Bright lights, big city: gaze up at the ever-changing neon billboards and soak up that iconic New York energy.

From technicolor adverts to enigmatic street performers, Times Square is a great place to get acquainted with the razzle-dazzle of New York City.

Things to Do in Times Square

<p>With its larger-than-life billboards, scrolling ads, flashing lights, and bustling crowds, it&#39;s no wonder Times Square is one the top attractions in NYC.</p>

<p>Times Square is a great place to start your trip to New York City. There&rsquo;s a ton of fun things to do in Times Square, so right off the bat, if you&#39;re wondering what to do you&rsquo;ll get to see some of the city&rsquo;s most popular attractions right here in the Square.</p>

<p>Be sure to take a souvenir photo right in the heart of Times Square with the flashing billboards and advertisements in the background &ndash; you might just have to wait for a crowd to pass to get a good shot. As such a busy hive of city action, Times Square a popular spot for street performers to set up shop as well, so you&rsquo;ll get to see some of the most talented performers while you&rsquo;re there, too.</p>

<p>There&rsquo;s no shortage of things to do in Times Square, and these top attractions on your New York Pass should be top of your bucket list!</p>

<h2>Big Bus Tours</h2>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>A hop-on hop-off bus tour is one of the best things to do when you arrive in New York City. Start your city tour in Times Square and get a professionally-narrated overview of all of Manhattan.</p>

<p>Stay on for the whole tour and hop back off in <a href="https://travelthebestplaces.com/best-things-to-do-in-time-square/">Times Square</a> to explore the area more or hop off at another location you want to explore more.</p>

<p>Your onboard tour guide will direct your attention to lots of top landmarks you&rsquo;ll see along the way, including the Empire State Building, Chinatown, the Broadway Theatre District, and more, depending on which route you take from Times Square.</p>

<h2>Madame Tussauds</h2>

<p>The world-famous wax museum chain is one of the most popular things to do in Times Square - it&rsquo;s a must-see and the only way to guarantee a &ldquo;celebrity sighting&rdquo; in the city!</p>

<p>Pose with all your favorite TV and movie characters, sports heroes, superheroes, musicians, and more &ndash; all under one roof. Walk through themed rooms and check out some of their featured exhibits, too, including King Kong, Ghostbusters, MARVEL Super Heroes 4D, and more.</p>

<p>In addition to seeing some of your favorite celebrities, you&rsquo;ll gain a new appreciation for the labor-intense artistry and skill that it takes to create these lifelike wax figures.</p>

<h2>The Ride</h2>

<p>See the streets of New York City transform into multiple stages on this entertaining and interactive moving theater experience.</p>

<p>Sit back as your two comedian hosts narrate your bus ride and take you to see several street performances around the city. You&rsquo;ll have unobstructed views from the custom bus design&rsquo;s stadium-style, sideways-facing seats that offer panoramic views of the streets below through the bus&rsquo; large windows so there are plenty of things to see.</p>

<p><strong>Tip: </strong>be sure to arrive early as tickets are offered on a first-come, first-serve basis and often sell out.</p>

<p>Why limit yourself to seeing only a few of New York attractions? With <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us">New York Pass</a> you get the above and much more, so the more you see, the more you save!</p>


Bright lights, big city: when you think of New York, you'll inevitably think of the heart of the city. Discover top things to do in Times Square with our guide

Things to Do in Times Square | The New York Pass®

Watch the city unfurl beneath you from one of these soaring skyscrapers.

Choosing between SUMMIT One Vanderbilt and The Edge? Never fear, our guide will help you make a decision. Both observation decks have a jaw-dropping view of New York City and beyond, but which one will you go for? 

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt vs The Edge Comparison

<p>Observation platform one-upmanship in the Big Apple has taken humanity to terrifying new heights in recent years. But few have gone as far as the giants that are SUMMIT One Vanderbilt and <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/new-york-attractions/Edge" style="text-decoration:none">Edge</a>, both of which offer genuinely unique new experiences for the fearless adrenaline junkie from their nerve-jangling locations over 1,000 feet in the air. So: two skyscrapers, both alike in terror-inducing height. But which is higher? Which one can you scale? Which has a mirrored infinity room? And which boasts the best views of the Empire State Building? Dive in to our guide to find out how Edge and SUMMIT compare.</p>

<h3><strong>SUMMIT</strong></h3>


<p><strong>Name:</strong> SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. But ask any NYC local for directions to plain old SUMMIT or SUMMIT One and they&rsquo;ll know exactly where you mean.</p>

<p><strong>Age:</strong> The tapering wedge of concrete, glass, steel and terracotta tiles that is One Vanderbilt opened its doors in September 2020. Its crowning glory, SUMMIT, opened a year later in October 2021.</p>

<p><strong>What is SUMMIT One?</strong> Coming up with a new concept for a Manhattan observation platform is no mean feat, given that the primary draw is <em>always</em> going to be those stunning 360-degree views of the iconic skyline. But a new concept is just what SUMMIT has achieved, adding cool art installations and dreamlike immersive experiences that will &ndash; says the PR blurb &ndash; see you &lsquo;break through to a new realm&rsquo; and &lsquo;escape the boundaries of perception&rsquo;.</p>

<h3><strong>SUMMIT One: Vital Statistics&nbsp;</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Height:</strong> At the time of writing, One Vanderbilt is the fourth tallest building in New York, standing at 1,401 feet (427 meters). You&rsquo;ll find the SUMMIT observation platforms a heart-stopping 1,100 feet (336 meters) over Madison Avenue.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Number of floors:</strong> 93.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Elevators:</strong> 42.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Visitors: </strong>Despite the pandemic, SUMMIT welcomed a whopping 1.4 million visitors in its first year (to October 2022).</li>
</ul>

<h3><strong>What&rsquo;s the SUMMIT Experience Like?</strong></h3>


<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Opening hours: </strong>9AM-10PM Monday-Thursday; 9AM-midnight Friday-Sunday. The last elevator ascends 50 minutes before closing.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Tickets:</strong> general admission to <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/new-york-attractions/Edge" style="text-decoration:none">Edge</a> is included with a <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us" style="text-decoration:none">New York Pass</a>. Alternatively, you&rsquo;ll find various ticket options, including the epic City Climb, at the <a href="https://www.edgenyc.com/en/buy-tickets" style="text-decoration:none">Edge website</a>.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Closest transport links: </strong>the No.7 Subway is the main route into Hudson Yards, and several bus lines also stop within a few minutes&rsquo; walk.</li>
</ul>

<h3><strong>SUMMIT vs Edge: Which Should You Visit?</strong></h3>

<p>If you only have time to do one, the decision is probably best based on your own personal tolerance for heights. Sure, SUMMIT&rsquo;s <em>Levitation</em> zone is nerve-wracking, but it&rsquo;s got nothing on Edge&rsquo;s huge, protruding glass platform. A <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us" style="text-decoration:none">New York Pass</a> gets you access to the nail-biting see-through platform at Edge as well as dozens more top New York attractions.</p>

<h3><strong>Save on New York Activities and Attractions</strong></h3>

<p>Save on admission to 90+ London attractions with <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us" style="text-decoration:none">The New York Pass</a>. Check out @NewYorkPass on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/newyorkpass/" style="text-decoration:none">Instagram</a> for the latest top tips and attraction info.</p>


<p>Standard tickets take you on a thrilling journey through four &lsquo;chapters&rsquo; of frankly hallucinatory immersive experiences. You&rsquo;ll start in <em>Transcendence</em>, where mirrored floors and ceilings reflect the city skyline, the clouds (and you) to infinity. The journey continues through <em>Unity</em> and <em>Affinity</em>, which feature such trippy effects as floating silver balls and your own face rendered in cloud form, before ascending to the main event &ndash; Levitation &ndash; a series of glass boxes that hover above the city streets. Peer down between your toes, if you dare, at the distant hustle and bustle of Madison Avenue, a mere 1,063 feet below. You&rsquo;ll also get some of the best views of the Empire State and Chrysler buildings from up here. Daredevils can get higher still with the ultimate add-on experience. Buckle up for &lsquo;Ascent&rsquo;, in which fearless fun seekers can enjoy the twin sensations of stomachs dropping and knees buckling aboard one of two *glass-bottomed elevators* (the largest in the world, fact fans) that rise a further 120 feet into the air.</p>

<h3><strong>Fascinating SUMMIT Fact of the Day</strong></h3>

<p>If the eye-catching tiles that punctuate One Vanderbilt&rsquo;s gleaming glass exterior look familiar, that&rsquo;s because they&rsquo;re the same tiles used on the ceilings inside the adjoining Grand Central Station!</p>

<h3><strong>SUMMIT Fast Facts</strong></h3>


<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Opening hours: </strong>9AM-midnight, year round. Last entry is at 10PM.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Tickets:</strong> there are several booking options available on the <a href="https://summitov.com/tickets/" style="text-decoration:none">SUMMIT website</a>.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Closest transport links: </strong>the entrance to SUMMIT is located on the main concourse of Grand Central Terminal.</li>
</ul>

<p>But how does SUMMIT compare to Edge? Let&rsquo;s find out...</p>

<h3><strong>Edge</strong></h3>


<p><strong>Name:</strong> Not to be confused with the U2 guitarist of the same name (height 5 feet 10 inches), Edge (height 1,131 feet) is the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere.</p>

<p><strong>Age:</strong> 30 Hudson Yards &ndash; currently NYC&rsquo;s sixth-tallest skyscraper &ndash; was completed in March 2019. Edge opened in March 2020, closing after a mere two days due to the pandemic, then reopening in September 2020.</p>

<p><strong>What is Edge? </strong>Only the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere and the second highest viewing deck in NYC, after the One World Observatory&rsquo;s fully enclosed platform.</p>

<h3><strong>Edge: Vital Statistics&nbsp;</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Height:</strong> Up on the 100th floor, the Edge platform is at 1,131 feet (345 meters), while guests brave enough to book the City Climb experience will reach 1,271 feet (381 meters) at The Apex.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Number of floors:</strong> 103.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Elevators:</strong> 59.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Distance the Edge platform protrudes from the main building: </strong>80 feet.</li>
</ul>

<h3><strong>What&rsquo;s the Edge Experience Like?</strong></h3>


<p>This one&rsquo;s definitely not for the faint of heart. Here on the 100th floor, 1,131 feet above terra firma, is where you&rsquo;ll find some of the most astonishing 360-degree views of the Big Apple and beyond. Edge&rsquo;s unique gimmick is as simple as it is frightening: the triangular viewing platform (complete with transparent floor, natch) protrudes 80 feet from the side of the building, hanging suspended over the streets of New York. And, as if that isn&rsquo;t thrilling enough, there&rsquo;s also the City Climb, in which brave souls are harnessed to the building for a bucket-list ascent to The Apex. Scale the top of the skyscraper and summon those nerves of steel to lean right out over the edge at an epic 1,271 feet.</p>

<h3><strong>Fascinating Edge Fact of the Day</strong></h3>

<p>The transparent nine foot balcony that surrounds Edge is angled outwards at 6.6 degrees, meaning visitors can safely &lsquo;overhang&rsquo; the ground and rooftops far below.</p>

<h3><strong>Edge Fast Facts</strong></h3>


We pit two titans of the New York skyscraper scene against one another in our compare-and-contrast of the mighty SUMMIT One Vanderbilt and Edge viewing platforms.

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt vs The Edge Comparison | New York Pass®

Create your own adventure in the city that never sleeps

Got a week to explore NYC? We've got your itinerary covered. From dazzling viewpoints to vibrant neighborhood strolls, a week is enough time to get acquainted with the Big Apple.

One Week in New York City - 7 Days in NYC Itinerary

  <p>One week in NYC gives you enough time to see all the popular attractions, visit historic sites, and really get to know the city. We put together an example of a popular 7 Days in New York City Itinerary to give you a little inspiration to start planning the perfect sightseeing itinerary. This 7-day New York City itinerary is just one of the many itineraries you could create with the over 90 included attractions to choose from—the possibilities are endless!</p> <h2>This Sample 7 Days in NYC Itinerary Includes:</h2> <ul><li>Big Bus New York Hop-on Hop-off Tour</li> <li>Top of the Rock</li> <li>Carnegie Hall Tour</li> <li>Empire State Building Observation Deck</li> <li>American Museum of Natural History</li> <li>and more...</li> </ul><h2>Save on Admission to Top NYC Attractions</h2> <p>With The New York Pass, you and your group can save a bundle on admission to more than 90 attractions amid the city. Experience the best of NYC and visit as many attractions as you want each day for one low price with this flexible pass. Simply put, you decide what to see and when you want to see it! <a href="https://www.newyorkpass.com">Learn more about our available passes and attractions.</a></p> <h2>DAY 1 Big Bus New York Hop-on Hop-off Tour</h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/blog/cs-1232-st-big-bus-new-york_banner_1024x422.jpg" loading="lazy"><p>Head downtown on the Big Bus Hop-On Hop-On Tour and view New York’s greatest sights from a double-decker tour bus. The downtown tour will make stops at Bryant Park, the Empire State Building, Union Square, and the Statue of Liberty. <strong>Tip: </strong>your New York Pass is valid for a 1-Day Big Bus Ticket<strong>. Getting in: </strong> <a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/big-bus-hop-on-hop-off-tours" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour tickets</a> are included on The New York Pass.</p> <h2>Shearwater Classic Schooner Cruise Tickets</h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/blog/shearwater-front2.jpg" loading="lazy"><p>Hop on board a historic yacht and cruise in vintage style around Manhattan’s tip–one of the most popular things to do in New York City for adults and couples. You’ll love the views of the iconic New York skyline, but the trip’s highlight has to be the waterfront, up-close-and-personal perspective of the Statue of Liberty. The Shearwater Classic Schooner has been plying the waters off Manhattan since 1929, making it a perfect couples activity. <strong>Getting in</strong>: <a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/shearwater-sailing" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Shearwater Classic Schooner Cruise tickets</a> are included with the New York City Explorer Pass®.</p> <h2>The Skyscraper Museum</h2> <p>New York is known for its unique and beautiful architecture like the iconic skyscrapers that are synonymous with the city. At the Skyscraper Museum, you’ll get to see and learn about all of your favorite NYC architectural gems like the Chrysler Building, Empire State Building and many more. <strong>Getting in: </strong><a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/the-skyscraper-museum" rel="noopener" target="_blank">The Skyscraper Museum tickets</a> are included with The New York Pass.</p> <h2>DAY 2 On Location Tours - Central Park TV &amp; Movie Sites Walking Tour</h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/blog/On-Location-Tours-Central-Park-Movie-Sites-Tour-1.jpg" loading="lazy"><p>Get your day started with a morning tour of Central Park. But not just any regular tour in the park - On Location Tours provides a unique journey that will show you famous areas in Central Park that have appeared on the big screen and well-known television shows. <strong>Getting in: </strong><a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/on-location-tours-central-park" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Central Park TV &amp; Movie Sites Walking Tour tickets</a> are included with The New York Pass.</p> <h2>The Paley Center for Media</h2> <p>Immerse yourself in brand new technology and discover tomorrow’s forms of media when you visit the Paley Center for Media, located right in Midtown. <strong>Tip: </strong>when you visit on Thursdays, you can enjoy two extra hours to explore the center. <strong>Getting in: </strong><a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/the-paley-center-for-media" rel="noopener" target="_blank">The Paley Center for Media tickets</a> are included with The New York Pass.</p> <h2>Madame Tussauds New York</h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/blog/c700x420.jpg" loading="lazy"><p>How would you like to meet Rihanna today? Or perhaps Lady Gaga? When you visit New York City’s beloved wax museum, Madame Tussauds, you will have the chance to see all of your favorite celebrities. The museum showcases wax figures of pop culture icons like movie stars, musicians, athletes, and politicians. <strong>Getting in: </strong><a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/madame-tussauds-new-york" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Madame Tussauds New York tickets</a> are included with The New York Pass.</p> <h2>Top of the Rock</h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/blog/top_rock_observeration_1.jpg" loading="lazy"><p>Enjoy an amazing panoramic view of New York City from the top of Rockefeller Center. There are 3 observatory floors at Top of the Rock that allow you to see as far as Central Park and well into downtown Manhattan. <strong>Tip: </strong>this is a great location for photos during the day or night as Top of the Rock is open until Midnight. <strong>Getting In: </strong><a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/top-of-the-rock" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Top of the Rock tickets</a> are included with the New York Pass.</p> <h2>DAY 3 The Ride</h2> <p>Explore NYC in style on this 75-minute exhilarating tour bus ride. You’ll be on the edge of your seat for the entire trip with a beautiful full view of the greatest landmarks in the city and exciting special performances along the way. <strong>Getting in: </strong><a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/the-ride" rel="noopener" target="_blank">The Ride tickets</a> are included with The New York Pass.</p> <h2>Food on Foot Tours</h2> <p>Become familiar with the native tastes of New York City when you take the Food on Foot Tours. You have the choice of what neighborhood and what type of food you want your tour to be catered to with Food on Foot’s wide selection of NYC tours. You’ll get to know the best restaurants in the city and all of the mouth-watering dishes within each neighborhood. <strong>Getting in: </strong><a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/food-on-foot-tours" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Food on Food Tour tickets</a> are included with The New York Pass.</p> <h2>Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum</h2> <p>End the day viewing futuristic technology and innovative exhibits on display at the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum. You’ll see over 210,000 objects in the museum's collection related to creative design. <strong>Getting in: </strong><a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/cooper-hewitt-smithsonian-design-museum" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum tickets</a> are included with The New York Pass.</p> <h2>DAY 4 Fashion Windows Walking Tour</h2> <p>Begin your day discovering the elite fashion boutiques of New York on the Fashion Windows Walking Tour. This is your chance to see the most decorative store windows in the city and learn about how icons like Marc Jacobs and Alexander McQueen started their careers. <strong>Getting in: </strong><a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/fashion-windows-walking-tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Fashion Windows Walking Tour tickets</a> are included with The New York Pass.</p> <h2>Blazing Saddles Bike Rentals &amp; Tours</h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/blog/4f83167f24fe2ae3aa7d5d42cf76057b189c1b05.jpeg" loading="lazy"><p>Nothing beats cruising in New York City at your own pace. Treat yourself to a comfortable and convenient bicycle rental or join a group tour on which you can venture to Brooklyn Bridge or ride through Central Park. <strong>Getting in: </strong><a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/blazing-saddles" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Blazing Saddles Bike Rentals &amp; Tour tickets</a> are included with The New York Pass.</p> <h2>Carnegie Hall Tour</h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/blog/NYCAGO-Carnegie-Hall.jpg" loading="lazy"><p>Learn about a historic New York City performance venue when you take the Carnegie Hall Tour. This guided tour will take you to the concert halls that once hosted shows for The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and more. You'll also get a chance to see Carnegie Hall’s high profile memorabilia with artifacts from some of your favorite performers. <strong>Getting in: </strong><a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/carnegie-hall-tours" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Carnegie Hall Tour tickets</a> are included with The New York Pass.</p> <h2>DAY 5 Bronx's Little Italy and Arthur Avenue Walking Tour</h2> <p>Tour the Bronx and visit the restaurant hotspot where some of NYC's best culinary dishes can be found. You'll learn all about the evolution of the Bronx neighborhood and how important Little Italy is to its infrastructure. <strong>Getting in: </strong><a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/bronxs-little-italy-arthur-avenue-and-belmont" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Bronx's Little Italy and Arthur Avenue Walking Tour tickets</a> are included with The New York Pass.</p> <h2>Grand Central Terminal Audio Tour</h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/blog/grand-central-terminal-amtrak.jpg" loading="lazy"><p>In the afternoon, take a self-guided audio tour in Grand Central Terminal and learn the history behind one of the world’s <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/blog/public-transportation-new-york-city-new-york-metrocard" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="New York City Metro">busiest transportation stations</a>. Look up and you can marvel at the beautiful design of Grand Central’s astronomical ceiling. <strong>Getting in: </strong><a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/grand-central-terminal-audio-tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Grand Central Terminal Audio Tour tickets</a> are included with The New York Pass.</p> <h2>Empire State Building Observation Deck</h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/blog/@javan-Empire-State-Building2.png" loading="lazy"><p>Visiting the Empire State Building is a perfect way to end the night and get views in every direction from the observation deck. <strong>Tip: </strong>the Empire State Building is open late, with final admission at midnight, you’ll be able to enjoy the sights of New York until 2 in the morning. <strong>Getting In: </strong> <a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/empire-state-building-observation-deck" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Empire State Building tickets</a> are included with the New York Pass.</p> <h2>DAY 6 Graffiti &amp; Street Art Walking Tour in NYC</h2> <p>Walk some of the most decorated blocks in New York City as you admire the vibrant street art created by local artists. The Graffiti &amp; Street Art Walking Tour takes you to both Bushwick and Williamsburg in Brooklyn where you are sure to see some amazing visual creations. <strong>Getting in: </strong><a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/graffiti-street-art-walking-tour-in-nyc" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Graffiti &amp; Street Art Walking Tour of Brooklyn tickets</a> are included with The New York Pass.</p> <h2>International Center of Photography Museum</h2> <p>Everyone loves a great photograph. You’ll find tons on display at the International Center of Photography where installations showcase photography techniques as well as the development of camera and photography equipment. <strong>Getting in: </strong><a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/international-center-of-photography-museum" rel="noopener" target="_blank">International Center of Photography Museum tickets</a> are included with The New York Pass.</p> <h2>Museum at Eldridge Street</h2> <p>Make your way downtown and discover the beautiful interior design of the Museum at Eldridge Street. While exploring the museum, you’ll learn about its long history and significance to the Lower East Side of Manhattan. <strong>Getting in: </strong><a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/museum-at-eldridge-st" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Museum at Eldridge St. tickets</a> are included with The New York Pass.</p> <h2>Dave &amp; Busters Times Square</h2> <p>After a long day of traveling to popular attractions in the city, there’s nothing better than unwinding and letting loose. You can enjoy $20 worth of free gameplay when you spend $20 on gaming at Dave &amp; Busters. There are games and activities for everyone in the family as well as mouth-watering dishes and sports broadcasts. <strong>Tip: </strong>New York Pass holders can get <a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/discounts/dave-and-busters" rel="noopener" target="_blank">$20 in gameplay at Dave &amp; Buster's Times Square</a> when you spend $20 of gameplay.</p> <h2>DAY 7 American Museum of Natural History</h2> <p>Explore the many halls at the American Museum of Natural History where you can find exhibits on the development of species over time including mammals, insects, and dinosaurs. You’ll be sure to find something new and exciting in each hall of the museum. <strong>Getting in: </strong><a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/american-museum-of-natural-history" rel="noopener" target="_blank">American Museum of Natural History tickets</a> are included with The New York Pass.</p> <h2>New York Water Taxi</h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/blog/New_York_Water_Taxi_Brooklyn_Bridge-e1490982507520.jpg" loading="lazy"><p>Head toward Midtown on the New York Water Taxi which makes scheduled stops along the waterfront and gives you the option to decide where you want to get off. You can also use your ticket to hop back on another NY Water Taxi and travel to your next destination. <strong>Getting in: </strong><a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/new-york-water-taxi" rel="noopener" target="_blank">New York Water Taxi: All Day Access Pass tickets</a> are included with The New York Pass.</p> <h2>High Line – Chelsea – Meatpacking Tour</h2> <p>Walk along the path of perhaps the most unique park in New York City, the High Line. You’ll enjoy peering down at the city from the elevated park walkway and discover the many gems of the Meatpacking district. <strong>Getting in: </strong><a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/highline-chelsea-meatpacking-tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank">High Line-Chelsea-Meatpacking Tour tickets</a> are included with The New York Pass.</p> <h2>Remember to Save on Admission</h2> <p>There’s practically no limit to the number of things to do when you have a full week in NYC. If you don't quite have that much time, check our our <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/blog/three-days-in-new-york-city" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="3 days in NYC">suggestions for a shorter trip</a>. A lot of the activities and attractions mentioned in this post are included on The New York Pass--save money on admission to dozens of the most popular attractions in NYC is included for one low price. Save anywhere up to 70% off of the city’s most sought-after attractions with the pass versus regular gate admission prices. Learn more <a href="/pass-newyork/en-us" rel="noopener" target="_blank">about The New York Pass here</a>.</p> 

