10 things to do in New York

Top 20 Things to Do in NYC for First Time Visitors

Check out some of these fantastic attractions and build your dream New York trip.

NYC is at the top of many a traveler's wish list - it's bursting with fascinating museums, top dining spots, and stunning viewpoints. Here are 20 of the very best.

New York is famously known as the city that never sleeps - and with countless world-class restaurants, stores museums, galleries, activities, and more, it's easy to see why! Whether you’re visiting with friends, a significant other, your family members, or kids, you’re sure to have lots of fun exploring.

New York skyline at sunset

To get you all set for your trip to NYC, we've rounded up 20 of the must-see attractions that you really shouldn't miss during your trip. They're broken down into categories, so creating your dream itinerary will be a breeze.

Big Bus New York Sightseeing Tours

Big Bus New York

Start your tour of New York by exploring its mega network of streets. Why not visit a collection of interesting spots in a short time by taking a bus tour? With the popular Hop On Hop Off Big Bus Tour, you'll get a chance to see many of the top buildings, tourist attractions, and locations New York has to offer. A few of the options available include: 

  • Empire State Building 
  • SOHO/ Little Italy 
  • Brooklyn Bridge/ City Hall 
  • Wall Street/ Charging Bull 
  • High Line 
  • Madison Square Garden 
  • and many more! 

You're free to get off and on the bus at any time during the duration of your ticket to visit particular points of interest. 

Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds New York
The images shown depict wax figures created and owned by Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds New York immerses you in a world of glamour and fame, offering endless opportunities for fun photo ops and selfies with your favorite celebrities, from Taylor Swift and Beyonce to Albert Einstein. Additionally, the museum hosts exciting seasonal exhibits and regular updates to their collection. So, there's always something new to see during your visit!

Whether you're visiting New York City for the first time or you're a local looking for a fun and unique experience, Madame Tussauds New York is an attraction that you simply can't miss. Step into the world of your favorite actors, musicians, athletes, and heroes and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

From posing with the Avengers in the Marvel Super Heroes 4D Experience to standing face-to-face with historical figures and world leaders in the Presidents' Gallery, Madame Tussauds New York provides visitors with a unique and interactive experience like no other.

Book tickets to Madame Tussauds Wax Museum in NYC with Go City

Enjoying the View 

Some of the most popular tourist destinations in New York are just places where you can enjoy a fabulous view of the skyline. The city offers breathtaking views if you can get yourself up to a good vantage point, so try not to miss these attractions: 

The Empire State Building

New York Empire State Building

This New York City attraction has been made famous time and again with cameo appearances in films like An Affair to Remember, Sleepless in Seattle, King Kong, and more. Be sure to head to the Empire State Building's 86th-floor observation deck to check out amazing 360-degree views of the city. 

Take a self-guided multimedia tour to learn more about the incredible sights you’ll see from the top of the city. The Empire State Building accommodates late-night visitors thanks to opening hours that extend until 2am. 

Fun fact: This iconic skyscraper was the tallest building in the world for almost four decades, and was designed by renowned architecture firm Shreve, Lamb, and Harmon in the early 20th century. For more info, check out our guide to visiting the Empire State Building

The Top of the Rock Observatory

View from the Top of the Rock observatory

The Top of the Rock Observatory can be found in one of the iconic hubs of The Big Apple: Rockefeller Plaza. This observation center is located at the top of Rockefeller Center, an extensive complex of 19 different buildings located between 48th and 51st Streets in Midtown.

The Rockefeller Center itself is an important sight, but those who arrange a trip to the top of the observatory enjoy a panoramic view that includes noteworthy NYC skyscrapers like the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center and the Chrysler Building. The view is definitely one of the top 10 things to do in New York.

For more info, check out our guide to visiting the Top of the Rock Observatory. Don't have time to see both, but can't decide which to focus on? Our post comparing the Top of the Rock vs the Empire State Building could be helpful.

The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

Ellis Island and Statue of Liberty

New York City was a prominent welcoming port for immigrants to the United States throughout a significant portion of its history. Today, the Statue of Liberty is not just a symbol of America's history as a welcoming land of opportunity and freedom for immigrants, but also a great vantage point from which to view the sprawling metropolis.

