18 Awesome Top Fun Things To Do in New York City With Location Maps
Visiting New York City and looking for top things to do and best Instagram spots? You’re in the right place. I’m a photographer who visited New York several times and can recommend some iconic places to photograph.
New York City is one of the most visited cities in the world, with many photogenic attractions. Whether it’s your first time to New York or not, you’ll have a wonderful New York experience. There are many things to see and do in NYC, so I made this list of 18 amazing things for you. This will help ensure you don’t miss out on the best things.
One of the best ways to experience New York City is to walk as much as you can. There are photo opportunities everywhere throughout the city. So make sure you take some comfortable shoes with you!
The list is in no order and covers different parts of New York City. I have added custom Google maps for each attraction location to help you plan your itinerary and get around. You can access the map by following the link at each section or by using the custom Google map at the end of the article. I am sure you will absolutely love New York City, so read on and start planning.
1. Statue of liberty
The Statue of Liberty is one of America’s most iconic sights and one of the world’s most recognised landmarks. It was a gift from France to America in honour of the Centennial of American Independence. It took 4 months to ship as 350 individual pieces in 214 crates, and 4 months to build the 450,000 pounds 151 feet tall monument. This truly breathtakingly beautiful statue of Lady Liberty has towered over New York harbour since 1886 and remains a world symbol of freedom.
The best way to appreciate this beautiful monument is to take a short boat trip to Liberty Island for that up close neck-twisting personal view. You can walk around the base, enter the pedestal, or with advance reservations go right up to the crown. But you need to book tickets in advance and be prepared for long lines and security checks.
You can also see the statue from a lot of other places. My favourite is the great views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline from the free Staten Island commuter ferry. This shuttle between The White Hall Terminal and St George Terminal on Staten Island is one of the best free things to do in NYC. This ferry runs 24/7 and you can get amazing views of the statue and the harbour from both sides of the ferry.
There are also wonderful views from Battery Park on the southern tip of Manhattan.
See here for information on admissions and prices.
For Google Map location click here
2. Wall Street
Wall Street stretches eight city blocks from Broadway to South Street and is the main artery of the New York City Financial District. It is NYC’s second most famous street behind Broadway and known for two things: money and the film Wall Street.
The street and its surrounding area house the New York Stock Exchange, one of New York’s most influential buildings. They also house the NASDAQ and the New York Mercantile Exchange. Visiting this place is a classic thing to do as it is impressive in person and a great place for photos.
Also located nearby is the wonderful bronze statue of the Charging Bull at Bowling Green on Broadway. This 7,000-pound bronze sculpture was a gift to New Yorkers from Italian artist Arturo Di Modica. It was originally placed in front of the New York Stock Exchange but was moved to Broadway due to some sensitivity concerns. This is one of the most popular Instagram-worthy photo locations in the Financial District. Many have spent lots of time trying to get as many photos of themselves from different angles around the bull.
But go early in the morning if you want fewer people in your shot! And yes, rub it for good luck like a tourist … no harm in that!
For Google Map locations click here
3. St. Patrick’s Cathedral
St. Patrick’s Cathedral is one of New York’s finest examples of a Neo-Gothic church. Its 330 feet twin spires stand out among Midtown Manhattan’s skyscrapers. It covers an entire City block and is made of brick but entirely covered in marble. It was dedicated in 1879 to replace the old St. Patrick’s on Mulberry Street, which was too small for the growing Catholic community.
The cathedral is a gorgeous building with a stunning facade and massive bronze doors. It has a magnificent vaulted ceiling, a giant organ with 7,855 pipes, stained-glass windows, and many altars. This is a beautiful attraction that should not be missed.
Admission is free, but see here for information on mass times and tour prices.
For Google Map location click here
4. One World Trade Centre (Freedom Tower)
Visiting One World Trade Centre, the main building of the World Trade Centre complex is one of the best things to do in New York. The tower is the tallest building in the United States and the Western Hemisphere. It is also a sign of strength and hope after the terrible terrorist events of September 11, 2001.
One World Trade Centre (also called One WTC or Freedom Tower) is located in New York at the corner of West and Vesey Streets. It is built on the old 6 World Trade Centre site, which was destroyed by the terrorist strikes. The new building features a sleek glass facade that reflects the sky and the surrounding cityscape. The tower goes up 1,776 feet (541 metres), referencing the year the United States declared independence.
One of the highlights of visiting One World Trade Centre is going up to One World Observatory, the highest point in New York City. A fast lift takes you up to the 102nd floor in 47 seconds for some of the best views in the city. You will see the fantastic city skyline, the Hudson River, the Statue of Liberty, and much more. There are also interactive demonstrations and multimedia displays to teach you more about One World Trade Center’s history and how it was built.
