American Museum of Natural History Discount Tickets & Tips for Your Visit

By Lindsay Eagan

Check out our helpful guide for visiting New York's American Museum of Natural History, packed full of ways to save on admission, tips for visiting, nearby attractions, and much more. Fans of the Night at the Museum series will recognize the massive façade of New York’s American Museum of Natural History, complete with the iconic sculpture of Teddy Roosevelt – although this one doesn't talk! There is a reason that this museum has been the setting for so many films and books; in addition to its architecture and Central Park adjacent location, it is filled with some of the world’s oldest and most spectacular wonders.

How to buy American Museum of Natural History discount tickets?

We’ve got you covered – American Museum of Natural History admission is available with the below money saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that’s right for you: 1. Explorer Pass – Choose as you go. Includes admission of up to 10 attractions. 2. Build Your Own Pass – Select the attractions you want to visit prior to visiting. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. Please note: Your Pass entitles you to free general admission. If you would like to upgrade your admission ticket to include a temporary exhibit, IMAX or 3D film, OR a Hayden Planetarium Space Show, you may do so directly at the Museum.

Tips for Visiting the American Museum of Natural History

Image of Indoors, Museum, Person, Computer Hardware, Monitor, Screen, Make a plan: The Museum of Natural History is quite sizable, and it can be easy to wind through an exhibition hall and lose your track. Insider tip? The main entrance from Central Park West is actually the museum's second floor, so keep this in mind when planning your route. Relax under the whale: The Milstein Family Hall of Ocean Life is home to the museum's famous life-sized blue whale. While it is certainly a site to behold, the room also has a pleasant area to sit and take in some videos focused on ocean exploration, and allows plenty of room for kids to play around in! Look for interactive exhibits: While most museums keep their collections behind layers of security, there are some exhibits in the Museum of Natural History that encourage visitors to touch and engage with them. These can be particularly exciting for children! Keep in mind that not all items can be touched, so look for the signs! Take kids to the discovery room: For even more hands-on fun, children between 5 and 12 will love being able to explore science with specially designed interactive activities. Bring a flashlight: Okay, not really. But, it's important to note that some of the museum's exhibitions have purposely low light, so be prepared for different lighting levels. Download the free Explorer app: The free app includes museum maps and allows visitors to take self-guided tours, and provides plenty of additional information on exhibits. The museum does have free WiFi, so you can download the app on-site if you want. Consult the museum map before your visit: Be sure to look over the museum map before your visit to help you plan which exhibits you want to see, and which ones you might be able to save for next time if the kids get tired.

When is the best time to visit the American Museum of Natural History?

Image of City, Urban, Shop, Shopping Mall, Road, Street, Traffic Light, Person, Arch, Try to visit the Museum of Natural History during the week to cut down on crowds, since weekends are always the busiest. Keep in mind that many schools do organize daily groups to the museum, so early afternoon is an ideal time since most school groups will have finished their visits for the day. In search of shorter lines? The Rose Center entrance usually attracts fewer crowds and could be a good option to save you some time.

How much time do you need at the American Museum of Natural History?

There is so much to see and do inside the museum, you could spend the whole day there! Plan to take at least 2 hours and 30 minutes to tour the museum to make the most of your visit. However, if you are planning on viewing a show or special exhibition, plan to be there for up to 3 hours and 30 minutes.

What should I bring to the American Museum of Natural History?

  • Camera: The museum encourages visitors to document their experience in photos, but keep in mind that selfie sticks aren’t allowed. You can use flash photography, although not in all areas.
  • Bottle of Water: The museum doesn't allow outside food, but you can bring in a bottle of water. Well-placed water fountains make great places to top off your bottle.
  • Nothing bigger than a purse: You will need to check any items larger than a purse at the Coat Check, and the museum won't allow you to check small luggage or oversized bags. Keep in mind that coat check does cost an additional $2, and the lines can get very long in the cold months. There is an extra coat check located in the Rose Center that is available during winter months (with much shorter lines!)

What to do at the American Museum of Natural History?

