Choose from 159 Fun Things to Do in New York City
ShowingFilter 121-140 of 159 listings.
Whitney Museum of Art
The Whitney (as it’s locally known) was established in 1931 by sculptor and arts patron Getrude Vanderbilt Whitney when the Metropolitan Museum of Art rejected her personal collection of 600 avant-garde works of art. The museum houses over 19,000 unique, modern and sometimes controversial works from the 20th and 21st centuries, many by still-living artists.
Especially renowned for its Whitney Biennial exhibition, which highlights the work of young and emerging artists, the museum is devoted to connecting under-the-radar artists with New York’s wealthiest and most influential art collectors. Held every two years in the spring, the Biennial often features huge sculpture displays that are mounted in nearby Central Park.
At present, architect Renzo Piano has created a new home for the Whitney, on Gansevoort Street in the Lower West Side’s Meatpacking District. This new version of the museum, which has just recently opened, also marks the entrance to the High Line, a mile-long elevated greenway that repurposes an old stretch of the New York Central Railroad.
Especially renowned for its Whitney Biennial exhibition, which highlights the work of young and emerging artists, the museum is devoted to connecting under-the-radar artists with New York’s wealthiest and most influential art collectors. Held every two years in the spring, the Biennial often features huge sculpture displays that are mounted in nearby Central Park.
At present, architect Renzo Piano has created a new home for the Whitney, on Gansevoort Street in the Lower West Side’s Meatpacking District. This new version of the museum, which has just recently opened, also marks the entrance to the High Line, a mile-long elevated greenway that repurposes an old stretch of the New York Central Railroad.
Practical Info:
Free docent-led tours of current exhibitions are offered daily,
generally starting between 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. On the museum’s
lower level, a modern farm-to-table café, Untitled, is open the same
hours as the museum; those coming here just to dine need not pay museum
admission.
Address: 99 Gansevoort Street, New York, NY 10014, USA
Hours: Open 10:30a-6pm Mon, Weds, & Sun. Open 10:30a-10pm Thurs-Sat. Closed Tues.
Admission: Adults $22, Seniors/Students $18, Members Free, Under 18 Free
From $ 25
The Ride
Hop-on, hop-off bus tours are a popular option for seeing the sights in almost every major city. But The Ride in the Big Apple offers travelers a truly unique way to check out top landmarks and famous attractions by taking bus tours to a whole new level.
Floor-to-ceiling windows and glass top roofs provide 360-degree views of America’s most eclectic and energetic city on a 90-minute journey through the streets. The tour ventures through 10 neighborhoods and highlights 50 key spots including Radio City Music Hall, Times Square and Bryant Park. But what makes this tour truly unique is the bus’s coliseum-style seating and interactive surprise street theater that brings the best of New York City to life.
Travelers can choose from a single experience with The Ride, or opt for one of the popular combo packages, like those that include the Circle Line Cruise, Madame Tussaud’s or the Hard Rock Café.
Practical Info
The Ride offers several tour options daily and is perfect for the whole family. Holiday rides are available that showcase the best of city lights and window displays.
Address: New York City, New York, USA
Hours: 584 8th Ave box office: daily 9am–9pm; 47th Street box office: daily 10am–4pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 35
The Metropolitan Opera
Affectionately known to many as “The Met,” the Metropolitan Opera of New York is a landmark institution and cultural hub of the city. Since its founding in 1883, its stage has hosted some of the finest artists and voices in the world.
Located at the Lincoln Center for the Arts in the heart of Manhattan, it is the largest classical music organization in North America. Opera season runs from September to May each year, with about 27 different operas performed during that time. The opera’s performing company consists of a large symphony-sized orchestra, a chorus, a children's choir and additional solo singers. There are nearly 4,000 seats in the main auditorium.
