Visiting the Empire State Building - Tickets, Tips & More

By Andrew Martineau

Planning to visit the Empire State Building? It's one of the most recognizable and iconic landmarks in the world. Check out our helpful guide, packed full of ways to save on admission, tips for visiting, places to eat nearby, and much more.

How to buy Empire State Building discount tickets?

We’ve got you covered – Empire State Building admission is available with Go City, so add it to your pass to make incredible savings.

Now you can take your vacation to new heights - 1,050 feet high to be exact! Whether you’re visiting New York for its architecture, its history, or its romance, you should not leave The Big Apple without visiting an iconic venue that combines all three.

What to do at the Empire State Building?

The Empire State Building Observation Decks provide unobstructed 360-degree views of New York City. The top of the skyline should undoubtedly top your list of attractions to visit. Don’t miss your chance to stroll through one of the most iconic New York buildings, including the different areas detailed below.

Lobby

The lobby, which has been designated a historical landmark, is truly a sight to see on its own. Marvel at the marble-clad lobby with features of the original 1930s Art Deco glamor of the ceilings, wall panels, and chandeliers. It's certainly not your typical skyscraper business lobby!

2nd Floor Visitors’ Center

The new second floor Visitor’s Center is where visitors can get their Empire State Building tickets. After passing through security you will get your free multi-media handheld device that you will be able to use throughout your visit. Even those of you who have visited before will learn something new.

Sustainability Exhibit

The Sustainability Exhibit is located on the 2nd floor. Here you will learn about the sustainability and preservation efforts of the Empire State Building which have made it one of the most energy-efficient buildings in the nation. Your personal audio device teaches you the story of the renovation process in a fun, comprehensible way, which uses a combination of digital displays, sculptures, and actual building materials.

Dare to Dream Exhibit & Empire: The Store

Take the elevator to the 80th floor to the Dare to Dream Exhibit, which showcases the planning and the construction of the Empire State Building. Here you will learn of the building’s history and engineering. Take a peek at original documents such as authentic period photographs, construction notes, and more.

The 80th floor is also home to 3,000 square foot, Empire: The Store, which features plenty of great gifts and mementos to help you remember your trip to New York. Here you can find something for everyone, from upscale gifts, children’s toys, coffee table books, and much more.

86th Floor Main Observation Deck

Image of Building, Penthouse, Floor, Indoors, Cityscape, Urban, Foyer,

Up on the 86th floor you will arrive at the Main Observation Deck, which is New York City’s highest open air observatory. From here you can enjoy stunning 360-degree views of the city, which features both indoor and outdoor promenades. Check out Central Park, the Hudson River and East River, the Brooklyn Bridge, Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, and so much more.

You may remember this 86th-floor observation deck from its appearances in movies like An Affair to Remember, Love Affair, I Love Lucy, and Sleepless in Seattle.

102nd Floor Top Observation Deck

Traveling up the Top Observation Deck will give you even more great views. On clear days, you catch a glimpse of New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania.

Tower Lights

Beginning in 1976, the lights at the top of the building would often be illuminated with floodlights in recognition of various holidays, occasions and organizations. In 2012 a LED light system was installed that is capable of displaying 16 million colors. Wow! Below is just one example of a beautiful light and music show atop the building.

Empire State Building Run-Up

You’ve heard of the New York City Marathon, but you may not be familiar with the Annual Empire State Building Run-Up. It’s been a unique athletic tradition since the first running in 1978, which began with a few local athletes and has since spread across the globe. Each year, runners from around the world race up the 1,576 steps (approximately 1/5th of a mile) from the ground floor to the 86th floor Observatory, with the fastest clocking in around 10 minutes. Spectators can watch the race from the street.

When to Visit the Empire State Building?

The Empire State Building is open every day, including all holidays, 365 days a year, rain or shine from 8AM to 2AM. Just remember, the last elevator up to the Observation Deck is at 1:15 AM.

Should I visit the Empire State Building at night or during the day?

