New York City Travel Guide | Insider tips, hidden gems, itineraries and more

New York City Travel Guide

Welcome to the concrete jungle, where the possibilities are endless and the energy is infectious - New York City! This vibrant metropolis is a melting pot of cultures, offering world-class dining, iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Times Square, and Broadway shows that will leave you in awe. From the trendy boutiques of SoHo to the historic streets of Greenwich Village, every corner of NYC has a story to tell. Whether you're exploring Central Park, taking in the skyline from the Empire State Building, or indulging in a slice of famous New York pizza, this city never fails to leave a lasting impression. Get ready to be swept up in the magic of the Big Apple!

Ultimate guide to hiking trails near New York City

With its bright lights, Broadway shows, and towering skyscrapers, it’s easy to find things to do in New York City, but even the most energetic travelers sometimes need an escape from the concrete jungle. Watch the sunset over Hudson Valley from the summit of Bull Hill or escape the city at Arden Point. Explore the Appalachian Trail or find the best day hikes from New York City on Breakneck Ridge. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just need a quick breath of fresh air, here are the best hikes in New York City for all skill levels.

The 8 best beaches in New York for a perfect beach day

New York's coastline is as diverse as the Big Apple itself, and exploring it is one of the cheap things to do in NYC. The best beaches in New York offer adventure and style to the max, with their amusement parks on fun-filled Coney Island Beach or their epic surfing hotspots on Rockaway Beach.Spot celebrities at Coopers Beach in Southampton, climb a historic lighthouse on the remote Fire Island, or go salmon fishing on sparkling Lake Ontario. The top beaches in this guide feature countless things to do in New York, from ziplining to swimming to strolling mile-long boardwalks.

Fun things to do in NYC: Big thrills in the Big Apple

Whether it’s your first time in New York or you’re a seasoned traveler, the city that never sleeps offers endless entertainment for every type of visitor.From biking through Central Park or catching a Broadway show to exploring world-class museums and sampling the city’s diverse flavors on a foodie tour, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in New York. You can enjoy the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, stroll the High Line, or take a sunset cruise around the Statue of Liberty. This guide has all the top unique experiences and fun activities New York City has to offer.Top fun things to do in New York City at a glanceFun things to do as a couple: Climb the Empire State Building, watch a Broadway show, and catch a baseball game.Fun activities for kids and families: Take a trip to Coney Island and visit the American Museum of Natural History.Fun things to do on your own: Walk the High Line and take a harbor cruise to see the Statue of Liberty.Fun food experiences: Take a food tour and visit the Museum of Ice Cream.

12 great rainy-day activities in New York City

Rainy days in New York can still be full of excitement and adventure. While outdoor plans may be temporarily on hold, there’s a world of indoor wonders awaiting you in the Big Apple. Art lovers, shopaholics, food enthusiasts, and theater aficionados will find no shortage of things to do in NYC, and this guide reveals the top rainy-day activities. Visit world-class museums, indulge in shopping sprees, enjoy mesmerizing theater shows, and explore iconic landmarks. There’s no need to skip a beat, even under gray skies. Here are 12 things to do in NYC when it rains.

How to celebrate Easter in New York City: A complete guide

From the legendary Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival on Fifth Avenue to the massive egg hunt on Governors Island, Easter in New York City is a non-stop whirlwind of excitement. The Big Apple showcases its signature style with a mix of classic traditions and only-in-NYC events. Whether you’re strutting your stuff in a showstopping bonnet or hunting for 50,000 candy-filled eggs, there are countless things to do in New York City at Easter that capture the city’s energy. So grab your most outrageous hat, hit the streets, and discover why Easter in the concrete jungle is such an extraordinary experience.Everything you need to know about Easter in New York CityEaster traditions: Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival on Fifth Avenue, egg hunts on Governors Island, and decorating Easter eggs.Average temperature: 45 F (7 C) to 59 F (15 C)Key Easter dates: Palm Sunday, Good Friday, Easter SundayBest free Easter activity: The Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival on Fifth AvenuePopular Easter events: Governors Island Egg Hunt, Seaport Easter Festivities

7 essential things to do in NYC over Christmas

New York City at Christmas time… there’s truly nothing like it. New York City sets the scene for the ultimate holiday getaway with the grandeur of glittering Christmas decorations, endless shopping options, a hint of snow, and plenty of fun things to do. There’s a reason so many Christmas movies, such as Elf or Home Alone 2, chose NYC as their backdrop. That's because it's easy to feel like the main character when visiting the Big Apple over the holidays. So, if you’re coming to NYC at Christmas, here are a few ways to make the most out of this extraordinary city during December.

