Things to do in Soho

By Sarah Harris

Running from Houston Street to Canal Street, SoHo presents some of the most interesting things to do in the city. We can never get enough of this bohemian NYC district. Whether you’re looking to browse the stores, explore the neighborhood’s artistic side, or admire its unique cast-iron architecture, you'll never be bored in SoHo. We’ve spent a lot of time in the area and are presenting our favorite things to do to help you plan the perfect vacation. Keep scrolling to read our list of the best attractions to visit whilst you’re there!

Explore the Area

New York has always been a city devoted to commerce, with SoHo presenting some of the best shopping opportunities in the area. Drawing from the neighborhood's bohemian roots, the Artists and Fleas market serves as a stellar browsing location and fun cultural experience all at once. Situated along Broadway, this enticing marketplace is known for peddling everything from vintage fashion and furniture to original artwork and one-of-a-kind antiques. Dive into the crowds, soak up the atmosphere, and shop ‘til you drop!

If you were wondering where to grab a bite to eat in Soho, don’t worry – we've got you covered! Besides being a fantastic shopping destination, the area presents a wealth of cozy bistros and fun bars to satisfy your appetite. Begin your day with the perfect breakfast at Dominique Ansel Café, where you can find the original iteration of the cronut, amongst other delectable confections. Stop for a laid-back brunch at the historic Fanelli Café. We also recommend checking out City Winery for its first-rate wine selection and fabulous live performances. Whatever you choose to do, we promise you won’t go hungry!

Those travelling with family might want to check out the next item on our list. Offering plenty of space and fresh air, the Vesuvio Playground is the perfect place for kids to let loose without a care in the world. Renovated in 2007, the beloved city park has everything from sandboxes and basketball courts to bocce courts and musical chimes. Still, summertime is the best time to stop by, since the spray showers and wading pool will be in use. With its lively atmosphere and long list of engaging features, this one is well worth adding to the family travel bucket list.

Find Interesting Activities

If this isn’t your first visit to the Big Apple, you might be looking for some new museums to pique your interest. Luckily for you, the city presents a countless array of unique cultural amenities to explore. Housed in an authentic firehouse that was decommissioned in 1904, the New York City Fire Museum stands out as one of our favorites for its fascinating repository celebrating the history of its fire department. Walking around the institute, visitors can view a first-class collection of over 10, 000 objects spanning from the 18th century right through to the present. We love this place because it’s impossible to leave without having learned something new.

The concrete jungle presents plenty of unique and exciting activities for those of all ages. Bright, colorful, and inviting, The Children’s Museum of the Arts seeks to cultivate curiosity and creativity in little ones. Offering hands-on activities in sculpture, sound-art, and stop-motion animation (just to name a few), this place pushes the boundaries way beyond the standard educational experience. Whilst you’re there, don’t forget to check out the museum’s unique collection of children’s art, which dates back to the 1930s.

One of our favorite things about New York is that it’s always coming up with new ways to surprise us. Bringing to life all of your childhood fantasies, the Museum of Ice Cream is recognized as the first ever ‘’selfie museum’’. With a total of 13 immersive installations and creative concepts, the institute acts as a fun and unique space for photo opportunities.Though it doesn’t provide an educational experience like some of Soho’s other cultural amenities, this isn’t what this place is about. Rather, the institute serves up a sweet experience to remember.

Get Cultured

If you’re looking for an interesting cultural experience, you won’t have to venture far. A former artists’ enclave and current hipster hotspot, SoHo and its many museums offer an enticing mix of art, history and culture. Standing out amongst other elite museums in the city, the Leslie Lohman-Museum of Art is recognized as the only institute dedicated to artwork documenting the LGBTQ experience. Upon entrance, viewers can enjoy an expansive collection of over 30,000 artworks, ranging from contemporary paintings and sculptures to installation and video pieces. Particular highlights include works by David Hockney, Andy Warhol and Bernice Abbott.

Another one of our favorite spots in SoHo is the Angelika Film Center. Since its founding in 1989, the theater has become known as the most successful and recognized arthouse in the United States. A must-visit for film lovers and casual viewers alike, the establishment screens an interesting and diverse array of independent films across all genres. With its eclectic atmosphere and laid-back vibe, the theater is a wonderful place for spending time with friends and family.

We couldn’t write an article about SoHo without mentioning Broadway. Drawing in millions of visitors each year, Broadway is a well-recognized epicenter of fashion, theater and commerce. This major thoroughfare has a lot to offer, with world-renowned brands, designer boutiques and fantastic eateries around every corner. Whether you’re looking for a successful shopping experience, or just a casual stroll through the city, a visit to Broadway would make the perfect daytrip! Don’t forget to check out the beautiful cast-iron architecture which the area is known for!