Outside of the world-class performances, the building itself is something to see with its dozens of chandeliers, murals by artist Marc Chagall, winding stairways and a multi-level auditorium decorated in white and gold. Tours of the backstage area are held daily alongside daily tours of the Lincoln Center, which include the auditorium and front of the house.
Practical Info
The Metropolitan Opera is located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan in New York City, between West 62nd and 65th streets and Columbus and Amsterdam avenues. There is a 24-hour public parking lot beneath the Lincoln Center. Daily tours start at $18.
Address: Lincoln Center Plaza, New York City, New York 10023, USA
Hours: Daily
Admission: Tours $18
From $ 98
Yankees Stadium
Yankees Stadium is an iconic park in the world of baseball, but the stadium that bears the name today only opened in 2009. The original Yankees Stadium was built in 1923 in the Bronx and closed for good 85 years later in 2008 when New York prepared for the opening of the new site in the same borough.
Both the stadium’s interior and exterior were meant to mimic the design of the original site, and the new one features a Yankees Museum with a “ball wall” exhibit, which is simply hundreds of baseballs autographed by famous players, including Babe Ruth. The ballpark can hold more than 50,000 fans and also serves as the venue for occasional concerts and for the home games of Major League Soccer's New York Redbulls.
Practical Info
Yankees Stadium is in the South Bronx and is served by multiple subway lines from two different stops: the 161st Street-Yankee Stadium station and the East 153rd Street Metro North station. On game days, extra lines are sent through the area. Sixty-minute stadium tours are available roughly every 20 minutes between noon and 1:40 p.m., although the hours are extended as necessary.
Address: 1 E 161st Street, Bronx, New York City 10451, USA
Hours: Hours vary
Admission: Varies
From $ 49
Wall Street
Synonymous with US financial markets, capitalism, and the history of early New York, Wall Street runs for eight blocks, from Broadway to South streets, through Lower Manhattan. It may be the financial heart of the city and bustling with traders most days of the week, but the area also offers plenty of historic interest to visitors.
The Basics
Wall Street features many examples of grand architecture, including the New York Stock Exchange and the 18th-century Federal Hall, commemorating the site where the first US Congress convened and Washington was sworn in as president. More contemporary works include Santiago Calatrava’s World Trade Center Oculus and One World Trade Center, the tallest skyscraper in the Western Hemisphere.
With New York’s Financial District also inextricably connected to the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, many walking tours of the area include visits to the National September 11 Memorial. Tours (private and group) typically also take visitors to such landmarks as the Charging Bull sculpture and New York Stock Exchange and some also include access to the One World Observatory. Fans of the hit musical Hamilton can also take a specialized walking tour to places associated with the Founding Father.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wall Street is a must-see for history and architecture enthusiasts.
- The 9/11 Memorial is free to visit, but there is an entrance fee to the museum.
- Remember to behave in a way befitting the somber nature of the 9/11 Memorial.
- The New York Stock Exchange is no longer open to visitors, but the Federal Reserve offers free tours.
How to Get There
Wall Street, Rector Street, Fulton Street, and Broad Street subway stations are all clustered around Wall Street, making the area easily accessible from anywhere on New York’s subway system.
When to Get There
On weekends, when banks are closed and streets are near empty, it can feel like you have the whole place to yourself, allowing you the space to take in the architecture. Note, however, that Wall Street restaurants primarily serving the people who work there are usually also closed on weekends. If you want to see Wall Street in action, visit on a weekday morning.
One World Observatory
Located on the 100th to 102nd floors of the 1,776-foot -high (541 meter) One World Trade Center, the One World Observatory offers the most expansive views in the city, as well as informational, interactive exhibits. Booking priority admission gives you access to the VIP line and the VIP elevator, which takes you straight to the top without waiting in line.
Address: Wall Street, 10005, USA
Admission: Free
From $ 14
Time Warner Center
Columbus Circle is a hub of transportation and entertainment. Easy access to Central Park, biking tours and shaded walkways makes it an idea destination for travelers in search of some urban outdoor wonder. But those who prefer to stay inside will find exactly what they’re after at the nearby Time Warner Center.
