[List] 25 Amazing Things to Do When You Visit New York

Key Takeaways:

• New York offers a perfect blend of iconic attractions, rich history, and diverse landscapes for any traveler.
• Whether exploring the hustle and bustle of the city or enjoying the quiet beauty of upstate New York, there’s something for everyone.
• From world-class museums and Broadway shows to scenic hikes and hidden gems, New York guarantees unforgettable experiences.

New York, the Empire State, is more than just the glittering lights of New York City—it’s a place of extraordinary contrasts, from towering skyscrapers to serene landscapes. Known for being a hub of culture, commerce, and entertainment, New York is a state that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re experiencing the endless energy of Manhattan or exploring the tranquility of the Adirondacks, New York combines urban sophistication with natural beauty. The state’s rich history, from its colonial roots to its role in shaping the modern world, can be seen in its landmarks and museums.

The appeal of New York lies in its diversity. Cities like New York City and Buffalo offer an exciting mix of arts, culture, and entertainment, while places like the Catskills and the Finger Lakes region provide opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. People love visiting New York for the variety of experiences it offers, whether it’s taking in a Broadway show, enjoying a scenic boat tour on the Hudson River, or exploring hiking trails in upstate New York. New York is a place where adventure, culture, and history come together, making it one of the most dynamic states in the U.S.

Here are 25 things to do in New York:

#1 Visit Times Square: Experience the vibrant lights and energy of New York City’s iconic entertainment district.

#2 Hike in the Adirondacks: Explore over 2,000 miles of trails in this stunning mountain range in upstate New York.

#3 See a Broadway Show: Enjoy world-class theater performances in the heart of the Big Apple.

#4 Explore Central Park: Escape the city’s bustle by relaxing or walking through New York City’s massive green oasis.

#5 Tour the Statue of Liberty: Visit this iconic American symbol and learn about its history through a guided tour.

#6 Stroll Across the Brooklyn Bridge: Walk or bike across this historic bridge for beautiful views of the skyline and East River.

#7 Discover the Metropolitan Museum of Art: Explore one of the world’s largest and most prestigious art museums located in Central Park.

#8 Take a Boat Ride on the Hudson River: Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Hudson River for beautiful views of the city and the surrounding landscapes.

#9 Visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum: Pay your respects and learn about the tragic events of September 11, 2001, at this moving memorial.

#10 Tour the New York Public Library: Discover the history and grandeur of this historic library located near Bryant Park.

#11 Relax at the Finger Lakes: Enjoy wine-tasting, boating, and hiking around this beautiful region famous for its vineyards and lakes.

#12 Go Skiing at Whiteface Mountain: Hit the slopes at one of the Northeast’s best ski resorts located in the Adirondacks.

#13 Walk Around SoHo: Explore the art galleries, trendy shops, and cool restaurants in this chic Manhattan neighborhood.

#14 Take a Day Trip to Niagara Falls: See one of the world’s most famous natural wonders and enjoy boat tours, hiking, and more.

#15 Tour the Empire State Building: Visit the observation deck of this iconic skyscraper for incredible panoramic views of the city.

#16 Explore the Catskill Mountains: Hike, camp, and enjoy outdoor activities in this stunning natural area located in upstate New York.

#17 Visit the American Museum of Natural History: Experience the wonders of science, history, and culture at this iconic museum.

#18 Go Wine Tasting in the Finger Lakes: Explore the wine country and enjoy tastings at some of the area’s renowned vineyards.

#19 Take a Helicopter Tour of NYC: Get a bird’s-eye view of New York City’s skyline and landmarks from the sky.

#20 See the Cherry Blossoms at the Brooklyn Botanical Garden: Visit in the spring to see thousands of cherry blossoms in full bloom.

#21 Check Out the High Line: Walk through this elevated park built on a historic freight rail line with beautiful views and gardens.

#22 Discover the Hudson Valley: Explore charming towns, wineries, and hiking trails in this scenic region along the Hudson River.

#23 Go to the New York Aquarium: Visit this marine life center in Brooklyn to see aquatic animals, including sea otters and penguins.

#24 Take a Trip to Lake Placid: Explore this Olympic town with outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, and fishing.

#25 Tour the Rockefeller Center: Visit the world-famous complex and experience attractions like Radio City Music Hall and the ice skating rink.

Where Can I Find Both Free and Paid Events Going on in New York?

For finding both free and paid events in New York, PlanMyWeekend.ai is a great tool. The platform offers an easy way to search for events across the state, whether you’re interested in free outdoor festivals, live music performances, or paid activities like Broadway shows or museum tours. PlanMyWeekend.ai allows you to filter events based on location, budget, and interest, ensuring you find the best events for your preferences.

Final Thoughts

New York offers a vast array of experiences that cater to every type of traveler. From the bright lights of Manhattan to the scenic beauty of the Adirondacks, there’s always something new to explore. Whether you’re visiting for the culture, outdoor adventures, or unique attractions, New York has something for everyone. Use PlanMyWeekend.ai to help you plan your trip and discover the best events happening across the state, ensuring you make the most of your time in the Empire State.

Author: Dejon Brooks

Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai