Top Things To Do In NYC – Favorites for First-Timers

Very few cities in the world need no presentation, and one is undoubtedly New York City. Featured in more movies than you can see in a single lifetime, the city’s beauty attracts tourists from all over the world. But this icon is not only glamor and unmissable landmarks; it delights visitors with a rich history, incredible museums, and cultural novelties. This guide is a great starting place to have an idea of the things to do in NYC as a first-timer.

For this travel guide, we’re going to give you inspiration for 12 different places and activities that you should consider adding to your trip to the Big Apple so you have a jump start to your trip planning.

Things To Do In New York For First-Timers

Arguably one of the best cities in the western hemisphere, NYC has enough historic landmarks to keep you busy for a lifetime. As a first-timer to the city, it can be pretty overwhelming as there are so many choices.

We certainly won’t be able to show you everything but we’re going to try to help help you figure out how to spend your first trip to New York City with a breakdown of the city’s must-see attractions that will at least have you cover all the main bases.

#1 Bike tour of Central Park

Among the best things to do in New York City is visit Central Park. The most iconic park in the world, Central Park is likely the first image you have in your mind when thinking about the city. This is not surprising since the first scene of many movies and TV series shows aerial views of Central Park.

This artificial park of 693 acres features gardens, meadows, and forests. The perfect place to unwind and get outside the hustle and bustle that characterizes New York City, Central Park is also ideal for those who love to walk, jog, and run. The park’s ring pathway is around 9.5 kilometers long, and one of the top ways to do it is with a bicycle.  

With the bike, you can lap through the entire park more quickly than on foot. This will leave you plenty of time to explore the rest of Central Park, which boasts excellent attractions, many of which are open year-round. 

Along the way, you will pass sculptures, bridges, 21 playgrounds, a zoo, and even an ice-skating rink from October to March. Map the park route to stop at classic places, particularly the Bethesda Fountain, Belvedere Castle, the Strawberry Fields John Lennon Memorial, and Shakespeare Garden.

There are several shops around Central Park for renting a bike, but we highly recommend choosing this guided bike tour of the park with strategic stops in all the best landmarks for an unforgettable experience.  

#2 Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

The very symbol of not just New York City but America itself, the Statue of Liberty is an absolute must-see. This giant copper statue stands tall and majestic on a small island surrounded by the waters of the Hudson River. 

Getting closer to the Statue of Liberty by ferry will surely make you emotional. Think of the millions of immigrants in the late 19th century and early 20th century who were greeted by it on their arrival to America, looking for a new life. 

The statue, designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, was a gift from France to the United States in 1886. The statue’s metal framework was instead built by Gustave Eiffel, the engineer who made the famous tower in Paris. Of great historical and artistic value, the Statue of Liberty represents Libertas, the Roman goddess of liberty. In her left hand, the statue holds the ‘tabula ansata’, with the Declaration of Independence.

While on Liberty Island, make sure to visit the Statue of Liberty Museum and climb up to the statue’s pedestal and crown for incredible views. Once you have done exploring the Statue of Liberty, take the ferry ride over Ellis Island. This was an immigrant inspection station where approximately 12 million immigrants were processed. On Ellis Island, you will find an interesting immigration museum.

Both islands offer visitors a unique experience, so you should take advantage of both. You can visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island with this guided tour to dive deeper into America’s history, all the while admiring one-of-a-kind spots.

#3 Helicopter tour

You will have plenty of choices when it comes to activities in NYC. One of the most thrilling experiences is taking a helicopter tour of the city. Seeing New York City from the sky is astonishing and will make for long-lasting memories of your time in the city.

Admire skyscrapers climbing high and distinct landmarks from a bird’s eye view by stepping aboard a luxurious six-passenger Bell 407 helicopter with this incredible tour. You’ll be flying with an FAA-certified pilot for the best and safest experience. The 180-degree view will give you incredible vantage points of the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge, Empire State Building, New Yorks boroughs, and much more that others rarely ever get to see. 

