The Ultimate New York Bucket List – 111 Best Things To Do

Last Updated on 7th May 2025

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Are you looking to experience some of the most fun and iconic things that NYC has to offer? This ultimate New York bucket list includes everything you need to know!

I’ve been in love with New York City ever since I can remember. I don’t know exactly when or why my obsession with the Big Apple started, but I do know that it’s a love affair that’s lasted many years and one that I’m sure will continue to grow and develop with each new visit.

After my numerous trips to the Big Apple and my most recent extended stay in the city for an entire month, I’ve compiled all my knowledge and created this ultimate guide to the very best bucket list things to do in New York City.

Below, I’ve collated all my favourite New York activities and attractions to create the ultimate New York bucket list and now all that’s left for you to do is book a flight, secure a hotel and follow this huge New York bucket list to ensure you have the most wonderful time!

Are you planning a trip to New York but not sure where to start? Check out my Ultimate NYC Travel Guide Ebook which includes more than 300 pages of New York information! You can also join my FREE New York Facebook Group for more travel tips, advice and inspiration!

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Transport: Flixbus / Rentalcars.com / Big Bus Tours
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Bucket list tours and attractions in New York City

1. Summit One Vanderbilt Observation Deck
2. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Cruise
3. Edge Observation Deck
4. Manhattan Island Helicopter Tour
5. 9/11 Memorial and Museum Tour
6. Top of the Rock Observation Deck
7. Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
8. Broadway Show
9. Empire State Building Observation Deck
10. One World Observatory

New York bucket list – MANHATTAN

If you’re looking for the ultimate New York bucket list, you’ve come to the right place!

Below, I’ve put together my huge NYC travel guide full of all the best things to see, do and eat in the city that never sleeps.

You’ll find a list of the best attractions, the best observation decks and viewing platforms in New York City, plus all the top parks, museums, shopping centres and more.

I’ve split this guide into numerous sections to help make it easier for you to read, but you’ll still have the ultimate New York City itinerary right here!

Read more: 4 Days In New York Itinerary – How To See NYC In 4 Days

1. Enjoy the spectacle of Times Square – ultimate NYC bucket list

Let’s kick off this huge New York travel guide with one of the most famous and iconic things to see/do in the city; Times Square.

This eclectic and energetic area in midtown Manhattan is undoubtedly one of the most famous attractions in New York and while many people would argue that it’s too crowded or overrated, I still firmly believe that it’s a place you need to see while in the city.

I’d highly recommend checking it out both during the day and at night as while Times Square at night is arguably more impressive, it still has such a great buzz during the day and it’s cool to check out all the billboards in the daytime when it’s not quite as crowded.

Best of all – visiting Times Square is one of the best free things to do in New York City!

Read more: What Is New York Famous For?

2. Gaze up at the Empire State Building

The Empire State Building, providing New York with one of its many nicknames “The Empire State”, is perhaps the most iconic skyscraper in the city, and in the world, and it’s one that cannot be missed during a visit to NYC.

While I don’t think it’s necessary to go to the top of the observation deck (more on that below!), admiring it from many viewpoints around Manhattan and beyond is an essential part of any New York trip.

Read more: The Best Observation Decks In New York For Amazing Views

3. Marvel at the Chrysler Building – ultimate New York City bucket list

The Chrysler Building, while not quite as popular as the Empire State Building, is still one of the most beautiful skyscrapers in New York City and the beauty of this building is that you can’t actually go inside and admire the views as a tourist, so admiring its beauty from the ground is the only true way to appreciate this magnificent feat of architecture.

4. Fall in love with The Rockefeller Center

The Rockefeller Center, most notably the Top of the Rock, is my favourite place in the entire world and it’s a place that holds so many special memories for me.

It’s always the first place I recommend to anyone visiting New York, whether it’s your first time or fiftieth time in the city as it’s such a beautiful area of midtown Manhattan, especially around Christmas time and the view from the Top of the Rock is arguably the best viewpoint in NYC.

5. Pretend you’re in a movie at Grand Central Station

Grand Central Station is New York City’s most noted train station and with an area covering 48 acres across 44 platforms and 67 tracks, it’s not hard to see why this iconic station is featured in many Hollywood movies and TV series.

Not only is it one of the busiest commuter hubs in the city, but it’s also truly beautiful inside as well. Be sure to check out the ornate ceiling and keep your eyes peeled for a tiny bit of the old ceiling that’s still hiding amongst the refurbishments! Also, head to the ‘The Whispering Gallery’ on the lower level and listen out for whispers sent across the ceiling as people talk into the corners.

6. Go shopping in The Oculus

The Oculus is one of New York’s relatively new shopping centres, located within the Financial District and it’s a great place to browse both designer shops and more purse-friendly stores while you’re in the city.

It’s situated pretty much next door to One World Trade and the 9/11 Memorial and the giant centre cannot be missed due to its impressive and truly unique shape.

7. Walk the High Line – New York bucket list

Situated on an old, abandoned railway line, the High Line is one of the best parts of New York for outdoor lovers. It does get crazy busy and crowded during the warmer months, but if you can brave the hoards of people, then it’s well worth a stroll along.

The 1.45-mile-long walkway stretches from 14th Street to 34th Street and covers areas within Chelsea and Hudson Yards and offers great views over the city.

8. Ride the Roosevelt Island Tramway

The Roosevelt Island Tramway was one of my newest discoveries of the best things to do in New York during my one-month stay in the city and I’m delighted to say that it didn’t disappoint!

Costing only $2.90 each way (the same as a subway ride), the tram takes you from 59th Street and Second Avenue in Manhattan to Roosevelt Island itself at an elevation of 230 feet at its maximum height. It offers spectacular views of Manhattan as you glide over the East River and as it’s such an affordable thing to do in New York, it makes it even more enjoyable!

9. Explore Roosevelt Island

Once you’ve departed the Roosevelt Island Tramway, you’ll arrive on Roosevelt Island itself and while there isn’t really an awful lot to do there (apart from the incredibly cool Panorama Room rooftop bar on top of the Graduate Hotel!), I’d still recommend adding it to your list of things to do in New York if you have time.

Home to Cornell Tech college, Roosevelt Island is primarily a college campus, but it also boasts stunning views over the river to Manhattan and it’s a great place to hang out in the summer if you want to escape the hecticness of the city, but still be surrounded by gorgeous skyline views.

10. Visit the Statue of Liberty Island

On my four first visits to New York City, I always opted for the free Staten Island ferry tour to see the Statue of Liberty and while this was always so much fun (and something I’d definitely recommend if you’re visiting NY on a stricter budget) it meant that I’d never actually been on the island to see Lady Liberty up close.

