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New York City: places to go and things to do
Build a day around one part of Manhattan or Brooklyn rather than crossing the city for every stop. Combine a public park or waterfront with an indoor experience, and leave room for the subway and a meal.
Getting around New York City
Use walking and the subway for most Manhattan and Brooklyn outings. Check the MTA service status before leaving, especially on weekends. A route that looks short on a map can still involve a transfer or a long station walk.
Plan for the weather
Keep an indoor alternative for rain, summer heat, and winter wind. Waterfront parks are exposed; check the forecast and sunset time before making them the last stop.
Places covered in these guides
- Jellycat Diner at FAO Schwarz
Midtown Manhattan · Interactive shopping. A diner-themed plush-shopping experience inside FAO Schwarz. It is a playful keepsake stop, rather than a place to eat a meal.
- Museum of Ice Cream
SoHo, Manhattan · Indoor experience. An indoor experience with colorful installations, ice cream, and a sprinkle pool. A useful option when you want an activity rather than a conventional sightseeing walk.
- Domino Park
Williamsburg, Brooklyn · Waterfront park. An East River waterfront park on the former Domino Sugar Refinery site, with walking space and views toward Manhattan.
- Brooklyn Bridge Park
Brooklyn waterfront · Waterfront park. A waterfront park with paths, piers, and Manhattan views. Choose a section to explore rather than trying to visit every pier in one short stop.
- Bryant Park
Midtown Manhattan · City park. A central Manhattan park next to the New York Public Library, useful for a seated break between indoor or sightseeing stops.
- New York Public Library: Stephen A. Schwarzman Building
Midtown Manhattan · Library and exhibitions. The library’s landmark Fifth Avenue building offers public visitor spaces and exhibitions. It is also a working research library.
- Staten Island Ferry
Lower Manhattan / Staten Island · Harbor ferry. A public ferry between Manhattan and Staten Island with harbor views along the way. It is a transit service that can also be part of a sightseeing day.
- Greenacre Park
Midtown East, Manhattan · Pocket park. A small Midtown East park centered on a waterfall and planted seating areas. It suits a short pause rather than a full afternoon.
- African Burial Ground National Monument
Civic Center, Manhattan · History and memorial. A memorial and visitor center explaining the history and contributions of free and enslaved Africans in colonial New York.