{"id":7805,"date":"2025-04-16T13:54:19","date_gmt":"2025-04-16T13:54:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/justpaste.in\/blogs\/24-very-best-things-to-do-in-new-york\/"},"modified":"2026-08-04T08:52:13","modified_gmt":"2026-08-04T08:52:13","slug":"24-very-best-things-to-do-in-new-york","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/justpaste.in\/blogs\/24-very-best-things-to-do-in-new-york\/","title":{"rendered":"24 Very Best Things To Do In New York (Restaurants, Views & Neighbourhoods)"},"content":{"rendered":"

New York is an incredible city to explore! It’s a hive of activity, buzzing with life, culture and loads of foodie haunts to fill up at. That being said, with all these best things to do in New York, it can be hard to prioritise just a few of the best areas of the city<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Now, you can obviously see a lot in a day in New York<\/a>, or even take a day trip from New York<\/a>. That being said, there’s a massive amount of free things to do in New York<\/a> that you’ll probably end up spending months trying to see. Obviously, if you’re heading across for a long weekend or a quick stopover, then you’ll want to cram in as much as you can. <\/p>\n

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Truthfully, New York is the kind of city that’s always changing and pretty exciting to explore, even if you’ve been more than once. I’ve popped across the pond countless times, and each stay in New York has been completely different. <\/p>\n

And you know what, this is the same for the best things to do in New York, too. There are always so many snazzy new clubs, art galleries, cool viewpoints<\/a> and secret spots<\/a> to explore. <\/p>\n

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With that in mind, I wanted to share some of the best things to do in New York on your next trip to the Big Apple. Have the best time in the city! <\/p>\n

1.) Visit the Vessel <\/strong><\/h3>\n

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Perched in Hudson Yard, visiting the Vessel is easily one of the best things to do in New York, as it has become so iconic in the city. <\/p>\n

Now, you will need a ticket to enter (Which you can get on their website<\/a>). There is a small price to enter, but it’s worth it. Make sure to grab the tickets in advance, as there is a limited number of people allowed on the installation at any one time. <\/p>\n

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As I said, just make sure to book yours weeks before your visit, and you’ll receive an allotted time to pop up and around the Vessel itself.<\/p>\n

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It’s a really great place to explore and totally easy to include after a stroll up the Highline, too.<\/p>\n

For one of the best hotels in New York City<\/a>, make sure to book this room at Pendry Manhattan West<\/a>. It’s right next to the Vessel and easily one of the city’s best hotels. Not only that, the views from the rooms here are spectacular! Oh, and don’t forget about their amazing cocktail bar, too. <\/p>\n

Read more: Best things to do in Midtown Manhattan<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

Powered by GetYourGuide<\/a><\/div>\n

2.) See the Morgan Library <\/strong><\/h3>\n

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Okay, so the Morgan Library<\/a> was somewhere we only just discovered on our last trip to New York. I honestly can’t believe we hadn’t been before. <\/p>\n

Perched in Midtown, relatively close to the Top Of The Rock<\/a>, it’s a great place to see one of the most incredible (once private) libraries in all of New York. <\/p>\n

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Tickets are relatively cheap, and you can easily spend an hour wandering around the rooms and learning more about this grand library. It’s stunning. <\/p>\n

Read more: Best day trips from New York City<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

3.) Visit the Statue of Liberty<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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Probably the most symbolic place to see in New York, seeing the Statue of Liberty<\/a> is easily one of the best things to do in New York.<\/p>\n

Now, there are a number of ways to visit, or at least see the Statue of Liberty from different vantage points. If you fancy visiting, book a ticket and catch the tour boats that leave from Battery Park itself. This tour allows you to hop off on the island and also visit Ellis Island, too. <\/p>\n

That being said, if you just want to get a good view, hop on the Staten Island (free) ferry or one of the ticketed tour boats that traverse the bay area.<\/p>\n

Read more: Visiting the Statue of Liberty<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

