51 Things to do in NYC

On the hunt for things to do in NYC? You’re not alone! If you’re feeling inspired for adventure and fun in the city that never sleeps, then read on! From intriguing American Art exhibits and awesome historic hotels near Grand Central Station to incredible views of the city skyline, the opportunities to discover fun things to do in New York City are endless. The more than 60 million visitors who visit this fascinating city filled with history, mystery, and excitement are a testament to the countless reasons to visit NYC. With that in mind, we’ve narrowed the list down so you don’t have to. Keep reading for our most highly recommended picks or check out things to do just outside NYC!

Exploring Things to Do in NYC

The concrete jungle is open year-long to its millions of visitors and offers countless memories to every family, individual, and group that walks its streets. Its size and diversity make it an excellent destination for visitors and newcomers alike. There are so many things to do in New York City, and it can be difficult to know where to begin. Fortunately, we’ve done the research for you and outlined some of the best things to do in NYC. Pack your bags and get ready to explore the five boroughs!

Things to do in NYC This Weekend

New York City is one of the world’s most vibrant and exciting cities, and there’s always something new to see. Whether you’re a tourist or live here, you’ll be able to find unique activities to keep you busy all year round. The Big Apple’s endless selection of things to do on the weekend will have you coming back for more. From world-class museums to historic parks, unique boutiques to buzzing nightclubs, the city has something for everyone. If you’re looking for a compiled list of all the fun things to do in NYC just steps outside the best Midtown NYC hotels, well, here it is!

1 | Relax at Brooklyn Bridge Park

Life really is a breeze when you hang out at Brooklyn Bridge Park! From bocce ball and kayaking to rock-climbing and soccer, spend a day under the NYC rays and let the hours pass you by. Adjacent to the East River, have a family ping-pong tournament at the outdoor ping-pong area or layout at Pier 4 Beach. The energetic park also exhibits local art from the Public Art Fund, as well as numerous other outdoor activities, including birdwatching, fishing, biking, volleyball, and even an environmental education center. When your stomach’s a grumbling, grab some evening grub at the waterfront restaurant, Fornino’s.

WHERE: 334 Furman St, Brooklyn, NY 11201 | WHO: 718-222-9939

2 | Take A Spin at Coney Island

One of NYC’s most talked-about attractions, Coney Island is a land of amusement and fried food for all! Just a little over an hour from Manhattan, the famous destination is stacked full of screaming thrills from the legendary Cyclone and Luna Park amusement park, as well as delicious finds at the original Nathan’s Famous and the boardwalk overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Find city, sun, surf, all in one on the island of fun!

Check out this video of Coney Island!

WHERE: 1208 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224 | WHO: 718-372-5159

3 | Pivot at the Friends Experience

If some of your favorite NYC friends are Phoebe, Ross, Chandler, and Rachel, then you don’t want to miss the Friends Experience at The One in New York City! This immersive attraction is full of interactive experiences, like lounging on a replica of the iconic orange couch and playing trivia with Monica’s living room as your backdrop. Tour through well-known stage props and costumes that add to the fun for $45 per ticket.

WHERE: 130 East 23rd St, New York, NY 10010 | WHO: N/A

4 | Wave Hello to the Statue of Liberty

Lady Liberty, the most well-known copper statue in the world and one of America’s favorite symbols since 1886, can be found on Liberty Island. With an observation deck at her crown and exhibitions detailing the fascinating history behind this colossal neoclassical statue at 305 ft., make your way to meet our nation’s Lady Liberty!

WHERE: New York, NY 10004 | WHO: 212-363-3200

5 | Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at Eddie’s Sweet Shop

For a true Grease-lightening fantasy, visit Eddie’s Sweet Shop in Queens! This old-fashioned soda shop has the best ice cream sundaes and shakes in town. It also serves banana splits, which are popular here due to their nostalgic taste of an old-school soda parlor. The shop is famous for its towers of ice cream sundaes that come in three flavors: vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry!

