50 Things To Do In New York In 2022

What’s special about this place?

Perhaps the most famous establishment in the United States and just as widely talked about in the world, Empire State Building is where you go to look at New York City from above. Towering 380 meters over Manhattan, it has 102 floors with the 86th being the one where the Main Deck is open to visitors until 2 AM.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you’re yet to see the city from up high, add this activity to your bucket list. Since only a small number of people are allowed into the building at a time, there’s a good chance you’ll get plenty of space to roam around and get all those pictures of the sunset without too many people in the shot.

What to do here?

Climb up to the 86th floor and get a 360-degree view of the concrete jungle that NYC is. Pay an extra to get even higher and look at the city from the 102d floor with floor-to-ceiling glass. Even though it’s not allowed to use tripods, you can still get a good glimpse of the city using your smartphone only.

Best Time to Visit

The secret is to book a time slot one hour before the costliest slot for seeing the sunset. There’s no one day when the Empire State Building is the least crowded so pay a visit no matter what day of the week you’re in town.

Learn more about the Empire State Building here!

What’s special about this place?

Neatly curated to teach visitors about all things geology, biology, zoology, botany, anthropology, and mineralogy, the American Museum of Natural History stores over 32 million artifacts and specimens. Built in 1874, it houses 45 permanent exhibition halls while being located on the busy Upper West Side of Manhattan.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Children, adults, elderly — you name it, there’s hardly a single person who wouldn’t enjoy spending an afternoon at the American Museum of Natural History. And while kids are most likely to be hypnotized by the Fossil Halls and the Planetarium the most, you’ll have enough time to check out Mammal Halls, Human Origins Halls, and Biodiversity Halls among others.

What to do here?

Wander around the museum and learn about the life of the Native American Tribes and discover dozens of dinosaur species that populated the planet during the Mesozoic Era. You can also stare at the life-sized replica of a blue whale at the Millstein Family Hall of Ocean Life and stargaze at the Hayden Planetarium located in the Rose Center for Earth and Space.

Best Time to Visit

The American Museum of Natural History is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 AM to 5:30 PM. Thursdays and Fridays tend to be the least crowded days whereas both Saturday and Sunday see the highest number of visitors between 12 PM and 3 PM.

Learn more about the American Museum of Natural History here!

What’s special about this place?

Designed by Calvert Vaux and Frederick Law Olmsted, Central Park is an 843-acres urban park visited by 30-40 million tourists every year. It’s the public’s favorite for a simple reason —  it’s where you can take a breath of fresh air amidst the metropolitan Manhattan, one of the most famous neighborhoods in NYC.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

When you get tired from walking around the city, this park is the break you’ll be glad you took. There are ponds and lakes to check out, playgrounds for children to play at, and dozens of landmarks that’ll make the time pass in the blink of an eye. Cinema lovers and fitness enthusiasts will find an occupation here too.

What to do here?

Speaking about cinema and fitness, there’s an open-air theatre called Delacorte for winding down and yoga classes for stretching your muscles. If exploring the 50 monuments, fountains, and sculptures doesn’t excite you, there are paddleboard rentals and a zoo to check out too. For a chill day at the park, you can always bring some snacks and have a picnic together with your kids.

Best Time to Visit

Central Park is the bucket-list place you can’t miss out on no matter when you visit the city. In the spring, there are cherry blossoms blooming from April to May, and in the fall, particularly at the beginning of October and into early November, the leaves are changing colors leaving the park looking like a movie scene from Autumn in New York.

Learn more about Central Park here!

What’s special about this place?

Having opened fairly recently — in the March of 2021 — Talea Beer Co. is a female-founded brewery and taproom that serves refreshing beverages including beer cocktails, soft drinks, wines, cider, and snacks. It’s been featured in the press several times since the opening date and rightfully so — this Williamsburg treasure is locals’ favorite.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Beginners and alcohol drinkers with experience alike will get a kick out of dropping by Talea Beer Co. taproom. This place does beer differently from any other place which makes it a one-of-a-kind brewery worth visiting when in New York City.

What to do here?

Grab your friends and sit outside tasting the different beer concoctions the brewery offers. You can choose Sour IPA, Sour Ale, Gose, or a Rose Cider if that’s what you feel like drinking on a sunny summer evening. Get some snacks like olives, nuts, or cheese and a hummus plate, and you won’t even be hungry for dinner.

Best Time to Visit

Open every day of the week, Talea Beer Co. is the busiest on Saturdays. Fridays and Sundays are also crowded around 7 PM and 3 PM respectively. If you want to avoid masses of people, consider dropping by early in the evening during the week.

Learn more about Talea Beer Co. here!

What’s special about this place?

Originally a military base, Governor’s Island is now a go-to tourist attraction you can reach by taking a ferry. This 172-acre isle has plenty of parks, monuments, and exhibitions alongside play zones and food trucks. It’s located just 800 yards away from Manhattan which makes it a quick trip that also happens to be affordable.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

There’s something for everyone to get busy with on Governor’s Island. Adults are welcome to dive into the more mentally stimulating activities like checking out local art exhibits and historical buildings while children can get ice cream from an ice cream truck and play at one of the playgrounds.

What to do here?

Stroll through the island and enjoy the music coming from the music festivals held when the weather starts getting warm. Explore Fort Jay and Castle Williams, and pick a spot to have dinner later on in the day. Rent a bike and let the cooling ocean breeze guide you to the local beach where you can’t swim but can spread out a towel and take in the sunshine.

Best Time to Visit

Open to tourists from May till October, Governor’s Island is an escape from the bustling city of New York that’s only a ferry away from the mainland. If you happen to be in town during this time, pick a [sunny] day when you’re not burdened with hitting all of those bucket list activities and enjoy this getaway together with family.

Learn more about Governor’s Island here!

What’s special about this place?

Everyone knows that the liberty-signifying Statue of Liberty is the most iconic American landmark. That’s why you can’t leave NYC without taking a closer look at it. Tourists queue for hours to be able to get on a ferry and take the photo with the statue to remind them of that one time they visited the US.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

First-time US visitors should allocate some time to taking a ferry to Liberty Island and seeing Lady Liberty in person. They should also consider exploring the recently refurbished museum that helps dive deeper into the creative process behind the construction of the statue. One of the most well-known facts about the Statue of Liberty is that it was gifted to the US from France as a symbol of friendship.

What to do here?

Enjoy the views of the statue from the ferry and gaze at it from below once you arrive at Liberty Island. Learn more about the history behind the historical significance of the statue and throw a penny in the Atlantic Ocean to come back.

Best Time to Visit

For a quieter experience, consider taking a ferry on any day in the first half of the week. Weekends tend to be the crowdest so keep this in mind if you’re bringing children with you. If, however, you’re not bound by anyone, the day of the week doesn’t play a big difference — you can see the statue up-close every day from 8:30 AM till 4 PM.

Learn more about the Statue of Liberty here!

What’s special about this place?

Just a 2-minute walk from One World Trade Center, there’s a 9/11 Memorial & Museum that should be on your must-visit list if it’s your first time in the city. Sketched out by an Israeli architect Michael Arad, it consists of two man-made pools reminiscent of the formerly standing Twin Towers that collapsed as a result of the terrorist attack on September 11 in 2001.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Every tourist interested in digging deeper into the events that took place on 9/11/01 will find this place worth visiting. Not only does this place give you a glimpse into the tragedy that haunts NYC to this day, but it also commemorates those who suffered from the attack.

