places to visit near nyc

16 Top-Rated Weekend Getaways from New York City

Written by Shandley McMurray Updated Jun 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The Big Apple is one of the best places to visit in the United States . Overflowing with iconic sights and things to do, New York attracts millions of vacationers. Sometimes, though, the concrete jungle can get to be a bit much – all that noise and hustle and bustle can become draining – causing people to search for a relaxing weekend getaway from New York City.

Luckily, the city that never sleeps is surrounded by picturesque areas offering a more laid-back, natural feel – we're talking soft, sandy beaches; mountain vistas; majestic state parks, and sparkling lakes – that make it easy to decompress.

Whether you choose to take a bus, train, or drive your own car, most of these gorgeous spots are within easy reach of New York City.

Decide which place to visit first with our list of the top weekend getaways from New York City.

1. The Hamptons, New York

2. hudson, new york, 3. philadelphia, pennsylvania, 4. harriman state park, new york, 5. the catskills, new york, 6. beacon, new york, 7. mohonk mountain house-new paltz, new york, 8. cape may, new jersey, 9. mystic, connecticut, 10. hunter, new york, 11. sleepy hollow, new york, 12. princeton, new jersey, 13. ocean city, new jersey, 14. washington, connecticut, 15. the finger lakes, new york, 16. newport, rhode island, map of weekend getaways from new york city.

The southern tip of Long Island has a lengthy history as a favorite vacation spot for those wanting to escape the Big Apple and get some quality beach time. This is also a hot spot for celebs looking to improve their tans and chase their kids on the soft sand. This glitzy area offers countless activities in quaint villages, which make up what is known as The Hamptons.

Each hamlet has its own unique personality (and price tag), including Bridgehampton , Montauk , Sag Harbor , Amagansett , and Sagaponack . From quiet retreats and artsy enclaves to mini versions of a social scene of Manhattan on the Beach , the Hamptons offer something for everyone.

During the busy summer season be prepared for what can be crippling traffic that can turn the short distance into a three-hour drive (or more), especially if you choose to commute from the city on a Friday. However, few will argue that it's not worth the effort.

Those with deep pockets can hire a helicopter service to transport them straight to the Hamptons in anywhere from 25 to 65 minutes. Other options include taking a bus or driving yourself. No matter how you choose to get there, a sandy paradise awaits, immediately transporting visitors from the manic pace of New York City.

While in the region, be sure to stop by a local seafood shack like the Dock House in Sag Harbor, where you can catch sweeping views of the marina while eating some fresh, local catch, a specialty in the Hamptons. Miles of beaches invite visitors for long walks, swimming, sand-castle building, and boogie boarding.

There is an array of fabulous resorts and beach hotels to consider but be sure to book early as they fill up months (sometimes even a year) in advance. Or, do as the wealthy do and rent a vacation home. Many cost over $200,000 for the summer season, which usually runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Located on the east side of the Hudson River, Hudson, NY is about a 2.5-hour drive from the city. Visitors might be surprised to hear that Hudson was a former whaling port with ties to Nantucket in the 1800s. The town is filled with 19th-century charm and gorgeous historic buildings.

Hudson is also known for its up-and-coming culinary scene, complete with notable New York chefs. You'll want to arrive hungry! Take some time to stroll the streets, which are peppered with antique stores, one-of-a-kind shops, and art galleries like Art House Hudson or the Carrie Haddad Gallery . Make sure to get in some hiking at one of the scenic trails nearby.

Just a short distance from the Amtrak station, The Wick, Hudson, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel is housed in a repurposed candle factory. Guests can rely on modern amenities while absorbing the unique character of this trendy boutique property.

The Hudson Valley is filled with glamorous resorts that make the most of their scenic locale. Take time to research them all to find one that's perfect for you. Even if it's not in Hudson, you'll find plenty to do.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Hudson, NY

Despite being one of the largest cities in this country, Philadelphia can feel like a small town, especially if you wander through some of its older neighborhoods, like Old City or Northern Liberties. If you are a history buff, Philadelphia is a wonderful weekend getaway from New York City. Stop by the Reading Terminal Market , the oldest public market, and grab a bite to eat. Their Pennsylvania Dutch pretzels are legendary as is the ice cream at Bassetts.

After you've refueled, visit Elfreth's Alley to see the oldest street in America or stop by and ogle a copy of the Constitution, as well as more of our nation's history at the National Constitution Center . Art lovers should make sure to visit the Magic Garden , a wonderful environment of mosaic creativity. The Philadelphia Zoo is also a must-see, especially for those traveling with kids.

No trip to Philly is complete without enjoying one of their world-famous cheesesteaks. Although there are hundreds to choose from, most tourists go for Geno's or Pat's located across the street from one another in South Philadelphia.

The easiest way to beat the traffic on your way to Philadelphia from New York is by Amtrak. They offer a high-speed Acela train, as well as the standard Northeast Corridor Line, and depending on which you take, you can make it from point to point in about an hour and a half.

Looking for a sense of place during your Philadelphia stay? The eco-friendly Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia has incorporated local décor and artwork into its centrally located property. This Art Deco gem is part of the Kimpton brand and has a wonderful on-site restaurant featuring the best of local ingredients on the menu. If the spirit moves you, take advantage of their loaner bikes to spin around this neighborhood, with a stop in one of the many green spaces for which the city is well known.

Not sure how to get from New York City to Philadelphia ? There are plenty of options, including a train, plane, bus, or car. Philadelphia is 95 miles from NYC.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Philadelphia

A trip to Harriman State Park is a must for those looking to escape the city's rat race in favor of immersing themselves in the glory of mother nature. Worthy of more than a day trip from New York City , the park has 200 miles of hiking trails, beaches, camping areas, lakes, and a seemingly endless array of wildlife, offering the perfect respite from busy city life.

Head over to Lake Sebago , one of the largest lakes in the park, where you can enjoy swimming, boating, or camping. You can even hike the 18-mile portion of the famous Appalachian Trail that runs through Harriman.

Getting here from the city is easy; it's only a 35-mile drive. The historic Bear Mountain Inn lies a 14-minute drive from Harriman. Built in 1915, it is set on a plateau above Hessian Lake, offering guests lovely views and plenty of charm. The 15 rooms and suites are rustic and comfortable and there is a restaurant on-site, as well as a gift shop and grab-and-go café.

A visit to the Catskills is a New Yorker's rite of passage. Located in the Appalachian Mountain range in southeastern New York, the Catskills are the perfect setting for a relaxing girlfriends' getaway, a romantic couples' weekend, or even a family trip. This is one of the best weekend getaway locales in upstate New York .

The best way to get here is to hop in the car for a 150-mile drive, which, depending on the traffic and time of year, can take anywhere from two and a half to four hours. The trip is richly rewarding, especially in fall, when the autumn leaves light up the mountains with their rich colors.

If you are looking for scenic views, head to Overlook Mountain in Woodstock or the Minnewaska State Park Preserve in Kerhonkson. Here, you can hike or just relax and convene with nature. For those searching for a little more adventure, you can do the fastest and highest zipline tour at Hunter Mountain , or paddle out to the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse .

The Catskills are also filled with great places to eat, which is a good thing seeing as you'll spend much of your time here working up an appetite by adventuring. Depending on your mood, you can get everything from classic diner food at places like the Ambrosia Diner .

As for a place to rest your weary head, there is a wide variety of properties available to fit all needs, from bed-and-breakfasts to high-end resorts. A property that combines the best of both worlds is the Melour Resort in Tannersville. At this friendly and luxurious resort, you'll find a wide variety of modern amenities mixed with the charm of a small-town retreat.

An indoor pool and Jacuzzi are a hit with kids and adults of all ages, and the sauna is a perfect way to decompress after a long day spent hiking, biking, or skiing. There's also a 24-hour tea room and fitness center on-site.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in the Catskills, NY

Located on the banks of the Hudson River and close to New York City, Beacon makes a great getaway for those who don't want to suffer through sitting in long lines of traffic or hours in the car. If you take the Metro North train line, you can get here in about an hour and a half.

In Beacon, you will find your fill of Victorian-era architecture and small-town charm. Be sure to stop into one of the many cafés to grab a bite to eat and a coffee before heading down the main street and visiting the unique antique stores, collectible shops, and art galleries.

If you just want to relax and enjoy the river views, take a stroll to the waterfront, where you can enjoy biking and walking paths and plenty of greenery to get that concrete out of your brain. You can also drive to the top of Mount Beacon by taking the incline road. This hour ride will give you breathtaking views, especially in the fall.

Overlooking Fishkill Creek and Beacon Falls, the Roundhouse is a historic property reimagined into a modern hotel. Several buildings offer 41 guest rooms and an award-winning restaurant filled with tasty offerings.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Beacon, NY

The Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz, New York is a destination in itself and a major tourist attraction in the Hudson Valley . Architecturally, it looks like a Victorian castle sitting on the banks of the majestic Mohonk Lake . The sprawling house grounds and amenities make for a stay so all-encompassing you won't ever have to leave the property.

Boat rides on the lake, hiking, and "forest bathing" are all part of the experience. Doesn't everyone appreciate a walk in the woods to renew their mind? This now trendy experience originated many years ago in Japan.

The premise of shinrin-yoku (as it's known in Japan) is to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and feelings of the forest as you wander through, focusing on these senses, which will, in turn, heighten your physical and emotional health.

The fall is an especially beautiful time for a visit, and all visitors will find it hard to resist the many offerings from the award-winning spa menu. Several restaurants on the property offer extensive menus of delicious dishes featuring seasonal ingredients. Concerts, festivals, and cultural offerings keep the calendar busy all year long.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in New Paltz, NY

Cape May is one of the most enchanting destinations along the Jersey Shore beaches. Dotted with Victorian houses and quaint bed and breakfasts, along with a pristine coastline, Cape May is not only a great spot for a couples' getaway, but for families as well. It's also one of the best weekend getaways in New Jersey .

The beach is the main draw, as the area is known as the nation's oldest seaside resort. That said, if you want to beat the heat or enjoy a rainy day indoors, pick one of Cape May's many things to do – like the Cape May County Park and Zoo , Fireman's Museum , or the iconic Cape May Lighthouse . We won't blame you if you'd like to relax in one of the area's many spas.

Cape May has no shortage of resorts and inns to make your getaway a special experience.

Mystic is one of Connecticut's most charming maritime towns. Steeped in history and abundant in New England charm, this sweet spot is a lovely place to visit, especially during the summer and fall. It's chock-full of fun activities for the whole family.

The Mystic Seaport Museum tops the list of things to do in Mystic , with its re-created 19th-century seafaring village, children's museum, and the Charles W. Morgan wooden whaling ship. Next, you'll have to see the Mystic Aquarium , one of the best attractions in Connecticut.

Don't leave town without grabbing a few sweet samples from the food shops located in the adorable shopping village across from the aquarium. Called the Olde Mistick Village , this picturesque spot will take you back in time, and it offers a slew of unique wares in addition to tasty fare.

Author's tip: Save room for tea at Alice's in the Village . A whimsical spot created in homage to Lewis Caroll's famed novel, children will love its fun vibe, not to mention the creative flavors of bubble and matcha tee on offer.

A 2.5-hour drive east will get you from New York City to Mystic, passing the opulent town of Greenwich along the way. Break up the journey with a stop here to enjoy the pristine streets, upscale shops, and fabulous restaurants.

The Whaler's Inn on downtown's Main Street is a relaxing place to spend your weekend getaway from New York City. At this boutique hotel that's served the area for over 60 years, you'll find great service along with free breakfast and family-friendly suites within its five newly renovated buildings.

This sleepy town in New York State actually consists of two villages: Tannersville and Hunter. Its Catskill location makes it a great spot for a weekend getaway from New York City for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts.

About a two-hour drive (without traffic), Hunter offers skiing, ziplining, hiking, and other outdoor activities, making it a great place to visit in New York State year-round. That said, fall and winter are favored times to visit, as they offer tons of fun activities and events.

Visitors can head out to enjoy the spectacular fall foliage with a side of live music at Oktoberfest in autumn or go skiing at Hunter Mountain , a popular ski resort that has been drawing families, who return year after year, in winter. This is one of the best places to go skiing near New York City .

Sleepy Hollow received fame from its folklore tale of the headless horseman, but it stays a popular weekend getaway from New York City because of its appeal to those interested in the supernatural and macabre. Washington Irving might have made it famous, but Tim Burton put it on the map for a whole new generation. Located in the town of Mount Pleasant, the village boasts plenty of hiking, art, and views of the past.

If you are lucky enough to get away in the fall, you can take part in spooky Oktoberfest or head out on the Haunted Hayride . At all other times of the year, you can just enjoy all the rest of the ghostly things this unique village has to offer, like the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery . In addition, Kykuit , the Rockefeller family's hilltop estate has beautiful gardens, outdoor sculpture, and a gallery.

Getting to Sleepy Hollow is easy – you can either make the 90-minute drive from the city or jump on the light rail and arrive in about the same time with no risk of traffic.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Sleepy Hollow, NY

Best known as home to one of America's best Ivy League schools, Princeton boasts much more than its impressive academia. That said, Princeton University's grand buildings are hard to miss and even more difficult to dislike. The historic architecture is enough to make your jaw drop, while the inside of places like the Princeton University Art Museum and Nassau Hall are so lovely, you'll want to stay longer.

Palmer Square serves as the heart of this pretty New Jersey town. You can shop, eat, and sit for a while soaking up the vibe at one of the central picnic tables. Save room for dessert, as the square is lined with chocolate and ice cream shops

There's plenty of entertainment on offer to keep you occupied all weekend long. From performances at the McCarter Theater Center to plays at the Princeton Garden Theatre , you won't be at a loss for things to see. History lovers will enjoy a trip to Princeton Battlefield State Park and the Morven Museum and Garden .

If you're looking for a special place to stay, the Nassau Inn is a charming retreat located in Palmer Square. This sweet inn may look small and historic from the outside, but it's been updated to a level of modernity all current guests will enjoy.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Princeton, NJ

Ocean City offers one of the best New Jersey beaches for families. At this dry town, you don't have to worry about obnoxious revelers loudly strolling the 2.5-mile boardwalk or jostling for space on the miles of soft, sandy beach. Also, lifeguards are on duty between Memorial Day and Sunfest Weekend (usually the third weekend after Labor Day) to ensure your kids are safe.

When you aren't digging your toes in the sand, make good use of the area's best attractions. The boardwalk is the heart of Ocean City. It boasts two mini golf courses, the super fun Gillian's Wonderland Pier amusement park (complete with a Ferris wheel), and enough sweet shops to keep your dentist in business.

A two-hour drive from New York City, this top beach town is one of the best places to enjoy a weekend getaway filled with sun, sand, and surf. If you're hoping to make the most of your quick getaway, plan to visit during the warm, summer months–winter gets pretty bleak around here.

Scarborough Inn is by far the best place to stay in Ocean City. You'll be hard-pressed to find something with more charm and friendlier staff. Smooth jazz guides you through the historic doors of the oldest hotel in Ocean City , but when you enter the newly renovated, modern chic rooms, and eat the delicious homemade breakfast, you'll never want to leave.

If they're fully booked, try The Bayberry Inn Bed & Breakfast . At this smaller, charismatic hotel, guests are set close to the beach and can enjoy a romantic stay in comfortable rooms featuring wicker furniture and floral prints.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Ocean City, New Jersey

Washington is a haven for outdoorsy travelers. One of the best small towns in Connecticut , this rural gem is everything New York City is not: quiet, clean, and filled with natural wonders like thundering waterfalls and deep forests. It's located two and a half hours northeast of New York.

You'll be spoiled for ways to enjoy the fresh air. Hike across the Henry David Thoreau suspension bridge , which is tucked into the majestic Hidden Valley Preserve in Washington Depot. Or explore the 998-acre Steep Rock Preserve . Climb the 776 feet to Steep Rock Summit for the best views.

The Washington Art Association and Gallery is also worthy of a look, as is the Gunn Historical Museum .

The Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection is one of the best resorts in Connecticut for multiple reasons. First, it is gorgeous, elegant, and well-serviced. Next, it boasts incredibly luxurious amenities like a gourmet restaurant, two pools, and a spa.

Whether you're hoping to soak up the most majestic fall colors, swim in New York's best lakes , or marvel at the tallest waterfall in the Eastern US, The Finger Lakes region is packed with exciting things to do and stunning places to visit.

First up is a trip to the spectacular Watkins Glen State Park , where you can spend the day hiking.

Next, it's time for a hot air balloon ride above Letchworth State Park . The views are as breathtaking as the strong winds. If that's not your thing, you can always just go for a walk and appreciate the waterfalls.

Finally, go camping at Taughannock Falls State Park . It's here that you'll come face to thundering cascade with one of New York's top waterfalls , Taughannock Falls.

Still looking for more ways to spend your weekend away? With a wildlife refuge, adventure park, and ski hills, the Finger Lakes won't disappoint. The drive from New York City will take roughly five hours , which is definitely doable in a day. You'll definitely want to spend at least two nights away, which is easy to do in the region's lovely resorts.

Author's tip: No matter what time of year you're visiting, be sure to stop at Greek Peak Mountain Resort . Even if you don't stay at the affiliated resort overnight, the outdoor Adventure Center is a fab way to spend a fun-filled day with the whole family. The Mountain Coaster is a blast, and the high ropes course is a must-try.

Despite its diminutive size, Rhode Island boasts impressive towns. One of the most popular is Newport. Located a four-and-a-half-hour drive from New York City , this delightful spot is a haven for summer vacationers hoping to nibble on fresh fish, visit glamorous mansions, and shop in eclectic boutiques.

The Cliff Walk is the most famous thing to do in Newport . An easy path leads visitors along the Rhode Island Sound, with some of the town's most famed homes on full display. The Breakers , Rosecliff , and Beechwood are only a few of the mansions you'll see during this walk, and many are available to tour (for a fee).

When finished touring, take a break at Easton Beach , one of the state's best beaches . It's primed for families, boasting a playground, carousel, skateboard park, and plenty of facilities.

As for staying the night, you'll be spoiled for choice. The resorts on offer in this Rhode Island charmer are as luxe and lovely as you'd expect.

Author's tip: Eat dinner early. The restaurants in Newport are top-notch. If you can't make a reservation, head out early (we're talking 5:30pm) to ensure you find a spot. There are plenty of eateries overlooking Newport Harbor, which will add a romantic ambiance to any meal.

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10 Best Things to Do Outside NYC + MAP

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The Big Apple is lots of fun, but if you’re looking for things to do outside NYC , you’ll be pleased to know that there are tons of good options. From sprawling state parks to charming coastal communities and artsy downtown districts, there is a wide variety of attractions near NYC .

This guide includes 10 fun activities just outside New York City and where to find them. So, whether you’re craving some time away from the city, or you’re passing through Manhattan and want to see what you can do nearby, this article will help you out.

After reading about these attractions and cities near NYC , be sure to download the map so you can plan your perfect itinerary. Now, let’s get started !

1. Take a vacation in The Hamptons, one of the top things to do outside NYC

First, The Hamptons is one of the best places to visit outside New York City , especially during the summer. This luxurious seaside resort has a rich history and beautiful beaches, so it’s a great place to go with friends or as a couple.

Once you visit this popular summer colony, you’ll see why it’s considered one of the most charming places near NYC . The Hamptons include several distinct communities, each with its unique characteristics and attractions.

For example, Southampton is the largest community in The Hamptons and offers museums, vineyards, sidewalk cafes, and the lovely Cooper’s Beach.

A nice alternative is East Hampton , which is home to artsy shops and boutiques, or Montauk Point State Park , where you can see the imposing red-and-white lighthouse. Built in 1796, it’s one of the oldest lighthouses in the U.S., and a National Historic Landmark.

If you want to visit a beach near NYC without a car , take this Hamptons day trip from New York City . You’ll be able to visit Southampton and other nearby villages, making it one of the best  day trips from NYC .

• Recommended accommodation: The Southampton Inn is the perfect place to stay in Southampton, as it combines a summer cottage vibe with modern conveniences. The hotel has free parking, a pool, a game room, and it’s a few minutes from Cooper’s Beach .

2. Mohonk Preserve, a lovely place to go near NYC

The Mohonk Preserve is just two hours from the Big Apple, so visiting it is one of the best outdoor activities to do in NYC . This protected natural area spans 8,000 acres in the Shawangunk Mountains, so there is plenty of space to stretch your legs and explore.

The preserve was created as a conservation effort, and you can learn more by visiting the Daniel Smiley Research Center . Here, you can peruse thousands of mammal, bird, butterfly, and herbarium specimens. The center also has a research library and an impressive photograph collection.

It’s also worth checking out the Visitor Center, where you can find maps and other info. Outside the Visitor Center, you’ll find a trailhead that branches off to several hiking routes. Try the Undercliff-Overcliff Loop, which provides lovely views of the Catskills and the Wallkill Valley. A good alternative is the J & S Grafton Sensory Trail , an easy ¼-mile route that goes past the Weinstein Butterfly Garden . It’s one of the most popular hikes near NYC.

You can also go biking or horseback riding along the old carriage roads or do some rock climbing on the “Gunks cliffs.” The Mohonk Preserve also has a campsite, so it’s a beautiful place close to New York where you can escape into nature.

• Recommended accommodation: The picturesque Minnewaska Lodge in Gardiner is a few miles from the Mohonk Preserve and Lake Minnewaska State Park. The oak furniture and cabin décor give the inn a super rustic vibe that’s perfect for staying in upstate NY. If you’re looking for an all-inclusive resort in NY , Mohonk Mountain House is a great option too .

3. Visit Jones Beach State Park, one of the best things to do just outside New York City

Jones Beach State Park has one of the best beaches near NYC , so visiting it is a great thing to do outside NYC during the summer months. Located on the southern shore of Long Island , this park boasts over six miles of coastline along the Atlantic Ocean, as well as a family-friendly atmosphere.

Part of what makes this one of the top places near New York City is the clean beach where you can sunbathe, go swimming, or enjoy the surf. The park also has a public pool and children’s playgrounds, so you can come here with the entire family. Other fun activities include basketball, corn hole, pickleball, ping pong, and shuffleboard.

Spend the morning enjoying the sea breeze along the walking and jogging path, stop for lunch at a boardwalk café, and join family or friends in a game of mini-golf in the afternoon. You’ll find no shortage of ways to spend the day here, plus you’ll be close to nearby attractions like Fire Island and Old Westbury Gardens.

• Recommended accommodation: Check in at the Jones Beach Hotel , which is less than a 10-minute drive from Jones Beach State Park. You’ll enjoy free Wi-Fi, on-site dining, and a spa bathtub where you can relax after a long day .

4. Visit Thomas Edison National Historic Park, another top thing to do outside NYC

Thomas Edison National Historic Park offers lots of fun things to do outside NYC , so it’s worth a visit. The park has two distinct areas about a ½-mile from each other: Edison’s lab complex and his former home in Llewellyn Park.

Edison himself built the lab in 1887, and the entire complex contains several buildings, including his library, office, photography studio, machine shop, and labs for chemistry, metallurgy, and physics. He had a previous lab before this one, which he built in 1876. It’s located in Menlo Park, about 40 minutes away.

The laboratory complex at the national historic park helped Edison achieve his advancements in phonographs, sound recordings, and motion picture cameras, so it’s quite an important site.

At Llewellyn Park, you can visit the Glenmont Estate where Edison lived with his second wife, Mina. The beautiful home was built in the 1880s in the Queen Anne style and features 29 rooms and a greenhouse with native and exotic plants. The home was also one of the first to have the modern amenities we enjoy today, such as indoor flush toilets, electrical wiring, and a water heater.

The home was declared a National Historic Site in 1955 and, behind the house, you can see Thomas Edison’s and Mina’s burial sites.

• Recommended accommodation: Stay at the Cambria Hotel West Orange , where you’ll be just three miles from the Thomas Edison National Historic Park. Plus, the hotel has free parking, an indoor pool, and private bathrooms .

5. Bear Mountain State Park, another great place to visit near NYC

If you’re looking for a beautiful place near NYC where you can enjoy nature, head to Bear Mountain State Park . Named for Bear Mountain, which looks like a bear when viewed in profile, the park spans over 5,200 acres and grants you sweeping views of the Hudson River.

The recreational activities here include biking, hiking, boating, swimming, and, in the winter, cross-country skiing, sledding, and ice skating. If you’re looking for family things to do outside New York City , you can rent a paddleboat at Hessian Lake, take the kids to the playground, or visit the Trailside Museums, which have exhibits on geology and history.

Also, Bear Mountain is right next to another park, Harriman State Park , which is home to hiking routes like the Blue Disc Trail and Long Path, as well as the beautiful Lake Sebago . It’s a popular place to do some wildlife viewing and camping, but if you just want to pass through these parks, take the Perkins Memorial Drive , a scenic road that leads to the summit of Bear Mountain. From there, you can get a panoramic view of the park and the greater Palisades Interstate Park, which I’ll talk about next.

• Recommended accommodation: Stay at The Overlook Lodge & Stone Cottages at Bear Mountain for views of the Hudson River and Hessian Lake. It has woodland hiking trails, an ice skating rink, and a pool, plus it’s less than a 15-minute drive to Harriman State Park .

6. Palisades Interstate Park, a beautiful place to go near NYC

Bear Mountain State Park and Harriman State Park are part of the larger Palisades Interstate Park , a huge riverfront park that stretches across New York and New Jersey. Declared a National Historic Landmark in 1965, the park features breathtaking cliffs, overlooks, and hiking trails. It’s certainly one of the best things to do in New Jersey , so if you’re looking for natural attractions near NYC , be sure to check it out.

The New Jersey portion of the park takes up about 12 miles in Fort Lee and offers picnic areas, lookout points, hiking routes, and other natural features. Hiking enthusiasts can enjoy over 30 miles of trails, such as the Long Path route, which leads to the stunning Rockefeller Lookout. Another great route is the Shore Trail , which goes past the Kearney House , a historic homestead and tavern from the 1800s.

The Kearney House is just one of the historic landmarks in the park, several of which date back to the American Revolutionary War. For example, Fort Lee Historic Park was an important encampment during the war, while the Hasbrouck House was the home of General George Washington during the final year of the war. You can also visit the Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site , where the battle of Stony Point took place in 1779.

Again, Palisades Interstate Park is huge, so if you want, you can drive along the Palisades Scenic Byway , which runs through forests and along the cliffs of the Hudson River.

• Recommended accommodation: Hyatt Place Fort Lee/George Washington Bridge is a 12-minute drive from Palisades Interstate Park, or you could check our guide on where to stay in NYC .