Image of Animal, Elephant, Mammal, Wildlife, The Museum of Natural History often has special exhibitions that require additional entry fees, but the permanent exhibits are home to the museum’s most iconic features. Visitors will be able to experience how man and nature have interacted over the years, and how the planet has changed and evolved. Here is a quick look at some of the permanent exhibitions!

Hall of Biodiversity and Environmental Halls

Image of Person, Image Credit: American Museum of Natural History
These first-floor exhibits explore the world’s natural life. The Hall of Biodiversity contains many interactive experiences that can help visually illustrate the ways on which all life is interconnected. The Hall of North American Forests features some impressive examples of centuries-old redwoods, and of course, no trip to the museum would be complete without a stop at the Irma and Paul Milstein Family Hall of Ocean Life. Here visitors can see the massive blue whale, one of the museum’s most famous inhabitants.

Birds and Reptiles and Amphibians Halls

Image of Indoors, Museum, Image Credit: American Museum of Natural History
Full of wildlife, the dioramas and exhibits on the second and third floors show examples of some of the world’s most exotic small creatures. These animals hails from all over the globe, and from right around NYC, to give you a sense of the scope. Visitors can check out replicas of these animals in their natural habitat and learn more about how they evolved over time.

Mammal Halls

Image of Indoors, Museum, Image Credit: American Museum of Natural History
The Museum of Natural History’s dioramas are perhaps the most famous of their kind in the world. These incredibly detailed representations of some of the world’s most fascinating creatures in their natural habitats are so realistic that you will almost think you see them moving! Creatures from all over the world are presented in full-scale meticulous detail - did that tiger just blink?

Earth and Planetary Sciences Halls

Image of Indoors, Museum, These areas of the museum are fascinating for people of all ages, as they contain examples of rare gemstones and objects related to minerals and geology. The Arthur Ross Hall of Meteorites contains the massive Ahnighito, a 34-ton piece of meteorite which is estimated to be 4.5 billion years old. In the Gottesman Hall of Planet Earth visitors will be able to see examples of how minerals and rock formations occur to make our natural landscape.

Fossil Halls

Image of Indoors, Museum, Animal, Dinosaur, The top floor fossil halls are definitely one of the museum’s highlights. Want to meet a T-Rex? The Hall of Saurischian Dinosaurs contains one of these terrifying creatures, in addition to examples of velociraptors and Allosaurus.* There's even an excitingly massive Titanosaur! Enormous extinct mammoths are found in the Paul and Irma Milstein Hall of Advanced Mammals, and massive sharks and sea creatures, straight out of a horror movie, are in the Hall of Vertebrate Origins. *Please note that as of Winter 2018, the Hall of Saurischian Dinosaurs is currently undergoing restoration work and will reopen upon completion. Please consult the attraction website directly to confirm the status of this section during your visit.

Human Origins and Cultural Halls

Image of Indoors, Museum, Image Credit: American Museum of Natural History
While the museum has an abundance of information about the natural environment, it is also filled with artifacts from the history of human life. With examples from Tibetan Buddhism in the Gardner D. Stout Hall of Asian Peoples and massive totems from Native Americans in the Hall of Northwest Coast Indians, much of the museum is truly a journey through human history. Be sure you make it to the Margaret Mead Hall of Pacific Peoples to meet the Easter Island head, who you may know as "Dum-Dum." Don't be shy, and get up close and personal with the model for some unforgettable photos!

Rose Center for Earth and Space

Image of Airport, Shop, Shopping Mall, Backpack, Person, Terminal, The museum is also dedicated to exploring the cosmos and the Rose Center is home to exhibits exploring the history of the universe. The world-famous Hayden Planetarium is located here, but you can still learn plenty if you decide not to buy the additional ticket for a show.

Which attractions are near the American Museum of Natural History?

There are plenty of other great attractions located nearby. Here are a few we suggest adding to your itinerary...

  • The Metropolitan Museum of Art is a beautiful walk (or cab ride) through Central Park and explores the cultural history of the world in great depth.
  • The Guggenheim Museum, which focuses on more contemporary art forms, is also a pleasant ride through Central Park. The Frank Lloyd Wright-designed building is one of New York's most iconic structures.
  • The New York Historic Society is a few blocks away and focuses on significant events in the history of New York, many of which are tied into important events in American history.

