Things to do in Harlem

By Sarah Harris

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.

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New York Spring Break 2019 - Things to Do in February & March During Your Vacation

It’s hard to think of a better spring break destination than New York City. It’s got practically everything, from art and architecture to concerts and cruises. Pretty much any type of visitor will love the opportunity to see everything this fantastic city has to offer. Planning to experience New York City Spring Break 2019, but aren’t sure how to fill your time with the right balance of activities? Check our our favorite things to do in New York City during February and March, including top attractions like: The Empire State Building Observatory Top of the Rock Observatory The Statue of Liberty The Metropolitan Museum of Art 9/11 Memorial & Museum And more! For those of you traveling on a budget this year, snag a New York City Explorer Pass® to help save on admission to your favorite attractions like museums, tours, cruises, and more. It’s a great way to save money for those perfect souvenirs! Choose as you go from dozens of top New York City attractions and save up to 50% off combined admission vs. paying at the gate. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. See the City From Above The view from the Top of the Rock observation deck Even if you’ve been to NYC before, it’s best to start off your trip by getting oriented in the city. Visit a few hotspots to get a sense of how it all connects, and make the most of your time with some carefully-selected attractions. Start off with a ride to the top of the Empire State Building or the Top of the Rock. They provide different views of the city (most people say the Top of the Rock has clearer views, but the Empire State Building is more iconic) and either is a great choice to get a sense of midtown and the surrounding areas. Insider Tip: Whichever you choose, it’s best to make this your first stop of the day as it will get quite busy during the late morning and afternoon. Getting In: Admission to the Empire State Building and Top of the Rock are both available with the New York City Explorer Pass®. Get Inspired at Art Museums The Met's famous entryway. You can’t leave New York without having spent at least a little time in one or two of the city’s famed museums. After all, they are counted among the best and most prestigious in the world! If you’re an art lover, there is so much to choose from you could spend days just looking at paintings and sculpture. We recommend starting with the Metropolitan Museum of Art (for a real classic that has just about everything) or the Museum of Modern Art (if you’re not into Ancient Egypt or the Dutch Old Masters). Of course, don't forget about the popular Met Breuer, which features some of the finest collections of contemporary and modern art in the world. Getting In: Admission to MoMA and many others are available with the New York City Explorer Pass®. Explore Your Science-y Side Who doesn't love dinosaurs? Kids of all ages will love a visit to the American Museum of Natural History. It's chock full of astonishing and exciting exhibits, including everything from gemstones to dinosaur fossils. It's actually one of the largest museums of its kind in the world, too, and there's more to see and do than you could possibly manage in one day. Hit up a few of the highlights, like the Rose Center for Earth and Space, and the Environmental and Biodiversity Halls, to see their more famed collections. A visit here is also a great complement to spending time at the Met, because they’re located across from one another on either side of the north end of Central Park. Getting In: Admission to the American Museum of Natural History is available with the New York City Explorer Pass®. See Lady Liberty And of course, you can’t miss a chance to visit (or at least snap photos of) Lady Liberty. One popular option is to hop aboard the ferry and explore both Liberty Island and Ellis Island. Families love this opportunity to explore a significant time in American history, and the educational exhibits are perfect for teaching your children about early immigration. Another excellent choice is to take a sightseeing cruise with fantastic views of the Statue itself, which provides opportunities for that postcard perfect distance shot. The cruise is also fully-narrated, so you'll learn all about the statue and her history. Insider Tip: if you are planning on visiting the Statue itself, wait times will be longest in the afternoons, so go early to avoid the rush. Getting In: Statue of Liberty Ferry tickets and Lady Liberty Cruise tickets are both available with the New York City Explorer Pass®. Hop on a Bus Tour Image credit: Gray Line New York Facebook page. You’ve probably had enough walking by this point, so why not give yourself a break and hop aboard a bus tour of the city? There are several different options to choose from, depending on whether you want to stay in Manhattan or roam further abroad. There are even tours that specifically cover Brooklyn, Uptown & Harlem, or that run at night. Some offer hop on and off capabilities, so if you want to use the bus for short transit hops around one neighborhood, that can sometimes work, too. However, be aware that bad NYC traffic means you shouldn’t rely on any buses to serve as your sole means of transportation. Bus tours are also a great option if you really want to explore