Things to do in New York: tours and activities

The City That Never Sleeps is where adventurers, three museums in a day-ers, musical lovers, foodies, and shopaholics all meet their match. New York’s history, cuisine, fashion, art, and music have all been nuanced by decades of immigration. So, we’ve made it easier for you by sharing our top picks. From the skyscrapers to world-renowned art museums and the bright lights of Broadway, the Big Apple offers infinite things to see and do.

Top 6 things to do in New York City

1. Times Square

The beating heart of Manhattan, Times Square is one of New York’s most emblematic landmarks. See street performers entertain crowds under the fast-flickering neon lights and bright billboards, go shopping, take selfies or simply watch the world go by from the iconic red steps. Known as ‘The Crossroads of the World’, Times Square is bang in the middle of the Theater District. From long-running classics to modern musicals, seeing a Broadway show is one of the top things to do in New York.

2. Observation Decks

Admiring New York City from above is a one-of-a-kind experience. Perched atop towering skyscrapers, the view from one of the city’s observation decks is always breathtaking. Whether you visit the Empire State Building, the Top of the Rock, or The One Vanderbilt SUMMIT in Midtown, the One World Observatory in downtown, or The Edge’s 100th floor observation deck in Hudson Yards, you’re guaranteed a sight to behold. If you really want to go all out, then book a helicopter ride for an incomparable vantage point. For something more grounded, head to one of the city’s rooftop bars.

3. Museums

Home to two of the world’s top museums, New York has so much art and culture on display that it would be impossible to cover everything in one trip. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, known as The Met, is a good place to start and houses more than two million pieces of art. Another firm favorite is The Museum of Modern Art, known as the MoMA, which houses a world-class collection of paintings, sculptures, and designs. The American Museum of Natural History is a great choice for families and explores the natural wonders of the world. Or visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, which remembers and honors the victims of the attacks on the Twin Towers.

4. Central Park

A trip to New York City isn’t complete without visiting Central Park. Escape the city to this urban oasis and see how many landmarks you’ve seen in movies you can spot. Wander around its green meadows, gardens, fountains, ponds, and bridges. Rent a bike to cruise around, visit the Central Park Zoo, admire the view from Belvedere Castle, or join a walking tour to discover John Lennon’s Strawberry Fields, the Bethesda Fountain, Conservatory Garden and much more.

5. Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty requires a bit of effort to visit but it’s more than worth it. A gift from France, it’s probably the most famous statue in the world and is undoubtedly New York’s most iconic sight. Representing the freedom and democracy of the United States, it has been standing on Liberty Island since 1886. A 10-to-15-minute ferry ride brings you from Lower Manhattan to the island. While you’re there, don’t miss nearby Ellis Island and its impressive Immigration Museum.

6. Food

The melting pot of New York City boasts one of the world’s most diverse culinary scenes. Explore the different flavors and cuisines by joining a gastronomic tour. If you’re looking for authentic Italian food, then head to Arthur Avenue in the Bronx for all the dreamy Italian delicacies you can think of. A foodie tour of the Lower East Side will have you trying mouth-watering specialties such as lox, pastrami, knishes, and pickles from authentic Jewish delis and bakeries. Take a pizza tour to discover your favorite NY slice or head to Chinatown for spicy Asian fare.