Sinatra once expressed his desire to be a part of it; a desire that we can very much get on board with. New York is an iconic travel destination for a reason.

The vibrant pace of the city, combined with its rich culture, imposing architecture and unique atmosphere make it somewhere travelers will rave about for years afterwards.

It’s an epicenter of the arts, with incredible galleries, innovative shows and museums dedicated to every artistic theme you can possibly imagine. That’s before we even get started on Broadway, Off-Broadway and the huge variety of experimental theatre.

Even if you’re not into formal shows, you’ll find the theatre on the streets of New York equally as exciting, if not more so.

In fact, wandering the streets, from the High Line to the shoreline, is something we’d definitely recommend doing in the city. That, and eating everything. Whether you prefer 2 dollar pizza slices or seven-course gourmet dinners, you’ll find it here.

If you’re not sure where to start and would like some inspiration, check out our suggestions for some of the best things to do in New York.  Or head on over to my pick for the most amazing luxury hotels in New York City to daydream over.

Gorgeous right…

The Best Places To Visit And Fun Things To Do In New York City! 🗽

Summit One Vanderbilt

It feels like only yesterday that New York just had two observation decks, but with this latest opening, there are now five. Summit One Vanderbilt does things a bit differently, however, rising to a height of 14001 feet over Midtown Manhattan and provides not only unobstructed 360° panoramic views but stunning art installations, breathtaking glass floors, glass elevators, and surprisingly sophisticated Apres cocktail bar (which we highly recommend you try!).

The endless reflections, infinity mirrors, and stunning light combine to create a cerebral experience that is unsurpassed by any observation deck in New York City (or the world, to be honest).

Moulin Rouge! The Musical

No self-respecting millennial that grew up lip-syncing to Christina Aguilera, Lil’ Kim, Mýa & Pink’s Lady Marmalade will want to miss seeing the visual feast with is Tony award-winning Broadway adaptation of Moulin Rouge.

Enter a world of splendor and romance, of eye-popping excess, of glitz, grandeur and glory! A world where Bohemians and aristocrats rub elbows and revel in electrifying enchantment. Pop the champagne and prepare for the spectacular… Welcome to Moulin Rouge! The Musical.

No trip to NYC is complete without a Broadway show, and thankfully Moulin Rouge and many other spectacular Broadway musicals can be easily booked via the Broadway Collection. There is something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a classic musical or the newest, trendiest play. When you click to purchase individual or group tickets for any of the performances on their website, you are obtaining them from the official source because they work directly with the shows.

It’s like going straight up to the ticket counter – but far less hassle, and it lets you book before you arrive in New York!

The Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum

This is definitely the top choice for anyone who’s interested in what lies beyond our plots of land; a fascinating museum set aboard the famous aircraft carrier, The Intrepid. Not only do you get to explore this legendary ship, you can also see the first space shuttle Enterprise and a guided missile submarine.

The history of the US military is surprisingly interesting – if you weren’t that interested before, you will be after discovering the exhibits at this National Historic Landmark. It’s also one of the best things to do in New York with family.

New York Helicopter Tour

There is honestly nothing quite like seeing New York from above on this helicopter tour. Flying over the city with one of the most iconic skylines in the world is breathtaking and gives you a perspective like no other. Zoom over the historic Brooklyn Bridge, swing around the Empire State Building and get up close and personal with the Statue of Liberty.

Whether you choose a 15, 20 or 30 minute flight, it will feel like just a second as you soar over the majestic architecture and bustling streets of this one-of-a-kind city. We can’t pretend it’s cheap, but it’s 100% worth it.

Wicked Broadway Show

Of all the things to do in New York, catching a Broadway show has to be near the top of the list, and what better one to choose than Wicked, which started right here? It caused a sensation when it premiered for its brilliant songs and breathtaking sets so get a ticket and see what all the fuss is about!

In the historic Gershwin Theatre, watch the backstory of the Wicked Witch of the West in the Land of Oz long before Dorothy showed up. Enjoy epic musical performances, an original storyline and drink in the atmosphere of Broadway.

9/11 Memorial Museum

This thought-provoking and moving exhibition pays tribute to the tragic events of September 2001 and examines the background and the aftermath of the attack. It’s a way of learning so much more about the city and how much of an impact 9/11 had; it still permeates the city and the world.

