45 Best things to see & do in New York City

A gift from the French to the Americans in 1886 to mark the centenary of American independence, ‘The Lady’ has become New York’s most iconic symbol. Standing 151ft high, 1 mile off Manhattan’s southern tip, she also became a symbol of freedom and opportunity to millions of arriving immigrants fleeing persecution or poverty elsewhere – and the embodiment of the American spirit.

Also on site is the fascinating former immigrant processing office at Ellis Island, now museum, that explains why the city invited mass migrations in the 19th century, how they were settled, and the impacts on life today.

As one of the globe’s two most prestigious cities for theatre (alongside London’s West End), hosting a wide variety of drama and musicals – many world-class – iconic Broadway needs no introduction.

Taking in a Broadway show is therefore a New York City must, even for those not big on performing arts; with famous names and the highest quality performers, it really doesn’t get much better.

One of the largest art museums in the world, this treasure house hoards more than two million artworks, artefacts and decorative arts spanning thousands of years of human civilisation.

It’s focus is historical and classical art – Ancient Egyptian, Islamic, Asian, Oceanic, Greek and Roman amongst others – as well as a fine collection of contemporary art that includes Picasso, Matisse, Miro, and Balthus.

The collections, all beautifully displayed, are so vast you would need a week to see them all.

Since its founding in 1929, MoMa – as it is affectionately known – has dedicated itself to being the foremost museum for contemporary art, namely late 19th- and 20th-century art.

The collection is presented chronologically, taking you on an artistic journey through Post-Impressionism, Cubism, Surrealism, Abstract Impressionism, and Pop Art, with more than a few masterpieces along the way. There are also galleries for photographers, drawings, film and even a sculpture garden.

It’s great for families too, with special kids audio guides on the website to the masterpieces and highlights.

Waves of immigration and economic growth, particularly after the mid-19th century, saw different ethnic groups sticking together and industries forming discrete clusters, packed into the tiny island of Manhattan.

The result was a vivid jigsaw of villages or ‘neighbourhoods’, densely packed together but contrasting sharply within short distances. Some remain original, others have evolved, but all retain fascinating architectural and cultural distinctions.

The staggering wealth and cultural aspirations of New York’s industrial magnates helped lure some of world’s finest art here throughout the 20th century, making New York a global art powerhouse (rivalled only by London). Masterpieces proliferate, but the modern and contemporary art collections are equally staggering.

Even if you have little interest in Art per se, this is the place to taste it. Museums are admirably inclusive, being accessible and offering special programmes for kids.

Housing the world’s largest collection of fossils, including two famed halls of dinosaur skeletons and one million specimens, the American Museum of Natural History is a world-class attraction and a must-see for anyone remotely interested in nature.

The location ain’t bad either – on the edge of Central Park in trendy Upper West Side – and the building is an architectural stunner, worth stopping by to see in its own right.

Not necessarily everyone’s cup of tea, but those who wish to visit the World Trade Centre memorial at Ground Zero will find an elegant tribute to the thousands who died in the September 11 terrorist attacks of 2001 and those who died in the WTC bombing in 1993. Victims’ names are carved onto ledges around the infinity pools that mark the places where the ‘Twin Towers’ stood. It’s poignant and incredibly moving.

There’s also an on-site museum that tells the story of the tragic events of that day through exhibits, media, artefacts and the harrowing personal narratives of victims and their families.

Fifty blocks long and the width of four avenues, this world-famous park is an essential green oasis amidst the intimidating concrete jungle. Tourists take the obligatory stroll (or a horse-drawn carriage) and miss what makes this park an institution.

Hidden within are secrets, curios, and nostalgic delights; from the John Lennon tribute, small museums and the carousel, to ice-skating rinks and a boating lake. There’s even a little zoo near East 64th Street.

It’s great to cycle around – many do, of all ages. You can hire bikes in the park.