There is a Statue of Liberty ferryboat tours that circle the island, and other tours offered that can be reserved in advance. These tours allow visitors to travel up the stairs to the crown of the statue, which is truly an experience unlike any other.

9/11 Memorial and Museum

9/11 Museum and memorial

One of the most important places in all of NYC is the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, located on the site of the former World Trade Center. This moving attraction recounts the tragic history of one of the darkest days in recent US history through informative and moving exhibits. The 9/11 Memorial is one of the most memorable things to do while in New York City. 

The Museum has three separate sections, detailing the lead-up to, day of, and aftermath of the attacks, with stories from people who witnessed the attacks first-hand and the relics that remain from the rubble. The outside memorial is well-known for its signature water feature and lighting commemorating the names of those who lost their lives on 9/11.

Check out New York's Top Museums

Those who visit NYC should make time as they can for the Big Apple's art. The top museums in New York are arguably some of the city's finest attractions for young and old alike. Wherever your interests lie, you can find a New York City museum to suit your tastes. With a wide spectrum of available exhibits, special events, unique programming, and more, there's never a dull moment on the NYC museum scene.

American Museum of Natural History 

American museum of natural history

As one of New York’s most beloved and top museums, the American Museum of Natural History is equal parts fun and educational. Attracting millions of visitors every year, the American Museum of Natural History is one of the largest museums in the world. It's located right on the west side of Central Park, so it's easy to build into a larger itinerary. 

It includes more than 40 different permanent exhibition halls, covering extensive subjects in the planetary, geological, biological, and anthropological sciences.

Check out our guide for visiting the American Museum of Natural History

The Museum of Modern Art 

Museum of Modern Art, New York Duchamp

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is located in the Midtown area and features collections that focus on more recent artistic productions and diverse artistic media. MoMA exhibits showcase not only works of painting, drawing, sculpture, prints, and architecture, but also photography, illustrated books, and electronic media. 

Some of their most famous holdings include works by Jackson Pollock, Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso, Cindy Sherman, Andy Warhol, and many, many more.

Check out our guide for visiting MoMA during your NYC vacation. 

The Met

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is located on 5th Avenue on the East Side of Central Park, on a stretch commonly known as 'Museum Mile.' The Met is one of the most popular places to go in NYC for visitors interested in art history and gaining a deeper understanding of the studio arts. 

The Met includes more than 15 different curatorial departments and offers exhibits on art from all around the world and across time, with holdings as old as Ancient Egyptian artifacts and as recent as modern-day paintings.

Among the museum's offerings are not only artworks of the Western World dating from the Renaissance period, but also products of Asian, African, Oceanic, Byzantine, Indian, and Islamic art.

Check out our guide for visiting The Met during your trip.

The Guggenheim Museum

Located near the Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Guggenheim is found on the Museum Mile along the East Side of Central Park. The Guggenheim features mainly modern and contemporary art, and it consists of numerous private collections that are shared with sister museums around the world including in Bilbao, Spain, and Venice, Italy.

The unique thing about the Guggenheim is its philosophy of displaying art. Rather than grouping items together by genre (a sculpture gallery, a painting gallery, etc.), the Guggenheim arranges objects in thematic ways that encourage visitors to ponder connections between them. Featured artists include Cézanne, Juan Gris, Kandinsky, Marc Chagall, Klee, and many others.

The Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum

Intrepid Sea Air and Space Museum

Those interested in maritime history should head to the banks of the Hudson around Midtown to visit the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum - which features an aircraft carrier turned museum.

The Intrepid was established as a museum in 1982, but previously the structure served as an aircraft carrier both in the Pacific Theater of World War II and in the Vietnam War. Exhibits at the museum explore the vessel's service history as well as general exhibits on the naval history of the 20th century.

Experiencing NYC from the Water

Visitors to New York shouldn't forget that Manhattan is technically an island. It is surrounded by water on all sides, and this makes it a great place to explore by boat. Whether you're touring from the Upper Bay area below Manhattan, the Hudson on the West side, or the East River, exploring the city by boat is a great way to experience both beautiful views and unforgettable memories.