In addition to more than 50 high-end retail shops, Time Warner Center is home to a Whole Foods (perfect for picking up those Central Park picnic supplies), Michelin star restaurants and even the chic Mandarin Orient Hotel (and spa). For travelers who want to spend the day shopping—or just cool off after a day in the city sunshine—the Time Warner Center is the ideal stop.
Practical Info
The Time Warner Center is located at 10 Columbus Circle and is accessible by taking the 1, A or C train to Columbus Circle. It is open Monday through Saturday from 10 am until 9pm and on Sunday from 11am to 7pm.
Address: 10 Columbus Circle, New York City, New York 10019, USA
Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-9pm, Sun 11am-7pm
From $ 39
Times Square
The neon lights and video billboards of Times Square are one of New York City’s most well-known landmarks. This triangular intersection between Broadway, 42nd Street, and Seventh Avenue is home to the Big Apple’s famous theaters and the annual New Year’s Eve ball drop—an essential Manhattan experience.
The Basics
As a major commercial intersection and one of New York City’s most popular areas, the “Crossroads of the World” features on just about every sightseeing tour of the city, along with the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Central Park, and Top of the Rock. Many visitors come to Times Square to enjoy a Broadway show or behind-the-scenes theater tour. Day trips to the Big Apple from Hartford or Boston often include a stop at Times Square as well.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Times Square is a must-see for first-time New York City visitors.
- Wear comfortable shoes and prepare to walk; Times Square is best explored on foot.
- If you take photos with costumed street performers, be prepared to tip.
- Be sure to book theater tickets well ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
- The area's many hotels and department stores are your best bets for finding restrooms in Times Square.
How to Get There
Situated in the heart of Midtown Manhattan in the Broadway Theater District, Times Square is a triangular area formed by the intersection of 42nd Street, Seventh Avenue, and Broadway. It’s surrounded by several subway stations, including 49th Street and Times Square/42nd Street Stations.
When to Get There
The always-busy Times Square offers some of the city’s best people watching—there isn’t really a bad time to visit. At night, though, the lights and billboards look their brightest.
Attractions in Times Square
In addition to its role as the hub of the theater world, Times Square is home to numerous other attractions—many perfect for families—including Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, M&M’s World, Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odditorium, and Hershey’s Times Square. Some of New York City’s most famous restaurants can be found along Restaurant Row: West 46th Street between 8th and 9th avenues.
Address: Junction 42nd Street, Seventh Avenue and Broadway, New York City 10036, USA
Admission: Free
From $ 15
Washington Square Park
Named after the first president of the United States, Washington Square Park has become an iconic landmark in New York City, hosting both community gatherings and international travelers. Situated in funky Greenwich Village, the park began as marshland. Tales have circulated regarding the park’s use as an old ‘potter’s field,’ or common grave site, which attracts many spook-seekers today. The grand fountain and marble arch, both honoring the park’s namesake, draw in visitors seeking a connection to America’s history, or simply a spot to people-watch.
Since 1827, the land has served as a public park, accommodating its’ eclectic community by serving as a playground, avant-garde artist hub, dog park, chess championship ground and much more. Take a tour of the 9.75-acre park, or simply sunbathe on the greenery and soak up the NYC atmosphere.
Practical Info
Washington Square park is located in Greenwich Village, Manhattan in New York. The park is at Fifth Avenue, bordered by Waverly Place, University Place, West 4th Street, and MacDougal Street.
Address: Fifth Avenue, bordered by Waverly Place, University Place, West 4th Street, MacDougal Street, New York City, NY, USA, USA
From $ 20
The Cloisters
A branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Met Cloisters is a hodgepodge construction, featuring parts of several European monasteries, which were dismantled, transported, and rebuilt here in New York. The collections center on medieval art and include frescoes, tapestries, sculptures, stained glass, and religious icons.
