25 Things Everyone Should Do In New York Before You Die

New York is one of the most iconic cities in the world. It doesn’t only represent the gateway to the land of dreams for over a century now, it is also one of the most diverse urban centers where anyone can achieve anything if they put their minds to it.

New York is a vibrant city bursting with culture, food, wine and entertainment. There is always something to do in this ever busy city. So, here are some fun things everyone must do in “The Big Apple” before they kiss the world goodbye.

Plan your trip?

Avoid hidden fees in the exchange rate while withdrawing from millions of ATMs abroad, paying in restaurants and shops, and buying your accommodation and flights using the Wise Card. You can hold up to 40+ currencies at once to spend in in over 150 countries, and convert them in real time with the free Wise app.

Need help planning your trip from start to finish? Check out these helpful links:

Cheap flights
Savings on accommodation from hostels to luxury hotels
Affordable car rental options
Affordable sightseeing tours and day trips
Travel Adapter – All in one so you don’t have to carry a bunch around

This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience. Click here to read my full disclosure policy.

Brooklyn Bridge

For couples, taking a walk on the Brooklyn bridge while holding hands can be super romantic. Being a recognized landmark, it has an elevated boardwalk for pedestrians.

Things to do:

The High Line

Although formerly a railroad track for goods, it has become a walking park with plants and walkways. It had amazing views, as you can get a great picture of the Hudson River.

Things to do:

Statue of Liberty

Perhaps this is one of the top reasons why New York City is popular. This huge statue is mesmerizing to look at and it can serve as a great background for your travel photos.

Things to do:

Statue of Liberty overlooking lower Manhattan and New York harbor

Lincoln Center For The Performing Arts

Home to over twenty theaters, this location is one of the art hubs in the entire country. For art lovers, it would be the perfect place to be.

Time Warner Center

This uptown mall has everything you need; organic supermarket, designer stores, and fast internet connection. It’s perfect for all your shopping needs too!

East River State Park

This large waterfront park offers a magnificent view of the Manhattan skyline. Take your beau with you for sightseeing. You could also, wait till nighttime just to check out the stars.

New York City midtown Manhattan sunset skyline panorama view from Boulevard East Old Glory Park over Hudson River.

The Cloisters

It’s a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and it gives tourists a great view of the many different arts. Beautiful and enlightening!

Coney Island

This island has been there for decades and it is still home to thousands of visitors, because of attractions like; the circus, amusement parks, and parades.

9/11 Memorial

Take a trip down memory lane at this 30ft waterfall where the Twin Towers once stood. The waterfall is the largest man made waterfall in the whole of North America.

Things to do:

NEW YORK CITY - Memorial at World Trade Center Ground Zero The memorial was dedicated on the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks.

Central Park, Manhattan

This is America’s first public space. The urban park is currently one of the most visited parks in the entire country. It is breathtaking, as you navigate through the space.

Things to do:

view in the central park in New York city

Times Square

Dubbed the most frenetic part of the city, this space is filled with billboards, flashing lights, displays, and television broadcasts. It is usually filled with lots of people from all over the world.

Things to do:

NEW YORK CITY, NY - Times Square is featured with Broadway Theaters and LED signs as a symbol of New York City and the United States, in Manhattan, New York City.

Empire State Building

This building is recognized anywhere in the world because of its pencil-silhouette. Although it represents progress, a trip here with your lover could be romantic.

Things to do:

The Empire State Building and New York City Skyline

Grand Central Terminal

It is the busiest railway station in America, so it is best you don’t visit it at rush hour. When it is relatively empty, you can stare at the huge chandeliers on the ceiling.

Things to do:

Broadway

There are over ten broadway theaters you can visit to have a good time. Don’t worry about finding something you like; there’s always a show for everyone!

Things to do:

Greenwood Cemetery

As creepy as it sounds, this ancient cemetery has mausoleums and statues you might want to check out.

Abyssinian Baptist Church

This is the first African-American church in New York. It is the perfect place for you to worship and enjoy the religious presence you desire.

Washington Square Park and The West Village

This is the perfect way to explore neighborhoods in the city. Even though it was once a site for public executions, it has now become a place where little children come to play.

NEW YORK CITY, USA - People enjoying a sunny spring day in Washington Square Park. This is an iconic park and a center for cultural activity in Greenwich Village.

Grand Army Plaza

If you seek fresh seasonal produce, this is your go-to place. The farmers have it ready for you; all you need to do is request for what you need.

Top of The Rock

Just right at the top of the Rockefeller building, you can have a view of the entire city. Don’t forget to take pictures!

Things to do:

New York City Manhattan skyline at sunset, view from Top of the Rock, Rockfeller Center, United States

Morris-Jumel Mansion

Although it is the oldest house in borough, it still stands strong as the best vintage looking building in New York City.

Chrysler Building

Opened only on weekdays, you need not go inside to appreciate the architecture and beauty of the Chrysler building. Its breathtaking design is simply iconic and like no other.

Strawberry Fields

Dedicated to the memory of John Lennon, this beautiful sight usually has someone playing the guitar. A trip there would allow you bask in the nostalgic feeling gotten from listening to your favorite track.

The Strand Book Store

This is the perfect paradise if you are a bookworm. It is filled with over two million books! The store is so large, you would probably have to use a tour guide to take you through.