On our trip in December 2021/January 2022, we made it a priority to go on a proper tour of the island and see the Statue up close. We didn’t pay to go inside her head to the viewing platform, but being on the island was still remarkably cool. The views back across to Manhattan and the beautiful Downtown skyline also make the trip more than worth it.

Top tip: Statue Cruises is the only authorised vendor that can provide tickets and transportation to both Liberty Island and Ellis Island. There are many other tour companies around the city that offer different kinds of tours, but only Statue Cruises will take you to both islands with general admission entry.

Read more: New York Tips For First-Time Visitors – Best NYC Travel Tips

11. Learn the history at the Statue of Liberty Museum

As well as visiting Liberty Island and seeing Lady Liberty up close and personal, we also headed to the Statue of Liberty Museum for the first time as well. Entrance to the museum is included within the price of your general admission ticket if you book through Statue Cruises and while it’s not exactly the most riveting museum I’ve ever been in, it was still really cool to learn more about the origins of the infamous statue.

Read more: 10 Best Ways To See The Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

12. Land on Ellis Island – bucket list things to do in New York

Ellis Island is a place that had been recommended to me a lot over the years on my many visits to New York but it’s a place that I paid no attention to until our trip in December 2021 when we booked a tour to Liberty Island and Ellis Island.

The island itself is truly lovely and it’s a great place to wander around and see the many, many names of the thousands of people who arrived on Ellis Island when they immigrated to the United States over the years and you’ll also get to enjoy spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline as well.

Top tip: Time your visit and tour so that you leave just after sunset if possible; I promise you won’t regret those sunset views over the water to Downtown Manhattan!

13. Visit the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration

Along with exploring the outdoors of Ellis Island, I would highly recommend scheduling some time to visit the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration. At first, I thought this would be incredibly boring and not my thing at all, but it was absolutely fascinating to learn more about immigration to the States via Ellis Island and to see all the artefacts, documents and souvenirs.

Entrance to the museum is also included with the ticket price of the Statue Cruises tour of Liberty Island and Ellis Island, so make sure to leave plenty of time to explore both.

Read more: Top 30 Museums In New York City

14. Watch a Broadway show

Broadway is one of the most iconic places in the world for theatre lovers and while I wouldn’t necessarily say that I’m a die-hard theatre geek, I have been lucky enough to watch two Broadway shows so far and I’ve loved them both immensely.

The first time I ever visited New York, my mum and I watched Jersey Boys on Broadway and it was hands-down the best live performance I’ve ever seen! In January 2022, Matt and I got tickets to watch the highly coveted The Lion King on Broadway and that didn’t disappoint in the slightest; it’s an incredible performance and one that I would highly recommend adding to your New York itinerary.

Read more: NYC In A Day – One Day In New York Itinerary For First-Time Visitors

15. Explore Hudson Yards – top things you must do in New York

Hudson Yards is a huge area in Manhattan that is continually expanding. It’s home to a number of the city’s top attractions, including The Vessel and Edge, as well as beautiful gardens and a great shopping mall and while you don’t need to spend hours here, it’s an area worth checking out, especially if you’ve never been before.

16. Wander around The Vessel

The Vessel was another new discovery for me on my most recent trip to New York and even though I’d heard of it before and seen many pictures of it floating around on Instagram, I’d never actually seen it in real life until December 2021.

Shaped like a beehive, The Vessel is a cool and quirky experience to enjoy in New York. Unfortunately, the staircases still remain closed after numerous incidents a few years ago, but you can still admire it from the bottom and it’s well worth checking out for its quirkiness alone.

Read more: 7 Days In New York Itinerary

17. Take a stroll around Greenwich Village

Greenwich Village is a beautiful part of Manhattan and it’s a neighbourhood that you’ll have likely seen featured on many TV shows and movies over the years.

It forms part of the West Village and is also home to Washington Square Park, Carrie Bradshaw’s Apartment and many comedy shows, off-Broadway performances and hip and trendy clubs and bars.

18. See the FRIENDS Building – NYC bucket list

I will never get over the devastating feeling I felt when I found out that FRIENDS wasn’t ever filmed in New York City, but in studios in California, but I was eventually happy to discover that the exterior shot of the Friends apartment building can be found in Greenwich Village.

The building itself isn’t really anything special, but as a lifelong FRIENDS fan, I always recommend seeing it to any other fans of the hit comedy show.

19. Check out Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment

If you’re more of a Sex and the City obsessive, rather than a FRIENDS lover, fear not, as you’re able to check out Carrie Bradshaw’s beautiful Greenwich Village apartment. Unfortunately, you can’t actually go inside and see the apartment as it belongs to a genuine owner, but the exterior is up for viewing and if you’re in the area anyway, it’s worth making a little detour to have a nosey.

20. Feel luxurious at The Plaza Hotel/Plaza Food Court

The Plaza Hotel is one of my favourite places in New York City and it holds so many wonderful memories for me. If you can justify the extortionate cost, I would highly recommend booking afternoon tea in The Palm Court of the hotel as it’s one of the best afternoon tea experiences I’ve ever had!

Top tip: Fans of Home Alone 2: Lost in New York will recognise many places in and around The Plaza Hotel as this is where Kevin stayed during his accidental time in the city!

Read more: 20 Best Hotels In NYC For Families

21. Explore The Little Island – New York bucket list

We visited The Little Island for the first time in the middle of New York winter so it was absolutely freezing and unbelievably windy as this lovely little place is perched right on the water on the Hudson River.

Even though I’m sure it’s much better enjoyed in warmer weather, I still thoroughly enjoyed visiting The Little Island as it’s such a great outdoor space in New York that offers beautiful views across midtown and even all the way downtown to the One World Trade Center. While the summer months will provide plenty of warm weather and sunshine, I imagine that it gets crazy busy with both locals and tourists seeking some quality time outside, so whenever you visit The Little Island, you’re sure to enjoy this gorgeous (and free!) space.

22. Eat your way around Chelsea Market

It’s no secret that New York is a food lover’s haven and Chelsea Market is just one of the many, many places in the city where you can find so many places to eat under one roof.

We tried multiple places to eat inside Chelsea Market, including Doughnuttery (my absolute favourite!) and Berlin Currywurst and I could have quite happily eaten my way around the entire market as there are so many wonderful food stalls and vendors to enjoy.

I’d highly recommend checking it out at least once during your trip to New York, but if you have time, be sure to make a few stops there to try out lots of delicious places to eat!

23. Grab a bite at Essex Market/The Market Line

The Essex Market and The Market Line are located within the same building, which is why I’ve grouped them together for this list of the best bucket list things to do in New York.

Serving up a smorgasbord of yummy cakes, pastries and other assorted sweet and savoury treats, as well as full dishes and cuisines from all over the world, these markets are great for foodies and we frequented their halls numerous times on our trip to check out as many things as we could!

