New York City is bursting with energy, iconic sights, and unique experiences that cater to every kind of traveler. From towering skyscrapers to quaint neighborhoods, here are some of the best things to do in NYC in 15 minutes or less. Let us know what we left off in the comments. The suggestions are categorized to help you find a specific one, and you can get a map of all of them on our Patreon. Also, these are very well-known; for less touristy spots, check out the other videos in the description.
Attractions
New York City is home to countless famous tourist attractions. Here are some must-visit spots that make NYC an unforgettable destination.
Central Park
Central Park is the crown jewel of Manhattan, offering miles of paths to walk, run, or bike. You can rent a rowboat, visit the iconic Belvedere Castle, or relax with and people-watch next to the Bethesda fountain. It’s the perfect escape from the city’s hustle, with something new around every corner, and which you could explore for months without seeing it all.
Dumbo
Dumbo, short for “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass,” is a charming area with cobblestone streets and stunning views of the Brooklyn Bridge. Grab a coffee at a local café and head to the waterfront for an iconic of the Manhattan Bridge with the Empire State Building perfectly framed. Don’t miss Jane’s Carousel for a nostalgic ride, and head to the top of the timeout market for this shot if you are a Beastie Boys fan.
Times Square
Times Square is one of the most overwhelming spots in NYC, packed day and night with blinding neon lights, street performers, and swarms of tourists. It’s crowded, chaotic, and a bit exhausting if you ask me. Of course, it is iconic New York, and it is something you need to experience while in the city. Plus, if you are a night owl, stay up till midnight to see the Midnight Moment, one of the largest digital art displays in the world.
Battery Park
Battery Park, located at the southern tip of Manhattan, offers beautiful waterfront views and is the gateway to the Statue of Liberty. You can relax in the gardens, visit the Seaglass Carousel, or simply watch the boats go by. It’s also an ideal spot to begin your trip to Liberty Island.
Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic symbols of freedom, standing tall in New York Harbor. You can take a ferry to Liberty Island, climb up to the pedestal, or even into the crown if you get tickets, or walk the island and explore the museum. It’s a powerful and humbling experience that embodies the spirit of America.
Ellis Island
After leaving the Statue of Liberty, stop at Ellis Island, which is usually included with the same ferry ticket. Ellis Island is where millions of immigrants first set foot in America, and the museum offers a deep dive into their stories. Walk through the Great Hall, explore the exhibits, and even look up your family’s immigration records.
Governors Island
Governors Island is a quick ferry ride from Manhattan and offers expansive green spaces, historical buildings, and some of the best views of the Statue of Liberty. You can rent a bike, explore the forts, or take in some of its art installations. It’s the perfect day trip for anyone looking for a little break from the city without going too far.
Oculus
The Oculus, located near the World Trade Center, is more than just a transit hub—it’s a piece of stunning modern architecture. Inside, you’ll find a shopping mall, places to grab food, and great photo opportunities, thanks to its striking white ribbed structure. If you are visiting the memorial (which we will discuss later, you need to stop by and see this).
High Line
The High Line is a unique elevated park built on a former railway line on the west side of Manhattan. It’s packed with greenery, art, and great city views. Take a leisurely walk and enjoy the flowers, sculptures, and food vendors along the way—it’s a great way to see the city from above and a fun spot for a nice walk away from the cars.
Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center is a must-see for both its iconic architecture and seasonal activities. In winter, go ice skating under the giant Christmas tree or tour NBC Studios. In the summer, you can relax by the giant statue, visit one of the food vendors, or go up to the top of the rock observation deck.
NBC Studio and Radio City
NBC Studios offers guided tours where you can see behind-the-scenes of iconic shows like Saturday Night Live. Nearby, Radio City Music Hall is famous for its Art Deco design and the legendary Rockettes. Catch a show or take a guided tour to soak up the glamour of New York’s entertainment world.
Coney Island
Coney Island is a classic New York experience with its vintage amusement park, boardwalk, and beach. You can ride the famous Cyclone roller coaster, eat a hot dog at Nathan’s, or stroll along the beach. In summer, it’s the perfect escape from the city’s heat, and it is accessible via public transit.