more of the city than just midtown and Times Square – get out to places you haven’t seen and spend some time wandering. Getting In: There are several bus tour options included with the New York City Explorer Pass®. The RIDE and the TOUR are two popular favorites. Learn About the City’s History Families shouldn’t leave New York City without some time spent exploring this amazing city's rich heritage. For those invested in their own history, many people value the opportunity to visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. This moving museum features a number of different galleries that highlight the story of 9/11, from the immediate aftermath to the long road to recovery. Outside, the iconic twin reflecting pools are both inspiring and aesthetically attractive. If you prefer something a little bit older and more expansive (and perfect for kids), then the New York Historical Society is a great place to pop in. It’s a small museum with well-curated content, and is conveniently located next to the American Museum of Natural History for easy access. Getting In: 9/11 Memorial & Museum tickets and New York Historical Society Museum tickets are both available with the New York City Explorer Pass®. Enjoy Celebrity Culture An especially fun attraction for kids and teens to explore is Madame Tussauds New York. This famed museum features gorgeously rendered wax replicas of many famous celebrities in a selection of themed settings. You'll get to see people who represent a wide definition of celebrity, from actors and musicians to athletes and famous New Yorkers. You name it, they probably have a wax figure in this fascinating museum! It's the perfect place for selfies with your favorite figures, and those photos definitely make for some hot Instagram posts. Getting In: Madame Tussauds New York tickets are available with the New York City Explorer Pass. Explore Midtown Culture While you’re in the area, take a tour of Radio City Music Hall to indulge your cultural side. Go behind the scenes of one of NYC's most famed theaters, and see where generations of stars have walked, danced, and sang. Then, walk a few blocks west to Times Square – the heart of New York City. It’s a great place to people watch, and despite the tourist infusion, is a really fun place to shop (or window shop, as you prefer). Getting In: Radio City Music Hall tour tickets are available with the New York City Explorer Pass®. Exercise your Stealthy Side If you've ever wanted to be smooth like James Bond, or wish you had the moves like Sydney Bristow, then you'll want to head to SPYSCAPE. It's essentially a hands-on exercise in learning the techniques and tactics of modern spycraft. For example, you can work on your ability to lie effectively (something we're sure your parents will love), and test your agility in a training facility. Then, you'll get to see real artifacts from the history of global spycraft and learn about iconic, real-life spies from around the world. Getting In: SPYSCAPE® tickets are available with the New York City Explorer Pass®. Enjoy a Boozy Tour For the over 21 crowd, this guided walking tour is a fun alternative to a self-guided pub crawl. Instead of choosing random bars that look good from the outside, your expert local guide will escort you around to a few places with something unique, delicious, or out of this world on their drink menu. You'll stop at three different bars with multiple enticing drink options. Your tour may focus on beer, spirits, or wine. This is the kind of tour that craft beer lovers or organic wine fans will get a lot out of. Getting In: Spirits on Foot tour tickets are available with the New York City Explorer Pass®. Showcase Your Artistic Side We've all seen graffiti tags on the buildings and bridges that we pass on the train (or the highway, and so on). But have you ever wondered about the history of this modern art form? This workshop features an artist and expert who will explain the development of street art and graffiti, then demonstrate how to recreate the essential shapes and figures. Most excitingly, you'll get to try your hand at graffiti and bring a sample of your own artwork home. How many of your friends can say they know how to produce a unique tag? Getting In: Graffiti and Street Art Workshop tickets are available with the New York City Explorer Pass®. Take in a Show Midtown is always bustling! Image credit: Joe Buglewicz / NYC Go. Another popular option for enjoying NYC artistic and musical culture is to snag tickets to an event in the Theater District. There are dozens of venues here ranging from the traditional mainstays to innovative indies, and the possibilities for great performances are endless. Many shows are kid-friendly, but some are decidedly not, so be sure to read guidelines carefully before purchasing tickets. Insider Tip: If you're a student group on spring break, keep an eye out for student discounts while you’re planning your spring break trip – although they may often apply only to matinee showings, they’re worth the break in price. Getting In: Theater tickets are not included with the New York City Explorer Pass®. Save on Admission As you can see, experiencing spring break in New York City makes for one heck of a good time. Whether you’ve only got a long weekend, or plan on staying for five full days, we’re sure you’ll find something to love about the Big Apple. Like this itinerary? Snag a New York City Explorer Pass® for a fun-filled (and affordable) spring break!
