What to do in New York City: A Guide for Visitors

New York City is one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the world. From its towering skyscrapers to its bustling streets, there’s always something to see and do in NYC. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich history or checking out its many iconic landmarks, New York City is sure to offer an unforgettable experience.

The best time to visit New York City is in the fall when the weather is mild and the leaves are changing color. Autumn is also a great time to experience the city’s many cultural attractions, including its world-renowned museums and theaters.

Ghostbusters Firestation

The Ghostbusters firehouse is a former New York City Fire Department (FDNY) firehouse located at 14 North Moore Street in the Tribeca neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City. It served as the Ghostbusters’ headquarters in both the 1984 film Ghostbusters and its 1989 sequel Ghostbusters II. The building is a New York City Landmark and is part of the National Register of Historic Places.

The Ghostbusters firehouse has been used as a filming location for numerous films and television shows, including The Wiz (1978), I Am Legend (2007), Spider-Man 3 (2007), and The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (2014). It was also used as a filming location for the music video for Ray Parker Jr.’s 1984 song “Ghostbusters”.

The building is currently owned by the City of New York and is leased to the nonprofit group 9/11 Tribute Center, which offers guided tours of the building. The ground floor of the firehouse is open to the public and houses a gift shop and exhibit space devoted to the September 11 attacks.

Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in New York City. It spans the East River, connecting the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn. The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the oldest suspension bridges in the United States. It has a main span of 1,595 feet (486 meters) and a total length of 6,016 feet (1,833 meters).

The Brooklyn Bridge is easily accessible from both Brooklyn and Manhattan and makes for a great walk or bike ride. Nearly every time we have visited New York we have included a walk across the bridge as a part of it. For those that may not want to walk the bridge twice, I suggest either walking halfway and back or catching the subway once you reach the other side. Either way, it’s a great walk, but consider the weather before you go. It can be pretty warm in the summer.

Time Square

Time Square is a world-famous attraction in New York City. It is located in the Midtown Manhattan section of the city, and it is known for its bright lights, big screens, and bustling activity. Visitors come from all over the world to experience the energy and excitement of this unique place.

If this will be your first time in New York, definitely include Time Square on the agenda. Make a trip during the day as well as at night as there is a different vibe throughout the day. We will typically make it a stop on all our trips and hit the M&M store and a few others, but generally, once you have been a few times it starts to lose it charm.

It can become VERY crowded. Keep your wits about you and PLEASE, don’t stop in the middle of the flow walking flow to gawlk at the buildings or shops. By far this is the biggest complaint people have, especially the business crowd that may be making their way to and from work. Find a quiet spot off to the side to figure out where you are and to look around.

Thanksgiving Day Parade

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is an annual parade held in New York City. The parade starts at 77th Street and Central Park West, and ends at 34th Street and Seventh Avenue. It is one of the most popular events in New York City, drawing more than 3 million spectators each year.

The parade features floats, marching bands, and performance groups from all over the country. Many of the floats are themed around popular culture icons or characters, and some even feature live animals. The parade also includes several large inflatable balloons, which are usually operated by volunteers who walk alongside them.

I would not normally recommend going during Thanksgiving or getting caught up in the crowds that are a nightmare during this time, however, we were lucky enough one year to get a hotel room along the parade brought that overlooked the parade. It was the best! No jocking for a position, no pickpocketers, no rude people that think they are the only ones there. It was by far the only way I would suggest viewing the parade in person, otherwise, watch it on TV and you will enjoy it just as much.

Of course, if you want to still get the vibe of the crowds you can certainly make your way down for part of the parade, but all in all it was great to view most of it from the hotel in our pajamas in the warmth of our room and moderate how much we want to view from the street level.

Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic symbols of America. The statue, which was a gift from France to the United States, stands on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. The statue is a robed female figure who represents Libertas, the Roman goddess of liberty. The statue is often used as a symbol of freedom and democracy.

There are a number of ways to see the statue. You can simply take the Staten Island Ferry and view it from the ferry as it makes its way from Manhattan to Staten Island. On our most recent trip, we decided to visit the island itself and go inside. The crown was still closed, but during non-pandemic times you could go all the way to the top.

