Ultimate New York Bucket List

UPDATED JULY 2024
By Katie Sagal
There are more exciting, amazing adventures to have in NYC than you could tackle in a single vacation. From inspiring cultural attractions to outdoorsy activities, even New York locals have a hard time deciding what to do on a given weekend. Prioritizing what to see and do in New York City is possible, however, with the help of this ultimate New York bucket list. Check off a few at a time to get to know one of the most diverse cities in the world.

New York Bucket List 1-10

  1. Compare the views. Visit both the Empire State Building and the Top of the Rock to make the final determination for yourself on which is better.
  2. Enjoy real NYC pizza. Avoid the stuff in Times Square and head into Little Italy for an authentic slice.
  3. Snap a photo of Lady Liberty. There are many ways to see the Statue of Liberty, from a cruise to a visit to Liberty Island itself. Climbing up to the crown is worth it, too.
  4. Honor the fallen at the 9/11 Memorial. This sobering attraction is an important place for all Americans to visit at some point with its enduring influence on modern culture.
  5. Attend a taping of Saturday Night Live. It can be tricky to manage, but we’ve got a few tips on how to get Saturday Night Live tickets.
  6. Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. It’s a rite of passage. You could also bike across, or make it part of a larger tour including DUMBO.
  7. Visit The Strand. This legendary bookstore features 18 miles of new, used, and collectible volumes. It’s an experience just to roam the stacks.
  8. Marvel at the vastness of the universe. The Rose Center for Earth & Space, at the American Museum of Natural History, is the premier place on the East Coast for space reflections.
  9. See the original soup cans. Andy Warhol’s iconic soup cans can be found at the MoMA, which is also home to some famous paintings by Monet, Van Gogh, and hundreds more.
  10. Explore an Ancient Egyptian Temple. The Met houses the reconstructed Temple of Dendur, which was originally built around 15 BCE.

New York Bucket List 11-20

Image of Art, Person, Tower, Sculpture, Statue,
  1. Look up in Grand Central Terminal. This historic train terminal is renowned for its unique artwork—especially the “celestial ceiling” in the Main Concourse.
  2. Tour a WWII-era aircraft carrier. The USS Intrepid, once host to more than 50,000 men who served during various campaigns, is today part of the Intrepid Sea, Air, & Space Museum.
  3. Take in a show or game at MSG. Madison Square Garden is among the most iconic performance venues in the entire world. See the Knicks, a concert, or any of other popular events they host each year.
  4. Peek at the windows in NYC’s Fashion District. Enjoy some active window-shopping (or pull out that plastic) while you stroll 5th Ave. to explore the city’s legendary fashion culture.
  5. Visit the New York Public Library. The reading rooms at the NYPL feel like something out of a Harry Potter movie.
  6. Ice skate at the Rockefeller Ice Rink. Featured in several movies, this is also a romantic thing to do in NYC. You could also take a tour of the Rockefeller Center for the full experience.
  7. Count the sculptures in Central Park. While tallying them all is impractical on one trip, a tour of Central Park will highlight things like Cleopatra’s Needle and Angel of the Waters.
  8. Walk the High Line. This massively popular elevated park offers great views alongside an infusion of nature in the concrete jungle. Check out our guide to the High Line[insert link here when it’s up] for more info.
  9. Pay a visit to St. Patrick’s Cathedral. The largest Neo-Gothic Catholic Cathedral on the continent, their stained glass windows alone are worth the visit.
  10. Eat like a New Yorker. There are culinary adventures to be had across the city, from Chinatown to Hell’s Kitchen to Harlem. We’ve got some foodie recommendations, too.

New York Bucket List 21-15

Image of City, Cityscape, Urban, Empire State Building, Landmark, Tower,
  1. Take your significant other to the Museum of Sex. This quirky, unique museum manages to engage both the intellect and the libido.
  2. Visit historic Coney Island. One of the most iconic amusement parks in the country, Coney Island offers nostalgia and fun in equal doses. Check out Luna Park for the rides, too.
  3. Get pictures of the cherry blossoms. The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is one of the few places in the country to feature these lush Japanese trees.
  4. See Shakespeare in the Park. This beloved summer tradition means inexpensive or free performances of the Bard’s plays in various locations throughout the city.
  5. Pick up some new art. The galleries in Chelsea—a booming neighborhood—frequently play host to up-and-coming artists and are a good place to hunt for that next art investment.

Save on New York Bucket List Ideas

Many of these ultimate New York bucket list ideas are included with the New York City Explorer Pass. Snag one today to save up to 50% versus buying individual tickets.