Must-try food in New York City: 10 dishes everybody loves

Whether you’re a local seeking new favorites or a tourist eager to bite into the Big Apple’s iconic eats, there’s always something your taste buds can discover in New York City.From Little Italy to Chinatown, there’s every kind of food in New York City you could want. Let’s start with the staple dishes you shouldn’t skip when visiting the city though. From New York’s famous pizza to the best places to enjoy cheesecake, here are the 10 must-eat foods to try.

9 best breathtaking views of New York City

Home to some of the tallest buildings in the world, breathtaking views are synonymous with New York City. Have you even visited New York City if you haven’t been in awe of the city’s skyline from the top of the Empire State Building? From skyscraping viewing platforms to river cruises and even some unexpected locations, the city is packed with excellent viewpoints of that iconic Manhattan skyline.

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 BoroughsEach 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 — Manhattan1. Browse the shops, sights, and museums on 5th Avenue

The complete guide to spending New Year’s Eve in New York City

There’s no shortage of things to do in New York City on New Year’s Eve, from the world-famous fireworks show at Times Square to late-night festivities at the Frost Fest on Coney Island. For a more romantic experience, consider couples’ activities such as a sunset tour in NYC, soaking in breathtaking views of the city skyline. Embrace the magic of showtime at the world-famous Broadway theater by catching one of their popular shows or watching the New Year’s Eve matinee performance. Here’s how to spend New Year’s Eve in New York City for an exhilarating celebratory experience.Everything you need to know about New Year’s Eve in New York CityNew Year’s Eve fireworks: Times Square, Central Park, Prospect Park, and New York Harbor.Best free New Year’s Eve activity: Times Square to see the ball drop.Average temperature: 32-40 F (0-4 C) at night. Snow is rare, but rain is more common.What to avoid on New Year’s Eve: Times Square is closed to traffic so avoid using cars or taxis. The best way to get around New York City, especially on NYE is by subway. Avoid ride-hailing apps as the prices rise exponentially on busy nights.

Elevate Your Trip With These 8 Historic New York City Landmarks

There's no shortage of impressive Big Apple landmarks with historical significance, so travelers always have things to do in New York City. Whether your trip includes a walk along the trails of Central Park, a stop to see the awe-inspiring arches of St. Patrick's Cathedral, or a breathtaking view of the city featuring the Empire State Building, there's always a story attached to these famous landmarks in New York City. 

Add these 5 underrated museums to your NYC itinerary

When one thinks of New York City, iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art immediately spring to mind. However, to truly immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture, it's worth considering the underrated museums NYC offers. To aid your exploration, we recommend you add these 5 underrated museums to your NYC itinerary.These hidden gems provide unique perspectives on the city, its people, and its past, transporting you beyond the usual tourist trails. From rare book collections and the stories of immigrant families to Latinx art and the home of a jazz legend, these museums offer distinctive experiences that enrich any visit. Whether you are a history buff, an art enthusiast, or a culture seeker, these underrated museums open up new layers of NYC for you to discover and appreciate.

The ultimate guide to fall in NYC

Fall in NYC is when the city truly shines. As autumn arrives, New York transforms from a hot and humid place to a crisp, fresh city with dramatic colors and nostalgia. Streets and parks are painted with warm, fiery shades, while the crisp air signals the time for wandering through Central Park's foliage, exploring seasonal markets, and discovering the best things to do in NYC this fall. Whether you're searching for serene natural moments, eager to immerse yourself in autumnal celebrations, or looking for a cozy urban retreat, autumn in New York offers an unparalleled experience, capturing the essence of this fleeting season before winter's arrival.

