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If you’re planning a trip to New York City, you’ll want to make sure you don’t miss out on any of the essential experiences that the city has to offer. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there’s always something new to discover in the Big Apple. That’s where a New York City bucket list comes in handy.
A bucket list is a list of things you want to do or experience before you die. In the case of a New York City bucket list, it’s a list of things you want to do or experience before you leave the city. From iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building to hidden gems like speakeasies and street art, there’s no shortage of things to add to your list.
With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide what to include on your New York City bucket list. That’s where research comes in handy. By reading up on the best things to do in the city and talking to locals, you can create a personalized bucket list that reflects your interests and preferences.
Iconic Landmarks
New York City is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the world. From the Statue of Liberty to the Empire State Building, these landmarks have become symbols of the city and are must-see destinations on any New York bucket list. Here are three of the most popular landmarks that you should add to your list.
Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world and is a symbol of freedom and democracy. It was a gift from France to the United States and was dedicated in 1886.
The statue stands at 305 feet tall and is located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. Visitors can take a ferry to the island and climb to the top of the pedestal for stunning views of the city skyline.
Times Square
Manhattan, NY 10036
Times Square is one of the busiest and most iconic places in New York City. It is known for its bright lights, billboards, and bustling crowds. The area is home to many theaters, restaurants, and shops, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Times Square is particularly famous for its New Year’s Eve celebration, when thousands of people gather to watch the ball drop.
Empire State Building
20 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001
The Empire State Building is one of the most famous skyscrapers in the world and has been featured in many movies and TV shows. It was built in 1931 and stands at 1,454 feet tall. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the building for stunning views of the city. The building is also illuminated at night with different colors to mark special occasions and events.
These are just three of the many iconic landmarks that you can visit in New York City. Each one offers a unique perspective on the city and its history and is a must-see destination on any New York bucket list.
Performing Arts
If you’re a fan of the performing arts, New York City has plenty to offer. From Broadway shows to classical music performances, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few must-see venues to add to your New York Bucket List.
Broadway
Broadway is synonymous with theater, and for good reason. It’s home to some of the most popular and critically acclaimed shows in the world. From long-running hits like The Lion King and Wicked to newer productions like Hamilton and Dear Evan Hansen, there’s always something new to see on Broadway.
If you’re looking for a classic Broadway experience, head to Times Square and take your pick of the many theaters in the area. Alternatively, you can check out off-Broadway productions for a more intimate experience.
Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023
Lincoln Center is a cultural hub that’s home to a variety of performing arts organizations, including the New York Philharmonic, the Metropolitan Opera, and the New York City Ballet. With multiple theaters and performance spaces, there’s always something happening at Lincoln Center.
If you’re a fan of classical music, be sure to catch a performance by the New York Philharmonic. The Metropolitan Opera is known for its stunning productions of classic operas, while the New York City Ballet is one of the premier dance companies in the world.
Apollo Theater
253 W 125th St, New York, NY 10027
Located in Harlem, the Apollo Theater is a historic venue that’s played host to some of the biggest names in music, including Ella Fitzgerald, James Brown, and Aretha Franklin. Today, the Apollo is still a popular venue for concerts and other performances.
In addition to music, the Apollo also hosts comedy shows, dance performances, and other events. If you’re interested in seeing a show at the Apollo, be sure to check out their calendar of events to see what’s coming up.
Whether you’re a fan of Broadway shows, classical music, or something in between, New York City has plenty of options for performing arts enthusiasts. Be sure to add these venues to your New York Bucket List for an unforgettable experience.
Museums and Art Galleries
When it comes to museums and art galleries, New York City is a treasure trove of options. Here are a few must-see museums that should be on your New York City bucket list.
Metropolitan Museum of Art
1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028Location:
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, or the Met, is one of the largest and most comprehensive art museums in the world. It houses over 2 million works of art from around the globe, spanning 5,000 years of history. The collection includes everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary art, and everything in between.
Some of the most famous works in the Met’s collection include Vincent van Gogh’s “Starry Night,” Emanuel Leutze’s “Washington Crossing the Delaware,” and Auguste Rodin’s “The Thinker.”
Museum of Modern Art
11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019
The Museum of Modern Art, or MoMA, is a must-visit for any art lover. The museum’s collection includes over 200,000 works of modern and contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, and more. Some of the most famous works in MoMA’s collection include Vincent van Gogh’s “The Starry Night,” Salvador Dali’s “The Persistence of Memory,” and Jackson Pollock’s “Number 31, 1950.”
Guggenheim Museum
1071 5th Ave, New York, NY 10128
The Guggenheim Museum is a unique museum housed in a stunning building designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The museum’s collection includes modern and contemporary art, with a focus on works from the 20th century and beyond.
