Things to do in Chinatown

A renowned cultural hub, New York City is home to the most prominent ethnic Chinese population outside of Asia. Situated in Lower Manhattan, the neighborhood brings people together from all walks of life to experience a taste of Asian culture. Whether you’re looking to visit the Museum of Chinese in America, go bargain hunting on Canal Street, or play chess at Columbus Park, this unique area of the city offers a little something for everybody. So, if you’re planning on exploring Chinatown, make sure to read through our guide of the best things to do whilst you're there. We promise you won’t leave disappointed!

Get to know the Area

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Those who are looking to learn more about Asian American identity might appreciate the next item on our list. Situated in the heart of Chinatown, the Museum of Chinese in America seeks to present the community’s living history and heritage for a broad audience. The institute’s fascinating collection features everything from intricate textiles and artworks to antique business signs and laundry tools. It doesn’t take long to view everything in this relatively small museum, which means you’ll have plenty of time to grab a bite to eat at one of the area’s fantastic restaurants.

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Whilst New York is known for the Empire State Building and the Chrysler, the city presents countless hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. Constructed in 1887, the Eldridge Street Synagogue is recognized as one of the oldest synagogues in the United States. Visitors can take tours to admire its Moorish arches, Romanesque masonry, and stunning stained-glass windows. In addition, you’ll be able to learn more about the history behind this architectural marvel and the religious practices and traditions which are held there. Because the museum is a little more under-the-radar, a lot of visitors come here showing more interest than your average museumgoer.

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To rest your weary legs after some serious touring, grab a delicious snack from one of the many local bakeries and head over to Columbus Park. Situated in the historic Five Points neighborhood of Manhattan, the park is recognized as one of the oldest parks in the city. With its beautiful fountains and winding pathways, this place serves as the perfect place for a spot of recreation and people watching. Since the park serves as a meeting place for members of the community, you may catch traditional musical performances and people playing Chinese games.

Get Cultured

Chinatown has far more to offer than just its delicious food stops. Those who are interested in expanding their horizons a little should head over to Mahayana Buddhist Temple for an unforgettable cultural experience. Situated just at the foot of the Manhattan Bridge, this place is thought to be the biggest Buddhist temple in the city. Upon entrance, you’ll be able to view their 16-ft high Buddha statue and wall plaques telling his life story. We recommend dressing appropriately with shoulders and knees covered.

Another one of our favorite things to do in Chinatown is visit the Mmuseumm. Since 2012, this place has been providing a refreshing break away from the typical museum experience with its quirky collection of oddities and fascinating artifacts. Walking around the institution is kind of a trip; you’ll find everything from toothpaste tubes from around the globe to objects made by prisoners. With its mesmerizing exhibits and peculiar take on contemporary society, it’s impossible not to get drawn in.

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Artist's Space is one of the best places to visit in Chinatown for creative types. Known as one of the first alternative galleries in the city, the museum specializes in exhibiting up-and-coming contemporary creatives. Since their debut in 1972, the institute has launched the careers of many well-renowned artists, including Cindy Sherman and Laurie Simmons. The repository itself covers all bases; you’ll find everything from abstract paintings and avant-garde sculptures to video and electronic media here. And who knows? You might be stumbling across the next big thing in the art world.

Find Fun Activities

If you’re travelling with kids, you might want to check out Chinatown Fair Family Fun Center. Billed as New York Citys ‘’last great arcade’’, this place offers a unique entertainment experience for you and your loved ones. Inside, you’ll be able to find a fantastic mix of retro generation games and competitive fighting games. Catering to seasoned players and novices alike, this hidden treasure presents a whole world of fun just waiting to be unlocked.

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Attention all bargain shoppers! If you’re looking for the ultimate retail therapy experience, then look no further! Though Canal Street isn’t usually considered one of New York’s greatest thoroughfares, it definitely should be. Flanked with a wide array of intriguing stalls and buzzing with life, this lively street has earned its status as a hawkers’ paradise. Walking down the street, you’ll be eagerly approached by vendors trying to sell you copies of every kind of designer brand under the sun. With its great deals and high-paced energy, you won’t want to miss out on this one!