7. Storm King Art Center, one of the best attractions near NYC

Visiting the Storm King Art Center is another fun thing to do outside NYC , and it’s just an hour from Manhattan. This open-air museum originated as a museum for the Hudson River School’s paintings, and it eventually evolved into an outdoor sculpture garden.

Today, it’s home to the biggest collection of contemporary outdoor sculptures in the U.S., with works by Alexander Calder, David Smith, Richard Serra, and Isamu Noguchi, among others. The Storm King Art Center takes up about 500 acres, so you can rent a bike from the visitor center to cover more ground. Besides the intriguing sculptures and landscaped grounds, you can marvel at the beautiful natural backdrop, which looks especially gorgeous during the fall.

The permanent collection contains 115 sculptures, and the museum holds special exhibits throughout the year. Admission is $20 per person, and you should plan on spending a few hours here. Before or after your visit, consider visiting nearby Storm King Mountain, which stands 1,340 feet above the Hudson Highlands.

• Recommended accommodations: The Beacon Hermitage is about 30 minutes from the Art Center, but it’s also in the town of Beacon, so it’s worth staying at if you’re also visiting this city. If you prefer something closer to Storm King, the Caldwell House Bed & Breakfast offers private suites with a kitchenette and bathroom .

8. Go to Greenwich, CT, a popular thing to do outside New York City

Even though it’s in Connecticut, Greenwich is just an hour from the Big Apple, so it’s another great place near New York . Greenwich offers a bit of everything – history, architecture, public parks, a downtown district, and even a beautiful coastline.

History buffs can check out the Revolutionary War-era buildings like the Bush-Holley House and Putnam’s Cottage , while those in search of art and culture can explore downtown Greenwich’s museums and shops.

If you plan to spend more time here, then you should check out the nearby natural surroundings. For example, Greenwich Point Park is a beautiful park with a beach where you can swim, sunbathe, and bike along the water.

Alternatively, Montgomery Pinetum Park at the Greenwich Botanical Center offers scenic walking trails, and it’s right next to Pomerance Park , a wooded area with hiking routes, a pond, an old mansions, and other historical buildings.

• Recommended accommodation: The J House Greenwich Hotel is conveniently located between Greenwich and Stamford, close to Putnam Cottage and Montgomery Pinetum Park .

9. Sleepy Hollow, NY, a place to visit near NYC during the fall

Located along the banks of the Hudson River, Sleepy Hollow is notorious for its portrayal in the Legend of Sleepy Hollow , which describes the ghost of the Headless Horseman. While it’s considered a haunted place, Sleepy Hollow is one of the safest and most charming small towns in the country and a beautiful place near NYC to visit.

This town offers lots of historical sites and unique structures, so you’ll feel like you’re walking through a storybook. Pay a visit to the Old Dutch Church , built in the 1690s, and the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery , which is just steps away from the Headless Horseman Bridge.

It’s also worth visiting the old Tarrytown Lighthouse and the Philipsburg Manor House , a Colonial-era estate with a water mill and museum. The home dates back to the 1690s, and the living-history museum employees wear period clothing and demonstrate old colonial chores like milking cows, grinding grain, and farming.

Sleepy Hollow is also close to the Rockefeller State Park Preserve , a lush 1,1770-acre park with wooded hiking trails and carriage roads. A Visitor Center and non-profit farm are also located in the park, as well as Rockwood Hall, the former home of William Rockefeller.

Since it’s just 30 miles from NYC, visiting Sleepy Hollow is the perfect thing to do outside New York , especially if you’re a fan of history.

• Recommended accommodation: If you want the full experience, stay at the Castle Hotel & Spa , where you can sleep in a castle room and enjoy pristine facilities like an outdoor pool and hot tub, terrace lounge, and daily breakfast in the Garden Room .

10. Beacon, NY, another great thing to see near New York City

Last but not least, Beacon, NY is one of the top weekend getaways from NYC , offering all kinds of fun attractions outside New York City .

Located in the Hudson Valley, Beacon is a beautiful relic of the past, full of historic landmarks like Bannerman Castle , an abandoned military warehouse. You can also see old Victorian and Gothic architecture at the Eustatia cottage and the Madam Brett Homestead .

There also lovely public parks and art galleries, particularly Dia Beacon , an impressive gallery space housed in an old Nabisco box-printing factory. Dia Beacon contains paintings, photographs, and sculptures from the 1960s to present-day, and is one of the biggest art museums in the country.

If you’re looking for nature-related things to do outside New York City , Mt. Beacon Park is gorgeous and full of scenic hiking trails, as well as an old 60-foot fire tower that you can climb. It’s also worth seeing Hudson Highlands State Park , home to endangered species like the bald eagle and the Wilkinson Memorial Trail , leading to the highest peak in Beacon.

It’s also worth noting that Beacon is close to another beautiful city, Cold Spring, NY . Its Historic District has an impressive collection of 19 th -century buildings, and its Main Street is lined with cute little shops and restaurants. You can also visit the Stonecrop Gardens , a public alpine garden; or go hiking on the Foundry Preserve Trail or the Breakneck Ridge Loop.

• Recommended accommodation: Stay at the lovely Beacon Hermitage , a bed and breakfast surrounded by landscaped gardens in the Hudson River Valley. It’s about three miles from downtown Beacon’s galleries and shops.

Now you know the 10 best things to do outside New York City ! You can download this map with all the places I mentioned; it’ll help you decide where to visit near New York  and, maybe plan longer road trips from NYC .

I hope you enjoyed reading about some of the most interesting places close to NYC . If you have any questions or you’d like to add your recommendation, leave me a comment below. I’ll be happy to answer you! Until then, have a safe trip.

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The 24 Best Summer Weekend Getaways from NYC – The COMPLETE Guide

+ amazing summer day trips.

Summer in New York can get really hot and humid. Want to escape the heat of the city? There are many destinations near New York City that you can reach perfectly with a day trip from New York in the summer. What do the perfect weekend getaways look like for me this summer? Being by the water, enjoying nature and taking advantage of the good weather to explore major cities like Boston and Philadelphia.

You'll also love this:

• COMPLETE GUIDE: Summer in New York
• The 27 Best Day Trips from NYC
• The Best Road Trips from New York

My tip: here you can find all day trips from New York  and the best fall getaways from NYC .

24 Amazing Summer Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from New York

But which summer weekend getaway is the best? Here I show the best day trips from and weekend getaways near New York. You can expect beautiful beaches, incredible nature and great city trips.

Ocean City: One of the Best Summer Weekend Getaways from NYC with Kids

Ocean City is not only affordable, but it’s also more kid-friendly than other comparable destinations and is known for specializing in American family beach vacations. There are so many things to do in this city that you’ll have difficulty narrowing down an itinerary.

From the boardwalk and its amusement rides to the powdery beaches and delicious seafood eateries, there is no shortage of establishments in Ocean City.

Things to do in Ocean City on your day trip from New York in Summer

• Grab a snack and enjoy ocean views at the boardwalk.
• Eat breakfast at Fractured Prune Donuts.
• Spend a day having fun on the water with Paradise Watersports.

Places To See in Ocean City

• Jolly Roger Amusement Park
• Art League of Ocean City
• Northside Park

Helpful links

If you looking for an accommodation check our this website and if you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site .

Coney Island Boardwalk

A day trip to Coney Island is definitely worthwhile and while you are there, make sure to stay until sunset. At the beach it is just beautiful and very idyllic.

My tip: These are the best beaches of New York City .

Day Trip to Boston from New York in Summer

This day trip to Boston takes you through one of Americas most interesting historical cities. Everything from architecture to monuments and historically significant spots make this tour a great choice for all history lovers. Boston is a beautiful city and a nice contrast to NYC, making it the perfect getaway for a day! The bus will leave from the Gray Line Visitors Center and take approximately 4 hours.

Things to do in Boston on your day trip from New York in Summer

• stroll along Charles River Esplanade
• explore the famed Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• visit the famous Fenway Park ( this is the best tour )
• enjoy an iced-coffee in Boston Common (I love this park!)
• enjoy a historical adventure and travel back in time to 1773 to be part of the famous Boston Tea Party

Places To See in Boston

• Museum of African American History
• New England Aquarium (perfect for families!)
• Museum of Fine Art
• Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Just Amazing: This 2-Days Trip to Niagara Falls in the Summer-Time

If you are in New York in summer and are thinking about planning a day trip, then I can recommend a trip to Niagara Falls. I myself have been to Niagara Falls several times from New York and was always impressed by this natural spectacle. Chances are high that you will have fantastic weather. That’s exactly why I think a trip to Niagara Falls is so nice. And if you take a weekend trip, you’ll have plenty of time to see the falls from both the US and Canadian sides.

My tip: These are the 5 Best Niagara Falls Day Trips from New York .

Among The Best Summer Weekend Getaways near NYC: the White Mountain National Forest

If you’re looking for a day trip in the summer that puts you in the middle of nature, then you’ve found it in this region! The White Mountain National Forest spans from western Maine into eastern New Hampshire and is just a short five-hour drive from Manhattan. You can expect to experience breathtaking scenery, wildlife, clear mountain streams, and lakes, as well as take part in outdoor recreational activities all year.

Things to do in the White Mountains on your day trip from New York

• Hike to Arethusa Falls, which is New Hampshire’s tallest waterfall.
• Rent a rustic cabin at one of the many sites throughout the forest.

Places To See

• Conway scenic railway
• Polar Caves Park
• Cranmore Mountain Resort

Insider Weekend Getaway from NYC in Summer: Baltimore!

Baltimore is the capital of the US state of Maryland with a long and important history. It is somewhat comparable to Boston and yet it has its own charm.

During my roadtrip along the east coast of the USA, Baltimore landed on my itinerary for the first time. Due to its location by the ocean, it has its very own charm and is especially interesting for those who already know Boston and Washington. From New York you can reach Baltimore in about 3 hours. In terms of time, it makes no difference whether you travel by rental car or train.

Things to do in Summer in Baltimore on your day trip from New York

• Do a craft-beer brewery tour or whiskey tasting tour (Baltimore is famous for both!)
• Explore the Inner Harbor and the Patapsco River with this amazing cruise
• Enjoy city views from high above when visiting Top of the World Observation Level
• Take photos of Historic Ships in Baltimore
• National Aquarium
• Reginald F. Lewis Museum
• Port Discovery Children’s Museum
• Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine

If you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site .

American Dream with Entertainment Complex: A Shopping Trip from NYC

Attention shoppers: the Greater New York City area is now home to one of the largest malls in the nation – the American Dream mall. After many years of waiting and constant delays, the massive shopping and entertainment complex are already open.

The American Dream complex is much more than just a mall. Besides hundreds of shops, you will also find an unbelievable number of entertainment facilities here. As a matter of fact, the complex is almost split evenly amongst shopping and entertainment.

Day Trip (2 days) to Washington D.C., Philadelphia & Amish Country

This tour is one of my favorite summer family day trips from NYC. It combines several destinations at once: you will visit the most important sights of D.C. and Philadelphia and afterwards the interesting Amish Country. Departure is at the Gray Line Visitors Center.

This is what you can expect on this guided summer day trip from New York

• Philadelphia: Visit Constitution Hall and Independence Square
• Philadelphia: See the world-famous Liberty Bell in Philadelphia
• Philadelphia: Run up the “Rocky Steps”
• Washington D.C.: visit National Mall and Lincoln Memorial
• Take an authentic Amish buggy ride and visit a traditional market

Martha's Vineyard: My Favorite Family Summer Weekend Getaway from NYC

If you’re looking to venture a bit further from NYC, then you should consider going to Martha’s Vineyard for the day. Martha’s Vineyard is an island that rests seven miles off of Cape Cod, Massachusetts’ southern coast. At a little over five hours, getting there is half the adventure.

The island is just 100 square miles and is a famous summer colony, but it also has a year-round population of around 17,000 residents. The island consists of six towns: Edgartown, Aquinnah, Tisbury, West Tisbury, Oak Bluffs, and Chilmark.

Things to do at Martha’s Vineyard on your day trip from New York in Summer

• Keep an eye out for celebrities – everyone from Meg Ryan and Seth Meyers to the Obamas are known to frequent the area.
• Spend a few hours exploring Oak Bluffs.
• Take a walking tour of Edgartown.
• Gingerbread Houses
• The Island’s five lighthouses
• Alley’s General Store

If you looking for an accommodation check our this website , here you can check the schedule of the ferry and if you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site .

The Finger Lakes: An Amazing Summer Day Trip from NYC for Families

New York’s Finger Lakes region spans an area that encompasses 11 lakes in an area that was once covered by glaciers. In addition to the lakes, this region is also home to many natural pools, gorges, waterfalls, wineries, and state parks. The two most popular lakes are the deepest and largest: Cayuga Lake is 435 feet deep and is in Ithaca, while Seneca Lake is 618 feet deep and is found in the Watkins Glen State Park.

Many consider this the most underrated part of New York and makes for a great day trip away from New York City. It’s perfect for nearly everyone as the region has plenty of things to see and do.

Distance: 260 Miles (5 hours by car)

Things to do in the Finger Lakes Region on your summer day trip from New York

• Go on a wine tasting tour ( the Seneca Lake Wine Tasting & Tour is the best!!! ).
• Take in a game at NBT Bank Stadium.
• Enjoy dinner and sunset on a boat cruise.

Places To See on your Summer Day Trip from New York

• Watkins Glen State Park (the trail is amazing!)
• Robert Treman State Park
• Rosamond Gifford Zoo
• Corning Museum of Glass

Woodbury Outlet Shopping Trip

Less than 1 hour from Manhattan you will find the Woodbury Common Premium Outlets. With over 220 designer stores like Dolce & Gabbana, Gap Outlet, Nike Factory Store, Polo Ralph Lauren, Salvatore Ferragamo, Timberland and more, this is definitely the place to go on a shooping spree. You will leave from the Port Authority Bus Terminal (42nd Street at 8th Avenue) and take the bus for a swift ride there and back.

Which Road Trip or Day Trip from New York is the Best?

Check out my free road trip advisor that will help you choose from over 30 road trips and day trips to suit your needs!

Rockaway Beach

Located just over 20 miles from Manhattan, you’ll find Rockaway Beach tucked away in Queens. Though it’s known as Rockaway Beach, this destination encompasses several beaches between 3rd Street and 153rd Street. It is renowned for being the best beach destination close to New York City , so it merits the hour-long subway ride from downtown Manhattan.

If you visit this area in the high season from the end of May through Labor Day, then you can expect to find many surfers, swimmers, and sunbathers enjoying the water and sun. While it’s most popular in the summer, Rockaway Beach makes for a refreshing place to visit any time of the year.

Distance: 25 Miles (1 hour by car | 1,5 hour by subway)

Central Park: A Perfect Summer Weekend Getaway in New York

Central Park spans from Midtown Manhattan all the way up to Harlem. There are about 340 hectares of land and is a popular meeting place for New Yorkers. With about 35 million visitors per year, the man-made park is an attraction not only for tourists. New Yorkers love Central Park and its tranquility. Many events are held here such as the NYC Marathon. There are also tons of green spaces, walking lanes, and bike lanes. Central Park is home to Sheep’s Meadow, Bow Bridge, Bethesda Terrace, Central Park Zoo, and many other things as well.

And it’s perfect when you are looking for a summer day trip for families! Central Park is also a wonderful place that I mention in my ultimate guide to Staycation Hotels in New York .

Day Trip To Washington D.C.: One of the most interesting day trips you can take from NYC in Summer

The American capital Washington D.C. is a good four hours’ drive from New York City and a wonderful destination when you are looking for Summer Weekend Getaways near NYC. You can do it by your own or check out this guided bus tour. The bus will take you south through the states of New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland until you reach Capitol Hill.

Things to do in Washington D.C. on your day trip from New York

• check out the Monuments by Moonlight Nighttime Trolley Tour (500+ reviews!)
• Stroll through the neighborhood of Georgetown
• Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
• visit the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Korean War Veterans Memorial

Places To See in Washington D.C.

• Lincoln Memorial
• The White House
• National Mall
• United States Capitol
• Washington National Cathedral
• Arlington National Cemetery
• Thomas Jefferson Memorial

Spend a Day on Governors Island

When the weather is beautiful in New York City and you want to escape for a moment from the noise, the hustle and bustle, then a trip to Governors Island is something to consider. The Governors Island Ferry will take you across the East River for just $4 with the Governors Island Ferry.

The Palisades, New Jersey

The Palisades is located in Bergen County and overlooks the Hudson River. The park is roughly 12 miles long, covers 2,500 acres, and is a half-mile wide. Inside this park, you’ll find over 30 miles of ski and hiking trails, boat launching ramps, a scenic overlook, and riverside drive, waterfront picnic areas, historic sites, and much more. 

The Palisades Interstate Park is a National Historical and National Natural Landmark, so this is one place that should be on your bucket list! 

Distance: 16 Miles (1/2 to 1 hour by car | 40 minutes by train)

By the way, there is a really great boat tour of New York in the fall where you can see the gorgeous colorful fall forests 👇

For Nature-Lovers: Cold Spring in the Hudson Valley

Cold Spring is renowned for being one of the best-preserved towns from the 19th Century and is just a 90-minute train ride from New York City. Once here, you’re greeted by a charming country village that was once a picturesque historic center created along the banks of the Hudson River.

Visitors enjoy spending the day in Cold Spring because the small downtown area is lined with antique stores, boutiques, and restaurants. During the summer, it’s common to find residents lining the streets enjoying coffee at one of the numerous sidewalk cafes or enjoying drinks and live music at one of many riverfront restaurants with an outdoor patio. Yet, this area is also home to many parks and hiking and biking trails.

Distance: 65 Miles (1,5 hour by car)

Things to do in Cold Spring on your Day Trip from New York

• In the summer, go paddleboarding, boating, kayaking, and more.
• Tour the Boscobel House and Gardens.

Places To See on your Day Trip from New York

• Hudson Highlands State Park
• Bannerman Castle
• Little Stony Point

New York Aquarium: A Perfect Summer Day Trips from NYC for Families

The sea creatures in the aquarium offer a nice alternative if the weather is not suitable for a visit to the beach. Here you can learn everything about the underwater world of the oceans.

Phoenicia: A Great Summer Day Trip from NYC for Families in the Catskill Mountains

Phoenicia, New York, is a hidden gem located in the beautiful Hudson Valley. This Catskills town is an off-the-beaten-path and home to a collection of natural attractions and acclaimed dining establishments. Located just two and a half hours from New York City, this area has more than enough corners to explore during a day trip.

Between the close proximity to Manhattan and gorgeous scenery, this is a popular area in the summer months. Yet, Phoenicia is a wonderful place to visit any time of the year, as there are always activities such as shopping, dining, and exploring the high peaks of the Catskill Mountains.

Distance: 130 Miles (2 – 2,5 hours by car)

Things to do in Phoenicia on your day trip from New York

• Enjoy a meal at the Phoenicia Diner.
• Tube down the Esopus.
• Take a hike through the Mount Tobias forest.

Places To See in Phoenicia

• World’s largest kaleidoscope
• Catskills scenic drive
• Downtown Phoenicia

A Summer Day Trip from NYC: Poughkeepsie

Poughkeepsie is known by many as the “Queen City of the Hudson”, as it is located on the banks of the Hudson River in the scenic Hudson Valley. This area was established during the 17th century by Dutch settlers, but today it’s a bustling college town that’s also popular with tourists.

Located just an hour and forty-five minutes from NYC, Poughkeepsie is the perfect place for anyone looking to enjoy historic architecture, trendy boutiques, and fine dining spots. Additionally, the area is home to 22 parks, so there are lots of green spaces to spend the day.

Things to do in Poughkeepsie on your day trip from New York in the summer-time

• Experience the walkway over the Hudson River.
• Stroll along Hudson River – it is amazing and one of the best spots is by far the Victor C. Waryas Park!
• Enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants before heading to the Bardavon Opera House to enjoy a show.

Places to see in Poughkeepsie on your day trip from New York

• Historic Huguenot Street
• Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center
• Mid-Hudson Children’s Museum

New Haven: A Hidden Summer Weekend Getaways near NYC

New Haven is a quaint community located in Connecticut in the Long Island Sound and is the perfect destination for anyone looking to get away from NYC for a day. In fact, New Haven is only about two hours from Manhattan, so the trip is relatively easy and painless. And the best part is that this area has a lot to offer! From imaginative art and delicious cuisine to sandy beaches, there’s something for everyone.

Distance: 80 Miles (2 hours by car)

Things to do in New Haven on your day trip from New York

• Enjoy the beach and the sunset at Lighthouse Point Park or at Amarante’s Sea Cliff (62 Cove St, New Haven)
• Tour the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History.
• Enjoy a show at Shubert Theater.
• Yale University
• East Rock Park
• Five Mile Point Light

Hamilton Township, NJ: A Summer Weekend Getaway for Everyone

Hamilton Township is the 9th largest town in New Jersey, but the area is comfortably spread out over 40 square miles. This region is home to more than 64 state parks, playgrounds, and acres of preserved land. Within just one hour of NYC, Hamilton is a great place to take a day trip.

Hamilton, New Jersey, is fun for anyone looking to visit historical parks or attend local community events. This town enjoys a bustling and local economy with large retail centers and small retail shops alike; Hamilton is one town that caters to just about everyone’s wallet.

Distance: 60 Miles (1,5 hours by car)

Things to do in Hamilton Township on your day trip from New York

• Explore the Sayan House and Gardens.
• Take a ride on the New Hope Railroad.
• Spend an hour or two meandering around the Art Museum at Princeton University.

Places To See in Hamilton Township

• Grounds for Sculpture
• Shaky Bridge
• Tulpehaking Nature Center

Philadelphia Day Trip from New York

This day trip will take you from New York to Philadelphia. In the heart of the historic city, the famous Liberty Bell, Constitution Square and Constitution Hall are waiting to be discovered. Of course, the famous steps from the movie “Rocky” and the Parque del Amor and City Hall are not missing. In short, you will definitely see all the highlights that Philadelphia has to offer.

Things to do in Philadelphia on your day trip from New York

• Hop over to Lancaster and take a horse-drawn buggy ride through Amish farm country.
• Visit Independence Hall, where the founding fathers signed the Declaration of Independence.
• Tour the Museum of the American Revolution or the Benjamin Franklin Museum.
• Walk down Elfreth’s Alley. This road is America’s first residential street, dating back to 1702, and is home to many art galleries, shops, and restaurants today.
• View the art collections at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts or the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Places To See in Philadelphia

• The Liberty Bell
• Betsy Ross House
• Franklin Square
• The Rocky Statue and the Rocky steps
• Eastern State Penitentiary

Albany is New York’s capital city and is not just the oldest city in the state, but it’s one of the oldest in the nation. English immigrants took control of Albany, NY, in 1664 and named it after the Duke of Albany. By the early 1800s, the city was the 10th largest in the country, which is a title that San Jose, CA, took. The area’s growth was fueled by the creation of the Erie Canal and the railroad, and it continued to serve as a vital transportation hub until the early 1900s.

Hence, as you can see, this area has an extensive history, and there are many local attractions that help provide excellent learning experiences for newbies. Today, this capital city and college town is home to about 100,000 people and has something for everyone.

Distance: 150 Miles (2,5 hours by car)

Things to do in Albany on your summer day trip from New York

• Enjoy local flavors such as Chicken Joe’s, Pint-Sized, and Madison Pour House.
• Stroll through the Albany Institute of Art & History.
• Ride a bike at the historic Washington Park.
• See a show at the Capital Repertory Theater.
• Hike Albany Pine Bush Preserve.

Places to see in Albany on your day trip from New York.

• John Boyd Thacher State Park
• The Capitol Building
• Empire State Plaza
• Schuyler Mansion
• Corning Tower Observation Deck

More Travel Inspiration

The 9 Best All-Season Road Trips From New York

The Best Fall Weekend Getaways From NYC + Day Trips

The 19 Best Winter Weekend Getaways from NYC

The 21 Best Spring Weekend Getaways from NYC

Our Guide to Summer in New York

The 27 Absolute Best Day Trips from NYC in 2024

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide . Also check out my hotel finder for New York !

Hole dir deine wöchentliche Dosis New York mit meinem Loving New York-Newsletter! Er ist vollgestopft mit den neuesten Artikeln, Videos, Erfahrungsberichten und allem, was gerade Interessantes und Wissenswertes im Big Apple passiert.

Ich selbst war über 25x in meiner Lieblingsstadt und möchte dir mit meinen Emails dabei helfen, eine sensationelle Zeit vor Ort zu haben.

Und als BONUS bekommst meine ✔️ "24 Tipps für deine New York-Reise" ✔️ die U-Bahn-Karte und ✔️ die offizielle NYC-Karte zugeschickt. Ganz KOSTENLOS!

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Easy Getaways from NYC: 10 Trips Within 3 Hours of Manhattan

See recent posts by Katherine Alex Beaven

Who says you gotta stay in NYC to have all the fun? Not us! Especially during the warm months of the summer, diehard Manhattanites actually choose to leave the metropolis behind for sandy beaches and greener pastures. And fortunately, whether it's via plane, train, automobile, or even boat, they don't have to venture far to truly escape. You can be hitting the trails, sipping your way through wine country, soaking up some contemporary culture, browsing through history, or lying on the shore within just a few hours of leaving the city. All reachable from NYC within three hours max, these 10 jaunts are perfect for day trips or even guiltless and easy overnight affairs. So bring the kids (or don't!) and find your perfect getaway hiding just beyond the city -- it's closer than you may think.

1. The Catskills: Two to Three Hours by Car

An antithesis to the bright lights and constant cacophony of the city, the scenic wilderness and fresh air of the Catskills can be found within a two- to three-hour drive from New York City . In the warmer months, the area is ideal for hiking in forests yielding stunning views, dipping in the area’s natural swimming holes, or zip-lining among the treetops. If you can’t make it out there this summer, winter months make for great skiing and snowshoeing. For a relaxing, simple getaway where you can really unplug, check-in to the  The Graham & Co.  in Phoenicia where you’ll find mountain views, fresh air, free beer upon check-in, free breakfast, loaner bikes, and a small pool — but no TVs, and kinda spotty cell service. You don’t even need to rent a car to get there because this mid-range boutique is just off a bus line straight from NYC.

Pricing for The Graham & Co.

2. Finger Lakes: One Hour by Direct Flight

Just over an hour non-stop flight from New York City, a plethora of year-round, family-friendly activities await in upstate New York’s Finger Lakes . A collection of thin, finger-like shaped bodies of water, the Finger Lakes provide an ideal overnight getaway for families of all ages — with summertime being particularly perfect for water-based activities like fishing, sailing, sunbathing, and water sports, and winter giving way to fantastic snow-blanketed scenery, primed for downhill and cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. An easy and affordable overnight option for those who fly into Ithaca is the  Hope Lake Lodge . This village-like property has a water park and activities for kids, while parents can enjoy the year-round ski resort’s spa, pool, and whirlpool.

