Stand With Your Mouth Open In Times Square
Times Square needs no introduction: neon lights, giant screens and lots of people. It can be overwhelming and wonderful in equal parts, but it sure doesn’t leave you indifferent. It is, without a doubt, a place to get lost in during your visit to New York and even more so at night, when the buildings shine with their own light and the magic of New York begins to be perceived.
Ellis Island National Museum Of Immigration
The point of arrival for 12 million immigrants to the United States between 1892 and 1954, Ellis Island is a short boat trip via Statue Cruises at Battery Park.
To give you an idea of the importance of this site, the descendants of these immigrants account for nearly half of the entire population of the United States.
Dating to 1900, the main building of the immigration station complex houses the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration.
Just outside, the Wall of Honour lists some of the people to have been processed here.
Within the Renaissance Revival building theres a wealth of information panels, artefacts, photographs, videos, oral histories and interactive stations.
The audio tour has more than 120 hours worth of content, going into detail on what it was like to pass through Ellis Island, how America was populated in the 19th and 20th centuries, and immigration in the present day.
Just like Broadway is synonymous with musical theatre, Fifth Avenue means luxury and prestige.
New Yorks most refined artery is the eastern boundary to Central Park and cuts past a staggering amount of things on this list, be it the Empire State Building or the Frick Collection.
There are specific stretches that demand a visit, like the park-side blocks between 59th and 96th Street.
From 82nd to 105th Streets is Museum Mile, loaded with nine prestigious museums almost side by side, including The Met and the Guggenheim.
Get To Know The Mythical Madison Square Garden
You may not be that big of a fan of the NBA itself, but you’re dying to discover this venue where so many artists and sports teams have made history. There are guided tours of the venue, you can attend concerts and you can, of course, see the Knicks play at home. Here’s how to buy tickets to Madison Square Garden.
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Join A Walking Tour Of Greenwich Village
The very bohemian Greenwich Village is one of New Yorks most historic neighborhoods, with its cobblestone streets and century-old Brownstone buildings offering a glimpse back in time.
Bordering the Hudson River on its west and Broadway on its easy, theres plenty to see in this upbeat area, with Jazz clubs, quaint cafes, Off-Broadway theaters, and Washington Square Park just a slice of whats on offer.
To get the full experience youre going to want to join an expert guide on a walking tour around here theyll share all kinds of fascinating stories about famous residents that have lived there over the years and dish out some hot local tips.
See All Five Boroughs In One Room At The Panorama Of The City Of New York Exhibit At The Queens Museum
Recently featured in the Netflix series Pretend Its a City starring iconic New Yorker Fran Lebowitz, this miniature model of New York City was originally built for the 1964 Worlds Fair.
The sprawling model has been updated over the years to reflect changes to the cityscape but really gives you a sense of the sheer size of the five boroughs.
In a way, youll feel like youre taking a helicopter ride over the city without ever leaving the ground.
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Visit The Harry Potter New York Store
One of the more recent additions to this list of the most unusual things to do in NYC, the Harry Potter New York store just opened on June 3rd and is a behemoth, 2-story retail outlet that is located right near the flatiron building in lower Manhattan.
So, if youre a Harry Potter fan of even the smallest measure, be sure to stop by and peruse through their amazing collection of Harry Potter-related merchandise, including everything from wands to pens to notebooks to t-shirts and full-on Harry Potter-inspired robes.
There are also some uber-cute photo ops on the first floor, including a spot where can snap a selfie with Hagrids giant shoes and a place where you can take a photo with an iconic, vintage, red phone booth from London.
Afterward, head downstairs and explore the cavernous basement, which is filled with even more Harry Potter-related awesomeness, like an adorable tunnel of books where you can try and snap a wicked awesome selfie. Theres also a unique, virtual reality experience for you to try if you have a little extra cash to burn.
Finally, before you leave, be sure to visit the on-site cafe and order a giant mug of butterbeer for me. Its delicious and tastes just like the most glorious, cream soda that you ever did taste.
Because trust me, this really is one of the best hidden gems in NYC for the entire family.
Address: 935 Broadway, New York, NY 10010
Hours: Open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm and on Sundays from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm.
Explore Nycs Distant Dutch History At The Vander Ende
If youre a diehard history nerd like me and think that spending a day museum hopping sounds like a wicked good time, then this is one of those unusual things to do in New York City that you will absolutely love.
Located right along the border between Brooklyn and Queens:
The Vander Ende-Onderdonk House is tucked away behind a slightly mundane seeming piece of road that connects Bushwick to Ridgewood.
However:
Take a closer look and youll discover a true gem of a historic home.
A private residence that was originally built by a Dutch farmer, Paulus Vander, in 1709 and that is now known for being the oldest, Dutch colonial stone house in all of New York City.
Later on:
The Onderdonk family eventually purchased the building and completed a major expansion, before the private residence was eventually converted into a museum, by the Greater Ridgewood Historical Society, after being placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978.
