There are few places that inspire such pride, that when you’re asked where you’re from, (as in country), you immediately say New York. Because if you can make it here, you can make it anywhere. And you bet you’re going to be damned proud to say you’re a New Yorker. So, after a summer of gallivanting across Europe, you know there’s no place like home. As do over 10 million tourists annually who come to New York. Inspired by family visiting this summer, we thought for this year’s New York issue, we’d revisit all the classics. From old school restaurants to the touristy attractions that we all secretly enjoy but only take advantage of with out-of-town guests. Because some things are timeless or will be timeless.
If Ferris had his ditch day in NYC, it would have been Ferris Bueller’s Days Off, as there’s just so much to do, that several lifetimes couldn’t cover. This is your lifetime New York list that you haven’t done in ages, or maybe never even done at all. So, like Ferris, take those ditch days. Because whether you’re a New Yorker or just visiting New York, you’re not going to let life pass you by. Here’s the go-to list of what to do in New York City.
If Ferris had his ditch day in NYC, it would have been Ferris Bueller’s Days Off. There’s just too much to do that lifetimes can’t cover. So this is your lifetime New York list that you haven’t done in ages, or maybe never even done at all. Be like Ferris, take those ditch days. Because whether you’re a New Yorker or visiting New York, you’re not going to let life pass you by.
The Neighborhoods
What to do in New York City has to include its neighborhoods. New York City’s neighborhoods are like an intricate tapestry woven together to make up one big picture. Each has its own distinct character and culture that makes it unique, creating a cross-pollination of ideas, customs, and cuisines. These various histories and lifestyles can best be seen by walking through the different neighborhoods and sampling the daily life. Whether it’s the culinary delights of Little Italy or the morning markets of Chinatown. The pulsating energy of Times Square or the chic galleries of Chelsea. There are too many different scenes to name and too many neighborhoods to sample. But that’s what makes the city great. It doesn’t matter if you’re a long-time New Yorker or a first-timer, there’s always something new to explore.
The Neighborhoods
Highline + Meatpacking District
Soho + Nolita
Hudson Yards
West Village
Chinatown
Total Tourist for the Day
Being a tourist in NYC is a good time for both visitors and long-time New Yorkers. There’s no way of missing the whirlwind of energy that flows through the streets on any given day of the year. However, if it’s your first time here or if you never got around to seeing the essential sites, this list of what to do in NYC for tourists is for you. It’s hard not to be impressed by the city’s skyline from a boat, or from the top of The Edge in Hudson Yards. You get a different perspective on a landscape that can sometimes swallow you whole. Additionally, New York City has must-see museums, monuments, and cultural attractions that make the city what it is.
The Touristy Sites
Circle Cruise with the Statue of Liberty – VIP Tickets
Empire State Building
The Edge
One Vanderbilt
Day at The Met & Guggenheim
9/11 Memorial
Iconic Venues and Attractions
Like all things New York, there is no shortage of world-renowned venues for sports, music, and entertainment in the city. In terms of sports, there are two teams that are the most New York you can get. That is the Knicks for basketball and the Yankees for baseball. Catching a game of either of these teams is a must-do for all New Yorkers and visitors trying to get in on the excitement. Additionally, New York City is home to the US Open, a world stage for tennis that occurs once a year at the end of August. For music, you have venues like Radio City Music Hall, The Beacon Theater, Carnegie Hall, and Lincoln Center. And that is just a shortlist. It doesn’t matter what kind of music you’re into, the city will have a venue for it, probably one of the best in the country.
It goes without saying that this city is also the country’s and maybe even the world’s epicenter for theater. Catch a play at Broadway or The Apollo or simply walk around the theater district and see what you find.
The Attractions
Knicks Game
Yankees Game
Concert at Radio City Music Hall
Lincoln Center for Opera + Ballet
Broadway Show + Times Square
Parks of the City
If you’re looking for what to do in New York City on any chill afternoon, head to the parks. NYC parks are a calm oasis in all the chaos. But, they aren’t just a spot to have lunch, read a book, or people-watch. They also have personalities of their own. Central Park is the most famous and biggest, covering 843 acres and going from 59th Street all the way up to 110th. Inside you’ll find tons of activity but also moments of quietness. You can also find plenty of sports areas, gardens, lakes, a zoo, and the famous ice rink. Other popular parks are Washington Square Park and Union Square Park. In these parks, it’s less about the open space and more about the people watching. Riverside Park is on the Upper West Side and offers scenic views of the Hudson River and a track for biking and running. Battery Park is filled with monuments and history important to the city.
The Parks
Central Park
Washington Square Park
Union Square Park
Riverside Park
Battery Park
It’s important to mention that we covered Manhattan in this article but there are four other boroughs that should be seen in their own right. Yes, the list could go on and on, and in fact, it does – so make the most of your time in the city.
Related Articles
Best First Date Bars in NYC
The Little Nell Comes to NYC
Best Jazz Nights in NYC