WHERE: Union Square W &, E 17th St, New York, 10003 | WHO: 212-788-7900

6 | Browse the $1 Shelves at Strand Book Store

One of the best bookstores in NYC, the Strand Bookstore is the perfect place for any bookworm. Located in downtown Manhattan, it offers 18 miles of books with over 2.5 million new, used and rare titles spanning across three floors! The store also has a $1 shelf that contains signed copies and early editions on the third floor waiting to be picked up by you! Happy shopping!

Calling all bookworms. Watch this video of the historic Strand Book Store.

WHERE: 828 Broadway at 12th St, New York, NY 10003 | WHO: 212- 473-1452

7 | Play Ball at Yankee Stadium

Do you want to see a game of America’s favorite past-time while in New York? If so, Yankee Stadium is the place for you! Home to the Yankees, this legendary and world-famous sports stadium has plenty of scents: freshly mowed grass, hotdogs, and popcorn. It also features lots of cheers from fans rooting for their favorite teams or cheering on underdogs. You can chill out during innings at Bareburger eating some good grub before celebrating your win at Stan’s – it’s a fan bar near Yankee Stadium! Let’s play ball!

Check out the famous Yankee Stadium!

WHERE: 1 E 161 St, Bronx, NY 10451 | WHO: 718-293-4300

8 | See the City on the Staten Island Ferry

Looking for a way to tour the city for free without wearing out your feet? Step onto the Staten Island Ferry! One of the last remaining ferries in New York City, the vestige provides 22 million people a year with a ride between St. George on Staten Island and Whitehall Street in Manhattan. The ferry runs 24/7, seven days a week, and offers views of the Manhattan Skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the Brooklyn Bridge. Whether you’re dying to see the city’s greatest sights up close or have always wanted to ride a ferry, this free attraction is a breezy break between some of the most expensive thrills of the city.

Staten Island Ferry ride. Check out the video!

WHERE: 4 Whitehall St, New York, NY 10004 | WHO: 212-839-3061

9 | Explore Art at the Met

Famous for being New York City’s most visited museum and landmark attraction, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is a phenomenal destination for anyone seeking inspiration or searching for their next favorite painter. As the largest art museum in America with over 2 million works, it’s an ideal day-long activity for adults and children alike! The Met has endless wonders that will leave you amazed for hours on end.

Enjoy this glimpse of the Metropolitan Museum of Art!

WHERE: 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028 | WHO: 212-535-7710

10 | Eat at the 24-Hour Sarge’s Delicatessen & Diner

When it’s late at night and you’re winding down from your wild New York City night, there’s nothing better than a 24-hour Jewish diner. Opened by NYPD Sergeant Katz in 1964, the classic deli has preserved its authentic flavors and nostalgic décor from day one. From savory classics like the Rueben to the Monster – NYCs largest sandwich with turkey, salami, corned beef pastrami roast beef tomato coleslaw lettuce Russian dressing all between two slices of warm rye bread – this authentic Jewish diner will have you full all morning or night!

WHERE: 548 3rd Avenue, New York, NY 10016 | WHO: 212-679-0442

11 | Take In the Stunning Art at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

Designed by world-renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum shows classic works of art inside one brilliant, massive work of art. The building is famous and recognizable for its oculus and layered inner and outer architecture and was one of the first buildings to give architecture a place in the expanding art world. Exhibiting works by Abstract and Surrealist Expressionists, Cubism by Peggy Guggenheim, Picasso, and the largest collection of Kandinskys in America, this art museum on the East Side is a mind-bending experience that can’t be missed.

WHERE: 1071 Fifth Ave, New York, NY 10128 | WHO: 212-423-3500

12 | Relax at the Brooklyn Botanical Garden

For some peace and tranquility in the cultural haven of Brooklyn, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is the perfect place to find respite in-between your busy NYC itinerary. The 52-acre garden is a springtime wonder, with thousands of types of flora decorating and breaking up the intense atmosphere of the city. Breathe in the floral embrace of 70+ Cherry Blossoms blooming during the Sakura Matsuri Festival, or gaze serenely into the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden. The garden is also extremely family-friendly and holds activities for children to enjoy the colorful botanicals, as well as holds live music events!

