20 Best Things to Do in New York City in 2025

“New York is not a city—it’s a world.” — Iman

If you’ve ever stood in the middle of Times Square at midnight or sipped a cortado in a quiet East Village café at dawn, you know exactly what she meant.

New York City isn’t just a destination. It’s a layered, ever-evolving experience. One that pulses with possibility on every street corner. But with over 2,500 things to do on any given day—yes, you read that right—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. What’s truly worth your time? What’s iconic and actually enjoyable? What’s worth skipping?

That’s where this guide comes in. I’ve narrowed it all down to the 20 absolute best things to do in New York City, whether you’re here for a weekend or a whirlwind week. These aren’t just popular spots—they’re unforgettable experiences, handpicked to give you the richest slice of the city.

From world-class art you actually want to see, to rooftop views locals try to keep secret, this list mixes must-sees with hidden gems—and shows you how to experience them like a New Yorker. No fluff. No tourist traps. Just real, remarkable places that make this city what it is.

Let’s dive in.

1. Stroll the High Line

An elevated park built on a former rail line, the High Line offers lush gardens, art installations, and stunning city views. It's a perfect blend of nature and urban life. Start at Gansevoort Street and walk north to Hudson Yards. Along the way, you'll pass through vibrant neighborhoods, encounter unique public art, and find plenty of spots to sit and take in the scenery. The changing landscape reflects the seasons, making each visit feel fresh and different. The High Line offers a peaceful escape above the bustling streets below and is one of the best things to do in NYC.

2. Visit the Vessel at Hudson Yards

This striking honeycomb-like structure is more than just an architectural marvel and is one of the best places to visit in New York. The artwork consists of hundreds of flights or stairs. Once you climb the stairs, it gives panoramic views of the city. Allow at least 20-30 minutes to fully explore the area. It’s also a fun place for photo-ops. It’s conveniently located near the High Line and is a must-see for any visitor.

3. Explore Central Park

There are many fun things to do in NYC and Central Park is one of them! Spanning over 840 acres, Central Park is the city's green oasis. Don't miss the Central Park Zoo or a rowboat ride on the lake. If you want to escape from the noise of the city, Central Park is your best option to unwind. Stroll through the park or rent a bike. The park is huge with lots of landscapes to see and nature to enjoy. And don’t forget to visit Bethesda Fountain, an iconic landmark of this park that is stunning. You can spot tons of wildlife here and they will be happy to have you around.

4. Discover the New York Botanical Garden

Located in the Bronx, this 250-acre garden is a haven for plant lovers and a New York must see attraction. Explore themed gardens, conservatories, and seasonal exhibits. It's a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle. The NYBG is perfect to visit if you're a plant aficionado! Explore the wondrous greenery of 50 gardens, deserts, and indoor rain forests; see the gentle slopes of the rolling green hills; and bask in the refreshing spray of the waterfalls. In December, the Botanical Garden is also famous for its Holiday Train Show, which is one-of-a-kind. The outdoor lawn display is gorgeous and the train displays are magical. With that, you’ll also find plant-based replicas of local architecture. And during the night, there are Holiday Train Nights with Christmas lights everywhere.

5. Catch a Broadway Show

With its dazzling lights, world-class performances, and rich theatrical history, Broadway is the heart of American theater. Whether you're into timeless classics, groundbreaking revivals, or buzzworthy new productions, there's always something for every taste.

This summer, don’t miss “Sunset Boulevard” at the iconic St. James Theatre, running through July 13, 2025. This acclaimed revival stars Nicole Scherzinger as Norma Desmond and brings Andrew Lloyd Webber’s haunting score to life in a bold, cinematic reimagining. It's one of the season’s most talked-about productions. All in all, catching a broadway show is a must do in New York.

6. Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art

Home to over two million works of art, the Met is one of the world's largest and most prestigious museums. Explore collections spanning 5,000 years of art history. The Met houses rare and unique objects. You can find various exhibitions and events at this Museum. From Asian art to African Art, Ancient American Art to Egyptian Art, and The Costume Institute to Islamic Art, you will find everything here.

7. Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge

This iconic bridge connects Manhattan and Brooklyn. Walk or bike across for breathtaking views of the skyline and East River. It's actually a long walk because of the crowds but absolutely worth it. It's especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset. The bridge also gives stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. You can find many sellers here selling fresh fruits, churros, hats, and so much here.

8. Explore the Bronx Zoo

One of the largest zoos in the U.S., the Bronx Zoo is home to over 6,000 animals. You can find flamingos, sea lions, bison, tortoises, rhinoceroses, giraffes, and so much more here. Enjoy exhibits like the Congo Gorilla Forest and the Wild Asia Monorail. It's both educational and fun. All the exhibitions here are well-maintained and the staff is so nice. Please wear comfortable shoes to this zoo because it’s all about walking. Try to spend at least 3-4 hours to truly explore this place.

9. Shop at The Strand Bookstore

With over 2.5 million books, The Strand is a paradise for book lovers. Browse rare finds, new releases, and everything in between. It's a literary landmark in NYC and you can also find memorabilia and souvenirs here. Another great thing about the Strand is that you can buy books and provide them with your shipping details (so you won’t actually have to carry the books while you’re trying to explore the city). And there is a coffee shop in the store too, what else do you need?

10. Relax at Bryant Park

In the heart of New York, you can find this little oasis with lots of things to do. Enjoy free movie nights, yoga classes, or simply people-watch. Don't forget to grab a coffee from one of the kiosks. You can sit and relax here, grab a coffee, and explore many little local shops. And in December, the Winter Village is beautiful. In the middle of the park, you can find an ice skating rink that is very cheap and fun to do. You can also find many shops here selling drinks and food for you to enjoy. During the Christmas Holiday season, the park is something else because of the holiday market and many food options. And before I forget, the igloos are also on display—so what’s not to love about this park?

One of the best ways to see Bryant Park is by booking the Scenic Midtown Manhattan Night Walking Tour which features this experience as well as other hotspots like Times Square, and Rockefeller Center!

11. Visit the One World Observatory

Located atop the iconic One World Trade Center, the One World Observatory offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of New York City and beyond. As the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, it provides a truly unmatched vantage point to see the city’s skyline, rivers, and landmarks stretching for miles.

Begin your journey with the SkyPod elevators, which ascend 102 stories in just 47 seconds, featuring a time-lapse video that shows NYC’s architectural transformation over the centuries. Once at the top, explore a range of interactive exhibits, including the “See Forever Theater,” which combines animation, time-lapse footage, and music for an emotional welcome.

Visitors can also learn about the city's history, resilience, and culture through immersive digital displays and personal stories. The Observatory’s Global Welcome Center even recognizes guests in real-time from around the world.

Tip: Grab a New York Sightseeing Pass to access top New York attractions and make the most of your sightseeing New York

12. Explore the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

Located in Midtown Manhattan, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is one of the most influential museums of modern and contemporary art in the world. It houses an extraordinary collection of iconic works by legendary artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, Frida Kahlo, Andy Warhol, Jackson Pollock, and many more.

From Van Gogh’s The Starry Night to Warhol’s Campbell’s Soup Cans, every gallery invites you to journey through groundbreaking moments in 20th and 21st-century art. MoMA also features photography, film, architecture, design, and new media. From all the famous NYC attractions, this one is really unique and interesting making it a must-visit for art lovers of all kinds.

13. Take a Ferry to Staten Island

The Staten Island Ferry is one of the best places in New York. It is also one of the last operating ferry systems in New York and carries around 70,000 passengers daily. It offers free rides with stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island and a great way to see the harbor without spending a dime. This ten vessel fleet is maintained by the New York City Department of Transportation. The department also handles the St. George terminal in Staten Island and Whitehall terminal in Manhattan. The ride takes approximately 25 minutes and for sightseeing NYC, it is incredible. You can visit during rush hours to see Staten Island in full glory or you can visit during quiet hours. It’s completely up to you—if you want a peaceful and relaxing time, then avoid rush hours and you’ll have a great time. It’s a perfect way to experience New York, and there is nothing quite like it! For the best experience, book the Best of Lower Manhattan Walking Tour which features Staten Island Ferry Ride, Whitehall Terminal, the World Trade Center memorial site, and more!

14. Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum

Located at the World Trade Center site in Lower Manhattan, it honors the lives lost in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, as well as the 1993 bombing. This deeply emotional and educational space is not just a tribute to the victims, but also a testament to resilience, unity, and hope.

At the heart of the memorial are two massive reflecting pools, set in the exact footprints of the original Twin Towers. The cascading waterfalls and the names of nearly 3,000 victims etched into bronze panels create a solemn atmosphere that invites reflection and remembrance. The surrounding plaza, lined with white oak trees, offers a peaceful escape in the midst of the city’s energy.

Inside the museum, visitors experience a powerful narrative of the events through multimedia exhibits, recovered artifacts, first-person accounts, and interactive displays. Personal stories of loss, survival, and heroism bring an intimate and human perspective to this global tragedy.

For both locals and tourists, the 9/11 Memorial and Museum is a must-see. It’s not only a place of remembrance but a meaningful stop on any New York City itinerary.

15. Explore Chinatown

Wander through the bustling streets of Chinatown and admire the Buddha figures. It is one of the top NYC tourist attractions. It’s perfect for you if you’re a foodie as it is home to authentic dim sum and dumplings. For enjoying dim sum, visit Nom Wah Tea Parlor famous for their delicious menu. While you’re there, don’t forget to try pan-fried noodles. If you’re in the mood for pizza or burgers, Chinatown has tons of options for you to enjoy that as well.

The place has everything from Chinese medicine to dried fish to unique art. Chinatown doesn’t disappoint! Also, Chinatown is not very far from Brooklyn Bridge, so you can fit both these attractions into your itinerary. Plus, it takes you around 30 minutes to explore the whole area if you’re not stopping for food and such. For a well-rounded experience, book the Chinatown & Little Italy Food Walking Tour to explore five food stops, with bonus visits to Mahayana Buddhist Temple, Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and a hidden garden!

16. Visit the New York Public Library

The main branch, located in the heart of Manhattan, is an architectural gem and known for its stunning Beau-Arts design. The historical collections are another great thing about this library. It’s a perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of NYC. Explore its grand reading rooms and stunning Rose Main Reading Room which features chandeliers and a ceiling ornate with murals. It’s a great place for you and your family. And if you’ve got kids, then you can show them the original stuffed animals that inspired Winnie the Pooh stories. Plus point about this place is that the admission is free and you won’t have to worry about the budget.

Tip: If you’re in Bryant Park, it’s a 4 minutes walk from there.

17. Take a Food Tour in Greenwich Village

Sample NYC's diverse culinary offerings in this historic neighborhood. From classic pizza to artisanal chocolates, there's something for every palate. For this, you can book a walking tour or you can explore the place on your own. Enjoy local eateries with tons of options to choose from —such as Artichoke Basille’s Pizza. When you’re full and satisfied, explore the brick townhouses and the beautiful narrow tree-lined streets this place has to offer!

18. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

Explore a retired aircraft carrier, the Concorde jet, and the Space Shuttle Enterprise. It's a fascinating museum for history and aviation enthusiasts. Marvel at the Lockheed A-12 and Grumman F-14 Tomcat aircrafts. You can also learn about the Space Shuttle Enterprise and the favored food for the Growler Submarine’s crew.

19. Attend the Governors Ball Music Festival

Held from June 6 to 8, 2025, at Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens, this festival features headliners like Tyler, the Creator, Olivia Rodrigo, and Hozier, along with performances from Feid, Glass Animals, and more. The festival features a wide mix of bands and is perfect for everyone. It’s also one of New York's most popular music events.

20. Experience the Diane Arbus Exhibition

Opening June 5 till August 17 at the Park Avenue Armory, experience the "Constellation"—an exhibition that showcases 454 master prints by photographer Diane Arbus. The unstructured, grid-based display encourages personal interpretation of her emotionally complex photographs. It’s the most comprehensive exhibition of Arbus’s photographs and a tribute to her. If you’re into art, this is something you do not want to miss!

Wrapping Up:

From world-renowned art to bustling street scenes, New York City is a place where every moment offers something extraordinary. Whether you're in search of culture, cuisine, history, or high-energy adventure, the city delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn. As you plan your 2025 visit, be sure to make time for these top attractions—they're just a glimpse of what makes NYC truly one of a kind.