Best Things to Do Near the American Museum of Natural History

Best Things to Do Near the American Museum of Natural History

Uncover new adventures steps from the American Museum of Natural History.

From nature to culture, explore the area's best offerings!

While the American Museum of Natural History dazzles with its exhibits, the surrounding area offers a treasure trove of attractions waiting to be explored. From lush parks to gastronomic delights and cultural wonders, there’s so much more to discover. Ready to dive in? Let’s guide you through some fantastic experiences near the museum, including some Go City favorites.  

Central Park 

Just a short stroll from the museum, Central Park offers a verdant escape with endless exploration opportunities. Within its 843 acres, wander along scenic trails, discover iconic landmarks like Bethesda Terrace, or relax on Sheep Meadow’s expansive lawns. Rent a bike or enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride through the park's picturesque settings. From the Central Park Zoo to the enchanting Bow Bridge, there's something for everyone.  

The Met - Metropolitan Museum of Art 

A nearby cultural giant, The Met presents an extraordinary collection of art spanning centuries. From ancient relics to modern masterpieces, every visit reveals new insights. Special exhibitions showcase diverse cultures and styles, ensuring a fresh experience each time. Explore ancient Egypt, marvel at European paintings, or enjoy the tranquility of the rooftop garden. With so much to offer, The Met provides a compelling journey through world art and history, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. 

The Loeb Boathouse 

In Central Park, The Loeb Boathouse promises a unique combination of dining and leisure. Situated by the lake, enjoy a delicious meal with stunning waterside views. The seasonal menu features fresh ingredients, perfect for a leisurely brunch or elegant dinner. Rent a rowboat or enjoy a gondola ride to add a romantic touch to your visit. The Boathouse’s tranquil environment and picturesque setting offer a serene escape in the heart of the city, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. 

The Guggenheim Museum 

The Guggenheim Museum

Visit the iconic Guggenheim Museum, known for its distinctive architecture and impressive modern art collection. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, the spiraling building itself is a masterpiece. Inside, discover works by renowned artists like Picasso and Kandinsky, and enjoy rotating exhibitions that keep the experience fresh and exciting. The Guggenheim is an essential stop for art lovers on their NYC journey. 

Levain Bakery 

A visit to Levain Bakery ensures a delightful treat. Famous for their oversized, gooey chocolate chip walnut cookies, the bakery is a sweet haven. The cozy space invites you to indulge and relax while enjoying fresh pastries and breads. Perfect for a quick snack break as you explore, Levain Bakery’s delectable offerings guarantee satisfaction for anyone with a sweet tooth. This beloved spot is a must-visit for both locals and tourists seeking scrumptious delights in the city. 

The Hayden Planetarium 

Inside the museum, the Hayden Planetarium offers a thrilling journey through the cosmos. With state-of-the-art technology and immersive presentations, it brings the universe to life. The Space Show, narrated by celebrities, showcases the wonders of the cosmos with stunning visuals and engaging stories. Perfect for star-gazers and astronomy fans, the planetarium is an educational adventure. It's a highlight of the museum experience, promising to captivate and inspire visitors of all ages. 

Theodore Roosevelt Park 

Adjacent to the museum, Theodore Roosevelt Park provides a peaceful retreat ideal for families. Playgrounds, gardens, and picnic areas make this park a delightful urban oasis. Named after the 26th President, the park is an homage to nature lovers and explorers. Enjoy a leisurely stroll or relax on a bench surrounded by lush greenery. Whether you're winding down after a museum visit or simply enjoying the outdoors, its serene atmosphere offers a calming counterpoint to the city's hustle. 

The Gray's Papaya 

The Gray's Papaya 

For a classic NYC snack, visit Gray’s Papaya. Known for its delicious and affordable hot dogs, this vibrant spot offers a true taste of New York. Complemented by refreshing tropical drinks, it’s a quick, tasty bite that locals and tourists enjoy. The lively ambiance and no-nonsense vibe promise a quintessential city experience, making it a beloved culinary landmark. It’s the perfect stop for a delicious bite as you explore the Upper West Side's busy streets. 

St. John the Divine Cathedral 

Discover The Cathedral of St. John the Divine, one of the world’s largest cathedrals. This stunning Gothic revival structure boasts exquisite architecture, shimmering stained glass, and inspiring sculpture gardens. Explore the vast interior and learn about the history of this awe-inspiring landmark through tours and exhibitions. The cathedral also hosts concerts and cultural events, offering a diverse array of experiences. It’s a magnificent spiritual and cultural destination that adds depth to your NYC explorations. 

The Met Breuer 

Explore innovative art at The Met Breuer, a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It focuses on modern and contemporary pieces, offering cutting-edge exhibitions and new perspectives on existing collections. The building itself—a modernist marvel—sets the stage for creative exploration. As you wander through the galleries, discover thought-provoking works elevating the art experience. 

Alice's Tea Cup 

Transport yourself to whimsy at Alice’s Tea Cup, a tearoom inspired by “Alice in Wonderland.” Delight in an array of teas, scones, and sandwiches in a magical setting. With fairy wings and enchanted decor, it’s an experience for all ages. This delightful stop adds a sprinkle of fantasy to your day, enhancing the NYC adventure with its unique charm. 

