If you’re planning a trip to NYC, this New York bucket list is the perfect way to make sure you don’t miss a thing. Manhattan is packed with iconic sights, unforgettable views, and unique experiences that deserve a spot on any NYC itinerary. From strolling through Central Park and crossing the Brooklyn Bridge to visiting the 9/11 Memorial, this ultimate New York bucket list covers over 50 things to do for first-time visitors and seasoned travellers alike.
This post focuses specifically on Manhattan, but of course, there are lots of great things to do in the other boroughs as well. I also haven’t touched on food because I feel like that needs to be a whole other post (maybe I’ll get around to writing that one day!)
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE:
PERFECT 4 DAYS IN NEW YORK ITINERARY
CHRISTMAS IN NEW YORK
HOW TO GET AROUND NEW YORK CITY
WHICH NEW YORK SKYSCRAPER SHOULD YOU VISIT?
CENTRAL PARK WITH KIDS
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through one of my links, I may earn a small commission. There is no additional cost to you, and I’m extremely grateful, as it helps me to run my blog.
The Ultimate New York Bucket List:
Below you’ll find my New York bucket list, covering everything you’ll want to do in NYC. I’ve split it out into sections for easy planning!
5 New York Skyscrapers with Observation Decks
New York is, of course, known for its skyscrapers. There are currently 5 skyscrapers with observation decks that are open to the public.
They should all really be on your New York City bucket list; however, for your first visit, you probably want to pick one or two.
READ MORE: WHICH NEW YORK SKYSCRAPER SHOULD YOU VISIT?
The Empire State Building – the most iconic of all New York’s buildings.
Top of the Rock – for the best views of Central Park and the Empire State Building. This is my favourite of all the NYC observation decks.
One World Observatory – the tallest building in New York, located next to where the Twin Towers used to stand.
The Edge – the newest and tallest of New York observation decks. You can see straight down 100 floors!
Summit One Vanderbilt – The building was initially constructed in 2017, and the observation deck was added in 2020. This was my kids’ favourite one to visit!
DOWNLOAD THE GET YOUR GUIDE APP HERE and GET 5% OFF YOUR FIRST BOOKING WITH MY CODE: MUMINTHECITY5
Views from the Top of the Rock and the Empire State Building’s observation decks.
9 More New York Bucket List Buildings to Visit
There’s more to New York than just skyscrapers. Some other bucket list buildings include:
Grand Central Terminal – I have never known a more beautiful station than this one; it is a must-see when visiting NYC.
The New York Public Library – this is one of the most spectacular buildings, both inside and out. It is free to visit and is definitely worth taking a look inside!
The Chrysler Building – this is another of New York’s iconic buildings. You can only visit the lobby as the rest is privately rented. Seeing the Chrysler Building is a must!
Rockefeller Plaza – located around the Rockefeller building is Rockefeller Plaza, where you’ll find lots of shops and resteraunts. Even if you don’t visit Top of the Rock, you should see the plaza. Especially if you visit at Christmas, as it’s best known for hosting the giant Christmas tree and ice skating rink.
The Flatiron Building – is known for its unique shape. Again, you can’t go inside, but it is interesting to see from the outside!
Oculus World Trade Center – is a pretty cool-looking building located in the financial district. It is a train station / Westfield shopping Centre with lots of shops and cafes.
Times Square – I’m going to be honest here. Times Square is not one of my favourite places in New York, saying that. It should be on your bucket list and is an essential thing to do when you visit New York.
The Vessel at Hudson Yards – essentially it’s a staircase, but it’s also super impressive! This building is completely unique and well worth taking a look at when you’re in New York.
Madison Square Garden – I really want to go to a concert here! Alternatively, you can see a lot of sporting events.
Inside the New York Public Library | The Vessel
7 New York Monuments & Statues to See
The Statue of Liberty – is a true symbol of freedom in New York. Unfortunately, the Crown was closed for renovations when we were in NYC, so this activity remains on my New York bucket list.
The Charging Bull – the Charging Bull, located in Bowling Green in the Financial District of New York, has been a symbol of strength since 1989. This is a really popular photo spot for tourists, and there is usually a queue.
Fearless Girl Statue – the Fearless Girl is also located in the Financial District, opposite the New York Stock Exchange. It was added in 2017 to promote female empowerment.
The Bethesda Terrace and Fountain – this iconic area in the heart of Central Park is a must-visit. It is extremely beautiful and was my happy place when we lived in NYC.
9/11 Memorial Fountains – a giant memorial built in the footprint of where the Twin Towers used to stand. In memory of all the people who lost their lives in the attack. Visiting here is a humbling experience, but one I feel you should do.
Brooklyn Bridge – a trip to New York wouldn’t be complete without seeing the Brooklyn Bridge. The best way to fully experience the Brooklyn Bridge is to walk across it. You’ll also get great views of Manhattan from the Brooklyn side.
Alice in Wonderland Statue – Located in Central Park is a larger-than-life statue of Alice in Wonderland sitting on a giant mushroom and surrounded by the other storybook characters. This statue was donated to the park for children to climb on, and they will love it!
The Statue of Liberty | The Bethesda Terrace and Fountain
9 New York Bucket List Museums to Visit
There are so many museums and galleries in New York. I’ve just listed the ones that I think are essential as part of a New York bucket list.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art – this is a beautiful museum to visit. Even if you don’t go inside, you should see it from the outside. You will often see people sitting on the steps of the Met pretending to be Blair Waldorf!
