Visiting New York City for the First Time: 15 Iconic Experiences Not to Miss

Visiting New York City for the first time can feel overwhelming, with its towering skyscrapers, buzzing streets, and endless attractions vying for your attention.

However, with a little planning, you can create an itinerary packed with unforgettable experiences. To help you get started, here are 15 must-do activities to make the most of your inaugural visit to the Big Apple.

If you are looking for a family-friendly place to stay in the heart of New York City, we can’t say enough good things about The Thompson Central Park. This Hyatt property is just a 10 minute walk from Time Square and a five minute walk to Central Park.

The Best Things to See When Visiting NYC for the First Time:

1. Times Square

No trip to NYC is complete without a stop at Times Square. This bustling hub is dazzling with neon lights, electronic billboards, and street performers. It’s best experienced at night when the city truly sparkles.

Pro tip: Photographers often offer to take your picture here, and it’s not a scam. They have high-quality equipment, and you can set a price with them beforehand, typically around $10 per photo. They’ll air drop the pictures directly to your phone. I paid with Venmo and love our family pictures—especially since mom is never in them!

2. Rockefeller Center

Famous for its ice-skating rink (open October through April) and the towering Christmas tree during the holiday season, Rockefeller Center is a year-round destination. Don’t miss the art deco architecture and Radio City Music Hall.

3. Observation Platforms

If you are visiting New York City for the first time, visiting an observation deck is the best way to take in breathtaking views of the city skyline. Here are a few of the best:

• Top of the Rock (Rockefeller Center) offers panoramic views, including Central Park. This is my favorite of all the options. Check out the new experience called The Beam where you can recreate the famous photo “Lunch atop a Skyscraper.”
• Empire State Building is iconic and romantic, especially at sunset.
• Summit One Vanderbilt boasts floor-to-ceiling glass and immersive experiences.
• The Edge is thrilling, with its glass floor extending 100 stories above the city.

4. FAO Schwarz

This legendary toy store is a delight for kids and adults alike. It is so much more than a toy store. Try interactive experiences such as:

• The Jellycat Diner for plush food fun.
• Make a Barbie for customized creations.
• The iconic Piano from BIG for a photo-worthy moment.
• The Toy Soldier Experience, where you can get a tour with the store’s larger-than-life greeters.

5. Ellen’s Stardust Diner

Dine with a side of Broadway at this retro-themed diner, where singing waitstaff perform show tunes while serving classic American fare. The lively atmosphere at Ellen’s Stardust Diner is perfect for families and was a highlight of our trip.

6. See a Broadway Show

Catch a Broadway production to experience the magic of live theater. Family-friendly favorites include The Lion King as well as Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. My history loving kids also adored Hamilton.

7. Wander Through Central Park

If you are visiting New York City for the first time, you have to take a walk through Central Park. This sprawling oasis offers countless activities:

• Climb up to Belvedere Castle for views.
• Several playgrounds to enjoy.
• Skate at Wollman Rink in the winter.
• Visit the Strawberry Fields memorial.
• Rent a rowboat at the Loeb Boathouse.

8. Grand Central Station

Grand Central Station is the largest train station in the world and worth a quick stop. Marvel at the stunning architecture, celestial ceiling mural, and iconic clock in this historic transportation hub.

Don’t forget to check out the Whispering Gallery near the Oyster Bar. This acoustic phenomenon allows visitors to stand at opposite corners of the arched passageway and hear each other’s whispers as if they were side by side.

9. Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge

Take a leisurely stroll across this iconic bridge for stunning views of Manhattan and Brooklyn. Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and whatever you do, don’t step into the bike lane!

10. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

Hop on a ferry to visit Lady Liberty and learn about America’s immigrant history at the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. Pro tip: Reserve tickets in advance to access the pedestal or crown.

11. Walk the High Line

This elevated park built on a historic rail line offers unique views of the city and a mix of greenery, public art, and urban architecture. It’s a peaceful escape from the city streets and in my opinion, the coolest thing to happen to NYC since Central Park.

The pathway ends at Hudson Yards where you can see The Vessel or muster all your bravery to walk out on the glass floor of The Edge. Kids will love the nearby store called CAMP.

12. Pay respects at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum

While somber, the memorial’s twin reflecting pools and the museum’s exhibits are deeply moving. Be mindful that the content in the museum can be intense for younger children.

13. Wall Street and the Charging Bull Statue

Explore the financial district and snap a photo with the iconic Charging Bull statue. People will line up to take pictures with the bull and can take up to a half hour so be prepared for crowds. The nearby Fearless Girl statue is another must-see.

Fun fact: The Fearless Girl, standing with hands on her hips in a defiant pose, represents female empowerment and challenges the traditionally male-dominated corporate landscape.

Originally positioned facing the Charging Bull, it sparked controversy and was relocated in 2018 due to objections from the Bull’s sculptor, Arturo Di Modica. He claimed the statue altered the intended message of his work and filed a lawsuit alleging copyright infringement.

Today, the Fearless Girl stands resolutely facing the New York Stock Exchange, continuing to inspire conversations about gender equality.

14. American Museum of Natural History

This family-friendly museum is packed with fascinating exhibits, from towering dinosaur skeletons to immersive dioramas. The life-sized blue whale is a must-see.

We had a ball doing a Night at the Museum scavenger hunt. The museum is so big, this helped give us some focus. If you ask at one of the help desks, they will give you a map with the self-guided tour. There are still a few exhibits from the movie that you can find:

• Tyrannosaurus Rex
• Rapa Nui (Easter Island) Moai Cast
• Capuchin Monkey
• Hall of African Mammals
• The Neanderthals Exhibit
• Theodore Roosevelt Statue

15. Madame Tussauds

Rub shoulders with lifelike wax figures of celebrities, historical icons, and superheroes at this interactive museum in Times Square. It’s a hit with kids and pop culture fans.

With this list in hand, you’re ready to experience the energy of New York City. While visiting New York City for the first time can be overwhelming, if you cover these iconic experiences, you will have gotten a great taste of what this city has to offer. Enjoy your adventure!

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