The 101 best things to do in NYC for locals and tourists

What is it? A once-abandoned elevated train track that was transformed into a crazy-popular, bucolic walkway. 

Why go? After years of legislation and major landscaping, the community group Friends of the High Line was able to morph the former elevated train line into a public space back in 2009. Now, people walking along the 1.45-mile park’s gardens, taking in sweet views of the Hudson, the Whitney Museum of Art plenty of pretty flowers and plants that are mostly indigenous to the region.   

Don’t miss: “Recline on the High Line’s wooden lounge chairs," suggests Dia from Bushwick. "It’s a really calming, litter-free spot of nature just above a bustling, stressed-out avenue.”

What is it? Institution housing one of the world’s finest collections of art from the 18th century through today.

Why go? Around nearly every corner of the venerated museum is a seminal piece by an artist trumpeted in art history or coveted by contemporary collectors. During the height of tourist season, around Christmas and again in late spring and summer, expect a shoving-match just to catch a momentary glance at Van Gogh’s Starry Night or Picasso’s Les Demoiselles d’Avignon. 

Don’t miss: Can't swing the $25 entrance free? Art editor Howard Halle suggests coming during MoMA's free Friday nights (4–8pm).  

What is it? The world's most famous green space. 

Why go? "Many visitors fight through the crowded streets to enter Central Park around 59th Street—where there’s not much to see—and by the time they reach the best bits, they are too winded to enjoy them," says Head of North American Content Rocky Rakovic. Instead, he suggests taking the subway to 72nd Street and Central Park West, then head east to hit up Strawberry Fields, the Sheep Meadow, Cherry Hill, Bow Bridge, the Bethesda Fountain, the Naumburg Bandshell, the Loeb Boathouse, the Hans Christian Andersen Monument, the Conservatory Water’s model boats and the Alice in Wonderland statue, all in a “New York hour.”

Don’t miss: Head to the shore of the Lake at 72nd Street and rent a rowboat or take a gondola tour. 

What is it? Consider yourself a travel-loving foodie? Queens Night Market is your one-stop shop in NYC to discover bites from 80 countries.

Why go? Try a diverse range of grub that runs the gamut from Middle Eastern stews and Barbadian fishballs to Romanian-Hungarian chimney cake and tacos al pastor. The open-air bazaar operates from 5pm to midnight every Saturday, but the market has more to offer aside from fulfilling your late-night food cravings.

Don’t miss: There’s always a great lineup of live music and performances such as Bollywood dancers, Indian electronica tunes, DJs and more. Check out queensnightmarket.com for the lineup. 

What is it? Skating (and dancing) queen Lola Star brings a new theme to her Industry City roller rink shindig every weekend.

Why go? Fashion your best pop star costume and head to Lola Star’s themed roller-skating parties. Each bash channels a different era from “’90s hip-hop” and “goth glam” to “’80s workout grooves.”  

Don’t miss: Before you hit the rink, pose for photos like a celebrity on the red-carpet entrance. (The images will make for a great memory keepsake.)

What is it? Every April, cherry blossoms are at their picturesque peak during this two-day celebration at Brooklyn Botanic Garden.

Why go? “It doesn’t feel like spring until I’m surrounded by cherry blossoms, and I love the elements of Japanese culture at this festival,” notes Liz in Windsor Terrace. When the winter finally begins to thaw in early April, the pink buds on the cherry blossom trees greet the rising temperatures, and it’s a sight to see. The Brooklyn Botanic Garden pays homage to the Japanese spring festival Sakura Matsuri with Kabuki dance, tea ceremonies, anime/manga cosplay and cherry blossom as far as the eye can see.

Don’t miss: A packed lineup of entertainment including taiko drummers, samurai sword masters, J-rock bands and more. 

What is it? A series of restored tenement apartments on the Lower East Side that show visitors the day-to-day lives of past immigrant tenants. 

Why go? "You'll learn so much,” says Evelyn of Greenpoint about the guided tours here, which bring the history of New York’s immigrant population from the mid-1800s through to the early 20th Century to life. Before its incarnation as a museum, this site was once home to dozens of working class German, Jewish, Chinese and Italian families.

Don’t miss: The heartbreaking "The Moores: An Irish Family in America," which revisits a Dublin family who lived in the building in 1869.

What is it? A Coney Island go-to since 1920 that boasts sweet oceanside views. 

