Top 10 Things to Do in New York City: Must Sees & Online Tickets

New York City brims with iconic landmarks, cultural treasures, and vibrant neighborhoods that make it a must-visit destination. From towering skyscrapers to historic sites and world-class museums, each corner of the city offers something unique for every kind of traveler. 

Whether it's your first visit or you're back for more, our curated list of the top 10 things to do in New York City captures the essence of the Big Apple. To help you make the most of your time, we've included popular ticket options for each attraction, so you can dive into New York’s best experiences without a hitch.

Let’s get started on exploring the city that never sleeps!

Tip: For even more ideas, check out our expanded list of the 45 top things to do in New York City.

From landmarks to observation decks to museums

1. Visit the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

Our list of the top 10 things to do in New York begins with the most iconic landmark, not only of New York but of the entire United States. The Statue of Liberty, gifted by France in 1886, stands 305 feet (93 meters) tall and symbolizes freedom and democracy. With her torch held high, Lady Liberty has long welcomed visitors and inspired hope for millions of immigrants.

Accessible by ferry from Battery Park, Liberty Island offers a museum detailing the statue’s history and a climb to the pedestal for expansive views. Ellis Island, just a short ferry ride away, served as the gateway for over 12 million immigrants between 1892 and 1954. The Ellis Island Immigration Museum shares moving stories and artifacts from those journeys.

• Insider Tip: Reserve both your ferry and Statue of Liberty tickets as soon as possible —especially if you plan to visit the crown or pedestal, as spots are limited.

2. See a Broadway Show

No visit to New York City is truly complete without the thrill of a Broadway show! Broadway is the heart of American theatre, offering everything from beloved classics to groundbreaking new performances. With over 40 theaters near the vibrant Times Square, Broadway dazzles audiences worldwide with legendary shows like The Lion King, Hamilton, and Wicked. While a higher-priced activity, it's worth the investment for the unparalleled experience of live theatre in such an iconic setting.

• Tip: For a more intimate experience, Off-Broadway theaters showcase cutting-edge productions, often at more affordable prices, making New York’s theater scene unforgettable for every type of theatergoer.
• Discover our handpicked list of the top Broadway shows to see in New York this year and make your trip unforgettable. 

3. Enjoy the Thrills at Summit One Vanderbilt

Opened in 2021, Summit One Vanderbilt is New York’s newest observation deck, and quickly becoming a must-see landmark. This multi-level experience in one of NYC's tallest buildings provides stunning views of the Empire State Building, East River, Central Park, and more, all enhanced by thrilling interactive installations that transport visitors into a new realm.

Visitors can step out onto "Levitation", a glass skybox suspended over Madison Avenue, or take "Ascent", a glass elevator that rises to incredible 360-degree views. With mirrored floors and walls, the skyline reflects in surreal ways, adding an immersive twist to the experience.

• Best Time to Visit: Sunset, when the city lights start to sparkle, enhances the magic of the mirrored installations and offers an unforgettable view. Night visits, on the other hand, offer a completely different experience.
• Pro Tip: SUMMIT’s mirrored floors and reflective surfaces amplify sunlight, so bring sunglasses and consider wearing shorts or pants. Note that stilettos and work boots aren’t permitted.

Check out our list of the 10 best views in New York City for details on top observation decks and scenic vantage points.

4. Unwind in Central Park

Central Park, a green oasis amid Manhattan’s skyscrapers, is 843 acres (341 hectares) of lakes, meadows, trails, and iconic spots. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, it opened in 1858 to provide New Yorkers with an escape from the city.

Popular attractions within the park include Bethesda Fountain with its angel statue, The Mall lined with towering American elms, and Bow Bridge, a romantic spot often seen in films. You can rent a rowboat at the Loeb Boathouse, have a picnic in Sheep Meadow, or catch a summer concert.

• What to Do: Don’t miss Strawberry Fields, a quiet memorial to John Lennon, or the Belvedere Castle for stunning park views.

5. Take in the Views at the Empire State Building

Have you really experienced New York if you haven’t visited the Empire State Building? This iconic landmark has graced the city skyline since 1931 and was once the tallest building in the world. Standing at 1,454 feet (443 meters) with 102 floors, it remains the sixth-tallest today. 