Katie Sagal
Museum of Natural History
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Top Museums in New York

New York is known for its world-class museums and artistic culture. Its museums are home to a wide variety of art, history, education, and culture so there’s bound to be a museum you’ll enjoy. From modern American art at the Whitney to a history lesson at the American Museum of Natural History, New York City is a haven of incredibly esteemed cultural institutions. Planning a vacation to NYC? Our local experts put together a list of our top New York City museums that you should consider adding to your itinerary. A few of our favorite museums are... Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Immigration Museum 9/11 Memorial & Museum American Museum of Natural History The Metropolitan Museum of Art The Museum of Modern Art Guggenheim Museum Intrepid Museum Madame Tussauds New York Brooklyn Museum and Botanic Garden and more! Want Passes to Top New York Museums? Admission to a number of these attractions are included on the pass for New York. Choose as you go from dozens of top attractions and save on combined admission vs paying at the gate. Browse all available New York attraction passes. 1. Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Immigration Museum Be sure to schedule in time to visit New York City's most iconic landmarks: the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The ferry will take you to each island. First, the one with the Statue of Liberty where you can explore the grounds and get some of the best views of Lady Liberty and Downtown Manhattan. Then you'll head over to Ellis Island, where you can visit the Immigration Museum and learn about your heritage and the important role Ellis Island played in immigration to America. The museum features tons of authentic artifacts, including suitcases, medical records, photographs, and more, all collected during the height of Ellis Island's history. Please note, the Explorer Pass® provides round-trip ferry transportation only; some areas of the Statue of Liberty require separate tickets purchased in advance. Getting in: Statue of Liberty Ferry tickets are available on the New York Explorer Pass®. 2. The 9/11 Memorial and Museum One of the most popular museums in New York City is the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. This moving attraction tells the story of the tragic events of September 11, 2001 in informative and poignant ways. Explore three mains sections in the museum: a Historical Gallery that covers the days before and after the attacks; the In Memoriam exhibition, which highlights the lives lost in both the 1993 bombings and the 2001 attacks; and Foundation Hall, featuring relics remaining from the buildings. Then there's also the exterior Memorial, which is now famous for its iconic water features and striking design elements. Be sure to look for the hardy Survivor Tree! 3. Ground Zero Museum Workshop: Hands-On 9/11 Tour Recently named one of the Top 25 Museums in the United States by TripAdvisor, the Ground Zero Museum Workshop: Hands-On 9/11 Tour is a moving and humbling exhibition that honors the lives of those affected and educates visitors about the events of 9/11. This hands-on 9/11 tour gives you access to lots of never-before-scene primary sources, including artifacts, photos, and first-hand accounts from survivors from the "Recovery Period," when cameras were not allowed, making it a rare account of the day and events that followed. If you're traveling with kids, consider bringing them to this exhibit. It's a very approachable and age-appropriate way to educate kids about the tragedy and subsequent recovery after the events of 9/11. 4. American Museum of Natural History Explore a world-famous collection of dinosaur fossils at one of the biggest museums in the world. The American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) boasts more than 32 million specimens that make up 45 permanent halls, including the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life, which houses the museum's beloved 94-foot-long model of a blue whale. You'll discover the world's largest virtual reality simulator in the Hayden Planetarium and venture through the 90-foot-long diorama of the Dzanga-Sangha rain forest in the Hall of Biodiversity. In addition to its famous permanent exhibits, unique temporary exhibits add to the educational and interactive experience the museum is known for. 5. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) If you’re in the mid-town Manhattan area, the Museum of Modern Art MoMA is a perfect destination for you and your family. The MoMA has been called the most influential modern art museum in the world and its contemporary space and design make it an artist's sanctuary. It’s home to famous masterpieces like Monet's "Reflections of Clouds on the Water-Lily Pond" and Andy Warhol's Campbell's Soup Cans. It boasts works by "rebel" artists like Jackson Pollack, Salvador Dali, and Dorothea Lange, too. Visitors will enjoy the global scope of the museum’s permanent artwork. Check the schedule to see what temporary exhibits they have and be sure to catch one of its inspiring film screenings. After a day of artistic fulfillment, grab a bite to eat from one of the MoMA's three cafés or stop by the Book & Design Store to pick up a print of one of your favorite pieces. 