Things to do & places to visit in New York, United States

New York State has it all – booming metropolises, majestic waterfalls, mountains, wine country, chicken wings. Yes, NYC is a magnet for tourists, but an exploration of the rest of the state can be equally thrilling. The Finger Lakes Wine Region is a vision of serene waters, quaint B&Bs, and pretty vineyards. Movie buffs will love Rochester, home of the George Eastman House and one of the world’s most comprehensive film archives. On your way to Niagara Falls, stop in Buffalo to fuel up on spicy wings.

New York #3 destination in United States 2023. The average rating score is 4.52 based on 1.3m traveler reviews, of 3.664 attractions. Timezone: America/New_York, current date and time: Friday, April 26, 2024, 21:07.

Top things to do (31)

Top destinations in New York 100

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Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 The Metropolitan Museum of Art (55.0k reviews) from $85.99
- Immense Historical Collective
Friday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Art Museums

At New York City's most visited museum and attraction, you will experience over 5,000 years of art from around the world. The Met is for anyone as a source of inspiration, insight and understanding. You can learn, escape, play, dream, discover, connect. See more..
5.0 Manhattan Skyline (21.5k reviews)
- Great welcoming sight
Friday: 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM Points of Interest & Landmarks

From the Chrysler Building to the Empire State Building, this world-famous skyline view of New York's most densely populated borough is a must-see for any traveler. See more..
5.0 Cave of the Winds (6.373 reviews)
- An Experience!
Friday: 9:00 AM - 4:15 PM Caverns & Caves

Nestled on Goat Island, Cave of the Winds is an exhilarating tour that brings you very close to the falls. The tour starts with the indoor multimedia ‘World Changed Here Pavilion’ museum, where you can learn more about the falls’ history. Then, you're brought 175 feet down in an elevator, where you can get soaked at the Hurricane Deck, right next to Bridal View Falls. Plan your visit between May to October, before the onset of winter temperatures. You can also grab skip-the-line tickets as part of a tour, or even join a deluxe sightseeing tour of both the American and Canadian sides. – Tripadvisor See more..
5.0 Watkins Glen State Park (4.752 reviews)
- Beautiful State Park!
Friday: 8:30 AM - 7:00 PM State Parks

Watkins Glen State Park is a natural wonder located in Upstate New York, about 250 miles from New York City. The highlight here is the 19 waterfalls that cascade down the stream and rock formations—you'll want to take your time exploring them along the hiking trails on offer. The Gorge Trail along Glen Creek is particularly stunning, just be careful of the slippery steps. Consider visiting Watkins Glen State Park on a tour of Niagara Falls from New York City. For fewer crowds, visit on weekdays or early in the day—especially during the peak summer season. – Tripadvisor See more..
5.0 Corning Museum of Glass (3.890 reviews) from $22.00
- A visually awesome museum
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums

Travel through 3,500 years of glassmaking history at The Corning Museum of Glass, the world’s largest glass museum. Catch a glass-blowing demonstration, make your own glass ornament, watch a flameworking showcase, check out the tower of casserole dishes, and marvel at countless glass sculptures. The Innovation Center promises great fun too, where you can whisper to a friend from both ends of a giant glass egg. Don’t leave without visiting the Shops, and refueling at the café. Book your ticket in advance—each ticket is valid for two days, with kids and teens visiting for free. – Tripadvisor See more..
5.0 Ground Zero Museum Workshop (3.004 reviews)
- Museum Workshop Tour - Emotional
Friday: 12:30 PM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

9/11 Museum Workshop: 100 Images & Artifacts from 9/11, in the Meatpacking District near High Line Park. Experience what it was like to be with FDNY Firefighters on the front lines after the 9/11 attacks and educate your kids about 9/11 in a gentle, non-threatening way. Experience the stunning images of Official Ground Zero Photographer Gary Marlon Suson. "Rare Photos" (N.Y. Times) are displayed, some in lifelike 3-D. Winner of Trip Advisor's "Top 25 Museums in the USA” Award for 2013/2014 and a member of Trip Advisor's "Hall of Fame." Presented in BOSE Audio. Praised by parents as a "safe" intro to 9/11 for their young kids. Guests allowed to pick up rare World Trade artifacts. 1-Hour audio tours Wednesday to Saturday include self-guided audio narration in English, Italian, French and Spanish. Walk-ins welcome. "Incredible" says Fox News. Tastefully and realistically presented. See the "Bible Page" and "Frozen Clock." A wonderful “first stop” before your visit to the 9/11 Memorial. See more..
5.0 The Strong National Museum of Play (2.200 reviews)
- Great for everyone
Friday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Children's Museums • History Museums

The Strong is a highly interactive, collections-based museum devoted to the history and exploration of play. It is one of the largest history museums in the United States and one of the leading museums serving families. The Strong houses the world's largest and most comprehensive collection of historical materials related to play and is home to the International Center for the History of Electronic Games, the National Toy Hall of Fame, the World Video Game Hall of Fame, the Brian Sutton-Smith Library and Archives of Play, the Woodbury School, and the American Journal of Play. Together, these enable a multifaceted array of research, exhibition, and other interpretive and educational activities that serve a diverse audience of adults, families, children, students, teachers, scholars, collectors, and others around the globe. See more..
4.5 Central Park (133.7k reviews)
- An oasis of calm in a mad metropolis
Friday: 6:00 AM - 1:00 AM Spent More than 3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Parks • Scenic Walking Areas

For more than 150 years, visitors have flocked to Central Park's 843 green acres in the heart of Manhattan. Since 1980, the Park has been managed by the Central Park Conservancy, in partnership with the public. Central Park is open 6 am to 1 am daily. Visit the official website of Central Park to learn more about Park happenings and activities and to learn how you to help Central Park! See more..
4.5 The National 9/11 Memorial & Museum (96.4k reviews) from $33.00
- Deep and moving experience
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums • Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks

Through commemoration, exhibitions and educational programs, The National September 11 Memorial & Museum, a nonprofit in New York City, remembers and honors the 2,983 people killed in the horrific attacks of September 11, 2001, and February 26, 1993, as well as those who risked their lives to save others and all who demonstrated extraordinary compassion in the aftermath of the attacks. 9/11 Memorial, Open Daily, 7-days, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 9/11 Memorial Museum, Open Thursday–Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thanksgiving and Christmas: Memorial Only, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Museum Closed See more..
4.5 Empire State Building (93.7k reviews) from $47.90
- Awesome views
Friday: 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings • Observation Decks & Towers

The Empire State Building is the World's Most Famous Building. It rises 1,454 ft from ground to antenna & features the only 360 degree open-air vantage point of Midtown. The 86th & 102nd Fl Observatories are open daily, see esbnyc.com for hours. On a clear day you can see up to 6 states. The brand-new 2nd floor museum (included in all ticket options) offers guests 10,000 sq ft of interactive exhibits that invite visitors on a journey beginning from the building’s construction to its current place in pop culture. The 102nd Fl Obs features floor-to-ceiling windows and a glass elevator with sound & light experience. It is the jewel of NYC. All signage, audio & exhibits in the building are available in 9 languages. We offer free Wi-Fi. The 34th St Lobby entrance features a grand staircase with a 2-story architectural model of the bldg & a high-tech LED exhibit that celebrates lighting ceremonies performed by famous, celebrity guests. Express guests receive red carpet VIP treatment. See more..
4.5 Top of the Rock (79.8k reviews) from $43.55
- Great Place to View NYC
Friday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Lookouts • Observation Decks & Towers

Top of the Rock Observation Deck, the newly opened, 3-tiered observation deck on the 67th, 69th and 70th floors of 30 Rockefeller Plaza, is New York City's most amazing attraction! The unforgettable experience includes a panoramic 360-degree, unobstructed view from the 70th floor observatory, 850 feet in the sky! Hours of Operation: 8:00 AM - Midnight, last elevator goes up at 11:00 PM.Main entrance is located on 50th Street between 5th & 6th Avenues. See more..
4.5 The High Line (62.8k reviews)
- Above it all
Friday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Parks • Scenic Walking Areas

This elevated railway turned public park provides fantastic views of the Hudson River and New York City skyline on Manhattan's West Side. The 1.5-mile High Line draws travelers to its lush horticulture, art installations and community programs. Here, you can have a leisure stroll along the structure and admire colorful murals and installations all around. Other must-sees of the area include the Chelsea Market, the Whitney Museum of American Art and the Vessel. Hear the story behind this unique greenway on a free tour led by knowledgeable guides which takes place on some days. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Times Square (56.5k reviews) from $47.90
- Great Buzz
Spent 1-2 hours Neighborhoods • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Scenic Walking Areas

Central area in NYC that has many shops, restaurants, office buildings and flashing billboards around it. See more..
4.5 Grand Central Terminal (44.6k reviews)
- Mediterranean Sky in NYC.
Friday: 5:30 AM - 2:00 AM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings

Grand Central Terminal is the most extraordinary public space in New York City. Opened to the public in 1913, this historic train terminal is a world-famous landmark in Midtown. Its rich history is a story of immense wealth and great engineering. Grand Central is one of the busiest train stations in the world, with approximately 750,000 visitors every day. It is the home of Metro-North Railroad, a subway station, iconic restaurants, shops, and the world's most alluring Apple Store. Some of the highlights to see along your tour of Grand Central include the opal-faced clock, valued at $20 million, above the Information Booth, the Largest Tiffany Glass Clock in the World below the 48-foot, 1500-ton Transportation statue overlooking 42nd Street at Park Avenue, and the mystifying acoustics of the Whispering Gallery in front of the Oyster Bar and Restaurant. Audio and guided tours are available for those with a passion for history. More information regarding tours and ways to plan your visit can be found on the Grand Central Terminal website. See more..
4.5 Statue of Liberty (43.9k reviews) from $39.99
- Tour ran like clockwork
Friday: 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues

The Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World was a gift of friendship from the people of France to the people of the United States and is a universal symbol of freedom and democracy. The Statue of Liberty was dedicated on October 28, 1886, designated as a National Monument in 1924 and restored for her centennial on July 4, 1986. See more..
4.5 Broadway (31.1k reviews)
- NYC and Broadway !!!
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Midtown Manhattan is home to one of the world's most famous theatre districts, with iconic musicals and well-loved plays staged live at over 40 theatres. See more..
4.5 One World Observatory (28.8k reviews) from $53.35
- Wow!!!
Friday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Architectural Buildings • Lookouts • Observation Decks & Towers

There are a million things to experience in New York City, but there’s only one way to see them all at once. You can start by hopping a Sky Pod to the top of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. There, 102 stories up, find yourself face-to-face with New York’s iconic skyline. Maybe you’ve seen views of the city before, but never quite like this. Walk the three sprawling levels of the Observatory and discover surprises along the way. Drop into the café and grab a bite to eat. Step onto the Sky Portal and stroll high above the crowded streets. Take an interactive guided tour of the city with the help of our Skyline Concierges, available to answer any questions you might have about New York’s long and storied history. And don’t leave without stopping by the One Mix bar for a glass of celebratory prosecco and one last look toward the horizon. See for yourself why One World Observatory is truly An Experience Above. See more..
4.5 American Museum of Natural History (26.0k reviews) from $28.00
- Great museum but avoid the cafeteria
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM Spent More than 3 hours Natural History Museums

The American Museum of Natural History is one of the world’s preeminent scientific and cultural institutions. Since its founding in 1869, the Museum has advanced its global mission to discover, interpret, and disseminate information about human cultures, the natural world, and the universe through a wide-ranging program of scientific research, education, and exhibition. The Museum is renowned for its exhibitions and scientific collections, which serve as a field guide to the entire planet and present a panorama of the world's cultures. See more..
4.5 Brooklyn Bridge (25.8k reviews)
- Spectacular and Easy Stroll for the Average Walker
Friday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent < 1 hour Bridges

Opened in 1883, the Brooklyn Bridge provides passage between Brooklyn and Manhattan for motorists, trains, bicycles and pedestrians. One of the primary symbols of New York City, it is a marvel of design and provides spectacular views of the city's skyline. See more..
4.5 Rockefeller Center (25.5k reviews)
- Annual Rockefeller Christmas Tree Visit
Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings

Rockefeller Center is a national historic landmark in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. Home to Top of the Rock Observation Deck, NBC Studios, Radio City Music Hall and much more. Shop, dine and explore at one of New York's most inspiring locations. See more..
4.5 Bryant Park (23.8k reviews)
- More to do there in the winter
Friday: 7:00 AM - 11:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Parks

Bryant Park has a French-style merry-go-round, open year-round, plus a well-maintained lawn, with chairs and tables. The outdoor Reading Room has picture books and summertime story times. In winter. Take a spin on the free ice-skating rink. The park also has clean bathrooms, a rarity in midtown. See more..
4.5 Staten Island Ferry (22.9k reviews)
- Iconic views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan Skyline
Friday: 1:00 AM - 12:59 PM Ferries

Avoid the traffic of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge by taking the free ferry to Staten Island, where you can marvel at the beauty of New York’s coastline along the way. The iconic orange ferry sails right through New York Harbor and is one of the best ways to see the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline. Snap photos, watch life pass by, and even look out for the Brooklyn Bridge in the distance. Upon arrival in Staten Island, be sure to visit the National Lighthouse Museum and the Empire Outlets mall, located right next to the terminal. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) (18.2k reviews) from $25.00
- Amazing collection within one space
Friday: 10:30 AM - 5:30 PM Spent 2-3 hours Art Museums

Located in the heart of Manhattan, The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is home to the world's greatest collection of modern and contemporary art. The collection features Vincent van Gogh's "The Starry Night," along with works by Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso, Frida Kahlo, Andy Warhol, Salvador Dalí, and many other great artists of our time. MoMA's collection also showcases photography, film, architecture, design, media, and performance art. Visitors can also enjoy the flagship MoMA Store and a range of high-quality dining options. Mondays from 10:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. are reserved exclusively for members and their guests. Closed for Thanksgiving and Christmas. See more..
4.5 St. Patrick's Cathedral (15.2k reviews) from $74.99
- Amazing Building
Friday: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Churches & Cathedrals