Are you looking for an experience that will excite your taste buds? Don’t worry, we got you covered! Since its opening in 1978, the Chinatown Ice Cream Factory has been serving up nothing but pure, delicious goodness. Flavors range from classic to exotic, but with a small twist; among the traditional flavors are citrusy, refreshing green tea ice cream, a floral pandan sorbet, and a sweet mango ice cream; meanwhile the exotic choices are vanilla, chocolate and strawberry. Whichever you choose, it’s impossible to go wrong!

Packed with living history and bustling with life, a trip to Chinatown is always a trip worth making. Whether you’re a foodie, an artsy type, or an architecture geek, you’re sure to find something to pique your interest. Check out the best Chinese food in the city, view some world-class art and see one of the oldest synagogues in the country – the world’s your oyster! Discover all that Chinatown has to offer with our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass. With Go City, you can see more, for less.

Sarah Harris
Go City Travel Expert

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Things to do in Harlem

Steeped in African American history and culture, Harlem has much to offer for the inquisitive traveler. Today, the area thrives with fantastic museums, world-renowned theaters and amazing little hidden gems. Whether you’re an artsy type, a foodie, or a music lover, you’ll find that there are many reasons to love the neighborhood. With so many things to see and do in the area, we’ve put together a list of our favorite attractions. Keep scrolling to read about the best things to do in Harlem! Get to Know the Area Whilst other neighborhoods are noted for their towering buildings and modern structures, Harlem is home to many important historical landmarks. Founded in 1808, the Abyssinian Baptist Church is one of the oldest African American Baptist churches in the United States and an unmissable stop if exploring Harlem. Visitors can come to enjoy beautiful sermons and admire the building’s striking interiors. The church welcomes guests from all walks of life, though we recommend wearing modest clothes as a mark of respect. Another one of our favorite things to do in Harlem is visit the Hamilton Grange National Memorial. Situated at St. Nicholas Park, the property is recognized as the only home that founding father Alexander Hamilton ever owned. Today, the National Historic Site offers an inside look into Hamilton’s extraordinary lifestyle and career which foregrounded the United States as it is known today. Visitors can take guided tours to view the well-preserved interiors, interesting films, and a small museum exhibiting the American patriot’s greatest achievements. A total must-see, this historic site provides fantastic insight into the establishment and early development of the United States. New York City has always been recognized for its powerful sway within the art world, with Harlem presenting some fantastic hidden treasures. For those interested in art history and Harlem street culture, the Graffiti Hall of Fame showcases impressive pieces which changed the landscape of the urban art scene forever. In particular, these bright, expressive murals display the development of graffiti writing from the 1980s up until today. Don’t forget to take your phone or a camera to capture some shots of this fascinating historic site! Get Cultured Looking for a world-class entertainment experience right in the center of Harlem? Well, look no further. Giving status to some of the East Coast’s top entertainers for decades, the Apollo Theater is recognized as one of Harlem’s most notable attractions. The venue is well known for hosting Showtime at