10 Things to Do in NYC for College Students on Vacation

When school's out, save our tips and head to the city that never sleeps. From tours of SoHo and Chinatown to artsy museums, New York is the ultimate city break.

By Casey Makovich
New York pink sunset

Planning to spend some study-free days in New York City and looking for fun things to do in NYC for college students on vacation? Whether you plan to spend three, five or seven days exploring New York City, we’ve listed the top ten NYC attractions for all of you hard-working college students that includes exciting excursions and tours including:

  • Graffiti & Street Art Walking Tours
  • Statue of Liberty Cruises
  • Virtual Reality Downtown Tours
  • The Empire State Building
  • Radio City Music Hall
  • Much More!

Save on Admission to Top NYC Attractions

With The New York Pass, you and your group can save a bundle on admission to more than 90 attractions amid the city. See the best of NYC and visit as many sites as you want each day your pass is valid for one low price with this flexible pass. Simply put, you decide what to see and when you want to see it! Learn more about our available passes and attractions.

Big Bus New York: Hop-on Hop-off Tour

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Getting In: Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off tour tickets are included on The New York Pass®.

Rated by TripAdvisor as one of the top NYC sightseeing bus tours, jump onto one of these double-decker big buses and hop off whenever you please to soak in the sites and sounds of Uptown, Downtown, and Midtown at your own pace.

Take the full 2.5-hour loop of each district with a full day pass on the Big Bus New York and enjoy the historic commentary and learn facts about the city’s rich history, culture, and architecture from an onboard guide. Some attractions you can see on the tour include:
 

  • Times Square
  • Empire State Building
  • Statue of Liberty
  • Chinatown
  • Central Park
  • Rockefeller Center
  • Brooklyn Bridge
  • And More!

Graffiti & Street Art Walking Tour

Submerge yourself in NYC’s colorful urban culture in the heart of Brooklyn during this guided tour through the community’s most creative spaces where art abounds. Learn about the history and techniques of street art throughout Bushwick’s open-air ‘galleries’ while enjoying a visual experience like no other. It’s not uncommon to come upon artists in action who are willing to show off for eager audiences. 

Getting In: Graffiti & Street Art Walking Tour tickets are included on The New York Pass®.

Statue of Liberty Express Cruise

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Statue of Liberty

Join the ranks of four million others who take to the waters of the Hudson River to visit Lady Liberty on Ellis Island each year. Board the Circle Line Downtown Cruise to get up close and personal with the Statue of Liberty while enjoying panoramic views of the glorious NYC skyline. During this one-hour express cruise, your tour guide will share the statue’s long history and cultural significance. Be sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning sights you’ll encounter along the way. 

Getting In: Statue of Liberty Express Cruise tickets are included with The New York Pass®.

The Downtown Experience: A Virtual Reality Tour

Powered by THE RIDE, this adventure takes you through downtown Manhattan in a theatre-style luxury van with floor-to-ceiling glass windows and side-facing seating. Passengers are equipped with state-of-the-art virtual reality goggles that allow them to re-live some of the iconic moments that occurred within the community’s most notable landmarks. Don’t miss your opportunity to experience the world’s only virtual reality traveling theater! 

Getting In: The Downtown Experience is separately ticketed.

Luna Park at Coney Island

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No trip to the Big Apple is complete without a visit to Brooklyn’s Coney Island to experience the mind-blowing rides at Luna Park. With a free 4-hour wristband that gives pass holders access to two dozen thrilling rides and various activities on the boardwalk. Leave your studies behind and embrace your inner thrill seeker! To access ‘Extreme Thrill’ rides at the park, guests will be required to pay an additional surcharge at the gate. 

Getting In: Luna Park at Coney Island tickets are included on The New York Pass®.

When Harry Met Seinfeld Bus Tour

Get on location with this entertainment-themed tour of some of New York’s most famous set locations of popular shows like Seinfeld, When Harry Met Sally, How I Met Your Mother, The Nanny, and many others. You’ll be taken to the doorsteps of your favorite TV characters all around the city just north of nostalgic Times Square.

Getting In: When Harry Met Seinfeld Bus Tour is separately ticketed.

Radio City Music Hall: Stage Door Tour

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Get a behind-the-scenes tour of the world-famous Radio City Music Hall—NYC’s premier entertainment complex is home to the incredible Rockettes and has been graced by the biggest names in entertainment. This 75-minute tour takes you behind the curtain to the backstage zones where you’ll get to meet one of the Rockettes in person and peruse the guestbook signed by notable celebrities and performers over the venue’s history. 

