Rossilynne Skena Culgan

If you’re looking for the best things to do in NYC this week, or even for today, there are tons of fun options, including Open House New York, "Renoir Drawings" at the Morgan, One Man Poe, Schtick a Pole In It, a major wine and food festival, and awesome free events in NYC! For more ideas, scroll down to see this week's best things to do in NYC. RECOMMENDED: Full list of the best things to do in New York Stay in the Loop: Sign up for our free weekly newsletter to get the latest in New York City news, culture and dining. 

We're throwing the spookiness into high gear with events for Halloween in NYC. October is filled with costume parties, haunted houses, corn mazes, parades and even dog parades — and we're so ready! Don't bother breaking out your sewing kit, New York's greatest Halloween stores have plenty of options to make you look really spooky. Make sure to check out our NYC events in October too for even more activities to finish off the month in killer spirits.  Bookmark this link because we'll be updating this guide all autumn long. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to Halloween in NYC

Looking for the best things to do in NYC this weekend? Whether you’re the group planner searching for more things to do in NYC today or you have no plans yet, here are some ideas to add to your list for this weekend: The Ascarium's debut, Halloween-themed drag brunches, Loxfest, Taste of Sunnyside, Sotol Week and several new museum exhibits—plus free events around town. All you have to do is scroll down to plan your weekend! Start planning a great month now with our round-up of the best things to do in October.  RECOMMENDED: Full list of the best things to do in NYCRECOMMENDED: The best New York attractions Stay in the Loop: Sign up for our free weekly newsletter to get the latest in New York City news, culture and dining. 

As much as New Yorkers love their city, they want to be transported to another space and time — at least that's the trend museums, companies and artists are capitalizing on. Immersive exhibits, events and experiences are popping up all over NYC these days. From theatrical experiences to trippy digital art taking over massive spaces, there's no shortage of ways to be immersed in a different reality. With so many ways to be immersed, we decided it was high time to round up all the cool, immersive events, exhibits and experiences happening in NYC now and coming up soon so you won't miss the chance to experience something new and potentially mind-blowing. RECOMMENDED: The best museum exhibitions in NYC right now

Some of the best comedians in the world call NYC home, and whether you're seeing them in Manhattan clubs or Bushwick dive bars, you're guaranteed to be blown away by NYC's talent. Here's our rundown of the venues where you can see the best comedy in NYC. A few tips for those new to NYC's comedy scene: Expect to sit close to strangers, often in basement surrounds. Many venues require a two-drink minimum, so check for that when you buy tickets. (Pro-tip: Comedy club cocktails aren't always the most appetizing drinks, so we tend to stick to bottled or canned beverages like beer or White Claw.) Overall, remember to have fun and enjoy a good laugh.RECOMMENDED: See all of the best comedy shows in NYC

For the past eight years, we’ve made it our mission to scope out the coolest pockets of the world’s greatest cities in order to create our definitive annual ranking. The places where stuff like nightlife, art, culture, and affordable food and drink can be found on every corner and down every backstreet. Where diversity is championed and independent businesses thrive, from old-school boltholes to the newest avant-garde art space. Put simply, the world’s coolest neighbourhoods are places that represent the soul of our cities, while maintaining their own unique local character that draws people in to live, work and play. So, what are the neighbourhoods that fit the bill this year? To find out, we asked our network of writers and editors across a breadth of cities to nominate the vibiest district in their hometown right now. We then ranked every neighbourhood against criteria including culture, community, liveability, nightlife, food and drink, street life and that hard-to-define sense of ‘nowness’.  On our list this year, you’ll find everything from homely, village-like enclaves with tight-knit communities to revitalised city-centre hubs and formerly dormant, industrial areas transformed into creative districts. Many are underrated spots that sit in the shadow of their commercialised counterparts; others have become unexpected culinary hotspots or magnets for the city’s artists, writers and activists. What they all have in common is a DIY spirit – and an unshakeable proclivity f

While there’s nothing wrong with touristy attractions—some things you just have to see—the experience might be memorable for the wrong reasons: crowds, wait times, obstructed views. If you’re a repeat visitor or a local looking to get off the beaten path, these non-touristy things to do in NYC are for you. Visitors to New York flock to well-known attractions like the Empire State Building, Central Park, Chelsea Market, and Times Square—and for good reason! But you can find equally impressive views, natural beauty, art galleries, and colorful photo ops at other lesser-known spots, too. These alternative things to do in New York are just as memorable and far less crowded. After you’ve explored these non-touristy alternatives, go a little deeper and discover the best secret spots in NYC. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best New York attractions The best attractions in Manhattan The best crime tours in NYC This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.

Last updated October 9, 2025: The leaves are getting crispy, as fall has officially arrived in New York City. Make the most of this festive season with Halloween events and Oktoberfest parties. Plus, our city's iconic museums, big attractions and favorite restaurants have the coolest exhibits, shows and menus right now.  How we choose the best things to do in NYC: Time Out editors traverse New York City from end to end looking for the coolest things to do, the most delicious places to eat and the most impressive shows to see. We then pick the very best items to make it to this list each month.  From its art museums (The Met and MoMA) to its attractions (Broadway theaters and sunrises from the Empire State Building), we are certain that New York City is the best city in the world. Its dining and drinking scenes are still unbeatable with unrivaled bars, restaurants and creative culinary inventions. Every day, we’re discovering something new and wonderful about our city, whether it’s one of the best parks, incredible views, cool hotels, must-see art or quirky museums—and we’re highlighting the best of the best right here. Quick picks: The best things to do in NYC at a glance Central Park: The world's most famous green space, stop by to enjoy some peace and quiet. (Free entry) The Metropolitan Museum of Art: This massive museum spans 5,000 years of art history to get lost in. ($30/adult)  The High Line: This innovative reclaimed space turned railroad tracks into a cool urban par

One of the biggest events to take place during the fall in NYC is the NYC Marathon. Thousands of runners from all over the world descend upon the city to blaze through all five boroughs on foot. Top athletes train all year for a chance to be a part of this huge event. For those who love sports and those who think 26.2 miles is an ungodly distance to run, watching the marathon is a thrilling way to be a part of the action. There are a lot of options for great spots to catch the race, so if you haven’t decided yet, here’s our roundup of where to watch the New York Marathon. The NYC Marathon will take place on Sunday, November 2, 2025, starting at 8am. Starting times are spaced out, so runners will be hitting these spots at slightly different times. You’ll want to pick a spot and stay there (especially if you’re cheering on someone specific), so get there early and wear comfy shoes! Make some signs to support friends and strangers and warm up your voice for some loud cheers. These marathon viewing spots will get you the closest to the action, and we’ve included some NYC attractions to visit while you’re there. Where to watch the NYC Marathon 2025 along the course If you want to be close enough to see the sweat during the NYC Marathon, these are the recommended spectator viewing spots along the course. Unfortunately, you can’t watch the start of the race on the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, but these are the best spots along the rest of the route to take in all the action. Fourth

Want to cheer on your loved one in the biggest race of the year, the TCS New York City Marathon? The route is huge at 26.2 miles, so you need to plan on where you’ll watch them run. The 2025 NYC Marathon will take place on Sunday, November 2, starting at 8am.  The entire city turns into a party to cheer on our the incredible runners. Below, find the full NYC Marathon route, its starting and stopping points and how to watch it live on TV. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to NYC Marathon 2025 Where does the NYC Marathon route start? The route begins on Staten Island and exits Staten Island via the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. It takes runners through Brooklyn and then into Queens before entering Manhattan and The Bronx.  Where does the NYC Marathon route end? After a trip up into The Bronx, runners head back down into Manhattan and enter Central Park, where they finish. You can see the full route map here. Where can I watch the race? You can cheer on the runners across the five boroughs at the following spots: Fourth Avenue, Brooklyn (Miles 2-4): Catch runners as they exit the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and move along Fourth Avenue. Subway: R Fourth Avenue and Flatbush Avenue (Mile 8): Subway: B, D, N, Q, R, 2, 3, 4, 5 Williamsburg and Greenpoint, Brooklyn (Miles 10-13): Claim sidewalk space along streets lined with shops and restaurants and encourage runners as they head toward the Pulaski Bridge to cross into Queens. Subway: G, L, M, J Pulaski Bridge (Mile 13.1): The Pulaski B

It's officiall fall, y'all! Make the most of it by getting outside (when it's not raining, at least) to enjoy the autumnal air and admire the colorful leaves (yes, you can go leaf-peeping without leaving NYC!). It’s rare to be in the greatest city on earth and not have plans, but if you’re stumped for things to do in NYC today, consider us your entertainment saviors. Daily, there are awesome events to stream and new attractions to see, but if you’re searching for something really specific like new happenings at the city’s top destinations or something low-budget—like free things to do—we have everything you need listed right here. RECOMMENDED: Full NYC events calendar

