Manhattan

10+ Things to Do in Midtown Manhattan

So many sights, so little time...

During your trip to New York City, you'll almost certainly be spending some time in Midtown Manhattan. It's home to so many iconic NYC sights, from the Empire State Building to The High Line. Let's go!

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
  • Harbor Lights Sightseeing Cruise
  • And more!

Save on Midtown Manhattan attraction admission

Admission to many top New York City attractions and activities are included on Go City® New York passes. Choose as you go from many top attractions and save up to 50% on combined admission vs. paying at the gate. 

💰 >>  See how you can save up to 50% on New York attractions 

🗓️ >>  Check out our example New York itineraries 

Empire State Building

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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

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Top of the Rock Observatory

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™

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Madison Square Garden®: All Access Tour™

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

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Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum

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

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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

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Full Day Bike Rentals

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

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The High Line

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

New York Public Library

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.  

🤩 >> 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. 

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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Blog

Best Markets in New York

Arguably one of the best ways to gain insight into local culture, markets provide a fantastic sensory learning experience. Whether you want to browse the stalls for some local handicrafts, check out the vintage section, or pick up some unique souvenirs for your loved ones back home, you’ll be amazed by what you may find. From fleas to food and drink markets, we’ve put together a comprehensive list of some of our favorite places to check out. Just keep scrolling! Taste the City Foodies – pay attention! If wandering through aisles of delectable confections and locally sourced honey sounds good to you, then the Union Square Greenmarket just might be your jam. Held four times a week, this fun cultural experience is known for presenting a wide array of organic veggies, heritage meats, and artisan cheeses. Be sure to check out the lively activities held at the market, including food book fairs, cooking demos, and quite thankfully, tastings! When it comes to outdoor food markets, you can’t get much better than Smorgasburg. Attracting thousands of people to Brooklyn and Manhattan, this place has been recognized as ‘’The Woodstock of Eating’’. At the event, you’ll be able to taste from over 100 different vendors serving up a wide array of delicious and unique delicacies. Dive into the crowds, taste the city, and admire the views from the East River Waterfront. Hey, what’s not to love? One of New York’s oldest markets – dating way back to 1818 - is also one of the city’s most cherished food spots and a mainstay of the Lower East Side. Those who are looking for the ultimate culinary experience will appreciate the Essex Street Market for its gourmet ice cream, fresh handmade pasta, and Japanese bentos. What better way to spend the afternoon than by eating your way around one of the city’s most mouth-watering food destinations? Browse the Stalls Looking for some eye-catching antique furniture or a funky vintage jacket to add to your collection? Then this bustling space has you covered. Running every Sunday, all year round, the Grand Bazaar Market is known for offering an expansive array of one-of-a-kind, rare, and limited-edition pieces. Whilst browsing, visitors can enjoy bratwurst hot off the stove, decadent sea salt brownies, or sip on a cold one. You may find interesting events held here, including Made in NYC, Handmade Bazaar, and Grand Vintage Bazaar. Oh, and the best part? Some of the proceeds go towards local public schools. Another one of our favorite markets for a laid-back Saturday afternoon in the city is Brooklyn Flea Market. Running all year round on the weekends, this place is known for peddling everything from vintage home goods and collectibles to handmade wares and original artwork. Visitors can also enjoy deliciously fresh food and drinks whilst shopping. Since there’s so much to see and take in, we recommend saving a free day for this one. We especially love this place for its incredible bohemian atmosphere and fair prices. Immerse yourself in the culture of the city with the next item on our list. Situated in Chinatown, the Canal Street Market provides an exciting and unique experience for you and your loved ones. Upon entrance, you can browse the stalls for beauty, clothing and design products. In the food area, you can dig into a comforting bowl of ramen, sip boba milk tea, and grab rare and artisanal ingredients for your pantry. Definitely don’t miss the cool special events here, including live music, comedy shows, and pop-up vendor activities. Soak up the Atmosphere Located in the Meatpacking District, the next item on our list is perfect for spending time with friends whilst enjoying a delicious bite. Merging food, art and culture, Chelsea Market offers a rewarding experience for anyone and everyone. The main star of the show is the market’s bustling, high-end food court, which houses restaurants, vendors and shops selling plates and ingredients from around the globe. In addition to its tantalizing culinary offerings, the market also has some great shops and stalls. Find a fantastic bottle of wine, get a beautiful bouquet of flowers made up, or watch an immersive art installation at Artechouse. The best markets in the city bring a little bit of everything to the table. One of our personal favorites is the Astoria Market - and although it’s a little bit further out of the city center, we promise that it’s well worth the visit! Drawing together artists, bakers, and designers from all elements, this place is a total treat for the senses. Shop one-of-a-kind antiques, taste authentic Korean barbecue, and sit back and soak up the atmosphere. Though we can’t promise that you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for, you’ll be intrigued and delighted by what the market has in store. DeKalb Market is the perfect place to stop for a meal when exploring Brooklyn. A total Instagrammer’s paradise, this place features many local favorites all in one spot - trust us when we say, you do not want to miss out! Celebrating originality and diversity through food, the market offers a wide array of delicious cuisines from around the world. With its tasty eats, vibrant energy, and underground atmosphere, this would be a great place to try something new. There’s no better way to soak up the atmosphere of the city than by visiting its fantastic markets, of which there are many. Breaking away from the typical trip to the mall, markets offer a vibrant, atmospheric experience to provide a true taste of the city. Whether you’re just browsing, bargain shopping, or looking to try out some of the best food in the city, it’s impossible to be bored! Besides being a total treat for the senses, the thought of discovering a quirky antique chair or great vintage jacket to bring home is just too tempting for us to resist! Explore the city to its fullest with Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris
Blog

