Top Things to Do in New York City in 2025: Essential Attractions & Experiences
New York City in 2025 offers more experiences than ever, blending timeless landmarks with exciting new openings. The top things to do in New York City in 2025 include exploring iconic sights like the Statue of Liberty, enjoying world-class museums, and discovering new cultural spaces and events across the five boroughs. With the city celebrating its 400th anniversary, this year brings fresh reasons to plan a visit.
From the latest Broadway productions and major sports events to the reopening of cultural institutions and new dining destinations, the city continues to evolve while keeping its historic energy alive. Whether someone wants skyline views, outdoor escapes, or unique neighborhoods filled with character, the options feel endless.
This guide highlights the must-see attractions, cultural experiences, and local favorites that define New York City right now. It points the way to iconic landmarks, exciting exhibits, and unforgettable entertainment that make 2025 a standout year to experience the city.
Must-See Iconic Landmarks
New York City is home to structures that define its skyline and history. Visitors can explore world-famous monuments, engineering marvels, and cultural gathering spots that continue to shape the city’s identity.
Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
The Statue of Liberty stands on Liberty Island as a symbol of freedom and democracy. A gift from France in 1886, it rises 305 feet and overlooks New York Harbor. Ferries depart from Battery Park, giving travelers direct access to both the statue and its museum.
Inside the museum, exhibits explain the statue’s design, construction, and meaning. Visitors can also climb to the pedestal or crown for panoramic views of the harbor and Manhattan skyline. Tickets for these areas must be reserved in advance due to limited capacity.
A short ferry ride away, Ellis Island tells the story of immigration to the United States. Over 12 million people entered through this gateway between 1892 and 1954. The Ellis Island Immigration Museum preserves records, photos, and personal stories that illustrate this history.
For those interested in both sites, combination ferry tickets are available. More details can be found on guides like the 45 best things to do in New York City.
Empire State Building
The Empire State Building has been a defining feature of Manhattan since 1931. Standing 1,454 feet tall, it was once the tallest building in the world. Its Art Deco design remains one of the city’s most recognizable architectural achievements.
The building offers two main viewing platforms: the 86th-floor observation deck and the 102nd-floor deck. From here, visitors can see landmarks such as Central Park, Times Square, and the Statue of Liberty. Clear days even allow views stretching into neighboring states.
Evenings provide a different experience, as the building’s lights illuminate in colors that change for holidays and special events. To avoid long lines, many travelers book tickets online in advance.
For more detailed visitor information, check curated lists like the top 10 things to do in New York City.
Times Square
Known as the “Crossroads of the World,” Times Square is a major commercial and entertainment hub in Midtown Manhattan. Its massive digital billboards and constant crowds give it an unmatched energy.
The area is especially famous for the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop, an event watched worldwide. At other times of year, visitors can enjoy street performers, flagship stores, and restaurants that stay open late into the night.
The red steps above the TKTS booth provide one of the best places to sit and take in the atmosphere. Discounted Broadway tickets are also sold here daily.
More information on this landmark can be found in guides like the most visited attractions in New York City.
Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge opened in 1883 as the first steel-wire suspension bridge in the world. It connects Lower Manhattan with Brooklyn, stretching 1.1 miles across the East River.
Walking across the bridge gives visitors sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the East River itself. The pedestrian walkway sits above the traffic lanes, making it safe and easy to cross on foot or by bike.
On the Brooklyn side, the DUMBO neighborhood and Brooklyn Bridge Park offer scenic spots for photos, dining, and waterfront views. Many visitors time their walk for sunrise or sunset to see the city in the best light.
For a broader look at the city’s landmarks, see guides like the 50 most famous NYC landmarks.
Top Observation Decks and Skyline Views
New York City offers several high-rise platforms that provide wide views of Manhattan and beyond. Each deck highlights a different part of the skyline, from Midtown to Downtown, and gives visitors a chance to see the city from a new angle.
Top of the Rock
Located at Rockefeller Center in Midtown Manhattan, Top of the Rock is known for its clear view of Central Park and the Empire State Building. The deck spans three floors, with both indoor and outdoor areas, making it a flexible choice in any season.