the Apollo and its legendary Amateur Night, featuring undiscovered artists performing across all art forms. But if that’s not quite your cup of tea, there’s no need to worry; you can see everything from live jazz to classical music performances here. With its interesting history and lively atmosphere, there’s no better place to catch a show. A well-recognized cultural and creative hub, Harlem presents some of the best art galleries in the city. Founded in 1968, The Studio Museum in Harlem seeks to display, preserve, and interpret art created by African Americans. Though the repository is smaller than say, that of MoMA, it works to paint a profound and accurate portrayal of a community which sees less focus in the mainstream art world. Upon entrance, you’ll be able to enjoy a captivating collection spanning over 200 years of history and across all disciplines. Presenting beautiful and historically-relevant pieces within an intimate space, this place makes for the perfect quiet afternoon out. Those looking to learn more about the background of the area should consider checking out the National Jazz Museum in Harlem. A great stop for music lovers and history buffs alike, the institute offers a deep dive into the East Coast artists who contributed to the genre. Amongst its holdings, you’ll find Duke Ellington’s piano and Eddie ‘Lockjaw’ Davis’ sax, along with old photos, letters and recordings. In addition, the facility holds regular live performances – so don’t miss out! Take in the Atmosphere One of the best ways to experience the local culture of a neighborhood is through its markets. Located just off of Malcolm X Boulevard (and named after the famous activist’s grandson), the Malcolm Shabazz Harlem Market reflects the community it's in through presenting a fantastic array of local vendors. Open daily, the market is known for purveying everything from traditional African clothing and jewelry to streetwear and original artwork. Dive into the crowds, pick up a souvenir, and take it all in. We couldn't think of a better way to spend a lazy New York afternoon! Do you want to meander through fantastical botanical displays and draping foliage right in the middle of the concrete jungle? Well, as it turns out, you can! Situated near the East Harlem district of Manhattan, Central Park’s Conservatory Garden offers the perfect retreat from the city. Constructed in 1937, the garden is made up of three separate areas, each with a unique design: the French-style Garden, the Italianate Garden, and the English-style Garden. Enjoy the fresh air, have a picnic, and watch the sunset – what could be better than that? Anybody who comes to Harlem looking for great eateries will not be disappointed! Whether you’re craving fresh grilled catfish or creamy lobster risotto, the area presents the perfect bite for every occasion. Those who are interested in fine dining should look into Renaissance Harlem for its creative menu and laid-back atmosphere. If soul food is more your style, head to Sylvia’s for the perfect chicken and waffles. We also recommend checking out Harlem’s restaurant row, for those who just cannot make the final decision! Diverse and bustling with life, Harlem is one of the most interesting neighborhoods in New York to explore. It doesn’t matter if you’re a first-timer or a returning visitor, you’re sure to find something to pique your interest. Whether you’re looking to taste some of the best soul food in the city, catch a first-class performance at the Apollo Theater, or get in touch with your spiritual side, it’s impossible to be bored here. 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
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Things to do in West Village   

