New York City Labor Day Weekend - 10+ Fun Things to Do in September

By Casey Makovich

Labor Day weekend is one of the last chances for a summer getaway. New York City is certainly going to be a fun and festive place to be on this long weekend. If you’re looking for New York City Labor Day Weekend ideas, check out some of these local activities and fun things do in New York City in September, including...

  • Metropolitan Museum of Art
  • Empire State Building
  • Top of the Rock
  • Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Immigration Museum
  • Brooklyn Bridge Bike Tours
  • Central Park Tours
  • NYC Labor Day Parade
  • Brooklyn Bridge Park Pool
  • And more!

From sights that should be on every NYC bucket list to Labor Day special events, we've got you covered.

1. Empire State Building

Image of Empire State Building, Landmark, Tower, It goes without saying, but we'll say it anyway. The Empire State Building is a must-see and should be among your biggest priorities when planning your NYC Labor Day vacation. As one of the most iconic buildings in the city, there's no way you can miss out on a chance to climb to the top. Visit the 86th floor observation deck and look upon the entire city from 1,050 feet above ground. The building is located in the heart of Manhattan, so there's plenty to see and do before or after you visit the top!

2. The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Image of Indoors, Museum, Person, Shoe, Handbag, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, or the Met, is consistently voted of TripAdvisor’s Top 25 Museums in the United States. From modern Europe to ancient Oceania, the Met covers every culture and every artistic medium around the world. We suggest you head to the rooftop to enjoy refreshments, soak up stunning New York City skyline views of Manhattan and Central Park, and see what temporary installation exhibits they're hosting on the roof. Keep in mind that the Met has two sister institutions, too: the Met Cloisters, featuring secular and religious medieval art and Met Breuer, with a focus on contemporary art. You can visit either of those two for free with a ticket from the Met for three consecutive days!

3. Top of the Rock

Image of Cityscape, Urban, Photography, Nature, Outdoors, Scenery, Another great place to see the city from above is at the Top of the Rock Observatory. Travel 800 feet up to one of three observation decks at the famous 30 Rock building. From the very top, you'll have a clear view of the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, One World Trade Center, Central Park and more. While both the Empire State Building and the Top of the Rock are famous in their own right, many people say that Top of the Rock has more unobstructed views these days. If you don't want to pay a visit to both, keep that in mind when choosing.

4. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

Image of Art, Painting, Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Art Gallery, Another great culturally-enriching option for travelers to New York is the Museum of Modern Art. The MoMA is a top artistic institution in NYC, filled with a variety of mediums and art installations by the most famous artists in history. Some of the most notable works that call the museum home include Van Gogh's The Starry Night, Claude Monet's Reflections of Clouds, and Andy Warhol's Campbell's Soup Cans.

5. Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Immigration Museum

Image of Art, Adult, Male, Man, Person, Sculpture, For history buffs and those who are New York-obsessed, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Immigration Museum should definitely be on your itinerary. General admission to both is free, but you will need to pay for the ferry ticket to get to both attractions. Both the museum and the iconic statue serve as a huge part of New York's history. Learn more about Lady Liberty, a gift from France, and the story of Ellis Island with a self-guided audio tour. Ellis Island is also an important piece of American history for those whose families came to the United States during the first half of the twentieth century. Check out their moving exhibits, especially the Peopling of America Galleries. From the island, you'll have unmatched views of Lady Liberty up close as well as a fantastic landscape of downtown Manhattan.

6. Rent a bike

Image of Bridge, Brooklyn Bridge, Landmark, Photo via iStock
There's no better way to take advantage of a beautiful day in New York City than to rent a bike--especially if you're going to take that bike over the Brooklyn Bridge! Whether you're looking to go solo and make your own route, or you want to follow a guided bike tour of all the must-see spots, a bike ride over the bridge is guaranteed to make your trip that much better.

