1. Take in the views from the top of the Empire State Building in the evening.
Purchase tickets to head up the Empire State Building’s Observation Deck and see all of New York around you from 102 floors up. I love the Art Deco style and being able to see the scenery in the day and in the evening with all the amazing lights. Best to check when the weather is clear and not too hazy while you are up in the clouds.
2. Stand still in Times Square
Located in Midtown Manhattan and an iconic place when visiting New York. Stand in the middle of Times Square and watch all that passes around you-from the locals and tourists walking by to the large skyscrapers and screens that surround you with moving advertisements. Get a sense of the metropolitan bustle that you can only experience at the heart of the Big Apple.
3. See a Broadway Show
If you enjoy great theater and musicals, and want a deal, try to catch a discounted show through TodayTix. You can purchase tickets in advance or day of for the best deals with what they have available.
4. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
A great way to explore New York’s sights is to walk the Brooklyn Bridge. Depending on when you go, it may be wise to bundle up before you walk over. Here is a guide by Free Tours By Foot for suggestions on how and when to walk this iconic bridge. Make it to the end and treat yourself to ice cream at the base of the bridge while admiring its structure. The Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory may be under construction at the moment, but they do plan to reopen another ice cream joint close by if you’re lucky enough to catch it.
5. See at least one museum.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Met houses large collections of art and historical artifacts from ancient to modern times that spans 5000 years. This is one of my top museums! My favorite exhibits are the Greek and Roman columns and the Egyptian displays.
American Museum of Natural History
The American Museum of Natural History has so many fascinating displays of the natural world around us from past and present. Families with children should not miss out on this visit with many opportunities for students to learn the science of the world around them.
Though it may be a melancholy visit to remember and respect those who were involved in the attack, the 9/11 Museum is a memorable one and housed at Ground Zero, where the Twin Towers once stood.
If you have the luxury of time, you can see which museums are free to visit during specific days and times you are available.
6. Stroll through Central Park
Central Park is in the middle of the metropolitan buildings and is an oasis to many that gives a break to the urban jungle. Download a guide through their website and wander through the park to see all the attractions it has to offer with seasonal activities, art sculptures, and scenic landscapes.
7. Take a Boat Ride
Whether you want to take a boat ride to circle the harbor and admire the shoreline or a boat ride to see the Statue of Liberty, both rides fulfills its purpose for various sights that you cannot see without riding the small waves on the ferry boat.
8. Tour the United Nations
Visit the United Nations and join a tour. Make sure you allocate enough time if you are interested in seeing the United Nations as it is necessary to check in with your ID and go through the security check. A worthwhile visit if you are interested in its mission of international peace and security.
9. Wander Central Station
Visit Central Station to explore the grandeur rail station but also to explore the cultural eats and shops. I love the architecture and style of the station. It is worth a visit even to just walk through it if you are short on time.
10. Discover Chinatown
If you love budget eats and strolling through eclectic streets to find hidden gems and interesting eats, then take a stroll through Chinatown. Take a chance on walking into stores that look appetizing that calls to you and order what looks good! Try a Chinese pastry, boba tea, or dim sum. You just might be pleasantly surprised.