The Landmark Cruise: Circle Line Sightseeing

Statue of Liberty sightseeing cruise

If you've only got a short time in NYC, then you'll probably want to consider a sightseeing cruise. This Landmarks Cruise with Circle Line Sightseeing is a fun, comprehensive option. This tour includes landmarks located around Manhattan's shores south of Hell's Kitchen on the Hudson and around Lower Manhattan, up to around the 20th Street Level on the East River.

Places you'll see include the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, the High Line, One World Trade Center, the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, DUMBO, the Brooklyn Bridge, and many more.

Other Important Places to Visit

Some destinations in NYC are so iconic that they are renowned all over the world. They're deeply ingrained in the city's culture and lots of people will ask you about these three:

The Yankee Stadium Tour

Yankee Stadium

To tour Yankee Stadium, you'll have to head to the Bronx, and for sports fans, it's often a highlight of their trip. Knowledgeable tour guides take visitors through Yankee Stadium featuring highlights that go beyond the sights you’ve seen on TV. The Yankees remain a significant force in NYC culture, and an in-depth tour of the stadium shows visitors the team spirit of New Yorkers from all five boroughs.

Madison Square Garden Tour Experience

Madison Square Garden

Another can't-miss destination in New York is The World’s Most Famous Arena®, Madison Square Garden. Take a 75-minute guided tour of this historic destination to get a behind-the-scenes look at this iconic venue. Some of the most famous concerts and events have happened here, hear about them in the MSG's Defining Moments exhibits.

The Garden is also home to the New York Rangers NHL team and the New York Knicks NBA team. Sports fans will be interested in knowing how the floor transforms from a basketball court to an ice rink. It's a can't-miss for culture buffs!

Radio City Music Hall Tour Experience

Radio City Music Hall

Radio City Music Hall is a great place to go to enjoy performances by the iconic Rockettes. On the Radio City Music Hall Tour Experience, you will have the opportunity to meet and have your photo taken with a world-famous Rockette.

During the tour, you will also get to view the auditorium, look at the celebrity guestbook, and discover the secrets and history of the Great Stage. Some of the biggest and best names in entertainment have performed on this stage!

Iconic Destinations

Seeing Central Park is a must-do while you're in New York, even if you'll only be staying for a very limited time. This beautiful green space offers a haven from big city living, and it never fails to impress visitors from all parts of the world.

Central Park bike ride

Past visitors to New York City typically lament that they could have spent several days enjoying Central Park. However, you can get to many of the park's top locations during a full-day bike rental, and you'll get some great exercise at the same time. Some of the things you'll want to do during your day at the park include a visit to the Central Park Zoo, a paddleboat ride on the Lake, a relaxing nap at Sheep Meadow, and a tour of the Central Park Mall with its stately elm trees. 

If you have time, enjoy the view of the Great Lawn from the Belvedere Castle and stroll through the Literary Walk to see statues of some of the most widely renowned writers in the English language, including Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Fitz-Greene Halleck. 

Staten Island's Beautiful Views

Staten Island

Staten Island, the southern borough of New York City, has beautiful views. Staten Island includes a lengthy waterfront with picturesque vistas of the New York Harbor, the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty. The best way to admire these panoramas is by taking the Staten Island Ferry.

This 24/7 commuter ferry runs between St. George and Manhattan, taking 25 minutes for each journey. While aboard it allows visitors to take in amazing skylines and harbor scenes - making it a must-experience for those visiting NYC.

A ferry ride is not the only way to enjoy Staten Island's scenic beauty. Visitors can explore Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden, boasting 83 acres of gardens, the Staten Island Museum, and other cultural institutions. It offers views of the harbor and the Manhattan skyline.

The Greenbelt park is also a great way to see nature at its finest, with 2,800 acres of forests and trails. With so many opportunities to explore its stunning views, Staten Island is one of New York City's top attractions.

Coney Island

Coney Island ferris wheel

Coney Island, in the southernmost of Brooklyn, is an ideal destination for anyone looking for fun and excitement. At 2.5 miles long, the iconic boardwalk has plenty of attractions, shops, and restaurants.

One must-ride attraction is the Cyclone roller coaster, which has been a thrill ride since 1927. A nearby landmark is the Wonder Wheel, a Ferris wheel standing 150 feet tall that provides stunning views of the ocean and area. The beach offers miles of soft sand and clear water for swimming or sunbathing and people-watch spots.