7. Central Park

Image of Grass, Nature, Outdoors, Park, City, Urban, Person, College, Handbag, By Ingfbruno (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons
Another great place to rent a bike or take a tour is Central Park. Central Park is the most-visited public park in the entire country! And it's no wonder -- the park is gigantic and chock-full of things to see and do. Rent a bike to get some exercise while you sightsee and keep your kids busy. If you'd prefer a bit of guidance on your peddling, take a bike tour with an expert local tour guide who will showcase all the most significant spots in Central Park, from the Shakespeare Garden to the Cherry Hill Fountain. You can even take a walking tour that will bring you to all the spots in Central Park where movies and TV shows have been filmed. This tour is specialized option for seeing the park, but it can be a great way to tap into your love of media (or your kids' media obsessions!).

8. Coney Island

Image of Amusement Park, Glove, Fun, Person, Roller Coaster, Adult, Female, Woman, Male, Man, Head to Coney Island for some classic boardwalk fun. It's the perfect place to bring back memories of your own childhood and help your kids create new memories of their own. From carnival games to amusement park rides, Coney Island has it all. Visit Luna Park and test your bravery on rides like the Steeplechase, Brooklyn Flyer, Power Surge and more. Get a wristband for the day and enjoy all the exciting rides that fill the boardwalk. You can also relax on one of the public beaches, explore the parks, or even check out a Brooklyn Cyclones game (a minor league baseball team). There's also the nearby New York Aquarium as well as the modest but engaging Coney Island Museum, which is well worth the $5/per adult admission.

9. New York City Labor Day Parade

Image of Backpack, Handbag, People, Person, Parade, Hat, Car, Balloon, City, The New York City Labor Day Parade is the annual parade run by the New York City Labor Council in celebration of the working men and women who contribute to New York City. This year the parade will run on Saturday, September 10th, 2022, beginning at 10:00 am. Starting at 44th Street & Fifth Avenue, the parade makes its way through the city filled with local-made floats. Please note, this parade takes place the Saturday after Labor Day Weekend.

10. Brooklyn Bridge Park Pool

Image of Water, Person, Adult, Male, Man, Amusement Park, Water Park, Photo by Etienne Frossard
Don't miss a chance to swim with the Brooklyn Bridge as your backdrop. Since its 2012 debut, the Pop Up Pool at Brooklyn Bridge Park has been a crowd favorite. To avoid overcrowding, visitors are given a 45-minute timed session to splash around and soak in the sun at one of the best parks in NYC. Access to the beach is free to the public, but as mentioned there is a time limit. This is a good alternative to pricey pool clubs in the city and is a nice idea if your hotel doesn't have a pool.

11. Riis Park Beach Bazaar

Image of Indoors, Restaurant, Urban, City, Person, People, Adult, Male, Man, Female, Woman, Photo via Dylan Johnson
Though a beach day is probably not the first thing on your mind when you're planning a trip to the Big Apple, it's definitely worth adding to your to-do list. The Jack Riis National Park is located right in Queens and hosts an all-summer long party that ends Labor Day Weekend. Don't miss the final hurrah, complete with live music, great food and drinks, and tons of boardwalk games. This national park is open to the public free of charge.

12. West Indian Day Carnival (Labor Day Parade)

Image of Carnival, Photo via Filip Wolak
The biggest cultural festival in NYC is the West Indian-American Day Carnival, also known as the Labor Day Carnival Parade, in Brooklyn. This celebration of Caribbean culture features marchers in elaborate costumes promenading down the Eastern Parkway to the sounds of reggae and calypso. The parade takes place on Monday, September 10, 2022 and begins at 11 am. For spectators, tasty ethnic food and drink is also available. Favorites include jerk chicken, fried flying fish, rice and beans, and johnnycakes. Admission is free and open to the public.

13. Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit

Image of Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Male, Man, Photo via Rebecca MB. Pearson
Stop in at Washington Square and catch one of the many artists set up there working on portraits and pieces. Hundreds of exhibitors, from NYU students to artists who were born and raised in the Village, display their paintings, sculptures, jewelry, photography and more. The show takes place on University Place starting at E 13th Street. These art exhibits are free and open to the public, so they make for a good budget-friendly option this Labor Day.

