Things To Do
in Manhattan
Manhattan is the dense, iconic borough at the heart of New York City, famed for its skyline, museums, and neighborhoods. It blends world-class culture with fast-paced urban life, from finance to fashion to food. Parks like Central Park offer green relief amid concrete canyons, while iconic landmarks create a sense of theater at every turn.
Visitors experience a dynamic mix of heritage, innovation, and endless dining and entertainment options.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Statue of Liberty. Take the ferry from Battery Park and enjoy breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline and the harbor. Once you reach Liberty Island, spend time exploring the statue and the museum that tells its story.
After your ferry ride, head to Ellis Island to learn about the immigrant experience and see the beautifully restored Great Hall. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café, savoring classic New York deli sandwiches. Afterwards, stroll through Battery Park and take in the serene waterfront views.
As the sun sets, make your way to the Financial District to see the One World Observatory. Enjoy panoramic views of the city as you reflect on your day. Cap off the evening with dinner at a chic restaurant in Tribeca, indulging in New York-style pizza or a gourmet meal.
Begin your day at the renowned Metropolitan Museum of Art, where you can admire masterpieces from ancient to modern art. Wander through the museum's vast galleries and don’t forget to visit the rooftop garden for a stunning view of Central Park. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the museum café, surrounded by artistic inspiration.
After immersing yourself in art, explore the nearby Guggenheim Museum and its unique architecture designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Grab lunch at a local bistro, where you can try some classic New York brunch dishes. Continue your cultural journey with a stroll through Central Park, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and lush greenery.
As dusk falls, head back to the Upper East Side for a sophisticated dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Enjoy a refined dining experience with seasonal dishes and exquisite wines. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along Museum Mile, admiring the stunning architecture and vibrant nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🍕Pizza slice | $3-5 |
| 🚇One-way public transit ticket | $2.75 |
| 🏨Hotel night (mid-range) | $150-350 |
| 🏙️Rent (1-bedroom in city center) | $3,000-4,000/mo |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class sights and iconic skyline
- Extremely walkable and transit-rich
- Broad culinary scene and diverse neighborhoods
- Cultural institutions and nightlife variety
- High costs of living and visiting
- Crowds and hustle can be overwhelming
- Limited budget-friendly options in central areas
- Noise and busy streets in tourist zones
Places to Visit in Manhattan
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic steps and fountain with grand arches; best at sunrise or golden hour for soft light.
Crowded, neon-lit hub perfect for night photography and capturing the frenzy of city life.
Triangular façade; striking from Madison Square Park or the surrounding streets.
Panoramic city views from Rockefeller Center, especially at dusk.
Architectural lines and skyline silhouette from vantage points near the bridge approaches.
Beaux-Arts grandeur with celestial ceiling and busy platform scenes.
Food in Manhattan
Manhattan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thin, foldable slices with a crisp crust; best eaten on the go from a classic pizzeria like Lombardi's or Joe's Pizza.
Must-Try!
Chewy bagels topped with rich cream cheese and smoked salmon, a quintessential NYC breakfast.
A deli staple, famously served at Katz's Delicatessen with warm, piled meat and tangy mustard.
Dense, creamy dessert often enjoyed at iconic spots like Junior's in Brooklyn or Manhattan locations.
A comforting pastry snack found in delis and markets, with fillings ranging from potato to kasha.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, baked goods, and local specialties from farmers and artisans.
Indoor market hall with a wide range of prepared foods, snacks, and small eateries.
Lower East Side market offering diverse stalls, fresh produce, and ready-to-eat options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Stand in lines, don't block doors, and keep voice volumes reasonable in public spaces; tipping is customary in many service industries; respect personal space on crowded sidewalks and subways.
Safety
Tipping in Manhattan
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants typically 15-20% before tax; bartenders often receive $1-2 per drink; taxi and rideshare drivers appreciate rounding up or a 10-15% tip.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; cash is still common in many places; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are increasingly used.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with sporadic thunderstorms; carry water, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor time for early mornings or evenings.
Mild days with crisp air; great for walking, park visits, and colorful foliage in trees lining avenues and parks.
Cold with possible snow; dress in layers; indoor venues are abundant and festive decorations light up the city.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming trees; outdoor cafes and markets come alive across neighborhoods.
Manhattan at Night
Hiking in Manhattan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic hiking with views of the Hudson River and surrounding hills, about an hour's drive from Manhattan.
Extensive network of trails through forest and lakes, accessible by car from NYC.
A closer hiking option at the northern edge of Manhattan with woodland trails and scenic views.
Airports
How to reach Manhattan by plane.
Closest to Manhattan; mainly domestic flights with some international; accessible by rideshare, taxi, or public transit.
Major international hub; AirTrain connects to subway and trains.
New Jersey hub; rail connections via AirTrain to NJ Transit/Amtrak; accessible by car and bus.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mosaic of ethnic groups from around the world, with wide immigrant communities and neighborhoods like Chinatown, Harlem, and the Upper West Side.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The city has a strong basketball culture with pro and college teams; playgrounds are popular for pickup games.
New York Yankees (Bronx) and Mets (Queens) are the closest major league teams; weekends are packed for games.
Public courts and clubs; US Open in Queens is a marquee event (seasonal).
Many residents and visitors run along the Hudson River Greenway and Central Park trails.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Manhattan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
NYC offers abundant vegetarian options from casual spots to upscale restaurants; look for plant-based menus, veggie-centric bowls, and dairy-free alternatives. Notable vegetarian-friendly places include ABCV and By Chloe, with many other menus accommodating meat-free meals.