Things To Do In The Big Apple
Published March 5, 2025
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New York, called the Big Apple, stands as a vibrant metropolis filled with top-notch attractions, famous landmarks, and varied neighborhoods.
Whether you're a newcomer or an experienced explorer, NYC offers something for everybody.
From Times Square's vibrant atmosphere to Williamsburg's creative allure, here are the things to do in the Big Apple.
Explore the Rock Summit
If you want an aerial view of New York, purchase tickets to visit the Top of Rock at Rockefeller Center.
The elevator journey to this top is thrilling and the scenery is stunning.
In my view, this place provides the finest skyline views among all of New York City's viewing spots and observation decks.
The impressive outdoor observatory sits atop Rockefeller Centre, offering visitors expansive vistas of Central Park, downtown Manhattan, Empire State Building, and more.
It showcases glass terraces oriented east, west, north, and south, providing an uninterrupted view of New York 850 feet above ground.
For an enchanting experience, I suggest purchasing tickets for their golden hour because witnessing the sun set and rise over the breathtaking skyline is truly unforgettable.
Enjoy a Sunset Stroll inside Central Park
Central Park is a tranquil haven that is nestled between the soaring skyscrapers and lively streets.
This internationally acclaimed park covers 843 acres and features meadows, gardens, lakes, and pathways.
If you're seeking a spot to engage with nature amid the busy New York City life, Central Park is where you will enjoy vibrant greenery and fresh air.
It is located in the center of vibrant Manhattan, providing endless attractions, activities, and events.
Strolling beneath the towering American trees at dusk, away from the sight of high-rise buildings, is an ideal way to decompress from New York's fast pace.
It will really be a refreshing change for you – both literally and metaphorically.
You can even visit the sculpture of Alice in Wonderland and Balto, the brave sled dog.
Then, for sweeping vistas, ascend Belvedere Castle featuring terraces that gaze out over Turtle Pond, Great Lawn, and Haven Ramble.
Also, you can row a boat atop the lake, relish a relaxing walk, or hire a bicycle to discover the park's additional areas.
Make sure to check out key locations such as the Bow Bridge, Bethesda Terrace, and the memorial of Strawberry Fields honoring John Lennon.
From the buskers and the Beatles homage in “Strawberry Fields” to strolling along the iconic Bow Bridge, there’s much to witness and appreciate in Central Park.
It's an ideal way to enjoy a morning stroll among trees, forgetting that you are surrounded by part of the world's tallest skyscrapers.
Visit 9/11 Memorial and Museum
You can spend your day inside New York exploring this Memorial & Museum located at World Trade Center.
The visit is illuminating and moving, featuring exhibits of victims' names along with video recordings of the 9/11 events unfolding.
You will definitely feel honored to dedicate time to pay tribute to the first responders and victims of the attacks on 9/11.
Discover Levain Bakery
You’ll discover thick, chewy, and absolutely delightful cookies in Levain Bakery.
You will also enjoy their peanut butter cookies and chocolate chips.
Visit Chelsea Market
Whether you go before or after your trip to High Line, don't forget to visit Chelsea Market.
Here it’s said that Food Network celebrities purchase their ingredients.
You'll also discover a range of eateries, from pizzerias to burger shops to fried Oreos.
Feel Grand Central Terminal Excitement
Allow yourself to be swept up in the vibrant hustle at this terminal — a remarkable train station located inside of Midtown Manhattan.
It is famous for its breathtaking architecture and historical significance, along with limitless shopping and dining options.
Upon your arrival, you will encounter a magnificent façade distinguished by neoclassical beaux-arts architectural design.
You are in for a greater delight when you step into this terminal, where skylight windows, intricate marble floors, graceful chandeliers, and a beautifully decorated ceiling will give you the sensation of being a luxury guest in a palace.
Also, among the key highlights here are the opal clock that is four-faced and located in Grand Central Market and main concourse, which offers culinary treats and souvenirs.
Ajisen Ramen
Hidden in the bustling Chinatown stands a Japanese eatery you will really adore.
Their ramen is astonishing and genuinely transformative.
They also sell delicious ice creams of different flavors that you’ll enjoy.
