10+ Things to Do in Midtown Manhattan

By Katie Sagal
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Manhattan

Manhattan has so much to offer visitors – from world-class restaurants to college campuses to trendy art galleries. There’s so much, in fact, that it’s impossible to tackle it all in one trip. Visitors often find it helpful to confine their explorations to one neighborhood or region of the city, like the immensely popular Midtown Manhattan. If you’re looking for things to do in Midtown Manhattan during your trip to New York, check out our list of the best local activities and attractions, including...

  • Empire State Building
  • Top of the Rock Observatory
  • Madame Tussuads New York
  • Madison Square Garden® Tour
  • Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum
  • And more!

Empire State Building

low-angle-shot-empire-state-building

One of the most iconic buildings in all of NYC, the Empire State Building is a must-see on your trip to the Big Apple. Head to the top of this amazing observatory for unparalleled views of the city below – 1,050 feet below, to be exact! Don’t forget to scope out their recently restored Art Deco-style lobby, too. 

Getting In: Empire State Building tickets are included on all Go City® New York passes.

Top of the Rock Observatory

aerial-view-top-rock-observatory-night

Take a ride to the top of Rockefeller Center (or “30 Rock”) for more special views of NYC from above. The largely unobstructed 360-degree views of the skyline provide great photo opportunities for all – you’ll see sites like the Chrysler Building, One World Trade Center, Central Park, the Flatiron Building, and more. Only have time for one observation deck, but can't decide?

Check out our post comparing the Top of the Rock vs. The Empire State Building. 

Getting In: Top of the Rock Observatory tickets are included on all Go City® New York passes.

Madame Tussauds New York

This popular Times Square destination is a must-visit for Midtown Manhattan explorers. They've got amazingly realistic wax replicas of all your favorite celebrities from around the globe and across the city. Featured figurines include major icons like sports legends Derek Jeter, Lionel Messi, and Serena Williams, actors like Johnny Depp and Sofia Vergara, and world leaders like Barack Obama and Pope Francis. Come here to snap a photo with two or three of your favorites! 

Getting In: Madame Tussauds New York tickets are included are included on all Go City® New York passes.

Madison Square Garden®: All Access Tour™

madison-square-garden-lit-orange-blue

Home of the New York Knicks and New York Rangers, on top of countless concerts and events, Madison Square Garden is a cultural hotspot in NYC. More than that – it’s an important part of the city’s artistic and musical heritage, having hosted some of the most famous concerts in history.

Check out their MSG’s Defining Moments exhibit to learn more about these events and other important occasions. A tour of this facility is a great way to go behind the scenes at this iconic venue and even provides access to non-public areas. 

Getting In: Madison Square Garden Tour tickets are included on all Go City® New York passes. Pass®.

Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum

intrepid-sea-air-space-museum-military

Fans of military history or the history of aviation will treasure a visit to this unique attraction. Tour a massive hangar featuring 27 carefully restored aircraft, ranging from the Lockheed A-12 Blackbird to a 1950s-era MiG-17. A special must-see part of this attraction is the Space Shuttle Pavilion, which houses the world’s first successful space shuttle – the Enterprise.

Be sure to also check out the Growler, the only American diesel-powered strategic missile submarine. Another great artifact here is the British Airways Concorde, the fastest commercial aircraft to cross the Atlantic Ocean. 

Getting In: Intrepid Museum tickets are included with the New York City Explorer Pass®.

Best of NYC Cruise

This comprehensive cruise is a great way to see – as the name suggests – the best of the best in the Big Apple. A 3-hour excursion that covers everything from the Empire State Building to Yankee Stadium, this cruise is a wonderful choice for those looking for a thorough sightseeing excursion without the stress of dealing with NYC traffic on a bus. 

Getting In: Best of NYC Cruise: Circle Line Sightseeing tickets are included on all Go City® New York passes.