One World Trade Centre is also a great place to stay in New York, with a hotel in the building and offices, bars, and shops. It is a great place to go if you like New York, and a wonderful building that reflects New York’s lively and resilient character.
See here for information on admissions and prices for One World Observatory.
For Google Map location click here
5. Oculus Plaza
The all-white Oculus is one of the most artistic buildings in the city and most expensive train stop in the world, costing 4 billion dollars. Built to serve the World Trade Center Transportation Hub, it is a busy commuter hub and a trendy shopping mall.
The spectacular building, with its white fins and spaceship-like appearance, is within walking distance of One World Trade Center. It was designed by the Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava who meant for it to resemble a dove leaving a child’s hands.
Within the mall are many high-end shops for clothes, getting your phone fixed, or having a bite to eat. The huge hall inside is flooded with natural sunlight from large skylights, with white marble flooring enhancing the bright, sleek interior style. The architectural design, bright white background and open spaces inside make it a fantastic place both inside and outside for getting great photos.
For Google Map location click here
6. Brooklyn Bridge
A beautiful location popular with locals, tourists and filming companies, Brooklyn Bridge is one best places to see the New York City skyline. It was completed in 1883 and is one of the oldest suspension bridges in the United States, connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn over the East River. With gothic-shaped arches and suspension cables, it is loved by locals walking, jogging, or cycling and by tourists who enjoy the incredible Manhattan skyline views.
It can be seen from many of the ferries or the east side of Manhattan. But the best way to experience it fully is to walk across the full length, which generally takes about 1 hour. This does depend on how much time you spend taking photos of yourself, the bridge and skyline views! Although biking over the bridge is another option, pedestrian traffic is often heavy, so it can make cycling slow and frustrating.
There are two different lanes on the bridge, one for pedestrians and one for cyclists. Stay in the pedestrian lane, or you may deal with a very irate New Yorker! Dodging bicycles, looking at the bridge and the Manhattan skyline from one of the best places in NYC, is an experience not to be rushed. Take your time and enjoy.
For Google Map location click here
7. Streets of Chinatown
Chinatown in Lower Manhattan is the oldest Chinese neighbourhood in New York City. Its narrow streets, street vendors, restaurants and lively parks give visitors a wonderful authentic view of local life. There are many things to do and see in this part of the city that keeps an authentic heritage feel. The streets are filled with bakeries, restaurants, boutiques, snack shops, herbal pharmacies, temples, and wonderful galleries that capture Chinese American history and lifestyle.
Nothing is better than wandering around Chinatown, taking photos, and having a bite to eat. Canal Street and Columbus Park are two of my favourite locations in the neighbourhood. Canal Street is an interesting shopping experience with stalls and shops with vendors sometimes selling grey-market knockoff designer goods.
Columbus Park is very much a place to wander around slowly and to sit and watch life unfolding in front of you. It is one of the best places for people-watching and street photography. The park’s north side is reserved for Asian card players and masters of mah-jongg. Amateur Chinese opera performers and people enjoying Chinese dancing or doing tai-chi can also be seen throughout the park.
For Google Map locations click here
8. The High Line
The High Line is a former New York Central railroad line. It is now a wonderfully entertaining urban walking trail running above NYC streets. It is one of the coolest fun things to see and do in the city. It’s in Manhattan’s West Side and is 1.45 miles long from Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District to West 34th Street at the north end. It runs parallel to 10th Ave for most of the way. The trail can be accessed at different points, with some points having stairs only and some with elevator access.
It is 2-3 stories above street level with beautiful plants, trees, art installations, benches, street artists, food vendors, and amazing views of the city skyline. The “10th Avenue Square & Overlook” is one of the popular parts of the trail. It looks like an amphitheatre with wooden benches where you can sit and enjoy the views of 10th Avenue and streets through a glass window. The glass window was made by removing a section of the surrounding wall structure’s steel beams.
For Google Map locations click here
9. Flatiron Building
If you are looking for things to do in New York, going to the Flatiron Building is one of the best things you can do. This iconic landmark is one of New York’s most famous buildings and a must-see for anyone interested in beautiful architecture. The building was a sensation when it opened in 1902 and still continues to attract many visitors and photographers.
It was originally called the Fuller Building and designed by Daniel Burnham and Frederick P. Dinkelberg in the Beaux-Arts style. The building is triangular, resembling a flat iron, hence its popular name. It is 22 stories high and 285 feet tall. It was one of the first skyscrapers to use a steel frame to support its weight and had an extensive elevator system.
