Things to Do in Manhattan, NYC
Manhattan truly is the heart of New York City. Here unique culture, daily rush of life and business all collide. Chris and I lived there for 10 years but what people don't know about me is that I still keep a storage unit in Manhattan. Yup! Why you ask? I think that Manhattan is such an incredible, high energy place that a part of me doesn't want to let it go. I love going back, feeling the city energy and then day tripping or going on weekend getaways from there to more cool places nearby.
About my favorite things to do in Manhattan...You can look forward to bustling streets filled with art and food, peaceful parks tucked between skyscrapers, and iconic sites that define the New York experience. From family-friendly outings to romantic escapes and cultural adventures, Manhattan has no shortage of things to see and do. Here are the places I recommend, and I think you’ll enjoy them too.
1. Central Park
I'm more of an outdoor person myself so Central Park was always my sanctuary when living in the city. From the first time I went years ago, I was instantly won over. Still today, every time I wander into Central Park, I feel like I’ve stumbled into a spectacular escape right in the middle of Manhattan. It's nature, but it's been shaped and sculpted with beautiful fountains, bridges, benches and an occasion carriage pulled by horses.
If you only have 3 hours in the city, take the subway to Park Avenue and 59th street, walk past the Plaza Hotel and then head to Central Park. If you have time, check out the Central Park Zoo, Sheep Meadow, Bethesda Terrace and Fountain and the Carousel, a hidden gem if you have kids!
Stretching from 59th all the way to 110th Street, Central Park’s surrounded by the Upper West and Upper East Sides, and yet once I’m inside, the city noise fades into the background.
Rowing a boat for an hour at Loeb Boathouse is a fantastic idea for a first date (you heard it here first!)
If you have very comfortable shoes, keep heading north and check out Strawberry Fields near 72nd Street where visitors pay tribute to John Lennon at the “Imagine” mosaic.
Central Park is the heart of Manhattan and I think it's the absolute best things to do in NYC!
2. Circle Line Cruises
When I booked a Circle Line Cruise in Manhattan in June, I felt like I was seeing New York City from a completely new perspective. Sailing past the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and under the Brooklyn Bridge gives you the most unforgettable views of the skyline. It was one of my favorite ways to experience the city, especially because the breeze off the Hudson River made everything feel refreshing this month.
Boarding was easy near Pier 40 (it can be Pier 15 so be sure to check). Both are close to great neighborhoods like SoHo and the Financial District. I loved being able to just watch as the skyline floated all around me. The flexibility of options (daytime tours, brunches, or sunset sails) made it easy to plan even if you are just in the city for a day.
3. The High Line
The next two stops on my best things to do in Manhattan tour (The High Line and Chelsea Market) perfectly complement each other. Because I guarantee you'll work up an appetite walking the High Line! You could see it in 45 minutes, but why hurry? It's easy to spend way more time here than you expected because it's such a cool place.
Elevated on a historic freight rail line, this unique park stretches from Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District all the way to Hudson Yards.
I wandered past lush gardens, striking art installations, and modern architecture, and I thought the coolest part was how it blended nature with the city skyline.
It was one of my favorite ways to see Manhattan because I could slow down and soak in the views while still feeling connected to the city’s energy. I found benches tucked into quiet corners, and listen to musicians performing for small crowd.
The High Line also connects easily to Chelsea Market (see next on my list), so grabbing a bite was the next logical step after my stroll.
This place is truly special. Trust me, it has won its fair share of prestigious awards. For example, the New York chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects gave the Connector (the newest section linking the High Line to Moynihan Train Hall) a Merit Award in 2024. The entire project won in the “Urban Design Interventions & Infrastructure” category of AZ Awards 2024.
4. Chelsea Market
There's no downside to visiting Chelsea Market. It's easy to get to by subway and once you are there, you can dive into some of the coolest foods that are also super affordable too. I like the High Line + Chelsea Market as a 3-hour morning combo but you can skip the High Line if you are not a walked and just go here for the food.
