Trusted by 1,000+ trip planners
Top 20 Things To Do in New York
Discover New York's must-see attractions and highly-rated experiences. Our expertly curated guide helps you plan the perfect visit with insider recommendations and traveler favorites.
JD
MK
AS
RW
4.9/5 from 200+ reviews
2,847
trips planned this month
New York Travel Guide
New York City, the city that never sleeps, pulses with unmatched energy and endless possibilities. Experience the dazzling lights of Times Square, catch a Broadway show in the theater district, and take in panoramic views from the Empire State Building or One World Observatory. Explore world-class museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and MoMA, stroll through Central Park's 843 acres, and ferry to the iconic Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Each of NYC's five boroughs offers distinct flavors—from Harlem's jazz heritage and Brooklyn's artisanal food scene to Manhattan's high-end shopping on Fifth Avenue. Savor everything from $1 pizza slices to Michelin-starred dining, explore diverse neighborhoods like Little Italy and Chinatown, and experience the melting pot that defines American culture. In New York, every corner holds a new adventure.
Top 20 Ranked
Best Attractions in New York
Our expertly curated list of the top experiences, tours, and attractions based on traveler reviews and ratings.
#1
Top Rated
Visit in French the must-see neighborhoods of NYC
5 (62)
Accompanied by our French guides who have been living in New York for years, come and discover Greenwich Village, Soho, Little Italy and Chinatown. A best-selling visit, which appeals to both adults and children. It’s a must-have for any trip!
#2
Top Rated
Central Park Guided Walking Tour in French
5 (52)
Let yourself be guided through the most famous urban park in the world, discover its origin, its evolution, its filming locations and the countless anecdotes it contains ... You will also understand why and how Central Park has become the most popular green space for New Yorkers, and how it plays an essential role in a context of excessive urbanization. Flowered in spring, adorned with bright greens in summer, ochres and flamboyant reds in autumn, or dressed in a snowpack in winter, Central Park can be enjoyed all year round with constantly renewed pleasure. . Our French guides, expatriates in New York for years, are committed to providing you with a friendly moment filled with original discoveries!
#3
Top Rated
9/11 Memorial at World Trade Center and Financial District Walking Tour
5 (39)
Smaller-sized groups. Perfect for tourists AND locals wishing to learn more about the day that changed us all forever! Your 2.5 hr, 1.4 mi. (2.25 km) walking tour will be led by a expert, local, licensed Guide. Tour begins in Battery Park and concludes at Ground Zero site; location of the hauntingly beautiful memorial pools in the footprints of the former, iconic WTC Twin Towers. This comprehensive tour explores 9/11 and the World Trade Center and also New York's famed Financial District. You'll be captivated with stories of 9/11’s unsung heroes (some personal stories) and their selfless acts of courage. These stories will be coupled with comprehensive discussion that details aspects of the former Twin Towers from its origin to its infamy of becoming Ground Zero, to the rebuilding and rebirth of the majestic World Trade Center complex, once again. You’ll gain important knowledge, insight and perspective into what it was like living through the terrorist attacks and it's aftermath.
#4
Top Rated
3 Hour NYC Photography Workshop
5 (45)
Join us for a safari Manhattan style! Using Manhattan as both background and classroom you'll get all your photography questions answered by a working professional photographer. We'll take you to the best locations to get your shot and show you how to improve your compositional skills. You'll get to learn a new skill while exploring the sites of New York City
Plan Together
Start Planning Your New York Trip
Build the perfect itinerary, find activities, track your budget, and plan an unforgettable experience with friends.
Plan Your Trip Free
#5
Top Rated
Private Walking Tour: Jewish Lower East Side
5 (27)
A tour through the Lower East Side explores the story of immigrant life following the arrival at Ellis Island for Eastern European Jews. One of the most famous neighborhoods on earth, the Jewish Lower East Side hosted remarkable political, social, artistic, economic, and culinary movements that would help to define the modern American experience. Come learn about the origins of the bagel, pastrami, kosher pickles, socialist movements, iconic department stores, and Hollywood film studios by visiting the Yiddish Forward Building, Eldridge St Synagogue, the Gershwin brothers' childhood home, a historic Loew's Movie Theater, Kossar's Bialys, The Pickle Guys, and a high school that minted many of the U. S. 's biggest movie stars.