24. Check out Bethesda Terrace in Central Park

You could very easily spend an entire day in Central Park and still not see absolutely everything it has to offer, but the beauty of this remarkable park in the middle of Manhattan is that it’s always there to welcome you in, regardless of rain, wind, sunshine or snow.

Bethesda Terrace is just one of the many beautiful attractions inside the world-famous park and the huge terrace features a large mall, water fountain and a gorgeous arcade. You’ll likely recognise it from many scenes in numerous Hollywood movies and TV shows, including Enchanted, Friends with Benefits, Gossip Girl, 27 Dresses, Home Alone 2, Sex and the City, Elf and many more!

It’s also one of the best things to do in New York City alone as there are so many wonderful people-watching opportunities that you’re sure to never get bored!

Read more: 22 Best Photo Spots In Central Park

25. See the Flatiron Building – New York City travel guide

The Flatiron Building is usually one of my favourite landmarks to see in midtown Manhattan as its unusual and quirky shape always stands out amongst its many other neighbouring skyscrapers. Unfortunately, on my most recent visit to New York City in December 2021, the Flatiron was undergoing construction work so the whole building was covered in scaffolding.

If you manage to see the Flatiron Building in all its glory, I promise it will be worth it!

26. Wander around Wall Street

Wall Street has long been one of the most infamous areas of New York City and it’s this high-flying district that has seen many people make, and lose, billions of dollars.

While you can’t actually see the action going on inside the buildings of Wall Street, you will see many businessmen in this area and the architecture here is also very notable and worth a little nosey.

27. See the Charging Bull Statue

This iconic bronze statue has been a symbol of the American stock market since the 1980s. Despite its intention by its creator, Arturo Di Modica, of inspiring New Yorkers to persevere through the hard times after the stock market crash in 1987, many people who worked on Wall Street didn’t take kindly to it at first and it was removed immediately after it was placed under the Christmas Tree on Broad Street.

Now, however, in its location just two blocks from the New York Stock Exchange, the Charging Bull Statue stands proudly as a symbol of American prosperity thanks to the people who fell in love with the statue when it first arrived.

It’s considered to be good luck if you rub the statue, although you’ll likely have to wait your turn while many other tourists try to benefit from its supposed luck!

28. Feel the riches from the New York Stock Exchange

The New York Stock Exchange is located just around the corner from Wall Street and it’s one of the most infamous buildings in New York. It might not hold quite as much importance as it once did, especially as most things are done electronically now, but it’s still very much in use and it’s a beautiful building to see from the outside as well.

29. Go swinging on Pier 35

No, not that kind of swinging! ;). The swings at Pier 35 are located in Downtown Manhattan, right next to the Brooklyn Bridge so you can enjoy spectacular views of the iconic bridge and the East River while you gently sway.

I’ve only ever been here in the height of winter so naturally, it was practically empty as it was crazy cold right next to the river, but I imagine that it gets pretty crowded in the summer months, so you may have to wait your turn for a ride on the swings. It’s a completely free activity to enjoy and the views you’ll enjoy are remarkable!

30. Reflect at the Ground Zero Memorial

The Ground Zero Memorial fountains stand in the place where the infamous Twin Towers once stood before the dreadful 9/11 terrorist attacks in 2001.

It’s a very sombre and harrowing place in the city, but one that holds great significance to the people and the city of New York. Pay your respects to the lives lost on that fateful day and marvel at the intricate complexities of the fountains that were created as a tribute to the people who perished and their families who remain.

31. Wander around Seaport – New York City bucket list

Seaport is an area of Manhattan that I’d never really explored properly until my most recent visit to the city and I only originally made the journey there to see the incredible Seaport Christmas Tree and I’m so glad I did because it’s a lovely area!

There are numerous bars and restaurants to enjoy, plus historic cobblestones, live music performances and beautiful city views.

32. Walk along The Mall in Central Park

Central Park is one of the most highly coveted areas in New York City and as soon as you see this gargantuan city park, it’s clear to see why.

I’ve already mentioned just how big the park is and how many things there are to do that could easily fill an entire day and one of those many activities to enjoy in Central Park is simply walking along The Mall.

This beautiful, tree-lined mall is an eclectic hub full of tourists, locals and street performers. It’s arguably best enjoyed in the summer months when there are plenty of people around and lots of buskers on the go, but it’s still so gorgeous at any time of the year.

Read more: 10 Best Central Park Pedicab Tours In New York

33. Browse The Strand bookstore

I used to be so much more of a bookworm when I was younger and I’m really disappointed in myself that I’ve let my reading habits slip somewhat and my excuse is that I’m “too busy” and when I’m travelling, I find it really hard to read because I never have enough room in my backpack and I don’t like reading a Kindle!

The Strand bookstore in New York City, however, truly reignited my childhood adoration of browsing bookshops and this one is absolutely enormous. You could easily spend hours getting lost amongst the pages and perusing for your next favourite piece of literature. Even if you don’t buy anything from The Strand, be sure to pop in and have a look at all the many wonderful books inside.

34. Go on a self-guided pizza tour – must-do things in New York City

I’ve written a fully dedicated post about our very own self-guided pizza tour of Manhattan so you can either follow our footsteps to find the best pizza slices in New York City, or you could create your very own!

New York is world-famous for the iconic pizza slice and I promise you won’t be short of options when it comes to finding your favourite!

Read more: The Best Pizza Slices In Manhattan NYC – 15 Places RANKED

35. Visit the New York Public Library

The New York Public Library is undeniably one of the most beautiful and romantic places in New York City, both inside and out!

The exterior of this huge library is absolutely stunning and it’s a truly remarkable feat of architecture. It’s also located right next to Bryant Park and it’s on Fifth Avenue, so it’s the perfect stop as you make your way around midtown.

Top tip: Get a copy of my published book, Date Night: New York City here!

36. Stroll down Doyers Street, Chinatown

There’s not actually a whole lot of things to do on Doyers Street in Chinatown, but it is a very pretty street with a sharp bend in the middle at almost 90 degrees.

It was once nicknamed ‘The Bloody Angle’ or ‘Murder Alley’ from the earlier 1900s until around the 1950s, but thankfully today it’s just rather Instagrammable and not all that scary!

37. Appreciate the Manhattan skyline from the water

There are many ways you can see the Manhattan skyline from the water, on both sides of the island from either the East River or Hudson River and I’m genuinely not sure which one is the best!

One of my absolute favourites views of the Lower Manhattan skyline is from the free Staten Island Ferry or from the Statue Cruises tour that takes you to both Liberty Island and Ellis Island. If you can time your ferry journey with sunset, I promise you’ll be in for a real treat!