Where to eat near the American Museum of Natural History? What restaurants are near the American Museum of Natural History?

  • Museum Food Court - Inside the museum visitors can stop at the lower level food court for a vast selection of dishes appropriate for palates of all ages.
  • Café on One & Four - There is also a small café with light bites on the first floor and another on the fourth floor.
  • Starlight Café - Located on the first floor, adjecent to the Hayden Planetarium.

That being said, there are plenty of options for dining around the Upper West Side location.

  • Shake Shack (366 Columbus Avenue) - No longer do you need to stand in long lines to enjoy the burgers and fries at Shake Shack, one of New Yorkers’ favorite places to grab a quick bite.
  • Jacques Torres (285 Amsterdam Avenue) - Visiting in the middle of winter? You can't miss a Jacques Torres hot chocolate. While the menu focuses around chocolate, this makes a great place to reward the family after a long museum visit!

How to get to the American Museum of Natural History?

Hours

  • Daily, 10:00 am-5:45 pm
  • Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. All holiday hours are subject to change without notice.

Directions & Address

Central Park West at 79th St. New York, NY 10024 The main entrance to the Rose Center for Earth and Space is located at 81st Street between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue. Public Transportation: By Subway: B (weekdays only) or C trains to 81st Street station; 1 train to 79th Street station at Broadway. Walk two blocks east to the Museum. By Bus: M79 to 81st Street

Is there parking at the American Museum of Natural History?

There is a parking garage at the American Museum of Natural History. You can find it at 81st Street between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue. It is open from 8 am–11 pm and costs up to$26 for 1 hour, $29 for 2 hours, $36 for 3-5 hours, $46 for 5-10 hours and $51 for max to close.

Save on Tickets with a New York City Explorer Pass

Remember, the New York City Explorer Pass® is the best choice for savings and flexibility, which includes American Museum of Natural History tickets, plus admission to your choice of other top attractions. Save up to 50% on top museums, tours, and activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple New York City attractions for one low price.

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The Upper East Side, New York Guide