It is at the corner of Broadway and East 22nd Street, at 175 Fifth Avenue. It is surrounded by the Flatiron District, which is a lively area with many shops, restaurants, and cultural sites. You can take amazing photos of its unique facade from different angles … until your neck hurts from looking up.
The Flatiron Building is a great destination for anyone who wants to go to New York and experience its charm and beauty. So don’t miss seeing this remarkable building when you visit New York!
For Google Map location click here
10. Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is one of New York City’s most famous skyscrapers and has one of the best panoramic observation decks in the city.
It opened in 1931 and was the world’s tallest building at 1,454 feet (443.2 m) until the construction of the World Trade Center in 1970. Topped with a mooring mast for airships, the 102-storey building immediately became a landmark and a symbol for NYC. It has featured in many films, including the original 1933 version of the film “King Kong” …remember Kong climbing to the top of the building!
It is repeatedly one of the world’s most “Instagrammed” attractions in its own right as a skyscraper. The added benefit of having two observatories at the top with astounding views of the Manhattan skyline takes it to another level.
The lower main 86th Floor Observatory deck is one of the highest open-air observation decks in the city. It wraps around the building’s spire to provide incredible 360-degree views of New York, Brooklyn, Queens, and beyond. On clear days you can see up to 80 miles with views spanning six states, with glimpses of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Delaware.
The enclosed viewing area of the 102nd Floor Top Observatory Deck observatory takes the Empire State experience even higher. You will love the incredible 360-degree views through the floor-to-ceiling windows on all sides. You will be able to see the entire length of Manhattan and several of NYC’s most famous landmarks. Look out for the Chrysler Building, Rockefeller Center, One World Trade Center, Central Park, Times Square, and The Statue of Liberty.
It’s one of the best things you can do as you haven’t seen New York until you have experienced this amazing view. Open 365 days a year you can visit it on most days between 9am and midnight.
See here for information on admissions and prices.
For Google Map location click here
11. Times Square
Times Square is the heart of Manhattan’s Midtown West and makes New York a thrilling place to visit. This is where the famous New Year’s Eve celebrations with the midnight “ball drop” and confetti falling over the crowds takes place. Surrounded by huge, brightly lit neon billboards and screens and packed with people, it is a wonderful place to experience. You can spend hours exploring the main strip and side streets or eating in many restaurants and bars.
It is also great for people-watching or street photography. Spend some time sitting in Duffy Square watching street performers, tourists and locals .. its great fun! Don’t forget to take lots of selfies and photos of the square from the popular red glass stands above the TKTS Discount Booth.
It is one of the best tourist attractions in the world and the top of most people’s first thing to do in New York. The mix of bright lights and people having fun gives it a unique kind of energy that you can’t find anywhere else in the world. Even though Times Square is beautiful during the day, I think most people would agree that it is spectacular after sunset.
For Google Map location click here
12. Watch A Show In Broadway
Broadway in Manhattan is known as the heart of the New York Theatre District and home to many of the city’s best theatres and shows. It is sometimes called the “Great White Way” because of the dazzling lights surrounding the popular Times Square section of this avenue. Seeing a Broadway show is a special experience that should not be missed. There are around 40 theatres in and around Broadway, all fighting for your undivided attention.
Theatre tickets, like most places in the world can however, be a bit expensive. However, everyone can get discounted same-day tickets to popular musicals, plays, and other arts events at TKTS offices. One of the main locations is the TKTS booth at the bottom of the red glass bleachers in Times Square. Look for the queue of people, or check here for the other TKTS offices around the city.
For Google Map location click here
13. Grand Central Station (Grand Central Terminal)
Grand Central Terminal, often known as Grand Central Station, is a wonderful railway station with its huge celestial ceiling, secret “whispering gallery,” and several restaurants. It was built by the New York Central Railroad and opened to the public in 1913. It has lots of interesting places, stunning architecture, and various food and shopping options. It is also a busy subway and train station with multiple connections to different parts of the city.
The station has so much to do that it is worth spending some time exploring it all. The main concourse is, without doubt, one of the best highlights. You should climb the Grand Staircase to soak in the beauty of the 275-foot-long concourse as commuters go back and forth. Look up and see the magnificently restored celestial ceiling featuring 12 constellations and 2,500 stars. Afterwards, walk down and get a close look at the most recognisable clock in NYC, the information booth clock (Crown Jewel of Grand Central).
Afterwards, wonder off and find the fun Whispering Gallery. Here you will see people with their faces pressed into the corners and talking to the walls. Why you ask? Because the gallery can clearly transmit sound from one corner to the next, allowing you to have a conversation with someone else even when whispering!