Getting In: Radio City Music Hall Stage Door Tour tickets are included on the New York Pass®.

SoHo - Little Italy -­ Chinatown Walking Tour

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SoHo - Little Italy -­ Chinatown Walking Tour

Experience a wealth of culture, arts, and regional fare within the districts lovingly known as SoHo, Little Italy and festive Chinatown with a fully-guided walking tour. On this day tour, you’ll learn all about their significance and contribution to NYC’s melting pot and truly see the best of the best of the Big Apple.

Find modern fashions, hip hangouts, cool art, and tempt your taste buds with traditional cuisine along the way. Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled, as you never know when a celeb will stroll by!

Getting In: SoHo - Little Italy - Chinatown Tour tickets are included on The New York Pass®.

Empire State Building

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Capture the sights of the big city and the memorable skyline from the observation deck on the 86th floor of the impressive and iconic Empire State Building. As New York is the city that never sleeps, you can opt to experience 360-degree views from over 1000 feet in the air during the day or when the city is brilliantly lit up in the evening hours before heading out to enjoy NYC nightlife.

Take a moment on the way up or before departing to check out the Art Deco lobby to view fascinating displays including the iconic Dare to Dream exhibit. 

Getting In: Empire State Building tickets are included with the New York Pass®.

Food on Foot Walking Tours

Food on Foot tours

Join one of these award-winning tours to learn the inside scoop from an experienced local guide concerning where to get the most authentic New York City cuisine during a Food on Foot Walking Tour. People travel from around the globe to venture through various boroughs to experience culinary achievements with a distinctly regional flavor representative of NYC’s vast diversity. Don’t miss out on one of these mouth-watering food tours that will put your college cafeteria to shame! Book your reservation using your pass number today. 

Getting In: Food on Foot Walking Tours tickets are included on The New York Pass®.

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

There’s no limit to the number of things to do in NYC for college students and a lot of the activities and attractions mentioned in this post are included on The New York Pass. 

With The New York Pass®, you can explore big-name landmarks, local hotspots, and epic tours, all on one pass, all for one price. Not only that, but you'll enjoy savings of up to 50%, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  

✈️ Buy The New York Pass® ✈️

Casey Makovich
New York Travel Expert

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Shamrocks, Parades & Pints: NYC’s St. Patrick’s Day Musts

