10 Best Things to Do in New York [Bucket List]

New York City offers an array of remarkable experiences, though planning a visit for the first time can seem overwhelming. This guide covers all the must-see spots for first-time visitors, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. Plus, many of these activities won’t cost you a dime!

New York too is perfect for individuals looking to travel. I have been to the place numerous times, all on my own and I have always felt that it is a city that never sleeps.

Top Things to Do in NYC

1. Take a Free Staten Island Ferry Ride with Stunning Views of the Statue of Liberty

Believe it or not, the Staten Island Ferry offers a completely free ride from Manhattan to Staten Island, providing a prime opportunity to snap photos as you sail by the iconic Statue of Liberty.

The ferry departs from Whitehall Terminal, located in the southeastern corner of Battery Park in Lower Manhattan. Once you reach Staten Island, you’ll need to disembark and rejoin the line for the return trip back to Manhattan.

This ferry operates 24/7, with departures every 30 minutes (or more frequently during peak hours). The journey itself takes around 25 minutes in each direction. For a more relaxed experience, consider traveling midweek or during midday to avoid the usual crowds.

For those looking to get a closer view of Lady Liberty, you can opt to pay for the Statue Cruises ferry, which also takes you to the Statue of Liberty and the Ellis Island Museum, departing from Lower Manhattan.

2. Brooklyn Bridge and Its Neighborhoods

Follow the locals and take a walk across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, where you’ll be treated to remarkable views of the New York City skyline and the distinctive gothic architecture of the bridge itself. Once you’ve crossed, wander through Brooklyn’s neighborhoods, with DUMBO offering a trendy mix of history and charm. Don’t forget to grab a slice of Brooklyn’s famous pizza while you’re there!

You can start your journey from City Hall Park in Lower Manhattan, with easy access via the City Hall subway station. The Brooklyn Bridge makes for an ideal addition to a day trip that includes the Statue of Liberty and the 9/11 Memorial, both also located in Lower Manhattan.

The bridge is open 24 hours a day, but for breathtaking views, consider visiting at sunrise or sunset.

For those curious about the history of the bridge, guided walking and biking tours are available. Alternatively, if you prefer not to walk, you can take the subway directly to Brooklyn and start exploring from there.

3. Visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum: A Tribute to Resilience

The 9/11 Memorial serves as a poignant tribute to the victims of the September 11, 2001 attacks. This solemn site offers a reflective space where visitors can pay their respects. While entry to the Memorial is free (though donations are welcomed), the 9/11 Museum requires a ticket for admission. Guided tours are also available for those who wish to deepen their understanding of the events and the legacy of that day.

You’ll find the 9/11 Memorial at the World Trade Center site, where the Twin Towers once stood. For detailed directions, you can visit the Memorial’s official website.

The Memorial is open to the public daily from 7:30 am to 9 pm. The Museum is open from 9 am to 8 pm daily, with extended hours until 9 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Keep in mind, that the last entry is allowed two hours before closing time.

If you’re a fan of museums, New York City has plenty to offer. Notable options include The Metropolitan Museum of Art, or if you're more into natural history, you can explore the American Museum of Natural History.

Central Park is an expansive urban oasis right in the middle of Manhattan, offering a wide variety of activities. Whether you prefer wandering through its winding paths (and perhaps even getting a bit turned around), or opting for something more structured like running, biking, taking a guided tour, or even riding in a horse and carriage, there’s something for everyone. Other highlights include the Central Park Zoo, picnic spots, and ice skating in the winter.

This iconic park stretches from 59th Street to 110th Street, nestled between the Upper West Side and the Upper East Side. With so much ground to cover, it’s no wonder it’s easy to lose track of direction.

Open daily from 6 am to 1 am, Central Park is a perfect spot for an early morning walk or a leisurely visit. While the park is generally safe, it’s always wise to take precautions after dark.

Looking for other green spaces in New York City? Check out Bryant Park in Midtown, a bustling spot filled with cafés, or Washington Square Park, known for its grand fountain, archway, and vibrant atmosphere.

5. Top of the Rock: Panoramic City Views

Experience breathtaking views of New York City’s skyline and Central Park from the Top of the Rock Observation Deck, perched 70 stories above the ground. Entry fees are required, but the sweeping vistas make it well worth the visit.

You can find the Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Plaza, located on 50th Street between 5th and 6th Avenues in Midtown Manhattan.

Open daily from 8 am to 12:30 am, with the last elevator ride at 11:55 pm, it’s a great spot to catch the transition from day to night. Consider visiting around dusk to witness the city’s transformation as the sun sets and the lights come alive.

For another impressive view, the Empire State Building observation deck is a popular option, but it lacks one key sight: the Empire State Building itself!