Last but not least, eat, eat and then eat some more! There are many wonderful places to eat whether you want a nibble, simple or fancy dining. And if you are a fan of oysters, well you are in for a treat!
For Google Map location click here
14. Bryant Park
Bryant Park, also known as Manhattan’s Town Square, is a lovely must-see oasis in the heart of the busy city. It has colourful seasonal gardens and a gorgeous green lawn with tables and chairs for relaxing in. There are also plenty of al fresco restaurants with stunning views whilst you dine, and a free ice-skating rink in winter that is always popular.
It has a summer outdoor Reading Room, which maintains the original 1935 intention of when it opened as a place for everyone to enjoy reading. Anyone can therefore freely read books, periodicals, and newspapers or listen to public readings, programmes, and stories. All of this is done without the need for cards or ID.
There are also many activities to try or watch others do. You can try table tennis, the French ball game Pétanque, chess, checkers, or backgammon. For people with children, they can ride on the Le Carrousel, a French-style merry-go-round that plays French cabaret music as it revolves.
It is a very enjoyable way to spend time in NYC, whether you want to kick back and relax, play games, people-watch, or dine out.
For Google Map location click here
15. Top of the Rock Observation Deck
A centrepiece of the Rockefeller Center, the Top of the Rock, is the observation deck at the top of the 70-story Art Deco Rockefeller Plaza. It provides amazing 360-degree city views of the Manhattan skyline and the best panoramic view of Central Park. This is easily one of the best observation decks in New York City that will give you spectacular views of the city day or night.
Looking south, you get fantastic views of the Empire State Building, midtown and downtown skyscrapers, the Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty, and New York Harbor. The north gives views of Central Park, Upper East and West Sides, 57th Street skyscrapers, Harlem, and even Yankee Stadium in the Bronx.
The east view provides great panoramic vistas of Midtown East, including the Chrysler Building, the MetLife Building, and further towards Queens. For especially sunset, look west for gorgeous golden-lit photos of the setting sun across the west side skyline, the Hudson River, and towards New Jersey.
It has three levels of indoor and outdoor observation decks, the 67th, 69th, and 70th floors, with incredible 360-degree views of the NYC skyline. The outdoor 70th-floor deck (my favourite) has no metal or glass enclosures and is therefore perfect for taking incredible skyline pictures.
Photo tip – As you would expect, floor-standing tripods are not allowed but you can use a small flexible/bendable camera/phone tripod on the wall and barriers of the outdoor enclosure to help you get those perfect sharp photos at night.
See here for information on admissions and prices.
For Google Map location click here
16. Central Park
Set in the middle of New York, Central Park is one of the most famous park destinations in NYC and the world. It is a spectacular escape from the city hustle and bustle, providing access to open green spaces and attractions including 8 artificial ponds and lakes.
It is the most frequently visited urban park in America and covers a huge area that is half a mile wide and 2.5 miles long. Here you will have free access to 693 acres of wonderful man-made gardens, meadows, and forests. Taking a stroll through the park, whatever the weather, is one of the best things to do in New York City. You can spend hours exploring the various fountains, monuments, sculptures, bridges, a lovely castle, numerous children’s playgrounds, a winter ice-skating rink, and the zoo. It is always filled with joggers, people relaxing, solo or group musicians, and friends strolling, riding, or going for a pedicab or horse carriage rides.
Some of the best places to visit include the Bethesda Fountain and Terrace, Belvedere Castle, and the gorgeous lake with its attractive Loeb Boathouse. Also check out the Imagine Memorial in Strawberry Fields, the Alice in Wonderland Statue, and the Central Park Zoo.
This is one of the highlights of visiting New York and, if time permits, certainly merits spending a full day to appreciate the park. You can also easily plan this in with visiting the Metropolitan Museum of Art which is situated in the park.
For Google Map location click here
17. Metropolitan Museum of Art
If you are interested in culture and looking for things to do in New York, you should not miss the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It is one of the best things to see in the city, with an enormous collection of artworks from different cultures and periods. You can explore ancient Egyptian tombs and Renaissance paintings or marvel at modern sculptures.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art is more than just a museum and you will always find something new and fascinating. It has something for everyone, with tours, lectures, concerts, workshops, films and special events. You can also relax in the rooftop garden, which has fantastic skyline views, or have a bite in the many restaurants.
No matter how many times you visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art, you will always find something new and exciting. The exhibitions and displays are constantly changing, so you can discover new treasures and stories every time.