Coney Island isn't only about the beach and boardwalk but is a diverse community with a rich history explored at the Coney Island Museum. Visitors can learn about amusement parks, witness sideshow attractions, and observe artifacts from the past. There are opportunities for fishing, surfing, and kayaking in the area.

Consequently, Coney Island is seen as one of the top things to do in New York City and an essential destination for fun and adventure.

Visit Deno's Wonder Wheel at Coney Island with Go City® 

Bryant Park

Battery Park, New York

Bryant Park is a great place to visit in New York City. Located in Midtown Manhattan, the park offers visitors a respite from the hustle and bustle with its lush green lawns and tranquil atmosphere. As one of NYC’s most popular parks, you can relax on the grass or take part in an outdoor activity like yoga or chess.

Plenty of restaurants are nearby for grabbing a bite to eat after your time at the park, as well as numerous shops and attractions that make Bryant Park an ideal destination for tourists looking for an enjoyable day out. From movie screenings in the summer to ice skating in the winter and art exhibitions all year round, there is always something happening here.

Times Square

Times Square

Times Square is one of the top things to do in New York City, and for good reason. From its bright neon lights to its vibrant energy and entertainment, Times Square is an experience like no other. With its endless restaurants, shops, theaters, and quirky attractions it's no wonder why so many people flock to this destination each year.

At night, Times Square comes alive with the hustle and bustle of tourists and locals alike, who all share in the excitement that comes with being part of this unique neighborhood. Whether you're looking for a bite to eat, street performers, or just some great people-watching, you can find it here. Plus it's only steps away from popular Broadway shows like 'The Lion King,' making a visit to Times Square even more enjoyable.

The food offerings at Times Square are seemingly endless; there's something for every palate including Italian, Mexican, Chinese, and classic American favorites.

FAQs

Q: What must I see when in New York City?

A: There are countless must-see attractions in New York City, from iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty to world-renowned museums like the American Museum of Natural History and the Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET). Whether you're interested in history, art, culture, or just soaking up the energy of this vibrant city, you're sure to find something that inspires you.

Q: What's the best way to explore New York City?

A: One of the best ways to explore New York City is by taking a bus tour, like the popular Hop On Hop Off Big Bus Tours or the unique and interactive experience offered by THE RIDE. These tours offer a fun and informative way to see many of the city's top buildings, tourist attractions, and locations, while professional comedic hosts provide fun and interesting context to the sights you'll see with history, fun facts, trivia, and even karaoke.

Q: What are some of the most breathtaking views of New York City?

A: There are plenty of places in New York City where you can enjoy a fabulous view of the skyline, but some of the most popular include the Empire State Building's 86th-floor observation deck. It offers amazing 360-degree views of the city, The Top of the Rock Observatory, located at the top of Rockefeller Center features a panoramic view that includes noteworthy NYC skyscrapers like the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, and the Chrysler Building.

Q: What are some other important places to visit in New York City?

A: In addition to the many world-renowned museums and iconic landmarks in New York City, there are also lesser-known destinations worth a visit. For sports fans, a tour of Yankee Stadium or Madison Square Garden is often a highlight of their trip, while those interested in maritime history should head to the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum. And of course, no trip to New York City would be complete without a stroll through Central Park or a visit to the always-exciting Times Square.

Q: Is it possible to save on admission to top attractions in New York City?
A: Yes! There are plenty of ways to save on admission to top attractions in New York City, including purchasing a New York Explorer or All-Inclusive Pass, which offers discounted admission tickets to your favorite destinations. With so many amazing things to see and do in New York City, it's always a good idea to keep an eye out for ways to save a little money while still experiencing everything this incredible city has to offer.

New York City skyline at sunset

Save on Admission to Top Attractions

That's a wrap - our top picks for the most popular and top things to do in NYC for first-time visitors during their vacation. Whether you are traveling with young kids, teens, or adults, we're sure you will all have a great time.

Many of these must-see attractions are available to visit with Go City®. Choose from dozens of popular New York attractions and save on combined admission vs paying at the gate.

🤩 >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you.

😎 >> If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our Explorer Pass is the perfect option.

