In the 1980s, music sensation Huey Lewis had a hit song called “Heart of Rock ‘n’ Roll.” The opening lines of that song mentioned all that New York City has to offer, offering the lines, “Where else can you do a half a million things, all in a quarter to 3?” These sung words sum up perfectly just what the Empire City boasts to residents and visitors alike. If you’re wondering what to do in New York City, you’ll find it more difficult narrowing down all the many choices. To help you in your quest and to satisfy the tastes of people of all ages and backgrounds and with all manner of preferences and likes, consider the following options. You’ll soon discover you’ll need to make several trips to take in everything found in this remarkable city.
History
Who could visit New York City and not think about perhaps the most famous landmark in the entire country: The Statue of Liberty? Located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, this icon was dedicated in 1886 as a gift from the French. The 305-foot statue is a symbol of freedom and a welcoming beacon to immigrants. In New York City, you can also visit historic Ellis Island, the USS Intrepid, the Empire State Building and many more attractions.
Sports
When it comes to sports, asking what to see and do in New York is like asking where to find sand at the beach. New York City has more professional sports franchises than any other city in the United States. Totaling the four major professional sporting leagues (football, baseball, basketball and hockey), the city as eight, two in each sport. The New York Yankees have been one of the most enduring franchise in Major League Baseball and has been a fan favorite in New York form more than a century. Meanwhile, the New York Giants of the NFL and New York Knicks of the NBA have consistently been among the biggest draws in the their respective leagues. The Mets, Jets and Brooklyn Nets complement the Yankees, Giants and Knicks, respectively. In hockey, the Islanders and Rangers have been fixtures in the city for decades.
Arts and Entertainment
More so than anywhere else in the U.S., you won’t need to ask yourself what to do in New York City if you’re looking for some culture. The city has numerous museums and theaters, including the world-famous Carnegie Hall, the Met and Brooklyn Museum. These are just a few of the many venues you could visit if you’re looking for music, movies, operas, art galleries or performances of many kinds.
Fine Dining
You might expect in a city of more than 8 million (more than 20 million metropolitan) to find plenty to eat. No matter what tantalizes your taste buds, you’ll find it here in New York City. Form the high-end to the casual, this incredible city has something to eat for everyone.
Knowing what to do in New York City will help maximize your time during your visit. Use this guide to help you out.