There are pros to visiting the Empire State Building at night and during the day: During the day, (early in the morning, in fact) is best if you want daytimes views of Manhattan while avoiding the crowds. Head to the Observation Deck during the day to take photos of the cityscape up high, especially if it's a bright and clear day. However, visiting at night is a whole other experience. Heading up to the top of the Empire State Building at night is your chance to see the city lit up, which is truly amazing to see. If you decide to go at night, visiting after 10:00pm is best for avoiding crowds. If you can't decide, why not plan to go around sunset? Not only will you get to see the sun setting over the NYC, but you'll get both day time and night time views of the city.

Tips for Visiting the Empire State Building

Here are some tips for making the most of your visit to the Empire State Building:

  • How to avoid crowds at the Empire State Building? A good way to avoid the mobs of visitors and super long lines is to plan your visit for either early in the morning (8:00am – 11:00am) or later at night (after 10:00pm, the night views are spectacular!).
  • How to see the sunset at the Empire State Building? It seems simple enough, but the best way we know is to head up in advance and stick around to wait for that gorgeous view.
  • Take in the view before heading out on the town. Head up to the deck after 10 PM, when its way less crowded. A late night visit will open up a whole new side of NYC, complete with an aerial view of the most famous skyline in the country.
  • Kids under six are free. You are allowed to bring a stroller, but just be sure you are able to fold it before entering the elevator.
  • Plan your breaks. If you need to use the restrooms, they are located on the second floor before getting in line for the elevators.
  • Planning to pop the big question? Head up to the Observation Deck Thursday-Saturday nights between 9PM and 1AM when they have a talented saxophonist playing that helps set the mood. Enjoy live original and classic music as you take in the sweeping city vista below. You can even request a special song for your romantic moments! After you’ve had your fill of music and magic, you can unwind at the Empire Room on the 33rd floor, an Art Deco style lounge with classy cocktails and upscale bar snacks.They also have a yearly Facebook contest where the winner gets to tie the knot on Valentine’s Day.
  • Share your experience with friends! Tag your photos with #EmpireStateBuilding and they could end up shared across their extensive social channels.
  • Prepare for the security line. We know, waiting in security lines just isn’t fun. Hopefully, by timing your trip carefully, you’ll be able to avoid waiting for too long. It’s important to know what you can and can’t bring up to the observatory, because there is no coat/bag check in the lobby. You are permitted only one carry-on size bag and while camcorders and cameras are allowed, tripods are prohibited. Glass and bottles are also prohibited. However, you might want to bring a few snacks and some small toys or coloring supplies to keep kids entertained while they wait in line. Just make sure these can fit in your carry-on!
  • Plan what other attractions you’ll see that day. Since a visit to the Empire State Building takes a good chunk of time out of your day (plan for a minimum of 2-3 hours), you’ll want to have the rest of your day roughly planned out so you can get some more sightseeing in. One idea is to plan on spending the day in the vicinity to make things easier.
  • Add the Top of the Rock to your itinerary. Compare the spectacular views of both the Empire State Building vs Top of the Rock. The view from the top of the infamous “30 Rock” building rivals that of the Empire State Building. If you love the views from above or you want to determine for yourself which building has the better view, add a Top of the Rock visit to your itinerary. Remember, the Top of the Rock has one thing that can’t be beat: a bird’s eye view of the Empire State Building!
  • Find the uniformed personnel on the sidewalk in front of the Empire State Building if you have any questions. Of course, you can always ask them inside as well.

When was the Empire State Building built?

The Empire State Building was part of a Great Depression-era competition to construct the world’s tallest building, and was the first structure ever to consist of more than 100 floors, topping the record height with an extra two floors. Construction started in 1930 and it was officially opened in 1931 by President Herbert Hoover. President Hoover turned on the building’s lights remotely by pushing a button in Washington, D.C. The Empire State Building is instantly recognizable thanks to its art deco design, which, in addition to its impressive height, sets it apart from neighboring skyscrapers.

It has more than 100 floors, 6,500 windows, 73 elevators, stands 1,454 feet at its highest point (including the tip of the broadcast tower), weighs 365,000 tons and was built out of approximately 10 million bricks. It’s often considered among the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Although it functions today primarily as an office building, it attracts a staggering four million visitors per year – making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in one of the most popular cities in America.

