New York City
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Our most recommended things to do in New York City

NYC: SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Experience Ticket

NYC: SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Experience Ticket

Visit SUMMIT, situated at the top of the iconic modern landmark One Vanderbilt. Discover a place which changes our relationship with cities, environment, and ourselves through immersive, multi-sensory experiences. Head off the main concourse of Grand Central Terminal, to learn the story behind its creation. Learn all about an attraction designed with the intention of transcending everyday existence, and engage with space in a fascinating new way. Begin with a sensory stimulating elevator ride to the 91st floor. Be transported into SUMMIT AIR, a new way to see and interact with space designed by Kenzo Digital. Layered with two floors of floor to ceiling mirrors, AIR offers a new perspective as the Manhattan skyline reflects all around you. Next, test your limits at SUMMIT LEVITATION and enjoy the rush of stepping out over the city on two glass ledges suspended 1,063 feet above Madison Avenue. Watch your image float in the clouds across a multi-media screen and get in touch with your playful side in the silver balloon AFFINITY room. Once you reach the 93rd floor, take in the sights and sounds of NYC from another vantage point on the outdoor observation deck (SUMMIT Ascent access is not included as this currently closed). For a more intimate, adult-friendly evening experience, choose to visit SUMMIT during Air at Night. Guests can enjoy access to all areas of the attraction, an LED light show with accompanying vivacious music, and cocktails for purchase at the 93rd floor bar.

NYC: 9/11 Memorial & Museum Timed-Entry Ticket

NYC: 9/11 Memorial & Museum Timed-Entry Ticket

Benefit from contactless entry to the National September 11 Memorial Museum with your pre-purchased timed-entry ticket. Enjoy complimentary access to the 9/11 Memorial, the Survival Tree, and the Memorial Glades The 9/11 Museum The museum displays over 10,000 monumental artifacts linked to the events of 9/11 and is made up of three permanent exhibition sections: • The Historical Exhibition has three parts: the Day of 9/11, Before 9/11 and After 9/11. It tells the story of what happened on 9/11, including the events at the World Trade Center and the Pentagon and the story of Flight 93.  • The Memorial Exhibition "In Memoriam", commemorates the lives of those who perished on September 11, 2001 and February 26, 1993 and provides visitors with the opportunity to learn about the men, women and children who died. • The Foundation Hall is a room of massive scale, which houses both the last column and the slurry wall.  The 9/11 Memorial (Free Entry) The “National September 11 Memorial” is a tribute of remembrance and honor to the nearly 3,000 people killed in the terror attacks of September 11, 2001 at the World Trade Center site, the Pentagon, as well as the six people killed in the World Trade Center bombing in February 1993.  The memorial’s twin reflecting pools are each nearly an acre in size and feature the largest manmade waterfalls in North America. The pools sit within the footprints where the Twin Towers once stood. The names of every person who died in the 2001 and 1993 attacks are inscribed into bronze panels edging the memorial pools.

NYC: Edge Observation Deck Admission Ticket

NYC: Edge Observation Deck Admission Ticket

Get entry tickets to Edge, a marvel of architecture, engineering, and technology, suspended in mid-air over 1100 feet above the ground. Get the feeling of floating in the sky and take in the entire Manhattan skyline from Edge's unique vantage point on the western side of Midtown Manhattan. Begin your journey on Level 4 of The Shops at Hudson Yards, where you will enter into an immersive multimedia experience explaining the design, construction, and sustainability of Hudson Yards. Then, head up over 1100 feet to the Observation Deck, and then 80 feet out into the air on the Outdoor Sky Deck. Here, frameless glass panel walls are boldly angled outwards to allow you to feel the thrill of leaning out over the edge with the busy city below. Next, stand on the glass floor and look over 100 stories straight down to the city streets below your feet. At Edge's furthest point, The Eastern Point, there's space for one person to stand alone, surrounded by glass, air, and sky—you will never have had a picture quite like it. The upper level also features the Skyline Steps, where you can look out over the top of the glass panels and past the edge of the deck. Have a seat and hang out in the sky with your friends and family, or head indoors and sip champagne or a signature cocktail at the Champagne Bar. When you leave be sure to visit Hudson Yards' centerpiece, Vessel, or enjoy a bite to eat or a shopping experience at The Shops and Restaurants at Hudson Yards.