Why go? “No roller coaster can top the thrill of not knowing if you’ll survive a jerky antique Ferris wheel,” jokes Cara in Gowanus. The Wonder Wheel is the center of Coney Island’s famed boardwalk entertainment. Built by the Eccentric Ferris Wheel Company (yes, that’s a real thing) out of Bethlehem-forged steel, this ride is perfect if you want a birds-eye view of and some old-timey carnival thrills. 

Don’t miss:  When you reach the top, peep the Atlantic Ocean on side, the Manhattan skyline on the other and all of the amusement-park action down below. 

What is it? A seven-minute ride on a ferry takes you to this seasonal island sanctuary. 

Why go? Off-limits to the public for 200 years, this former military outpost finally opened to visitors in 2006. You can tour some of the island's remaining military-era architecture, including Fort Jay, started in 1776, and Castle Williams, which was completed in 1812 and used as a prison. But the island also provides a peaceful setting for cycling (bring a bike on the ferry, or rent one from Citi Bike or Bike and Roll once there) or taking a ride down Slide Hill. Plus, where else can you have a picnic directly across from the Statue of Liberty?

Don’t miss: “Napping in Hammock Grove," suggests John of Sunnyside. "I never thought I’d be able to fall asleep in public, but it’s so peaceful.”

What is it? A world-famous landmark that towers above Manhattan.  

Why go? The main deck on the 86th floor is the highest open-air observatory offers stunning 360-degree views of the Hudson and East Rivers, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty and more. If you want to get higher, head to the 102nd floor's indoor observation deck for a full view of Central Park. And for some background, duck down to the "Dare to Dream" exhibit on the 80th floor, which honors the 3,400 people who built the 1,454-foot skyscraper and features original photographs, architectural sketches and construction notes. 

Don’t miss: Want to admire the ESB from a distance with a strong drink in hand? "For about $20, you can grab a drink, tip the bartender and take in amazing views from Rockefeller Plaza’s Bar SixtyFive at the Rainbow Room," notes Head of North American Content Rocky Rakovic. 

What is it? For two nights every year (once at the end of May and again in mid-July), the setting sun aligns precisely with Manhattan’s street grid—which is actually set a few degrees north of true east-west—dousing the skyline and streets below in a magnificent orange glow.

Why go? “The way the sun sets perfectly in the middle of those mammoth buildings really makes you appreciate the architecture.” —Dan, Crown Heights

Don’t miss: Even celebrities aren’t too cool to take to the streets to witness this phenomenon. The term was even coined by the coolest nerd and Hayden Planetarium’s director Neil deGrasse Tyson.

What is it? Held monthly in various locations across the city, each StorySLAM sees 10 storytellers competing to see who spins the best tale on a specific theme, without using written notes.

Why go? With so many writers, comedians and actors living in New York, it makes sense that the tales told at the slams are better performed and more engaging than in other cities. Unsurprisingly, this hugely popular event is always packed, so line up early to snag your spot. “Even though anyone can put their name in the hat, it's rare to encounter a bad storyteller,” promises Dana of Crown Heights.

Don’t miss: Don’t trust us or Dana? Check out their podcast and then after you attend one, see if you can pick your giggle out of the cacophony of laughter.

What is it? A Beaux-Arts landmark with insanely high ceilings, stunning chandeliers and massive arched windows that flood the halls with natural light.

Why go? “Waste time in the main branch of the New York Public Library, because it’s a beautiful building and just by being there I feel smarter somehow,” says Jane of the Lower East Side. Don’t mind if we do. Just try to keep your Ghostbusters reenactments to a minimum—people are trying to read!

Don’t miss: Those icon lions outside. Something the rest of the Instagrammers won’t have in their caption though, is that their names are Patience and Fortitude and they are made from Tennessee marble.

What is it? A ridiculously photogentic neighborhood teeming with tree-lined streets and Brooklyn brownstones. 

Why go? “Walk the fruit streets of Brooklyn Heights," suggests Dana in Crown Heights. Those streets (Cranberry, Orange and Pineapple) do indeed, as she puts it, "have that Brooklyn-from-the-movies feel.” And there's a nifty backstory: In the mid-1800s, prominent Brooklyn Heights resident Lady Middagh saw the “pretentious” street names in her ’hood—those named after Brooklyn’s wealthy families—and decided to take matters into her own hands by changing the street signs by cover of darkness to Cranberry, Orange and Pineapple. 

Don’t miss: Head to the water and hit the Brooklyn Promenade, a one-third-mile stretch of pavement along the East River overlooking an unforgettable span of NYC’s skyline. 

What is it? Set in a lovely park overlooking the Hudson River, the Cloisters houses the Met’s medieval art and architecture collections.