WHERE: 990 Washington Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225 | WHO: 718-623-7200

13 | Savor a New York Bagel

We all know that when you’re in New York City, there are a few must-do things. One of the most important is to eat an (or several) authentic New York bagel! The original United States bagel was brought here by Jewish immigrants from Eastern Europe, and it has developed its taste and crust due to minerals like calcium and magnesium found in tap water. It can be eaten with lox or smeared with cream cheese at any time of day – morning, noon or night! It’s hard for us to pick just one shop as a favorite for NY Bagels but Russ & Daughters Bagels is definitely worth checking out.

WHERE: 179 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002 | WHO: 212-475-4880

14 | Cross the Brooklyn Bridge

Let’s take a walk! Connecting Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn, the total length of Brooklyn Bridge is 6,016 feet and shows beautiful views of the city with every step! Constructed in 1883 and an iconic NYC structure known for its grand stone arches, the bridge overlooks the East River and is a great way to travel through boroughs, take pictures, and enjoy life the New York City way. Basically, it’s a rite of passage!

Check Out the Bridge Below!

WHERE: Brooklyn Bridge, New York, NY 10038 | WHO: 718-724-6434

15 | Laze About at Prospect Park

Discover serenity in the heart of Brooklyn! Bicycle rides, picnics, and morning runs are always a good idea at Prospect Park! Bring the family and enjoy a game of baseball, basketball, or a ride in a paddleboat at LeFrak, the park’s tranquil lake. The 526-acre flagship park of Brooklyn offers is the perfect venue for celebrating your anniversary or wedding, and even has a whimsical carousel and full-service roller rink perfect for birthdays! Strap on your skates and roll into fun at Prospect Park!

Prospect Park video:

WHERE: 95 Prospect Park West, Brooklyn, NY 11215 | WHO: 718-965-8951

16 | Enjoy Outdoor Entertainment at Lincoln Center

Entertainment never sleeps in NYC! Known as a cultural destination, the Restart Stages at the Lincoln Center include ten outdoor performance stages meant to revive the city’s performance scene. The inclusive outdoor venue brings together performers, artists, families, and community organizations for live performances, events, and family activities! Welcoming locals and visitors, the performance center encourages coming together as a community no matter where you’re from!

WHERE: Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023 | WHO: 212-875-5456

17 | Explore Central Park

Central Park is more than just a beautiful place to visit. With both 59th Street and 72nd Street entrances, it’s one of the most recognizable urban green spaces in New York City. The park has various activities for family members to enjoy, like strawberry fields and the Central Park Zoo, as well as public tours that showcase its famous architectural landscape which includes places like Strawberry Fields and Wollman Rink. Whatever you are looking for, be it leisurely or active, there is something here at Central Park that will suit your needs!

Central Park video:

WHERE: New York, NY | WHO: 212-310-6600

18 | Eat in Chinatown

Support small businesses and indulge in some of the best Chinese food you’ll ever taste! We know that’s a big promise, but we mean it! Chinatown in New York City is a lively, vibrant neighborhood full of finger-licking good dishes, like dim sum, bao buns, and all the noodles your heart desires! Lined with boba tea shops and markets, the ingredients you’ll find and taste in Chinatown are guaranteed to be fresh and authentic. If you’re in need of something extra spicy, we recommend trying one of the many Szechuan restaurants, particularly Hwa Yuan Szechuan. It’s melt-your-tongue spicy and so worth it!