Check out this fun-packed one week in NYC itinerary geared towards first-time visitors (though anyone, really!) and discover everything New York City has to offer.

One Week in New York City - 7 Day NYC Itinerary for First Time Visitors

Fearless adrenaline junkies will love this unique observation deck - but when should you visit?

You know you want to visit The Edge in NYC, but will you go at the crack of dawn, watch the sunrise, gaze out at the sunset or take in the glittering late night lights?

Best Time to Visit The Edge

  <p>Only the highest outdoor observation platform in the Western hemisphere, Edge sits a mind-melting, knee-trembling, stomach-flipping 1,131 feet in the air. Its triangular, glass-floored platform protrudes 80 feet from the facade of the soaring 30 Hudson Yards building, affording epic views of the Manhattan skyline and – for anyone bold enough to look down – the city streets far, far below. One hundred floors not high enough for ya? Thrillseekers with nerves of absolute steel can also brave the Edge’s City Climb experience, in which participants are harnessed to the building for a vertical stroll to the top of the skyscraper before being invited to lean forward over the apex at a nauseating 1,271 feet. So now you know what it is (and have either opted in or fainted at the very thought, depending on your constitution), read on to find out more, including the best times to visit the Edge NYC.</p> <h3><strong>Opening hours</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/Edge%20-%20Outdoor%20sky%20deck%20-%20Courtesy%20of%20Related-Oxford%20(2)-2.jpg" loading="lazy"><p>Edge is open 10AM-10PM daily, year-round, with the last elevator going up 50 minutes before closing time, and guests are welcome to stay as long as they like. City Climb closes a little earlier, with latest entry at 8PM in order to accommodate the entire experience which, including check-in, suiting up, safety briefings and the climb itself, lasts around 90 minutes. Note that there are often extended opening hours during high season, from 8AM-midnight. <a href="https://www.edgenyc.com/en" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Check the Edge website</a> for information on operating hours on the date of your planned visit.</p> <p><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us" rel="noopener" target="_blank">The New York Pass</a> includes general admission to Edge, and can save you money when visiting multiple attractions in the Big Apple. We’re talking top-tier bucket-listers like MoMA, the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty. Note that an extra fee applies for the City Climb experience – you can <a href="https://www.edgenyc.com/en/buy-tickets" rel="noopener" target="_blank">book tickets for that here.</a></p> <h3><strong>Best Time to Visit the Edge</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/Edge%20-%20Sunset%20-2.jpg" loading="lazy"><p>If you want to beat the crowds, your best bet is to visit in the morning when Edge opens, or after sunset (bearing in mind the last elevator goes up 50 minutes before closing time). This is easily the most hassle-free way of experiencing Edge as you’ll avoid the worst of the lines. Arriving much later than 10AM pretty much guarantees longer waiting times. </p> <p>Sunset is the busiest time of the day. No surprise there, perhaps, especially in the age of Instagram, when budding photographers are out in force, eager to capture the flaming skyline at its brick-red, flamingo-pink and bruised-purple best. If you can bear the crowds, it’s definitely worth visiting at this time of day. Plan to book your slot around an hour before the sun is due to go down, to make sure you get there in plenty of time. The crowds dissipate fairly rapidly after this, making late evening a fine time to make your visit. What, after all, could be more iconic than Manhattan after dark, with lights all atwinkle across the famous city skyline? Indeed, the relative post-sunset calm may just be the very best time to visit Edge.</p> <p>Outside of the golden hour, the busiest times of day at Edge tend to be between noon and 5PM – generally best avoided if you can make it there at *literally* any other time of the day or night.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/Screenshot%202023-10-09%20at%2017.59.28.png" loading="lazy"><h3><strong>Edge Stats</strong></h3> <ul><li><strong>Number of floors:</strong> 103.</li> <li><strong>Height:</strong> The Edge platform is 1,131 feet (345 meters) up, while adventurous types willing to take on the City Climb experience will reach the dizzy heights of 1,271 feet (381 meters).</li> <li><strong>Elevators:</strong> 59.</li> <li><strong>Edge platform:</strong> the platform protrudes 80 feet from the building’s facade and boasts a transparent nine-foot-high balcony that’s angled outwards at 6.6 degrees, the better to overhang the streets far below.</li> </ul><h3><strong>Getting to Edge</strong></h3> <p>The No.7 Subway provides the most popular and direct route into Hudson Yards, and several bus lines also stop within a few minutes’ walk. Or you could, you know, make like a true Noo Yoiker and pitch up in an iconic yellow NYC cab.</p> <h3><strong>Tickets</strong> </h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/Edge%20-%20Eastern%20Point%20-2.jpg" loading="lazy"><p>A <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us" rel="noopener" target="_blank">New York Pass</a> saves you money by including general admission to <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/new-york-attractions/Edge" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Edge</a> as well as many more Big Apple icons. These include the 9/11 Memorial &amp; Museum, One World Observatory and American Museum of Natural History, as well as a number of walking and cycling tours and much more.</p> <p>You can also <a href="https://www.edgenyc.com/en" rel="noopener" target="_blank">book tickets direct via the Edge website</a>, where you can choose from general admission, flexi, skip the line and annual passes. This is also the place to book slots for the epic City Climb experience.</p> <h3><strong>Where to get Refreshments</strong></h3> <p>There’s a champagne bar on the observatory platform terrace, perfect for that romantic selfie moment, or simply to take the edge off your rising panic. Hungry? You don’t have to look far for sustenance in the Hudson Yards development – there are dozens of bars and restaurants to choose from here.</p> <h3><strong>Best Time to Visit The Edge...</strong></h3> <p>In truth, there’s no bad time to visit Edge: the experience of gazing out across Manhattan’s movie-star skyline from way up in the clouds is one that will stick with you far longer than the mild irritation of having to stand in line for 45 minutes. So: if midday is the only time you can make it, we say do it anyway; you won’t regret it. Sunset is hands down the most beautiful time of day to visit and should be experienced at least once – get there early to avoid disappointment. If, however, crowds (or indeed sunsets) ain’t your thing, try early morning or late evening for shorter waiting times and more elbow room. </p> <p><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Get the New York Pass</a> to make great savings when visiting Edge and other popular New York City attractions!</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/Edge%20-%20Eastern%20Point%20-2.jpg" loading="lazy"><h3><strong>Useful links</strong> </h3> <p><a href="https://www.edgenyc.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Buy tickets online</a></p> <p><a href="https://gocity.com/new-york/en-us" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Get the New York Pass</a></p> <p><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/new-york-attractions/Edge" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Visit Edge with the New York Pass</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.edgenyc.com/en/faqs" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Edge FAQs</a></p> 

We scale the dizzy heights of Edge – the highest outdoor observation platform in New York – to take a look at the best times to visit, and which times to avoid.

Best time to visit the Edge | New York Pass®

How to navigate the Big Apple like a local

From the New York subway to hop on, hop off buses, our guide will help you get from A to B (the A train to the B train, that is!)

Public Transportation in New York City - New York MetroCard

<p>The Big Apple is exactly that - big! Getting around New York can be complicated, but it doesn&#39;t have to be. Read our handy guide to New York&#39;s transportation system and you&#39;ll be a local expert in no time.</p>


<p>For public transportation in New York City, you have two main options. They work on the same system with the same tickets, so you can combine the two for the same price.&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>The subway:&nbsp;Almost always the fastest way to get anywhere, except late at night when taxis can&nbsp;&mdash;&nbsp;and do &mdash;&nbsp;fly through the city streets.&nbsp;</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Bus system: Not often used by visitors to the city, but a handy option in&nbsp;certain situations. Great&nbsp;for going up and down the avenues, or for people who can&rsquo;t deal with lots of stairs.</p>
	</li>
</ul>


<h2>Experience everything New York City has to offer with The New York Pass&reg;</h2>

<p>Planning your New York trip? With The New York Pass&reg;, you can explore big-name landmarks, local hotspots, and epic tours, all on one pass, all for one price. Not only that, but you&#39;ll enjoy savings of up to 50%, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.</p>

<p>✈️<a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en/buy-a-pass?duration=1" target="_blank">Buy The New York Pass&reg;</a>✈️</p>


<p>The New York subway system can be a bit intimidating at first, and the locals do rush around. So, you might feel the pressure of someone right behind you in line getting ever more impatient. Don&#39;t worry, you&#39;ll soon get the hang of it.</p>


<h2>New York MetroCard prices</h2>

<p>A single ride is $2.90 and tickets are sold at vending machines.&nbsp;<br />
A 7-day MetroCard costs $34.00 and is a popular New York subway pass option.<br />
Some contactless bank cards can tap on and off through the OMNY system. If you take 12 subway trips in a week, you&#39;ll cap out at the same price as a 7-day MetroCard.</p>

<p><strong>Please note:</strong>&nbsp;MTA Tickets are not sold online &amp; are not part of <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en">The New York Pass&reg;</a></p>


<h3>Riding the subway with New York MetroCard</h3>

<p>To enter, swipe your MetroCard through a reader and then wait for the display to say &#39;Go.&#39; It can be tricky at first, but if you can&rsquo;t get it working, remember you&#39;re not alone. Just watch other people, and do what they do.</p>

<p>While planning your New York trip, make sure to get a NYC subway map:</p>

<p><a href="https://www.newyorkpass.com/free-download-centre.php">🗺️Download a Free Subway Map here &gt;&gt;🗺️</a></p>


<h2>Safety on the NYC Subway</h2>

<p>For many decades the New York City subway system had a reputation for being dirty and dangerous. The famous graffiti is long gone, but the stations and carriages sometimes still do suffer from people being unable to find the abundant station trashcans.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bigger issue is safety, and fortunately, there is good news there as well. The amount of crime reported throughout the system is way down from its peak, but that&rsquo;s not to say you shouldn&rsquo;t be cautious.&nbsp;</p>


<h2>Hop on, hop off buses: an alternative to NYC public transport</h2>

<p>We honestly believe that a ticket on a sightseeing bus gives a greater return for the money than almost any other expenditure the traveler can make. It will save you limitless time and also visually show you many other things you would never have found for yourself.</p>

<p>There are many good sightseeing systems in New York, but we would recommend Big Bus hop-on hop-off tours, available with&nbsp;<a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en/" target="_blank">The New York Pass&reg;</a><br />
<br />
There are three routes to take you around Manhattan and the stops cover the very best of <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en/new-york-attractions" target="_blank">NYC Attractions.</a></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Get around like a New Yorker with our comprehensive guide to New York transport - from the subway to buses and cabs, learn more with the New York Pass.

MetroCard New York Subway Pass - Public Transportation in NYC

Make a pilgrimage here to honour the lives lost on 9/11 and learn about New York's resilience.

Everyone remembers where they were when they found out about the collapse of the Twin Towers. Here is all you need to know about visiting the area, from the World Trade Center to the One World Observatory.