You can look forward to bakeries with the coolest pastries, artisanal cheese shops, and even pop-up boutiques. We grabbed tacos at Los Tacos No. 1 that my sister-in-law told me about (she works in the area) and it was great! But don't be shy to try other places too. You can always save some food for later when you get hungry at your hotel. Every visit to Chelsea Market feels fresh and different, with new flavors and experiences evolving in this important Manhattan hub.
If you have time after, head to the Whitney Museum just a block away but be sure to leave at least 90 minutes for this cool museum, preferably a bit longer.
5. Birdland
When in Times Square (whether you are catching a Broadway play or just checking out the giant neon ads), make time for Birdland, one of Manhattan’s most iconic jazz clubs and restaurants, on West 44th Street. My husband and I adored that old-school New York vibe with candlelit tables, intimate seating that had the stage just a few steps away.
It really is super easy to make a whole evening out of it, especially for some romance for couples. Dinner, show, cocktails while the band played...you felt like a part of an old movie set. The audience was a mix of locals and visitors and we all loved it.
6. Marea
After working up an appetite exploring Central Park (#1 on my list), you can't do better than dining out at Marea on Central Park South. Right across from the southern edge of Central Park, it was perfect to end the day.
We started with their crudo selection, and I thought it was one of the coolest introductions to the meal...delicate, fresh, presentation was so artful too. The handmade pasta was to die for, especially the fusilli with octopus and bone marrow. It was so rich and satisfying, just what I needed after so much walking around Manhattan.
For me, Marea is an absolute best spot in New York for anyone who loves seafood and Italian cuisine. It's a great idea for a romantic date in the city too.
7. The Honorable William Wall
Taking the ferry out to The Honorable William Wall felt like one of the coolest escapes I’ve had in New York. This floating clubhouse of the Manhattan Yacht Club sits right near Ellis Island, and just getting there was half the fun. I loved watching the skyline fade behind me as the boat pulled up to the barge anchored in New York Harbor.
Once on board, the atmosphere was relaxed and happy. I grabbed a drink and settled into an Adirondack chair on the deck, surrounded by water, sailboats, and views of the Statue of Liberty...spectacular. It was unlike any other bar experience in Manhattan, more like a secret island hideaway. It felt totally surreal!
The vibe was casual yet unique, like being part of a hidden club that only a few people know about.
Getting there required a short launch ride from the World Financial Center in Battery Park City, which added a bit of adventure and was my personal highlight.
8. Manhattan During Christmas and other Holidays
Christmas, New Years, Thanksgiving, 4th of July...Manhattan does its holidays in style! From watching the ball drop in Times Square on New Years to incredible fireworks during the 4th of July weekend, if you can time your visit when Manhattan celebrates, it's truly spectacular. Yes, you need to book early or pay very high prices, but with a bit of advanced planning, your trip will be super memorable.
9. Creel and Gow
If you are in the mood for a bit of shopping and want something unique to take home with you, head to Creel and Gow on East 70th Street. Tucked inside a former 19th-century Carnegie Hill apothecary, the space itself was a gem, with its antique details and museum-like vibe that instantly drew me in.
Inside, each corner revealing something unique like rare minerals, coral, antique silver, and beautifully crafted curiosities from around the world. I bought a polished fossil that I keep on my shelf.
The location near Central Park and the Frick Collection was super convenient too.
10. Farm.One
For something totally unique and unexpected just across the bridge in Brooklyn, check out Farm.One in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn. I thought it was a brilliant idea to bring agriculture this close to everyday New Yorkers. It really shows you how farming and sustainability could thrive in such an unusual setting.
You can book a tour at 625 Bergen Street in Brooklyn, New York where you get to taste what they grow, or check out one of their special events. You can also buy a box of greens, or a refreshing drink.
11. New York Media Boat
Taking a ride on the New York Media Boat is one of the most spectacular experiences you can have on the water in Manhattan. Departing from Pier 25 in Tribeca, this speedboat tour gives you front-row views of the skyline, bridges, and landmarks, all while zipping across the Hudson River at thrilling speeds.
