50 Things to Do in New York City! Epic NYC Summer Travel Guide!

Our recent week in New York City was an action packed one. We decided to set ourselves a challenge to see and do as much as we possibly could, and that gave way to this video guide, photo essay and travel guide which highlights 50 of the top attractions.

In a city like New York this means we barely scratched the surface, but hopefully this video will highlight the cornucopia of possibilities that is the Big Apple.

50 Things to do in New York City Travel Guide

New York City History For Travelers

New York City is a storied metropolis, recognized globally for its contribution to global culture and economy. Its history is deeply steeped in multifaceted and diverse cultural movements, waves of immigration, and significant global events.

During the early 1600s, the city was established as a Dutch trading post, known as New Amsterdam, on the southern tip of Manhattan Island. In 1664, control of the colony was transferred to the English, and the city was renamed New York. Over the following centuries, the city emerged as a significant hub of commerce, attracting immigrants from across the globe.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed significant waves of immigration to New York City, particularly from Europe. This development sparked a cultural renaissance, leading to the formation of unique neighborhoods, such as Little Italy and Chinatown.

The 20th century marked significant milestones that had a lasting impact on the city’s cultural and social landscape. The opening of the Brooklyn Bridge in 1883, which linked Manhattan and Brooklyn, transformed both boroughs. The Great Depression and World War II also had profound effects on the city’s economy and culture.

New York City emerged as the epicenter of American culture in the post-war era. Jazz, Broadway, and the Beat Generation burgeoned during this time. Simultaneously, the city became a battleground for significant social and political movements, such as the civil rights and women’s liberation movements.

The city’s history was profoundly altered on September 11, 2001, when two planes were hijacked and crashed into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center, claiming thousands of lives. This event galvanized the city’s population, engendering a renewed sense of resilience and determination.

Presently, New York City retains its preeminence as a hub of commerce, culture, and innovation. Its world-class museums, iconic landmarks, and vibrant arts and dining scene continue to make it a popular destination for travelers and locals alike.

1) Grand Central Terminal

Most journeys to New York City begin at Penn Station or Grand Central Terminal, and if you arrive at the later you’ll be wowed by the building.  This commuter railroad terminal located at 42nd street and Park Avenue serves commuters traveling into the city from various locations in New York State receiving over 21 million visitors annually.  Many affectionately and colloquially refer to it as Grand Central Station and if you’re a fan of Hollywood movies you’ll recognize the terminal from numerous films.  For a great photo or video walk up the steps to a higher vantage point and marvel at the volume of people scurrying around.

2) The High Line

A relatively new attraction in New York City is the The High Line, which is an old section of rail tracks that used to run from Chelsea all the way to the Meatpacking district. This linear public space has been reclaimed and and re-purposed into a walking park.  Stretching out over 1.6 kilometers, the former west side line tracks run from Gansevoort Street through the Meatpacking District and Chelsea.  The final section of the line is schedule for completion in fall of 2014.  We enjoyed the elevated views of the various neighborhoods we passed along with all of the opportunities to snap photos and occasionally sit down on a park bench just to rest.

3) Meatpacking District

The Meatpacking District was once home to markets, slaughterhouses, and packaging plants, but times have changed. Today you’ll find a mixture of trendy restaurants, clubs and boutiques.  This Manhattan borough runs from West 14th Street south to Gansevoort Street and is now the home of many young professionals and hipsters.  We particularly enjoyed just wandering around without any specific purpose or aim.

4) Greenwich Village

The Village used to be a bohemian neighborhood that drew artists and musicians, but today you’re more likely to find upper middle class families living here. The streets are shaded and quiet, and it’s a nice place for a casual stroll.  Referred to by locals as simply “the Village”, the exorbitantly high housing costs have caused artists to flee to SoHo, TriBeCa and more recently Williamsburg and Bushwick.  Home to many celebrities, you might spot Uma Thurman, Edward Norton or Matthew Broderick who live in the village.