The Upper East Side is a neighborhood in Manhattan between 59th street and 96th street to the east of Central Park. The New York neighborhood is famous for its high-end stores and upscale restaurants. However, there are tons of budget-friendly attractions to enjoy in the Upper East Side. Art fans will especially love the Upper East Side, as it’s home to plenty of galleries and museums. Check out our list of New York City attractions in the Upper East Side, including... The Metropolitan Museum of Art The Guggenheim The Met Breuer Neue Galerie Central Park And more! Save on admission to New York attractions The New York Explorer Pass provides admission to many popular New York attractions. You could save up to 50% on admission vs gate price. Galleries in the Upper East Side The Metropolitan Museum of Art The Metropolitan Museum of Art, or ‘the Met’ as it’s also known, is one of the most popular attractions in New York City. It is the largest art museum in the United States and home to art spanning over 5,000 years. So whether you enjoy Medieval art or contemporary photography, there is sure to be something to inspire the whole family. As well as its permanent collection, the Met is always exhibiting exciting temporary collections. Currently, they are showing “Camp: Notes on Fashion” (until September 8, 2019), and Alicja Kwade’s “Parapivot” at the gallery’s roof garden (until October 27, 2019). So even if you’ve visited before, there is always something new to see. A visit to the Upper East Side would be incomplete without a visit to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Getting in: Admission to the Metropolitan Museum of Art is included with the New York Explorer Pass. The Guggenheim The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum is just as famous for its striking architecture as it is for the art it contains. The museum’s modern, Frank Lloyd Wright-designed exterior stands out among the classic 5th Avenue buildings. But you have to step inside to truly appreciate the Guggenheim Museum. The Guggenheim Museum exhibits temporary collections as well as its permanent collection, so check ahead to see what’s being displayed during your visit. Currently, there are exhibitions such as Basquiat’s “Defacement: The Untold Story,” (until November 6, 2019), and “Implicit Tensions: Mapplethorpe Now,” (until January 5, 2020). Even if you visit for the architecture alone, the Guggenheim should be on your Upper East Side itinerary. Getting in: Admission to the Guggenheim Museum is included with the New York Explorer Pass. The Met Breuer The Met Breuer is part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, but this gallery focuses on modern and contemporary art. Head here if you’re interested in exciting, contemporary pieces that unlike any art in traditional art museums. Explore a sculpture collection inspired by nature in Mrinalini Mukherjee’s “Phenomenal Nature” (until September 2019), or “Home is a foreign place,” which is a collection highlighting contemporary art from Latin America, the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia, as well as art by American artists, (until June 21, 2020). Getting in: Admission to The Met Breuer with an audio tour is included with the New York Explorer Pass. Neue Galerie If the art lover in your group is still not satisfied, head to Neue Galerie. The Neue Galerie is an art museum focusing on early twentieth-century art by German and Austrian artists. See work by Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele, (until September 2, 2020) plus the Neue Galerie’s permanent, collection featuring a range of art from paintings to sculptures. Take a guided tour around the museum at 3:30 PM on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday to make the most of your visit. Or, take an audio tour which is free with admission. Getting in: Admission to Neue Galerie is not included with the New York Explorer pass and tickets must be purchased separately. Admission is half price until September 2, 2019. Please note: children under 12 are not admitted. Central Park As the Upper East Side is adjacent to Central Park, there are plenty of fun attractions and landmarks to visit in the park itself, including... The Central Park Zoo: Kids will love visiting the zoo. They’ll get to see snow leopards and red pandas up close – not what you’d expect from a trip to New York City! Alice in Wonderland statue: Visiting the Alice in Wonderland statue is a must for families visiting Central Park. Kids get to climb, play, and interact with Alice, the Mad Hatter, and the White Rabbit. It’s a great photo opportunity too. Balto statue: The Balto statue commemorates a sled dog who delivered medicine to save children in Alaska. Erected in 1925, Balto is still standing proudly. Gapstow Bridge: The Gapstow Bridge is a must-visit Central Park location. It offers great views of the skyline and The Pond. Plus, it has featured in a few movies, like Home Alone 2 and The Devil Wears Prada. Getting in: Admission to Central Park is free. You must purchase tickets to the Central Park Zoo separately. Admission to the Central Park Walking Tour is included with the New York Explorer Pass. Restaurants in the Upper East Side Upscale restaurants are the star of the Upper East Side. However, there are plenty of family-friendly options too. Check out our recommendations for restaurants in the Upper East Side, including... JG Melon: This laid-back pub is known for its delicious American burgers. A favorite with locals, this place can get busy, but it’s worth it. Please note that JG Melon is cash only. San Matteo Pizzeria e Cucina: Pizza fans have to head to San Matteo for wood-fired pizzas and casual, affordable dining. Up Thai: This Thai place is known for its extensive menu, good value and is vegetarian-friendly. It’s popular, so it can get busy, so make sure to reserve ahead of time. Candle 79: Vegans visiting the Upper East Side have to visit Candle 79. It’s a little pricier but has tons of delicious vegan options. Head here for brunch, lunch or dinner! If you don’t want to take too much time out of your day, the Upper East Side also has plenty of fast-food restaurants. You could eat at fast-food favorites like Chipotle, Taco Bell, Shake Shack, McDonald’s and Subway. In summary Why not add a few of these Upper East Side attractions to your New York itinerary? Check out our top tips for visiting New York City.
Seren Morris
New york skyline at night with lit windows, plus lit-up tops of Empire State and Chrysler building
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Things to do in New York for a Birthday

