NYC Attractions for Tourists
Things to Do in NYC As a Tourist
New York is a massive city. It would take a lifetime to see everything there is to see!
The Statue of Liberty is an iconic sight that every first-time visitor should see. Also, don’t miss the solemn 9/11 Memorial.
Central Park is huge and offers free activities like walking, running, and picnicking. You can even ice skate here in winter!
Times Square
The neon lights shine brightest in the world’s most famous theater district, whose marquee-fronted playhouses host box-office hits. Other notable attractions include Madame Tussauds and Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, as well as Bryant Park (Midtown’s small but activity-filled green oasis) and the lion-flanked entrance to NYC’s New York Public Library.
For an insider’s view, sign up for a Broadway for Beginners walking tour with a local guide. You’ll learn how the shows come together and hear some of their spooky history! Also, make sure to check out the Empire State Building, which still stands proudly as a spired wonder of the NYC skyline.
Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum
Madame Tussaud’s is the ultimate NYC attraction for people who love pop culture and celebrities. The wax figures are stunningly lifelike and give visitors a chance to snap selfies with their idols. Each exhibit has a theme, such as Hollywood, music, or sports and features famous personalities both old and new.
A trip to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is one of the most iconic experiences in NYC. Getting there requires a ferry ride that may have long lines, but the sights are well worth it.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art (or simply the Met) is one of the largest art museums in the world. The museum is free to enter and features collections that cover a wide range of artistic media.
Rockefeller Center
A trip to New York City is not complete without a stop at Rockefeller Center. This enchanting landmark is famous for its tree lighting and skating at the Rink during the holidays. It is also home to a number of restaurants and gardens.
Visitors can take a tour of the NBC studios where shows like The Today Show are taped and can experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to watch their favorite show as part of the live studio audience. Studio tours are available year-round.
A visit to the Rockefeller Center isn’t complete without visiting the observation deck, which offers sweeping views of the city. You can find great restaurants near Rockefeller Center, including Mastro’s Steakhouse and Casa Limone.
The Empire State Building
One of the most iconic sights of NYC, this towering structure is a must-see. You can take a tour to learn more about the history of the city and its most famous skyscraper. The views are breathtaking, especially from the open-air 86th-floor observatory.
The line for the Empire State Building can get quite long, so it’s best to visit during off-season times or on weekdays. You can also try to beat the crowd by visiting early in the morning or late at night.
New Yorkers take outsized pride in their sports teams, so there’s no better way to experience the city’s energy than by attending a game. Check out Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, Citi Field in Queens, and Brooklyn’s futuristic Barclays Center for a day of fun!
Central Park
A visit to Rockefeller Center is on almost everyone’s list of things to do in NYC, and for good reason. This vast entertainment and shopping complex is home to NBC-TV and offers awesome views of Manhattan from the famous Top of the Rock observation deck.
The Museum of Modern Art, known as MoMA, is one of the most famous museums in the world. It houses a dazzling collection of paintings, prints, sculptures, architecture models, and even films.
If you love dogs, be sure to check out the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. It’s an exciting event where you can see some of the best in the world compete for a blue ribbon!
Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge is a must-see for any New York City visitor. This iconic bridge connects Manhattan and Brooklyn and offers incredible views of both the city skyline and the Statue of Liberty. You can walk across the bridge or take a boat tour for even better views.
The best time to walk the bridge is during sunset. This way, you can see the skyline lit up with electric wonder.
You can access the Brooklyn Bridge promenade from Centre Street or the lesser known entrance on Park Row underpass. However, be prepared for crowds on this popular attraction. You can also get a view of the Brooklyn Bridge from the water by taking the NYC Ferry or a sightseeing cruise.