Some of the most famous works in the Guggenheim’s collection include Pablo Picasso’s “Woman with Yellow Hair,” Wassily Kandinsky’s “Composition 8,” and Jackson Pollock’s “Allegro.”
Food and Drink
New York City is known for its diverse and delicious food scene. From classic pizza to bagels and deli sandwiches, to fine dining, there is something for every taste bud. Here are some must-try food and drink experiences to add to your New York bucket list.
New York Pizza
New York-style pizza is a classic staple of the city’s food culture. Thin, crispy crust, and a perfect balance of sauce and cheese make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Some of the best places to try New York pizza include Di Fara Pizza in Brooklyn, Lombardi’s in Manhattan, and Joe’s Pizza in Greenwich Village.
Bagels and Deli
New York bagels are a must-try when visiting the city. They are known for their chewy texture and delicious flavor. Some of the best bagel spots include Russ & Daughters, Ess-a-Bagel, and H&H Bagels. Deli sandwiches are also a must-try in New York. Katz’s Delicatessen is a classic spot for pastrami and corned beef sandwiches.
Fine Dining
New York City is home to some of the best fine dining restaurants in the world. From Michelin-starred restaurants to celebrity chef-owned establishments, there is no shortage of options for a luxurious dining experience. Some of the top fine dining spots include Eleven Madison Park, Per Se, and Le Bernardin.
Whether you’re in the mood for a classic slice of pizza, a delicious bagel, or a luxurious fine dining experience, New York City has it all. Don’t miss out on these must-try food and drink experiences during your visit.
Parks and Recreation
If you’re looking to experience the great outdoors in New York City, you won’t be disappointed. The city has a wealth of parks and recreation areas that are perfect for enjoying a sunny day, taking a stroll, or even just people-watching. Here are a few must-visit parks and recreation areas for your New York City bucket list.
Central Park
No trip to New York City would be complete without a visit to Central Park. This massive park covers over 800 acres and is home to a wide variety of attractions.
- The Central Park Zoo
- The Bethesda Fountain
- The Great Lawn
- The Central Park Conservatory Garden
Whether you’re looking to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or just enjoy the scenery, Central Park is the perfect place to do it.
High Line
Gansevoort Street to the northern edge of the West Side Yard on 34th Street
The High Line is a unique park that’s built on an old elevated railroad track. This park is a great place to take a walk and enjoy some of the city’s best views. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of seating areas, gardens, and public art installations to enjoy.
Brooklyn Bridge Park
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Brooklyn Bridge Park is a waterfront park that offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. This park is home to a wide variety of attractions.
- The Jane’s Carousel
- The Brooklyn Bridge
- The Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory
- The Brooklyn Bridge Park Greenway
Whether you’re looking to take a bike ride, enjoy a picnic, or just take in the views, Brooklyn Bridge Park is a great place to do it.
New York City has plenty of other parks and recreation areas to explore, but these three are some of the most iconic and memorable. So grab your walking shoes and get ready to explore the great outdoors in the city that never sleeps!
Rockaway Beach
Queens, NY 11693
You can get to Rockaway Beach by train which is kind of cool, because it belongs on our NY Bucket List, too… it’s an adventure in itself! Escape the hustle and bustle of the city, and enjoy some surfing, shopping, and delicious food and drinks.
Pro tip: Stalk Yelp for insider tips and tricks. One Yelper calls the Rockaways “by far the prettiest and most well constructed” boardwalk she’s seen.
Howe Caverns
255 Discovery Dr, Howes Cave, NY 12092
Feeling adventurous? Descend nearly 160 feet beneath the Earth’s surface on a tour of Howe Caverns. Tours are available for everyone, including those who want to tame up with spelunkers and crawl through the tightest spaces in the cave!
1000 Islands
The 1,000 Islands is actually 1,864 islands, but who’s counting? You won’t regret taking the time to make this trip to enjoy one of the most beautiful outdoor rec areas New York has to offer. Whether you’re into camping, fishing, boating, diving, or bird-watching, 1,000 Islands has it all.
Each island is different, which is possibly the coolest thing about the whole area! According to the 1,000 Islands website, the American Indians who used to live in the area called it the “Garden of the Great Spirit”. Check out 5 New Things to do at the Thousand Islands when you plan your trip.
Family Fun
Unique, hands-on activities are something that kids never seem to forget. We love this place!
Catskill Animal Sanctuary
316 Old Stage Rd, Saugerties, NY 12477
The kids will love the Catskill Animal Sanctuary! This 110-acre property houses nearly 300 goats, pigs, sheep, and other gorgeous barnyard animals – all ready for petting and cuddling!