Save on Attraction Admission

Regular admission to a number of these New York attractions are available on the New York Explorer Pass®. Choose as you go from 90 top attractions and save up to 50% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. We hope you consider visiting some of these attractions to help round out your summer vacation in style.

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Visiting The Metropolitan Museum of Art: your must-see list

The Metropolitan Museum of Art – or the Met – is one of the world’s most famous art museums, containing a world-class collection of art from ancient to contemporary times. The Met’s permanent collection is always on view, and visitors can take a trip through time by walking through the architecturally impressive rooms. Surrounded by the stunning location of Central Park, the Met is both easy to access and majestic to behold. Check out our helpful guide for visiting The Metropolitan Museum of Art, packed full of tips for visiting, places to eat nearby, and ways to save on a bunch of other popular area attractions. Tips for visiting the Metropolitan Museum of Art   Make a plan: The Met is large, and it's really easy to get lost or off track when exploring. If you’re trying to take in the whole place in one visit, start with one of the side wings (Greco-Roman off to the left, or Egyptian off to the right.) Not only will this lead you through to other rooms, but you’ll also get to experience a historical timeline of cultural production from around the world. Stick around: The Met makes it easy for visitors to stay for an extended period of time, so don’t try and rush through. You’ll probably need 3-5 hours just to see the permanent collection, so take advantage of the many resting spots – found in just about every room – which can give your feet a break and let you take in the surrounding atmosphere. Download the app: The Met’s app is a handy way to make sure you see everything you want to without having to worry about pulling out your map every few steps. You can also access the audio tour for free on a smartphone by visiting the museum’s site and clicking on “Audio Guide.” Visitors can still rent devices at the museum if they wish. See the Cloisters: Further uptown, the Cloisters are all about the art and architecture of Medieval Europe. With a ticket to the Met, you’ll also be able to visit the Cloisters on the same day. Children under 12 receive free admission. Save at the store: Show your Explorer Pass to save $10 off a purchase of $50 or more at The Met Store and to save $1 on the Audio Tour. When's the best time to visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art? Weekends are always a busy time for NYC museums, so if you can, try and visit the Met during the week to cut down on crowds. For a special treat, on Friday and Saturday evenings the Met serves cocktails with light snacks and live music on the Great Hall Balcony Bar, which overlooks the majestic lobby entrance. Every year the Met installs a new work by a contemporary artist on the rooftop, which during the warmer months provides incredible views of Central Park, Midtown, and Upper Manhattan. Visitors during these seasons will have access to a rooftop cafe and bar.   What should I bring to the Metropolitan Museum of Art?   Camera: You’ll see some of the world’s most famous works of art, from ancient times to the Renaissance to modern masters. There are ample opportunities for memorable photos, particularly with interactive exhibitions like the Temple of Dendur. Keep in mind the Met won’t let you use selfie sticks, so bring a friend if you’re looking to document your trip in portraits. A bottle of water: You can’t bring outside food and drink into the museum, but you can bring bottles of water. You’ll be spending a lot of time inside, so you’ll appreciate not having to track down a water fountain. A sketch pad: For the creatively inclined, sitting in one of the galleries and sketching the artwork can be a truly unique way to remember your trip. The Met frowns on materials that can make a mess or potentially harm the artwork (no pens), and asks visitors to do their