What to do in New York, NY

Activities, attractions and tours

New York
Downtown Brooklyn which includes heritage elements and a bridge
New York
Brooklyn Bridge Park featuring a river or creek, a sunset and a city
The Oculus featuring interior views as well as a small group of people

New York Tourist Attractions & Activities

Stretching from the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean, New York is a state unlike any other. From its breathtaking foliage to the vineyards dotting the Hudson Valley, this part of the U.S. has something for everyone. But there is one place in the Empire State that tops them all: New York City. There is a reason that travellers come from around the globe to visit this bustling metropolis, and a reason that it has inspired everything from songs to plays and movies. New York is the stuff dreams are made of—especially dreams of legendary holidays and memories that will last a lifetime. However you choose to spend your time in New York City, you’re sure to unlock amazing discoveries like nowhere else in the world.

What to Do in New York

New York City is one of the most visited and photographed places on the planet, and it is easy to see why. Between the iconic lights of Times Square and the historic symbolism of the Statue of Liberty, there’s no shortage of incredible photo opportunities across all five boroughs—Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, the Bronx, and Staten Island. For the best panorama of the city, head to the top of the Empire State Building, where sweeping views of Manhattan and beyond await. Afterwards, be sure to take a stroll through Central Park to feel like a true “New Yawker”, or head to Madison Square Garden for the musical performance or sporting event of the night.

As “the city that never sleeps”, New York is the ideal place for night owls. Between Broadway shows and late-night restaurants that cater to the theatre crowd, the city buzzes with activity 24/7. For daytime New York attractions, visitors can’t beat an afternoon at the Metropolitan Museum of Art or browsing the window designs along Fifth Avenue. From luxury boutiques along Madison Avenue to tiny stores sprinkled across Chinatown, you’re guaranteed some unique and awesome shopping opportunities.

With so many things to do in New York City, it can be hard to know how to make the most of your trip. That’s why the experts at Expedia.com.au have made it easy to find the top attractions in NYC, so you can focus on other things. Our easy-to-use booking system means that you can get a rental car, flight, and hotel in one convenient location. Plus, you’ll save time and money, making it a great option for busy travellers. Book your NYC getaway today and start dreaming of the Big Apple.


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Top places to visit

1. Times Square

This live and kicking neon jungle is arguably the life and soul of New York City, despite its label as a touristy clique by local New Yorkers. As one of the most visited spots in the world, Times Square beats, shouts and screams behind its neon exterior.
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 This neon paradise is a must-see for visitors wanting to sample New York’s chaotic downtown scene at its best.

2. Broadway

Swallow your pride, grab your camera and head down to Broadway - Times Square. This glitzy, neon-soaked strip – much despised by commuting locals – might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but there is a magic to its mania and a rich heritage to boot. If the M&M store, MTV and big-brand billboards don’t do it for you, keep your eye out for public art installations. Otherwise you can try a walking tour of the area’s history and architecture, or slip into one of its many Broadway theatres.
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Ed Sullivan Theater featuring a city and signage as well as a large group of people

3. Central Park

Central Park is a movie star in its own right, having featured in movies such as “When Harry Met Sally”, “Annie Hall”, “Home Alone 2” and “Sex and the City: The Movie”. Together with hosting some of the most famous musical artists such as Simon & Garfunkel, Central Park is an iconic space of natural beauty known worldwide and adored by native New Yorkers.
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Central Park which includes a park, flowers and a pond

4. Rockefeller Center

Reminiscent of a swinging 1930s New York, the Rockefeller Center is an icon of outstanding architectural achievement, combining past and present in seamless elegance. It is situated in Midtown Manhattan and today is the centrepiece of the city’s annual holiday celebrations.
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Rockefeller Center

5. Statue of Liberty

New York’s Statue of Liberty is one of the few structures in the world that evokes a profound sense of emotion among its population. This pinnacle of freedom and democracy stands tall on New York harbour as a symbol of courage and hope for millions across the world.
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Statue of Liberty featuring heritage elements, a monument and a statue or sculpture

6. Grand Central Terminal

Approximately 750,000 commuters come and go through this station every day; but don’t let that get in the way, as this architectural masterpiece is definitely worth a visit. Its shops, dining areas and bistros make this venue one to remember. Sit back in one of the cafes and watch the world roll by your window in this palace of gothic majesty.
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Grand Central Terminal