Shop on 5th Avenue
5th Avenue stands as a significant and bustling street in Manhattan.
With a renowned shopping atmosphere featuring luxury flagship shops and upscale boutiques, this legendary avenue is a dream for shoppers.
Here, you can explore the stores of renowned brands such as Bulgari, Louis Vuitton, Cartier, and others.
Then, in addition to shopping, the stylish avenue also offers a range of must-visit attractions for fans of art and architecture.
Appreciate the architectural splendor of St. Patrick's Cathedral and explore Museum of Modern Art, which features vast collections of masterpieces by famous artists such as Picasso, van Gogh, and Warhol.
Watch a Show on Broadway
The Big Apple is known for Broadway and experiencing a live show here is essential.
Offering a diverse selection of performances here ranging from enduring favorites to fresh creations, there’s a fit for every preference.
So, don’t even consider going to New York City if you are not planning to explore the theatre district and watch a show on Broadway.
There are numerous shows happening at any moment on Broadway, ensuring you’ll discover one that fits your preference.
In fact, watching a performance here tops the list for numerous tourists traveling to New York.
Experiencing a theatrical or musical performance in a vibrant city like NYC is truly unique, as the passion for culture and arts remains strong and flourishing there.
Even, the Theater District houses many of New York's theatres grouped around the Times Square area.
From timeless tales such as Hamilton to beloved movie-inspired productions like Aladdin and Lion King, there’s entertainment for everyone.
Note that tickets may be expensive, so search for lower-priced choices at Times Square's TKTS booth or buy ahead of time.
Visit Black Tap Burger
This venue has gained such popularity that it now operates in various regions worldwide, including Downtown Disney and Las Vegas.
They are renowned for their burger and extravagant milkshakes (topped with full cake slices and churros protruding from them).
The burger is served at your table as a large, gooey cheese wheel, from which cheese is scraped onto your dish.
You can combine it with potatoes, steak, and asparagus.
I would consider it among the finest dining establishments to visit in the Big Apple.
Explore the Natural History Museum
Enthusiasts of history are guaranteed to enjoy an engaging experience at this museum, a large museum located in the center of Manhattan.
Be amazed by the large showcases of unearthed fossils from dinosaurs and even other ancient beings.
In addition to the fossil exhibits, the museum features permanent galleries dedicated to human origins, planetary and earth sciences, civilizations, arts, culture, and beyond.
Among the essential attractions in this area are the Titanosaur, measuring 122 feet in length, and Great Blue Whale.
Walk Around Brooklyn’s Williamsburg Area
If you're looking for a stylish and creative atmosphere, make your way to Williamsburg inside of Brooklyn.
This area is recognized for its musical spots, street artistry, unique shops, and diverse culinary offerings.
Sample the regional breweries, take a stroll along the river with the Manhattan skyline's sights, or just relish the distinctive atmosphere.
For lodging, think about one of Williamsburg's numerous chic hotels, providing convenient access to nearby attractions and Manhattan.
Check Out the Famous Buildings of New York
New York, recognized as a major cultural center globally and the setting for countless films and series, is home to numerous iconic structures.
You should visit as many famous New York buildings as you can, especially Macy’s Store, the Friends apartment building, the Flatiron Building, the Plaza Hotel, Brooklyn Bridge, Trinity Church, and Chrysler Building.
New York Harbour Lights
The shimmering lights at night that illuminate the skyline and streets of New York are proof that indeed it never sleeps.
You will surely relish the chance to appreciate the harbor’s views and illumination while aboard city lights cruises, allowing you to experience several of New York’s most popular attractions and the sunset from a new perspective.
Lasting around two hours, one can enjoy a picturesque trip beneath Brooklyn Bridge and bask in the brilliance of the ever-glowing Manhattan skyline.
Discover Times Square
Vibrant lights, limitless entertainment, and gigantic digital billboards establish Times Square as one of NYC's most renowned locations.
An evening visit highlights Times Square in its most radiant form, with street entertainers enhancing the lively ambiance and neon lights brightening the streets.
If you want to experience New York City's vibrant energy depicted in numerous iconic films, then Times Square remains the top location to explore.
