10 Best Things to Do in New York

Traveloka Team
30 Mar 2024 - 7 min read

New York City, the Big Apple, is a bustling metropolis that throbs with energy and culture. Nicknamed the "city that never sleeps," NYC is a global hub for finance, fashion, and art. It's also incredibly diverse, with over 800 languages spoken within its five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island. This article is your guide to navigating this iconic city. We'll explore the must-see sights, from the towering skyscrapers of Midtown to the world-class museums. We'll delve into the vibrant neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences. Get ready to be dazzled by NYC!

Best Things to Do in New York

Here's a curated list of 10 exciting activities to make your trip unforgettable:

1. Unleash Your Inner Child at the Museum of Ice Cream

Indulge your sweet tooth and unleash your inner child at the Museum of Ice Cream. This interactive wonderland features themed rooms filled with larger-than-life candy sculptures, rainbow sprinkles, and pools filled with marshmallows. Don't miss the Sprinkle Pool, where you can dive in a sea of plastic sprinkles and capture Instagram-worthy moments. After spoiling your sweet tooth, the nearby SoHo 54 Hotel is ready to be your sleepover place.

Museum of Ice Cream Ticket | New York

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SoHo 54 Hotel

54 Watts St

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2. Meet Your Favorite Stars at Madame Tussauds New York

Immerse yourself in a world of celebrity encounters at Madame Tussauds New York. Get up close and personal with incredibly lifelike wax figures of A-list celebrities, sports heroes, and historical icons. Strike a pose with your favorite actors, singers, and even fictional characters for a truly unique experience. After meeting your favorite figure, it’s time to rest at Hilton New York Times Square, a 4-minute walk from Madame Tussauds.

Madame Tussauds New York

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Hilton New York Times Square

8.4/10

234 West 42Nd Street

AU$822

AU$699

3. Experience the Magic Live: Watch a Harry Potter Broadway Show

Step into the enchanting world of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Broadway Show. Witness the magic come alive as talented actors bring your favorite characters and spells to life on stage. Choose from "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child," a two-part play following the adventures of Harry's son, or "The Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire," a thrilling adaptation of the fourth book. To stay through the night, consider W New York - Times Square.

New York | Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Broadway Show Tickets

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W New York - Times Square

7.8/10

1567 Broadway At 47th ...

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4. See the City from the Water: Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise

Get a panoramic view of New York City's iconic skyline with a Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise. This narrated tour takes you around Manhattan Island, offering breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Brooklyn Bridge, and other landmarks. Learn about the city's rich history and soak in the stunning scenery from the comfort of the boat. Need a comfortable place to rest? The nearby Ink 48 Hotel is worth it to book!

Circle Line - Best Of New York Sightseeing Cruise

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Ink 48 Hotel

653 11th Avenue

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5. Pay Your Respects at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum serves as a powerful tribute to the victims of the September 11th attacks. The memorial features two reflecting pools with waterfalls set within the footprints of the former Twin Towers. The museum explores the events of 9/11 and their lasting impact through personal stories, artifacts, and multimedia exhibits. It's recommended to dress modestly when visiting the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Staying at Millennium Downtown New York afterward will be a great idea.

9/11 Memorial & Museum

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Millennium Downtown New York

8/10

55 Church Street

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6. Dive into Theater History in The Museum of Broadway

For theater enthusiasts, The Museum of Broadway is a must-visit. This interactive museum celebrates the rich history of Broadway theater, showcasing costumes, props, set designs, and original playbills from iconic productions. Learn about the creative process behind Broadway shows and discover the stories of legendary actors, playwrights, and directors. Afterward, rest up at City Club Hotel, only steps away from the museum.

The Museum of Broadway Admission Ticket | New York

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City Club Hotel

145 Gagarina Ave.

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7. Ascend to New Heights at the Top of The Rock

Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of New York City from the Top of The Rock observation deck at Rockefeller Center. This iconic skyscraper offers unobstructed 360-degree views of Central Park, the Empire State Building, and the entire cityscape. Witness the city's energy unfold from this vantage point, especially during sunset for a truly magical experience.

Top of the Rock

AU$78

8. Explore Hidden Gems with The High Line Tour, Historic Downtown & Greenwich Village Food Tour

Embark on a unique adventure with a combined tour exploring The High Line, historic downtown, and Greenwich Village. The High Line offers a walkable park built on a historic freight rail line, showcasing public art installations and stunning city views. Delve into the rich history of Lower Manhattan and Greenwich Village, followed by a delectable food tour sampling the vibrant culinary scene of these neighborhoods. To maximize the experience, stay at TRYP by Wyndham New York City Times Square.

The High Line Tour, Historic Downtown and Greenwich Village food tour

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TRYP by Wyndham New York City Times Square / Midtown

345 W 35th Street

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9. Reach New Heights: Edge Observation Deck at Hudson Yards

Soar to new heights at the Edge Observation Deck, located at Hudson Yards. This recently opened observation deck features an outdoor viewing platform with glass walls and a thrilling suspended glass floor, offering unparalleled 360-degree views of the city skyline and the Hudson River. Want to rest after a full day of sightseeing? Book the Pod Times Square!

Edge Observation Deck at Hudson Yards

AU$79

Pod Times Square

8.6/10

400 W 42nd Street

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10. Immerse Yourself in Art: ARTECHOUSE New York City

Prepare to be mesmerized by the ever-changing, technology-driven art installations at ARTECHOUSE New York City. This innovative art space uses digital projections, sound, and interactive elements to create immersive and multi-sensory experiences. Each exhibit is unique, so check their calendar to see what awaits you on your visit. Book The Jane Hotel for a good rest in the heart of New York.

ARTECHOUSE New York City

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The Jane Hotel

113 Jane St

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With this exciting list as your guide, your New York City adventure is sure to be unforgettable. From indulging your sweet tooth at the Museum of Ice Cream to soaring above the city at Edge Observation Deck, there's something for everyone. Plan your dream NYC getaway today! Traveloka makes it easy to find the perfect hotel for your stay and book tickets to all the top attractions – all in one convenient platform. Don't wait – visit Traveloka now to craft your personalized NYC itinerary and start making memories!

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