What to do here?

Check out the bronze walls surrounding the pools with close to 3,000 victims’ names engraved into them. Then, set your foot in the museum that has plenty of exhibits included with your purchase of the entry ticket. Finish with a minute of silence for those who lost their lives here.

Best Time to Visit

The memorial is open from 10 AM to 5 PM every day of the week. The museum, however, isn’t open on Tuesdays and Wednesdays (even though there’s free admission on Tuesday evenings from 5 PM to 8 PM). Both are the busiest during lunchtime.

Learn more about the 9/11 Memorial & Museum here!

What’s special about this place?

Located on one of the busiest intersections in Manhattan — 57th street and Fifth Avenue — The Blue Box Cafe is the go-to spot for living your Breakfast at Tiffany’s fantasy. It’s been open to guests since 2018 and for a good reason; the movie fans are gathering from every corner of the country year after year.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you’ve always wondered what a day in the life of Holly Golightly looks like, a visit to The Blue Box Cafe is non-negotiable. The cafe has all the movie aesthetics to make you feel like you’re the main character who’s about to get a call from Paul to spend a day together doing things each has never done before.

What to do here?

Dress in your best outfit, come as early as you can, order a couple of appetizers and desserts, and enjoy the Tiffany & Co’s-esque robin egg blue interior. The view from the cafe is just as stunning so feel free to take a few pictures for the memories (and to brag to your friends that you went here).

Best Time to Visit

Make a reservation and be prepared to fill your belly with delicious food when you arrive at your destination. No matter how busy the cafe gets, you won’t have to worry about standing in line to sit down — the staff will accompany you to your table right away. If you do, however, feel like having the actual breakfast at Tiffany’s, book the table ahead of time.

Learn more about The Blue Box Cafe here!

What’s special about this place?

To get a real thrill out of your stay in the city, consider moving up north from Manhattan and into Yonkers where the iFLY Westchester skydiving center is located. Here you can take a break from the always bustling NYC and leave the ground to see how well you navigate in the state of zero gravity. No bad weather will get in the way of you realizing your childhood dream to fly.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Adults aren’t the only ones who can reap the benefits of skydiving at the iFLY center — there’s an option to have a children’s birthday party, sign up your child for a flight school, or have a team-building event. If you’re a teacher, you can also let your students defy gravity on an immersive STEM field trip.

What to do here?

Make your nerves jump as you get into the skydiving suit and get ready to fly within the walls of the indoor skydiving center at iFLY Westchester. Bring your friends with you and let them cheer you on as your heart starts beating faster the closer you get to flying. You’re guaranteed to want to do it all over again once it’s over!

Best Time to Visit

The iFLY skydiving center is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, which means that you’ll have to come either during the week when it’s not as busy or on the weekend when it’s more crowded. No matter when you decide to visit, you’ll have the time of your life.

Learn more about the iFLY Westchester skydiving center here!

What’s special about this place?

Who doesn’t love a thick, crunchy, yet gooey chocolate chip cookie? We do. So does the public that pays frequent visits to Levain Bakery year after year. Founded by Connie McDonald and Pam Weekes in 1995, it continues to be the go-to spot for freshly baked cookies in town.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you can chew a cookie, you’re welcome to grab one at one of the 7 Levain Bakeries spread across NYC. Their signature 6-ounce chocolate chip walnut cookie is customers’ all-time favorite, so you might want to start with it. You can also get them delivered to your door if you’re staying in the city.

What to do here?

Get your daily cookie fix as soon as you arrive in NYC. Fortunately, Levain Bakery never runs out of cookies — they bake them every day from open to close — so you can rest assured that your favorite flavor will be in stock when you stop by. There are also gift boxes containing several cookies to bring back home if you happen to like them as much as we do.

Best Time to Visit

With so many bakeries open across NYC, you’re bound to find one that isn’t busy. To make sure you don’t have to stay in line for too long, come to the shop early in the morning when it’s about to open or later in the day before the closing time. Lunchtime can be the busiest time of the day — that’s when office workers come out of their cubicles and visit the bakery.

Learn more about Levain Bakery here!

What’s special about this place?

Connecting Brooklyn to Manhattan, Brooklyn Bridge is one of the oldest suspension bridges in the US. This 6,016-foot long construction has become somewhat of a cult favorite for taking pictures and pedaling across on a bike. It’s also a commonly used bridge for commuting to and from work for locals.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Tourists of all ages will want to check this must-visit destination off of their to-visit list when in NYC. Brooklyn Bridge offers some of the best city skyline views which make it a picture-friendly destination for every newcomer. If it’s your first time visiting the city, don’t miss out on the opportunity to see it for yourself.

What to do here?

Rent a Citi Bike for the day and cycle across the bridge to catch the best views. You can join a bike tour or pedal by yourself — the trip promises to be fun regardless. While cycling, don’t forget to look around from time to time and admire the skillful engineering of the bridge and spot famous movie locations too.

Best Time to Visit

A top-rated tourist site like Brooklyn Bridge will never be not busy. It’s not only tourists but also locals who use it for commuting and doing their morning jogging. You can plan a visit here for the sunrise or the sunset to make the crowded experience worth it.

What’s special about this place?

Relocated to the Meatpacking District bordering with West Village in 2014, the Whitney Museum of American Art is home to over 25,000 works of art including sculptures, exhibitions, and paintings among others. Founded in 1930, it remains to be a cultural landmark of the United States that gathers visitors from all over the world.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Even though there are before-hours tours held by Whitney Teaching Fellows for kids to enjoy, they aren’t the primary target audience. History fanatics and cultural enthusiasts will find this museum much more entertaining. If you’ve always wanted to see the works of Andy Warhol and Alexander Calder live, drop by this museum when visiting NYC.

What to do here?

Check out local galleries filled with works of Jean Michel Basquiat, Jackson Pollock, and Edward Hopper. Examine four outdoor exhibition terraces, have a drink at the top-floor bar or have a dinner at the top-rated restaurants located on the ground floor. Climb to the top floors and get great views of the downtown skyline.

Best Time to Visit

Keep in mind that the Whitney Museum of American Art is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. To spend half a day at the museum without too many people occupying the same space, visit on Monday or on Thursday. The latest time it remains open until is 10 PM on Friday.

Learn more about the Whitney Museum of American Art here!

What’s special about this place?

Nested at the bottom of Fifth Avenue, Washington Square Park is a 9.75-acre public park in the Greenwich Village that has a lot of history to it. It’s the place where civil rights movements took place and where celebrations of all sorts continue happening to this day. You can always count on spotting musicians playing classical tunes in one corner and passersby playing chess in the other.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you’re an entertainer yourself — or you simply enjoy listening to live music while sitting next to the fountain — you won’t regret coming to the heart of Greenwich Village and taking a stroll through the famed Washington Park. During hot days, it might be a good idea to put your kid in a swimming costume and let him splash at the playground’s water zone.

What to do here?

Honor the first president of the US by taking a moment to stand under the Washington Arch. Watch chess matches (or challenge a stranger to one). Bring some snacks and lay in the grass while watching street performers hone their craft. Read a book and observe what everyone else is doing.

Best Time to Visit

Open every day from 6 AM until l2 AM, Washington Square Park is large enough to accommodate hundreds of people at any time of the day. That said, it tends to get busy on Saturdays and Sundays in the afternoon. Note that spring and fall are particularly great for visiting from the aesthetics point of view.

