Best Things to Do in New York City for First-Time Visitors (2025 Guide). Best things to do in New York City for first time visitors is one of the most common searches among travelers planning a trip to the Big Apple. With endless skyscrapers, iconic movies scenes and unique neighbourhoods, New York can feel overwhelming at first glance. That’s why we created this clear guide combining must-see attractions with local hotspots that most tourists miss.
Whether you’re into history, food, views or nightlife, this NYC activity guide will help you plan your perfect itinerary.
Table of Contents
- Visit the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
- Relax in Central Park
- Experience Times Square at Night
- Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge
- Pay Tribute at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum
- See a Broadway Show
- Enjoy Skyline Views from Top of the Rock or Empire State Building
- Eat Like a Local – NYC Food Highlights
- Stroll Along the High Line & Chelsea Market
- Free Things to Do in New York
1. Visit the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
A trip to New York is not complete without seeing the Statue of Liberty. You can either book a ferry ticket to Liberty Island or take the free Staten Island Ferry for incredible views from the water. Combine it with Ellis Island to explore the Immigration Museum and learn about the history of millions of arrivals to America.
2. Relax in Central Park
Central Park is more than a park – it’s a world of its own. Rent a bike, join a walking tour or simply sit by the lake with a bagel. Don’t miss Bow Bridge, Bethesda Terrace and Strawberry Fields, the John Lennon memorial.
3. Experience Times Square at Night
It’s loud, crowded and chaotic – but iconic. Visit Times Square after sunset to see the neon billboards light up the city. If you like shopping, combine it with nearby Fifth Avenue or visit M&M’s World.
4. Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge
Start on the Manhattan side and walk toward Brooklyn for the best skyline views. At the end, explore the trendy DUMBO district, have pizza at Juliana’s or grab photos at the famous Washington Street viewspot.
5. Pay Tribute at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum
Located at the former World Trade Center site, the 9/11 Memorial features two reflecting pools with the names of the victims. The museum inside offers an emotional insight into the events of 2001. It’s a must-visit for understanding modern New York.
6. See a Broadway Show
From The Lion King to Hamilton, Broadway is theatre at its finest. You can buy tickets in advance or try your luck at TKTS stands for same-day discounts.
7. Enjoy Skyline Views from Top of the Rock or Empire State Building
If you want the best photo of the skyline with the Empire State Building included in the picture, go to Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center. For a more classic experience, head up the Empire State Building itself – open from morning until late night.
8. Eat Like a Local – NYC Food Highlights
New York is a paradise for food lovers. Try:
- Classic New York-style pizza – Joe’s Pizza or Prince Street Pizza
- Bagels with cream cheese – Russ & Daughters
- Street hot dogs – from any street cart near Central Park
- Rooftop cocktails – 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar for Empire State views
9. Walk the High Line & Visit Chelsea Market
The High Line is a former railway line turned into a modern park above the streets. It’s peaceful, artistic and leads you straight into Chelsea Market, one of the best indoor food halls in the city.
10. Free Things to Do in New York
- Ride the Staten Island Ferry for free skyline views
- Visit Bryant Park or walk around Grand Central Terminal
- Explore Chinatown and Little Italy
- Walk around Wall Street and snap a photo with the Charging Bull statue
Final Thoughts
The best things to do in New York City for first time visitors include a mix of iconic attractions and lesser-known local gems. Whether you prefer museums, rooftop bars or simply wandering the streets, New York never disappoints. And if you enjoyed this guide, check out our city trip ideas in London, Paris or Amsterdam next!
