If you're planning to visit New York City, you're in for a thrilling experience filled with endless attractions and activities. The Big Apple is a vibrant metropolis known for its iconic skyline, rich cultural heritage, and diverse neighborhoods. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the best things to do in NYC, encompassing everything from stunning hotels to exciting outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and entertainment options.
Accommodation in NYC
Finding the right place to stay can enhance your trip significantly. Let's explore some of the best hotel options across various neighborhoods in and around New York City.
Hotels in Long Island
Long Island offers a mix of charming towns and bustling areas, making it a wonderful option for visitors. Notable hotels include:
- The Garden City Hotel: Known for its elegant atmosphere and excellent amenities.
- Hilton Long Island: A great choice for families with spacious rooms and a pool.
For a comprehensive list of choices, check out the best hotels in Long Island.
Hotels in Queens
Queens is highly diverse and has plenty of hotels to accommodate tourists. Options include:
- The Boro Hotel: Features modern rooms with fantastic city views and rooftop access.
- Hampton Inn: Offers comfort and convenience near local attractions.
Explore more options in our guide to the best hotels in Queens.
Hotels in Long Island City
Long Island City is becoming increasingly popular due to its proximity to Manhattan. Here are some top picks:
- Ravel Hotel: Known for its rooftop bar with stunning skyline views.
- The Paper Factory Hotel: A unique blend of modern amenities and industrial design.
For further recommendations, visit the best hotels in Long Island City.
Hotels in Harlem
Exploring Harlem provides a cultural experience like no other. Hotel choices include:
- The Aloft Harlem: Features modern decor and is conveniently located to explore historic sites.
- The Schomburg Center: This hotel allows easy access to cultural museums and events.
Check out more details in our section about the best hotels in Harlem.
Hotels in Brooklyn Heights
Brooklyn Heights offers scenic views of the Manhattan skyline. Consider these accommodations:
- The Smith: A beautifully designed hotel with easy access to the Brooklyn Promenade.
- 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge: Features eco-friendly practices and unbelievable waterfront views.
Find more options in our guide to the best hotels in Brooklyn Heights.
Hotels in Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Known for its hipster vibe, Williamsburg is perfect for those who want to experience the art scene. Choices include:
- The William Vale: Renowned for its stylish design and unbeatable amenities.
- Wythe Hotel: A repurposed factory with rustic charm and modern comforts.
Look for further suggestions in our guide to the best hotels in Brooklyn Williamsburg.
Hotels in Manhattan with Views
For an unforgettable NYC experience, opt for hotels that boast stunning views. Choices include:
- The Standard, High Line: Offers breathtaking views of the Hudson River and the city.
- The Four Seasons: Mythical for luxury and picturesque city views.
Discover options in our guide to the best hotels in Manhattan with a view.
Hotels in Brooklyn with Views
Brooklyn is full of delightful accommodations, especially those that offer impressive views. Consider:
- The Hoxton: Provides exceptional rooftop views and a cozy atmosphere.
- The Brooklyn Bridge Marriott: Stunningly overlooks one of the most iconic landmarks.
Learn more about your choices in our guide to the best hotels in Brooklyn with views.
Hotel in Manhattan Beach
Located in Brooklyn, Manhattan Beach features waterfront attractions. Notable hotels include:
- The Oceanview Resort: An ideal spot if you want to be near the beach.
- The Surfside Motel: Known for friendly service by the beach.
For complete details, visit our guide to the best hotel in Manhattan Beach.
Boutique Hotels in Brooklyn
Looking for something more intimate? Brooklyn also has fantastic boutique hotel options:
- The Wythe Hotel (mentioned previously): A staple in luxury-style boutique accommodations.
- The Indigo: Offers colorful decor and a warm atmosphere.
Explore more unique options in our guide to the best boutique hotels in Brooklyn.
Beaches and Outdoor Activities
NYC isn't solely about skyscrapers and bustling streets. Nature enthusiasts will find several delightful outdoor spots to explore.
Best Beach in Long Island
Long Island is home to some of the best beaches in the state. Options include:
- Jones Beach State Park: Offers beautiful views and a variety of activities.
- Robert Moses State Park: Known for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
For more details, check out the best beach in Long Island.
Beaches in Brooklyn
Brooklyn also boasts great beach options, including:
- Coney Island: Famous for its boardwalk and amusement park.
- Brighton Beach: Known for its vibrant community and delicious eateries.
Learn more about these coastal spots in our guide to the best beaches in Brooklyn.
Playgrounds in Brooklyn
If you're traveling with kids, Brooklyn has fantastic playgrounds to visit, such as:
- Prospect Park: Offers large slides and climbing structures.
- Brooklyn Bridge Park: A scenic location featuring beautiful views and play areas.
Discover additional playground options in our guide to the best playgrounds in Brooklyn.
Playgrounds in Queens
For family-friendly fun, check out these playgrounds in Queens:
- Astoria Park: Features a large play area and a swimming pool.
- Flushing Meadows Corona Park: Ample space for activities and play.
Visit our guide for a complete list of playgrounds in Queens at the best playgrounds in Queens.
Playgrounds in Long Island
Families visiting Long Island can enjoy:
- Heckscher State Park: Natural beauty and spacious play areas.
- Centennial Park: Features a well-maintained playground perfect for kids.
Read more in our overview of the best playgrounds in Long Island.
