Créé par Romane, le 7 mai 2026
Votre guide Ryo
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New York, nicknamed the Big Apple, is a destination that captivates millions of travelers each year. Between its towering skyscrapers, iconic neighborhoods, world-renowned museums and electric atmosphere, the city is filled with activities for all tastes. Whether you're an art lover, history enthusiast, shopping fanatic or simply seeking new experiences, here are 50 things to do in New York to transform your stay into an unforgettable adventure.
Iconic Monuments and Skyscrapers of New York
1. Admire the View from the Empire State Building
The Empire State Building remains one of New York's most powerful symbols. From its height of 381 meters, this Art Deco edifice offers a spectacular panoramic view of Manhattan. Head up to the 86th floor, or even better, the 102nd floor for an even more dizzying experience. Sunset there is particularly magical, when the city lights gradually begin to illuminate.
2. Discover Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center
The Rockefeller Center offers an equally spectacular alternative with its Top of the Rock observatory. The advantage? You'll have an unobstructed view of the Empire State Building itself! In winter, the ice rink installed at the foot of the complex becomes a magical place, and this is where the famous giant Christmas tree stands that illuminates the holiday season.
3. Go Up to One World Observatory
Built on the World Trade Center site, the One World Observatory offers a unique perspective on New York from the 102nd floor. The experience begins in the elevator, which propels you to the top in less than a minute while showing a video depicting the evolution of New York's skyline over the centuries.
4. Observe the Chrysler Building
You can't miss the Chrysler Building with its characteristic Art Deco stainless steel spire. While it's no longer New York's tallest building, it remains one of the most elegant and photogenic, especially when the sun makes its distinctive crown shine.
5. Photograph the Flatiron Building
The Flatiron Building, literally the "iron building," is a true architectural gem. Its unique triangular shape, the result of an atypical plot of land, makes it one of New York's most photographed buildings. The neighboring Madison Square Park offers an excellent vantage point to admire it.
Green Spaces and Parks of Manhattan
6. Stroll Through Central Park
Central Park is Manhattan's green lung, a peaceful haven of 341 hectares in the heart of urban frenzy. Walk around the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, discover Bethesda Terrace with its famous fountain, or visit Strawberry Fields, the memorial dedicated to John Lennon. In summer, free concerts and theater performances bring the park to life.
Download the audio-guided tour to discover New York on foot and independently
To explore Central Park and other iconic Manhattan neighborhoods without missing anything, let yourself be guided by the Ryo audio-guided itinerary. This 8.6 km circuit takes you through the city's must-see places, from St. Patrick's Cathedral to Times Square, passing through 5th Avenue and Bryant Park. With 22 audio commentaries, you'll discover the history, anecdotes and secrets of each place, while enjoying a walk at your own pace.
7. Walk on the High Line
The High Line is a planted walkway built on a former elevated railway line. This 2.3 km suspended green corridor runs through the Chelsea neighborhood and offers a unique perspective on the city, with its artistic installations, urban gardens and views of the Hudson River.
8. Enjoy Bryant Park
Bryant Park is a small green haven nestled behind the New York Public Library. In summer, free movies are screened outdoors, while in winter, an ice rink and Christmas market transform the park into a magical place.
9. Visit Brooklyn Bridge Park
This park offers spectacular views of the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan skyline. With its lawns, sports fields and playgrounds, it's the ideal place to picnic while admiring the panorama.
10. Discover Madison Square Park
The Madison Square Park is a small historic park where you can relax in the shade of century-old trees. This is also where you'll find the famous original Shake Shack, where you can enjoy an authentic New York burger.
Iconic Neighborhoods to Explore
11. Feel the Rhythm of Times Square
Times Square is the beating heart of New York. This bright square, with its giant screens and perpetual animation, embodies the overflowing energy of the city. Even though it's extremely touristy, it remains a must-see to feel the New York excitement. Don't hesitate to return when night falls to fully experience the illuminated signs.