NYC: Empire State Building Observation Deck Tickets

NYC: Empire State Building Observation Deck Tickets

Choose between a General Admission ticket to the 86th-floor outdoor observation deck or a Combination Ticket with access to the newly renovated 102nd floor, showcasing floor-to-ceiling windows. Upgrade your experience with an Express Ticket to skip the long lines. The New Empire State Building Experience not only gives you access to the legendary New York City landmark, allowing you to soar 1,054 foot (320 meters) high and enjoy magnificent 360-degree open-air views of New York City and beyond. You'll also see Grand Staircase with a two-story architectural model of the building and newly renovated interactive galleries that take you on an incredible journey from the building’s construction to its current place in pop culture. Explore the site in the 1920s, Construction, Opening Day, Modern Marvel, Otis Elevators, World’s Most Famous Building, King Kong, and Celebrity exhibits. The 80th Floor also features a range of exciting art exhibits. Be sure to see the building's iconic Art Deco Fifth Avenue lobby. The Empire State Building's 86th Floor Observation Deck is the highest 360-degree open-air observatory in New York, outfitted with heaters to keep the cold at bay. The Empire State Building is more than a spectacular view - it is the most Instagrammed landmark in the USA. Your entrance also includes interactive multimedia experiences. Scan the various QR codes on site to see videos, image galleries, quizzes, and maps showing nearby points of interest. Be sure to see the building's iconic Art Deco Fifth Avenue lobby as you exit this remarkable building.

New York City: Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island with Ferry

New York City: Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island with Ferry

Hop on board the ferry and enjoy a self-guided tour of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island from New Jersey. Visit Liberty Island, explore the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, and learn fascinating facts as you go. Begin your experience by departing from Liberty State Park, located in Jersey City, NJ, and easily accessible by car. Once you arrive at the meeting point, bypass the ticket line with your pre-purchased ticket. Board the ferry and see the impressive views of Lady Liberty and the NYC skyline. Take note of the ferry's return times to plan your day. Your ticket gives you access to explore two attractions: Ellis Island and Liberty Island (with the Statue of Liberty). On arrival to Ellis Island, pick up your multilingual audio guide at the Immigration Museum. Then, explore what was America’s busiest immigration station for over 62 years. Walk in the footsteps of millions of people from all around the globe who passed through here looking for a new beginning and a new life for their families in America. With access to the American Family Immigration History Center's records, you can search all ship manifests that came through Ellis Island. Use this unique experience to research your family history. Once you're ready to discover Liberty Island, drop off your audio guide and return to the ferry. Upon arrival on Liberty Island, pick up your multilingual audio guide to start exploring the history of the Statue of Liberty. Children also have the opportunity to enjoy a special narration of this self-guided tour. When you are finished, return to the ferry and make your way back to your original departure point.

