30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in New York City | Apr 2025

New York in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour Image
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New York in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour

Experience the best of New York City with a knowledgeable, licensed tour guide by your side. Our guides will make your journey unforgettable as they hop off the bus at each stop, giving you an exclusive and personalized sightseeing experience.

4.76 (11552 reviews)

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Experience Ticket Image
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SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Experience Ticket

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt blends elements of art and technology, taking the concept of an “observation deck” to entirely new heights.

4.58 (4509 reviews)

NYC Empire State Building Admission Ticket Image
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NYC Empire State Building Admission Ticket

Soaring 1,454 feet above Midtown Manhattan from base to antenna, the Empire State Building (ESB) is the World’s Most Famous Building.

4.37 (6094 reviews)

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour: All Options Image
Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour: All Options Image
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Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour: All Options

Hear the stories of immigrants who passed through Ellis Island and learn about the creation and symbolism of the Statue of Liberty.

4.79 (11240 reviews)

New York City 90-Minute Cruise: Lady Liberty, Bridges and Skyline Image
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New York City 90-Minute Cruise: Lady Liberty, Bridges and Skyline

Explore NYC's iconic landmarks and soak in breathtaking views of the city in just 90 minutes! With multiple departures throughout the day, including a sunset cruise and evening city lights option, cruise down the majestic Hudson River, passing by Hudson Yards, with the towering One World Trade Center and Ellis Island as your backdrop, until you're within arm's reach of the Statue of Liberty.

4.71 (961 reviews)

New York City Dinner Cruise with Live Music  Image
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New York City Dinner Cruise with Live Music

Set sail on a luxurious sunset dining adventure aboard the newest boat in New York Harbor with breathtaking skyline vistas.

4.06 (156 reviews)

New York City Mafia and Local Food Tour led by NYPD Guides Image
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New York City Mafia and Local Food Tour led by NYPD Guides

Why this experience? We LIVED this firsthand. We're Born & raised in Little Italy - or cops who worked the streets here - both active and retired/ NYPD Officers.

4.86 (762 reviews)

Central Park Pedicab Guided Tours Image
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Central Park Pedicab Guided Tours

Central park tours are fun, but nothing beats the exhilarating pleasure of exploring and enjoying the world's most famous urban park from the comfort of a Pedicab and with the help of an experienced tour guides.

4.97 (5217 reviews)

Big Bus NYC: Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour by Open-top Bus Image
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Big Bus NYC: Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour by Open-top Bus

Hop on and hop off around New York City with an open-top double decker Big Bus tour and visit NYC attractions at your own pace.

3.54 (4386 reviews)

Circle Line: New York City Statue of Liberty Super Express Cruise Image
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Circle Line: New York City Statue of Liberty Super Express Cruise

Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises is the original, iconic, and #1 choice for sightseeing in New York City, with over 80 million passengers and counting.

4.52 (2252 reviews)

9/11 Memorial Museum Admission Ticket Image
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9/11 Memorial Museum Admission Ticket

The 9/11 Memorial Museum in Lower Manhattan preserves the history of the attacks on the World Trade Center, and documents the significance of those events through building remnants, personal artifacts, first-person accounts and multimedia displays.

4.73 (5800 reviews)

The Big Apple Helicopter Tour of New York City Image
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The Big Apple Helicopter Tour of New York City

See the Big Apple’s most iconic landmarks and building up close on this popular helicopter tour of New York City, while taking off and landing out of Manhattan Heliport.

4.33 (476 reviews)

The Manhattan Helicopter Tour of New York Image
The Manhattan Helicopter Tour of New York Image
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The Manhattan Helicopter Tour of New York

Experience the beauty of the New York Harbor including an up-close view of the Statue of Liberty on this helicopter ride over NY.

4.28 (1784 reviews)

NYC Edge Observation Deck at Hudson Yards Admission Ticket Image
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NYC Edge Observation Deck at Hudson Yards Admission Ticket

Edge is the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere located at 30 Hudson Yards, with a one-of-a-kind design. It’s suspended in mid-air, giving you the feeling of floating in the sky with 360-degree views you can’t get anywhere else.

4.00 (2011 reviews)

Greenwich Village Food Tour | Tasty Tours NYC Image
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Greenwich Village Food Tour | Tasty Tours NYC

Join us on the ultimate food tour in Greenwich Village. This 2. 5-hour tour explores one of New York City’s most vibrant neighborhoods rich with history, sightseeing, and incredible food.

4.98 (202 reviews)

All-Access 9/11: Ground Zero Tour, Memorial and Museum, One World Observatory Image
All-Access 9/11: Ground Zero Tour, Memorial and Museum, One World Observatory Image
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All-Access 9/11: Ground Zero Tour, Memorial and Museum, One World Observatory

This deeply personal tour of Ground Zero begins at the site of what served as a rescue center for victims and place for mementos after the attacks: St.