The Basics
Visitors can prepurchase a 3-day general admission ticket to New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art, which grants access to all three branches: the Met Fifth Avenue, the Met Breuer, and the Met Cloisters. Tour the Cloisters independently, join a guided highlights tour (included with admission), or rent an audio guide. Some art-focused tours of Harlem and Upper Manhattan stop at the Cloisters, while select New York sightseeing and discount passes include free access to the Cloisters.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Met Cloisters is a must for art and architecture lovers.
- Leave large bags and luggage at home as they can’t be stored at or brought into the museum.
- Because of its listed status, wheelchair accessibility is limited at the Cloisters. Notify staff ahead of your arrival for extra assistance.
How to Get There
The Met Cloisters is situated in Fort Tryon Park in Hudson Heights, Northern Manhattan. To get there, take the subway to 190th Street (A train); the Cloisters is about a 10-minute walk north along Margaret Corbin Drive. From the Met Fifth Avenue, ride the M4 bus from Madison Avenue and 83rd Street.
When to Get There
The best time to visit is spring and summer, when warmer weather means you can fully enjoy surrounding Fort Tryon Park and the views of the Hudson River. The museum is busiest on weekends. If you want more space to explore, arrive early in the day. The galleries typically fill up as the day goes on.
The Other Branches of the Met
The Met owns one of the world’s largest art collections, with more than two million pieces to its name. Its biggest branch is the Met Fifth Avenue, which features everything from an ancient Egyptian temple to paintings by European masters. Opened in 2016, the Met Breuer, on the Upper East Side, is the museum’s newest outpost. The Breuer is devoted to modern and contemporary art and features works ranging from photography and video pieces to installations.
Address: 99 Margaret Corbin Dr, New York, NY, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 25
Winter Garden
The Winter Garden Atrium is a 10-story, glass-vaulted pavilion filled with various plants, trees, flowers, and shops. The atrium is located in Lower Manhattan’s Battery Park City, in the Brookfield Place office complex. The building was severely damaged during the attacks of September 11, 2001, and was the first major structure to be completely restored in 2002. The building opens to the World Financial Center Plaza, and has large glass windows looking out to the Hudson River and New Jersey, where plenty of luxury yachts provide a visual backdrop.
Step inside the atrium for a respite from the busy city streets and enjoy a cup of coffee as you wander through the building’s many offerings, including luxury retailers, pubs, and restaurants. The atrium is close to several attractions, including One World Trade Center and the 9/11 Memorial, the Hudson River Park, and the Irish Hunger Memorial. In warm weather, the restaurants in Brookfield Place open their doors for dining al fresco, and concerts and symphonies are held here – making it a great place to enjoy a drink and a meal while watching the sunset.
Practical Info
The Winter Garden Atrium is located in Brookfield Place in Lower Manhattan’s Battery Park City, bordered by West Street, the Hudson River, Vesey, and Liberty Streets. It is accessible by train, ferry, and subway; there is standard and valet parking available. Hours listed below are for the shops; restaurant hours vary per restaurant. The Winter Garden and public space is open daily, from 5 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Address: 200 Vesey Street, New York City, New York, USA 10281, USA
Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-8pm and Sun 12pm-6pm
From $ 20
The Hamptons
New Yorkers know that when city streets heat up in the summer, weekends are best spent by the coast. That’s why every Friday, urbanites in search of escape fill the Hampton Jitney and the Long Island Expressway to take in some sun and fun in the Hamptons.
The Basics
The Hamptons is a string of villages in Long Island’s East End, around 100 miles (161 kilometers) east of New York City. In summer, its cool bays and laid-back atmosphere provide relief to the stifling city heat. Home to quiet streets, country stores, world-class restaurants and museums, and broad sandy beaches, many well-to-do New Yorkers and celebrities have summer residences here.