Just being in NYC in the fall is an experience in itself—for a few brief months, we all channel Meg Ryan in You've Got Mail and breathe in the crisp air filled with the smell of leaves and pretend we're in the middle of a love story for the ages (maybe we are). It's true that NYC is one of the most sought-after places to experience the best that fall offers, from delightfully spooky Halloween events to gorgeous leaf-peeping opportunities and haunted houses to scare you silly. Autumn in NYC is tough to match! Keep scrolling to find out how to make this the best one yet.

You won't believe how seamlessly good comedy can work with pole dancing (you can read about it here). While stellar stand-ups deliver sets, pro dancers give the crowd something stare at. Think of it as a full-brain experience. Comics Dan Goodman, Joanna Ross and special guests will welcome talented pole dancers and comedians from across NYC.  Each show features a different musical theme, and each one is full of surprises. This time, on Friday, October 17 and Saturday, October 18, the music of Ozzy Osbourne will take over the speakers for a chance to "Bark at the Moon" and get on the "Crazy Train."  Expect to hear jokes from five comics and see performances by five dancers. "They're not strippers, it’s not burlesque. It’s aerial dance with a side of crazy gymnastics, and death defying tricks that make your jaw drop," event planners explain. As the event organizers say: "If you don't see shows like this, why are you even paying the NYC rents?" See it at Drom in the East Village.

Performing comedy is a vulnerable act. The art demands bravely standing on stage under bright lights in front of strangers while sharing embarrassing moments, family history and dating faux pas—all while trying to elicit a laugh. But the comedians who perform at this monthly comedy show take the challenge a step further: They're completely nude.  The Naked Comedy Show promises "New York's nakedest stand-up comedians." Yes, the comedians are legit naked. At this secret Brooklyn venue (you'll get the address in your confirmation email), the first two rows of audience are nudity-optional. This night of jokes and genitals will take place on Thursday, October 16, with a 7pm show or a 9pm show. Both shows are hosted by Billy Procida (bad Lifetime dating show). Two things to note: Sexual activity is prohibited. Audience members' phones will not be allowed out during the show.

NYC's unbeatable comedy bastion is now open in the East Village with multiple shows every single night. So whether you've had a bad Tuesday that needs a laugh or whether you're looking for a destination on a Saturday date night, they've got you covered. Expect a wide range of programming, including improv, character, sketch and stand up at this 150-seat theater. Plus, look for themed shows for each season.  If you feel inspired to get on the stage yourself, there are a bunch of classes to choose from, including improv, musical improv, sketch-writing and character basics.

At this beautiful annual event, look on as the Harlem Meer lights up with a flotilla of floating pumpkins at twilight on Thursday, October 30. Plus, march in a costume parade, listen to not-so-scary stories, enjoy some live brass music and make crafts at this family-friendly Halloween event at Harlem Meer. Activities start at 4pm. If you would like to see your own jack-o'-lantern float in the parade, bring your masterpiece to the information table at the Charles A. Dana Discovery Plaza before the event starts (between 4-5:30pm). Space on the float is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis. The flotilla sets sail at 6pm.  Pumpkin owners may retrieve their gourds after the flotilla ends at 7pm. Pick-up is at the Harlem Meer Beach near Fifth Ave and E. 108th Street. Make sure to abide by the following guidelines when working on your pumpkin: - Artificial decorations are off limits as they will pollute the Harlem Meer. So make sure not to use any paper, plastic, food dye, paint or glitter in your design. - Choose a regular-size pumpkin. It should weigh about 8 pounds after it's carved and be about the size of a soccer ball. Super big and/or mini gourds won't be accepted. - Make sure to bring the top of your carved or gutted pumpkin. - Floats, bulbs and candles will be provided to you by the staff on site, so you don't need to bring any of that stuff along with you. Halloween on the Harlem Meer is free to attend, but advance registration is requested here.

