New York City Things To Do

Crossing the late 19th-century, Gothic-inspired bridge affords phenomenal views of Manhattan. It’s best enjoyed if you start your walk on the Brooklyn side (just hop the subway one stop over the river).

Take in Manhattan from the heights of the 102-floor Empire State Building – its observatory is open for spectacular views day and night.

Catch the ferry from Battery Park – the fare includes a stop at the iconic statue, as well as at Ellis Island, where between 1892 and 1954, 12 million immigrants passed through New York Harbor.

This over-the-top sensory experience clusters chain shops, restaurants, and tawdry attractions under sparkling neon lights – steer clear of the tourist traps and just spend some time ogling the spectacle.

This 843-acre urban oasis – "the lungs of New York City" – is full of treasures like the Central Park Zoo, lakeside Bethesda Fountain, and Loeb Boat House, where rowboats and bicycles are available for rent.

Called “The Met,” this star New York museum’s two-million+ collection spans from 75,000 B.C. through the 20th century. It also regularly hosts special exhibitions.

This is the largest Gothic-style Catholic cathedral in the United States. The inside is decorated with soaring stained glass windows and wood and marble sculptures.

This Art Deco masterpiece is home to Radio City Music Hall, NBC studios, and the Top of the Rock observation deck – great for panoramic city views. Come winter, the ice rink and Christmas tree in the flag-lined plaza take center stage.

One of America’s most visited museums, MoMa’s 150,000-work collection includes films, paintings, prints, and architectural models. Friday afternoons are free.

West Chelsea is to the contemporary art world what Broadway is to the theater world. Since the mid-1990s, New York’s most prominent contemporary art galleries have migrated from Soho to West Chelsea. Currently, there are more than 200 galleries in the area, including heavy hitters like Gagosian, Matthew Marks Gallery, Mary Boone Gallery, and Andrea Rosen Gallery. We recommend taking one of the Chelsea Art Galleries tours.