Why go? “My favorite place in New York is the Cloisters, even though I barfed there once in sixth grade on a field trip," says Lena Dunham. "I just think it’s the most beautiful, peaceful place." Indeed it is. Soak it all in by following a path that winds through the peaceful grounds to a castle that seems to have survived from the Middle Ages. (It was built less than 100 years ago, using material from five medieval French cloisters.)  

Don’t miss: The famous Unicorn Tapestries, the 12th-century Fuentidueña Chapel and the Annunciation Triptych by Robert Campin.  

What is it? A private, not-for-profit, library containing the best curation of the poetic canon. Like the words in its collection of 70,000 volumes the whimsical space itself is designed to inspire creative types.

Why go? “By attending poetry readings at the Poet’s House—I’ve been introduced to some amazing writers there and I’ve heard a few of my favorites.”says Kaitlyn of Ridgewood. Even on days when the Poets House isn’t hosting workshops, readings, and other special events featuring poet laureates and more, the literary minded make use of its modern, airy study space and vast, world-class poetry library.

Don’t miss: Sunset views over the Hudson with Langston Hughes.

What is it? A 526-acre sprawling public park in the heart of Brooklyn

Why go? “Go to Prospect Park on a clear evening, lie in the grass, and watch the bats and the stars,” suggests Cat of Park Slope. While bicycling, warm-weather picnics and weekend runs are a must at this park, you can do pretty much any outdoor activity your heart desires: there’s bird-watching, baseball, basketball and more.

Don’t miss: We recommend roller skating or renting a paddle boat at LeFrak, which transforms into an ice skating rink in the winter.

What is it? An expertly curated, 149-year-old institution that fills visitors of all ages with a curiosity about the universe. 

Why go? Whether you’re interested in the world below our feet, or the cultures of faraway lands or the stars light-years beyond our reach, your visit is bound to teach you a few things you never knew. With four floors filled to the brim with artifacts, you could spend a whole day just looking at the taxidermied animals that hail from from North America, Asia, Africa, rain forests and the ocean. Or, conversely, you could spend a day like an anthropologist, studying just the human species, with halls dedicated to an array of different cultures.

Don’t miss: “Taking out-of-towners here and looking at the big blue whale from their eyes reminds you just how amazing it really is,” says Alise of the Upper East Side of the 94-foot-long suspended stunner. 

What is it? After nearly 50 years in its Marcel-Breur-designed building on Madison Avenue at 75th Street, the Whitney Museum decamped in 2015 to a new home in the Meatpacking District. 

Why go? Founded in 1931 by sculptor and art patron Gertrude Vanderbilt, the Whitney is dedicated to presenting the work of American artists. Its collection holds about 15,000 pieces by nearly 2,000 artists, including Alexander Calder, Willem de Kooning, Edward Hopper (the museum holds his entire estate), Jasper Johns, Louise Nevelson, Georgia O’Keeffe and Claes Oldenburg. 

Don’t miss: Art editor Howard Halle suggests Hooper's 1930 masterpiece Early Sunday Morning.   

What is it? An actual (serious) museum dedicated to the cultural significance of human sexuality. 

Why go? “Take a date to the Museum of Sex—seeing how he reacts to the exhibits will tell you a lot about him and maybe give you both a few ideas,” say Zoe of the Lower East Side. If you’re in a sexual rut—or if you’re just looking for a break from your typical museum experience—you’ll want to bring your partner to MoSex’s Jump for Joy, a bouncy castle of breasts. Consider it foreplay before you lovebirds get down and dirty in private.

Don’t Miss: The museum’s store offers an excellently curated selection of sex toys and other items.

What is it? A true feat of 19th century engineering and arguably the one walk every local and visitor must take. 

Why go? This essential trek is "is so romantic that is has the power to turn platonic relationships into something more,” claims Javier in Little Italy. And you'll hear no arguments from us. The 1.3-mile-long stunner was the world's largest suspension bridge when it opened in 1883 it has remained an iconic landmark of the city ever since. 

Don’t miss: The Brooklyn side of the bridge ends in gorgeous Dumbo, where you can explore Brooklyn Bridge Park, gaze at Lady Liberty, visit the Brooklyn Flea on Sundays.

What is it? A centrally located Manhattan park that serves as a bustling gathering point and houses the popular Union Square Greenmarket.