12. The Shops at Columbus Circle
Another great spot right at the corner of Central Park on the West Side (I told you Central Park was large!), are The Shops at Columbus Circle. I always like popping in for a quick snack or a freshly squeezed juice at Whole Foods and then browsing the unique stores there. If I'm looking for a last minute gift, this is the place I can always reliably spot something unique.
13. Elsie Rooftop
If you need a spot for a fashionable date above the hustle of Midtown Manhattan, Elsie Rooftop is just the spot. It has that cool vintage-meets-modern vibe with plush seating, chandeliers, and skyline views that steal the show. Just remember to reserve your table, especially on weekends!
14. Kobrick Coffee in the West Village
Kobrick Coffee in the West Village (on Hudson Street near 9th Avenue) has been roasting since 1920. You can tell because the atmosphere carries that perfect mix of history and cool downtown energy. Whether you need to catch up on emails while traveling or just want a cool spot to people watch, this is a great idea!
15. Strawberry Fields
Strawberry Fields in Central Park near the Natural History Museum and Hayden Planetarium is such a peaceful spot! Just across from the Dakota on West 72nd Street, this memorial to John Lennon is a calm and contemplative spot. There is plenty of shade. I was caught in a rain here once and the foliage above stopped the drops.
16. Bronx Historical Tours
Bronx Historical Tours offers a great way to get to know local history. It feels good to walk with people that have the same interest. You can stand where jazz legends once played, and learn local stories from...a local!
17. OktoberFest NYC
Celebrating OktoberFest NYC on the waterfront was super fun! Okay, maybe it was a bit of a tourist trap (there were plenty of locals too!), but they’re nailing the vibe they are after. Hosted at places like Pier 15 in the Seaport District, it brings in the festive spirit of a traditional Bavarian beer garden right in the heart of New York.
The lively atmosphere was great! They bring out long communal tables, and live music. My favorite part was grabbing a giant pretzel and bratwurst.
On the East River, the views of the Brooklyn Bridge and downtown skyline were awesome. Watching the sun set over the water was really fun.
OktoberFest NYC was a solid way to welcome autumn in Manhattan.
Conclusion
How to Get to Manhattan, NYC
- By air: I usually fly into JFK or LaGuardia, but Newark (EWR) works too. You’ll have no trouble getting into Manhattan—trains, buses, or taxis can get you from the airport to your hotel but be patient and expect delays during rush hour. I personally love taking the AirTrain and subway when I’m traveling light.
- By train: I’ve arrived at Penn Station plenty of times via Amtrak, NJ Transit, and LIRR but if you have a lot of luggage this can be stressful because it's very crowded. If you’re coming from Upstate NY or Connecticut, Metro-North into Grand Central is your best bet. It’s a beautiful terminal and there are always taxis outside.
- By subway or bus: I’ve ridden the MTA more times than I can count. You’ll find the subway and bus system running 24/7, and it’s still the easiest way to get around Manhattan. I always tell people to grab a MetroCard or use a contactless tap card—it makes life simple.
Where to Stay in Manhattan, NYC
- The Plaza Hotel – I stayed here once as a treat, and you’ll never forget the experience. You’ll be right near Central Park, and the classic luxury is exactly what you’d hope for. If you don't want to spend a lot of money on a room, you can have brunch here instead and still get the feel for this historic place!
- CitizenM Times Square – When I want something modern and efficient, this is my go-to. You’ll find tech-savvy touches and a great vibe right near all the action.
- Arlo NoMad – I’ve recommended this to friends who want something boutique and stylish in Midtown. You’ll love the skyline views and cozy-but-smart layout of the rooms.
Final Thoughts
Manhattan is more than just its famous landmarks. It’s a collection of spectacular experiences that weave together to form the city’s heartbeat. Even after living there for 10 years, each new visit gives me a fresh perspective and a deeper appreciation for its energy, beauty, and creativity.
For me, the absolute best part of exploring Manhattan is knowing that no matter how many times I come back, there will always be another hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