New York City: American Museum of Natural History Ticket

New York City: American Museum of Natural History Ticket

Enjoy a day of family-friendly activities at the American Museum of Natural History, in New York City. Located just across from Central Park, the museum is home to over 32 million specimens. Benefit from all-day entry. Explore all permanent exhibitions as well as the Rose Center for Earth and Space. Wander through over 40 halls to learn about dinosaurs and diamonds, and everything in between. The new Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation is an incredible addition to the museum, featuring state-of-the-art exhibits and immersive experiences that are perfect for all ages. You can explore the mysteries of the universe in the planetarium, journey through time in the Hall of Biodiversity, and come face-to-face with some of the world's largest and most incredible creatures in the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life. Look out for the iconic Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton and Easter Island head that inspired characters in the film "Night at the Museum." Connect to the museum's WiFi and download the free Explorer App to your smartphone. The app offers turn-by-turn navigation, behind-the-scenes stories about exhibits, quizzes, and more. See the exhibition highlights at your own pace with the museum's self-guided tours of popular collections. Ticketed Exhibitions (available with General Admission + One ticket type, optional inclusion) Invisible Worlds: Be transported into nature’s hidden realms—from the depths of the ocean to the DNA strands in all living organisms—in Invisible Worlds, a unique experience on view in the Museum’s permanent 360-degree immersive theater. The Secret World of Elephants explores the evolution of elephants, their political and cultural significance, and inspiring efforts to overcome threats to survival. Passport to the Universe: The original Space Show is back for a limited engagement. Fly beneath the rings of Saturn, float through the heart of the Orion Nebula, and plunge into a black hole during this captivating introduction to cosmology, narrated by Academy Award Winner Tom Hanks. Giant-Screen Film: The Museum's LeFrak Theater features a 40-foot-high, 66-foot-wide screen and a state-of-the-art digital sound system with nature-inspired films on view. The theater is wheelchair accessible, and captioning devices and audio description devices are available. Davis Family Butterfly Vivarium: Delight in the year-round immersive exhibit and mingle with up to 1,000 free-flying butterflies—and maybe even experience one landing on you!

New York CityPASS®: Save up to 41% at 5 Top Attractions

New York CityPASS®: Save up to 41% at 5 Top Attractions

Experience 5 must-see attractions and save up to 41% with New York CityPASS® tickets. One simple purchase removes the stress of planning, so you can relax and enjoy your memories in the making. With 9 days to use your tickets, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the top sights. Get admission to 5 attractions. Includes: •Empire State Building Observatory- AM/PM Experience, including 86th Floor Observatory admission and entry to the 2nd Floor Museum, plus bonus same-night general admission •American Museum of Natural History- Admission to permanent Museum halls, including over 40 galleries, plus a choice of one ticketed exhibition, the Davis Family Butterfly Vivarium, giant-screen film, or the Hayden Planetarium Space Show (based on availability) Plus choose 3 of the following: •Top of The Rock® Observation Deck- General Admission •9/11 Memorial & Museum- General Admission •Ferry Access to Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island- General Admission ticket for one Statue City Cruises ferry ride to and from Liberty Island and Ellis Island, audio guides, and admission to the Statue of Liberty Museum and Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration (Crown Tickets and Pedestal Access not included) •Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises- One regularly scheduled Landmarks Cruise, Liberty Midtown Cruise, Liberty Super Express Cruise, or Statue at Sunset Cruise (check circleline.com/schedule for current schedules) •Intrepid Museum- General admission, including the Space Shuttle Pavilion, the submarine Growler, the immersive Kamikaze experience, and all temporary exhibitions •Guggenheim Museum- General admission to the Guggenheim’s collection and special exhibits, access to a free daily architecture tour and digital guide with content in multiple languages (accessed via personal mobile device) Plan Your Trip: Download the My CityPASS® app or visit my.citypass.com to access your tickets, make reservations (if required), and view attraction details.

New York City: Top of the Rock Observation Deck Ticket

New York City: Top of the Rock Observation Deck Ticket

Take in a 360-degree panorama of New York from 850 feet (260 m) in the air at the Top of the Rock. Explore 9,500 square feet of unobstructed outdoor viewing space, the most of any New York observatory. Take in the daytime scenery, see the sunset, or admire the city sparkle by night from new heights.  Upon arriving at 30 Rockefeller Center, take time to admire the stunning, shimmering Swarovski chandelier on your way to the mezzanine level. Head up to the Top in less than 1 minute on the elevators. Explore 2 floors with expansive indoor and outdoor viewing areas. Finally top off your visit with breathtaking views of Central Park, the Empire State Building, downtown Manhattan, the One World Trade Center, and multiple bridges from the completely open-air deck on the 70th floor. Upgrade your visit with The Beam Experience at Top of the Rock and recreate one of NYC's most iconic 1930s photos of ironworkers having lunch on a steel beam, 69 stories above ground. You can also choose the VIP ticket that offers a guided tour of the Top of the Rock Observation Deck with expedited entry, priority elevator access, The Beam Experience, a Photo Pass, and 20% off at the gift shop.