Timed entry tickets help reduce crowding, so visitors spend less time waiting in line. The outdoor terraces provide open-air views, while the glass barriers keep sightlines clear without blocking photos.
Many visitors choose this deck because it offers a balanced perspective of Midtown. Unlike other platforms, Top of the Rock places the Empire State Building directly in view, which makes it a favorite for photographers.
The Edge at Hudson Yards
The Edge is located in Hudson Yards on Manhattan’s west side. Opened in 2020, it is the highest outdoor observation deck in the city. Its standout feature is the glass floor, which lets visitors look straight down more than 100 stories.
The deck extends out from the building, giving the sense of standing in the open air above the city. Angled glass walls allow people to lean out safely for a unique view of the skyline.
From here, visitors see the Hudson River, Midtown skyscrapers, and even the Statue of Liberty on clear days. The design is modern and spacious, making it different from older decks like the Empire State Building. More details can be found in this guide to NYC’s best observation decks.
One World Observatory
One World Observatory sits at the top of One World Trade Center in Downtown Manhattan. It is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, and the observatory is fully enclosed with floor-to-ceiling windows.
The views stretch across the Hudson and East Rivers, Brooklyn, and the Statue of Liberty. Because it is downtown, visitors see the Financial District and bridges from a closer angle than decks in Midtown.
The building includes interactive exhibits and high-speed elevators that enhance the visit. Since the platform is indoors, it is a reliable option in any weather. This makes it a practical choice for travelers who want wide views without exposure to wind or rain.
Summit One Vanderbilt
Summit One Vanderbilt is located next to Grand Central Terminal in Midtown Manhattan. Opened in late 2021, it combines an observation deck with immersive art and mirrored spaces.
The deck includes indoor and outdoor areas, with glass elevators that rise along the outside of the building. The outdoor terrace is the second-highest in the city, just below the Edge in Hudson Yards.
Visitors experience both skyline views and reflective installations that create unusual perspectives of the city. Because of its location, it offers close views of landmarks like the Chrysler Building and the Empire State Building. More information is available through this overview of Summit One Vanderbilt.
World-Class Museums and Cultural Experiences
New York City offers an unmatched range of cultural institutions, from vast collections of global art to groundbreaking modern works and immersive science exhibits. Visitors can explore iconic buildings, see masterpieces up close, and learn from exhibits that span thousands of years.
Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, often called The Met, is one of the largest and most comprehensive art museums in the world. Located on the Upper East Side along Central Park, it holds more than two million works covering 5,000 years of history.
Highlights include the Egyptian Temple of Dendur, classical Greek and Roman art, and European paintings by masters such as Rembrandt and Vermeer. The museum also features American decorative arts, Asian collections, and rotating rooftop installations with city views.
Visitors often plan their day around key galleries since the collection is too vast to see in one visit. Audio guides, guided tours, and family-friendly programs make it accessible for all ages. For current exhibitions and updates, check the best museums in NYC guide.
Museum of Modern Art
The Museum of Modern Art, or MoMA, is a leading institution for modern and contemporary art. Its collection includes iconic works by Van Gogh, Picasso, Matisse, and Warhol, alongside photography, film, and design.
MoMA’s galleries are organized by era, allowing visitors to follow the development of modern art from the late 19th century to today. The museum also dedicates space to emerging artists and underrepresented voices, giving a fuller picture of global creativity.
With over 700,000 square feet of exhibition space, it can take several hours to explore. Special exhibitions often focus on groundbreaking figures or movements, such as Hilma af Klint or contemporary women artists. Find current highlights in this NYC museum list.
Guggenheim Museum
The Guggenheim Museum is as famous for its building as for its art. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, the spiraling rotunda is considered one of the most important works of modern architecture.
Inside, visitors encounter an impressive collection of Cubist, Surrealist, and Abstract Expressionist works. The museum also holds the largest collection of Kandinsky paintings in the United States. Exhibitions often emphasize bold, experimental art that challenges traditional forms.
Walking up or down the spiral ramp provides a unique way to experience the galleries. The Guggenheim is smaller than The Met or MoMA, making it easier to see in a single visit. Learn more about its exhibitions through this NYC cultural guide.