Guide to Visiting One World Trade Center

<p>When planning your visit to New York City,&nbsp;<strong>One World Trade Center</strong>&nbsp;&ndash; also known as Freedom Tower &ndash; is almost certainly on your list of must-sees. It&#39;s located in the city&rsquo;s bustling financial district in Downtown Manhattan and is home to the&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/new-york-attractions/911-memorial-museum" rel="noopener" target="_blank">9/11 Memorial &amp; Museum</a></strong>.</p>

<p>What better way to honor this day than to pay homage to the victims at the Memorial &amp; Museum? Situated on the site of the original World Trade Centre, the 9/11 Museum uncovers the story of the ill-fated day with over 10,000 artifacts on display, as well as interviews of 2,000 first-hand accounts, photographs, and family testimonies.</p>

<p>The One World Observatory offers some of the most breathtaking views across the city. It&rsquo;s also one of the most unique places to enjoy sunset cocktails and fine dining. Any experience of this modern landmark will offer something to remember.</p>


<p>The&nbsp;<strong>One World Trade Center</strong>&rsquo;s Museum features a permanent collection with exhibitions of donations alongside an incredible account from John Stiastny, one of the survivors of the tragedy. The Foundation Hall contains a segment of the surviving wall of the original structure of the World Trade Center. Visitors can see inscriptions, memorials, and missing posters from the aftermath in 2001.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Outside, visitors can see the two memorial pools on the North and South end, the 80-foot Tridents columns, and international flags which were suspended in the lobby of the original Twin Towers, prior to the devastating incident.</p>


<p>You can easily spend half a day at the site if you then head up the 102 storeys to the<strong>&nbsp;One World Observatory</strong>. The elevator takes just 47 seconds! On the way up, you can enjoy a dynamic display learning of the transformation of New York City from its original settlement and bedrock to the concrete jungle of today.</p>

<p>At the top, the Forever Theatre audio-visual exhibition thrusts you into vibrant city life, while interactive displays and presentations will acquaint you with Gotham&rsquo;s rich culture and unique history.</p>

<p>Don&rsquo;t miss the Sky Portal, a glass floor that looks down onto the streets beneath you 100 storeys below. Be warned: if you have vertigo this will be a challenge!</p>


<p>Indulge in an evening to remember at ONE Dine,&nbsp;<strong>One World Trade Centre New York</strong>&rsquo;s ultimate dining and drinking experience. The New York-themed menu is a fun way to celebrate something special and guests are welcome for a cocktail, bar snack, or a gourmet experience.</p>

<p><strong>Tip:</strong> you will need an Observatory ticket to enter and make a dinner reservation.</p>

<p>Of course, you won&rsquo;t want to forget your camera for shots of the iconic skyline which, by day or night, is one of the most breath-taking vistas in all of New York. You can also make the most of a professional photographer for a take-home souvenir and visit the souvenir shop full of One World Trade Center-themed gifts.</p>

<p>A trip to the Big Apple during the holiday season is one of the best times of year to experience the iconic city dressed in all its holiday cheer. One World Trade Center&rsquo;s Winter Onederland promises a giant snow globe, Santa Visits, family-friendly Christmas displays, as well as Christmas-themed drinks and dining - fun for everyone!</p>


<p>The address is 180 Greenwich St. World Trade Center should you be arriving by taxi or car. If you plan on visiting the One World Trade Center&rsquo;s<strong><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/new-york-attractions/911-memorial-museum">&nbsp;9/11 Memorial &amp; Museum</a>&nbsp;</strong>you can visit during their opening hours between 9am-8pm daily.</p>

<p>To visit the One World Observatory, it is open 9am-9pm 7 days a week with last admission at 8.15pm (check the website for amended holiday hours and during the summer months).</p>

<p>Following your One World Trade Center tour, nearby you can also visit the iconic&nbsp;<a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/new-york-attractions/statue-of-liberty-and-ellis-island">Statue of Liberty&nbsp;</a>and historic Ellis Island Immigration Museum to make the most of your New York experience. If arriving by Subway the stop is Fulton Street/Park Place.</p>

<p>ONE Dine is open for meals from 12pm-9pm daily with last reservations at 6.45pm.</p>

<p>For more inspiration on nearby tours take a look at our&nbsp;<a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/blog/things-to-do-near-the-world-trade-center">other things to do near the World Trade Center</a>. If you join a Hop on Hop off bus tour experience, jump off at stop 11, 12, or 13 on the Downtown route.</p>


One World Trade Center Opening Hours

<h2>Experience everything New York City has to offer with The New York Pass&reg;</h2>

<p>Planning your New York trip? With The New York Pass&reg;, you can explore big-name landmarks, local hotspots and epic tours, all on one pass, all for one price. Not only that, but you&#39;ll enjoy savings of up to 50%, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.</p>

<p>✈️ <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en/" target="_blank">Buy The New York Pass&reg; </a>✈️</p>


All you need to know about visiting the One World Trade Center, 9/11 Museum & Memorial and One World Observatory. Plan your trip now with our guide.

Guide to Visiting One World Trade Center | New York Pass®

NYC is the ultimate grown up getaway

Whether you’re interested in going on guided tours of the city, going museum hopping, or getting out on the water, there are tons of fun things to do in New York City for adults and couples on vacation - the hardest part is choosing which to do!

Things to Do in New York City for Adults and Couples

<p>If you&#39;re planning an adults-only vacation in New York City, you&#39;re in luck. There are so many things to do in New York City for adults and couples that the most difficult part of your vacation will be deciding what to do! Adults and couples will especially appreciate the cultural experiences available in the Big Apple. Whether you&#39;re planning a romantic weekend getaway or an adventurous vacation, you&#39;ll find many fun activities for adults in NYC.</p>

<p>From galleries to museums, historical sites to shopping, our list of top attractions for adults and couples on vacation includes:</p>

<ul>
	<li>Empire State Building</li>
	<li>Guggenheim Museum</li>
	<li>SoHo - Little Italy - Chinatown Walking Tour</li>
	<li>Museum of Modern Art P.S.1</li>
	<li>Greenwich Village Walking Tour</li>
	<li>Museum of Sex</li>
	<li>And more!</li>
</ul>

<p>Best of all, they&rsquo;re all available on <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en" target="_blank">The New York Pass</a>&reg;.</p>


<p>No couple&rsquo;s vacation in New York City would be complete without a visit to the <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en/new-york-attractions/empire-state-building-observation-deck" target="_blank">Empire State Building</a>. This iconic structure soars over the city&#39;s skyline, offering incomparable views from its two observatory decks, with a peak more than 1,000 feet above the streets below.</p>

<p>We recommend heading up in the evening to watch the sunset from the 102nd floor, or after 10pm &ndash; you&#39;ll avoid the crowds and enjoy a more private experience. Marvel at the Art Deco lobby and explore the exhibits in this historic landmark.</p>


<p>Eat like a New Yorker on a Food on Foot Tour. With a whole host of international cuisines available to you in NYC, taking a guided food tour is definitely the best option for all the foodies out there. Listen to some of New York&#39;s most knowledgeable guides and sample local cuisine as you stroll through New York&#39;s favorite neighborhoods. Top tip: take the tour early on in your trip to suss out all the best places to eat!</p>


<h2>Clipper City Tall Ship cruise</h2>

<p>Hop on board a <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en/new-york-attractions/clipper-city-tall-ship-cruises" target="_blank">historic yacht</a> and cruise in vintage style around Lady Liberty &ndash; one of the most popular things to do in New York City for adults and couples. You&#39;ll love the views of the iconic New York skyline, but the trip&#39;s highlight has to be the waterfront, up-close-and-personal perspective of the Statue of Liberty. The Clipper City is the largest tall ship in NYC, with masts rising 120 feet, so be prepared for an authentic, epic adventure across the water.</p>


<h2>Share your adventure with us</h2>

<p>Tag @GoCity in your vacation photos and we&rsquo;ll feature you on our page. Follow the Go City <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gocity/?hl=en" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/GoCityOfficial/" target="_blank">Facebook channels</a> for exclusive competitions, special offers, and events to help you make the most of your travels.</p>


<p>Planning your New York trip? With The New York Pass&reg;, you can explore big-name landmarks, local hotspots, and epic tours, all on one pass, all for one price. Not only that, but you&#39;ll enjoy savings of up to 50%, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.</p>

<p>✈️ <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en" target="_blank">Buy The New York Pass&reg;</a> ✈️</p>


Experience everything New York City has to offer with The New York Pass®

<h2>The Guggenheim Museum</h2>

<p>World-renowned collections of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, Modern, and Contemporary art await at the <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en/new-york-attractions/solomon-r-guggenheim-museum" target="_blank">Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum</a>. Informally known as &#39;the Guggenheim,&#39; the museum has drawn art enthusiasts since it opened its doors in 1939. Here, you can see works from artists such as Klee, Modigliani, Mapplethorpe, and many others. The Guggenheim building itself is a work of art designed by American architect Frank Lloyd Wright.</p>


<p>Explore three of New York City&#39;s most vibrant neighborhoods in a <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en/new-york-attractions/soho-little-italy-chinatown-walking-tour" target="_blank">walking tour</a> that encompasses the SoHo, Little Italy, and Chinatown districts. Led by an expert guide, you&#39;ll explore three of NYC&#39;s most popular and diverse communities.</p>

<p>For more adult fun in swanky SoHo, you can browse the boutiques and fine dining establishments frequented by celebrities. Little Italy offers a glimpse into Old World traditions, while Chinatown brings Chinese cuisine and culture to life.</p>


<h2>SoHo, Little Italy and Chinatown Walking Tour</h2>


<h2>MoMA PS1</h2>

<p>Known for its displays of provocative and heady art, <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en/new-york-attractions/moma-ps1" target="_blank">MoMA PS1</a>. gives the world&#39;s experimental and adventurous artists a home. This exhibition institution features the latest in creative innovation, with long-term and constantly changing installations that include musical and other live performance pieces.</p>

<p>Founded in 1971, MoMA PS1 has long been known as the city&#39;s leading center for contemporary art. Expect to see and experience the new, the unusual, and the cutting-edge, as this space continues to push the envelope.</p>


<h2>Greenwich Village walking tour</h2>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


<p>Explore the bohemian center of New York on a <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en/new-york-attractions/greenwich-village-walking-tour" target="_blank">Greenwich Village Walking Tour</a>. Long a hangout for artistic and avant-garde types, the Village is the birthplace of New York counterculture. Through the decades, residents like Edgar Allan Poe, Salvador Dali, Jack Kerouac, Andy Warhol, and Joni Mitchell all called Greenwich Village home. Today, the Village is still known as an artistic haven, but you&#39;ll also stroll past some of the city&#39;s hottest eateries, preserved historic landmarks, and New York University on this expert-led tour.</p>


<h2>Museum of Sex</h2>

<p>If you&#39;re seeking cultural attractions on the NSFW side, the <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en/new-york-attractions/the-museum-of-sex" target="_blank">Museum of Sex</a> offers a curated look at the history, evolution, and significance of &mdash; you guessed it &mdash; sex. One of the most fitting adult things to do in the city offers exhibits, displays, installations, and programs incorporating current scholarship on human sexuality, all with the goal of sparking engagement and discussion. The Museum&#39;s permanent collection features more than 20,000 artifacts, from art to fashion, technology to photographs, sourced globally and spanning many eras. This exploration of the birds and the bees is presented without self-censorship.</p>


10 Things to Do in NYC for Adults and Couples (#8 is a can't-miss!)

A true New York icon 

You haven't seen New York until you've seen the Empire State Building. From dazzling observation deck views to the intriguing lobby and exhibits, here's all you need to know about visiting this stunning skyscraper.

The Empire State Building - Visitor Guide

  <p>As one of the premier attractions in Midtown Manhattan, the Empire State Building offers spectacular 360-degree views of New York City. While the views are renowned for being incredible, they’re not the only thing you will enjoy when you visit this popular New York City attraction. That's why we've put together an Empire State Building Guide for this attraction to help you make the most out of your visit.</p> <p>In addition to the breathtaking views this world-famous skyscraper offers, the striking lobby of the Empire State Building and its two main exhibits are worth spending some time checking out as well.</p> <h2>Trying to Find Empire State Building Tickets?</h2> <p>With The New York Pass, <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/new-york-attractions/empire-state-building-observation-deck" target="_blank" rel="noopener">admission to the Empire State Building</a> is included, along with admission to more than 130 attractions in the city at a steep discount compared to paying at the gate of each attraction.</p> <p>Experience the best of NYC at the pace you choose and visit as many sites as you want each day for one low price with this flexible pass. Simply put, you decide what to see and when you want to see it! <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Learn more about our available passes and attractions.</a></p> <h2><strong>Tips for Visiting the Empire State Building</strong></h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/blog/tour_img-249269-148.jpg" loading="lazy"><h3>When to Visit:</h3> <p>The Empire State Building is open every day, 12PM – 9PM, so you'll have plenty of time to take in all that the attraction has to offer. The type of experience that you have at the Empire State Building can vary depending on whether you’re visiting as a family, couple, or solo.</p> <h4><strong>Family:</strong></h4> <p>Traveling with young kids? Plan to visit the Empire State Building early, when the building tends to be the least crowded and lines are shorter. If you're traveling with a stroller, you'll need to fold the stroller up before getting into the elevator, so plan accordingly. The restrooms are on the second floor, and it’s a good idea to use them before getting in line to ride the elevator.</p> <h4><strong>Couples:</strong></h4> <p>Couples looking for a romantic time can find it at the Empire State Building as well. The best times to get the coziest view are (rather obviously) at sunset. Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night from Memorial Day to Labor Day, a saxophonist plays romantic music to help make the experience more memorable for you and your date.</p> <p>Some couples arrange to get engaged or even married at the Empire State Building.</p> <h4><strong>Solo/Other Travelers:</strong></h4> <p>If you're not traveling with kids or looking for a romantic time, you have total flexibility when it comes to choosing an ideal time to visit the ESB. If your main goal is to spend time taking in the exhibits, head to the ESB earlier in the day to avoid the largest crowds. If you're looking for the best time to take photos, we suggest aiming to be at the top an hour before sunset (be sure to allow for wait times in line) known as 'the golden hour.'</p> <p>Each member of your party will need to pass through security to enter the Empire State Building. There are no lockers or coat checks, so you must carry whatever you bring in with you throughout your visit. <strong>Tip: </strong>restrooms are on the second-floor visitor's center - it’s a good idea to use them before getting in line to ride the elevator.</p> <h2><strong>Overview of Empire State Building Attractions and Exhibits</strong></h2> <h3>Lobby</h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/blog/Empire-State-Building-Lobby.jpg" loading="lazy"><p><em>Image credit: Empire State Building's official site</em></p> <p>Your experience begins the minute you walk in the door of the Empire State Building. From the Art Deco-inspired ceiling murals to the aluminum leaf, the sites of the lobby are unique and historic.</p> <p>The Landmarks Preservation Commission designated the lobby as a historic landmark following an 18-month restoration project in 2009 it to its original 1930s appearance.</p> <h3>2nd Floor Visitors' Center</h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/blog/Empire-State-Building-Visitors-Center.jpg" loading="lazy"><p><em>Image credit: Empire State Building's official site</em></p> <p>This space was designed as the first official 'welcome' for visitors to the Empire State Building. This is where you'll show your tickets to enter the exhibits and you can use the restrooms before heading up the elevators.</p> <h3><strong>Sustainability Exhibit</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/blog/Sustainability-Exhibit-Empire-State-Building-Retrofit.jpg" loading="lazy"><p><em>Image credit: Empire State Building official site</em></p> <p>The Empire State Building underwent a massive sustainability project in 2009 that would ultimately reduce its energy costs by 4.4 million dollars per year, reduce over 105,000 tons of carbon emissions, and reduce the building's usage of energy by 38 percent – a modern-day engineering feat! The Sustainability Exhibit on the second floor educates visitors about the building’s retrofit project. It describes every process used in the energy overhaul with displays of actual building materials, sculptures, and digitally interactive displays.</p> <h3><strong>Dare to Dream Exhibit</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/blog/Dare-to-Drea-Exhibit-Empire-State-Building.jpg" loading="lazy"><p><em>Image credit: Empire State Building official site</em></p> <p>Located on the 80th floor, the Dare to Dream Exhibit chronicles the history, construction, and engineering process. It includes original photographs and documents from the 1930s as well as construction notes, architectural sketches, and personal mementos from some of the 3,400 people who worked tirelessly to make the Empire State Building a reality.</p> <h3><strong>86th Floor Main Deck</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/blog/Empire-State-Building-86th-floor-observation-deck.jpg" loading="lazy"><p><em>Image credit: Empire State Building official site</em></p> <p>The famous main deck of the Empire State Building has made it into dozens of movies and television shows. It provides you with an open-air 360-degree view of the Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park, East River, Hudson River, Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, and much more.</p> <p><strong>Tip: </strong>download the Empire State Building's app on your phone to help identify each building you see in your view so you can learn more about the landmarks and sights. Bring coins if you want to use the coin-operated high-powered binoculars.</p> <h3><strong>102nd Floor Top Deck</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/blog/Empire-State-Building-102nd-floor-observatory.jpg" loading="lazy"><p><em>Image credit: Empire State Building's official site.</em></p> <p>From this high up, you can see the grid of street patterns and a clear view of Central Park. If the day isn’t overcast, you can view other skyscrapers at a distance up to 80 miles away. You will take a manually-operated Otis elevator to the top floor, and our elevator operators will be happy to answer any questions you have. The 102nd-floor observation deck is enclosed with glass.</p> <h4><strong>A little background on the Empire State Building's location:</strong></h4> <p>Although construction of the Empire State Building began in 1930, the history of the land dates to 1799. This is the year that the city sold a land tract to a farmer named John Thompson on the land where the Empire State Building now sits.</p> <p>Different mansions appeared on the property over the next 131 years before their owners decided to knock them down. Another notable landmark on the site was the Waldorf Astoria Hotel until 1928.</p> <h4><strong>What to Bring (and Not to Bring) to the Empire State Building</strong></h4> <p>You'll definitely want to bring your camera to take once-in-a-lifetime photos of the amazing views and make sure you have a stash of quarters if you want to use the coin-operated binoculars on site. The main observation deck on the 86th floor is also an open-air observation deck, so be sure to dress warmly due to the wind and if it's sunny you may want a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen.</p> <p>Plan to allow a minimum of two hours for your visit. To ensure the safety of every visitor and the integrity of the building, the management of the Empire State Building prohibits people from bringing several things inside. The following items are strictly prohibited:</p> <ul><li>Alcoholic beverages</li> <li>Bottles, cans, or flasks</li> <li>Glass items</li> <li>Large packages such as suitcases and carry-on luggage</li> <li>Markers or spray paint</li> <li>Masks or costumes</li> <li>Musical instruments</li> <li>Professional cameras and equipment, including tripods and other camera stands</li> <li>Sports equipment</li> <li>Weapons, including guns, knives, scissors, mace, swords, or any dual-purpose item that could harm someone</li> </ul><h3><strong>Where to Eat Nearby</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/AdobeStock_187974106_1.jpeg" loading="lazy"><p>This attraction has several restaurants inside of it, including:</p> <ul><li>Chipotle Mexican Restaurant</li> <li>Chop’t Fast Casual Restaurant</li> <li>Heartland Brewery</li> <li>Starbucks Coffee Shop</li> <li>State Grill and Bar</li> <li>Sushi-teria</li> <li>Tacombi Restaurant</li> </ul><p>If you prefer to eat elsewhere before or after your visit, some unique choices are the Playwright Irish Pub and Kang Ho Dong Baekjeong. Both are under a quarter mile of 350 5th Avenue, the official address of the Empire State Building. Some of the signature menu items at Playwright Irish Pub include bangers and mash, fish and chips, and shepherd’s pie.</p> <p>At Kang Ho Dong Baekjeong, a local Korean restaurant, you can enjoy kimchi, a pork combo, short ribs, and several other Korean specialties.</p> <h3><strong>Attractions Near the Empire State Building</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/shutterstock_520066648_0.jpg" loading="lazy"><p>Of course, New York City has several other famous attractions besides the Empire State Building. Depending on the time you have available for sightseeing, consider adding the following attractions to your New York City itinerary:</p> <ul><li><strong>Brooklyn Bridge: </strong>The Brooklyn Bridge connects the boroughs of Brooklyn and Manhattan and is one of the oldest roadway bridges in existence in this country. Construction began in 1869 and finished in 1883. Another historical fact about the Brooklyn Bridge is that it was the first steel-wire suspension bridge erected in the United States. The bridge has a wide walkway available to bicyclists and pedestrians, and more than 7,000 people make the trek across it each day. It also has a visitors’ park with several piers, a volleyball court, and a playground. Go on a <a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/brooklyn-bridge-sightseeing-walking-tour" target="_blank" rel="noopener">guided walking tour of the Brooklyn Bridge</a> to make the most of your visit. Tickets to the walking tour and <a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/brooklyn-bridge-sightseeing-bike-tours-and-rentals" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Brooklyn Bridge bike tour or rentals</a> are included with The New York Pass!</li> <li><strong>The 9/11 Memorial Museum</strong> is a separate building located at 180 Greenwich Street. The memorial pays tribute to the victims of the September 11, 2001 and February 26, 1993 terrorist attacks in New York City. The museum documents these events with many exhibitions. <a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/911-memorial-museum" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9/11 Memorial &amp; Museum tickets</a> are also included with The New York Pass.</li> <li><strong>Statue of Liberty National Monument: </strong>A gift from France in October 1886, the United States the Statue of Liberty became a national monument in 1924. Liberty Island, where the statue stands, is open every day except for December 25. You need to catch a ferry to see both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The latter is the place where most Americans can trace their ancestry as millions of people entered the United States through Ellis Island in the late 1800s and early 1900s. <a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/statue-of-liberty-and-ellis-island" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Statue of Liberty ferry and Ellis Island Immigration Museum tickets</a> are included with The New York Pass.</li> </ul><h2> Save on Admission</h2> <p>If you're looking for <a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/empire-state-building-observation-deck">Empire State Building discount tickets</a>, remember to can save on combined admission to the Empire State Building Observation Deck and over 90 other popular NYC attractions, including Top of the Rock Observatory, Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours, Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises, Central Park Sightseeing Bike Tours &amp; Rentals, and many more!</p> 

Save up to 70% on discount Empire State Building tickets and your choice of over 90 popular NYC attractions. You'll get 360-degree, unobstructed views of New York City and beyond from the Empire State Building's iconic 86th-floor open-air observation deck.