🌎 Explore other destinations 🌎

Lindsay Eagan
Go City Travel Expert

Continue reading

Blog

Things to do in Chinatown

A renowned cultural hub, New York City is home to the most prominent ethnic Chinese population outside of Asia. Situated in Lower Manhattan, the neighborhood brings people together from all walks of life to experience a taste of Asian culture. Whether you’re looking to visit the Museum of Chinese in America, go bargain hunting on Canal Street, or play chess at Columbus Park, this unique area of the city offers a little something for everybody. So, if you’re planning on exploring Chinatown, make sure to read through our guide of the best things to do whilst you're there. We promise you won’t leave disappointed! Get to know the Area Those who are looking to learn more about Asian American identity might appreciate the next item on our list. Situated in the heart of Chinatown, the Museum of Chinese in America seeks to present the community’s living history and heritage for a broad audience. The institute’s fascinating collection features everything from intricate textiles and artworks to antique business signs and laundry tools. It doesn’t take long to view everything in this relatively small museum, which means you’ll have plenty of time to grab a bite to eat at one of the area’s fantastic restaurants. Whilst New York is known for the Empire State Building and the Chrysler, the city presents countless hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. Constructed in 1887, the Eldridge Street Synagogue is recognized as one of the oldest synagogues in the United States. Visitors can take tours to admire its Moorish arches, Romanesque masonry, and stunning stained-glass windows. In addition, you’ll be able to learn more about the history behind this architectural marvel and the religious practices and traditions which are held there. Because the museum is a little more under-the-radar, a lot of visitors come here showing more interest than your average museumgoer. To rest your weary legs after some serious touring, grab a delicious snack from one of the many local bakeries and head over to Columbus Park. Situated in the historic Five Points neighborhood of Manhattan, the park is recognized as one of the oldest parks in the city. With its beautiful fountains and winding pathways, this place serves as the perfect place for a spot of recreation and people watching. Since the park serves as a meeting place for members of the community, you may catch traditional musical performances and people playing Chinese games. Get Cultured Chinatown has far more to offer than just its delicious food stops. Those who are interested in expanding their horizons a little should head over to Mahayana Buddhist Temple for an unforgettable cultural experience. Situated just at the foot of the Manhattan Bridge, this place is thought to be the biggest Buddhist temple in the city. Upon entrance, you’ll be able to view their 16-ft high Buddha statue and wall plaques telling his life story. We recommend dressing appropriately with shoulders and knees covered. Another one of our favorite things to do in Chinatown is visit the Mmuseumm. Since 2012, this place has been providing a refreshing break away from the typical museum experience with its quirky collection of oddities and fascinating artifacts. Walking around the institution is kind of a trip; you’ll find everything from toothpaste tubes from around the globe to objects made by prisoners. With its mesmerizing exhibits and peculiar take on contemporary society, it’s impossible not to get drawn in. Artist's Space is one of the best places to visit in Chinatown for creative types. Known as one of the first alternative galleries in the city, the museum specializes in exhibiting up-and-coming contemporary creatives. Since their debut in 1972, the institute has launched the careers of many well-renowned artists, including Cindy Sherman and Laurie Simmons. The repository itself covers all bases; you’ll find everything from abstract paintings and avant-garde sculptures to video and electronic media here. And who knows? You might be stumbling across the next big thing in the art world. Find Fun Activities If you’re travelling with kids, you might want to check out Chinatown Fair Family Fun Center. Billed as New York Citys ‘’last great arcade’’, this place offers a unique entertainment experience for you and your loved ones. Inside, you’ll be able to find a fantastic mix of retro generation games and competitive fighting games. Catering to seasoned players and novices alike, this hidden treasure presents a whole world of fun just waiting to be unlocked. Attention all bargain shoppers! If you’re looking for the ultimate retail therapy experience, then look no further! Though Canal Street isn’t usually considered one of New York’s greatest thoroughfares, it definitely should be. Flanked with a wide array of intriguing stalls and buzzing with life, this lively street has earned its status as a hawkers’ paradise. Walking down the street, you’ll be eagerly approached by vendors trying to sell you copies of every kind of designer brand under the sun. With its great deals and high-paced energy, you won’t want to miss out on this one! Are you looking for an experience that will excite your taste buds? Don’t worry, we got you covered! Since its opening in 1978, the Chinatown Ice Cream Factory has been serving up nothing but pure, delicious goodness. Flavors range from classic to exotic, but with a small twist; among the traditional flavors are citrusy, refreshing green tea ice cream, a floral pandan sorbet, and a sweet mango ice cream; meanwhile the exotic choices are vanilla, chocolate and strawberry. Whichever you choose, it’s impossible to go wrong! Packed with living history and bustling with life, a trip to Chinatown is always a trip worth making. Whether you’re a foodie, an artsy type, or an architecture geek, you’re sure to find something to pique your interest. Check out the best Chinese food in the city, view some world-class art and see one of the oldest synagogues in the country – the world’s your oyster! Discover all that Chinatown has to offer with our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
Blog