From enduring the wrath of King Kong to standing ominously in Andy Warhol’s silent film Empire, the Empire State Building is also famous for its many popular culture representations and appearances.

What attractions are near the Empire State Building?

To help maximize your time in NYC, be sure you schedule in a few other attractions and activities to visit either before or after your trip to the Empire State Building. Here are a few nearby attractions that are a great addition to anyone's vacation itinerary. Some local attractions include the Madison Square Garden Tour , the New York Public Library, as well as departure points for several themed tours.

Want to include even more New York City favorites? Check out the Rockefeller Center Tour, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Statue of Liberty Cruise. With your pass you can take up to 60 days to visit your chosen attractions, and save with special discounts. Simplify your vacation, and see all your target attractions for one low price!

Save on Admission

Remember, with Go City you can save on admission to the Empire State Building Observation Deck, plus many more top New York attractions. Don’t leave New York City without checking out this legendary tower that represents American ingenuity, perseverance, and triumph in times of hardship. A ride up to the Empire State Building Observatory is a legitimate feel-good trip that will join you in solidarity with other visitors as you marvel at the magnificence of old New York.

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Things to do in Greenwich Village

Bursting with living history and culture, Manhattan’s Greenwich Village is perhaps best known for birthing both 1960s counterculture and the LGBTQ movement. Today, the neighborhood’s innovative nature lives on through its world-class attractions, captivating architecture, and anecdotal landmarks. From highly acclaimed galleries and eye-catching structures to historic theaters and beloved comedy clubs, this vibrant area of the city should offer more than enough to keep you busy. So, if you’re looking to explore The Village, have a read through our list of the best things to check out in the area. With Go City, you can see more, for less. Explore the Area Anybody who’s interested in the history of The Village should make a stop at the Stonewall Inn. Standing as one of the most culturally significant attractions of the area, the inn is known as the site of the 1969 riots that set the gay liberation movement into motion. Nowadays, the bar stands as both a somber reminder of the past and as a celebration of how far we’ve come. Whilst you’re there, why not also check out the Stonewall National Monument across the street? Deeply profound and incredibly important, the park is the first National Monument dedicated to LGBTQ rights and serves as a moving monument to remember the struggle for equality. New York is an architecture fan’s paradise, with Greenwich Village boasting some of the city’s most interesting structures. The perfect stop for design lovers and history buffs alike, the Ascension Church is known as the first church to be built on Fifth Avenue. Visitors can take guided tours to admire its remarkable high ceilings, elegant marble columns and stained-glass windows. With its fascinating history and striking features, this one should be on everyone’s itinerary. To take a break from all the buzz, grab a bite from a local food cart, and head over to Washington Square Park. Offering plenty of space and fresh air, this vibrant urban green space is a great place for spending time with friends and family. Whilst the park is perhaps best known for its emblematic marble arch, it has even more to offer past its historic landmarks. Recognized as a center of culture and activism, the area continues to serve as a meeting place for artists, performers and activists. Go for a casual stroll, have a picnic, or watch the sunset– the choice is yours! Find Interesting Things to Do New York presents a wealth of fantastic attractions, with some of its most unique institutes based in Greenwich Village. Standing out as the only institute of its kind in the city, the Museum of Illusions presents interactive and captivating exhibitions to deceive the eye. From kaleidoscopes and holograms to tiled and reverse rooms, the museum provides an intriguing visual experience which you might want to save some album space for. A little mind-boggling and a whole lot of fun, this place is great for those who are travelling with family. A visit to Greenwich Village isn’t complete without checking out the nightlife. For some drinks and deep belly laughs, head over to the Comedy Cellar. Since its founding in 1982, the club has become recognized as one of the best comedy destinations in the United States. Hosting a diverse lineup of big-name headliners and gifted up-and-comers, this place definitely lives up to its hype. With its pulsing energy, underground vibe and incredible atmosphere, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend the evening after a long day of touring. If you’re eager to locate film and TV sites around the Big Apple, the next item on our list might just be for you. Situated in the West Village, the original Friends apartment building stands as one of the most popular tourist attractions of the area. Whilst the inside is inhabited by New York natives (nope, not Monica or Rachel), the outside is more than enough to draw in thousands for its Instagrammability. It doesn’t take long to make this stop, which means that you’ll have plenty of time to explore the surrounding local area. Get Creative A renowned center of innovation and creative thought, Greenwich Village is a real treat for creative types. Breaking away from the typical art museum experience, the Center of Architecture is the city’s oldest and most influential institution focusing on form, construction and urbanism. Through exhibitions, programs, and special events, the institute aims to foster curiosity in the design process. The perfect way to spend a quiet afternoon, the museum delivers and exiting and unique cultural experience which you don’t want to miss out on. A well-recognized center of creative development, Greenwich Village presents a wide range of cultural institutions for lovers of the performed arts. Located in a venerable landmark building, the Cherry Lane Theatre is recognized as the oldest continuously running Off-Broadway theater in New York City. The venue runs everything from total classics to new and experimental productions at a fraction of the cost of a Broadway ticket. With its intimate setting and unique history, the theater provides an irreplicable cultural experience. Rich in culture and creative activity, Greenwich Village knows how to deliver when it comes to world-class art. A total must-visit for art lovers, the Whitney Museum of American Art shelters one of the biggest collections of modern and contemporary art in the United States. The museum’s permanent collection is comprised of over 25, 000 artworks, spanning from the late 19th century right through to the present day. Amongst its holdings, you’ll find treasures by Georgia O’Keeffe, Andy Warhol, and Marsden Hartley. Through its captivating exhibitions, special programs, and workshops, the museum works to present a fascinating breakdown of 20th and 21st century art. With its fascinating background and vibrant arts scene, Greenwich Village is a great stop for first timers and seasoned visitors alike. Whether you’re a history lover, a theater geek, or an architecture fanatic, the area has a little something to offer everybody. To find out how to save money on your trip, check out our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass. For more details, make sure to connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris
Empire State vs One World
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Empire State Building vs. One World Trade Center - Comparing the Two & What to Know

