New York City—the city that never slows down, never stops inspiring, and never runs out of things to do. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, the Big Apple delivers a punch of iconic sights, legendary eats, and street-level charm that never gets old.
In this updated 2025 guide, we’re covering:
- Top 10 things to do
- Top 10 must-visit locations
- Top 10 places to eat
- 10 things New Yorkers do that tourists usually miss
Top 10 Things to Do in New York City
- Wander Through Central Park
The lungs of Manhattan—lush, historic, and picture-perfect. Don’t miss Bow Bridge, Bethesda Fountain, or a lazy break on Sheep Meadow. - Catch a Broadway Show
Whether it’s a megahit musical or a deep drama, Broadway is still the beating heart of NYC’s theatre scene. - Experience Times Square at Night
Neon chaos. Street performers. Giant screens. It’s sensory overload in the best way possible. - Visit the Statue of Liberty
Hop the ferry to see Lady Liberty and nearby Ellis Island—two of America’s most symbolic landmarks. - View the Skyline from the Empire State Building
The views from the top are unbeatable—especially around sunset. - Explore The Met
Lose yourself among ancient Egyptian relics, Van Gogh masterpieces, and centuries of global art. - Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
This iconic walk gives you jaw-dropping skyline views—and lands you in trendy Brooklyn. - See a Yankees or Mets Game
Whether you’re a baseball fan or not, few things feel more “New York” than a packed stadium and a hot dog in hand. - Shop 5th Avenue
From high fashion to flagship stores, this strip is retail therapy done right. - Visit One World Observatory & 9/11 Memorial
See the city from its tallest point and take a moment to reflect at one of the most moving memorials in the world.
Top 10 Places to Visit in NYC
- Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
Two birds, one ferry. Rich with history and unmatched harbor views. - Central Park
More than just grass—think lakes, bridges, sculptures, and secret trails. - Empire State Building
An icon of art deco glory and cinematic fame. - Times Square
Love it or hate it, you’ve got to experience it at least once. - The Met
Art from every corner of the globe. - MoMA
Modern masterpieces from Warhol to Basquiat to Rothko. - Broadway (Theatre District)
Step into a different world—eight shows a week. - The High Line
A unique, elevated park built on an old railway track with gardens, views, and art. - 9/11 Memorial & Museum
Powerful, essential, unforgettable. - Rockefeller Center
Skating in winter, skyline views year-round at Top of the Rock.
Top 10 Places to Eat in NYC
- Katz’s Delicatessen – Go for the pastrami, stay for the atmosphere.
- Joe’s Pizza – One of the best slices in Manhattan.
- Le Bernardin – World-class seafood, serious fine dining.
- Peter Luger Steak House – Legendary steaks in Brooklyn.
- Russ & Daughters – Lox, bagels, and Jewish deli classics.
- Shake Shack (Madison Square Park) – The original. Worth the queue.
- Xi’an Famous Foods – Bold, spicy hand-pulled noodles.
- Roberta’s Pizza (Brooklyn) – Chill vibes, wood-fired perfection.
- The Halal Guys – Street food royalty with legendary white sauce.
- Junior’s Cheesecake – A proper NYC cheesecake experience.
Top 10 Things Locals Do (That Tourists Rarely Catch)
- Explore Neighbourhoods
Skip the tourist traps and get lost in SoHo, Harlem, Williamsburg, or the Lower East Side. - Eat From Street Carts
Tacos, falafel, birria, kebabs—some of the best food comes from wheels. - Hang in Small Parks
Washington Square Park or Bryant Park offer peace without the crowds. - Hit a Rooftop Bar
Sip cocktails with skyline views—try 230 Fifth or The Ready Rooftop. - Use the Subway
Efficient, gritty, and faster than a cab in rush hour. - Find Hidden Speakeasies
PDT, Angel’s Share, and others offer secret entrances and killer cocktails. - Visit Farmer’s Markets
Union Square’s is the biggest, but Brooklyn’s are buzzing too. - Catch a Show at Small Venues
Bowery Ballroom and Comedy Cellar beat overpriced mega-concerts every time. - Walk the Waterfronts
The Hudson Greenway and East River Esplanade offer peaceful city views. - Go to Museums on Weekdays
Avoid crowds, enjoy more art. It’s how New Yorkers roll.
Bring a Piece of NYC Home
Exploring New York can spark a lifelong love for its energy. Why not take a little of that home with you?
Celebrate NYC’s bravest with our American Fire Truck Pixelated Classic Design—a tribute to the heroic fire trucks that race through Manhattan’s chaos.
Or, if you’re the kind of traveler who loves a good souvenir, our I Love NYC Baseball Pixel Design is perfect. A modern twist on a city classic—ideal for locals, tourists, or dreamers planning their next trip.
Whether you’re climbing skyscrapers, exploring boroughs, or finding your own corner café, NYC hits different in 2025. One trip won’t be enough—but it’s a damn good place to start.