4.) Brunch at Bubby’s<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Okay, so Bubby’s<\/a> is one of my total favourite places in New York for brunch. In fact, I always try to pop in at least once when we head to the Big Apple.<\/p>\n

Honestly, they serve up the biggest plate of pancakes, and they have a thirst-quenching spiked lemonade. Just make sure to book a table online before you visit. It does get very busy! <\/p>\n

Also, if you want to stay in Manhattan, be sure to book this room at The Knickerbocker<\/a>. It’s perched right within Midtown Manhattan and within walking distance of all the action. Not only that, these rooms are stunning! The hotel<\/a> is such a design-led property. You will love it! <\/p>\n

Read more: Best things to do in Midtown Manhattan<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

5.) Edge<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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If you want epic views across Manhattan (and beyond), head to Edge at Hudson Yards<\/a>. It\u2019s one of the newer and exciting viewing platforms in New York, 1,100 feet high! It\u2019s incredible, and the views are incredible, especially at sunset.<\/p>\n

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Once here, you\u2019ll stroll over the observation deck hanging on the edge of the skyscraper. You\u2019ll get to take pics and experience what it\u2019s like to stand on the Edge and hang 80 feet from the skyscraper.<\/p>\n

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Now, buy these Edge tickets<\/a> before arriving at the viewing platform. Only a certain number of visitors are allowed at any one time, and it can sell out fast during peak times. I love heading to Edge Observation Deck around sunset; this way, you\u2019ll get to watch New York twinkle into life.<\/p>\n

For a totally sumptuous stay in New York, book this room at The Whitby Hotel<\/a>. It’s one of the newer hotels in the Big Apple<\/a> and has quickly ranked as one of the city’s premier places to stay<\/a>. The hotel design is beautiful, and the rooms are actually quite big (which is such a win in New York).<\/p>\n

6.) Gorge at Katz’s Delicatessen <\/strong><\/h3>\n

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Perched in the Lower East Side, one of the best areas in New York<\/a>, Katz’s Diner<\/a> has become something of an institution in the city. Expect a no-frills service but with the mightiest sandwiches you’ve ever seen. Not only that, it’s the oldest deli in all of the Big Apple and has become something of an institution that you can’t miss. <\/p>\n

Honestly, make sure to have an appetite before you head in. You’ll leave stuffed, especially if you have the brisket. They pile the meats on your sandwich. Afterwards, pop over to the nearby Tenement Museum<\/a> that’s well worth a gander, especially if you’re into the history of New York. <\/p>\n

Read more: Best areas of New York to visit<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

7.) Watch the sunset at Top Of The Rock<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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So there are quite a few viewpoints across Manhattan<\/a>, but one of my favourites has to be at the Top Of The Rock<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Perched at the tip of the Rockefeller Center, it’s got some epic views across all of New York. <\/p>\n

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Now, to get the best views, book a sunset ticket to watch the city turn from day into night.<\/p>\n

Just make sure to book it online before you head to New York; these tickets run out fast. It is one of the best things to do in New York if you love some epic views. <\/p>\n

Read more: How to visit Top Of The Rock<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

8.) Visit Grand Central Station<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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Probably one of the prettiest train stations in the United States, Grand Central Station is a totally beautiful station that’s well worth seeing whilst in Manhattan.<\/p>\n

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Take a stroll through the main concourse and see the stunning vaulted ceilings.<\/p>\n

Read more: Secret spots to see in New York<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

9.) Walk the Highline<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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Over the last ten years or so, the Highline has become one of the best things to do in New York, especially on a sunny day. <\/p>\n

Using disused train and metro lines, the Highline has become an oasis of green in the city that weaves in and out of the streets of Manhattan.<\/p>\n

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Take a wander across a section, or walk the whole route. Just make sure to wear some comfy shoes. <\/p>\n

Read more: Best day trips from New York City<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

10.) Explore the Lower East Side<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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The Lower East Side is one of the best areas in all of New York<\/a>, especially with its small markets, coffee spots and history, too.<\/p>\n

As I mentioned before, take a look around the Tenement Museum<\/a>, visit Katz’s Deli<\/a> and explore the craft stalls and thrift stores that make this area of New York totally unique.  <\/p>\n