What are the main differences between the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center? Both observation decks are located in major cultural attractions in New York City, and both have much to offer curious travelers, whether you’re interested in art, architecture, history, or just great aerial views of NYC. They are also both located in Manhattan but offer different views and different visiting experiences. We’ve put together a list of the basic differences and similarities between the two attractions, arranged by: What’s included with general admission Location Scenic views of New York Building history Tips for visiting Thinking about Visiting the Empire State Building or One World Trade Center? With a pass by Go City, you will save on admission to the Empire State Building and admission to One World Observatory plus your choice of other popular New York attractions. Another fun alternative is the Top of the Rock, which also provides stunning aerial views of the city and is also available on the pass. Check out our post comparing the Top of the Rock and One World Trade Center for more information on how they stack up. What’s Included with General Admission Both attractions include admission to the observation deck itself, as well as special exhibition areas within the building. To help you compare the two, here is a summary of what general admission includes for both. Empire State Building General Admission Access to the Main Deck, an 86th-floor open deck observation space. This place has been the setting for a whole bunch of movies and television shows, so you’ll likely recognize the space. Multimedia exhibits including the Sustainability Exhibit and the Dare to Dream Exhibit. The Sustainability Exhibit highlights the Empire State Building’s efforts to reduce their carbon footprint be decreasing energy usage and carbon emissions by significant amounts, and decreasing their energy costs. This is an important must-see exhibit for anyone interested in green building, or environmental issues in general. The Dare to Dream Exhibit is a fascinating collection of historical documents, photographs, architectural drawings, and more, which all tell the story of how this iconic building was conceived, designed, and constructed in the early twentieth century. The famous Art Deco Lobby, which is one of the very few building interiors in New York to be officially designated as a historic landmark. Restored to its full glory in 2009, this stunning lobby features gorgeous ceiling murals (complete with 24-carat gold leaf) and a 3-D image of the building itself on the wall above the Fifth Avenue front desk. The new Visitor’s Center, located on the second floor of the building. Here is where you can introduce yourself to the attraction and learn more about the layout, as well as process your admission. An elevator ride that proceeds from the 2nd floor to the 86th in less than a minute. One World Observatory General Admission Access to the building foundation exhibit (on the first floor), which allows you to walk through the bedrock the building is constructed upon. A SkyPod Elevator ride with a digital time-lapse that highlights 5 centuries of New York City’s evolving landscape. SEE FOREVER THEATERTM, an audio-visual experience that explores NYC’s skyline Admission to the main observatory on the 100th floor, which offers panoramic, 360-degree views of Manhattan, Brooklyn, New Jersey, and more. Observatory: Sky Portal, which is a clear glass floor that allows you to look 100 stories below your feet to the city beneath you. Not for the faint of heart! Location Both buildings are found in Manhattan, but are approximately four miles apart from one another. Empire State Building: Located in Midtown Manhattan by Penn Station, Grand Central Terminal, and the iconic NYC department store Macy’s. One World Trade Center Observatory: Located near the southernmost point of Manhattan, this is close to the Financial District and the waterfront. Comparing the Scenic Views While these two observation decks aren’t very far apart in the grand scheme of things, they do offer distinct views and unique perspectives. In the southern part of Manhattan near the water, One World Observatory has excellent views of the Financial District below, the Hudson River and East River, and northeastern New Jersey (including Lady Liberty). The Empire State Building, on the other hand, offers stunning views of Midtown Manhattan, the Chrysler Building, as far north as Central Park, and as far south as the Statue of Liberty. One World Trade Center is completely enclosed, while the Empire State Building has both open-air and enclosed observation decks. Keep in mind that both buildings offer skyline views that include the other building. View from the Empire State Building The Main Deck of the Empire State Building is on the 86th floor, providing stellar views of Central Park, the Hudson and the East Rivers, the Brooklyn Bridge, Times Square, and the Statue of Liberty, as well as the wealth of attractions in Midtown Manhattan below. Of course, from the Empire State Building, you can see One World Trade Center. View from the One World Observatory The observation deck is found on the 100th floor of the One World Trade Center, and offers amazing views of the Chrysler