12. Walk Down 5th Avenue
The 5th Avenue is Manhattan's most prestigious artery. From luxurious Bergdorf Goodman to Tiffany & Co. windows, passing by the Apple Store with its iconic glass cube, this avenue embodies high-end shopping. It's also on 5th Avenue that you'll find many monuments like St. Patrick's Cathedral.
13. Immerse Yourself in the Chelsea Neighborhood
The Chelsea neighborhood has the highest concentration of art galleries in New York. Stroll through its streets to discover contemporary art, then head to Chelsea Market, a covered market built in a former Nabisco cookie factory, where you can taste all kinds of specialties.
14. Explore Brooklyn and Its Different Faces
Brooklyn fully deserves a full day. Williamsburg charms with its vintage shops and trendy cafes, DUMBO offers postcard views of Manhattan, while Park Slope captivates with its Victorian houses. Don't miss the Brooklyn Museum and Brooklyn Botanic Garden for a dose of culture and nature.
15. Discover Harlem and Its Cultural Roots
Harlem is the cradle of African-American culture in New York. Attend a gospel mass at one of its churches on Sunday morning for an intense spiritual and musical experience. Take the opportunity to visit the Apollo Theater and enjoy soul food at one of its authentic restaurants.
Historic Symbols and Monuments
16. Take the Ferry to the Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty, France's gift to the United States, is New York's quintessential icon. Take the ferry from Battery Park to reach Liberty Island. Book in advance if you want to access the pedestal or crown. Take the opportunity to visit Ellis Island and its moving Immigration Museum, which traces the history of millions of immigrants who arrived in America.
17. Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge is much more than a simple bridge: it's a historic monument and an architectural feat. The walk from Manhattan to Brooklyn offers magnificent views of both shores and takes about 30 minutes. Sunset there is particularly photogenic.
18. Reflect at the 9/11 Memorial
The 9/11 Memorial, with its two reflecting pools located at the exact site of the former Twin Towers, is a poignant place of remembrance. The victims' names are engraved on the bronze edges. The adjacent museum offers an immersive and moving experience retracing the events of September 11, 2001.
19. Admire St. Patrick's Cathedral
The St. Patrick's Cathedral, in the heart of 5th Avenue, contrasts beautifully with the surrounding skyscrapers. This neo-Gothic cathedral in white marble is a true architectural gem where you can attend mass or simply admire its stained glass windows and majestic architecture.
20. Visit the Iconic Grand Central Terminal
The Grand Central Station is much more than a simple station: it's a monument in its own right. Its main hall, with its painted ceiling representing the zodiac and its immense windows, is absolutely spectacular. Don't miss the Whispering Gallery, where the particular acoustics allow you to talk from one end of the vault to the other.
New York's Must-See Museums
21. Explore the Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET)
The MET is one of the world's largest museums with over 2 million works covering 5000 years of history. From Egyptian art to European paintings, through Asian art and weapons and armor collections, it would take several days to see everything. Don't miss the rooftop which offers a panoramic view of Central Park.
22. Discover Modern Art at MoMA
The Museum of Modern Art houses some of the most famous works of the 20th century, including Monet's Water Lilies, Van Gogh's Starry Night, and Picasso's Les Demoiselles d'Avignon. The museum also features temporary exhibitions of contemporary art that are always cutting-edge.
23. Marvel at the Guggenheim
Both for its spiral architecture signed by Frank Lloyd Wright and for its collections, the Guggenheim is a must-see. The helical ramp that goes up to the top of the building offers a unique visiting experience.
24. Dive into Natural History at AMNH
The American Museum of Natural History is famous for its life-size dinosaurs, animal dioramas and planetarium. It's a fascinating museum for young and old, made even more famous by the movie "Night at the Museum."
25. Visit the 9/11 Museum
The 9/11 Memorial Museum offers a deeply moving visit that documents the September 11 attacks through objects, testimonies and multimedia installations. It's an essential place of memory to understand the impact of this tragedy.