With entertainers on the streets and individuals in costumes everywhere, there's always something enjoyable to watch, from the massive neon billboards to video ads that cover every wall.
The street is also lined with numerous shops, ranging from Disney Store to Hershey Chocolate World.
In fact, vibrant lights, enormous billboards, and an abundance of Broadway performances are ready for you inside Times Square.
The vibrant intersection frequently serves as the initial stop for first-time tourists and remains a favored location for returning travelers, due to its picturesque setting near the port.
I recommend visiting Times Square early in the morning because the gatherings are not yet overwhelming, and naturally, the lighting for pictures is also improved.
However, if you enjoy the hustle and bustle, visiting at night and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere filled with digital billboards and neon lights is a classic experience.
NYC is a vibrant city, but it truly comes alive here – where you will admire Sardi’s caricatures, experience street performances, and hear the intriguing humming sound.
Check Out the Headquarters of the United Nations
You can tour the UN Headquarters during your visit to the Big Apple.
They offer building tours, along with a museum located on the 1st floor and outdoor sculptures around the building.
The museum showcases a lot of exhibits including the Holocaust exhibit featuring poignant stories from survivors about their experiences and the way they have coped with these memories over the years.
You can also check out their current displays which mainly concentrate on creating an improved world and human rights.
Explore the Neighborhoods
If you want free activities in NYC, visiting the various Manhattan neighborhoods is an excellent way to enjoy the scenery.
For a taste of genuine living with charming apartment buildings throughout, head to Upper Manhattan or Chelsea.
Then, for a taste of exquisite food and to immerse in a different culture, explore Little Italy and Chinatown.
For excellent window shopping, take a walk along Columbus Circle or Fifth Avenue (which features luxury stores like Versace and Saks).
Wall Street also is a vibrant area, home to Battery Park, the NYSE building, and Charging Bull.
Visit Empire State Building
A stop at this building is essential for any New York trip.
The 102-floor skyscraper provides breathtaking Manhattan vistas from its observation decks on the 102nd and 86th levels.
Even, on sunny days, guests can view up to 80 miles away.
Visiting late evening or early in the morning guarantees smaller crowds, and when you plan well, you may witness a memorable sunset or sunrise above the city.
Check Out High Line
Over the far western edge of Manhattan, opposite New Jersey, lies an elevated path that has now been changed to a park and was formerly a railroad.
This tidy spot is truly one of a kind and you will enjoy going there right before sunset, observing the sun illuminate the skyline over the water right before it sinks behind the structures.
It's an excellent spot to discover tranquility amid your hectic moments in the Big Apple.
Savor the Cuisine of New York
New York is a paradise for food lovers, offering a variety of choices to suit every preference and craving including upscale dining establishments, traditional bakeries, street-food vendors, and food trucks.
You will adore New York's pizza, so make sure to snag cheesy slices from the city's finest pizzerias – Joe’s Pizza and Scarr’s Pizza are essential to NYC's pizza scene.
Chinatown and Little Italy are also among my top picks, ideal for experiencing genuine local tastes beyond NYC.
Halal carts also are prevalent throughout the city, drawing long lines of eager pedestrians searching for tasty and affordable street specialties.
For dessert, indulge your tooth with Levain Bakery's chocolate cookies or the famous creamy NYC-style cheesecake.
Learn at Metropolitan Museum of Art
Enthusiasts of art will be captivated by this museum, which is among the most extensive and largest art museums globally.
Positioned on 5th Avenue, this museum displays artworks covering more than 5000 years, from contemporary masterpieces to ancient Egyptian pieces.
Note that a $25 contribution is recommended for admission, but you are welcome to enter without charge if you prefer.
You will definitely enjoy strolling around, discovering art from different eras and there is just so much to view in one day.
Conclusion
The Big Apple is a place of limitless opportunities, where each corner presents something fresh and thrilling.
Whether you’re admiring stunning vistas from high-rises, wandering through charming historic districts, or immersing yourself in the city’s vibrant arts and food scenes, New York City guarantees a memorable adventure.
Thus, gather your belongings and get ready to discover everything that NYC offers.