Building, Grand Central Terminal, the Flat Iron Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty, other buildings in the One World Trade Center complex and in the Financial District, and plenty of buildings below from the glass-bottomed viewing deck. And from One World Observatory, you can see the Empire State Building. Building History The Empire State Building Begun in 1930 and officially open to the world in 1931, the Empire State Building is coming up on a century old. The architecture firm Shreve, Lamb & Harmon Associates were responsible for the design and construction of the building and the lights were first illuminated by a button pushed by President Hoover all the way in Washington, DC. It was built as a monument to American industrial progress, and was deemed one of the seven greatest architectural achievements in the United States by 1955. The lobby (now restored to its original beauty) was a model of Art Deco architecture and represents some truly impressive artistic contributions to the building. Today the building is home to a variety of commercial enterprises (including restaurants that are well-worth your time and money to visit – even just for a cocktail or two), as well as the observation deck and historical exhibits. It is located on Fifth Avenue. One World Observatory With the completion of its construction in 2013, One World Trade Center is significantly newer than the Empire State Building. It is currently the second-tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and the sixth-tallest in the entire world. This observation deck was created as part of the reconstruction efforts in the wake of the tragic devastation of the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. Today the building also serves as a primarily commercial site, although it also houses historic exhibits and the observation deck itself. Tips for Visiting The Empire State Building and One World Observatory Tips for Visiting the Empire State Building If possible, plan to visit the Empire State Building early in the morning to avoid elevator lines. Weekdays may also be less busy, too, although not in the summer. Give yourself at least an hour to see the exhibits and the observation deck itself – not counting time through the security line. After you check on the second floor, go straight to the Sustainability Exhibit. Download the FREE app before your visit to make the most of your trip, available for most devices. Skip the ticket office line with your pass and get to the top faster. Pack a camera or smart phone for photos, and plan to take advantage of the binoculars while you’re up there. Dress in layers, as the observation deck on the 86th floor is open-air, and it will be colder at the top than at street level. If you want to snap photos of the sunset over the city, be sure to get there well in advance – the lines will be longer this time of day. For more tips, check out our in-depth guide to visiting the Empire State Building Tips for Visiting One World Observatory To help avoid crowds, try to visit One World Observatory early in the morning or during weekdays. Security is very thorough, so be prepared to submit to TSA-style screening. Be sure to bring a camera or binoculars to see the best views; keep in mind that cloudy days will limit your visibility, especially because you’re so close to the water. While you’re in the area, consider a visit to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum which honours the 3,000 lives lost on September 11, 2001. Again, if you want to get sunset photos be sure to arrive well in advance of the hour before sunset. On your way out, check out the Oculus, part of the transit hub connecting the New York City subway and the NJ PATH trains. In Summary (The Biggest Differences) Each of these attractions is incredibly popular with tourists, but both offer different views and cultural perspectives. The Empire State Building is a historic structure – perhaps one of the most famous buildings in the world – and boasts an incredible history stretching back to the mid-twentieth century. One World Observatory is much newer but has a history of its own because of its ties to the terror attacks of 9/11. The Empire State Building offers views from further up in Manhattan, so you’ll see more things like Central Park and the famous museums than you could from the One World Observatory. Conversely, the One World Observatory is near the southernmost tip of Manhattan, so you’ll see more of the water and New Jersey and Brooklyn, and the Statue of Liberty is closer. Visit the Empire State Building and Save on Admission Don’t forget – the pass for New York with Go City® is your smart choice for saving and flexibility when it comes to your NYC adventures. You’ll get admission to the Empire State Building and admission to One World Observatory, plus tickets to your choice of other top attractions in the city. These includethe Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Ferry, the Top of the Rock, the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, multiple bus tours, and many more. With the Explorer Pass, you can make big savings on combined admission vs. paying at the gate – what’s not to love?
Katie Sagal
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New York Neighborhoods Guide