The New York Historical

The New York Historical

Step into the past at the New York Historical, NYC's oldest museum, showcasing America’s history. With exhibits from iconic documents to multimedia presentations, every visit offers fresh insights. Discover engaging displays and family-friendly interactive spaces. The elegant Beaux-Arts building itself fascinates, offering rich narratives familiarizing visitors with the city’s and nation’s stories. 

The Dakota Apartments 

Marvel at the historic Dakota Apartments, renowned for celebrity residents like John Lennon. Its Renaissance Revival style captures both architectural and cultural allure. While residential, the facade invites admiration. Strolling by adds a touch of celebrity history to your visit, making it a fascinating stop near the museum. 

The Great Lawn 

Within Central Park, The Great Lawn offers a sprawling space for relaxation and recreation. Perfect for picnics or casual sports, it often hosts concerts and events. The lawn’s vibrant environment makes it a lively spot for unwinding, framed by skyline views. It’s an inviting escape harmonizing relaxation, recreation, and urban vibrancy. 

Tom's Restaurant 

A must for “Seinfeld” fans, Tom’s Restaurant serves up classic diner fare. With its iconic facade and hearty menu, it delivers a true New York experience. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, or late-night snacks in its welcoming, cozy atmosphere. Its pop culture fame and familiar vibe provide an enjoyable culinary stop in the city’s heart. 

Cafe Lalo 

Cafe Lalo 

Escape to European charm at Cafe Lalo. Famous for its expansive dessert menu, enjoy cheesecakes, pastries, and brunch amid a stylish setting. With twinkling lights and art-adorned walls, it captures a cozy, cosmopolitan feel. A short walk from the museum, Cafe Lalo is perfect for sweet escapes or leisurely meals, creating magical moments. 

Zabar’s 

A culinary delight awaits at Zabar’s, an iconic Upper West Side market. Known for specialty foods like smoked fish and cheese, Zabar’s is adored by food enthusiasts. Pick up goodies for a Central Park picnic, or savor fresh pastries. The bustling atmosphere and rich history make it a regional staple, offering authentic NYC flavors. 

Belvedere Castle 

Discover Belvedere Castle, an enchanting Gothic-style folly offering breathtaking views of Central Park and NYC’s skyline. This architectural gem is perfect for photographers and those seeking scenic beauty. Housing a nature center, the castle provides insights into the park’s ecology. It offers a charming blend of history and beauty, captivating visitors. 

For more, check out our 4 day NY itinerary, and see the city’s best historical sights! 

Step up your sightseeing with Go City®.  

We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets. 

See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® - just choose a pass to get started! 

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Things to do at Night in New York City