Why go? “I pick up everything I need for a romantic evening at home at the Union Square farmers market: wine, fresh meat and produce, and flowers,” says Dan of the West Village. Operating four days a week, the Union Square Greenmarket has vendors of every variety. The market began with just a few farmers in 1976, and in addition to some of the freshest produce in town, today’s park-goers can buy artisanal cheeses, wines from upstate vineyards, sweet jams and other goods from dozens of rotating stands. In the winter months, the park also houses a popular winter village packed full of local vendors offering unique holiday gifts.

Don’t miss: The seasonal restaurant located inside the park, Bocce USQ.

What is it? A 9.75-acre public park that serves as the beating heart of Greenwich Village. 

Why go? “Listening to the Piano Man [Colin Huggins] play in Washington Square Park—it’s so cool watching him wheel out his grand piano, and he’s an amazing performer,” says Sophie of the West Village. Most buskers are content to use instruments that are, you know, portable. But Huggins, the self-proclaimed “crazy piano guy,” is more ambitious. On nice days, he wheels out a baby grand to perform beautiful renditions of classical pieces.

Don’t miss: On hot summer days, dip your feet into the giant circular park fountain.

What is it? The biggest metropolitan zoo in North America. 

Why go? If you’ve got a hankering to reconnect with wildlife, check out this Bronx go-to. With more than 265-acres of animals and wildlife, you won’t be able to see everything in one day, so consider taking a two-hour tour of the Congo Gorilla Forest, World of Reptiles or the Himalayan Highlands exhibits. Be sure to pay a special visit to the American Bison, too, which was just declared America’s national mammal.         

Don’t miss: Strapped for cash? “The Bronx Zoo is free on Wednesdays,” points out Danny of Flushing. 

What is it? The Bronx home of the New York Yankees.

Why go? “Attend Calendar Day at Yankee Stadium. Go Yankees!” recommends Alex of Hamilton Heights of the world-famous sports stadium. Sure, the free team calendar is nice, but chilling out in the bleachers at the House that Ruth Built, in all its manicured-lawn glory, is nicer. And even if A-Rod doesn’t launch his 661st career home run, passing Willie Mays for fourth on the all-time list, you’ll wind up going home with a more valuable souvenir—a memory (aww). Celebrate history after the game by hitting Yankee-fan bar Stan’s just down the block.

Don’t miss: The stadium’s excellent new food options including Bareburger, Mighty Quinn’s Barbeque and Tater Kegs.

What is it? Surrounded by the concrete jungle are 250 acres of verdant oasis—year round. The NYBG is a historic, verdant oasis all year round. Special exhibits include Saving the Plants of the World, gardening’s relationship to the arts and humanities and a how-to course on creating your own green oasis.

Why go? To see how the greatest city in the world sets up a garden (hint: there’s normally whimsical artistic elements).

Don’t miss: “Celebrate the holidays at the Botanical Garden’s train garden—seeing all those miniature NYC buildings is worth the crowds,” says Michael of Brooklyn Heights.  

What is it? A free ferry that transports people between Manhattan and Staten Island. 

Why go? “Take the Staten Island Ferry. It’s free and you can drink!” says Suzannah of Kew Gardens, Queens. You heard the woman: It’s free and you can drink! Need we say more? Okay, fine, how about “amazing views of the Statue of Liberty”? Oh, by the way, the hour-long round-trip ride boasts some of the lowest beer prices in the city—cans of Bud go for $4—so you can live it up booze-cruise-style for less than a five-spot. Classy.

Don’t miss: The sparkling Seaglass Carousel next to the Manhattan terminal is an entertaining diversion.

What is it? An annual waterfront costume parade that takes over Coney Island

Why go? “The Mermaid Parade is the wildest thing I’ve ever seen,” say Mina of Park Slope. The annual parade is one of NYC’s freakiest, most iconic New York attractions and one of the best things to do in the summer. Each year, thousands of spectators flock to Surf Avenue, Coney Island’s main drag, to watch King Neptune and Queen Mermaid lead a procession of beglittered seminude marchers in costumes through the neighborhood.

Don’t miss: Escape some of the massive crowds and grab a drink at Freak Bar which is right on the route

What is it? On June 13 from 6-9pm, anyone can get into eight of NYC’s best museums—like the Guggenheim, Neue Gallery, and the Met—for free! You’d normally pay $25, so we consider this a bargain. It’s been a city tradition since the 1970’s, and thousands attend the culture crawl on 5th Avenue each year.

Why go? “Hit the Museum Mile Festival to see some of the city’s [the world’s] most iconic art for free,” offers Terri of Dyker Heights.

Don’t miss: Your opportunity to contemplate your personal From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler opportunity.