Planning a trip to New York City? We've put together a handful of the top attractions, places to see, and which neighborhoods in New York to visit during your vacation. Downtown Financial District (a.k.a. Wall Street) Better known as Wall Street, the financial district encompasses the entire southern tip of Manhattan and is considered the economic capital of the country. Below are a few suggestions for fun activities. For more, check out our post on things to do in Lower Manhattan. Things to Do in the Financial District Head to Battery Park at the southern tip of Manhattan for a stroll through flower gardens and waterfront landscape. Catch a ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island to learn about immigration to the United States through NYC. Explore the moving 9/11 Memorial & Museum, located on the former site of the World Trade Center. Here you'll find a monument to the lives lost in 1993 and 2001, and learn about the brave history of those who lived through the tragedy and helped to rebuild this iconic part of NYC. Experience the excitement at the headquarters of the New York Stock Exchange. Stop by the impressive Federal Hall building and be sure not to miss 40 Wall Street, the “Crown Jewel of Wall Street." Take a picture with the famous Charging Bull Statue on Bowling Green, which optimistically symbolizes a bull market (constantly rising). A guided walking tour of Wall Street is one of the best ways to make the most of your visit to the area. Head to the Manhattan side of the iconic Brooklyn Bridge and rent a bike for a cycling tour to some of New York City’s most notable sights. Explore the harbor on a speedboat thrill ride, a nighttime water taxi statue cruise, or an express Statue of Liberty cruise. Little Italy & Chinatown Little Italy and Chinatown are two distinct neighborhoods representing two different cultures with an emphasis on one common thing: delicious, ethnic food. Make the most of your time in this neighborhood and let the pros show you around on a SoHo, Little Italy, and Chinatown Walking Tour. Things to Do in Chinatown Check out Mott and Grand Streets for exotic food stands, busy markets, and little shops. For a little cultural perspective and for a better understanding of Chinatown, the world’s largest Chinatown outside of Asia, visit the Museum of Chinese in America. Stop by Canal Street, famous for knock-offs, bargain souvenirs, and cheap merchandise. Things to Do in Little Italy Check out the boutique shopping scene in NoLIta (North of Little Italy). Taste your way through the rich Italian culture at any of the popular restaurants along Mulberry Street and poke around the specialty shops to see all the imported Italian treats. Head to the Italian American Museum for a cultural account of Italian immigration to the United States. Visiting New York in September? Be sure to check out the Annual Feast of San Gennaro, an 11-day festival celebrating the Patron Saint of Naples. Tribeca If you know the meaning of this neighborhood’s name, you’ll be able to find its location; the Triangle Below Canal Street. Tribeca is home to many celebrities who now live in Tribeca’s renovated factories and warehouses and plays host to the famous annual Tribeca Film Festival. SoHo SoHo, or South of Houston Street, is an impressively fashionable, well-known neighborhood of cobbled streets, narrow sidewalks, restored buildings, trendy restaurants, and even trendier boutiques. Lower East Side The Lower East Side has a truly American history, home to a melting pot of immigrants, from the early Eastern European Jews, to the more recent Latino and Asian immigrants. Although trendy restaurants and shops have begun popping up in the area, the Lower East Side Tenement Museum is a popular attraction dedicated to preserving the neighborhood’s history, immigrant culture, and more. Greenwich Village (East and West) In Greenwich Village (both east and west) you’ll find New York’s thriving counterculture of writers, artists, activists, musicians, and bohemians. Allen Ginsberg resided in East Village in his day, and the Beat poets began their revolutionary art in West Village coffee houses. Expect everything to have a proud, independent vibe in this part of town. Things to Do in Greenwich Village (East and West) Visit the 9/11 Tribute Center