By taking a helicopter tour, you can truly take in the beauty of New York City. After take-off from the Downtown Heliport, this tour takes you over lower Manhattan before swooping over Battery Park to glance at Wall Street. The tour continues by flying over Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. Feel more emotions while heading up the Hudson River past the Chelsea piers and the lights of Broadway. On your way back, you will fly over the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, Ground Zero, and Central Park.

Whether this is your first or tenth trip to NYC, a helicopter tour should be on your bucket list.

#4 Rockefeller Center and Top of the Rock

If you ask us, a must is visiting at least one of the many observation decks you will find around the city. So which one should you climb to, the Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, or the Edge? While the answer really is personal, our choice is always the Top of the Rock.

This observation deck is located inside the Rockefeller Center, a vast complex of 19 buildings commissioned by the Rockefeller family. In Midtown Manhattan, the complex boasts 14 stunning Art Deco buildings that are a true wonder for the eyes. 

Start your visit from Rockefeller Plaza, which houses the iconic Christmas tree in winter, and then enter the buildings’ lobbies to admire fantastic art collections, including murals and mosaics. At the plaza’s level, you can see the Channel Gardens, featuring colorful flowers that change throughout the year, and the statues of Atlas and Prometheus.  

At Rockefeller Center, visitors will also find the Concourse, a dining and shop hub, and the Radio City Music Hall, the famous theater that opened in 1932 and is home to the Rockettes. 

However, the real centerpiece of the complex is the Top of the Rock. This stunning platform features fantastic views of Central Park and the Empire State Building, all the way to the Hudson River. Taking in the views from the multiple levels of the Top of the Rock is among the very best things to do in NYC. Make sure to get your ticket for this attraction in advance to avoid lines and pick your preferred time slot.

#5 Metropolitan Museum of Art

Within everyone’s list of experiences to try in NYC is strolling inside its incredible museums. The city boasts an impressive number of museums for every taste. If you are an art lover, you should head to the popular Metropolitan Museum of Art. 

The Met, as it is also known, has the record of being the United States’ largest art museum. Its 13 acres are filled with over 2 million works of art. Its permanent collection showcases artistic expressions from different times and places, from ancient Egypt to medieval Europe to contemporary America.  

Besides the astonishing permanent collection, the museum features many temporary exhibitions throughout the year. If there is a section of the museum not-to-be-missed, it is the Costume Institute. Here, visitors will find both permanent and temporary exhibits celebrating the world’s most important historical and contemporary fashion. 

The Met also boasts a rooftop, where you can take a break for a drink and a quick bite while admiring Central Park, and the Cloisters, a separate museum dedicated to medieval art, which you can access with the Met’s entrance ticket. 

Consider at least half-day to explore the Metropolitan Museum of Art, but if you want to have a more compact visit without missing out on anything, take this top-rated tour of the Met with an expert art guide.

#6 Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO Neighborhood

Another of the landmarks of NYC, the Brooklyn Bridge is among the most recognizable bridges in the world. Built in 1883, it was the longest suspension bridge that you could find at the time. Connecting the neighborhoods of Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn, walking the Brooklyn Bridge needs to be on your list of things to do during your stay in the city.

The bridge spans over the East River, and walking its pedestrian-only section is an activity that is easy, fun, and suitable for the whole family. Crossing the bridge will take around half an hour, and you will have fabulous views of Manhattan during the walk. 

Once you have finished crossing from Manhattan, make sure to visit the Brooklyn Bridge Park. This 80+ acre park is mainly frequented by tourists for the unparalleled vistas of the Manhattan skyline from the Brooklyn Heights promenade. But Brooklyn Bridge Park also offers many more biking and running trails and basketball and volleyball fields. You can spend an entire day here, but if you have limited time, proceed to the famous DUMBO district.  