The Vessel
The Vessel, located in Hudson Yards, is a stunning honeycomb-like structure offering great views from its interconnected staircases. Visitors can climb up its many flights for a unique perspective on the city skyline. It’s one of the more modern attractions that combines art, architecture, and adventure. Note that it has been closed for a few years, and you can only look at the exterior, but it is still cool to see.
Prospect Park
Prospect Park in Brooklyn is a lush escape created by the same designers behind Central Park. It offers a serene lake, a zoo, and endless paths for biking or walking. It’s ideal for picnics, with wide open spaces and quiet corners that make you forget you’re in the middle of NYC. If you have kids, the splash pad is also amazing during the summer.
Brooklyn Heights and Kayaking
Brooklyn Heights Promenade offers spectacular views of Manhattan’s skyline, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty. Right below, you can go kayaking at Brooklyn Bridge Park for free during select nights throughout the summer. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the East River, so look up the dates, as they sell out in advance.
Staten Island Ferry
The Staten Island Ferry is one of the best free activities in NYC, offering fantastic views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. The ferry runs 24/7 and is a great way to get out on the water without spending a penny and to visit some fun spots on Staten Island.
Roosevelt Island
Roosevelt Island offers a unique vantage point of Manhattan from the East River, accessible via the Roosevelt Island Tramway. Visit the haunting Renwick Ruins, stroll along the waterfront, or relax at the Four Freedoms Park. The tram ride alone is worth the trip for the fantastic views.
Zoos
NYC is home to several notable zoos, including the Bronx Zoo, one of the largest in the country. Central Park Zoo is a smaller, charming option in Manhattan, and Queens and Brooklyn have their own zoos. Each offers a different experience, whether you want to see exotic animals or enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by wildlife.
Domino Park
Domino Park in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, is built on a former sugar refinery site and offers beautiful waterfront views. There are playgrounds, fountains, and taco stands for a relaxing afternoon by the river. It’s a fantastic spot to watch the sunset over the Manhattan skyline.
Chelsea Market
Chelsea Market is a food lover’s dream, offering everything from fresh seafood to decadent desserts. Located in the Meatpacking District, it’s the perfect place to grab a bite or shop for gourmet ingredients. I highly recommend Los Tacos Number 1. As a Southern California resident, I found them to be the best tacos I have had outside of California.
Observation Decks
New York City’s observation decks offer some of the most breathtaking views you can get of the skyline. Here’s a quick guide to some of the top observation decks.
Empire State Building
The Empire State Building offers one of the most classic observation experiences in New York. From its 86th-floor deck, you’ll get sweeping views of the entire city, making it easy to spot landmarks like Central Park and the Hudson River. The only thing missing from this skyline view is getting to see the Empire State Building in it.
Top of the Rock
Top of the Rock, located at Rockefeller Center, gives you an incredible view of Central Park and the Empire State Building. Unlike other observation decks, it offers a three-level platform that provides unobstructed, 360-degree views. It’s an excellent spot for photographers, and it is one of the most iconic views with the Empire State Building right in the center.
Summit One
Summit One Vanderbilt is the newest observation deck in NYC, offering a multi-sensory experience with mirrors, glass floors, and even art installations. The views are amazing, but the unique interior makes it feel like more of an adventure. It’s perfect if you’re looking for something different than the classic observation deck and especially great with small children as there is so much to see that is not just the view.
One World Trade Center
At the top of One World Trade Center, the One World Observatory offers breathtaking views and a touching look at the city’s resilience. The ride up in the elevator is an experience in itself, with digital screens showing the transformation of NYC over centuries. Once at the top, you’ll have a panoramic view of all five boroughs, and you can even see the Statue of Liberty from up there.
Museums
New York City’s museums are world-renowned, offering something for every type of culture enthusiast. Here are a few of my favorites.