You can stay at the Homestead, a renovated pre-Civil War home restored using eco-friendly materials. Homestead guests enjoy a complimentary vegan breakfast, plus a VIP pass to spend time with their nearly 300 rescued animals, and a complimentary tour of the Sanctuary on the weekends April through October.
Off the Beaten Path
If you’re looking for something unique and different to do in New York, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path options to explore. Here are a few sub-sections to consider:
Tenement Museum
103 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002
“We tell the stories of 97 Orchard Street. Built on Manhattan’s Lower East Side in 1863, this tenement apartment building was home to nearly 7,000 working class immigrants.” Building tours at the Tenement Museum are like taking a step back in history.
During your tour, you’ll visit recreated homes of former residents who lived there, while interacting with costumed interpreters portraying those residents. Learn how this wonderful area has changed over the years, and how generations of immigrants have built it all from the ground up. Enjoy a combined building tour with a neighborhood tour for the full experience.
These areas are important to teach our kids about as they helped new arrivals afford their entry to our lifestyle. Each new share of immigrant culture worked hard to move on and then the next round of immigrants had a place to start.
Fort Tyron Park
Riverside, Dr To Broadway, New York, NY 10040
Experience Fort Tyron Park in all its glory, overlooking the Hudson, without dealing with the crazy hustle and bustle like you would at Central Park. I love the scenery at Fort Tyron, and they have hiking if you are feeling like taking a walk. It’s a bit hilly, but nothing too strenuous.
Described as “a patch of English countryside with a cloistered chapel”, Fort Tyron is wonderful for the whole family. The Cloisters Museum is a must see when visiting the park, too. Home to over 2,000 artifacts dating from the 12th to 15th century, the museum has exhibits including stained glass, sculptures, and more. Don’t forget your camera… there are so many photo ops here!
Coney Island
Coney Island is a classic New York destination that offers more than just a beach. You can ride the famous Cyclone roller coaster, visit the New York Aquarium, and walk along the boardwalk to take in the sights and sounds. If you’re feeling adventurous, try some of the local food vendors, like Nathan’s Famous hot dogs or the original Totonno’s Pizzeria.
Harlem
Harlem is a vibrant neighborhood that’s full of history and culture. Take a walking tour to learn about the area’s jazz roots, visit the Apollo Theater to see a show, or check out the Studio Museum to see contemporary African-American art. If you’re looking for something to eat, try Sylvia’s or Red Rooster for some classic soul food.
The Cloisters
99 Margaret Corbin Dr, New York, NY 10040
The Cloisters is a museum that’s part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, but it’s located in Upper Manhattan and specializes in medieval art and architecture. The museum is set in a beautiful park, and the building itself is modeled after a medieval monastery. Take a stroll through the gardens, check out the collection of illuminated manuscripts, or attend a concert in the beautiful chapel.
Overall, New York has plenty of off-the-beaten-path options to explore. Whether you’re looking for food, culture, or history, there’s something for everyone in this diverse city.
Sports
If you’re a sports fan, New York City is the perfect place for you. With two major league baseball teams, two basketball teams, two football teams, and a hockey team, there’s always a game to watch. Here are two must-visit venues for sports fans:
Yankee Stadium
1 E 161st St, Bronx, NY 10451
Yankee Stadium is the home of the New York Yankees, one of the most successful teams in baseball history. The stadium is located in the Bronx and can seat over 54,000 fans.
If you’re a baseball fan, catching a game at Yankee Stadium is a must-do activity. The stadium also offers tours, so you can see the locker rooms, press box, and other behind-the-scenes areas.
Madison Square Garden
New York, NY 10001
Madison Square Garden is an iconic sports and entertainment venue located in Midtown Manhattan. It’s the home of the New York Knicks (basketball) and the New York Rangers (hockey), as well as a popular venue for concerts and other events.
If you’re a basketball or hockey fan, catching a game at Madison Square Garden is a must-do activity. The venue also offers tours, so you can see the locker rooms, press box, and other behind-the-scenes areas.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for a fun night out, catching a game at Yankee Stadium or Madison Square Garden is an experience you won’t forget.
Shopping
When it comes to shopping in New York City, the options are endless. From high-end designer stores to vintage boutiques, you can find it all. Here are some of the best shopping destinations in the city.
Fifth Avenue
Fifth Avenue is one of the most famous shopping streets in the world. It is home to some of the most iconic high-end stores like Tiffany & Co, Bergdorf Goodman, and Saks Fifth Avenue. You can also find flagship stores of popular brands like Apple, Nike, and Adidas. If you’re looking for luxury shopping, this is the place to be.