drawing with pencil and paper. And that's it! With the Met’s security procedures, you won’t be able to bring much else with you. Visitors with backpacks or large bags will be required to check them, although purses are okay to be carried around. You’re better off leaving large items to avoid the long bag check lines. What to see and do at the Metropolitan Museum of Art There's so much to see, you could spend your entire day here. We've highlighted some of the best and most famous exhibits to help you create a game plan for your visit. Greek and Roman art Here visitors can take in ancient Greek and Roman pottery, sculptures, and artifacts like jewelry and furniture. There are more than 17,000 works in this exhibition hall, dating from the Neolithic Era (4500 B.C.) to the time of Constantine's Roman Empire (312 A.D.). As you peruse the works, you'll be able to follow along with somewhat of a timeline and history told by these unique and expertly-preserved artifacts. Egyptian art You'll find 26,000 different artifacts and artworks in the Egyptian wing. In addition to the paintings, sculptures, and jewelry of the ancient Egyptians, the Met also houses the Temple of Dendur, a structure dating to before 10 BC. The Sackler Wing, the new home of the Temple, has an incredible installation with an indoor river, trees, and other related elements. This arguably one of the best exhibits as the museum, as it features giant ceiling-to-floor windows that look out onto the city's bustling streets. Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas This area covers an extensive history of tribal cultures from around the world. Visitors can view ancient artifacts like masks, ritual accessories, and a significant amount of textile work. With over 11,000 pieces, you'll get a better idea of the culture of ancient South America, sub-Saharan Africa, Central America, and more. East and Southeast Asian art This is a huge area of the museum, as it contains examples of work from all over Asia, including China, Japan, and Southeast Asia, and spans all the way back to ancient times. The oldest artifact in the building dates back to the third millennium BC. It's one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of Asian artwork in the entire Western Hemisphere. Medieval art The Met’s collection is home to a number of medieval pieces of art, both religious and secular in nature. For those who want an extra dose of the era, a visit to the Met’s uptown Cloisters will be memorable for history buffs. European exhibits Sculpture and decorative art For those looking for classic examples of Renaissance sculptures, this wing is home to famous sculptors such as Rodin and Bernini. Visitors can also experience rooms that are dedicated to certain periods and styles, fully furnished in their original manner. Whether you are an art lover or not, the Met’s European paintings wing contains some of the world’s most recognizable artworks and artists from history. Rembrandt, Vermeer, Botticelli and others are represented in these strikingly designed rooms. To continue through Europe's art history, more recent masters such as Picasso, Van Gogh, Degas, Matisse and many more are represented in this area. Some of the most famous artists, such as Monet and Cézanne, have galleries dedicated to solo presentations of their work. The American Wing These rooms pay homage to American artwork, design, and architecture spanning from the 17th century to the early 20th century. Walk through staged rooms, halls of sculptures, and important examples of domestic art by artists of the past and present. Modern and contemporary art While the Met’s galleries are home to important artwork throughout history, they also have a wing dedicated to modern and contemporary works. Today, the exhibit hall holds 12,000 paintings dated from 1900 to the present day. You can see masterpieces by Dalí, Pollock and Warhol, and works by contemporary artists such as Kiki Smith and George Condo. Rooftop If you visit during the summer, be sure to head up to the roof to take in views of the park and a rotating installation by contemporary artists. It's an awesome place to grab