Step into the stunning Art Deco lobby before heading up to the observation decks on the 86th floor and the 102nd floor at a height of 1,250 feet (380 meters) for some of the best panoramic views of the city. At the top of this iconic building, you truly feel like you have arrived in New York... For an unforgettable experience, visit at sunset to see the city transform as its lights sparkle to life, encapsulating the magic of New York. 

• Insider Tip: Early morning and late-night visits often mean shorter lines, or use a skip-the-line ticket for quicker access.

6. Marvel at the Art at MoMA

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is a world leader in modern and contemporary art. Founded in 1929, it boasts a remarkable collection that includes The Starry Night by Van Gogh, works by Picasso and Monet, and groundbreaking pieces by Warhol.

The museum also features immersive installations and rotating exhibitions showcasing the latest in art and design. The museum is in Midtown, so it’s a great cultural break if you’re exploring nearby attractions.

• Insider Tip: Free admission is offered on Fridays from 5:30–9 PM (though reservations are recommended due to high demand).

7. Experience the Bustling Times Square

Known as “The Crossroads of the World,” Times Square is an essential NYC stop. Once a hub for theater and movie houses, it’s now a bustling center of digital billboards, neon lights, and street performers. 

Times Square is especially popular on New Year’s Eve, when thousands gather for the ball drop, an annual tradition since 1907. The red steps above the TKTS booth offer a great vantage point for people-watching and soaking in the neon energy, while the surrounding streets are lined with shops, restaurants, and theaters.

• Insider Tip: For a unique NYC experience, visit Ellen's Stardust Diner, where singing waitstaff turn your meal into a lively performance during breakfast, lunch, or dinner!

8. Discover Rockefeller Center & Top of the Rock

Rockefeller Center is a bustling hub of attractions in Midtown Manhattan. Built during the Great Depression, it’s known for its Art Deco architecture, the iconic Radio City Music Hall, and its annual Christmas tree lighting.

The Top of the Rock observation deck provides clear, open-air views of the Empire State Building, Central Park, and beyond, which is why it is very popular with tourists. In winter, the Rockefeller ice skating rink is a classic holiday experience.

• Insider Tip: Sunset offers the best light for photos at Top of the Rock. Don’t miss the Radio City Stage Door Tour to learn about the theater’s rich history.

9. Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art

With over two million works of art, the Metropolitan Museum of Art (the Met) is one of the world’s most renowned museums. Founded in 1870, it houses artifacts from Ancient Egypt, European paintings, and rotating exhibitions on contemporary art.

Popular highlights include the Temple of Dendur, an ancient Egyptian temple reassembled inside the museum, and paintings by masters like Van Gogh and Rembrandt. The rooftop garden offers beautiful city views and features seasonal art installations.

• What to See: Spend time in the Egyptian Wing and the Arms and Armour collection, and enjoy seasonal rooftop exhibits with views of Central Park.

10. Visit the Edge at Hudson Yards

Perched at Hudson Yards, Edge is the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere, soaring 1,250 feet (380 meters) above the city. Its unique triangular platform juts out from the building, featuring a glass floor that allows visitors to gaze straight down 100 floors to the streets below.

From this vantage point, you can enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the stunning Manhattan skyline, making it one of the most exhilarating observation experiences in NYC.

• Insider Tip: Book tickets for sunset to witness the transition from day to night—a memorable view against the dazzling lights of Manhattan.

Recommendation: Go on a Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour

A Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour is ideal for a convenient overview of NYC’s main attractions. These double-decker buses offer routes across the city’s top neighborhoods, including Times Square, Central Park, the Empire State Building, and more. Each ticket allows you to explore at your own pace, getting on and off as you please, and includes recorded or live commentary, giving you insight into New York’s history and culture.

• Tour Tip: Choose a multi-day pass to maximize your stops and explore both Uptown and Downtown routes for a comprehensive city experience.

New York City offers a unique blend of history, art, culture, and energy. We hope this list of the top 10 things in New York helps you explore the best of what the city has to offer. For more insights, don’t miss our other articles on Top NYC Museums, Best Views, and the Best eSIM Options for your USA trip. Enjoy the magic of the Big Apple!