Many of the city's most famous attractions are located adjacent to it or inside its boundaries, and this part park, part museum, and part-concert hall swallows downtown Manhattan (the Guggenheim, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the American Museum of Natural History, to name a few). Travelers, though, stress that you shouldn't simply drive by Central Park on your route somewhere else. Both locals and visitors to New York love this 843-acre park; you can work out, eat, see the zoo, and more here.

Every season is great in Central Park, making it a must-visit for visitors to New York, "explains Four Seasons Hotel New York head concierge Josephine Danielson. It's possible that people are unaware of all the hidden gems in Central Park. Visitors should go to the Conservatory Garden if they're looking for something unique.

The majority of people have favorable opinions of the park, but no one has exactly the same experience as you or suggests that you do exactly the same thing. There are 48 fountains, monuments, or sculptures, 20 playgrounds, 36 bridges, and an almost unfathomable number of other sights to view in this area (hidden treasures, indeed).

• Ranking: #1 in Best Things To Do in New York City

Location: 59th to 110th Streets

Website: https://www.centralparknyc.org/

Phone: 212.310.6600

Price & Hours: Free & 6 a.m.-1 a.m. daily

Don't even attempt to view everything in a single day; there are over 32 million artifacts inside, dispersed over four city blocks, 25 buildings, and 45 exhibition halls. A particular favorite is the Rose Center for Earth and Space, but you should also schedule a time to see the dinosaurs, the Hall of the Universe, and the Butterfly Conservatory (on display from October through May). The top family activities in New York City, according to local experts, including visiting this museum. Richard Tucker, the chief concierge at The Refinery Hotel, describes the location as "an inventive space, suitable for everyone of any age... and it's instructive and engaging." The organization, according to local experts, is one of the city's must-see museums.

Even though the American Museum of Natural History is often crowded, you'll encounter fewer visitors if you go on a weekday in the late winter or early spring. It is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. and is well-known for its "recommended" entrance costs of $23 for adults, $18 for seniors and students with ID, and $13 for young children (2–12 years old). On the museum's website, tickets can be purchased in advance for the "recommended" entrance prices. To get there, take the B or C line to 81st Street or the 1 to 79th Street. Before you go, make a bookmark of the official website.

• Ranking: #2 in Best Things To Do in New York City
  

Location: 79th Street and Central Park West

Website: https://www.amnh.org/

Phone: 212-769-5100

Price & Hours: Suggested admission of $23 for adults & 10 a.m-5:45 p.m. daily

This famous plaza is home to numerous shops and eateries, along with stunning sculptures, a sizable skating rink, and a fishbowl view of the NBC Studios. Even though there will definitely be large crowds, this is an experience that must be had at least once. A lit Christmas tree and skaters skating over the ice make the plaza shine during the winter holidays. But don't worry if your trip to New York doesn't happen to be during the winter. There is a lot to do all year round. Planning ahead will allow you to see a filming of the "Today" show in the morning, explore the city from the Top of the Rock Observation Deck in the afternoon, and attend a performance at Radio City Music Hall in the evening.

The Top of the Rock, according to tourists, gives some of the best views over Manhattan and is well worth the price of admission. The combo ticket, which includes admission to the observation deck and a tour of the building, is highly recommended by visitors.

Between Fifth and Sixth Avenues in midtown Manhattan is where you'll find Rockefeller Center. You can take the B, D, F, or M train to go to Rockefeller Center. Daily hours for the Top of the Rock Observation Deck are 8:00 AM till 12:00 AM (the last elevator is at 11 p.m.). The Top of the Rock tickets is $38 for adults, $36 for seniors, and $32 for children between the ages of six and twelve. Rockefeller Center tours cost $25 each. Purchase a combo ticket for $52 to save some money. The webpage for Rockefeller Center has more information on all the sites nearby.

• Ranking: #3 in Best Things To Do in New York City

Location: 30 Rockefeller Plaza

Website: https://www.rockefellercenter.com/

Phone: 212.588.8601

Price & Hours: Free & 8 a.m.-midnight daily

This enormous cathedral is located amidst the frantic, distinctly secular Rockefeller Center. But that doesn't lessen the sense of otherworldliness it exudes. You can't help but be amazed by St. Patrick's, whether you're devout or just on a trip for the architecture. The little medieval church's stained glass windows are praised by visitors, who also note that you don't need to set aside a lot of time to see it. Previous visitors advise going during the holiday season to truly appreciate the church's splendor.

