If you’re headed to the Big Apple for the very first time, you’ve likely heard plenty of advice on the top ten New York experiences you need to do. There’s a whole list of what you have to see and the can’t miss attractions.

For me, New York is only a quick plane ride away. I’ve also formerly worked for multiple companies that brought me to New York City for work. That means I’ve been able to take many short vacations where I was usually there for around 2 days on average. Even with a limited amount of time to explore, there’s so much to see and do. I could go back today and still pack my itinerary.

So the question remains — where do you start?

Here’s a short list of just some of your options if you’re spending a weekend (or more!) in the city, along with a few tips on how to live that New York, New York dream. These aren’t in any particular order, though.

Pick the ones that speak the most to you and go discover New York City.

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The Met

If you’re not a huge museum fan, you might not think that it’s a must-do to go to the Metropolitan, but between its placement in Central Park, the diversity of its collection, and being able to set foot where the Met Gala takes place are just a few reasons why it’s such a popular destination.

For more details on how to get there, what to expect, and what you might see, check out the website here.

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Museum of Modern Art (aka MoMA)

When you’re visiting large cities, famous museums are usually top of the list and for good reason. They typically house collections including some of the most well-known art in the world. If you’re a Van Gogh fan (or, even, maybe just a Doctor Who fan of one very emotional episode), this is where you’ll find Starry Night. There’s a large array of other works to discover as you spend hours winding through the exhibits.

Get your information, see what’s on display, and plan your visit by visiting their website.

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Times Square

There’s a lot of detractors for Times Square that will say it’s too loud and too crowded. It’s probably going to disappoint you a little, but at the same time, it will leave you in awe. That’s especially true if you go at night. When the neon lights are lit up and the energy from post-theatre shows is thrumming in the air, Times Square really is a magical place to be.

Even if it is a tourist hot-spot, it’s also one of the best places to people-watch! Stroll around, but make sure you’re there at night to get the true experience of the neon lights illuminating the city

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Central Park

Does a movie in New York truly exist at all there isn’t a scene in Central Park at some point? Probably not, but the sheer size and amount to discover could have you spending the whole day there. Beyond The Met (and the zoo), there’s Strawberry Fields, Belvedere Castle, Bethesda Fountain, the bridges and arches, the ramble, and more.

If you’re there in autumn, you’re in for an extra treat as the colours are spectacular as they shift to oranges and burnt browns and brick reds. Truthfully, you’ll likely be surprised by how much there is to do and see in Central Park.

Check out the website for a full list, and make sure you plan plenty of time if you intend to explore it all.

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Broadway Shows

If you go to New York and don’t see live theatre, you might feel as though you’ve missed out. Obviously, theatre isn’t for everyone, but even going once just for the experience of it is worth a few hours of your time — and there are plenty of Off Broadway and cheaper shows if you don’t want to spend too much money (want to make sure you don’t?

Check out Don’t Pay Full Price For Your Broadway Tickets).

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Ellis Island

So many families can trace back their lineage to Ellis Island. While the world has moved on and it’s far from the same experience, there’s something to be said about walking a mile in your ancestor’s shoes (if applicable) or simply seeing the path that so many immigrants took upon their journey to America. The boat ride itself feels loaded in history and if you do have family who’s made the passage, there are ways to track down that information at the museum. You can also bundle your trip to Ellis Island with a trip to the Statue of Liberty, for an excellent two-for-one deal!

Get more information here for your visit! You can also read about my experience visiting the Statue and Ellis Island here.

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Circle Line Cruises

There’s nothing like a view of the famous New York City skyline, and if you can also manage to get incredible views of the Statue of Liberty while you’re at it, that’s even better. Circle Line Cruises offers multiple options (such as sunset cruises, after-dark cruises, and multiple itineraries) to give you a view from the rivers.

Ready to set sail? Find the cruise that works best for you here.

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9/11 Memorial

While it’s a far more sombre excursion, there’s a lot of history to be found at the 9/11 memorial, and will leave you truly reflecting on your life and what’s important to you in a way that few other sights in New York can. The memorial alone is a work of art and if you take a tour, you’ll learn about some of the personal stories of those impacted on that fateful day.

For information on guided tours, visit the website here.

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Radio City Music Hall Tour

If you’re near Times Square, but you’re tired of meeting off-brand Marvel characters or going to the M&M star, you can walk just a little further to Radio City Music Hall, where you can sign up for a tour that takes you behind the scenes of the legendary performance hall. The knowledgeable guide will show you backstage, rehearsal areas, and if you’re lucky and there isn’t a performance, you might even get to stand on the stage. Capping off the experience, you’ll even meet a Rockette! This 60-minute tour is an excellent afternoon activity in your sightseeing agenda.

Get your tickets here for one of the tours that depart every thirty minutes!

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Top of the Rock / Empire State Building

Two under the same heading here — though they’re different locations, the main reason for ascending is the same — get as high as you can to get the best views of the city. Because you can see Empire State from Top of the Rock (which is the top of Rockefeller Center), I do recommend that one a little more, but there’s something to be said about getting to the top of the Empire State Building, which is featured in so many movies. Whatever you pick, you’re sure to have stunning views of the city that are unforgettable.

For ticket information for Top of the Rock, click here.
For ticket information for Empire State Building, click here.

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By no means is this an exhaustive list. Even on this list, you could spend a whole day at some of these locations! Think of this as a starting guide and tweak as suits you, in whatever way has you feeling like you’ve truly conquered the city after your trip. Enjoy the Big Apple, and just know that you can return anytime for your next bite.

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