a drink, a quick bite, or just enjoy the view. The Costume Institute The Met’s annual celebrity-filled gala supports the Costume Institute, which brings temporary exhibits celebrating some of the world’s most important historical and contemporary fashion. Items from the permanent collection are also displayed throughout the year, and include pieces dating back to the 15th century. For any fashion-lover, this is a can't miss. Special exhibits The Met hosts special exhibitions that rotate throughout the year, each explotring a medium or artist in depth. Consult the website before your visit to see which special exhibits you'd like to catch. See the attractions that are near the Met Uptown Manhattan is home to some of New York’s top cultural destinations, and visitors can easily find access to nearby attractions. The Met Breuer If the main building of the Metropolitan Museum of Art hasn't satiated all your art desires, head over to the Met Breuer, a satellite location just a few blocks away. This museum covers a wide variety of mediums, from painting to sculpture, to photography, textiles, and prints. American Museum of Natural History To take in even more history, a walk through Central Park will put visitors right at the American Museum of Natural History, one of New York’s most famous landmarks. This museum is one of the largest of its kind and is most famous for its collection of dinosaur fossils and the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life. From a 563-carat Star of India sapphire to a planet-eating dinosaur that roamed the earth 65 million years ago, the American Museum of Natural History has it all. Guggenheim Museum If you haven’t seen enough art after the Met, a trip to nearby Guggenheim can give you a totally different experience of contemporary art. Housed in a landmark structure designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, visitors can walk the museum’s circular path to see exquisite examples of contemporary works. Central Park Bike Rentals Since you're right on the park anyways, you might as well explore it. Rent a bike and conquer all the paths, trails, and green spaces of the largest public city park with Central Park Full Day Bike Rentals. Where to eat near the Metropolitan Museum of Art? What restaurants are near the Metropolitan Museum of Art? There are three dining areas in the Museum itself, as well as the seasonal café on the rooftop during the summer. However, there are also a number of places to eat close to the Museum. Grazie (Italian) 26 East 84th Street For diners looking for a sit-down meal outside of the museum, Grazie is a favorite for locals, and their brunch is one of the Upper East Side’s best. Nectar Café (Diner) 1090 Madison Ave For a more casual option, Nectar gives a classic New York diner experience, with ample offerings for breakfast and lunch. Le Pain Quotidien (Café) 1131 Madison Ave Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a coffee boost before or after the museum, or just want some light fare, Le Pain Quotidien always has a selection of pastries, salads, and sandwiches, and visitors can decide whether to take the items to go or to stay. Need to Know Main Building Hours Sunday–Thursday, 10AM – 5:30PM Friday and Saturday, 10AM – 9PM Galleries are cleared 15 minutes before closing Closing: Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, New Year's Day, and the first Monday in May Directions & Address 1000 Fifth Avenue at 82nd Street New York, NY 10024 Driving: From Lake Shore Drive, exit at 18th Street. Follow Museum Campus Drive around Soldier Field. Signs will indicate visitor parking. Shedd Aquarium is just north of the parking garage and the Field Museum. What subway stop is the Metropolitan Museum of Art? The closest subway stop is 86th Street. Public Transportation: 4, 5 or 6 trains to 86th Street and walk three blocks west to Fifth Avenue; From the West Side take the 1, B or C trains to 86th Street, then the M86 crosstown bus across Central Park to Fifth Avenue.
Lindsay Eagan
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American Museum of Natural History Discount Tickets & Tips for Your Visit

