NYC Bucket List: 38 Best Things to Do in New York City

Planning a trip to the Big Apple and wondering about the best things to do in New York City? With world-famous landmarks, incredible neighborhoods, and endless food spots, it’s no surprise that NYC is on so many travel wish lists.

But with so much going on, it can be hard to figure out what to do in New York if it’s your first time visiting.

To help you out, I’ve put together the ultimate New York bucket list with 38 amazing experiences you won’t want to miss. From walking across the Brooklyn Bridge and seeing the skyline from the Top of the Rock to eating a classic New York bagel, this NYC bucket list mixes the iconic highlights with a few unique things to do in NYC.

Whether you’re staying for a few days or longer, these are the absolute must-do activities and places to visit in New York.

Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.

Best Things to Do in New York City as a First-Timer

1. Visit the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

Seeing the Statue of Liberty up close is one of the best things to do in New York City and a must for any first-time visitor. Lady Liberty has been welcoming people to the city since 1886, and it’s just as impressive in person as you’d expect.

Ferries leave from Battery Park and include stops at both Liberty Island and Ellis Island. You can simply buy a ferry ticket and explore at your own pace, or you can join a guided tour if you’d like more context and stories along the way.

On Liberty Island, you can walk around the base of the statue, visit the museum, and if you plan ahead, climb up into the pedestal or even the crown for incredible views. Tickets for the crown are limited and sell out months in advance, so book early if that’s on your NYC bucket list.

The second stop is Ellis Island, home to the Immigration Museum. Walking through the historic halls where millions of immigrants first arrived in America is an experience that really brings the city’s history to life. Plus, the view from the island is amazing!

2. Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge

Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most iconic things to do in New York City. Opened in 1883, it was the first steel-wire suspension bridge in the world, and today it connects Manhattan with Brooklyn across the East River.

The bridge is just over a mile long, so it takes around 30 minutes to walk, but you’ll want to allow more time for photos.

The views are incredible in both directions. Facing Manhattan, you’ll get the classic skyline shot with One World Trade Center towering above. Looking the other way, you’ll see the Brooklyn waterfront and the Manhattan Bridge in the distance.

You can start your walk from either side, but many people prefer beginning in Brooklyn so they can enjoy the Manhattan skyline as they head across.

The bridge can get very busy during the day, so early morning is the best time to go if you want a quieter experience.

3. See the skyline from Top of the Rock

If you only choose one viewpoint during your trip, make it Top of the Rock. Located at Rockefeller Center, this observation deck gives you one of the best views in New York City, with the Empire State Building front and center and Central Park stretching out behind you.

There are three levels of outdoor terraces, and the top deck has no glass panels, which makes it perfect for photos. It’s also less crowded than the Empire State Building, so you’ll usually have more space to take in the views.

Tickets can be purchased in advance for timed entry, which is a good idea since it can get busy. Sunset is the most popular time to go, but early morning is fantastic too if you’d like to avoid the crowds. Either way, it’s a must on any NYC bucket list.

4. Experience Times Square

Love it or hate it, Times Square is one of those places you can’t skip on your first trip to New York. The giant billboards, costumed characters, and endless stream of people make it one of the busiest spots in the city.

The best way to take it all in is to head up the red steps above the TKTS booth, where you’ll get a full view of the square and all its flashing screens. Even a short visit will give you a taste of the chaos and energy that make this spot so famous.

It’s not somewhere you’ll want to linger for hours, but stopping by is definitely one of the classic things to do in NYC.

Read More: The Perfect 4 Days in New York City Itinerary

5. Stroll through Central Park

Central Park is the most famous green space in New York and a must on any first-time visit. Spanning 843 acres, it’s where locals come to walk, jog, picnic, or just enjoy a little breathing room away from the busy streets.

Some of the most popular spots include Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, Bow Bridge, and Strawberry Fields, a memorial to John Lennon. If you’d like a view of the skyline, head to Sheep Meadow or the Gapstow Bridge, which is especially pretty in fall when the leaves change color.