5) Brooklyn Bridge

One of the things I had always dreamed about doing in New York City was to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge.  Completed in 1883, Brooklyn Bridge is one of the oldest suspension bridges in the United States connecting the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn.  Spanning 486 meters it as the first steel-wire suspension bridge ever constructed.  You’ll want to set aside a decent chunk of time to walk across the bridge slowly as the views of New York City (and especially Manhattan Island) are phenomenal.

6) Williamsburg

Williamsburg is one of the more popular neighborhoods in Brooklyn. It definitely has a very young feel as we spotted lots of twenty something year old’s roaming the streets enjoying spot flea markets, independent restaurants and art galleries.  Considered to be the new ‘it’ spot Williamsburg has become quite popular given its lower rent prices. University students and young professionals have been flocking to this part of town for years.

7) Street Art in Williamsburg

For those who love to marvel at urban street art and graffiti be sure to check out the impressive tasteful murals along Bedford, Fillmore, and Roebling of Williamsburg.  It is the perfect way to spend a morning after feasting on a local brunch.  This area reminded me a lot of the Le Plateau neighborhood in Montreal and if we had another week to spend in the city, I would have definitely chosen to stay here.

8) Prospect Park

This is a massive park located in Brooklyn and it was designed by the same landscape architects who brought Central Park to life.  Under-rated compared to Central Park (I actually met New York residents who have never visited), it is a much quieter park to enjoy relaxing, exercise, tanning or a picnic.  Spread out over 583 acres, some of the highlights include the Long Meadow, the Picnic House, Litchfield Villa and the Boathouse.

9) Dumbo

The historic district of DUMBO, which stands for down under the Manhattan bridge overpass, is a fantastic place to go walking along the riverfront for up close and personal views of the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges and the Manhattan skyline.  As one of the top art districts in all of New York City, you’ll find a section of art galleries as you wander around.

10) New York Style Pizza

You can’t come to New York and not have a slice of authentic New York style pizza. I can’t think of a better place to have it than in Brooklyn where you can order it by the slice along with a can of soda.  What is unique about New York style pizza?  It is known for its large, thin and wide bendable yet crispy shape.  It is typically hand tossed and is light on sauce compared to Chicago deep dish pizza.  Be sure to add lots plenty of oregano, garlic and Parmesan cheese to spice it up!

11) Bryant Park

We were kind of tired from a long day of walking and we decided to take a little break at Bryant Park. Low and behold we found that they have free board games that anyone can use throughout the day.

You’ll catch friends, couples, and families playing games like chess, dominoes and scrabble. During the summer months, Bryant Park also becomes a popular hangout spot for people looking to relax and even work on their tans.

Be sure to sprawl out on the great lawn, one of the most impressive features of the park, serving as a ‘lunchroom’ for nearby office workers and fatigued pedestrians.

Out of all of the parks I visited in New York City, this was my favorite for relaxing and people watching.

12) New York Public Library

After visiting Bryant Park, you’ll want to pop into the New York Public Library for a look at its beautiful interior.  If the nearly 53 million item collection doesn’t impress you, wandering through the specific theme rooms certainly will.  Originating in the 19th century, this is easily the top library in the United States if not the world.

13) Staten Island Ferry

The Staten Island Ferry is free of charge and this makes it really popular with visitors who want to catch a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty from a distance.  In service 24 hours, 365 days a year the 8 kilometer scenic journey takes approximately 25 minutes each way.  Make sure to get in line early in order to snag an ideal spot for snapping photos and videos.

14) Statue of Liberty

If you want to get a closer look at Lady Liberty, you’ll have to buy tickets to Liberty Island. If you make reservations well in advance, you can even climb to the viewing platform inside the crown; however, we decided to go with the free option of viewing her from the Staten Island Ferry.