New York City Labor Day Weekend - 10+ Fun Things to Do in September

Labor Day weekend is one of the last chances for a summer getaway. New York City is certainly going to be a fun and festive place to be on this long weekend. If you’re looking for New York City Labor Day Weekend ideas, check out some of these local activities and fun things do in New York City in September, including... Metropolitan Museum of Art Empire State Building Top of the Rock Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Immigration Museum Brooklyn Bridge Bike Tours Central Park Tours NYC Labor Day Parade Brooklyn Bridge Park Pool And more! From sights that should be on every NYC bucket list to Labor Day special events, we've got you covered. 1. Empire State Building It goes without saying, but we'll say it anyway. The Empire State Building is a must-see and should be among your biggest priorities when planning your NYC Labor Day vacation. As one of the most iconic buildings in the city, there's no way you can miss out on a chance to climb to the top. Visit the 86th floor observation deck and look upon the entire city from 1,050 feet above ground. The building is located in the heart of Manhattan, so there's plenty to see and do before or after you visit the top! 2. The Metropolitan Museum of Art The Metropolitan Museum of Art, or the Met, is consistently voted of TripAdvisor’s Top 25 Museums in the United States. From modern Europe to ancient Oceania, the Met covers every culture and every artistic medium around the world. We suggest you head to the rooftop to enjoy refreshments, soak up stunning New York City skyline views of Manhattan and Central Park, and see what temporary installation exhibits they're hosting on the roof. Keep in mind that the Met has two sister institutions, too: the Met Cloisters, featuring secular and religious medieval art and Met Breuer, with a focus on contemporary art. You can visit either of those two for free with a ticket from the Met for three consecutive days! 3. Top of the Rock Another great place to see the city from above is at the Top of the Rock Observatory. Travel 800 feet up to one of three observation decks at the famous 30 Rock building. From the very top, you'll have a clear view of the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, One World Trade Center, Central Park and more. While both the Empire State Building and the Top of the Rock are famous in their own right, many people say that Top of the Rock has more unobstructed views these days. If you don't want to pay a visit to both, keep that in mind when choosing. 4. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Another great culturally-enriching option for travelers to New York is the Museum of Modern Art. The MoMA is a top artistic institution in NYC, filled with a variety of mediums and art installations by the most famous artists in history. Some of the most notable works that call the museum home include Van Gogh's The Starry Night, Claude Monet's Reflections of Clouds, and Andy Warhol's Campbell's Soup Cans. 5. Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Immigration Museum For history buffs and those who are New York-obsessed, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Immigration Museum should definitely be on your itinerary. General admission to both is free, but you will need to pay for the ferry ticket to get to both attractions. Both the museum and the iconic statue serve as a huge part of New York's history. Learn more about Lady Liberty, a gift from France, and the story of Ellis Island with a self-guided audio tour. Ellis Island is also an important piece of American history for those whose families came to the United States during the first half of the twentieth century. Check out their moving exhibits, especially the Peopling of America Galleries. From the island, you'll have unmatched views of Lady Liberty up close as well as a fantastic landscape of downtown Manhattan. 6. Rent a bike Photo via iStock There's no better way to take advantage of a beautiful day in New York City than to rent a bike--especially if you're going to take that bike over the Brooklyn Bridge! Whether you're looking to go solo and make your own route, or you want to follow a guided bike tour of all the must-see spots, a bike ride over the bridge is guaranteed to make your trip that much better. 