Alternative Things To Do In New York City

Traveling to New York City should be on everyone's bucket list, to be experienced at least once in their lifetime. For most avid travelers, it's a trip that they will likely embark on more than once. The city offers an abundance of exciting and captivating attractions and activities. Even after a couple of visits, you might mistakenly believe that you have exhausted all the possibilities. However, that couldn't be further from the truth.

I have had the pleasure of visiting New York six times, with two of those visits lasting a week or longer. Despite my numerous explorations, I still feel that there is so much more to see and do. I have already checked off a substantial number of experiences and ventured into various corners of the city..

The following recommendations are primarily intended for first-time visitors to New York. Those who have visited the city multiple times are likely familiar with most of these suggestions. Nevertheless, there may be some hidden gems or new discoveries even for seasoned New York travelers like yourself.

Staten Island Ferry

The Statue of Liberty is arguably the most renowned icon of New York, and perhaps the entire United States. It naturally comes to mind when considering things to do in New York. However, I would advise against visiting Liberty Island and getting up close to the statue. Purchasing tickets to the Statue of Liberty experience is not worth enduring hours of waiting in line or spending a significant amount of money to set foot on the small island it occupies. In fact, you can appreciate the statue much better from a distance.

The optimal way to view the Statue of Liberty is by taking the Staten Island Ferry. Not only is it the superior choice, but it's also free, comfortable, and convenient! You will have a better vantage point of the statue from the ferry than if you were on the island itself.

Alternatively, you can opt for the Circle Line cruise departing from Pier 83 in Midtown (W 42nd Street) to catch a glimpse of the statue. This cruise does come at a cost, but it is still a more worthwhile option compared to the ferries heading to Liberty Island.

Top of the Rock (Rockefeller Center)

The Empire State Building may still hold value for its historical significance, making it worth considering a visit to its observation deck. However, it's important to note that the observation deck at the top of this iconic skyscraper is not the most impressive option. It tends to be small, cramped, and obstructed by fences, limiting the view. Nonetheless, if it's your first time in New York City, it's still recommended to ascend the Empire State Building.

For the most spectacular views, I suggest heading to the Top of the Rock observation deck at Rockefeller Center. What sets this observation deck apart is the absence of obstructing fences or walls. This is made possible by the fact that the upper floor of the deck does not extend the full length of the building, ensuring a safe distance below. In the unlikely event of a fall, you would only descend one story, so to speak.

Another advantage of visiting the Top of the Rock is that you'll capture the Empire State Building in your photos. This allows for stunning views of New York's most famous landmark, which is not achievable from within the Empire State Building itself.

Bryant Park

Times Square will likely be the first place you head to when you arrive in New York City. It's the case for me every time as well. It's the most touristy spot in the city, but since we are tourists ourselves, there's nothing wrong with embracing that fact, regardless of what others may say.

Once you've finished exploring Times Square, at least for the time being, I recommend making your way to 6th Avenue and Bryant Park. Find solace in this urban oasis — a tranquil escape from the bustling New York streets.

Another option, not too far from Times Square, is Madison Square Park. It may seem distant on a map, with a 20-street distance, but it's only a short walk that takes just a few minutes. In New York, be prepared for long walks, as they are the best way to discover the city!

Brooklyn

One of the most iconic things to do in New York is to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. You should definitely do this! However, don't just walk back and forth. Take the time to explore Brooklyn a little bit. If Brooklyn were an independent city, it would be the third most populous city in the United States (city proper). Even without Brooklyn, the rest of New York City would still be the most populous city in the United States. Of course, there's plenty to do and see in Brooklyn too, although it often stands in the shadow of Manhattan.

My suggestion would be to take the subway to Brooklyn and spend a few hours exploring Downtown, Brooklyn Heights, and Dumbo. Finish off by walking back across the Brooklyn Bridge towards Manhattan. The idea of taking the subway to Brooklyn instead of the other way around is that you'll have the Manhattan skyline in front of you as you walk. It's a truly magical sight!

Wall Street... Bull (Charging Bull)

It wasn't until my sixth, and most recent, visit to New York that I finally laid eyes on the Wall Street Bull. I believe this statue has gained more popularity in recent years, or should I say notoriety.

The New York Stock Exchange, commonly known as Wall Street, is actually quite underwhelming to see. It's essentially a wall with a flag. You can't enter it, and there isn't much to see. The area is heavily secured. I recommend visiting it, spending five minutes, taking a photo, and then continuing your sightseeing.

A few streets away from Wall Street, you'll find the Wall Street Bull. It is located at Bowling Green, a small plaza on Broadway near Battery Park at the southern tip of Manhattan. The bull has been standing there since December 1989.

Gantry Plaza State Park

I never really considered Queens until my most recent visit to New York City when I stayed at a hotel in Queensbridge. I found the area to be very interesting and would recommend staying there if you want to save a little on accommodation and spend your money on attractions and shopping instead.

Regardless of whether you stay in Queens or not, Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City is definitely worth a visit. It's a park and waterfront area situated on former piers, spanning a significant area in Queens. From there, you'll enjoy some of the best views of the eastern side of Midtown and Manhattan.

Don't miss the iconic Pepsi Cola Sign in the park. Additionally, there's a lively bar street on Vernon Blvd nearby, so you can extend your visit and make it quite enjoyable if you wish.

The High Line

It's no longer an unknown sight. In fact, the High Line has quickly established itself as one of the most popular attractions in New York City. My only recommendation regarding this is not to simply walk along it and be done. Take some time to explore the areas it passes through.

The High Line was constructed in the 2010s on top of old train tracks on the western side of Manhattan, in parts that previously didn't receive much tourist attention. Dedicate some time to exploring Chelsea, the Meatpacking District, and the West Village before leaving the area. Particularly, the Meatpacking District toward the southern end of the High Line is worth exploring. Don't miss Chelsea Market, a landmark in the area that you should check out!

I hope this will give you some interesting ideas for your next trip to New York. There's always something new to discover in a city like this, whether it's your first or tenth visit.

Visit the Destination Guide for New York City to learn more about the city and find additional tips, suggestions, pictures, and more.