If you're using the subway, take the B, D, F, or M train to the Rockefeller Center stop if you're going to St. Patrick's. There are open hours from 6:30 a.m. to 8:45 p.m. every day, and Mass is held every day of the week. For precise service times, go to the church's website. You can still get a fantastic aerial view of the cathedral from the Top of the Rock Observation Deck at Rockefeller Center if you don't have the time or stamina to explore St. Patrick's.

• Ranking: #4 in Best Things To Do in New York City

Location: 14 East 51st Street

Website: https://www.saintpatrickscathedral.org/

Phone: +1 (631) 359 - 8543

Price & Hours: Free & 6:30 a.m.-8:45 p.m. daily; tours at 10 a.m.

The 4 acres of Bryant Park, which is located just south of Times Square, are among Manhattan's most stunning. Although Bryant Park's beautiful green area has been around for more than 150 years, it underwent a revitalization project in the 1990s that turned it into a haven for residents and visitors. In addition to being the ideal location for fashionistas to strut during fashion week and artists to exhibit their skills during Broadway in Bryant Park and Piano in the Park, this is where midtown Manhattan businesspeople love to spend lunch.

Bryant Park does not require an organized event for you to enjoy it; you may visit this location to take in the views or use the free Wi-Fi. Recent visitors do, however, offer a few recommendations, such as going to the New York Public Library (located facing the park's Great Lawn), ice skating around the Pond, or riding the carousel with French influences. There are still more things to do on the list. Additionally, Bryant Park supports knitting groups, chess competitions, yoga and tai chi sessions, and literary activities. Not sure where to begin? Consider your options at Bryant Park Grill and Bryant Park Café, the park's restaurants. Recent visitors praise this park's well-kept grounds and say a stroll around it is a wonderful escape from the bustling metropolis.

Take the B, D, F, or M line to 42nd street or the 7 train to Fifth Avenue to go to Bryant Park, which is located at Sixth Avenue between 40th and 42nd streets. Visit the official website for more information and upcoming events since hours vary depending on the season and activity.

• Ranking: #5 in Best Things To Do in New York City
  

Location: Slxth Avenue between West 40th and West 42nd Streets

Website: https://bryantpark.org/

Phone: 212-768-4242

Price & Hours: Free & Around 11 a.m.-7 p.m. daily

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is the most well-known museum in the US. "The Met" is an art experience unlike any other, overflowing with works of art from all over the world, including renowned collections from Ancient Egypt and ancient antiquity. However, like much of New York, it's hard to see everything the museum has to offer in a single day (or even two days, for that matter). If you've never been there, you should definitely check out its permanent collections; tourists particularly enjoy the Greek and Roman, Egyptian, and Islamic art shows on the first level. If you've previously been to the Met once or twice, schedule your next visit around the Costume Institute's biannual exhibitions, or go to The Met Cloisters, a satellite museum in Fort Tyron Park that focuses on the art and architecture of medieval Europe.

The Met is adored by tourists, who praise its first-rate amenities and artwork. To make the most of your visit, many advise reading the museum's website to plan the exhibitions you want to view. For a deeper understanding of the museum's exhibits, you can also sign up for a separate guided tour.

The museum is situated at 1000 Fifth Ave, on the eastern edge of Central Park, and may be reached by taking the 4, 5, or 6 line to the 86th St. station. The museum is open every day from 10 am to 5:30 pm, with later hours on Friday and Saturday until 9 pm. Children under the age of 12 can enter for free when accompanied by an adult who is paying the suggested entrance price of $25 for adults, $17 for seniors, and $12 for students to the Main Building and The Cloisters Museum Gardens. Tickets are good for three days straight at each of the three venues. Tickets can be bought offline or online. The entrance is "pay what you desire" if you're a New York resident or a student in New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut. With a legitimate ID, you must purchase these tickets in person. Visit the art museum's website to learn more, including forthcoming exhibits.

• Ranking: #6 in Best Things To Do in New York City
  

Location: 1000 Fifth Avenue

Website: https://www.metmuseum.org/

Phone: 212-535-7710

Price & Hours: Suggested admission of $25 for adults; & Sun-Thurs 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. | Fri-Sat 10 a.m.-.9 p.m

The main memorial to the almost 3,000 victims of the 2001 terrorist attacks and the six people lost in the 1993 bombing is the National September 11 Memorial & Museum. Where the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center once stood, the memorial's twin reflecting ponds and artificial waterfalls stand as ghostly footprints. The 1-acre ponds are surrounded by bronze panels that bear the names of each victim. The 110,000-square-foot museum tells the story of the attacks using a number of multimedia exhibits, in-the-moment recordings, real relics, and an interactive table.