and see exhibits that showcase personal accounts of grave losses, bravery, survival, hope, and patriotism associated with 9/11. Guided tours are led by 9/11 family members who lost loved ones, rescue and recovery workers, civilian volunteers, lower Manhattan residents, and 9/11 survivors who escaped from the towers. Visit the storied Washington Square Park, the heart of New York University’s “campus” and view the iconic Washington Square Arch. Explore diverse collections of contemporary creative works (with a particular focus on American artists) at the Whitney Museum of Art. Midtown Flatiron District This district takes its name from its architectural centerpiece, the historic Flatiron Building, an iconic triangular-shaped skyscraper. Head here for designer shopping and to check out Union Square, the center stage for many political rallies. Chelsea Although formerly a working-class district, this area now boasts a vibrant art scene and has recently been attracting a large gay population. With the influx of artistic pursuit, the neighborhood is now host to many chic restaurants, galleries, theaters, and shops. Things to Do in Chelsea Browse through the trendy Chelsea Market for some good eats and local-artisan shopping before taking a stroll on the High Line, a beautifully landscaped, elevated path through Manhattan’s West Side. Catch a comedy show at the famed Upright Citizens Brigade Theater. The Garment District NYC’s Garment District sets the trends for America’s billion-dollar fashion industry. It’s the designers here who decide what you’ll most likely be coveting in seasons to come. Most of the actual clothing production no longer happens in Manhattan, but you’ll still find New York's famous Macy’s, the largest department store in the world. Hell’s Kitchen Generations ago, Hell’s Kitchen was predominantly a residential area inhabited by Irish immigrants and notorious for being a rough area. In the past few decades however, gentrification and an influx of upscale bars, restaurants, and nightclubs have helped this neighborhood flourish. Things to Do in Hell’s Kitchen Head to Pier 86 to experience all things sea, air, and space at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. Go on a cruise starting in the Hudson River for a unique view of the city’s top sights: the Best of NYC Cruise. Broadway & Times Square The focal point of Broadway and Times Square is the entertainment business. Glitzy, and full of flashing lights, Times Square is home to tons of music studios, record labels, and production companies. Over 20 theatrical stages can be found on Broadway Street alone. Times Square is the world’s most visited tourist attraction, with well over 300,000 people passing through daily. Here are some ideas on what to do there. If you want some more suggestions then check out our post on things to do in Times Square during your trip. Things to Do in Broadway & Times Square No trip to NYC is complete without catching a Broadway show. Insider tip: head to the large TKTS booth right in Times Square to see which Broadway and Off-Broadway musicals, plays, and dance productions are offering same-day discounted tickets. Explore all things weird and abnormal at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Rub shoulders with the celebs at Madame Tussauds New York, a fascinating collection of hyperrealistic wax sculptures. Feel like a giant at the unique Gulliver's Gate, a lovingly recreated display of miniaturized attractions from all over the world, including many iconic spots in NYC. Get above all the action and check out the impressive views of Central Park, the Empire State Building, and more from the Top of the Rock. Visitors can also go on a tour of Rockefeller Center, the “hub of Manhattan.” Visit the greatest collection of modern art in the world and experience the New York museum scene at the Museum of Modern Art. Fifth Avenue Fifth Avenue is Manhattan’s shopping mecca lined with high-end shops, many of which provide excellent opportunities for window-shopping (or, if your budget allows, a special purchase). Although the avenue is much longer, the destination shopping is concentrated in the area of Fifth Avenue between Bryant Park on its southern end and Central Park on its northern end. Things to Do on Fifth Avenue Shop ‘til you