Things to Do in New York, United States
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Things to Do in New York, United States

A premium guide to things to do in New York, United States for Best Tours readers.

Best Tours Editorial

August 30, 2026 · 5 min read

New York City: a Guide to Its Iconic Attractions and S

Start your tour at the lush Central Park

Central Park, a 2.5-mile-long and 1.3-mile-wide oasis in the heart of Manhattan, offers something for every traveler. Explore the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, take a stroll along the Central Park Zoo, or rent a bike and ride along the park's many paths. Entrance to the park is free, but consider purchasing a park pass for access to special events and discounts. Nearby accommodations include The Plaza Hotel and The Four Seasons Hotel New York.

New York landmark
New York landmark

See the iconic Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

Take a ferry from Battery Park to Liberty Island to see the Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom and democracy. The statue is open for guided tours, and you can climb to the top of the pedestal for panoramic views of the city. The nearby Ellis Island Immigration Museum offers a glimpse into the history of immigration in the United States. Ferry tickets cost around $26 for adults, and the museum is free for visitors. Nearby accommodations include The Seaport Hotel and The Hotel Americano.

Experience Broadway and Off-Broadway shows

Experience the magic of live theater in New York City. Broadway shows are known for their elaborate sets and performances, while Off-Broadway shows offer more experimental and diverse productions. Prices for Broadway shows typically range from $100 to $200, with discounts available for students and seniors. Off-Broadway tickets are generally cheaper, ranging from $25 to $75. For a more intimate experience, consider attending a show at the Public Theater or the Vineyard Theatre. Nearby accommodations include The Prince George Hotel and The Hotel Edison.

New York street
New York street

Explore the Metropolitan Museum of Art

Home to over two million works of art, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the largest and most comprehensive art museums in the world. The museum's collection spans 5,000 years of world culture, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary art. Admission to the museum is free, but certain exhibitions may require tickets. Nearby accommodations include The Plaza Hotel and The Metropolitan Club.

Discover the High Line

The High Line, an elevated park built on a historic freight rail line, offers stunning views of the city and a unique walking experience. The park is open 24/7 and admission is free. Consider visiting during sunset for the best views. Nearby accommodations include The Standard High Line and The Jane Hotel.

New York food
New York food

Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is a somber yet powerful tribute to the victims of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The memorial features two reflecting pools and the names of the nearly 3,000 people who died in the attacks. The museum offers a detailed look at the events leading up to and following the attacks. Admission to the memorial is free, but the museum requires a reservation. Nearby accommodations include The Westin New York at Times Square and The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park.

Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Brooklyn

Brooklyn is known for its diverse neighborhoods, from the trendy Williamsburg to the artistic Bushwick. Take a stroll through Prospect Park, visit the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, or explore the Brooklyn Flea Market. The Brooklyn Museum offers a wide range of art and cultural exhibits. Nearby accommodations include The Wythe Hotel and The Wythe Hotel Annex.

Experience the nightlife in Greenwich Village

The historic Greenwich Village neighborhood is known for its vibrant nightlife and cultural institutions. Explore the Stonewall Inn, a landmark in the LGBTQ+ rights movement, or visit the New York Public Library. Nearby accommodations include The Westbury Greenwich Village and The Mercer Hotel.

Plan your trip to New York City

For more information on attractions, tours, and hotels, visit our destinations and hotels pages. Our tours page offers curated itineraries for your stay. For more travel tips and articles, explore our articles section.

Sources

For more information on New York City attractions, visit nycgo.com or nyc.gov.

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What flights LON to NYC actually cost

Prices below are live fares from Aviasales. We may earn a commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.

Cheapest dates to fly

DeparturePriceAirlineStops
29 Jul 2027€358TAP Portugal1 stopCheck
26 Nov 2026€417Ryanair2 stopCheck
4 Nov 2026€421FI1 stopCheck
3 Oct 2026€422SWISS1 stopCheck
1 Dec 2026€424Ryanair2 stopCheck

Live fares, checked 30 Aug 2026. Prices change daily.

Booking in New York: where to look

We may earn a commission from the links below, at no extra cost to you. We only list services we would use ourselves.

  • Tiqets — Instant mobile tickets for museums and landmarks
  • Klook — Attraction tickets and passes, strong in Asia
  • KKday — Local experiences and day tours
  • Welcome Pickups — Fixed-price airport transfer, driver waits for you

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