There’s a restaurant for every cuisine in ‘the crossroads of the world’. The biggest influences are Italian-American and Jewish; so, terrific pizza everywhere and unforgettable smoked-salmon bagels at the ‘deli’. Steaks and high-end burgers also abound and cocktails are a must.

Rivalled only by London, New York is one of the world’s top shopping destinations, with everything you’d expect from a mega metropolis – designer shops from every leading luxury brand, department stores steeped in tradition, independent boutiques, food and flea markets, and specialist shops making everything from cigars to hats. See our recommendations below for some of the best shops and shopping spots.

A dense, intense, concrete jungle with a spectacular oasis of green at its centre – the view of Manhattan from above is quite the sight to behold, which is why a helicopter flight, amid the soaring skyscrapers, is rated as one of the world’s greatest.

Then there’s the opportunity to get up close to one of the most famous landmarks in the world – the Statue of Liberty – and get eye-to-eye with the Lady herself. Unmissable.

This art deco icon, built 1929-31, was New York’s tallest building for decades until the twin towers were built at the World Trade Centre – now replaced of course by the One World Trade skyscraper at the same site.

It’s one of the most famous tourist destinations in the world – and gets ridiculously busy – but it’s worth it for the unrivalled views of the city from the observation deck.

One of the most unique and beautiful bridges in the world – though surprisingly unsung outside New York. Designed by German immigrant and noted bridge-builder John Roebling and completed in 1883, it charms with elegant arches and artful cables.

With a raised wooden pedestrian and cycleway separated from vehicle traffic, it makes for a scenic stroll to Brooklyn across the East River, while looking back at spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline.

You can cycle across too – make it part of a longer route around Manhattan’s southern tip and along the Hudson River.

New York’s Guggenheim is home to one of the world’s finest collections of modern and contemporary art. Permanent collections include works by world-renowned artists such as Calder, Chagall, Kandinsky, Klee, Picasso, and van Gogh. Special exhibitions showcase important artists from the 19th century through the present.

The museum building, too, is a masterpiece. Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic, curvaceous design – completed in 1959 – is an architectural stunner, both outside and inside, where artworks are displayed on a walkway that spirals up in a great rotunda.

Some said genius, others madness. In 2009, the remains of an elevated freight railway line on the West Side were converted into one of the world’s most unusual and interesting parks. Snaking serpent-like north to south, from 29th Street to Gansevoort Street, the 10-25m-wide platform, stocked with native wildflowers next to the old tracks, is already a New York institution.

It’s great from top to bottom but if pushed for time, do the stretch from 20th Street to 14th Street through the wild grasslands. There are also sundecks, water features, and some of the best views and architecture.

All-in-all a compulsory stroll that combines terrific design, gritty urban architecture and river views.

God-fuelled singing, clapping and dancing Gospel – it really is as uplifting as it looks, and there is no better place in the world to experience it’s rousing effect than Harlem.

This once-notoriously dangerous neighbourhood – now not just safe but ‘up-and-coming’ – throngs with churches that rock the rafters every Sunday morning.

Worth some time to wander around this fascinating neighbourhood packed with African-American history, before rounding it all off with some authentic ‘soul food’.

Opened in 2022, this interactive and experiential museum celebrates Broadway’s rich history. Travel a timeline through Broadway’s history that documents its most beloved plays and musicals, and go behind the curtain to learn about the making of a Broadway show.

There are three floors of displays packed with memorabilia, beautiful costumes and vintage photographs. The onsite shop sells merchandise for all the current Broadway shows.

In case you didn’t know, the city of New York has five boroughs. The smallest, Manhattan, where all the fun stuff is, is actually a small (and very crowded) island, bordered by the Hudson River to the west, and the East River to the east.

So seeing New York by boat is not as daft as it might seem – it’s a great way to appreciate New York’s spectacular skyscraper-infused skyline without the crowds and traffic, and comes with commentary explaining the history of the skyline, the famous bridges and the Statue of Liberty – useful without being too obtrusive.