7. Empire State Building

The Empire State building is known worldwide as icon of incredible architectural engineering. This formidable landmark goes hand in hand with the name of New York City and is for many, a symbol of determination, perseverance and courage. The building itself has featured in numerous movies such as “An Affair to Remember”, “King Kong” and “Sleepless in Seattle”, to name but a few.
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Empire State Building featuring a high-rise building, a city and views

8. One World Trade Center

Standing well above its skyscraping neighbors, One World Trade Center is a building that is easily identifiable from New Jersey and from most parts of the boroughs surrounding Manhattan. The reflective sheen of the structure’s glass is easy to mistake for metal, and its isosceles triangular façades give it the appearance of having a twisting motion toward the sky.
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One World Trade Center showing a sunset, a city and skyline

9. 5th Avenue

Regularly referred to as the most expensive street in the world, Manhattan’s 5th Avenue runs down the center of Midtown Manhattan. Between 49th and 60th streets, 5th Avenue plays host to many of the world’s most prestigious retail outlets, and is a destination for shoppers from around the world. While it’s best known for its shopping, tourists wanting to see the sights visit the street more than shoppers, and there are a number of attractions on the street.
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5th Avenue which includes signage

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What to do in New York


Discover the most popular places to visit in New York

Explore areas of New York

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Manhattan

4.5/5(334 area reviews)

The frenzy of Wall Street, the galleries of Soho, the green lungs of Central Park: Manhattan still has the assets – and the charms – to back up its considerable confidence.

Manhattan
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Midtown

4.5/5(75 area reviews)

Navigate successfully through the skyscrapers, suits and taxis that dominate daytime Midtown and you’ll find a whole heap of New York City landmarks you know and love.

Midtown
New York which includes signage, a city and a skyscraper

Central New York City

Known for its soaring skyscrapers and eye-catching views, there's plenty to explore in Central New York City. Check out top attractions like Broadway and Times Square, and jump on the metro at 49th St. Station or 50 St. Station (Broadway) to see more of the city.

Central New York City
Corona showing a sporting event

Queens

3/5(43 area reviews)

Aqueduct Racetrack and Flushing Meadows-Corona Park are top sights in Queens, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Briarwood Van Wyck Blvd. Station or Jamaica Van Wyck Station to see more sights in the area.

Queens
The High Line Park showing street scenes, a city and a garden

Chelsea

4/5(27 area reviews)

Live the New York life you dreamed of in Chelsea, an upscale district packed with contemporary art galleries, converted warehouse spaces, queer-friendly bars and food trends.

Chelsea
Times Square featuring cbd, a statue or sculpture and a skyscraper

Theater District

From Times Square to Broadway theaters, experience New York at the height of its showmanship in this revitalized Midtown area.

Theater District

 

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Day trip destinations from New York

Frequently asked questions

Is New York worth visiting?
With a mix of views and dining, there's no shortage of things to do in New York. When you're here, head to Times Square, a top attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in New York?
After you've checked off popular attractions like Times Square and Rockefeller Centre, spend the rest of your day enjoying New York's shopping and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in New York?
Times Square is one of the top tourist attractions in New York and should feature high on every sightseeing list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in New York?
Three days will be plenty of time to tick off popular city sights, like Times Square, Rockefeller Centre and 5th Avenue. The average stay in New York is three days. If you feel the urge to extend your trip, Newark isn't far away.
Is New York a walkable city?
It all depends on what you'd like to do and see in New York. Several key sights, such as Times Square and Rockefeller Centre, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of New York's neighbourhoods, Manhattan is 3 kilometres away from downtown, while Midtown is 0.16 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in New York with kids?
Deciding what to do in New York with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're taking a trip with teenagers or toddlers, there are many family-friendly tours and activities to keep them entertained here.

What to do in New York for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in New York, with activities for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to Brooklyn Brewery or New York Distilling Co..
Are there free things to do in New York?
From visiting parks to strolling around hip neighbourhoods, it's a breeze to discover free things to do in New York. If you need new ideas, ask a local tour guide for some tips. Times Square is a must for anyone wanting to save on their sightseeing activities.

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