50+ Iconic New York City Bucket List Things To Do!

New York City has been like a second home to me—I’ve been visiting every other year since I was a little girl. Over the years, I’ve explored countless corners of this incredible city, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that NYC is packed with bucket list experiences.
Whether it’s your first trip or your tenth, the top 3 New York City bucket list spots are the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and Central Park. But there’s so much more! In this guide, I’m sharing 55 iconic things to do in NYC, fun facts about each, and tips to make your trip unforgettable. Let’s dive into the magic of the city that never sleeps!
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New York City Bucket List

1. Central Park
Take a leisurely stroll or rent a bike to explore Central Park’s 843-acre oasis of greenery right in the middle of Manhattan.
Stop by iconic spots like Bow Bridge, Bethesda Terrace, or Strawberry Fields.
It’s the first landscaped public park in the U.S., perfect for reconnecting with nature and spotting scenes from countless movies.

2. Times Square
Experience the dazzling energy of Times Square by visiting after sunset when the neon lights are at their brightest.
Snap a photo at the red stairs or catch a Broadway ticket from TKTS nearby.
Times Square got its name from being the former headquarters of The New York Times.
Also see: How To Spend The New Year In New York (Times Square!)

3. Empire State Building
Head to the 86th and 102nd-floor observatories of the Empire State Building for sweeping panoramic views of NYC.
Visit early morning or late evening to avoid crowds and enjoy the skyline in peace.
This Art Deco masterpiece once held the title of the world’s tallest building for nearly 40 years.

4. Statue of Liberty National Monument
Take a ferry from Battery Park to visit this iconic symbol of freedom standing tall on Liberty Island.
Climb up to the crown for stunning views, but book tickets well in advance as they sell out fast.
The statue was a gift from France and took 9 years to complete.
Also see: Here’s How To See The Best View Of The Statue of Liberty!

5. National 9/11 Memorial and Museum
Reflect at the serene reflecting pools where the Twin Towers once stood, then visit the museum to learn more about 9/11.
Plan to spend at least two hours exploring the exhibits.
The museum’s “Survivor Tree” is a pear tree that endured the attacks and grew back stronger.

6. Broadway Show
Choose from top-notch productions like The Lion King or Hamilton in the heart of the Theater District.
Arrive early to grab a Playbill and enjoy the ornate architecture of the theaters.
Broadway was one of the first streets in the city to be lit by electricity.

7. Rockefeller Center
Snap a photo at the Rockefeller Plaza or skate on its ice rink during winter months.
Don’t miss the Top of the Rock observation deck for unparalleled views of the city.
The Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony here has been a holiday tradition since 1933.
Also see: Is New York Worth Visiting During The Holidays?

8. Coney Island Park, Beach & Boardwalk
Ride the historic Cyclone roller coaster or savor a Nathan’s Famous hot dog at this classic seaside boardwalk.
Visit in summer for the full carnival vibes and beach days.
Coney Island was home to the world’s first permanent amusement park.
Also see: How To Get To Coney Island Easily From Manhattan By Subway!

9. The Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET)
Wander through world-class art and artifacts spanning thousands of years at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Wear comfy shoes to explore its three main wings and stop by the rooftop garden for views.
The museum collection exceeds 2 million works, including Van Gogh and Monet.
Also see: Map Of New York City Museums + Top 10 To Visit While Here!

10. The High Line
Walk along this elevated park built on a historic rail line for unique views of the city streets below.
Visit in spring for blooming flowers and pop-up art installations.
The project preserved nearly 30 species of native plants found on the old tracks.

11. One World Observatory
Ride the SkyPod Elevator up to the 102nd floor and marvel at the views from Manhattan’s tallest building.
Visit during golden hour for dreamy photo ops.
The building stands precisely 1,776 feet tall, symbolizing the year of America’s independence.

12. Brooklyn Bridge
Walk or bike across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, enjoying views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.
Hit the pedestrian path early to skip the crowds.
Completed in 1883, it was the first steel-wire suspension bridge in the world.