When the sun goes down, the Big Apple comes alive. Neon lights begin to flicker, restaurants buzz and theaters roll out their red carpets. From outdoor movies in pretty parks to bustling night markets and Broadway shows, when it comes to nightlife, New York has something for everyone! Let's check out what's on the cards when the sun sets in the 'City that Never Sleeps.' Soak up the City Lights from an Observation Deck There is no better way to toast the sunset over New York than from one of the many observation decks dotted about the city. Watch the city lights begin to twinkle as twilight turns to night and see the city like never before. Several Manhattan buildings have observation decks open in the evening where you can take in the city for all its glory. Top of the Rock at the Rockefeller Center The Top of the Rock takes up the last three floors of Rockefeller Center. It features three levels of indoor and outdoor observation decks that offer spectacular, unobstructed views of the city skyline. The 68th and 69th floors have terraces with glass railings that provide beautiful panoramic views of the whole city. The 70th floor boasts an open-air rooftop deck with no metal or glass enclosures, providing perfect photo opportunities! Enjoy several unique experiences on the way up to the Top of the Rock ranging from the magnificent Joie chandelier and an exhibit of interactive artworks to a sound and light hallway and a time capsule over Manhattan. Use your pass to gain free admission to the Top of the Rock to soak up the incredible 360 ̊ panoramic views. Empire State Building Head up the world-renowned Empire State Building to the main deck observatory on the 86th floor to take in those famous New York City views. Use your pass to enjoy complimentary access to the Empire State Building and whizz up to the open-air observation deck that wraps around the building's spire. Marvel at the endless views, which on a clear evening, can stretch all way across six states! The Edge Cast your eyes over the city from one of the highest outdoor sky decks in the world. Located at 30 Hudson Yards, the Edge is a state-of-the-art platform with a glass floor that extends out into mid-air 100 floors above the ground. Feel like you are floating above the city as you sip a glass of bubbles from the Champagne bar to toast the sunset and take in unrivaled panoramic city views. This one is not for the faint-hearted! Remember to use your pass to gain free access to the Edge. One World Observatory Take in the sunset from the highest point in the city – the top of the One World Observatory. Zip up to the 102nd floor in just 47 seconds in the astonishingly fast SkyPodTM Elevators while you watch a multimedia display of New York City transforming from unsettled lands into a forest of skyscrapers. Look over the city below through the glass floor of the Sky Portal and enjoy several thrilling audiovisual experiences while you are at the top of the world. Use your pass to enjoy complimentary access to the One World Observatory, as well as an exclusive discount off a signature cocktail from One World Observatory's premier restaurant and bar, One Dine. Cheers! Hit Times Square Times Square is one of New York's top attractions and offers second to none nightlife! It's packed with a wealth of entertainment from bars, restaurants, and nightclubs to theaters and TV recording studios and really comes alive at night. Learn about the famous district on a Broadway & Times Square Walking Tour. Use your pass to enjoy this tour where an experienced actor and director tour guide will take you to all the hot spots. Have a laugh at the LoL Times Square Comedy Club or head to the Bowlmor Times Square arcade for bowling, state-of-the-art video games, and old-school pinball. Use your pass to visit Madame Tussauds and gain free access to the MARVEL Universe 4D cinema experience. Sip cocktails at the Haven Rooftop bar and watch the action on Time Square below. Catch a Broadway Show A quintessential evening activity in New York is catching a Broadway show. While they are expensive, the experience is an unforgettable one and really shouldn't be missed! With over 40 official Broadway theaters in New York, you're bound to find something that piques your interest. Top Tip: The best way to get discounted show tickets is to head to TDF's TKTS Booth in Duffy Square (47th Street and Broadway) and wait in line on the day of the show. You can get some fantastic discounts on tickets for most shows. Catch a Different Kind of Show If you prefer something more energetic, use your pass to enjoy the Shake, Rattle & Roll Dueling Pianos Show Hosted at the historic Cutting Room on East 32nd Street, this three-hour rock 'n' roll extravaganza features an all-request evening of live music from dueling pianos, fantastic food, and plenty of drinks. If jazz is your thing, head to Harlem, the birthplace of the music genre, to enjoy a classic jazz performance. Use your pass to get tickets to the Harlem Jazz Series, a one-hour performance of classic jazz hits some of the industry's best musicians. Enjoy a Sunset Movie at Bryant Park If the weather is good, why not watch an outdoor movie at Bryant Park? Tucked behind the New York Public Library, Bryant Park is the beating cultural heart of Midtown Manhattan and is famous for its iconic movie nights under the stars. Grab a delicious picnic pack from Perfect Picnic with your pass and find a spot on the lawn for a romantic evening out. Top Tip: These movie nights are extremely popular, so get there when the lawns open at 5 pm to get a good spot. Take in the City Lights from the Ferry Soak up the magical after-dark glow of the Big Apple on a romantic harbor cruise. Use your pass to hop on a Harbor Lights Cruise with Circle Line and enjoy a cruise through the city. There is indoor and outdoor seating, a full bar on board, and an outdoor viewing deck for those Insta-worthy photographs. The narrated cruise offers interesting facts about famous New York landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty as you glide past. Catch a Yankees Game One of the most exciting things to do in New York at night is to watch a Yankees game under the lights. Head to the game a little earlier and use your pass to enjoy a Classic Tour of the Yankee Stadium Get a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the legendary stadium as you visit areas not usually open to the public, like the dugout and the press box. Watch out for the ghost of Babe Ruth, who apparently wanders around the stadium! Stargaze at the High Line As the sun begins to set , head to the unique High Line Park to take in some spectacular city views. The once-disused railroad track was converted into a verdant floating garden and now passes through some of New York City's most historic neighborhoods. Wander along the elevated park on a High Line, Chelsea & Meatpacking District Walking Tour with your pass. Take in the art installations and admire some of New York's most famous buildings, including the Empire State Building and Frank Gehry's IAC Building. You can also enjoy free stargazing evenings at the High Line every Tuesday from dusk until 9:45 pm. Telescopes are provided and spaced throughout the park by the Amateur Astronomers Association, who are also on hand to help and answer any questions.
Alex Birungi
Family picnic on the lawn
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Best picnic spots in New York City

From skyline views to leafy escapes, these picnic-perfect patches promise memorable al fresco New York lunches.
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Win a private Manhattan photo shoot and dining experience this Black Friday

Our Black Friday Giveaway has now ended. WIN a private photo shoot and dining experience for two Head downtown and get a dose of celebrity treatment, on a private photo shoot with acclaimed American fashion and celebrity photographer MACKY. Owner of the popular Masters of the Camera NYC Rooftop Photo Shoot, MACKY will take you to the absolute best vantage points in Lower Manhattan, capturing your NY adventure in high-definition with a selection of 52-megapixel images. After working up an appetite posing for the camera, you’ll head to One World Trade Center to begin your VIP dining experience. Admission to One World Observatory is included, so take in the panoramic views over 100 stories up before you find your window-front table at One Dine. Both you and your guest will receive a choice of two drinks, one appetizer, one entrée and side, one dessert, and one unforgettable view! How to enter For a chance to win this incredible prize, all you have to do is purchase any of our New York passes between 9AM Tuesday 22 November 2022 and 11:59PM Tuesday 29 November 2022. Once you’ve purchased, you’ll be automatically entered into the giveaway. Easy! If you’re the lucky winner, we’ll contact you by email by December 15, 2022, so look out for us in your inbox. Click here to view giveaway terms and conditions
Jessica Basi

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