Acronym of “down under the Manhattan Bridge overpass”, the historic DUMBO boasts many attractions. Don’t miss the Timeout Market for a well-deserved meal and drink break, the flea market at the DUMBO Archway for some vintage shopping, and the famous Walls with extraordinary street art. There is another must-see place in the district: the iconic photoshoot spot for taking the ultimate pic of the Brooklyn Bridge, which you will find at the intersection of Washington Street and Front Street.

Although you can walk the Brooklyn Bridge and explore DUMBO on your own, a better idea is to join this guided tour to learn the story of the famous bridge and discover the hidden gems of the district.  

#7 9/11 Memorial & Museum

The events of September 11th, 2001, had a worldwide impact. This horrible tragedy transformed New York City also on an urban level, creating a massive void where once stood the Twin Towers. Part of the recovery process has been the construction of the 9/11 Memorial, which is among the unmissable things to do in NYC.

The memorial is a moving piece of art called “Reflecting Absence”. In the footprint of the towers are today two giant pools constantly running water and, with engraved on them, the list of the names of everyone who was killed during the terrorist attacks.

Around the memorial, you will notice tall new buildings that make the emptiness of the memorial even more emotional. Among these new skyscrapers is the Freedom Tower, officially called One World Trade Center, from which you can admire stunning views of New York City. 

Another must-do in the area is the 9/11 Museum. Masterfully conceived, two core museum spaces showcase historical and memorial exhibitions. The permanent collection displays a multimedia compilation of images and oral recordings. The heartfelt exhibit includes more than 14,000 objects, like textiles, artwork, and books. The museum’s coverage of 9/11 is far-reaching in its historical depth but also incredibly personal as it shares the individual stories of the deceased.

Learn about the tragic events of 9/11 and follow the steps of the heroes and survivors with this walking guided tour of Ground Zero, which includes an entrance ticket to the 9/11 Museum.

#8 Take a walking tour

One of the best ways to learn more about the vibrant New York City is to take a walking tour. Following a local guide, you will see amazing sights while learning about the history and culture of a city that is so iconic. 

Browsing the internet, you will find countless walking tours to join, offered in many parts of NYC. A great idea is to join this top-notch walking tour of Broadway and Time Squares. You will learn captivating behind-the-scenes stories of the famous square and theater district thanks to the presence of a professional actor who will make the whole experience just superlative.  

Time Squares is the epicenter of Manhattan, and its giant and bright billboards, shops and restaurants, and bustling atmosphere attract millions of visitors from all corners of the globe. But this square used to look very different back in the day. Thanks to the walking tour, you can learn how Times Square was at its origins (a horse trading district) and became the stage entertainment it is today. The tour will also walk you through Broadway and the notorious Hell’s Kitchen. It will highlight the stories behind popular places such as 42nd Street and the Edison Hotel.

When the walking tour is over, grab a bite at one of the many restaurants around Times Square, and then head up to the roof of the Marriott Marquis to take in incredible views of Midtown.

#9 Catch a Broadway show

When thinking about the quintessential New York experience, it can’t help but come up in mind to watch a Broadway show. Among the best things to do in NYC, the list of Broadway shows is long, constantly changing, and has shows suitable for every taste and age. New Yorkers count Broadway shows as part of their usual cultural activities.

From the long-running classics like Wicked, Phantom of the Opera, and Chicago to newer but top-rated shows like Hamilton to smaller off-Broadway shows, you won’t go wrong with whatever you pick to see.

The Theater District is the beating heart of NYC’s performing arts scene. Home to over 40 Broadway theaters, here you will find some of the best shows on the planet. If you plan to watch a Broadway show, consider spending some money. This fabulous experience doesn’t come for cheap! Ticket prices vary significantly by show and period. However, you can find discounted tickets for shows running that same day at the TKTS offices around the city. Try your luck at offices in Times Square, South Street Seaport, and downtown Brooklyn, or get your tickets on the official website way in advance to have a better price. 