13. Top of the Rock
Visit the three-tiered observation deck for sweeping views of Central Park and the Empire State Building.
Bring a camera for nighttime shots when the city is all lit up.
It’s one of the few spots where you can see the Empire State and Chrysler Building together.

14. Grand Central Terminal
Wander through the iconic Main Concourse and look up to spot the celestial ceiling featuring constellations.
Stop for coffee and baked goods at Magnolia Bakery before taking a photo at the famous clock.
The terminal moves more than 750,000 people daily.

15. Flatiron Building
Admire this uniquely triangular architectural beauty from Madison Square Park, the perfect spot for photos.
Visit the area and try Shake Shack too while you’re at it.
Its aerodynamic shape was designed to minimize damage from strong winds.

16. Bronx Zoo
Spend the day meeting giraffes, tigers, and over 6,000 animals spread across this 265-acre wildlife haven.
Visit the Congo Gorilla Forest or ride the Wild Asia Monorail.
It is one of the largest metropolitan zoos in the world and opened in 1899.

17. Chinatown
Explore colorful streets lined with authentic eateries, and don’t miss a dim sum feast on Doyers Street.
Look for unique souvenirs at bustling street markets.
Manhattan’s Chinatown is one of the oldest in the U.S., settled by Chinese immigrants in the late 1800s.

18. Ellis Island
Tour the immigration museum and step back in time to learn about the millions who passed through its doors.
Purchase a combined ferry ticket with the Statue of Liberty for a seamless experience.
More than 40% of Americans can trace at least one ancestor to Ellis Island.

19. Summit One Vanderbilt
Walk through immersive mirrored observation decks that reflect NYC’s skyline in every direction.
Book early tickets to beat the rush and grab surreal photos.
The experience blends modern art with skyscraper views at over 1,200 feet above street level.

20. St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Visit this Neo-Gothic cathedral’s ornate interiors and light a candle while admiring its stained glass windows.
Entry is free, but donations are appreciated.
It was completed in 1879 and is still the largest Gothic cathedral in the U.S.

21. Chrysler Building
Look at this Art Deco masterpiece’s stunning crown design and eagle gargoyles.
Unfortunately, only the 1st floor hall is open to the public, but you can admire its exterior along 42nd Street.
It once held the title of the world’s tallest building for 11 months in 1930.
Also see: My Cheap 7-Day New York Travel Budget For New Years Eve!

22. The Guggenheim Museum
Step into this spiral-designed building to experience masterpieces by Picasso, Calder, and Chagall.
Visit on Saturday evenings for pay-what-you-wish entry.
Frank Lloyd Wright designed the building, which is as famous as the art it holds.

23. The Museum of Modern Art (MOMA)
Explore iconic artworks like Van Gogh’s Starry Night and Warhol’s Campbell’s Soup Cans at the Museum of Modern Art.
Arrive early on weekends to avoid peak crowds.
Known as one of the most influential modern art museums in the world, MOMA was founded in 1929.

24. Fifth Avenue
Stroll along Fifth Avenue and window shop at luxury stores like Tiffany & Co. and Bergdorf Goodman.
Visit the Rockefeller Center and St. Patrick’s Cathedral nearby to round out your day.
It’s often called one of the most expensive shopping streets in the world.
Also see: 25- Christmas in New York Bucket List Things To Do!

25. Chelsea Market
Savor international eats and shop for artisanal goods at this trendy indoor food hall.
Try Los Tacos No. 1 for mouthwatering tacos.
Formerly a Nabisco factory, it’s where Oreo cookies were first invented.
Also see: New York 7-Day Itinerary For Christmas & New Year’s Eve!

26. Bryant Park
Relax in this midtown Manhattan park surrounded by skyscrapers, with free events like movie nights or ice skating in the winter.
Snag a latte from a local vendor and people-watch.
The park sits behind the famous New York Public Library.

27. Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Wander among seasonal blooms, including cherry blossoms in spring and roses in early summer.
Visit on weekdays for fewer crowds and quieter paths.
Its Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden is among the oldest of its kind outside Japan.