Recent visitors described the National September 11 Memorial & Museum's ambiance as somber but poignant. Shawn Harris, the chief concierge at the WestHouse Hotel New York, claims that following 9/11, "the entire city changed, the mentality changed." "We rebuilt what was destroyed, and the result stands as a testament to our fortitude." Even if the interior is a little gloomy, it is gorgeous." Many visitors praise the site's overall impression, praising its polite and educational displays.

The A, C, J, Z, 2, 3, 4, or 5 lines all stop at the Fulton Street subway stop, which is where you can get to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum. The memorial has no entrance fee. The museum's entrance fee is $26 for adults, $20 for seniors and college students, $18 for veterans, and $15 for children aged seven to seventeen. Even if they are free, children under 7 still need a ticket. As well as 9/11 rescue and recovery workers, family members of the victims of the 2001 and 1993 attacks are welcome without charge. All guests are welcome on Tuesdays between 5 and 8 p.m. without charge. A distribution for free entry Tickets for Tuesday shows typically go on sale at 4 p.m. on a first-come, first-served basis. The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with extended hours until 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Visitors are welcome at the monument from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Two hours prior to closing, the museum's last admission time. Consider joining one of the city's top tours, such as the finest walking tours in NYC, if you'd like a more in-depth look at the museum and the significance of nearby places like St. Paul's Chapel. Visit the official National September 11 Memorial & Museum website for the most recent information.

• Ranking: #7 in Best Things To Do in New York City

Location: 90 West Street

Website: https://www.911memorial.org/

Phone: (212) 312-8800

Price & Hours: $26 for adults; $15 for kids 7-17 & Sun-Thurs 9 a.m.-8 p.m. | Fri-Sat 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

You may grab some lunch or go shopping 'til you drop at this lovely train station, but recent visitors preferred to simply take it all in. Take some pictures of the elaborate beaux-arts neoclassical edifice outside before you go inside. You will find gleaming marble floors, gold and nickel-plated chandeliers, and a sky-themed ceiling inside the renowned main concourse. There are many different types of restaurants, from the upscale (Michael Jordan's The Steak House N.Y.C. or The Campbell Apartment) to the renowned (the Oyster Bar or the gourmet kiosks at the Grand Central Market) to the quick and simple (the Oyster Bar) (Starbucks). There are, as noted, a ton of places to shop, although most tourists advise leaving the majority of Grand Central's expensive goods in the store. Visit the New York Transit Museum Store in the shuttle tunnel if you're looking for a memento with a railroad theme. The train station is referred to as "iconic" by visitors, who describe it as a lovely place to stroll around or stop for a meal and people-watch.

Another notable landmark in midtown Manhattan is Grand Central Terminal. The 4, 5, 6, 7 or S trains can take you to the station. From 5:30 a.m. to 2 a.m., the station is open for free viewing if you just want to sneak a peak. You can explore the space on your own, or docent-led tours are offered every day at 12:30 p.m. for $30 for adults and $20 for seniors, students, and children. For $12 for adults, $11 for students, and $10 for seniors and children, you can also purchase the audio tour to listen to whenever you like. Visit the official website for information on tours, station maps, and train schedules. Grand Central's shops and eateries have more limited hours.

• Ranking: #8 in Best Things To Do in New York City

Location: 42nd Street and Park Avenue

Website: https://www.grandcentralterminal.com/

Phone: (212) 340-2583

Price & Hours: Free & 5:30 a.m.-2 a.m. daily; shops and restaurants

According to New York City Tourist 101, you must stop by this iconic building in midtown Manhattan. Recent visitors affirm that you won't regret visiting, despite the steep admission prices, the large crowds, and the lengthy queues. In fact, ascending to the top of the Empire State Building is the ideal way to start or end your trip to New York City since, on a clear day, you'll be able to see the city's greatest attractions from 1,050 feet below. Pick up the multimedia tour, which is available in eight different languages and leads visitors through the exhibits and views of the iconic building while providing further insight into its history. The tour is provided to visitors as part of the admission fee in order to improve their experience.

It's also really amazing to view the art deco tower from the ground, especially in the evenings when mood lighting is present. Since 1976, the tower lights of the Empire State Building have maintained a custom of changing color to honor numerous events and organizations throughout the year. The Empire State Building's dynamic lighting system, with more than 16 million colors in countless combinations and effects, replaced the floodlights in its famous tower lighting system in 2012 to update it. The Empire State Building presents eye-catching light displays in honor of special occasions and holidays, frequently timed to music being played simultaneously on iHeartMedia radio stations.