Check out our helpful guide for visiting New York's American Museum of Natural History, packed full of ways to save on admission, tips for visiting, nearby attractions, and much more. Fans of the Night at the Museum series will recognize the massive façade of New York’s American Museum of Natural History, complete with the iconic sculpture of Teddy Roosevelt – although this one doesn't talk! There is a reason that this museum has been the setting for so many films and books; in addition to its architecture and Central Park adjacent location, it is filled with some of the world’s oldest and most spectacular wonders. How to buy American Museum of Natural History discount tickets? We’ve got you covered – American Museum of Natural History admission is available with the below money saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that’s right for you: 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: Your Pass entitles you to free general admission. If you would like to upgrade your admission ticket to include a temporary exhibit, IMAX or 3D film, OR a Hayden Planetarium Space Show, you may do so directly at the Museum. Tips for Visiting the American Museum of Natural History Make a plan: The Museum of Natural History is quite sizable, and it can be easy to wind through an exhibition hall and lose your track. Insider tip? The main entrance from Central Park West is actually the museum's second floor, so keep this in mind when planning your route. Relax under the whale: The Milstein Family Hall of Ocean Life is home to the museum's famous life-sized blue whale. While it is certainly a site to behold, the room also has a pleasant area to sit and take in some videos focused on ocean exploration, and allows plenty of room for kids to play around in! Look for interactive exhibits: While most museums keep their collections behind layers of security, there are some exhibits in the Museum of Natural History that encourage visitors to touch and engage with them. These can be particularly exciting for children! Keep in mind that not all items can be touched, so look for the signs! Take kids to the discovery room: For even more hands-on fun, children between 5 and 12 will love being able to explore science with specially designed interactive activities. Bring a flashlight: Okay, not really. But, it's important to note that some of the museum's exhibitions have purposely low light, so be prepared for different lighting levels. Download the free Explorer app: The free app includes museum maps and allows visitors to take self-guided tours, and provides plenty of additional information on exhibits. The museum does have free WiFi, so you can download the app on-site if you want. Consult the museum map before your visit: Be sure to look over the museum map before your visit to help you plan which exhibits you want to see, and which ones you might be able to save for next time if the kids get tired. When is the best time to visit the American Museum of Natural History? Try to visit the Museum of Natural History during the week to cut down on crowds, since weekends are always the busiest. Keep in mind that many schools do organize daily groups to the museum, so early afternoon is an ideal time since most school groups will have finished their visits for the day. In search of shorter lines? The Rose Center entrance usually attracts fewer crowds and could be a good option to save you some time. How much time do you need at the American Museum of Natural History? There is so much to see and do inside the museum, you could spend the whole day there! Plan to take at least 2 hours and 30 minutes to tour the museum to make the most of your visit. However, if you are planning on viewing a show or special exhibition, plan to be there for up to 3 hours and 30 minutes. What should I bring to the American Museum of Natural History? Camera: The museum encourages visitors to document their experience in photos, but keep in mind that selfie sticks aren’t allowed. You can use flash photography, although not in all areas. Bottle of Water: The museum doesn't allow outside food, but you can bring in a bottle of water. Well-placed water fountains make great places to top off your bottle. Nothing bigger than a purse: You will need to check any items larger than a purse at the Coat Check, and the museum won't allow you to check small luggage or oversized bags. Keep in mind that coat check does cost an additional $2, and the lines can get very long in the cold months. There is an extra coat check located in the Rose Center that is available during winter months (with much shorter lines!) What to do at the American Museum of Natural History? The Museum of Natural History often has special exhibitions that require additional entry fees, but the permanent exhibits are home to the museum’s most iconic features. Visitors will be able to experience how man and nature have interacted over the years, and how the planet has changed and evolved. Here is a quick look at some of the permanent exhibitions! Hall of Biodiversity and Environmental Halls Image Credit: American Museum of Natural History These first-floor exhibits explore the world’s natural life. The Hall of Biodiversity contains many interactive experiences that can help visually illustrate the ways on which all life is interconnected. The Hall of North American Forests features some impressive examples of centuries-old redwoods, and of course, no trip to the museum would be complete without a stop at the Irma and Paul Milstein Family Hall of Ocean Life. Here visitors can see the massive blue whale, one of the museum’s most famous inhabitants. Birds and Reptiles and Amphibians Halls Image Credit: American Museum of Natural History Full of wildlife, the dioramas and exhibits on the second and third floors show examples of some of the world’s most exotic small creatures. These animals hails from all over the