28. Brooklyn Bridge Park
Enjoy uninterrupted views of Lower Manhattan from this waterfront park’s piers and lawns.
Pack a picnic or rent a kayak for a unique perspective.
A 19th-century warehouse was transformed into an eco-friendly park area with sustainable features.

29. Dumbo View of Manhattan Bridge
Snap an insta-worthy shot of the Manhattan Bridge framed between red brick buildings on Washington Street.
Visit during golden hour for perfect lighting.
The area gets its name from being “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass.”

30. Williamsburg Bridge
Walk or bike across the Williamsburg Bridge for stunning views of both Brooklyn and Manhattan.
The bridge connects trendy Williamsburg to the vibrant Lower East Side, and it’s free to cross.
Opened in 1903, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world at the time.

31. Gantry Plaza State Park
Lounge along the waterfront at Gantry Plaza State Park in Queens, where the Manhattan skyline serves as your backdrop.
Bring a picnic or use one of the park’s many benches while soaking in the views of the East River.
The vintage Pepsi-Cola sign here has been a New York landmark since 1936.
Also see: 10 Tips For Your 1st Time In New York- A Travel’s Guide!

32. Staten Island Ferry
Hop on the free Staten Island Ferry for unbeatable views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan’s skyline.
The ferry operates 24/7, and you can bring snacks on board if you want to enjoy the ride to the fullest.
It has been a vital mode of transport since 1905.

33. Apollo Theater
Stop by the Apollo Theater in Harlem, a stage famous for launching many careers, including Ella Fitzgerald’s.
Attend Amateur Night on Wednesdays when locals compete for the spotlight.
Opened in 1914, this theater holds a rich history of shaping American music culture.

34. Madison Square Garden
Catch a concert or Knicks game at Madison Square Garden, the “World’s Most Famous Arena.”
Make sure to book tickets in advance for major events to secure great seats.
Located above Penn Station, it’s a multi-purpose venue hosting over 300 events a year.

35. Radio City Music Hall
Visit the iconic Radio City Music Hall to see the Rockettes or take a backstage tour.
Located in Rockefeller Center, this Art Deco landmark is a must-see for any entertainment fan.
It was nicknamed the “Showplace of the Nation” when it opened in 1932.

36. African Burial Ground National Monument
Pay respects at the African Burial Ground National Monument in Lower Manhattan.
A historical site recognizing free and enslaved Africans buried there during the 17th and 18th centuries.
Admission is free, and it’s an impactful place to learn about NYC’s early history.
Archaeologists uncovered more than 400 remains here in the 1990s.

37. Federal Hall National Monument
Visit Federal Hall, where George Washington took the oath of office as America’s first president in 1789.
Admission is free, and the site showcases exhibits about American democracy.
Originally built as NYC’s first city hall, the structure later served as the first capitol of the United States.

38. Governors Island National Monument
Take a ferry to Governors Island for a day of scenic exploration, art installations, and bike rides.
The ferry ride costs just a few dollars, and car-free pathways make it perfect for outdoor activities.
The Island was once a military base and is now a public urban oasis.

39. Wall St
Walk down the legendary Wall Street to experience the heart of New York’s Financial District, surrounded by iconic skyscrapers.
Stop for a photo with the Charging Bull statue, a symbol of financial optimism.
Wall Street dates back to 1653 when a literal wall was built by Dutch settlers.

40. The Oculus
Explore The Oculus at the World Trade Center, an architectural masterpiece housing a transit hub and shopping mall.
Admission is free, though shopping and dining here can fill your schedule.
Designed by Santiago Calatrava, its structure resembles a bird taking flight.

41. The Vessel
Climb to the top of The Vessel in Hudson Yards for panoramic city views from its unique honeycomb design.
Time your visit by booking tickets online, as this popular attraction often sells out.
It features 154 interconnected staircases for an unforgettable visual experience.

42. Barclay’s Center
Catch a Brooklyn Nets game or a live concert at Barclay’s Center, a major hub for sports and entertainment in Brooklyn.
Tickets can be purchased in advance, with nearby dining options to make a night of it.
Its roof is famously covered with plants and solar panels.