Pricing for Hope Lake Lodge & Conference Center

3. Fire Island: 90 Minutes by Train and Ferry

Technically a national park, Fire Island not only has a romantic and sultry name, but it’s often thought of as the more low-key, laid-back (and therefore, to many, more appealing) summer getaway alternative to the Hamptons . Located off the coast of Long Island , Fire Island can be reached from the city in about an hour-and-a-half — assuming you line up your transportation schedule just so. Only 32 miles long, this beach destination is home to a sunken forest, historic lighthouse built in 1826, upscale boutiques and markets, sun-drenched coastline (with clothing-optional areas), and a nice selection of restaurants and bars. We recommend staying at  The Palms Hotel  since it’s beachside location is also within walking distance of numerous attractions. Plus, this little mid-range boutique has free bikes, kayak rentals, and private beach space for guests!

Pricing for The Palms Hotel Fire Island

4. Philadelphia: 90 Minutes by Train or Two Hours by Bus

Just want to get out of New York in general? Thanks to the Amtrak Acela Express, you can be out of the Big Apple and face-deep in a traditional Philly cheesesteak in just around an hour-and-a-half. But  Philadelphia is more than just cream cheese and steak sandwiches, so spend a night or two in the City of Brotherly Love so you can check out the city’s major historical landmarks like the Liberty Bell, experience Amish country, or check out medical oddities at the strange, but fascinating, Mütter Museum. Heck, if you eat too many gooey, cheesy, eponymous cheesesteaks, you can always sprint some “stadiums” up and down the “Rocky” steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s entrance. To be smack in the center of the action, stay at Le Meridien Philadelphia . With a striking combination of historical and modern design, this luxurious boutique reflects the true vibe of the city.

Pricing for Le Meridien Philadelphia

5. Cape May, NJ: Two and a Half Hours by Bus

A day or two in the wholesome and historic clutches of New Jersey’s (yes, New Jersey) Cape May is enough to make anyone feel a bit nostalgic for simpler times. Offering an antithesis to  Atlantic City ‘s bright flashing lights and Vegas-like vices appeal, Cape May is a Victorian seaside town full of old-school, virtuous activities like ice cream cone-accompanied historic walks, picturesque lighthouse visits, mini-golf, and simple (and delicious) seaside eats. If you are looking for a bit more adventure, head out to sea between spring and fall where you can try to spot dolphins, whales, and other marine animals in their natural habitat. To fully immerse yourself in the town’s history, stay at The Queen Victoria , a family-owned B&B. This mid-range, 30-room boutique not only has Victorian home credibility, but it also serves up tasty breakfasts and afternoon tea, and offers guests bike rentals.

Pricing for The Queen Victoria

6. Atlantic City: Two Hours by Car

For some, though, the spectacle of Atlantic City is just what they’re looking for. Originally created as a resort town in the mid-1800s, Atlantic City was once a glitzy and glamorous destination for high rollers, vacationing families, and sneaky bootleggers during prohibition. In fact, the seaside resort town — home to the world’s first boardwalk — was so popular it was dubbed “The World’s Playground,” and was the inspiration behind  Monopoly. Un fortunately, this didn’t last long and after World War II, it became a seedy, crumbling icon. But over the last few decades, it’s cleaned up its act and, thanks to the Atlantic City Expressway and the opening of the luxe  Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa , the city’s most extravagant hotel, it has started regaining popularity. It’s fallen on some hard times again, but overall there are numerous delicious restaurants, decadent spas, and busy casinos — at very affordable prices.

Pricing for Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa

7. Bear Mountain: One Hour by Car or 45 Minutes by Train

Just 45 minutes north of the city, Bear Mountain Park is an ideal — and idyllic — spot to get you hike-n-picnic on. Besides offering sweeping view of upstate New York, the area also has a zoo, carousel, and pools. Hiking trails range from easy loops to more advanced and calve-aching bits of the Appalachian Trail.

8. City Island – 45 minutes by Subway or Bus

City Island is such a quiet, cute, and quaint spot, it’s hard to believe that it’s just across a bridge from the big city. Perfect for a last-minute day trip or add-on adventure from the Bronx, this little island has nautical-themed Americana oozing from its shuttered homes and wooden marina. The main road is cluttered with cozy restaurants (mostly serving seafood), dusty antique stores, and water activities like kayaking and fishing. Walk to the island’s end and you’ll find seafront fish spot Johnny’s Reef Restaurant, where you can get boiled or fried fish, oysters, clams, hush puppies, and more — all with a view.

9. Beacon, NY: Just Over an Hour by Train

For a day of fresh air, culture, and a change of scenery, hop on the Metro-North’s Hudson to Beacon, home of the celebrated contemporary art museum Dia: Beacon, cute antique shops, and hiking. You can even buy a special train ticket that includes round-trip fare plus admission to the Dia — which is just a short, five-minute walk from the station. Hikes up Mt. Beacon also start at the station and those who can stick out the uphill battle will be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the Hudson River Valley.

10. Higher Hudson Valley Wineries: 90 Minutes by Car or Bus

Think you have to fly to the West Coast just to get a good tasting American vino? Think again. Although not as well known or popular as vineyards on the left coast, Hudson Valley offers wines that are nothing to scoff at — and the region’s close proximity to NYC makes for a perfectly paired day trip from the big city. While you could drive through any of the different wine trails, like the Dutchess or Shawangunk, we suggest finding a tour company so you can sip responsibly. With over 20 wineries throughout the region, there’s no shortage of stops to choose from.

What to Bring on Your Excursion from NYC: S’well Water Bottle

Traveler Aurora Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle by S’well

Whether you’re leaving for a day or a week, this stainless steel bottle is a great, eco-friendly option for when you’re parched on the go.

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9 Fun Things to Do Near NYC: Best Places to Visit Nearby!

By: Author Janik Godoy

Posted on Published: July 6, 2020  - Last updated: October 3, 2023

Even with its infinite allure, visitors sometimes need a break from the Big Apple’s restless energy.

Fortunately, there are plenty of incredibly fun things to do near NYC.

In fact, New York is a superb home base for exploring the other tantalizing destinations along the Eastern Seaboard.

From a history-filled city to family-friendly spots, here are our top picks for the best attractions near New York City.

1. iFly Paramus Indoor Skydiving

211 NJ-4 Paramus, NJ 07652 (201) 733-4359

Nothing beats the feeling of indoor skydiving.

That’s why I always recommend iFly Paramus to anyone looking for insanely fun things to do and see near NYC .

Trust me, you’ll love the thrill and freedom of flying like a bird inside this outstanding attraction.

Why we recommend going here

New Jersey’s iFly lets you experience the excitement and bliss of skydiving without jumping from a real-life airplane.

Plus, this activity will also teach you the art of skydiving inside a vertical wind tunnel.

And, it’s safe for everyone too, with instructors who will provide all the training as well as accompany you during your flights.

Distance from NYC

The fastest way to get to iFly Paramus from New York is to drive FDR Dr and NJ-4 W.

With a distance of 20.9 miles, this route will take about 29 minutes.

Additionally, there are public transportation options available from Port Authority Bus Terminal.

Just make sure to download Google Maps, as it requires some walking.

Recommended Hotel Near iFly Paramus Indoor Skydiving: Crowne Plaza Saddle Brook

Related: Best Family Hotels in New York City

2. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester

39 Fitzgerald Street Yonkers, NY 1070 (844) 740-9223

LEGOLAND is, hands down, one of our favorite family-friendly attractions near NYC.

While the attraction seems built specially for kids, it can be quite an interesting stop for adults as well.

With a plethora of games and toys, this indoor playground will challenge your imagination.

From miniature NYC landmarks to a 4D cinema, LEGOLAND overflows with fun diversions for the little ones.

Let your kids unleash their adventurers with rides like Kingdom Quest Laser and Merlin’s Apprentice.

Afterward, allow them to spend hours constructing mini skyscrapers and cities using LEGO bricks.

LEGOLAND is a short 32-minute drive away from New York City via FDR Dr and I-87 N.

The route’s distance is 23 miles.

Recommended Hotel Near LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester: The Royal Regency Hotel

3. Bear Mountain

Bear Mountain Tomkins Cove, NY 10986 (845) 786-2701

Bear Mountain is truly one of the cool places to go near NYC for outdoor aficionados.

Praised for its spectacular nature views and enticing activities, the mountain offers a ton of outdoor fun.

Whether you’re traveling alone or with your family, you’ll find dozens of exciting activities in Bear Mountain.

You may hit the trails, rent a paddleboat, have a picnic or savor the breathtaking views from Bear Mountain Bridge.

The park has some noteworthy attractions too, like the Trailside Zoo.

The shortest and fastest route to the state park from NYC is via Palisades Interstate Pkwy N.

On average, this 51-mile drive has a travel time of 1 hour and 6 minutes.

Recommended Hotel Near Bear Mountain: Comfort Suites Fishkill

Related: Kids Activities in NYC

4. Mattituck Countryside Bike Tour

13200 Main Rd Mattituck, NY 11952 (631) 871-1666

I can’t think of a better way to escape the city’s restless energy than to take a bike tour in Mattituck.

With stunning nature sights and a laid-back vibe, this hidden gem is the perfect countryside adventure for people who want to avoid the crowds.

Mattituck is home to some of the most scenic and romantic places to visit near the Big Apple.

And, with this 30-minute bike tour, you’ll be dropping by picture-perfect spots, like farm stands, beaches and wineries.

Additionally, the tour includes refreshments and olive oil and vinegar tastings.

Mattituck is 86.3 miles away (1 hour and 34 minutes of driving) from New York via I-495 E.

Also, there are multiple train rides to Mattituck from NYC.

We don’t recommend this option, though, as the whole trip will take about 4 hours.

Recommended Hotel Near Mattituck: Aqua by American Beech

Related: Best Beaches in NYC

5. Liberty State Park

200 Morris Pesin Dr Jersey City, NJ 07305 (201) 915-3403

Liberty State Park is our favorite, go-to weekend spot near NYC.

For the most part, it’s known as a departure area for ferries to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.

The park, however, has plenty of free and cheap activities to offer to all its visitors.

The 1,000-acre park offers striking views of the iconic Statue of Liberty, Hudson River and NYC skyline.

You may also enjoy a variety of free activities here, including walking, biking or taking a picnic.

Plus, it has historical attractions, such as the Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal.

The park is 6.3 miles away from NYC via I-78.

From the city, you may either walk or drive to the park, which will take around 21 minutes.

Recommended Hotel Near Liberty State Park: Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown

Related: Best Things to Do in NYC

6. Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium

180 Little Neck Rd Centerport, NY 11721 (631) 854-5579

Vanderbilt Museum is full of fascinating surprises.

Located inside a palatial mansion, this museum has educational shows and extensive collections from all over the world.

Vanderbilt Museum is one of the most fascinating places to see near New York City.

After all, it’s nestled on a 43-estate that’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Even better, it houses countless natural history exhibits and cultural artifacts.

On top of it all, it has a planetarium featuring entertaining and educational shows.

The mansion is an hour drive away (42.9 miles) from NYC via I-495 E.

Recommended Hotel Near Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium: Hyatt Regency Long Island

Related: Best Things to Do in NYC with Kids

7. Newark Museum

49 Washington St Newark, NJ 07102 (973) 596-6550

Newark Museum is, to me, one of the cool places to go in New Jersey.

Opened in 1909, the museum is a tribute and a gathering spot for community, education and culture.

New Jersey’s largest museum is known for its remarkable African and Tibetan collections.

Furthermore, it’s a colorful space where several artistic gatherings, concerts and performances are held.

And, did I mention that it is home to the first planetarium in New Jersey?

From NYC, drive Newark-Jersey City Turnpike to get to the museum.

Route distance is 11.9 miles, and travel time is 32 minutes.

Recommended Hotel Near Newark Museum: Hotel Indigo Newark Downtown

Related: Places to Eat in Newark

8. Six Flags Great Adventure

1 Six Flags Blvd Jackson Township, NJ 08527 (732) 928-2000

Want to add a heavy dose of adventure to your trip?

I suggest that you drop by Six Flags Great Adventure.

With hundreds of activities and thrill rides, it’s the ultimate amusement park near NYC.

Six Flags Great Adventure is the 2nd largest theme park on earth.

With 11 themed areas, the park offers endless fun for everybody.

Our favorite attractions here include the Air Jumbo Adventure Alley, Jersey Devil Coaster and Wonder Woman: Lasso of Truth.

I-95 S and I-195 E are the fastest routes to Six Flags from the Big Apple.

The routes are around 68.9 to 71.8 miles long, and driving time is usually 1 hour and 17 minutes.

Recommended Hotel Near Six Flags Great Adventure: Ramada by Wyndham Toms River

9. Philadelphia

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19019

Philadelphia, known for its rich historical heritage, is a can’t-miss destination.

With a thriving restaurant scene and notable museums, the city can keep you entertained for hours or even the entire weekend.

The first capital city in the country is rife with adventures for all kinds of travelers.

From art enclaves to tasty cheese steaks, it’s a city full of pleasures and wonders.

For a memorable trip, take a bus tour with stops to renowned attractions like the Independence Hall and Liberty Bell.

Philly is a 90-minute journey by train from New York’s Penn Station.

There are also tours from New York to Philadelphia with a stop to Lancaster County.

If you have your own car, drive I-95 S to get to Philly from NYC.

Travel time is 1 hour and 3 minutes, and distance is 97.4 miles.

Recommended Hotel Near Philadelphia: The Rittenhouse Hotel

9 Fun Things to Do that Are Near NYC for [currentyear]

• iFly Paramus Indoor Skydiving
• LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester
• Bear Mountain
• Mattituck countryside bike tour
• Liberty State Park
• Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium
• Newark Museum
• Six Flags Great Adventure
• Philadelphia

New York City   Travel Guide

34 Best Things to Do in NYC

There are countless reasons to be mesmerized by New York, from its skyscrapers and monuments to its vibrant art, food, fashion and nightlife. Across the city, fresh perspectives are yours to be found; go for a stroll in Central Park or along the High

• All Things To Do
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Central Park Central Park free

This part-park, part-museum, part-concert hall swallows central Manhattan, and many of the city's most notable attractions are situated next to it or within its limits ( the Guggenheim , the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the American Museum of Natural History , to name a few). But travelers insist that you shouldn't just pass through Central Park on your way to another place. This 843-acre green space is a favorite of New Yorkers and tourists; you can come here to exercise, dine, go to the zoo and more.

Almost everyone has a positive impression of the park, but no one has quite the same experience or recommends that you do quite the same thing. There's an almost impossible amount of sights to see here (hidden treasures, indeed), including more than 20 playgrounds, 48 fountains, monuments or sculptures, and 30 bridges. Here's a shortlist:

National September 11 Memorial & Museum National September 11 Memorial & Museum

The National September 11 Memorial & Museum serves as the primary tribute to the nearly 3,000 victims of the 2001 terrorist attacks, as well as the six lost in the 1993 bombing. The memorial's twin reflecting pools and human-made waterfalls rest as eerie footprints where the World Trade Center's twin towers once stood. The 1-acre pools are enclosed in bronze panels on which the names of every victim are inscribed. The museum spans across 110,000 square feet and relays the narrative of the attacks through a series of multimedia displays, real-time recordings, authentic artifacts and interactive technology.

Recent visitors cited the overall atmosphere of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum as sobering and moving. Many travelers say they were impressed with the site as a whole, noting its respectful and informational displays. Reviewers say you won't want to rush your time here, with some recommending that you budget three to four hours to see all of the exhibits.

Empire State Building Empire State Building

U.S. News Insider Tip: Watch out for "sunset peak" pricing, which adds an extra $10 per ticket for two hours around sunset each evening. But on a clear day, it just might be worth it. – Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

New York City Tourist 101 dictates that you must swing by this landmark structure in midtown Manhattan. And despite the hefty admission fees, the crowds and the long lines, recent visitors insist that you won't be sorry. In fact, taking a trip to the top of the Empire State Building is either the perfect way to begin or end your Big Apple excursion – on a clear day you'll be able to the see the city's major highlights some 1,250 feet beneath you. 

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Metropolitan Museum of Art Metropolitan Museum of Art

U.S. News Insider Tip: Come for the art, stay for the rooftop cocktails. A seasonal rooftop garden bar offers views over Central Park, which is especially coveted at sunset. The roof garden stays open into the evening on Friday and Saturday. – Jessica Colley Clarke

No museum in the United States is as celebrated as the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Spilling over with masterpieces from all over the world, including notable collections from ancient Egypt and classical antiquity, "the Met" is an art experience unlike any other, and like much in New York, it's impossible to see all the museum has to offer in one day (or even two days, for that matter). 

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Statue of Liberty is at the top of many travelers’ must-see lists. A feat of 19th-century technical engineering and a beacon for immigrants arriving at Ellis Island, the statue can be admired from several different vantage points around Manhattan, including Battery Park and the High Line . But to truly appreciate its size and significance, you’ll want to visit the statue and Ellis Island while on your NYC vacation.

The only way to access the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is by using the official National Park Service ferry operator, Statue City Cruises. If you’re departing from the New York side, you’ll hop on a ferry at Battery Park in lower Manhattan. If you’re departing from the New Jersey side, you’ll depart from Liberty State Park in Jersey City. The ferry ride takes approximately 15 minutes.

Brooklyn Bridge Brooklyn Bridge free

One of many signature landmarks of New York City, the Brooklyn Bridge is also one of the oldest suspension bridges in the country and a National Historic Landmark. Its six lanes (and one pedestrian and bicycle walkway) span the East River, connecting Manhattan to Brooklyn. Walking across the bridge remains a tourist pastime.

Some visitors decide to skip the bridge in favor of other attractions, but if you're short on money, this truly is one of the best ways to experience the city and to get a unique view of either borough at no cost. Several reviewers warn that since there is no shade along the bridge, it can get quite hot in the summertime (though there are vendors selling bottles of water). Many also warned that it can get quite crowded, and advised visiting in the morning before 9 a.m. if you don't want to maneuver around crowds.

The High Line The High Line free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning or on a weekday to avoid crowds. If you walk from north to south, add on a visit to The Standard Biergarten or the vibrant Chelsea Market for great people-watching, food and drink. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

Set on an abandoned rail track on Manhattan's West Side, this sprawling, nearly 1½-mile-long landscaped park stretches over three of the city's most lively neighborhoods: the Meatpacking District, West Chelsea and Hell's Kitchen. Standing 30 feet above street level, the High Line offers sweeping views of the Hudson River and Manhattan's cityscape. But the vista isn't the only reason visitors and Manhattanites flock to this manicured green space. Here, you'll find continually changing public art installations, a handful of food vendors and a sprawling picnic and sunbathing area (known as the 23rd Street Lawn).

NYC Food Tours NYC Food Tours

Known for everything from cheap eats to authentic international fare to Michelin-starred restaurants, New York City is a culinary hot spot and undoubtedly one of the best foodie cities in America . However, chances are you won't have time to experience everything the city has to offer in just one trip. One way to get a taste of New York's excellent cuisine across a variety of neighborhoods is to take a food tour.

Whether you want to explore a particular borough or neighborhood, or even a specific cuisine or dish, you'll find a tour to appease your taste buds. Relying on traveler reviews and expert analysis, U.S. News rounded up the best food tours in New York City . Though tours vary in length and price, they all receive rave reviews from past travelers, who applauded the variety of food and the expert knowledge of the guides.

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Washington Square Park Washington Square Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Finding an empty bench in Washington Square Park after visiting one of the neighborhood's independent bookstores – from The Strand to Three Lives & Company to Left Bank Books – is a true lower Manhattan pleasure. – Jessica Colley Clarke

The central gathering place of Greenwich Village is Washington Square Park, an almost 10-acre green space known for its downtown buzz. Here, kids splash in the fountain, musicians perform to a crowd, artists sell sketches or photographs, and chess enthusiasts gather to challenge each other to a game. What was historically a cemetery and later a bohemian hot spot is now a neighborhood institution that draws locals and visitors alike with its kids' playground, sizable dog run and ample shady space for picnics. An arch dedicated to George Washington is the dominant architectural feature of the park. 

Broadway Broadway

U.S. News Insider Tip: Start your day with a stop at the TKTS booth in Times Square or at the Lincoln Center location to snag discounted same-day tickets for an array of Broadway and off-Broadway shows. – Catriona Kendall, Associate Editor

Some out-of-towners spend their entire New York trip at one show or another on the Broadway circuit. And if you like plays and musicals, this is where you should be: "The Great White Way" represents the heart and soul of American theater. Considering that nearby Times Square is a dizzying maze of sights and sounds with no real starting point, some visitors suggest you can see all you need to of that neighborhood just by trundling back and forth between shows. 

One World Observatory One World Observatory

Formerly known as Freedom Tower, One World Trade Center is the main building of the rebuilt World Trade Center complex in lower Manhattan. This observatory sits atop the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and the highest point in the city. You'll find it adjacent to the 9/11 Memorial . At more than 125,000 square feet, the three-level observatory is located on the 100th, 101st and 102nd floors of this office skyscraper. Travelers enjoy the panoramic, 360-degree views, up to 45 miles in every direction on clear days. 

Visitors reach the observatory by direct express elevators known as SkyPods. The trip upward includes a visual presentation showing how New York has changed over the decades, from open land to smaller buildings to skyscrapers. The trip takes less than a minute. Expect a multimedia presentation at the top before stunning views are revealed. A restaurant and bar on the 101st floor are open to guests who have purchased tickets to the observatory. 

Grand Central Terminal Grand Central Terminal free

At this beautiful train station, you can eat some lunch or shop till you drop, but recent travelers most enjoyed just taking in the scenery. Before you enter, be sure to snap a few shots of the exterior's ornate beaux-arts neoclassical architecture. Inside the celebrated main concourse, you're treated to glimmering marble floors, gold and nickel-plated chandeliers and a sky-themed ceiling. Other must-sees include the Information Booth clock, the Whispering Gallery and Grand Central Market, a European-style food market that sells produce, gourmet ingredients and treats. Food options range from the upscale (Cipriani Dolci and The Campbell Bar) to the legendary (the Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant) to the fast and easy (Shake Shack). As mentioned, there are also plenty of shopping options, though most travelers suggest you leave most of Grand Central's pricey merchandise in the store. If you want a train-themed souvenir, visit The New York Transit Museum Store in the shuttle passage.

Travelers call the train station "iconic" and say it's a beautiful space to walk through or to grab a meal and people-watch.

Bryant Park Bryant Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: This Midtown park draws crowds for two seasonal events: summer movie nights under the stars and a holiday market complete with ice skating. For summer picnics or winter shopping sprees, Bryant Park delivers year-round. – Jessica Colley Clarke

Sprawling across nearly 10 acres, Bryant Park sits just south of Times Square – though it feels a world away. Though its lush green space has existed for more than 150 years, Bryant Park was a revitalization project of the 1990s that made it a sanctuary for locals and tourists alike. This is the preferred place for midtown Manhattan professionals to eat lunch, for fashionistas to strut during fashion week and for performers to showcase their talents during annual events like Broadway in Bryant Park and Piano in Bryant Park. If you're interested in learning more about the park's history, consider joining one of its free tours. Tours, which last 45 minutes, are free and offered every Wednesday, year-round. 

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Staten Island Ferry Staten Island Ferry free

Perhaps the most famous ferry service in the United States, the Staten Island Ferry runs daily between the Whitehall Ferry Terminal in lower Manhattan and St. George Ferry Terminal on Staten Island. The city has been operating the ferry service since 1905 and transports some 70,000 passengers across New York Harbor every day. It’s one of the last remaining vestiges of an entire ferry system that served New York City residents before the construction of any bridges.  

But the Staten Island Ferry is more than a transportation service; it’s an attraction, drawing tens of thousands of out-of-town visitors a year for a free ride across the harbor (that’s right, no charge; the service is provided by the City of New York). The 5-mile ride lasts about 25 minutes. Passengers must disembark and then reboard to make the return trip to Manhattan. Travelers remark about the views of the Statue of Liberty , Ellis Island, Manhattan skyscrapers and the bridges of lower Manhattan. 

Museum of Modern Art Museum of Modern Art

You don't have to be an art lover to appreciate the Museum of Modern Art; this airy midtown gallery also doubles as a shrine of pop culture and 20th century history.

Some of the most significant contemporary pieces hang on its walls, including Picasso's "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon," Warhol's "Campbell's Soup Cans," Van Gogh's "Starry Night," Dalí's "The Persistence of Memory," Monet's "Water Lilies," and the list goes on and on. In October 2019, the museum reopened after completing an expansion project that added more than 40,000 square feet of gallery space, as well as a performance studio that features live programming.

New York Public Library New York Public Library free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If you love all things book-related, consider visiting The Morgan Library & Museum nearby, which features J.P. Morgan's stunning 1906 library. The museum offers free admisson (and live jazz music) on Fridays from 5 to 7 p.m. – Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

This main library branch, officially called the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, attracts plenty of book lovers, history junkies and architecture aficionados. Most people swing by the Bryant Park landmark to say hello to Patience and Fortitude (the famous marble lions guarding the entrance) and to admire the lovely beaux-arts design.

American Museum of Natural History American Museum of Natural History

Visitors love the American Museum of Natural History off Central Park West. Whether you're exploring the interactive exhibits on the land, the sea or outer space; user reviews take on a common theme. This museum is incredible. Even the cafeteria and gift shop are worth your notice.

There are more than 34 million artifacts inside, spread across four city blocks, 26 buildings and through 45 exhibition halls, so don't plan on seeing everything in one day. The Rose Center for Earth and Space is a particular favorite, but you should also plan on visiting the dinosaurs, the Dorothy and Lewis B. Cullman Hall of the Universe and the Butterfly Conservatory (accessible November through May), which houses nearly 500 butterflies. Local experts say the institution is one of the city's can't-miss museums , especially for families.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Wander along Brooklyn's Washington Avenue, and you can't avoid stumbling upon this verdant 52-acre park.

A main highlight here is the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, punctuated by wooden bridges and Japanese maples. And if you arrive at the end of April, you can't miss the Cherry Esplanade ( Sakura Matsuri ) when rosy cherry blossoms burst into bloom. Another standout: the Shakespeare Garden, which contains more than 80 plants described in the playwright's works.

