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Best things to do in New York

New York calling? Here are the best things to do.

Planning a city break to New York? Or stopping off in the city on a tour of the USA? Either way, you’re in for a treat. From world-famous sights like the Statue of Liberty and Times Square to hidden gems like neighbourhood bagel bars and tucked-away pizza joints, the Big Apple is absolutely jam-packed with must-sees.

If you’re looking for the best things to do in New York, be warned: the list is a long one, and you’ll need several days to make a dent in it. But, scratch the surface of this incredible city and you’ll soon see why it’s gained superleague status around the world. Spoiler: you may find it difficult to leave…

Once you’ve had a read, check out our deals on breaks to New York

EAT BAGELS IN DUMBO

Start your day in New York with a stroll through Brooklyn Bridge Park. This grassy stretch unfurls along the East River waterfront to the trendy area of Dumbo – which just so happens to be packed with places to eat. Grab a quintessential NYC bagel from La Bagel Delight, then get a selfie with Manhattan Bridge in the background. There’s a photo spot just around the corner.
View of the Brookyln Bridge from DUMBO

CROSS BROOKLYN BRIDGE

If you’re in the Dumbo area, you’re going to want to cross Brooklyn Bridge. It takes about an hour one-way, allowing plenty of time to stop for photos. Book a guided tour and you’ll get insider info about the bridge’s design, Cold War connections, and the history of those iconic love locks. Or just wander across at your own pace – it’s free.
Brooklyn Bridge at dusk viewed from the Brooklyn Bridge Park in New York City

WANDER THROUGH WALL STREET

On the opposite side of the river to Brooklyn Bridge, you’ll find Wall Street AKA the financial heart of the USA. Must-sees here include the New York Stock Exchange, the Fearless Girl statue, and the Federal Hall National Memorial. Give yourself at least an hour to tick them all off then head for Stone Street for lunch. This cobbled street is one of New York’s oldest, and it’s lined with restaurants and cafés with tables that spill out onto the pavement.
Broadway and Wall Street intersection in Manhattan with Trinity Church in the background

SEE THE STATUE OF LIBERTY

Head to Battery Park – it’s a couple of minutes’ walk from Wall Street – and you’ve made it to Manhattan’s southernmost point. It’s home to Castle Clinton, a 19th-century fort that’s now the Statue of Liberty ticket office. You can see Lady Liberty up-close on a 60-minute sightseeing cruise, or just admire her from here. The views of Ellis Island and New York Harbour are incredible.
View of the Empire State from the Top of the Rock

VISIT THE 911 MEMORIAL AND MUSEUM

A visit to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum is a sobering and poignant experience. Learn about the tragic events via interactive timelines and exhibits, and pay tribute to those who lost their lives at the twin reflecting pools on the site of the former World Trade Center. While you’re in the area, head up to the One World Observatory for birds-eye views of NYC.
Close up shot of 9 11 Memorial, outside the Museum

STROLL THROUGH CENTRAL PARK

No trip to New York would be complete without a visit to Central Park, the leafy heart of Manhattan. Must-visits here include Central Park Zoo, Bethesda Terrace and the famous Carousel, but take a walk and you’ll find all sorts of reasons to stop and gawp. Before you go, snap an obligatory shot of you feeding the pigeons in the same spot as Macaulay Culkin in Home Alone 2.
Central Park aerial view, Manhattan, New York

CLIMB THE EMPIRE STATE BUILDING

Easily one of the most famous – if not the most famous – building in the world, the Empire State Building often tops the list of things to do in New York, and for good reason. Every floor is packed with something to see, from shops and restaurants to observation towers and panoramic views. Plus, it’s on Fifth Avenue, so you’re perfectly placed for a spot of shopping. Macy’s is just around the corner.
Couple looking out over New York City from the Empire State Building

SEE THE LIGHTS ON BROADWAY

Broadway slices through Manhattan from one end to the other, but is most famous for the theatres at its centre. Head here to watch a hit musical, take in a world-famous play, or go on a behind-the-scenes tour to really get under the skin of New York’s theatre district. Or, just stand in Times Square – the beating heart of Broadway – and be dazzled by the lights and sounds of NYC at its best.
Broadway and 44st Street Signs, Manhattan, New York City at night

Ready to take a bite out of the Big Apple?

Browse our holidays to New York.

Or, for more inspiration, check out some surprising things to do in New York, find out how to do New York on a budget and take a look at some of New York’s most stylish hotels.

Get holiday ready and find out more about travel money in the United States.

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Author: Katie Gregory

Last updated: 09.02.23

Holiday Type

Destination

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