38. See the animals at Central Park Zoo

I have to say, I was somewhat disappointed with the Central Park Zoo when I visited, but I suppose it’s an attraction that’s more aimed towards younger children, which is probably why I didn’t wholeheartedly love it!

There were very few animals at the zoo, however, I did really enjoy seeing the reptiles, the sea lions and the beautiful snow leopard. I really wanted to see the bear but unfortunately, that enclosure was temporarily closed, along with numerous other enclosures, so be sure to check before you visit as we made the mistake of not doing so!

I think if you’re visiting with kids in tow, this would be the perfect family attraction in New York.

Read more: 50 Fun Things To Do With Kids In NYC

39. Marvel at the beautiful St Patrick’s Cathedral

St Patrick’s Cathedral has always been one of my favourite religious buildings, largely because of its absolutely stunning architecture, but also because of its Fifth Avenue location right next to the Rockefeller Center and Saks.

On my most recent trip to NYC, we actually saw a proposal right outside the front steps of St Patrick’s which made it even more romantic and magical. Be sure to pop inside to check out its magnificent interior as well; it’s free to visit but you can leave a donation if you feel inclined.

40. Stroll down Fifth Avenue – New York bucket list things to do

Fifth Avenue is one of the most coveted designer shopping districts in the world and as soon as you’re on Fifth, it’s very clear to see why.

While I’ve never actually purchased anything from a designer shop on Fifth Avenue, I am obsessed with peering inside the grand stores for the feel of elegance and luxury and even if you’re not a big fan of regular shopping (I hate it!), browsing the shops on Fifth is a whole other ball game.

41. Admire the beautiful Bow Bridge in Central Park

Another Central Park entry on this New York bucket list and this time it’s the remarkable Bow Bridge.

Bow Bridge is undoubtedly one of the most romantic areas in Manhattan and from the myriad proposals that happen here, it’s not hard to see why. Be sure to take a stroll over the bridge for pictures and make sure you snap some pictures of the actual bridge itself while you’re there.

Read more: 25 Best Winter Date Ideas In New York City

42. Watch a comedy show – New York bucket list

I’d never watched a live comedy show before we watched one at The Grisly Pear in the West Village but I was pleasantly surprised by how much fun it was, which is why it’s included in my ultimate New York City guide!

You can buy tickets online before you go or you can usually just rock up and purchase tickets on the door right before the show, depending on how busy it is. We bought our tickets on Airbnb for just £9 (tickets often start from as little as £4 each!) and I was delighted that The Grisly Pear Comedy Club didn’t require a minimum drink spend, so it was actually a very cheap, but very fun night out in New York!

43. Check out Columbus Circle

Columbus Circle is located at the Southwest corner of Central Park so it’s another great spot to enter the park and start your day of exploring.

It’s one of the very few roundabouts in Manhattan and it’s always teeming with traffic but it’s quite fun to sit and people-watch from Columbus Circle as there’s always lots going on. The Shops at Columbus Circle are also worth checking out and there are plenty of great restaurants inside too.

44. Explore Union Square

Union Square is another cool area in New York City that’s perfect for people-watching. It’s home to a park area, a pedestrian plaza and is surrounded by lots of restaurants and cafes.

In the winter, Union Square welcomes its very own Christmas market with an abundance of stalls selling all kinds of souvenirs, gifts, sweet treats and more and on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, you can enjoy the Union Square Greenmarket where you’ll find plenty of local produce including cheese, bread, flowers, chocolate goodies and more.

Read more: 10 Best Holiday Christmas Markets In NYC

45. Go on a bar crawl – what to do in New York

It’s no secret that New York City is positively teeming with an abundance of bars and nightclubs and the nightlife scene in NYC is truly incredible. From hip bars to swanky clubs to more casual pubs that are perfect for a cosy afternoon tipple, you certainly won’t be short of drinking opportunities while you’re in the city.

One great way to enjoy New York’s nightlife is to go on a bar crawl; either an organised one or just create your own! On our third night in New York City, we booked a bar crawl on Eventbrite as we thought it would be a great way to meet people in the city. While the people we met were awesome, the bar crawl itself wasn’t all that amazing as not only did you have to pay to take part ($27.32 each), which was fair enough, but then you had to pay for every drink and there weren’t really any special discounts or offers, when it originally said there would be.

Therefore, I’d recommend finding a bar crawl to take part in, but do more research and check all the inclusions; or of course, just head off on your very own New York bar crawl!

46. Visit Belvedere Castle

Belvedere Castle is an attraction inside Central Park that not many people realise is there. Its main purpose is “folly”; it has no real intention other than to look aesthetically pleasing like a castle – and it certainly does a great job!

It’s located just below the very centre of Central Park and from its observation platforms (free to enter), you can enjoy wonderful views of the park and the city.

47. Admire the New Jersey skyline

New Jersey resides just over the Hudson River and from the west side of Manhattan, you can enjoy this wonderful city skyline from numerous points along the riverfront.

My favourite place to admire the New Jersey skyline is from Brookfield Place shopping centre; from here, you can see all the way to the Statue of Liberty and right across to the beautiful skyline. Go at sunset for even more magical views; it’s so worth it!

48. Check out the views from Pier 15

Pier 15 is just one of the many piers in Manhattan that offers great views of the surrounding city skyline. This particular pier boasts a vantage point across to Brooklyn and the Brooklyn Bridge and on a clear, sunny day, it’s one of the best ways to admire Brooklyn from across the river.

49. Walk around the city at night

While New York sometimes gets a bit of a bad reputation for not being the safest place, I can honestly say I’ve never really felt scared in the city, even at nighttime. Of course, you have to be careful in some places and have your wits about you, but walking around the city at night is safe and wonderful and it allows you to experience a different side to New York City once the sun goes down and the whole place lights up.

Read more: 40 Best Things To Do At Night In NYC

50. Eat a pretzel from a street food stall

A pretzel is one of New York’s iconic street food snacks and if you’re a fan of the salty snacks, I promise you won’t regret trying a famous NY pretzel from one of the many food vendors around the city!

51. Seek out a filming location in the city

Of course, this is entirely dependent on how much time you have in the city and what kind of TV shows or movies are being filmed at the time, but chances are while you’re in New York, you’ll come across a filming location of some kind.

We saw a new show with Neil Patrick Harris being filmed in Gramercy Park completely by chance one day while we were there, but I’m sure you’d be able to search Google to find out if/what things are being filmed in New York at any time.

Bucket list things to do in New York – BROOKLYN

Brooklyn is one of the five boroughs that make up New York City, along with Manhattan, Staten Island, Queens and the Bronx. I’ve visited Brooklyn every single time I’ve been to New York City, but it wasn’t until my one-month stay in the city that I actually explored it properly and ventured further than DUMBO for the first time and I’m so glad I did!