Reading Edgar Allan Poe’s goosebump-inducing poems and stories in print is creepy enough. But this October, you can see them performed live at two New York City performances. British actor Stephen Smith will perform his rendition of several of Edgar Allan Poe's best blood-curdling pieces this month as part of his One Man Poe series. — Friday, October 17: See The Tell-Tale Heart and The Pit and the Pendulum at Under St Marks Theater. — Saturday, October 18: See The Black Cat and The Raven at The Poe Cottage in the Bronx where Poe himself lived in the 1840s.  Smith, of Threedumb Theatre, has long been a Poe fan, recalling reading Poe's work as a child. But it wasn't until the pandemic that he felt compelled to perform The Tell-Tale Heart, a one-man show set in one room that worked well on Zoom and eventually moved to bigger stages. He admired the richness of Poe's language, both for the audience and the actor. "I don't adapt the stories in any way. I just have memorized 13,000 words of original Poe, and I perform that live on stage," Smith told Time Out. "I like to think that my show is the most faithful theatrical adaptation that you could ever get. It's not adapted; it's exactly what Poe intended but live on stage."  

Calling all fungis and gals for Randall's Island Park's third Fungus Festival. The New York Mycological Society hosts the popular annual event at the park as a way to celebrate the city's mycelial network and showcase the breadth of mycological creativity in New York City. Activites include mushroom yoga, mushroom walks, macro photography, a smell workshop and more. Visitors are also invited to explore diverse displays and programs at the intersection of community art and science, including identification tables of wild mushrooms from the New York area. Also check out art and cultivation workshops and activities, lectures, tastings, urban farms, food vendors. There's even a costume corner and games. It's free to attend; register for complimentary tickets here.

There's a magical word in Sweden—"lördagsgodis"—that describes the weekly tradition of indulging in candy every Saturday. Now, you can partake in that tradition (not just on Saturdays) thanks to a newly opened pop-up in Soho from Swedish candy brand BUBS.  BUBS has been around since 1992, but it became TikTok famous in 2024 for its chewy-foamy and sweet-sour confections in darling designs. Now, the brand is hosting a "Sweeteasy," a.k.a. its first U.S. pop-up. It's a Wonka-esque wonderland with sweet treats and colorful design at every turn.  Inside, you'll find a pick-and-mix candy bar where you can craft your ultimate candy bag ($14.39/pound) with exclusive Swedish-only flavors, plus the brand's new U.S. lineup. Expect tutti-fruti, banana toffee, strawberry vanilla and lemon raspberry confections. There are plenty of photo opps inside, as well, and plenty of BUBS-branded merch you can purchase to take home.  Find the Sweeteasy at 69 Mercer Street through October 22. The pop-up is free to enter with no tickets needed. It's open from 11am–7pm Monday-Saturday and 12–5 p.m. Sunday. For opening day, September 25, hours are 12pm–7pm. 

CultureCon transorms Brooklyn's Duggal Greenhouse from an industrial shipyard into a cultural homecoming for creatives of color. It welcomes more than 10,000 attendees across two days to hear from more than a hundred speakers, visit hands-on workshops, attend a career fair and check out immersive activations. Event organizers call it "the nation's leading gathering for creatives of color." This year's speakers include Taraji P. Henson, Kerry Washington, Jennifer Hudson, Jesse Williams, Michael Ealy, and more. The theme for 2025 is "Take Space: The New Frontier," which reimagines a world where Black creativity is foundational across industries. This year's event is on October 4–5. Single-day admission tickets cost $105, and weekend tickets cost $199. 

The New York Film Festival may be screening films by big stars this weekend, but there's another film premiere you should add to your list. Kids Teach, Kids Listen—Animated Short Film Premiere will run on Saturday, September 27 at Cobble Hill Cinemas. Five Brooklyn children (ages 6–9) spent the past four months as co-researchers with children’s rights doctoral researcher Val Weisler at Brooklyn Children's Museum, creating animated short films on issues that matter most to them—from mental health and mutual aid to climate, street safety, and culture. Now, their films debut in a red-carpet–style premiere featuring a screening, talkback with the research team, and community celebration. Attendees can enjoy raffle prizes from Montague Diner and Brooklyn Farmacy, plus free ice cream from Lady Moo Moo. This one-of-a-kind event marks the first U.S. study where children are co-researchers, exploring the concept of child-friendly material made by children themselves, organizers say.