You can easily spend hours wandering here, but if you’re short on time, focus on the southern section of the park, where many of the highlights are located.

Walking or renting a bike are both great ways to explore, but you can also opt for a horse-drawn carriage ride or a pedicab tour if you’d prefer to see more of the park without the effort.

6. Go to the top of the Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is one of New York’s most famous landmarks and a must for any first-time visitor. Opened in 1931, it was once the tallest building in the world and has been featured in countless movies and TV shows.

You can visit two observation decks: the main one on the 86th floor, which is open-air, and the smaller but higher 102nd-floor deck with enclosed views. From up here, you’ll see the Chrysler Building, One World Trade Center, and on a clear day, even the Statue of Liberty in the distance.

Tickets can be booked online in advance, and it’s worth it to save time since lines can get long. For fewer crowds, plan your visit early in the morning. Sunset is the most popular time of day, but keep in mind it’s also the busiest.

7. Watch a Broadway show

Catching a Broadway show is one of the best things to do in New York City and an experience you’ll never forget. With over 40 theaters in the Broadway district, you’ll find everything from long-running classics like The Lion King and Wicked to newer hits and limited-run productions.

Tickets can be expensive, but there are a few ways to save. The TKTS booth in Times Square sells same-day tickets at discounted prices, or you can try online lotteries for a chance at cheap seats to popular shows. If you’re flexible with your schedule, you’ll usually find good deals.

Most theaters are located around Times Square, and shows typically start in the evening, with some matinee performances on weekends. Even if you’re not usually a theater fan, the energy and scale of a Broadway production make it a must on any NYC bucket list.

8. Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is one of the most moving places to visit in New York. The outdoor memorial features two reflecting pools set in the footprints of the Twin Towers, surrounded by the names of those who lost their lives. It’s a peaceful spot in the middle of the city, and visiting is free.

Right next to it, the museum takes you deeper into the events of September 11, 2001, with powerful exhibits, personal stories, and artifacts recovered from the site. It can be an emotional experience, but it offers important context and honors the resilience of the city.

If you want to visit the museum, it’s best to reserve tickets online ahead of time, especially on weekends. Plan to spend at least a couple of hours here if you’d like to see the exhibits at a comfortable pace.

9. Try a slice of New York pizza

Grabbing a classic slice of pizza is one of the essential things to do in NYC. The city is famous for its thin, foldable slices, and you’ll find pizzerias on just about every corner.

Some of the most popular spots include Joe’s Pizza in Greenwich Village and Prince Street Pizza in SoHo, known for its square slices with thick pepperoni. Both are casual, no-frills places where you order at the counter and eat standing up or on the go, which is exactly how New Yorkers do it.

Pizza is cheap, fast, and delicious, making it perfect for a quick bite while exploring. And if you’d like to sample more of the city’s food scene, joining a New York food tour is a fun way to taste your way through different neighborhoods with a local guide.

10. Explore Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Terminal is more than just a busy train station, it’s also one of the most beautiful buildings in New York City. Step inside and you’ll find the famous Main Concourse with its towering arched windows, brass clock, and the celestial ceiling painted with constellations.

Don’t miss the Whispering Gallery near the Oyster Bar, where you can stand at opposite corners of the archway and hear each other’s voices carried across the ceiling. It’s a fun little secret hidden in plain sight!

Grand Central is also a great place to grab a bite or do a little shopping, with a food hall and a market inside. Even if you’re not catching a train, it’s worth a visit to experience one of New York’s most iconic indoor spaces.

11. Relax in Bryant Park

Bryant Park is a small but lively green space right in the middle of Midtown, just behind the New York Public Library.

It’s a popular hangout spot for locals, whether they’re grabbing lunch from nearby food stalls, reading a book on the lawn, or people-watching from one of the many chairs and tables scattered around.

The park hosts free events throughout the year, including movie nights in summer and ice skating in winter. If you happen to be visiting New York City in December, the Winter Village is one of the best places in the city to shop for holiday gifts and enjoy seasonal treats.

