What to do in New York, NY

Activities, attractions and tours

A red boat on a river with a bridge and a city skyline in the background.
A bridge with a large arch and a building with a 'Santander' sign.
The Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor with sailboats in the foreground and a cruise ship in the background.
A city skyline at dusk with illuminated buildings and a calm river with wooden posts in the foreground.
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Places to Visit in New York

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let Expedia.co.nz help you find the most exciting and fun things to do in New York, New York while also allowing you to save a ton on travel arrangements. Regardless of whether you’re an urban explorer or an intrepid outdoor enthusiast, we can help you decide exactly what to do and see during your time in town.

Our thorough travel guides offer you an insider’s perspective on all of the best New York attractions from , making it easy for you to decide which places to visit and when. And by using Expedia.co.nz to set your sightseeing schedule, you can take in more of the enchanting attractions this area is famous for.

From group New York tours and must-see landmarks to personal guides who take you off-the-beaten track, Expedia.co.nz offers you over of the most popular events, activities, and attractions in this corner of the world. So whether you’re travelling alone, alongside a loved one, or with the whole family in tow, be sure to browse through our extensive travel guides prior to your plane touching down in this spectacular New York. We even have a massive selection of flights, car hires, and accommodation for you to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Start your search today, and you’ll be having the time of your life before you know it.

Activities

Go City: New York Explorer Pass - Entry to 2 to 10 Top Attractions

New York Explorer Pass: Visit 2-10 Attractions and Save Up to 50 Percent

NZ$146
per adult
84% of travellers recommend
New York Explorer Pass: Visit 2-10 Attractions and Save Up to 50 Percent
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Experience Tickets

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Experience Tickets

NZ$85
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Experience Tickets
Tyrannosaurs rex skeleton in the American Museum of Natural History in New York

American Museum of Natural History Tickets

NZ$64
per adult
82% of travellers recommend
American Museum of Natural History Tickets
Edge Observation Deck at Hudson Yards

Edge Immersive Observation Deck Ticket

NZ$75
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Edge Immersive Observation Deck Ticket
Top of the Rock Timed Admission

Top of the Rock Timed Admission

NZ$87
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Top of the Rock Timed Admission
American Dream: SEA LIFE New Jersey Aquarium

American Dream: SEA LIFE New Jersey Aquarium

NZ$65
per traveller
88% of travellers recommend
American Dream: SEA LIFE New Jersey Aquarium
One World Observatory: Skip-the-Line Ticket

One World Observatory Tickets

NZ$53
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
One World Observatory Tickets
The Lion King On Broadway

The Lion King On Broadway

NZ$255
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
The Lion King On Broadway
New York Harbor Lights Evening Cruise

Circle Line: New York Harbor Lights Evening Cruise

NZ$94
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Circle Line: New York Harbor Lights Evening Cruise
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Top places to visit

1. Times Square

Times Square may not always be to the locals’ taste, but this busy and energetic area dubbed the “Crossroads of the World” is undoubtedly one of the most famous tourist attractions in the world. The atmosphere is loaded and chaotic, exuding the energy and diversity for which New York City is so renowned.
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Times Square with large billboards and skyscrapers.

2. Madison Square Garden

Midtown Manhattan has one of the world’s most famous indoor arenas: Madison Square Garden (MSG). Watch the NBA New York Knicks, NHL New York Rangers and WNBA New York Liberty or your favorite big-name concert performers at this huge venue.
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A cityscape with prominent skyscrapers, including the Empire State Building, and a large circular building with a dome.

3. Central Park

New York may be known as the city that never sleeps, but visitors should never overlook the calm and tranquillity offered by the famous Central Park. Situated in the heart of New York between the Upper West and Upper East Side neighbourhoods, this beautifully conceived green space covers 6% of Manhattan, providing woodland, lakes and charming landscaped gardens. The park, which opened in 1857, was conceived by design duo Calvert Vaux and Frederick Law Olmstead. The latter also responsible for projects such as the Stanford University Campus and the Niagara Reservation in Niagara Falls.
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4. Rockefeller Center

To many, the Rockefeller Center in Midtown Manhattan between 48th and 51st Street epitomises New York of the 1930s, but it is also the face of the modern city. Known for being at the centre of the city’s annual holiday celebrations, with its outdoor ice rink and magnificently illuminated Christmas tree, it is also a year-round destination with top entertainment and attractions.
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5. Grand Central Terminal

This bustling transport hub serves over 750,000 visitors, both commuters and tourists alike and is an absolutely must-see venue when visiting New York. Designed by the firms Reed & Stem and Warren & Wetmore, this magnificent building’s architectural style is a triumph, and it houses a large number of shops and restaurants.
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A historic building with ornate architecture and a modern glass skyscraper in the background.

6. Broadway

Broadway is called the “Great White Way” for the dazzling lights surrounding the popular Times Square portion of this avenue. Take a moment to look in all directions from your spot at the center of Times Square. Every December 31, about 1 million people crowd into this space to watch the 12-foot (3.6-meter) ball drop from One Times Square in celebration of the New Year.
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A busy urban street with yellow taxis, pedestrians, and tall buildings with illuminated signs.