St. Patrick’s Cathedral is the Mother Church of the Archdiocese of New York and the seat of its Archbishop. Built by contributions large and small, it remains emblematic of the ascendance of religious freedom in the New World. As such, this international landmark is a beacon of hope for those who share the Catholic faith and a source of inspiration to the more than five million visitors of every religious denomination welcomed here each year. St. Patrick’s Cathedral has stood strong, overlooking 5th Ave, since 1879. The vibrancy of its windows, the beauty of its music and the purpose of its charitable outreach call us to respond to our shared humanity. Saint Patrick’s Cathedral is a must see destination when visiting New York. Our tour has been crafted to capture the essence of the church. It addresses the rich history of the past and the incredible art and architecture that makes it one of a kind. Timothy Cardinal Dolan, narrates the tour with Monsignor Robert Ritchie. See more..
4.5 New York Public Library (14.5k reviews)
- Iconic public building
Friday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Speciality Museums

New York Public Library’s monumental main branch is known for its stunning architecture and remarkable historical collections. Take a break from the city’s hustle and bustle at the Rose Main Reading Room, amid chandeliers and an ornate ceiling with murals. Enjoy the free guided tour of the building and view masterpieces like the first Gutenberg Bible, and bring the kids to see the original stuffed animals that inspired the Winnie the Pooh stories. The library is served by multiple subway lines and is adjacent to the gorgeous Bryant Park, where you can unwind after the visit. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Chelsea Market (9.713 reviews)
- Cool indoor market with varied eating options
Spent < 1 hour Flea & Street Markets

Chelsea Market is a world-famous food hall in the heart of New York City's Meatpacking District. Commonly featured in walking and food tours, the market has an array of dining options that draw both locals and travelers. Set aside a couple of hours to conquer the corridors of this sprawling indoor marketplace. Many travelers load up on fresh produce, prime cuts of meat, artisanal cheeses, and even imported Italian dry goods. For more elbow room, visit either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Plus, keep a lookout for delicious free samples and the quaint bookstore on site. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum (9.508 reviews) from $36.00
- Great Experience
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Speciality Museums

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is a nonprofit, educational institution featuring the legendary aircraft carrier Intrepid, the space shuttle Enterprise, the world's fastest jets and a guided missile submarine. Through exhibitions, educational programming and the foremost collection of technologically groundbreaking aircraft and vessels, visitors of all ages and abilities are taken on an interactive journey through history to learn about American innovation and bravery. Welcoming over one million visitors annually, the Museum includes the Space Shuttle Pavilion, home to Enterprise, the world's first space shuttle that paved the way for America's successful Space Shuttle Program. On display are more than two dozen authentically restored aircraft, including the Lockheed A-12 Blackbird, the world's fastest military jet and spy plane, and the British Airways Concorde, the fastest commercial aircraft to ever cross the Atlantic Ocean. The Museum also includes the submarine Growler, the only American diesel-powered strategic missile submarine open to the public; the Exploreum Interactive Hall, a fully interactive exhibit space; an 18,000 sq. ft. education center; and Pier 86, a publicly accessible pier that is part of the Hudson River Park Trust. Download our free iPhone app, Mission Intrepid: Explore Enterprise, from the App Store today, and enhance your experience in the Space Shuttle Pavilion! The mission of the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is to promote the awareness and understanding of history, science and service through its collections, exhibitions and programming in order to honor our heroes, educate the public and inspire our youth. See more..
4.5 Radio City Music Hall (9.266 reviews) from $31.00
- Most stunnig U.S. theater of the 20th Century!
Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Theaters

Tours run daily starting at 9:30 AM See more..
4.5 Madison Square Garden (9.131 reviews) from $169.42
- Memories of a lifetime
Arenas & Stadiums

Tours run daily beginning at 9:30 AM. See more..
4.5 Frick Collection (8.672 reviews)
- Yes, go! If you love art
Friday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Art Museums

The Frick Collection is your home for art from the Renaissance to the early twentieth century. Founded by Henry Clay Frick (1849–1919), the museum offers visitors intimate encounters with one of the world’s foremost collections of European fine and decorative arts. The Frick—now in its temporary location at Frick Madison, at the Breuer-designed building at 945 Madison Avenue, while its historic buildings undergo renovation—features celebrated works by Rembrandt, Fragonard, Ingres, Bellini, Vermeer, and more. The Frick Art Reference Library, a leading art historical research center, was established one hundred years ago by Helen Clay Frick and provides access to its rich collections for scholars and the public alike. See more..