The Statue of Liberty (French: La Liberté éclairant le monde) is a colossal neoclassical sculpture as a gift to the United States from France on October 28th, 1886.  Considering I share the same birthday, I’m only 95 years younger than Lady Liberty 😉 

15) Battery Park

Battery Park is located on the southern tip of Manhattan. It is home to a few different memorials and you’ll also catch a lot of visitors hanging out in this area as they wait to catch the Staten Island Ferry from Manhattan to Staten Island.

Wandering around the park you’ll notice ‘The Sphere’ which was damaged but not destroyed in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.  In another section of the park, Hope Garden is a memorial dedicated to AIDS victims.

16) Little Italy

Little Italy may be slowly shrinking, as expanding Chinatown takes over, but it’s still a great place to grab some Italian food & a gelato for dessert.  Today the neighborhood mostly caters towards tourists.

17) Little Korea

Having both lived in South Korea, we were thrilled to come across Manhattan’s own Little Korea. We seized the opportunity and found a restaurant serving kimchi, pajeon, and kimchi bokkeum bap.  The food was as authentic as anything we tried in Korea and we ended up coming back several times before our time in New York City expired.

18) Chinatown

If you’re looking for a bargain, Chinatown is a fun place to visit. The storefronts usually spill onto the sidewalks. It’s one of the few places where you can haggle on the price of things or enjoy dim sum.  Home to the largest enclave of Chinese people in the Western Hemisphere it is located nearby Little Italy and Little Korea.  What is fascinating is that this is just one of six Chinatown neighborhoods in New York City.

19) Coney Island

Coney Island is all about good old fashioned fun. You can ride roller coasters, stroll down the boardwalk, enjoy some beach time, and then head over the Nathan’s Famous hot dogs. We happened to be here during a parade, which explains why the streets were so busy. And that’s our next tip – if you’re here in June, don’t miss the Mermaid Parade!

20) Mermaid Parade

New York City hosts numerous parades, festivals and events throughout the year but none quite as quirky as the Coney Island Mermaid Parade.  Celebrating the beginning of summer this events attracts participants and spectators by the thousands.  You’ll notice paraders and spectators decked out in marine costumes that put Halloween to shame.  It’s a lot of fun and it is entirely free; however, just make sure to arrive early in order to snag a good spot because the streets fill up quickly.

21) The Cloisters

Tucked in the northwest end of Manhattan is The Cloisters.  This building was built in the Medieval architectural style and it is home to some lovely sculptures and paintings.

The Cloisters will make you feel like you’ve traveled over to Europe as it is a peaceful retreat from Manhattan’s busy streets.

Located in Fort Tyron Park, it is actually a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art home to over 5000 pieces of exhibiting art, artifacts and architecture from Medieval Europe.

22) Harlem’s Apollo Theatre

The Apollo Theater is one of the most famous music halls in New York City located at 253 West 125th street in Harlem.  Its halls have opened for many famous performers over the year and it is a noted venue for African-American performers attracting 1.3 million visitors annually. Amateur Night is on Wednesdays, and it’s great for spotting upcoming talent.

23) Soul Food in Harlem at Sylvia’s

While in Harlem we wanted to try some soul food and we heard some great things about Sylvia’s chicken.  We ended up having smothered chicken, candied yams and peach cobbler that melted in our mouths.

Soul food, for those unacquainted, is a popular African-American cuisine closely related to Southern United States food.

Some popular dishes worth trying include fried-chicken, hog jowl, black-eyed peas and sweet potato pie.

24) World Trade Center Memorial

We stopped by the National September 11 Memorial and Museum located at the World Trade Center site on the former location of the Twin Towers.  The memorial remembers victims and rescuers.

25) Trinity Church

Located at 75 Broadway in lower Manhattan, Trinity Church holds one of the oldest burial grounds in Manhattan and is the final resting place of many historic figures.  This historic parish is nearby Wall street.

26) Wall Street

Coming to New York City we had to visit Wall Street.  This is where millions (or should I say billions) are made and lost.