4.85 (3787 reviews)

Circle Line: New York City Harbor Lights Cruise Image
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Circle Line: New York City Harbor Lights Cruise

The first, the original, the iconic Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises. Visitors’ #1 choice for sightseeing cruises in New York.

4.39 (2627 reviews)

True Crime NYC: Mafia Walk w/Ret. NYPD Detective & Local Food Image
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True Crime NYC: Mafia Walk w/Ret. NYPD Detective & Local Food

Why our experience over all others? We LIVED this firsthand. We are Born and raised in Little Italy or worked in the area as NYPD Officers.

4.96 (311 reviews)

Secret Food Tour of Chinatown and Little Italy Image
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Secret Food Tour of Chinatown and Little Italy

On our Secret Food Tour: Chinatown and Little Italy, you'll experience New York City’s most “Iconic" neighborhoods. Get ready to experience the rich history, traditions, and flavors of New York City's most internationally recognized ethnic neighborhoods.

4.97 (1555 reviews)

Washington DC Highlights, 1-Day Tour from NYC Image
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Washington DC Highlights, 1-Day Tour from NYC

Explore beyond the Big Apple with a full-day tour to Washington DC from New York City. You'll capture the spirit of "the home of the brave and land of the free" as you visit the monuments and memorials of Washington DC.

4.18 (2180 reviews)

New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour Image
New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour Image
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New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour

Take to the skies on a helicopter tour to see New York's amazing skyline! On this scenic 18-20-minute helicopter flight you'll soar through the sky and experience a bird's eye view of Manhattan's world famous landmarks.

4.44 (782 reviews)

New York Helicopter Tour: Ultimate Manhattan Sightseeing Image
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New York Helicopter Tour: Ultimate Manhattan Sightseeing

Seated in comfort, experience all the sights of Manhattan from the air on a 17-20 minute helicopter flight. Enjoy bird's-eye views of top Manhattan attractions including the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, the Chrysler Building, the World Financial Center, the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Central Park and the Brooklyn Bridge.

4.75 (1040 reviews)

New York Buffet Dinner Cruise  Image
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New York Buffet Dinner Cruise

Grab your friends or that special someone and get ready for two-and-a-half hours of real New York fun departing from Chelsea Piers! This New York dinner cruise includes an attended chef-prepared buffet, fun DJ music with dancing and breathtaking views of the New York skyline from the interior dining decks and outside rooftop lounge.

4.18 (1350 reviews)

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Guided Tour with Ferry Image
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Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Guided Tour with Ferry

The Statue of Liberty is a verifiable American icon and a must-do on anyone's New York bucket list. This flexible tour offers two convenient options for visiting Lady Liberty with expert insights so you can choose whichever best fits your travel plans and preferences.

4.69 (1645 reviews)

Top of the Rock Observation Deck New York City Ticket Image
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Top of the Rock Observation Deck New York City Ticket

Daytime or night - anytime is the right time to visit the Top of the Rock Observation Deck. Perched 70 stories above the city at Rockefeller Center, with 3 outdoor and indoor viewing decks, the 360-degree views of New York City are unequaled anywhere else.

4.26 (3935 reviews)

Boroughs of NYC: Harlem, Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn & Coney Island  Image
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Boroughs of NYC: Harlem, Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn & Coney Island

Ranked among the Top 50 Tours Worldwide in 2024 by Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards – Best of the Best. Hear the stories of the people that have lived there and the histories that made these spots as special as they are.

4.51 (2227 reviews)

New York City One World Observatory Admission Ticket  Image
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New York City One World Observatory Admission Ticket

One World Observatory, positioned atop One World Trade Center, offers 360-degree views of the New York skyline from the highest point in the city.

4.32 (2518 reviews)

Original NYC Guided Food Tour of Chinatown and Little Italy Image
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Original NYC Guided Food Tour of Chinatown and Little Italy

The original food tour of Little Italy and Chinatown since 2009 explores the tastes and history of two diverse NYC neighborhoods.

4.95 (1957 reviews)

New York CityPASS® Image
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New York CityPASS®

Experience 5 must-see attractions and save up to 41% with New York CityPASS® tickets. With 9 days to use your tickets, you can take your time exploring.

4.26 (2076 reviews)

New York City Helicopter Tour with Statue of Liberty views Image
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New York City Helicopter Tour with Statue of Liberty views

Feel the history while flying over true American treasures on this helicopter tour. Hop aboard and take to the sky to fly over Ellis Island, Governors Island, and the Statue of Liberty, which has served as a symbol of freedom for millions of immigrants.

4.08 (108 reviews)

What activities can I do in New York City?

