45 Best things to see & do in New York City

The 151ft high, iconic statue that symbolises New York City and embodies American values of freedom and opportunity, and an evocative museum explaining the extraordinary 19th-century mass immigrations.

One of the world’s two most prestigious cities for theatre hosts a wide variety of world-class performing arts and performers – but nothing beats a Broadway musical.

One of the largest art museums in the world, the Met is a global art treasure house, with more than two million works spanning thousands of years of human civilisation.

One of the world’s greatest museums of contemporary art, taking you on an artistic journey through Post-Impressionism, Cubism, Surrealism, Abstract Impressionism and Pop Art.

Rivalled only by London and possibly Paris, New York has it all when it comes to art – from masterpieces to modern, Egyptian treasures to leading boutique art galleries.

A legacy of the waves of 19th century immigration of ethnic groups who then stuck together, New York’s today is a wacky jigsaw of contrasting ethnic neighbourhoods that offers architectural and cultural fascination.

A staggering emporium of world-beating nature and science exhibitions and interactive displays, in a majestic building. A world-class attraction and a must-see for anyone remotely interested in nature.

The poignant ‘Ground Zero’ memorial to the victims of the September 11 2001 terrorist attacks – built upon the ruined foundations of the former twin towers – plus a museum dedicated to recounting the day’s tragic events.

The world’s most famous park – a vast, nostalgic oasis in the heart of frenetic Manhattan. Fifty blocks long and the width of four avenues filled with secrets, curios, and nostalgic delights.

Our summary of New York’s typical foods and flavours, its dining scene and some great foodie experiences.

The world’s second-best shopping destination (behind London) offers a plethora of shops and almost every type of shop and shopping experience imaginable.

One of the world’s great helicopter flights – in and around skyscrapers, over Central Park and up to the Statue of Liberty. Also a fascinating perspective Manhattan, crammed into a tiny island.

An art deco icon, built 1929-31, that offers unrivalled, 360-degree views of the city. It’s touristy, but a must-do.

A superb, 30-minute (each way) scenic walk across a historic bridge to trendy Brooklyn, offering up killer views of the Manhattan skyline the whole way. Grab top-notch pizza and/or ice-cream halfway.

A world-class collection of 20th- and 21st-century art, including works by Calder, Chagall, Kandinsky, Klee, Picasso, and van Gogh. All housed in Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpiece.

Uber-cool park built on an elevated, disused railway track that manages to combine terrific design, gritty urban architecture and river views.

Traditional gospel choirs lead rousing church services all over Harlem on Sundays. Get uplifted, then come back down to earth for some authentic ‘soul food’ after.

An interactive and experiential museum celebrates Broadway’s rich history – three floors packed with memorabilia, beautiful costumes and vintage photographs that showcase its most beloved plays and musicals.

Great value 1-3 hour sightseeing cruises around Manhattan, offering the chance to appreciate the city skyline and its key landmarks – including the Statue of Liberty – from the relative tranquillity of the Hudson River.

A specialist in 20th- and 21st-century American art, from Jackson Pollock to Keith Haring to Cindy Sherman. Every two years holds the Whitney Biennial which showcases a huge range of new contemporary art, often from little-known artists.

A feast of hundreds of private art galleries, packed into one enclave on the west of Manhattan, showcasing an eclectic mix of contemporary and modern art.

The iconic building where world leaders and diplomats gather to resolve the world’s greatest challenges – and a bastion of hope that one day the world can live together in peace.

A year-round, Sunday bazaar packed with local artists, designers, food producers and antique/vintage dealers come together to sell one-of-a-kind and limited edition finds.

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 interesting art museum specialises in Himalayan art; the collection includes approximately 3,400 objects spanning more than 1,500 years to the present day. Works come from the Tibetan plateau, and surrounding regions including Nepal, Bhutan, India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, China and Mongolia.

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.

This iconic Art Deco complex is home to an atmospheric rink for roller skating (summer) and ice skating (winter) – great fun for all ages. At Christmas, you can ice skate in front of the magnificent oversized Christmas tree (featured in Home Alone 2).

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

A museum housed on and in a former aircraft carrier dedicated to technological advancement in sea, air and space. Highlights include the space shuttle Enterprise and a Concorde.

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.

Iconic Harlem theatre – a legend in the entertainment industry – has launched the careers of numerous stars. Today, it showcases the best African-American talent and performing arts.

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?