Soho is one of the most exciting areas of New York. After a visit here, you may be inclined to agree. From trendy flea markets and enticing restaurants to influential art galleries and theaters, the area has a little something for everybody. To get the most out of your visit, check out our All-Inclusive Pass and 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
Go City Travel Expert

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New York in September   

There’s no doubt about it - September is the absolute best time for crunching through leaves in Central Park, visiting fun outdoor attractions, and cozying up in the museum café. If you’re looking for the ultimate Autumn in New York experience, don’t worry - we’ve got you covered! For those who are thinking about making the visit, plan ahead with our comprehensive guide for the best things to do in the area. We hope you find many of our tips useful for the future. Take in the Fall Vibes   The weather in September is still warm and balmy, making it one of the best times to visit some outdoor New York attractions. Situated between the Upper West and Upper East Sides of Manhattan, Central Park is easily accessible and offers a wide array of fun activities. Attracting over 25 million visitors each year, this is easily one of the most popular public parks in the world – and with good reason. Whether you’re looking to visit the zoo, see the conservatory garden, or just take a relaxing stroll, there’s plenty to do here.   The light autumnal weather also provides ample opportunity for some great outdoor events. Taking place every Wednesday of the month, Jazz at Pier 84 combines stunning live performances with beautiful evenings. Totally free and set along the waterfront of the Hudson River, we couldn’t think of a much cooler way to relax on vacation. So, pack some blankets and snacks and get ready to watch the sunset over the skyline! Is there any better way to enjoy the outdoors than by watching a movie under the stars? All throughout the month, you can catch free outdoor screenings right in the center of Bryant Park. Showing on Monday and Tuesday evenings, the festival features everything from critically acclaimed dramas and black and white classics to laugh-out-loud comedies and cult indie flicks. While the park provides food and wine concessions, it’s up to you to bring a blanket, since there is no seating area. In addition, there are also music, dance and theater events produced in partnership with a varied lineup of the city’s performing arts institutions. Find Fun Activities   Whilst you might be thinking that summertime is peak festival season, we’re here to tell you that you're wrong. A total treat for music lovers, Governor’s Ball is one of New York’s most respected, hyped and talked about cultural events. A total musical extravaganza, the affair features an impressive and exciting lineup with a mixed bag of genres, including hip-hop, rock, pop and electronic. With previous performances from Miley Cyrus, Drake and Stevie Nicks, this one is a sure winner! New York City has never failed to impress us with its delicious culinary offerings. To grab a slice of the action head down to Smorgasburg fest, where you can try out different specialities from dozens of local vendors. Billed as ‘’the Woodstock of eating’’, the event offers a broad variety of dishes, as well as cocktails and high-quality beers on tap. With plenty of vegan and gluten-free options to choose from, we promise nobody will go hungry!   Another one of our favorite places to go in September is Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Situated at the northeastern edge of Prospect Park, this 52-acre stretch is home to thousands of plants and trees, as well as a discovery garden with butterflies, bees and chipmunks. Attracting nearly a million visitors each year, this stunning urban landscape encourages its visitors to explore the world of plants whilst promoting a sense of responsibility for the environment. Including a number of speciality "gardens within the Garden", the Steinhardt Conservatory that houses the C.V. Starr Bonsai Museum, and an art gallery, there’s a little something for everyone here. Magical and swoon-worthy, this place makes the perfect day trip. Get Cultured One of the greatest things about New York is that the city is a total melting pot for more cultures than any other place in the United States. To experience how residents have been shaping and contributing to the culture of the city is an experience in itself – and definitely one which we recommend. If you're interested in exploring the area through its food, we suggest heading down to the San Gennaro Festival. Initially a one-day religious holiday, the event was brought over by Italian immigrants who wanted to continue the tradition they had followed in their home country, celebrating Saint Januarius, the Patron Saint of Naples. Today, the festival is a magnificent flourish of delicious food, live music, and colorful parades which is held annually in the Little Italy district of Manhattan. Soak up the festive atmosphere, enjoy some of the best Italian cuisine in the city, and definitely don’t miss the world-famous cannoli eating contest!   New York is well-recognized as the art capital of the United States. Those who are interested in exploring the city’s creative side should definitely look into booking a street art tour. Along the route, you’ll be guided through the vibrant works of many big contemporary street artists, as well as some interesting lesser-known names. In addition, you’ll get to learn more about the different styles and techniques which have been developed throughout the history of street art. Extremely Instagram-worthy and incredibly fascinating, too, you won’t want to miss this one! Those who are visiting during the anniversary of 9/11 should consider checking out the Tribute in Light installation. First introduced six months after the attacks, this piece seeks to commemorate the thousands of lives that were lost whilst celebrating the enduring strength of New York City. From the roof of the Battery Parking Garage, two beams of light are projected into the Manhattan skyline, where the passenger planes were once hijacked by terrorists and crashed into the World Trade Center buildings. We suggest going at nighttime since the lights are best appreciated after dark. New York is great all year round, but fall is especially magical– the leaves turn golden, the air is crisp, and the city offers a wide array of fun activities and events. Whether you’re ambling through the winding pathways of Central Park, enjoying jazz right beside the Hudson River, or catching a sunset movie, it's impossible to be bored. To make the most of this fleeting season, be sure to check out our New York attraction pass options as you can use an All-Inclusive pass or an Explorer pass to see more for less with Go City.
Sarah Harris
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Four Days in New York