Harbor Lights Sightseeing Cruise

landscape-cruise-liner-luxury-ship-cruises

Looking to infuse a little romance into your NYC explorations? Then a Twilight Sightseeing Cruise is your perfect option. Make unforgettable memories as you set sail around the New York Harbor just as the sun is setting, seeing absolutely stunning views of the illuminated city skyline. Of course, this isn't to say that families or friends won't enjoy this evening cruise! It's a great idea for all travelers, and the lighting makes for some striking nighttime photo opportunities. 

Getting In: Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise tickets are included on all Go City® New York passes.

Full Day Bike Rentals

two-people-riding-bikes-underneath-bridge

Meander around NYC with a full-day bike rental from Hudson River Sightseeing. Don’t worry if you aren’t familiar with the city – there are easy ways to roam around and bike-friendly places like the 32 miles of trails around the Hudson River Greenway. It’s a great activity for families and couples. 

Getting In: Hudson River Sightseeing: Full Day Bike Rentals are included on all Go City® New York passes.

The High Line

new-york-city-high-line-park

In search of more NYC green space? Head to the High Line, an immensely popular park constructed on the remains of an old elevated rail line. Providing amazing views of the city and the Hudson River, as well as a delightful stroll through cultivated garden space, the High Line is a must-visit attraction that locals also love. Be sure to check out their events schedule to see what’s going on during your visit! 

Getting In: Admission to the High Line is free.

New York Public Library

NYPL

One of the most beautiful buildings in all of NYC is the New York Public Library’s Stephen A. Schwarzman Building. This striking Beaux Arts building opened to the public in 1911 and today serves as one of the system’s four main research libraries. Pop inside to pay a visit to the famed Rose Main Reading Room, which feels like something out of a Harry Potter movie. 

Getting In: Admission to the New York Public Library is free, but you must have a library card to check out materials.

The Morgan Library & Museum

If you’re in search of more culture in Midtown, then a visit to the Morgan Library & Museum is a perfect choice. It’s smaller (and often less crowded) than some of the big-name stuff uptown, but equally as fascinating to literature lovers and culture buffs. It boasts an impressive collection of historic manuscripts, rare books, prints, drawings, and paintings that once belonged to J.P. Morgan.

Getting In: Admission to the Morgan Library & Museum is separately ticketed. To purchase tickets and for more information about this attraction, please visit the attraction website.

Can't choose? No need, see it all with Go City®

Discover our full line-up of New York attractions including The Empire State Building, Top of the Rock Observatory, the Statue of Liberty, and more.  And, if you like the above, why not check out these restaurants or grab a cheeky drink!  

 

Step up your sightseeing with Go City®   

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

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

 

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

Continue reading

People in front of the Macy's store, New York
Blog

How to see the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade - and other New York attractions to see