American Museum of Natural History
The American Museum of Natural History is one of the most visited science museums in the world. Founded in 1869, it covers subjects from the Big Bang to human cultures across the globe.
Signature exhibits include the 94-foot blue whale model, the dinosaur halls, and the Hayden Planetarium. The new Gilder Center wing adds interactive displays and a butterfly vivarium.
Families especially enjoy the hands-on science centers and immersive dioramas. The museum’s vast collections make it impossible to see everything in one trip, so many visitors focus on a few key sections. Details on its newest exhibits can be found in the NYC museum roundup.
Unforgettable Neighborhoods and Outdoor Spaces
New York City offers a mix of green parks, historic districts, and waterfront areas that balance its busy streets. Visitors can enjoy iconic landmarks, cultural attractions, and unique local experiences in these neighborhoods and outdoor spaces.
Central Park Highlights
Central Park stretches across 843 acres in Manhattan and remains one of the city’s most visited attractions. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, it combines natural landscapes with man-made landmarks.
Popular spots include Belvedere Castle, which provides elevated views, and Bethesda Fountain, a gathering place often seen in films. The Central Park Zoo offers family-friendly exhibits, while Sheep Meadow is ideal for picnics and relaxation.
In winter, ice skating at Wollman Rink draws both locals and tourists. During summer, Shakespeare in the Park performances provide free theater under the stars. Renting a bike or joining a guided pedicab tour helps cover more ground efficiently.
Exploring Brooklyn and DUMBO
Brooklyn offers a different pace from Manhattan, with historic architecture, waterfront parks, and creative energy. Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is a highlight, giving sweeping views of the East River and skyline.
On the Brooklyn side, the neighborhood of DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) is filled with cobblestone streets, art galleries, and trendy cafés. The area’s most photographed spot frames the Manhattan Bridge perfectly between brick warehouses.
Families often stop at Jane’s Carousel, a restored 1922 ride located in Brooklyn Bridge Park. The park itself has playgrounds, lawns, and paths that make it a favorite for both locals and visitors. Restaurants and shops nearby add to the lively atmosphere.
The High Line and Meatpacking District
The High Line is an elevated park built on a former rail line that runs above Manhattan’s west side. It features landscaped gardens, art installations, and seating areas with views of the Hudson River.
The walkway connects directly into the Meatpacking District, once home to warehouses and now known for fashion boutiques, restaurants, and nightlife. Visitors can stop at the Whitney Museum of American Art at the southern end of the High Line.
Along the route, open-air decks provide photo opportunities of the city streets below. Seasonal food vendors and public art projects make each visit different. The combination of greenery, design, and history makes the High Line a standout urban park.
Coney Island and Prospect Park
Coney Island, located in southern Brooklyn, is famous for its boardwalk and amusement rides. The Cyclone roller coaster, built in 1927, remains a classic attraction. The beach and open-air food stalls make it a popular summer destination.
Nearby, Prospect Park offers a quieter, more natural setting. Designed by the same team behind Central Park, it includes a large lake, wooded trails, and open fields.
The park also hosts the Prospect Park Zoo and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden just next door. Together, these attractions provide a blend of recreation and education. Whether riding the Cyclone or walking shaded paths, visitors find a range of outdoor experiences in Brooklyn.
Entertainment, Dining, and Unique NYC Experiences
New York City in 2025 offers a mix of world-class theater, exciting food destinations, major sports events, and historic landmarks. Visitors can enjoy both iconic attractions and lesser-known gems that highlight the city’s culture and character.
Broadway Shows and Theater
Broadway remains one of the city’s biggest draws. Classic productions like Hamilton and Wicked continue to fill theaters, while new shows such as Stranger Things: The First Shadow debut at the Marquis Theatre in April 2025. For those seeking affordable seats, the TKTS booth in Times Square still sells same-day Broadway tickets at discounted rates.
Off-Broadway theaters also provide strong performances. The Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) will host A Streetcar Named Desire starring Paul Mescal in spring 2025. Visitors can also explore venues like Radio City Music Hall, which features concerts, comedy, and seasonal performances.
Theater lovers should plan ahead, as popular shows sell out quickly. Booking online early or checking for rush tickets at the box office can help secure a seat.
