10 Unforgettable Things To Do Near Manhattan, New York (New York County)

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10 Amazing Things To Do In and Around Manhattan, New York

Looking for the best things to do in Manhattan, New York? Whether it’s your first trip to New York City or your tenth, this iconic borough always has something new to offer. From world-famous landmarks to quiet local spots, Manhattan packs a lot of experiences into a small island. Below are 10 must-do activities in and near Manhattan that work for first-time visitors, repeat travelers, couples, families, and even solo explorers.

1. Wander (And People-Watch) In Central Park

If you only have time for one thing in Manhattan, make it Central Park. This huge green space runs from 59th Street all the way up to 110th Street and is over 840 acres of lawns, trees, lakes, and hidden corners. You can:
  • Rent a bike and loop around the park’s main drives.
  • Take a slow walk around the Bethesda Fountain and terrace.
  • Relax on the Great Lawn with a coffee or picnic.
  • Visit the Central Park Zoo if you’re traveling with kids.
On my first visit, I thought I’d spend 30 minutes there. Two hours later I was still wandering, listening to street musicians under the bridges and watching locals play softball. That’s the magic of Central Park: it pulls you in and slows you down, even in the middle of busy Manhattan.

2. See Times Square At Night

Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it’s crowded. But Times Square at night is something you should experience at least once. The bright billboards, flashing lights, and constant motion make this one of the most famous places in Manhattan. It’s like walking into a giant TV screen. Tips for visiting:
  • Go after dark for the full neon effect.
  • Climb the red steps above the TKTS booth for a great view.
  • Watch street performers and costumed characters (and hold on to your wallet).
If you’re looking for classic things to do in Manhattan at night, start or end your evening in Times Square, then break away into nearby side streets for quieter bars and restaurants.

3. Walk The High Line And Explore Hudson Yards

The High Line is a former elevated train track that has been turned into a long park above the streets. It runs roughly from the Meatpacking District up to Hudson Yards on Manhattan’s West Side. Why it’s worth your time:
  • Unique views of Manhattan’s streets and buildings.
  • Public art installations and murals along the way.
  • Benches and lounge chairs to sit and people-watch.
At the north end, you’ll reach Hudson Yards. Here you can:
  • Walk around the base of the Vessel structure (currently closed to climb, but still impressive).
  • Visit the shops and food court inside Hudson Yards mall.
  • Head up to Edge, one of Manhattan’s newest observation decks, with a glass floor section if you’re feeling brave.
Walking the High Line is a simple, low-cost way to see a different side of Manhattan.

4. Visit The Statue of Liberty And Ellis Island

It’s hard to imagine a trip to New York City without seeing the Statue of Liberty. While you can see it from Manhattan’s shores, taking the ferry out to Liberty Island is a powerful experience, especially if you combine it with Ellis Island. Here’s how to plan it:
  • Head to Battery Park at the southern tip of Manhattan.
  • Take the official Statue City Cruises ferry to Liberty Island and Ellis Island.
  • Allow at least half a day for both islands.
At Ellis Island, wander through the immigration museum and imagine what it felt like for millions of people arriving here, hoping to start a new life in the United States. It’s not just a tourist attraction; it’s a big piece of American history sitting right off Manhattan’s shore.

5. Catch A Broadway Show

Seeing a Broadway show is one of the most popular things to do in Manhattan and a true New York experience. You can choose from:
  • Big-name musicals everyone talks about.
  • Serious dramas and classic plays.
  • Kid-friendly shows with music and bright costumes.
A few tips:
  • Check the TKTS booth in Times Square for same-day discounted tickets.
  • Consider weekday shows; they’re often cheaper and less crowded.
  • Arrive at least 20–30 minutes early so you’re not rushing through the theater district.
Even if you’re not usually into theater, it’s hard not to get swept up in the energy of a live Broadway performance in the heart of Manhattan.

6. Explore Museums Along Museum Mile

If you love art, history, or simply want a break from the noise, head to Museum Mile on Fifth Avenue along the east side of Central Park. Some top spots:
  • The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) – One of the world’s largest art museums. You could spend a whole day here.
  • Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum – Known for its unique spiral building and modern art collection.
  • Jewish Museum and Cooper Hewitt – Smaller, but very interesting collections.
For first-time visitors, start with The Met:
  • See the Egyptian Temple of Dendur.
  • Walk through the European painting galleries.
  • Check if the rooftop garden is open for amazing views over Central Park.
Even if you’re not a big “museum person,” stepping into these spaces offers a peaceful pause in the middle of Manhattan’s fast pace.