The annual world-famous Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York starts at 9am EST and ends at noon EST. It's one of America’s favorite holiday events and a New York City tradition since 1924. Past years have seen around 3.5 million people in attendance to see more than 1,500 dancers, thousands of clowns, and 30-plus floats in the parade, featuring big-name characters from movies and cartoons. Every year brings traditional favorites and fresh new performers to the lineup. Now you’re probably thinking, 'Okay, do I need tickets to see the Macy's parade?' The answer is no  - but you might be able to get tickets! Read our guide to find out more, and discover the best ways for you to watch the Macy's parade. 💰 >>  See how you can save up to 50% on New York attractions  🗓️ >>  Check out our example New York itineraries  Secure a spot on the street It's easy - and free! If you're an early bird, then get down to join the other spectators, who'd typically be lining the streets around 6 am or even earlier. Dress for the weather (and wear comfortable shoes), bring food and drink, charge your phones, use the restroom before you arrive – there are no public facilities on the parade route –and stay put. Macy’s recommends between 61st and 72nd on Central Park West as the best place to watch Tom Turkey leading his way through Manhattan. A lot of the performances happen around 34th Street, so know that location will have the most coveted spots and be the most difficult to get - along with spots at the beginning of the parade, 77th Street and Central Park West and where it ends at Macy's Herald Square in Midtown, on 34th. If you're in or around NYC beforehand and want a chance to see the balloons for the floats being inflated, head to 77th and 81st streets (between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue) from 3-10 pm on Wednesday, before the parade. Get Macy's Parade grandstand tickets This one is for those with friends and family in the know - or even in the parade itself. Technically, Macy’s doesn’t sell grandstand tickets to the general public. But if you know any parade participants, or Macy’s employees and volunteers, you might be able to score a free ticket. Book a hotel room with a view Grandstand seating and street spots may be harder to come by, but if you act quickly, you can get VIP access to the parade through one of the hotels along the route. Hotel rooms with a view and VIP packages both come at a premium - but once you see what’s in these exclusive packages, you just may find it’s worth it. Previously, some package options included the Mandarin Oriental, the New York Hilton Midtown’s Thanksgiving Packages, the JW Marriott’s Buffet Brunch Package or Parade-View Room Package, and the Residence Inn Prime View Package. Check out each hotel's official website for specifics on this year's packages. Top tips for staying safe during the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade 👉Make sure you know this year's parade route (as it has changed in the past). Check out the official Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade site for the complete lineup, parade route, and much more info. 👉 Follow @Macys on X (Twitter) and check out all social media with the #macysparade hashtag to get the latest Parade updates, photos, and to join the conversation. 👉 Make sure your phones and cameras are fully charged before you arrive – you won't find a place to charge your tech during the parade and you won't want to miss out on photos! 👉 Use the restroom before you arrive – there are no public facilities on the parade route. 👉 Expect massive crowds, and be cautious with your children. Keep the family together at all times! 👉 Be aware that this parade will cause a lot of attraction closures along the parade route. Save exploring with your New York Pass for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. 💸 Bonus: If you happen to want to do a little shopping while you're in the city after the parade, be sure to stop by the mezzanine level of Macy's Herald Square for a 10% off Visitor's Savings Pass. Plus, if you want more options of what to do when visiting New York, check out our Things to do in New York for inspiration! Save up to 50% on New York attractions Of course, we know the Macy's Day Parade in NYC is the main event on Thanksgiving, but you have a long weekend to see other top attractions in the city. Discover our full line-up, including The Empire State Building, Top of the Rock Observatory, the Statue of Liberty, and more.  🤩 >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you.    😎 >> If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our Explorer Pass is the perfect option.  Grab whichever New York pass suits you best and save while you sightsee!
Go City Expert
Blog