Food Tours and Markets
NYC’s food scene remains unmatched, with options ranging from high-end dining to casual street eats. A guided food tour through neighborhoods such as the Lower East Side, Chinatown, or Greenwich Village introduces visitors to local favorites and cultural history.
Markets like Chelsea Market and Smorgasburg are top stops for those who want variety. Chelsea Market offers tacos, seafood, and bakeries all in one indoor space, while Smorgasburg in Brooklyn brings dozens of rotating food vendors outdoors on weekends.
For quick but iconic bites, many head to Shake Shack in Madison Square Park, where the first location opened. Exploring the East Village or Flatiron District also reveals hidden gems, from ramen shops to experimental dessert spots.
Sports and Major Events
Sports fans have plenty to look forward to in 2025. Yankees and Mets games bring baseball to the Bronx and Queens, while the Knicks and Nets offer basketball action at Madison Square Garden and Barclays Center. Hockey fans can catch the Rangers at MSG or the Islanders at UBS Arena.
Football remains popular with the Giants and Jets playing at MetLife Stadium. The stadium will also host matches for the FIFA Club World Cup in 2025, including the final.
Other major events include Fanatics Fest 2025 at the Javits Center, which brings athletes and fans together, and summer concerts across Central Park and Governors Island.
Historic Sites and Hidden Gems
Beyond the major landmarks, NYC offers historic and lesser-known sites worth exploring. The 9/11 Memorial and Museum provides a powerful look at modern history, while the New York Public Library on Fifth Avenue showcases stunning architecture.
Travelers can ride the Roosevelt Island Tramway for skyline views or take the free Staten Island Ferry past the Statue of Liberty. Staten Island also features the National Lighthouse Museum, a niche but fascinating stop.
Neighborhood walks reveal more hidden gems. The Flatiron Building and nearby Madison Square Park highlight early skyscraper design, while the Washington Square Arch in Greenwich Village anchors a lively park filled with performers and students. Roosevelt Island and Governors Island both offer green spaces and historic sites away from the city crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions
New York City in 2025 offers new cultural spaces, major sports events, seasonal activities, and updated attractions. Visitors can also enjoy free events, scenic parks, and exclusive performances that highlight the city’s evolving character.
What are the new top attractions to visit in New York City in 2025?
Several new openings stand out this year. The Davis Center at the Harlem Meer in Central Park adds an 11-acre recreation space with a pool, rink, and turf field. The Studio Museum in Harlem will reopen after years of renovation, and Shaver Hall, a large Midtown food hall, will bring new dining options. Learn more about these highlights at Secret NYC’s 2025 guide.
Which free activities are available in New York City this year?
Free walking tours, outdoor movie nights, and seasonal park events give residents and visitors low-cost ways to explore the city. Museums like the Whitney now offer free admission for people under 25. A New York Public Library card also unlocks access to cultural passes and programs, as noted in Secret NYC’s list of free activities.
What are the must-do experiences for adults in NYC in 2025?
Adults can enjoy Broadway premieres such as Stranger Things: The First Shadow or off-Broadway runs like A Streetcar Named Desire. Major concerts from artists including Dua Lipa and Kendrick Lamar will also stop in NYC. For sports fans, the FIFA Club World Cup final at MetLife Stadium is a major draw.
What unique events or locations should visitors not miss in New York City?
The Fanatics Fest at the Javits Center will host athlete panels and autograph sessions. The launch of the New York Sirens hockey team adds a new chapter in women’s sports. Seasonal highlights such as ice bumper cars in Prospect Park and igloo dining experiences also stand out, according to Secret NYC.
What are the most beautiful places to see in New York City in 2025?
Domino Park now features a new one-acre plaza with outdoor movie nights and markets. Hunters Point South and Malt Drive Park in Long Island City provide scenic waterfront areas with walkways, play spaces, and picnic spots. These additions join classic favorites like Central Park and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden.
Where can I find information on the New York City pass for 2025?
Travelers can review updated city passes through tourism guides such as the U.S. News Travel list of top NYC activities. These passes often include bundled entry to major attractions, museums, and tours, making them useful for visitors planning to see multiple sites.