Learn more about the Washington Square Park here!

What’s special about this place?

Standing on top of the Rockefeller Center, the Top of the Rock Observation Deck is a great alternative to Empire State Building if you want to get a more unrestricted view of the city. It might be 60 meters lower, but it gives you a good overview of Central Park, Midtown and Downtown, and then some more. The best part — you get to see it all with no glass panels standing in your way.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you’re debating between visiting the Empire State Building and Top of the Rock — and don’t mind seeing a different side of NYC that’s not as high up — choose the latter. It’s also a better option if you’re a photographer and need an unobstructed view of the city.

What to do here?

Take an elevator to the 70th floor and enjoy the city skyline from an open-air platform. You can also buy a ticket that grants you access to the Observation Deck and includes a tour of the Rockefeller Center too. This way, you’re killing two birds with one stone — learn about the history and art of the place and get 360-degree views of NYC.

Best Time to Visit

The timed entry system helps avoid queues which makes it highly unlikely for you to not get those pictures with the city in the background with just a few people in the shot. There’s a sunset fee on top of the admission ticket if you want to visit later in the day. This is also when Top of the rock is the busiest.

What’s special about this place?

One of the busiest train stations in the world, Grand Central Terminal is famous for its celestial ceiling that’s worth a picture or two. It features 44 platforms which makes it a preferred method of commuting no matter where you’re headed. And while you’re waiting for your train, there are plenty of shopping and dining options to explore to escape boredom.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Architecture lovers and curious kids get equally excited when arriving at the Grand Central Terminal. The night sky constellations painted by Paul Cesar Helleu catch children’s attention while the neoclassical elements spread all throughout the building make adults pause and stare. To top it off, there are 10 Beaux-Arts chandeliers that make the station look like an actual castle.

What to do here?

Snap a few selfies when you’re inside and proceed to investigate every corner of the station (if you aren’t commuting and have time to spare). Check out the information booth featuring a clock made with opalescent glass and gaze at the constellations-filled ceiling. Stroll through the dozens of shops, purchase a train-themed souvenir, and have a lavish lunch at the upscale Steakhouse NYC founded by Michael Jordan himself.

Best Time to Visit

Avoid coming to the Grand Central Terminal at the rush hour which is usually between 3 PM and 6 PM. If you’re aiming to see the site and don’t plan on commuting, arrive early in the morning or late in the evening so that no one stands in your way of experiencing all that the station has to offer.

Learn more about the Grand Central Terminal here!

What’s special about this place?

This food court is a local favorite for a good reason — it allows you to try new foods without having to splurge on a dedicated visit to the restaurant. Open from April to November, Smorgasburg brings in big crowds, rain or shine. If you want to see what all the hype is about  — the nearly 30,000 visitors won’t lie — check it out yourself on your next visit to Brooklyn.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Foodies and those who don’t want to stay in the crowded Manhattan on a Saturday should take a metro and spend some time at the fair. The 75+ vendors and breathtaking city skylines are guaranteed to make you want to stick around and try out as many Brooklyn-style poutines and ice cream flavors as possible.

What to do here?

Even though the entrance is free, be prepared to get spendy when hopping from one food stand to another. There’s a quirky spaghetti donut to try out, deep-fried cookie dough, lobster noodles, and much more. It’s not common for the vendors to accept cards so make sure to bring enough cash.

Best Time to Visit

The food court in Williamsburg is open from 11 AM till 6 PM on Saturdays, but this isn’t the only Smorgasburg there is. There’s also one in Jersey City, Prospect Park, and World Trade Center. No matter which one you decide to visit, remember that there will be lines.

Learn more about the Smorgasburg food market here!

What’s special about this place?

There’s nothing casual about Fifth Avenue and you’ll know it if you’ve seen movie scenes shot here. Stretching from Greenwich Village all the way to Harlem, this avenue is filled with shops that scream class and luxury. Even if you’re not planning on leaving a couple of hundred thousand dollars in these stores, it pays to stroll down the avenue and gaze at the huge Apple Store, Louis Vuitton, and Saks Fifth Avenue buildings.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Fifth Avenue is every shopaholic’s dream. There’s the well-known Tiffany & Co. to shop for jewelry, Prada to splurge on a tote, and Manolo Blahnik to get a pair of shoes from. For tech geeks, you’ll find an Apple Store, Microsoft, and even a Nintendo-dedicated store. If you keep walking, you’re guaranteed to find even more shops to spend your money at.

What to do here?

Apart from high-end stores that attract a specific type of customer, there are also more affordable shops like Sephora, Gap, and H&M. After your shopping spree, head to the Museum Mile that’s loaded with some of the best museums in town. If museums are not your thing, you can always cross the street from where the museums are located and rest at Central Park.

Best Time to Visit

Depending on when you’re in NYC, you might want to steer clear from shopping on Fifth Avenue on the weekend. This rings true to the Apple Store that tends to get crowded on any given day of the week and on Saturdays and Sundays in particular. If, however, you just want to take a stroll along the popular shopping avenue, feel free to do so at any time of the day.

Learn more about Fifth Avenue here!

What’s special about this place?

Originally operating as a summer holiday destination for New Yorkers, Coney Island has since been revamped to serve as a go-to spot for rollercoaster fanatics. Today, Luna Park is fun for both adults and kids that want to escape the city for a day and walk along the seaside while eating hot dogs and hearing others scream in anticipation of a ride on the 60-mph Cyclone rollercoaster.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Adrenaline junkies will remember their visit to the Luna Park on Coney Island more than any other activity done in New York. Not only are they rollercoaster rides a ton of fun, but they also offer you a fantastic view of the city. If you’d rather walk on the seaside and listen to the waves crash, Coney Island is a must-visit for you too.

What to do here?

Dare to ride the Cyclone, the oldest rollercoaster made of wood that hits 60 mph right after it climbs the first 26 meters. It’s not for the faint of the heart but it’s worth a try. So are the food stands conveniently spaced out along the boardwalk. And, if you get tired of Luna Park, another attraction tourists rave about is the Wonder Wheel located in the next-door Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park.

Best Time to Visit

Just a 4-minute walk from the New York Aquarium, Luna Park is open to the public every day of the week. Saturdays and Sundays tend to be the most crowded days whereas Wednesdays and Thursdays aren’t nearly as busy. If you come to NYC during the summer, consider taking a trip to Coney Island on a weekday to get the most out of it.

Learn more about Luna Park here!

What’s special about this place?

This performing arts 16.3-acre complex building is the perfect place to get cultured. Not only can you watch an opera performance or listen to jazz, but you can also book a ticket to watch ballet. New York City Ballet is a frequent performer at the Lincoln Center which you can witness yourself if you decide to book your spot and spend an evening here.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Theatre and ballet enthusiasts are the most likely to have fond memories of that one time they went to watch a show at the Lincoln Center. If you keep a close eye on the upcoming performances, chances are you’ll be able to snatch a ticket or two for your favorite The Nutcracker or Swan Lake.

What to do here?

Check out the events schedule posted on the NYCB website and plan your trip to NYC accordingly. In addition to watching a ballet performance you’ve always wanted to get your hands on, you can also book a guided tour. It’s designed to give you a glimpse of the behind-the-scenes of the shows and a deeper look into the Lincoln complex.

