10 Things to Do in New York

Start spreading the news! From New York, New York, to A Fairytale of New York, this famous location has been the subject of so many song lyrics, there was an Englishman in New York, and you can definitely be in a New York State of Mind. However, if you are heading there on your first visit, you may wonder how you can possibly decide what to see and do for the best NY experience. Thankfully there are ten really awesome things to do in New York to get you started.

1. Get a Head for Heights

There are several places in New York that have the most amazing observations decks where you can get a fantastic view of the impressive and iconic skyline. First up is the Empire State Building and fans of Sleepless in Seattle will never forget the great moment that Tom Hanks met Meg Ryan in a climax to the timeless love story. In real life the venue is just as impressive and somewhere you really want to say you have been if you take the time to go to NY. Secondly, there is Top of the Rock, which is the observation deck at Rockefeller Center. Finally, the One World Observatory which you will find at the Freedom Tower, most have elevators, but those up for a challenge can do some serious stair work.

2. The Statue of Liberty 

Of course, this is another considerable landmark that you have to see if you are in the area. While you are there you should check out Ellis Island and the two islands will take you about five hours so leave yourself plenty of time. The boat ride out provides another chance to soak up views you will never have seen before, so do not forget the camera. You can either opt to book in with a tour guide once you get there or take a self-guided tour, there are plenty to choose from.

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3. Central Park

Used in so many TV and movie locations, Central Park is one of the most famous green spaces in the world. Do not be fooled into thinking this is a small piece of grass in the middle of a city, it is vast and has zoos, lakes, rides, sculptures and loads of space to sit and chill. Again, you can take yourself off on a little wander or book in with one of the many tour guides. Carriage rides are popular and available most of the time for those looking for a romantic interlude.

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4. Time Square

If you happen to be in New York on New Year’s Eve, then you have the chance to be part of the iconic ball drop at midnight, but Times Square has so much more to offer it is well worth seeing no matter when you happen to visit.

5. Brooklyn Bridge

Ok, to be fair there are so many amazing landmarks in New York you could run yourself ragged trying to get to them all but, this is another legendary bridge that everyone has heard of, even if you were never quite sure exactly where it was located. Make time to walk across in the day and check out the lights by night. 

6. The Staten Island Ferry 

The free Staten Island Ferry which runs from Manhattan to Staten Island runs 24 hours a day every day and is another must-do experience. There is something magical about a ferry ride, and this one is accompanied by incredible views of the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan. The journey takes 25 minutes each way, but at peak times you will have to wait over an hour to get on, and this is not a ferry that services the Statue of Liberty, you will need one of the others.

7. Catch Some Sport

New York has many big-time sporting teams, so there is always some exciting game or other to watch. The New York Giants, The Mets, The New York Knicks to name just a few. If you are into running, then the New York Marathon is a bucket list item for many people but be warned places are hard to secure. Each year it is also the home of the US Open Tennis Championship if you love a bit of courtside action, so be sure to check your timings if there is something you really want to see.

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8. Eat 

Now obviously, you were planning to grab some food while you were visiting, but there is more than just your hotel offering food! Begin by checking out the many different eateries located along every street and you will find some of the most classic New York foods. Start the day with a coffee and a bagel, lunch on pastrami or dine on pizza. There are just so many different coffee houses and restaurants you will be seriously spoilt for choice. 

9. Take to the Water

If you fancy combining your meal with some more sightseeing, then you can head out on a night-time boat cruise with dinner and music. There is a massive difference between the daylight skyline and the darkness of night when it is all lit up. You really need to see both, and the water is an excellent place to appreciate the many differences. There are plenty of boats all offering to ferry you around, from private hire to hop-on-hop-off boats that will allow you to explore many different parts of the area.

10/11 Memorial 

In Lower Manhattan, there is a memorial to those who lost their lives during the events of 9/11. It is another place that most people will want to see, and although there is sadness, the memorial is a truly beautiful space to remember this tragic event. There is also the National September 11th Museum which offers documents, films and artefacts documenting the events as they unfolded on that fateful day. The memorial space is free to visit, but there is a cost for museum entrance.