The New York Film Festival is back and offering up a promising slate of movies you can see before the big awards. The fun begins on September 26 and runs through October 13 at several theaters within Lincoln Center.  The lineup is long, but we scoured the list for our top picks, detailed here. A few include the already-controversial After the Hunt, directed by Luca Guadagnino with actors Julia Roberts, Ayo Edebiri and Andrew Garfield; Bradley Cooper's Is This Thing On?; and thriller A House of Dynamite directed by Kathryn Bigelow. If your favorites sell out, a standby line will form outside the box office before every screening—and some seats always open up, even for the most popular titles (just be sure to arrive early). Want to see some stars? There's a good chance you could. Just make sure you stick around after the lights come up. Many of the screenings include post-show Q&As with the director and members of the cast. Tickets are on sale here for $20 and $30, with a discount for Film at Lincoln Center members and students. 

Spend your Tuesday evening at this variety show featuring comedians sharing their joy in standing out. Comedian Lauren LoGiudice knows that being different isn't just uncomfortable— in today's world, it can feel downright dangerous. That's why she's bringing her Misfit Variety Show: A Joyful Comedy Nite to Brooklyn Art Haus on Tuesday, September 16.  "Every city has its misfits, but not every city has a place where misfits can truly belong," says LoGiudice. "We're not just putting on a show—we're building temporary autonomous zones of weirdness where people can shed the boxes society puts them in." What sets the Misfit Variety Show apart is its ability to transform personal discomfort into collective celebration. When audience members share their anonymous stories of awkwardness and alienation, the resulting laughter becomes a form of group therapy. "It's a space where everyone from the GenZ barista to the Boomer accountant are welcome to be appreciated for their uniqueness," as event organizers say. The show features standup comedy, storytelling, and some character. In addition to LoGiudice, the lineup includes Kari Burt, Will Purpura, Brooke Ferris, Catherine Waller, and Lexi Lewis.  

And Scene is a half-scripted comedy show where actors and improvisers are paired up to perform scenes together. The actors can only say the words as they come in the script, and the improvisers don't know what play they're in, making for a truly chaotic and hilarious evening. The September 15 show at Caveat boasts a stacked lineup including the following improvisers and actors: Marika Dominczyk, Brendan Hines, Ceara O'Sullivan, Lucy Walters, Connor Ratliff, Rodd Cyrus, Rose Kelso, Alex Dickson Brian Morabito, and Shane Nielsen. Can't make it to this one? Upcoming shows are on October 20, November 17, and December 15. 

For the past 50 years, the Queens County Farm Museum has served as a rural oasis within the New York City limits. And what better way to celebrate an anniversary than by creating a complex corn maze for New Yorkers to get delightfully lost in? The Amazing Maize Maze is back this fall with a sunburst design celebrating five decades of the museum's existence. Expect plenty of twists, turns and tricks inside this three-acre living labyrinth. It's available to visit on select days through October 26.   RECOMMENDED: The best Halloween events for 2025 in NYC The corn maze adventure begins with a Stalk Talk to prepare you for the challenge of finding clues, solving puzzles and mazing your way to Victory Bridge. With corn stalks towering far overhead, it can become easy to get turned around inside the maze and struggle to find the exit—but that's the fun of it after all. Just prepare to persevere as this maze is tricky!  Photograph: Courtesy of Queens County Farm Museum Finally, upon reaching the Victory Bridge, you'll be able to see the stunning vista of this three-acre living labyrinth is revealed. Among sunburst-shaped designs, there's even a 50 carved into the path of this year's installation. "Like the sun, this farm is a beacon of light shining brightly at the intersection between food, history, and culture," museum officials said in a statement. "For five decades, we've connected New Yorkers to the land beneath their feet and to agricultural traditions that continue to shape

Anime is jumping off the screen and into immersive territory at this new exhibition now open at Mercer Labs, Museum of Art and Technology in Lower Manhattan. The sprawling, 11-room installation focuses on the beloved ONE PIECE anime adventure series and was created with help from Toei Animation.  Visitors can walk through the Land of Wano Arc as they live like Monkey D. Luffy, the show's main character. Expect trippy mirrors, floral motifs and dragons along the way. The ONE PIECE installation is open now and runs through November 30 at 21 Dey Street. RECOMMENDED: Incredible immersive experiences to do in NYC right now You'll enter through the Window Room, which features a circular ceiling screen evoking the scene in which the Straw Hat Crew—the protagonists of the anime—set sail for Wano, an isolated, samurai-filled nation. Next, the Infinite Room presents a massive screen surrounded by a mirrored corridor that appears to unfold into infinity, where the sea and sky are reflected endlessly. Keep an eye out for the Thousand Sunny, the series' iconic ship. Photograph: By Alan Barnett After that, brave the Dragon Room where you'll be met with thousands of LED neurons forming a volumetric light installation that depicts the climactic battle between the characters Zoro and King. Finally, the Cave Room—covered entirely in pink hydrangeas and framing a circular screen—portrays Momonosuke, a character from the franchise, in dragon form, creating a space where the organic and digital

