Top 10doNew York

Top 10 Best Places to Do in New York

New York City offers endless possibilities for exploration and adventure. From world-class Broadway shows to iconic landmarks, incredible museums, and unique experiences, discover the top 10 best things to do in the city that never sleeps.

Updated January 21, 2026

All-Time Best

1.

Broadway Show Experience

Broadway Show Experience
$$$
Theater District, Times Square, Midtown ManhattanWebsite

Witness the magic of live theater on the world's most famous stage. From timeless classics like The Phantom of the Opera to modern hits like Hamilton, Wicked, and The Lion King, Broadway offers unforgettable performances that define American theater. With over 40 theaters in the district, there's a show for every taste.

Highlights

  • 40+ theaters to choose from
  • World-premiere productions
  • TKTS booth for discounted same-day tickets
  • Tony Award-winning performances
Also available on:
theaterentertainmentmust-donightlife
2.

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Tour

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Tour
$$
Liberty Island, New York HarborWebsite

Visit America's most iconic symbol of freedom and explore the immigration museum at Ellis Island. Climb to the crown for breathtaking harbor views and learn the stories of millions who passed through seeking a new life. This comprehensive tour includes ferry transportation, pedestal access, and audio guides.

Highlights

  • Crown access tickets sell out months ahead
  • Ellis Island Immigration Museum
  • Ferry ride with skyline views
  • National Park guided tours available
Also available on:
landmarkhistoryiconicfamily-friendly
3.

NYC Helicopter Tour

NYC Helicopter Tour
$$$$
Downtown Manhattan Heliport, Pier 6, New York, NY 10004Website

See Manhattan from above on a thrilling helicopter tour. Soar past the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park, One World Trade Center, and the glittering skyline. An unforgettable perspective of the city's iconic landmarks that you'll remember forever. Choose from daytime, sunset, or night flights.

Highlights

  • 12-30 minute flight options
  • Door-off experiences available
  • Sunset tours for photographers
  • Guaranteed window seat
Also available on:
adventureviewsluxuryphotography
4.

Greenwich Village Food Tour

Greenwich Village Food Tour
$$$
Greenwich Village, ManhattanWebsite

Taste your way through one of NYC's most historic neighborhoods. Sample artisan pizza at legendary pizzerias, fresh pasta at family-owned trattorias, craft cocktails at speakeasies, and world-famous bakeries while learning about the village's bohemian past. A culinary journey through New York's diverse food scene.

Highlights

  • 6-8 tastings included
  • Local expert guides
  • Historic neighborhood stories
  • Small group sizes
Also available on:
foodwalking-tourcultureculinary
5.

Central Park Bike Ride

Central Park Bike Ride
$$
Central Park, Manhattan, NY 10022Website

Explore 843 acres of urban oasis on two wheels. Cycle past Bethesda Fountain, around the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, through the Ramble's winding paths, and enjoy stunning views from Bow Bridge. Bike rentals include helmets, locks, and maps for self-guided exploration or join a guided tour.

Highlights

  • 843 acres of green space
  • Bethesda Fountain & Bow Bridge
  • Multiple rental locations
  • Guided tours available
Also available on:
outdoorsnatureactivefamily-friendly
6.

Comedy Cellar Show

Comedy Cellar Show
$$
117 MacDougal Street, Greenwich Village, NY 10012Website

Laugh until your sides hurt at the world's most famous comedy club. Located in the heart of Greenwich Village, the Comedy Cellar has launched careers of legends like Dave Chappelle, Amy Schumer, and Chris Rock. Multiple shows nightly featuring top comedians and surprise drop-ins from A-list performers.

Highlights

  • World-famous comedians perform nightly
  • Intimate basement setting
  • Celebrity surprise appearances
  • Two-drink minimum
Also available on:
comedynightlifeentertainmenticonic
7.

Rooftop Bar Hopping

Rooftop Bar Hopping
$$$
Various Rooftop Locations, Manhattan

Experience New York's legendary skyline from above with a curated rooftop bar crawl. Visit 3-4 of Manhattan's most stunning rooftop lounges featuring craft cocktails, panoramic views of the Empire State Building, and the glamorous NYC nightlife scene. The ultimate way to see the city that never sleeps.

Highlights

  • 3-4 rooftop venues per tour
  • Skip-the-line access
  • Welcome drinks included
  • Stunning skyline photography
Also available on:
nightlifeviewscocktailssocial
8.

Brooklyn Walking Tour

Brooklyn Walking Tour
$$
Brooklyn Bridge, Brooklyn, NY

Discover Brooklyn's diverse neighborhoods, from DUMBO's cobblestone streets and iconic Manhattan Bridge views to Williamsburg's hipster culture and Brooklyn Heights' brownstone charm. Cross the Brooklyn Bridge on foot, explore local street art, and taste artisan treats from neighborhood bakeries and cafes.

Highlights

  • Brooklyn Bridge crossing
  • DUMBO photo spots
  • Local food tastings
  • Street art exploration
Also available on:
walking-tourculturephotographyneighborhood
9.

Jazz Club Experience

Jazz Club Experience
$$$
Greenwich Village & Midtown Jazz ClubsWebsite

Immerse yourself in New York's legendary jazz scene at iconic venues like Blue Note, Village Vanguard, or Birdland. Experience world-class musicians in intimate settings where jazz legends like Miles Davis and John Coltrane once played. The perfect evening of sophisticated entertainment and American musical heritage.

Highlights

  • World-renowned jazz musicians
  • Historic venues
  • Multiple sets nightly
  • Dinner and show options
Also available on:
jazzmusicnightlifeculture
10.

Speakeasy Tour

Speakeasy Tour
$$$
Various Hidden Locations, Manhattan

Step back in time to the Prohibition era on a guided speakeasy tour. Discover hidden bars behind unmarked doors, phone booths, and secret passages throughout Manhattan. Learn the fascinating history of bootleggers and flappers while sipping craft cocktails in authentic 1920s-style venues.

Highlights

  • 3-4 hidden speakeasies visited
  • Craft cocktails included
  • Prohibition history stories
  • Secret entrances revealed
Also available on:
speakeasynightlifehistorycocktails

Frequently Asked Questions

Fall (September-November) and spring (April-June) offer the best weather for outdoor activities with mild temperatures and colorful scenery. Winter is magical for holiday experiences but cold, while summer brings free outdoor concerts and events but also crowds and humidity. Each season offers unique experiences.

For popular shows like Hamilton, The Lion King, or limited-run productions, book 2-3 months ahead for best seats. For budget options, try the TKTS booth in Times Square for same-day discounted tickets (25-50% off), or enter digital lotteries for shows offering $30-40 tickets. Weekday performances are easier to get than weekends.

Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend shows. Comedy Cellar often sells out days in advance, so book online as early as possible. For jazz clubs like Blue Note, reservations ensure you get seated for popular acts. Walk-ins may be possible on weeknights but expect to wait.

While you can find some speakeasies online, guided tours offer significant advantages: skip-the-line access, cocktails included, expert storytelling about Prohibition history, and access to truly hidden venues that aren't listed anywhere. The tours also curate the best bars so you don't waste time on underwhelming spots.

The subway is the fastest and most affordable way to get around ($2.90 per ride or $34 for unlimited 7-day pass). Walking is best for exploring neighborhoods like Greenwich Village and SoHo. Ferries offer scenic routes to Statue of Liberty, Governor's Island, and between Manhattan and Brooklyn. Avoid taxis in Midtown traffic; use Citi Bike for short distances in good weather.