There’s so much to do in the Big Apple. To help you sift through New York City’s unending roster of attractions, we’ve shortlisted ten of our top picks.
Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Tour
Considered one of, if not the, most iconic landmarks in New York City and the United States, securing tickets for an express boat tour provides an intimate encounter with our esteemed symbol, the Statue of Liberty. Setting sail from Downtown Manhattan’s Battery Park, have your cameras ready to capture photo-worthy views of the city while your guide delves into the history of Ellis Island, formerly the nation’s busiest immigration station that welcomed approximately 12 million immigrants.
Witness New York City’s Impeccable Museum Scene
If touring museums is among your favorite activities in a new city, then the world is your oyster in New York. Inspiration abounds from The Met, the world’s fourth-largest museum, displaying 5,000 years of art, to the modern works at MoMa and Fotografiska and the natural wonders at the American Museum of Natural History. Take advantage of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum for a profound tribute to those lost and insights into the tragic event.
Walk Down The High Line
When you crave a respite from the city’s hustle and bustle, stroll to The High Line—an elevated 1.45-mile park, greenway, and rail trail on Manhattan’s west side. Relax on the wetland grass and sun lounge ensconced Diller – Von Furstenberg’s Sundeck & Water Feature, then gander at contemporary public artworks, including the recently installed ‘Curtain Call’ by artist Karon Davis, showcasing her signature white-wrapped plaster sculptures.
Amble Around Central Park
As you take a walk through Central Park, be sure to recognize the numerous locations that have starred in iconic films, such as the romantic Bow Bridge featured in Enchanted and the Central Park Boathouse, a setting for a memorable lunch encounter between Carrie and Big in season three of Sex and the City. For a perfect picnic spot, settle down at Sheep Meadow, a sprawling 15-acre lawn ideal for sunbathing and people-watching.
Cross the Brooklyn Bridge from Manhattan to Brooklyn
As a requisite for visitors to New York, crossing the Brooklyn Bridge from Manhattan to Brooklyn or vice versa is a task well worth undertaking. During warmer days, commencing your mile-long outing earlier in the morning is advisable to avoid crowds and seize the best photo opportunities. Once you’ve completed the crossing, we recommend exploring neighborhoods, including DUMBO and the Fulton Ferry District.
Head to the Top of SUMMIT One Vanderbilt for Art Installations and Panoramic Views
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt offers a distinctive view of New York City by seamlessly integrating art, technology, and architecture at the pinnacle of Manhattan’s tallest skyscraper. Visitors can explore various immersive installations, such as “Air: Transcendence 2,” a room adorned with 30,375 square feet of mirrors, or experience the adrenaline rush of “Levitation,” an observation deck suspended 1,100 feet above Madison Avenue.
Learn Secrets About NYC’s Grand Central Terminal
Steeped in 150 years of history, Grand Central Terminal is one of New York City’s most popular attractions for good reason. Beyond its iconic status, the commuter terminal holds intriguing features—including a secret staircase, a former movie theater-turned-wine store, and architectural marvels, such as an original ceiling tile of an era when smoking indoors was permitted. Plus, it would be remiss not to mention the century-old oyster bar that serves one of Manhattan’s most extensive seafood menus.
See New York City by Helicopter
Want a bird’s eye view of Manhattan’s top attractions? Then, a deluxe helicopter tour over the city is just the thing for you. With the guidance of your trusty pilot, you’ll be able to spot landmarks, such as the Empire State Building, Times Square, and Central Park, from a unique perspective, as well as swooping further north to check out Harlem and the famed Yankee Stadium.
Taste New York’s Best with a Walking Food Tour
Undoubtedly, one of New York City’s greatest assets is its gastronomy scene. Join Secret Food Tours for the NYC-Greenwich two-and-a-half to three-hour walking tour, where you’ll savor the city’s flavors. The tour includes a lesson on finding the best New York-style bagel, a visit to one of the hottest gourmet donut and cookie shops, and, of course, a taste of a classic NYC-style pizza slice.
Dive into New York’s Mobster Past in Little Italy
Uncover the secrets of Lower Manhattan and Little Italy’s legendary gangsters on this two-hour guided walking tour. You’ll discover tales of warfare between the Colombo, Gambino, and Genovese families, along with view sites of locations where classic films such as The Godfather and Goodfellas took place, and stop by Umbertos Clam House, the site of Little Italy’s most notorious mob shooting.