WHERE: 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011 | WHO: 212-652-2111

19 | Shop the Brooklyn Flea

Scratch your shopping itch, and don’t miss the most talked-about New York flea market! Created in 2008, the Brooklyn Flea offers unique finds, delightful fresh foods, and a great urban experience! The Brooklyn Flea is a one-of-a-kind flea market that offers unique finds, fresh food, and an urban experience. There are carefully curated jewelry and crafts as well as vintage clothes, furniture, collectibles. It operates every weekend at four different locations: Williamsburg on Saturdays from 10 am to 5 pm, Hester Flea on Saturdays from 11 am to 6 pm, Dumbo on Sundays from 10 am to 5 pm, Chelsea Saturday’s 8 am -5 pm and Sunday’s 9 am – 4 pm.

WHAT: 80 Pearl St, Brooklyn, NY 11201 | WHO: 718-928-6603

20 | Have a Laugh at The Tiny Cupboard

Self-described as a “hipster comedy club with a church and a big rooftop,” but it’s so much more than that! The Tiny Cupboard is a place for locals and visitors alike to come together and experience the hilarious side of Brooklyn! This underground comedy club holds open mic nights and performances on a rooftop overlooking Bushwick and focuses on creating culture and community through unique events, all under the guise of comedy. The Tiny Cupboard is a large look into Brooklyn and is perfect for any visitor seeking an underground/aboveground experience.

WHERE: 1717 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11207 | WHO: 973-747-5034

21 | Live the High Life at the Empire State Building

See the Big Apple from a bird’s eye view! Sitting at 1,454 feet tall from bottom to antenna, the Empire State Building is the only 360-degree open vantage point from a platform to overlook Manhattan. Visitors can view the bright lights and sights of the city from the 86th and 102nd-floor observatories daily from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. When the sky is clear, you’ll be able to see up to six states! After you’re done on the observatory deck, the museum on the 2nd floor offers 10,000 square feet of interactive exhibits that go through the history of the Empire State Building, starting with its initial construction and ending with its appearances in pop culture.

WHERE: 20 West 34th Street, New York City, NY 10001 | WHO: 212-736-3100

22 | Meet the Wildlife at The Bronx Zoo

Have a roaring time when you visit the largest metropolitan zoo in North America! With over 265-acres of wildlife and animals, the Bronx Zoo is a fantastic look into the world of wildlife! The urban zoo has unlimited experiences to discover your wild side, from exclusive, behind-the-scenes wild encounters to treetop adventures. Since the zoo is so expansive, it’s nearly impossible to see everything in one day. We recommend touring the Himalayan Highlands and Congo Gorilla Forest exhibits to start. Plus, admission to the zoo is free on Wednesdays!

Check out this view of the Bronx Zoo!

WHERE: 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10460 | WHO: 718-367-1010

23 | Wander the Wave Hill Public Garden & Cultural Center

Touring the city doesn’t have to be all about looking up at buildings and admiring their architecture. The Wave Hill Public Garden is a place for those who want to get out of the hustle and bustle of urban life but still enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells that come with living in an area like NYC. It’s made up of 28 acres filled with natural wonders from manicured gardens to woodlands containing colorful plants- it’ll definitely take your breath away! All sorts of events are also held here so make sure you stop by if you’re nearby during one (like contemporary art or live performances)! The gorgeous gardens are open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Take a stroll and inhale the beauty of nature!

WHERE: 4900 Independence Ave, Bronx, NY 10471 | WHO: 718-549-3200

24 | Eat, Shop, and Eat Some More at Chelsea Market

Located in the center of NYC’s Meatpacking District, Chelsea Market is known for being a food and shopping mega-center with a global perspective. Focused on bringing diverse culinary experiences to the people of New York City, the shopping and food hall merchants are distinctive in their unique cuisine and products. With over six million visitors annually, the foot traffic makes it one of the most visited destinations in New York City. Whether you’re feeling peckish or you could eat a four-course meal, the Chelsea Market is sure to satisfy your need to eat and more!

WHERE: 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011 | WHO: 212-652-2111

25 | Hang Out in Washington Square Park

Known as the heart of Greenwich Village, Washington Square Park has become one of the most recognizable and iconic New York City landmarks. From avant-garde artists and performing musicians to eating and chatting with your loved ones in front of the massive arch, the landmark is a playground for people of all ages and is also a parade ground.