Cultural Experiences and Shows
26. Attend a Broadway Musical
Broadway is the temple of musical theater. Whether you choose a classic like The Lion King or Phantom of the Opera, or a more recent creation like Hamilton or Dear Evan Hansen, you'll experience a magical moment. For discounted tickets, visit the TKTS booth in Times Square on the day of the show.
27. Listen to Jazz in a Harlem or Greenwich Village Club
New York is inseparable from jazz. Legendary clubs like the Blue Note in Greenwich Village or the Apollo Theater in Harlem regularly host concerts by living legends or new talents.
28. Attend a Concert at Radio City Music Hall
The Radio City Music Hall is a legendary venue that has hosted the greatest ceremonies and biggest stars. Its Art Deco interior is worth the visit alone, and attending a show here is an unforgettable experience.
29. Feel the Excitement at Madison Square Garden
The Madison Square Garden is one of the world's most famous venues. Attend a Knicks (basketball) or Rangers (ice hockey) game to experience the electric atmosphere of a New York sporting event.
30. Visit Lincoln Center
This cultural complex houses the Metropolitan Opera, New York City Ballet and New York Philharmonic. Even if you don't attend a performance, the building itself and its central fountain are worth a visit.
Free Activities in New York
31. Take the Staten Island Ferry
The Staten Island Ferry is completely free and offers a magnificent view of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and Manhattan skyline. The journey takes about 25 minutes each way, and you can stay on board for the round trip.
32. Attend a Gospel Mass in Harlem
Every Sunday, Harlem churches open their doors to visitors to attend gospel masses. It's an intense spiritual and musical experience, free and authentic. Be respectful and arrive early as places are limited.
33. Stroll on the Brooklyn Bridge
Crossing this iconic bridge costs nothing and offers spectacular views. It's particularly magical at sunrise or sunset.
34. Discover the Public Libraries
The New York Public Library, with its iconic stone lions, offers free tours. Its interior is sumptuous and it has served as a set for many movies. Other neighborhood libraries are also worth visiting for their architecture.
35. Explore Neighborhood Markets
Union Square Greenmarket, Smorgasburg in Brooklyn, or Chelsea Market: these free-access markets immerse you in the local atmosphere and allow you to taste New York culinary specialties.
Alternative and Authentic Neighborhoods
36. Wander Through Greenwich Village
This bohemian neighborhood has retained its old-world charm with its cobblestone streets, literary cafes and jazz clubs. This is where the Beat poets lived and where Bob Dylan and Joan Baez performed in their early days.
37. Discover Bushwick Street Art
The Bushwick neighborhood in Brooklyn has become the mecca of New York street art. Its walls are covered with giant frescoes signed by artists from around the world. A guided tour allows you to learn more about the artists and their works.
38. Explore Chinatown and Little Italy
These two neighborhoods coexist and offer total immersion in their respective cultures. Enjoy authentic dim sum in Chinatown, then cross the street to savor cannoli at one of Little Italy's Italian pastry shops.
39. Get Lost in the East Village
More underground than Greenwich Village, the East Village is the birthplace of the punk movement and still hosts an alternative artistic scene. Explore its vintage shops, hidden cocktail bars and ethnic restaurants.
40. Visit the SoHo Neighborhood
With its cast-iron buildings and characteristic fire escapes, SoHo (South of Houston) is the paradise of trendy shopping and art galleries. Its cobblestone streets and preserved architecture make it one of Manhattan's most photogenic neighborhoods.
New York Culinary Experiences
41. Taste an Authentic Bagel
Nothing beats a freshly made New York bagel. Russ & Daughters, Ess-a-Bagel or Murray's Bagels are institutions where you can taste the real bagel with smoked salmon and cream cheese.
42. Eat a Slice of New York Pizza
New York pizza is eaten folded in half, standing up, and is characterized by its thin and crispy crust. Joe's Pizza, Grimaldi's under the Brooklyn Bridge, or Juliana's are safe choices.