The exhibitions feature artists, the survivors and the victims. There are regular screenings of feature films and memorials to those who lost their lives. A simple, tranquil pool marks the spot of the original Twin Towers. It’s a meaningful and important destination for visitors who want to understand more about New York.  

Top of the Rock

This is definitely one of our favorite things to do in New York as the spectacular view beats even that from the top of the Empire State Building (shh! But it’s true!). After all, when you’re on the Empire State Building, you can’t see it in pride of place in the New York skyline; but from the top of the historic Rockefeller Center you can see it all.

Head up to the open-air platform on the 70^th floor to drink in the famous landmarks, from the Statue of Liberty to Central Park. It’s an incredible 360-degree view that’s worth seeing either day or night.

Museum of Modern Art

This is the epicenter of the epicenter of the arts, the world’s foremost museum of modern art with an incredible 150,000 works of art. There are exhibitions of paintings, prints, performance art, architecture and so much more; van Gogh, Monet and Jackson Pollock jostle for space on the walls.

There are also plenty of food options and an amazing gift shop (we love a gift shop!). Classic movies are screened every day as well, so if you need a rest from all the walking then hide away in here for a bit. You’ll leave feeling a fire of creativity and inspiration!   

Or, if you are not a lover of confined art, the New York street art scene is both vibrant and free…

Brooklyn, the Bronx, Harlem, Coney Island, and Queens

Staying in Manhattan but want a chance to see all of New York? A little pressed for time? This is the tour for you! Get a chance to discover the multiple different sides to this unique city, with a guided tour around some of its famous boroughs. It’s a great way to learn more about the city’s cultural diversity.

From Yankee Stadium in the Bronx to hipster paradise in Brooklyn, seeing Harlem, Queens and Flushing Meadow Park on the way, this is the best way to understand more about the city. You’ll even get to head to Coney Island for some old-school fun, and even in the during the winter you can look forward to a warming hot chocolate in NYC when you get back!

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

It’s not just the 2 million artworks and artifacts that are a draw at ‘the Met’, it’s the imposing architecture of the building itself (not to mention the sophisticated rooftop bar!). But before you head to the bar, lose yourself in the rich and varied departments with pieces from Europe, Asia, America and ancient civilizations.

There are three buildings here and this one pass gains you access to all of them, so this could easily be a whole day’s activity – or more!

Guggenheim Museum

Just when you think you’ve seen everything New York has to offer in terms of art, you discover even more wonders. The Guggenheim is one of those wonders; a constantly evolving collection in a building that’s a work of art in itself. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1959, the building houses an eclectic private collection of art.

You’ll find a range of works from Impressionist and Post-Impressionist eras to early Modern and Contemporary art. There are even regular lectures by artists and critics, if you time your visit right. It’s the perfect place for art and architecture lovers.

American Museum of Natural History

We always think that natural history museums the world over are magical places, and the American Museum of Natural History is no exception, making it one of our favorite things to do in New York on a rainy day (or even a sunny one!). Examine dinosaur fossils; see life-sized models of whales, marvel at the Egyptian exhibits and much, much more.

It’s an interesting and interactive way to learn more about the history of the planet and beyond, with an additional center for Earth and Space. For extra fun, role-play Night at the Museum as this is where the film was shot.

The Whitney Museum of American Art

What makes this museum different from the many incredible art museums in New York is that it is specifically American art, so if you are looking for more insight into the country and its culture, this is the place to come. With over 23,000 works in the collection, there is plenty to see and enough space in the huge building to take it all in.

Permanent exhibitions and temporary ones from around the world combine to make a fascinating collection. As an added bonus, there are great Manhattan views from the top floor.

Circle Line Liberty Cruise

So if you’ve seen New York from the air on the epic helicopter ride, now is the time to see it from the water. This one hour cruise takes in a lot of the main attractions in the city but at a pace that feels relaxed. It’s great to be out in the fresh air, enjoying a cup of coffee and a snack while the city sails past.

A multilingual commentary is available if you want to learn more about the sights, which include the Statue of Liberty (you’ll get up close for some excellent photos) and Ellis Island, as well as the new perspective of Manhattan from the boat. It’s definitely worth the hour – in fact, you’ll enjoy it so much you’ll probably want to go around again!

We’re sure by now you’ve got plenty of inspiration for things to do in New York – perhaps you’re even thinking of extending your stay to fit it all in?!