drop! Fifth Avenue is host to world-famous brands such as Bergdorfs, Van Cleef & Arpels, Henri Bendels, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Emilio Pucci, and some more affordable brands such as Gap, Zara, UNIQLO, Banana Republic, and more. If you're beginning at the lower end of the shopping district, you can also snap a photo of the famous stone lions of the New York Public Library's Stephen A. Schwarzman Building (or pop inside to see the gorgeous reading rooms). One block west is Sixth Avenue, where many attractions in the Times Square area are. Uptown Central Park At the heart of Manhattan is Central Park, an 843-acre historic park. Central Park is complete with beautiful landscaping, wide open green space, an expansive playground, a children’s zoo, boathouse, seasonal ice skating rink, and more. Things to Do in Central Park (from North to South) Check out the Conservatory Garden, a formal garden that represents three distinct European garden styles. Pack a picnic and head to the Great Lawn in the heart of Central Park for some lazy day lounging and people watching. Take a quick hike up to the Belvedere Castle for a lookout on some of the best views of the park and the city skyline that surrounds it. Browse through art and grab a light bite to eat and a cocktail at the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s roof garden café and martini bar for sweeping city skyline views. For more artistic inspiration, head to the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Guggenheim Museum. Visit the American Museum of Natural History, one of the largest museums in the world, famous for its expansive collection of dinosaur fossils and skeletons. Rent a model sailboat and race a friend at the Model Boat Sailing pond. Grab a friend and sign up for an hour row boat rental on the Lake at the Loeb Boathouse. Check out the wildlife at the famous Central Park Zoo, an activity that’s fun for all ages. Rent a bike and make your own itinerary or follow a bike tour to see the best of Central Park and beyond. That's a pretty fun list right there if you ask me. Want even more? Then head over to our list of popular things to do in Central Park and nearby areas. Central Park is always a great visit with kids or teenagers as well, so take them with you. Upper East & West Sides The Upper East Side and the Upper West Side (bordering Central Park on opposite sides) boast luxurious apartments inhabited by some of the city’s most affluent residents and many of the city’s museums and most-visited attractions. Things to Do in the Upper West Side Just south of the Upper West Side is Lincoln Center, the world’s most famous performing arts venue. Go on a tour and learn all about New York’s music and dance scene. Spend a little time exploring history specific to NYC at the New York Historical Society Museum and then head over to the iconic American Museum of Natural History. The two attractions are conveniently located next door to each other. Things to Do in the Upper East Side Visit Museum Mile and check out the Met and the Guggenheim Museum. Explore the outdoor art scene in the Bronx on the Hunts Point Street Art Walking Tour. Harlem Renowned as a hub of African American culture and history, including the Harlem Renaissance of the ‘20s and ‘30s, Harlem gave the world such icons as Zora Neale Hurston and Langston Hughes. Browse through rows of beautiful brownstones and a plethora of churches. Things to Do in Harlem Learn about graffiti and street art on a 2 1⁄2 hour walking tour around Harlem. You’ll discover a new appreciation for the role Harlem has played in the history and evolution of hip hop culture. Catch a show at the legendary Apollo Theatre performance hall, one of Harlem’s most famous icons. Save on Attraction Admission in New York City Neighborhoods If you're exploring New York neighborhoods, you're bound to do a little NYC sightseeing - make the most of your time and save on admission to popular attractions, tours, museums, cruises, and more with The New York City Explorer Pass. Many of the great activities and attractions mentioned in this post are available on our New York attractions passes, where you can save up to 50% on combined admission vs. paying at the gate.
Casey Makovich

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