11 Things to Do in New York for First Timers

This blog is about 11 fun things to do in New York for first timers!

As a born and raised New Yorker, this city has a special place in my heart. There’s so much to see and do here, and I’m excited to share my favorite spots with you!

There’s nothing like the energy of this city, and for first-time visitors all the options can feel overwhelming. Since it’s your first time visiting the Big Apple, I highly suggest not trying to see everything on your first trip!

But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with insider tips on the must-see spots and hidden gems that will make your first visit to NYC unforgettable.

Use this blog as your guide to exploring NYC!

1. Walk Through Central Park

You can’t come to New York City without visiting Central Park. It is the heart of the city, and our largest park with 843 acres of greenery, winding paths, and peaceful lakes. It’s a perfect way to see the city on foot. I love starting at Bethesda Terrace, which has beautiful views of the lake and iconic fountain.

If you’re looking for a place to relax, head to Sheep Meadow, where you can kick back and soak in the skyline. Whether you’re into people-watching or just need to be near nature, Central Park is the perfect spot to begin your NYC trip.

2. Explore the Museums: The Met, MoMA, and More

New York is home to some of the most incredible museums in the world. As someone who grew up ten blocks away from The Met, it is my personal favorite! It’s perfect if you love art and history. You can easily spend a whole day wandering through its vast halls right near Central Park!

For something more modern, head to MoMA, where you’ll find iconic works like Van Gogh’s Starry Night. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, check out smaller gems like the Museum of the City of New York for a unique look at the city’s history, or there are tons of free art galleries downtown in Chelsea.

A Staten Island Ferry Cruising with Passengers on Sea

3. Take the Staten Island Ferry for a Free View of the Statue of Liberty

Skip the crowded tours and do what locals do—hop on the Staten Island Ferry for a stunning (and free!) view of the Statue of Liberty. This 25-minute ride gives you a perfect view of Lady Liberty and the Manhattan skyline, especially if you time it with the sunset.

Trust me, this is one of the best ways to see the sights without spending a dime! Plus, you get a much needed break from walking around the city all day.

4. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

New York City is more than just Manhattan, and the best way to explore other boroughs like Brooklyn is by walking across the Brooklyn Bridge! It’s a must-do for any first-timer.

Not only is it an iconic landmark, but the views are unbeatable of the city. Start on the Manhattan side and make your way toward Brooklyn, where you can explore the iconic DUMBO neighborhood. Be sure to stop for some photos along the way—the bridge offers perfect views of the skyline and the Statue of Liberty!

5. Take a NYC Foodie Tour

No visit to NYC is complete without exploring the incredible food scene! From street vendors to cozy local spots, there’s always something delicious to try. As a New Yorker, I’ve enjoyed discovering all the different cuisines that make this city so unique.

For a real foodie adventure, consider joining a food tour to discover even more of the city’s amazing food culture. Don’t forget to grab a pretzel or a hot dog from a street vendor while you’re out exploring—it’s all part of the New York experience.

View of a Crowded Washington Square Park in New York City

6. Spend the Day in Greenwich Village

I definitely recommend spending an afternoon or evening in Greenwich Village. It’s a popular neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets, independent shops, and cozy cafes, making it one of my favorite spots for wandering.

Washington Square Park is the perfect place to people watch, enjoy a picnic, and you might even catch some live music or a show. Here you can grab a coffee at one of the local spots nearby and take your time soaking in the atmosphere of NYC.

7. Visit the Empire State Building or Top of the Rock for Skyline Views

When it comes to skyline views, both the Empire State Building and Top of the Rock are great options. Personally, I prefer Top of the Rock because you get to see the Empire State Building as part of the city’s skyline—it’s a pretty unbeatable view.

No matter which one you pick, I recommend going early in the morning or later in the evening. You’ll avoid the crowds and enjoy a much calmer experience. Also, be sure to grab your tickets in advance! It’ll save you time, especially during busy seasons, and help you lock in a specific time, like sunset, for those perfect views.

Tickets for Top of The Rock

Tickets for the Empire State Building

8. Catch a Broadway Show

Broadway is the heart of New York’s theater scene, and no visit to the city is complete without catching a show. Whether you’re into musicals or prefer a good play, there’s always something to see.

If you’re looking for an affordable option, definitely check out the TKTS booth for discounted tickets to same-day shows. It’s a great way to score seats to some of the top performances without breaking the bank. Additionally, matinees are another good option if you want to avoid the busy evening crowds and still get that classic Broadway experience.

9. Take a Walk Along the High Line

The High Line is another great place to visit on your first time in NYC! It’s built on an old elevated railway line, and it’s one of my favorite places to get a break from the city streets without really leaving the city. As you walk along, you’ll come across some pretty amazing art installations, beautifully landscaped gardens, and views of the Hudson River that you can’t get anywhere else. It’s perfect for a relaxing stroll or just to sit and people-watch for a bit.

And if you’re hungry after all that walking, make sure to head to the popular Chelsea Market, which is just below. It has tons of great food, drinks, and shopping options for you to explore.

10. Explore Chinatown

Chinatown is one of the most vibrant and exciting neighborhoods in New York, and it’s a must-visit for food lovers. Whether you’re in the mood for dim sum, dumplings, or something completely unique, this area has some of the best Chinese food in the city. One of my personal favorites is The Original Buddha Bodai Kosher Vegetarian Restaurant, where you can get amazing plant-based dishes. Their vegetarian dim sum is always a winner, and it’s a spot I highly recommend if you’re looking for something different.

The food options are endless, though—you can easily spend hours hopping from one spot to another, trying different dishes. Beyond the incredible eats, Chinatown is full of unique shops, street markets, and historic charm that make it an exciting place to explore. Whether you’re hunting for authentic souvenirs or just soaking in the lively atmosphere, Chinatown gives you a true taste of the city’s diverse culture.

11. Bryant Park

Bryant Park is one of those spots that feels like a hidden gem, even though it’s right in the middle of Midtown. It’s a great place to take a break from sightseeing, grab a coffee, and just soak in the city’s atmosphere.

Whether you’re visiting in the summer for an outdoor movie night or in winter for ice skating, there’s always something going on. Plus, it’s just steps away from the New York Public Library, so you can check out that iconic building while you’re there.

11 Things To Do in New York For First Timers

There’s so much to see and do in New York City, and as a native, I can tell you that the magic of this city goes beyond the usual tourist stops. I encourage you to explore beyond the guidebooks, get lost in the streets, and discover the little moments that make New York truly unique.

Take your time, enjoy every neighborhood, and remember that the city always has something new to offer—even for us locals. Let me know in the comments what your favorite spots and landmarks are to visit in NYC!

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