There are tons of things to do in New York for first Timers and even more reasons why you would come back to New York again and again! And as one speaks about New York, the amazing restaurants in Brooklyn and lots of other adventurous things to do In NYC, it is hard to sideline the luxurious and attention-grabbing life of Manhattan. Manhattan has a plethora of activities to enjoy, including some of the unique things to do in New York. Upon your arrival in New York, you will probably be overwhelmed by the amount of activity and sights scattered around the neighborhoods since it's your first trip.
With many things to do in Lower Manhattan, the city is dominated by some of the world-renowned skyscrapers, and globally recognized attractions like the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and Empire State Building, all of which have historic value for TV shows fanatics and real NY lovers. Some of New York Manhattan&rsquo's top restaurants are located here. And because Broadway is located in Manhattan, all of the largest and finest Broadway productions are present here. These Manhattan attractions are must-visit places for any traveler, whether they are spending a weekend in the Big Apple or are native fresh Yorkers seeking something fresh to do.
Either way, the things to do in Manhattan can easily surpass the number 100 and we are here to make sure you see the most of them possible. In this article we will cover the best things to do in Midtown Manhattan and the best things to eat for a traveler so you do not go back regretful about missing out on the top affordable restaurants in Manhattan.
1. One World Observatory
Levels 100, 101, and 102 of the One World Observatory at World Trade Center, the nation's highest structure now standing, provide tourists with expansive vistas of New York City. The tour starts with an exhilarating ride in among of the fastest Sky Pod lifts in the world, which leads to a floor 102 two-minute movie display with breathtaking city views. Visit City Pulse, located on the 100th floor, to view high-definition films of famous New York City neighborhoods and landmarks. Next, venture to the Sky Portal, where a round disc of 14 feet in diameter allows you to see live, high-definition video of the streets below.
2. Empire State Building
Definitely a place you must have known Manhattan for! One of the best things to do in New York, the Empire State Building, Completed during the worst of the Great Depression in 1931, this 1,454-foot Art Deco skyscraper stood as the world's tallest structure for over forty years and has long been associated with American ingenuity and aspiration. The Empire State Building, which is currently the seventh-tallest structure in New York City, is still one of the most popular tourist destinations in the area. It's best to arrive early, between 8am and noon, to catch a glimpse of the breathtaking panoramic vistas, as there are a lot of people vying for a chance to ride the lift to the 86th floor open-air observation deck.
3. Statue of Liberty
In a city where nearly everything is iconic, Lady Liberty may well be the icon of icons, at least among visitors (New Yorkers are known to shun it like the plague). Our advice is to get a combined boat and tour ticket in advance and stay away from the crowds wearing foam crowns. Climbing to the crown, which is understandable given the opportunity to observe the actual workings of Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi's invention that the French people gifted to the American people in 1886, offers a bird's-eye perspective over New York Harbour.
4. The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Art it is, and indeed one of those that you shouldn’t miss! After all it is something people al around the world come to New York for. The Met operating since 1880 is one of the popular tourist sites of all times. With over two million items boasted proudly the museum covers classic to modern American collections from different yet renowned artists worldwide. While it is hard to score a spot for entry to this museum, coming early on a weekday can provide a chance that you might avoid crowd.
5. The High Line
Built on an abandoned railway track in footage-starved Manhattan, this magnificent aerial walk has inspired numerous copies, yet it has a certain something that is distinctly New York. The nicest part of the route is how it climbs above the city while maintaining your sense of being in the city—where else can you stroll through a field of wildflowers while taxis pass by below you?
6. Rockefeller Center
Seen and praised only in movies until now, the Rockefeller center is one of the world’s famous constructed placed of all times. It is said that over 40,000 workers were involved in this project and to give tribute to those 40K hard workers nearly 350 thousands visitors come to praise the beauty of this place annually. Though popular and known globally, taking pictures in front of it is indeed one of the unique things to do in NYC.
7. The Top of the Rock
Another thing to do if you plan on visiting the Rockefeller Center. Also, as we know Manhattan is all about views so you must go extra lengths to savor every inch of the beautiful Manhattan as possible. and for such purpose, one of the finest things to do in Lower Manhattan is to visit Top Of The Rock, which is perched above the Rockefeller Centre.
There are many other vistas in the city, but this one is considered a classic. Yo also get a great view of the Empire State Building.
Now, if you're planning to travel, be sure to reserve your tickets in advance, particularly if you want to come here and watch the sunset. Make your reservation in advance because popular periods (such as the sunset slots) tend to sell out sooner. And while you are there, don’t forget to snap a picture at the top of the building.
