New York City is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and with good reason. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, there are endless activities and attractions to explore. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for another trip, here’s our top 10 things to do in New York – from strolling through Central Park to visiting the Statue of Liberty. With so much on offer it can be hard deciding what sights should make your itinerary – but don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with our comprehensive list of must-see places that will guarantee an unforgettable stay in this vibrant city.
Stroll through Central Park
Central Park is an iconic destination in New York City, offering 843 acres of lush greenery and trails. It’s the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful picnic spot or an exciting adventure, Central Park has something for everyone.
One of the most popular attractions in Central Park is Belvedere Castle. This 19th-century castle offers stunning views of the park and surrounding area. Inside, visitors can explore its many rooms filled with artifacts from around the world.
For those who prefer outdoor activities, there are plenty to choose from at Central Park. You can take a boat ride on The Lake or rent a bike and explore miles of scenic trails winding through meadows, forests, and wetlands. There are also several playgrounds throughout the park that offer fun activities for kids such as slides, swingsets, and climbing walls.
Strawberry Fields is another must-see attraction in Central Park located near John Lennon’s memorial Imagine mosaic just off 72nd Street West Drive near The Dakota building where he lived before his death in 1980 . Visitors come here to pay tribute to him by laying flowers at his memorial while listening to some of his classic songs playing nearby speakers .
The Great Lawn is another popular spot within Central Park which hosts free concerts during summer months, along with other events such as yoga classes, movie screenings, and food festivals. Other notable attractions include Bethesda Fountain, Conservatory Garden, Sheep Meadow and more.
Central Park is a great way to experience the beauty of New York City, and it’s definitely worth a visit. Our Central Park Walking Tour has so much more information about the park. Make sure to buy the New York City Tour Bundle to get the most out of your visit.
Next up on our list of top 10 things to do in New York is exploring Times Square.
Entertain Yourself at Times Square
Times Square is one of the most iconic locations in New York City. Located at the intersection of Broadway and Seventh Avenue, it’s a bustling area filled with bright lights, billboards, and street performers. It’s also home to some of the best shopping in NYC – from high-end stores like Louis Vuitton to more affordable retailers like H&M.
If you’re looking for entertainment, Times Square has plenty to offer. Catch a show on Broadway or take in a concert at Radio City Music Hall. There are also several cinemas showing movies from around the world as well as an array of restaurants serving up cuisine from all over the globe.
For those who want to explore further, there are several attractions nearby that make great day trips from Times Square including Central Park, The High Line park walkway along Manhattan’s West Side waterfront district and Rockefeller Center which offers amazing views of Midtown Manhattan skyline and beyond.
When visiting Times Square be sure to check out Duffy Square where visitors can find information about upcoming events taking place throughout NYC such as free outdoor concerts or festivals. And don’t forget about TKTS booth located right in front of Duffy square which sells discounted tickets for same-day theater performances.
Finally, if you’re looking for something unique then head down 7th Avenue towards Hell’s Kitchen where you’ll find hidden gems such as speakeasy bars tucked away behind unmarked doors or secret gardens that only locals know about.
From the hustle and bustle of Times Square to the iconic view of Manhattan from the Brooklyn Bridge, New York City offers a variety of attractions that are sure to please any traveler.
Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most iconic bridges in America, connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn. It was completed in 1883 and has become a symbol of New York City ever since. The bridge is over 6,000 feet long and stands 135 feet above the East River below it.
History: Brooklyn Bridge was designed by John Augustus Roebling who also designed other famous suspension bridges such as Cincinnati’s John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge. Construction began in 1870 but sadly he died from an infection caused by an injury to his foot during construction before it was finished. His son Washington took over the project and saw it through to completion 13 years later with help from his wife Emily Warren Roebling who became an expert on bridge building during her husband’s illness so she could assist him in completing the project.
Views: Walking across Brooklyn Bridge provides stunning views of both Manhattan and Brooklyn skylines which are especially beautiful at night when they’re lit up against the dark sky. You can also take pictures along your journey or just enjoy the sights without having to worry about traffic as there is a pedestrian walkway specifically for pedestrians crossing this historic landmark.
The architecture of this bridge is unique because its two main towers were built using granite blocks that were quarried near Quincy, Massachusetts while its cables were made out of steel wire spun into strands then twisted together like rope before being woven into larger cables that hold up the entire structure. This type of engineering makes this bridge one-of-a-kind compared to other suspension bridges around world due to its innovative design which has stood strong for more than 130 years now.
The Brooklyn Bridge is a must-see for any visitor to New York City, offering spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline. Next up on our list of top 10 things to do in NYC is the iconic Empire State Building.
Our Brooklyn Walking Tour has so much more information. Make sure to buy the New York City Tour Bundle to get the most out of your visit.