What is it? Madison Square Park is a green oasis in the Flatiron district—not to be confused with Madison Square Garden.

Why go? There’s always something going in the environs (three streets by one avenue block) from outdoor art exhibits to free concerts. “In the summer, blues, jazz and Hill Billy Blue Grass music fills the park and makes it pleasant,” says Suri of the adjacent neighborhood of Chelsea. The park is also home to the first Shake Shack, which still consistently see lines that would make the hottest clubs jealous. Tourists go for Shake Shack, workers go to eat their lunch, pooch owners go for the dog run, guardians go for the children’s playground… and because the park  is snaked with benches it lends for the best leisurely people-watching.

Don’t miss: Stepping onto the southwest corner of the park is debatably the hallowed grounds on which baseball was born.

What is it? Right off the Hudson River Park a number of watersports companies will get you onto a paddleboard, kayak or sailboat and into the Hudson.

Why go? Picture yourself standing on a wide surfboard in the middle of the Hudson, balancing like a champ while paddling to and fro using a long oar. Revel in that for a sec. Now picture the reality: a lot of wobbling and yelping and splashing into the water, unless you have insanely strong abs. Either way, it’s still totally fun, and taking in an up-close view of the Upper West Side while cruising along the Hudson is pretty breathtaking. “Rent a stand-up paddleboard from Manhattan Kayak Company, because you see the city from a unique vantage point and get a great workout.” says Benny of the Upper West Side.

Don’t miss: The Frying Pan is a permanently docked lightship on which, during season, you can have a drink and regal the patrons with your tales of the high sea

What is it? A sprawling public park in the Bronx. 

Why go? “Explore the trails around Pelham Bay Park. It’s actually the largest public park in New York City and there’s so much to see there, ” says Greg of City Island. Pelham Bay Park isn’t just the end of the 6 line—it’s a green space three times bigger than Central Park. Among its treasures: two golf courses, a massive historic mansion, a 13-mile saltwater shoreline along the Long Island Sound, plenty of hiking trials and, for you bird watchers, a hearty population of osprey.

Don’t miss: The Bronx’s only public beach, Orchard Beach

What is it? A stretch of sand that is one part New York attitude, one part beach-bum lifestyle.

Why go?  As Joey Ramone once sang about the Queens coastal anthem “Rockaway Beach,” “It’s not hard, not far to reach!” Indeed, it’s only about an hour A-train ride from Fulton Street to the beach, complete with a view of the coast for a good portion of the ride. With hip shops and eateries (including a snack shack by the crews of Roberta’s and Meat Hook called Rippers) the area is far less carnival than Coney Island so the crowd on the boardwalk is far more chill.

Don’t miss: “Take the train to Rockaway Beach on a quiet weekday, then have fish tacos and watermelon juice at Rockaway Taco.” —Michele, Carroll Gardens

What is it? A famed (and visually and sonically stunning) outdoor film series.   

Why go? “There’s nothing like seeing a flick on the big screen with the city as your backdrop,” says Joe of Williamsburg. Each summer, Bryant Park Movie Nights takes over the iconic green space on Monday evenings, projecting classics like The Shining and E.T. right in the heart of midtown. 

Don’t miss: Gates open at 5pm and lawn space fills up fast, so bring that blanket and picnic basket and act accordingly.  

What is it? Donald and Shelley Rubin’s impressive collection of Himalayan, Indian and Buddhist art and artifacts on display.

Why go? Spiritual types will love this museum, which is dedicated to Himalayan and Buddhist art and features lectures, movies, music and more. The museum is layered over five gallery floors in the old Barney’s New York space on 17th street. The awe-inspiring works range from classical to contemporary giving visitors a well-rounded experience with Eastern cultures.

Don’t miss:  “Catch Buddhist talks at the Rubin.”—Sophie, Prospect Heights

What is it? A meticulously manicured park in the backyard of the New York Public Library  

Why go? Aside from the free skating and the opportunity to fill yourself with holiday cheer, the Bank of America Winter Village now features a festive rinkside bar and food hall, The Lodge by Urbanspace. Stop by to snag eats from top-notch vendors like Mah-Se-Dahr bakery, Pierogi Boys and Todaro Bros. Skate rentals are just $20 a pair, and no worries if you can’t skate—the ring offers private, semi-private and group lessons. Just remember to reserve 48 hours in advance.

Don’t miss: The opulent public bathroom in the northeast corner of the park is the nicest one in the entire city (Seriously. Peek in if you have time.)