8. Times Square
Known for its controversial history and past, now recognized as tightly packed shopping mall, Times Square is a place with no match of its worldwide. The place is packed jam with tourists and locals likewise because the beauty, the rush and the charisma makes it harder even for locals to get enough of it. Actually, it's not one of our top recommendations if you dislike crowds and prefer quiet locations (whatever is quiet in New York?). However, if you must go—and let's face it, it's difficult to completely avoid it—then improvements like the stairs above the TKTS booth and a pedestrian plaza along Broadway have somewhat improved the sightseeing experience.
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9. The Vessel
Okay, definitely a structure which is too good to be true but in NY it indeed happens to be true. One of the Newest Art installation hence might not be in the historic books of New York Travels, the vessel is a must thing to do in NYC with kids. Despite being an amazing piece of art and architecture, the place is free to enter and all you need is to book a relevant timeslot to enter. Due to its popularity, we recommend booking up for your spot weeks before so you don’t go broken hearted when someone asks about your experience with the vessel!
10. The Morgan Library
The Morgan Library, located next to the Empire State Building, used to be JP Morgan's private library. You are able to explore it over a century after he passed away because he included a will stating that he intended it to be made available to the public for enjoyment.
Although there is a (very) tiny admission cost, it is still worthwhile to take a look at the reading room and library.
This is undoubtedly one of the greatest things to do in Manhattan if you need a small getaway from the bustle of the streets; a visit here can take you approximately fifty minutes. It's extremely magnificent and well worth a visit.
11. Just a Walk
Because we don’t know that a walk in the streets of Manhattan isn’t just a walk! It is truly a wondrous experience on its own. After discovering the best queens park and queens night market, Manhattan is no less when it comes to taking late night strolls. It is safe, luxurious and has shedload of views. And the best way to soak them all in is on your feet when you can stop and capture the beauty as per your pace. Though we recommend taking a box of the delish New York Pizza along so you don’t get hungry during your long walk!
12. The Grand Central Station
You may be asking yourself why, among the top things to do in Manhattan, we would suggest visiting a train station. This is a really beautiful station to behold, at least to us.
When you're in the neighbourhood, it's definitely worth checking out the main concourse, which is practically palatial. Furthermore, it's close to the Chrysler Building, which is still one of my favourite Manhattan skyscrapers. Though, we forgot to mention that after visiting the Morgan Library, you can just stroll across from here.
13. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
Well isn’t exactly something in Manhattan, but taking a walk along the Brooklyn Bridge deserves a reminder here and there! One of the fun things to do in Brooklyn, this is an important vibe to catch whether you are a regular New York visitor or a first timer. Enjoy some breathtaking views of Manhattan and the entire city by taking a trip across the Brooklyn Bridge. It will probably take you forty minutes or so to complete the trek, but the time is definitely worth it.
14. The 9/11 Memorial Site
Definitely a place that is worth your visit and respect! You must visit the 9/11 Memorial Site to offer your respects in the wake of the terrible events of 9/11. Take a moment to think about this location, which was previously home to the Twin Towers. Although it's a fairly sombre neighbourhood, you can't really miss it in Manhattan.
15. Madam Tussauds Museum
A cornerstone of the tourist scene since its opening in 2000, Madame Tussauds New York is an undeniable classic when it comes to things to do in Lower Manhattan. This A-list attraction, tucked away in Times Square in the centre of the action, gives guests a taste of Hollywood on the East Coast. More than 200 remarkably lifelike figurines are dispersed throughout many themed zones, including ones honouring music stars, sports personalities, superheroes, historical figures, US politicians, Oscar winners, and a tonne more.
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16. The Manhattan Helicopter View
There is no better place to take the view from the sky than the Manhattan! Take to the skies instead of the endless foot traffic and bid adieu to the tourists brandishing selfie sticks! The sights, the excitement, and the opulent atmosphere are unparalleled as you swing about the Downtown skyscrapers, whether you're riding shotgun or taking a private flying lesson yourself. There is a trip that suits any budget, lasting anywhere from 15 minutes to 2 hours. If you want to go all out in luxury, you may include VIP limo transportation to and from the well-known Downtown Manhattan Heliport at Pier 6 on the East River. There are several aeroplane excursions available, including hang-gliding flights, flight lessons and trips featuring aerial photography, if that doesn't slake your need for heights.
17 A Coffee in the Park
Sometimes simplest things bring the most joy! And that includes taking a stroll in the park with your favorite coffee in hand! One of the best things to do in New York is buying from the best coffee shops in Brooklyn and then taking a walk in the park nearest to you. This can set you for a great day of fun filled adventures and also help you soar in the local culture like never before.