Even without the events, it’s a great spot to take a break from sightseeing and enjoy a quieter moment surrounded by the city.

12. Step inside the New York Public Library

Right next to Bryant Park, the New York Public Library is one of the city’s most beautiful buildings and definitely worth a stop.

The grand entrance is guarded by the famous marble lions, Patience and Fortitude, and inside you’ll find stunning architecture with high ceilings and ornate details.

The highlight is the Rose Main Reading Room, a vast space lined with chandeliers and long wooden tables that looks straight out of a movie set. Even if you’re not here to study, it’s a peaceful spot to take in the atmosphere and admire the design.

Since admission is free, this is also one of the best free things to do in New York City and an easy one to add to your Midtown sightseeing.

13. Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, better known as the Met, is the largest art museum in the United States and one of the most visited in the world. Its collection spans over 5,000 years, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to European masterpieces and modern American works.

The museum is huge, so it’s best to pick a few sections that interest you most rather than trying to see everything in one visit. Popular highlights include the Temple of Dendur, the Impressionist galleries, and the Costume Institute, which is behind the annual Met Gala.

If the weather is nice, don’t miss the rooftop garden, which opens seasonally and offers great views over Central Park and the Manhattan skyline. Plan to spend at least a couple of hours here, though art lovers could easily spend an entire day.

14. Grab a cookie from Levain Bakery

Levain Bakery is famous for its oversized cookies, and many people consider them the best in New York. The most popular flavor is the chocolate chip walnut, which comes out of the oven thick, warm, and gooey in the middle.

The bakery now has several locations across the city, so it’s easy to find one while exploring. Lines are common, especially in the afternoon, but they usually move quickly.

If you want a quick snack between sightseeing stops, this is one of the tastiest options you’ll find!

15. Walk the High Line

The High Line is an elevated park built on a former railway track that runs above the streets of Manhattan’s West Side.

Stretching for about 1.5 miles, it’s lined with gardens, art installations, and seating areas where you can pause to take in the views.

As you walk, you’ll see a mix of modern architecture, street art, and even glimpses of the Hudson River. It’s a unique way to experience the city from a different perspective, away from the traffic below.

The High Line is free to visit and open daily, though hours vary by season. It can get crowded on weekends, so weekdays or early mornings are the best times to enjoy it at a more relaxed pace.

16. Sample food at Chelsea Market

Chelsea Market is one of the best places to eat in New York City, with dozens of food stalls, restaurants, and shops all under one roof. From fresh seafood to tacos and artisanal desserts, there’s something here for every craving.

The market is located in the Meatpacking District and makes a perfect stop before or after walking the High Line, which runs right above it. Popular vendors include Los Tacos No. 1 for authentic Mexican tacos and Doughnuttery for mini donuts.

It can get crowded during lunch hours, so visiting earlier in the day or later in the afternoon is a good way to avoid the biggest lines. Even if you’re not hungry, it’s a fun place to wander and soak up the lively atmosphere.

17. Visit Little Island on the Hudson

Little Island is one of New York’s newest parks and quickly became a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. Built on concrete stilts shaped like tulips, it floats above the Hudson River and offers walking paths, gardens, and unique viewpoints of the city.

The park is small but beautifully designed, with plenty of seating areas and spaces for performances. In the summer, you can often catch free concerts or outdoor events here.

It’s located near the Meatpacking District, just a short walk from the High Line and Chelsea Market, so it’s easy to combine all three into the same outing.

18. Snap a photo of the Flatiron Building

The Flatiron Building is one of the most recognizable landmarks in New York thanks to its narrow triangular shape. Completed in 1902, it was one of the city’s first skyscrapers and remains a favorite photo spot today.

You’ll find it at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Broadway, right next to Madison Square Park. The park is a nice place to sit for a few minutes and take in the view of the building while enjoying a snack or coffee.