There are countless things to do in New York City, but here are some must-see attractions and activities: 1. Visit Times Square: Experience the bustling atmosphere of Times Square, known for its bright lights, giant billboards, and iconic New Year's Eve ball drop. 2. Explore Central Park: Take a leisurely stroll or rent a bike to explore the expansive Central Park. Visit famous landmarks like the Bethesda Terrace, Strawberry Fields, and the Central Park Zoo. 3. Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: Take a ferry ride to Liberty Island and visit the iconic Statue of Liberty. You can also explore Ellis Island, which served as the gateway for millions of immigrants to the United States. 4. Walk the High Line: The High Line is a unique elevated park built on a historic freight rail line. Enjoy beautiful views of the city, public art installations, and lush greenery as you walk along this urban oasis. 5. Explore the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): MoMA is one of the world's leading art museums, showcasing an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by renowned artists such as Van Gogh, Picasso, and Warhol. 6. Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met): The Met is the largest art museum in the United States, housing a vast collection that spans 5,000 years of history. Explore its diverse exhibits, including ancient Egyptian artifacts, European masterpieces, and contemporary art. 7. Watch a Broadway Show: Catch a world-class theater performance on Broadway. From musicals to dramas, there is a show for every taste. Some popular shows include ""The Lion King,"" ""Hamilton,"" and ""Wicked."" 8. Explore the neighborhoods: New York City is made up of diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. Visit Greenwich Village for its bohemian vibe, SoHo for its trendy shops and art galleries, and Brooklyn for its hipster culture and stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. 9. Enjoy the food scene: New York City is a food lover's paradise. Indulge in a slice of authentic New York-style pizza, try a bagel with lox and cream cheese, or sample cuisine from around the world at the city's diverse array of restaurants. 10. Take in the view from the Empire State Building: Head to the observation deck of the Empire State Building for breathtaking views of the city skyline. It's especially magical at sunset or at night when the city lights up. These are just a few of the many things you can do in New York City. The city offers something for everyone, whether you're interested in art, history, theater, food, or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.

When is the best time to travel to New York City?

The best time to travel to New York City, USA, largely depends on your preferences and what you want to experience during your visit. Here are some considerations for each season: 1. Spring (March to May): Spring in New York City is beautiful, with blooming flowers and milder temperatures. The city is less crowded compared to summer, and you can enjoy events like the Cherry Blossom Festival and St. Patrick's Day Parade. 2. Summer (June to August): Summer is peak tourist season in New York City. The weather is warm, and there are numerous outdoor activities and events like concerts, festivals, and outdoor movie screenings. However, it can get crowded, and hotel prices may be higher. 3. Fall (September to November): Fall in New York City is known for its stunning foliage and pleasant weather. The city is less crowded, and you can enjoy events like the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and Halloween festivities. 4. Winter (December to February): Winter in New York City can be cold, but it also offers unique experiences like ice skating in Central Park and visiting holiday markets. The city is less crowded, and you may find better deals on accommodations. It's worth noting that New York City is a year-round destination, and each season has its own charm. Consider your preferences, budget, and desired activities when deciding on the best time to visit.

Travel culture you should know when traveling to New York City

New York City is a vibrant and diverse city known for its rich cultural scene. The city is a melting pot of different cultures and ethnicities, creating a unique blend of traditions, art, music, and cuisine. One of the most iconic aspects of New York City's travel culture is its world-renowned Broadway theater scene. Broadway shows attract millions of visitors each year who come to experience the magic of live performances. From classic musicals like ""The Phantom of the Opera"" and ""Hamilton"" to contemporary plays and revivals, there is something for everyone in the Broadway theater district. Art enthusiasts will also find a haven in New York City, with numerous world-class museums and galleries to explore. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), and the Guggenheim Museum are just a few examples of the city's cultural institutions that house impressive collections of art from around the world. Music lovers will be delighted by the city's thriving music scene. From jazz clubs in Harlem to underground indie venues in Brooklyn, there is a wide range of live music options to suit all tastes. The city also hosts major music festivals like Governors Ball and SummerStage, attracting both local and international artists. New York City's food culture is another highlight for travelers. With its diverse population, the city offers an incredible variety of cuisines from around the world. From street food vendors selling hot dogs and pretzels to high-end Michelin-starred restaurants, there is something to satisfy every palate. The city's cultural diversity is also evident in its neighborhoods. Each neighborhood in New York City has its own distinct character and cultural identity. From the bustling streets of Times Square to the trendy art galleries of Chelsea and the historic brownstones of Brooklyn, exploring the different neighborhoods is a great way to experience the city's unique travel culture. Overall, New York City's travel culture is a reflection of its diverse population and rich history. Visitors can immerse themselves in the city's vibrant arts scene, indulge in a variety of cuisines, and explore the different neighborhoods to truly experience the essence of this iconic city.

Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to New York City

When it comes to shopping in New York City, there are plenty of options for unique and memorable souvenirs. Here are some shopping lists and souvenir ideas to consider: 1. Fashion and Accessories: - High-end designer labels on Fifth Avenue, such as Tiffany & Co., Saks Fifth Avenue, and Bergdorf Goodman. - SoHo neighborhood for trendy boutiques and independent designers. - Vintage clothing stores in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. - Macy's Herald Square for a wide range of fashion options. - Hats from the iconic hat shop, Goorin Bros. 2. Food and Beverages: - Gourmet chocolates from Jacques Torres Chocolate, Mast Brothers Chocolate, or Li-Lac Chocolates. - Bagels from renowned bagel shops like Ess-a-Bagel or Russ & Daughters. - Specialty teas and spices from places like McNulty's Tea & Coffee Co. or Kalustyan's. - Craft beers from local breweries like Brooklyn Brewery or Other Half Brewing. - New York-style cheesecake from Junior's or Eileen's Special Cheesecake. 3. Art and Culture: - Art prints or posters from the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Design Store. - Books from famous independent bookstores like The Strand or McNally Jackson. - Vinyl records from record stores like Rough Trade NYC or Academy Records. - Broadway show merchandise from the theater district. - Unique and handmade crafts from local markets like Artists & Fleas or Union Square Holiday Market (seasonal). 4. Sports and Memorabilia: - Official merchandise from New York sports teams like the Yankees, Mets, Knicks, or Rangers. - Autographed memorabilia from sports memorabilia stores like Steiner Sports or Madison Square Garden Store. - Sports jerseys or caps from the NBA Store or NFL Shop. 5. Miscellaneous: - Statue of Liberty replicas or memorabilia. - Empire State Building-themed souvenirs. - I Love NY merchandise from souvenir shops. - New York-themed puzzles, board games, or playing cards. - Magnets, keychains, or shot glasses with iconic NYC landmarks. Remember, these are just some ideas, and the options are endless in New York City. Enjoy exploring the city and have fun shopping for unique souvenirs!

New York City travel review

New York City: The Ultimate Urban Adventure New York City, the concrete jungle that never sleeps, is a vibrant and dynamic metropolis that captures the essence of the American dream. With its iconic skyline, diverse neighborhoods, and endless array of attractions, this bustling city has something to offer every traveler. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, New York City is the place to be. One of the first things that will captivate you upon arrival is the breathtaking skyline dominated by towering skyscrapers. The Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, and One World Trade Center are just a few of the architectural marvels that adorn the city's horizon. For an awe-inspiring view of the city, head to the Top of the Rock observation deck or take a trip to the crown of the Statue of Liberty. The panoramic vistas from these vantage points will leave you in awe of the city's grandeur. As you venture into the city streets, you'll discover the diverse neighborhoods that make up the fabric of New York City. From the bustling streets of Times Square to the artistic haven of Greenwich Village, each neighborhood has its own unique charm and character. Explore the trendy boutiques and art galleries of SoHo, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Chinatown, or stroll through the tree-lined streets of the Upper West Side. The city's neighborhoods offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of cultures that call New York City home. No visit to New York City would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. From world-famous pizza joints in Brooklyn to Michelin-starred restaurants in Manhattan, the city is a food lover's paradise. Sample diverse cuisines from around the world in the ethnic enclaves of Queens, savor gourmet treats at the Chelsea Market, or grab a hot dog from a street vendor - there's something to satisfy every palate. Don't forget to try a classic New York bagel or a slice of cheesecake, iconic dishes that have become synonymous with the city's culinary scene. Beyond its iconic landmarks and delectable cuisine, New York City is also a cultural mecca. The city is home to some of the world's most renowned museums, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Guggenheim Museum. Immerse yourself in the art, history, and culture on display, and be sure to catch a Broadway show for a truly unforgettable experience. From musicals to plays, the bright lights of Broadway will transport you into another world. For those seeking a taste of nature amidst the urban chaos, New York City offers an oasis of green spaces. Central Park, with its sprawling lawns, picturesque lakes, and winding paths, provides a serene escape from the bustling streets. Take a leisurely bike ride, enjoy a picnic, or simply relax and people-watch in this urban sanctuary. The High Line, a unique elevated park built on a historic freight rail line, offers stunning views of the city and a tranquil respite from the chaos below. New York City is a city that never ceases to amaze. Its energy, diversity, and endless possibilities make it a destination like no other. Whether you're exploring its iconic landmarks, immersing yourself in its vibrant neighborhoods, or indulging in its culinary delights, this city will leave an indelible mark on your heart. So, pack your bags, and get ready for the ultimate urban adventure in the Big Apple. New York City awaits you.