Tips for Visiting the Statue of Liberty – Discount Tickets & More

The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are among the most iconic landmarks in all of New York. Both represent an important period in the history of immigration in this country. They reflect the long-held ideal of America as a safe haven for all who seek liberty and freedom. The Statue of Liberty is located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. Ellis Island was once the home of the primary immigration center in the United States. Today, it is a fascinating museum. Head to both of these top attractions on a fun ferry ride and spend an educational afternoon with the whole family. Check out our helpful guide for visiting the both the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Immigration Museum, packed full of ways to save on admission, tips for visiting, other nearby attractions, and much more. Looking for Discount Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Ferry Tickets? We’ve got you covered - ferry tickets for the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island are available with the below money saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that's right for you: The below options include a ferry ticket, audio tours, and access to the grounds of both Liberty Island and Ellis Island. 1. Explorer Pass - Choose as you go. Includes admission of up to 10 attractions. 2. Build Your Own Pass - Select the attractions you want to visit prior to visiting. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. Please note: tickets to access the Pedestal and Crown of the Statue of Liberty are not included with the Explorer Pass. If you wish add access to those parts of the statue, you will need book Crown Reserve tickets and/or Pedestal Reserve tickets separately. Make reservations as soon as possible as space is limited and tours often sell out months in advance. Top Statue of Liberty Facts Tips for Your Upcoming Visit You may use either two of the ferry departure points for your trip. Battery Park in New York - departs every 25 minutes, 8:30am - 4:00pm (last departure at 3:30pm) Liberty State Park in New Jersey - depearts every 40 minutes, 8:30am - 4:00pm (last departure at 3:30pm) If time is a concern, then we strongly encourage using the Liberty State Park, New Jersey location for faster processing, boarding, convenient access and ample parking. Save on Statue of Liberty Ferry Tickets with the New York City Explorer Pass®. If visiting using an Explorer Pass, you must pick up your ferry boarding pass before entering the security line. All visitors are required to pass through a mandatory airport grade security screening, so be prepared for a long wait. We suggest arriving early in the morning. Allow at least 2 hours to visit one island and 4 hours to visit both islands. Bring your camera. You'll want to take pictures of the Statue of Liberty from the shore, from the ferry, and from up close on Liberty Island. A limited number of wheelchairs are available for use on a first-come, first-served basis for no fee from the National Park Service. Visiting the Pedestal or Crown of the Statue of Liberty requires a reservation. Book well ahead to ensure availability the day you want to visit. When is the best time to visit the Statue of Liberty? What should I bring to The Statue of Liberty? There are a number of limitations on what is permitted on either island, so it’s best not to bring much if you want to avoid paying for a locker. You won't be permitted to bring large bags, and backpacks and strollers are not allowed at the Pedestal and Crown areas of the Statue. You'll have to put everything except your camera and medication inside a locker beforehand. Some things you you plan to bring include: Camera - You'll take a lot of photos trying to capture the statue from every angle. Don't forget to take photos of the NYC skyline, too. Money for souvenirs Comfortable shoes - Most of the visit will be on your feet. The boat deck can be slippery, so wear shoes with good traction. If you're visiting the pedestal or crown, you'll need shoes that are safe for climbing stairs. On Ellis Island, the Hard Hat Tour prohibits sandals or open-toed shoes. Dress for the weather - Much of the visit is outdoors, so come prepared with the layers you need to stay warm. Sunscreen - You will likely be waiting in long lines outside. What are things to do at Liberty Island? Self-Guided Audio Tours Self-guided audio tours are included with every ticket for both the Statue of Liberty National Monument and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, with special tours for children and those with vision impairments. The Audio Tours are available in different languages including Arabic, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin, Russian and Spanish. If you'd like to be able to ask questions while you explore, there are ranger-led tours at both islands as well. The Pedestal of the Statue of Liberty A Pedestal Tour includes access inside the Statue of Liberty Pedestal and the Statue of Liberty Museum. The lowest part of the Statue of Liberty, just above the lobby, the Pedestal forms the base of the Statue. Be sure to visit the Statue of Liberty Museum on the second floor to learn all about the history and heritage of the world’s most famous statue. The pedestal's observation deck offers panoramic views of the harbor. The pedestal is partially wheelchair accessible, with elevator access part of the way up. There are 215 steps to the top of the pedestal for those who choose to climb. The museum presents the history of how France and the United States cooperated to erect the statue and exhibits the original torch. Remember: Statue of Liberty Pedestal tickets are separately ticketed. The