Best Time to Visit

Lincoln Center hosts ballet performances at different times throughout the year. Check with the website to make sure you don’t miss out on the show you’re the most excited about before planning your trip to NYC. Keep in mind that guided tours are organized at 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM every day (the hours are subject to change).

Learn more about the Lincoln Center here!

What’s special about this place?

Covering 1.45 miles, High Line is an above-ground park in Chelsea that used to serve as a railway to transport goods to the Meatpacking district. The construction of the park was allegedly inspired by the Parisian Coulée Verte René-Dumont which is an elevated park inaugurated in 1993. Today, High Line is a top touristic destination consisting of gardens designed by the Dutch landscape architect Piet Oudolf.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Offering over 20 blocks to stroll though, High Line is where you can take a deep breath after a long day of exploring the city. If you’re looking for a place to stretch your legs and take in the views of NYC, this is the spot for you. There are also plenty of opportunities to involve your kids in like monthly family festivals and school camps.

What to do here?

Check out the strategically placed on both sides of the park flowers and other greenery and sit on the bench to take a selfie while you’re at it. You can also spot here some art installations that change every year. If you get lucky, you can catch a live performance during the warmer months.

Best Time to Visit

The best part is that High Line park is free of charge. You do, however, need to make a reservation beforehand. To avoid big crowds, visit either before the afternoon or later in the evening. The peak business is usually recorded between 1 PM and 3 PM.

Learn more about the High Line park here!

What’s special about this place?

Morgan Library is a real gem that not many people know about. You’ll find it situated not too far from Grand Central and Penn Station where it stands in all its unremarkable glory. If you look beyond its bland exterior, you’ll discover that there’s a vast collection of exhibits dating back as far as 4000 B.C.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Book worms and antique collectors are guaranteed to get a thrill out of visiting Morgan Library. Built in the early 1900s, it serves as both a research library and museum that offers visitors plenty of exhibitions to check out and even more to make a mental memory of. Note that children will quickly get bored here so it’s better to come here without them.

What to do here?

Wander around the many rooms filled with both temporary and permanent exhibits ranging from paintings Shahzia Sikander and manuscripts by Charles Dickens to Mozart’s notes of the Haffner Symphony and the copy of the original Declaration of Independence. You can also take a book loan and buy some stationery items, accessories, and souvenirs to remember your visit.

Best Time to Visit

If you’re planning a visit to the Morgan Library, keep in mind that it’s closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. The rest of the days it’s open to guests from 10:30 AM to 5 PM with Fridays experiencing the biggest influx of visitors.

Learn more about the Morgan Library here!

What’s special about this place?

Time Out Market combines food and culture like no other. Spread across multiple locations worldwide, this 21,000-square-foot destination enables hungry visitors to taste test multiple cuisines without having to leave its premises. Spectacular views of both Manhattan and Brooklyn bridges are a bonus.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you’ve always wanted to treat yourself to that one fancy dish cooked by your favorite chef, chances are you’ll be able to get a hold of it here at Time Out Market. From Italian to Mexican cuisines and beyond, there is something for everyone. Add it to your to-do list the next time you’re in Brooklyn and you won’t be disappointed.

What to do here?

Indulge in some of the tastiest dishes one can find in NYC while taking in the views of the bridges. Get a quesadilla at the Ivy Stark Mexology, wash it down with Salty Thyme Margarita you can get from the bar, and have a scoop of Peach Cobbler ice cream for dessert. If you’re lucky, you can also catch a live performance on the rooftop of the food court.

Best Time to Visit

Open every single day, Time Out Market is the perfect place for a quick meal when busy with hitting all the tourist spots in the city. It opens up at 8 AM and 9 AM and closes at 10 PM and 11 PM depending on the day of the week. Saturdays and Sundays are the crowdest days whereas Mondays and Tuesdays are the least busy.

Learn more about Time Out Market here!

What’s special about this place?

A place where Rolling Stones and Ella Fitzgerald performed their iconic hits, Radio City Music Hall continues to be the number one spot in the city for live performances. We’re not talking about music events only either — the venue hosts comedy shows and acrobatic shows among other things too.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

People come to Radio City Music Hall to get entertained. Whether it’s to watch their favorite artist sing live or laugh at the jokes thrown by a comedian, there’s always a reason to visit this entertainment venue. If you have the opportunity to visit during Christmas time, you’ll get to enjoy the seasonal Christmas Special.

What to do here?

Some don’t take it further than stopping by and snapping a picture in front of the neon sign, but it doesn’t have to end there. You can take a tour of the place and get a glimpse of the behind-the-scenes. If you’re feeling spendy, you can check out the list of the upcoming shows and book your ticket to the one that seems the most exciting to you.

Best Time to Visit

To make sure you snatch that ticket to the show you’re dying to watch, book early. As for tours, taking one earlier in the day will ensure that there aren’t that many people inside the building just yet. The closer to the show it gets, the more crowded Radio City Music Hall becomes.

Learn more about the Radio City Music Hall here!

What’s special about this place?

‘Art inside of art’ is a common description of the Guggenheim Museum and for a good reason — it looks like something out of space. It was designed by the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright and opened to the public in 1959. Today, it occupies 89th street on Fifth Avenue and brings in hundreds of visitors from across the country.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you want to see the biggest collection of Kandinskys in the country and then a few more by just as famous Picasso and Mondrian, you should plan a visit to the Guggenheim Museum. Here you’ll find everything from early modern art to impressionist art and minimalist art, to name a few.

What to do here?

Check the museum’s official website to see what exhibits on the view they have and book your ticket to the ones you’re the most interested in. Among the multiple works of art displayed in the museum, you’re bound to find the ones created by Franz Marc, Normal Rockwell, Kirchner, and others.

Best Time to Visit

Tuesdays and Wednesdays are days off at the Guggenheim Museum, so make sure you don’t end up commuting here just to find out it’s closed. Saturdays tend to have the biggest crowds closer to the afternoon as this is when the majority of people are free to explore the city. The best time to visit is on Mondays and Tuesdays between 11 AM and 1 PM.

Learn more about the Guggenheim Museum here!

What’s special about this place?

Hiding behind the New York Public Library, Bryant Park might not be as talked about as Central Park but it’s just as lush green and lively. Manhattan office workers are common visitors of the park and so are street performers. It’s a great alternative to the sometimes overhyped Central Park with just as many free activities to engage in.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Tourists of all ages are welcome to spend an afternoon watching a chess tournament or an evening watching a movie at Bryant Park. You can bring your children here too — there are juggling lessons on weekdays, storytime reading sessions, and 14 carousels to take a ride on.

What to do here?

Aside from the basic relaxing on the grass and reading a book or listening to live music, there are also plenty of opportunities to engage in more energetic activities. The park hosts regular literary events, knitting sessions, yoga classes, and even tai chi classes. There’s also a Bryant Park Cafe and Bryant Park Grill for when you get hungry and movie nights that take place soon after the sunset.

Best Time to Visit

Public parks like Bryant Park are always relatively busy no matter what day of the week you decide to visit. That said, there are fewer people in the park before 12 PM and after 6 PM. If you want to avoid crowds, consider avoiding coming here in the afternoon.

Learn more about Bryant Park here!

What’s special about this place?