11.) Visit Dumbo <\/strong><\/h3>\n

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Okay, so Dumbo has become increasingly popular for those who want an iconic photo opportunity whilst visiting New York. Over the river, in Brooklyn<\/a>, it’s a great little area to visit for a pic (and lunch) after taking a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. <\/p>\n

Also, once you’re here, pop into Brooklyn Flea, which is<\/em> about a five-minute walk away and filled with a myriad of treasures! Honestly, it’s one of the best things to do in New York, especially if you love thrift shopping. <\/p>\n

Afterwards, head over to Westville<\/em> for a hearty lunch, too. They serve up some of the tastiest food in Brooklyn<\/a>. We literally stuffed our faces here! <\/p>\n

Read more: Best things to do in Brooklyn<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

Powered by GetYourGuide<\/a><\/div>\n

12.) Go Bar Hopping in Williamsburg <\/strong><\/h3>\n

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Over the last five years, Williamsburg has become a hot spot for cool bars, restaurants and live music spots that are well worth exploring on a night out. <\/p>\n

Some firm favourites to visit are: the Fresh Kills Ba<\/em>r with in-house mixologists, Donna<\/em> for some tasty experimental cocktails and live DJs and Westlight<\/em> for some rooftop views. <\/p>\n

Read more: Best free things to do in New York<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

13.) Walk the Brooklyn Bridge <\/strong><\/h3>\n

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Taking around thirty to forty minutes to stroll (slowly), walking the Brooklyn Bridge is easily one of the best things to do in New York. Now, if you’re feeling a little lazy (or the weather is bad) take an Uber or cab across the Bridge and visit spots like Brooklyn Heights or Williamsburg<\/a>. <\/p>\n

That being said, if it’s a sunny day, walking the Brooklyn Bridge is just lovely and a great way to see some views of Manhattan itself. <\/p>\n

Read more: Best things to do in Brooklyn<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

14.) Visit Ellis Island <\/strong><\/h3>\n

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If you’re already visiting the Statue Of Liberty<\/a>, it’s pretty easy to pop across to Ellis Island<\/a>, too. <\/p>\n

Once the immigration centre for the United States, it has a similar history to Angel Island in San Francisco. Take a wander around the clearing centres and learn more about the immigration history of the United States. <\/p>\n

For both islands, I’d give around four hours, as it can take a little time to go through security and see each island itself. <\/p>\n

Read more: Visiting Ellis Island<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

15.) Visit Coney Island <\/strong><\/h3>\n

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Coney Island has a long history, and visiting the fair is easily one of the best things to do in New York if you want to see some of the city’s heritage. <\/p>\n

Once here, take a wander across the promenade, hop onto some of the fairground rides and grab yourself some candy floss or salt water taffy, too. <\/p>\n

Read more: Best areas in New York to visit<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

16.) Take a helicopter flight over the city<\/strong> <\/h3>\n

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So, one of the best things to do in New York is to see the city from above. One of the easiest ways to do this is from iconic viewpoints or on a helicopter tour. <\/p>\n

Tours can last a few minutes or even over thirty minutes if you want a longer stint. New York is a totally stunning city to see from the air and well worth it if you’re not too scared of heights. Most leave from opposite Battery Park, and they usually have some availability on the day itself. <\/p>\n

Read more: Best day trips from New York City<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

17.) See Times Square<\/strong> <\/h3>\n

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Love it or hate it, Times Square is one unique place that makes New York so different from other cities. Perched in the Midtown area of Manhattan, it’s a bustling mix of people, shops and ginormous billboards that tower over the streets. <\/p>\n

Now, for me, one visit is enough, but it’s something you should definitely see if you’ve never been before. Afterwards, take a fifteen-minute stroll over to the Museum of Modern Art, too. <\/p>\n

Read more: Best things to do in Midtown Manhattan<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