Options range from a 3-hour round trip to a 30-minute thrill ride.

This specialist in 20th- and 21st-century contemporary American art is home to a vast collection of over 23,000 works by more than 3,000 artists, ranging from painting and sculpture to video and installation art. The museum has a particular focus on showcasing emerging artists and providing them with a platform to present their work to a wider audience. Featured artists too look for include Jackson Pollock, Keith Haring and Cindy Sherman.

In addition to its permanent collection, the Whitney also hosts temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and events that promote dialogue and critical thinking about art and society. Every two years holds the Whitney Biennial which showcases a huge range of new contemporary art, often from little-known artists.

Art lovers and collectors should head to the enclave between 18th and 25th Streets and 10th and 11th Avenues, where hundreds of art galleries are crammed together, showcasing an eclectic mix of modern and contemporary art from wacky installations to chic photography.

Anyone from Andy Warhol or Basquiat to current prominent and emerging artists may feature, in a mix of the pointless and the memorably brilliant. You don’t have to buy – gallery-hopping browsers are welcome.

Since 1952, this iconic building on Manhattan’s east side is where world leaders and their top diplomatic representatives have gathered to debate and decide on everything from war to sanctions to how to alleviate hunger and disease in the world. It’s a historic, even uplifting sight, with the flags of nations flying outside, a bastion of hope that one day the world can live together in peace.

This Upper West Side year-round bazaar is one of NYC’s oldest and largest marketplaces. Every Sunday, all year round, indoors and outdoors, up to 200 local merchants – local artists, designers, and antique/vintage dealers – come together to sell one-of-a-kind and limited edition art, antique watches, vintage collectables and fashion, handmade jewellery and furniture. Some market days have special themes – art, food or homewares for example. See the website’s events page for what’s on, when.

There’s a strong social mission to the market. As well as providing a much-needed, affordable outlet for local artists and artisans, 100% of Grand Bazaar NYC’s profits are donated to four local public schools, benefiting over 2,000 children.

One of America’s pre-eminent small art museums with an enviable bequeathed collection of European paintings, sculpture and porcelain, including Bellini, Constable, Gainsborough, Degas, Rembrandt, and Whistler. Housed in the late steel magnate and art collector Henry Frick’s magnificent mansion.

This vibrant farmers’ market, nestled in the heart of the city, is the place to go for locally-sourced produce and artisanal goods. A strict ‘grow-your-own’ rule to promote a direct farm-to-table food chain ensures the freshest produce and that profits go directly back to those who grow and make it. A locals hangout, it’s a great place for soaking up some authentic ‘New Yorker’ atmosphere. Every Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday.

The highlight, however, is the atmospheric rink for roller skating (Apr-Oct) and ice skating (Nov-Mar) in front of the main building – great fun for all ages, and a chance to mingle with the locals. At Christmas, you can ice skate in front of the magnificent oversized Christmas tree (featured in Home Alone 2) – go and see it, even if you’re not skating.

For those interested in maritime history, this small but interesting museum documents the city’s nautical heritage and role as a major port and trading hub. There are historic ships docked at the pier, including the iconic tall ship Peking, plus artifacts, interactive displays, and educational programs for all ages.

This cultural gem offers a fascinating journey through the history of art and literature, housed in a majestic Gilded Age building, with opulent interiors and a serene atmosphere.

It showcases a remarkable collection of art, rare books, manuscripts, drawings, prints and historical artefacts. The collection includes works by renowned artists and writers such as Rembrandt, Picasso, and Dickens.

For anyone interested in military history, space exploration and technological advancement, this museum housed on the aircraft carrier USS Intrepid is a must-visit.

The museum showcases an impressive collection of historic aircraft, spacecraft, and naval vessels, displayed on the main deck. You can also explore the aircraft carrier itself, including the flight deck, captain’s quarters and engine room for a fascinating insight into life onboard.