Scale the Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is one of the most iconic skyscrapers in New York City. Standing at 1,050 feet tall, it’s a sight to behold and an experience you won’t soon forget.
Visiting the Empire State Building:
Take a trip up to the 86th floor observation deck for breathtaking views of Manhattan and beyond. The elevator ride takes just over a minute and provides stunning views on its own as you ascend higher into the sky. Once at the top, enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of NYC landmarks like Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty and more. You can also visit during sunset for an even more magical experience with hues of pink and orange illuminating your surroundings.
History & Architecture:
Built in 1931 by Shreve Lamb & Harmon Architects, this Art Deco style building was designed to be taller than all other buildings in existence at that time – hence its name “Empire State” building. It held onto this title until 1972 when One World Trade Center was built. It stands 102 stories high with 6500 windows covering its walls which are made from limestone blocks quarried from Indiana state line near Bedford County.
Safety Measures:
The safety measures taken by ESB staff are top notch – visitors must pass through metal detectors before entering elevators or accessing any floors within the building; there are also security guards patrolling around 24/7 making sure everyone is safe while visiting this iconic landmark.
Events & Attractions:
Aside from being able to take picturesque photos atop one of NYC’s tallest buildings, there are plenty of events hosted here throughout the year such as concerts or movie screenings on their open air terrace located on the 80th floor. They also offer guided tours inside the main lobby area where guests can learn about the history behind this famous structure and much more.
The Empire State Building is an iconic symbol of New York City and a must-see for any traveler. From the observation deck, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the city below.
Our Midtown Manhattan Tour has so much more information about Empire State Building and many more structures in the area. Make sure to buy the New York City Tour Bundle to get the most out of your visit.
Now, let’s move on to Wall Street.
See the Iconic Wall Street
Wall Street is a street in Lower Manhattan, New York City. It is the financial center of the United States and home to many of the world’s largest investment banks and brokerages. The term “Wall Street” has become synonymous with corporate greed, power, and wealth.
The history of Wall Street dates back to 1653 when it was first named as such by Dutch settlers who built a wall along its length for protection from Native Americans. Over time, Wall Street became an important hub for trade and commerce in colonial America. By 1792, 24 stockbrokers had gathered under a buttonwood tree at 68 Wall Street to form what would later become known as the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE).
Today, Wall Street remains one of the most iconic symbols of capitalism in America. The NYSE building stands tall on 11 Wall St., while other major firms like Goldman Sachs have their headquarters nearby on 200 West St.. Many historic sites can be found here too including Federal Hall National Memorial which marks where George Washington took his oath as President in 1789; Trinity Church which was founded in 1697; and Fraunces Tavern Museum which served as General George Washington’s Revolutionary War headquarters during 1783-84.
Visitors can take self-guided walking tours through this area or join guided bus tours that provide insight into how finance works today – from big banks to hedge funds. While on the tour, visitors will get to see some of NYC’s most famous landmarks such as the Charging Bull statue near Bowling Green Park and Fearless Girl Statue across from the NYSE building itself.
From the hustle and bustle of Wall Street to the serene views of Battery Park, New York has something for everyone. Make sure to get the Wall Street tour for an in-depth experience about this fascinating financial hub.
Check out Battery Park
Battery Park is a popular destination for travelers in New York City. Located at the southern tip of Manhattan, Battery Park offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, as well as many other attractions. The park itself is filled with lush gardens, monuments, and memorials that honor those who have served our country.
History:
Battery Park has been an important part of New York’s history since 1625 when it was first established by Dutch settlers. It was named after artillery batteries set up to protect the harbor from British ships during the Revolutionary War. Over time, Battery Park has become a major tourist attraction due to its historical significance and breathtaking views.
Attractions:
The park features numerous attractions including Castle Clinton National Monument which dates back to 1811; The SeaGlass Carousel, located inside a glass pavilion; Pier A Harbor House with its restaurants and bars; South Street Seaport Museum where visitors can learn about NYC’s maritime history; and various statues such as the Titanic Memorial Lighthouse honoring victims of the 1912 disaster. Additionally, there are several walking tours available that take visitors through different parts of Battery Park while providing interesting facts about its past and present-day landmarks
Activities:
Visitors can enjoy various activities in Battery Park such as picnicking on one of its grassy lawns or taking a stroll along its waterfront promenade while admiring spectacular views across New York Harbor towards Brooklyn Bridge or Governors Island National Monument. There are also plenty opportunities for fishing off piers or renting boats for sailing around nearby islands like Staten Island or Liberty State Park in Jersey City. For those looking for more adventurous activities, kayaking tours offer an exciting way to explore local waterways. Lastly, don’t forget to take some time out to relax on one of the benches scattered throughout this picturesque park.