Top 12 Things To Do in New York With Kids and Teens

New York City is one of the best places to bring children and teens because the bustling city has so many world-class experiences and institutions. Learn from the best New York museums and exhibitions, like the Natural History Museum. Or see the city from new heights, like from the top of One World Observatory. Outdoorsy families will enjoy the ever-explorable Central Park. No matter your family’s age or interest, they’ll find something in New York to love. This list reveals some of the city’s best kid-friendly attractions.

Discover the best museums in New York City for history, art, and science

Exploring the best museums in New York City is a must for anyone eager to experience the city’s rich culture and history. The best art museums in NYC, like The Met’s vast collection and the Guggenheim’s architectural brilliance, offer a unique glimpse into NYC’s artistic and historical essence. Interactive venues like the American Museum of Natural History inspire visitors of all ages, while SPYSCAPE adds a modern twist. This local guide highlights 21 fun things to do in NYC, ensuring you don’t miss the stories and innovations that have shaped The Big Apple.New York City’s best museums at a glanceBest museums for art: The Metropolitan Museum of ArtBest museums for history: The Tenement MuseumBest museums for families: American Museum of Natural History

Your ultimate guide to the best art museums in New York City

From the smaller galleries in Chelsea to the world-class museums stretching from Brooklyn to the Upper East Side, there’s something for every art lover visiting New York City. All you have to do is decide what you want to see!If you have no particular plan but still fancy an art day, walk along the Museum Mile, from 82nd to 105th Street, where there’s a multitude of art museums lining up Fifth Avenue. But with the vast array of fun museums to see in New York City, choosing which one to visit can be a little overwhelming. So here’s a curated list of the best art museums in New York City.

The 10 most romantic things to do in New York City for couples

When it comes to fun date activities in NYC, the city has a lot to offer. From sweeping views of the city skyline from the top of the Empire State Building to rowing a boat on The Lake in Central Park, you can’t go wrong with these romantic things to do in NYC.But where should you begin in a city that has thousands of restaurants and cafés, hundreds of museums, countless historical landmarks, and tons of attractions on every corner, especially when it’s your first time in NYC? Start your trip planning with this concise list of romantic things to do in NYC, whether you’re traveling with a new partner, visiting NYC on your honeymoon, or simply wanting to explore an incredible city with your loved one.

Top 9 free things to do in New York City

New York City isn’t just for the big spenders; it’s a playground of free thrills ripe for the taking. This guide slices through NYC’s pricey facade, taking you to the heart of what makes the city tick, minus the cash drain. Get ready for adventures like cruising across New York Bay on the Staten Island Ferry for top-notch skyline views, stomping the High Line for a green retreat above the city streets, and diving into Chelsea’s vibrant art scene — all on the house. Whether you’re a street art enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for exciting things to do in NYC on a budget, give your wallet the day off with these free NYC activities.

The ultimate guide to NYC in spring

Spring in NYC? The Big Apple is revving up its engines, shaking off its icy coat, and throwing on a vibrant cloak of cherry blossoms, street fairs, and rooftop soirées. This spring guide to things to do in NYC is your all-access pass to the best of the city as the first taste of warmer weather hits — from cultural meetups to green retreats in the heart of the city. For both hardened New Yorkers and wide-eyed wanderers, these top spring activities are the best way to get rid of winter blues.

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.

10 romantic things to do for your honeymoon in New York City

If you’re celebrating your honeymoon in New York City, you’ll be utterly spoiled with choice. While NYC might be known as The City That Never Sleeps, it’s also a city of love and romance. NYC offers honeymooners an exciting line-up of must-see attractions, first-class restaurants and cozy eateries, and knock-out experiences like champagne cruises along the Manhattan skyline.If you’re the kind of couple that loves a panorama reminiscent of city-set romcoms, a skyscraper backdrop sprinkled with outdoor green spaces, artwork, good food, and a plethora of exciting things to do in NYC, the Big Apple is going to be a memorable honeymoon destination for you. This list will get you started on your perfect New York honeymoon.