globe, and from right around NYC, to give you a sense of the scope. Visitors can check out replicas of these animals in their natural habitat and learn more about how they evolved over time. Mammal Halls Image Credit: American Museum of Natural History The Museum of Natural History’s dioramas are perhaps the most famous of their kind in the world. These incredibly detailed representations of some of the world’s most fascinating creatures in their natural habitats are so realistic that you will almost think you see them moving! Creatures from all over the world are presented in full-scale meticulous detail - did that tiger just blink? Earth and Planetary Sciences Halls These areas of the museum are fascinating for people of all ages, as they contain examples of rare gemstones and objects related to minerals and geology. The Arthur Ross Hall of Meteorites contains the massive Ahnighito, a 34-ton piece of meteorite which is estimated to be 4.5 billion years old. In the Gottesman Hall of Planet Earth visitors will be able to see examples of how minerals and rock formations occur to make our natural landscape. Fossil Halls The top floor fossil halls are definitely one of the museum’s highlights. Want to meet a T-Rex? The Hall of Saurischian Dinosaurs contains one of these terrifying creatures, in addition to examples of velociraptors and Allosaurus.* There's even an excitingly massive Titanosaur! Enormous extinct mammoths are found in the Paul and Irma Milstein Hall of Advanced Mammals, and massive sharks and sea creatures, straight out of a horror movie, are in the Hall of Vertebrate Origins. *Please note that as of Winter 2018, the Hall of Saurischian Dinosaurs is currently undergoing restoration work and will reopen upon completion. Please consult the attraction website directly to confirm the status of this section during your visit. Human Origins and Cultural Halls Image Credit: American Museum of Natural History While the museum has an abundance of information about the natural environment, it is also filled with artifacts from the history of human life. With examples from Tibetan Buddhism in the Gardner D. Stout Hall of Asian Peoples and massive totems from Native Americans in the Hall of Northwest Coast Indians, much of the museum is truly a journey through human history. Be sure you make it to the Margaret Mead Hall of Pacific Peoples to meet the Easter Island head, who you may know as "Dum-Dum." Don't be shy, and get up close and personal with the model for some unforgettable photos! Rose Center for Earth and Space The museum is also dedicated to exploring the cosmos and the Rose Center is home to exhibits exploring the history of the universe. The world-famous Hayden Planetarium is located here, but you can still learn plenty if you decide not to buy the additional ticket for a show. Which attractions are near the American Museum of Natural History? There are plenty of other great attractions located nearby. Here are a few we suggest adding to your itinerary... The Metropolitan Museum of Art is a beautiful walk (or cab ride) through Central Park and explores the cultural history of the world in great depth. The Guggenheim Museum, which focuses on more contemporary art forms, is also a pleasant ride through Central Park. The Frank Lloyd Wright-designed building is one of New York's most iconic structures. The New York Historic Society is a few blocks away and focuses on significant events in the history of New York, many of which are tied into important events in American history. Where to eat near the American Museum of Natural History? What restaurants are near the American Museum of Natural History? Museum Food Court - Inside the museum visitors can stop at the lower level food court for a vast selection of dishes appropriate for palates of all ages. Café on One & Four - There is also a small café with light bites on the first floor and another on the fourth floor. Starlight Café - Located on the first floor, adjecent to the Hayden Planetarium. That being said, there are plenty of options for dining around the Upper West Side location. Shake Shack (366 Columbus Avenue) - No longer do you need to stand in long lines to enjoy the burgers and fries at Shake Shack, one of New Yorkers’ favorite places to grab a quick bite. Jacques Torres (285 Amsterdam Avenue) - Visiting in the middle of winter? You can't miss a Jacques Torres hot chocolate. While the menu focuses around chocolate, this makes a great place to reward the family after a long museum visit! How to get to the American Museum of Natural History? Hours Daily, 10:00 am-5:45 pm Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. All holiday hours are subject to change without notice. Directions & Address Central Park West at 79th St. New York, NY 10024 The main entrance to the Rose Center for Earth and Space is located at 81st Street between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue. Public Transportation: By Subway: B (weekdays only) or C trains to 81st Street station; 1 train to 79th Street station at Broadway. Walk two blocks east to the Museum. By Bus: M79 to 81st Street Is there parking at the American Museum of Natural History? There is a parking garage at the American Museum of Natural History. You can find it at 81st Street between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue. It is open from 8 am–11 pm and costs up to$26 for 1 hour, $29 for 2 hours, $36 for 3-5 hours, $46 for 5-10 hours and $51 for max to close. Save on Tickets with a New York City Explorer Pass Remember, the New York City Explorer Pass® is the best choice for savings and flexibility, which includes American Museum of Natural History tickets, plus admission to your choice of other top attractions. Save up to 50% on top museums, tours, and activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple New York City attractions for one low price.
Lindsay Eagan
Blog