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Brooklyn Bridge Park Brooklyn Bridge Park free

Located on the Brooklyn side of the East River, Brooklyn Bridge Park is an 85-acre oasis at the foot of the famous bridge connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn. The park stretches 1.3 miles along Brooklyn’s waterfront, connecting Columbia Heights and Dumbo, an acronym for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, an eclectic neighborhood of boutiques, trendy cafes and restaurants. Travelers rave about the views of the lower Manhattan skyline, the New York Harbor and the bridge.

Among the city’s newest parks, Brooklyn Bridge Park was once an industrial district and home to a transportation terminal that served as an entry point for immigrants. Today, the park features rolling hills, promenades, playgrounds, basketball courts, sports fields, a roller skating rink, gardens, and more among six piers and the riverfront. What’s more, the park is home to more than 12,000 species of plants and wildlife. It also hosts a variety of events and programs throughout the year, such as sunset yoga and stargazing.

The Guggenheim The Guggenheim

The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, or simply, "The Guggenheim," is one of the most well-known art museums in the country, and it's just as renowned for its cutting-edge design as it is for its pieces. The coiled building (designed by Frank Lloyd Wright) stands out on Fifth Avenue at 89th Street. Inside, the halls are chock full of works from the likes of Picasso, Cézanne, Degas, Manet and Van Gogh, among others.

Visitors loved the building's design and architecture, but offered more mixed reviews for the art on display. Some raved about the permanent collection and the special exhibitions, while others felt the cost of entrance tickets was overpriced for the amount of art displayed. Reviewers recommended the Museum of Modern Art over the Guggenheim if you're short on time. 

Off-Broadway Shows Off-Broadway Shows

Off-Broadway may not have the glitter of the Great White Way , but these smaller theaters and their productions are often innovative and are no less engaging. Unlike Broadway, these theaters are not centered around Times Square , but scattered all over Manhattan and generally seat fewer people (between 100 to 499 audience members). Smaller venues provide a more intimate experience for plays, musicals and revues. Many of New York’s most famous productions found their start off-Broadway, such as “Hair,” “Rent” and “In the Heights.”

Tickets also are more affordable, generally between $20 and $75 per person. Look for innovative productions at places like the Public Theater, Cherry Lane Theatre or Playwrights Horizons. The Signature Theatre showcases revivals and new plays.

Rockefeller Center and Top of the Rock Observation Deck Rockefeller Center and Top of the Rock Observation Deck

This iconic plaza has it all – beautiful sculptures, an enormous skating rink, a fishbowl view of NBC Studios, plus a plethora of stores and restaurants. Though undoubtedly there will be intense crowds, this is an experience that's worth having at least once. During the wintertime holidays, the plaza sparkles with an illuminated Christmas tree and skaters gliding across the ice rink. But don't fret if your New York adventure doesn't take place during the cold months. There's plenty to do year-round. If you plan ahead, you can spend a morning watching a taping of the "Today" show, an afternoon admiring the city from the Top of the Rock Observation Deck and an evening catching a performance at Radio City Music Hall .

Travelers say the Top of the Rock offers some of the best views of Manhattan and say the experience is worth every penny. Visitors recommend booking the Rock Pass ticket that includes a tour of the building and observation deck access.

Little Island Little Island free

New Yorkers have long needed to get creative to maximize space on the island of Manhattan, where space is limited. But with the opening of Little Island in 2021, that creativity stretched beyond the island's borders and into the water. Little Island is an artificial island located on the west side of Manhattan in the Hudson River.

This public park, which is free to visit, offers a new space for locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in nature, art, free events like concerts and one of the most memorable locations in New York City to catch the sunset.

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St. Patrick's Cathedral St. Patrick's Cathedral free

This sprawling cathedral sits amid the hustle and distinctively secular bustle of Rockefeller Center . But that doesn't take away from its otherworldly vibe. Whether you're religious or just making an architectural pilgrimage, you can't help but be impressed by St. Patrick's.

Opened in 1879, the neo-Gothic cathedral spans the length of an entire city block and features 330-foot spires. Its interior is just as impressive thanks to its numerous altars, stained-glass windows, organs and imposing 9,000-pound bronze doors. The church welcomes more than 5 million visitors annually.  

Little Italy Little Italy free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Taste the best of Little Italy at C. Di Palo Wine Bar. With connections to the fine foods store serving this neighborhood for more than a century, this wine bar serves Italian cheeses, meats and wines in a comfortable, modern environment. – Jessica Colley Clarke

Once a thriving enclave of Italian immigrants, Little Italy is now a popular tourist destination (though remnants of the past remain).

Times Square Times Square free

Some say that Times Square is like a five-block metaphor for New York City itself – it's exciting, colorful and always jumping. Others describe this area of midtown Manhattan as artless, overpriced and congested. Perhaps this commercial stretch from West 42nd to West 47th streets is a little of both, and though locals would advise you to avoid it, you should at least catch a glimpse of its neon lights.

Most travelers recommend visiting the area after dark to see the marquee displays. Many add checking out Times Square before or after a Broadway show is the perfect time to fit it into your schedule. However, if you're not a fan of crowds, reviewers suggest you avoid this area altogether.

Fifth Avenue Fifth Avenue free

It's fitting that St. Patrick's Cathedral would be on the same street as stores like Bergdorf Goodman, Tiffany & Co. and Van Cleef & Arpels. That's because for many people, shopping is a religious experience, and here between 34th and 59th streets you'll find the holy grail. 

Even if you're not planning to put your credit card to work at high-end stores, travelers say a stroll along Fifth Avenue is a must. It's one of the top places to shop in the city, according to local experts. Plus, during the winter holidays, the street is decked out in festive decor.

Bronx Zoo Bronx Zoo

According to travelers, these 265 acres sheltering more than 10,000 animals should be near the top of every young family's itinerary in New York. And if you're an older visitor, the Bronx Zoo could be a great way to escape the nonstop activity in Manhattan. This zoo's claim to fame is that it's one of the largest metropolitan animal parks in the country. It's also one of the best zoos in the U.S . Originally opened at 1899, the zoo also houses several famous landmarks, including the Rainey Memorial Gates, the Rockefeller Fountain and the historic Zoo Center, which was constructed to look like a palace.

Among the zoo's popular exhibits is JungleWorld, which aims to recreate the jungles of Asia with animals like white-cheeked gibbons, gharials, tapirs, fruit bats and more. There's also the Wild Asia Monorail, a seasonal outdoor monorail that allows visitors to observe animals like rhinos, tigers and red pandas roaming freely in the outdoor habitat. Other star attractions include the Congo Gorilla Forest, the seasonal butterfly garden, Tiger Mountain and the Children's Zoo. Along with the animals, there are also several rides and experiences, such as a carousel and sea lion feedings.

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Apollo Theater Apollo Theater

U.S. News Insider Tip: Go to BLVD Bistro on 116th St. before or after your visit to the Apollo. They serve breakfast all day and literally have the best grits and pancakes I have ever had in my life. It is also Black-owned! – Lawrence Phillips, founder and CEO of Green Book Global

One of the most famous music halls in the United States, "the Apollo" started as a burlesque theater in 1914. By the 1930s, it transformed into a concert hall that helped launch the career of several black musicians. A then-unknown Ella Fitzgerald, Michael Jackson (with the Jackson 5) and Stevie Wonder all performed on the Apollo stage during an Amateur Night competition. If you're in Harlem on a Wednesday you can still go to Amateur Night, an experience some previous travelers highly recommend.

Metropolitan Opera House Metropolitan Opera House

Stroll through the courtyard of the Metropolitan Opera House even if you're not going inside for a performance. Every element of this opulent building – from the limestone architecture, to the lobby's glittering chandelier, to the acoustics in the concert hall – is gorgeous. Travelers call this opera house a feast for the eyes and ears. Tickets are notoriously expensive (as much as several hundred dollars for the best seats), but the sticker shock evaporates quickly if you're into performing arts. You can try to score a same-day ticket at a discounted rate, plus there are discounts for senior citizens.

The Metropolitan Opera House features spring performances by the American Ballet Theatre and fall and winter performances by the Met Opera Company. Showtimes and ticket prices vary by performance and seating, so check the Met Opera's website for additional details. You'll find the opera house at Lincoln Center Plaza on Manhattan's Upper West Side – take the 1 train to 66th Street.

Radio City Music Hall Radio City Music Hall

It's where Ella Fitzgerald pined for the man she loved, the Rolling Stones couldn't get no satisfaction and Lady Gaga had a "Bad Romance." Among performers, there's no New York concert venue that's quite like Radio City Music Hall. Not only is it the largest indoor theater in the world, its marquee spans a full city block. Opened in 1932, the theater is a New York City Landmark. Today, the theater welcomes musical performers like Ben Platt and Lil Nas X, as well as comedians like Chris Rock.

If you're in town any dates between November and January, consider attending the famous Radio City Christmas Spectacular, which stars the Rockettes. According to recent visitors who attended a show, there's not a bad seat in the house.

The Battery The Battery free

The Battery is a 25-ace park that sits at the very southern tip of Manhattan Island and offers a green respite from the steel and concrete of lower Manhattan. The park, named after artillery batteries that protected the settlement in the 17th century, is popular with visitors because of its views of the harbor and the Statue of Liberty . 

The park is home to perennial gardens, bike paths, grand lawns, an urban farm and a unique carousel, known as the SeaGlass Carousel. On the carousel, riders sit within iridescent fish and glide through a 360-degree aquatic adventure. The carousel’s bioluminescent design honors the waterfront site as well as another landmark, the Castle Clinton, one of the country’s earliest aquariums. 

Coney Island Coney Island

Known as the "the People's Playground," this famous amusement area in Brooklyn has an illustrious past. In the early 1900s, Coney Island enticed New Yorkers to visit with its bathing pavilions, seaside resorts and amusement park. The Great Depression took its toll on the fun-loving spot, causing many attractions to close. But after years of economic instability, Coney Island has reclaimed its place on the Brooklyn map, with a fresh roster of eateries and entertainment (including a July Fourth hot dog-eating contest and an annual Mermaid Parade ) found along the boardwalk. Coney Island now features several separate amusement parks, as well as a museum, which hosts a variety of exhibits and shows.

According to recent visitors, Coney Island is a worthwhile trip in the summer if you have the time and are traveling with young kids who would enjoy the rides. If you're not up for indulging your inner thrill-seeker, you can also walk along the beach, which spans nearly 3 miles and features several sports courts, as well as playgrounds. A walk along the iconic Riegelmann Boardwalk is just as memorable, according to recent visitors.

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Chrysler Building Chrysler Building free

Technically, the Chrysler Building is an office building open Monday through Friday, but you don't need to go inside to appreciate its aesthetic appeal. Recent visitors praised the building's unique architectural style (though a few wished you could still go inside to admire its intricate lobby and elevators).

Built in 1930, the Chrysler had a short-lived run as the tallest building in the city, before it was usurped of its title by the Empire State Building . Nevertheless, this 1,046-foot-high skyscraper remains a favorite among New Yorkers for its classic art deco style. And unlike the Empire State, at this site you won't need an expensive entry ticket, a strong stomach to stand soaring heights or patience for long lines to see what all the fuss is about. You can behold the building's menacing gargoyles and triangular openings from many spots in Manhattan. Though the lobby is currently closed to visitors, there have been talks of building an observation deck, though none is available at this time.

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Beyond The City: 14 Most Beautiful Places To Visit On Long Island

• Long Island offers a variety of beautiful places to visit, from stunning beaches like Sea Cliff Beach to historic landmarks like Montauk Point Lighthouse.
• Nature lovers will enjoy Cordwood Landing County Park and Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park for their hiking trails and botanical gardens.
• Don't miss out on the famous Hamptons and Fire Island, which offer both relaxation on serene beaches and a vibrant nightlife scene. Explore these iconic destinations on foot, bike, or golf cart.

New York is one of the most thrilling cities to visit in the United States. From its vibrant nightlife, diversity, art, music scene, historical monuments, breathtaking parks, and so much more - this city has an undeniable magnetic energy. However, New York has many different neighborhoods, districts, and islands that each offer a unique taste of all the state has to offer. Located in Southeastern New York State - Long Island is an island in the Atlantic Ocean home to some of the most iconic (and beautiful) places to visit.

Whether relaxing on its mesmerizing beaches, eating delicious food, attending one of its beloved festivals , or visiting beautiful Long Island towns that are worth a train ticket - this island will have anything but a dull moment. From picturesque ocean views to spectacular wineries, there is much to do and see on Long Island. Choosing what to add to one's itinerary may be challenging with all the options. Here are 14 of the most beautiful places to visit on Long Island.

UPDATE: 2023/09/14 21:23 EST BY JAIMEE TERESE

There Are More Beautiful Places To Visit On Long Island!

Only about an hour and a half away from The Big Apple, Long Island feels like a world away from New York City, thanks to its laid-back beach communities, stunning natural surroundings, and rich history. An underrated destination with a ton to offer, this list has been updated with four more scenic places on Long Island to be sure to visit.

Sea Cliff Beach

With some of the most beautiful places in New York , visiting one of Long Island's beaches will be one of the most breathtaking experiences. Sea Cliff Beach is a fantastic beach with gorgeous views of the bay. It is the perfect summer trip in New York for those looking to escape and relax on East Coast beaches. Its picturesque views make it the ideal place to go and soak in the sun after a long winter in the city.

• Address: 56 The Blvd, Sea Cliff, NY 11579, United States

Montauk Point Lighthouse

With many fun and unique things to do on Long Island , visiting the Montauk Point Lighthouse is a must-do when traveling on the island. This historic lighthouse was the first ever built in New York and offers impressive views and a taste of Long Island's history. Visitors can walk up towards the lighthouse to have fantastic views of the waters. Nearby restaurants and shops are also available for enjoyment.

• Address: 2000 Montauk Hwy, Montauk, NY 11954, United States

Related: Long Island's Most Beautiful Places Also Offer Some Unexpected History

Old Westbury Gardens

Take a trip to the Old Westbury Gardens for some of the most beautiful views on Long Island. The Old Westbury Gardens museum offers walks in the garden, inside the mansion, areas to picnic, a café in the woods, and so much more. It is a beautiful way to soak in Long Island's historical landmarks and immerse in the mansion's impressive architectural design. Visit the official Old Westbury Gardens website for ticketing and more details.

• Address: 71 Old Westbury Rd, Old Westbury, NY 11568, United States

North Fork Wineries

Long Island is known for having some of the best wine tastings in New York State. With some of the best North Fork Wineries on Long Island , it is the perfect way to spend a spring or summer day tasting delicious wine in beautiful spaces. With numerous wineries, there is a winery to visit for every taste bud. Take a sip of the delightful taste while enjoying the sun in mesmerizing scenery by taking a trip to one of the North Fork Wineries! Here are some of the most popular:

• Macari Vineyards : 150 Bergen Ave., Mattituck, NY
• Paumanok Vineyards : 1074 Main Rd., Aquebogue, NY
• Pindar Vineyards : 37645-NY, Peconic, NY

The Hamptons

The Hamptons are located in Eastern Long Island, known for their beautiful beaches and mansion neighborhoods. Famously known as a summer vacation destination for affluent residents and celebrities, it has become known as where people go to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Although known to be a string of expensive neighborhoods, there are various ways to plan and have an affordable Hamptons vacation . Enjoy its delicious restaurants and soak in the sun on a trip to the Hamptons!

Oheka Castle

Visit the Oheka Castle for amazing views of a historical castle on Long Island. It is known to be the inspiration behind the famous novel The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald and is the perfect place to visit for fans of the book and movie. It is one of the most mesmerizing places on the island, with some of the most picturesque views. The architectural build of the castle is stunning, and mansion tours are available for guests. Visit the official Oheka Castle website for more details.

• Address: 135 W Gate Dr, Huntington, NY 11743, United States

Cordwood Landing County Park

Cordwood Landing County Park is beautiful along the Long Island Sound. A visit to Cordwood Landing County Park is the perfect trip for outdoor enthusiasts, with many hiking trails available to enjoy New York's stunning outdoors. The park offers various viewpoints and access to the beach. With mesmerizing views and a way to escape to nature, it makes for one of the most breathtaking locations on Long Island.

• Address: Cedar Dr, Miller Place, NY 11764, United States

Related: Eat Your Way Through New York, Part II: Long Island

Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park

Take a trip to the Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park to visit one of the most beautiful spaces on Long Island. From beautiful botanical gardens and greenhouses, it makes one of the most awe-inspiring destinations on the island to immerse in nature. With blooming flowers and stunning architecture, it will be the trip of a lifetime.

• Address: 1395 Planting Fields Rd, Oyster Bay, NY 11771, United States

Cooper's Beach

Long Island is known for its mesmerizing beaches, and many residents in the city come to the island for a beach escape in the warmer months. Cooper's Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island. This long white sand beach offers a great space for fun beach activities with stunning ocean views. Visitors can hike the shoreline or relax in the sand to soak in some sun!

Related: These Are The 10 Best Hikes In Long Island, New York

Jones Beach State Park

Jones Beach State Park is a state park that offers breathtaking beaches to enjoy sunny day activities. Jones Beach has a boardwalk for enjoyment, and there are various restaurants for guests looking to dine and grab a bite along the beach. With amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean, picnicking areas, food stands, and more - it will make for the perfect beach trip to Long Island.

• Address: 1 Ocean Pkwy, Wantagh, NY 11793, United States

A wrecked boat named the 'Roger Venture' washed ashore in June 2019 and became a favorite summer hangout and selfie spot during its stint on the beach.

Lavender by the Bay

Another one of the most beautiful places to visit on Long Island is these whimsical fields of pastel flowers. Lavender by the Bay is a family-owned & operated lavender farm with two locations on Long Island. Soak in the beauty and fragrance of the stunning surroundings, and grab some goodies to take home - aside from fresh plants, there are high-quality lavender-derived aromatherapy products. Additionally, there is an entire culinary line available, with items such as lavender honey and lavender salt.

Both Lavender by the Bay locations are open to the public, but be sure to call ahead of time as the operating hours depend on staffing and weather. Entry to the fields during peak bloom requires advance tickets.

• Calverton location : 47 Manor Road, Calverton, NY 11933
• East Marion location : 7540 Main Road, East Marion, NY 11939

Sands Point Preserve

When considering scenic places on Long Island to visit, Sands Point Preserve is definitely one to add to the list. Set on the original Guggenheim Estate, this beautiful Long Island attraction is rich in historical significance too. The expansive grounds feature castle-like mansions, cultural & educational programs through the Sands Point Preserve Conservancy, seasonal special events, and more. Winding through its 216 acres is an impressive network of trails traversing both wooded and landscaped areas.

• Address : 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point, NY 11050

Sands Point Preserve is dog-friendly, so four-legged guests are welcome, too, as long as they are kept on a leash at all times.

Waterdrinker Family Farm & Gardens

When it comes to blooms, Long Island isn't only known for its lavender - another one of the best places to visit on Long Island are the sunflower fields at Waterdrinker Family Farm & Gardens. Now with two Long Island locations, the farms offer attractions such as barnyard animals, mini-golf, obstacle courses, pumpkin patches, and more in addition to the flowers. There is even a farm brewery; New York is home to some of the best craft breweries in the country , after all. A day at the farm is an excellent option to take in some Long Island beauty off of the beach.

• Admission : $20 per person, $2 per stem for pick-your-own sunflowers
• Locations : 633 Wading River Rd. Manorville, NY / 4560 Sound Ave. Riverhead, NY (Northfork farm)

Fire Island

Fire Island is unquestionably one of the most beautiful places on Long Island and one of the most iconic - dozens of TV shows and Hollywood productions have been filmed here. There are several quaint villages and hamlets to explore on this barrier island that offer serene, relaxing beaches and maritime forests by day yet a vibrant nightlife scene once the sun goes down.

Be sure to head to the famous lighthouse for some excellent photo ops on its rustic boardwalk surrounded by tall sea grass. Oh, there are no cars on Fire Island, so all exploring is done on foot, bike, or golf cart, and the island is only accessible via ferry.

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The 42 Best Things to Do in New York City

Our selection of the best things to do in New York City has been compiled over several years, with the help of editors and contributors past and present. We all call this place home, or did at one point, and put in the time living like tourists to figure out just how exactly to make the most of its myriad pleasures. What is the best way to see the Statue of Liberty? Where can one get the most “New York” meal, whatever that means to you? How do you get off the beaten path to avoid ceaseless crowds and discover something nobody else is talking about? We've got the answers to all of these questions and more, with recommendations spanning all five boroughs. Read on for the best things to do in New York City.

Read our complete New York City travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Andrea Whittle.

Balthazar Arrow

Keith McNally's flagship restaurant—this is also the master behind such atmospheric Manhattan mainstays as Pastis, the Odeon, Minetta Tavern, and Morandi, each also worth a visit if I may suggest a “Keith McNally crawl”—is a high-ceilinged, brasserie-inspired scene to end all scenes. Martinis are omnipresent at the bar and in deep red-leather booths. So are steak frites smothered in peppercorn sauce. But the asset that's fabulous with the greatest diversity are the patrons—like if that New York magazine cover all convened to share a meal. Alison Roman once told Interview : “The food is so bad, it’s too expensive, I love going there.” She's being facetious for comedic effect—the food is just fine, but it is true that you're really going there to go there. With your expectations duly measured, enjoy an uncomplicated onion soup gratine and some yummy, well-buttered escargot for starters before moving on to the steak frites main event. For dessert, there's nowhere worth going more than the perfect profiteroles, poured with warm chocolate sauce tableside.

Arthur Avenue

Almost every awning along the stretch of The Bronx's Arthur Avenue between D'Auria-Murphy Triangle and Ciccarone Park marks an Italian name possessing something—a pizzeria, a restaurant, a bakery. But just because it's all Italian, all the time along these two blocks doesn't mean all aren't welcome to come and patronize these establishments. It's some of the absolute best Italian food in New York City lined up for your convenience, bustling with life and good eats. Executive editor Erin Florio's relatives still do their Sunday shopping in the market, which she describes as "dusty but great." Poking around and picking a few things up there is really where it's at—bright seasonal produce, sausages of all stripes dangling from the ceiling, fresh-baked bread and vinegar-y imports from the old country line the walls in cans and jars. It's true one-stop shopping.

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This is the last independent, nonprofit cinema in New York City. Little has changed about this humble, unpretentious theater since it first opened in 1970 as a screening space for independent films—there's the big marquee outside, lighting up an otherwise quiet stretch of West Houston; a ticket booth with microphone and glass partition; and a red carpet underfoot. It's retro without feeling dated, a warm place out of time. Behind the concessions counter, by the way, are some very nice people selling some very good espresso and baked goods (try the cakes carrot and orange bundt) in addition to regular sodas and candies. From new and obscure cinema made outside the US to a dazzling assortment of global classics that has most recently included Midnight Cowboy and Le Samourai , you can rest assured that every last thing on the marquee is worth a few hours of your time.

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To get that Nora Ephron New York experience, you have no choice but to take a stroll through Central Park while in the city. As you step off the crowded sidewalks of 59th Street into a mass of green, you’ll hardly realize what lies before you: 693 acres of man-made gardens, meadows, forests, and  hillsides. If you ambled down every one of Central Park’s pathways, you would walk 58 miles. Along the way, you pass sculptures, bridges, and arches, plus 21 playgrounds, a winter ice-skating rink, even a zoo . But you’d hardly notice the four major crosstown thoroughfares, which cleverly disappear into foliage-covered tunnels. Map your park route to stop at classic Central Park landmarks, like the Bethesda Fountain, Bow Bridge, Belvedere Castle, and the Strawberry Fields John Lennon Memorial.

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 Chinatown is one of the neighborhoods that makes lower Manhattan vibrant and unforgettable. After surfacing from the steps of the Canal Street subway station onto the sidewalk, meandering past thick crowds, neon light shops, and vendors peddling fake designer bags, you’ll find yourself in the narrow streets of Chinatown, where there are bright heaps of produce, succulent ducks hanging in windows, and restaurants old and new. Touching Tribeca, SoHo, Little Italy, and the Lower East Side, Chinatown has a rich history and began being populated by Chinese immigrants as early as the 1850s. You can visit in whichever way makes sense for you. Whether you spend an hour devouring a box of roast pork or duck from street-style Wah Fung No. 1 before you have to proceed elsewhere, or you spend half a day shopping for produce, dining out, and paying a visit to the Museum of Chinese in America , everyone will gain something from a visit to Chinatown.

Brooklyn Bridge Arrow

When the Brooklyn Bridge was constructed in 1883—extending 1,595 feet across the East River, connecting lower Manhattan to Brooklyn Heights—it was the longest suspension bridge in the world. Now, it’s a historic staple of the New York City skyline, transporting commuter car traffic underneath and touristic foot traffic above . Standing before arches and rectangles with city skyscrapers rising in the distance, will at once inspire a sense of grandiosity and slightness.

The Noguchi Museum Arrow

This intimate, meditative museum in Long Island City was conceived and built by Isamu Noguchi himself. Here, his mostly abstract sculptures and often-copied paper lamps are displayed across two levels of exhibition space and throughout a quiet, ivy-covered walled garden. Even if you're not familiar with Noguchi's work, you've probably come across one of his Akari light sculptures—geometric or globular lamps made of washi paper and bamboo that glow softly from within—which have become something of a modern design trope since he started designing them in the early 1950s.

Yankee Stadium Arrow

A spring or summer day spent cheering at an NYC ballpark is a classic activity for a reason. Located in the Bronx, Yankee Stadium is the home field of New York’s 27-time World Champions. It’s a half-hour subway ride from Penn Station and approximately a 20-minute subway ride from Grand Central Terminal, making it easily accessible from Manhattan. It replaced the 1923 original in 2009 and cost $1.5 billion to build, making it one of the world’s most expensive stadiums. It seats 50,287 fans. New York Yankees games, obviously, are the main event here, but you can also attend concerts, college football, and soccer matches.

Jewish Brooklyn: Tours of Hasidic Brooklyn Arrow

The pockets of Brooklyn inhabited predominately by the Hasidic are not often explored on the average Big Apple itinerary. There are two guided tours you can take of Hasidic Brooklyn: Frieda Vizel's of conservative Williamsburg and the Friedman family's of the slightly-more-flexible Crown Heights (none yet open us to the cosmopolitan Borough Park.) The former rendezvouses in the bus plaza just below the Williamsburg Bridge, the latter around the dining room table of a family home. From there, you're off to the races learning from people who know and love their subject deeply. You'll also sample kosher sweets and stop at the deli, dip into a toy store or wigmaker, and meet quite a few friendly faces. Both are excellent ways to immerse yourself, for a few hours, in the culture of some of Brooklyn’s more enigmatic inhabitants.