7. Cross The Brooklyn Bridge (And Enjoy Two Boroughs In One Day)

Technically this one connects Manhattan to another borough, but the Brooklyn Bridge is an easy, iconic activity that starts (or ends) in Lower Manhattan. Here’s a simple plan:
  • Start on the Manhattan side near City Hall.
  • Walk the wooden pedestrian path above the traffic.
  • Pause halfway for photos of the skyline and the East River.
  • End in Brooklyn Bridge Park for more views back toward Manhattan.
The walk is about 1.1 miles one way. Wear comfortable shoes, especially in summer when it can be hot. If you time it around sunset, the city lights start to glow and the views are unforgettable. This is a great way to see New York City landmarks without spending a lot of money—just your time and some energy.

8. Explore Neighborhoods: SoHo, Greenwich Village, and the West Village

One of the best things to do in Manhattan is simply to wander through its neighborhoods. Each one has its own vibe, shops, and food. Three great areas to explore:
  • SoHo – Known for cast-iron buildings, cobblestone streets, and lots of shopping. You’ll find big-name brands and smaller boutiques here.
  • Greenwich Village – A little artsy, a little bohemian, with historic brownstones and tree-lined streets. Washington Square Park is the heart of the area.
  • West Village – Tucked-away restaurants, cozy cafés, and that “I could live here” feeling. It’s perfect for an evening stroll.
If you want a simple plan, pick one neighborhood, grab a coffee, and just walk. Turn down side streets. Peek into bookstores and bakeries. Some of your best Manhattan memories may come from these everyday moments, not just the famous attractions.

9. Pay Your Respects At The 9/11 Memorial & Museum

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum sits where the World Trade Center towers once stood, in Lower Manhattan. It’s a deeply moving place and an important part of modern American history. Outside, you’ll find:
  • Two large reflecting pools set in the footprints of the original towers.
  • Names of the lives lost engraved around the edges.
  • Peaceful tree-filled plaza, including the “Survivor Tree.”
Inside the museum, you’ll see:
  • Artifacts from the day of the attacks.
  • Stories and photos of victims, survivors, and first responders.
  • Powerful exhibits that may stay with you long after you leave.
It’s not an easy visit, but it’s a meaningful one. If you’re planning your Manhattan itinerary, allow a few hours and give yourself some quiet time afterward in nearby Liberty Park or along the waterfront.

10. Enjoy The View From A Manhattan Observation Deck

Seeing Manhattan from above helps you understand just how big and dense New York City really is. Luckily, there are several great observation decks in Manhattan to choose from:
  • Top of the Rock (Rockefeller Center) – Classic views of the Empire State Building and Central Park.
  • Empire State Building – The legendary one, with indoor and outdoor decks.
  • One World Observatory – At the top of One World Trade Center, with sweeping views of Lower Manhattan and the harbor.
  • Edge at Hudson Yards – A modern, angled deck with a glass floor section for thrill-seekers.
Which one is best? It depends:
  • Want that postcard-perfect shot of the Empire State Building? Go to Top of the Rock.
  • Love history and classic New York vibes? Choose the Empire State Building.
  • Curious about the rebuilt World Trade Center area? Try One World Observatory.
If you can, book tickets in advance and aim for sunset. Watching the city shift from day to night from high above Manhattan is a memory you’ll keep for years.

Final Tips For Visiting Manhattan, New York

To make the most of your trip:
  • Use the subway – It’s usually the fastest and cheapest way to get around Manhattan.
  • Wear comfortable shoes – You’ll walk more than you expect, even if you take cabs or rideshares.
  • Plan by area – Group activities by neighborhood (Midtown, Lower Manhattan, Upper East Side, etc.) to save time.
  • Mix famous sights with local spots – Do the big attractions, but leave room to just wander.
Manhattan can feel overwhelming at first, but once you slow down and explore it block by block, it becomes a lot more friendly and familiar.

What Would You Add To This Manhattan Bucket List?

Have you spent time in Manhattan, New York?
  • What was your favorite thing to do?
  • Did you find a small café, park, or street that surprised you?
Share your tips and stories in the comments—they can help other travelers plan their own trip. If you found this guide to things to do in Manhattan helpful, please share it with a friend who’s planning a New York City getaway. The more we share real experiences, the easier it gets for everyone to enjoy this incredible city.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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