WHERE: Washington Square, New York, NY 10012 | WHO: 212-639-9675

26 | Grab a slice of New York Pizza Pie

Serving up gigantic, cheesy slices the size of your face, everyone knows that New York-style pizza is supreme! Thin, hand-tossed dough with a layer of tangy red sauce and ooey gooey cheese, cooked until the crust is crispy…are you hungry yet? Whether you like to fold your slices, start with the crust, or like to sprinkle on a helping of parmesan and red pepper flakes, there’s no wrong way to eat a slice of New York pizza! Since every shop claim to be the best (but let’s be honest, they’re all lip-smacking good!) we recommend you start your pizza crawl at Paulie Gee’s Slice Shop!

WHERE: 110 Franklin St, Brooklyn, NY 11222 | WHO: N/A

27 | Explore Art at Frick Madison

Do you consider yourself an art connoisseur? Internationally known as the premier museum for Old Master paintings and sculptures, the Frick Collection is an art lover’s dream nestled in between the busy streets of New York. During a renovation of historical New York buildings, The Frick Collection has moved to a new building at the Marcel Breuer-designed building on Madison Avenue and is currently now the Frick Madison. Blending the antiquity of the collection with the modern age, this is the first time the collection has been presented outside the walls of its Gilded Age Mansion. If you find yourself wandering down Madison Avenue and come across a modern gray box of a building, we encourage you to step inside and become enveloped by the romance of the Renaissance!

WHERE: 945 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10021 | WHO: 212-288-0700

28 | Try a Famous Nathan’s Hot Dog

Do you love hot dogs? Would you travel thousands and miles to try one of the country’s best hot dogs? Of course, you would! Located on Coney Island since 1916, Nathan’s Famous has been serving tasty and affordable hot dogs and other specialties to the attraction’s visitors, and the tiny delights were even brought to stores so you can always have a little bit of New York in your home. Known for their affordable prices and friendly atmosphere, the hot dog joint just brought back the original price of the hot dogs, which is five cents!

WHERE: 1310 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224 | WHO: 718-333-2202

29 | See the Edge of the World

In search of one of the most over-the-top experiences in New York? Floating 1,100 feet in the air above one of the chicest neighborhoods in the city, the Edge at Hudson Yards is the highest world observation deck in the Western Hemisphere! With breathtaking views of the entire city, the 7,500 square-foot triangular platform allows visitors to sightsee the city like never before! Featuring translucent glass floor sneaking peaks of 100 floors below and a champagne bar on the 100th floor, have a heart-stopping 360-degree experience of New York City!

WHERE: 30 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001 | WHO: 332-204-8500

30 | Stroll the Madison Square Park

Not to be mistaken for the Madison Square Garden, Madison Square Park is Manhattan’s liveliest greenspace! Located in the Flatiron District, the park is home to the first Shake Shack and hosts various events from art exhibits to free concerts. Head on over to the first Shake Shack, and then be sure to take a stroll through the greenest space in Midtown Manhattan. Stretch your legs, walk your pup, or just take a moment for yourself under the trees. Anything goes!

WHERE: 11 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10010 | WHO: 212-520-7600

31 | Have a Moment of Silence at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum

In the city of excitement and wonder lies a memorial that is as important as it is moving. Created to honor the victims of the 9/11 and February 26, 1993, terrorist attacks, the National September 11 Memorial & Museum is a touching tribute that lies in place of what once was the Twin Towers at the World Trade Center. As a remembrance of the buildings, Israeli architect, Michael Arad, designed the two largest man-made waterfalls in North America to mark the footprint of each fallen tower and cascade into reflecting pools. From paying your respects to learning from the educational resources available at the museum, take a moment from your New York City Day and take in the surroundings at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum.

WHERE: 180 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10007 | WHO: 212-312-8800

32 | Sip and Show at City Winery

Calling all wine lovers! Founded in 2008, City Winery is the place to go for urban wine enthusiasts and culture seekers. From upscale dining to intimate concerts, this fully functioning winery is a great place to decompress after touring attractions and have a drink of locally made adult grape juice. Hosting big names like Prince or John Mulaney as well as local talent, there’s no better place for indulging on delicious food, fine wine, and great company than New York City!