Besides watching a show, get to know more about Broadway with this fantastic small-group tour that includes a studio visit to assist at a show rehearsal.

#10 Chelsea Market and High Line

When taking a trip to New York City, one thing you should always include in your list is strolling around Manhattan neighborhoods. Among the most iconic is Chelsea, NYC’s center for art. Chic and trendy, Chelsea is home to more than 200 art galleries. 

Culturally diverse, Chelsea offers fantastic attractions that you shouldn’t miss. A must-do stop to make is Chelsea Market, New York City’s top food hall. Located in the heart of the Meatpacking District, this market is like no other you will ever see: its building covers an entire city block. The first floor of Chelsea Market boasts an astonishing array of eateries, ranging from food trucks selling some of the city’s best tacos to delicious bakeries and sit-down restaurants.

On the market’s other floors, you will find interesting shops selling everything from books to clothes and the Chelsea Music Hall, animated at night by good music, delicious cocktails, and a great vibe. 

Another must-visit during your time in Chelsea is High Line, a public park built on the site of a former train track. Converted into an elevated walking path, High Line stretches for around 1.5 miles from 34th Street to the Meatpacking District. Free to walk, the High Line is incredibly charming, with its overlooks, gardens, and public art. You can also get onto the High Line directly from Chelsea Market.

For a well-rounded experience of the Meatpacking District, this guided walking tour is a great choice. You will eat your way through Chelsea Market, admire the views from the High Line, and learn the history of the district for a fun day in NYC.

#11 Explore Greenwich Village

Another outstanding neighborhood to visit in NYC is Greenwich Village. This district is something special: it was the heart and soul of the 1960s counterculture movements and the modern LGBTQ+ movement. If you are into history and a unique atmosphere, you won’t grow tired of Greenwich Village. 

The former bohemian area of New York City, “the Village”, as it is affectionately called by the locals, boasts wondrous attractions. Washington Square Park, dominated by the stunning Washington Square Arch, is the perfect place for relaxing and people-watching. The park is frequented by artists, poets, and students of the nearby NYU. 

Greenwich Village is also home to great eateries, indie movie theaters, jazz clubs, and legendary comedy clubs. So from the early morning to late at night, you will find plenty to do here.

To get the most out of your visit, this alternative tour of Greenwich Village sounds amazing. Find out where Jimi Hendrix and Edgar Allen Poe hung out, snap photos of Friends and Carrie Bradshaw’s apartments, and learn all about the rise of gay rights in New York City by passing by the historic Stonewall Inn.

#12 Get cultural in Harlem and Gospel

The last Manhattan neighborhood we suggest you not-to-be-missed is Harlem. Known for its African American heritage, Harlem is where to be in NYC to live authentic experiences. 

Located north of Central Park in Manhattan, Harlem features cultural institutions that contribute to making New York City what it is. First and foremost, the Apollo Theater. Opened in 1914, this legendary live music venue has launched many talents and careers. James Brown, Ella Fitzgerald, and Billie Holiday all performed at the Apollo Theater. The theater programming offers everything from jazz, R&B, and blues concerts to comedic events. This theater is particularly known for the famous Amateur Nights, which began in 1934 and are still hosted each Wednesday.

Another neighborhood institution is Sylvia’s Restaurant. Serving soul food, eating here is a must. The menu features all the Southern classics, from fried chicken with waffles to catfish and peach cobbler. This restaurant is a popular spot for dinner, especially among politicians, counting among its illustrious diners former Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama.   

But if there is one single thing you should visit Harlem for, it is attending a gospel mass. Sharing the lively and most authentic side of the locals living in the neighborhood, gospel masses have become a popular tourist activity. The four main churches welcoming visitors during their Sunday masses with the gospel are Abyssinian Baptist Church, Canaan Baptist Church, Convent Avenue Baptist Church, and Greater Hood Memorial AME Zion Church.