15 fun things to do in NYC with teens and young adults

Planning a holiday full of attractions for teenagers can be tricky. They have their own fun things to do that don’t always align with yours. In addition, they can have very strong opinions when they don’t like or want to do something. Thankfully, NYC is one of the few places in the world where you can easily find many activities, attractions, excursions, food, and award-winning shows that will satisfy everyone. Quite honestly, it will not be “What to do with teenagers in NYC?” but “How in the world can we choose the most fun things to do in NYC with teens?”Unfortunately, New York is an expensive destination, although there are lots of free things to do in NYC for teens as well. If you plan things right, you might be able to save a few dollars here and there, splash out on a few memorable experiences, and become a pretty cool parent in the process.Here are 14 of the best things to do in NYC with teens. They include an excellent mixture of fun, interesting, and inspiring activities. Some are free, while others are very much worth the cost. By the time you leave New York City, you’ll feel that you saw both the most popular and significant sites, but also had a few unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences. 

11 fun things to do in Staten Island that you shouldn’t skip

There’s more to do on Staten Island than just taking the ferry to see the Statue of Liberty, though this iconic boat ride is on this list, too. As New York City’s least-populated borough, the island feels like a small East Coast town. Packed with history, museums, foodie hotspots, and green spaces, it’s the perfect place to slow down and change scenery.Compared to the popularity of NYC’s other boroughs, such as Manhattan, the island often gets overlooked, but there’s certainly no shortage of things to do on Staten Island. Take a short (and free) ferry ride, and you’ll find countless parks, intimate community events, and historic sites dating back to the Revolutionary War.

10 cheap things to do in NYC for budget explorers

On the surface, New York City might be seen as the city of glitz and glamour, with prices doubled on everything from coffee to museum tickets, but there are actually lots of cheap things to do in NYC. In fact, many essential New York experiences — from grabbing a $3 pizza slice in Greenwich to riding the Roosevelt Island Tramway — are perfect for money-conscious explorers.Exploring New York City on a budget doesn’t mean you have to skip out on fun experiences. Rent a bike to pedal through Manhattan, or bring your own popcorn and blankets to a drive-in movie in Astoria. Discover the Big Apple with this guide to 10 inexpensive things to do in NYC.

The ultimate guide to an amazing winter in NYC

How to spend winter in NYC, despite the cold? It's all about embracing that festive buzz. From legendary ice rinks to serene museum halls, NYC dishes out a smorgasbord of experiences, all with a frosty twist. Whether you're star-gazing at the Rockefeller Center or weaving through Chinatown's cultural treasures, or enjoying a free ride on the Staten Island ferry, this winter guide to the best things to do in NYC will take you through the season's best activities.

12 most Instagrammable places in New York City

New York City is the most Instagrammed city in the world, and it’s easy to see why. Day or night, the photo ops across its five boroughs are second to none. From iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty to those spectacular skyline views, there’s nothing like a trip to the Big Apple to level up your IG feed. But where are the best places in NYC for grid-worthy photos?With so many things to do in NYC, we turned to our favorite travel creators to share their go-to spots for the best shots of New York City, from the most famous sights to their off-the-beaten-path secrets. And because the best Instagram posts are the ones you haven’t seen a thousand times before, they’ve also shared their tips on snapping the perfect picture. Don’t worry about finding them — there’s a Google Maps link to lead you right there.Ready to get your most likes ever? Here are NYC’s most Instagrammable places.

The ultimate guide to fall in NYC

Fall in NYC is when the city truly shines. As autumn arrives, New York transforms from a hot and humid place to a crisp, fresh city with dramatic colors and nostalgia. Streets and parks are painted with warm, fiery shades, while the crisp air signals the time for wandering through Central Park's foliage, exploring seasonal markets, and discovering the best things to do in NYC this fall. Whether you're searching for serene natural moments, eager to immerse yourself in autumnal celebrations, or looking for a cozy urban retreat, autumn in New York offers an unparalleled experience, capturing the essence of this fleeting season before winter's arrival.

The ultimate guide to NYC in spring

Spring in NYC? The Big Apple is revving up its engines, shaking off its icy coat, and throwing on a vibrant cloak of cherry blossoms, street fairs, and rooftop soirées. This spring guide to things to do in NYC is your all-access pass to the best of the city as the first taste of warmer weather hits — from cultural meetups to green retreats in the heart of the city. For both hardened New Yorkers and wide-eyed wanderers, these top spring activities are the best way to get rid of winter blues.