43. Brooklyn Museum
Visit the Brooklyn Museum to admire world-class art collections and rotating exhibits.
Admission is suggested, but you decide how much to pay, and it’s closed on Mondays.
It’s home to the famous Feminist Art exhibit featuring Judy Chicago’s “The Dinner Party.”

44. The New York Public Library
Step into the iconic Rose Main Reading Room and soak in the ornate ceilings and endless rows of books.
The library is free to enter, but be sure to check their hours before visiting.
Its famous marble lions, Patience, and Fortitude, have been standing guard since 1911.

45. Trinity Church
See Trinity Church near Wall Street to admire its Neo-Gothic architecture and stained glass windows.
The churchyard houses historic graves, including that of Alexander Hamilton, now popularized by the musical Hamilton.
The original building was destroyed in the Great Fire of 1776.

46. Cat Café
Check out one of NYC’s Cat Cafés to sip coffee while spending time with adoptable cats.
Bookings are recommended to guarantee your spot, especially on weekends.
The café offers a unique relaxation experience while helping homeless cats find new families.
Also see: This Is The Best Cat Coffee Shop In New York City!

47. Hell’s Kitchen
Stroll through Hell’s Kitchen, one of Manhattan’s neighborhoods filled with diverse eateries and lively nightlife.
Head to 9th Avenue for the best food options and reserve a spot at the Theatre District’s dining hot spots.
Its name traces back to 19th-century gangs that roamed the area.

48. Blue Box Café
Dine at Tiffany’s Blue Box Café and live out the classic Breakfast at Tiffany’s fantasy in a glamorous setting.
Reservations are a must for this upscale experience, where every dish is just as photogenic as the café itself.
The café is located on the sixth floor of Tiffany’s flagship store on 5th Ave.
Also see: 20 Street Foods In New York City You Absolutely Need To Try!

49. Holland Tunnel
Drive through the Holland Tunnel connecting Manhattan to Jersey City, an engineering marvel of its time.
Show up early to avoid rush-hour traffic and marvel at its historic design.
It was the first underwater tunnel built for vehicular traffic in the U.S.

50. Union Square
Spend time at Union Square Park, where you can browse farmer’s markets, enjoy street performances, or just people-watch.
It’s an excellent spot for finding unique crafts and local produce on market days.
The park has been a hub for social gatherings since the 19th century.

51. Museum of Art and Design
Visit the Museum of Art and Design at Columbus Circle to explore contemporary works in all forms, from jewelry to experimental installations.
Admission covers multiple floors of exhibits, with free access on select days.
It frequently highlights sustainable design and innovation. We Went during the Taylor Swift Exhibit.

52. Edge NYC
Experience the thrill of standing on Edge NYC, the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere.
Tickets are required, with morning and sunset slots offering the best views.
Its glass floor gives you a heart-pounding look 100 stories straight down.

53. The Bean Sculpture
Tucked beneath Tribeca’s Jenga Tower, Anish Kapoor’s mirrored bean reflects the city’s towers while appearing subtly compressed by the building above.
Snap a selfie with the city skyline bouncing off its surface, but go early to dodge the crowd.
Its unique design took over a decade to complete due to engineering challenges.

54. New York Transit Museum
Step into history by exploring vintage subway cars and exhibits that trace the evolution of NYC’s transit system.
Located in a decommissioned subway station in Brooklyn, it’s a must-see for train enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
The museum’s collection includes the city’s first-ever subway cars from 1904, preserved in all their glory.

55. The Cloisters
Wander through medieval European art and architecture at The Cloisters, a stunning branch of The Met located in Fort Tryon Park.
Take your time exploring the reconstructed abbeys and gardens, which feel like a serene escape from the city’s hustle.
Built using original medieval European materials, it’s a step back in time.
Final Thoughts-
New York City is overflowing with incredible experiences, but if you’re building your bucket list, make sure to include visits to the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and Central Park. Having visited NYC eight times, I can confidently say these three spots are must-sees for anyone exploring the Big Apple. What would be the first thing you’d want to see or do in NYC? Let me know in the comments!
Happy exploring!

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