If you didn’t know, Bronx Zoo is the biggest urban zoo in the United States with 265 acres of land and over 4,000 animals representing 650+ different species. The zoo takes pride in its conservation efforts and hopes for visitors to comply with the enforced rules to prevent further animal extinction. The general admission ticket gives visitors access to plenty of exhibits including Baboon Reserve, Sea Lion Pool, and Congo Gorilla Forest among others.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Every family with young children should prioritize visiting Bronx Zoo on their visit to NYC. Not only are there many rare animal species to see but there’s also a butterfly garden, a bug carousel, and a Treetop Adventure for kids to explore too. No need to leave any family member behind — there’s something everyone can enjoy at the Zoo.

What to do here?

Take a walk through the many exhibits at the Zoo and visit a 4D theatre before leaving the Zoo. Encourage your children to engage in the zip-lining adventure and watch them muster the courage to go for it. Don’t forget to see the American Bison that’s often referred to as a national mammal of the country.

Best Time to Visit

At Bronx Zoo, Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays are the busiest days of the week. On Wednesdays, the general admission is free, which naturally brings in hundreds of visitors. The rest of the week the Zoo isn’t as crowded which makes for a relaxed leisurely stroll through the local exhibits.

Learn more about the Bronx Zoo here!

What’s special about this place?

Situated two blocks south of Union Square, Strand Bookstore is a top-tier destination for those on a hunt for their next favorite book. Housing over 2.5 million titles spread across the 18 miles of bookshelves, it remains to be locals’ go-to place when they feel like they need to upgrade their book collection.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Needless to say that if you’re a bookworm, Strand Bookstore is where you have to make a stop when you’re in NYC. It’s also a perfect spot for bibliophiles to find that one book from the 18th century they’ve been after for a while.

What to do here?

If you’re looking to get an early edition of your all-time favorite novel, walk up straight to the third floor. That’s where the antiques and signed copies reside. If, however, you’re just interested in checking out what the store has in stock, feel free to roam around and ask for a shop clerk to guide you to the stand with your preferred book genre.

Best Time to Visit

Open every day of the week from 10 AM till 8 PM, Strand Bookstore offers everyone an opportunity to stop by and take their sweet time to find a book they’ll be telling their friends about. To not be swamped by crowds of book lovers like yourself, consider coming before 12 in the afternoon during the week.

Learn more about Strand Bookstore here!

What’s special about this place?

Christmas in NYC is a magical time, and ice skating just so happens to be the activity that puts you in the holiday spirit like nothing else. Rockefeller Center nailed it with their ice skating rink that has an iconic gold statue standing right in front of an even more iconic Christmas Tree. If you’ve seen Home Alone, you’ll recognize it immediately.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Parents with kids, couples, and everyone in between will have fun ice skating at the Rockefeller Center’s rink. This tradition has long become a quintessential winter activity for every local and tourist no matter the age. You can bring your friends and have fun together when the ice skating rink opens to the public at the end of November.

What to do here?

Visit the Christmas Tree decorated every year just in time for Christmas and snap a few shots with it in the background. Purchase the ticket to the ice skating rink and either bring your own skates or rent them on-site to spend an hour or so skating. If there’s a private event you want to host, the rink is the perfect place for that too.

Best Time to Visit

The Rockefeller ice skating rink is open to the public from 9 in the morning till midnight. It’s typically at its busiest in the evening and up until 12 in the morning. This, however, shouldn’t be a dealbreaker if you’re looking for that NYC Christmas atmosphere that’s present when there are dozens of New Yorkers and tourists honing their skating skills on the rink right next to you.

Learn more about Rockefeller Center’s ice skating rink here!

What’s special about this place?

Located in the heart of Manhattan, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is a Neo-Gothic-style Roman Catholic cathedral church that towers over the neighborhood like a mystical creature. Movie stars, business moguls, and even some presidents visited the cathedral in the past and gave it the prominence it now boasts. The otherworldly atmosphere makes it one of the most commonly visited churches in NYC.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The affordable tickets make it possible for every tourist to come and check out the church on their own. St. Patrick’s Cathedral’s gothic style is particularly appealing to architects and art connoisseurs who can appreciate the church for its craftsmanship.

What to do here?

Wander around the church by yourself for free or buy an admission ticket and have a guide show you around. Either way, you’ll get to marvel at the beauty of the church and its intricate details like stained glass windows and bronze doors all while taking mental pictures of them all.

Best Time to Visit

If you want to avoid crowds, visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral during the week. It’s best if you come before midday or after 1 PM when it’s not too busy. The weekend tends to be the most crowded since everyone including locals has more free time for visiting tourist destinations.

Learn more about St. Patrick’s Cathedral here!

What’s special about this place?

Economy Candy Shop has been around since 1937 and it’s still going strong thanks to big crowds of visitors. Storing all types of nuts, candy, and dried fruits, it’s the oldest retail candy shop in NYC. If you’ve always wanted to live your childhood fantasy of swimming in candy, you have to make a stop here when you’re in town.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Kids, adults, and everyone who has a sweet tooth will remember their visit to Economy Candy Shop. This true New York icon is locals’ favorite for a reason — there is an endless choice of all things sweet. Whether you’re more into chocolate swirls or caramel melts, rest assured you’ll find it there.

What to do here?

Pick a day when you’re craving something sweet and try out the shop’s signature halvah, chocolate bars, and candies from the 50s. You can also go back in time by getting yourself Black Jack chewing gum and Gilliam candy sticks. If you eat strictly Kosher food, Economy Candy Shop has you covered too.

Best Time to Visit

If you want to visit the shop in person, come on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday. For curbside pick-up orders occurring on the same days, it’s best to place an order on a Monday or a Tuesday. There’s also nationwide shipping that allows you to continue buying your favorite candies even after you’ve already left NYC.

Learn more about Economy Candy here!

What’s special about this place?

This Tribeca-native spot is a true oasis where you can relax after a long day of walking around the city. A textile factory in the past, AIRE Ancient Baths has since evolved into a spa that offers a variety of thermal baths for visitors to enjoy on any given day. The perfect location in the middle of downtown makes it that much more enticing.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Newly engaged who are looking for a couple’s massage or a corporate worker who needs a break from his 9-5 will benefit from a trip to AIRE Ancient Baths. You can hardly name this place kid-friendly, so if you come to NYC with your kids, consider leaving them at the American Museum of Natural History to explore the planetarium instead.

What to do here?

Reserve a session at AIRE Ancient Baths and get access to 6 thermal baths that vary in temperature. From Greek to Roman and Ottoman, these baths are designed to transport you back in time no matter where you are. There’s also a possibility to get a massage to fully immerse yourself in the relaxing environment.

Best Time to Visit

It might come as a surprise, but Sundays are the least busy days at AIRE Ancient Baths. The rest of the week tends to be a lot more crowded, particularly in the first part of the day. If sharing a saltwater pool or a hot bath with multiple strangers doesn’t phase you, stop by whenever you’re in the city.

Learn more about AIRE Ancient Baths here!

What’s special about this place?

The soul of NYC culture, the Yankees is perhaps the baseball team with the most sought-after tickets for their matches. Situated in the Bronx, this $2.3 billion stadium is the second-largest stadium in MLB in terms of seating capacity. Snatching a ticket to a Yankees game is akin to winning a jackpot, so if you want to try your luck, dare to find one before coming to NYC.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Baseball and Yankees fans will die and go to heaven if they manage to get hold of a ticket to a Yankees game. But before they do, they’ll get to see their favorite team playing baseball right in front of their eyes. If your kids are big fans of Yankees just like yourself, bring them along and they’ll thank you later.