WHERE: 25 11TH Ave, New York NY 10011 | WHO: 646-751-6033

33 | Visit the American Museum of Natural History

Looking for a fun indoor activity to escape the heat? Across from Central Park, the Museum of Natural History is one of the largest and greatest natural history museums in the world and is made up of 26 connecting buildings with 45 permanent exhibitions! Established in 1869, the museum now features over 34 million specimens of animals, plants, rocks, minerals, fossils, human remains, and cultural artifacts, including the skeleton of a life-size T-Rex! Explore the natural history of the world for prices starting at $23/adult and $13/child at one of the world’s premier scientific and cultural conservatories!

WHERE: 200 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024 | WHO: 212-769-5100

34 | Come Together at Talea Beer Co. Taproom

Discover a new side to your favorite adult beverage—Beer! Talea Beer Co. promotes its craft beer as “easy to love”, presenting low bitterness and fruity flavors perfect for celebrating life! With bright flavors and even brighter cans, Talea Beer Co. is one of the newer breweries in New York City and you can see why it’s making such a buzz! Meant to replace the sweet and exhilarating flavors of rose and seltzers, be sure to stop by during your trip to the big city and find your new favorite beer! It’s on us!

WHERE: 87 Richardson St, Brooklyn, NY 11211 | WHO: 347-799-1281

35 | Go to the Top at the Rockefeller Center | The height of Art Deco grandeur, the famous cultural landmark has so much for you to explore! From the Top of the Rock observation decks to the free audio walking tour, the Rockefeller Center is made up of 22-acres of 19 commercial buildings in Midtown Manhattan, including the Radio City Music Hall. While the complex is popular for its ice-skating rink and massive Christmas Tree during the holidays, the landmark offers expansive underground hidden gems and activities all year long.

History of Rockefeller Center. Watch the video!

WHERE: 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111 | WHO: 212-588-8601

36 | Explore the Grand Central Terminal

Open to the public in 1913, the Grand Central Terminal is one of the most visited train stations in New York and an extraordinary public space full of history. The famous landmark works first as a train terminal and second as a hub for mystifying finds such as a $20 million Tiffany clock with whispering galleries next door. For those who love history, audio tours are available! With 750 000 visitors daily and close to some of NYC’s best hotels and restaurants, Grand Central Station should be your first stop on your itinerary!

WHERE: 89 E 42nd Street, New York City, NY 10017 | WHO: 212-340-2583

37 | Get Weird at Geometric Properties

Are you always looking for the newest experiences in the art scene? Geometric Properties, the brainchild of Dutch Artist Julius Horsthius, is a trippy and dreamy experience wrapped up in a neon-disco alter-universe at ARTECHOUSE NYC. By using digital mediums, Horsthius explores multiple dimensions and fundamental mathematical patterns to recreate the limited lifespan and the wonderment of beings. By using nature and architecture, as well as bold colors, the art digs deep into each viewer’s psyche, as well as just puts on a dynamite show! Ready to explore the universe?

WHERE: 439 W 15th St, New York, NY 10011 | WHO: N/A

38 | Become One With Nature at the New York Botanical Garden

With over 250 acres of lush green attractions, the urban retreat is a quiet space for those looking to escape the noise of the city! Surrounded by the New York City commotion, the New York Botanical Garden is a serene sanctuary full of flourishing garden exhibits. The historic garden is open throughout the year and displays enchanting exhibits including the Native Plant Garden and Chilton Azalea Garden. Bloom bright among the city’s most cherished green haven and reconnect with nature!