The Cathedral of St. John the Divine Arrow

The Cathedral of St. John the Divine on 112th and Amsterdam in Upper Manhattan’s Morningside Heights is the largest cathedral in the world and the sixth-largest church by area. Hundreds of thousands of visitors walk through these doors annually for a reason. The cathedral itself—and its remarkable Gothic architecture, story-telling stained glass windows, and 17th century tapestries—is already worth visiting. But there is artwork that is especially meaningful to New York City here as well, including Keith Haring's white gold and bronze altarpiece and a 9/11 memorial sculpture by Meredith Bergmann, which holds debris of the towers in it. The cathedral holds daily and Sunday worship services, which welcome all. There is no charge to pray, meditate, or contemplate in the cathedral. Visitors who show for sightseeing purposes can enter for $15 admission. Special tours are offered depending on the day of the week.

Staten Island Ferry

One of the first things associate editor Hannah Towey did when she moved to New York City was board the (free! bright orange!) Staten Island Ferry by Battery Park at Manhattan's bottom, watch the sunset over the water on her way to that far-flung borough, and then turn around and get right back on for the return to Manhattan. Forget the outrageously expensive Statue of Liberty cruises and the discomfort of the official ferry (although Ellis Island, unfortunately the next stop on the same trip, is worth a visit)—here you see plenty of Lady Liberty, Governor's Island, and the skyline without opening your purse. It's a dreamy 25 minutes each way, passed easily watching the myriad terns dip into the ship's wake. This is not to say you shouldn't spend a few hours on Staten Island if you have the time—the Botanical Garden is as gorgeous as it is free, and the food is impeccable with abundant Sri Lankan options (try New Asha, although you can't go wrong anywhere) and excellent Italian at Enoteca Maria for nonnas and their appreciators.

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The Morgan is like a multi-hyphenate millennial—only instead of actress/model/influencer/whatever, it’s museum/library/landmark/historic site/music venue. Inside the multimillionaire’s personal library, expanded into a must-see museum and cultural space, you'll find rare artifacts, paintings, and books, some dating back to 4000 B.C. that are worth more than your house. In particular the museum is home to one of 23 copies of the original Declaration of Independence; Mozart's handwritten score of the Haffner Symphony; the collected works of African American poet Phillis Wheatley; the only extant manuscript of Milton's  Paradise Lost ; and Charles Dickens’s manuscript of  A Christmas Carol . Swoon.

MoMA PS1 Arrow

The sister institution to MoMA   is no ordinary art museum. Located in a striking Renaissance Revival former public school building in Long Island City, Queens, MoMA PS1’s setting is just as interesting as its collection. All manner of cutting-edge contemporary art is shown here, with a collection over 200,000 pieces strong, from the likes of James Turrell and Ai Weiwei. The people-watching can be just as good as the art, as creative types from around the city come here to find inspiration.

For locals and first-time visitors alike, seeing a Broadway show is a special experience, and one that is exclusive to New York City. Times Square is ordinarily a drag, but when you’re moseying into Midtown Manhattan for a show the bright billboards and lights don’t flash in your face—they dazzle in your eyes. A Broadway show's costumes, sets, songs, and stories are the stuff of dreams. Shows that could very well run forever include Wicked, The Book of Mormon, and Hamilton , but there's also an ever-rotating selection of revivals and debuts worth checking out. And that's not to mention the more daring fare happening downtown at theaters like the Public, Off-Broadway.

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At Bemelmans, Ludwig Bemelman's illustrations—you might remember them from the Madeline books—adorn the walls. In one panel, a bunny smokes a cigar in Central Park ; in another, a man hands a boy a clutch of balloons. This is a bar where gawking is permissible. The cocktails here very much depend on who’s making them: an Old Fashioned might be a bit watery, a whiskey sour too tart. But often a dirty gin Martini is just perfectly executed. Everything is expensive—it’s clear why you’re here—so take the edge off that sensation by digging into the free, hearty snacks that float your way.

New York Botanical Garden Arrow

The New York Botanical Garden has carefully manicured flower gardens, lush fields, winding hikes, and impeccable greenhouses. There are spaces that feel deeply intimate, as if you're truly separated from the world, and there are vast expanses where it's hard to believe you're still in the Bronx . In winter, the greenhouses host an annual train show recreating all of New York City in miniature; the warmer months bring every floral delight imaginable, from cherry trees to peonies. Plan to spend at least half a day here and pack a picnic.

Brooklyn Heights Promenade

It’s one thing to be in the midst of Manhattan, on the ground; it’s quite another to look upon it from across the river. In Brooklyn Heights, a couple subway stops away from lower Manhattan, the city’s image looms large before you. Arguably the best view of the skyline in the city, the Brooklyn Heights promenade hovers above the Brooklyn-Queen Expressway. Underlying the peaceful, tree-lined walkway, traffic rumbles below. The promenade stretches from Remsen Street at the south end to Middagh Street at the north. Around the corner, pedestrians can discretely cross a basketball court to access a suspended footbridge that zigzags down to the piers of Brooklyn Bridge Park. While in the picturesque neighborhood, make stops at the New York Transit Museum, the Sardinian trattoria River Deli, and the old-time dive bar Montero.

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Grand Central Terminal is more than just one of the busiest train stations in the world—it's a window into old New York and into a time when train travel was the ultimate luxury for the wealthy and a necessity for the working man. If you aren't commuting in or out of the city, avoid coming during rush hour, and take your time admiring the landmark architecture and checking out the top-notch dining and shopping.

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Every American should visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum at least once. As you enter the museum, you descend from the street to bedrock level—the foundation of the former Twin Towers—and are placed in a meditative mindset, forced to recall where you were on that fateful day. The museum itself is a masterful balance: It's grand in scale, contemplative in its construction, and personal in its execution. It pays homage to the enormity of the loss, both physical and spiritual. 

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Located on four acres in northern Manhattan's Fort Tryon Park, the Met Cloisters is a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and is America’s only museum dedicated exclusively to the art and architecture of the Middle Ages. The building overlooks the Hudson River and actually incorporates five medieval-inspired cloisters into a modern museum structure, creating a historic, contextualized backdrop in which to view the art.

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Located in Midtown Manhattan, the MoMA is larger than it appears as you approach it from the street below. One of the world’s most influential museums—displaying the works of important artists like Van Gogh, Monet, Picasso, Matisse, Rothko, Frida Kahlo, Salvador Dali, and Diane Arbus—it has 630,000 square feet of space and attracts more than a million visitors a year. While making a beeline for the fifth-floor Collection Galleries to take in The Starry Night and Monet’s Water Lilies is understandable, don’t miss the exhibitions, which tell new stories and can only be experienced in a limited time frame. Allocate time to spend pouring over the remarkable books and objects in the famous gift shop, too—an NYC must-visit in its own right.

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Countless careers have been made and stars have passed through this world famous, legendary Harlem theater—Duke Ellington, Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, Ella Fitzgerald, Diana Ross, Lauryn Hill, and D’Angelo to name a few. The venue—which began as a white-only burlesque destination until 1934, when under new ownership it began welcoming and becoming central to the Black community—has been active for 88 years, with swing, blues, jazz, R&B, and comedy acts taking the stage. Today, visitors can attend events like Amateur Night at the Apollo, one of the city’s most long-standing, fame-making live shows. Capacity is 1,500, with three levels of seating, and contrary to the way it appears on 'Showtime at the Apollo,' is intimate without much legroom.

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Prospect Park is in many ways the Central Park of Brooklyn; in fact, it was designed shortly after by the same team of architects, Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, and has many of the same features: sprawling meadows, walking trails, and picturesque bodies of water. In feeling though, it’s more rambling and less manicured than its touristed Manhattan counterpart. Prospect Park Woodlands is Brooklyn’s last remaining forest, with 250 acres of trees, turtles, chipmunks, 200 species of birds, and other fauna and flora. There's also basketball and tennis courts, a carousel, playgrounds, zoo, and a 3.35-mile loop for runners and bikers (they’re fast —watch out!). While there, make a trip to adjacent Brooklyn Botanic Garden , particularly lovely during cherry blossom season.

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Coney Island has a reputation as a circus-worthy tourist trap, which is exactly what it is. But you may be surprised by the old-timey charms of this beachfront American town. You’ll definitely be impressed by the food and drinks—Totonno's Pizza, Gargiulo's and Coney Island Brewery in particular. Locals and tourists hang out on the beach, eat ice cream cones on the promenade, and stand in line for the famed Cyclone roller coaster. The beach and boardwalk along with spots like Nathan’s are open year-round. The amusement park itself is seasonal. Events like the annual Mermaid Parade (crowded as they may be) are worth watching for the audacity and theatrics you can’t find anywhere else in the world but Coney Island.

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World-renowned performing arts center Lincoln Center is always worth visiting when the opportunity arises, and in October 2022, David Geffen Hall, home to the New York Philharmonic, reopened after a major renovation that improved the venue’s acoustics and spiffed it up with a modern look. The sprawling Upper West Side complex is also home to the Metropolitan Opera, the New York City Ballet, the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, and Juilliard. All kinds of music, dance, theater, and films show here; some highlights from the upcoming calendar include the rapturously energetic New York Film Festival (catch the latest films long before they hit theaters, embedded in one of the reactive audiences on this Earth), the operas like The Life and Times of Malcom X and La Boheme , and ballets like The Nutcracker . Whether you’re on a special date or reconnecting with old friend when you’re in town, seeing a live performance at Lincoln Center will always make for an elegant and memorable night out.

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If people-watching is your sport, Washington Square Park is your place. Entertainment is a given in this intimate, not-quite 10-acre space, filled with career chess players, musicians, performers, students, sunbathers, strollers, and general throngs of Greenwich Villagers, desperate for a bit of fresh air. Take your time as you go through: Pause beneath Washington Arch, honoring our country’s first president (for whom the Park is named), and observe the laurel wreaths and intricate motifs that extend from the base to the keystones, atop which twin eagles perch like constant watchmen. Washington Square Park is the beating heart of this vibrant New York neighborhood.

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For nearly a century and a half, the Met has remained the cultural epicenter of New York City, thanks to forward-thinking exhibits and an extensive permanent collection. With its Gothic-Revival-style building, iconic tiered steps, and Central Park location, the building is a sight to be seen. But step inside its Great Hall—as a ceaseless parade of museumgoers move to-and-fro—and you’ll feel the overwhelming sense of possibility and discovery that lays beyond. If you've got limited time or compatriots with limited attention spans, start with the Temple of Dendur, a 2,000-year-old soaring Egyptian temple (the only complete one in the Western Hemisphere)

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Blue Note has been one of the best jazz clubs in New York, and the world, since the 1980s. It offers music every night at 8 p.m. and 10:30, and on Friday and Saturday nights has a late night series at 12:30 a.m., which showcases emerging talent. If you're looking to get a taste of jazz in NYC, you can do no better. Over the years, legendary musicians including Sarah Vaughan, Dizzy Gillespie, and Ray Charles have performed on the Blue Note Stage, as well as contemporary jazz acts such as Wynton Marsalis, Keith Jarrett, and Chris Botti. Tables are intimate, close-set, and all-ages (with the bar being 21-plus).

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Union Square is a place of the people, not unlike the agoras of ancient Athens—and no offering of Union Square showcases this quality quite like the bustling Greenmarket. From upstate New York, the Berkshires , New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, vendors sell artisan bread, honey, fresh-cut flowers, heritage meats, pastries, seasonal fruits and vegetables both common and uncommon, and much more. Don't miss the free events, like book signings and more: Cooking demos take place at the Market Information tent daily, beer and spirits pop-ups show seasonally, and the education station offers tours and tastings.

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Rockefeller Center sits in the heart of midtown Manhattan, both in terms of its physical location and its prominent place in the city's folklore and culture. Whether you want to check out a performance on the plaza outside the TODAY show, visit the Christmas tree, or practice your best moves on the ice skating rink, you're in for an iconic, family-friendly experience. If you buy a ticket to Top of the Rock, you'll enjoy spectacular views of the city below. No matter where you are, you're bound to be constantly pointing and shouting “hey, look at that!”

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None of the promoters on MacDougal Street shouting “stand-up comedy tonight!” are trying to get you into the Comedy Cellar, where the show is already sold out. Blockbuster stars like Jerry Seinfeld and Eddie Murphy made their names at the Cellar; if you're lucky, one may show up the night you're there. Seating is intimate and close together, and there is a two-item minimum on food or drinks. It's 21-plus and vaccine-mandatory; be prepared to surrender your phone at the door, too. There's no bad seat in the house, but sit in the front at your own risk of getting (playfully) heckled by the host or a comic.

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Truly one of the world's great natural history museums, the American Museum of Natural History spans four city blocks just across from Central Park . All aspects of the natural world are represented here, from a vast collection of taxidermy mammals, to depictions of the life of Native American tribes, to an entire hall dedicated to marine life—including a life-size model of a blue whale. The crown jewel is the dinosaur floor, with an imposing Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton that dominates the room. The newest attraction comes in the form of the long-awaited Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation , which opened in May of 2023 and, among many other things, boasts a comprehensive insectarium and vivarium. Breathtaking architecture from New York-based Jeanne Gang doesn't hurt, either.

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With its towering stacks, filled with more than 2.5 million titles, this 94-year-old bookstore is less neighborhood haunt and more globally recognized institution. You could call the Strand's employees tour guides, considering their deft ability to find the exact title you're looking for and recommend a book you may not have otherwise plucked from the shelves. The store will make you question why you don’t read more; and chances are you won’t leave empty-handed.

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With more than 700 different animal species spread across 265 acres of parkland thoughtfully designed to mimic natural habitats, the Bronx Zoo is a great place to escape from Manhattan for the day, especially if you're traveling with kids. Don't miss the giraffe building, the Congo gorilla forest, the house of reptiles, the flamingos in the sea bird aviary, and the sea lions, who always make for an exciting show. If you want to blow the minds of a bunch of kids, you can do no better.

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Located in New York Harbor, only 800 yards from Manhattan and 400 yards from Brooklyn, walking onto quirky, car-free, brick-covered, 173-acre Governors Island feels like being transported to an alternate universe from the city—but in reality it's a quick, affordable ferry ride away. One-way fare is $4 and boats are serviced from Lower Manhattan’s Battery Maritime Building every day, as well as from Brooklyn Bridge Park and Atlantic Basin in Red Hook on the weekends. In the past couple of years, Governors Island has become an even more popular city destination, and has welcomed a slew of new luxury businesses. One is special in particular: Collective, the only place you can stay overnight on the island. Collective is a glamping experience, offering plush beds inside the tents, morning yoga, sunset cocktails, and iconic skyline views—Lady Liberty included, herself. Which is all to say, you’re by no means roughing it here. On the menu at their restaurant, you’ll find grilled seafood, gorgeous spreads of pastries, and more. Another luxury experience new to the island is QC NY Spa, with top-grade saunas and a skyline view-filled pool.

Elsewhere Arrow

Located in Brooklyn on a hip stretch of Bushwick’s Jefferson Avenue, Elsewhere—a vast, three-story nightclub and live music venue with multiple dance floors, stages, and a rooftop—has become one of the city’s best nightlife destinations. Spinning disco balls and kaleidoscopic lights set the scene. A somewhat recent staple in the city’s nightlife scene, Elsewhere is a converted warehouse that opened in 2017. Blocks away from similar venues like Avant Gardener and House of Yes, Elsewhere stands out for its inclusivity, its intimate vibe in spite of its size, and for lifting up smaller, up-and-coming acts.

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One of the best public beaches you can visit in New York City proper, Rockaway is a sandy, sprawling stretch of surf located in Queens on the Atlantic Ocean, complete with a 5.5-mile boardwalk of delicious concessions. A summery way to get there in style? Take the ferry from Wall Street or Sunset Park, Brooklyn, and let the wind blow through your hair as you take in the city views, sailing under the Verrazano Bridge and past Coney Island on the way. From just about everywhere else in the city, you can also get there via the A train. Each stretch has a different crowd and personality: Beach 90-106 is the busiest section, with the most food and drink options; Beaches 67-69 as well as 90-92 are the surfing zones; between Beach 153 and Beach 169 you’ll find Jacob Riis Park, which is popular with young people and is a summer gathering place for the city’s LGBTQ+ community.

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Sip iced coffee in McCarren Park, catch an indie show at Baby's All Right, walk two blocks over to some of the city's most-coveted Italian at Lilia (with a month-in-advance res, of course.) This is the busiest thoroughfare in hip Williamsburg: Bedford Avenue—and the L train that feeds it—might as well be North Brooklyn’s own personal people-watching catwalk. Pedestrians with voluminous pants, dogs with miniature rain boots, and high-speed scooters will swish past you. As you make your way south from the subway station, likely en route from the East Village, you’ll pass local businesses that characterize the area, like Catbird (ethereal, vintage-inspired jewelry), Spoonbill & Sugartown Books (poetry, special design and cookbooks, cards), and Awoke Vintage (best-known for their genuine denim often from the ‘90s.)

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Though many across town are trying, there's still no better way to enjoy Manhattan's cityscape than from the top of the Empire State Building. The 102-story skyscraper was the tallest building in the world for 40 years, and though it's been outgrown by dozens of projects across three other continents, it's just the classic viewing point. There are, of course, always long lines to buy tickets, but that's nothing a little planning and purchasing in advance can't solve. It's also still a functioning office building with a bustling Art Deco lobby, so the people watching on the way up is excellent.

Tenement Museum Arrow

The Lower East Side Tenement Museum is, as the name implies, a historic tenement house (two, if you want to get technical). On a tour of the tenements, you’ll hear personal histories of the working-class individuals who lived there and see how they made do with cramped quarters to build new lives in America. On a neighborhood walking tour—the other way to visit the museum—you’ll learn about the evolution of the Lower East Side and how its thriving immigrant population made it the most densely populated area in the country during the 1900s.

Industry City Arrow

This stretch of waterfront has been a hub of Brooklyn manufacturing since Irving T. Bush first developed his family's rail-marine terminal (then called Bush Terminal) in the mid-1890s to add warehouse structures. The sprawling campus that stands today in the quiet Sunset Park neighborhood is Industry City, the ripe and succulent fruit of decades' worth of redevelopment efforts. The idea here is one-stop shopping: Pick up a coffee from one proprieter and sip it while flitting through the Makers’ Guild’s wonderful artisan shops. There's also a slate of full-service restaurants and outdoor spaces—manicured lawns on-par with what you'd expect from those in a private, luxury apartment building.

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This is a really nice place to hang out for half a day—beneath the churning East Village, sweating it out in a no-frills den of functionality. Up a steep, nondescript stoop in that neighborhood and through a heavy door and you’re in, leaving your wallet in a safety deposit box in exchange for a locker room key and then down another stair to the subterranean saunas and steam rooms. They’ve got ‘em all here, from the red hot Russian room (where they also perform the platza venik treatment) to a more bearable Turkish, with a cold plunge and showers for in-between regulation. There’s also a bountiful food menu serving up such classics as borscht and beef stew to keep you nurtured.

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35 Best Things to Do in New York City, According to Local Experts

From world-class art museums to inviting green spaces, here's what to do in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and beyond.

It’s no secret that New York City is one of the most dynamic cities in the world. It's a global hub for food, culture, architecture, entertainment, and so much more. But with so many things to see and do in NYC, planning your trip can be overwhelming.

To help you uncover all the amazing attractions and sights this beloved destination offers, we’ve rounded up 35 of the best things to do in New York City, including a handful of local-approved activities from two experts, Fora co-founder and travel advisor Henley Vazquez and travel advisor Camila Alfonso of Valerie Wilson Travel , a Virtuoso agency.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Broadway is synonymous with NYC, so be sure to get tickets to a show.
• Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is both an NYC must-do and completely free.
• Riding the NYC ferry past landmarks like the Empire State Building is fun and budget-friendly.
• Spread out a picnic in Central Park, New York's iconic green space that's made for people-watching.
• The view from observation deck the Edge is simply breathtaking, with the whole of NYC laid out before you.

From boats and beaches to the world's best museums, here's what they recommend.

Attend a Broadway show.

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

One of the few places you can spot native New Yorkers and tourists from all over the world mingling together is at a Broadway show . People flock to the city’s Theater District to catch one (or more) of its two-dozen-plus performances, ranging from classics like The Lion King and  Wicked to newer titles like Shucked and Here Lies Love .

Stroll the Brooklyn Bridge.

Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure

“I love walking or jogging across the Brooklyn Bridge,” says Vazquez, who adds that “everyone should do it at least once.” The iconic landmark offers some of the best views of Manhattan and Brooklyn, making it one of the top (and most popular) things to do in New York City and the number one attraction in Brooklyn. To avoid crowds, visit as early in the morning as possible, and be sure to wear comfortable shoes — the walk is about an hour (1.3 miles) each way, assuming you’re going at a leisurely pace. You can start either in DUMBO on the Brooklyn side or in Manhattan, just across from City Hall. Note that you can also cycle across the bridge in the protected bike lane, separated from pedestrians and cars.

Hop on the ferry.

Busà Photography/Getty

Some say that New York is best explored on foot, but we’d argue the city is even more magical when viewed from the water. The best way is also a bargain: a ride on the NYC Ferry costs just $4 (a 10-pack of tickets is $27.50) and will take you up and down the East River, past the Empire State Building and right under the Brooklyn Bridge. You can sit outdoors or in, and there's even a little bar inside. “Embark on a captivating boat ride through New York Harbor to bask in breathtaking views of the city's skyline” says Alfonso. “This experience allows you to appreciate the city from a different perspective.”

Pack a picnic and head to Central Park.

Central Park is Manhattanites' backyard. It offers plenty to see and do within its 800-plus acres, which include grassy lawns, eight lakes and ponds, and even a zoo. But the best way to experience the park and its vast natural beauty — an oasis amidst towering skyscrapers — is to simply enjoy lunch on a park bench or set a picnic basket down on the grass. Eat as you enjoy some prime people-watching. To make your picnic even more memorable, consider working with Perfect Picnic NYC , one of several luxury picnic companies that transform basic spreads into gourmet lunches and soirees.

See the view from the Edge, a stunning observation deck.

Located in Hudson Yards on the western edge of Manhattan, the Edge prides itself on being the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. The thrilling attraction is perched more than 1,000 feet above the sidewalk, and its glass-bottom floors take the adrenaline-pumping experience to an entirely new level. The outdoor viewing area spans 7,500 square feet and is accessible via a 52-second elevator ride. The view itself is simply breathtaking: the entire city, the Hudson River, and New Jersey are laid out before you.

Go for a swim at Rockaway Beach.

Just an hour-long ferry ride from Pier 11 in downtown Manhattan, Rockaway Beach in Queens attracts locals and travelers alike with its sandy shorelines and surf. “It’s closer than the Hamptons and far more affordable," Vazquez says.

If you plan on staying the night, the travel pro recommends booking a room at the chic Rockaway Hotel — 2021 a T+L It List award-winner — which offers stylish rooms and suites, a rooftop pool, and free bike rentals so you can cruise the boardwalk in style. 

Visit Fotografiska Museum NYC.

Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, Fotografiska Museum NYC is a must for its fascinating photo exhibitions, and Vazquez says the museum is especially great for tweens and teens. It's housed in an eye-catching, Renaissance Revival-style building on the border of Gramercy and Flatiron. Don’t leave without checking out swanky restaurant/bar Veronika located on the museum's second floor.

Check out Little Island.

NYC's newest public park opened in May 2021 along the West Side Highway and spans just under two-and-a-half acres. Despite its small size, this magnificent floating structure — made up of 280 tulip-like concrete structures — is home to more than 350 species of flora. Little Island hosts a slew of events , including DJ sets, dance parties, and live musical performances.

Wander around The Met Cloisters.

Make your way to Washington Heights in upper Manhattan's Fort Tryon Park to check out The Met Cloisters. The museum, part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, is America’s only such venue dedicated specifically to medieval architecture and art, much of which is displayed in old French monasteries and abbeys. You can easily spend an entire afternoon wandering its indoor and outdoor spaces, and Fort Tryon Park is a lovely place for a picnic.

Head to New York Botanical Garden.

The New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) in the Bronx feels worlds away from the bustling city, and the 250-acre site boasts more than one million plants. The blooms vary depending on the time of year. We recommend visiting in the spring, when peonies, daffodils, magnolias, and lilacs are all in season. Other highlights include the cherry blossoms in late March-mid April (there are more than 200 flowering cherry trees), the rose garden (May through October), the azalea garden (year-round), and the extensive orchid collection (also open year-round).

Peruse Manhattan’s best art museums.

It’s no secret that Manhattan is home to incredible art museums, including The Whitney (known for its collection of 20th-century American works) and The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), which boasts nearly 200,000 works from across the world. Other must-visit museums include the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum , an oasis for contemporary art lovers, and The Metropolitan Museum of Art , one of the world’s largest fine art museums. The Met is home to an impressive collection of works, some of which date back thousands of years.

Stroll through Socrates Sculpture Park.

Socrates Sculpture Park on Astoria's waterfront is a favorite of Vazquez’s for its tranquil riverfront locale and great installations. These include Suchitra Mattai's "We are nomads, we are dreamers", which, the park says, "celebrates the migratory oceanic journeys of... diasporic communities." It's fitting for Queens, where as many as an incredible 800 languages are spoken. Once an abandoned landfill, this outdoor museum hosts year-round events , including yoga and meditation sessions, kids dance classes, and even kayaking in nearby Hallet’s Cove.

Retreat to Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden.

Meredith Sladek

Staten Island is the city’s least populous borough, but don’t let that deter you from visiting. The Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden is, by far, one of the area's best attractions. You can walk here in 30 minutes from the Staten Island Ferry stop at St George. The waterfront site, set within an 83-acre park, is comprised of 28 historic buildings, 14 botanic gardens, a two-acre farm, and plenty of picturesque scenery. Staten Island is home to a number of New York's best Sri Lankan restaurants, including New Asha .

Walk down Arthur Ave.

Arthur Avenue has gained a reputation as being the city’s lesser-known but far more authentic Little Italy , and Vazquez calls it “the real deal” for its abundance of “Italian bakeries and red sauce restaurants.” A few can’t-miss spots include Funici A Pizza for pies, Tino’s Delicatessen for stuffed heroes, Casa Della Mozzarella for fresh mozz, Dominick’s for large plates of pasta, Tony & Tina’s for burek, and Madonia Bakery for cannoli.

Sit down for afternoon tea.