Soho
Soho is a trendy neighborhood in Lower Manhattan that is known for its art galleries, restaurants, and boutiques. It is a great place to find unique and stylish clothing, accessories, and home goods. Some of the popular stores in the area include Reformation, Madewell, and Warby Parker. Soho is also home to many independent designers and artists, so you can find one-of-a-kind pieces here.
Brooklyn Flea
80 Pearl St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
If you’re looking for a more eclectic shopping experience, head to the Brooklyn Flea. It is a popular outdoor market that features vintage clothing, antiques, handmade jewelry, and artisanal food. The market is open on weekends in various locations around Brooklyn, so check their website for the current schedule. It’s a great place to find unique and affordable items.
New York City is a shopper’s paradise. Whether you’re looking for luxury brands or vintage finds, you’re sure to find something that fits your style and budget.
Seasonal Events
New York City offers a variety of seasonal events throughout the year. Here are some of the most popular events that you should add to your New York Bucket List.
New Year’s Eve Times Square
New Year’s Eve in Times Square is one of the most iconic celebrations in the world. Every year, thousands of people gather to watch the famous ball drop at midnight. If you want to experience this event, you need to arrive early and be prepared to stand outside for several hours. The area is closed off to traffic, and there are no public restrooms, so plan accordingly.
Thanksgiving Day Parade
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is another popular event that takes place in New York City. The parade features giant balloons, floats, marching bands, and celebrities. The parade starts at 9 am on Thanksgiving Day and lasts for about three hours. If you want to get a good spot to watch the parade, you need to arrive early.
Christmas Tree Lighting
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting is a beloved holiday tradition in New York City. The lighting ceremony takes place in late November or early December and features live performances and a countdown to the lighting of the tree. The tree remains lit until early January, and visitors can view it for free.
New York City offers a wide range of seasonal events that are sure to please visitors and locals alike. Whether you want to ring in the New Year, celebrate Thanksgiving, or enjoy the holiday season, there is something for everyone.
Places To Stay Nearby
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some free things to do in NYC on Sundays?
If you’re looking for free activities to do in New York City on Sundays, there are plenty of options. You can visit some of the city’s most famous landmarks like Central Park, the Brooklyn Bridge, and Times Square for free.
You can also check out some of the city’s museums that offer free admission on Sundays, such as the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and the Brooklyn Museum. Additionally, you can attend a free concert or movie screening in one of the city’s parks or public spaces.
What are some unusual things to do in New York?
If you’re looking for something a little more off the beaten path, there are plenty of unusual things to do in New York City. You can visit the abandoned City Hall subway station, explore the abandoned smallpox hospital on Roosevelt Island, or take a tour of the abandoned Ellis Island hospital.
You can also visit the Morbid Anatomy Museum, which features exhibits on death and the macabre, or take a ghost tour of some of the city’s most haunted locations.
What are some must-see attractions on a Brooklyn bucket list?
If you’re putting together a Brooklyn bucket list, there are plenty of must-see attractions to add to your list. You can visit the Brooklyn Bridge and take a stroll across its iconic span, visit the Brooklyn Museum to see its extensive collection of art and artifacts, or explore the Brooklyn Botanic Garden.
You can also check out the street art in Bushwick, visit Coney Island and ride the Cyclone roller coaster, or take a walk along the Brooklyn Heights Promenade for stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.
What are some must-see attractions on a New York State bucket list?
If you’re looking to explore beyond the city limits, there are plenty of must-see attractions to add to your New York State bucket list. You can visit Niagara Falls, hike in the Adirondack Mountains, or visit the Finger Lakes region for wine tasting and scenic views.
You can also explore the historic sites in the Hudson Valley, visit the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, or take a trip to the beaches of Long Island.
What are the top 10 things to do in New York?
If you’re looking for the top things to do in New York City, here are some must-see attractions to add to your list: visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, explore Central Park, visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art, take a stroll through Times Square, see a Broadway show, visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, take a ferry to Staten Island for views of the Manhattan skyline, explore the High Line, visit the Empire State Building, and take a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge.
What are some fun activities for adults to add to their NYC bucket list?
If you’re looking for fun activities to add to your NYC bucket list, you can check out some of the city’s best rooftop bars for stunning views and delicious cocktails. You can also take a food tour of some of the city’s best neighborhoods, visit a speakeasy for a unique cocktail experience, or take a dance lesson at one of the city’s many dance studios.
Additionally, you can take a tour of the city’s best street art, attend a comedy show or improv performance, or explore some of the city’s hidden gems on a scavenger hunt.