As the second-tallest skyscraper in New York City after the recently completed One World Trade Center, is impossible to miss. However, if you do, glance toward midtown Manhattan at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and West 34th Street (take the B, D, F, M, N, Q, or R train to 34th Street). If you choose to take one of the top New York City helicopter tours, you'll probably enjoy getting a good look at it as well. Every day from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m., the 86th and 102nd floors' observatories are open; the last elevator leaves at 1:15 a.m. It costs $36 for adults, $35 for pensioners, and $31 for children to enter the 86th floor, or $69 with the Express Pass (where you can bypass the line). For more information on prices as well as the schedule for the lighting, visit the official website of the Empire State Building.

• Ranking: #1 in Best Things To Do in New York City

Location: 350 Fifth Ave.

Website: https://www.esbnyc.com/

Price & Hours: $36-$80 for adults; $31-$47 for kids & 8 a.m.-2 a.m. daily

Visitors flock to this brightly flashing beacon all year long. So let's talk about your possibilities for visiting. The most common approach entails boarding a ferry from Battery Park in Lower Manhattan and waiting at least 90 minutes for it to take you to the Liberty Island statue. The ferry then makes a stop at Ellis Island before returning you to mainland New York. The first boat of the day departs at nine in the morning, and the final boat departs at around three in the afternoon. However, practically all passengers lament the lengthy, chaotic lineups and security checks, which are in addition to the $18.50 ferry price for such a little trip.

Travelers share some advice on how to minimize the hassle and make the most of your day. In order to board one of the first boats, first, get in line unusually early. Two, buy a ticket and board the ferry in Jersey City, New Jersey's Liberty State Park (you'll get the same tour but there won't be as many people in line). You may still see the monument from Battery Park or the High Line if you're pressed for time. Another hassle-free way to explore the famous site is to take a guided tour. The Statue of Liberty is circled by several of the top boat cruises in the city, which makes for some amazing pictures. Consider taking one of the top New York City helicopter tours for a bird's eye view.

The Bowling Green subway stop is where you can get the ferry that departs from Battery Park; visit any day other than December 25 by using the 4 or 5 lines. For additional information, visit the official website or Statue Cruises for boat timetables, and details, and to buy tickets online. Check out our list of everything you need to know before you go for more useful advice on maximizing your visit.

• Ranking: #10 in Best Things To Do in New York City
  

Location: Liberty Island
Website: https://www.nps.gov/stli/index.htm

Phone: 212 363-3200

Price & Hours: $18.50 for adults; $9 for kids 4-12 & 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. daily

This main branch, formally known as the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, draws a sizable number of book lovers, history buffs, and lovers of architecture. The majority of visitors stop by the famous monument in Bryant Park to say hello to Patience and Fortitude, the stone lions guarding the entrance, and to take in the exquisite beaux-arts architecture.

An extensive collection of maps, as well as particular collections of English and American literature, English Romanticism, and rare books, are available if you're in the mood to read. A children's area and a number of lecture events are also held at this library. Recent visitors praised the library's stunning architecture and said you should definitely meander through it if you have a few hours to kill.

Take the B, D, F, M, or 7 subway trains to the 42nd Street-Bryant Park stop or the Fifth Avenue station to get there. The main branch of the public library is open every day; other branches' hours vary. From 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. The branch is open from Monday through Saturday and is open until 8 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Visitors are welcome on Sundays from 1 to 5 p.m. For information, go to the official website.

• Ranking: #12 in Best Things To Do in New York City
  

Location: Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street

Website: https://www.nypl.org/

Price & Hours: Free & Mon, Thurs-Sat 10 a.m.-6 p.m. | Tues-Weds 10 a.m - 8 p.m

Some claim that Times Square, which is dynamic, vibrant, and constantly busy, is a five-block metaphor for New York City. Some people regard this part of midtown Manhattan as being devoid of art, expensive, and crowded. Though locals would urge you to stay away from this business area, which runs from West 42nd to West 47th Street, you should at the very least look at its neon lights. The majority of tourists advise going there after dark to enjoy the marquee displays. Many say the best times to fit visiting Times Square into your calendar are before or after a Broadway performance.