The Met
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, or The Met, is a must-see for anyone interested in art and culture. Its extensive collection spans over 5,000 years, with masterpieces from all around the world. You could spend days exploring its halls and still not see everything—it’s a true cultural treasure and the top museum in the city.
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
MoMA is home to some of the most famous pieces of modern art, including works by Picasso, Van Gogh, and Warhol. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to see iconic works or experience ever-changing contemporary exhibits. MoMA is also centrally located, making it easy to fit into your day, and seeing Starry Night was worth the price of admission alone for me.
Museum of Natural History
The American Museum of Natural History is a must-visit for both kids and adults, with its massive dinosaur skeletons and fascinating dioramas. It’s home to exhibits covering the wonders of the natural world, from outer space to the depths of the ocean. Take advantage of the planetarium for an awe-inspiring journey through the stars. It is another museum where you could spend hours.
Brooklyn Museum
The Brooklyn Museum offers an eclectic mix of exhibits, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary art. It’s one of NYC’s oldest and largest art museums, providing a unique blend of art, history, and culture. Take advantage of its rotating special exhibitions, which often focus on social issues and diverse cultural perspectives.
Guggenheim Museum
The Guggenheim Museum is just as famous for its architecture as it is for its artwork. The building’s spiraling ramps, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, make viewing art a unique experience. The collection includes Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and contemporary art, and the space itself is a masterpiece. There was less art than I anticipated, but just seeing the building up close was worth it.
Museum of American Indian
The National Museum of the American Indian is housed in the historic Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House and offers fascinating exhibits on Native American cultures. Admission is free, and you can explore both contemporary and historical artifacts. It’s an educational and often eye-opening visit highlighting indigenous peoples’ history and resilience.
Morgan Library and Museum
The Morgan Library and Museum is a hidden gem that features the personal library of financier J.P. Morgan. It’s filled with rare manuscripts, old books, and even original scores of famous composers. The intricate decor, from the ornate ceiling to the walls of antique books, makes it a stunning visual experience.
National Lighthouse Museum
The National Lighthouse Museum on Staten Island celebrates the history of lighthouses and the men and women who maintained them. It offers excellent insight into maritime history, with various exhibits on navigation and shipwrecks. It’s a fascinating stop if you’re already taking the Staten Island Ferry, but it is a little small to make the trip to Staten Island just to see it.
Queens Museum and World Fair
The Queens Museum is home to the famous Panorama of the City of New York, a detailed scale model of the entire city. It was built for the 1964 World’s Fair, and seeing the whole city in miniature is nothing short of awe-inspiring. The museum also has exhibits that tell the story of the two World’s Fairs held in Flushing Meadows. I was glad I made time to visit this unique spot.
History
New York City’s history is rich and deeply woven into the fabric of America itself. Here are some of the historical highlights that make NYC a living museum.
9/11 Memorial and Museum
The 9/11 Memorial and Museum is a profoundly moving tribute to those who lost their lives during the September 11 attacks. The twin reflecting pools sit where the original towers stood, surrounded by the names of victims. The museum tells the story of that day and the incredible acts of heroism and community that followed. It is so well done that I cannot visit the museum without tearing up.
Wall Street
Wall Street is the financial heartbeat of New York City, home to the New York Stock Exchange and the famous Charging Bull statue. If you want to take a picture with the bull, be prepared to wait. Walk down the historic cobblestone streets and see the Federal Hall, where George Washington took his presidential oath and see the Fearless Girl statue.
Brooklyn Bridge
Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is a must-do, with its stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River. The pedestrian path gives you plenty of space to take in the sights and take photos. I recommend walking from Brooklyn to Manhattan as the views of the city are much better going in that direction.
Flatiron Building
The Flatiron Building is one of NYC’s most iconic architectural landmarks, with its unique triangular shape. It’s a great photo op, and the surrounding neighborhood, known as the Flatiron District, is filled with cool spots to explore. Madison Square Park is right nearby, offering a relaxing place to sit and enjoy views of the building and home to the first Shake Shack. You can also see the Portal to Dublin nearby, which is fun.