WHERE: 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458 | WHO: 718-817-8700

39 | Play Pétanque at Industry City

It’s not bocce ball, it’s not bowling, it’s pétanque! Originally created in France, the boules sport has made it to the streets of NYC at Industry City! Similar to horseshoes, the game is usually played by two teams of two and is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon with your family and friends! Created by the Carreau Club, the court rentals are walk-up and $20 per hour for up to six players. Each court includes a comfortable seating area, equipment, and a tutorial from one of the pétanque club’s guides. Offering treats like cocktails and sandwiches, enjoy a night in the big city experiencing New York’s newest favorite past-time!

WHERE: 68 34TH St, Brooklyn, NY 11232 | WHO: 718-619-8664

40 | Dance Through Times Square

New York City is not complete without its bright and powerful center, Times Square. The plaza borders Broadway and 7th Avenue, one of the city’s major commercial districts where all visitors to New York will undoubtedly experience live performances by wild characters and grand shopping. Full of electric energy with a bustling atmosphere, Times Square doesn’t just define New York City; it embodies everything that makes this great city so iconic!

WHERE: Manhattan, NY 10036 | WHO: 212-869-1890

41 | Check Out Books at the New York City Library

Safeguarded at the entrance by two marble lions, the Beaux-Arts National Historic Landmark is the second largest library in the United States and the fourth largest in the world. The New York City Library is a book-lovers dream, featuring rows and rows of over six million books! Whether you’re seeking air-conditioning during a hot summer day or need a free family activity, get lost for days in the maze of brilliant books!

WHERE: 476 5th Ave, New York, NY 10018 | WHO: 917-275-6975

42 | Taste the Rainbow at MENO

Looking for an Instagrammable treat during your trip to NYC? Look no further than a slice of Rainbow Crepe Cake at MENO Coffee & Tea! Thin layers of colorful crepe between silky crème, the Rainbow Crepe Cake is a dream in a bite! The chic brewery also offers less colorful but equally delicious treats like the Matcha Crepe Cake, Oreo Crepe Cake, and Rose Crepe Cake. Take a bite, we know you want to!

WHERE: 218 Thompson St, New York, NY 10012 | WHO: 646-767-9797

43 | Shop Fresh Goodies at Union Square Greenmarket

Union Square’s famous greenmarket has had a long journey since its origins in 1976. With hundreds of varieties of fresh-picked produce, cured meats and artisanal cheeses, homemade bread, and other goodies from local communities—skip the grocery store with this treasure trove! Open every Monday through Saturday year-round from 8 am – 6 pm, stop by for some snacks or dinner ingredients that come straight from New York’s locals.

WHERE: Union Square W &, E 17th St, New York, 10003 | WHO: 212-788-7900

44 | Walk the High Line

How high can you go? Suspended between skyscrapers on Manhattan’s west side, the High Line is a 1.4-mile aboveground park and garden built on old train tracks offering New York walkers a new avenue to travel. With ceramic archways supporting the steel tracks and a larger-than-life sculpture named “Sister of the Road”, the High Line is an exhilarating stroll above Chelsea’s vibrant street life.

WHERE: New York, NY 10011 | WHO: 212-500-6035

45 | Experience “KUSAMA: Cosmic Nature”

One of the most incredible artists in the world has an exhibit in NYC that you do(n’)t want to miss! Known for her experimentation with the dots, Yayoi Kusama’s exhibit is an immersive installation that experiments with the connection between the natural world and its infinity for beauty and incorporates bright colors and patterns to emanate the life cycles of flora. Connect with nature and art through “KUSAMA: Cosmic Nature”!

WHERE: 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458 | WHO: 718-817-8700

46 | Visit the Green-Wood Cemetery

Are you a fan of the macabre? While you visit the liveliest city in the world, be sure to check out one of its, well, less lively attractions! The Green-Wood Cemetery sits in the middle of Brooklyn and is a peaceful resting place with spooky gargoyles, cherubs, one large Gothic arch, haunting Victorian mausoleums, and the highest point in King’s County at the top of Battle Hill. With more than 560,000 buried on the 478-acre grounds, the cemetery makes a fun getaway off the beaten path and also offers midnight tours for those who dare.