18.) Watch a Broadway Show<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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Broadway<\/a> is the place to be if you love musicals and theatre. With loads of internationally recognised shows, you’re bound to find at least a few that’ll take your fancy. It really is one of the best things to do in New York if you love shows. <\/p>\n

If you have a preference, make sure to book your tickets well before you visit. This way, you won’t be in a scramble for remaining tickets on the day of the show.<\/p>\n

That being said, if you’re flexible, head to TKTS<\/em> in Times Square<\/a>, the official reseller of unsold daily tickets for Broadway<\/a> shows. These are typically significantly reduced, and you can save yourself a fair few dollars doing this. <\/p>\n

Read more: The best shows and a guide to Broadway<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

19.) Visit Chelsea Market<\/strong> <\/h3>\n

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Chelsea Market<\/em> has a long history in Manhattan and houses loads of independent vendors, eateries, and artists who call this spot home.<\/p>\n

Honestly, it’s one of the best places in New York to visit if you love an open market with loads of shops, stalls and food. <\/p>\n

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Once inside, make sure to check out Artists & Fleas, which<\/em> has everything and anything you could ever imagine. It’s a treasure trove of fashion and retro goodies that is too good to miss.<\/p>\n

Afterwards, pop over to Doughnuttery<\/em> for some of the best doughnuts in New York<\/a>. Their cinnamon doughnuts are to die for! <\/p>\n

Read more: Best doughnuts to eat in New York<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

20.) Explore the Guggenheim<\/strong> <\/h3>\n

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If you love art, then New York is a city that you’re bound to fall in love with! You see, the city is filled with different art galleries and museums, with one of my favourites being the Guggenheim in Manhattan<\/a>. <\/p>\n

Take a wander around the permanent and temporary exhibits, wander through the halls and see some of the world’s most iconic pieces of art. It really is a special place; plus, the building is totally cool, too! <\/p>\n

Plus, don’t forget to visit some other galleries like the Metropolitan Museum of Art<\/a>, Gagosian Gallery, Whitney Museum and the Met Breuer.<\/p>\n

Read more: Best day trips from New York City<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

21.) Stroll through Central Park <\/strong><\/h3>\n

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Now, New York doesn’t need to be just about the hustle and bustle of 5th Avenue. In fact, there’s actually an oasis of calm that’s well worth enjoying during any season of the year. <\/p>\n

For instance, head across to Central Park<\/a> in summer to go boating on the lakes<\/a> or for a little stroll around the huge open lawns that are huge. In the winter months, you can even go ice skating right in the heart of Central Park.<\/p>\n

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Though, if you’re anything like me on skates, you’ll end up on your butt for the majority of the time.<\/p>\n

Oh, and make sure to stroll through Bethesda Terrace<\/em>, see Belvedere Castle<\/em> and walk across Bow Bridge<\/em>.<\/p>\n

22.) Head to the Empire State Building<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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Probably the most famous skyscraper in North America, the Empire State Building<\/em><\/a> has recently renovated the viewing platform that is totally cool to visit for views across the city itself. <\/p>\n

As with the Top Of The Rock, make sure to book your tickets well in advance and guarantee the sunset slot to see New York transform from day into night. It really is one of the best things to do in New York, even if it’s just to get a scale of this huge city. <\/p>\n

Read more: Best areas in New York to visit<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

23.) See the Oculus <\/strong><\/h3>\n

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Perched just across from the 9\/11 Memorial, the Oculus is actually a train terminal that’s design is totally incredible. Honestly, the building is out-of-this-world and well worth a gander when you’re down this area of Manhattan itself. <\/p>\n

Now, you’ll likely only spend 10-15 minutes here, so it’s easy to pair it with a trip to the Statue of Liberty<\/a>, for instance. <\/p>\n

24.) Visit the 9\/11 Memorial<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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The terrible events of 9\/11 are still present in New York, with the sombre reminder at the 9\/11 memorial where the Twin Towers once stood.<\/p>\n

This is a stop that should certainly be included when visiting New York, and it is well worth it to pay your respects to the tragic loss of life. <\/p>\n

Read more: Best areas in New York to visit<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

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