The ultimate guide to an amazing winter in NYC

How to spend winter in NYC, despite the cold? It's all about embracing that festive buzz. From legendary ice rinks to serene museum halls, NYC dishes out a smorgasbord of experiences, all with a frosty twist. Whether you're star-gazing at the Rockefeller Center or weaving through Chinatown's cultural treasures, or enjoying a free ride on the Staten Island ferry, this winter guide to the best things to do in NYC will take you through the season's best activities.

A guide to visiting the Empire State Building

The Empire State Building’s elegant Art Deco silhouette represents both architectural triumph and New York City’s towering tribute to dreams that touch the sky. Built in the clutches of the Great Depression, it stands as a soaring symbol of resilience and wonder. From its curious past to the jaw-dropping vistas at its summit, this guide is your insider pass to uncovering the secrets of this urban colossus and one of the fun things to do in NYC.

6 fascinating fun facts about the Empire State Building

With its stellar views over New York City, the Empire State Building is one of those sights that makes you stop and think, "Wow, I’m really in NYC!" The Big Apple, the city that never sleeps—this towering giant embodies it all. While it’s one of the city’s most recognizable sights and among the top things to do in New York City, there’s plenty you might not know about the Art Deco building. Ready to dig deeper? Discover six lesser-known facts about the Empire State Building.

10 best New York City tourist attractions you shouldn't miss

New York City is one of the most popular destinations in the world, so naturally, there are a million different things to do in NYC. Nicknamed The City That Never Sleeps, NYC is home to iconic landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and the Brooklyn Bridge, as well as a world-renowned gastronomy scene. It’s no wonder you feel overwhelmed when searching for the top places to visit in New York, especially for first-time visitors to NYC; the list is as long as 5th Avenue. So take a look at this concise guide to the 10 best NYC tourist attractions that you simply should not miss.

Things to know before visiting the 9/11 Memorial & Museum

September 11th, 2001, will forever be remembered as the day America stood still. New York City’s 9/11 Museum and 9/11 Memorial Pools pay tribute to every life that was lost during the attacks and also examine the events and emotions that unfolded on that day.Visiting the 9/11 Memorial & Museum is a must when looking for things to do in NYC. This guide below will help you prepare for your visit with all the 9/11 memorial facts you need to know, tips for visiting the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, how to book tours, and more.

The ultimate guide to visiting One World Trade Center

Planning to visit One World Trade Center when you explore the many things to do in NYC? The unimpeded, 360-degree views of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Jersey City from the tallest building in New York City never disappoint. The skyscraper is mostly office space, but visitors can go all the way up to the sky-high One World Observatory for unrivaled views of New York City’s iconic skyline. Look out for famous buildings like the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and the Brooklyn Bridge, or even enjoy dinner at One Dine, the highest restaurant in the city and an incredible way to see New York at night. Find out everything you need in this complete One World Trade Center guide.

A complete guide to visiting the Statue of Liberty

Ready to conquer the crown jewel of American landmarks? Of course, it’s the one and only Statue of Liberty, a towering symbol of freedom in New York Harbor. This isn’t just a tick-off-your-bucket-list kind of deal. It’s a full-blown expedition into the heart of American history. Located on Liberty Island, Lady Liberty has been stealing the spotlight since 1886 with almost 4.4 million spectators visiting each year, and you’re next in line. Think it’s all about a swift selfie with the statue? Think again. There’s one of New York's best museums to explore, and when you couple your journey with a trip to Ellis Island, it transforms into an immersive exploration of the lives of 12 million immigrants who have woven the very fabric of America. So, grab your ticket (yep, that includes a scenic ferry ride) and brace yourself for a day of history, heroics, and one of the best things to do in NYC, offering one heck of a view.