“It’s up to yoouuu, New York Ne-ew Yoooork!” Take it Frank! Make the promises of that karaoke classic come true. Because there’s nothing better than celebrating a birthday in New York City. And exactly how you celebrate is indeed up to you! Unwrap our suggestions, grab your sightseeing pass and start spreading the news...The Big Apple is too big for an exhaustive list but we hope you’ll be inspired by some of our best NYC birthday ideas. Treats we’ve wrapped up include: The best food in New York New York Harbor Cruises Luna Park on Coney Island Exploring Central Park Following in the footsteps of celebrities Taking in a Broadway show Hitting the high spots (including a New York helicopter flight) Posing for rooftop photoshoot and making memories Discover the best food in New York Let’s start as we mean to go on - filling our faces! Begin your day of celebration with breakfast the American way. Tuck into a tower of fluffy pancakes, served with crispy bacon, blueberries and a stream of sticky maple syrup. Enjoy eggs every way you can imagine. Bag bagels and cream cheese, biscuits and gravy, cinnamon rolls, English muffins, Belgian waffles, fruit salad - all washed down with unlimited caw-fee...Shall we stop yet? The Tick Tock Diner on 8th Avenue (corner of 34th) is not only the largest diner in NYC but serves breakfast around the clock. Happily, whatever the time of day, the melting pot of culture that is NYC means you can find pretty much any cuisine of your dreams - whether you’re satisfied with a street stall or looking to have your cake and eat it at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Pick up some tasty treats at multi-cultural Chelsea Market, in the heart of the funky Meatpacking District, renowned as one of the greatest indoor food markets in the world. Chefs and locals crowd this formerly industrial space to select prime cuts of meat, fresh fish and artisan cheese, whilst tourists stop by for premium burgers, Italian gelato, pizza, pastrami, bagels, hot dogs, Chinese, Korean BBQ...the list is deliciously endless... A Food on Foot Tour will help you discover even more authentic eateries and best kept snack secrets. Choose the Midtown Mix Tour to chow down like a local in Manhattan or the Go West Tour to discover the culinary diversity of historic Hell’s Kitchen. To enjoy the flavours of the neighbourhood known particularly for its Eastern European Jewish community, opt for a Tastes of the Lower East Side walking tour and pick up delicacies such as a true kosher pickle, a knish, a bialy and the famous black and white cookie. Cruise New York Harbor - fast or slow Once you’ve satisfied your appetite, why not push the birthday boat out - literally - with a morning or afternoon of leisurely sight-seeing aboard a Best of New York Circle Line Cruise? Whatever the time of year, indoor seats or a huge outdoor deck make it a fun yet relaxing way to tick off some of New York’s best sights. You’ll cruise all three rivers and see around 130 landmarks including the full Manhattan Skyline, the Yankee Stadium, Greenwich Village and the Financial District. If you’re tight for time, with more birthday fun to pull in, the Circle Line Landmarks Cruise is a shorter - 90 minute - tour of the premium views, including the Brooklyn Bridge and the Chrysler Building. Later, for a magical twilight finale to a special day, set sail on a Harbor Lights Cruise which departs just as the sun sets. An onboard bar serves beer, wine, cocktails and soft drinks so you can raise a birthday toast as you watch that unforgettable skyline twinkle into life. If you’re celebrating a teen birthday - or simply feel the need for speed - maybe ditch the gentle cruise in favour of a blast from The Beast. Get on board this mean, green, jet-powered speedboat to roar down the Hudson river at speeds of up to 40 knots? It’s loud, it’s fast and, since the crew have been known to wield water guns, you’re likely to get wet! Whichever you choose, birthday candles can’t hold a torch to Lady Liberty. Fast or slow, all harbor cruises make time for mandatory photo opps of New York’s most famous icon. Smile please! Ride classic coasters at Coney Island If thrills and spills are your idea of birthday fun, how about a trip to Coney Island’s legendary Luna Park? From families with kids, to coaster connoisseurs, there’s something for everyone at this fun seaside destination, around 10 miles from the city. The first Luna Park, opened in 1903, was renowned for its ground-breaking attractions and the miracle that was electric lights. Although that park burned down in 1944 it inspired dozens more ‘lunaparks’ around the world and the amusement park that still stands on the site has all the colourful quirkiness of the original. Enjoy its timeless charm as you stroll the boardwalk, play the sideshows and thrill to rides including the 137ft Astro Tower, the Steeplechase coaster and the Brooklyn Flyer chair swing. Then brace yourself for launch as extreme thrill ride Slingshot catapults you into the air at 90mph. Luna Park is also home to the historic Cyclone Roller Coaster, a bone-shaking, breath-taking