Top 10 Things to Do in New York City
With limitless things to do in New York City, the city bustles with the fast-paced life, being the Heartbeat of the United States. NYC, often regarded as the Big Apple, is not just one of your regular destinations. With unparalleled enthusiasm, it hums with energy, sending electric currents through its soaring skyscrapers, busy boulevards, and secret passageways.
Every corner, from Times Square’s sparkling lights to the famous Statue of Liberty standing tall in the harbor, has a tale waiting to be unearthed. The city attracts dreamers, artists, and businesspeople with equal passion to make their dreams come alive.
On top of all this, to get a taste of city life, and the offerings of NYC, here are some of the top things to do in New York City.
Things To Do in New York City:
Immerse your soul into doing these top things to do in New York City, a City where life turns happening!
1. Visit The Statue Of Liberty & Ellis Island
Both of these landmarks are a must-see when visiting New York. And, if you are a first-time visitor, this is the best thing to do in New York City. Take a ferry from Battery Park to begin your journey. Once on Liberty Island, you can endure the monument closely and discover its significance as a historical and symbolic representation of liberty.
Know about the rich American history of immigration on Ellis Island by boarding the ferry once again after that. Have a look at the eye-catching objects, individual narratives, and interactive displays that are on show. The Statue of Liberty, along with being the symbol of New York, is also the symbol of the whole of America. Also, Ellis Island represents the nation. After all, almost half of Americans can trace their ancestry back to this island.
2. Tour Times Square
Experience the dynamic energy of New York City at its center with a visit to Times Square. It’s an amazing place to be at. You’re welcomed by the stunning sight of soaring billboards, busy streets, and bright lights as soon as you arrive at this famous location. Times Square provides lots of possibilities for visitors searching for free things to do in New York City. There are street performers and live performances that add to the vibrant atmosphere, including dancers and musicians.
The yearly New Year’s Eve ball drop is Times Square’s primary tourist attraction. Watching the iconic Waterford crystal ball of New York drop 77 feet from a pole atop one of the skyscrapers, the partygoers surround the area. At this time of the year, you can see the ball drop for free! Also, don’t forget to try the New York-style pizza while you are at Times Square.
3. Stroll Through the Central Park
Nothing compares to a bright, Sunny day at Central Park. Everyone can find something to enjoy in the park, which is among one of the free things to do in New York City. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and surroundings as you take a leisurely stroll along the curved paths to start your day. Remember to take pictures at famous locations like Bow Bridge and Bethesda Terrace.
In addition, at one of the most famed parks in the World, if you’re in the mood for some exercise, play some pick-up basketball or volleyball. On the Great Lawn, families can have a picnic or rent a rowboat for a leisurely trip on the lake. The diverse installations and sculptures strewn across the park will also appeal to art fans. Enjoying quality time at Central Park with your loved ones is one of the best things to do in New York City.
4. Gaze through the Empire State Building
A visit to the Empire State Building in New York City will leave you with amazing memories filled with excitement and stunning views. One of the best things to do in New York City would be to observe the city from a height of about 1250 feet.
Once inside, ride the elevator to the observation deck situated on the 86th floor, where you can enjoy expansive views of the cityscape of the city. Make sure to browse the gift shop before you depart so you can bring mementos of your trip. Visiting the top of the Empire State Building is a great way to start or end your trip to New York City.
5. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge is a National Historic Landmark and one of the most iconic monuments in New York City. It is also one of the oldest suspension bridges in the US. Among the most popular activities for visitors to New York City, strolling across the bridge is one of them.
Moreover, one of the free things to do in New York City is to cycle across the Brooklyn Bridge. You may lose hours strolling around its walkways, taking in the scenery, and savoring the lively vibe, but you will gain some of the best experiences of life. So be sure to include this famous site on your schedule whenever you’re in New York City!
6. Take a Ferry to the Staten Island
Hopping on a ferry to Staten Island is among the best and free things to do in New York City. The Staten Island Ferry, arguably the most well-known ferry service in the country, operates every day between the St. George Ferry Terminal on Staten Island and the Whitehall Ferry Terminal in lower Manhattan.
Every day, the city’s ferry service carries about 70,000 passengers across New York Harbor. It’s one of the few surviving examples of a ferry system that provided transportation service to residents of New York City. Don’t miss out on riding this ferry service whenever you are in New York.
7. Go Around the Museum of Modern Art
This one is for all the art enthusiasts out there. Even if you are not a lover of art, roaming the Museum of Modern Art is one of the best things to do in New York, along with the best places to travel in the USA. Beyond iconic art paintings like Picasso’s “Les Demoiselles d’Avignon, Dalí’s “The Persistence of Memory,” and Van Gogh’s “Starry Night,” the museum’s collection includes photography, cinema, performance art, architecture, and sculptures.
The Museum of Modern Art provides a unique experience for everyone, whether art enthusiasts or just interested in learning more about New York City’s creative environment. So put it on your list of the top things to do in New York City, then get ready to be in awe!
8. Read some Pages in the New York Public Library
If you are a bibliophile, then this place in NYC is for you! The New York Public Library has something for everyone. Going around this vast library of books, manuscripts, and unique items is one of the best things to do in New York City.
Begin by taking in the magnificent architecture and reading rooms of the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building. Attend a public event if any of them is happening when you are around, or indulge in some work with the free Wi-fi available. The library provides free access to everyone, so you can use it to gather information on the US or a subject of your interest.
9. Unwind at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Discover a haven tucked away in the middle of New York City by taking a serene stroll through the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Bright hues and aromatic flowers welcome you as you enter, providing a sense of calmness from the busy city roads. Also, don’t miss the opportunity to see the exquisitely crafted miniature masterpieces at the Bonsai Museum.
Furthermore, explore the Children’s Garden, where kids can get an experience of pursuing hands-on activities. The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a pleasant getaway for everyone, whether you’re a nature fanatic or just looking for a little peace and quiet.
10. Climb the City Climb
Gear up you all adrenaline-seekers, and get ready to experience the thrill while you are at the City Climb. The City Climb is one of the best things to do in New York City. Reaching over 1,200 feet above the ground, you can climb a skyscraper’s exterior and then extend your body to gaze down from the highest outdoor platform in New York City.
Climbing a 45-degree inclined stairway, and bending out from the top of the edge, is an unmatched experience. It’s an accomplishment that will stick with you for the rest of your life and an adventure unlike any other in the world.
End Words
Participating in top things to do in New York City never goes out of style. Visiting the top NYC destinations like the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and Central Park will let you know all about NYC as a city. Witness stunning views from the Empire State Building or by climbing the City Climb. When you visit New York City, thrill, enjoyment, and beautiful views come as by-products!
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