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Grab a slice of New York life in three days

Visiting the Big Apple for the first time? There's so much to see and do, you'll want to get organized. Here's our guide to spending three days in New York.

3 days in NYC: an itinerary for first-timers

<p>If you&rsquo;re going to be spending three days in New York City for the first time, you&rsquo;re going to want to experience the essentials. Central Park. The Statue of Liberty. Pizza slices as big as your torso. Stunning panoramas that, up until now, you&#39;ve only seen on TV or in the movies.</p>

<p>This sample 3 days in NYC itinerary includes:</p>

<ul>
	<li>Central Park</li>
	<li>Top of the Rock</li>
	<li>Madame Tussauds</li>
	<li>Brooklyn Bridge &amp; DUMBO</li>
	<li>9/11 Memorial &amp; Museum</li>
	<li>Statue of Liberty&nbsp;and Ellis Island</li>
</ul>

<p>But what do you do first? This three-day New York City itinerary will help you get a taste of what the city has to offer, and have you going home feeling like you got the most out of your first visit.</p>

<h3>Looking for things to do in New York City?</h3>

<p>Trust us. Standing in line for a ticket and juggling entry slips can waste valuable sightseeing time. It can also get expensive if you&#39;re intent on seeing everything the city has to offer. With The New York Pass&reg;, you get admission to more than 90 attractions in the city with an impressive discount, compared to paying at the gate of each attraction.</p>

<p>With three days to use your pass, you can take your time and experience the best of NYC at your own pace or visit as many sites as you want each day. A sightseeing pass can help save you money and time so you can spend more of it in the city. Sounds good, right?</p>

<p>✈️ <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en/buy-a-pass?duration=1" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Buy The New York Pass&reg;</a> ✈️&nbsp;</p>


<h3>Take a tour of Central Park</h3>

<p>If you&#39;ve never taken a guided tour before, now&#39;s a good time to start. Not only are walking tours a great way of meeting new people, but local experts always offer a wealth of insight. This guided tour will reconfirm your &#39;Elite Tourist&#39; status. Central Park, as a sprawling green oasis featured in countless movies and TV shows, provides no end of interesting and fun facts.</p>

<p>Visit the same spots used to film iconic scenes, take a walk over all of the bridges, and enjoy the gorgeous statues and fountains located all over the park.</p>

<p><strong>👉Tip: </strong>Make a reservation beforehand for any tour, and get there about 15-20 minutes before it leaves.</p>

<p><strong>🎟️Getting in: </strong><a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/on-location-tours-central-park" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Central Park TV &amp; Movie Sites Walking Tour tickets</a> are included with The New York Pass&reg;.</p>

<h3>Rockefeller&#39;s Top of the Rock Observatory</h3>

<p>Enjoy a 70-story ride up an elevator to the top of Rockefeller Center. It houses a three-story observatory giving you a 360-degree view of the entire city, so be sure to take pictures of yourself and the skyline. Make everyone jealous back at home. It&#39;s a win-win!</p>

<p><strong>👉Tip: </strong>Look up - you&#39;ll see&nbsp;the crystal chandelier in the mezzanine that&rsquo;s actually an inverted version of Rockefeller Center. Also, check out the Breezeway Step light display.</p>

<p><strong>🎟️Getting In: </strong><a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/top-of-the-rock" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Top of the Rock tickets</a> are included with the New York Pass&reg;.</p>

<h3>Madame Tussauds in New York</h3>

<p>Visit famous people from different eras. You&rsquo;ll find exquisitely detailed life-like wax figures of actors, musicians, and other classic figures from history. It&#39;s also a great place to take photographs with celebrities and prank all your friends back home by pretending you met them in real life.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>👉Tip: </strong>Stop by the interactive exhibits on display like the amazing Ghostbusters Experience and Kong: Skull Island.</p>

<p><strong>🎟️Getting in: </strong><a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/madame-tussauds-new-york" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Madame Tussauds New York tickets</a> are included with The New York Pass&reg;.</p>


<h3>Step into Williamsburg</h3>

<p>If you&rsquo;re able to tear yourself away from DUMBO, head over to Williamsburg for more Brooklyn exploration. Get a glimpse of some real New York street art, and stop by the various clothing boutiques in the neighborhood where you can find real vintage style.</p>

<p>Find out more about the history of Brooklyn and its evolution into a mecca for young, upwardly mobile people. Not everyone in the area is happy about gentrification. Hear both sides of the argument for and against the new side of the area.</p>

<p><strong>👉We recommend: </strong>Visiting Mast Brothers Chocolate to satisfy your sweet tooth.</p>

<h3>Walk through the Brooklyn Botanic Garden</h3>

<p>Finish off the day by strolling through all the beautifully maintained gardens; you&rsquo;ll find different types of plants and horticulture techniques in each one. Then, take a load off and enjoy some plant-based cuisine at the Yellow Magnolia Caf&eacute;.</p>

<p><strong>👉Tip: </strong>if you&rsquo;re there in April, visit Cherry Esplanade to see all of the gorgeous cherry blossoms in bloom. Stop by the Sakura Matsuri cherry blossom festival if it&rsquo;s going on while you&rsquo;re there.</p>

<p><strong>🎟️Getting in: </strong><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en/new-york-attractions/new-york-botanical-garden" target="_blank">Brooklyn Botanic Garden tickets</a> are included with The New York Pass&reg;.</p>


<h3>Take in the Ground Zero Museum Workshop</h3>

<p>This workshop has images and artifacts documenting one of the worst days New York has ever experienced. You&rsquo;ll hear about the stories behind these items, and get the chance to take home a piece of this history.</p>

<p><strong>🎟️Getting in: </strong><a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/ground-zero-museum-workshop">Ground Zero Museum Workshop tickets</a> are included with The New York Pass&reg;.</p>

<h3>Pay your respects at the 9/11 Memorial &amp; Museum</h3>

<p>After leaving the workshop, head over to visit the 9/11 memorial, set up on the site where the Twin Towers once stood. View exhibits highlighting the differences in New York before and after the tragedy. You&rsquo;ll also get the chance to hear directly from a survivor of that day.</p>

<p><strong>🎟️Getting in: </strong><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en/new-york-attractions/911-memorial-museum">9/11 Memorial &amp; Museum tickets</a> are included with The New York Pass&reg;.</p>

<p>❗We&#39;d recommend doing this or Ellis Island. Even though they&#39;re near each other in the Financial District, each site takes around four hours to walk around. Your feet will thank you!</p>

<h3>Visit Ellis Island and the Statue Of Liberty</h3>

<p>Get the arrivals-eye view of New York and see what immigrants saw: Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. You&rsquo;ll take a cruise from Battery Park, getting the chance to view other NYC landmarks on your way to Ellis Island.</p>

<p>Once there, read up on the stories of the millions of people who made their way to America looking for a fresh start. Then take pictures of Lady Liberty herself, gifted to the US in 1886 by France to mark the abolition of slavery. Once there, don&#39;t forget to visit the <a href="https://www.statueofliberty.org/statue-of-liberty/statue-of-liberty-museum/" target="_blank">Statue of Liberty Museum</a>.</p>

<p><strong>👉Tip:</strong> Take in the 10-minute Immersive Theater experience.</p>

<p><strong>🎟️Getting in: </strong><a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/statue-of-liberty-and-ellis-island" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Immigration Museum tickets</a> are included with The New York Pass&reg;.</p>

<p>❗Tickets to the Statue of Liberty pedestal and crown are sold separately and require advanced reservations.</p>


<h2>See the very best of New York</h2>

<p>In just three days in NYC, you can immerse yourself in some of the most iconic sights and landmarks with The New York Pass&reg;, all on one pass, all for one price. Not only that, but you&#39;ll enjoy savings of up to 50%, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>✈️ <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en/buy-a-pass?duration=1" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Buy The New York Pass&reg;</a> ✈️&nbsp;</p>


<h2>NYC itinerary: day 1</h2>

<p>Let&rsquo;s kick things off with a visit to one of the most New York places: Central Park.</p>


<h2>NYC itinerary: day 2</h2>

<p>Let&rsquo;s get out of Manhattan and explore one of the other boroughs.</p>

<p>Brooklyn has a vibe all its own and makes you feel like you&rsquo;re stepping into a different world. Rub shoulders with young hipsters (the median age of a Brooklyn resident? A spritely 34.7 years) and eat a Tootsie Roll where it was invented - right here. And with over 700 arts and culture institutions in this borough alone, you won&#39;t be short of interesting things to do. But, first things first:</p>

<h3>Walk the Brooklyn Bridge and visit DUMBO</h3>

<p>Take a guided tour of the Brooklyn Bridge; you&#39;ll want a guide full of stories about its history. Then head into DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass), one of Brooklyn&#39;s trendiest neighborhoods.</p>

<p>Explore the wares offered by different vendors and check out the restaurants offering various styles of cuisine; there&rsquo;s always some sort of event going on at any given time. You&#39;ll get an awesome view of Manhattan from here, so take as many pictures as you can!</p>

<p><strong>👉Tip: </strong>Reconnect<strong>&nbsp;</strong>with your inner child by taking a ride on Jane&rsquo;s Carousel.</p>

<p><strong>🎟️Getting in: </strong><a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/the-brooklyn-bridge-and-dumbo-tour" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO Neighborhood Tour tickets</a> are included with the The New York Pass&reg;.</p>


<h2>NYC itinerary: day 3</h2>

<p>On the final day, we head back to Manhattan and finish things off in style. The choice is yours: go to the site of New York&rsquo;s biggest heartbreak, or visit the biggest icon in the world.</p>


Ready for your 3 days in NYC? This itinerary covers some of the most essential popular attractions, landmarks, and sights for first time visitors to New York City.

3 days in NYC: an itinerary for first-time visitors  | The New York Pass® 

What are the best things to do around this poignant NYC memorial?

9/11 is one of the most important events in New York's recent history and visiting Ground Zero is a must-do.  To help you plan your day, read our round-up of the best attractions in the area.

Top 9 Things to Do Near the World Trade Center for Tourists

<p>For tourists in New York City who want to learn more about the events of 9/11 and pay their respects, there are lots of ways to learn about the events leading up to 9/11, the day of, and the aftermath, all right near the World Trade Center.</p>

<p>Plus, there are plenty of non-9/11 related things to do as well. Check out everything from sailing and boating to sculptures and shopping near the World Trade Center.</p>

<p>💰 &gt;&gt; See how you can <a href="https://gocity.com/en/new-york" target="_blank">save up to 50%</a> on New York attractions</p>

<p>🗓️ &gt;&gt; Check out our <a href="https://gocity.com/en/new-york/passes?duration=1" target="_blank">example New York itineraries</a></p>


<p>For an in-depth look at 9/11, visit the National September 11 Memorial Museum. More than 110,000 square feet of space is dedicated to artifacts, displays, and archives depicting the 9/11 attacks. At the museum, the most notable display is part of a retaining wall that survived from the World Trade Center, which is now located in Foundation Hall. At the 9/11 Memorial, you can read the names of everyone who perished due to the terrorist attacks.</p>


<p>If you are looking to feel inspired, just add St. Paul&rsquo;s Chapel, also known as Trinity Church, to your list of places to see in NYC near the World Trade Center. This chapel, built in 1766, was once used by George Washington for prayers. However, the real reason it is such a wondrous site is because of its location.</p>

<p>The chapel sits across the street from one of the World Trade Center towers. Yet on 9/11, the chapel received no damage, not even a cracked window. St. Paul&rsquo;s served exhausted firefighters as a place of rest and refuge. Visitors are welcomed in this historic and awe-inspiring chapel today.</p>


<h2>Red Cube</h2>

<p>As you round out your tour near the World Trade Center, it&rsquo;s time to take a selfie. What better place to do this than the Red Cube? Situated in Zuccotti Park, which is more of a plaza, the Red Cube is one of the most famous sculptures in Manhattan.</p>

<p>Built in 1968 by artist Isamu Noguchi, the cube sits positioned on a corner. More notably, it features a hole through the center that offers the perfect frame for any tourist&rsquo;s photo. The surrounding park is regularly the host of food trucks, so it&rsquo;s a great place to relax and enjoy the vibrant flavors of New York City.</p>


<p>After spending time in remembrance of 9/11, it&rsquo;s time to elevate your mood&mdash;quite literally. At the One World Observatory, located within the One World Trade Center, you&#39;ll get sky-high views of Manhattan. This is the tallest building in all of the Western Hemisphere, and tourists can see views from the observation deck. Ride the SkyPod elevator all the way to its zenith where you are greeted by three floors of exhibits, restaurants, and sightseeing opportunities of the entire NYC expanse.</p>


<h2>9/11 Tribute Museum</h2>

<p>At the 9/11 Tribute Museum, tourists can connect with the community of victims who suffered directly during the attacks on the World Trade Center. Read personal stories from everyone from recovery workers and first responders to people who lost loved ones. This is a place to watch videos, read letters, and simply learn more about the loss that occurred in the lower Manhattan community during 9/11. It is an ideal way to begin your personal tour of the area surrounding the World Trade Center.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Getting in:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/tribute-wtc-visitor-center" rel="noopener" target="_blank">9/11 Tribute Museum tickets</a>&nbsp;are included with The New York Pass.</p>


<h2>Manhattan Waterfront Greenway (free)</h2>

<p>Now it&rsquo;s time to regain your land legs with a stroll along the famous NYC Greenway better known as the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway. This expansive city park features bicycle rentals for tourists, as well as green spaces for nature walks and picnic opportunities. Highlights at the park include the Grecian Temple, Little Red Lighthouse, and the Battery within view of Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. The Hudson River Park and Stuyvesant Cove are equally impressive for nature lovers.</p>


<p>Located within the World Financial Center, Brookfield Place is a high-end shopping mall in the heart of Lower Manhattan. It&#39;s located near the 9/11 Tribute and 9/11 Museum &amp; Memorial. In addition to window browsing, you can explore a number of amenities at Brookfield. There is seasonal ice skating at The Rink and workout sessions at Equinox. Brookfield Place is also home to dozens of fabulous dining opportunities.</p>


<h2>Silverstein Family Park (free)</h2>

<p>After all the tasty treats you&#39;ve eaten at Brookfield, check out Silverstein Family Park. This urban refuge is located at the base of 7 World Trade Center. The artwork displayed here adds to the tranquility of the 5,000 square feet of open plaza, nestled within trees and greenery. It&#39;s the perfect place to rest your weary tourist feet after a long day.</p>


If you're heading to NYC and planning to spend some time learning about or paying respects at the 9/11 memorial and surrounding sites, you'll probably be looking for some fun things to do near the World Trade Center--these are our top 9 recommendations.

Top Things to Do Near the World Trade Center in NYC

Several fabulous ways to spend your day at NYC Pride 

New Yorkers know how to throw a party, and the NYC Pride parade and associated PrideFest street fair are no exception.