Put those pinkies up for afternoon tea at splurge-worthy NYC staples like Palm Court at The Plaza Hotel , The Whitby Bar at the Whitby (an especially fitting spot, given the hotel’s British roots), or the Grand Salon at the Baccarat Hotel . For a more budget-friendly experience that's still quite special, check out Alice’s Tea Cup , Brooklyn High Low , or Kings’ Carriage House .

Have dim sum in Flushing's Chinatown.

Though it's often overlooked in favor of Manhattan's Chinatown, this location is just as vibrant. Venture here to feast on delicious noodle soups, dim sum favorites like shumai and pork buns, dumplings of all kinds, chicken feet, and barbecue spare ribs, to name a few. While you can’t go wrong with any of the restaurants in this neighborhood, we especially love Asian Jewel , Shangai You Garden , and Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao .

Explore Governor’s Island.

This 172-acre car-free island is an eight-minute ferry ride from downtown Manhattan and a five-minute ferry ride from Brooklyn Bridge Park, making it an excellent day-trip destination. Travelers will find plenty to do year-round on Governor's Island, including biking its perimeter without any honking cars, relaxing at European-style QC Spa , and seeing a centuries-old fort . The island also boasts a handful of eclectic drinking and dining venues , a lavender field (open seasonally), and New York City’s only glamping property (also seasonal).

Ride the Ferris wheel at Coney Island.

Coney Island is a hotspot for families with its abundance of nostalgia-inducing amusement park rides, including the classic Ferris wheel, charming 2.7-mile-long boardwalk, and wide sandy beaches. No trip here is complete without a visit to the New York Aquarium , where you can encounter marine life like sharks, rays, otters, octopus, and more, followed by a hot dog and fries at the flagship Nathan’s Famous .

Have a drink at a few rooftop bars.

“Indulge in the chic and enchanting atmosphere of New York City's rooftop bars , offering stunning views of iconic landmarks like Times Square or the Empire State Building,” says Alfonso, who especially loves Magic Hour Rooftop in midtown. Other year-round options abound, including Westlight at The William Vale in Brooklyn's hip Williamsburg , the rooftop at Royalton Park Avenue , and Panorama Room at the Graduate New York on Roosevelt Island (the views alone are worth the fun tram ride here).

Visit Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.

These two New York City landmarks are only accessible via ferry and require tickets. The Statue of Liberty represents freedom and hope, and visitors can climb to its crown, so as long as they don’t mind trekking 160-plus steps. Ellis Island, which welcomed 12 million immigrants into the country, is equally fascinating; today, it’s home to the National Immigration Museum , which houses historical artifacts and exhibits.

Sip vino at an urban winery.

You don’t have to travel to the Finger Lakes or the North Fork of Long Island to sip and savor some of the Empire State’s best wines. Instead, head to one of NYC’s innovative urban wineries. A few of our favorite spots include Rooftop Reds (set on a rooftop in the Brooklyn Navy Yard), Brooklyn Winery (which offers tours and tastings three days a week), The Redhook Winery (a warehouse-turned-winery that uses locally grown grapes) and City Winery , which is a restaurant, winery, and live music and entertainment venue rolled into one.

Stroll the High Line.

The High Line, which stretches through the Meatpacking District and Chelsea in Manhattan, is one of the city’s most unique public parks; it's an elevated rail track that's been transformed into a greenery-filled walkway spanning 1.45 miles. The park boasts 500-plus species of plants and trees, as well as several striking pieces of art. You’ll find plenty of places to sit and lounge, good people-watching, and great vantage points for snapping skyline photos.

Shop in SoHo.

SoHo, which stands for “South of Houston Street," is among New York City’s coolest neighborhoods. With chic boutiques, eclectic galleries, and hip eateries galore, you can spend hours wandering the streets here and popping in and out of shops. And speaking of shopping, your options abound, from Rag & Bone and Anine Bing to Kirna Zabête and Henrik Vibskov Boutique NYC .

Taste your way through the Tin Building.

Nicole Franzen

Open since September 2022, the Tin Building by Jean-Georges is a new brand of food hall. Located in lower Manhattan, the 53,000-square-foot oasis is a haven for culinary connoisseurs. Expect a handful of stylish sit-down restaurants, bars, and fast-casual spots serving everything from crêpes and dosas (at Sweet & Savory) to Chinese-leaning seafood (House of the Red Pearl) and French fare (T. Brasserie).

Visit the National September 11 Memorial & Museum.

Located in the World Trade Center, the National September 11 Memorial & Museum aims to educate visitors on the impact and significance of 9/11 through a combination of media and artifacts, plus personal stories of loss and tragedy coupled with those of unwavering hope and resilience. While the outdoor memorial is free and open to the public, you’ll need to purchase tickets to enter the museum. Guided tours are also available.

Visit the American Museum of Natural History.

The American Museum of Natural History on Manhattan’s Upper West Side captivates visitors of all ages with its impressive collection of 32 million specimens and cultural artifacts. Prepare to be dazzled by the now-iconic blue whale model, enchanting dinosaur exhibits, and the fascinating display of extinct mammals. In May 2023, the museum debuted the Richard Gilder Center, which boasts striking architecture and features such as an insectarium and butterfly vivarium.

Take in the city views from One World Observatory.

Travelers can experience the city from new heights by visiting One World Observatory , which is the city’s highest indoor vantage point. In addition to panoramic city views, you’ll find a handful of shops, exhibits, and restaurants. Even the 47-second elevator ride to the 1,268-foot summit is thrilling, as it features a CGI timelapse of Manhattan from the 16th century to the present day.

Visit the Empire State Building.

The Empire State Building has become one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks since its 1930 construction. Today, tourists worldwide come here to marvel at the city vistas from the iconic 86th-floor, open-air observatory deck. There's also the 102nd-floor observation deck, where floor-to-ceiling views (and on a clear day, up to 80 miles of visibility) await.

Explore DUMBO.

kolderal/Getty Images

Brooklyn already takes the cake for being the city’s coolest borough, and DUMBO (a.k.a., Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) may just be its coolest neighborhood. The historic waterfront area is teeming with high-end eats — snag a seat outside at Cecconi’s to feast on handmade pasta in style — and shopping — the Brooklyn Flea , which takes place here each Sunday, is perfect for picking up hidden treasures.

You'll also find myriad galleries, including Klompching , which showcases incredible contemporary photography, and coffee shops galore (we love Zaruma Gold Coffee , which serves excellent Ecuadorian coffee). Brooklyn Bridge Park is a prime place for people-watching, and it’s also where you’ll find Jane’s Carousel , a must for little ones. 

Venture to Astoria.

Boogich/Getty Images

An easy subway ride from Manhattan, Astoria is chock-full of unique restaurants and attractions. Film buffs should not miss the Museum of the Moving Image , where you'll learn more about the art, history, and technology of movies. From there, grab a bite at one of many Greek eateries — Astoria has the highest population of Greeks in the U.S. — including the always-buzzing, seafood-forward Taverna Kyclades . Other neighborhood hotspots include Astoria Park (which spans almost 60 acres along the East River), The Bonnie for creative cocktails and bar bites, and a killer slice of white pizza at Steinway Pizza.

Eat breakfast at Tiffany’s.

Courtesy of Blue Box Cafe

Channel your inner Holly Golightly and splurge on breakfast (or lunch, afternoon tea, or dinner) at Tiffany’s — seriously. Inside the jewelry brand’s flagship Fifth Avenue location is The Blue Box Café by Daniel Boulud , where the elegant, Tiffany Blue-hued interior sets the scene for a swanky meal. Menu offerings include Holly’s Favorites (a croissant, butter and jam, fruit juice, coffee, or hot chocolate) and the trademark Blue Box Celebration Cake, an Instagram-worthy treat shaped like the brand’s iconic blue box.

Enjoy a Michelin-starred meal.

Melina Mara/The Washington Post

As of 2024, there are 66 Michelin-starred restaurants in New York City, which means many mouthwatering meals await. The now-vegan Eleven Madison Park is a favorite among foodies and celebrities alike, while Eric Ripert’s French-leaning Le Bernardin dishes out spectacular seafood. In Brooklyn, there's Modern American restaurant Clover Hill (Cobble Hill) and Aska  in Williamsburg, which serves seasonal Scandinavian fare. In Long Island City, Queens is Meju , a chic traditional Korean fermentation restaurant.

Catch a comedy show.

Gabe Ginsberg/Getty Images

If you love to laugh — and who doesn't? — be sure to catch at least one stand-up or improv performance when in town. The city is home to dozens of venues, ranging from nationally renowned staples like the Comedy Cellar , Stand Up NY , and Gotham Comedy Club — all of which are in Manhattan — to hidden gems like The Tiny Cupboard in Bushwick, Brooklyn.

Take a helicopter ride over NYC icons.

Getty Images

While the Big Apple is beautiful from every angle, seeing it from up above is an experience like no other. Catch a birds-eye view of your favorite NYC landmarks by embarking on a helicopter ride. This is a short, sweet, and fairly expensive experience: HeliNY 's helicopter tours start from $259 and Liberty Helicopter 's from $249, both for 12-15-minute rides; these exclude the heliport fee which is around $40.

Indulge in a bathhouse visit.

Adrian Gaut/Courtesy of Bathhouse

When you need a break from the city’s bustle, retreat to one of a handful of uber-sleek bathhouses for a rejuvenating soak. The aptly named Bathhouse in Williamsburg is housed in a 1930s-era former factory. Today, it’s a sleek space to relax and unwind, with amenities like thermal pools, heated marble hammams, saunas, a steam room, and treatments like massages and body scrubs — not to mention a stylish on-site bar and restaurant. AIRE Ancient Baths in Tribeca, which, like Bathhouse, occupies a restored building that was originally a textile factory, is another favorite for its wellness-centric offerings and chic ambiance.

Related Articles

Watch CBS News

Perseid meteor shower put on quite a show when it peaked overnight

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: August 12, 2024 / 6:33 AM EDT / CBS News

The Perseid meteor shower peaked overnight Sunday into Monday, giving astronomy fans one of the best shows of 2024 as they look to the skies. 

The shower started in July and will continue through most of August, but just peaked, NASA said. The Perseids are considered the " best meteor shower of the year" by NASA, with about 50 to 100 meteors seen per hour under ideal conditions. 

What time did the Perseid meteor shower peak?

The best time to catch the Perseids was in the pre-dawn hours, according to NASA, but it was possible to view its meteors as early as 10 p.m. 

NASA noted that the moon was to set just as the Perseids started to peak. The Old Farmer's Almanac details specific moonset times  for different ZIP codes across the United States. 

Where was the Perseid meteor shower visible?

The best view of the Perseids meteor shower was from the Northern Hemisphere. NASA urged astronomy fans who wanted to check out the shower to get away from the bright lights of cities. 

" Try to get to the darkest location you can," NASA wrote . "The darker it is where you are, the more meteors you will see streaking across the sky."

Around 50 to 75 meteors an hour could be seen in darker locations. 

Where was it best to look to see the meteor shower?

NASA had a simple suggestion: Look up! NASA suggested lying on your back, enabling your eyes to adjust to the dark — and staying off your phone. There was no need to look in any particular direction as the meteors could generally be seen all over the sky.

The space agency's Jet Propulsion Laboratory suggested facing roughly northeast as you lay down, but to try to take in as much of the sky as possible because meteors can appear all over.

When will the next meteor shower be?

Two other meteor showers are actually active right now. The Southern Delta Aquariid meteor shower began last month and will run through Aug. 21. It peaked in late July. The alpha Capricornids, a small meteor shower, also started last month. It will continue through Aug. 11, according to the American Meteor Society.

The next major meteor shower, the Orionids , won't be active until late September, with a peak in October, according to the American Meteor Society. NASA describes the Orionids as one of the most beautiful showers of the year. The Orionids are known for their brightness and speed.

What are meteor showers?

Meteors — space rocks that enter Earth's atmosphere — streak through the sky every night, but meteor showers happen less frequently. During a meteor shower, many meteors hit Earth's atmosphere over a short period of time. When they pass through the atmosphere, the meteors leave behind streaks of light caused by glowing, hot air. 

While most meteors burn up as they fall, some survive the trip and reach Earth. Those surviving space rocks are considered meteorites.

Look up — what else can you see in the sky this summer?

There are two more full moons this summer. August's full moon, known as the Sturgeon Moon, reaches peak illumination on Monday, Aug. 19. September's full moon will reach peak illumination on Tuesday, Sept. 17, just days before the start of fall. 

• Meteor Shower

Aliza Chasan is a Digital Content Producer for "60 Minutes" and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

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Flash flood warnings are being issued for Upstate NY as Debby hits: See updated list

• Updated: Aug. 09, 2024, 7:00 p.m.
• | Published: Aug. 09, 2024, 8:53 a.m.

This radar image, taken at 8:40 a.m., shows heavy rain sweeping into Upstate New York from the remnants of tropical storm Debby. Flood warnings have been issued for the areas outlined in green. National Weather Service

• Glenn Coin | [email protected]

Update : The bulk of the storm has now passed through Upstate New York, and the rain and winds are expected to end in the Capital Region and Adirondacks in a couple of hours.

The storm dropped more than 5 inches in one Upstate New York county.

Flash flood warnings for many counties remain in place, however, as rainwater continues to run off hillsides and into already swollen creeks.

Steuben County , the hardest-hit area in Upstate New York, remains under a state of emergency while water remains high. More than 4 inches of rain fell, most of it within about six hours this morning and early afternoon. Rescue crews were using boats to rescue people from homes and cars.

The heaviest rain, and the worst flooding, was in a southwest-northeast line from southern Steuben County to just north of Canandaigua. Roads and houses were also flooded in the Binghamton area and the Catskills.

About 50,000 people remained without power at 5:30 p.m. High winds tore off branches that fell onto power lines.

Counties shaded in red remain under flood warnings until this evening or early Saturday as remnants of tropical storm Debby slowly move out of New York. National Weather Service

Previous story:

• 4:25 p.m. The National Weather Service said the storm is winding down, though rain was still falling in eastern and northern parts of Upstate NY. More than 50,000 customers were without power across Upstate.
• 3 p.m. Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency.
• 12:55 p.m. Flood warnings are now being issued in Oswego and northern Cayuga counties as the heavy rain moves northward. The warning is in effect until 9:45 p.m.
• 11:15 a.m. A flash flood warning has been issued for northwestern Broome County, western Chenango County and all of Cortland County until 3:15 p.m. One to 2 inches of rain has already fallen and more is on the way, the weather service said.
• 9:30 a.m. A flash flood warning is in effect until 3:30 p.m. for western Chemung and Schuyler counties, and for all of Steuben and Yates counties.
• 8:40 a.m. A flood warning was issued for Allegany County, in Western New York. The weather service said about an inch of rain has already fallen, with 2 more inches possible.
• At 10 a.m., the warning was expanded to include Monroe, Livingston, Ontario and Wayne counties.

Syracuse, N.Y. -- The National Weather Service has issued the first flash flood warning for Upstate New York today, and it likely won’t be the last.

The first warning is for Broome County, in the Southern Tier, where the moisture-laden remnants of tropical storm Debby have already arrived.

An inch to 1.5 inches of rain has already fallen in Broome County and another 1 to 2 inches of rain expected over the next few hours, the weather service said.

“Smaller streams are already running at capacity and localized flash flooding is expected when the next round of rainfall pushes through,” the warning said.

The Broome County warning is in place until 1:45 p.m. today.

A flood warning is similar to a tornado warning: a signal to get out of harm’s way immediately. The weather service urges people in a flood warning area to get to higher ground or to higher levels of the house.

Don’t try to drive vehicles through flooded roads, the weather service warns.

“Most flood deaths occur in vehicles,” the weather service said. “In hilly terrain there are hundreds of low water crossings which are potentially dangerous in heavy rain. Do not attempt to cross flooded roads. Find an alternate route.”

A foot of moving water can sweep away a vehicle in a flash flood.

Nearly all of Upstate New York is under a flood watch until tonight. A watch means that weather conditions could lead to flooding. A warning means that flooding is either happening or is imminent.

Several inches of rain could fall today across much of Upstate New York on ground already soaked by rainfall over the past few weeks, leading to rapid runoff into streets and streams.

“Flash flooding is by far the greatest risk for this system,” the weather service said . “However, a few storms with damaging winds and isolated tornadoes could occur.”

Flash floods are rapid rises in creeks or ponding water on roads. A flash flood can move quickly.

The remnants of tropical storm Debby are reaching Upstate New York today and could lead to widespread flooding. This map shows the total rainfall expected through evening. National Weather Service

• ‘Beyond heartbreaking’: Upstate NY communities assess damage left by Debby’s drenching rains
• Debby’s toll in Upstate NY: See final rainfall totals, flooding video
• Debby dropped more than 5 inches of rain in Upstate NY: See dramatic video, list of 400 places

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The 100 best things to do in NYC for locals and tourists

Experience the absolute best things to do in NYC with this epic guide to essential eats, drinks, culture, parks and more

August 2024:   Looking for t he best things to do as summer winds down  in NYC? Our iconic museums, big attractions,  and favorite restaurants have the coolest exhibits, shows and menus right now. This month, laugh out loud at "Oh, Mary! " on Broadway, escape to Roosevelt Island, catch The Whitney Biennial before it ends, and grab drinks at Superbueno. 

Time Out editors traverse New York City from end to end looking for the coolest things to do, the most delicious places to eat and the most impressive shows to see. We then pick the very best items to make it to this list each month. 

From its  art museums  (The Met and Frick Madison) to its  attractions  (The Bronx Zoo and sunrises from the Empire State Building), we are certan that New York City is the best city in the world. Its dining and drinking scenes are still unbeatable with killer bars,  restaurants  and creative culinary inventions. Every day, we’re discovering something new and wonderful about our city, whether it’s one of the best parks , some  incredible views , must-see art, or hidden gem stores—and we're highlighting the best of the best right here.

So, c onsider below your NYC Bible. 

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Time Out Market New York

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Time Out Market New York brings together amazing chefs, restaurants and dishes in one place for the perfect culinary sample of NYC—ideal for tourists and locals. Plus,  the fifth-floor rooftop hosts regular live performances on its stage and ongoing art installations can be found throughout the Market. You can find out what's happening every week here .

The 100 best things to do in NYC

1.  do a day trip to governors island.

• Parks and gardens
• Governors Island

What is it? Thanks to its strategic position in the middle of New York Harbor, Governors Island was a military outpost and off-limits to the public for 200 years, but now it's a verdant public park. 

Why go?  It's open year-round with fun activities for every season. The island provides a peaceful setting for cycling (bring a bike on the ferry, or rent from once there). The island hosts a program of events, such as concert series and art exhibitions (see the park's website  for schedule), and where else can you have a picnic directly across from the Statue of Liberty? 

Our take: "I love Governors Island because I haven’t had a backyard in over a decade. It fills that necessary need for safe, wide open, green space and gives me a chance to cycle, play and relax with friends without leaving the city." — Editor Shaye Weaver

2.  Enjoy uncontained laughter at Oh, Mary! on Broadway

• Midtown West Until Nov 10, 2024

What is it? Oh, Mary!, which our theater critic calls "the funniest Broadway play in years."

Why go?  Cole Escola’s  Oh, Mary!  is not just funny: It is dizzyingly, breathtakingly funny, the kind of funny that ambushes your body into uncontained laughter. In this hilariously anachronistic historical burlesque, Escola plays—who else?—Mary Todd Lincoln, in the weeks leading up to her husband’s assassination. 

Our take: I can’t remember the last time I saw a play that made me laugh, helplessly and loudly, as much as  Oh, Mary!  did—and my reaction was shared by the rest of the audience, which burst into applause at the end of every scene.  — Theater Editor Adam Feldman

3.  Dine around at Smorgasburg

What is it?  Smorgasburg , the food bazaar spectacular, pops up at three locations around New York City with dozens of great local vendors. Smorgasburg WTC runs on Fridays; Williamsburg is on Saturdays; and Prospect Park is on Sundays. Each location is open from 11am-6pm and operates weekly through October. 

Why go? With more than 70 vendors, it's the largest Smorgasburg lineup since 2018!

Don't miss:  Vendors this year will serve up  fragrant Ethiopian stews, Hawaii-style street comforts, explosive pani puri, potato puff poutine, and lots more.

4.  Escape to Roosevelt Island

• Things to do

What is it? A two-mile island between Manhattan and Queens where you can enjoy an escape from the city without ever actually leaving.  A period of being closed to the public altogether, the island has now transformed into a verdant respite just minutes from midtown Manhattan. Apart from picturesque views of Manhattan and Queens, island offers art shows, a beautiful park, and historic sites.

Why go?  Be sure to book a reservation for drinks at The Panorama Room , a rooftop bar atop the hotel Graduate New York with unmatched views. There's even an outdoor area, which is perfect for photos at sunset. Make a staycation out of it and stay the night. 

5.  Walk through lost NYC landmarks

What is it? A new exhibit, titled Lost New York , at New-York Historical Society. 

Why go?  It transports viewers to a time when pigs roamed the streets, shopping was a radical act, and New Yorkers used to brave polluted waters for a swim. The exhibition also documents long-gone landmarks like the original Penn Station, Met Opera House, Chinese Theater, and Croton Reservoir. 

Don't miss: More than 90 paintings, photographs, objects, and lithographs combine to tell the story of the city’s history and the importance of preserving pieces of our otherwise vanishing past. 

Our take:  The exhibit includes quotes from real New Yorkers, which helped me feel connected to this fascinating history. — Things to Do Editor Rossilynne Culgan 

6.  Grab a slice at L'Industrie Pizzeria

What is it?  A beloved pizza shop with locations in Williamsburg and the West Village.

Why go?  Considered by many to be one of the best places to get pizza in NYC , L'Industrie was established by owner Massimo Laveglia, a Tuscany native, in Williamsburg back in 2017. And people have been lining up for slices ever since.

Our take: L'Industrie has the perfect slice—the hot pizza and cold burrata combo is delicious every single time. I also love the dedication the owner has to creating a place that has character, which is evident the second you walk into either location. — Sarah Iandoli, social media editor  

7.  Get artsy at the Whitney Biennial

What is it? The Whitney Museum of American Art’s landmark exhibition series, which pops up every two years. Expect a  gigantic showcase of some of the coolest, newest, and most provocative art at a big New York City museum.

Why go? It’s  the longest-running survey of American Art and this year, it's packed with fascinating pieces.  This year, the Biennial is themed “ Even Better Than The Real Thing” and features the  work of 71 artists and collectives.

Our take:  The Whitney Biennial never disappoints, but this year, I got to see some of the boldest art I’ve seen in awhile; some of it that changed over time and at different perspectives—which feels quite timely. — Editor Shaye Weaver

8.  Sip a cocktail at Superbueno

• East Village

What is it?  A Mexican-American bar in the East Village. It's a certified good time, and we aren't just saying that because of the name.

Why go? In just one year of business, Superbueno nabbed a  number two spot on   World’s Best 50 Bars North America  list . And it's no surprise with Ignacio “Nacho” Jimenez behind the bar, stirring up  tajin-flecked martinis and negronis infused with a kick of mole.

Our take:  "Come for the cocktails, but stay for the vibe, with DJ tunes spinning all night long." — Food & Drink Editor Morgan Carter

9.  Explore the history of Black New Yorkers in the 1800s

• Events & Festivals

What is it? A new exhibit at The Tenement Museum called "A Union of Hope: 1869." The exhibition tells the story of the Moore family who lived in Soho during and after the Civil War.

Why go? It's the renowned museum's first exhibit highlighting a Black family's story.

Don't miss: The chance to walk through re-creations of the family's two-room tenement, see a neighborhood map from that time, explore Census records, and hear readings of newspaper excerpts. 

10.  Get a bullseye at this cool archery range

• Sports and fitness
• Sports & Fitness

What is it?  Wild Captives, the nation’s first female- and LGBTQ-owned archery studio, which is now open in Brooklyn. It's a place where everyone can "be their own superhero." The studio in Brooklyn’s Industry City offers empowering and fun hour-long introduction to archery classes every weekend for $45/person.

Why go? Each intro class includes a chance to learn about different parts of the bow and safety requirements. After the lesson, you'll get a chance to shoot the bow trying to pop a balloon pinned onto the bullseye. 

Our take:  This is the closest I've ever felt to being like Katniss Everdeen. I felt so empowered here thanks to the encouraging instructor—and I even hit a bullseye! — Rossilynne Culgan, things to do editor

11.  Skate around at Xanadu Roller Arts

What is it? This sprawling 16,000-square-foot space, designed to double as a concert venue and nightclub for up to 1,200 people, is the city’s first new wooden roller rink in over a decade.

Don't miss: There’s also a rinkside bar, serving drinks with names like Skaterade and Purple Rain with direct sightlines of all the action on the wood. And in the bathroom, a surprise DJ spins a soundtrack for patrons to dance to as they wash their hands, a cheeky setup Kataria calls, “Club Flush.”

12.  Catch "Water for Elephants" on Broadway

• Midtown West Open run

What is it? The Broadway adaptation of Sara Gruen’s 2006 romance novel of the same name, which operates on the level of a fairy tale.

Why go?  Although Water for Elephants is set at a circus, and includes several moments of thrilling spectacle, what makes it so appealing is its modesty, not glitz.

Don't miss:   Where Water for Elephants  soars is in the real-life physical talents on display. Members of the ensemble perform impressive aerial routines on ropes, silks, hoops and straps, and show off a dazzling variety of skills: acrobatics, tumbling, balancing, juggling, Cyr Wheel.

Our take: "Step right up, come one, come all, ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, step right up to the greatest—well, okay, not the greatest show on Broadway, but a dang fine show nonetheless." — Theater Editor Adam Feldman

13.  Eat at a hidden pizzeria in a train station

What is it?  A  subterranean pizzeria called   See No Evil Pizza  located  on the concourse level of the downtown-bound 1 train station at 50th Street and Broadway. 

Why go?  Ten, 12-inch varieties are crafted from three-day fermented dough made with artisanal flour from Italy and ladled with raw sauce (tomato pulp, salt, oil, mix), topped with ingredients like mozzarella, mushrooms, hot soppressata and broccoli rabe and baked for about three-and-a-half to four minutes. 

Don't miss:  A rotating lasagna is also on the menu, presently a Sunday gravy-style.

14.  Play pickleball at Central Park's Wollman Rink

What is it? A 14-court pickleball installation via CityPickle taking over Wollman Rink in Central Park. 

Why go? The experience offering players of all skill levels the chance to reserve courts or partake in open play sessions every day—all in an iconic location. 

Don't miss:  Some courts will even offer cabanas that can be reserved for special occasions, think birthday parties, corporate team building exercises, family gatherings, proposals and more.