From Battery Park, you can enjoy beautiful views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. From there, it’s just a short walk to Grand Central Terminus, one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks.
Make sure to get our Battery Park tour to explore the area at your own pace.
Stop by the Grand Central Terminus
Grand Central Terminus is one of the most iconic landmarks in New York City. Located at 42nd Street and Park Avenue, it has been a major transportation hub since 1913. It is the largest train station in the world by number of platforms with 44 platforms on two underground levels serving 67 tracks. Grand Central Terminal serves as a gateway to destinations all over the Northeast, including Boston, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., and more.
History:
Grand Central was built by Cornelius Vanderbilt II who wanted to create an impressive terminal for his railroad company that would serve as a model for other railroads around the country. The original building opened in 1871 but was destroyed by fire shortly after opening and had to be rebuilt from scratch. The current structure was completed in 1913 and has been preserved ever since then with several renovations taking place throughout its history.
Architecture:
The Beaux-Arts style building features ornate marble walls, brass fixtures, chandeliers made of Austrian crystal glass and grand staircases leading up to balconies overlooking the Main Concourse below. Additionally, stunning ceiling murals depicting constellations of stars painted onto blue backgrounds can be seen above them all creating an awe inspiring atmosphere inside this historic landmark which is still visible today when visiting Grand Central Terminus.
Services & Amenities:
Grand Central offers travelers many services such as ticketing offices where you can purchase tickets for trains or buses going anywhere within reachable distance from NYC. There are also restaurants located inside, like Michael Jordan’s Steakhouse which serves classic American cuisine, shops selling souvenirs or gifts, currency exchange booths and information desks providing maps and directions.
Events & Attractions:
Apart from being used daily by commuters traveling through NYC via train or bus, Grand Central also hosts events such as art exhibitions showcasing local talent and holiday celebrations like Christmas markets during wintertime. This makes it a great destination year round no matter what time of year you visit.
Grand Central Terminus is a must-see destination in New York City, offering a wide variety of attractions and activities. From there, take the time to explore Midtown Manhattan, where you can find iconic landmarks such as Times Square and Rockefeller Center.
Make sure to get the Grand Central Terminal tour to explore this beautiful train station at your own pace.
Visit Midtown Manhattan
Midtown Manhattan is one of the most iconic and vibrant neighborhoods in New York City. Located between 34th Street and 59th Street, it’s home to some of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, including Times Square, Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall, Bryant Park and the Empire State Building. It’s also a great place for shopping with Fifth Avenue stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Tiffany & Co., as well as world-famous department stores like Macy’s Herald Square.
The area is full of cultural attractions too; from art galleries such as The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) to Broadway theatres showcasing plays from around the world. Midtown Manhattan has something for everyone – whether you want to take in a show or explore its many parks and gardens.
For those looking for nightlife options, there are plenty of bars, clubs and restaurants that stay open late into the night. Whether you’re looking for an intimate dinner spot or a lively bar scene – Midtown Manhattan has it all. Plus there are plenty of rooftop bars offering spectacular views over Central Park or down onto Times Square below.
If you’re visiting during winter months then don’t miss out on ice skating at Rockefeller Center – an experience not to be missed. And if you’re lucky enough to visit during Christmas time then make sure you check out the famous tree lighting ceremony which takes place every year in December – it’s truly magical.
No matter what your interests may be – whether its culture, food or entertainment – Midtown Manhattan has something special waiting for everyone who visits this incredible part of New York City. During winter months, don’t miss out on ice skating at Rockefeller Center – an experience not to be missed. And if you’re lucky enough to visit during Christmas time then make sure you check out the famous tree lighting ceremony which takes place every year in December; it’s truly magical. Our New York City tour bundle includes the Midtown Manhattan tour. Don’t forget to get the Midtown Manhattan tour to know more about these beautiful buildings and much more.
From Midtown Manhattan, you can take a ferry to the iconic Statue of Liberty for an unforgettable experience.
Climb the Statue of liberty
The Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic monuments in the world, located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. It was a gift from France to America and symbolizes freedom and democracy. The statue stands 305 feet tall, including its pedestal, and is made up of copper sheets that have been hammered into shape over a steel frame.
History:
The idea for the Statue of Liberty originated with French historian Édouard René de Laboulaye in 1865 as a celebration of American independence from Britain. He proposed it to sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi who designed it as an icon for liberty. Construction began in 1875 and took nine years to complete before being presented to America by France on October 28th 1886.
Design:
Bartholdi’s design features Lady Liberty wearing flowing robes, holding a torch aloft in her right hand while her left holds a tablet inscribed with July 4th 1776 – the date of American Independence. She stands atop broken shackles representing slavery’s abolition during the Civil War era (1861-65). Her crown has seven spikes symbolizing each continent’s seven seas and at her feet lies an uncoiled snake signifying evil or tyranny being conquered by justice and wisdom represented by Lady Liberty herself.