Best Art Galleries in New York 

Ranking right alongside San Francisco and Los Angeles, New York is recognized as one of the leading art capitals of the United States. For many years, curious travellers have flocked to the city to visit the renowned cultural amenities housing some of the country’s most significant and expansive art collections. Whether you’re looking to view contemporary masterpieces in beautiful spaces or quirky smaller repositories, we’ve got you covered with the best that the area has to offer. So, if you’re planning a trip to the Big Apple, have a read through our list of some of the top art galleries to check out whilst you’re there! We promise you won’t leave disappointed. See the Classics We couldn’t write an article about the best art museums in New York without mentioning the Guggenheim. Almost as famous for its structure as it is for its collection, the bold swirling building was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1959 and stands as an emblematic city landmark. Upon entrance, visitors can enjoy special exhibits of impressionist, post-impressionist, modern and contemporary pieces by artists from across the globe. Presenting world-class artworks in a beautiful space, this internationally renowned institution provides a profound cultural experience for you and your loved ones. If modern art just isn’t your thing, then head over to the Cloisters to take a fascinating trip back in time. Part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, this highly-revered a long-established institute seeks to display European medieval art and architecture in all its glory. Visitors can view beautiful carvings, awe-inspiring stained-glass windows, and intricate tapestries, all housed inside a medieval-inspired space overlooking the Hudson River. Come for the magnificent artworks and leave with a deeper sense of how the world around you came to be. Another one of our favorite art galleries in the city is El Museo del Barrio. Since its founding in 1969 in a public-school classroom in Spanish Harlem, the museum has grown to become one of the leading Latin Cultural Institutions of the United States. Standing out among other elite establishments in the city, the museum specializes in Latin American, Caribbean and Puerto Rican art. There’s no doubt you’ll be wowed by the institute’s impressive permanent collection, which features over 10, 000 paintings, sculptures and photographs and more. Through interpreting works across different cultures, the museum provides a unique educational and visual experience for those of all ages. Get Cultured New York owes its development and celebrated heritage to generations of influential creatives and distinctive social facets, all of which are displayed in the city’s top galleries. Combining art with culture, the Africa Center documents the contemporary African experience through a range of outstanding exhibitions, events and lectures. Upon entrance, visitors can view evocative paintings, and exhibitions on fashion, furniture, ceramics, and more. What we love most about this place is that it’s virtually impossible to leave without having learned something new. One of the coolest things about New York is that it presents such a fantastic array of things to see, no matter where your interests may lie. Situated on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, the American Folk Art Museum seeks to preserve, present and interpret the artworks of contemporary self-taught artists from America and abroad. Walking around the institution, visitors can view a first-class collection of over 8,000 objects spanning over 300 years. It’s undoubtedly one of the more unique and interesting experiences that the city has to offer. The Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art is one of the top places to visit in New York for creative types. Situated in Downtown Manhattan, the institute is dedicated to collecting, preserving and spotlighting art concerning LGBTQ+ themes, issues and people. Standing as the only museum of its kind in the world, the museum displays an outstanding collection of 22, 000 works. However, the establishment’s main draw is its fantastic permanent collection, featuring works by David Hockney, Andy Warhol and Berenice Abbott. The perfect way to spend a quiet afternoon, the repository delivers a unique visual experience like no other. Try Something New Whilst many of the city’s top museums focus on still pieces, the Museum of the Moving Image explores the art, history, technique and technology of digital media in all its facets. A total cinephile's dream, the institute presents a wide range of topics, from every stage of the development, promotion, and showing of moving images. Through interactive exhibitions, animation workstations, and a full schedule of screenings, visitors can learn more about the transformative impact of image and sound technologies on our lives. Featuring a broad collection of technical equipment, film prints, and costumes, this place will leave you mesmerized for hours. The city presents an impressive wealth of cultural institutions across all creative expressions. Since its founding in 1974, the International Center of Photography has become known as the world’s leading establishment for lovers of visual culture and captured light. Visitors are sure to be dazzled by the various styles of photography held at the museum, ranging from black and white pieces and vintage film stills to paparazzi snaps and social media uploads. In addition, the institute offers various classes and workshops for those who are interested in picking up a camera. As inspirational as it is fascinating, the institute provides a comprehensive look into the history and development of this particular artform. Those who are looking for something a little different might want to check out the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Museum. A constituent of the Upper East Side’s Museum Mile, the institute stands out as America’s only repository devoted solely to historic and contemporary design. The museum delivers a fun and fascinating experience with its extraordinary collection of over 210,000 design objects spanning over thirty centuries. With so much to see and learn, spending an entire day here certainly wouldn’t be out of the question. New York is well-recognized for its vibrant and inimitable creative scene. Whether you’re interested in viewing medieval carvings, contemporary sculpture, or vintage film stills, the city’s most revered cultural institutions and hidden gems should keep you busy for hours on end. Choose from a wide range of diverse spaces to maximize your sense of discovery and wonder. And now, you don’t have to miss a thing - to get the most out of your trip, try Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris

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