What to do here?

Grab a ticket to the game and get to the stadium early. It’ll cost you quite a bit of money, but the memories you’ll make will justify the price tag. Don’t forget to get a hotdog and a beer before you make your way to your seat — these are essential to experiencing the Yankees game to the fullest.

Best Time to Visit

Check the Yankees game schedule in advance and plan your visit around it. If you’d like to also have a tour of the Yankee Stadium, keep in mind that it’s usually the busiest on Saturdays and Sundays from 1 PM till 4 PM.

Learn more about tickets for the NYC Yankee Stadium here!

What’s special about this place?

For some of the best sunsets in the city, stroll through Battery Park after 6 in the evening. Located on the southern tip of Manhattan, this park got its name from the artillery batteries that used to populate the area in the past. It’s later been repurposed to serve as an immigration station. Today, it’s home to several monuments including the eternal flame memorial that pays homage to 9/11 victims.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you’re an outdoorsy person who likes to combine relaxing strolling with learning the history of a new place, Battery Park should make it to your must-visit list. You don’t need more than a couple of hours to let your kids run around while you’re checking out interesting attractions the park is famous for.

What to do here?

Pick a sunny day, grab your family and friends, and come to Battery Park to learn more about NYC’s history. There’s Hope Garden paying homage to the victims of AIDS, a New York Korean War Veterans Memorial, and American Merchant Mariner’s Memorial to explore. Some other attractions are the Immigrant Statue, the Coast Guard Memorial, and the Seaglass Carousel.

Best Time to Visit

Operating from 6 in the morning till 12 at night, Battery Park is open to guests most of the time. If you want to catch breathtaking foliage happening in the fall, come on any weekday in October. For a blooming nature, arrive in spring and avoid weekends because of big crowds of tourists visiting the city with the same purpose.

What’s special about this place?

Having been open since the 1980s, Blue Note Jazz Club is arguably one of the hottest places to be in NYC on a Saturday evening. Iconic personas like Ray Charles, Sarah Vaughan, and Chris Botti have all performed in the club in the past which gave it an edge over other jazz clubs in town.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

For those who’re on the lookout for a bar playing jazz music, this place is godsent. And while it’s not a suitable place for kids, it’s fairly popular among adults and couples who like spending their evenings in an intimate setting while listening to Louis Armstrong and Dinah Washington’s tunes.

What to do here?

Book a table and join a few dozens of jazz lovers ready to sing along their favorite jazz songs. Get some fish tacos and a Moscow Mule to keep yourself both fed and entertained. Don’t forget to take out your camera once in a while and record a few videos of your favorite artists performing on stage.

Best Time to Visit

The jazz club is open every day from 6 PM until 12 AM except for Saturday when it’s open as late as until 2 AM. The majority of the guests tend to arrive after 6 PM when the artists start preparing for concerts. You’ll find people populating the club every day without fail which means that it’s never empty.

Learn more about the Blue Note Jazz Club here!

What’s special about this place?

Nestled between the corner of Lexington Avenue and 130 East 23d Street, ‘Friends’ immersive experience is a well-known spot that replicates the real set of the TV show. It has the iconic props that make you feel like you’re in an actual sitcom just waiting for the main characters to make their appearance at any second.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you’ve always wanted to sit on the iconic sofa in Central Perk or visit the purple-themed apartment that belonged to Monica’s grandmother, you should visit this destination. It consists of two floors filled with interactive activities that instantly immerse you in the environment of the television show.

What to do here?

Explore all the 18 rooms featuring original costumes and props. There’s Rachel’s famous cow jacket, Chandler’s bunny shoes, and Joe’s leather chair to see in person. You can also try coffee with pastries at the Central Perk and discover Las Vegas Wedding Chapel where Ross and Rachel got married. Don’t forget to take a few pics while peeking through Monica’s purple door and chilling on the orange couch at Central Perk.

Best Time to Visit

Be prepared to spend at least 80 minutes here to get the full experience and get your money’s worth too. You can choose to buy the general admission ticket or a private access ticket that allows you to tour the place in groups of up to 10 people. There are multiple time slots throughout the day so that you could investigate the location without having to wait in line to take the much-anticipated picture.

Learn more about the ‘Friends’ experience here!

What’s special about this place?

Bushwick is the capital of street art, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that it’s considered to be the number one destination for finding the best graffiti in NYC. This working-class district offers a wide variety of street art that looks impressive even to those who aren’t art-savvy. Keep in mind that the majority of the street murals are located close to Troutman Street not far from the Jefferson Subway in Brooklyn.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Street art connoisseurs and those who like exploring new neighborhoods through art will enjoy taking a trip to Bushwick. You can get more information about the neighborhood and all it has to offer when you go on a graffiti tour. If not, you can always explore the area by yourself.

What to do here?

Aside from walking around the neighborhood and taking shots of every mural you come across, there’s also a Bushwick Collective Party you can attend. This is where both national and international artists join their forces to display their creations for the world to admire. It takes place every June with new artists being featured every year.

Best Time to Visit

Granted, it’s not the easiest destination to reach. That said, if you take the grey subway line that takes you from Bedford Avenue in Williamsburg to Jefferson Street, you won’t have to spend too much time roaming around the neighborhood to find it. Pick a sunny day and you should be all set for an hour or two of exploring the many murals of Bushwick.

What’s special about this place?

This neighborhood located in lower Manhattan is known to be the ‘bohemian’ part of NYC with its many bars, restaurants, and a party scene that’s always alive. It’s filled with townhouses from the 19th century that give Greenwich Village a charm that’s unlike anywhere else in the city.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Families, couples, and those from the LGBTQ community will all find Greenwich Village welcoming and fun to explore on a weekend. If you’re looking for a property to purchase, you’ll benefit from taking a trip here too.

What to do here?

Stroll through Washington Square Park, check out the ‘Friends’ immersive experience, and have a few drinks when in the neighborhood. Visit the famous Bleecker Pizza for a slice of Pepperoni too. There’s also Jefferson Market Library to stop by and The Whitney Museum of American Art to check out if you have some spare time.

Best Time to Visit

Depending on when you’re in town, there’s no wrong or right time to visit Greenwich Village. If you visit at the weekend, you can expect to see chess tournaments, live music, and other events organized at Washington Square Park. If you come during the week, it’s best to roam around and check out all the residential rows of houses strategically placed throughout the neighborhood.

What’s special about this place?

Serving sandwiches since 1888, Katz’s Deli is a kosher destination for all pastrami lovers. It’s been operated by one family for over 100 years now which makes it one of the oldest sandwich places in town that has plenty of loyal customers. A fun fact – this Jewish deli was featured in the movie When Harry Met Sally that most people are familiar with.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Unless you’re a vegetarian, you’ll want to visit Katz’s Deli when on the Lower East Side in NYC. The menu is diverse enough to satisfy even the pickiest eaters which is a huge bonus if you’re bringing your children to the deli. The matzo ball soup, a hot pastrami sandwich and a New York cheesecake will be right up their alley.

What to do here?

Grab a ticket at the entry and look at the menu to make an order. Get some brisket, a pastrami sandwich, or corned beef and a hotdog to try out. Check out the walls covered in handwritten signs from famous guests. Don’t forget to return the ticket you were given at the entrance to avoid a big fine.