NYC: Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Entry Ticket

NYC: Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Entry Ticket

Pre-book your admission and skip the ticket desk to enjoy New York City's Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), one of the world's most visited art museums. MoMA offers a panoramic overview of modern and contemporary art, from the innovative European painting and sculpture of the 1880s to today's film, design, and performance art. Six floors of art galleries in midtown Manhattan include highlights such as Monet's Water Lilies, Picasso's Les Demoiselles d'Avignon, Matisse's Dance (I), and Warhol's Campbell's Soup Cans, as well as contemporary work by Elizabeth Murray, Cindy Sherman, Ai Weiwei, and many others. Current Exhibitions: Crafting Modernity: Design in Latin America 1940-1980, through September 22 Joan Jonas: Good Night Good Morning, through July 6 Upcoming Exhibitions: Kathe Kollwitz, on view March 31 through July 20 LaToya Ruby Frazier, on view May 12 through September 7 To help you enjoy the collection better, use the MoMA app or mobile site to listen to free audio guides available for download to your mobile device. Free WiFi is available throughout the museum. Visitors can also enjoy fantastic dining and shopping options. Three restaurants are available, including The Modern, which has two Michelin Stars. The MoMA Design Store offers a wide selection of books, design objects, jewelry, furniture, clothing, and more.

NYC: Downtown and Statue of Liberty Sightseeing Cruise

NYC: Downtown and Statue of Liberty Sightseeing Cruise

Explore NYC's iconic landmarks and soak in breathtaking views of the city. During the Winter Months, take advantage of the later departure times to catch a beautiful sunset, or take in the city lights during a night cruise. Learn about the landmarks from your knowledgeable guide on board, while you enjoy our climate-controlled cabins, open-air decks, and multiple onboard restrooms. Climb on board the cruise, and begin to glide down the majestic Hudson River, passing by Hudson Yards and Little Island. From afar, you’ll see the towering One World Trade Center and Ellis Island as your backdrop. Then, take the perfect photo with the Statue of Liberty. We take a dedicated amount of time to ensure you take advantage of our dedicated digital photographer and get your perfect, complimentary, digital picture. Next, marvel at the stunning sights of Lower Manhattan before gracefully sailing under the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges. Then, embark on a brief journey up the East River before returning to your your original point of departure. Conclude your boat tour with a memory that will last a lifetime, especially with your complementary digital photos taken with your favorite sights. Relax in style aboard our modern, temperature-controlled boats, featuring spacious indoor and outdoor decks. Take advantage of our onboard Snack Bar, offering delectable food and drinks, including a full bar. Perfect opportunity to reload while taking in the Manhattan Sights.

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25 Best Things To Do in NYC (Across all Five Boroughs)
25 Best Things To Do in NYC (Across all Five Boroughs)

From its iconic skyline dominated by the Empire State Building to the hundreds of major attractions, restaurants, shops, museums, boutiques, and of course, Central Park, it’s hard to find a city with more things to do than New York. 

The city is so influential that it is even referred to as “the center of the universe”. 

Even after visiting NYC for the first time, you could visit time and time again and still find more places to see. To help you narrow down your search, we’ve broken down the best of NYC’s things to do by borough. From exploring Central Park and visiting the Statue of Liberty to foodie markets and the city’s best art museums, these are the best things to do in NYC. 

A guide to NYC’s Boroughs

Each of New York’s boroughs is like its own city. 

You’ve got lively Manhattan — full of big attractions like 5th Avenue, the Empire State Building, and the Guggenheim. 

Brooklyn is more laid back. It’s home to hipsters and some of the coolest things to do in the city, plus the Brooklyn Bridge, of course. 

The Bronx holds its own as well, with historic homes sitting next to hip-hop history, acres of parkland, and Yankee Stadium. 

Queens is the place for foodies. Its immigrant history and diverse community mean you’ll find Asian noodles next to Greek feasts. Plus, it’s home to diverse attractions — from sports stadiums to modern art museums. 