Cemeteries are, of course, always good places to remember lost loved ones. But this season, Brooklyn's Green-Wood Cemetery is taking that to new heights as it unveils Reposo y Recuerdo (Rest and Remember), an expansive Día de Muertos ofrenda by acclaimed artist Laura Anderson Barbata. All are welcome to bring photos, flowers or keepsakes to the community altar, creating "a collective gesture of remembrance and care." The installation, which features handwoven hammocks, colorful papel picado and cascades of paper marigolds, will be on view in Green-Wood's historic chapel from October 11 through November 16.  RECOMMENDED: Let me tell you—Cemeteries are hosting the coolest events in NYC right now If you're not familiar with Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead), it's a vibrant holiday celebrated in Mexico and parts of Latin America that honors the lives and legacies of those who have passed. Celebrations include music, dancing, gatherings, and ofrendas—home altars filled with offerings for the dead.   Photograph: By Laura Anderson Barbata In addition to bringing their own items of remembrance to Green-Wood's ofrenda, visitors are also welcome to write personal memories on a red ribbon or decorate a blank calavera (skull).  After placing your remembrances and honoring those from other New Yorkers, take a moment to meditate in a handwoven hammock. Each one was made in collaboration with Mexican artisans using pre-Columbian technique. Gaze above at strands of papel picado (cut paper

As the Atlantic Ocean’s waves crashed onto Rockaway Beach on a steamy morning this July, Lou Harris gathered a group of about a dozen kids to look closely at the formation of the water as it formed riptides. Harris, founder of the Black Surfing Association in the Rockaways, doesn’t just teach kids to surf; he also teaches them to learn safety strategies in the powerful water on New York City’s coastline. Affectionately called Mr. Lou, Harris teaches free surfing lessons to local kids, no matter their background or finances. Families can sign up here for free lessons that will teach their kids surf etiquette, how to pop up on the board and even how to catch waves. After the lesson on riptides, his legion of surfing newbies grabbed their boards, moved to a safer spot on the shore and paddled into the water to continue their training. Soon, kids were gliding atop the water with smiles on their faces and Mr. Lou’s enthusiastic cheering in their ears.  RECOMMENDED: Rockaway Beach, NY guide: How to get there and things to do Harris, a Queens native, learned to surf in 2007 under the guidance of other surfers in the Rockaways. Then, years later, Harris heard a news story in 2014 about a kid in Coney Island who set fire to a mattress inside a public housing complex because he was bored. That fire ended up killing a police officer who responded to the blaze. The story stuck with Harris, and he wanted to do something to help local kids beat boredom. He founded Black Surfing Rockaway in

New York City’s United Nations headquarters was in the news a lot this fall, as the annual U.N. General Assembly took over Midtown East with important meetings, escalator drama and oh-so-much traffic. The building was under high security during the event, making the complex feel off-limits for all the non-delegates among us. But other than during the annual General Assembly in September, the building is actually accessible for visitors—and it’s absolutely fascinating to see inside. I took a tour recently and was awed by this building dedicated to international peace. Without giving away all the interesting facts from the tour, here are nine secrets of New York City’s U.N. headquarters. RECOMMENDED: 10 surprising secrets of Washington Square Park 1. The headquarters is massive  It’s no secret from looking at the Midtown East complex that this place is big, but I had no idea of just how big. The headquarters comprises multiple buildings—the Secretariat building, the General Assembly building, the Conference building and the Library building—on an 18-acre plot of land.  Photograph: By Hichem M Mezioud / Courtesy of the United Nations | A model of Sputnik inside the United Nations 2. Its location in Manhattan wasn’t a given  Today, it seems like a natural fit that this headquarters would be situated in Manhattan, but that wasn’t the case at first. Back in 1946 when the United States was chosen as the building’s host country, there was a lot of debate about where the building wo