Planning to spend four days in New York City and wondering whether it’s enough time to see everything? One of the world’s most intense and invigorating, energetic, and ever-changing cities in the world, the sprawling metropolis has so much to offer, you could live there for a year without seeing and experiencing everything. However, four days in New York is enough to see all the top attractions and get a feel for the city. While you’ll have your work cut out for you and will end up walking a good few miles, it’s just enough time for you to take a bite out of the Big Apple and fall in love. So, what to see and where to go? This four-day itinerary will guide you through the top sights and food spots you simply can’t miss on a visit to New York City. Top Tips for First-Time Visitors to New York City With just four days in New York, time is of the essence, so here are a few tips to help make the most of your stay. Comfortable shoes are essential! New York City is best explored on foot, and you’ll spend a lot of time walking around. It’s essential to bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes for your four-day adventure. Expect long lines at popular places New York City is one of the most visited cities in the world and is busy year-round. Prepare for long lines at the top attractions. Get the 7-Day Unlimited Ride Metro Card New York City has an outstanding public transportation system that provides a quick way of getting around the city. The 7-Day Unlimited Ride Metro Card is worthwhile if you plan on using the subway. For only $33 you’ll have unlimited access to the metro for seven days. Now that you’re prepped, let’s hit the streets! Four-Day Itinerary for New York City Day 1 Morning in Central Park Your first stop on your Big Apple adventure must be Central Park. One of New York’s most recognized attributes, Central Park is the lush green heart of Manhattan. Designed by the award-winning landscape architect team, Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, the park spans 843 acres and is home to everything from a lake to an ice-skating rink. You could spend the entire day in the park and not see everything, so why not use your pass to rent a bike from Central Park Full Day Bike Rental on two wheels! Visit the most popular attractions in the park like the picturesque Loeb Boathouse, the historic Belvedere Castle, Sheep's Meadow, and the rolling Strawberry Fields. When you’re done exploring, head to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, one of New York’s top museums. Founded in 1870, the MET is home to over two million pieces of art spanning 5,000 years. Don’t miss Monet’s Bridge over a Pond of Water Lilies and Vincent van Gogh’s Self Portrait with a Straw Hat. If you prefer archeology over art, head to the American Museum of Natural History on the border of Central Park in the Upper West Side. Use your pass to gain access to the museum and marvel at the incredible collection of natural wonders. Don’t miss the life-size model of a 94-foot blue whale in the Hall of Ocean Life. Afternoon in Midtown After lunch, it’s time for a bit of retail therapy on one of the best shopping streets in the world! Head down Fifth Avenue to browse the stunning window displays of the top luxury brands in the world and do some shopping if your credit card will allow it. Make a stop at the Saint Patrick’s Cathedral along the way. Hailed as one of the most beautiful churches in the world, the Neo-Gothic style cathedral took 21 years to complete due to the Civil War. Use your pass to enjoy express entry into the cathedral where you can wander around in awe of the breathtaking architecture. Evening in Times Square Times Square is one of New York’s most visited attractions and can’t be missed during your NYC sojourn. Brace yourself for the massive screens and neon lights lighting up the night sky. Be prepared for crowds – Times Square heaves with tourists, especially at night, but it’s an experience of a lifetime that will leave lasting memories. Another must-do when in New York is to catch a Broadway Show if you can afford it. Broadway Shows are an integral part of New York and even if you’re not the greatest theater fan, watching a show like The Lion King or Wicked on Broadway is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Use your pass to enjoy a Broadway and Time Square Walking Tour. Walk in the footsteps of stars as you visit legendary Broadway locations like the Edison Hotel and Shubert Alley. Day 2 Morning in Greenwich Village When in New York, do as New Yorkers do and grab a bagel for breakfast. You’ll find plenty of bakeries and cafés selling mouthwatering versions – try salmon and cream cheese if you really want to be a New Yorker. The best way to explore this charming neighborhood is on a walking tour. Use your pass to join a Greenwich Village Walking Tour and enjoy a two-hour guided tour of the ‘birthplace of American Counter-Culture.’ Visit Washington Square Park, the symbolic heart of Greenwich Village and a gathering place for avant-garde artists and students from NYU. Eat your bagel on the steps of the fountain and watch street art performers and musicians ply their trade. Discover film locations (Friends and Mozart in the Jungle) and learn about the area's famous residents like Edgar Allan Poe and John Wilkes Booth. Visit the birthplace of the LGBTQ+ Movement in America, the Stonewall Inn. Afternoon in Soho, Little Italy, and Chinatown Your next stop is the neighboring areas of SoHo (South of Houston Street), Little Italy, and Chinatown. Save some time by using your pass to enjoy a SoHo, Little Italy & Chinatown Walking Tour and dive right into the heart of Manhattan. Enjoythe ritzy shops and their museum-worthy window displays in SoHo and shop until you drop. Venture into Little Italy and be prepared to salivate as you wander around NYC’s tastiest neighborhood. Discover the rich history of Chinatown and explore its secret underground tunnels. Evening in Chelsea As the sun begins to set , head to the unique High Line Park to take in some spectacular city views. The once-disused railroad track was converted into a verdant floating garden that now passes through some of New York City's most historic neighborhoods. Wander along the elevated park on a High Line, Chelsea & Meatpacking District Walking Tour with your pass. Take in the art installations and admire some of New York's most famous buildings, including the Empire State Building and Frank Gehry’s IAC Building. When you’re done walking the High Line, pop into Chelsea Market for something to eat. The world-famous food hall is home to a mix of restaurants and shops selling an array of mouthwatering gourmet goodies. Day 3 Morning at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum and One World Trade Center Visiting New York City without spending a few hours in the 9/11 Memorial and Museum would be remiss. Based next to the overwhelming might of the monolithic One World Trade Center, the museum details the horrific events that took place on that day and honors the almost 3,000 victims of these attacks and all those who risked their lives to save others. Use your pass to gain entrance to the museum and be prepared for a deeply moving and reflective experience. Join a 9/11 Museum Workshop with your pass where you’ll learn about the nine-month recovery period after the events of 9/11 and the people involved. Don’t miss the never-ending waterfall that cascades into twin reflecting pools where the Twin Towers once stood. The names of victims of both the 1993 and 2001 attacks are engraved in stone around the waterfall. Afternoon in Wall Street and Brooklyn As you wander towards Wall Street and the Financial District, be sure to check out the architecturally significant and rather curious design of the Oculus Mall, which is like the spine of a long-forgotten fish. Walk around the Financial District and see the iconic New York Stock Exchange. Have a photo taken with the famous Charging Bull and admire the historic Trinity Church. Next stop, the famous Brooklyn Bridge and the charming neighborhood of DUMBO. Connecting Manhattan to Brooklyn, the Brooklyn Bridge is one of the oldest bridges in the country and one of New York’s most iconic attractions. A lovely way to explore this area is on a Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO Walking Tour. Stroll across the architectural icon and be sure to take tons of photos – it’s one of the most photographed landmarks in NYC. Learn the history of the bridge from your guide as you soak up spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline. Stroll around the trendy Brooklyn neighborhood called DUMBO which is famous for its art galleries, high-end boutiques, and scenic waterfront views. This is the place for out-of-this-world New York pizza, so find a spot for dinner! Day 4 Morning at in the Diamond District Your first stop today should be the beautiful Grand Central Station. Take in the breathtaking design and the grandeur of the celestial ceiling of the central terminal. Grab breakfast and a coffee in the food hall downstairs. A short walk from Grand Central Station is the Museum of Modern Art. Fondly known as MoMA, the striking Yoshio Taniguchi-designed building houses one of the most significant collections of modern art in the world, with works by world-renowned, such as Van Gogh, Picasso, Cézanne, Magritte, Pollock, Matisse, and Warhol. Use your pass for free access to the Museum of Modern Art and spend the morning marveling at masterpieces. Afternoon at the Empire State Building You can’t leave New York without visiting the Empire State Building. This world-renowned building is a short walk from Bryant Park and is the perfect place to see the sunset over Manhattan. Built during The Great Depression, Empire State Building is a glorious example of Art Deco design with a magnificent lobby boasting 24-karat gold and aluminum leaf ceiling murals. Use your pass to gain access to the Empire State Building and head up to the 86th floor to get a 360-degree panoramic view of the city. Take in the city from the observatory deck and see Connecticut and Pennsylvania more than 80 miles away on a clear day or watch the city lights begin to twinkle as it gets darker. Evening at Madison Square Garden Spend your last evening in New York watching a Knicks basketball game or the New York Rangers on the ice at Madison Square Garden. The 20,000-seat venue in the heart of Herald Square witnessed Marilyn singing ‘Happy Birthday’ to JFK and hosted two Ali-Frazier fights. If you aren’t lucky enough to get tickets, you’ll find plenty of top-notch restaurants in and around the square for your last NYC dinner.
Alex Birungi

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