Brooklyn is such an awesome place and while Manhattan is still my favourite borough in NYC, Brooklyn comes in at a close second and I’d seriously urge you to add some of the things below to your New York City travel itinerary.

Read more: The Ultimate 1 Day Brooklyn Itinerary

52. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge – bucket list things to do in New York for first-time visitors

The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most famous and iconic bridges in the world and once you see it up close and personal for the first time, you’ll soon realise why.

Spanning from Manhattan to Brooklyn across the East River, the Brooklyn Bridge spans a length of around 1,834m and can take anywhere between 20 minutes to one hour to walk across one way, depending on how long/how many times you stop to take pictures of the incredible views!

It’s a traffic, pedestrian and public transport bridge and it offers some of the most brilliant views of both Manhattan and Brooklyn in New York. The skyline of each side of the East River from the bridge is mind-blowing, especially on a clear, blue-sky day and you’d be hard-pressed not to gaze up in complete wonderment at the beauty of it all.

53. Enjoy the views from DUMBO – New York bucket list

You’ll have likely seen many Instagram pictures of the iconic bridge shot from DUMBO and I can honestly say it looks just as beautiful in real life as it does in photos.

As well as the gorgeous views of the Manhattan Bridge and all the way out across to Manhattan, the DUMBO neighbourhood is one of the best in Brooklyn for food and bars, so it’s a great place to hang out once you’ve crossed the East River.

54. Take pictures on Squibb Park Bridge

Squibb Park Bridge is a place that I only experienced for the first time on my most recent visit to New York City and I’m so glad I did because it turned out to be one of my favourite parts of Brooklyn.

This cool and quirky bridge provides incredible views out across the Manhattan skyline from different elevation points and it’s one of the best places in Brooklyn for pictures, both during the day, at sunset and once the city lights up at night.

55. Get a cocktail at Time Out Market New York

It’s safe to say that New York isn’t short of incredible rooftop bars and Time Out Market New York in Brooklyn is arguably one of the coolest.

Offering delicious cocktails on their rooftop bar, complete with splendid views across the river and towards the Manhattan skyline, plus a huge dining area downstairs with an abundance of food stalls to choose from, Time Out Market New York is the place to be in Brooklyn for great food, yummy drinks and heavenly views.

56. Enjoy the view from Pebble Beach – New York bucket list things to do

Pebble Beach, in between the Manhattan Bridge and the Brooklyn Bridge, offers excellent views of both bridges from its pebbly shores.

In the summer, this place is teeming with tourists and locals enjoying the views and it’s clear to see why; they’re absolutely phenomenal so be sure you’re equipped with your camera when visiting Pebble Beach!

57. Stroll through Brooklyn Bridge Park

This urban oasis along the waterfront in Brooklyn is yet another incredible viewpoint if you want to soak up the Manhattan skyline from the other side of the East River.

You’ll find plenty of places to sit and enjoy a picnic along Brooklyn Bridge Park, as well as relishing in a leisurely stroll around the park itself, all the while luxuriating in the fantastic views of Manhattan over the river.

58. Explore Downtown Brooklyn

Downtown Brooklyn is a cool and quirky neighbourhood and it’s well worth a little wander around, even if you don’t actually plan on doing anything in particular while you’re there.

Check out some of the bars and restaurants in the area, and be sure to spot some of the coolest-looking apartment buildings; it’s a great place to go “shopping” for a New York home ;).

59. See the Brooklyn 99 Precinct

If you’re not a fan of Brooklyn 99, this probably won’t be something you’ll be overly keen to do, but as a huge B99 fan, seeing the exterior of the 99th Precinct building was pretty cool!

Unfortunately, none of the show is actually filmed in Brooklyn, but the exterior shot of the Precinct was filmed at the 78th Precinct building in Brooklyn, which is just two minutes away from the Barclays Center, so if you plan on watching a Brooklyn Nets game, you’ll already be in the area!

The best observation decks/viewing platforms in New York City

New York City is home to some of the world’s greatest observation decks with some of the most incredible views imaginable.

I’ve been fortunate enough to visit some of the best observation decks in New York and here are all the ones I’d highly recommend checking out while you’re in the city!

Read more: NYC Pass Comparison – Which New York City Pass Is Best?

60. Top of the Rock – bucket list things to do in New York for couples

The Top of the Rock observation deck at the Rockefeller Center is literally my favourite place in the entire world. Situated in midtown Manhattan, it’s in the perfect location to see all across Manhattan, plus all the way out to Brooklyn and beyond.

Top tip: visit at sunset so you can see it during the day, at sunset and at nightfall; I promise you won’t regret it! 

Read more: Top of the Rock Observation Deck Guide

61. SUMMIT One Vanderbilt – bucket list things to do in New York

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is a relatively new observation deck in New York City as it only opened in October 2021. Close behind the Top of the Rock, SUMMIT is one of my new favourite places in the city and it’s somewhere that I’d pretty much insist on visiting while you’re there!

I have written a fully dedicated post all about SUMMIT One Vanderbilt which includes absolutely everything you need to know about visiting, so be sure to check that out for more information but trust me when I say you need to visit!

Read more: Is Summit One Vanderbilt Worth It?

62. One World Trade Center

For the highest views of New York City, One World Trade Center’s observation platform is the number one place to visit.

Located in downtown Manhattan, One World Trade resides just next to the 9/11 memorial site where the infamous Twin Towers once stood. 

The views from the top of One World are crazy beautiful and you can see for miles and miles around.

63. Empire State Building

I’ve never actually been to the Empire State Building observation deck as I always insist that it’s better to go to an observation platform where you can see this iconic structure, rather than actually being standing on it, but as it’s the nickname namesake of New York City, it is something that many people add to their itinerary.

Of course, you’ll still enjoy remarkable views of the city, but you won’t get those iconic shots of midtown Manhattan with the Empire State Building in as you’ll be inside the building itself! 

64. The EDGE

Edge is another relatively new observation deck in New York and it’s slightly unique compared to the other viewing platforms featured on this list as it’s an outdoor deck with a quirky triangular shape.

It’s located within Hudson Yards and offers a slightly different viewing point of Manhattan from the rest of the observation decks in New York City so it’s definitely worth checking out if you’ve already been to the more “traditional” observation decks and you’re in the mood to try something new.

The best parks/outdoor spaces in NYC

While New York is very much a bustling hubbub with eclectic city life, it’s also home to numerous parks, of which many people don’t know about.

Along with the iconic Central Park, New York City also boasts many other parks of all shapes and sizes where you can take refuge for an hour or two away from the excitement of the city; check out some of my favourite parks in NYC below.