The Flatiron itself isn’t open to the public, so the best way to experience it is from the outside. For the classic shot, stand at the north end of the park where you’ll get the building framed perfectly against the city backdrop.

19. Eat a pastrami sandwich at Katz’s Delicatessen

Katz’s Delicatessen has been serving New Yorkers since 1888 and is one of the most famous delis in the city. The star of the menu is the pastrami sandwich, piled high on rye bread with mustard. It’s huge, so consider sharing if you’re not too hungry!

The deli is located on the Lower East Side and is always busy, especially around lunchtime. When you walk in, you’ll be handed a ticket that you use to place your order at the counter, so don’t lose it.

It’s a bit of a tourist attraction but also a true New York institution, and grabbing a sandwich here is one of the classic things to do in New York City.

20. See the skyline from One World Observatory

Located at the top of One World Trade Center, One World Observatory offers the highest views in the city from 1,250 feet above ground. On a clear day, you can see for miles, with sweeping views of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and even the Statue of Liberty.

The experience starts with a fast elevator ride that takes you up 102 floors in less than a minute, complete with an animated video showing the evolution of New York’s skyline. At the top, floor-to-ceiling windows give you a panoramic perspective of the city.

Tickets are timed, so booking ahead is recommended, especially if you want to visit around sunset. There’s also a café and restaurant inside if you’d like to enjoy the view with a drink or meal.

21. Hang out in Greenwich Village & Washington Square Park

Greenwich Village is one of New York’s most charming neighborhoods, with tree-lined streets, historic brownstones, and plenty of cafés and bars to explore. It has a more laid-back vibe compared to Midtown and is a great area to wander without a set plan.

At the heart of the neighborhood is Washington Square Park, known for its marble arch, lively street performers, and chess players. It’s always full of energy, and the fountain area is a perfect spot to sit and people-watch.

If you have time, stroll down MacDougal Street for a mix of restaurants and comedy clubs, or explore Bleecker Street, which is filled with small shops and local favorites.

It’s a fun break from the city’s big landmarks and one of the best places to visit in New York for a taste of local life.

Read More: 8 Best Areas to Stay in New York City for First-Timers

22. Have a drink at a rooftop bar

Rooftop bars are a classic New York experience and one of the best ways to take in the skyline while enjoying a drink. There are plenty to choose from, each offering a different vibe and view of the city.

230 Fifth is one of the most popular, with spacious outdoor seating and a direct view of the Empire State Building. For something a little more stylish, check out the Refinery Rooftop near Bryant Park or the rooftop at the Standard Hotel in the Meatpacking District.

Most rooftop bars open in the afternoon and stay lively well into the night. They can get busy, so it’s a good idea to go earlier in the evening if you’d like to avoid long waits for a table.

23. Explore DUMBO in Brooklyn

DUMBO, short for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, is one of the most photogenic areas in New York. The cobblestone streets, trendy cafés, and waterfront views make it a favorite for both locals and visitors.

The most famous photo spot is Washington Street, where you can see the Manhattan Bridge perfectly framed between the buildings, with the Empire State Building visible through the bridge’s arch.

It’s one of the most popular Instagram spots in NYC, so expect plenty of people trying to capture the same shot!

After getting your photo, head to Brooklyn Bridge Park for views of the Manhattan skyline or grab a bite from one of the many pizza places nearby, like the popular Grimaldi’s or Juliana’s.

24. Visit the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

The Museum of Modern Art is one of the most important modern art museums in the world and a must for art lovers visiting New York. Its collection includes works by Van Gogh, Picasso, Matisse, Warhol, and many more.

One of the highlights is Van Gogh’s Starry Night, which is often surrounded by crowds, so head there early if you want a quieter look. You’ll also find an impressive mix of contemporary installations, photography, and design pieces spread across multiple floors.

MoMA is located in Midtown and can be combined with other nearby attractions like Rockefeller Center or Fifth Avenue. Tickets can be purchased online, and if you visit on a Friday evening, admission is free, though it tends to be very crowded.