Participate in this tour offering a Gospel service in Harlem on a Wednesday for a more intimate and emotional experience so that you can check-off another of the must-do thing while in NYC.

Where To Stay In New York

Deciding where to stay in New York is a fundamental choice for a perfect holiday, so here are our four hotel recommendations.

MIDTOWN

BUDGET: Pod 39 Hotel

Located in Murray Hill, Pod 39 is a quick stroll from Times Square. You can’t get more central than this; however, the rooms of this hotel are tranquil and quiet. Equipped with great amenities, some rooms offer splendid city views. At Pod 39, guests also provide a restaurant, a seasonal rooftop lounge & bar.

LOWER MANHATTAN

Hilton Garden Inn

Located next to Battery Park, you will find everything you would expect from a mid-range Hilton hotel here. The modern rooms are comfortable and feature a TV, a mini-refrigerator, a coffee maker, and a desk. Guests at the Hilton Garden Inn can enjoy their breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the Garden Grille & Bar. This hotel also offers a 24-hour fitness center and a 24-hour business center.

HARLEM

Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel

Right by the famous Columbia University and not too far from Yankee Stadium and Central Park, this mid-range hotel is a great choice if you travel with a bigger group. At the Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel, guests will find a bar, a restaurant, and a fitness center. The property also provides a beautiful terrace and room service.

GREENWICH VILLAGE

Washington Square Hotel

You will find this 4-star hotel in the very heart of the Village. As you would expect from a luxury hotel, Washington Square Hotel offers top-notch amenities. Guests can enjoy their time in the on-site spa, get in shape at the gym, and indulge in delicious food at the hotel’s restaurant. The rooms at this hotel are small but modern and cozy, perfect for a good night’s sleep.

Closing Thoughts

The famous Big Apple is an incredible destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list. When you consider all the things to do in NYC, you might think you need multiple trips to see it all – and you won’t be wrong. However, if you only have a limited amount of time to explore the city, we hope this guide helps you figure out what your stops will be during your NYC vacation.

Boasting world-renowned museums and galleries, iconic landmarks, non-stop entertainment, top-notch eateries, and a heart-stopping skyline, you will surely want to return to New York City as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Travel Resources For Your Next Trip

If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100%.

Credit cards: Don’t get burned by hidden fees on top of terrible exchange rates. When we travel now, we use the Wise Card. Simply load it with the currency you need before you go and use it as a regular VISA or their digital wallet card. Use their free app to track how much you have and top up when you need to.

Flights: Of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature. Kayak is also another that’s we will often check as well.

Car Rental: If you’re looking to save money, these car rental coupon codes will be a true game-changer. Otherwise, DiscoverCars and RentalCars are great places to start.

Airport Parking: You’ll need a spot to leave your car at the airport so why not book a spot at a discount. Use code AWESOME7 to get at least $5 off at Airport Parking Reservations or Park Sleep Fly packages.

Data: We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices like PokeFi because their rates are so good and you can use it globally but recently, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. The best one is Airalo. Save money by getting region-specific eSIMs and use referral code WILLIA9500 to get $3 USD credit on your first purchase. Ubigi is another one that we’ve had success with where they uniquely offer 5G coverage. Use code AWESOME10 to save 10% on your first order.

Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts. The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. TripAdvisor is also useful for reviews and bookings.

Vacation Rentals: Your first instinct will be to check Airbnb but we always recommend checking VRBO as well if you’re looking for a vacation rental.

Tours: When planning our trips, we always check both Viator and GetYourGuide to at least see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to. They often have different offerings and prices so check both.

Travel Insurance: Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.

• Insured Nomads – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks.
• RATESDOTCA – Search engine Canadians looking for the cheapest insurance including multi-trip annual policies.
• SafetyWing – A perfect fit for long-term nomads.
• Medjet – Global air medical transportation.
• InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.

If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.