6. Guggenheim Museum It's perhaps the most unique art museum in New York, and it's worth the trip just to see the building itself-designed by famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Inside, the Guggenheim is an art lover's paradise with works from artists like Cézanne, Gauguin, Manet, Monet, Picasso, Pissarro, and Renoir. This international art house features permanent collections like The Thannhauser Collection and The Bohen Foundation Gift, as well as educational temporary exhibits. Another unique aspect of the Guggenheim is that it arranges its art in a way that makes sense historically and holistically, rather than by genre. Whether you have a pre-existing love of art or not, you'll enjoy the magnificent colors, textures, and designs that compose this world-famous art institution. 7. Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum This educational and world-renowned tourist attraction brings twentieth-century history to life. The USS Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum is the centerpiece of this museum that houses 30 restored aircraft, a submarine, and a British Airways Concorde Jet. Having served in World War II, The Vietnam War, the Cold War's anti-submarine patrols, and NASA recovery missions, this aircraft carrier offers a multi-dimensional account of the conflicted 20th century. Explore the top-secret missile command center, torpedo rooms, the attack center, and even the crew's mess hall. Don't leave before checking out one of Intrepid's high-tech simulators, where you can experience what it's like to fly a jet plane or journey through outer space. 8. Madame Tussauds New York Madame Tussauds New York is a world-famous wax museum that offers visitors the ultimate celebrity experience without having to travel to Hollywood. This unique museum contains over 200 incredibly life-like cultural icons, athletes, TV and movie characters, and more. At Madame Tussauds you can hop on a flying bike with E.T., warm up for late-night TV with Jimmy Fallon, and compete to win the Hunger Games with Katniss Everdeen in the Film & TV section before posing for photos with Hollywood icons, like Denzel Washington, Jenifer Anniston, Anne Hathaway, Morgan Freeman, Taylor Lautner, Sofia Vergara, and Johnny Depp at the A-List party. Be sure not to miss their newer features, including Marvel Super Heroes 4D Experience, and Kong: Skull Island. 9. Brooklyn Museum and Brooklyn Botanic Garden Explore one of the oldest and largest art museums in the country when you visit the Brooklyn Museum. It houses world-renowned permanent collections from all of the world's cultures, including pieces from ancient times to the most contemporary works. Dynamic exhibitions fill the museum's halls, including displays like "Norman Rockwell: Behind the Camera" and "Body Parts: Ancient Egyptian Fragments and Amulets." Outside the museum, you'll find the beautiful Brooklyn Botanic Garden, home to 52-acres of botanical treasures. Walk through the Cherry Esplanade to see spectacular cherry blossoms or stop to reflect at the Lily Pool Terrace. These two New York landmarks complement each other wonderfully and should not be missed. 10. Museum of Sex The Museum of Sex takes visitors on an educational exploration of human sexuality around the world from past to present. The mission of the Museum of Sex is to preserve and present the history, evolution, and cultural significance of sexuality. In addition to over 15,000 artifacts on display, the museum constantly changes their temporary exhibits in an effort to address a wide range of once taboo topics while simultaneously highlighting material and artifacts from different cultures. 11. Metropolitan Museum of Art The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) is an absolute must-see in New York. The Met's 2 million-piece art collection includes a diverse assortment of pieces from every region of the world. The Met houses unique niche collections like The Costume Institute, Musical Instruments, and Arms & Armor, and constantly plays host to an impressive selection of ever-changing temporary exhibitions. It’s located right along Central Park, and in contrast to the MoMA, features classical, antique and vintage art in its enormous and diverse 2,000,000-piece collection. Insider tip: head to The Rooftop Garden Café and Martini Bar for some of the best views in New York City. 12. The Met Cloisters Museum The Cloisters Museum is a branch of the Met devoted exclusively to the art and architecture of medieval Europe. Described by former Director of the Musée de Louvre in Paris as “the crowning achievement of American museology,” the Cloisters Museum houses over 3,000 stunning works of art and relics and the building itself features enclosed medieval gardens modeled after medieval planting standards and design elements. It's the perfect place to go if you want to experience the renaissance of European culture. 