore the complex, shop, dine, and head up to the Top of the Rock observation deck for unobstructed views of Central Park and Manhattan.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.7/5
- Location:Rockefeller Center
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Price:Around USD 30 (INR 2700) per Adult
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11. Explore the American Museum of Natural History
Exploring the American Museum of Natural History is one of the most educational things to do in New York City for tourists. You discover dinosaur fossils, space exhibits, wildlife halls, and interactive science displays, making it ideal for families, students, and curious travelers.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.8/5
- Location:American Museum of Natural History
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Price:USD 30 (INR~2700) per adult ticket
12. Shop Along Fifth Avenue
Shopping along Fifth Avenue is one of the most popular fun things to do in New York City. You browse flagship stores, luxury boutiques, and iconic department stores while enjoying architectural landmarks and window displays in one of the world’s most famous shopping streets.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.6/5
- Location:Fifth Avenue
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Price: Free (shopping extra)
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13. Discover Harlem’s Culture & History
Harlem offers some of the most enriching must-see places in New York City. You explore historic streets, jazz roots, soul food restaurants, and cultural landmarks while learning about African-American heritage that shaped music, literature, and civil rights movements.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.6/5
- Location:Harlem
- Timings: Daytime & evenings
- Price: Free
14. Visit One World Observatory
Visiting One World Observatory is among the most impressive things to do in New York City for tourists seeking skyline views. You enjoy immersive elevators, interactive exhibits, and floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing panoramic views from the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.7/5
- Location:One World Observatory
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Price:USD 39 (INR ~3500) per adult
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15. Visit The Edge at Hudson Yards
Visiting Edge at Hudson Yards is one of the most thrilling top things to do in New York City. You step onto a glass-floored sky deck that extends outward, offering dramatic views of Manhattan, the Hudson River, and the city skyline from extreme heights.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.7/5
- Location: Edge at Hudson Yards
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Price: USD 51 (INR ~4000) per ticket
16. Take the Staten Island Ferry
Riding the Staten Island Ferry is one of the best things to do in New York City today for free. You enjoy scenic harbor views, spot the Statue of Liberty, and experience a relaxing boat ride while commuting locals move between boroughs.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.7/5
- Location:Staten Island Ferry
- Timings: 24 hours
- Price: Free
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17. Visit Chelsea Market
Chelsea Market is among the tastiest things to do in New York City for tourists. You sample diverse cuisines, artisanal snacks, and local desserts while exploring a historic indoor market that reflects New York’s multicultural food scene.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.6/5
- Location:Chelsea Market
- Timings: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Price: Varies as per your shopping
18. Relax in Bryant Park
Relaxing in Bryant Park is one of the simplest fun things to do in New York City. You enjoy open seating, seasonal activities, outdoor dining, and views of surrounding skyscrapers, making it an ideal spot to unwind between sightseeing stops.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.7/5
- Location:Bryant Park
- Timings: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Price: Free
19. Explore Wall Street
Exploring Wall Street is one of the most informative must-see places in New York City. You walk through the historic financial district, see iconic landmarks, and learn how this area shaped global economics and American financial systems.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.5/5
- Location:Wall Street
- Timings: 24 hours
- Price: Free
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20. Experience Madison Square Garden
Experiencing Madison Square Garden is one of the most exciting night things to do in New York City. You attend concerts, sports games, or live events in a legendary arena known for hosting world-class entertainment throughout the year.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.6/5
- Location:Madison Square Garden
- Timings: Event-based
- Price:USD 112+ (INR 10,500) per ticket per day
FAQs
What are the best things to do in New York City at night?
Some of the best night experiences include exploring Times Square, watching a Broadway show, and enjoying skyline views from observation decks. You can also take evening walks across the Brooklyn Bridge or enjoy rooftop dining. The city stays vibrant well past midnight.
Which are the best things to do in New York City at night?
Top nighttime activities include visiting illuminated landmarks, attending live music or theater performances, and exploring late-night food spots. Waterfront promenades and night cruises also offer stunning city views. These activities showcase the city’s after-dark energy.
What are the things to do at New York City airport?
At airports like JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark, you can shop duty-free, dine at international restaurants, and relax in airport lounges. Free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and art installations are available. Long layovers are generally comfortable.
What can you do in New York City for free?
You can walk through Central Park, cross the Brooklyn Bridge, and ride the Staten Island Ferry. Many museums offer free or pay-what-you-wish entry on select days. Exploring neighborhoods and public parks also costs nothing.
What is New York City famous for?
New York City is famous for its skyline, Broadway theaters, global finance, and cultural diversity. It is also known for iconic landmarks, fashion, media, and world-class museums. The city influences trends worldwide.
Is New York City worth visiting?
Yes, New York City offers unmatched variety in attractions, culture, and experiences. You can explore history, art, entertainment, and diverse neighborhoods in one trip. It suits both first-time visitors and repeat travelers.
Is New York City expensive?
New York City can be expensive, especially for accommodation and dining. However, free attractions, affordable food spots, and public transportation help manage costs. Planning ahead makes the visit more budget-friendly.
Is New York City cheaper than Dubai?
Overall costs are comparable between New York City and Dubai. New York offers more free attractions, while Dubai often has higher luxury expenses. Your travel style largely determines your budget.
What is the best time of year to go to New York City?
Spring (April–June) and fall (September–November) are the best times due to pleasant weather. These seasons are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Winter is festive, while summer features events and festivals.
Do Indians need a visa for New York City?
Yes, Indian passport holders need a US tourist visa (B1/B2) for things to do in New York City. The visa must be obtained before travel. Applications are processed through official US consulates and embassies in India.
