New York vacation guide

Top things to do in New York

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  The Highline$★5.0

  An iconic elevated park featuring lush gardens and stunning Manhattan views

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  9/11 Memorial & Museum$$★4.8

  A poignant NYC tribute honoring victims and heroes of September 11

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  Brooklyn Bridge$★4.8

  Historic suspension bridge offering breathtaking panoramic skyline views across East River

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  Central Park$★4.8

  home to a myriad of natural scenic spots and fun-filled activities

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  Grand Central Terminal$★4.8

  An iconic New York landmark and bustling historic transit hub

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  Lincoln Center$$$$★4.8

  New York City's premier destination for world-class opera, dance, and music.

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  Metropolitan Museum of Art$$$★4.8

  Discover five millennia of world art at New York's iconic museum

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  Radio City Music Hall$$$★4.8

  Iconic Midtown Manhattan Art Deco theater home to the legendary Rockettes

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  St. Patrick's CathedralFree★4.8

  An iconic Neo-Gothic architectural landmark in Midtown Manhattan, New York.

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  Bryant Park$★4.7

  A bustling Midtown green space featuring outdoor dining and seasonal activities

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  Carnegie Hall$$★4.7

  Iconic Midtown concert venue renowned for acoustic perfection and historic performances

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  Empire State Building$$★4.7

  Experience panoramic views of New York City from an iconic skyscraper.

All things to do in New York →

Where to eat

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  Los Tacos No.1$★4.8

  Authentic Mexican street tacos served fresh and fast across Manhattan

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  Bolivian Llama Party$★4.7

  Authentic Bolivian street food featuring savory salteñas and bowls in Queens

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  Bunna Cafe$$★4.7

  Lively plant based Ethiopian restaurant in Bushwick featuring traditional coffee ceremonies

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  Los Tacos No.1$$★4.7

  Authentic Tijuana-style street tacos served fast in bustling standing-room spots

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  Los Tacos No.1$★4.7

  Authentic Mexican street tacos served quickly at standing counters across Manhattan

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  Los Tacos No.1$★4.7

  Authentic Tijuana-style tacos served fast in iconic standing-room taquerias across New York

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  Los Tacos No.1$★4.7

  Authentic Tijuana style street tacos served fast in New York City

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  Absolute Bagels$★4.6

  Classic Upper West Side bakery serving legendary hand-rolled New York bagels

All places to eat in New York →

Plan your New York trip

About New York

As a global capital of culture, fashion, and dining, New York City seamlessly blends historic landmarks with cutting-edge modern attractions. Visitors can take in breathtaking views from the Empire State Building or Top of the Rock, catch a Broadway show, and explore world-renowned institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Beyond Manhattan, diverse neighborhoods across the boroughs offer an unmatched culinary scene, vibrant local art, and scenic waterfront parks. Whether strolling through Central Park, taking a ferry past the Statue of Liberty, or experiencing the buzz of Times Square, NYC delivers an unforgettable urban experience year-round.

History

New York City was originally settled by the Dutch in 1624 as New Amsterdam and later became a British colony. It played a significant role in the American Revolution and became the first capital of the United States. It grew rapidly in the 19th and 20th centuries as an economic and cultural hub.

Frequently asked questions

Local tips

• Visit major landmarks early to avoid crowds.
• Buy tickets in advance for popular attractions.
• Use public transportation to get around the city.
• Explore different neighborhoods for a local experience.
• Try food from diverse cuisines due to NYC's multicultural heritage.
• Take a free ferry ride for views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
• Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
• Take advantage of free museum days.
• Consider purchasing a city pass for discounts on multiple attractions.

Interesting facts

• NYC is home to the largest gold storage in the world at the Federal Reserve Bank.
• It has over 800 languages spoken, making it the most linguistically diverse city globally.
• The Empire State Building has its own zip code.
• Central Park was the first landscaped public park in the U.S.
• The New York Public Library has over 50 million books and other items and is the second largest library system in the U.S.
• Times Square is named after The New York Times.
• The first pizzeria in the United States opened in NYC in 1905.
• The subway system operates 24 hours a day.
• There's a secret train platform beneath the Waldorf Astoria hotel.
• The Statue of Liberty was a gift from France.

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• 
  Philadelphia

  As the birthplace of American democracy, Philadelphia pairs rich revolutionary history with a vibrant, modern urban energy. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell before diving into a world-class culinary and arts scene.

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  Baltimore

  Known as Charm City, Baltimore pairs rich maritime heritage and scenic waterfront views with a vibrant, culture-filled urban core. From iconic attractions along the Inner Harbor to world-famous seafood dining, it offers an inviting and multifaceted East Coast escape.

• 
  Boston

  Boston seamlessly blends rich American history with modern urban sophistication, offering scenic harbor views, world-class dining, and iconic landmarks. From walking the red-brick Freedom Trail to taking in panoramic skyline vistas at View Boston, it is a captivating coastal destination.

• 
  Washington

  Washington offers a compelling mix of vibrant urban culture and breathtaking natural landscapes, from Seattle's iconic Space Needle and Pike Place Market to snow-capped peaks and temperate rainforests. Whether exploring Pacific Northwest coastlines or trekking around Mount Rainier, the state delivers endless outdoor adventure and modern city charm.