Nestled along the Hudson River and flanked with striking brownstones and trendy restaurants, the West Village is one of the most vibrant areas of New York. Whether you’re in a group or travelling solo, you’ll find many reasons to love the neighborhood. From world-class galleries and historic landmarks to fantastic theaters and comedy clubs, you’ll never be bored here. So, if you’re planning a trip to the Big Apple and would like to spend some time in the West Village during your stay, have a read through some of our favorite things to do in the area! Get Cultured A well-recognized hub of innovation and artistry, the West Village has much to offer in the museum department. For first time visitors, a trip to The Whitney Museum of American Art is essential. Founded in 1930, the museum has grown to become one of the leading institutions for modern and contemporary art. The repository features many styles of artwork, from minimalist pieces to conceptual mind-benders. Visit to see works from renowned artists including Andy Warhol, Jasper Johns and Georgia O’Keeffe. An artists’ enclave-turned-current hipster hotspot, the West Village presents a wealth of fantastic cultural institutions for theater lovers. First opened in 1923, The Cherry Lane Theatre is now recognized as the oldest continuously running off-Broadway theater in New York City. The playhouse runs everything from total classics to side-splitting comedies, all under one roof. With its unique charm and elegance, this venue provides an intimate experience that you won’t find at other places. Though the theater is small, this spot has amassed quite a reputation – for this reason, we recommend booking ahead of time. Cinephiles taking a trip to the West Village will be blessed with countless options for places to catch a movie. Still, our resounding favorite for independent cinema has to be the IFC Center. Formerly the Waverly Theater, this place is famed for popularizing the Rocky Horror Picture Show back in 1976. Nowadays, the venue regularly screens an eclectic mix of independent, foreign, documentary and classic films. With its fantastic film picks and laid-back atmosphere, this stop is great for spending time with friends and family. Find Fun Activities Another one of our favorite things to do in the West Village is visit the Museum of Illusions. Breaking away from the traditional museum experience, this spot offers more brain-tricking, eye-tricking fun than any other entertainment location in the city. Learn about vision, perception and the human brain through the institute’s intriguing walkthrough exhibits. From kaleidoscopes and holograms to tiled and reverse rooms, this place is a total feast for the senses. Don’t forget to bring your phone to capture some snaps for Instagram! The West Village isn’t just home to some fantastic cultural amenities and interesting historic sites – it's also a total foodie’s paradise! Whether you’re looking for fine dining, a romantic date spot, or maybe just a quick bite, the area has something to suit all tastes and budgets. For those harnessing a sweet tooth, we recommend checking out Milk Bar. Founded by James Beard Award-winning pastry chef Christina Tosi, this place is famed for its cutesy, nostalgic treats which taste as good as they look. If you’re looking to satisfy all of your savory cravings, head over to John’s Pizzeria. Serving up coal-fired thin-crust pies since 1929, this authentic spot has more than mastered the art of the perfect slice. Though the city is perhaps best recognized for its towering skyscrapers and modern structures, it's also home to some wonderful urban green spaces. Those looking to get some fresh air might enjoy Hudson River Park for its beautiful scenery. Running from Battery Park to 59th Street, the park attracts millions of visitors each year with its stunning views of the river and Manhattan skyline. There are flowers, benches, beaches, and many exciting activities to try out – including kayaking and sailing tours. Take a stroll, have a picnic, or watch the sun set over the river – the world’s your oyster! Spot the Famous Landmarks Teeming with living history and culture, the West Village presents many interesting anecdotal sites to be explored. Recognized as the most famous gay bar in the world, the Stonewall Inn gave its name to the spontaneous demonstrations of 1969, which set the LGBTQ+ rights movement into motion. Today, the bar draws in a diverse crowd in celebration of the history and progression of the gay liberation movement. A National Historic Landmark and mainstay of West Village culture, this place should be at the top of your itinerary. Before visiting, we suggest checking online for drag shows, themed nights and karaoke. The concrete jungle has long been a popular filming destination, with some of the TV’s most recognizable sites tucked away in the West Village. For comedy lovers and pop culture fans, one of the best spots in the city is none other than the original Friends apartment building. Situated at 90 Bedford Street, this redbrick building attracts thousands of fans to catch a glimpse of TV history. Though you can’t go inside the building, this place makes for the perfect photo opportunity! The list of TV shows shot in the picturesque center of New York City is endless. With its beautiful parks and historic architecture, the West Village has long been a favorite for the small screen – in fact, the area minds the home of one very famous New Yorker: Carrie Bradshaw. Sadly, the inside isn’t open to the public, though we like to imagine it overflowing with Manolo Blahniks and Vogues. Undoubtedly stunning and quintessentially NYC, this stop is a total must-see for any Sex and the City fan. Whilst you’re in the area, take time to explore its designer boutiques and hip restaurants in true Carrie Bradshaw style. Well, there you have it: our list of the best things to do in the West Village. Still, to face the facts, you could live in the neighborhood for years and not experience everything that it has to offer, because there’s simply so much to see and do! Whether you’re looking to catch a play with some friends, taste some of the best pizza in the city, or admire the views at Hudson River Park, you’ll find many reasons to love the area. Explore New York to its full potential with Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
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Things to do in East Village New York   