65. Central Park

Central Park is the park that everyone knows and loves in New York City and rightly so; it’s a truly great place to hang out. There are so many things to see and do in Central Park and I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again; you could easily spend a full day in the park and still not manage to see everything it has to offer.

It covers a whopping 843 acres and sprawls all the way from 59th Street up to 110th Street and across 5th Avenue to 8th Ave/Central Park West.

Some of the top sights in Central Park include Bethesda Terrace, the Wollman Rink, The Mall and Literary Walk, Bow Bridge, Strawberry Fields, Belvedere Castle and so much more. I also love that it’s one of the very best places to visit in New York all year round as it looks equally as magical in the snow as it does in the autumn when the leaves turn golden shades of brown and orange and in the spring when all the flowers start to bloom.

66. Bryant Park

Bryant Park is arguably most famous for being home to the Winter Village and Christmas Markets during the holiday season when it hosts its very own ice rink and dozens of Christmas market stalls.

Of course, it can also be enjoyed all year round as well, as there are usually plenty of other fun activities, mini-festivals and an assortment of performances to enjoy throughout the year, but I’d argue that it’s best enjoyed at Christmas time.

67. Washington Square Park

Washington Square Park is another one of the most notable parks in NYC and even though it covers an area of less than 10 acres, it’s still one of the very best parks in Manhattan for people-watching, picnics and performances.

There are always so many interesting characters in WSP; from old men competing with each other on the chess tables to street artists and live performers to “crazy bird ladies” like the one from Home Alone 2! It’s never a dull day when you take a stroll through Washington Square Park.

68. Madison Square Park

Madison Square Park resides just next to the Flatiron Building and just eight blocks from the Empire State Building so it’s a great little park to stroll through if you’re in the neighbourhood.

The park also has its very own Shake Shack and in the summer, it’s one of the best green areas in the city to enjoy lunch with friends or a hearty burger from the famous fast food joint!

69. The Battery

The Battery is a 25-acre park area in Downtown Manhattan that offers spectacular views out to New York Harbour and all the way across to the Statue of Liberty.

It’s a stunning park area in New York that boasts gorgeous viewpoints and lush green areas where you can enjoy some quieter respite away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Top tip: Head to The Battery at sunset for captivating views across the water to the Statue of Liberty.

70. Zuccotti Park

Zuccotti Park is less than a 10-minute walk from The Battery and it’s located just up from the Financial District, so if you’re already in the area exploring Wall Street and the NYSE, it’s worth having a little nosey around Zuccotti Park.

There isn’t really an awful lot to do there as it’s a pretty small area, but it’s home to beautiful trees which makes it a great picnic spot and at Christmas time, all the trees are beautifully decorated in twinkling fairy lights.

71. Gramercy Park – New York bucket list

Gramercy Park is both the name of a small neighbourhood in Manhattan and the name of the tiny park itself and this well-to-do area is very upscale and opulent, so while you probably won’t be spending too much time here, it’s such a lovely area that I think it’s definitely worth a nosey around.

The actual park itself is for residents only, so this is the only park on this list that you can’t actually visit, but you can walk around its perimeter and admire all the fancy brownstones and lavish apartment buildings.

The best shopping centres/malls in New York City

I’m really not the biggest fan of shopping at all and I truly despise having to buy new clothes or shoes; it’s a task that I simply just don’t enjoy!

However, there’s something about shopping in New York City, primarily browsing all the fancy designer shops, that I absolutely love, and while I very rarely buy anything from any of these stores, I love the opulence of them all.

If you are a fan of shopping and you’re excited to hit all the designer stores in Manhattan, check out the list below for the best shopping centres/malls in New York City!

72. Macy’s

Macy’s is one of the most iconic department stores in the world and I remember being so excited to go inside when I visited New York for the first time back in 2014.

Since then, I’ve been to Macy’s every time I’ve been in the city and while it’s great all year round, it’s definitely something to add to your New York itinerary if you’re visiting at Christmas time.

The holiday window displays at Macy’s are some of the best in the city and the entire department store has the loveliest festive feel to it during the holiday season.

Top tip: It’s also a great place to use the restrooms if you’re in midtown as they’re usually few and far between!

Read more: 40+ Best Things To Do At Christmas In NYC – New York At Christmas

73. Bloomingdale’s

I always wanted to visit Bloomingdale’s as a lifelong fan of FRIENDS as it’s where Rachel Green works as a fashion buyer and personal shopper at Ralph Lauren, so I loved visiting Bloomingdale’s for the first time.

Of course, it’s home to a plethora of designer stores so it’s not exactly a place to visit if you’re shopping on a budget, but if you just want to soak up the luxury of all the fancy items, it’s a great place to add to your New York travel itinerary.

74. Saks Fifth Avenue – New York bucket list

Similarly to Bloomingdale’s, Saks is home to an abundance of designer stores inside its gargantuan store.

Located on Fifth Avenue, just opposite the Rockefeller Center, Saks is one of my favourite department stores in New York City, especially at Christmas time as their holiday light show is one of the most magical things to enjoy in New York during the holiday season.

75. Brookfield Place

I’d never even heard of Brookfield Place until our one-month trip to NYC at Christmas in 2021, but I’m so glad we stumbled across it as it’s one of the loveliest shopping malls in the city.

While the shops themselves are great if that’s what you’re after, it’s the outside plaza area of Brookfield Place that I enjoyed the most as it’s sat right on the Hudson River, so it boasts wonderful views out across to the New Jersey skyline and it’s a great place to watch the sunset with a glass of wine at nearby P.J. Clarke’s on the Hudson.

76. Tiffany & Co

Almost as long as I’ve been obsessed with New York, I’ve also had an obsession with Tiffany & Co and it’s one of my many NYC traditions to visit their Fifth Avenue flagship store whenever I’m in the city.

Regardless of who I’m visiting New York with, whether it be Matt, my mum or my sister, I make sure we go and have a nosey on the engagement ring floor as the beauty in that room is unlike anything else in the world!

There are zero obligations to buy anything while you’re there; just looking around at all the fascinating diamonds is an experience in itself and one that I’d highly recommend indulging in!

77. Westfield at Oculus – bucket list things to do in New York

My Christmas trip to New York was also the first time I visited The Oculus which is located within the World Trade Center. This gigantic structure is also home to a Westfield shopping centre, so it caters to shoppers of all budgets.

There are also plenty of places to eat here (I’d highly recommend Eataly) and it’s just such a great place for a wander around, especially on a cold or rainy day in NYC.

Read more: How To Spend A Rainy Day In NYC

78. FAO Schwarz

FAO Schwarz is first and foremost a giant toy store and while it might be designed with kids in mind, I’m very much of the opinion that visitors of all ages can enjoy it!