St Patrick’s Cathedral
St. Patrick’s Cathedral is a stunning example of Neo-Gothic architecture located on Fifth Avenue. Step inside to admire its intricate stained glass windows, soaring arches, and peaceful atmosphere. It’s one of the most beautiful churches in the country and is a must-visit in New York since it is incredibly ornate.
St Paul’s Chapel
On the other end of the spectrum, you have St Paul’s Chapel. St. Paul’s Chapel is Manhattan’s oldest surviving church and was a refuge for first responders during 9/11. The chapel, which survived the Great Fire of 1776, is a living piece of NYC history. Its interior is simple yet powerful, and the surrounding graveyard is worth a stroll.
Grand Central Station
Grand Central Terminal is more than a transportation hub—it’s a historic landmark with breathtaking architecture. Be sure to look up at the ceiling in the main concourse and check out the Whispering Gallery, where you can hear whispers across the arched space. It’s one of NYC’s most iconic indoor spots, and I always love the energy you feel when you visit.
Washington Square Arch
The Washington Square Arch is an iconic gateway to Greenwich Village, located in Washington Square Park. The park itself is always lively, with street performers, chess players, and students. It’s a fantastic spot for people-watching, with a great view of the arch and the Empire State Building in the distance.
New York Public Library
The New York Public Library’s main branch is an architectural masterpiece known for its grandeur and iconic lion statues. One of the highlights is the Polonsky Exhibition of The New York Public Library’s Treasures, which features the original Winnie the Pooh stuffed animals, beloved by children and adults alike, plus many other famous pieces.
Fort Wadsworth
Fort Wadsworth is one of the oldest military forts in the country, located on Staten Island near the Verrazano Bridge. Take a guided tour or wander around on your own to explore its tunnels and bunkers. The fort offers some fantastic views of New York Harbor and is steeped in history dating back to the American Revolution.
Transit Museum
The New York Transit Museum, located in a decommissioned subway station in Brooklyn, offers a fascinating look at the city’s public transit history. You can explore vintage subway cars and learn about how the transit system has evolved over the years. It’s an offbeat but engaging museum for anyone interested in how the city runs.
Museum of Broadway
The Museum of Broadway celebrates the history and magic of NYC’s theatre scene. It’s perfect for theatre lovers with costumes, set models, and interactive exhibits. Learn about the evolution of Broadway and the incredible stories behind some of the most beloved shows of all time.
Stores
New York City is a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from magical-themed stores to luxury boutiques. Here are a few unique spots.
Harry Potter Store
The Harry Potter Store in Flatiron is a magical destination for any fan of the series. Spread across multiple floors, it offers themed merchandise, an interactive wand experience, and even a butterbeer. It’s a must-visit for Harry Potter fans.
FAO Schwarz
FAO Schwarz is an iconic toy store that has brought joy to kids and adults for decades. Located at Rockefeller Plaza, it features giant stuffed animals, interactive exhibits, and the famous giant piano you can play with your feet. It’s a nostalgic experience that’s fun for the whole family.
5th Avenue Shopping
5th Avenue is NYC’s most famous shopping street, lined with luxury brands like Gucci, Prada, and Tiffany & Co. Even if you’re not buying, it’s fun to window shop and take in the glamor of one of the world’s most famous shopping districts.
Evolution Store
The Evolution Store in SoHo is a natural history-themed shop filled with curiosities. From fossils to taxidermy and crystals, it’s a fascinating place to browse for unique items. Whether you’re shopping or just looking, it’s a quirky experience that stands out from traditional NYC stores and is one of my favorite stores in the city.
New York Pizza
Lastly, no trip to New York is complete without trying the iconic pizza. Whether you’re grabbing a quick slice from a neighborhood joint or visiting a famous spot like Joe’s or Lombardi’s, you’ll quickly see why NYC pizza is so legendary. Thin, foldable, and delicious, it’s the quintessential New York experience. You can see all of my favorite pizza places in the video I made in the description and many more videos I made on iconic food spots in New York.
That’s it for my list, I hope it helped you find a new place to explore and let me know what I left off in the comments.