WHERE: 500 25th St, Brooklyn, NY 11232 | WHO: 718-768-7300

47 | Unload at El Sabroso

Located inside a freight entrance is one of the best Latin eateries in NYC, but you have to really know what you’re looking for or you might miss it! El Sabroso is the go-to Latin lunch place in the city, and it’s easy to see why. Once you see the blue sign and walk through the two large industrial doors, you will immediately be met with a pleasant greeting from the owner, Tony Molina, and the divine aroma of spices and roasting meat. Loud with the noises of people swapping stories and trucks unloading and loading cargo, enjoy mouthwatering eats like pollo guisado for $5 or a special off the daily menu. If you have a hard time finding El Sabroso, just follow the heavenly smell of Latin deliciousness to its doors!

WHERE: 265 W 37th St, New York, NY 10018 | WHO: 212-284-1118

48 | Discover Midtown’s Hidden Tropical Forest

Have your own Indiana Jones moment and discover the true hidden gem of New York City! The indoor tropical forest in the Ford Foundation is an urban jungle dropped in the middle of the world’s most famous concrete jungle. Working as a tropical greenhouse, the forest includes lush, looming trees, magnolias, dwarf shrubs, and garden terraces that become water pools. The tropical forest thrives all year long, and even the rain that collects on the roof helps water the plants and fill up the water pools. The urban oasis is open to the public on weekdays from 8 am to 6 pm and Saturdays from 11 am to 6 pm. Don’t miss out on this NYC treasure!

WHERE: 320 E 43rd St, New York, NY, 10017 | WHO: 212-573-5000

49 | Cheers at McSorley’s Old Ale House

The Irish are coming! Have a pint or pitcher of the city’s tastiest ales, lagers, and porters at one of the oldest Irish Pubs in New York City! Established in 1854, McSorley’s Old Ale House has remained steadfast in its traditional Irish tastes and authenticity. Once an Irish working man’s saloon, presidents, authors, locals, and visitors have walked across the sawdust-filled floor and enjoyed the boisterous energy that the pub brings its patrons. If you’re looking for a pint to start your night off with or a pitcher to celebrate your trip, we recommend McSorley’s Light and Dark Ales to start and the rest is up to you!

WHERE: 15 E 7th St, New York, NY 10003 | WHO: 212-473-9148

50 | Feel Inspired by NYC’s Street Art

From East Harlem to the East Village, some of the world’s most impressive and expressive works of art can be found on the streets of New York City! Birthplace to street art, the city is decorated from Manhattan to Brooklyn and even Staten Island and continues to be the best place to view street art and discover up-and-coming artists. For bright and bold works, go on down to the Graffiti Walls at the corner of Houston and Bowery, where some past artists have been Banksy and Shepard Fairey.

WHERE: Park Ave, New York, NY 10029 | WHO: N/A

51 | Have a Unique Japanese Meal at Wakuwaku

Step out of the city and into the Japanese countryside! Set inside a traditional Japanese house, Wakuwaku is a relaxing izakaya located in Japan Village and is the perfect place for respite after a busy day wandering the city. Serving traditional Japanese snacks and experimental cocktails, the Japanese tavern offers unique flavors under the sway of low-lit lanterns and whimsical décor. From the umami aroma of sharable small plates like Wasabi Shumai to various sake options (we recommend…well…all of them), Wakuwaku gives its patrons an around-the-world experience that’s hard to put into words—you just have to try it for yourself!

WHERE: 269 36th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11232 | WHO: 347-584-4577

BONUS

They say Paris is the City of Love – but in 1945 Maurice and Sally Goller fell in love and spent their honeymoon in the Hotel Tudor (now known as Westgate Grand Central) in New York City. Just as their love has stood the test of time for more than 75 years, the historic hotel stands as a beacon showing that anything is possible. It has been renovated with modern touches while preserving its classic elegance and charm. If you’re looking for a place to celebrate your love – or to enjoy a nice vacation on the quiet side of NYC, add this historic hotel to the top of your list!