New York in March

We love New York all year round, but the city especially shines at the beginning of springtime. Though the weather is still a little chilly this time of year, the area offers a wide array of fun activities and exciting events for you and your loved ones. Whether you’re looking to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day to its fullest, catch a first-rate classical music performance, or taste some of the best pizza in the city, you’ll find that there are countless reasons to love the Big Apple. So, if you’re looking for a great spring vacation, make sure to read through our guide for things to do in the city during this time of year. With Go City, see more for less. Get Festive   Those who are visiting during St. Patrick’s Day might want to check out the city’s annual parade. Recognized as both the oldest and largest celebration of its kind, the New York Saint Patrick’s Day Parade offers a wonderful traditional experience for you and your loved ones. Attracting about 2 million spectators each year, the extravagant event features enormous floats, fun marching bands and captivating dancers. In addition, visitors should be able to find special events and lively activities at bars and restaurants across all five boroughs.   New York City has always been known for its vibrant arts scene. To get your fill of some of the area’s top performers and emerging talents, head over to Brooklyn Dance Festival. At the event, attendees can enjoy original choreography and beautiful storytelling across a wide variety of styles. As captivating as it is magical, the event is the perfect way to soak up the culture of the city.   Whiskey connoisseurs - pay attention! Kicking off towards the end of the month, the NYC Craft Distillers Festival offers attendees a chance to sample some of the industry’s premium spirits at a lower price point. Recapturing the magic of the Roaring Twenties, the event also presents aerial silk performers and burlesque artists just to help you get into the swing of things. Both elegant and lively, the festival provides something a little different from the usual bar experience. Find Fun Activities If you’re looking to avoid the chilly weather, why not book tickets for the Museum of Ice Cream? Yep, you read that right. This delightful and playful institute is entirely dedicated to one of our favorite childhood treats. Providing a fun and unique experience, the museum offers over 13 multi-sensory installations for you to sink your teeth into. Snap some pictures, play in a ball pit of giant sprinkles, or taste some of the establishment's signature flavors - what’s not to love?   New York City is well-recognized as a cultural and creative hub. Standing as one of the biggest international art fairs that the city has to offer, the Armory Show NYC offers the perfect quiet and relaxing alternative to a busy day of touring. The event showcases pieces from over 200 galleries and 30 countries with a focus on contemporary and modern art. A thoroughly interesting and engaging experience, you won’t want to miss out on this one! For a long time, visitors have flocked to New York to admire its architectural integrity – but did you know that the city also offers a museum for those who are especially curious about the constructural background of this vast vertical metropolis? Located in Battery Park City, the Skyscraper Museum focuses on the area’s structures as incredible products of design, objects of technology, and places of work and residence. Upon entrance, visitors can learn more about designers, builders, and investors who contributed to the city’s rich architectural heritage. With so much to see and learn, we highly recommend saving this one for a dull March afternoon.   Another one of our favorite things to do for the month of March is attend the New York Peace Film Festival. Kicking off towards the end of the month, the event seeks to bring social and political awareness through the art of filmmaking. Screening a wide variety of fantastic feature-length films, short narratives, and documentary pieces, there’s a little something for everyone here. A perfect activity to fill those rainy March afternoons, this unique cultural event should be at the top of everyone’s itineraries! Experience the Culture of the City New York is a world capital of live music. Standing as a fantastic example of the city’s contributions in creativity and innovation, the NY Philharmonic is recognized as one of the most revered symphony orchestras in the country. Presenting world-renowned performers in a grand space, the event provides a profound musical experience for you and your loved ones. Offering an incredible atmosphere and unforgettable experience, you don’t have to be a classical music aficionado to enjoy this one.   One of the best ways to experience New York is through its food. Super scrumptious and deeply fascinating, the Little Italy Food Tour provides a terrific way to sample some of the area’s greatest culinary offerings whilst learning more about the vibrant culture of the city. As you walk, you’ll be able to hear more about the history of the mafia and visit movie site locations from The Godfather. Discover the best pizza in the city and unlock the secret history of this charming neighborhood. Since New York is celebrated for its culture in diversity, it's no surprise that the city offers a wide array of interesting events throughout the spring. Ushering in the spring with much enthusiasm and vibrancy, Holi in the City is an annual festival of colors which celebrates the Hindu holiday of Holi. Though throwing colored powder is the main activity of the festival, attendees can enjoy musical performances, dancing, and delicious food. Be sure to wear white and have your phone at the ready for those great photo opportunities! We love New York in March. The air is crisp, the lines are shorter, and the beginning of the springtime brings a whole host of seasonal activities. Whether you want to party at Holi festival, watch sensational dance performances close up, or hop into a pool of sprinkles at the Museum of Ice Cream, you won’t want to miss what’s going on in the city in March. To make the best out of your vacation, check out Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass. For more information, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris

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