27) Lincoln Center

Lincoln Center is a space that celebrates the performing arts as it is home to the opera, the ballet and the theater.  Art aficionados will love the possibilities the Lincoln Center offers.

28) Ride a Bicycle

While I wouldn’t recommend biking Manhattan’s congested streets, Central Park really is a great place for a bike ride. If you’re looking to cover a lot of ground, you can pick up a bike from one of the many rental shops or the city’s Citi bike share system where you can unlock a bicycle from any station, ride wherever you want and return to any station 24/7.

29) Watch a baseball game at Yankee Stadium

Baseball has often been referred to as New York’s game and no team in the history of Major League Baseball is more celebrated than the New York Yankees.  They’ve won more World Series championships than any other team and you can watch them play live during the summer months at Yankee Stadium.

30) MET Museum (Metropolitan Museum of Art)

Even if you’re not into museums a trip to the MET (the Metropolitan Museum of Art) is highly recommended.  As the largest art museum in the United States, it has a permanent collection of more than two million works.  You find displays from Ancient Egypt, Byzantine and American modern art just to name a few.

Admission to the Met is by suggested donation only, meaning you can give as much (or as little) as you’d like although a recommend fee of $25 is shown at the counter.

31) Flatiron Building

This triangular shaped skyscraper is one of the most iconic buildings in the city. If you approach the building from a certain angle it looks 2-dimensional.  Located at 175 Fifth Avenue in the borough of Manhattan, it is easily one of the most iconic landmarks in all of New York City.

32) Washington Square Park

Washington Square Park is popular with families looking to cool down during the summer months. There is a large fountain where kids like to climb and splash around. The park is also known for its arch which is reminiscent of that in Paris.  As crazy as this sounds Washington Square Park is just one of 1,900 public parks in the city.

33) NYU (New York University)

And while you visit Washington Square Park, you can also take the opportunity to swing by the New York University campus.  As you meander about you’ll spot such buildings as the La Maison Française.

34) National Museum of the American Indian

The National Museum of the American Indian has a fascinating collection, and the best part is that admission is free of charge.  In my opinion, this is the most under-rated museum I visited in New York City.

35) American Museum of Natural History

The American Museum of Natural History is located in the Upper West Side, and it has an extensive dinosaur collection. This is the perfect attraction for families visiting the New York City together.  Located nearby Central Park, this celebrated museum is visited by over million annually!

36) Times Square

We are now in Times Square – the busiest intersection in all of New York City. If you’re going to be visiting I recommend you come at night time when all of the lights are on and hoards of people come out to play.

Times Square has often been nicknamed “The Center of the Universe” and “The Crossroads of the World”. An estimated 330,000 people pass through daily.

37) MOMA (Museum of Modern Art)

MoMA (The Museum of Modern Art) houses modern and contemporary art including works of design, sculpture, photography and illustrated books.  It is a treasure trove of history related to the history of modern and contemporary art.

38) Roosevelt Island Tramway

A fun and adventurous way to get over to Roosevelt Island is to take a cable car from Manhattan.  This tramway runs from Manhattan to Roosevelt Island and the ride lasts 3 minutes. You get a fantastic aerial overview of the city, but it’s also slightly unnerving if you don’t like heights!

39) Fifth Avenue Shopping

Fifth Avenue is a shopping Mecca. The street is lined with prestigious high-end boutiques, and it’s considered to be one of the most expensive shopping streets in the world.

40) Rockefeller Center

The Top of the Rock Observation Deck is located on the 70th floor and offers 360 degree unobstructed views.  The center, consisting of 19 buildings has been declared a National Historical Landmark.

41) Empire State Building

The Empire State Building, a 103-story skyscraper, was the world’s tallest building for almost 40 years. While it has been surpassed many times since, it still boasts some of the best views of New York City.

42) Carnegie Hall

Carnegie Hall is a concert venue and it often plays host to classical performances.  Located just two blocks south of Central Park between 56th street and west 57 street, it is considered one of the most prestigious venues for classical and popular music.

