FESTIVALS & EVENTS

Top 10 Things to Do in New York

Ragini Mehra

Last updated: Sep 24, 2019

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One of the busiest and most glamorous cities in the world, New York is the cultural, financial and fashion hub of the United States. It is, without doubt, a city to be experienced. Explore the many tourist attractions, stop by a street-side vendor for a round of bagels, soak in the charm of the city as you walk around Manhattan downtown; the list is endless!

While there are a million things to do in New York, nicknamed the Big Apple, here’s a handpicked list which will make you want to pack your bags right away:

1. Go to the top of Freedom Tower

things-to-do-new-york-world-trade-center — The Freedom Tower standing tall

Capture the New York skyline like never before from the recently inaugurated One World Observatory at One World Trade Center, also known as Freedom Tower, the fourth tallest skyscraper in the world. Be prepared for long queues but the views from top will make up for it all. Get that perfect family picture or a selfie with the Empire State and Chrysler Buildings in the backdrop.

2. Take a ferry to the Statue of Liberty

things-to-do-new-york-statue-of-liberty — Photo Credit: Anubha Mehra

Your trip would be incomplete without a visit to the Statue of Liberty, one of the top most New York attractions. You can take a ferry to Ellis Island and marvel at the Statue from a distance or climb up. However, make sure you book at least a month in advance if you wish to do the latter.

3. Spend the night away at Times Square

things-to-do-new-york-times-square

Whether it’s the gigantic billboards, the splendid play of lights, Broadway theaters or the many dining and shopping venues open till wee hours, there’s something about Times Square that’ll make you come back to it again and again. Located at the intersection of Broadway and Seventh Avenue, it is truly the heart and soul of New York, the liveliest place to be.

4. Go cycling at Central Park

There’s nothing like a morning spent cycling at the massive Central Park. Rent a bike and get set to explore its green meadows, picture-perfect bridges, ice-skating rink, baseball and tennis courts and the Zoo, one of the most popular New York attractions. You can take a guided tour on a horse carriage or a pedicab or opt for a walking tour around the oh-so-lovely Central Park.

5. Explore culture at Rockefeller Center

things-to-do-new-york-rockefeller-center — Photo Credit: Anubha Mehra

Take in 360-degree city views from the observation deck at Top of the Rock, admire the sculptures and beautiful seasonal plants at the Channel Gardens and delve deeper into history as you take a guided tour of this Art Deco landmark in NYC. There’s much to keep you busy at the Rockefeller Center.

6. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

If you want to live it up like the locals, this is a must on your itinerary. There’s a dedicated walkway for pedestrians and bikers so you can leisurely stroll and sightsee at the same time. The 1.3 mile walk offers many exciting photo opportunities including that of the New York skyline, the Statue of Liberty, the East River and the prominent Manhattan Bridge.

7. Wander through the Metropolitan Museum of Art

A trip to one of the most visited museums in the world and the largest art museum in the US is sure to be a worthwhile experience. Come here to admire centuries old Egyptian sculptures, most popular American paintings and the much sought after European pieces of art.

8. Soak in the local flavour at Washington Square Park

things-to-do-new-york-washington-square-park

One of the most popular New York public parks, Washington Square Park is located in the heart of Greenwich Village, Manhattan and is the perfect place for a picnic. While you’re here, watch a cultural performance, spend a relaxed evening by the fountain or make the most of the photo opportunities the Washington Arch offers.

9. Board the New York Subway

The New York subway is not just an easy way to get around the city but also one of the most priced possessions of New York. The first underground line opened up in 1904 and today, the train network connects every nook and corner of New York. Good idea to grab a map from one of the Subway stations before you hop on to a train.

10. Shop till you drop

Shop at exotic designer boutiques on Fifth Avenue or at Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s, the best departmental stores in the world. Times Square has stores open till 3 am and is a must visit for shopaholics. Places to look out for are Toys "R" Us (the store boasts of a giant wheel!), M&M'S World and Hershey's Chocolate World, to name a few.

Which of these New York attractions tops your bucket list? It’s time to start exploring now!

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Ragini Mehra Follow

An avid animal lover, Ragini is mostly busy taking up animal welfare initiatives at shelters, on the streets and on social media. When not spending time with animals, she loves to travel, write and play the Keyboard.

Comments

Jacqueline | on 26 July 2018

So easy and effortless blog was this and very easy steps...to explore new York..with step -by-step best places was Times Square and central parks as i hope i can capture many shoots over there thanks for sharing such an interesting blog...about NYC.