10 Best Things to Do in New York City

Central Park

One of the most popular things to do in New York City is visit Central Park. Not only is it free to explore, but it's fun at any time of year. Bring a picnic and sunbathe with the locals on Sheep Meadow in the summer, or go ice skating at Wollman or Lasker Rinks when the weather turns chilly.

The multitude of things to do in Central Park makes it a must-do whenever you visit New York. Take a run around the reservoir, visit the animals at the zoo, or rent a rowboat—you won't be bored.

Grand Central Station

Grand Central is more than just a place to catch a train. This beautiful, Beau-Arts granite building opened in 1913 and is a destination in itself. Don't forget to look up when you're in the Main Concourse—the ceiling has an elaborately painted astronomical mural. The famous four-sided brass clock in the terminal makes for a great photo op—or meeting spot if someone gets lost.

Another popular spot is the Whispering Gallery, which has a unique acoustic design you'll have to hear to believe. If you're hungry, skip the fast-food vendors in favor of the Grand Central Market, which runs seven days a week.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

You've seen countless movie and television scenes staged on the Met's iconic steps, and inside you'll find priceless works of art. Since the Metropolitan Museum of Art opened its doors in 1880, it's been the definitive answer to the question of what to do in New York.

Although the admission fee is posted as $25, it's actually a suggested donation—how much you choose to pay is up to you. (If you want to skip the line and buy your tickets online, you'll have to pay the full $25.) Your ticket includes same-day admission to the Met Breuer (contemporary art) and the Met Cloisters (a medieval European museum set on four serene acres overlooking the Hudson River).

Empire State Building

Before arriving at the Empire State Building, consider buying an express ticket to the top online; otherwise you risk spending way too much of your precious time in New York standing in line. Your ticket includes an interactive multimedia tour that you can download onto your phone—but it will be hard to pay attention to anything but the view.

The 86th-floor observation deck is the highest open-air observatory in New York, and you'll be able to see all the way to Central Park, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty, and many other landmarks.

Governors Island

Want a break from the hectic pace of the city that never sleeps? Governors Island is just 800 yards across the river from Manhattan, yet its peaceful 172 acres feel a world away—unless you're visiting when there's an event or festival going on.

Governors Island, part of the National Parks Service, is home to a pair of 1812-era forts. You can explore all the green space (and amazing city views) via foot or by bike rental, but not by car. Bring a picnic or treat yourself to something from one of the many food vendors.

Note: The island is only open during the summer months, so be sure to check the website before hopping on a ferry.

Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty

One of the best things to do in New York, and a true immersion into the immigrant experience, is visiting Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. Tour boats run to both Liberty and Ellis islands, so it's easy to see both in one trip.

Ellis Island was the entry point for more than 12 million immigrants to the U.S. from 1892 until 1954. Much of the immigration inspection complex has been painstakingly restored. The National Museum of Immigration tells the story of millions who came to America, and it's there that you can look for your ancestors in the American Family Immigration History Center.

Over on Liberty Island, you'll find the iconic Statue of Liberty. You can go up to Lady Liberty's Crown—but space is very limited, so you'll need to make a reservation first.

Food Tours

One of the best ways get a true taste of New York City is to sign up for a food tour. These fun outings will introduce you to some of the top cuisine around, and there's a tour for every flavor of foodie.

Sample New York's famous slices on a Pizza Walking Tour of Manhattan, taste food and culture on the Harlem Soul Food and Jazz Tour, or go right for the sweet stuff with a Dessert Walking Tour. (Hey, at least you'll be getting some exercise!)

Coney Island

If you tune into the ultimate American "sport" every year (Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest), then you'll definitely want to head out to Coney Island while you're in New York. Of course, there's more to do on Coney Island than eat hot dogs. There's a beach, tons of carnival games and rides (including the famous Coney Island Cyclone roller coaster), and even a Circus Sideshow. This is definitely a place to bring the kids or the young at heart.

Free Attractions and Things to Do in New York

You don't have to make Wall Street money to enjoy your visit to New York City. There are plenty of free things to do in New York, such as walking across the Brooklyn Bridge, taking the Staten Island Ferry for amazing views of the skyline and the Statue of Liberty, visiting the Brooklyn Botanic Garden (free on Fridays before noon), biking the 11-mile Hudson River Greenway path, people-watching in Time Square, and attending a taping of a TV show.

New York Restaurants

Try scoping out neighborhoods known for a certain type of cuisine. For example, if you're craving dim sum, you'll want to head to Chinatown. Ravioli? Little Italy. But be warned: New York City has more than 200 major neighborhoods, and new restaurants are popping up every day. This guide to foodie neighborhoods in New York may help.