13. The Met Breuer The newest branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art family, the Met Breuer, is a stunning addition to their already stellar collection of artistic institutions. Housed in a building designed by renowned Modernist architect Marcel Breuer, the collections focus almost exclusively on contemporary and modern art. Serving as an expansion of the modern and contemporary art space currently offered at the Met itself, this new space allows for more of the institution's amazing strengths in these areas to be on display. Expect everything from sculpture and painting to innovative photography, textiles, performance art pieces, and much more. They also offer a wide variety of special programming, workshops, traveling exhibits, and more. It's a must-visit destination for art lovers exploring New York City. 14. Whitney Museum of American Art The Whitney Museum is among New York's finest art offerings, and their dedication to living artists is a unique contribution to the broader artistic scene. With their extensive showcasing of twentieth and twenty-first century American art, the Whitney opens up space for dialogues about the state of the modern art world, the importance of innovation, and the need to invest in and recognize emerging artists. 15. New York Historical Society Founded in 1804, the New York Historical Society is the oldest museum in New York City. The New York Historical Society is an American history museum and library dedicated to fostering research, presenting history and art exhibitions, and public programs that emphasize the importance of history and its significance in the world today. The New York Historical Society Museum & Library hits the spot for anyone craving an offbeat and often surprising bite of New York City culture easily digested in an hour or two. Right next door to another cultural institution, the American Museum of Natural History, you can make this a two-in-one sightseeing experience. Unlike the Historical Society's next-door neighbor, this experience is much more intimate and quirky. The immersive displays offer a rich taste of New York City's storied past, with a collection of artifacts that include 16th century arrowheads, antique toys, and more. 16. American Folk Art Museum Explore the artwork of self-taught artists from the past and present through the American Folk Art Museum's extensive collection of over 7,000 pieces dating from the 18th century to today. Inside this free museum, you'll get to see a works of art, arguably the most authentic of American art, in a variety of mediums interpreted with the historical, social, and artistic context of American culture of their time. 17. The Frick Collection Photo by The Frick Collection Known for its impressive collection of Old Master paintings, European sculptures, and decorative arts, The Frick Collection offers visitors the chance to see works of art from the original private collection of the Frick family and pieces that have been acquired since Mr. Frick's death. Housed in one of New York City's few remaining Gilded Age mansions, you'll get to see masterpieces by artists like Bellini, Rembrandt, Vermeer, Gainsborough, Goya, and Whistler. 18. Jewish Museum Interested in exploring Jewish heritage? The Jewish Museum is a hub for art and Jewish culture with over 30,000 works of art, Judaica, antiques, folk art, and more - from ancient to contemporary. Located on New York City's Museum Mile, the museum serves as one of the oldest cultural institutions dedicated to Judaism in the world. The gorgeous, mansion-esque building invites you inside to discover a collection of paintings, ceremonial items, and media pieces that have reflected the Jewish experience over the past 4,000 years. 19. National Museum of the American Indian The National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) is home to an extensive collection of art and artifacts that explore the diversity of the Native people of the Americas and plays host to a range of activities and programs, including music, dance, films, and more. As an active member of the Smithsonian Institution, the NMAI cares for one of the world's largest collection of Native artifacts, like photographs, historical archives, and media stories that detail the rich history of the Native American experience. What's more, this fantastic space is free to enter. Remember to Save on Museum Admission We hope you add a few of these world-renowned institutions to your New York City itinerary. We promise no matter which you choose to visit, you won't be disappointed. Remember, many of these options are available on the pass for New York by Go City®, where you can make great savings on combined admission vs paying at the gate.