Crown of the Statue of Liberty The Torch Exhibit Featuring the original torch (which was actually replaced in the 1980s) and a number of drawings, and photographs depicting this iconic symbol of freedom, this exhibit is a good replacement for not being able to ascend to the torch itself. Things to Do at Ellis Island Ellis Island Immigration Museum With nearly 400,000 artifacts and over 1 million archival records, the Ellis Island Immigration Museum is an expansive collection of historical records pertaining to the millions of immigrants who passed through this island on their way to a better life. Search the American Family Immigration History Center’s databases in person at Ellis Island or online before you go. The museum's exhibit "Journeys: The Peopling of America" presents the immigration experience before Ellis Island opened and after it closed, but the museum emphasizes the arrivals process experienced by immigrants to the United States at Ellis Island. Begin in the Baggage Room, where immigrants checked their bags after disembarking their ships. Upstairs, the Registry Room and the Hearing Room are where immigrants were examined before being granted entry to the United States. The Dormitory Rooms, where travelers who were briefly detained stayed overnight, host special exhibits. Peopling of America Center This is a must-see on your trip to Ellis Island. This exhibit space tells the story of immigration to America before the opening of Ellis Island in 1892. It explores the way immigration works today following the closure of the Island in 1954. These galleries follow the lives of real immigrants as they make their way into the United States and try to build a new life for themselves. American Family Immigration History Center For those of you with a particular interest in your family’s history, this Center is going to be a real treat. Get a chance to explore the entire archival collection of immigration arrival records at Ellis Island and search for your ancestors. Search by passenger record, ship manifest, and ship information. Have any family on the Wall of Honor? Search for the location of their name with the Foundation’s Search the Wall. Ellis Island Hard Hat Tour The Hard Hat Tour takes visitors on a 90-minute tour of the South Side of Ellis Island. The tour visits the Ellis Island Hospital facilities, including the contagious disease wards and autopsy rooms. The tour also includes the art exhibit "Unframed – Ellis Island" by JR, featuring full-size photographs of immigrants. No children under 13 are allowed on this tour. Nearby Attractions Liberty Island and Ellis Island stand apart from New York City in its harbor. However, there are many attractions near both the New York and New Jersey ferry landings. For a couple ideas, check out our things to do in lower Manhattan post. Here are a few others we suggest adding to your itinerary... See the famous Charging Bull statue and walk over to Wall Street, where you'll find Federal Hall, a National Memorial marking the spot where George Washington became president. Honor more of our nation’s important history with a visit to the poignant 9/11 Tribute Center & Memorial Museum. If you’d like to see the statue but don’t feel like waiting in lines at the actual island, try these fun options out on the water... Landmark Cruise by Circle Line Sightseeing Clipper City Tall Shop Sail Shearwater Classic Schooner Sail The Museum of Jewish Heritage is also right on the waterfront. New York City Hall is an interesting place to snap photos. Pedal across the Brooklyn Bridge on a bike tour. If you're departing from the Jersey City location, take time to appreciate the views of New York City's West Side skyline. Liberty State Park's greenery provides a respite from the concrete city and its trails can even take you through a salt marsh. The Liberty Science Center helps visitors understand science and technology through hands-on exhibits. Where to eat near the Statue of Liberty? What restaurants are near the Statue of Liberty? You are allowed to bring your own food for lunch. However, it needs to be sealed prior to entering the screening facility. Coolers are not allowed. The boat ride to the islands is brief. But if you get hungry on the way, you can purchase food on board. Evelyn Hill Inc. is the food concessionaire located on Liberty Island and Ellis Island. It offers a variety of high quality food options. Back in Manhattan, you'll find hot dog vendors and the Battery Gardens restaurant tucked as far south on the island as you can get. Dine with a view of Lady Liberty at Battery Gardens. Gigino at Wagner Park also features great Statue views alongside Italian fare. Are you a Seinfeld fan? Then head to the Original Soup Man. Beaubourg offers high-end French cuisine and a delicious raw bar. In the mood for Japanese fare? Check out Shinjuku Sushi. History buffs will enjoy Trinity Place, located in a converted bank. Kids will love Peanut Butter & Co. Sandwich Shop. Families can find a wide variety of affordable chain options from Shake Shack to Subway. Save on Admission with a New York Explorer Pass Remember, the New York City Explorer Pass is the best choice for maximum savings and flexibility, which includes Statue of Liberty ferry tickets, plus admission to your choice of dozens more top attractions. Save up to 50% on top museums, tours, and activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple attractions for one low price.
Lindsay Eagan
Fall In Love With NYC This Valentine’s Day
Blog

Fall in love with NYC this Valentine’s Day

Romantic museums, rooftop bars, dreamy walks—it’s all here in NYC.

Get your free guidebook!

Plan your perfect trip with our insider guide – top attractions, itineraries and local tips straight to your inbox.