Things to do in New York for Pride Day

<p>NYC Pride is the largest festival of its kind in North America, pulling in somewhere in the region of two million people for the main event every year. Visitors can expect month-long roster of performances and events that include queer theater, comedy shows, drag extravaganzas and LGBTQ+ movie screenings. Read on for our guide to the parade, Pridefest and all the other fun things to do on and around NYC Pride Day&hellip;</p>


<p>There&rsquo;s a whole host of satellite events taking place in the run-up to Pride Day proper, many of which are worthy of your attention if you happen to be in town for the duration. These include:</p>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">A program of talks. workshops and activities (suitable for all ages) at the <a href="https://cmom.org/" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><strong><u>Children&rsquo;s Museum of Manhattan</u></strong></a>.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">The annual Pride concert from <strong>Stonewall Chorale</strong>, the country&rsquo;s fist gay and lesbian choir.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><a href="https://newfest.org/" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><strong><u>NewFest</u></strong></a>&rsquo;s LGBTQ+ film premieres, plus filmmaker Q&amp;As and fun social gatherings.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">The <a href="https://www.nationalqueertheater.org/criminal-queerness-festival" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><strong><u>Criminal Queerness Festival</u></strong></a>, which showcases theatrical works from queer and trans artists in countries that criminalize or otherwise suppress LGBTQ+ communities.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>New York City Dyke March</strong> requires little explanation, other than to say it&#39;s a protest (i.e.not an officially recognized parade) raising awareness around women&rsquo;s and trans rights, and that it takes place peacefully (with puppetry, homemade banners and love) the day before the official Pride March.</li>
</ul>


NYC Pride Events

<p>The main date for your diary is the last Sunday of June. This is when the <strong>NYC Pride March</strong> snakes its way through Lower Manhattan and Greenwich Village, bringing flamboyant floats, eye-popping costumes and plenty of singing and dancing in its wake. Love is in the air as this celebration of inclusivity and LGBTQ+ culture gets the Pride party started in earnest from 11AM. Spectators line the sidewalks, eager to shout support and of course snag those all-important Insta shots, as float after increasingly outlandish float passes through en route to the Stonewall National Monument, in a nod to the 1969 NYC riots that kickstarted the whole global LGBTQ+ rights movement. Watch out for appearances by the festival&#39;s grand marshals &ndash; luminaries to have filled this ceremonial role in years past include Billie Jean King, Laverne Cox, Billy Porter and Sir Ian McKellen.</p>

<p>The party continues over at <strong>PrideFest</strong>, which runs in tandem with the parade, also kicking off at 11AM for a day of fun socializing and great live music. Expect dozens of local vendors, with goodies that run the gamut from international street food to craft cocktails, unique fashions and artisan jewelry. The performers are no slouches either: previous years have seen the likes of Ariana Grande, Grace Jones and even Madonna set the stage on fire (no, not literally).</p>

<p>If this all sounds a little hectic that&rsquo;s because, well, it is. But fear not: there&rsquo;s something for families too. Hit up <strong>YouthFest</strong> at the scenic South Street Seaport, where kids can make new friends, express themselves and enjoy games, food and live music in a safe, inclusive environment that celebrates their individuality.</p>


NYC Pride March and PrideFest

<p>As we said, New York doesn&rsquo;t do things by halves, and Pride month is no exception. The famous Pride rainbow flag is flown at state parks and buildings across New York and a whole host of major NYC attractions are illuminated in the spectrum of colors. That&rsquo;s right, everything from the One World Trade Center to the Empire State Plaza and even the Niagara Falls will experience a splash of the red, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple magic at one point or another in the month.</p>

<p>It&rsquo;s a great time to visit New York&rsquo;s many attractions. Explore three centuries of queer culture at the excellent <strong>Leslie-Lohman Museum of Gay and Lesbian Art</strong>, see iconic works by 20th-century photographer and LGBTQ+ trailblazer Alice Austen at the <strong>Alice Austen House Museum</strong>, and pay your respects the tens of thousands of New Yorkers who have lost their lives to AIDS at the moving West 12th Street memorial. The <strong>LGBT Center</strong> in Greenwich Village is a hub for community activities and events throughout the year, so it&rsquo;s only natural that Pride Day is among its most popular, with table games, live music, photo booths and, yes, karaoke. Don&rsquo;t miss the chance to duck into the second-floor bathroom for a peep at artist Keith Haring&rsquo;s famous &lsquo;Once Upon a Time&rsquo; mural.</p>


Visit New York’s Top LGBTQ+ Attractions

<p>Then, of course, there are the legendary gay bars and drag nights along the Parade route and beyond, among them Cubbyhole, Albatross, the Barracuda Lounge. And can you really say you&rsquo;ve been to NYC Pride if you haven&rsquo;t called in for a cocktail at <strong>The Stonewall Inn</strong>? Now a National Historic Landmark, this is one of Pride&rsquo;s busiest nightspots, so be prepared to queue. Look out for the sign declaring &lsquo;this is a raided premises&rsquo; at the entrance, in recognition of the events that led to the 1969 riots.</p>


<p>You&rsquo;re in the Big Apple, baby, so there&rsquo;s plenty more you can see and do should the Pride crowds get a little too much for you. <strong><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en" target="_blank">The New York Pass</a> can save you $$$</strong> when visiting multiple attractions over consecutive days. There are over 100 attractions, tours and activities included with the pass, including some of the city&rsquo;s absolute essentials.</p>

<p>Get an aerial view of the party from some of the highest observation platforms in the West. We&rsquo;re talking no less than Top of the Rock, the One World Observatory, and the <strong>Empire State Building</strong> itself! It&rsquo;s also a great time to check out world-class museums like MoMA and the Guggenheim, which generally run tours or exhibitions highlighting work by LGBTQ+ artists around Pride &ndash; both museums are included on the New York Pass. You could also visit Lady Liberty, take a bike ride around <strong>Central Park</strong>, or come face to face with Marilyn, Angelina and Tay Tay at <strong>Madame Tussauds New York</strong>. And there are guided walking tours galore: Chinatown, Little Italy, Wall Street and more. Heck, there&rsquo;s even a Pride-themed tour, although (for reasons we hope would be obvious) this one isn&#39;t available on Pride Day itself!</p>

<p><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><u>Find out more and get your New York Pass here.</u></a></p>


Best of the Rest: NYC’s Other Top Attractions

Top NYC Attractions

All the most fabulous things to do for NYC Pride, including PrideFest, the Parade, and a trip to the Stonewall Inn.

Things to do in New York for Pride Day Parade Festival | New York Pass®

New York City tourism: how safe is NYC for tourists?

<p>TV, news and social media might have you wondering,&nbsp;&#39;how safe is NYC for tourists?&#39; But we&#39;re here to put your mind at ease: the truth is that New York City is one of the safest big cities in the world.</p>

<p>Visitors are constantly under the protection of the city&#39;s vigilant police force. Having said this, that doesn&#39;t mean that you don&#39;t need to be cautious to stay safe. If you&#39;re visiting New York and you&#39;re wondering if&nbsp;New York City is safe, do some research to prepare yourself for your trip.</p>

<p>Familiarizing yourself with the city&#39;s hazards, and being pragmatic, and prepared is all you need to ensure peace of mind.</p>


<h2>Experience everything New York City has to offer with The New York Pass&reg;&nbsp;</h2>


<p>Planning your New York trip? With The New York Pass&reg;, you can explore big-name landmarks, local hotspots and epic tours, all on one pass, all for one price. Not only that, but you&#39;ll enjoy savings of up to 50%, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>✈️ <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en/buy-a-pass?duration=1" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Buy The New York Pass&reg;</a> ✈️&nbsp;</p>


<h2>How safe is NYC for tourists?</h2>

<p>The crime rate is relatively low in New York City. When crimes occur they usually don&#39;t take place in tourist-heavy areas around Manhattan. For example, most sightseers are unlikely to visit Harlem, <a href="http://blog.newyorkpass.com/south-bronx-tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank">the Bronx</a>, or other boroughs where crimes are most likely to occur.</p>

<p>That being said, there are a few things a tourist in New York City should be wary of.</p>

<h3>Is Central Park safe at night?</h3>

<p>As any local will tell you, it&#39;s never a good idea to go through Central Park at night. While Central Park is an iconic tourist attraction during the day, it is technically supposed to be closed late at night and in the early hours of the morning.</p>

<p>The vast majority of cases of crime and violence in the park occur at night. It may seem tempting to take a stroll in Central Park after dark, but it&#39;s safer to wait for the sun to come up. Generally speaking, you want to stay away from areas of the city when they are empty and deserted.</p>

<h3>Is the Financial District safe?</h3>

<p>Many commercial areas of the city like the Financial District tend to become deserted after business hours. The fewer people there are in an area, the less safe it&#39;s likely to be in a big city.</p>

<h3>Is the New York subway safe?</h3>

<p>It&#39;s especially important to be vigilant on the subway in New York, and avoid taking the train late at night if possible. If you&#39;re riding the subway, try to stay in cars where there are many people rather than choosing a vacant car. Being in an empty train car isn&#39;t a safe option for tourists, particularly if you look lost (or are actually lost) or are new to the city.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Probably the biggest threat in New York is pickpocketing. Protect yourself by wearing a wallet on the inside of your clothing and staying away from panhandlers.</p>


<p><strong>❗Try to look like a local. </strong>When you&#39;re dressing for sightseeing, try to take note of what the locals are wearing and emulate that if you can. If there&#39;s a thief or pickpocket around, they&#39;re going to target those who seem unfamiliar with their surroundings. Don&#39;t openly wander around with your head buried in a map - familiarize yourself with NYC&#39;s grid system, and plan your movements over breakfast or brunch. Soon you won&#39;t need a map to travel.</p>

<p><strong>❗Keep your valuables well hidden.</strong> To avoid pickpockets, always make sure that your valuables are hidden. Be discreet when you&#39;re using your smartphone or a digital camera. Showcasing any valuable possessions regularly could prove to be dangerous and make you a prime target for mugging.</p>

<p><strong>❗Travel in groups when you&#39;re unfamiliar with an area.</strong> If you&#39;re not familiar with the city and you&#39;re vacationing in a group, try not to go off by yourself. Being alone and obviously from out of the area could make you a target if you have the misfortune of finding yourself around the wrong people. There are plenty of tours available with&nbsp;<a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en/buy-a-pass?duration=1" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">The New York Pass&reg;</a></p>

<p><strong>❗Research destinations before you go.</strong> The more research you do, the better able you&#39;ll be to find what you&#39;re looking for. The <a href="https://www.nyctourism.com/visitor-info/" target="_blank">nyctourism.com</a> website is a great place to start for researching essential information to help you feel like a local before you get there.</p>

<p><strong>❗Ask police officers for help. </strong>During your stay in New York City, you&#39;re probably going to see many of the ubiquitous NYPD cars and officers. You can expect New York City police officers to be very&nbsp;helpful when it comes to providing directions, and addressing any concerns you have about safety or dangerous situations.</p>

<p><strong>❗Take extra precaution</strong>s in touristy places like Times Square. Never leave your valuables unattended - and don&#39;t&nbsp;put your purse on the floor or hang it off the back of your chair while dining.</p>

<p>Remember, asking if NYC is safe doesn&#39;t matter if you disregard all precautions, so just because NYC is considered one of the safest cities in the world to travel to, you still need to be careful in any city that is considered safe to visit.</p>


Staying safe is always a key priority when traveling to a new area. Wondering how safe is NYC for tourists? We've answered that, and other common safety questions, with this list of helpful Safety Tips for your trip to New York City.

New York City tourism: how safe is NYC for tourists?  | The New York Pass® 

Top of the Rock vs SUMMIT One Comparison

<p>Ever since King Kong first swatted planes like flies from atop the Empire State Building, the Big Apple has been obsessed with creating towers that reach ever further heavenwards. As a result, nearly a century after that iconic movie first astonished audiences, the Manhattan skyline is liberally dotted with skyscrapers of 1,000 feet or higher (though the Empire State Building remains resolutely within the top 10, fact fans). All of which means New York isn&rsquo;t short of an observation platform or six, all vying for your dollar with their superspeed elevators, interactive displays and dizzying 360-degree views across the city and beyond. Our Top of the Rock vs SUMMIT One Vanderbilt comparison takes a look at two of the best...</p>

<h3><strong>Top of the Rock</strong></h3>


<p><strong>Name:</strong> Monikers don&rsquo;t come much more literal than Top of the Rock. You&rsquo;ll find this stunning observatory on floors 67-70 of The Rockefeller Center. In other words at the, um, top of the Rock.</p>

<p><strong>Age:</strong> Considered one of the most impressive projects of the Great Depression era, The Rockefeller Center was built and opened in the 1930s. Top of the Rock opened at the top of 30 Rockefeller Plaza way back in 1933.</p>

<p><strong>What is Top of the Rock? </strong>One of the oldest observation platforms in town (second only to the Empire State Building, which beat it by a mere two years), Top of the Rock boasts 360-degree views of the Big Apple and beyond from the 67th, 69th and 70th floors of 30 Rockefeller Plaza.</p>

<h3><strong>Top of the Rock: Vital Statistics&nbsp;</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Height:</strong> 850 feet (260 meters).</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Number of floors:</strong> Rockefeller Plaza has 70, the Top of the Rock experience is on floors 67, 69 and 70.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Elevators:</strong> 60. Top of the Rock&rsquo;s Sky Shuttle elevator takes less than a minute from bottom to top.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Visitors: </strong>around 2.5 million every year.</li>
</ul>

<h3><strong>What&rsquo;s the Top of the Rock Experience Like?</strong></h3>


<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Opening hours: </strong>9AM-midnight, year round. Last entry is at 10PM.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Tickets:</strong> there are several booking options available on the <a href="https://summitov.com/tickets/" style="text-decoration:none">SUMMIT website</a>.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Closest transport links: </strong>the entrance to SUMMIT is located on the main concourse of Grand Central Terminal.</li>
</ul>

<h3><strong>Top of the Rock vs SUMMIT: Which Should You Visit?</strong></h3>

<p>If it&rsquo;s just great views you&rsquo;re after, Top of the Rock does the job for significantly less dollar than you&rsquo;ll have to part with for SUMMIT&rsquo;s all-singing, all-dancing multisensory experience in the sky. If, however, you like a slice of immersive action and some properly scary sky-high experiences alongside your city views, SUMMIT may well be the one for you.</p>

<h3><strong>Save on New York Activities and Attractions</strong></h3>

<p>Save on admission to 90+ London attractions with <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us" style="text-decoration:none">The New York Pass</a>. Check out @NewYorkPass on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/newyorkpass/" style="text-decoration:none">Instagram</a> for the latest top tips and attraction info.</p>


<p>The Rockefeller Center &ndash; aka 30 Rock &ndash; is a glorious, skyscraping work of art in its own right. Feast your eyes on this piece of iconic Art Deco eye candy before heading inside for more Instagram-feed-filling snaps of the Joie Chandelier, a sparkling confection that soars three stories through the Grand Atrium lobby and contains no less than 14,000 crystals. Suitably bedazzled, it&rsquo;s time to step aboard the Sky Shuttle to speed skywards for the main event. And what an event! We&rsquo;re talking 360-degree views across the entire city to Long Island, New Jersey and even &ndash; on clear days &ndash; as far as Connecticut. This is also where you can find some of the finest Empire State Building views in town, as well as spotting Central Park, the Chrysler Building, Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty, the Yankee Stadium and more. There are indoor and outdoor spaces, with some of the very best views to be had from the 70th floor&rsquo;s panoramic outdoor terrace. Drink it in at your leisure; there&rsquo;s no time limit on your visit.</p>

<h3><strong>Fascinating Top of the Rock Fact of the Day</strong></h3>

<p>The architectural design of Top of the Rock is intended to mirror that of a grand 1930s ocean liner. Try not to get seasick!</p>

<h3><strong>Top of the Rock Fast Facts</strong></h3>


<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Opening hours: </strong>9AM-11PM daily, year round. Last entry is at 10.10PM.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Tickets:</strong> general admission to <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/top-of-the-rock" style="text-decoration:none">Top of the Rock</a> is included with a <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us" style="text-decoration:none">New York Pass</a>, which also gives you access to over 100 more NYC attractions. Alternatively, you&rsquo;ll find various ticket options at the <a href="https://www.rockefellercenter.com/attractions/top-of-the-rock-observation-deck/#ticket-offerings" style="text-decoration:none">Top of The Rock website</a>.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Closest transport links: </strong>multiple subway services call at 47th-50th Streets-Rockefeller Center station. There&rsquo;s also discounted parking available at Rockefeller Center SP+ garage at 25 West 48th Street.</li>
</ul>

<p>But how does Top of the Rock compare to SUMMIT? Let&rsquo;s find out...</p>

<h3><strong>SUMMIT</strong></h3>


<p><strong>Name:</strong> SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. Or just plain old SUMMIT to its friends.</p>

<p><strong>Age:</strong> A relative newcomer to the NYC skyscraper scene, this humongous wedge of glass, steel and concrete opened to the public in September 2020, with SUMMIT following in October 2021.</p>

<p><strong>What is SUMMIT?</strong> Well, if the marketing blurb is to be taken at face value, it&rsquo;s three levels of immersive space that will, amongst other things, &lsquo;reset your senses&rsquo;, help you &lsquo;escape the boundaries of perception&rsquo; and see you &lsquo;break through to a new realm&rsquo;. In short: it&rsquo;s a thrilling immersive experience in the sky; a futuristic take on more traditional observation platforms like Top of the Rock, the Empire State Building and the One World Observatory.</p>

<h3><strong>SUMMIT: Vital Statistics&nbsp;</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Height:</strong> The One Vanderbilt building is 1,401 feet (427 meters) tall and its SUMMIT observation platforms are a dizzying 1,100 feet (336 meters) above Madison Avenue.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Number of floors:</strong> 93.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Elevators:</strong> 42.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Visitors: </strong>SUMMIT welcomed 1.4 million visitors in its first year (up to October 2022).</li>
</ul>

<h3><strong>What&rsquo;s the SUMMIT Experience Like?</strong></h3>


<p>Where to begin? The standard ticket includes several extraordinary experiences. There&rsquo;s a trippy art installation in four different &lsquo;chapters&rsquo; by Kenzo Digital, in which mirrored walls and ceilings reflect you, the sky, the clouds, the city skyline and everything else to infinity. Interact with floating silver balls and see your own face take shape in the clouds. Meanwhile, Levitation sees brave souls step out into glass boxes that hover a knee-trembling 1,100 feet above Madison Avenue. Yikes. Steady your nerves with a drink at Apr&egrave;s, where the wraparound outdoor terrace affords views stretching for up to 80 miles, before deciding whether to opt for the ultimate add-on experience. Called &lsquo;Ascent&rsquo;, this part of the SUMMIT journey involves traveling a further 120 feet above the observation platforms inside &ndash; wait for it &ndash; a glass-bottomed elevator. Nerves of steel are essential!</p>

<h3><strong>Fascinating SUMMIT Fact of the Day</strong></h3>

<p>One Vanderbilt&rsquo;s elegant facade is made mainly from glass and terracotta tiles. The tiles are the same as those used on the ceiling in the adjoining Grand Central Station; a respectful nod to the old from the new.</p>

<h3><strong>SUMMIT Fast Facts</strong></h3>


We take a deep dive into the relative merits of two of the Big Apple's biggest hitters in our comparison of the SUMMIT and Top of the Rock observation platforms.