7. Yankee Stadium

Yankee Stadium has been one of New York City’s iconic destinations for almost a hundred years, ever since the original was built in 1923. The team’s new home, constructed at a cost of $2.3 billion, is the most expensive stadium ever built, but manages to include both deluxe amenities and many references to the Yankees’ long history. Enjoy a typical New York experience by hopping on the subway northward, ready to spend an afternoon watching America’s pastime.
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Yankee Stadium with a crowd of people in front.

8. Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty, standing at an impressive 93 metres from the ground to the tip of the torch, is perhaps the most easily recognisable of all of New York’s iconic attractions. The figure of Libertas, the Roman goddess of freedom, was gifted to the United States by France in 1886 to commemorate the American Declaration of Independence. This landmark is often credited with embodying the most fundamental American values, including the freedom and opportunity offered in the “New World”.
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The Statue of Liberty on Liberty Island with a clear sky.

9. Empire State Building

The Empire State building is one of the most recognisable landmarks on the New York skyline. So much so, that the city has gained the nickname Empire State, a connection equal to that of Big Ben to London or the Eiffel Tower to Paris. It was the tallest skyscraper in New York for 40 years, a title it took over from the Chrysler Building when it opened officially in 1931.
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The Empire State Building surrounded by other skyscrapers in New York City.

Recommended things to do in New York

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Top 5 things to do
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What to do in New York

Stay near popular New York attractions

Times Square with large billboards and skyscrapers.

Times Square

8.8/10 (110,704 reviews)
Pulsing with neon hoardings and Broadway marquees, Times Square electrifies visitors as the world's most famous crossroads. Explore after sunset when illuminated advertisements create a dazzling spectacle.
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Our guide on where to stay in New York

Find the best New York areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about New York
Learn more about New York
A city skyline with various high-rise buildings, including a distinctive skyscraper under construction, and a body of water in the foreground.

Midtown

Times Square and Rockefeller Center are a few top attractions in Midtown. Hop around the city on the metro at 42 St. - Bryant Pk. Station or Times Sq. - 42 St. Station and check out the area's fascinating museums, soaring skyscrapers and acclaimed art galleries.

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Upper West Side

Known for its fascinating museums and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Upper West Side. Check out top attractions like Lincoln Center and Children's Museum of Manhattan, and jump on the metro at 86 St. Station (Broadway) or 79 St. Station to see more of the city.

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Upper East Side

Known for its interesting museums and stunning river views, there's plenty to explore in Upper East Side. Top attractions like 5th Avenue and Frick Collection are major draws, and you can catch the metro at 77 St. Station (Lexington Av.) or 72nd Street Station to see more of the city.

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Chelsea

Chelsea is highly notable for its popular shops, and you might want to visit top sights like Madison Square Garden and Joyce Theater. See more of New York by jumping on the metro at 23 St. Station (8th Av.) or 23 St. Station (7th Av.).

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Greenwich Village

Spend some time visiting places like 5th Avenue while getting to know Greenwich Village, and be sure to check out the abundant dining options. You can hop aboard the metro at Christopher St. - Sheridan Sq. Station or W 4 St. Station to see more of the area.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from New York

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Bayonne

Promenade next to the Hudson River looking northward toward the George Washington Bridge, on a colorful autumn afternoon

Yonkers

A city skyline with a prominent skyscraper reflecting on the water.

Jersey City

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Fort Lee

A waterfront promenade with a city skyline in the background, including the Empire State Building.

Hoboken

A coastal cityscape with residential areas, a large body of water, and prominent skyscrapers.

New Rochelle

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North Bergen

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Weehawken

Frequently asked questions

Is New York worth visiting?
With a mix of views and dining, there's no shortage of things to do in New York. When you're here, head to Times Square, a top attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in New York?
After you've checked off popular attractions like Times Square and Rockefeller Centre, spend the rest of your day enjoying New York's shopping and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in New York?
Times Square is one of the top tourist attractions in New York and should feature high on every sightseeing list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in New York?
Three days will be plenty of time to tick off popular city sights, like Times Square, Rockefeller Centre and 5th Avenue. The average stay in New York is three days. If you feel the urge to extend your trip, Newark isn't far away.
Is New York a walkable city?
It all depends on what you'd like to do and see in New York. Several key sights, such as Times Square and Rockefeller Centre, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of New York's neighbourhoods, Manhattan is 3 kilometres away from downtown, while Midtown is 0.16 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in New York with kids?
Deciding what to do in New York with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're taking a trip with teenagers or toddlers, there are many family-friendly tours and activities to keep them entertained here.
What to do in New York for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in New York, with activities for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to Brooklyn Brewery or New York Distilling Co..
Are there free things to do in New York?
From visiting parks to strolling around hip neighbourhoods, it's a breeze to discover free things to do in New York. If you need new ideas, ask a local tour guide for some tips. Times Square is a must for anyone wanting to save on their sightseeing activities.

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