10 Interesting things to do in New York City

New York, New York

10 Things to do in the Big Apple

New York City is probably the most interesting city that I have ever been to. This is true for multiple reasons, but most noticeably due to its uniqueness in character. The City is one of the most interesting mixes of everything that I have experienced. People from all around the world come to compete on the world stage. You can find food from all corners of the world. Visit sub-culture neighborhoods such as Little Italy, China Town, Korean Town, Brighton Beach, or one of the many Puerto Rican Neighborhoods. You can hustle its huge avenues and streets or relax in its tranquil parks. New York City might not be the only city that never sleeps, but I can guarantee that it is one of the more fascinating ones. Everyone that has the chance should visit New York. If you ever do, here is a list of things to get you started exploring the city.

10 Things to do in New York City

Take a stroll in Central Park – Central Park is a magnificent park found in the center of Manhattan. It has been described as the lungs of NYC. It provides a breath of relief and relaxation from the bustling city that surrounds it. There are plenty of activities to do within the park for those interested. The park is huge, walking through it could take several hours.
Walk the Brooklyn Bridge – Brooklyn is located just across the harbor from Downtown Manhattan. It is a quieter version of the busy city with tons of character. You can pass from Little Israel, to Little Odessa, and even parts of Boriquaville in Brooklyn and Queens.
Walk down Wall Street and grab the bull by the horns – Wall Street is literally the financial stronghold of the world. It is amazing that a little street tucked away on Manhattan Island directs so many of the world markets, but it does. Take a walk to see the hustle and bustle of the financial gurus.
Have a Cannoli in Little Italy – Little Italy has become more touristy over the years, but there are still a few little shops here and there where you can get a somewhat authentic feel.
Eat in Chinatown – Much like Little Italy, Chinatown is balanced between commercial tourism and interesting little corner stops. Grab lunch at one of the many restaurants in the area.
Visit Brighton Beach – I’d be willing to bet that not too many people visit or intend to visit Brighton Beach when they visit New York. Sure, it is a bit out-of-the-way, but it is still an interesting little area. There is a beach and the neighborhood has a cultural of its own. It was the preferred settlement area of a large amount of Russians that came to the US. Check out my things to do in Brighton Beach.
People watch in Times Square – Before visiting New York, I was told to visit Times Square twice: once during the day and once during the night. I have been to Times Square several times and I can say that I would recommend this also. During the day, there are masses of people walking the streets with the addition of cars while in the night the lights will truly energize you. Times Square will be bustling well into the late night hours.
Check out Hoboken – Hoboken is actually part of New Jersey, but it is usually where you see the pictures taken of side shots of the downtown New York skyline. Hoboken had a bad reputation for being an unsafe neighborhood, but it has started to transform into a trendy neighborhood in recent years.
Grand Central Station during rush hour – No city has been linked to busyness as much as NYC. People are on the go, and time is money. Grand Central Station is a good place to see this in action.
See the world trade center memorial – Probably one of the more somber things that you’d see during your visit to New York, but one I think that you won’t regret. The memorial is almost complete and it consists of two large square fountains marking the grounds where the towers once stood. (Tip: If you want to visit the memorial you need to schedule your visit time a day in advance. Get your pass here.)

This is just a very small few suggestions of the many things to do in New York City. New York is a huge city consisting of the main Burroughs along with many small neighborhoods interconnecting its grand streets. A veteran New Yorker could likely add 100 things to do in New York City, but for the weekend visitor I think that this list of 10 will keep you busy. New York is definitely one of those cities that you cannot expect to see everything in one trip, let alone two. The truth is, people who have lived their whole life in Manhattan probably haven’t seen everything to see in the City.