The yearly New Year's Eve ball drop in Times Square's main tourist attraction. The iconic Waterford crystal ball of New York, which drops 77 feet from a pole on the One Times Square building, draws large crowds of revelers. When the ball drops in Times Square in New York, you may watch it for free if you're feeling courageous. Just keep in mind that the neighborhood is quite congested, even by New York standards, and that you should come early in the morning and remain all day.

Times Square is simple to locate due to its constant activity (take any train that stops at 42nd Street and Times Square or Port Authority). Times Square is a stop on a number of the greatest bus tours and walking tours in the city. The renowned five-block stretch is also flown over by some of the greatest New York City helicopter tours. Visit the official website for more details on what there is to do and see nearby. Keep in mind that while the area's restaurants and shops have closing times, Times Square's billboards are illuminated constantly.

• Ranking: #13 in Best Things To Do in New York City

Location: Between West 42nd and West 47th Streets
Website: https://www.timessquare.com/
Price & Hours: Free & 24/7 daily

But the view isn't the only reason tourists and Manhattan residents frequent this well-kept park. Here, you'll discover a variety of food stands, public art exhibits that are always changing, and a sizable picnic and sunbathing space (known as the 23rd Street Lawn). The High Line is a great place to get away from the city's bustle, according to recent visitors. Many consider this to be one of the best places to view Manhattan on a bright day and refer to it as an "urban sanctuary."

Three distinct portions of the High Line each have a number of convenient entrances. From Gansevoort Street to West 20th Street is the first segment. Up till West 30th Street, the next part is comprised. The third section is located between West 30th and West 34th Street. The L, A, C, or E trains stop at 14th Street and 8th Avenue, the 1, 2, or 3 trains stop at 14th Street and 7th Avenue, or you can take the 1 train to either 18th or 23rd street to go to the High Line. The High Line is open to everyone. Seasonal variations affect hours, but in general, it's open every day from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., with later hours until 10 or 11 p.m. in the spring, summer, and fall.

• Ranking: #14 in Best Things To Do in New York City
  

Location: Gansevoort Street to West 34th Street, between 10th and 11th Avenues

Website: thehighline.org

Price & Hours: Free & 7 a.m.- 7 or 11 p.m.

New York City is a culinary mecca and unquestionably one of the top gastronomic towns in America. It is known for everything from inexpensive food to authentic international cuisine to Michelin-starred restaurants. The likelihood is that one visit won't be enough for you to see everything the city has to offer. Taking a food tour is one way to sample the fantastic food that New York has to offer while exploring other areas.

You can choose a tour to satisfy your taste buds, whether you want to learn more about a specific borough or district, or even a particular cuisine or dish. U.S. News compiled a list of the top cuisine tours in New York City based on evaluations from tourists and professional research. Though the length and cost of excursions vary, all have received high marks from previous visitors, who praised the wide range of meals and the guides' in-depth knowledge.

• Ranking: #15 in Best Things To Do in New York City

Locations: Greenwich Village, Chelsea Market, Chinatown, Nolita
Website: https://travel.usnews.com/features/the-best-new-york-city-food-tours
Price & Hours: vary by tour

Some visitors from outside the city choose to spend their entire stay in New York City attending a Broadway production. The Great White Way is the center of American theater, so if you enjoy plays and musicals, this is the place to go. Some visitors claim you can see everything you need to see of that neighborhood by trundling back and forth between acts, given that the neighboring Times Square is a dizzying maze of sights and sounds with no real beginning point.

Every visitor to the Big Apple agrees that seeing a Broadway show is a necessity. Most people were impressed by the lovely marquees, the intimate theaters, and the superb performances on the stage. Broadway is a crucial component of New York City's culture. New York and Broadway go hand in hand, said Chris Heywood, senior vice president of international communications for NYC & Company, the city's tourism bureau. Additionally, there are both family-friendly and adult-oriented performances, so there is something for everyone.

In a section of midtown Manhattan on the west side, close to Times Square's constant neon. The 42nd Street area is served by many subway lines, including the A, C, E, B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, S, and 7 trains, to mention a few. On the other hand, the Upper West Side's Lincoln Center Theater may be reached by taking the 1 line to 66th Street. There are evening performances Tuesday through Saturday and afternoon matinees on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday. The majority of performances adhere to this timetable. Broadway.com offers a comprehensive listing of performance times, ticket pricing, and other information.

• Ranking: #17 in Best Things To Do in New York City

Location: Mid-40s, Between Sixth and Eighth Avenues
Website: https://www.broadway.com/
Price & Hours: Showtimes and ticket prices vary by performance & Hours vary by theater