#6
Top Rated
The Met Museum & Central Park New York Exclusive Guided Tour
5 (17)
On this 5.5 hour exclusive guided combo tour, visit one of the world’s most elaborate collections of art and historical artifacts, then stroll the paths of the infamous urban green space.New York boasts amazing art collections both outdoors and indoors, and this combo tour will blend a stroll through iconic Central Park with the best of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
#7
Top Rated
NYC Greenwich Village LGBTQ+ History And Food Tour
4.8235292 (17)
The tour takes the traveler through the journey of NYC's LGBTQ Civil Rights and Historic sites accompanied with food tastings from some Greenwich Village's tastiest restaurants. Samples are subject to availability, and include: The Donut Pub's Black and White Cookie, Mighty Quinn's corn fritters and burnt ends with baked beans, a classic bagel and a smear, a sweet from Lilac chocolates, ending with creamy ice cream from Brooklyn's Van Leewuen. The tasty samples are bites, not a meal. Tour is limited to eight tourists, providing a more intimate experience.
#8
Top Rated
High Line & Hudson Yards Small Group Walking Tour
5 (15)
Come experience the green oasis the most current and most expensive development in the history of NYC. Walk along its beautiful gardens. Admire and photograph the Vessel- this public structure rising 45.7 meters high and 2,500 interconnecting steps. Prepare for a urban hiking experience, away from NYC busy streets and get lifted up into a garden path along the West side of Manhattan with amazing views of New York City and the Hudson river along the way. The High Line park is an example of urban renewal at its finest, a unique concept of a park, a green oasis among the concrete giants. During the 2 hour walk you will visit the most important, the most historic points, sculptures, arts, and murals of the high line. Slowdown and check out the various species of plants that were specifically picked for the high line. Highlights are the: the “Vessel”, Hudson Yards, Zaha Hadid building, the 10th Avenue square and overlook, Chelsea Market…
#9
Top Rated
Shopping in NYC - Curated by a Personal Stylist
5 (12)
Save time shopping in NYC with help from a personal stylist. Each experience is curated based on the client’s needs, personal style and budget.
#10
Top Rated
2-Hour Spanish Nightlife Guided Walking Tour of Greenwich Village
5 (13)
Looking for NYC's most famous and historic night spots? This 2-hour walking tour will introduce you to Greenwich Village and some of New York City's most famous bars, clubs, and theatres. See where careers have been made and great nights have been had. Stroll in the footsteps of Bob Dylan, Ray Charles, Chris Rock, Jimi Hendrix, Lenny Bruce, Idina Menzel and other figures who spent time in "The Village." Get advice on which bar to visit and which theatres produce the most cutting edge material. Visit the hottest local eateries and learn the best time to get in line. This is the perfect mix of history and pop culture for anyone who is looking for a great nighttime activity in NYC. Stops include Cafe Wha, The Comedy Cellar, The Stonewall Inn, The Public Theatre, The Blue Note and so many more! By the end of the evening you'll be an expert on the greatest night spots in Greenwich Village!
#11
Top Rated
Midtown North NYC Architecture Walking Tour
4.964286 (28)
Situated at the heart of New York City, Midtown and its surrounding neighborhoods are the dynamic epicenter of the metropolis. This locality’s frenetic energy finds physical translation in the dazzling lights of Time Square and the ascendant skyscrapers of the business district. During this Midtown Manhattan Architecture Tour, we will chart the history of Midtown through its architecture, starting with examples from the early twentieth century and culminating with the latest additions to this area’s urban landscape. Among the buildings we will visit and discuss are Grand Central, the Chrysler and Empire State buildings, the Sony Building, Austrian Culture Center, MoMA, Rockefeller Center and many others.
#12
Top Rated
Private Flatiron Food, History and Architecture Tour
5 (9)
Discover the Flatiron District and Union Square on a unique culinary journey emphasizing local gastronomy and sustainability. Guided by experts passionate about community and urban development, explore rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious bites. Why You’ll Love This Tour: Cultural Insights: Explore landmarks like the iconic Flatiron Building. Local Agriculture and Sustainability: Learn at Union Square Greenmarket and Madison Square Park. Diverse Culinary Stops: Enjoy Roman-style pizza at Eataly, Reuben sandwiches at Zucker’s Bagels, grain bowls at Honeybrains, Chocolate Rugelach at Bread’s Bakery, and sustainably-sourced coffee at Devoción. Support Sustainability: Dive into NYC’s culinary excellence and commitment to sustainability. Special Offers: Featured Food Stops: Indulge in NYC’s top eateries offering local flavors. Book Now: Embark on a foodie adventure that’s enriching and delicious.
#13
Top Rated
Romantic Proposal Carriage Tour in Central Park
5 (7)
Central Park, renowned as one of the most romantic parks in the world, sets the perfect stage for an unforgettable proposal or anniversary celebration. Our ride offers an ideal experience for such special occasions. Indulge in a scenic tour that includes a bottle of champagne to toast the momentous occasion, a bucket of roses, and professional photos to capture the memories. Among the popular spots for proposals, the iconic Bow Bridge stands out as a symbol of love and romance. Its allure has earned it the nickname "The Bridge of Love." Additionally, the Bethesda Fountain & Terrace, with its distinctive charm, remains one of Central Park's most recognizable and enchanting locations.