Picnic Spots in NYC
When the weather is pleasant, NYC has numerous parks where you can enjoy a picnic. Notable spots include:
- Central Park: A classic choice with picturesque settings.
- Prospect Park: Less crowded than Central Park but equally beautiful.
Learn more about ideal locations in our guide to the best picnic spots in NYC.
Golf Courses in NYC
Golf enthusiasts will find plenty of options scattered throughout the city. Some highly rated spots include:
- Van Cortlandt Park Golf Course: One of the oldest public golf courses in the U.S.
- Dyker Beach Golf Course: Offers scenic views of the city.
Find more details in our guide to the best golf courses in NYC.
Public Golf Courses in Long Island
Long Island also features numerous public golf options suitable for all skill levels:
- Bethpage State Park: Renowned for its championship courses.
- Sunken Meadow State Park: A beautiful setting for a round of golf.
Explore more options in our guide to the best public golf courses in Long Island.
Mini Golf in Long Island
If you're looking for a more relaxed golf experience, consider mini-golf:
- Glow Putt Mini Golf: An indoor glow-in-the-dark adventure.
- The Monster Golf: Offers a unique Halloween-themed mini-golf experience.
Check out more mini-golf options in our guide to the best mini-golf in Long Island.
Cultural Attractions
New York City is brimming with cultural attractions that reflect its rich history and artistic expression. Here are some highlights to add to your itinerary:
Museums in Brooklyn
Brooklyn houses some remarkable museums worth visiting:
- Brooklyn Museum: Hosts an impressive array of art and exhibits.
- New York Transit Museum: Dedicated to the history of public transportation.
For a detailed overview, check out the best museums in Brooklyn.
Interactive Museums in NYC
If hands-on experiences are what you're after, NYC has a great selection:
- The Museum of Natural History: Offers a deep dive through time with engaging exhibits.
- The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum: Provides interactive experiences related to air and space exploration.
Discover more interactive museums in our guide to the best interactive museums in NYC.
Music Venues in Brooklyn
Music lovers will be enamored by Brooklyn's vibrant live music scene. Top venues include:
- Brooklyn Steel: Noted for hosting popular acts in an intimate setting.
- Nitehawk Cinema: Combines film and live performances for a unique experience.
Get more insight in our guide to the best music venues in Brooklyn.
Music Venues in NYC
Furthermore, New York City has world-renowned music venues where you can enjoy unforgettable performances:
- Carnegie Hall: A historic landmark famous for its classical music performances.
- The Apollo Theater: Offers incredible shows in a legendary setting.
Read more about music options in our guide to the best music venues in NYC.
Drag Shows in NYC
Make your night out memorable by attending some fabulous drag shows. Popular locations include:
- The Stonewall Inn: A historic venue that features regular performances.
- Lucky Cheng’s: Known for its vibrant shows and energetic atmosphere.
Discover the exciting world of drag in our guide to the best drag shows in NYC.
Entertainment and Leisure
NYC offers a plethora of entertainment options, ranging from cinematic experiences to vibrant nightlife.
Movie Theaters in Long Island
Catch the latest films at some of the top theaters in Long Island:
- Regal Cinemas: A popular choice for state-of-the-art screens.
- Alamo Drafthouse: Combines dining with a movie-going experience.
Check out more movie options in our guide to the best movie theater in Long Island.
Movie Theaters in Queens
Queens offers a variety of cinema options for movie buffs:
- Cinemart Cinemas: A cozy spot showing indie films and cult classics.
- The UA Kaufman Astoria: Known for its wide selection and comfortable seating.
For a complete list, refer to the best movie theaters in Queens.
Movie Theaters in Brooklyn
Brooklyn also excels in cinematic experiences:
- The Alamo Drafthouse Brooklyn: A perfect blend of film and food.
- Nitehawk Cinema: Offers a unique film-going experience with in-theater dining.
Learn about more choices in our overview of the best movie theaters in Brooklyn.
Beer Gardens in NYC
Discover the best beer gardens where you can soak up some sun and enjoy a cold beverage:
- Ponyboy: This hidden gem offers great drinks and a lively atmosphere.
- The Beer Garden at The Standard: Perfect for enjoying a refreshing drink with stunning views.
For a comprehensive list, explore our guide to the best beer garden in NYC.
Beer Gardens in Brooklyn
In Brooklyn, you’ll find fantastic options to sip craft brews:
- Brooklyn Bridge Park Beer Garden: With access to stunning views and a selection of local brews.
- Fifth Harmony: Offers a lovely garden setting and an impressive lineup of drinks.
Check out more in our guide to the best beer garden in Brooklyn.
Summer Camps in Brooklyn
For families traveling to Brooklyn, summer camps can provide an engaging way for kids to enjoy their time:
- Brooklyn Arts Exchange: Offers creative workshops and art-focused activities.
- Camp Friends: A classic camp experience that focuses on learning and fun.
You can find more options in our guide to the best summer camps in Brooklyn.
Conclusion
New York City is a dazzling destination that promises adventure, culture, and unforgettable experiences. From seeking out sensational hotels to exploring breathtaking beaches and captivating cultural attractions, this guide equips you with everything you need to make the most of your visit. Don’t hesitate to venture off the beaten path and discover the countless gems this vibrant city has to offer. Remember, every corner of NYC has a story waiting to be uncovered! Enjoy your journey in the city that never sleeps!