Although it makes for a long day of traveling, it’s possible to visit on a day trip from NYC. Guided tours usually pick up passengers in Midtown Manhattan and generally include walking tours of a handful of the charming small coastal towns, such as Southampton and Sag Harbor. Some break up the return journey with a stop at the Tanger Outlets mall and often include discount cards.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Hamptons is a must-visit for NYC visitors looking for an outdoors escape.
- Make restaurant reservations in advance, especially on summer weekends.
- Some beaches are private and require passes to access.
- If you’re driving, you’ll need a permit to park at many beaches.
How to Get There
The Hampton Jitney bus service makes several stops in NYC and throughout the Hamptons. If you’re driving, the Long Island Expressway or Southern State Parkway to Sunrise Highway takes you straight through the Hamptons. Or, avoid traffic and take the Long Island Rail Road from Penn Station; the Montauk Branch stops at Southampton, East Hampton, Amagansett, and Montauk.
When to Get There
The Hamptons are busiest during summer weekends: Beaches are crowded, accommodations book up (and prices inflated), and you’ll likely have a hard time getting a seat at the best restaurants. Try to visit on a weekday instead. In winter, the biting sea wind can be unpleasant, but spring and fall are usually mild and lack crowds, although some businesses close outside of peak season (Memorial through Labor Day).
World-Class Museums
Contemporary art lovers shouldn’t miss the Parrish Art Museum in Water Mill, Dan Flavin Art Institute in Bridgehampton, and the Pollock-Krasner House and Study Center in East Hampton. History buffs should head for the Sag Harbor Whaling and Historical Museum, and Southampton’s Shinnecock Nation Cultural Center and Museum, dedicated to Native American history.
Address: New York, USA
From $ 169
The Dakota
The iconic apartment building ‘The Dakota’ is a stunning structure that ushered in an era of luxury apartment living in Manhattan. Built in the 1800s in Gothic and Victorian styles, it is adorned with ornate balconies and a slate and copper roof. Prior to its construction, apartments were often viewed only as a low income housing option. Now a central and desirable spot in the Upper West Side, at the time it was built it was considered far from the center of the city (hence its name, thought to be as far out as North and South Dakota.) The Dakota offered amenities similar to luxury hotel properties to its residents, such as full-time staff, a gymnasium, private dining room, and meal delivery.
Many famous names have called The Dakota home. The building surrounds a beautifully maintained courtyard that was once the arrival spot for carriages. It is perhaps best known, however, as the tragic site of John Lennon’s death. He owned multiple apartments in the building, and was shot upon exiting its entryway. Many of his fans visit The Dakota before or after a visit to the nearby Strawberry Fields.
Practical Info
You can find the Dakota at the intersection of 72nd Street and Central Park West. To get there using the subway, take either the B or C train to the 72nd Street Station. It is only possible to view the exterior of the private residence.
Address: 1 West 72nd Street, New York City, New York, USA, USA
From $ 30
Tenement Museum
In an 1863 tenement building, the captivating Tenement Museum provides insights into the hardscrabble lives of newly arrived immigrant families in New York City’s Lower East Side during the 19th and 20th centuries. Guided tours demonstrate the challenges newcomers to America faced and show how migrants helped shape the area.
The Basics
The Tenement Museum can be visited only as part of a guided tour. Tours fall into three categories: tours of restored and re-created tenement buildings and businesses, neighborhood walking tours, and tours led by costumed interpreters portraying former residents. All tours begin at the visitor center, where a video provides some background information on the tenements and the people who lived in them. For a deeper understanding of the immigrant experience, opt for a private guided tour that includes a cruise around the Statue of Liberty, a trip to Ellis Island, and a walking tour of the formerly immigrant-heavy Lower East Side and East Village neighborhoods. The Tenement Museum also features on some food-focused neighborhood tours that show the big influence multiethnic inhabitants have had on local cuisine.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Most guided museum tours last one to two hours.