25. Take the Staten Island Ferry

The Staten Island Ferry is one of the best free things to do in New York City and a great way to see the skyline from the water. The ride takes about 25 minutes each way and passes close to the Statue of Liberty, making it a perfect alternative if you don’t have time for a full tour.

The ferry runs 24/7, with boats departing every 20–30 minutes, so it’s easy to fit into your schedule. There’s no need to buy a ticket; just head to the Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan and board.

For the best views, stand on the right side of the ferry when leaving Manhattan and the left side when returning. It’s a simple experience, but one that offers some of the best views in NYC without spending a dime.

26. Walk along the Williamsburg waterfront

Williamsburg in Brooklyn has become one of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods, known for its street art, cool cafés, and lively nightlife. The waterfront is the highlight, offering sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline that are especially beautiful at sunset.

Domino Park is a popular spot to relax, with walking paths, seating areas, and plenty of space to hang out. On weekends, you’ll also find Smorgasburg, a massive outdoor food market with dozens of vendors selling everything from lobster rolls to ramen burgers.

After your walk, explore the surrounding streets filled with boutique shops, vintage stores, and some of the best coffee spots in Brooklyn. It’s a fun way to experience a different side of the city.

27. Step inside Radio City Music Hall

Radio City Music Hall is one of the most famous theaters in New York and a landmark of American entertainment. Opened in 1932, it’s known for its Art Deco design and massive auditorium that has hosted everything from concerts to award shows.

You can take a guided tour to learn about the building’s history, see behind the scenes, and even meet a Rockette if you’re lucky. The tour gives you access to areas most visitors don’t get to see, including the rehearsal halls and private lounges.

If you’re visiting during the holiday season, the annual Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes is one of the most popular shows in the city and a true New York tradition.

28. Have a bagel with lox

New York bagels are famous for their chewy texture and generous toppings, and trying one is a must when you’re in the city. A classic order is a bagel with lox and cream cheese, often paired with tomato, onion, and capers.

Some of the best spots to try include Ess-a-Bagel, known for its oversized bagels and long lines, and Russ & Daughters, a New York institution that has been serving smoked fish and bagels for over 100 years.

Bagels make the perfect breakfast or quick snack between sightseeing stops, and grabbing one is easily one of the tastiest things to do in NYC.

29. Ride the Roosevelt Island Tramway

The Roosevelt Island Tramway is one of the most unique ways to see the city. This aerial cable car runs between Manhattan and Roosevelt Island, gliding high above the East River with incredible views of Midtown along the way.

The ride only takes about five minutes each way, but the scenery makes it worth it, especially if you go at sunset when the skyline lights up. Once on Roosevelt Island, you can walk along the waterfront promenade or visit Four Freedoms Park at the southern tip.

The tram is part of the city’s public transit system, so you can use a standard MetroCard to ride. It’s a fun, affordable experience and one of the more underrated things to do in New York City.

30. Go shopping in SoHo

SoHo is one of New York’s best neighborhoods for shopping, with a mix of big-name stores, designer boutiques, and unique independent shops.

The area is also known for its cast-iron buildings and cobblestone streets, which give it a distinct look compared to the rest of Manhattan.

Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, it’s worth walking around to admire the architecture and browse the window displays. Art galleries and pop-up shops are common here too, so there’s always something new to discover.

SoHo can get crowded on weekends, especially along Broadway, so weekdays are a better time to visit if you’d like a more relaxed experience.

31. Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral

St. Patrick’s Cathedral is one of the most beautiful churches in New York City and a striking contrast to the modern skyscrapers around it. Located on Fifth Avenue, right across from Rockefeller Center, its Neo-Gothic architecture and twin spires make it easy to spot.

Inside, you’ll find soaring ceilings, stained glass windows, and an atmosphere that feels worlds away from the busy streets outside. The main altar and the rose window are especially impressive, and the cathedral is open daily for visitors.

Entry is free, though donations are welcome, and you don’t need much time to stop in. If you’re exploring Midtown, it’s an easy addition to your itinerary and one of the top places to visit in New York.