Symbolism:
The Statue has become synonymous with freedom around the world due to its symbolism; it welcomes immigrants arriving at Ellis Island nearby while also serving as reminder that all people are created equal regardless of race or religion – something Americans still strive towards today. Its inscription reads “Give me your tired, your poor/Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free” written by poet Emma Lazarus which further reinforces this message.
Restoration & Maintenance:
In 1984, President Ronald Reagan declared The Statue Of Liberty a National Monument, requiring extensive restoration work since then. This included replacing rusted iron supports inside Lady Liberty’s armature structure and cleaning exterior copper plates using lasers. Today, maintenance continues through donations from private citizens so future generations can continue enjoying this timeless monument honoring our nation’s freedoms.
The Statue of Liberty is an iconic symbol of freedom and a must-see for any traveler to New York. Next up, we’ll explore the 9/11 Memorial, which honors those who lost their lives in the 2001 terrorist attacks.
Know more about the Statue of Liberty on our New York City tour bundle.
Visit the 9/11 Memorial
The 9/11 Memorial is a tribute to the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks of September 11th, 2001. Located at the World Trade Center site in Lower Manhattan, this memorial serves as a solemn reminder of that fateful day and its lasting impact on our nation.
The memorial consists of two large reflecting pools with cascading waterfalls set within the footprints of where the Twin Towers once stood. The names of those who perished are inscribed into bronze panels surrounding each pool, providing visitors with an opportunity to pay their respects and remember those we lost.
In addition to these two main features, there are also several other elements that make up this moving memorial including Survivor Trees – trees which were damaged but survived after 9/11 – as well as a museum dedicated to telling stories from that day and beyond. There’s also an interactive exhibition space called “Voices” which allows visitors to hear first-hand accounts from survivors and witnesses about what happened during and after the attack.
Visiting the 9/11 Memorial can be an emotionally powerful yet calming experience for many people; it provides them with a place for reflection while still honoring those who passed away on that tragic day. It is open year round so if you ever find yourself in New York City, be sure to take some time out of your visit here – you won’t regret it.
Know more about the 9/11 Memorial on our New York City tour bundle.
FAQs in Relation to top 10 Things to Do in New York
What is the number 1 attraction in New York?
The number one attraction in New York is the iconic Statue of Liberty. Located on Liberty Island, this 305-foot neoclassical sculpture was a gift from France to the United States and has become an enduring symbol of freedom and democracy. The statue stands atop a granite pedestal designed by architect Richard Morris Hunt, which visitors can access via ferry from Battery Park in Manhattan or Liberty State Park in Jersey City. Visitors are able to explore the grounds surrounding the statue as well as climb up into its crown for spectacular views of New York Harbor.
What is the coolest thing in New York?
The coolest thing in New York is the city itself. From its iconic skyline to its vibrant culture, there’s something for everyone in this bustling metropolis. Whether you’re exploring Central Park or taking a stroll through Times Square, you’ll be sure to find plenty of exciting things to do and see. The Big Apple also offers world-class museums, restaurants, shopping opportunities and entertainment venues that will make your visit unforgettable. With so much on offer, it’s no wonder why New York is one of the most popular cities in the world.
What should I do in NYC for a day?
New York City is a great place to explore and experience in just one day. Take the self-guided New York City tour bundle and get going! Take a stroll through Central Park for some fresh air and beautiful scenery. Afterward, head downtown for some shopping on Fifth Avenue or take in the views from the Empire State Building. For lunch, try one of NYC’s famous delis before taking an afternoon tour of The Metropolitan Museum of Art or Guggenheim Museum. End your day with dinner at one of Manhattan’s many restaurants before catching a show on Broadway.
Is 2 days enough for New York?
No, two days is not enough to explore New York City. With its endless attractions and activities, it would take weeks or even months to fully experience the city. From iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty to world-class museums and galleries, there’s something for everyone in NYC. There are also countless restaurants, bars, clubs and shops that offer unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else. So if you want to get a real taste of what this amazing city has to offer, plan on spending more than just two days here. You can use our self-guided New York City tour bundle and break-up the tours as you wish.
Conclusion
New York City is an amazing destination with plenty of things to do and see. From the iconic Central Park, Times Square, Brooklyn Bridge and Empire State Building to Wall Street, Battery Park, Grand Central Terminus and Midtown Manhattan – there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to take a trip out to the Statue of Liberty or pay your respects at the 9/11 Memorial too. With so much on offer it can be hard to narrow down what you want to do in New York but these top 10 things are sure not to disappoint!
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