How to plan a visit to NYC’s Museum of Modern Art

Within the constellation of New York City’s elite cultural venues, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) shines brightly among the top echelon. It's one of the best art museums in NYC, boasting an impressive collection of over 150,000 pieces from modern and contemporary art luminaries such as Pablo Picasso, Frida Kahlo, and Andy Warhol, and is globally celebrated as a beacon of artistic breakthroughs.Whether it’s the emotive draw of impressionism or the striking contrast of contemporary works that captivates you, MoMA’s carefully selected collection — of art, architecture, design, and beyond — ensures a deeply engaging visit. Discover the best things to do in NYC at MoMA with this guide to maximizing your experience.

A guide to visiting the American Museum of Natural History

Think the American Museum of Natural History is just another museum? Think again. It’s your all-access pass to a time machine and a spaceship rolled into one, in the middle of New York City. From the huge Titanosaur to the Hayden Planetarium, where Neil deGrasse Tyson himself might as well be handing you the keys to the universe, every exhibit of this New York museum is like hitting the jackpot in a treasure hunt that spans from the ocean depths to outer space. It’s just one of the many incredible things to do in NYC. So, gear up for one of New York’s top experiences that will have you looking at our world — and the many beyond — in a whole new light at the American Museum of Natural History.

The ultimate guide to an epic weekend in NYC

New York City is one of the most diverse cities in the world. Its blend of different cultures, cuisines, and renowned landmarks makes it the ultimate weekend escape. On a long weekend in NYC, it’s possible to hit the top spots, from the skyscraper views at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt to a stroll along Central Park’s leafy paths and even a ferry ride past Lady Liberty herself. This NYC weekend itinerary balances big-name attractions like The Met with offbeat stops in Brooklyn’s street art scene. Here’s how to spend a weekend in NYC that’s bucket-list worthy, with a few off-the-beaten-track stops.Know before you go to NYCWhy you should go: Some of the world’s best art, an eclectic food scene, and nightlife that never sleeps, plus iconic landmarks at every turn.Don’t miss: Central Park, the Empire State Building, and the MoMA.Best way to get around: Public transportation in NYC is reliable and cheap — the subway runs 24/7 so you can explore the city anytime. Best time to go: NYC is busiest in summer; early fall is beautiful, less crowded, and the weather is still mild.Insider tip: Skip going up the crowded Empire State Building and head to SUMMIT One Vanderbilt to view the world-famous landmark itself.Weekend highlights in NYC: Brooklyn Flea in DUMBO and open-air movies in Bryant Park.

Best weekend trips from NYC

New York City: a concrete jungle where dreams are made, and sleep is a myth. But even the most die-hard city dwellers need a break from the madness. The perfect weekend escape? Lucky for New Yorkers, adventure is just a train ride or a short drive away. Trade sidewalk swarms for sandy beaches or get a history lesson in a town where the buildings are older than the country itself. With so many things to do in NYC and its nearby areas, there’s a getaway with your name on it. Gear up for escapes from New York that promise more than just a relaxing trip—they offer a fresh perspective, right at NYC’s doorstep.

20 best things to do in Manhattan, NY’s most popular borough

Choosing the best activities and attractions to visit in New York City can take time, with so many things to do in the city, especially in Manhattan, the most visited of the city’s five boroughs. With world-class museums, incredible restaurants, historical buildings, and famous NYC views, you won’t see it all — you’d need a year for that. But this list of 20 things to do in Manhattan is a great place to start. From New York icons like MoMA and Central Park to hidden gems best discovered via a walking tour, here’s everything you need to see in Manhattan.

16 best things to do in Lower Manhattan NYC

Lower Manhattan — from 14th Street down to The Battery — is Manhattan’s oldest area. At its core, the Financial District, south of Chambers Street, is where the first Dutch settlement was formed in the 17th century. It became known as New Amsterdam before it was taken over by the English and renamed New York. With so many things to do in NYC, you will need a few days to see everything. From popular NYC tourist attractions like the One World Observatory and the Brooklyn Bridge to lesser-known places like the National Museum of the American Indian, this list of the best things to do in Lower Manhattan has you covered.