Last but not least is Staten Island. Grab the ferry and take in the New York skyline before exploring the colonial village and maritime history of New York’s greenest borough. 

Best Things to do in NYC — Manhattan

1. Browse the shops, sights, and museums on 5th Avenue

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An all-season guide to the best time to visit NYC
An all-season guide to the best time to visit NYC

It’s not just the city that never sleeps — New York City is the city that never stops, no matter the season. Whether you’re braving a blizzard in January or sweating through the US Open in September, NYC has something big happening every month. Plan your trip around events like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade and Pride, visit hidden spring gems like the cherry blossoms in Brooklyn, or spend long NYC summer nights watching outdoor movies in Bryant Park. Either way, clear your calendar and let this monthly guide to the Big Apple show you the best time to visit NYC.

Choosing the best time to go to New York City

Best time for outdoor lovers

Spring and fall are the best times for outdoor enthusiasts to visit NYC. Central Park and the High Line are either in bloom or bursting with fall colors.

Best time for people on a budget

Winter is the optimal time for budget travelers to visit NYC. Post-holiday sales, discounted Broadway tickets, and offers during New York Restaurant Week make it easy to explore the city without breaking the bank. Hotels are also usually cheaper after the Christmas holidays.

Best time for art and museums

September to November is primetime in NYC for art and culture lovers, with the New York Film Festival. The cooler months also mean fewer crowds at top museums, so you can linger in front of masterpieces at MoMA, The Met, or the Whitney without the summer rush.

NYC throughout the seasons

Spring in NYC

March to May

The mild weather during spring in NYC brings the cherry blossoms to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Central Park and the High Line become the most popular outdoor spots for picnics. Catch the Tribeca Film Festival or join the St. Patrick’s Day festivities.

Summer in NYC

June to August

Summer in NYC is hot, with no shortage of activities. Hop from outdoor concerts and rooftop bars to beach days at Coney Island. Events like Pride Month and the Fourth of July fireworks light up the city.

Fall in NYC

September to November

Fall in NYC is breathtaking. The red and golden leaves in Central Park make for a seasonal spectacle. There's a lot going on with the New York Film Festival, the Halloween Parade, the Feast of San Gennaro in Little Italy, and Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade.

Winter in NYC

December to February

Winter in NYC is snowy and magical, with Rockefeller Center’s Christmas tree, ice skating at Central Park, and the festive window displays along Fifth Avenue. The New Year’s Eve ball drop in Times Square is one of the winter season’s highlights.

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First time in New York City: The best sights, neighborhoods, and more
First time in New York City: The best sights, neighborhoods, and more

If it’s your first time in New York City, you may be dreaming of catching a Broadway show, walking through Central Park, and snapping photos of the Statue of Liberty with a crispy slice of NYC pizza in hand. All this and more awaits in the Big Apple, where NYC's world-famous landmarks and hidden gems are around every corner.

This first-timer’s guide covers everything you need to know, including what to avoid, navigating public transportation, the best foods, and all the things to do in New York City for first-timers.

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The best way to get around New York City: 6 tips and tricks
The best way to get around New York City: 6 tips and tricks

New York City’s public transportation system is one of the most comprehensive in the country and is often considered the best way to get around New York City. Whether you’re traveling from the airport to the hotel, or doing a multi-borough sightseeing tour of the city, New York City’s fleet of buses, subways, bikes, ferries, and AirTrains will get you there — zero rental cars necessary. To help you zip around New York City and its endless sights spanning everywhere from the Statue of Liberty to Harlem’s jazz scene, learn all about the best ways to travel the city without a car.

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Frequently asked questions about New York City

What top attractions are a must-see in New York City?

The must-see attractions in New York City are:

See all must-see sights in New York City

What are the best day trips and excursions from New York City?

The best day trips and excursions from New York City are:

See all day trips and excursions from New York City on GetYourGuide

Insider tips: Planning a trip to New York City

Looking to take a bite out of the Big Apple? We've enlisted the help of New York City expert, Steffen, from Loving New York to help you make the most of your next trip. Read our tips below for your next visit to New York City.