See here for information on admissions and prices. Although there is an admission fee, the amount you pay is up to you. That is, you can, if you wish, pay less than the general admission price!
See here for information on admissions and prices.
For Google Map location click here
18. Baseball game at the Yankee Stadium
Whether or not you are a baseball fan, you should visit the Yankee Stadium in the Bronx to watch the New York Yankees.
You have no doubt seen an American movie or two where people are enjoying watching a baseball game. Nothing beats experiencing that on your visit to New York, especially with a visit to the Yankee Stadium. It is a wonderful experience to see people cheering, eating, drinking, or trying to catch a ball that occasionally goes into the crowd.
NYC is home to 2 professional baseball teams, with the New York Yankees being one of the most successful professional teams in American history. The team is also known as “the Yanks”, “the Bronx Bombers”, or simply “the Bombers“. Some of the most famous names in baseball history, including Joe DiMaggio, Whitey Ford, Mickey Mantle, Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, have played for them. So get yourself to a game, have some hot dogs, burgers, popcorn and drinks and have yourself a wonderful experience.
For Google Map location click here
Conclusion
As you can see, New York City is home to a wide range of outstanding attractions and a fabulous city to explore. The above list will hopefully have given you a lot of helpful tips for places to visit in this absolutely amazing city that never sleeps. There is so much to do, that I am sure you will come back having ticked off some of your bucket list things to do. Have a great time creating many wonderful memories and photos that you can proudly share on Instagram or other social media of your choice.
Need a little help finding your way in New York?
I have created a custom Google map showing all of the above locations to help you visualise and plan your trip to New York. You can save this on your phone Google map app to have an easy way to see the city. Have a get time in the city and do drop me a comment to let me know how it goes.
FAQs
Q: What are some of the best things to do in New York City for free?
A: Walking in Central Park or on Brooklyn Bridge, taking the Staten Island Ferry or exploring the New York Public Library are all free to do. You can also visit the 9/11 Memorial Museum or take a free tour of the Brooklyn Brewery.
Q: What’s the best way to explore New York City?
A: Personally, the best way by far is to explore New York City by foot. Using the subway is an excellent option to get across the city. Using taxis can be expensive and take more time, whilst driving around the city by car can be challenging.
Q: What’s there to see at the American Museum of Natural History?
A: There are over 35 million artifacts in the museum including animals, fossils, plants, and meteorites. You can explore The Hall of Saurischian Dinosaurs to see dinosaurs like Tyrannosaurus rex and also fossils of their relatives like pterosaurs. Other attractions include the Hayden Planetarium, with astronomy and cosmology shows, and the Hall of Biodiversity which shows the variety of life on our planet.
Q: What can I see at the Whitney Museum of American Art?
A: The Whitney Museum of American Art has over 25,000 pieces of art from over 3,500 artists dating from late 19th century to modern times. These include artists like Jasper Johns, Cindy Sherman, Edward Hopper and Andy Warhol. It’s open from Tuesday to Sunday and tickets can be purchased online or at the museum.
Q: How do I get to the top of Rockefeller Center?
A: The Top of the Rock observation decks can be reached by taking an elevator to the 67th, 69th or 70th floors of Rockefeller Center. You can also take the stairs between the 3 floors to see the panoramic views of the city.
Q: What can I see at the New York Botanical Garden?
A: Covering over 250 acres, the New York Botanical Garden is a great place to explore New York’s nature. There are over a million plants and many attractions, including:
- The Enid A. Haupt Conservatory; a Victorian-style greenhouse
- The African American Garden: The Caribbean Experience; a showcase of Caribbean and African plants, gardening, and food heritage
- Different educational programs and special events for visitors of all ages to enjoy, so great if visiting New York with kids.
Q: What’s a city climb?
A: A city climb is one of the best ways to get views of NYC for those who are comfortable with heights. It’s an exhilarating event where people climb to the top of high-rise buildings or monuments for a panoramic view of the city. Check out upcoming events on this website if you are interested: https://www.edgenyc.com/en/cityclimb
Q: What can I see at the New York Public Library?
A: As one of the biggest world libraries, the New York Public Library holds many items, including rare books, manuscripts, and photographs. You can also see free art, history and literature exhibitions. There are several locations in NYC, but the most famous is the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building at Bryant Park. Built in 1911, it’s a very impressive building, but it also houses a large collection of items, including fine arts.
Q: What can I see at Radio City Music Hall?
A: Radio City Music Hall provides a range of live entertainment like concerts, stage shows and events, including movie premieres. You can also see many artistic items like sculptures and murals or enjoy the Radio City Christmas Spectacular featuring the famous Rockettes dance troupe.
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