wooden coaster dating from 1927 that is registered as a New York City Landmark. Dare you ride? Explore Central Park Whether you’re looking for action on your special day or prefer more laid-back celebrations you’re sure to find a destination or activity to suit in Central Park, possibly the world’s most well-known urban green space and beloved by locals and tourists alike. Take a carriage tour, relax in a rowboat or get up close to the animals at the zoo...Perhaps you’ll get your legs pumping and your heart singing with a two-hour bike tour that takes in top sights like Belvedere Castle, the Imagine Mosaic and Strawberry Fields. Put your best foot forward on a walking tour of little known paths and ponds along with famous fountains and statues. Or simply pick up some snacks (and a birthday cake of course) and unwind with the perfect picnic. Follow in the footsteps of celebrities Whilst we’re in Central Park are you getting a niggling feeling that you’ve somehow been there before? To sort out the sights you’ve seen on screen try tagging along on a TV & Movie Sights tour. Where did Kevin meet the bird lady in Home Alone? Is that the bridge where Buddy throws snowballs in Elf? Shed light on locations from Love Story, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Enchanted and Glee to name a few...All so familiar. And super fun. If you love that kind of celebrity stalking, why stop at Central Park, when there’s a whole city awash with spots you’ll recognise from the big and small screens. Jump on an NYC TV and Movie Bus Tour to grab a selfie at classic locations like the Friends apartment building, the Ghostbusters Firehouse and familiar places from Ocean’s Eight, Spiderman and loads more... There’s even a special movie tour for fans of Marvel and DC Superheroes. Capes at the ready... Take in a Broadway show New York is known the world over for its sparkling theatre district. So grab your popcorn, get your feet a tappin’ and take your seats for a birthday performance. Even if you don’t know your jive from your jazz hands, with 41 Broadway theatres, each typically offering 8 performances a week, we’re confident you’ll find something you’ll enjoy. There are shows for literally every taste and age group, from straight drama, to comedy, performance art (the Blue Man Group) and original music (like the physical percussive show, Stomp). Or maybe, like most, you’ll opt for the magic of the musicals? Choose from family favourites like The Lion King, Aladdin or Wicked, or long-running classics like Phantom of the Opera or Chicago. Perhaps one of the big-name shows of recent years - think Hamilton or Come from Away - will capture your heart? To scout out the options or learn more about the area, the theatres and the stars, why not join a walking tour of Broadway and Times Square? From the glamour to the ghost stories, you’ll be centre stage for all the showbiz gossip, trivia and history. On your birthday, after all, the spotlight is on you! Hit some high spots Wheeee! A helicopter ride over New York is about as awesome as it gets. Unless you’re some kind of seasoned celebrity it’s an incredible once-in-a-lifetime thrill to soar above the skyscrapers for a unique, birds-eye view of the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Empire State Building and all the rest.There are plenty of private tours on offer, usually including a commentary or fun facts. If you book at sunset you’re guaranteed all the glory of golden hour - though beware if the weather’s cloudy - it would suck to soar but not see... If your budget doesn’t stretch quite that far, take it to the top anyway by hitting one of the city’s many breathtaking observation decks. Gaze down at the distant hubbub from the dizzying heights of the Empire State Building’s 86th floor observatory. Or get a snap of the Manhattan skyline including the Empire State, by zooming up to the Top of the Rock observatory at the Rockefeller Centre. Make memories Whilst you’re feeling on top of the world, a rooftop photoshoot is a super-cool way to ensure a lasting memory of your special day. An expert photographer will capture the moment in a private session, as you pose against the backdrop of the World Trade Center. Or, to be even more original, create your own picture for posterity on a sketching tour with a New York City-based artist. You’ll get a drawing-pad and pencil along with a 90 minute tour of history, culture and the chance to sketch some Lower Manhattan landmarks including the Wall Street Bull, the Washington Monument and the Trinity Church Cemetery (final resting place of Alexander Hamilton.) Let's draw a line. We hope we’ve given you just a rough picture of the many places you might choose to pop a cork and blow out your candles in the buzzy, beautiful Big Apple. To discover some of them and many more New York attractions, pick up an All Inclusive Pass or an Explorer Pass, then sightsee, save and celebrate with Go City. It’ll feel like your birthday every day.
Jo Cooke
New York
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Thanksgiving in New York – Things to Do in November & More