6. Greenwich Village and Beyond

One of the best ways to enjoy New York City is by wandering through the charming streets of Greenwich Village. While exploring is technically free, the shopping opportunities can quickly change that! My favorite spot is the West Village, known for its classic brownstone homes and stylish residents, as well as its trendy boutiques and eateries. It’s like stepping into a movie set, and if luck is on your side, you might even catch a glimpse of a celebrity.

Greenwich Village is located on the west side of Manhattan, nestled between Midtown and Lower Manhattan.

There’s no wrong time to explore, but late afternoon is ideal for transitioning from browsing shops to dining at one of the many fantastic local restaurants.

New York offers no shortage of wonderful neighborhoods to discover. If you’re up for more walking, Soho and Tribeca are within reach as you head south from the Village. For those drawn to a more upscale vibe, the Upper East Side delivers high-end shopping and stunning real estate.

Check out the Greenwich Village Walking and Food Tasting Tour here.

7. Best Urban Retreat: Walking the High Line

The High Line is a remarkable elevated park and walking path, constructed on an old railway line above Manhattan’s streets. It’s one of my personal favorites when it comes to things to do in New York!

You’ll find the High Line running along the West Side of Manhattan, from 34th Street down to Gansevoort Street. There are several access points along the route, but I prefer starting at Gansevoort Street, which leads you right into the Meatpacking District. From there, you can continue your walk down to the West Village. Plus, the Gansevoort Street entrance is conveniently close to one of my favorite boutiques, Intermix.

The High Line is open daily, with hours varying by season – 7 am to 7 pm in winter, 10 pm in spring and fall, and 11 pm in summer. The walk covers 1.45 miles (2.33 km) and can be completed in about 30 minutes, though most visitors take their time to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

While New York is home to many parks and public spaces, nothing quite compares to the unique experience offered by the High Line!

Related: 7 Scams Targeting Fall Tourists in Upstate, New York

8. Broadway Musicals: The Heart of New York Theatre

With nearly 40 theaters making up Broadway, you’ll have no trouble finding a show that suits your taste, whether you’re interested in a current hit or a timeless classic. For those open to spontaneity, head to the TKTS ticket booth on the day of the show to score discounted tickets – sometimes at half price!

Broadway is located in Midtown Manhattan, close to Times Square. You’ll find the main TKTS booth there, with additional locations scattered throughout the city. For more details on ticket availability and booth locations, check out the TKTS website.

Broadway shows typically run from Tuesday to Saturday evenings, with matinee performances on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday. However, showtimes can differ between theaters, and some performances take place on Sunday or Monday evenings while others may close at varying times.

If you’re looking for something different, consider checking out Off-Broadway or Off-Off-Broadway shows. The main difference? These smaller venues offer a more intimate setting and, often, more affordable ticket prices, giving you a chance to explore a wider variety of performances.

9. Exploring Times Square – The Never-Ending Action Hub

Times Square is a world-renowned intersection packed with shops, entertainment venues, and towering, illuminated billboards that light up the sky. It’s a whirlwind of activity, but witnessing this iconic spot, which has graced countless TV shows, films, and music videos, is undeniably captivating.

Located in Midtown Manhattan, Times Square sits at the crossroads of Broadway and Seventh Avenue. It’s easy to include in a day trip along with other major sights like Central Park, Top of the Rock, Grand Central Station, and Broadway shows.

You can visit Times Square at any time of day. During daylight hours, you’ll feel the buzz of the city, while at night, the lights are dazzling. For a quieter experience, the early morning offers a rare, almost surreal moment when the area is free of its usual crowds.

As for alternatives – there’s truly nothing else like Times Square!

10. Grand Central Terminal: A Historical Hub to Discover

I used to think visiting a train station as a tourist was a bit odd – until I passed through Grand Central Terminal. Now, I absolutely love it! Not only is it a bustling transportation hub, but it’s also a magnificent historic building, complete with towering ceilings and lavish architectural details. There’s plenty to see, along with a variety of shops and eateries to enjoy while you’re there.

Located in Midtown at the intersection of Park Avenue and 42nd Street, Grand Central is easily accessible and open daily from 5:30 am to 2:00 am. It’s a great spot to explore during your transit or before moving on to your next destination.

If you’re a fan of striking architecture, Manhattan has plenty more to offer. Some of my favorite landmarks include the Chrysler Building, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the Flatiron Building, the Woolworth Building, and the New York Public Library (where I once attempted to work, but couldn’t quite manage it!). And, of course, no list would be complete without the Empire State Building.

I hope you have as much fun exploring these incredible New York experiences as I did! From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re strolling through Central Park, taking in the skyline from the Top of the Rock, or enjoying the unique energy of Times Square, every moment is unforgettable. Enjoy every second!