Top of the Rock vs SUMMIT One Comparison | New York Pass®

10 Days in New York City - The Ultimate Itinerary

   <p>You’ve got 10 days in New York. Potentially longer. But what to do you do? Everywhere you look, there’s something new to experience: a hot dog stand here, an Empire State Building there. <em>How does someone prioritize in this bustling city? </em>And more importantly, how can you save money while doing seeing all the best stuff.</p> <p>Well, firstly, if you’re a savvy traveler, you would have already invested in your New York Pass. As you already know, this sightseeing pass gives you free entry to 100+ attractions – all you pay is the pass price. But if you’re a super-savvy traveler (perhaps even an <em>elite</em> traveler) you would have bought a 10-day pass. Why? Because this pass offers savings additional savings on top of what you’d save with the most popular 3-day pass. The cost per day for the 10-day adult pass, when it’s on sale, is just $32.90 a day compared to the 3-day adult pass at $66.33. If you’re in the city for a 10 days or more, this option is well worth considering.</p> <p><strong>And just imagine all the things you could do in that time... </strong></p> <p>We’ve put together the most popular spots you can unlock with a 10-Day pass. Use this for inspiration when planning your own sightseeing 10 day itinerary or maximize your savings potential by following it to a tee.</p> <p>The possibilities are (almost) endless!</p> <p><strong>Here are just some of the things you can see:</strong></p> <ul><li>Big Bus New York Hop-on Hop-off Tour</li> <li>Statue of Liberty &amp; Ellis Island Immigration Museum</li> <li>Luna Park at Coney Island</li> <li>Empire State Building Observation Deck</li> <li>Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)</li> <li>and more...</li> </ul><p><strong>DAY 1</strong></p> <h3><strong><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/big-bus-hop-on-hop-off-tours" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Hop On Hop Off Bus Tickets">Big Bus New York Hop-on Hop-off Tour</a></strong></h3> <p>There’s no more comprehensive way to see New York than a hop-on, hop-off bus tour. Sit back, relax and have your selfie stick handy as the bus rolls past major landmarks like the Empire State Building, Madison Square Garden, among other iconic sights. An expert tour guide will commentate the history of attractions along the route and entertain you for the duration of the ride, making it a great day out for visitors and locals curious about the city they live in.</p> <p>Access the tour's three most popular routes: Uptown, Downtown, and Midtown, and have the flexibility to hop on or off at any of the 25+ included stops. If you fancy seeing an area in a bit more detail, why not hop-off and join a walking tour, like the one below?</p> <h3><strong>Queens-Flushing International Food Excursion</strong></h3> <p>Put your walking shoes on, hop-off at Midtown’s Grand Central Station, and get a real slice of authentic New York in this Queens-Flushing International Food Excursion. Local insight, delivered by a real local expert, will highlight landmarks such as the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, The New York State Pavillion (featured in the hit movie <em>Men in Black</em>), and Citi Field, home to the Home Run Apple. Absorb the sights before arriving at the excursion’s final destination: Queens Night Market. After all that walking, you’ll appreciate the evocative mixture of flavors, fragrances and night air combined with festive illuminations at this attraction.</p> <p><strong>DAY 2</strong></p> <h3><strong><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/statue-of-liberty-and-ellis-island" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Statue of Liberty Tickets and Tour">Statue of Liberty &amp; Ellis Island Immigration Museum</a></strong></h3> <p>The Statue of Liberty’s story is a truly compelling one. Commissioned in recognition of the friendship between the people of France and that of the US, at the centennial mark of the American Declaration of Independence, it has since grown to symbolise freedom, democracy and empathy, worldwide. Learn more about this epic landmark’s construction by taking a trip to Battery Park and then a ferry to the Statue of Liberty herself. The Statue of Liberty Museum is an essential pitstop during your trip, featuring cutting-edge exhibits and even an app to educate and impress every visitor. Before you set off, remember to pay a visit to the Immigration Museum. This immersive attraction uses creative installations to tell the story of immigrants entering the United States for the first time and being processed through Ellis Island.</p> <h3><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/surrey-rental-on-governors-island" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Surrey Rental on Governors Island">Surrey Rental on Governors Island</a></h3> <p>A trip to Ellis Island will have taken you the best part of the day, so make your way towards Manhattan and rent a surrey, just a 7-minute ferry ride away. Blazing Saddles' surreys can seat up to 6 passengers at a time and help you get from one point of the island to the next, quickly and comfortably.</p> <h4><strong>DAY 3</strong></h4> <h3><strong><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/brooklyn-botanic-garden" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Brooklyn Botanical garden tour">Brooklyn Botanic Garden</a></strong></h3> <p>Wind down and take a trip to this stunning 52-acre garden in the heart of Brooklyn. Famed for its labyrinth of gardens, this extensive display of botanical life houses 14,000 taxa of plants. Its three climate-controlled plant pavilions, cast-iron and glass aquatic plant house, art gallery and themed gardens attract over 900,000 visitors a year. There’s no better way to start the day.</p> <h3><strong><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/new-york-attractions/brooklyn-bridge-sightseeing-bike-tours-and-rentals" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Brooklyn Bridge Bike Tour Tickets">Brooklyn Bridge Bike Tours</a></strong></h3> <p>Ride along one of the most iconic bridges in the United States: the Brooklyn Bridge. Not only can you join an informative tour with an expert guide who will teach you the history of the bridge, you can also rent a bicycle and ride at your own pace.</p> <p><strong>DAY 4</strong></p> <h3><strong><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/american-museum-of-natural-history" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="American Museum of Natural History">American Museum of Natural History</a></strong></h3> <p>Kick day 4 off at the American Museum of Natural History and explore the wide spectrum of exhibits, from the Hall of Biodiversity to the Fossil Halls and the Hall of Human Origins. You can even see the original Star-Spangled Banner as one of the many amazing items on display.</p> <h3><strong>Bethesda Fountain</strong></h3> <p>While you’re close, stop off at Bethesda Fountain for a picture or two. You still have that selfie stick, right? It is not simply one of the largest fountains in New York, measuring twenty-six feet high by ninety-six feet wide, it is one of the most famous.</p> <p>The angel herself carries a lily in one hand while the other delivers a pose of blessing the water around her feet. This is to commemorate the 1842 opening of the Croton Aqueduct, which supplied New York City with fresh water. Bethesda Fountain is an unofficial but essential addition to your 10 days in New York itinerary.</p> <p><strong>DAY 5</strong></p> <h3><strong><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/luna-park-coney-island" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Luna Park at Coney Island">Luna Park at Coney Island</a></strong></h3> <p>As the well-known local saying goes, a day spent at Luna Park, Coney Island is a day well-spent. They definitely say that. Home to the first rollercoaster which debuted in 1884, the Gravity Switchback Railway, drew crowds of thrill seekers, setting off a craze for rides that quickly spread around the globe. Fast forward to today, and crowds of tourists and New Yorkers alike still flock to the island for the same reason. Inject some adrenaline into your 10 days in New York!</p> <h3><strong><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/denos-wonder-wheel" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Deno's Wonder Wheel">Deno’s Wonder Wheel</a></strong></h3> <p>No trip to Coney Island is complete without visiting Deno’s Wonder Wheel. Climb on to the classic carnival ride and take in stunning views of New York City as you scale 150 feet.</p> <p><strong>DAY 6</strong></p> <h3><strong><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/intrepid-sea-air-space-museum" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum">Intrepid Sea, Air &amp; Space Museum</a></strong></h3> <p>Decomissioned in 1974, the USS Intrepid was the former aircraft carrier that fought in World War II, surviving five kamikaze attacks and one torpedo strike. This incredible ship later served in the Cold War and the Vietnam War, and as a NASA recovery vessel in the 1960s. Now it’s the centerpiece of the interactive Intrepid Sea, Air &amp; Space Museum. Situated on the Hudson River, this museum is an essential stop for any history fan.</p> <h3><strong><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/highline-chelsea-meatpacking-tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="High Line Chelsea Meatpacking Tour">High Line Chelsea Meatpacking Tour</a></strong></h3> <p>While you’re in the area, join this entertaining walking tour. The route takes you a mile above New York. High Line Park is packed with activities, and offers a great view of the Hudson River. Not to mention the amazing view of the city beneath you.</p> <h4><strong><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/empire-state-building-observation-deck" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Empire State Building Tickets">Empire State Building Observation Deck</a></strong></h4> <p>Experience a new view of New York City as you look out in every direction from the 86th floor observation deck at the Empire State Building. Watch the sun set over the city for some truly breath-taking panoramic views. Last admission is at midnight and the ESB observation deck remains open until 2am.</p> <p><strong>DAY 7</strong></p> <h4><strong><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/madame-tussauds-new-york" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Madam Tussauds Tickets NYC">Madame Tussauds New York</a></strong></h4> <p>With Hollywood located here in New York City, you may run in to a few celebrities or two. But if you can’t wait, make your way to Madame Tussauds in Times Square and see all of the biggest celebrities in one place. Wax figures of President Barack Obama, Lady Gaga, and Michelle Kwan will make excellent additions to your Instagram collection. How’s your selfie stick surviving?</p> <h4><strong><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/greenwich-village-walking-tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Greenwich Village Walking Tour">Greenwich Village Walking Tour</a></strong></h4> <p>Explore Greenwich Village on a guided tour that takes you to all the most the most popular destinations in the area. You’ll also get to visit the famous Washington Square Park which is home to summer festivals and year-round entertainment.</p> <p><strong>DAY 8</strong></p> <h4><strong><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/top-of-the-rock" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Top of the Rock Observatory Tickets">Top of the Rock</a></strong></h4> <p>With your 10 days in New York slowly coming to an end with The New York Pass, you’ll have to make sure you see the best sights. And nothing beats the view of New York City from the top of the Rockefeller Center, with its unobstructed, sweeping views of Central Park and Manhattan’s Midtown. Ascend 70 floors for a 360 degree view.</p> <h4><strong><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/rockefeller-center-tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Rockefeller Center Tour">Rockefeller Center Tour</a></strong></h4> <p>One of the greatest buildings from the Great Depression Era, this Rockefeller Center Tour explores this incredible art-deco style building, and uncovers John D. Rockefeller’s vision for the building.</p> <p>Located in Midtown Manhattan, the Rockefeller Center is spread over 89,000 square meters and is home to Top of the Rock as well as over 100 murals, sculptures and mosaics. One of the last major buildings in the United States to incorporate public art in the architecture, it’s an icon of American design.</p> <h4><strong><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/inside-broadway-tours" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Broadway Tour and Times Square Tours">Inside Broadway Tours</a></strong></h4> <p>Get an authentic glimpse into the life of Broadway star. Real Broadway talent show you the ropes and share their experiences for a true insight into what goes into every Broadway performance. You’ll also get to visit Manhattan’s theater district at the performance heart of Broadway.</p> <p><strong>DAY 9</strong></p> <h4><strong><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/museum-of-modern-art-moma" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="MOMA Tickets">Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)</a></strong></h4> <p>Dive into the culture and creativity on display at the world-renowned Museum of Modern Art. In addition to the iconic art pieces being showcased, you can also catch daily film screenings and discussions.</p> <h4><strong>On Location Tours Central Park TV &amp; Movie Sites Walking Tour</strong></h4> <p>Join a unique tour of Central Park showcasing areas that have appeared in blockbuster hits like Home Alone 2 and Breakfast at Tiffany’s as well as hit TV shows like Sex in the City<strong>.</strong></p> <p><strong>Bryant Park</strong></p> <p>End the day in Bryant Park. Known as Manhattan's Town Square, the park is known for its lavish seasonal gardens, free activities and al fresco dining. Surrounded by iconic skyscrapers, Bryant Park is visited by more than 12 million people each year and is one of the busiest public spaces in the world. If you’re visiting in winter, you’ll see part of the park transformed into a massive ice rink. <a href="/pass-newyork/en-us/new-york-attractions/ice-skating-bryant-park">Enjoy some ice skate rentals, on us</a>.</p> <p><strong>DAY 10</strong></p> <h4><strong>The Cathedral of St. John the Divine</strong></h4> <p>Grab a coffee and travel to Manhattan’s uptown region for your last day with The New York Pass. Wander the picturesque gardens and take in the stunning gothic architecture of one of the city’s most prominent historical landmarks.</p> <h4><strong><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/solomon-r-guggenheim-museum" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Guggenheim Museum Tickets">Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum</a></strong></h4> <p>Your 10 days in New York would not be complete without seeing this architectural masterpiece. The Guggenheim museum is home to one of the finest modern art collections in the world. Ascend the landmark's grand spiral and experience its special exhibitions and permanent collections. Designed by the visionary architect Frank Lloyd Wright, the Guggenheim Museum is one of the most recognised museums in NYC, curating one of the most incredible collections of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, early modern and contemporary art in the world.</p> <p>So that's our 10 days in New York itinerary! Need some more inspiration on things to do in New York City? <a href="http://blog.newyorkpass.com">We've got you covered</a>.</p> 

You've got 10 days in New York - what do you do? We've got the 10 day itinerary for you to make sure you see all the best things during your trip.

10 Days in New York City Itinerary | The New York Pass®

Save big on New York attractions

<h3>Take a look at our sample itinerary to see how you could make huge savings with The New York Pass&reg;. Visit top attractions for less!</h3>

<p>With so many attractions and experiences to choose from, trips to New York&nbsp;fly by all too soon. Our sample five-day itinerary of New York gives you a taster of what the city has to offer and just how much you could save using The New York Pass&reg;. Oh, and there&#39;s no need to pick your attractions before you purchase -&nbsp;you have the flexibility to choose where to go on the day! Are you planning 5 days in New York? This is what a 5 day New York Pass itinerary could look like.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


<h2>Our ultimate 5-day itinerary of New York City</h2>

<h3>Day 1</h3>

<p><strong>Big Bus Hop On Hop Off 1-Day Classic Ticket</strong>&nbsp;<em>(Normal ticket value: $59.99)</em></p>

<p><strong>Empire State Building Observatory</strong>&nbsp;<em>(Normal ticket value: $47.91)</em></p>

<p><strong>Madame Tussauds</strong>&nbsp;<em>(Normal ticket value: $47.89)</em></p>

<h3>Day 2</h3>

<p><strong>Best of NYC Cruise by Circle Line</strong>&nbsp;<em>(Normal ticket value: $44.00)</em></p>

<p><strong>Intrepid Sea, Air &amp; Space Museum</strong>&nbsp;<em>(Normal ticket value: $33.00)</em></p>

<p><strong>Edge</strong>&nbsp;<em>(Normal ticket value: $43.55)</em></p>

<h3>Day 3</h3>

<p><strong>Statue of Liberty Ferry and Ellis Island Immigration Museum</strong>&nbsp;<em>(Normal ticket value: $24.00)</em></p>

<p><strong>One World Observatory</strong>&nbsp;<em>(Normal ticket value: $44.65)</em></p>

<p><strong>9/11 Memorial &amp; Museum</strong>&nbsp;<em>(Normal ticket value: $28.00)</em></p>

<h3>Day 4</h3>

<p><strong>Top of the Rock&trade; Observation Deck</strong>&nbsp;<em>(Normal ticket value: $43.55)</em></p>

<p><strong>Rockefeller Center Tour</strong>&nbsp;<em>(Normal ticket value: $29.40)</em></p>

<p><strong>St. Patrick&#39;s Cathedral Tour</strong>&nbsp;<em>(Normal ticket value: $25.00)</em></p>

<h3>Day 5</h3>

<p><strong>Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)</strong>&nbsp;<em>(Normal ticket value: $25.00)</em></p>

<p><strong>Central Park Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking</strong>&nbsp;<em>(Normal ticket value: $51.69)</em></p>

<p><strong>American Museum of Natural History</strong>&nbsp;<em>(Normal ticket value: $23.00)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h3><strong>Total cost of visiting these attractions without an NYC pass:&nbsp;$570.63</strong></h3>

<p>Price of buying a 5-day New York Pass<strong>&reg;</strong>:&nbsp;<strong>$279.00</strong></p>

<p><strong><a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/new-york-attractions/pricing">How much you save with The New York Pass&reg;:</a>&nbsp;$291.63</strong></p>

<p>There you go. A great way to spend&nbsp;5 days in New York City while making nearly $300 in savings!&nbsp;</p>


View our 5 day itinerary of New York city and save money with The New York Pass®. Free entry to 25+ top New York attractions. Museums, Landmarks & Bus Tour

New York Itinerary in 5 days with Attractions | New York Pass®

New York Airport to City Travel Options

<p>New York. So good they named it twice. So pretty it holds the Guinness world record for being the planet&#39;s most Instagrammed city. And so perennially popular with tourists and business travelers that it requires not one, not two, but *three* airports to keep up with demand. It&rsquo;s not hard to understand why either: think household-name attractions like the Statue of Liberty and Empire State building, a vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene (looking at you, Broadway!), and some of the best shopping in the Western world. And that barely scratches the surface. Planning a trip to to the city never sleeps? Read on for our guide to the airport transportation options that will have you enjoying the bright lights of downtown Manhattan in no time at all.</p>

<h2><strong>New York Airports in Brief</strong></h2>


<p>The Big Apple has three international airports: John F. Kennedy (JFK), Newark Liberty (EWR) and LaGuardia (LGA). Here&rsquo;s the lowdown&hellip;</p>

<p><strong>JFK</strong> is the main entry point for all arrivals in the US, making it the biggest and busiest airport in New York by some considerable margin. It&rsquo;s located in Queens, around 26km southeast of Midtown Manhattan.</p>

<p><strong>Newark Liberty Airport</strong> is 14km southwest of Manhattan and runs JFK pretty close in terms of annual passenger numbers.</p>

<p><strong>LaGuardia</strong> is the baby of the three main New York airports, processing around half the number of annual passengers of its Queens neighbor JFK. It&rsquo;s around 17km by road from Midtown Manhattan.</p>

<p>But what&rsquo;s the best way to get to Manhattan from each airport? Read on to find out&hellip;</p>