32. Spend an afternoon at the American Museum of Natural History

The American Museum of Natural History is one of the largest museums in the world and a favorite for both kids and adults. Its exhibits cover everything from dinosaurs and ocean life to outer space, making it one of the most fun and educational things to do in NYC.

Some of the highlights include the giant blue whale model in the Hall of Ocean Life, the T. rex skeleton, and the Rose Center for Earth and Space with its planetarium. You might also recognize the museum from the Night at the Museum movies!

The museum is huge, so plan to spend at least a few hours here. Tickets can be purchased online, and timed entry helps avoid long waits. If you’re visiting with family, this is easily one of the best places to visit in New York.

33. Take a walk down Fifth Avenue

Fifth Avenue is New York’s most famous shopping street and a place you’ll probably end up walking along at some point during your trip. It stretches from Washington Square Park in Greenwich Village all the way up to Harlem, but the most iconic stretch is in Midtown.

Here you’ll find luxury stores, flagship shops, and landmarks like Saks Fifth Avenue and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Around the holidays, the department store window displays and giant tree at Rockefeller Center make it especially festive.

Even if you’re not interested in shopping, strolling down Fifth Avenue is one of the classic things to do in New York City, and you’ll pass by plenty of attractions along the way.

34. Watch a Yankees or Mets game

Baseball is a huge part of local culture, and seeing a game is one of the most fun things to do in NYC if you want a true American sports experience.

The New York Yankees play at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, while the New York Mets play at Citi Field in Queens. Both venues are easy to reach by subway.

Games run from spring through early fall, and ticket prices vary depending on the matchup and your seat. You’ll find everything from affordable bleacher seats to premium spots right behind home plate.

Even if you’re not a big baseball fan, the atmosphere, the crowd, and classic ballpark food make it a memorable experience.

35. See the city from SUMMIT One Vanderbilt or The Edge

For some of the best views in New York City, head to one of the newer observation decks, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt or The Edge.

SUMMIT is an immersive experience with mirrored floors and walls that reflect the skyline in every direction, while The Edge has the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere, complete with a glass floor and angled glass walls.

Both spots offer a completely different vibe from classics like the Empire State Building or Top of the Rock, making them a great addition to your New York bucket list.

Tickets are timed and often sell out for sunset, so it’s worth booking in advance!

36. See the Vessel at Hudson Yards

The Vessel at Hudson Yards is a honeycomb-shaped structure made up of staircases and platforms that curve upward into the sky.

After being closed for several years, it recently reopened with new safety measures in place, and visitors can now climb sections of it again for elevated views of the city.

Tickets are required and can be booked online in advance. Even if you don’t go up, the structure itself is impressive to see up close, and it’s located right next to The Edge, so you can easily combine both into the same visit.

37. Go to an event at Madison Square Garden

Madison Square Garden is known as the world’s most famous arena, and it has hosted everything from concerts and boxing matches to political conventions.

It’s also home to the New York Knicks and the New York Rangers, so depending on the season, you can catch either basketball or hockey here.

The venue’s calendar is packed year-round with major artists and events, so it’s worth checking what’s on during your trip. Tickets can be pricey for big-name shows, but the atmosphere inside the Garden is unlike anywhere else.

If you’re interested in the history of the arena, tours are available during the day and give you a behind-the-scenes look at this iconic New York venue.

38. Visit Wall Street & the Charging Bull

Wall Street is the center of New York’s Financial District and home to some of the city’s most famous landmarks. You’ll see the New York Stock Exchange, Federal Hall, and plenty of suited-up workers hurrying between offices.

Just a short walk away is the Charging Bull statue, one of the most photographed spots in Lower Manhattan. Across from it, the Fearless Girl statue has also become a popular stop. Both make for quick but iconic photo ops.

Since the area is compact, you can easily explore it on foot and combine it with a visit to the 9/11 Memorial, Battery Park, or a ferry ride to the Statue of Liberty.