Which is why it stands here today, providing visitors with an understanding of what life was really like for Dutch residents living in Colonial New York.
Walk through the buildings exposed beam interior and discover charming double Dutch doors, original wood floors, quaint brick chimneys, green shuttered windows, and a variety of exhibitions that display recently recovered artifacts from nearby, archaeological digs.
Because contrary to popular belief:
Time travel just may be possible when visiting the quiet corner of Queens.
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Our Absolute 33 Things To Do In Summer In New York City
Youll pretty much find things to do in the different neighborhoods such as Midtown, SoHo or DUMBO. With so many summer events in NYC, weve curated this list to the best 33. What is New York City like in the summer? Find out in this article!
My tip: here you find our complete guide to Summer in NYC.
Watch The Blue Man Group
Step into the world of New Yorks iconic Blue Man Group at the Astor Place Theatre, and youll be instantly transported to an explosive sensory extravaganza filled with comedy, music, science experiments, artistry and even audience participation .
Brought to life by three bald-headed blue men in black suits who like nothing more than making people laugh, this high-energy show is all about creating a unique and unforgettable night out.
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Cycle Over Brooklyn Bridge
Pedal across New Yorks most famous bridge and take in views of skyscrapers across the East River on a fun bike tour. Connecting the vibrant borough of Brooklyn with Manhattan Island, the bridge offers an epic way to see the sights.
See if you can spot movie filming locations in Brooklyn Bridge Park and marvel at the engineering of the worlds first steel-wire suspension bridge.
A New Immersive Art Experience
Head to the historic boiler room of Chelsea Market to experience the immersive art space ARTECHOUSE. Right now you can catch a reprise of the space’s first installation, Machine Hallucination by Refik Anadol. Anadol is a Turkish artist with a keen interest in using machines for innovative data sculptures and installations. Anadol has created Machine Hallucination with New York architecture in mind. The waves of imagery that envelop visitors are a machine-generated assemblage of 3 million different images of local architecture. The array of images is determined by artificial intelligence and meant to mimic the boundless, multidimensional world of machines. Together, as they roll across the space, these images create an entirely new architectural environment and not a little wonder. Youve never seen art like this before, as room-sized digital projections merge with sound design to create an almost cinematic experience. ARTECHOUSE is located in the 6,000-square-foot boiler room beneath Chelsea Market and is the first tenant in this unique space. The exposed brick walls and terracotta ceilings have been preserved to recall the 100-year-old history of the place while it houses this forward-thinking concept.
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Attend A Tv Live Recording
Most of the live recordings you can sign up for are late night New York City talk shows. If Im being honest, its kind of bizarre seeing your favorite shows being taped, but totally worth it. You view TV So differently and really appreciate the work that goes into it.
One of the best things Ive done in New York City at night is gone to see Jimmy Fallon. It was back in the fall of 2017 right before the Macys day parade. During a commercial break Jimmy Fallon was extremely personable and started interacting with the audience and walking around us.
At one point he made a comment about being backstage on the Sesame Street float. He mentioned how weird it is to see Elmo take his head off. I dont know what came over me but I blurted out thats what it feels like seeing you in person! Jimmy Fallon laughed and told me he appreciated me and proceeded to shake my hand.
Its a memory I will never forget. To be honest its one of the best things Ive done in New York City at night.
I highly suggest trying to get tickets to a live taping. Its no doubt one of the best things to do in New York City at night. Most tapings are free, you just need to apply in advance and hang tight on a waitlist. I know it might seem like a longshot, but my wife and I have gotten into about half of the tapings weve applied for.
Locals Tip: The Rockefeller Center is home to the NBC store on the first floor. Stop by for some merch of the TV show you just took part in!
Intrepid Sea Air & Space Museum
The aircraft carrier USS Intrepid , which served in the Pacific during the Second World War, surviving five kamikaze attacks, was rescued from scrapping in 1978 and in 1982 found a permanent home at Pier 86 off 46th Street.
This is the centrepiece of a museum for US military and maritime history, allowing you to pore over the inner workings of a WWII-era aircraft carrier, but also view a serious collection of other vessels and aircraft.
One of the highlights, the USS Growler is the only American guided missile submarine open to the public, while the BA Concorde at Pier 86 broke the Concordes transatlantic crossing record in 1996. In the Space Shuttle Pavilion you can view the Enterprise, the prototype Space Shuttle orbiter, rolled out in 1976.
Brooklyns 526-acre Prospect Park is a beautiful place to get lost, dotted with historic buildings, little attractions and sports facilities, all on a hilly terminal moraine from the last Ice Age.
Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, the men behind Central Park, Prospect Park took shape during the 1860s, and has a ceremonious entrance to the north, on the Grand Army Plaza, via the Soldiers and Sailors Arch . New buildings were being added well into the early 20th century.
One of these is the elegant Boathouse on the Lullwater , a channel of the parks lake.
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Try An Alternative Christmas Atmosphere At Santas Secrets
Do you wonder what keeps Santa Claus busy when hes out of the public eye? Hes running a secret vintage nightclub at Hudson Yards!