The Met Cloisters – Located in Washington Heights in northern Manhattan, the Met Cloisters often get overlooked by tourists, but the museum is absolutely beautiful. Your Met Museum ticket also covers entry here, as long as you visit both on the same day.
READ MORE: MY GUIDE TO THE MET CLOISTERS
Intrepid – a 1943 Aircraft Carrier that has been turned into a museum about military history.
The Museum at FIT – part of the Fashion Institute of Technology- is a free museum to visit.
The American Museum of Natural History – is great for history lovers, and my children absolutely loved the dinosaur exhibit!
9/11 Memorial Museum – in memory of the 11th September attack on the Twin Towers. Visiting here is very emotional, but it is also a significant part of history.
The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum – this is an art museum, known for its unique look. The building is creatively designed from the outside, and on the inside, its unique spiral design is iconic.
The Museum of the City of New York – a history and art museum. Also, the external filming location for Gossip Girl’s Constance Billard School.
The Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum – an Upper East Side mansion housing the history of design.
The Garden at the Met Cloisters | Inside the Guggenheim Museum
2 New York Bucket List Art Galleries to Visit
The Frick Collection – The Frick has been recently renovated. It is known for its historic old paintings, and some of its galleries are free to visit.
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) – doesn’t really need to explain any further!
6 Parks to Add to Your New York Bucket List
Central Park – visiting Central Park is the ultimate thing to do in NYC; no trip to New York would be complete without it. In my opinion, it is the best park in the world. There is so much to see in this 843-acre park. The Bethesda Terrace and Fountain is my absolute favourite spot.
READ MORE: OUR GUIDE TO VISITING CENTRAL PARK WITH KIDS
Washington Square Park – located in lower Manhattan, and is best known for its large marble arch and fountains.
The High Line – a disused railway line that has been turned into a long park. This is also like an outdoor art gallery, with the sculptures being changed every so often.
Battery Park – right at the bottom of Manhattan, you’ll find Battery Park, with views over the Statue of Liberty. The new playground, The Battery, is also a great one for kids!
Bryant Park – a small but beautiful park located next to the New York Public Library, which has many cafes and usually has performers. A lot goes on here, and a dedicated area for kids with magnetic tiles and crafts. Around Christmas, it transforms into a Winter Village, and you can ice skate there.
Little Island – This uniquely designed park opened in 2001 on the Hudson River. It has great views of Downtown Manhattan and is a fun area for solo travellers, couples or families visiting NYC.
Little Island Park | Walking the High Line
5 Iconic Foods to Try in NYC
Eat Bagels – they’re are bagel shops all over New York. You should definitely try one!
Grab a Pretzel in Central Park – (Or a hot dog!) Sure, it’s overrated, but you’ve got to tick it off your New York bucket list!
Drink in a Rooftop Bar – there are many rooftop bars in NYC, my favourite was 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar, which has amazing views of the Empire State Building.
Get a NYC Slice of Pizza – Joe’s is a popular choice; however, I also like Artichoke Pizza. If you’re on a budget, try 2 Bros Pizza, where you can get a slice for $1.50. Or the Little Italy chain also offers deals.
Champaigne at The Plaza Hotel – the Plaza is one of NYC’s most iconic hotels. Staying here would be the ultimate New York bucket list experience. If you dont have the budget to stay at the Plaza, you can just visit the bar (but make a reservation!)
9 Other New York Bucket List Activities
See a Broadway Show – there are so many amazing options to choose from! Personally, I loved: The Lion King, Moulin Rouge and Tina Turner: The Musical.
Watch the Ballet – Seeing a performance by the New York City Ballet is certainly a New York bucket list experience for me!
5th Avenue Shopping – or maybe just window shopping! The window displays are always impressive.
Take the Staten Island Ferry – a free ferry ride with amazing views of the Statue of Liberty.
Hail a Yellow Taxi – yellow taxis are definitely not the cheapest way to travel, but riding in a yellow cab is an iconic NYC experience!
Ride the Subway – are you even a real New Yorker if you haven’t been on the NYC Subway?
Visit Chelsea Market – is a lovely indoor market with all sorts of places to eat as well as a few shops!
Ride the Roosevelt Island Cable Car – this is a hidden gem in NYC, who knew there was a cable car in Manhattan? It’s such a fun thing to do in New York!
Wander on Stone Street – it is one of New York’s oldest streets!
Waterfall Tunnel – is a perspex tunnel surrounded by water and located at 142 West 49th Street.
Shop at Macys – the largest department store in America- is sure to have something for everyone!
Helicopter Ride over NYC – what an incredible bucket list experience this would be!
Riding the Staten Island Ferry | The Roosevelt Island Cable Car
OTHER POSTS YOU MIGHT LIKE:
PERFECT 4 DAYS IN NEW YORK ITINERARY
CHRISTMAS IN NEW YORK
HOW TO GET AROUND NEW YORK CITY
WHICH NEW YORK SKYSCRAPER SHOULD YOU VISIT?
CENTRAL PARK WITH KIDS
That concludes my New York bucket list! I know it’s long, so thank you for getting to the end of this post. I hope you have an amazing trip to NYC.
Happy Exploring,