Once you arrive at the island, you can take a self-guided tour of the grounds or opt for a ranger-led tour. Either way, you’ll be able to get up close to the statue and enjoy stunning views of Lower Manhattan and beyond.

This is probably a good time to mention – be sure to book tickets in advance if you plan on visiting Liberty Island. Both the ferry and entering the monument require tickets. Do not expect to show up and be able to buy them on-site, especially during the high season.

The tickets we purchased allowed access to the top of the base. This is the part you see just below the “green” part. You can walk around outside on the base as well as get an inside look at the statute itself.

Perhaps on our next trip, the crown will be open as I can image the view would be fantastic. As always, something new for our next visit.

Ellis Island

Ellis Island is a historic site in New York Harbor that was the main point of entry for millions of immigrants to the United States from 1892 to 1954. Ellis Island is located in the upper bay just off the New Jersey coast, within the shadow of the Statue of Liberty. Today, the island is part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument and is accessible to visitors via ferry service from both New York and New Jersey.

Many people simply go to Liberty Island and call it a day. If you have not visited Ellis Island at least once, I suggest doing so. It’s worth visiting at least once in your life. It was really interesting to explore the buildings and learn about the history of Ellis Island. As you walk around you can imagine the early days when there was a mass migration to America and the hopes and dreams that came with it.

Grand Central Station

Grand Central Station is a train station located in New York City. It is one of the busiest train stations in the world, with over 750,000 people using it every day. The station opened in 1871 and has been serving passengers ever since. Grand Central Station is a popular tourist destination, as well as a major transportation hub for the city. The station is home to a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as the famous Grand Central Terminal clock.

By far the main concourse is the most popular tourist spot and you can take a few pictures while you are there. To get the full experience though I suggest taking a train anywhere to/from this location. It’s not until then you realize how big the station is.

Catacombs

The Catacombs of New York are a network of tunnels and caves located beneath the streets of New York City. They were used by the city’s early settlers as a burial ground for the dead. Today, they are open to the public for tours and events.

While not nearly as impressive as the ones we visited in Paris, it was interesting to see. As a general rule, if you’re looking for something new to do in New York on your next visit it’s worth a look, otherwise, I would probably skip it and spend more time in other parts of the city or surrounding boroughs (yes I’m talking to those that visit “New York” and simply visit Manhatten).

Central Park

Central Park: A true oasis in the midst of the busy city, Central Park is one of New York’s most popular attractions. Covering 843 acres, the park offers a wide range of activities and amenities, from horse-drawn carriage rides to boating on one of its many lakes. Central Park is also home to some of the city’s most popular museums, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the American Museum of Natural History as well as the zoo, the boathouse, and Belvedere Castle.

Regardless of the time of year, you will eventually need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. We usually plan some time in the middle of the itinerary to visit the park. In the warm months, you can visit the zoo or go out on the lake, or just take a leisurely walk. In the winter months it might be a bit much to spend too much time outside, but is still a great place to play in the snow or take a carriage ride.

Also, we always check before our arrival for any events that may be going on. It is not uncommon for something to be going on that you may want to go see, or in some cases want to avoid.

911 Memorial

The New York 911 Memorial is a moving tribute to the innocent lives lost on September 11th, 2001. The memorial features two massive waterfalls and pools that sit in the footprints of the original Twin Towers. The names of every victim are inscribed around the edges of the pools, providing a reminder of the individuals who perished that day.

The memorial also features a museum that chronicles the events of 9/11 and its aftermath.

Freedom Tower

While you’re in the area, plan to visit the top of the Freedom Tower. Even among the other towering skyscrapers in New York City, it stands out. Maybe it’s because it’s the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. Or maybe it’s because it’s a symbol of strength and resilience, having been built on the site of the World Trade Center after the terrorist attacks of September 11th.

Once you’re at the top, you’ll be treated to stunning views of New York City and beyond. On a clear day, you can see for miles in every direction. It’s an amazing experience that everyone should have at least once in their life.