15.  Order tacos at Taqueria Ramirez

What is it? A Mexican-style taqueria in Greenpoint from Tania Apolinar and Giovanni Cervantes. 

Why go? The venue's usage of a choricera, a round-shaped pot used in Mexico that is shallow in the middle and deep on the sides. In this vessel alone, longaniza bubbles next to tripe. The suadero, one of Mexico’s most popular cuts, also takes a dip, cooked in fat for three hours before it's chopped up.

Our take: "While lingering inside to eat is possible (there are only a handful of seats), standing outside with the rest of Brooklyn over a few tortillas feels just right." — Food & Drink Editor Morgan Carter

16.  Dine at Untable

• Carroll Gardens

What is it?  Untable, a new restaurant in Carroll Gardens, calls itself an "unconventional" Thai restaurant. 

Why go?   It serves some of the best cocktails in the city,  the most vibrant tom yum purée you'll likely taste, knockout tiger shrimp and a fried rice that's out of this world.

17.  Discover AMNH's new scientific wing

What is it? The architecturally stunning new wing at the American Museum of Natural History officially called the Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education and Innovation. 

Why go? Scientific wonders—including a butterfly vivarium, an insectarium and a 360-degree immersive experience—fill every inch of the space.

Don't miss:  With an insectarium and a butterfly vivarium, bugs get center stage at the Gilder Center. Why? Insects are the most diverse group of animals on the planet—and they play a critically important role in our world. 

Our take: From the moment I stepped inside, I felt an overwhelming sense of awe and wonder. From the architecture to the scientific exhibits, the Gilder Center is incredible. — Things to Do Editor Rossilynne Culgan

18.  Eat at one of the best pizza places in the world

What is it?  The Lower East Side’s Una Pizza Napoletana , which was recently named the best pizza place in America, per the site 50 Top Pizza, billed as a "guide to the best pizzerias in the world."

Why go? The pizzeria's c hef, Anthony Mangieri, first started wood-firing pizzas in New Jersey in 1996, so he's definitely a pro.

19.  Find this secret artwork in Times Square

What is it? Auditory art by the late artist Max Neuhaus. The installation called " Times Square " sounds like the echo of a bell ringing. It's hard to place this droning tone among all the other noises there, especially because the sound emanates from a typical grate right beneath your feet.

Why go? It's a revolutionary art project that's been a part of the city for decades but most people step right over it. 

Don't miss:  This art! Head to the Broadway Pedestrian Plaza between 45th and 46th Streets (between Broadway and Seventh Avenue) and listen. We recommend visiting in the early morning when the area's a little quieter. 

Our take:  "It may be hard to find at first, but once you hear it, you notice it every time you walk past." —  Things to Do Editor Rossilynne Culgan

20.  Visit the Museum of Broadway

What is it? The long-awaited Museum of Broadway highlights over 500 productions from the 1700s all the way to the present. 

Why go? You get to see props, ornate costumes, production notes and so much more that you wouldn’t get to see otherwise.

21.  Relax at Governors Island's luxury spa

What is it? The luxurious Italian wellness spa QC NY (by QC Terme Spas and Resorts) on Governors Island.

Why go?  The spa has relaxation rooms (each with its own meticulously curated personality, scent, and music), themed saunas, Vichy showers, infrared beds, foot baths, hydro jets, steam baths and other amazingly lush experiences.

Don't miss: The upside-down relaxation room. When you walk in, it's like you're walking on the ceiling—furniture and even a chess board have been painted and affixed to the actual ceiling to create this illusion.

Our take:  This spa because is the closest thing to going on vacation and feeling like you're not in the city without having to rent a car or go to the airport. There’s also something cathartic about the ferry ride back to the city after a relaxing day. — Ian Kumamoto, staff writer

22.  Score a deal at a sample sale

• Sample sales

What is it?  Every week, the city’s fashionistas flock to top-notch sample sales to grab beautiful frocks at a fraction of their original price, plus accessories, outerwear, shoes, home finds and more—why not take a page out of their book to stock up on some awesome holiday gifts instead? 

Why go? To score some designer goods for less whether you're updating your wardrobe, shopping for gifts or refreshing your apartment.

23.  Play with bubbles at NYSCI

What is it? The Big Bubble Experiment, an exhibit at New York Hall of Science (NYSCI) in Queens, celebrating beautiful, buoyant, beguiling bubbles.

Why go? The exhibit encourages kids of all ages to experiment and discover through the joy of playing with bubbles. That includes blowing, stretching, popping and looking closely to see what happens at each move. 

Don't miss: A chance to stretch large sheets of bubble film showcasing the medium's rainbow iridescence—and offering an excellent selfie opportunity.

24.  Stretch out at Little Island

• West Village

What is it?  Since it opened, Little Island has brought in plenty of visitors who flocked to see Manhattan’s newest “floating” greenspace.

Why go? It's filled with open lawns, colorful shrubs and trees and a secret garden. It's free to visit.

Don't miss: The park’s amphitheaters, The Glade and The Amph, offer a spectacular view of the Hudson River.

25.  Take a literary pub crawl

What is it? The   Literary Pub Crawl , which highlights the fascinating literary history around New York City, particularly in Greenwich Village. 

Why go? This Saturday afternoon activity offers a chance to learn a lot while sipping your drink of choice, bringing a whole new definition to "get lit."

Don't miss: Fascinating facts about authors like Ernest Hemingway, J.D. Salinger, Edith Wharton, Louisa May Alcott, Jack Kerouac, Frank McCourt, Langford Wilson, F. Scott Fitzgerald, James Baldwin, and Edgar Allan Poe—and their connections to the neighborhood.

26.  Head out to Masalawala & Sons

What is it? A  buzzy but warm Indian restaurant from Unapologetic Foods.  

Why go? It’s a “celebration of India’s yesteryears” with wonderful macher dim, keema kaleji and unforgettably comforting rice.

27.  Trip out at the House of Cannabis, NYC’s weed museum

• Weird & Wonderful

What is it? The House of Cannabis (a.k.a. THC NYC) is a weed museum in Soho.

Why go? While the museum boasts plenty of mind-bending multi-sensory bells and whistles, it also showcases art and science. 

Don't miss: The Euphorium, a massive spinning record you can sit or lay on while listening to music, from The Doors to Santana. With the room's impressive light show and hazy vibes, it's like a merry-go-round for adults.

Our take:  I applaud the musuem for not just creating cool exhibits but also confronting the social justice issues baked into cannabis prosecution. — Rossilynne Culgan, things to do editor

28.  Walk beneath a floral gateway honoring an LGBTQ+ trailblazer

What is it? A colorful floral archway at Marsha P. Johnson Park in Brooklyn in honor of the park's namesake, the late transgender activist.  

Why go?  Beautiful large floral sculptures in pink, blue, red and yellow decorate the top of the archway, with gem-like petal designs along the sides.

Don't miss: Johnson adopted the full name Marsha P. Johnson with the "P" standing for "Pay It No Mind." "To her, this was a life motto and a response to questions about her gender," according to   the New-York Historical Society .

29.  Sip local at Great Jones Distillery

What is it? Great Jones Distilling Co. is Manhattan’s first and only legal whiskey distillery in over 100 years.

Why go?  The 28,000-square-foot venue features a fully functioning distillery, a tasting room and several drinking and dining venues, including an underground speakeasy and full restaurant called The Grid.

Don’t miss: A tour detailing the whiskey-making process ($35), a culinary cocktail pairing experience ($145) and a hands-on mixology class ($110).

Our take: I took an out-of-town friend on the whiskey tour, and we both absolutely loved it. You'll learn history and science—then get to taste how it all comes together. — Things to Do Editor Rossilynne Culgan

30.  Stay awhile at Milady’s

What is it?  A  new classic restaurant inspired by the iconic dive bar.

Why go?   Divided into “dive” and “high dive” categories, selections like the former’s jalapeño corn dog poppers and burgers are a treat. The latter’s shrimp cocktail and crab mac and cheese are quite nice, too.

31.  Take the kids to the Bronx Children’s Museum

What is it: The 13,650-square-foot permanent space at 725 Exterior Street near Yankee Stadium is geared for infants through kids in fourth grade, with site-specific installations and exhibits focused on patrons’ relationships with the neighborhood. 

Why go: The destination currently boasts a 35-foot-long water table kids love, plus an exhibit where guests will get to look at animals and plants through a microscope.

32.  Don’t bring anything to this Potluck Club

• Lower East Side

What is it? A  Cantonese-American spot with a  “newish take on old classics.”

Why go?  It’s c asual, fun and easy (probably easiest when you make a reservation since it’s pretty popular) with the room and the mood for groups. 

33.  Chill out at this giant urban bathhouse

What is it? World Spa, a 50,000-square-foot space offering a slew of authentic spa experiences from all around the world smack-dab in the middle of Brooklyn.

Why go? Visitors get to indulge in Eastern European banyas (Russian steam baths with wood stoves), Finnish saunas, cleansing Himalayan salt therapy sessions, Turkish and Morrocan hammams (types of steam baths), Japanese onsens (hot springs) and much more. 

34.  Take a class at the Starbucks Reserve

What is it?  The Starbucks Reserve store at the Empire State Building.

Why go? You can take classes like the Starbucks Reserve Brewtender for a Day, Whiskey Barrel-Aged 101 and Espresso Martini Flight Fundamentals.

Our take: The pastry selection here is unlike any other Starbucks; I dream about the cornetti. Grab a spot in the basement cafe to enjoy a sweet treat. — Things to Do Editor Rossilynne Culgan 

35.  Play at nation’s first pétanque bar

What is it?  The  Carreau Club , the nation’s indoor pétanque bar, with indoor and outdoor courts.

Why go? Pétanque (pronounced puh-TONK) is a bocce-ball style French boules sport. Carreau Club makes it a great night out with a full bar, craft beer, wine and cocktails, and a small deli counter.

36.  Immerse yourself in Harry Potter's world

What is it?  The touring show, "Harry Potter: The Exhibition," is now open in Herald Square, and it’s going transport you. 

Why go?  This experience presents more than a display of props and costumes. Through the use of dramatic lighting, set design, interactive technology and even scent, the exhibit will make you feel like you are actually there—in Hagrid’s hut, in potions class, dining in the Great Hall, learning how to fight the dark arts, fighting the Battle of Hogwarts and more.

Don't miss: Countless photos opps. There are numerous scenes set up for you to enjoy being photographed in, from Hagrid’s Hut and his giant chair to Professor Umbridge’s all-pink, cat-encrusted office.

37.  Visit the Jackie Robinson Museum

What is it? A 19,380-square-foot space with 40,000 historical images and over 4,000 artifacts that celebrate the late Jackie Robinson, who was the first African American to play in Major League Baseball in the modern era.

Why go?  Visitors will also get to explore an immersive experience “to better understand the racism and prejudice Robinson encountered beyond the baseball field, as well as stories of his lasting influence on sports, politics and entertainment today.”

38.  Laugh out loud at "The Book of Mormon" on Broadway

What is it? A viciously hilarious treat crafted by Trey Parker and Matt Stone, of South Park fame, and composer-lyricist Robert Lopez, who cowrote Avenue Q . The show brims with cheerful obscenity, sharp satire and catchy tunes, making it the most exuberantly entertaining Broadway musical in years.

Why go?  The high quality of the writing, design and direction. It's more than a collection of offensive jokes about female genital mutilation, bestiality and Mormon kitsch. You'll be left laughing your head off and saying, "wait, did they just say THAT?" 

39.  Get a hole-in-one at Swingers NoMad

What is it? A "crazy mini-golf course" and entertainment complex straight from London with three nine-hole golf courses across 23,000 square feet under 20-foot-high ceilings.

Why go? "Crazy golf" is a British spin on mini-golf, but it's for a 21-and-over audience since craft cocktails are served by caddies on the course. At Swingers NoMad, expect six cocktail bars with signature classic cocktails from London and D.C., as well as 12 cocktails created specifically for NYC, private rooms you can rent, an opulent clubhouse and four gourmet street food vendors—Sauce Pizzeria, Miznon, Fonda and Mah Ze Dahr Bakery.

Don't miss: Taking your photo on the winner's podium.

40.  Swap books at the Free Black Women's Library

What is it?   The Free Black Women’s Library , a new free library in Brooklyn's Bed-Stuy neighborhood, which also serves as a social art project, a reading room, a co-working space and a community gathering center.

Why go? All 5,000 books in the library's collection are written by Black women and non-binary authors. Anybody can visit the space to read, work or hang out. If you want to take a book home, simply bring a book written by a Black woman or Black non-binary author, and you can trade. Whether you decide to bring the book back after you're done reading or keep it for your collection is up to you.

Our take: What Olaronke Akinmowo has created is so important in our world today. Go visit and donate if you can. — Rossilynne Culgan, things to do editor

41.  Dine fancy at Le Rock

• Midtown West

What is it? A l ovely, lofty and spacious restaurant with  French-adjacent dishes, including escargots and chicken liver mousse and excellent pasta, bison and duck. 

Why go?  Le Rock’s best plates are high enough above what most of its contemporaries are cooking to catapult it to the realm of very good. 

42.  Get into MoMA for free

What is it?   UNIQLO NYC Nights  offers free admission to NYC residents on the first Friday of every month from 4 to 8pm.

Why go? On these days, you'll get to explore the museum during extended hours and enjoy its second-floor café and Museum store.

43.  Do LES Gallery Nights

What is it? A free, monthly self-guided tour of local art galleries on the Lower East Side. 

Why go? Participating galleries and studios stay open after hours to allow visitors to interact with the work and the neighborhood in a new way. And yes, it’s all free!

Don't miss: It takes place the third Thursday of every month, from 4pm–8pm, with dozens of spaces to stop into, all organized via Google Map . 

44.  Snap a photo with New York's "The Bean" sculpture

What is it?  The New York version of "The Bean," the iconic public artwork by Anish Kapoor that all but defines the city of Chicago. After five years of work, the sculpture officially called "Cloud Gate" is now on view in Tribeca. 

Why go? The mirrored piece weighs 40 tons and is 48 feet long by 19 feet high and sits right at the base of the 60-story tower found at 56 Leonard Street, by many referred to as the "Jenga building" given the particular design reminiscent of the classic game.

45.  Get romantic at The Met's Date Nights

• Sex and dating
• Sex & Dating

What is it?   The Metropolitan Museum of Art 's "Date Nights" gives visitors an opportunity to become acquainted with artwork with informal drop-in gallery chats, the chance to listen in on gorgeous live music and sip on yummy cocktails.

Why go? It's pay-what-you-wish!

Don't miss: Performances like include the celebrated contemporary string quartet ETHEL in the American Wing Café as well as a special edition of Juilliard’s ChamberFest featuring performances in the European Paintings galleries.

46.  Sit in for a tea ceremony at The Loft

What is it?  Japan Village  at Industry City, which is both a food hall and supermarket full of Japanese groceries, has expanded upward with a 20,000-square-foot second floor it's calling The Loft.

Why go? You'll step into a representation of Japan with cool shops with items straight from the country as well as fun experiences like tea ceremonies and cultural classes.

Don't miss: Daiso, Book Off and tea ceremonies, which are announced on The Loft's website.

47.  Have a night at the intimate piano bar at Fraunces Tavern

What is it?   Fraunces Tavern's intimate Piano Bar Upstairs.

Why go?   The room above The Independence Bar is soaked in a shade of cerulean across its paneled walls, with pops of color on tufted red banquettes and gilded picture frames. Beer, wine, all manner of cocktails and a dedicated list of gin and tonics are all available, in addition to broad-appeal snacks, apps and entrées. Live piano music, of course, is also on the menu. 

48.  Have your coffee brewed in a pan of hot sand

What is it? Sands of Persia, a dessert bar and hookah lounge, serving up Turkish sand coffee brewed in a pan filled with sand and heated over an open flame.

Why go?  Given New Yorkers' dedication to all things coffee, this not-generally-known method of brewing is sure to delight many palates.

Don't miss: The sweets menu (Fingerlime Chiffon Meringue, the Persimmon Wide, the Desert Sunset and the All is Well brownie with soft serve), a mocktail and zero-proof drink list, as well as hookah.

49.  Experience Summit One Vanderbilt

• Sightseeing
• Midtown East

What is it? A heart-pounding immersive experience at  Summit One Vanderbilt  that sits atop the new 67-floor One Vanderbilt super-tall—a 1,401-foot-high—skyscraper.

Why go? It has a totally mirrored infinity room called "Air" that reflects the sky and city views over and over, making you feel like you're walking in the sky or on another plane of existence. Besides the absolutely breathtaking view of the city (where you can see all the major landmarks and bridges), is that it changes with the weather and time of day.

50.  Laugh at this secret comedy show pop-up

What is it? "Underground Overground Comedy," a comedy show that takes place in unexpected NYC shops and venues like a gym, a rooftop, a candy shop, a music studio and a barbershop in a train station.

Why go? Since it only lists shows on its Instagram and each show is pretty small, it feels exclusive when you're one of only a couple dozen being performed to. 

51.  Play ping pong 24/7

What is it? Ping pod pods—appropriately called PingPod—that have popped up around NYC recently. 

Why go? You can play at any time of day. The whole booking process is totally autonomous for some futuristic fun. Balls and paddles are provided, and you can even buy some drinks and snacks while you're there.  

52.  Get sultry at Coby Club

What is it?   Coby Club is a subterranean lounge on Seventh Ave that’s inspired by 1960s San Francisco nightlife.

Why go? The lush space pays homage to San Francisco Chinatown nightlife in the 1960s and one woman in particular who was at the heart of it: Miss Coby Yee, the glamorous dancer and owner of the iconic club Forbidden City. Yo u can swing by for craft cocktails and small plates as well as live musical performances and other forms of live entertainment.

53.  Catch "Hamilton" on Broadway

What is it?  Lin-Manuel Miranda's retelling of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton's biography—the greatest American musical in decades. 

Why go?  The show offers a sublime conjunction of radio-ready hip-hop (as well as R&B, Britpop and trad showstoppers), under-dramatized American history and Miranda’s uniquely personal focus as a first-generation Puerto Rican and inexhaustible wordsmith.

54.  Shop at the world's largest Harry Potter Store

What is it? The world's largest collection of Harry Potter merch is now at Harry potter Store New York  (935 Broadway in the Flatiron District).

Why go?  Every detail of Harry Potter Store New York  has been intricately designed, from the decor sitting on the shelves above all the incredible merch (yes, there are full house robes) to the design of the store itself, including  a room full of gorgeous HP stationary by MinaLima, massive models of Fawkes the Phoenix and a spiral staircase that descends into a space made to look like the Ministry of Magic.

Don't miss: Throughout the whole store, props from the films are displayed among the merchandise, from the major characters' actual wands to some of Voldemort's horcruxes like Tom Riddle's journal and the Ravenclaw's diadem. You can see these all up close but also scan a code next to them with the Harry Potter Fan Club app   that'll give you information about the items and a single letter that you will need to solve a puzzle. If you do, you'll get a reward at checkout.

55.  Play games at Cellar Dog (FKA: Fat Cat)

What is it? The venue formerly known as Fat Cat has reemerged with a new name, new games, and custom ice cream. Cellar Dog (75 Christopher St.) is reviving the Fat Cat tradition of late-night basement gaming.

Why go?  Games include pool tables, ping pong, shuffleboard, foosball, checkers and chess, as well as antique and novelty arcade games like Pac Man and many more. Live jazz and additional entertainment will also be booked throughout the week.

Don't miss:  Restored historic furniture familiar to the space, contactless ordering, updated restrooms and a a menu with small bites like movie theater-style nachos, grandma-style pizza, pretzels and custom ice cream. Wine, seltzers, and a variety of beers on tap will be served to drink. 

56.  Belt it out at Ms. Kim’s karaoke lounge

What is it?  Ms. Kim's is a K-town karaoke lounge from Korean beauty entrepreneur Anna Kim that combines sophisticated style with sing-alongs.

Why go? Ms. Kim's offers both communal space and soundproof private karaoke rooms, so guests can customize their experience as it suits their needs.

Don't miss:  Signature drinks from the main bar, which start at $16, that include ingredients like butterfly pea flower, herbal infused syrups and top shelf spirits. Also check out the menu of Japanese and Korean finger foods.

57.  Get sweeping views from the Panorama Room

• Roosevelt Island

What is it? Roosevelt Island's first rooftop bar and lounge.

Why go? Located on the 18th floor of the hotel, the "jewel box" space opens up to incredible views of the boroughs, the bridges and the East River, which shine like stars at night.

Don't miss: Art from artists like Julia Chiang, Spencer Lewis, Alake Shilling, JPW3, Chris Martin, Brian Belott and Ida Eklbad, selected by Venus Over Manhattan partner Anna Furney and designer/creative director Darren Romanelli (aka Dr. Romanelli or DRx). Artist Sophie Parker and her botanical studio, Wife NYC, will also make custom arrangements and sculptural artwork for the lounge.

58.  Check out 4,000 years of history at the NYPL

• Midtown West Until Dec 31, 2025

What is it?  " The Polonsky Exhibition of New York Public Library’s Treasures"  spans 4,000 years of history and includes a wide range of history-making pieces, including the only surviving letter from Christoper Columbus announcing his “discovery” of the Americas to King Ferdinand’s court and the first Gutenberg Bible brought over to the Americas.

Why go?   It's free and fascinating.

Don't miss:   T homas Jefferson’s handwritten copy of the Declaration of   Independence;  stuffed animals that belonged to the real-life Christopher Robin and   inspired the Winnie-the-Pooh stories;  Virginia Woolf’s walking stick ; t he set model for the Off-Broadway production of In The Heights  and more.

59.  Meet friends at the Talea Beer Co. taproom

• Williamsburg

What is it?  This woman-owned brewery with locations in Williamsburg, Cobble Hill, Bryant Park and the West Village serving up perfect pints.

Why go?  It's NYC's first-ever woman-owned and run brewery and taproom and it does beer differently than any other brewery — it's good for beer beginners and aficionados alike.

Don't miss: The Beer cocktails that use brews rather than seltzer or liquor, including The Talea Punch.

60.  Visit the Frick Madison

What is it? The Frick Madison  is now open 945 Madison Avenue—the former home of the Whitney Museum of American Art and the Met Breuer—while Henry Clay Frick's mansion undergoes a massive renovation. This new stint will last two years, and while the Brutalist building by Marcel Breuer is a huge departure from the Gilded Age mansion, the space offers a much different and rare look at the collection.

Why go? Unlike at the Frick Mansion, the Breuer building is a clean slate—stark in contrast, which actually helps to attract the viewer's attention to individual works. Eyes aren't busy looking at ornate furniture here. It's all about seeing the smaller details in the artwork that you might have overlooked at the mansion. 

Don't miss: The room reserved for three Vermeer paintings and Bellini’s St. Francis in   Room 13.

61.  Pay your respects at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum

• Monuments and memorials
• Financial District

What is it?  A moving tributes to the victims of the terrorist attacks on 9/11 and  February 26, 1993 .  

Why go?  Designed by Israeli architect Michael Arad, two of North America’s largest man-made waterfalls mark the footprint of each tower, framing the perimeter and cascading into reflecting pools almost an acre wide. The trees surrounding the area add to the mood of somber, tranquil reflection: Each one was selected from a 500-mile radius of the World Trade Center site, with others brought in from Pennsylvania, Maryland and Washington, D.C., the other places directly affected on 9/11. 

Don't miss:  The museum provides a complete picture of the courage and compassion demonstrated locally, nationally and internationally after the attacks, and it’s interspersed with pieces of the towers and other debris recovered by those who risked their own lives to save others . 

62.  Take in a show at City Winery

What is it? City Winery's flagship location at Pier 57 in Hudson River Park always has a stacked lineup. 

Why go?  In addition to powerhouse entertainement from comedy to live music, you're assured a memorable meal and plenty of wine options.

63.  Get creative at an '80s-style risograph workshop

What is it? A class on  the speedy way to screen print layers of paint-like ink in order to create vibrant designs for posters, comics and illustrations.

Why go? It's a bit more complex but produces a really cool result you can call your own.

Don't miss:  NYC has several incredible riso studios to visit offering private sessions including  Lucky Risograph  and  Secret Riso Club .

64.  Make something at Brooklyn Craft Company

• Classes and workshops

What is it? A DIY mecca with workshops on all kinds of crafting skills, from knitting to macrame.

Why go?  They'll put your hands to work and your mind at ease. 

Don't miss:  There's an online store where you can purchase the necessary supplies you'll need.

65.  Order some bagels and lox at Russ & Daughters

• Specialist food and drink

What is it?  Russ & Daughters has been serving lox, herring and other specialty foods on the Lower East Side since 1914.

Why go? Russ & Daughters is already is our go-to spot for Jewish apps shelling out the best lox in town, so stock up on sweets while you're there. The classic black & whites, a stunning iteration of the classic cookies, are a must.

Don’t miss: The   Super Heebster, a mix of horseradish dill cream cheese, wasabi-flavored roe and sublime whitefish salad that forms a holy trinity with an unholy name.

66.  Have a cuppa at Brooklyn High Low

• Prospect Heights

What is it? A hidden tea salon by vintage shop 1 of a Find.

Why go? The locale is meant to be a respite, where you can catch a break from the energetic buzz of New York’s metropolis.  Diners can choose from over 20 teas, from lavender earl grey blends to green tea jasmine.  In the kitchen, head chef Carlos Jimenez gets creative with his ever-changing menu, but guests can always find traditional scones and an assortment of finger sandwiches.

Don't miss:  Antiques and artifacts from Brooklyn's long history strewn about the salon.

67.  Visit the American Museum of Natural History

• Science and technology
• Upper West Side
• price 2 of 4

What is it?  Whether you’re interested in the world below our feet or the cultures of faraway lands or the stars light-years beyond our reach, the American Museum of Natural History is bound to teach you a few things you never knew.

Why go? You can spend a whole day just looking at the taxidermied animals that hail from across the world and the ocean, study the human species and the evolutionary origins of humans and our near (now extinct) cousins, spend the day like a geologist, and be filled with child-like awe in the presence of the Tyrannosaurus Rex, Wooly Mammoth and the Apatosaurus in the fourth floor’s world-renowned fossil collection.

Don't miss: The planetarium show "Worlds Beyond Earth."

68.  Pick up produce at Union Square Greenmarket

• Union Square

What is it?  An outdoor, year-round market featuring seasonal fruits and vegetables, farmstead cheeses, artisanal breads, fresh-cut flowers, wine and more.

Why go?  You’ll find yourself shopping elbow-to-elbow with top chefs for all manner of regionally grown culinary pleasures.