The best things to do in Greenwich Village, New York City

Greenwich Village is a Manhattan gem brimming with more personality than a Wes Anderson flick. Situated snugly between Houston and West 14th, this neighborhood is a haven for trendsetters and history shapers. Known as “The Village”, it has been the backdrop for some of history's most pivotal movements, from the Beatniks to LGBTQIA+ rights. With pulsing nightlife, a global culinary scene, and independent shops, The Village offers some of the best things to do in NYC for those in search of New York's trendy and bohemian vibe, where the legacy of its cultural trailblazers continues to thrive.

The best things to do in SoHo, New York City

Sandwiched between the arteries of Houston (pronounced "HOW-stun”), Canal, Lafayette, and West Broadway, SoHo is one of NY’s best neighborhoods, where cast iron meets high fashion, and cobblestones lead to the avant-garde. Think of it the runway of NYC, where the facades are as storied as the fashionistas strutting down them. From Prince Street to Grand Street, Soho, New York City is where artists once sought loft-life liberation and where today's trendsetters hunt for the next big thing. It’s a place of contrasts: historic yet hip, industrial yet chic. So, as you navigate its streets, be prepared for a journey through a district that’s as much a state of mind as it is a slice of the city, full of things to do in NYC.

5 best neighborhoods in NYC and what to do in each

Ever wondered where you can find the real New York City? In this vibrant metropolis, a collage of five boroughs — Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island — you’ll discover a myriad of things to do in NYC as every neighborhood brings its own twist. Chances are you’ve already heard of some of these iconic hoods, but there's so much more to explore beyond the familiar scenes on TV and in literature. From the ritzy elegance of the Upper East Side to Williamsburg, the original hipster heartland, each of the city’s 400-plus neighborhoods holds its own fascination. Here’s what to look out for in the best neighborhoods in 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 CityBest time for outdoor loversSpring 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 budgetWinter 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 museumsSeptember 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 seasonsSpring in NYCMarch to MayThe 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 NYCJune to AugustSummer 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 NYCSeptember to NovemberFall 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 NYCDecember to FebruaryWinter 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.

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.

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.

10 fun facts about New York City you didn't know about

New York City, often called the Big Apple, is a place everyone thinks they know. You’ve seen it in movies, read about it in magazines, and if you haven’t been — you know someone who has. New York is famous for its skyscrapers, yellow cabs, and some of the best art museums in the world. However, there are many interesting facts about New York City that might surprise you — this city has layers of stories waiting to be discovered. Dive into these fun facts about New York City and uncover what makes this metropolis truly unique.

First timer's guide to the best places to visit in New York

Visiting New York City for the first time? Trying to decide what the best things to do and see in NYC can be a challenging task if it’s your first time there. New York is a massive city with five boroughs to discover, so it’s best to have a plan — you might not see it all during a first visit.Take a few days (or even a week) to absorb life in Manhattan, and save some time to explore a bit of Brooklyn, Staten Island, Queens, and the Bronx. Check out this list of the must-see things to do in NYC on your first trip to New York.

NYC travel tips from an expert

A regular visitor for the past decade, Steffen Kneist knows NYC inside and out. Having been to New York over 20 times, Steffen considers NYC his second home and loves to share fun facts and insider tips about this popular city.What are your top travel tips for someone traveling to NYC?New York City is always busy. Therefore, you should plan your trip a bit in advance. What should be on your must-see list? A walk through SoHo, the Meatpacking District, DUMBO in Brooklyn, and the Village. Additionally, don't forget to visit one of the many observation decks.My budget travel tip for NYC: If you plan to visit more than three main attractions, check out the New York City Passes that cover most of them. You can quickly save up to 50 percent.Plan and book your must-sees in advance, but don't overplan. Leave plenty of buffer to get a drink, take a detour, and discover all the lovely little spots and hidden gems between each point on your itinerary.See New York from above. Either from one of the amazing observation decks, a helicopter flight, or even from your table at Refinery Rooftop in Bryant Park, my personal favorite.What should I do on my first trip to NYC?New York City's skyline is iconic, so try to see it from a few angles on your first trip to NYC. Start at one of the city's observation platforms, like Edge or One World Observatory, and take a boat tour to see Manhattan from the water. Don't miss these iconic neighborhoods: SoHo, the Meatpacking District, DUMBO, and Greenwich Village.