- Some tours require participants to climb several flights of stairs so are not accessible to wheelchair users.
- Tours often sell out, so book in advance to ensure a spot on your preferred date and tour.
How to Get There
While the tenement building is at 97 Orchard Street, all tours begin and end at the visitor center at 103 Orchard Street. The nearest subway stops are Delancey Street (F train), Essex Street (J, M, and Z), and Grand Street (B and D), all of which are within five minutes’ walking distance of the museum.
When to Get There
The Tenement Museum is very popular and tours frequently sell out during summer, so it’s best to book in advance. Arrive at least 15 minutes before your tour’s start time so you can check in and store your bags. Allow more time if you want to watch the 30-minute movie at the visitor center before the tour.
How to Choose a Tenement Museum Tour
Hard Times, a building tour that encompasses tours of two apartments—one belonging to the German-Jewish Gumpertz family and the other to the Italian-Catholic Baldizzi family—provides a captivating introduction to life in the tenements, while Irish Outsiders follows the Moore family as they prepare for St. Patrick’s Day in 1869. For children 5 years old and under, Meet Victoria Confino—an interactive tour with a costumed guide—is recommended. Shop Life, a tour that focuses on immigrant businesses, is the only wheelchair-accessible tour to enter 97 Orchard Street.
Address: 103 Orchard St, New York, NY 1002, USA
Hours: Fri - Wed: 10:00am - 6:30pm, Thurs: 10am - 8:30pm; Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years Day.
Admission: Tour prices vary.
From $ 38
Woodbury Common
Locals and tourists alike love a good deal, and New York’s Woodbury Common Premium Outlets make for a bargain shopper’s mecca. Located just an hour's drive from Manhattan, many travelers make the shopping stop into a full day trip, made possible because the outlets offer enough choices to please even the pickiest fashionista. It’s not uncommon to pick up an extra piece of luggage to bring home new purchases.
Visitors can shop, save and splurge at any of the 220 stores in the outlet center, all of which attract various kinds of shoppers, from designer label lovers to sportswear fanatics, jewelry admirers and sneaker fans. Deals can be found at boutiques such as Tory Burch, The North Face, Mont Blanc and Stuart Weitzman. Travelers can visit the Market Hall to rest and refuel with a hearty meal while enjoying the free WiFi before heading back out to scour for more gems.
Practical Info
The outlet center is located in Central Valley, New York. While parking is available at Woodbury Common Premium Outlets, the center is also accessible by public transportation and shuttle bus. It is open every day from 9am to 9 pm, and admission is free. Be sure to check the revised holiday schedule before visiting.
Address: 498 Red Apple Ct, Central Valley, New York, USA 10917, USA
Hours: Monday- Sunday 9 a.m.-9 p.m.
From $ 36
Wollman Rink
Open from November through March, the Wollman Rink (formerly Trump Rink) is an outdoor ice-skating rink in Central Park. Accessible from the south entrance of West 59th Street and 6th Avenue, the rink offers open skating as well as lessons. For New Yorkers and visitors, skating on the rink is a tradition that symbolizes the magic and romance of the winter holidays. In fact the scenic rink, with its park and Manhattan skyline backdrop, has been featured in various movies, including “Serendipity” and “Love Story.”
During the summer months, the rink turns into the Victorian Gardens.
During the summer months, the rink turns into the Victorian Gardens.
Practical Info
The rink is open Monday & Tuesday from 10am to 2:30pm, Wednesday & Thursday from 10am to 10pm, Friday & Saturday from 10am to 11pm, Sunday 10am to 9pm and Thanksgiving 10am to 7pm. Prices are $11 Monday through Thursday and $17 Friday through Sunday for adults, $6 every day for children 11 and under, and $5 Monday through Thursday and $9 Friday through Sunday for seniors. Spectator fee is $5. Skate rentals are $7 and locker rentals are $5 plus a $6 refundable deposit.