#14
Top Rated
Tribeca Contemporary Art Tour with NYC Art Critic
5 (5)
Explore the contemporary art galleries in Tribeca, Manhattan's vibrant new gallery district on this 2-hour, small-group walking tour. Discover the city's fastest-growing gallery neighborhood with a professional art critic. See 7-8 exhibitions with a more experimental agenda and a lower price point.
#15
Top Rated
Prohibition Style Cocktail Making Experience
5 (4)
At the speakeasy, guests will learn from an expert mixologist how to craft 3-5 signature cocktails from the prohibition era.
#16
Top Rated
Private Family Tour: Chocolate, Pizza and City Fun
5 (3)
Discover the perfect mix of food, fun, and family-friendly adventure as you stroll from Madison Square Park to Union Square. This activity-packed walking tour serves up delicious bites, hands-on stops, and NYC stories that delight kids and adults alike from the Statue of Liberty’s missing torch arm to sprinkle pools and optical illusions. This is a one-of-a-kind interactive NYC experience for parents and kids alike. Ticket allows for up to six guests in the private group. Contact us for alternative start times.
#17
Top Rated
Private Vacation Photography Session with Local Photographer in NYC
5 (3)
Flytographer Private Vacation Photo Shoot Connect with a local hand-picked professional photographer in New York City and capture your most memorable moments during this private photo shoot. Get insider tips on the best things to do in New York City, including where to eat & what to see from your vacation photographer. Return from your trip with beautiful, high-quality vacation photos — the best souvenir ever. We specialize in: - honeymoons - family trips - engagements - anniversaries - romantic getaways - multi-generational trips - babymoons - solo travellers - and just because! With over 10,000 5-star reviews, Flytographer is the global leader in vacation photography and has captured over 3 million memories for travellers across six continents. We’ve been featured across A-list media, including Conde Nast Traveler, Oprah, Forbes, Travel + Leisure, New York Times, BRIDES, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle Magazine, Elle, Buzzfeed, Refinery29, Huffington Post, & many more.
#18
Top Rated
New York and Jersey City on Private Tour American Revolution
5 (2)
Take a chance to observe New York City from Jersey City, NJ. Explore its history and heritage, and get to know how it was influenced by the proximity of NYC. Visit the most peculiar viewpoints and historical landmarks connected with the American Revolution, Escaping Slaves, and others. Stroll through Downtown Jersey with picturesque views of the Manhattan skyline, see the iconic sights from a new perspective, and discover hidden gems of NJ from Historic Jersey City to Hoboken. • Dive into the informative tour with your local, knowledgeable guide • Discover hidden gems and combine them with Jersey City must-sees • See something that no regular tourist can see from an insider’s perspective • Learn about American Revolution, Escaping Slaves, World War I • Get a chance to taste some local food following the guide’s recommendations (optional)
#19
Top Rated
Biking Tour of Governors Island
5 (2)
If you're looking for a day or half-day adventure that will take you off the beaten path of NYC, Governors Island is a great choice. Known mostly to locals, the island has only been open to the public since 2003, and not yet on the tourist radar. It contains two historic forts and a massive, new public park. It's rich with American and New York history, and has served as a military base since the year 1800. In the 21st century the island has been ingeniously reimagined as an innovative public space. It is home to many arts, education, cultural and environmental non-profits who are finding new and exciting ways to use the space. The island is just 172 acres total, with a 2-mile (3.2 km) perimeter, so it's bite-sized. It's many lawns and shade trees beckon you to enjoy a picnic lunch, and the kids will love it. And, as there are no cars allowed, it's the perfect place to enjoy a bike ride.
#20
Top Rated
NYC VIP Private Luxury Departure ride via Stretch Limousine, Van, Sedan or SUV
5 (2)
Meet the representative outside your hotel or residence in any of the five boroughs of New York City at the time of your choosing. The driver is professional and operates the vehicle with safety as a priority. This service operates 24 hours, seven days a week to all the main New York City airports: Newark (EWR), John F. Kennedy (JFK) or LaGuardia (LGA) Airports, with your choice of private sedan, SUV, limousine or luxury van pickup. This is a fantastic way to finish your trip to New York City. Services are limited to pickups in the boroughs of the Bronx, Staten Island, Queens, Brooklyn and Manhattan. Our service is available 24 hours a day throughout the year at your requested pick-up time.
Review counts and ratings based on Viator and Tripadvisor data
Ready to explore New York?
Start planning your trip with Plan Harmony and create the perfect itinerary with your travel companions.
Plan Your New York TripReady for your next adventure?
Plan your next New York adventure together
Join thousands of travelers who plan smarter, not harder. Create your first trip in minutes.
Free forever plan
4.9/5 rating
No credit card required