What should I do on my first trip to New York City?

If it's your first time in New York, you should definitely visit one of the big observation platforms! You have several to choose from, but I recommend the Edge observation deck at the Hudson Yards and the One World Observatory. Also, take a boat tour to see New York from the water.

What are some hidden gems to see in New York City?

I'll tell you two of my favorite spots in New York: the Grand Banks at Pier 25 on the Hudson River and Domino Park in Williamsburg. Both places grant you sensational views of the city.

How much time should I spend in New York City?

To explore New York – and not feel stressed out – you want to stay at least 5 to 7 days. That way, you can visit the most important spots and still have time to let the city work its magic on you – but without the time pressure

What food is New York City known for?

I'm a total foodie – so New York is obviously paradise to me! Start with the typical Cream Cheese Bagels (for example at Russ & Daughters in the Lower East Side), try the Pastrami Sandwiches (at Katz' Delicatessen or the Pastrami Queen), and eat a typical New York Pizza Slice. And if you have a sweet tooth: Juniors has the best cheesecake in the city, hands down!

What neighborhood should I stay in when I visit New York City?

First-time visitors should always book their hotel in Manhattan – this way the distances are short and you can easily reach all the sights on foot. I like Soho, Tribeca, Lower Manhattan, and Murray Hill in particular.

What is the best way to get around New York City?

In New York, the best way to get around is on foot – or you can jump on a 'Citi Bike', which is super cheap to rent. We also like to use the NYC Ferries, which can shuttle you between Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens on the East River for the price of a one-way subway ride.

What are the best months to visit New York City?

It's worth visiting New York at any time of the year. But if I had to settle on individual months, I recommend May/June and September/October.

What are the best neighborhoods for food?

There are so many different gastro spots in Williamsburg, the East Village, and West Village.

What are the best neighborhoods for shopping?

New York and shopping simply go hand in hand, Great areas are SoHo, 5th Avenue, and the lower part of Broadway. Be sure to avoid the Times Square area for shopping at all costs – most stores are overpriced and true tourist traps!

What is the best family-friendly thing to do in New York City?

Exploring New York with the family is huge fun - I myself have been to our favorite city with my kids numerous times. Among my personal highlights is a trip to the Statue of Liberty, the visit to the One World Observatory, and Central Park with its lakes and playgrounds. Also really exciting is the Museum of Natural History, which will be familiar to many from the movie "Night at the Museum".

What is the best thing to do in New York City for solo travelers?

Make sure to take a sailing tour on the Hudson River. Many tours, one with on-board wine tasting, for example, start at Pier 62. This is a really relaxed way to travel and a fun way to meet new people.

What is the best thing to do in New York City for couples?

New York can also be quite romantic. A visit to the Empire State Building in the evening from 10 pm (from Thursday to Saturday) is a real highlight, not just for couples. During this time, a saxophonist plays on the observation deck. Also very enjoyable are the dinner cruises and a flight in a helicopter over New York.

What are the best annual events in New York City?

Among the most important events in New York are St. Patrick's Day in March, Gay Pride in June, of course, the 4th of July, and also the Macy's Parade – which is an absolute must-see.

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What people are saying about New York City

Overall rating

4.6
(92,767 reviews)

Our guide Dennis, a former NYPD detective, was the best part of the whole tour. He was knowledgeable, entertaining and genuine in us insights. He was also so patient with our questions. Enjoyed the food but it was Dennis’ stories and tidbits of info that was most valuable, especially since he grew up in Little Italy. Highly recommend this tour, especially with Dennis!

He was excellent and kept us well informed. We did have a bit of a language barrier but He was there when he said he would be and the transportation from the airport to the hotel was comfortable. I would highly recommend.

Steve was great, very informative with a great sense of humour. Highly recommended, especially if you're on a tight schedule, we were more than happy with the service.🛥️📸🗽😁👌

The Edge has such a nice panoramic view of NYC and going on a sunny, clear day helped to see everything. Well worth the visit!

really interesting exhibitions chatting influence of modern culture on the development of New York. brilliant ride at end!