Thanksgiving is one of our favorite times of year in New York City. It kicks off the beautiful holiday season and is a wonderful holiday in its own right. It’s also the time of year when one of New York’s greatest public events takes place – the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. If you’re searching for some great seasonal activities and things to do in November, check out a few of these suggestions. Here are our top attractions and events to make the most of Thanksgiving in New York, including: Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Brooklyn Holiday Bazaar Holiday Train Show Bank of America Winter Village Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade From 77th Street to 34th Street There isn't a more iconic holiday event in New York City than the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. This parade, which began almost a century ago with only 50 people marching through the streets of New York, has become a real institution. Find a spot along the route to watch the giant balloons of your favorite cartoons, the fantastically decorated floats and the artists parading in front of you in a festive atmosphere. Brooklyn Holiday Bazaar 501 Union Street Image credit: Brooklyn Holiday Bazaar. A great destination for all your holiday shopping needs is the Brooklyn Holiday Bazaar. Browse through hundreds of beautiful gifts from local makers and select national crafters. You’ll find everything from paintings to handmade paper to handcrafted jewelry. Enjoy festive music and grab a bite to eat from participating vendors to get in the festive spirit. After shopping, make the most of the neighborhood with a walking tour. Admission to the Brooklyn Holiday Bazaar is free, and you can use your pass to enjoy the Brooklyn walking tour. Holiday Train Show New York Botanical Garden Image credit: New York Botanical Garden This uniquely New York phenomenon is a sight to behold. Come to the New York Botanical Garden to find yourself immersed in a magical world of nature and technology. Watch trains wind through a wonderland of NYC landmarks and icons. All the pieces of the set are constructed out of natural elements like bark, leaves, berries, and more. Plus, there's a half-mile of train tracks throughout, so you'll get to see plenty of the technological side, too. This annual event is beloved by locals and is a must-see for families and adults alike! Access to this special exhibit is included with regular admission. The Nutcracker Ballet Lincoln Center This Thanksgiving weekend, don't miss out on the opportunity to celebrate the holiday season with an iconic performance of George Balanchine's The Nutcracker. It's a tour de force of flawless ballet, gorgeous sets and costumes, and a timeless score. No wonder some people go every year! If you don't get to see The Nutcracker, it's still worth taking a tour of Lincoln Center to see the holiday decorations. Bank of America Winter Village Bryant Park Image credit: Bryant Park Facebook page. Searching for a unique, yet affordable place to pick up holiday gifts in New York City? The Winter Village in Chelsea’s Bryant Park should be on your list. There are more than 120 shops, kiosks, food stands, and more. You’ll be able to find something for everyone on your list. This European-inspired market provides an excellent souvenir-shopping opportunity too! Don’t forget about the ice-skating. Skating is free (although you need to bring your own skates), and Bryant Park’s massive outdoor rink is a sight to behold. The ice-skating rink is open until March. Getting In: Admission to Winter Village is free. Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting Rockefeller Center If you happen to be in town for a few days after Thanksgiving Weekend, it's worth a trip to Rockefeller Center to see them light their iconic tree. Typically a Norwegian Spruce, this tree will arrive in NYC in early November. A massive 30,000 LED lights and a Swarovski crystal star will decorate the tree. The lights are switched on during this ceremony, however! This special holiday tradition is sure to inspire the festive spirit in you. While you're in the area, why not take a tour of Rockefeller Center? You will learn all about its significance and rich history. Save on attraction admission Regular admission to a number of these New York attractions is available with a pass by Go City®. Choose as you go from dozens of top attractions and save on combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available New York passes, attractions & prices. Please note, some of these special November events may be separately ticketed and not included with the pass. Consider adding a few of these fun options to your November weekend itineraries. Happy Thanksgiving! Share your trip with us Follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and share your adventure with us. Tag us at @GoCity on your travel photos to keep us up to date with your vacation!
Katie Sagal

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