7. Central Park By Ingfbruno (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia CommonsAnother great place to rent a bike or take a tour is Central Park. Central Park is the most-visited public park in the entire country! And it's no wonder -- the park is gigantic and chock-full of things to see and do. Rent a bike to get some exercise while you sightsee and keep your kids busy. If you'd prefer a bit of guidance on your peddling, take a bike tour with an expert local tour guide who will showcase all the most significant spots in Central Park, from the Shakespeare Garden to the Cherry Hill Fountain. You can even take a walking tour that will bring you to all the spots in Central Park where movies and TV shows have been filmed. This tour is specialized option for seeing the park, but it can be a great way to tap into your love of media (or your kids' media obsessions!). 8. Coney Island Head to Coney Island for some classic boardwalk fun. It's the perfect place to bring back memories of your own childhood and help your kids create new memories of their own. From carnival games to amusement park rides, Coney Island has it all. Visit Luna Park and test your bravery on rides like the Steeplechase, Brooklyn Flyer, Power Surge and more. Get a wristband for the day and enjoy all the exciting rides that fill the boardwalk. You can also relax on one of the public beaches, explore the parks, or even check out a Brooklyn Cyclones game (a minor league baseball team). There's also the nearby New York Aquarium as well as the modest but engaging Coney Island Museum, which is well worth the $5/per adult admission. 9. New York City Labor Day Parade The New York City Labor Day Parade is the annual parade run by the New York City Labor Council in celebration of the working men and women who contribute to New York City. This year the parade will run on Saturday, September 10th, 2022, beginning at 10:00 am. Starting at 44th Street & Fifth Avenue, the parade makes its way through the city filled with local-made floats. Please note, this parade takes place the Saturday after Labor Day Weekend. 10. Brooklyn Bridge Park Pool Photo by Etienne Frossard Don't miss a chance to swim with the Brooklyn Bridge as your backdrop. Since its 2012 debut, the Pop Up Pool at Brooklyn Bridge Park has been a crowd favorite. To avoid overcrowding, visitors are given a 45-minute timed session to splash around and soak in the sun at one of the best parks in NYC. Access to the beach is free to the public, but as mentioned there is a time limit. This is a good alternative to pricey pool clubs in the city and is a nice idea if your hotel doesn't have a pool. 11. Riis Park Beach Bazaar Photo via Dylan Johnson Though a beach day is probably not the first thing on your mind when you're planning a trip to the Big Apple, it's definitely worth adding to your to-do list. The Jack Riis National Park is located right in Queens and hosts an all-summer long party that ends Labor Day Weekend. Don't miss the final hurrah, complete with live music, great food and drinks, and tons of boardwalk games. This national park is open to the public free of charge. 12. West Indian Day Carnival (Labor Day Parade) Photo via Filip Wolak The biggest cultural festival in NYC is the West Indian-American Day Carnival, also known as the Labor Day Carnival Parade, in Brooklyn. This celebration of Caribbean culture features marchers in elaborate costumes promenading down the Eastern Parkway to the sounds of reggae and calypso. The parade takes place on Monday, September 10, 2022 and begins at 11 am. For spectators, tasty ethnic food and drink is also available. Favorites include jerk chicken, fried flying fish, rice and beans, and johnnycakes. Admission is free and open to the public. 13. Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit Photo via Rebecca MB. Pearson Stop in at Washington Square and catch one of the many artists set up there working on portraits and pieces. Hundreds of exhibitors, from NYU students to artists who were born and raised in the Village, display their paintings, sculptures, jewelry, photography and more. The show takes place on University Place starting at E 13th Street. These art exhibits are free and open to the public, so they make for a good budget-friendly option this Labor Day. Save on Attraction Admission Regular admission to a number of these New York attractions are available on the New York Explorer Pass®. Choose as you go from 90 top attractions and save up to 50% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. We hope you consider visiting some of these attractions to help round out your summer vacation in style. Share your adventure with us Remember to tag @GoCity in your holiday snaps and we'll feature you on our page. Follow the Go City Instagram and Facebook pages for competitions, special offers, and events and inspiration for your chosen destination too! https://www.instagram.com/gocity/
Casey Makovich

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.

Thick check Icon