Best Time to Visit

Since Katz’s Deli is a popular spot among both locals and tourists, you’d be better off coming here during off-peak hours. Fortunately, it’s open every day of the week from early in the morning until late in the evening. Skip Saturdays and Sundays and come on a weekday either before 12 PM or after 3 PM to steer clear of long queues.

What’s special about this place?

There’s nothing like finding a hidden rooftop bar like Gallow Green in a city like New York. Located above Sleep No More’s McKittrick Hotel, it draws in nature lovers who don’t mind having a drink with a view of Manhattan’s skyline on a Friday evening. All the luscious greenery makes you feel like you’re not in a noisy NYC but rather in the Alps.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you’re looking for a place where you can enjoy a cocktail while surrounded by nature, Gallow Green is the right spot for you. And it’s not just drinks — the rooftop bar also serves dinner. You can choose between sitting on a picnic bench or at the actual dinner table at the edge of the terrace depending on what vibes you’re after.

What to do here?

Come for an order of a steak skewer and a specialty cocktail ‘Honey Pot’ consisting of the combination of gin, honey, soda, cucumber, and honeydew melon. Or, if you’re early, you can catch the famous brunch served on the weekends from 10 AM till 4 PM. There’s also live entertainment to accompany the meals.

Best Time to Visit

Whether it’s a romantic dinner for two, a fun cocktail party with friends, or a Sunday brunch, keep in mind that the bar isn’t open every day. It’s closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Saturdays (except for 10 AM – 4 PM brunch offered on the weekend). To avoid crowded spaces, visit before 9 PM.

Learn more about Gallow Green bar here!

What’s special about this place?

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is situated at Pier 86 at 46th Street along the Hudson River. This American military and maritime history museum is Hell’s Kitchen’s golden mine — it showcases exhibits from the US Navy, US Air Force, US Army, US Marine Corps, and NASA among others. Besides, it features an interactive exhibit known as Exploreum that lets you land a space shuttle.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Museum nerds and history enthusiasts will enjoy spending a few hours at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. There’s plenty to explore and even more to learn. If you’ve always been curious about what real aircrafts and missile submarines look like, this is the place for you.

What to do here?

Stroll through the decks of the 28 aircrafts stored at the museum including the world’s fastest military jet. Come and see the British Airways Concorde and the space shuttle Enterprise up close. Climb inside the single missile submarine available to the public called Growler and the real-life Bell 47 helicopter.

Best Time to Visit

Open every day from 10 in the morning until 5 in the evening, the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space International Museum welcomes guests from all over the world. With people typically spending around 3 hours at the museum, you can arrive as early as at 10 AM before it gets too crowded at around 2 PM.

Learn more about the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum here!

What’s special about this place?

Madison Square Garden is not your typical indoor arena — it seats over 20,000 people and hosts A-list celebrities like Beyonce, Billy Joel, Elvis Presley, and the likes. It’s one of the most well-known venues in the US thanks to its history of holding the most iconic concerts in the country that bring in thousands of people from across the globe.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Located in the middle of Manhattan, MSG is the spot where big names turn simple spectators into lifelong fans. You don’t need to be a Lady Gaga supporter to enjoy a concert here — the atmosphere created by the artists will make you fall in love with her regardless. For a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll remember for a long time, get yourself a ticket to the concert at Madison Square Garden.

What to do here?

Check with the website to see if there’s a concert you’d like to attend. Book your ticket and arrive early to get some snacks before finding your seat at the arena. Listen to your favorite artist perform live and sing your heart out to your favorite tunes. Snap a few shots to have a memory of this event for a lifetime.

Best Time to Visit

Depending on when your favorite artist is performing, book your trip to NYC around those dates. If it’s the weekend, be prepared to share the space with more people than usual. The same applies to artists like Justin Bieber that sell out within a few hours. If you’re a fan, be quick to snatch a ticket no matter when the concert is happening.

Learn more about tickets to Madison Square Garden here!

What’s special about this place?

You’ll be right on time for attending the Fest of San Gennaro if you visit NYC from September 16 till September 26. Hosted every year, this festival is a celebration of faith while also being the go-to spot for colorful decor and delicious food. For exactly 11 days, you can expect to dance to live music and eat as many cannoli as you can in Little Italy, the neighbourhood where the event takes place.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

No matter if you’re religious or not, you’ll most likely enjoy spending a few days relishing in all the Feast of San Gennaro has to offer. This annual street fair is filled with activities for both young and old which makes it a must-visit place if you’re in town.

What to do here?

Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the feast by marching with the bands and shoving mountains of cannoli in your mouth. There are interactive performances and a meatball-eating competition you can participate in too. Don’t hold back and taste every sausage-and-pepper sandwich and eggplant parm the vendors are selling.

Best Time to Visit

The Feast of San Gennaro occurs every year from 16th till 26th of September. This means that you’ll have to arrive within those dates to experience the event yourself. It’s always busy irrespective of the time of the day as there’s constantly a new eating contest happening or an artist performing live.

Learn more about the Feast of San Gennaro here!

What’s special about this place?

Not far from the Tribeca neighborhood, Pier 26 is where everyone gathers to kayak, catch some fish, and even jog with a dog. Having opened fairly recently in 2003, it’s one of New York City’s newest parks that stretches for 2.5 acres of eco-friendly space.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Sport matches watchers, volleyball enthusiasts, and salsa pros will enjoy spending an afternoon at Pier 26. While adults are taking a guided tour and learning more about Hudson River Park, kids can play beach volleyball and fly a trapeze. If you’re feeling like relaxing, bring a book with you and sit on a bench to read it with a view of the city.

What to do here?

There are plenty of fun activities to join including miniature golf, seasonal kayaking, a group fitness class, and a music concert among others. If you’re a basketball or football geek, Pier 26 offers a big screen for watching sports while sitting on a green lawn. Kids will particularly appreciate the play area supplied with swings, a sandbox, and water elements.

Best Time to Visit

You don’t need more than 2 hours to explore the area which makes it a convenient pitstop that’s easily fitted into your NYC to-do list. Afternoons on Saturdays and Sundays tend to be the busiest, whereas the weekdays aren’t nearly as crowded in the first half of the day and after 6 PM.

Learn more about Pier 26 here!

What’s special about this place?

Spyscape is well known for being the top-tier private espionage museum in NYC. Situated in Midtown Manhattan, it’s been receiving guests since the London-based investment group together with resort and leisure attractions developers opened it to the public in 2018. This multiple-millions-worth-destination stands out with its glass exterior and a dark, maze-like interior that keeps you on your toes at all times.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Curious adults and even more curious kids will get a kick out of exploring Spyscape. There’s a lot of mystery to solve which makes you feel like you’re a real-life spy looking for clues and trying to connect the dots as if your life depended on it. The bonus is that the ticket isn’t expensive and you can most definitely afford spending 2.5 hours here.

What to do here?

Channel your inner James Bond while investigating the exhibition named in his honor and tackle the challenges that Skyscape throws at you. There will be some clues to make use of and laser rooms where you can see whether you can outsmart the robot. You also get the opportunity to learn more about the guy who cracked the enigma code, Alan Turing.

Best Time to Visit

If you want to visit Spyscape, keep in mind that it’s closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. On Wednesdays and Thursdays, it’s the least crowded and is also open up until 8 in the evening. If you want to stroll through the museum without having to share the space with many people, avoid coming during the weekend.