With a United States government shutdown in the books—again—you may be wondering what that actually means for New York City. Things are still a bit up in the air, but we do know that some places, including cultural organizations, will temporarily close amid the shutdown. Here's what will close in New York City amid the latest government shutdown. RECOMMENDED: The MTA is walking back on those insane fare increases, thank the travel gods Why is the government shutting down? If you're feeling like, "wait, what's happening now?," we don't blame you. In this frenetic news cycle, it's hard to keep track. Here's a quick breakdown, with help from the Associated Press: Basically, our federal leaders can't agree on a budget. An October 1 deadline has passed, and neither side budged. When a funding lapse happens, some agencies shut down and non-essential workers don't work.  Some things will continue, like the FBI, CIA, military, veterans health care and the postal service. But for other agencies, that's not the case.  Photograph: By Osugi / Shutterstock What New Yorkers need to know Our federally funded museums and cultural organizations are likely to temporarily shutter. That includes Smithsonian museums, national sites and more, such as:  The National Museum of the American Indian As a Smithsonian museum, the always-free-to-enter National Museum of the American Indian closed in the last government shutdown, and it likely will again very soon. As the museum said on its website, it "

In an industrial part of Bushwick, tucked between a lumberyard, a granite wholesaler and a welding school, an art exhibition considers a very different type of repair. Instead of home repair, this Afrofuturist exhibition explores the concept of reparations, imagining what a “transformed world actually looks like and feels like.”  The exhibition, titled “Futures of Repair,” has brought together six artists to create an entire world set in 2165—about 125 years after theoretical global reparatory actions transformed society. The result? A powerful space filled with interactive installations, sound sculptures, meditation space and healing. It’s on view now through March 10, 2026 inside a warehouse at 195 Morgan Avenue with tickets (free; donations suggested) by appointment here.  RECOMMENDED: The best museum exhibitions in NYC right now “We wanted a social dream space—that was the inspiration going into it. We settled on this, creating the art exhibit ‘Futures of Repair’ to be a part of the larger reparations and repair movement, particularly in these turbulent political times,” says Terry Marshall, founder Intelligent Mischief, which organized the exhibit. Photograph: By Laila Annmarie Stevens From the first step inside, the exhibition prioritizes a much-needed sense of calm and healing. A tea master offers different beverage blends for guests to sip as they are invited to a join a recorded meditation practice narrated by poet Aisha “Ish” Al-Hurra. After that, visitors can exp

Every time a New Yorker steps onto the subway, it's not just a ride from point A to point B. It's also a data point. And it's also a story.  A transfixing new art installation by designer Giorgia Lupi now tells those stories on 52 digital screens playing at the top of each hour inside Lower Manhattan's Fulton Transit Center. Rendered in black and white, the animation called A Data Love Letter to the Subway illustrates the visual poetry of the infrastructure that keeps the city moving. RECOMMENDED: The best outdoor art in NYC this fall Many subway trains meet up at Fulton Center, a fact Lupi renders with black lines with colorful dots representing each train. Some trains, she writes, spent time underground, while others see the sun. The A and C lines travel together for many miles, but then go their own ways through twists and turns, the artwork shares. Though the story is told through black-and-white imagery and text, its descriptions cleverly anthropomorphize the trains and their journeys.  Photograph: Courtesy of Pentagram Design "I wanted to turn the trains we ride every day into living characters, revealing the hidden choreography and small connections we share underground," she tells Time Out. "It's a reminder that even the most familiar system can hold wonder if you look at it differently; it's about seeing the subway, and our daily journeys, with a bit more poetry and wonder."  We're all part of the same story. As for people, they also travel together, then break aw

Encountering a sea of taillights in New York City typically isn't a good thing. That usually means traffic, gridlock and frustration. But this weekend on Governors Island, those red and white lights will be a welcome sight during the immersive art installation Firebird.  Firebird, described as a "hypnotic, genre-defying visual arts performance" uses 500 recycled car taillights to create an orchestra of light. The open-air light experience will blend with music inspired by Stravinsky’s Firebird Suite. The project by Amsterdam-based artist collective Touki Delphine is making its New York City debut on October 3-4 at the Governors Island Parade Ground. Tickets are on sale now for $20 (plus ferry transit, which you've got to coordinate on your own). RECOMMENDED: These amazing public artworks will wow you this fall Upon arrival from the ferry, each guest will receive a shimmering metallic cape to wear, kickstarting the spectacle en route to the show. Guided by the artists themselves, this glittering collective will make its way to the Parade Ground—set against the dramatic Lower Manhattan skyline—where Firebird bursts to life in a hypnotic dance of synchronized light, courtesy of 500 recycled car taillights that have been salvaged from scrapyards in the Northeastern United States, all set to Touki Delphine’s contemporary composition. Inspired by composer Igor Stravinsky’s 1919 Firebird Suite, Firebird pays homage to his musical creations with a performance centered around a massi