43) Central Park

Central Park, also known as the lungs of New York City, is massive public park located in Manhattan with a plethora of different entrances. It is almost like a bit of a maze. If you really want to see the park properly you’ve got to come several times and you’ve got to enter from different entrance points.

We managed to visit Belvedere Castle, the Great Lawn, Shakespeare Garden, The Ramble, The Jackie Onassis Reservoir, the Alice in Wonderland Statue, and we still left feeling like we barely scratched the surface.

44) Strawberry Fields

Strawberry Fields is a section of Central Park dedicated to the memory of John Lennon. This was a place Lennon used to frequent, and travelers from far and wide stop by to leave a rose and pay their respects.

45) Street Food

For a quick bite grab some street food in New York City.  It’s easy to find especially outside of major tourist attractions such as the MET.  My personal favorite was the giant pretzel!

46) Catch a Broadway Theatre Performance

You can’t come to New York without taking in a musical. There are so many different ones to consider you can choose from Mama Mia to Phantom of the Opera.

47) Madison Square Garden

Madison Square Garden is home to the New York Rangers NHL hockey team. This building is one of the most famous in the whole world for sports, entertainment, concerts, shows, performances and other events.

48) African Burial Ground

This is a memorial site to the unnamed free and enslaved Africans who were buried here. It was only rediscovered in 1991.

49) Columbus Circle

The cool thing about this intersection is that it’s the point from which all official distances from New York City are measured.

50) Take the Subway Metro

One of the best ways to get around New York City is of course by Metro.  If you want to really explore New York City, we recommend picking up a MetroCard so that you can zip around the city with no restrictions. It’s cheap and it’s efficient.

New York City Summer Accommodations Guide

New York City is a place that never sleeps, and it is not difficult to understand why travelers from all over the world are drawn to this vibrant city in the summer. To accommodate the influx of visitors, the city offers a plethora of accommodation options that cater to diverse tastes and budgets.

If you are someone who likes to indulge in luxury, the city has some of the most exquisite hotels, including the iconic Waldorf Astoria New York and The Plaza. These hotels are steeped in history and offer lavish rooms, top-notch amenities, and exquisite dining experiences that are sure to leave a lasting impression.

But don’t worry if luxury is not your cup of tea. The city has a range of mid-range and budget-friendly hotels that are perfect for travelers seeking value for their money. From the Pod 51 Hotel to The Jane Hotel and YOTEL New York, these hotels provide comfortable and clean rooms, basic amenities, and convenient locations for exploring the city.

If you are looking for a more home-like experience, apartments and short-term rentals are also popular choices for summer travelers. You can rent a cozy apartment in trendy neighborhoods such as Williamsburg or the West Village through vacation rental websites such as Airbnb, HomeAway, or VRBO.

For travelers seeking a more unique experience, bed and breakfasts offer a personalized touch and a charming atmosphere. The Harlem Bed and Breakfast, The Inn at Irving Place, and The Canal Park Inn are just a few examples of the city’s charming B&Bs.

Solo travelers or groups on a budget can also choose from an array of hostels such as HI New York City or The Local, which offer affordable shared and private rooms, communal spaces, and social events.

It is important to note that New York City is a popular destination, especially during the summer months, so it is recommended to book your accommodation in advance to secure the best rates and availability. With so many options available, there is no doubt that you will find the perfect place to stay and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

New York City Popular Summer Day Trips

New York City is known for its vibrant energy and endless opportunities for adventure, but sometimes you need a break from the city’s hustle and bustle. That’s where these popular summer day trips come in! Get ready to explore some of the most exciting destinations in the Northeast with a sense of gusto and excitement.

First up, we have the Hamptons, a picturesque collection of seaside towns and villages that offer stunning beaches, charming shops and galleries, and a wide variety of restaurants and cafes. With a reputation for sophistication and luxury, the Hamptons are the perfect destination for a relaxing day trip away from the city.

