10+ Things to Do in Midtown Manhattan

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!

By Katie Sagal
Published: May 16, 2024
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
  • 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. 

šŸ’° >>  See how you can save up to 50% on New York attractions 

šŸ—“ļø >>  Check out our example New York itineraries 

Empire State Building

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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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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 GardenĀ®: All Access Tourā„¢

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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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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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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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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.  

šŸ¤© >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you.    

šŸ˜Ž >> 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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New York in May

May is a wonderful time to visit New York and see the sites, find some exciting activities, and immerse yourself in the culture of the city. As the weather starts to warm up, the area will be flourishing with exciting festivals, fun pop-up markets and delightful events held in NYC parks. So, weā€™ve rounded up our favorite springtime ideas for those who are thinking about making the visit ā€” from Cinco de Mayo festivities to extravagant flower shows, weā€™ve got you covered. With Co City, you can create memories for years to come. Get to Know the City Thereā€™s nothing like a day at the ballpark, right? Once spring kicks off, the balmy weather serves as the perfect backdrop for the start of the season. Those who are interested in catching a Big Leagues game should be able to book tickets to the Yankees or Mets online ā€“ just be sure to book early, since these things sell out fast! We can almost taste the cold beer on our lips and feel the sun on our faces. Another one of our favorite things to do in the city for May is attending Frieze New York. A total must for art lovers, the event seeks to celebrate the best work of international historical and contemporary artists. For five days each year, The Shed fair features works from over 1,000 artists and 200 international galleries for a broad audience. In addition, the festival features a great program of just commissioned works, films and talks. If youā€™re looking to experience the city through its food, you might be interested in the next item on our list. The perfect day trip for any gastronome, the Ninth Avenue International Food Festival offers a diverse range of cuisines from popular local vendors. Whether youā€™re looking to try out traditional street fair treats or taste cuisine from around the globe, this event has it all. In addition, the festival features two stages of live music, food contests, as well as over 200 vendors selling unique arts and crafts. Find Interesting Activities Since New York is known for its exceptionally multi-ethnic population, it seems only fitting that the city observes Cinco de Mayo in style. Held annually in the fair springtime weather, a vibrant parade makes its way down Fifth Avenue and leads towards festivities in Sunset Park. In addition, you should be able to celebrate at various bars and restaurants across all five boroughs with live Mariachi music, traditional dancing, and delicious Mexican food. Bursting with excitement, New York is the perfect tourist destination with a plethora of attractions for you and your loved ones. Since its establishment in 1982, Fleet Week has served as an annual celebration of the US Navy, Coast Guard and Marine Corps. The annual week-long tradition kicks off with a flotilla of naval vessels docking in at the New York Passenger Ship Terminal on the Hudson River. Those who are looking to join in on the fun should be able to find a string of parties all over the city, with dress-up, live musical performances, and an abundance of drink! An unusual and exciting occurrence, this event is nothing but fun! If youā€™re travelling during Memorial Day weekend, you might want to check out some of the festivities going on in the city. As with any big federal holiday, you wonā€™t have to look far to find the parade, which kicks off at 11 A.M. on Third Avenue each year. In addition, the city offers some great ways to pay tribute to Americaā€™s fallen soldiers, including the New York Philanthropic Memorial Day Concert, Intrepid Museumā€™s Free Movie Night, and Central Park walking tours, which take you through a number of fountains, monuments, and sculptures that honor past lives. And as if that wasnā€™t enough, you should be able to find many restaurants and bars across the city holding their own special events. Try Something New Why go to the theater when you can watch Shakespeare right in the middle of Central Park? Thatā€™s right, you heard us. Set up against the magnificent natural splendor of the park, The Public Theater provides admission-free world-class entertainment ā€“ honestly, we couldnā€™t think of a better way to spend the evening. With past cast members like Meryl Streep, Al Pacino and Denzel Washington, we donā€™t think youā€™ll want to miss out on this one. May means Mother's Day ā€“ and what better way to celebrate this major holiday than with a flower show? Running from 2nd-26th of May, Macyā€™s spectacular two-week exhibit features beautifully manicured living sculptures, inspired by a different theme each year. Completely free to the public, the vibrant display is open for viewing during the storeā€™s regular hours. Totally iconic and incredibly Instagram-worthy, we highly recommend noting this one down. New York is home to some of the most renowned cultural amenities in the country. Situated along Fifth Avenue, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the largest and finest creative institutions in the Western Hemisphere. As stunning as it is fascinating, the repository features more than two million works of art spanning over 5000 years. Spring is an especially great time to visit, since the Cantor Roof Garden Bar will be open to all visitors. Granting fantastic views over Central Park, this is undoubtedly the perfect place to sit and relax after a hard day at the museum. May is the perfect time to visit the Big Apple. The weather is fresh, the flowers are in bloom, and as always, the city presents endless exciting attractions to its visitors. Whether youā€™re a foodie, an art lover, or a sports fan, thereā€™s a little something for everybody here. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo to its fullest, try out the areaā€™s rich culinary offerings, or enjoy Shakespeare under the stars ā€“ the choice is yours! And now, you donā€™t have to miss out ā€“ with our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can find an exhaustive array of things to do, for cheaper. If youā€™d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris
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Is New York Safe?