Casey Makovich
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New York Explorer Pass Itinerary

Did you know you can save up to 43% with an Explorer Pass?  If you visited the below 5 attractions without our pass, you'd spend $279.09. With our Explorer Pass, it's only $159.  That's a total saving of $120.09. Read on for some NYC inspiration and discover how you can save on your sightseeing. Choice 1: Empire State Building Where better to have that “Oh my gosh, I’m in New York” moment than at the tip-top of the world’s most famous skyscraper? Before heading to the observation deck to recreate that perfect Sleepless in Seattle moment (or King Kong impression, we ain’t going to judge), be sure to take some time to peruse the Empire State’s indoor galleries, which document the history and cultural significance of this iconic landmark. Price without an Explorer Pass: $51.17 Choice 2: Big Bus Hop on Hop off 1-Day Classic Ticket Have you ever heard public transport being described as enjoyable? Skip the cramped subway (sometimes it's not better to do as the locals do!) and get comfy on a Big Bus tour. With two routes to choose from, it's easy to hit up all the must-see NYC spots including Times Square, Wall Street, Little Italy and SoHo. Get on and off as much as you wish, or just sit back and tune in to their digital commentary - it's a great way to learn all about The Big Apple! Price without an Explorer Pass: $80 Choice 3: Edge Can you ever really ever get bored of gazing over Manhattan from high above? Probably not. But, if you’re looking to make your skyscraper experience even more exciting, Edge is probably the place to go. Travel 100-stories high and take in those views from its tilted glass walls. They'll make you feel like you're literally, well, er, on the edge. You can also test your vertigo with a stroll across their glass-bottomed deck. Price without an Explorer Pass: $50.08 Choice 4: Central Park Bike Tour We don't know if you've heard, but Central Park is quite big. So biking is definitely a good option for exploring it. Better yet, take this bike tour from Unlimited Biking. Not only will you stop off at the park's most famous spots, but you'll also learn all about the park's history from your local guide. Notable spots you'll visit include Strawberry Fields, Belvedere Castle and Shakespeare Garden. Price without an Explorer Pass: $56.84 Choice 5: Circle Line NYC Landmarks Cruise Did somebody say photo op!? Take to the water for a close-up look at Lady Liberty along with plenty of other famous landmarks on the Best of NYC Cruise. Onboard tour guides will give you a heads up when you're about to pass another unmissable view, so you can just sit back and take in the sights with ease.  Price without an Explorer Pass: $41 By visiting these 5 attractions with an Explorer Pass, you'll have saved 43% on your sightseeing. So, what you waiting for? It's time to get planning that NYC adventure now! We calculate our savings by comparing the Go City price to the combined normal ticket values - these were last updated on April 1, 2023.
Katie Waller

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