If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, head up to the Hudson Valley, just a few hours north of NYC. This region is brimming with historic sites, charming towns, and breathtaking natural scenery. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Kykuit mansion, the quaint town of Hudson, or the stunning views from the Catskill Mountains.

For those who crave outdoor excitement, the Adirondacks, located in upstate New York, are the perfect destination. With over 3,000 lakes and ponds, numerous hiking trails, and stunning scenic drives, the Adirondacks offer endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

But if you’re looking for something a little more cultural, a day trip to Philadelphia is a must. Just a couple of hours south of NYC, Philadelphia is brimming with historic landmarks, world-renowned museums, and cultural attractions. Be sure to check out the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

With these exciting day trip destinations, there’s no excuse not to explore the best of what the Northeast has to offer. Get ready for an unforgettable summer full of adventure, culture, and excitement!

Thrilling New York City Summer Tours

Are you ready for an exhilarating and passionate summer in the Big Apple? New York City has a vast array of thrilling summer tours that will ignite your heart and soul. Brace yourself for a journey full of adventure, excitement, and unforgettable experiences. Here are some of the most sensational tours that will leave you breathless:

1. Helicopter Tours – Take to the sky and witness the city’s stunning skyline from a whole new angle with a helicopter tour of NYC. You’ll soar above the skyscrapers and breathtaking landmarks, such as the Statue of Liberty and Central Park. The thrill of the ride and the bird’s-eye view will leave you feeling energized and inspired.
2. Bike Tours – Experience the vibrant streets and iconic neighborhoods of the city with a bike tour of NYC. Explore the city’s hidden gems and famous landmarks alike, all while getting a great workout and soaking up the summer sun. The rush of the wind and the freedom of the ride will make you feel alive like never before.
3. Food Tours – Savor the flavors and aromas of the city’s culinary delights with a food tour of NYC. From classic pizza and bagels to gourmet cupcakes and artisanal cheeses, you’ll indulge in some of the most mouth-watering and diverse eats the city has to offer. The explosion of flavors and the passion behind each bite will leave you with a deep appreciation for the city’s food culture.
4. Water Tours – Embrace the waves and explore the city’s aquatic wonders with a water tour of NYC. Take a sunset cruise, sail around the Statue of Liberty, or enjoy a leisurely brunch on a boat while taking in the city skyline. The serenity of the water and the beauty of the surroundings will fill your heart with joy and wonder.
5. Ghost Tours – Face your fears and uncover the mysterious and eerie side of the city with a ghost tour of NYC. Learn about the city’s haunted history and visit some of the most chilling locations in the city, if you dare. The spine-chilling tales and the haunting atmosphere will leave you with a rush of adrenaline and a newfound appreciation for the city’s darker side.

These summer tours in NYC are not for the faint of heart, but for those who seek to live life to the fullest and embrace every moment. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to explore the city with passion and vigor. Get ready to be swept away by the city’s energy and magic!

Final Thoughts: New York City

And that concludes a look at our very busy week in New York City. I’m still shocked we managed to cover so many attractions, but the great thing about this city is that distances aren’t very long and there’s always something really cool worth checking out around each corner.

In summertime, the city’s alive, The Big Apple thrives, and tourists arrive, There’s something about the city’s beat, That energizes you from your head to feet.

The hot summer days just add to the scene, From Central Park to the Village Green, You’ll find something to do in every nook, From art exhibits to Shakespeare’s book.

The food is divine, a true NYC treat, From pizza to bagels, there’s plenty to eat, And rooftop bars that serve up the best, With a view of the skyline that outdoes the rest.

Take a ferry to see the Statue of Liberty, Or stroll through the Brooklyn Bridge vicinity, From Coney Island to the High Line Park, Summer in New York City is surely a lark.

With music in the air and festivals galore, The city has something for everyone to adore, So come and join the Big Apple fray, Summer in New York City is the place to stay.

Have you been to New York? What are your favorite things about this city? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below.