Top 12 Things To Do And See in New York City

March 15, 2017

New York City, USA

New York City draws in almost seven times its total population in tourists every year. That is no small feat, as New York City boasts an impressive population of over eight million people.

One World Trade Center, New York City

Manhattan, New York City, USA

So what is it that attracts so many visitors to New York City? There are many famous attractions and things to do in New York City. For many of its residents it represents the original “American Dream.”

Brooklyn Bridge, in New York City

There are lots of things that you can do in New York City for free. However, if you really want to experience some of the world-famous iconic attractions, you will need to pay an entry fee. The good news is that with a New York City attractions pass you can gain free entry to some attractions or save up to 40% on the entry fees. Read our review of the New York City attraction passes to see which one is best for you.

New York CityPASS saves you 40% on top attractions in New York

Get free entry to 90+ attractions in NYC with the New York Pass

Here are our picks for the top attractions and best things to do and see in New York City:

Central Park

Central Park is an 843-acre greenbelt in the heart of Manhattan. This is one of the most-filmed locations in the world.

Central Park, New York City, USA

Consisting of a host of things to do and see, including exercising, dining, visiting the zoo, looking at monuments or sculptures, experiencing the waterfalls and walking on the bridges.

Central Park, New York City

National September 11 Memorial and Museum

National September 11 Memorial and Museum, otherwise referred to as the 9/11 Memorial and 9/11 Memorial Museum are tributes of remembrance and honor to the nearly 3,000 people killed in the terror attacks of September 11, 2001 at the World Trade Center site.

National September 11 Memorial and Museum, New York City

They also honor the people that died at the Pentagon, as well as the six people killed in the World Trade Center bombing in February 1993.

Ground Zero, National September 11 Memorial, New York City

One World Trade Center and 911 Memorial, New York City

Staten Island Ferry

The Staten Island Ferry is a transportation service that runs to Staten Island from New York Harbor. You will get a spectacular view of the Statue of Liberty on the ferry. The best way to admire the Manhattan skyline is from the harbor, so this is a really excellent option.

The ferry is free of charge, which is an added bonus. However riders must disembark at each terminal and reenter through the terminal building for a round trip.

Staten Island Ferry

The Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is a universal symbol of freedom and democracy. This monument brings tourist from all over the world. Standing tall with the torch, this monument is located in Liberty Island in New York Harbor in New York City, in the United States.

Statue of Liberty, New York City, USA

Statue of Liberty, New York City

Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is found in the middle of Manhattan and is either the best way to start your sightseeing or the perfect end to your sightseeing. The Iconic building boasts 102 floors with exhibits and Observatories on the 86th and 102nd floors. This attraction is a must see and give you a wonderful view of New York City.

Empire State Building, New York City

The Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge connects the boroughs of Brooklyn and Manhattan by spanning the East River. It a hybrid cable-stayed/suspension bridge in New York City and is one of the oldest bridges of either type in the United States.

Brooklyn Bridge, New York City

Brooklyn Bridge, New York City at night

Metropolitan Museum of Art

The museum is located on the fifth avenue on the perimeter of Central park. This is one of the most sought after museum with ancient artifacts from all over the world. You can explore and enjoy a stroll through history dated back many centuries.

Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City

The Chrysler Building

The Chrysler Building is an Art Deco-style skyscraper located on the East Side of Midtown Manhattan in New York City. It is located at the intersection of Lexington Avenue and 42nd Street in the Turtle Bay neighborhood.

The Chrysler Building, New York City

The Chrysler Building, New York City, USA

Rockefeller Center

Rockefeller Center is located in Midtown Manhattan between Fifth and Sixth avenues. This was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1987 and it is rather famous for its annual Christmas tree lighting.

Rockefeller Center, New York City

Rockefeller Center, New York City, USA

Time Square

Famously known for the annual New Year’s Eve ball drop, attracts numerous tourist all over the world annually. Times Square comes alive with its vibrant colours, lights and activities.

Time Square, New York City

Broadway

A must see when you visit the city of New York. Broadway consists of live performances of play and musicals that will bring you laughter and great entertainment.

Broadway, New York City

Broadway, New York City, USA

Coney Island

Coney Island is a New York City neighborhood that features an amusement area that includes 50 or more separate attractions and rides. Coney Island has several separate amusement parks, as well as a museum, which hosts a variety of exhibits and shows.

Ferris wheel at Coney Island, New York City

One of its famous rides is the Cyclone rollercoaster and is home of Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs. This restaurant proudly serves over 425 million hot dogs every year.

Coney Island Beach

After all your fun filled adventure, why not take some time to savoury a wide variety of food in New York City. It is one of the best ways to experience a multi-ethnic dining experience. The locals brag about their cheesecake and pizza, which is frequently imitated throughout the country. Other local favourites include a variety of Chinese cuisine and hot pastrami sandwiches. Make time to visit Coney Island.