<h2><strong>JFK to the City</strong></h2>

<h3><strong>AirTrain</strong></h3>


<p>Being the smallest of NYC&rsquo;s &lsquo;big three&rsquo; means transport options are slightly more limited from LaGuardia Airport. But getting to the heart of the Big Apple action is still very straightforward.</p>

<h3><strong>By Bus</strong></h3>

<p>There are multiple options available via the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) bus network. You can go all the way to downtown Manhattan, or hop off en route to connect to the subway and Long Island Rail Road. One-way trips on the MTA network cost a mere $2.90, making bus hands-down the most cost effective method of getting from LaGuardia to Manhattan.</p>

<h3><strong>By Cab</strong></h3>

<p>Cabs from LaGuardia to Manhattan range from $30-38 and again, fares are fixed by destination, but with various add-ons including state taxes, peak-time surcharges and airport access fees. Please, as ever, do tip for good service.</p>

<h3><strong>By Rental Car</strong></h3>

<p>Car rental agencies including Avis, Budget, Enterprise and Thrifty operate out of all three terminals at LaGuardia and there are free shuttles in front of each terminal to take you to your vehicle.</p>

<h2><strong>Save on attractions</strong><strong>, tours and activities in New York</strong></h2>

<p>Save on admission to New York attractions with <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">the New York Pass</a>. Check out @NewYorkPass on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/newyorkpass/" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Instagram</a> for the latest top tips and attraction info.</p>


<p>The JFK AirTrain provides a quick, easy and (largely) free way to navigate the airport&rsquo;s eight terminals. It operates 24/7 year-round and connects you, the eager new arrival, to hotel shuttle pick-up areas, airport parking lots, and the rental car center. There&rsquo;s an $8.25 fee if your AirTrain journey starts or ends at Jamaica or Howard Beach stations, which connect to New York&rsquo;s public transportation network via the NYC subway system, the Long Island Rail Road, and public buses.</p>

<h3><strong>By Subway</strong></h3>

<p>Traveling on a budget? The NYC subway is your friend. Take the AirTrain to Jamaica station for subway connections to Brooklyn, Queens, Midtown and Lower Manhattan, or to Howard Beach for connections to Brooklyn, Lower Manhattan and the Rockaways only. The subway takes around 50-60 minutes into Manhattan and costs only around $3 on top of your AirTrain fare.</p>

<h3><strong>By Train</strong></h3>

<p>The Long Island Rail Road is a commuter train that links Jamaica station with Midtown Manhattan, Grand Central Terminal, Brooklyn and Long Island. It&rsquo;s considerably faster than the subway, taking around 30 minutes into Midtown Manhattan. But you&rsquo;ll pay for the privilege: an extra $5-11 on top of the AirTrain fare, variable depending whether you&rsquo;re traveling during peak times or not.</p>


<h3><strong>By Bus</strong></h3>

<p>There are more regional bus services out of JFK than we could possibly list here, but the majority don&rsquo;t go right to the heart of New York and require a connection to the subway anyway. There is one Express Bus service that operates from terminals 1, 4 and 8 and will take you all the way to downtown Manhattan. It costs $19 and runs every 30 minutes between 11AM and 7PM.</p>

<h3><strong>By Cab</strong></h3>

<p>JFK Airport cabs charge a fixed fare of $70 into Manhattan. That&rsquo;s per car for up to four passengers. A bargain. Watch out for extra charges though, including the peak period surcharge ($5), the airport pick-up fee ($1.75), the state tax (50 cents), the variable congestion charge, and the 75-cent add-on to rides that pass through Manhattan or end south of 96th street. Oh, and don&rsquo;t forget to tip, will ya?</p>

<h3><strong>By Rental Car</strong></h3>

<p>There are stacks of rental companies operating after arrivals in each terminal: Alamo, Avis, Hertz and Thrifty to name just a few. Book your vehicle then hop on the AirTrain to the Federal Circle Station to pick it up. Be wise to road tolls in and around NYC and be sure to check your individual rental company&rsquo;s policy regarding how these should be handled to avoid picking up a hefty bill later.</p>


<h2><strong>Newark</strong> <strong>Liberty to the City</strong></h2>

<h3><strong>AirTrain</strong></h3>

<p>Like JFK, Newark Liberty Airport operates an AirTrain network that serves all three terminals, providing free transport to rental cars, hotel shuttles and parking lots. You&rsquo;ll pay an $8.25 fee for AirTrain journeys that connect to the city via the Newark Liberty International Airport Station. This is included in the price of NJ Transit and Amtrak tickets purchased in the terminal. AirTrain runs every 3-5 minutes between 5AM and 11PM and around every 15 minutes through the wee small hours.</p>

<h3><strong>By Train</strong></h3>

<p>Regular Amtrak and NJ Transit trains run direct from Newark Liberty International Airport Station to Penn Station in Midtown Manhattan, and beyond to Philadelphia, D.C., and more. Journeys into Manhattan take around 25 minutes and cost from around $20 one way.</p>


<h3><strong>By Bus</strong></h3>

<p>NJ Transit runs a regular Express Bus service between Newark Liberty International Airport and major NYC stations including Grand Central, Bryant Park and the Port Authority Bus Terminal. It&rsquo;s $18 one way or $30 for a return ticket. You can catch the bus at regular intervals between 5AM and 1AM, 365 days a year.</p>

<h3><strong>By Cab</strong></h3>

<p>Newark Liberty Airport cabs charge fixed fares that range from $60-80 depending where in New York City you&rsquo;re going. As with JFK, there are several additional charges to look for, and tipping for good service is expected.&nbsp;</p>

<h3><strong>By Rental Car</strong></h3>

<p>You&rsquo;ll find all the regular car rental companies at the rental center on levels 1-3 of the Parking A Access Road, which can be reached for free on the AirTrain. Be sure to check about road toll policies with your chosen rental company.</p>

<h2><strong>LaGuardia to the City</strong></h2>


Our quick'n'easy guide to getting to the heart of NYC from JFK, Newark Liberty and LaGuardia international airports.

New York Airport to City Travel Options | New York Pass®

Tourist Traps in New York to Watch Out for

<p>Want to avoid the Big Apple taking a bite from you rather than, you know, the other way around? Our guide to the tourist traps to watch out for in New York is here to help! We&rsquo;re talking cartoonish scams on Times Square, totally avoidable Empire State Building queues, and the perks of side-swerving Central Park. Read on for our whistle stop guide to New York&#39;s most notorious tourist traps, plus how to avoid them and what to do instead&hellip;</p>

<h2><strong>New York Tourist Traps: The Statue of Liberty</strong></h2>


<p>We know, we know, but hear us out! <em>Of course</em> we understand that you can&rsquo;t go to New York without checking out the Green Goddess at close quarters. That would be crazy, right? Right. But there are good ways and bad ways of experiencing *the* emblem of American freedom.</p>

<p>Case in point: it&#39;ll set you back a cool $20+ to disembark with the tourist hordes at Ellis Island, have a poke around the so-so Immigration Museum then spend the next half hour taking awkward selfies that, at such proximity to Lady Liberty, are always doomed to failure. Sure, you can climb the spiral staircase inside to get a view from the statue&rsquo;s crown. But a) there&rsquo;s an additional charge for that; b) there are 354 steps and c) you can&rsquo;t actually see the Statue of Liberty from here because, well, you&rsquo;re inside it.</p>


<p>Central Park is free to visit, and don&rsquo;t the tourists (and scammers) just know it! It&rsquo;s amazing how a tract of land that&rsquo;s many times the size of Monaco, more vast than the Vatican City, and could fit upwards of 600 football fields can feel so incredibly&hellip; busy. Tourists flock to this Big Apple centerpiece for its indisputably fine collection of attractions. To wit: a cute miniature castle that doubles as a weather station, a tranquil memorial to John Lennon, the gorgeous neoclassical Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, and the extraordinary Metropolitan Museum of Art. And that&rsquo;s just for starters.</p>


<p>Pedicab drivers swarm the paths, charming unsuspecting tourists into taking rides that will likely end up costing you anywhere from $5-11 <em>per</em> <em>minute!</em> Frankly you might be quicker if you walk. You&rsquo;ll certainly be richer. In summary: if crowds ain&rsquo;t your bag, give Central Park a wide berth. In spite of its huge size, you&rsquo;ll be hard-pushed to find a quiet spot here at any time of year.</p>

<p>Instead, hit up the equally pleasant (and far less busy) Hudson River Park (great for cycling!) or Brooklyn&rsquo;s pretty Prospect Park. The latter was designed by Calvert Vaux and Frederick Law Olmsted, the celebrated 19th-century architects who were also responsible for &ndash;&nbsp;yup, you guessed it &ndash; our old pal Central Park. Prospect is a little over half the size of its more famous cousin and provides a tranquil retreat from the madness of the city, counting sprawling areas of woodland, great meadows, a lake, a zoo and a carousel among its many charms.</p>

<h2><strong>Save on</strong><strong> New York&rsquo;s most popular tourist attractions</strong></h2>

<p>Save on admission to New York attractions with <a href="https://newyorkpass.com" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">the New York Pass</a>. Check out @NewYorkPass on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/newyorkpass/" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Instagram</a> for the latest top tips and attraction info.</p>


<p>Our advice? Save your time and dime and avoid this classic NYC tourist trap. There are fine views of the statue to be had from all over Manhattan: try the Brooklyn Bridge or indeed any observation platform (of which there are many). Better yet, take the free &ndash;&nbsp;yes, free &ndash;&nbsp;Staten Island Ferry for a 25-minute round-trip across New York Harbor that affords some of the best views of the Statue of Liberty in town. It runs 24/7, year-round, so there are plenty of opportunities to travel in lull periods. Oh, and did we mention it&rsquo;s free?</p>

<h2><strong>New York Tourist Traps: Times Square</strong></h2>


<p>Like innocent moths to a particularly gaudy flame, tourists are drawn to Times Square in their multitudes. You can spot them a mile off: slightly bamboozled expressions, phone cameras held gormlessly aloft as they clog the sidewalks, all eager to secure that essential Insta-perfect selfie. But tourist traps don&rsquo;t come much more crass, crowded and over-commercialized than Times Square.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Astronomical prices at glossy-looking chain restaurants like the Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and Olive Garden should be matched by out-of-this-world food. Alas you&rsquo;re paying a premium for location only, and the distinctly average food is likely to bring you down to earth with a bump. Even the legendary Magnolia Bakery dessert store just isn&rsquo;t worth the looooong wait.</p>


<p>Stores hawk overpriced souvenir tat that&rsquo;s seemingly designed to self-destruct five seconds after purchase and Broadway tickets offered by street touts at prices that seem too good to be true are precisely that. After all, $50 is *a lot* to fork out for a souvenir fake <em>Hamilton</em> ticket.</p>

<p>Wanna see Mickey Mouse drop character and morph into a pushy, big-eared street rat? Course you do! Times Square is overrun with third-rate Mickeys, Donalds, Elmos, and Marvel and DC superheroes, i.e. characters designed to appeal to kids. None of these are affiliated to the entertainment companies that spawned them and all of them will try to trick you into having your photo taken with them before aggressively demanding &lsquo;tips&rsquo; for their troubles. Avoid, avoid, and furthermore, avoid!</p>

<h2><strong>New York Tourist Traps: Empire State Building</strong></h2>


<p>The image of King Kong clinging to his beloved Ann Darrow (Fay Wray) and batting away airplanes from atop of the Empire State Building is one of the most iconic in movie history. But does that mean you should visit this Art Deco monolith? No, dear reader, it does not. Sure, it&rsquo;s an architectural masterpiece and yep, it&rsquo;s bucket list material for sure. But popularity means queues as long as the tower is tall (1,453 feet). Ok maybe not quite <em>that</em> long, but you get the general idea. Prices are also sky high, and increase the higher up the tower you want to go. In short: it&rsquo;s a classic New York tourist trap. But if astronomical prices, super-long queues, and being crammed into elevators like sardines is your thing, then go for it!</p>

<p>Alternatively, johnny-come-lately observation platforms like Edge and Summit One Vanderbilt offer more modern, multi-sensory experiences as well as &ndash; perhaps critically &ndash; boasting views of the Empire State Building itself. Try the City Climb at Edge for a knee-knocking al fresco stroll across the roof of one of NYC&rsquo;s tallest skyscrapers. Or enjoy rather more down-to-earth views from the Brooklyn Bridge, a New York must-see in its own right.</p>

<h2><strong>New York Tourist Traps: Central Park</strong></h2>


We take a look at New York's most notorious tourist traps, plus how to avoid them and what you should do instead. 

Tourist Traps in New York to Watch Out for | New York Pass®

Most Popular Tourist Attractions in New York - Top 10

<p>No one could ever accuse The Big Apple of lacking bite when it comes to world-beating tourist attractions. From Brooklyn Bridge to the bright lights of Broadway, Central Park to the Statue of Liberty, MoMa to The Met, and the Empire State Building to Edge, there&rsquo;s something for everyone here, and then some! Dive in for our guide to 10 of New York&rsquo;s most popular tourist attractions&hellip;</p>

<h2><strong>Central Park</strong></h2>


<p>NYC icons don&rsquo;t come much bigger than Central Park. Explore 843 acres of manicured gardens, rocky ravines and pleasant glens but, fear not, if that sounds like a lot of hard work there are over 9,000 benches on which to rest weary legs. And, you know, you can also just leave your adventurer hat at home and potter around a few key Central Park attractions instead. We&rsquo;re talking the peaceful, elm-shaded Strawberry Fields memorial to John Lennon, the romantic Bethesda Fountain, the meandering path that snakes around the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and Belvedere Castle, a fairytale folly that doubles as a weather station. <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/new-york-attractions/central-park-bike-rental-unlimited-biking" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Hire a bicycle</a> to see the sights at a leisurely pace or &ndash;&nbsp;why the heck not &ndash;&nbsp;strap on your roller skates and cruise the broad leafy avenues in style.</p>

<h2><strong>The Statue of Liberty</strong></h2>


<p>It&rsquo;s a fact universally acknowledged that no one leaves Manhattan without first bagging a selfie amid the dazzling lights and iconic yellow cabs of Times Square. Heck, you can even have your beautiful face beamed onto the huge digital billboard &ndash; your 15 seconds of fame for a mere $40. Bargain.</p>

<h2><strong>Grand Central Terminal</strong></h2>


<p>It takes a special kind of train station to make it into <em>any</em> city&rsquo;s top 10 most popular attractions, let alone somewhere like NYC, but then the Grand Central Terminal is no ordinary station. Insta addicts flock to this Beaux-Arts beauty for its epic architecture and features that include a massive astrological ceiling mural (2,500 stars, fact fans), glittering chandeliers, the famous four-faced information-booth clock, and a fun whispering gallery. So good, in fact, that you&rsquo;ll probably miss the train you rushed here to catch.</p>

<h2><strong>9/11 Memorial and Museum</strong></h2>


<p>Built on the former site of the World Trade Center, <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/911-memorial-museum" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">this stunning memorial and museum</a> tells the human stories behind the tragic events of September 11, 2001, combining moving personal testimonies and memorabilia with multimedia presentations to provide a real insight into the day&#39;s events. The courageous stories told by survivors and first responders are frankly awe-inspiring, and twin reflecting pools &ndash; each almost an acre in size &ndash; provide serene spots for quiet remembrance.</p>

<h2><strong>Coney Island</strong></h2>


<p>Unleash your inner child in the birthplace of the theme park. There have been rides at Coney Island since the late 19th Century and the oldest ride still operating here &ndash;&nbsp;the 150-foot-tall Wonder Wheel in Deno&rsquo;s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park &ndash; has been thrilling kids young and old for well over 100 years now. For more modern kicks, hit up the revived and revamped Luna Park, where 21st-century coasters with names like Cyclone, The Tickler and Thunderbolt are every bit as nerve-jangling as they sound.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Broadway</strong></h2>


<p>Yes, Broadway shows can be a little pricey, but there&rsquo;s really no better place on the planet to take in a spot of high-end drama or musical theater. Here&rsquo;s where the likes of Meryl Streep, James Earl Jones, Julie Andrews and Idina Menzel cut their teeth. And where you, dear reader, can see the stars of today (and tomorrow) singing their lungs out at huuuge shows like&nbsp;<em>Chicago</em>, <em>Hamilton</em>, <em>Wicked</em> and <em>The Lion King</em>. Indeed, an evening of musical theater on Broadway might just be the quintessential Manhattan night out.</p>

<h2><strong>Save on</strong><strong> New York&rsquo;s most popular tourist attractions</strong></h2>

<p>Save on admission to New York attractions with <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">the New York Pass</a>. Check out @NewYorkPass on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/newyorkpass/" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Instagram</a> for the latest top tips and attraction info.</p>


<p>Believe it or not, <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/statue-of-liberty-and-ellis-island" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">the Statue of Liberty</a> isn&rsquo;t even one of NYC&rsquo;s most-visited attractions, despite being indisputably its most iconic. That&rsquo;s because the majority tend to view it from Manhattan observation platforms (more on these later), or perhaps from the Staten Island Ferry, rather than disembarking at Liberty Island itself for the real deal. But in fact nothing beats getting right up close with a roundtrip to Ellis Island, where you can visit the Immigration Museum and even set foot inside sections of the Green Goddess herself. Those with a head for heights will likely thrill to the idea of getting right to the heart (or indeed crown) of the definitive emblem of American freedom, with a 354-step climb up the internal staircase and into the famous headgear. A positively regal experience.</p>

<h2><strong>MoMA</strong></h2>


<p>If you&rsquo;re only going to visit one art museum in New York, make it MoMA, the most popular and arguably the best. Here, over 200,000 pieces of 20th and 21st Century art occupies some 700,000 square feet of prime Midtown Manhattan real estate. Dive in for some of the most famous modern masterpieces on the planet, including Dal&iacute;&rsquo;s <em>The Persistence of Memory</em>, Van Gogh&rsquo;s <em>Starry Night </em>and&nbsp;Warhol&rsquo;s <em>Campbell&rsquo;s Soup Cans</em>, to namecheck just a few. In a word: wow.</p>

<h2><strong>Natural Highs</strong></h2>


<p>New York has more sky-high observation decks than you can shake a <em>very</em> large stick at, many of which feature regularly in lists of the most popular tourist attractions in town. It&rsquo;s not hard to see why. Just zip to the top of the One World Trade Center, Empire State Building or Rockefeller Center and let those far-reaching views across the iconic Manhattan skyline do the talking. You can even (gulp) take an al fresco stroll across the top of the 30 Hudson Yards building at relative newbie Edge, an experience for which only those with nerves of absolute steel need apply. Check out our comparisons between some of the biggest hitters <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en/blog/top-of-the-rock-vs-summit-one" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="https://gocity.com/en/new-york/blog/edge-vs-empire-state-building-compare-observation-decks" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>

<h2><strong>American Museum of Natural History</strong></h2>


<p>Who doesn&rsquo;t love a natural history museum, am I right? And this one&rsquo;s a doozy. Set inside a purpose-built 19th-century Romanesque Revival building on the edge of Central Park, its labyrinthine interiors showcase millions of ancient relics that chart the entire story of life on Earth. Highlights of this mind-bogglingly vast collection include a 122-foot-long titanosaur skeleton, a 34-ton section of the 200-ton Cape York meteorite, an Easter Island head statue, and an epic butterfly vivarium with around 1,000 of the free-flying critters.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Times Square</strong></h2>


Our guide to the 10 most popular attractions in New York, including perennial favorites like Times Square, MoMA and the Statue of Liberty.

