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New York City

Things to Do in New York City

The 48 most popular places to visit in New York City, with photos, tours, tickets and how to get there from the airport.

New York is a dense, walkable city where many of the main sights are clustered in Manhattan. Lower Manhattan contains the World Trade Center site, the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, and the rebuilt World Trade Center towers, with the Brooklyn Bridge a short walk away. Midtown has the Empire State Building, Times Square, the United Nations headquarters, Trump Tower, and the Flatiron Building. Central Park sits between the Upper West Side and Upper East Side, close to the Metropolitan Museum of Art and The Dakota.

Plan to spend at least three or four days to see the main areas without rushing. Group Lower Manhattan and the Brooklyn Bridge on one day, Midtown skyscrapers and Times Square on another, and Central Park with the Met on a third. The subway links these districts quickly, and many sights in the same neighborhood are within walking distance. If you fly into JFK, the AirTrain plus the subway or Long Island Rail Road brings you to Manhattan.

All tours in New York City

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do I need?

Three to four days is enough to cover the main Manhattan sights at a manageable pace. If you want to visit multiple museums and walk the Brooklyn Bridge, add another day. A shorter visit of two full days can work, but you will need to be selective.

What is the best time of year to visit?

Spring and autumn have mild weather and are popular, so plan for crowds. Summer is warmer and busier, while winter is colder and often quieter after the holiday season. Book timed entry for indoor sights in any season.

Which sights should I book ahead?

The National September 11 Memorial & Museum and the Empire State Building observatory use timed entry, so reserve before you arrive. The Metropolitan Museum of Art also sells advance tickets online. If you plan to visit the United Nations, check the official tour schedule in advance.

How do I get around between sights?

Manhattan's grid and subway make it easy to move between Lower Manhattan, Midtown, and Central Park. Walking is often best within a neighborhood, such as from Times Square to the Empire State Building. You can tap a contactless card or phone at subway gates; no separate transit card is needed if you use a contactless bank card or phone.

Are there free things to do?

Central Park, Times Square, and the Brooklyn Bridge walkway are free to visit. The 9/11 Memorial plaza is free, though the museum charges admission. Walking the streets of Lower Manhattan and Midtown is also a no-cost way to see the architecture.

What should I know about visiting the World Trade Center area?

The World Trade Center site includes the National September 11 Memorial & Museum and the rebuilt office towers around it. The memorial's twin reflecting pools mark the footprints of the former towers. Lower Manhattan around the site is walkable and connects to the Brooklyn Bridge.

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