Discover Santas secret in a captivating experience this Christmas season with cocktails and variety shows filled with sensational performances, including ballets and burlesque. Before making it to his secret speakeasy, youll wander through a wonderland and encounter the gingerbread girls, lumberjacks and ice queens.
Youll see not only six immersive installations and multidisciplinary interactive shows, but also a live band with New Yorks Inyang Bassey. This two-hour holiday experience runs from Dec. 1 to Jan. 2.
Ready for a spooky night? Go behind the scenes at the Basilica of St. Patricks Old Cathedral. Get access to the off-limits and hidden areas of the Basilica grounds, and step into the only active catacombs in New York City.
Work On Your Espionage Tactics At Spyscape
Any budding Sherlock Holmes in the house? Then take note.
A unique and immersive experience for visitors of all ages, SPYSCAPE is an interactive museum that gives you a chance to crack codes learn how to be a spy match wits with artificial intelligence, and handle the latest state-of-the-art equipment thanks to its high tech gadgets on display not to mention check out a dedicated 007 James Bond exhibit!
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National Museum Of Mathematics
11 E 26th StNew York, NY 10010 542-0566
If you find Math to be scary or nerdy, this will give you a new perspective. This is one of those underrated places that has a great variety of kids stuff, waiting to be explored. It has a lot of exhibits demonstrating the value of math, science and technology in our everyday lives.
Theres also little wonders like square-wheeled tricycles and a range of quizzes and puzzles that will blow your mind. Theres also the option of painting on a digital canvas. So if youre not math-y but artsy, you will still enjoy this museum.
We couldnt skip this one and neither should you. It sounds a bit of an obvious choice but it really is among the fun things to do in NYC with kids. The observatory on the 102nd floor, for example, is an iconic piece of art in itself.
You get to go over 1,200 feet above New York and enjoy a panoramic view of the city. The whole family can get a good look at the Manhattan skyline without having to go there.
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Enjoy A Fun Day Out At Luna Park On Coney Island
The boroughs of Manhattan and Queens are more well-known for their food, art scene, and historical sites. If youre an adrenaline junkie, make your way to the tip of Brooklyn to visit the Luna Theme Park on Coney Island.
Opened in 2010, Luna Park is relatively new, but it sits at a site once home to other famous parks, like Astroland and Dreamland. Luna Park has both thrill and family-friendly rides for everyone to enjoy.
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Enjoy The Best Ice Cream In The City
Unfortunately, the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory right next to the Brooklyn Bridge, what was, which we thought was the best ice cream in NYC, is not there anymore. However, there are still some creative and tasty spots in New York where you can get your hands on some amazing ice cream. Our favorites are Big Gay Ice Cream Shop in the East Village and West Village, Ice & Vice and Morgensterns Finest Ice Cream in the Lower East Side. Also, make sure to check out Van Leeuwen, which has multiple locations throughout the city.
New York Harbour And Statue Of Liberty Evening Cruise
Downtown New York is stunning from the water by day, but the sight of the harbour and skyline at night is one of those experiences that will stay with you long after youve gone home.
GetYourGuide.com has an hour-long cruise after sunset, with running commentary imparting titbits you might not have known.
The cruise departs from Pier 16 at South Street Seaport, and arcs around Lower Manhattan to take in the Statue of Liberty, the forest of skyscrapers including the likes of One World Trade Center, and then under the Brooklyn Bridge and up as far as the Empire State Building.
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City Lights Helicopter Night Tour
Theres nothing quite like New York at night and seeing it twinkling in the darkness from above is super special. This night-time flight takes a similar route to the Manhattan day tour, but focuses on the sights that come to life after dark.
Gaze down at Times Square in all its brightly lit splendor and check out the Rockefeller Center and George Washington Bridge from your comfy seat. Of course, the most iconic illuminated landmark has to be the Statue of Liberty, which poses as the centerpiece of your tour.
No7 Cool Thing To Do In New York Hipster For A Day
An area dating back to the 17th Century, Williamsburg is today the center of the New York hipster community. Entrepreneurs, artists and creatives are moving to Williamsburg and turning the area into a thriving, flowery and colourful part of the city.
Expect funky cafes, pop-up food markets, alternative New York designer shops and a melting pot of cultures as the previous residents of the area blend in with the new wave of gentrification.
Spend the day at the flea market and then wander around the main streets for second hand finds, great coffee, brunch, sex shops, record stores, parks , delicious cookies and cupcakes, Brooklyn Brewery tours , and all-round hipster cool New York life.
You may want to catch an independent movie at Nitehawk Cinema top top the day off.
Wandering the streets is the best way to enjoy Williamsburg. If you also want to taste it, the food walking tours of the area are fantastic as they will take you to the small stores that are famous for having contestants from Master Chef and other programs alike. If you want to know what the next foodie craze may be, this is probably the place to see it first.
STAY CONNECTED
Remember to grab a SIM card so you are connected and reachable throughout your time in New York City.
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