It’s home to gargantuan stuffed animals (I mean, literally huge) and it’s also got an awesome sweet floor as well. If you’re visiting New York with kids in tow, you can expect to spend a good while in FAO Schwarz as there are so many wonderful toys and trinkets to discover.

The best museums in NYC – New York City bucket list

New York is home to some of the very best museums and art galleries in the world so if you’re a history or art buff, you’re in for a real treat when visiting the Big Apple as there are so many wonderful places to choose from.

I haven’t actually been to all that many museums in NY as it’s not something I usually prioritise, however, I have visited some of the very best ones in the city, so I’ve put together a little guide below to help you out.

Read more: 30 Fun Museums In NYC For Everyone!

79. The National September 11 Memorial Museum

Despite the National September 11 Memorial Museum being incredibly harrowing and unbelievably emotional to visit, I think it’s probably one of my favourite museums in the world.

I’ve never visited this museum without crying or just standing there reading some of the stories and tributes in complete shock, but it’s a museum that tells the honest and raw story of what happened on that fateful day in 2001 and it’s a place I would seriously urge you to visit if you want to know more about the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

Top tip: You can visit the museum for free on Mondays between 3pm and 5pm, but you’ll have to be online at 7am on Monday morning to secure your spot as these tickets sell out fast.

80. MoMA – best museums in New York City

I have to be perfectly candid; the MoMA was actually quite a disappointment in my eyes so you may be wondering why I’ve even bothered to include it in this ultimate guide to the best things to do in New York City, but I know so many art lovers worship this gallery so I wanted to include it, but also make sure you knew my honest opinion as well!

I think I didn’t enjoy the MoMA too much because I’m not an art lover at all so perhaps I just don’t “get it”, but I have been to several other art galleries in the world, including the Louvre and the Picasso Museum in Málaga and I just don’t think the MoMA lived up to my expectations.

However, I would never tell you not to visit anywhere, so go ahead and make up your own mind; I’m sure if you’re a huge fan of art, you’ll enjoy it much more than I did!

81. The Metropolitan Museum Of Art

After visiting the MoMA, Matt and I said that we weren’t overly bothered about visiting another museum in New York, but then we met my friend Abbey, who’s currently living in New Jersey, and she had an annual membership to the Metropolitan Museum of Art so she very kindly let us tag along with her visit and I’m so glad we did because the Met is pretty amazing!

Its exterior is famed for being the host of many Gossip Girl scenes when Blair, Serena and the gang sit on the Met steps for lunch, but inside you’ll find a treasure trove of remarkable ancient artefacts, jewels and a plethora of fascinating historic relics. The Ancient Egypt room is my favourite and visiting the Met with Abbey (who’s a history graduate with a PhD!) meant that we learnt so much as it was like having our very own tour guide!

82. American Museum of Natural History – New York bucket list

Located in the Upper West Side, the American Museum of Natural History is most notably famed in recent years for being the inspiration between Ben Stiller’s Night at the Museum. The movie was all filmed in studios in Canada, so none of it was actually filmed inside the AMNH, apart from some of the exterior shots, but the museum itself is very much worth checking out if you love huge fossils, including the ginormous T-Rex, plus ocean life, prehistoric mammoths and so much more.

Best sports to watch in New York City

If you’re not a particularly big sports fan, like me, then you might be tempted to skip over this section entirely but I’d seriously urge you to try and watch at least one sports game while you’re in New York City as it’s home to some truly great teams of all kinds of sports.

83. Watch a basketball game at Madison Square Garden – New York bucket list

Madison Square Garden is known as the world’s most famous arena and while it is the home of the New York Knicks basketball team, tickets to watch this team play will likely cost you upwards of $100.

However, the “Garden” as it’s affectionately known, also often hosts many other teams and sports events too, so while we were in NYC, we watched a college basketball game at Madison Square Garden which was so much fun!

I never thought I’d be into basketball, but it turns out that it’s probably one of my favourite live sporting events to watch now!

84. Go to an NFL game at the Metlife Stadium (New Jersey)

Before we even left for America, Matt was adamant that he wanted to try and see all the American sports during our 3-month trip to the States, including basketball, American football (NFL), ice hockey and baseball.

On Boxing Day, we ticked off another American sport when we visited the Metlife Stadium in New Jersey to watch the New York Jets (yes it’s confusing that two New York teams – the Jets and Giants have their stadium in New Jersey!).

I really enjoyed watching the NFL game, but I couldn’t believe how long it was! We were there for almost four hours and even though there are four “quarters”, they certainly don’t last just 15 minutes like they’re supposed to, so if you’re planning to watch an American football game, be prepared to spend a while there!

85. Watch a game at The Barclays Center in Brooklyn

The Barclays Center is home to the Brooklyn Nets NBA team and unlike tickets to watch the Knicks, these tickets are usually much more affordable (I think we paid about $27 each for tickets).

This stadium is also very cool and we even saw Jay Z while we were there! I never expected to say this, but I’m definitely a basketball convert and I thoroughly enjoyed every game we watched while in NY.

Bonus bucket list things to do in New York

I’ve included this list of bonus best things to do in New York City below as these were some of the things that I still have on my list that we didn’t quite get around to doing so they’re still on my itinerary for next time I’m in the city!

• 86. Go to the FRIENDS experience
• 87. Attend the Brooklyn Flea Market
• 88. Watch a live recording of a TV show
• 89. Take a helicopter ride over the city
• 90. Ride a bike along the Hudson River
• 91. Visit the Guggenheim
• 92. Go to the Bronx Zoo
• 93. The Tenement Museum
• 94. Museum of Sex
• 95. Museum of Ice Cream
• 96. Check out the Morgan Library

New York bucket list at Christmas

I’ve already written a huge guide about the best things to do in New York at Christmas, but I wanted to include my top five things below so that you have everything in one list! Here are all the New York bucket list items for winter!

97. See the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is undoubtedly the most magical place to be in New York at Christmas and even though it’s always swarming with tourists trying to get a picture of the iconic tree, it’s still my favourite place in NYC and one that you should definitely have on your New York bucket list.

Read more: Where To Find The Best Christmas Trees In New York

98. Go ice skating in Central Park – bucket list things to do in New York at Christmas

There are so many awesome places to go ice skating in New York at Christmas time, including Bryant Park, the Rockefeller Center, Brookfield Place, Hudson Yards and so many more, but ice skating at the Wollman Rink in Central Park has to be the number one spot in the city.

99. Check out the holiday lights in Dyker Heights

I can’t even begin to explain how incredible Dyker Heights in Brooklyn is during the holiday season; the entire neighbourhood transforms into a magical wonderland full of the most lavish and extravagant Christmas lights and decorations and it’s something you absolutely cannot miss during Christmas in New York.

