The best things to do alone in New York City

Kickstart your solo journey in the city that never hits the snooze button. Whether getting skyline views as you paddle along the Hudson, scaling the heights of SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, or checking out the best art museums in New York City, this guide is your ticket to a unique New York City adventure. Ready to dive into the Big Apple’s highlights and lesser-known gems perfect for the lone explorer? Buckle up to discover the best things to do alone in New York City — no plus one needed.

1. Get introspective at The Noguchi Museum

A temple of art and meditation in Queens, The Noguchi Museum is loved for its minimalist architecture and Zen garden. The museum is the perfect respite from NYC’s frenetic energy.

Why it’s great for solo travelers:

Linger as long as you’d like without impatient friends rushing you along. Educator-led tours and free admission on the first Friday of each month add to the experience.

Address and opening hours:

9-01 33rd Rd, Queens, NY 11106. 10:00 AM-5:00 PM, Wednesday-Friday; 11:00 AM-6:00 PM, Saturday-Sunday.

2. Go kayaking on the Hudson

Kayaking on the Hudson is one of the best outdoor activities in New York City. Plus, it’s completely free. Dress in splash-friendly gear and see Manhattan from its liquid side. Think iconic New York City skyline views with a side of adventure.

Why it’s great for solo travelers:

It’s a free activity that offers a unique vantage point of the city.

Address and opening hours:

Pier 26 Boathouse, New York, NY 10013. Weekends from late May to early October, 9:00 AM-4:30 PM.

3. Bird-watch in Central Park

Central Park is more than just Manhattan’s green lung — it’s a bird-watching wonderland with over 280 species appearing throughout the year. From the sparrows to hawks, the park offers an enlightening journey into avian behaviors, migratory patterns, and these winged wonders' roles in the ecosystem. If you’re looking for cheap things to do in NYC, renting a bike to explore the park and beyond is another great activity for solo travelers.

Why it’s great for solo travelers:

Forget the tourist crowds and opt for an immersive experience that lets you see Central Park — and perhaps even life — from a fresh perspective.

Address and opening hours:

Central Park, New York, NY. 6:00 AM-1:00 AM daily.

4. Reach soaring heights at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

An indoor-outdoor art installation, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt plays with your perception of space and sound. The observation deck can get breezy, so it’s best to bring a jacket.

Why it’s great for solo travelers:

As you ascend, you'll encounter mirrored rooms, visual projections, and glass skyboxes that invite you to reflect — literally and metaphorically. This is one of the best things to do alone in New York City, and you’ll have plenty of company, even if it is only your reflection.

Address and opening hours:

45 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017. 9:00 AM-12:00 AM, Wednesday-Monday.

5. Unwind at the Rubin Museum of Art

Tucked away in Chelsea, the Rubin Museum is your passport to the Himalayas — no flight required. The museum’s spiral layout guides you through hundreds of ancient artifacts and contemporary art.

Why it’s great for solo travelers:

A meditation retreat in disguise the space encourages deep thought. They even offer free meditation sessions to help you recharge culturally and spiritually.

Address and opening hours:

150 W 17th St, New York, NY 10011. 11:00 AM-5:00 PM, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday; 11:00 AM-10:00 PM, Friday.

6. Explore Bushwick's graffiti art

Brooklyn’s best canvas for street art comes to life in Bushwick. While you can wander alone, a guided tour offers insider access to the stories and artists behind the murals, turning a walk into an interactive cultural dialogue.

Why it’s great for solo travelers:

Dive into the ethos of street art in Bushwick. You'll witness the art and hear the narratives that birthed it, making the experience a solo traveler’s dream for artistic immersion.

Address and opening hours:

282 Meserole St, Brooklyn, NY 11206. Tours begin at 1:00 PM most days.

7. Feast your way through the Lower East Side

Manhattan’s Lower East Side is a flavorful chronicle of New York's rich, multicultural food history. Every bite tells a story, from African-American soul food to Jewish delis. It's a gastronomic journey through the cultures that have seasoned New York.

Why it’s great for solo travelers:

Dining alone is great for many reasons; getting to eat exactly when and what you want while appreciating your own company.

8. Attend a live jazz session at Smalls

In the heart of Greenwich Village, Smalls Jazz Club is an intimate experience every night of the week — the convivial stage swings between solos and lively improvisations. Arrive early to snag the best seat.

Why it’s great for solo travelers:

Sidle up to the bar, where the atmosphere is as inviting as the tunes, making it easy to strike up a conversation — and given there’s music playing, no talking is needed.

Address and opening hours:

183 W 10th St, New York, NY 10014. 7:00 PM-3:00 AM daily.

FAQs

Is it safe to travel alone in New York City?

Solo travel in New York City is generally safe in every borough, especially in the busiest areas. Regardless, it’s always smart to keep your wits about you, just like in any big city, especially at night and in quiet places.

What are some other great things to do alone in New York City?

Gallery-hop in Chelsea; it's like an art buffet but without the hefty bill. Summer in the city? The Queens Night Market is your go-to for a global food tour; no passport is required. Then there’s The Cloisters at the northern tip of Manhattan — a medieval oasis in the urban jungle. And if you’re itching for something Puerto Rican, the Nuyorican Poets Cafe serves up underground culture.

How do I meet people in New York City?

New York is a social butterfly’s dream. There are many events, communal dining spots, and even networking shindigs where you can mix and mingle.

What’s the best way to get around on your own in New York City?

Subway is king for covering long distances  —  fast and efficient. But if you’re only going a short way, it’s best to walk. It’s often quicker, and you’ll stumble upon hidden gems you’d miss otherwise.