43. Discover the Pastrami at Katz's Delicatessen
Katz's Delicatessen (205 East Houston St, New York, NY 10002, rated 4.3/5 on Google for over 40,000 reviews) has been an institution since 1888. Their pastrami sandwich is legendary and even served as the setting for the famous scene in the movie "When Harry Met Sally."
44. Brunch Like a New Yorker
Brunch is an institution in New York, especially on weekends. Book a table at one of the many restaurants offering pancakes, eggs benedict and unlimited coffee.
45. Taste Specialties at Chelsea Market
Chelsea Market brings together dozens of stalls offering specialties from around the world. Wander between the stalls and compose your meal according to your desires.
Unique and Off-the-Beaten-Path Activities
46. Visit the Cloisters
Located in northern Manhattan, this museum is a reconstruction of a European medieval monastery and houses an exceptional collection of medieval art. The setting, overlooking the Hudson River and surrounded by gardens, is absolutely enchanting.
47. Explore Roosevelt Island by Cable Car
The Roosevelt Island tramway offers spectacular aerial views of Manhattan for the price of a subway ticket. Once on the island, stroll along the promenade that runs along the East River.
48. Discover Coney Island and Its Amusement Park
At the southern tip of Brooklyn, Coney Island is an iconic place with its beach, wooden boardwalk, and retro amusement park. Nathan's Famous offers the best hot dogs in New York, and the New York Aquarium is also worth a visit.
49. Visit the Tenement Museum
This unique museum tells the story of immigration through the preserved apartments of a Lower East Side building. Guided tours bring to life the stories of the families who lived there.
50. Enjoy a Rooftop Bar
End your day with a cocktail at one of New York's many rooftops. 230 Fifth offers an unobstructed view of the Empire State Building, while the Press Lounge in Hell's Kitchen neighborhood offers panoramic views of the Hudson River.
To make the most of your stay in the Big Apple and not miss any of the iconic places, don't hesitate to follow the Ryo audio-guided itineraries that will accompany you through Manhattan, Central Park, Wall Street or Brooklyn. These tours will allow you to discover New York at your own pace, with enriching commentary on each monument and neighborhood.
In conclusion, New York is a city with a thousand faces that never stops reinventing itself. These 50 things to do in New York represent only a sample of the countless experiences the city has to offer. Whether you're drawn to iconic monuments, world-renowned museums, authentic neighborhoods or unique activities, the Big Apple will surprise and amaze you at every street corner. The key is to let yourself be carried away by the contagious energy of this metropolis where everything seems possible. For an optimal and structured experience, let yourself be guided by the Ryo app which will accompany you in your discovery of the city that never sleeps.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do you need to visit New York?
To discover New York's main tourist sites, plan at least 4 to 5 days. However, a full week will allow you to explore the different neighborhoods in more depth and take time to enjoy the unique atmosphere of each borough. If you have more time, you can venture into less touristy neighborhoods and even take excursions in the surrounding areas.
What's the best time to visit New York?
The best times to visit New York are spring (April-May) and fall (September-October), when temperatures are pleasant and parks are magnificent. Summer can be very hot and humid, while winter is cold with often negative temperatures, although the Christmas period offers a magical atmosphere with decorations and ice rinks.
Should you buy a tourist pass in New York?
Tourist passes like the New York Pass or City Pass can be worthwhile if you plan to visit several major paid attractions (Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, museums, Statue of Liberty). Calculate the total cost of your planned visits and compare it to the pass price to determine if it's cost-effective for you.
How to get around New York?
The New York subway is the most efficient and economical way to get around the city. It operates 24/7 and serves virtually all neighborhoods. A rechargeable MetroCard will allow you to use the subway and buses. Yellow taxis and services like Uber are also available, but can be expensive during rush hours.
Is New York a safe city for tourists?
New York is today one of the safest major cities in the United States. Tourist areas are particularly well monitored. As in any major metropolis, stay vigilant, avoid displaying valuable objects and be careful in certain neighborhoods at night. Manhattan neighborhoods, Brooklyn Heights, and Williamsburg are generally very safe.