Admit it, are you a nosy New Yorker? Same here. Then you can't miss Open House New York this year. The annual event opens the doors of typically off-limit spaces during its festival running from October 17 through 19. This year, more than 300 sites are on the roster, including an exclusive rooftop garden in Rockefeller Center, a city compost facility, an Ellis Island boat and a private gallery in the World Trade Center. Even sites that are public, like Wagner Park and Astoria Pool, offer special behind-the-scenes experiences. Nearly half of the festival is fully free and open to the public—no advance registration or tickets are required. But select venues do require tickets, which are released on October 3 at noon (and they typically go fast!). RECOMMENDED: The best NYC events in October 2025 Every year since 2003, Open House New York has tapped architects, engineers, historians and curators to give everyday New Yorkers a glimpse into the spaces they create and work in. The event was founded in the wake of 9/11 by a grassroots group of architects, led by Scott Lauer, on the belief that "the openness of our shared urban fabric is the foundation of civil society," event organizer explained. "Open House New York Weekend is rooted in the simple but radical act of sharing the city," Kristin LaBuz, executive director of Open House New York, said in a press release. "This festival gives curious New Yorkers a hall pass to explore the people, projects, and places that make this the gr

It's hard to imagine today when we're constantly barraged with algorithm-selected content in the palm of our hands, but until the 1960s, the concept of turning on the TV and seeing images of Count Dracula one second and then the Vietnam War the next moment was incomprehensible. For the first time, people were seeing images of political assassinations, the oppression of protests and the carnage of war in their living rooms.  Artists made sense of this surreal new reality—or tried to, at least—through sculpture, painting and collages. A new exhibit at The Whitney titled "Sixties Surreal" highlights the work made by more than 100 artists between 1958 and 1972, including a soft toilet, a phallic chair, an uncanny camel and feminist sculptures. The exhibition brings together famed works by artists including Yayoi Kusama, Andy Warhol, Romare Bearden and Jasper Johns, along with some more obscure pieces. See it all through January 19, 2026.  RECOMMENDED: 17 NYC art exhibitions we’re most excited about in fall 2025 "This is not your history book Surrealism. It's a show about disorientation and a new attempt to convey meaning through uncannily reconfigured objects and ideas," Dan Nadel, one of the show's curators, said at a preview event.  It's a show about disorientation. For example, the exhibition begins with a collection of three life-size camels made of wood, steel, burlap and animal skin—they're meant to serve as a reminder that reality is strange. As artist Nancy Graves put it

Picking a coolest neighborhood each year is typically a tough task for us at Time Out. We’re constantly highlighting the newest, buzziest, most interesting things happening across the five boroughs, and we try not to play favorites. But when we sat down to ask ourself which New York City neighborhood rose to the top this year, it was a unanimous decision. Red Hook in Brooklyn, with its combination of history, art and community, is unparalleled in coolness right now. It’s another runaway year for Brooklyn in our annual coolest cities ranking, as Flatbush earned the top spot last year and Fort Greene the year prior.  RECOMMENDED: The 39 coolest neighborhoods in the world in 2025 To come up with the final ranking, our global network of local editors narrowed down the selections by considering culture, community, livability, nightlife, food and drink, street life and that hard-to-define sense of “nowness.” Red Hook landed the top spot as the coolest neighborhood in NYC and the 14th coolest in the world (out of 39 total), behind spots like Jimbōchō, Tokyo (No. 1), Borgerhout, Antwerp (No. 2) and Barra Funda, São Paulo (No. 3). The only other American neighborhoods on list are Avondale in Chicago; Clarksville in Austin; and Glen Park in San Francisco. “Put simply, the world’s coolest neighborhoods are places that represent the soul of our cities, while maintaining their own unique local character that draws people in to live, work and play,” Time Out Travel Editor Grace Beard said.