Most Popular Tourist Attractions in New York - Top 10 | New York Pass®

The Best Things to do at Night in New York 

  <h2>The best things to do at night in New York </h2> <p><em>by Mia Russell</em></p> <p>When the sun goes down, the Big Apple comes alive. Neon lights begin to flicker, restaurants buzz and theaters roll out their red carpets. From outdoor movies in pretty parks to bustling night markets and Broadway shows, when it comes to nightlife, New York has something for everyone! </p> <p>Let's check out what's on the cards when the sun sets in the 'City that Never Sleeps.' <br> </p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/-%20TopRock_ESB%20Night%20View.jpg" loading="lazy"><h3>Soak up the city lights from an Observation Deck </h3> <p>There is no better way to toast the sunset over New York than from one of the many observation decks dotted about the city. Watch the city lights begin to twinkle as twilight turns to night and see the city like never before. </p> <p>Several Manhattan buildings have observation decks open in the evening where you can take in the city for all its glory. </p> <p><strong>Top of the Rock at the Rockefeller Center </strong></p> <p>The <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/top-of-the-rock" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Top of the Rock</a> takes up the last three floors of Rockefeller Center. It features three levels of indoor and outdoor observation decks that offer spectacular, unobstructed views of the city skyline. The 68th and 69th floors have terraces with glass railings that provide beautiful panoramic views of the whole city. </p> <p>The 70th floor boasts an open-air rooftop deck with no metal or glass enclosures, providing perfect photo opportunities! Enjoy several unique experiences on the way up to the Top of the Rock ranging from the magnificent Joie chandelier and an exhibit of interactive artworks to a sound and light hallway and a time capsule over Manhattan. </p> <p>Use your pass to gain free admission to the Top of the Rock to soak up the incredible 360 ̊ panoramic views. </p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/-%20empire%20state%20shutterstock_277892378.jpg" loading="lazy"><p><strong>Empire State Building </strong></p> <p>Head up the world-renowned <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/empire-state-building-observation-deck" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Empire State Building</a> to the main deck observatory on the 86th floor to take in those famous New York City views. </p> <p>Use your pass to enjoy complimentary access to the Empire State Building and whizz up to the open-air observation deck that wraps around the building's spire. Marvel at the endless views, which on a clear evening, can stretch all way across six states! </p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/-%20Edge.jpg" loading="lazy"><p><strong>The Edge </strong></p> <p>Cast your eyes over the city from one of the highest outdoor sky decks in the world. Located at 30 Hudson Yards, <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/new-york-attractions/Edge" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">the Edge</a> is a state-of-the-art platform with a glass floor that extends out into mid-air 100 floors above the ground. </p> <p>Feel like you are floating above the city as you sip a glass of bubbles from the Champagne bar to toast the sunset and take in unrivaled panoramic city views. This one is not for the faint-hearted! </p> <p>Remember to use your pass to gain free access to the Edge. </p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/-%20one%20world.jpg" loading="lazy"><p><strong>One World Observatory </strong></p> <p>Take in the sunset from the highest point in the city – the top of the <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/one-world-observatory" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">One World Observatory</a>. Zip up to the 102nd floor in just 47 seconds in the astonishingly fast SkyPodTM Elevators while you watch a multimedia display of New York City transforming from unsettled lands into a forest of skyscrapers. Look over the city below through the glass floor of the Sky Portal and enjoy several thrilling audiovisual experiences while you are at the top of the world. Use your pass to enjoy complimentary access to the One World Observatory, as well as an exclusive discount off a signature cocktail from One World Observatory's premier restaurant and bar, One Dine. Cheers!<br> </p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/-%20Times%20Square%20shutterstock_38374108.jpg" loading="lazy"><h3><strong>Hit Times Square </strong></h3> <p>Times Square is one of New York's top attractions and offers second to none nightlife! It's packed with a wealth of entertainment from bars, restaurants, and nightclubs to theaters and TV recording studios and really comes alive at night. </p> <p>Learn about the famous district on a <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/inside-broadway-tours" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Broadway &amp; Times Square Walking Tour.</a> Use your pass to enjoy this tour where an experienced actor and director tour guide will take you to all the hot spots. </p> <p>Have a laugh at the LoL Times Square Comedy Club or head to the Bowlmor Times Square arcade for bowling, state-of-the-art video games, and old-school pinball. </p> <p>Use your pass to visit <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/madame-tussauds-new-york" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Madame Tussauds</a> and gain free access to the MARVEL Universe 4D cinema experience. Sip cocktails at the Haven Rooftop bar and watch the action on Time Square below.<br> </p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/-%20Broadway%20show%20shutterstock_1897270879.jpg" loading="lazy"><h3><strong>Catch a Broadway show </strong></h3> <p>A quintessential evening activity in New York is catching a Broadway show. While they are expensive, the experience is an unforgettable one and really shouldn't be missed! With over 40 official Broadway theaters in New York, you're bound to find something that piques your interest. </p> <p><strong>Top tip:</strong> The best way to get discounted show tickets is to head to <a href="https://www.tdf.org/nyc/7/TKTS-ticket-booths" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">TDF's TKTS Booth</a> in Duffy Square (47th Street and Broadway) and wait in line on the day of the show. You can get some fantastic discounts on tickets for most shows. <br> </p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/-%20piano%20show.jpeg" loading="lazy"><h3><strong>Catch a different kind of show </strong></h3> <p>If you prefer something more energetic, use your pass to enjoy the Shake, Rattle &amp; Roll Dueling Pianos Show </p> <p>Hosted at the historic Cutting Room on East 32nd Street, this three-hour rock 'n' roll extravaganza features an all-request evening of live music from dueling pianos, fantastic food, and plenty of drinks. </p> <p>If jazz is your thing, head to Harlem, the birthplace of the music genre, to enjoy a classic jazz performance. Use your pass to get tickets to the <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/harlem-jazz-series" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Harlem Jazz Series</a>, a one-hour performance of classic jazz hits some of the industry's best musicians. <br> </p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/-%20Bryant%20Park%20shutterstock_231463201.jpg" loading="lazy"><h3><strong>Enjoy a sunset movie at Bryant Park </strong></h3> <p>If the weather is good, why not watch an outdoor movie at Bryant Park? Tucked behind the New York Public Library, Bryant Park is the beating cultural heart of Midtown Manhattan and is famous for its iconic movie nights under the stars. </p> <p>Grab a delicious picnic pack from <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/attractions/perfect-picnic" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Perfect Picnic</a> with your pass and find a spot on the lawn for a romantic evening out. </p> <p><strong>Top tip:</strong> These movie nights are extremely popular, so get there when the lawns open at 5 pm to get a good spot. <br> </p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/-%20harbor%20lights.jpg" loading="lazy"><h3><strong>Take in the city lights from the ferry </strong></h3> <p>Soak up the magical after-dark glow of the Big Apple on a romantic harbor cruise. Use your pass to hop on a <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/new-york-attractions/harbor-lights-cruise-circle-line" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Harbor Lights Cruise with Circle Line</a> and enjoy a cruise through the city. </p> <p>There is indoor and outdoor seating, a full bar on board, and an outdoor viewing deck for those Insta-worthy photographs. The narrated cruise offers interesting facts about famous New York landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty as you glide past. <br> </p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/-%20yankees-shutterstock_95440459.jpg" loading="lazy"><h3><strong>Catch a Yankees game </strong></h3> <p>One of the most exciting things to do in New York at night is to watch a Yankees game under the lights. Head to the game a little earlier and use your pass to enjoy a <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/attractions/new-york-yankees-game-tickets" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Classic Tour of the Yankee Stadium</a> </p> <p>Get a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the legendary stadium as you visit areas not usually open to the public, like the dugout and the press box. Watch out for the ghost of Babe Ruth, who apparently wanders around the stadium! <br> </p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/new-york-pass/-%20highline%20shutterstock_686812216.jpg" loading="lazy"><h3><strong>Stargaze at the High Line </strong></h3> <p>As the sun begins to set , head to the unique High Line Park to take in some spectacular city views. The once-disused railroad track was converted into a verdant floating garden and now passes through some of New York City's most historic neighborhoods. </p> <p>Wander along the elevated park on a <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/highline-chelsea-meatpacking-tour" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">High Line, Chelsea &amp; Meatpacking District Walking Tour</a> with your pass. Take in the art installations and admire some of New York's most famous buildings, including the Empire State Building and Frank Gehry's IAC Building. </p> <p>You can also enjoy free stargazing evenings at the High Line every Tuesday from dusk until 9:45 pm. Telescopes are provided and spaced throughout the park by the Amateur Astronomers Association, who are also on hand to help and answer any questions. </p> 

The best things to do at night in New York  by Mia Russell When the sun goes down, the Big Apple comes alive. Neon lights begin to flicker, restaurants buzz and theaters roll out their red carpets. From outdoor movies in pretty parks to bustling night markets and Broadway shows, when it comes to nightlife, New York has something for everyone!   Let's check out what's on the cards when the sun sets in the 'City that Never Sleeps.'   

Things to do at Night in New York City | New York Pass®

Top 10 sights of New York 

Top 10 sights of New York | The New York Pass®

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Vs. Empire State Building Comparison

<p>Selecting the best observation platform to visit when in New York is a very tall order indeed (pun intended), with five titanic towers to choose from. These, for the uninitiated, are the Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, Edge, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt and the One World Observatory. Each of these has its own unique quirks and views, but perhaps the greatest contrast in experience is to be found between hit-tech newbie SUMMIT and Art Deco OG the Empire State Building. We pitched these two skyscraping icons against one another to find out which one should top your Big Apple bucket list. Dive into our SUMMIT vs Empire State Building comparison to find out...</p>

<h3><strong>Empire State Building</strong></h3>


<p><strong>Name:</strong> This one requires no introduction... the Empire State Building is up there with the Eiffel Tower, Taj Mahal and Sagrada Familia as one of the planet&rsquo;s most famous structures.</p>

<p><strong>Age:</strong> Construction of the Empire State Building began in March 1930 and was, quite remarkably, completed just 14 months later in April 1931.</p>

<p><strong>Empire State Building in a Nutshell: </strong>Surely the most iconic Art Deco edifice on the planet, the Empire State Building was the world&rsquo;s tallest building for over four decades, until topped by the World Trade Center&rsquo;s North Tower in 1970. This monolithic Manhattan masterpiece has starred in hundreds of movies and TV shows over the last century, including <em>King Kong</em> (obvs), plus <em>Tom and Jerry</em>, <em>Independence Day</em>, <em>Friends</em>, <em>The Smurfs</em> and, well, the list goes on and on. Its observation platform on the 102nd floor is still one of the highest (and most visited) in the city, nearly a century after that monster gorilla first took the al fresco route to the SUMMIT.</p>

<h3><strong>Empire State Building: Vital Statistics&nbsp;</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Height:</strong> 1,454 feet (443 meters) to the tip of the tower on the roof. The top-floor observation platform is 1,224 feet (373 meters) up.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Number of floors:</strong> 102.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Elevators:</strong> 73.</li>
</ul>

<h3><strong>What&rsquo;s the Empire State Building Experience Like?</strong></h3>


<h3><strong>SUMMIT One Vanderbilt vs Empire State Building: Which Should You Visit?</strong></h3>

<p>Apart from the fact that these both boast observation platforms some 1,000 feet (and then some) up in the sky. SUMMIT and the Empire State Building are really quite different prospects. Visitors who crave old school New Yoik vibes should definitely plump for the Empire State Building&rsquo;s selfie-tastic Art Deco lines and angles. Indeed, this century-old stalwart is worth visiting for the bragging rights alone. If, however, you fancy something a little different, it has to be the hypnotic futurism of SUMMIT&rsquo;s immersive zones and its gravity defying glass platforms that permit fearless visitors to gaze straight down to the street far below.</p>

<h3><strong>Save on New York Activities and Attractions</strong></h3>

<p>Save on admission to dozens of New York attractions, including the Empire State Building, with <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us" style="text-decoration:none">The New York Pass</a>. Check out @NewYorkPass on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/newyorkpass/" style="text-decoration:none">Instagram</a> for the latest top tips and attraction info.</p>


<p>You&rsquo;ll get some of the best views of the Chrysler and Flatiron buildings from up here. In fact, arguably the only downside is that the awesome views don&rsquo;t include... the Empire State Building itself. Console yourself by papping some of the Big Apple&rsquo;s <em>other</em> landmarks, including Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, the Brooklyn Bridge and the One World Trade Center (to name just a few). The 86th floor is where you&rsquo;ll likely want to spend the most time, thanks to its open-air platform and unparalleled photo opportunities, but it would be remiss not to go all the way to the top while you&rsquo;re here. Be aware though that the platform on the 102nd floor is fully enclosed, a bit smaller, and has a tendency to get quite busy.</p>

<h3><strong>Fascinating Empire State Building Fact of the Day</strong></h3>

<p>The narrow tower that rises a further 200 feet above the Empire State Building&rsquo;s roof was originally designed as a mooring point for zeppelin airships, once considered the future of international air travel.</p>

<h3><strong>Empire State Building Fast Facts</strong></h3>


<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Opening hours: </strong>9AM-10PM Monday-Thursday; 9AM-midnight Friday-Sunday. The last elevator ascends 50 minutes before closing. <a href="https://gocity.com/new-york/en-us/blog/best-time-to-visit-the-empire-state-building" style="text-decoration:none">Check out our blog on the best times to visit the Empire State Building here.</a></li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Tickets:</strong> general admission to <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us/empire-state-building-observation-deck" style="text-decoration:none">the Empire State Building&#39;s 86th-floor observatory</a> is included with a <a href="https://newyorkpass.com/en-us" style="text-decoration:none">New York Pass</a>. Alternatively, you&rsquo;ll find various ticket options, including premium champagne packages and access to the 102nd floor, on the <a href="https://www.esbnyc.com/buy-tickets" style="text-decoration:none">Empire State Building website</a>.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Closest transport links: </strong>the nearest metro stations are Herald Square and Penn Station, or arrive in style at the awesome Grand Central and make the 10-minute walk from there.</li>
</ul>

<p>But how does the Empire State Building compare to SUMMIT One Vanderbilt? Let&rsquo;s find out...</p>

<h3><strong>SUMMIT</strong></h3>


<p><strong>Name:</strong> Officially SUMMIT One Vanderbilt to hammer home that the platform is at the very top of the One Vanderbilt building in Midtown.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Age:</strong> SUMMIT opened in October 2021, making it (at time of writing) the newest observation platform in town. Fittingly, the building that hosts the immersive, space-age SUMMIT experience is a soaring futuristic wedge of steel, glass and terracotta tiles.</p>

<p><strong>SUMMIT in a Nutshell:</strong> It&rsquo;s testament to SUMMIT&rsquo;s desire to add something new and unique to the observation platform scene that the resulting experience is somewhat tricky to summarize. There are the views of course: great, sweeping panoramas over Manhattan&rsquo;s iconic skyline and beyond. But what makes SUMMIT really stand out are the dreamlike immersive experiences and cool art installations within; all clouds, mirrors and optical illusions that will &ndash; if the PR blurb is to be believed &ndash; help you &lsquo;escape the boundaries of perception&rsquo;.</p>

<h3><strong>SUMMIT: Vital Statistics&nbsp;</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Height:</strong> One Vanderbilt is the fourth tallest building in New York (disclaimer: at time of writing), standing 1,401 feet (427 meters) high. SUMMIT&rsquo;s observation platforms hover a knee-weakening 1,100 feet (336 meters) above Madison Avenue.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Number of floors:</strong> 93.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Elevators:</strong> 42.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Visitors: </strong>SUMMIT welcomed a whopping 1.4 million visitors in its first year.</li>
</ul>

<h3><strong>What&rsquo;s the SUMMIT Experience Like?</strong></h3>


<p>This one isn&rsquo;t just about the views. A standard ticket also includes access to SUMMIT&rsquo;s trippy journey through mirrored rooms, floating silver orbs and clouds bearing your own face. <em>Transcendence</em> sets the scene with reflective surfaces that repeat the Manhattan skyline, the clouds and, well, you, to infinity. Enter a dreamlike state as you pass through <em>Unity</em> and <em>Affinity</em> before experiencing the ultimate thrill in <em>Levitation</em>, a series of perspex boxes that protrude from the building and seem to float above the city streets, affording heart-stopping views of Madison Avenue 1,063 feet below. You&rsquo;ll also bag some of the best snaps of the Empire State Building and Lower Manhattan from up here in the clouds. Requiring an additional ticket, <em>Ascent</em> takes thrill seekers higher still aboard (and we can&rsquo;t stress this terrifying detail enough) <em>glass-bottomed elevators</em> that rise a further 120 feet into the sky.</p>

<h3><strong>Fascinating SUMMIT Fact of the Day</strong></h3>

<p>Ok, it&rsquo;s hardly a crowded field, but the great glass elevators that rise 120 feet above the SUMMIT terrace are the largest of their kind in the world.</p>

<h3><strong>SUMMIT Fast Facts</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Opening hours: </strong>9AM-midnight, year round. Last entry is at 10PM.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Tickets:</strong> there are several booking options available on the <a href="https://summitov.com/tickets/" style="text-decoration:none">SUMMIT website</a>.</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>Closest transport links: </strong>the entrance to SUMMIT is located on the main concourse of Grand Central Terminal.</p>


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