Learn more about the SPYSCAPE Museum here!

What’s special about this place?

If you didn’t know already, the New York Botanical Garden grows over a million of plants spread across 50 spaces. They make up 250 acres of land that visitors get to explore when they visit. It’s also a leading research institution that employs more than 600 people whose job is to conduct research and hold conservation programmes.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Want to feel separated from the world and dive deep into the vast greenery? Your wish is the New York Botanical Garden’s command. Those who’re into nature-themed exhibits will find verdant oasis to be a true heaven on earth. If you’re looking for a place to clear your head and inhale some of the best aromas in town, don’t second guess it and head to NYBG.

What to do here?

In the summer, you can witness everything from peonies to acacia and cherry trees bloom. In the winter, there’s an annual show displaying the miniature version of NYC. Don’t forget to visit a Japanese garden, a Peggy Rockefeller Rose Garden, and a herb garden while you’re there. And, for when you get hungry, pack a lunch you can enjoy here among the many luscious plants.

Best Time to Visit

The New York Botanical Garden isn’t open on Mondays. That said, it’s open from 10 AM till 6 PM every day for the rest of the week. If you want to feel secluded, visit on Thursday or Friday before 2 PM. On Saturdays and Sundays, this place is as busy as it gets.

Learn more about the New York Botanical Garden here!

What’s special about this place?

Just a 3-minute walk from Madison Square Park, there’s an intimate museum that showcases the evolution of human sexuality over the centuries through exhibits. Every piece of art installed in the museum aims to address the cultural significance of sex and highlight the uncensored material taken from all the continents and time periods across the globe.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you’re after a stimulating experience, you’ve got to buy your ticket and visit the Museum of Sex. There’s nothing quite like it in New York City which makes it an even more appealing place to stop by if you’re traveling with friends. Couples will find some inspiration within the walls of the museum too.

What to do here?

Ride the 4D ‘Tunnel of Love’ and find out what’s in store for you with the help of the erotic fortune-telling machine in the shape of the American Drag Queen RuPaul. Play the ‘Love & Lust Deity Derby’ game and hone your kissing skills at the kissing booth. Before you leave, take the spiral slide to get into the psychedelic carnival bar called ‘Lollipop Lounge’ for a few cocktails.

Best Time to Visit

Tuesdays and Wednesdays are days off at the Museum of Sex. If you’re in the city for the weekend, be prepared for it to be crowded between 3 PM and 9 PM. To spend less time waiting in lines to explore all the amenities the museum offers, visit on a Thursday when there aren’t many people in the museum.

Learn more about the Museum of Sex here!

What’s special about this place?

You’ll find Attaboy bar on the Lower East Side of NYC not far from the Tenement Museum. This semi-hidden cocktail bar with an industrial design serves innovative and creative cocktails that are considered to be some of the best in the city. The masterminds behind the mixology ensure that every guest gets to savour the cocktail that fits their preferences best.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The spacious interior makes for a great atmosphere where youngsters can chill at the bar and couples – in a cosy booth. Name Dropping isn’t welcomed here as the bar is known for its more casual and unpretentious character that welcomes guests of the same caliber. If you want to taste concoctions you’ve never tried before, Attaboy bar is the place to be.

What to do here?

Dare to be bold and order a drink that’s not on the menu. Based on your preferences and suggestions, the bartenders are open to mixing up a drink that combines your favorite flavors without making it taste unpleasant. Whether it’s white rum or martini you like your cocktail to feature, rest assured that they’ll take care of it at Attaboy.

Best Time to Visit

Attaboy bar is open every day of the week including the busiests days like Fridays and Saturdays. Visit it after 1 AM on a weekday if you want to sip your favorite cocktail in a more relaxed environment or join the crowds on a Friday night when the bar is the most lively.

Learn more about Attaboy bar here!

What’s special about this place?

Home to some of the greatest comedy acts in NYC, Comedy Cellar hosts comedians from all over the country. It was founded in 1982 and has since made a name for itself as a place where the tickets get sold out in less than an hour. To discover your new favorite comedian, stop by Comedy Cellar when visiting the city and you’re guaranteed to have a good laugh too.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you’ve already checked off the majority of the things on your to-do list, dropping by one evening for a comedy show at Comedy Cellar can be a great finishing point. Not only will you have a good time hanging out with some of the best comedians in the country, but you’ll also learn new jokes to tell at a Sunday brunch with friends.

What to do here?

Make sure to buy tickets in advance if you want to reserve your spot. Sit in the front to get heckled by the comedian while eating and drinking the 2 mandatory items you ordered from the menu. The show rarely lasts more than 2 hours, so you should be well fed and entertained by the end of the evening.

Best Time to Visit

There’s always some kind of a show taking place at the Comedy Cellar. No matter when you decide to visit, it never gets slow. That said, Fridays and Saturdays tend to be the busiests days, which means that the shows are the most likely to sell out fast on these days.

Learn more about the Comedy Cellar here!

What’s special about this place?

This Queens locale is every New Yorker’s favorite for a good reason — it’s where you can get the most delicious dumplings in town. The menu has 34 variations of dumplings including soft and chewy wontons filled with pork and vegetables under the number 6. There are 12 dumplings that are filling enough to make you feel satiated yet still leaving some room for a dessert.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Dumplings connoisseurs and Asian cuisine enthusiasts shouldn’t leave NYC without getting a portion or two of dumplings from White Bear. If, for some reason, you don’t have time to stay and savour the food at the restaurant — or you liked them so much that you want to have them at home too — you can always get 100 frozen dumplings in a to-go container.

What to do here?

Order a portion of dumplings with shrimps or pork that are drenched roasted chili oil and get a pickled veggie soup with rice cake to go. If you want to venture out of your comfort zone, try bean curd with pork soup and a sesame rice ball on the side.

Best Time to Visit

The seemingly unnoticeable eatery operates every day from 10 in the morning until 6 in the evening. This gives you an opportunity to have dumplings for either lunch or dinner depending on when you visit the neighborhood. To avoid queuing, skip the weekend and come during the week after midday.

What’s special about this place?

There’s hardly any other movie location in NYC more iconic than the firehouse featured in the Ghosrbusters. You can spot it at the intersection of 14 North Moore Street and Varick Street right in Manhattan’s hottest neighbourhood Tribeca. There isn’t the famous Ghostbusters logo sign hanging in front of the Beaux-Arts building, but it doesn’t need it to be recognized as that firehouse from Ghostbusters.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If conventional attractions don’t cut it for you anymore — and you’re a big fan of the Ghostbusters saga — you have to check out the Hook and Ladder 8 building that was used for exterior shots. It continues to operate as the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) fire station for almost a century now. P.S. A Seinfeld fan? You’ll recognize the firehouse from the episode with Kramer working here.

What to do here?

Pretend like you’re on a set of Ghostbusters and try searching for ghosts. If you don’t succeed, take a few pictures in front of the building and brag to your friends that you were here. To remember your trip here, buy a souvenir or two that’ll also take you back in time when the movie was filmed.

Best Time to Visit

Just like any other fire station, this one is open 24/7. This means that you can visit whenever — the timeless movie scene won’t close down in front of your eyes. Since it’s such a popular destination, it tends to get super busy on the weekend and relatively busy in the middle of the day during the week. So, plan your visit here accordingly.