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Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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Quirky Things to do in New York   

What can we say? We love New York! With a long list of cultural amenities, interesting historical sites, and exciting events, we couldn't think of a better place to visit for a one-of-a-kind vacation. Whether you’re looking for unusual museums and attractions, or ideas for fun activities like kayaking on the East River, we’ve got you covered. So, if you’re planning to make the visit, take a look at our list for some of the best unusual things to do in the city. We hope you love them as much as we do. Explore the City The urban landscape displays some of the most creative and provocative street art in the city. Those looking for something a little different from the usual gallery experience might appreciate a tour of the Bushwick area, which is known as a mecca for American and International artists alike. Along the route, you’ll be able to view popular Blek Le Rat stencils and Shepard Fairey murals as well as some inspiring pieces by some lesser-known artists. In addition, your tour guide will take you through the history of the New York graffiti movement and explain more about the various styles of artistry that developed in the area. If skyscrapers aren’t quite your thing, why not check out St. Patrick’s Basilica? A total must for architecture lovers and history buffs, this Neo-Gothic style Catholic cathedral offers a refreshing change from the ultra-modern cityscape. Visitors can take tours to appreciate and admire the beauty of this historic visual landmark and learn more about its background. Still, the real star of the show is the catacombs tour, permitting visitors to explore the awe-inspiring tunnels running beneath the city center. For curious adventurers only, we recommend a trip on the Staten Island Ferry. An undoubtedly major attraction and mainstay of New York City culture, the ferry grants stunning views of Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, and Lower Manhattan Skyline. We suggest putting a day aside to explore all that the island has to offer. Check out the South Beach Boardwalk, have a picnic at Silver Lake Park, or visit Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden – the choice is yours! Get Cultured Another one of our favorite unique attractions to see in the city is the New York Transit Museum. Built into an authentic subway station in downtown Brooklyn, the institute celebrates the fascinating history of the region’s public transportation network. The museum’s remarkable collection features everything from construction equipment and vintage subway cars to old photographs and tickets. Enthralling and enjoyable, the museum provides the perfect educational experience for those of all ages. Looking for a unique and artsy museum to pique your interest? Well, look no further. Located on Madison Avenue, The Morgan Library houses one of the largest on-paper collections in the United States. The perfect stop for bibliophiles and creative types alike, the library features a broad collection of art, books and historic documents that will keep you dazzled for hours. Highlights include Mozart’s handwritten score of the Haffner Symphony, Henry David Thoreau’s Walden, and the only remaining manuscript of Milton’s Paradise Lost. The experience of viewing these influential works up close is entirely unforgettable – don't skip it! Why see a museum when you could see a quirky museum instead? Just across the East River, the Queens Museum seeks to collect, exhibit and interpret global contemporary art for a wide audience. The institute’s main draw is its room-sized scale model of the five boroughs, which is continuously updated. Still, that isn’t to say that its other pieces aren’t well worth the visit – between their permanent collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany stained glass, huge map of the city water supply system, and collection of artifacts from the 1964 and 1964 World Fairs, there’s a lot to see here. Find Fun Activities One of the best alternative activities in the city has got to be kayaking on the East River. Yep, you read that right. The city’s coastal waterways serve as a unique urban paddling destination – and with good reason. This energetic and outdoorsy activity grants stunning views of the midtown skyline. If you’ve never kayaked before, there’s no need to worry – you’ll be guided by a professional team and provided with the right equipment to ensure total safety. All you have to do is show up with and a positive attitude and readiness to explore! Those who are travelling with family might want to check out the next item on our list. Situated in Lower Manhattan, the Museum of Ice Cream offers a fun and unique experience based upon our favorite frozen delight. Bring your sweetest dreams to life through a number of multisensory installations and imaginative concepts. Fan favorites include the 3-storey indoor Ice Cream Portal, the Rainbow Tunnel, and the Sprinkle Pool. Don’t forget to bring your phone to capture the colorful and whimsical exhibits up close. The city is filled with hidden gems – you just need to know where to look. Tucked away in the Lower East Side, the Chinatown Fair Family Fun Center offers an entertainment experience to remember. This historic video arcade presents a wide array of classic and newer games, with a particular focus on competitive fighting. With its vibrant atmosphere, underground vibe, and unique draw, this spot is perfect for hanging out with friends and family after a long day of exploring. If you’re looking for a bit of fun, this is where you want to be. The state of New York never ceases to amaze us with its fun and quirky attractions. The city is like a spectacular buffet of cultural experiences. From one-of-a-kind daytrips to interesting museums and tours, the area has plenty to offer those looking for a little something outside of the box. Those who visit seeking diversity, vibrancy and eccentricity won’t be disappointed. 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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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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