Don't miss: Cooking demonstrations, beer and spirits pop-ups and book signings. 

69.  Snack on some sweet treats at Fan-Fan Doughnuts

• Bedford-Stuyvesant

What is it?  Doughnut fans surely know about Fany Gerson’s cult-favorite treats at Dough Doughnuts. Now she’s gone out on her own with Fan-Fan Doughnuts and the menu looks as good as ever. Be prepared for long lines outside— it’s worth the wait.

Why go?  From Mexican cinnamon to the glazed braided doughnuts, the menu is consistently changing with new sugary surprises.

Don't miss:  Get your hands on a Mensch fan-fan, filled with praline cream and topped with choc-choc glaze and toasted hazelnuts, before they sell out.

70.  Stroll into Eddie's Sweet Shop

• Ice cream parlors
• Forest Hills

What is it? If you want a real trip down memory lane, this old-school soda fountain and diner will tap right into the New York nostalgia you're craving.

Why go? This Forest Hills gem has been in business for more than 100 years and still that attracts all generations to come in for a homemade scoop. Aside from the famous sundaes, the chocolate egg cream is one of the most famous in the city.

Don’t miss:  The sundaes are still served in the same metal tins for the perfect retro touch. 

71.  Explore Central Park like a pro

• Central Park

What is it?   The world's most famous green space.  Why go?   Explore Strawberry Fields, the Sheep Meadow, Cherry Hill, Bow Bridge, the Bethesda Fountain, the Naumburg Bandshell, the Loeb Boathouse, the Hans Christian Andersen Monument, the Alice in Wonderland statue, all in a "New York hour." Rent a  rowboat or take a gondola tour while you're at it.

Our take: I've visited Central Park literally hundreds of times and it never gets old to me. The park is pure magic whether it's your first visit or your 500th. — Things to Do Editor Rossilynne Culgan

72.  Conquer the Empire State Building

What is it? A world-famous landmark that towers above Manhattan.  

Why go? The main deck on the 86th floor offers stunning 360-degree views of the Hudson and East Rivers, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty and more. For some fascinating historical background, duck down to the "Dare to Dream" exhibit on the 80th floor, which honors the 3,400 people who built the 1,454-foot skyscraper and features original photographs, architectural sketches and construction notes. 

Don’t miss:  You can now watch sunrise  from the open-air observatory, with Starbucks coffee and pastries in hand. 

73.  Throw back a pint at McSorley’s Old Ale House

What is it? NYC’s oldest continuously operated saloon. Why go?  We love a bar with character, plus you’ll be able to join the ranks of past patrons like Abe Lincoln and John Lennon.  In traditional Irish-pub fashion,  McSorley’s floor has been thoroughly scattered with sawdust to take care of the spills and other messes that often accompany large quantities of cheap beer. Established in 1854, it has became an institution by remaining steadfastly authentic. 

Don't miss: McSorley’s Dark Ale and McSorley’s Light Ale. Both beverages have a lot more character than PBR, though at these prices, it won’t be long before you stop noticing. 

74.  Pick up a tome at Strand Book Store

What is it?  Founded in 1927, Strand is perhaps the most beloved indie bookseller in NYC.  

Why go?  With more than 2.5 million new, used and rare tomes—or as the sign outside says, 18 MILES OF BOOKS—Strand absolutely crams its shelves, with many new titles sold well below list price. Bibliophiles can spend hours checking the staff picks, classic novels, poetry, novels and nonfiction. We suggest walking up to the third floor, where early editions and rare signed copies are available for purchase.

Don’t miss: Perusing the $1 shelves.

75.  Have a classic NYC bagel at Tal Bagels

What is it? An iconic Upper West Side bagel counter. 

Why go? Is there a more distinctly New York (or at least NYC- beloved) dish than the bagel? Maybe. During morning hours? Absolutely not. The fact is that we do this weekend wakeup must—or afternoon stomach-padder, depending on how last night went—better than anyone. And although Tal Bagels provides by no means the most calming bagel experience in New York—for that, head to High Street on Hudson or Sadelle's—OG New Yorkers know that they're best eaten hunched over on park bench or at a bagelry counter top anyway. And we can't think of a better spot than this.   Don't miss:  The everything bagel toasted with scallion cream cheese. Still hungry? Discover all of the best bagels in NYC . 

76.  Walk around and take in impressive street art

• Coney Island

What is it? New York is the city where street art was born, and it’s still the best place to see it in the world. 

Why go? Catching art on the street is a far more visceral experience that seeing it on a museum wall. For proof, check out the Bowery Graffiti Wall on the corner of Houston and Bowery to see what world-class street artist is currently on display (past artists have included Banksy, JR and Shepard Fairey) or peep the rotating lineup of artists at Coney Island Art Walls.

Don’t miss: If you’re looking for an arty outing after dark, head down to the Lower East Side for the 100 Gates Project , which displays impressive works on the grates that cover businesses at night. 

77.  Take in Brooklyn Heights and the Promenade

• Brooklyn Heights

What is it?  A ridiculously photogentic neighborhood teeming with tree-lined streets and Brooklyn brownstones. 

Why go? Be sure to walk the fruit streets of Brooklyn Heights (Cranberry, Orange and Pineapple) for that "Brooklyn-from-the-movies feel." And there's a nifty backstory: In the mid-1800s, prominent Brooklyn Heights resident Lady Middagh saw the "pretentious" street names in her ’hood—those named after Brooklyn’s wealthy families—and decided to take matters into her own hands by changing the street signs under cover of darkness to Cranberry, Orange and Pineapple. 

Don’t miss: Head to the water and hit the Brooklyn Promenade, a one-third-mile stretch of pavement along the East River overlooking an unforgettable span of NYC’s skyline. 

78.  Adventure to the Queens County Farm Museum

• Special interest

What is it? Though not as easily accessible by public transit as most NYC museums, this Queens County treasure is well worth the bus trek or car ride.

Why go? As the city’s longest continually farmed site in the city (it’s been in operation since 1697), the 47 acres feels like an entirely different world compared to Manhattan. Feed and pet the barnyard animals, including sheep, ponies and goats, hop aboard a hayride and come back during the fall harvest season when you can go pumpkin picking and attempt to find your way through the Amazing Maize Maze.

79.  Pay tribute to those at Green-Wood Cemetery

• Walks and tours

What is it? A beautiful final resting place in Brooklyn filled with Victorian mausoleums, cherubs and gargoyles.  

Why go? If you were alive in the 19th century, one of your goals in life was to reserve a place to rest here. Today, this cemetery boasts over 560,000 residents—including Civil War generals. But there’s more to do here than grave-spot: Check out the massive Gothic arch at the main entrance or climb to the top of Battle Hill, one of the highest points in Kings County and a pivotal spot during the Battle of Brooklyn in 1776.

Don’t miss:   A fan of all things spooky? Take one of the moonlight tours of the cemetery hosted around Halloween.

80.  Hang out at Washington Square Park

• Historic buildings and sites
• Greenwich Village

What is it? A 9.75-acre public park that serves as the beating heart of Greenwich Village.  Why go?  It's one of the most iconic spots in NYC and has a ton of history, serving as the backdrop to many civil rights movements, celebrations and more. Don’t miss:  The chance to people watch, from admiring skateboarders' tricks to enjoying some music by buskers.

81.  Visit Madison Square Park

What is it? Madison Square Park is a green oasis in the Flatiron district—not to be confused with Madison Square Garden.

Why go? There’s always something going in the environs (three streets by one avenue block) from outdoor art exhibits to free concerts.   The park is also home to the first Shake Shack, which still consistently see lines that would make the hottest clubs jealous. Tourists go for Shake Shack, workers go to eat their lunch, pooch owners go for the dog run, guardians go for the children’s playground… and because the park is dotted with benches, it lends for the best leisurely people-watching.

Don’t miss: Stepping onto the southwest corner of the park is debatably the hallowed grounds on which baseball was born.  

82.  Reconnect with wildlife at The Bronx Zoo

• Zoo and aquariums

What is it?  The biggest metropolitan zoo in North America. 

Why go?  If you’ve got a hankering to reconnect with wildlife, check out this Bronx go-to. With more than 265-acres of animals and wildlife, you won’t be able to see everything in one day, so consider taking a two-hour tour of the Congo Gorilla Forest, World of Reptiles or the Himalayan Highlands exhibits. Be sure to pay a special visit to the American Bison, too, which was declared America’s national mammal.         

Don’t miss:  Strapped for cash? “The Bronx Zoo is free on Wednesdays,” points out Danny of Flushing. 

83.  Explore the massive Pelham Bay Park

What is it? A sprawling public park in the Bronx.  Why go?  Explore the trails around Pelham Bay Park teeming with natural wonders. Pelham Bay Park isn’t just the end of the 6 line—it’s a green space three times bigger than Central Park. Among its treasures: two golf courses, a massive historic mansion, a 13-mile saltwater shoreline along the Long Island Sound, plenty of hiking trials and, for you bird watchers, a hearty population of osprey. Don’t miss: The Bronx’s only public beach, Orchard Beach.

84.  Meander the Brooklyn Promenade

What is it?  A perfect place to enjoy a panoramic view of the city.

Why go?  This one-third-mile stretch of pavement along the East River is a favorite destination of residents, tourists and couples looking to make out next to an unforgettable span of NYC’s skyline. Breathtaking views of the Brooklyn Bridge and Statue of Liberty are both visible from here, but the Promenade wasn’t originally built for aesthetic reasons: City planner Robert Moses originally wanted the Brooklyn Queens Expressway to run through Brooklyn Heights. After lots of opposition from the local community, the promenade was built to insulate the mansions and tree-lined streets nearby from highway noise and has been doing so since it opened in October 1950.  

Don’t miss:  Be sure to break off the path and head further inland to explore the beautiful brownstones of Brooklyn Heights. 

85.  Take in a show at The Shed at Hudson Yards

What is it?  The Shed—the much-discussed cultural center in Hudson Yards featuring a retractable roof—is home to powerful shows. 

Why go?  The Shed brings together established and emerging artists to create new work in fields ranging from pop to classical music, painting to digital media, theater to literature, and sculpture to dance. Check their schedule for a show that fits your interests.

86.  Stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge

What is it?  A true feat of 19th century engineering and arguably the one walk every local and visitor must take. 

Why go? This essential trek is is truly romantic, whether you're falling in love with yourself, a partner or the city itself. The 1.3-mile-long stunner was the world's largest suspension bridge when it opened in 1883 it has remained an iconic landmark of the city ever since. 

Don’t miss:  The Brooklyn side of the bridge ends in gorgeous Dumbo, where you can explore  Brooklyn Bridge Park , gaze at Lady Liberty, visit the Brooklyn Flea on Sundays.

87.  Visit The Statue of Liberty

• Liberty Island

What is it?  Since 1886, t he most famous copper statue in the world has held her torch high in New York Harbor as the quintessential symbol of American liberty. 

Why go?  The statue’s massive pedestal houses an observation deck as well as exhibits detailing the fascinating history of the 305-foot copper statue gifted to the U.S. from France to celebrate the friendship of the two nations. Check out the original torch and read the bronze plaque with Emma Lazarus’s poem “A New Colossus” (you know, the tired, poor, huddled masses yearning to be free). 

Don’t miss: Strapped for cash? The Staten Island Ferry is free and sails near the icon so you can get a peek. 

88.  Meander along The High Line

What is it?  Chelsea's above-ground park and garden set on old train tracks offers a natural respite and 1.4 miles of car-free walking space set between the daring skyscrapers of Manhattan's west side.

Why go?   It's an innovative reclaimed space that inpsires no matter how many times you've walked along it.

Don't miss:   A rotating display of artworks that fill the space. Plus, there's a beautiful new bridge called the Moynihan Train Hall Connector , which allows pedestrians to walk all the way from the Meatpacking District straight to Penn Station using the elevated park.

89.  Relax at Brooklyn Bridge Park

What is it?   Brooklyn Bridge Park, with its   grassy expanses, copious bike paths,   public art displays, basketball courts and soccer pitches, holdas a lot of fun attractions.

Why go?   The Pier 2 Uplands, three-acre site that includes a 6,300-square-foot lawn and a water play area, and the Squibb Bridge.

Don't miss:  Brunch or dinner at Fornino's on the waterfront.

90.  Spend a leisurely afternoon in Prospect Park

• Prospect Park

What is it? A 526-acre sprawling public park in the heart of Brooklyn. 

Why go?  While bicycling, warm-weather picnics and weekend runs are a must at this park, you can do pretty much any outdoor activity your heart desires: there’s bird-watching, baseball, basketball and more. Don’t miss: We recommend roller skating or renting a paddle boat at LeFrak, which transforms into an ice skating rink in the winter.

91.  Hang at the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere

What is it?  A 1,131-foot-high-observation deck atop 20 Hudson Yards.

Why go?  To take in panoramic views of the entire city on a 7,500-square-foot triangular platform. 

Don’t miss: If you’re terrified of heights in the open air, but want in on the action, there’s also a champagne bar inside the 100th floor where you can sip cocktails with the same 360-degree views of NYC.  

92.  Bask in art and architecture at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

• Art and design
• Upper East Side
• price 3 of 4

What is it?  A renowned art museum and architectural icon with works by Picasso, Peggy Guggenheim’s trove of Cubist, Surrealist and Abstract Expressionist works, as well as the largest collection of Kandinskys in the United States.

Why go?  Designed by original starchitect Frank Lloyd Wright, it's arguably the only New York museum that shows art inside a work of art. 

Don't miss : What makes the building a global icon is its stunning interior rotunda and oculus. There, along its ascending ramps, you’ll find a world-class collection, as well a full slate of temporary shows.

93.  Get high at One World Observatory

• Towers and viewpoints

What is it? An observation deck affording one hell of a view. 

Why go? Not only does it have the trippiest elevator in the city, One World Observatory is also a fierce contender for best views in the city. Ride up to the 102nd floor surrounded by a VR-like film, then admire the 360-degree views at the top of the tower. 

Don’t miss:  Gawk at the entirety of Manhattan and the Empire State Building on one side and the Brooklyn, Manhattan and Williamsburg Bridges on the other—and then Governors Island and the Statue of Liberty on the other.

94.  Get slimy at Sloomoo

What is it? Part visual splendor, part olfactory wonder and part ooey-gooey sensory fun, Sloomoo Institute’s slime museum welcomes all ages to its home in Soho.

Why go?  While Sloomoo is a highly Instagrammable experience, the founders hope you’ll spend some time away from your phone and immersed in the moment during your 90-minute visit to truly have the slime of your life.

Don't miss: The DIY slime bar where you can make your own slime to take home. 

Our take: Ever dreamed of getting slimed like you were on Nickelodeon? You can make that dream a reality here. I did it, and it made me feel like I was a kid again. — Things to Do Editor Rossilynne Culgan

95.  Peep paintings at the Whitney Museum of American Art

• Meatpacking District

What is it?  After nearly 50 years in its Marcel-Breur-designed building on Madison Avenue at 75th Street, the Whitney Museum decamped in 2015 to a new home in the Meatpacking District. 

Why go? Founded in 1931 by sculptor and art patron Gertrude Vanderbilt, the Whitney is dedicated to presenting the work of American artists. Its collection holds about 25,000 works by more than 3,500 American artists. Check out musts by  Alexander Calder, Willem de Kooning, Edward Hopper (the museum holds his entire estate), Jasper Johns, Louise Nevelson, Georgia O’Keeffe and Claes Oldenburg.    

Don't miss: The views of the art inside are what you're here for, of course, but don't miss the skyline views from the museum's rooftop bar.

96.  Go back in time at South Street Seaport Museum

What is it? A museum located in the historic Seaport District that tells the story of New York as a port city. There's an extensive collection art and artifacts, a working 19th-century print shop, and a fleet of historic vessels that all work to tell the story of "Where New York Begins."

Why go?  You can step aboard the famous 1885 Wavertree . Plus, admission is pay-what-you-wish.

97.  See world-class works at the Museum of Modern Art

What is it? Institution housing one of the world’s finest collections of art from the 18th century through today.

Why go?  Around nearly every corner of the venerated museum is a seminal piece by an artist trumpeted in art history or coveted by contemporary collectors. During the height of tourist season, around Christmas and again in late spring and summer, expect a shoving-match just to catch a momentary glance at Van Gogh’s Starry Night or Picasso’s Les Demoiselles d’Avignon . 

Don’t miss: Can't swing the entrance free? Visit during MoMA's free Friday nights, held on select evenings.

98.  Immerse yourself in Buddhist culture at the Rubin

What is it? Donald and Shelley Rubin’s impressive collection of Himalayan, Indian and Buddhist art and artifacts on display.

Why go? Spiritual types will love this museum, which is dedicated to Himalayan and Buddhist art and features lectures, movies, music and more. The museum is layered over five gallery floors in the old Barney’s New York space on 17th street. The awe-inspiring works range from classical to contemporary giving visitors a well-rounded experience with Eastern cultures.

99.  Have a feast at Chelsea Market

• Shopping centers

What is it?  One of New York’s most notable food halls that boasts more than 35 vendors. 

Why go? While this  hot spot for foodies and shopping addicts  can get congested with tourists during peak hours, it’s worth throwing some elbows for Middle Eastern bites from Miznon, tacos from Los Tacos No.1 and halva from Seed + Mill.  Aside from finger-lickin’ fare and sweet merchandise, the attraction offers historical charms such as the market’s iconic fountain, which was crafted using discarded drill bits and exposed pipe from the former Nabisco factory. 

100.  Make a great escape to the Cloisters

• Washington Heights

What is it?  Set in a lovely park overlooking the Hudson River, the Cloisters houses the Met’s medieval art and architecture collections.

Why go?  Soak it all in by following a path that winds through the peaceful grounds to a castle that seems to have survived from the Middle Ages. (It was built less than 100 years ago, using material from five medieval French cloisters.)  

Don’t miss:  The famous Unicorn Tapestries, the 12th-century Fuentidueña Chapel and the Annunciation Triptych by Robert Campin.  

More great things to do across the globe

The best things to do in the world right now.

Music, art, food, nature and the year’s biggest parties—these are very best things to do and see right now, anywhere in the world.

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How One Harlem Block Became a Symbol of Urban Despair and Hope

In a hub for drugs and disarray, some see New York at its worst. Others see a community doing its best to help.

Commuters mix with drug users on 125th Street in Harlem where several major transit lines converge. Credit...

Supported by

By Sharon Otterman

Photographs by David Dee Delgado

• Aug. 4, 2024

Thousands of people walk along 125th Street between Park and Lexington Avenues each day and most do not linger. Commuters race to catch trains to Westchester, climbing up to the elevated Metro-North tracks. Others hurry down to the subway, bound for Midtown Manhattan or the Bronx.

They pass through a scene that conjures up all the worst stereotypes of urban disorder: closed storefronts, litter, public drug use, people nodding out. But on a deeper look, the block also reveals an ecosystem filled not just with despair, but fortitude and empathy, too.

Drug dealers. Drug users. Teachers. Doctors. Counselors. Police officers.

Some come to the block for help; others to help them. Some prey on the vulnerable. Others are just trying to make a few bucks and survive. Some have come to accept people addicted to drugs as part of their community; others wish the block was cleaner, safer — and would make them disappear if they could.

Every borough in the city has a place like this one, where urban woes seem to cluster. In the Bronx, it’s the commercial hub around 149th and Third Avenue. In Queens, parts of Jackson Heights.

But the scene around 125th draws particular attention because it is on a major commuter corridor and in the center of rapidly gentrifying Harlem.

There is also something new to blame for the chaos. One block off 125th Street, there is now one of the first officially sanctioned supervised drug consumption sites in the country.

The site, OnPoint NYC , offers people addicted to street drugs, like fentanyl or crack, a place to use their drugs more safely. The staff there reverse overdoses if necessary, and OnPoint provides other forms of help, including medical care, food and counseling.

The safety and acceptance it offers extends like a kind of circle outside its front door on East 126th Street, between Park and Lexington. In the shade of nearby sidewalk trees, drug users and low-level dealers exchange tiny clear envelopes for a few dollar bills, lingering to chat. OnPoint sets out garbage cans and helps clean up the litter left behind.

“Sometimes people are acting out on the street,” said Dr. Michael Pappas, a physician who treats wounds and prescribes addiction medicine at OnPoint. “But I think most of the time people, even a lot of our participants, are looking out for each other.”

Still, the block can be chaotic and, in that sense, it embodies a national conflict over what to do about street drug addiction. Fights break out, and feuds can turn violent. People overdose and OnPoint workers rush out to revive them. They save lives, but not everyone likes how OnPoint seems to have made the area, long a hot spot for drug use, even more of a draw now.

No one asked the neighbors before OnPoint’s injection site opened here. In late 2021, when he was mayor, Bill de Blasio approved it on his own in an effort to relieve the ballooning overdose crisis.

Right across the street, parents drop off their children each morning at the Graham School , a beloved day care and preschool. OnPoint workers stand around in yellow safety vests to help quell their anxieties, but parents still worry about what their children encounter.

“My kids can’t run down the block by themselves anymore,” said Francesa Barreiro, who has sent all five of her children to the school over the course of a decade. She said she was relieved that the school had stopped taking the children on neighborhood walks. The day care, she noted, also put bulletproof glass in its first-floor windows.

She gestured at the cluster of men and women hanging out in front of OnPoint. “You know how many times, just with them hanging around, we’ve had gun violence, too?”

Is OnPoint making the neighborhood better or worse? It depends on who you ask.

Gretchen Buchenholz, 88, founded the day care and runs it through the Association to Benefit Children, a nonprofit. She has been working in the community helping poor children and families since 1985 and said the situation had always been bad.

“Before there was OnPoint, that bodega there was the center of all the drug traffic,” she said, pointing to a store on 126th Street. Detectives, she said, would sometimes observe the action from a window in the day care’s bathroom.

But, she said, it makes sense to locate her school there, where the need is great.

“And it makes sense to me that they’re here,” she said of OnPoint, for the same reason.

Overall, she said, she thinks of the block as “a marvelous block, because it has, and has continued to have, much discourse, much action, and much work together.”

Now, OnPoint workers help keep her doorstep clear of drug users, whom she used to shoo away herself. OnPoint workers also come to clean up when people use an alcove outside of one of her classroom’s emergency doors as a toilet, she said.

The police are around but often keep to the perimeter of the action, sitting in cars or standing in clusters near the subway station. They are ready to respond in case anything unusual or violent happens, like a shooting, which happened one Tuesday afternoon in June.

On that sweltering day, a man was shot in the leg, right in front of the day care, resulting in a lockdown. The police called an ambulance and asked the day care for its surveillance video.

Police statistics show a total of 74 major crimes so far this year on the square block bounded by 125th Street and 126th Street and Lexington and Park Avenues. That tally includes three shootings and a man shoved to his death at the subway station in March, making it one of the most violent blocks in the precinct, where there have been a total of six murders and seven shooting incidents so far this year.

A variety of drugs are said to be bought and sold on or near the block: crack, pills, fentanyl, K2, methadone. But the police do not make arrests very often, people on the block say.

The reasons are complicated. In part, it is because the city’s legal system focuses on bigger fish than low-level drug activity. A state law passed in 2021 that decriminalized the sale or possession of syringes and hypodermic needles also makes it more difficult to justify some arrests.

But the approach of the police on 126th Street also likely reflects an effort to help OnPoint, as they try to connect drug users to treatment and assistance.

Jason Beltre, OnPoint’s director of community outreach, said the organization regularly asked the police not to “poach people who are using drugs” — meaning arrest them on the way on and off the block — and instead to “make sure they make it to OnPoint so they can get help.”

Some neighbors disagree with this philosophy, sometimes angrily. One morning in early July, as an OnPoint needle-cleanup crew came by his house on 126th Street, Abasi Owens came outside and started yelling at them. He grabbed the yellow safety vest of one of workers. They told him he was being “weird.”

“You know what’s weird?” Mr. Owens responded. “To have to deal with crack heads from OnPoint in front of your house while I’m trying to raise children on this block.”

OnPoint is not the only draw for drug users. The block also is home to one of the city’s largest methadone clinics. At a nearby bus stop, people arrive from homeless shelters on Wards Island.

Samuel Cruz has been a pastor of the Pentecostal church on the block for nearly two decades. He said the crime was worse years ago, but now, police officers are around day and night.

Mr. Cruz tries to be kind to the people who need help, he said. On a recent Sunday, a young woman he knows, Olivia, came into the church to find him. She was dirty and wearing no shoes. He gave her a dollar and she left.

“It’s the devil,” he said. “They don’t want to be like that.”

Ali Ngiaya, a Senegalese immigrant who has been selling perfumes and incense from a street stand on 125th Street for the past seven years, calls it the “worst block.” But it is also a good place for his business.

The commuters and residents who buy his products are here, and he has a shady spot. People nod to him and call out “Ali” as they walk by. “Hey, my brother, God bless you,” he says in return.

Bigger businesses have not survived. The Duane Reade and the McDonald’s across the street have closed down, leaving empty storefronts.

But a gleaming hub for a new subway extension is eventually planned for an empty lot at 125th and Park. The construction of modern rental buildings to the west and east gets closer each year.

It is not clear yet if the changes will uproot or merely add to the mix of people who make the street what it is now: hair-braiding ladies sitting outside their salon, disturbed people yelling at no one in particular, parents pushing children in strollers.

Like any other New York City block, it has become its own kind of community, maybe, at times, even a family. That is the lesson that Matthew Kane, a teacher at the 126th Street school, teaches his students, some of whom are homeless or just arrived as migrants.

“You have your family at home and then you have the Moose Room family,” he told them, referring to his preschool classroom. “There are lots of different ways to make a family. It just takes love.”

Sharon Otterman is a Times reporter covering higher education, public health and other issues facing New York City. More about Sharon Otterman

Around the New York Region

A look at life, culture, politics and more in new york, new jersey and connecticut..

Symbol of Despair and Hope:  One block in Harlem has become a hub for drugs and disarray. Some see New York at its worst, while others see a community doing its best to help .

Piping Plover Takeover:  Every summer, a neighborhood in Queens loses its beach to the endangered shorebird. Some residents want it back .

Broadway Turns to Influencers:  To reach younger and more diverse audiences, Broadway shows are increasingly looking to Instagram and TikTok creators .

Street Wars: Eighth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan is a grand thoroughfare of vendors, tourists and commuters. It’s also crowded, dirty and sometimes dangerous .

Sunday Routine: The Reverend Vince Anderson, a mainstay of the Brooklyn music scene, fills his Sundays  with worship in two languages, the Mets and a full hour of watering his 92 houseplants.

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