In many ways, New York is the perfect place for recreation and exploration. From its fantastic cultural amenities and historical landmarks to great bars and restaurants, the city has it all. Still though, like any entity that reaches an immortal level of fame, the city has amassed quite the reputation. Rumors began to fly. So, it only makes sense for a person to wonder, ā€˜ā€™is New York safe to visit?ā€™ā€™ Well, weā€™re here to tell you that the answer is a resounding yes! But, if you still need more convincing, or are perhaps looking for tips for how to stay safe during our visit, have a read through our guide to navigating the concrete jungle! How Safe is New York? Thereā€™s nowhere quite like the Big Apple. The city is one of the most visited destinations in America ā€“ and with good reason! Still, New York is not without its flaws. A fairly common issue for visitors to the city is petty crime, coming in a wide variety of forms. From bag snatching and pickpocketing to phone grabbing and mugging, it can sometimes seem like thereā€™s much to look out for. A lot of the time, criminals prey on new visitors because they stand out and seem like they donā€™t know their surroundings. To avoid becoming an easy target, we suggest that you dress conspicuously and keep an eye out for suspicious activities wherever you go. Things to be Aware of When visiting New York, you might feel excited to buy tickets for some of your favorite events ā€“ and who wouldnā€™t be? Still, itā€™s important to stay especially cautious when looking at tickets, due to the rising prevalence of fraud. To ensure that youā€™re paying for what you get, we advise you to avoid buying tickets which are marketed on social media, instead purchasing directly from well-established companies and websites. This way, youā€™ll know for sure that your tickets are legitimate and wonā€™t have to miss out on something truly special! Is New York Safe at Night? Forever bold and buzzing with life, New York is well-recognized for its great nightlife. Though a night out in the big city is a lot of fun, it can also present some risks. Whilst spiking and attacks are irregular incidences, they can and do happen ā€“ so it's important to take precautions to reduce the chances of becoming a victim. First off, we recommend going out in a group - remember, thereā€™s always safety in numbers. Still, if this isnā€™t possible, then itā€™s best to let somebody know where youā€™re going for the night. In addition, you should drink in moderation and politely decline any beverages offered to you by strangers. We also suggest taking a taxi back to the hotel over other modes of transport, since walking or taking public transport at night could be dangerous. Though going out in New York might sound like a big deal, it doesnā€™t present any bigger issues than partying somewhere else in the world ā€“ plus itā€™s twice the fun! Is Transport in the City Safe? Another common concern of visitors to New York is if it's dangerous to travel around the city. The Big Apple presents many different methods of transportation, all of which are time-efficient, cost-effective and, yes, pretty darn safe! Still, of course, we suggest that you keep super vigilant of your surroundings and apply good olā€™ fashioned common sense when exploring the city. For those who are planning to use public transport to get around, it's important to keep a close eye on your belongings and not show any cash. Also, be sure to plan your trip beforehand ā€“ this way, you wonā€™t get lost, or potentially end up in a dangerous neighborhood. If youā€™re going opt for a taxi, you should steer clear of any unmarked cabs ā€“ you'll note that all NYC cabs are clearly display the cab driver's medallion number. Uber and Lyft are also a great cheaper safe alternative. If you want to walk around and soak up the atmosphere of the city, we suggest sticking to daytime hours and busier areas. How to Stay Safe in New York A common misconception about the city is that it can be dangerous to visit ā€“ however, if you stay in safer areas, youā€™ll have little to worry about. Some of the better areas of the city include Midtown, Greenwich Village, Chelsea, and the Upper West Side. Still, if you decide to venture into one of New Yorkā€™s grittier neighborhoods, it's important to pay attention to your surroundings. The best thing to do is stay sharp and keep your wits about yourself whilst exploring the area. If you need to stop for directions, we suggest going into a local shop and asking an employee. Though discovering a new area can be quite daunting, thereā€™s no reason not to if you take the right measures. Solo and Female Travelers Generally, New York is welcoming to all of its visitors. Still, with its sprawling cityscape and big reputation, it seems understandable that some would think it could pose a threat for solo travelers and women. Although we think New York is a great vacation spot, we still want to emphasize how important it is to be properly prepared for your trip. If youā€™re a solo traveler, make sure to research your destination ahead of time. When you arrive, you should keep in touch with friends and family back home so that they know what youā€™re up to. For female travelers, it's important not to share too much personal information about your itinerary or where youā€™re staying with strangers. If at any point you feel uncomfortable, don't feel scared to make a call or talk to someone in the vicinity. As with any city, New York can present its dangers, but if youā€™re careful and make smart decisions, youā€™ll get along just fine. Enjoying Your Time in the City Safely There are endless things to see, do and experience in New York. The list of remarkable attractions and cultural institutions run the gamut. Just think: the Statue of Liberty, Central Park and Grand Central Station. Still, every city has its issues, so itā€™s important to follow basic precaution measures whilst visiting. Though New York has a pretty strong safety record, we advise you to be cautious to avoid any incidents or inconveniences that could occur. To make the best out of your vacation, check out Go Cityā€™s All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass. For more information, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
Blog

New York in SeptemberĀ  Ā 

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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