Address: USA
Hours: Mon and Tue 10:00am - 2:30pm; Wed and Thu 10:00am - 10:00pm; Fri and Sat 10:00am - 11:00pm; Sun 10:00am - 9:00pm
Admission: Mon-Thu $11, $6 Chl; Fri-Sun $17, $6 Chl
From $ 25
Tiffany & Co.
Located all over Manhattan, Tiffany & Co. is a high-end shop selling jewelry, watches and housewares. Their flagship store and most popular location is at 727 Fifth Avenue and 57th Street, and has been open since October 21, 1940. Specifically, Tiffany & Co. is well-known for its rare and magnificent diamond collection, like their iconic Tiffany Diamond, one of the world’s largest and fanciest yellow diamonds. It was the Tiffany Diamond, mounted in a Jean Schlumberger necklace, that Audrey Hepburn wore in promotional photographs for “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” Visitors can see the 128-karat diamond up-close on the store’s Main Floor. And for those who want a VIP shopping example, Tiffany & Co. offers personal shopping assistance and in-store diamond consultation. You can make an appointment for these services by calling 800-518-5555.
Even if you can’t afford to purchase anything, it is still worth stopping by the shop to simply peruse the merchandise and view their carefully decorated window displays, which are especially ornate during the winter holidays. To get to Tiffany & Co. on the subway, take the N, Q, R to 59th Street-Fifth Avenue; E, M to 53rd Street-Fifth Avenue; F to 57th Street.
Even if you can’t afford to purchase anything, it is still worth stopping by the shop to simply peruse the merchandise and view their carefully decorated window displays, which are especially ornate during the winter holidays. To get to Tiffany & Co. on the subway, take the N, Q, R to 59th Street-Fifth Avenue; E, M to 53rd Street-Fifth Avenue; F to 57th Street.
Address: 727 Fifth Ave, New York, NY, USA
From $ 70
Williamsburg Bridge
With Brooklyn growing in popularity by the day, and Williamsburg at the helm of its cultural vibrancy, the Williamsburg Bridge connects the trendy area to Manhattan. Dating back to 1896, when it was realized that the Brooklyn Bridge alone would not serve the traffic needed between Brooklyn and Manhattan, construction on this second bridge began. At the time of its completion, it was the largest suspension bridge in the world.
The large bridge allows for transit from Williamsburg over to the lower east side of New York City, granting views of the city skyline. It carries both automobile and rail traffic, though is often best enjoyed on foot to take in the urban scenery. The designated National Engineering Historic Landmark is a symbol of industrial strength and well-executed design. Walking across the bridge allows for many excellent viewpoints and photo opportunities of both cities, as well as the East River and the neighboring Brooklyn Bridge.
Practical Info
The Williamsburg Bridge can be entered from Manhattan at Delancy and Clinton Streets, or from Brooklyn on Bedford Avenue between South 5th and South 6th Streets. There are separate sides for pedestrians and bikers as directed by signs. The bridge also carries the J, M, and Z Subway lines and carries up to eight lanes of road traffic. It is free for all to cross.
Address: Williamsburg Bridge, Brooklyn, New York, USA, USA
From $ 19
Woolworth Building
New York City is home to dozens of iconic skyscrapers, and while the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building may have a corner on Midtown, the historic Woolworth Building reigns supreme in Lower Manhattan. Located a stone’s throw from the Mayor’s office at City Hall and a quick walk from the Brooklyn Bridge, this stunning building’s classic tower and gilded lobby are an homage to days gone by, when this eclectic city overflowed with the glitz and glam associated with a more Mad Men era than these modern times. Still, the Woolworth Building seems to hold its own in contemporary culture, showing up in television shows like Ugly Betty and coveted video games like Grand Theft Auto IV. Whether it’s admiring the building’s exterior or marveling at the ornate décor on the inside, a stop at the Woolworth Building is a must on any NYC adventure.