Read more: Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Guide – Tours, Map & Dates

100. Admire the Fifth Avenue holiday window displays

The Fifth Avenue holiday window displays truly are one of a kind and each year, the sparkling designer shops on Fifth transform their display windows into winter wonderland scenes and magical Christmas settings.

101. Watch the Saks Fifth Avenue light show

The Saks Fifth Avenue light show, situated directly opposite the Rockefeller Center, is an absolute wonder for the senses at Christmas time in New York. The spellbinding lights, the enchanting music and the electric atmosphere of eager Christmas fanatics make it one of the most magical festive experiences in NYC.

New York bucket list in spring/summer

I’ve been incredibly lucky to visit New York City in every single season now and while I’d argue that winter and the holiday season are my favourites due to all the incredibly magical festive things to do in the city at Christmas, the spring and summer months are also a wonderful time to visit New York as the city is positively teeming with summer sunshine energy!

Here are a few of my top New York bucket list recommendations for the spring/summer.

102. Enjoy a picnic in Central Park – bucket list things to do in New York

I’ve mentioned Central Park so many times in this ultimate New York bucket list and that’s because it really is one of the very best things to do in the city.

In the winter, it’s the perfect time to enjoy the snow, but during the spring or summer, Central Park is one of the best places in New York to enjoy a picnic underneath the shade of the trees or in the middle of the huge lawn areas while you’re surrounded by the towering skyscrapers.

103. Spend a day on Coney Island

Coney Island is located in the borough of Brooklyn and in the summertime, it’s one of the best places to be to enjoy fun fairground rides, delicious summer treats and fabulous beaches.

104. Visit rooftop bars – New York bucket list

Visiting a rooftop bar during the summer in New York is an absolute must, and while it might not be the cheapest pint you ever buy, finding a rooftop bar with the best views in the city, accompanied by a delicious fruity cocktail will be more than worth it!

Some of my favourite rooftop bars in New York are 230 Fifth and Time Out Market in Brooklyn.

105. Watch street performers in Washington Square Park

I’ve already mentioned that Washington Square Park is the perfect place for people-watching and it’s one of my very favourite spots during the summer as it truly comes alive with street performers and buskers putting on a variety of entertaining shows.

106. Ride the free Staten Island ferry

The Staten Island ferry can be enjoyed all year round, but it’s arguably best experienced during the warmer months when sailing on the river actually feels like a cooling respite compared to the intense heat of the city.

My top 5 best places to eat in New York City

If you’re looking for an extensive list of the 50 best places to eat in New York City, you can check out my full guide, but for now, here are just some of my top five favourite places to eat in NYC.

107. Ruby’s – bucket list things to do in New York

Ruby’s was a place that we stumbled across while walking around the city one day but it instantly caught my eye when I saw ‘sausage pasta’ listed on the menu as this dish is one of my number one favourites.

The pasta at Ruby’s was truly divine and the cocktails are yummy and refreshing too; it’s an absolute must-eat in my opinion!

108. Bubby’s

Unlike Ruby’s, we intentionally visited Bubby’s after hearing so much about it and I’m so glad we did because it was absolutely amazing!

The Mac and Cheese at Bubby’s is unlike anything else I’ve ever had before and I’d highly recommend it if you’re a fan of the cheesy stuff!

109. Royale Bar – New York bucket list food

We ate at Royale Bar on our very first night in NYC when we lived there for a month in December 2021/January 2022, so it holds a very special place in my heart for that reason alone. The chicken burger I had at Royale was probably one of the tastiest I’ve ever had, so if you’re staying in the East Village, or you just fancy a nosey around, definitely check out this place!

110. Doughtnuttery

Doughnuttery isn’t a place where you’re gonna get a huge meal to eat but it is the place where you’ll find the best doughnuts of your life!

Be sure to get the salted caramel sugar ones; I’ve never tasted anything so sweet and delicious in my entire life!

111. Dudley’s

Dudley’s is another place we came across while wandering around the Lower East Side and it’s a place I’m so glad we came across because the food and drink here were heavenly! It’s also such a gorgeous little restaurant with a great cocktail bar so definitely one to add to your list of places to eat and drink in New York!

Where to stay in New York City

When visiting New York, whether you’re planning a trip for 3 days, 3 weeks or 3 months, you’ll need to find somewhere to stay that’s conveniently located, comfortable and relatively affordable.

While New York certainly isn’t the cheapest city in the world, (in fact, it’s one of the most expensive places to both live and visit) there are still many ways that you can visit NYC on a relatively tight budget.

Your accommodation is likely to be one of the most expensive parts of your visit to the city, so whether you’re looking to splurge on a fancy hotel or you want to save a bit of cash and opt for a cheaper and less centrally-located apartment, my five visits to New York so far have provided me with plenty of expertise when it comes to choosing where to stay in the city.

The first time I ever visited New York was with my mum in November 2014 and we stayed in the Courtyard by Marriott New York Manhattan/Times Square. Located just minutes from Bryant Park, Times Square and SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, this hotel is perfect for first-time visitors to New York looking for a very central place to stay in midtown.

Read more: 40 Best Hotels In Times Square

I’ve also stayed in the New York Marriott Marquis in Times Square which really couldn’t be in a better location if you want to stay right in the heart of one of New York’s most famous attractions. I absolutely love this hotel and while it’s not exactly on the cheap end of the budget scale, it’s by no means one of the most outrageously expensive places to stay in NYC.

During our one-month stay in New York, Matt and I opted to rent an apartment for the month via Airbnb which was a great option for us as it allowed us to have a solid home base while we were in the city so we had the option to cook our own meals to save money on eating out all the time. If you plan on spending an extended period of time in New York City, I’d highly recommend checking out the rental options on Airbnb.

We paid £2,750 for 30 days in our East Village apartment via Airbnb, which is certainly insanely expensive, but it was actually one of the cheapest rentals we could find! Our stay was also over the Christmas and New Year period so it was definitely more expensive because of that.

My number one dream hotel to stay at in New York is The Plaza Hotel. I’ve frequented the Food Hall and enjoyed afternoon tea inside The Plaza on numerous occasions over the years but it’s always been my dream to stay there one day when the budget allows 😉

Book a hotel in New York City

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Related posts:

• How Much Money We Spent Living In New York City For One Month
• Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Guide – Tours, Map & Dates
• 25 Of The Best Totally Free Things To Do In New York City
• 30 Best Romantic Things To Do In NYC For Couples
• 7 Best Ways To Get From JFK To Manhattan

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Have you ever been to New York? Is it somewhere you’d like to visit one day? Let me know in the comments or on my New York Facebook Group!