Facts first: We love the East Village! Formerly part of the Lower East side, the area is widely considered to be the birthplace of punk. Today, this thriving urban hub presents great opportunity for exploration: from interesting cultural amenities and historical landmarks to trendy bars and restaurants, this place has it all. No matter what you choose to do here, it’s impossible to be bored. But where should you start? Well, if you’re planning to make the visit, read through our list so that you can experience the best of everything in the East Village. Get Cultured One of the most exciting to do in New York is going to see a show. Though the area presents a wealth of great playhouses to choose from, our first choice is always the Orpheum Theater. Established in 1904, this place is known for popularizing The Little Shop of Horrors and Stomp. Today, you can catch everything from side-splitting comedies to evocative dramas all under one roof. With its unique history and understated elegance, there’s no better place to be for lovers of the performed arts. Famed for its history of social activism and creative thought, the nightlife of the East Village is second to none. Those heading to the area looking for first-class artistry will not leave disappointed! An emblematic cultural gem and mainstay of the East Village arts scene, the Nuyorican Poets Café is known for giving slam poetry its legs. For decades, the institution has served as a home for seminal works of poetry, music, theater, and more. With its outstanding performers and laid-back atmosphere, this place is perfect for grabbing a few drinks and soaking up vibe of the East Village in all its glory. There’s nothing better than catching a movie with some friends. If you’re looking for the perfect spot, then don't worry – we've got you covered! For the most passionate cinephiles and casual viewers alike, the Anthology Film Archives screens a wonderfully diverse range of arthouse movies. From old favorites and total classics to indies and silent comedies, there’s a little something for everybody here. After a long day of touring, this is a great place to just kick back and relax. Explore the Area If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the area, you might want to check out the Museum of the American Gangster. Once known as one of the city’s most notorious speakeasies, the institution now works to examine the history of organized crime in the United States. Amongst its unusual and fascinating collection, you’ll find John Dillinger’s death masks, bullets from the Saint Valentine’s Day Massacre investigation, and shell casings from Bonnie and Clyde’s final shoot out. Though the museum is small, we’d argue that its holdings make it well worth the visit. New York City presents no shortage of great cultural institutions, with the East Village minding some of the city’s more interesting specialty encounters. Designed by Ukrainian-American architect George Sawicki, the Ukranian Museum is recognized as the largest institution in the United States committed solely to the cultural heritage of the community. In its unusual collection, you’ll find everything from fine art and intricately embroidered traditional dress to historic photographs and documents. The museum also offers gallery talks, concerts, and creative workshops for those who are interested. After some diehard exploration, you may well be looking to rest your weary feet. Luckily, the East Village presents many beautiful green spaces, perfect for unwinding and soaking up some rays. Once the nave of criminal activity in the area, Tompkins Square Park is now a great place to hit up for a spot of recreation. Go for a stroll, have a picnic, or watch live musical performances. If you’re travelling during Halloween, we also recommend checking out the Halloween Dog Parade, where you can watch the neighborhood pooches strutting their stuff in their finest holiday attire for a grand prize of thousands of dollars. What could be better than that? See Some Cool Landmarks Steeped in living history and culture, the East Village has much to offer the curious traveler with its beautiful landmarks. If you’re a history buff, there’s no better place to spot these structures than in the East Village/Lower East Side Historic District. Situated at 59 East 2nd Street, the Russian Orthodox Cathedral is one of our favorites for its incredibly striking exterior. The cathedral was designed by esteemed architect Josiah Cleveland Cady, who would later go on to build such emblematic landmarks as the first Metropolitan Opera House and the auditorium for the American Museum of Natural History. Visitors can take tours to view its high ceilings, beautiful decorative paintings, and intricate carvings. Whether you’re interested in the background of the area or looking to uncover your spiritual side, this place is well worth the visit. Whilst Midtown is known for its towering skyscrapers, the East Village is home to many venerable structures telling the neighborhood’s rich history. Built in 1910, Meserich Synagogue is reflective of the area’s strong ties with the Jewish community around the turn of the century. The building stands out for its striking Neo-Classical stone façade, and its inside features a commanding ark and stained-glass windows. Though the building has seen renovation, this hidden gem still speaks to both the greater immigrant experience in the city and a crucial time in Jewish history. Vibrant and packed with culture, the East Village is easily one of the trendiest areas in NYC. The neighborhood is cheaper to explore than other parts of The Village, though no less interesting. It would be easy to spend an entire day just admiring the architecture and soaking up the atmosphere of the neighborhood. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or an artsy type, the area has so much to offer. 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

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