Across the street is the subway station and some shopping, but the real attraction is getting a view of the building from the inside. While taking in the architecture, gabbing a bit to eat, and maybe making a purchase, it’s also a good stopping point to rest indoors after having visited the memorial and tower.

The Empire State Building

At this point, I would suggest taking in the view from the Freedom Tower rather than the Empire State Building, but certainly, the Empire State Building still draws crowds. As one of the most recognizable skyscrapers in the world, the Empire State Building offers breathtaking views of the city from its observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors. Located in Midtown Manhattan, the Empire State Building is a short walk from many of the city’s other top attractions, including Times Square and Rockefeller Center.

Radio City Music Hall

The Radio City Music Hall is a world-famous entertainment venue in New York City. Located in Rockefeller Center, the Music Hall is home to the legendary Rockettes and hosts numerous other events throughout the year. If you’re visiting New York, be sure to check out this iconic landmark and see what is playing.

While it’s a nice photo stop, we have visited several times during the holidays to see the Rockettes. Normally I am not really into that sort of thing, but it is a great show and gets you in the holiday mood. Take the opportunity to see them at least once.

NBC Building

The NBC Building in New York City is the headquarters of the National Broadcasting Company, and it is an iconic building in the city. The building houses the NBC Studios and is also home to the famous Rainbow Room, which is a popular restaurant and nightclub. We have never actually gone inside but will take the opportunity for a quick photo as we walk by.

Financial District

The New York financial district is one of the most important economic hubs in the United States. It is home to many of the country’s largest banks and financial institutions, as well as a large number of businesses and startups. The area has a long history as a center of commerce and finance, dating back to the early days of the United States. In recent years, it has become increasingly popular as a destination for tourists and business travelers alike.

The financial district is located in Lower Manhattan, bordered by Broadway to the west, Chambers Street to the north, Park Row to the east, and Liberty Street to the south. The area is served by multiple subway lines and bus routes, making it easily accessible from throughout New York City.

Some of the most popular attractions in the financial district include the New York Stock Exchange, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, and Trinity Church. The area is also home to a number of notable museums and art galleries, such as the Museum of American Finance and the National Museum of the American Indian.

You will find the area pretty quiet on the weekends when the financial business is closed, so if you want to take part in the lives of thousands of businessmen, then a weekday may be better. For us, we like the weekend when you can traverse the streets easier and stop for lunch without a massive line in front of you.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral

The original St. Patrick’s Cathedral was built in 1809 on the site of a smaller church that had been constructed in 1785. designed by renowned architect James Renwick, Jr., it was the tallest building in New York at the time of its completion. The current cathedral, which opened its doors in 1879, was built to replace the original structure, which had become too small for the city’s rapidly growing Catholic population.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral is one of the most popular tourist destinations in New York City and is worth walking by while you are downtown.

Urban Artwork in New York

I will start by pleading with travel in general which isn’t specific to New York. Whenever your go, New York included, get off the tour buses and walk the streets. New York is definitely one of those cities where you have not experienced it until you start walking around – and do so outside of the tourist destinations.

To get a vibe of the city you really need to be a local. Imagine yourself walking from your apartment to work. Grabbing some food at some “slop in a bucket” place, and finding a bench somewhere quiet to eat while you are on your work break. One you do that, you will get a sense of New York.

What you will start to find are great little coves and quiet spots with artwork, little urban gardens, and non-tourist people-watching. Who knows the guy sitting next to you could be on the phone closing a multi-billion dollar deal or a mother taking her kids to daycare. Whatever it is, experience the city, don’t just see it.

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is a military and maritime history museum. The museum is housed on the decommissioned aircraft carrier USS Intrepid. The ship served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

The museum’s collection includes more than 25,000 artifacts, including aircraft, vehicles, equipment, documents, and photographs. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and events.

If you find yourself along the waterfront, certainly set some time to take a look, even if you don’t buy a ticket. If you have toured ships like this in the past, I wouldn’t say there is anything unique in this experience, but is certainly a nice break from walking around the street os new york.

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