Notable highlights include a supersonic Concorde, a Blackbird spy plane, a Growler submarine (moored alongside) and the Space Shuttle Pavilion, which houses the space shuttle Enterprise.

One of the world’s most iconic and prestigious concert venues has a storied history dating back to 1891. It’s known for exceptional acoustics and stunning architecture, and countless legendary performances by renowned musicians and orchestras from around the world. Book ahead for an unforgettable evening.

Located where the High Line meets Chelsea and the Meatpacking District, this erstwhile warehouse is one of New York’s great foodie destinations. The rambling hall is crammed by casual restaurants, food kiosks, and speciality food shops.

Located at the top of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere (the One World Trade Center), this observatory offers visitors a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. It features interactive exhibits, immersive technology, and stunning floor-to-ceiling windows that allow visitors to see landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and Central Park. The Sky Pod elevator ride to the top explains the city’s transformation over time.

A lush oasis located in the Bronx, offering a serene escape from the bustling city. Spanning over 250 acres, the garden is a haven for nature lovers, and is renowned for its extensive collection of plants, including rare and endangered species. For families, there’s a brilliant onsite Children’s Adventure Garden.

A tourist trap hated by New Yorkers. See it once for the lights, especially with kids, or dart in to get discount theatre tickets, but otherwise avoid it. The streets are dark, dirty and jammed with honking taxis, bewildered package tourists and hawkers selling tat, all jostling together. The 1, 2, 3, S, N, Q, and R subway lines all stop at Times Square.

This iconic Fifth Avenue department store, founded in 1899, exudes an air elegance and sophistication. It’s renowned for curated collections of designer clothing, accessories, cosmetics, and home goods, and impeccable, personalised customer service.

History buffs should stop by this fascinating museum, a small row of old immigrant tenement houses preserved intact from the late 19th/early 20th century that showcases what life was like for the immigrants who first arrived in the city. http://tenement.org.

Known for its iconic ‘Big Brown Bag’ and bold, contemporary style, this legendary department store combines luxury with a more modern, youthful, trendsetting edge than its more traditional rivals. The store’s vast selection encompasses high-end designer brands, emerging labels, and exclusive collaborations.

Opened in 1924, this legendary department store is a Fifth Avenue icon, selling high-end designer brands, spanning from clothing and accessories to beauty and home goods.

Established in 1858, the world’s largest department store offers a comprehensive but affordable range of merchandise, including fashion, accessories, cosmetics, and home goods. The flagship store on Herald Square is a beloved landmark, hosting annual events like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

“I’ll have what she’s having,” is the famous line from the When Harry Met Salley movie scene set in this ancient palace of pastrami that’s been slicing and serving top-notch cured meat since 1888.

This craft distillery in NoHo, Manhattan, specialises in producing premium gin, vodka, and whiskey using traditional distillation techniques and high-quality ingredients. Visitors can book guided tours, to learn about the distilling process and the history behind each spirit. Tastings are also available, providing a chance to sample and savour the distinct flavours of their spirits.

This spanking new, cutting-edge development, boasts New York;’s largest and most prestigious mall. Spanning multiple levels, it includes a mix of high-end luxury brands, popular retailers, independent boutiques. The sheer number of shops justifies it’s inclusion on this list, but there’s nothing you won’t find in malls in other cities.

This iconic Harlem theatre, opened in 1934, is a legend in the entertainment industry.  It originally gained fame as a pivotal venue during the Harlem Renaissance, showcasing talents like Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, and James Brown. Its ‘Amateur Night’, where aspiring artists compete for audience approval, has launched the careers of numerous stars.

Today, the theatre offers a diverse range of performances, concerts, and events that showcases African-American talents. It presents a wide spectrum of artistic expressions, including music, dance, theatre, comedy, and spoken word.

This magical haven for muggle fans of the beloved wizarding world spans three floors and over 20,000 square feet, making it the biggest such store in the world. Every possible Harry Potter artefact you could shake a wand at can be found here. Who needs Diagon Alley?