Practical Info
The Woolworth Building is located at 233 Broadway and accessible using public transportation. Travelers can take the 4, 5, or 6 train, or the J or M train to the City Hall stop. Small group and private lobby tours are available daily.
Address: 233 Broadway, New York, USA
From $ 20
West Village
The West Village, one of New York City’s most celebrated neighborhoods, is home to many of the city’s top restaurants and shops. A large part of its draw are the tree-lined, cobblestone streets in all their urban charm. The area’s Bohemian past, 19th century townhouses, and small boutiques are still alive and well. It has a quaintness that sets it apart from the rest of Manhattan — yet it is still a hotspot of activity.
The West Village has been a center of many social and cultural movements, including Beat literature and gay rights. Though it is mostly residential (real estate is highly sought after,) it’s home to iconic spots such as Magnolia Bakery and the White Horse Tavern. You can also take a walk along the Hudson River Park, also found in this neighborhood. It’s one of the best (and most scenic) places in Manhattan to simply stroll and absorb the energy of the city.
Practical Info
The West Village is the western area of Greenwich Village in Lower Manhattan. To get there, take the 1 train to Christopher Street, or the A, C, E, B, D or F Subway lines to West 4th Street.
Address: Houston St. to 14th St. and Sixth Ave. to Hudson River, New York City, New York, USA, USA
From $ 35
Top of the Rock
One of New York City’s most famous buildings, 30 Rockefeller Plaza boasts panoramic views from its sky-high observation deck, Top of the Rock. Visitors can access three levels for both indoor and outdoor glass-walled platforms offering unobstructed, 360-degree vistas of the sprawling metropolis. The skyscraper, which houses NBC headquarters, was formerly known as the GE Building and is now the Comcast Building.
The Basics
On the way up are a handful of exhibits, including the Swarovski-created Radiance Wall and Joie Chandelier, a short historical video shown in the theater, and the mezzanine, home to artifacts and photos documenting Rockefeller history. The observation deck offers a popular spot to view New York City from above, especially due to the large viewing area and because you can see a clear look at the Empire State Building and Central Park. For the best experience, book your timed Top of the Rock ticket in advance with your chosen date and time slot. Visitors can also opt for VIP access to skip the elevator lines or a Sun and Stars ticket to visit twice in 24 hours and catch the views both in daylight and after dark. To uncover more of the history and architecture of this famous landmark, book a Rockefeller Center Tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Visitors pass through a security checkpoint before entering. Food and beverages are not allowed.
- Bring your camera to snap photos of the city from the Rock observation deck.
- Kids under 6 enter free, and collapsible strollers are allowed.
- Top of the Rock is fully accessible.
- There is no time limit for visits to the Top of the Rock. Most travelers allott about 45 minutes for the experience.
- While Top of the Rock does not feature a restaurant or bar, dining can be found in Rockefeller Center, plus the 65th-floor Bar SixtyFive.
- Free Wi-Fi is available in the building.
How to Get There
Set at 30 Rockefeller Plaza in Midtown Manhattan, the 1933 art deco Rockefeller Center houses the Top of the Rock. The main entrance is on 50th Street, between Fifth and Sixth avenues. The closest subway is at 47-50th Street/Rockefeller Station.
When to Get There
Reserve your ticket in advance for a timed entry between 8am and 11:15pm (the site closes at midnight daily). Try to plan your visit for a day with clear skies for the best views. The site is busiest around sunset and after dark as travelers catch a look at the city illuminated; early morning visits are less crowded. Top of the Rock is open 365 days a year.
Best NYC Spots for City Views
Top of the Rock offers one of the best views of New York City. Other attractions with notable views include the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, the High Line, and the One World Observatory. With the city’s sea of skyscrapers, many New York restaurants and bars feature rooftops and outdoor decks that attract both locals and visitors.
Address: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, 10112, USA
Hours: Open daily 8am - 12am
Admission: Adults: US$34
From $ 6