St. Patrick’s Day in New York City is the ultimate blend of old Irish tradition and unstoppable city energy. Every March 17, the city transforms into a sea of green, with marching bands echoing down Fifth Avenue, historic bars bustling with revelers, and plenty of Guinness to go around! From jaw-dropping views to hearty plates of shepherd’s pie, New York has endless ways to join the fun—whether you’re up for a lively parade or just want to soak in the atmosphere at a snug Irish pub. Stick with us as we round up the best ways for visitors to celebrate, eat, toast, and explore on St. Patrick’s Day in the Big Apple.  Our favorite ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in NYC include:  The NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade  St. Patrick’s Cathedral Tour  The Dead Rabbit  Central Park strolls (or bike rides!)  Landmark Cruise by Circle Line  Irish Arts Center  Molly’s Shebeen  The High Line  McSorley’s Old Ale House  Traditional Irish music at Connolly’s  St. Patrick’s Cathedral Tour  There’s no grander way to link NYC to its Irish roots than a stroll through St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Not only is it a spectacular feat of neo-Gothic architecture, but it also stands at the heart of most St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. When you wander inside, soaring arches and sun-lit stained glass create a moment of peace away from the city clamor. On St. Paddy’s Day, the atmosphere buzzes with anticipation—expect lines of people eager to see the Mass and join in the day’s traditions. Docents share tidbits on the building’s Irish inspiration, and the marble altars and chapels offer plenty of Instagram-worthy snapshots. It feels both reverent and alive, with echoes of the parade just blocks away.  The Dead Rabbit  For an Irish pub with a splash of Lower Manhattan swagger, The Dead Rabbit knocks it out of the park. This multi-level spot in the Financial District draws inspiration from both Belfast’s bars and New York’s gritty 19th-century taverns. Expect lots of exposed brick, cozy corners, and an energy that splits the difference between old-school and adventurous. Their cocktail game is unmatched: everyone raves about the Irish Coffee, which layers smooth whiskey, hot coffee, and chill cream just right. Snack on sausage rolls or try the Guinness beef pot pie for a true taste of the Emerald Isle. And if you visit on St. Patrick’s Day, expect live music, happy crowds, and plenty of good cheer.  Central Park Strolls or Bike Rides  Swap parade crowds for a green escape right in the city: Central Park. Around March, the park begins to bloom, and it’s an amazing place to walk off that full Irish breakfast (or to find a new appreciation for your mossy-green surroundings). Grab a bike from Unlimited Biking and pedal past winding paths, scenic bridges, and charming statues all decked out for the festivities. Central Park offers endless photo spots—from Bow Bridge to the famed Bethesda Terrace—and the air feels crisp with spring promise. On St. Paddy’s, you’ll spot plenty of green-clad groups and maybe even some pipers squeezing in a tune. Few city experiences rival the joy of carving out a little tranquility surrounded by so much local life.  Landmark Cruise by Circle Line  The best way to see New York shimmer in green (and maybe catch some cheeky riverfront celebrations)? Hop on a Landmark Cruise by Circle Line. Gliding along the Hudson offers front-row views of the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and that stunning midtown skyline. On St. Patrick’s Day, keep your eyes peeled—some boats run special themed cruises with Irish cocktails, festive décor, and even green lighting that reflects off the water. The vibe on board is always festive, with music, themed narration, and happy toasts to luck and friendship rippling from bow to stern. Whether you want city photos or simply a break from bustling Midtown, a river cruise delivers a real sense of New York grandeur.  Irish Arts Center  Discover how New York’s Irish community continues to shape the city’s culture at the Irish Arts Center. Tucked in Hell’s Kitchen, this venue celebrates all things Irish—music, dance, poetry, and more. The center comes alive during St. Patrick’s week, hosting concerts, storytelling sessions, and theater that dive into both old legends and modern Irish voices. The small theater and friendly bar make it easy to mingle and soak up the atmosphere. Don’t be surprised if you’re tapping a foot to traditional fiddles one minute and laughing at sharp-witted Irish stand-up the next. If you’re up for something uniquely heartfelt, this is the spot.  The High Line  Elevate your St. Patrick’s Day with a walk along the High Line—a rails-to-trails park perched above Manhattan’s West Side. As you stroll past public art, urban gardens, and stunning river views, the city buzzes below but somehow feels miles away. During St. Patrick’s week, look out for groups in green taking selfies and artists staging pop-up performances. Pair your High Line wander with a stop at Chelsea Market for a quick coffee or bakery treat, then keep walking north to catch a slice of the city’s life from a new perspective. After all, nothing says “luck” like stumbling onto a pocket of calm right above the fray.  McSorley’s Old Ale House  History buffs and beer lovers alike will get a kick out of McSorley’s Old Ale House, East Village’s venerable watering hole that’s been serving New Yorkers since the days of Lincoln. With sawdust on the floor, walls plastered with old photos, and an irresistible sense of timeworn charm, McSorley’s keeps things simple: your choice of light or dark ale, delivered by the half-pint. On St. Paddy’s Day, the atmosphere hits another level: live music, raucous singing, and a crowd determined to celebrate. The cheese and onion cracker plate is a classic, and every surface (including your shoes) is a testament to decades of good times.  Traditional Irish Music at Connolly’s  If toe-tapping music and rowdy singalongs are your jam, Connolly’s (near Times Square) hosts one of the city’s best St. Patrick’s Day parties. Their second-floor stage fills with fiddlers, drummers, and Irish bands covering everything from heartbreak ballads to whiskey-soaked reels. Friendly bartenders keep the pints flowing, and the crowd’s energy surges as each set begins. The menu even features a mean corned beef sandwich and perfectly crispy fish-and-chips. Pull up a table, order a round, and let the rhythms guide you into the spirit of the Emerald Isle—without ever leaving Midtown.    With so many ways to go green in New York, you’ll find the city pulses with Irish pride and infectious fun on St. Patrick’s Day, no matter your crowd or comfort zone. Whether you dive into the city’s history, soak up skyline views, or simply toast new friends over a cold pint, every experience adds a little magic to your trip. Here’s to discovering those unforgettable moments—may the luck of the Irish find you all day long!    Quick Recap of NYC St. Patrick’s Day Tips  Embrace the spirit: Wear something green, bring your cheer, and be ready to mingle.  Arrive early: Parade spots and the best bars fill up fast—get a jump on the crowds for the prime experience.  Mix old and new: Don’t just follow the parade—peek into cathedral tours, stroll through arts venues, visit super-historic taverns, and hit up local music hot spots.  Eat hearty: St. Patrick’s is the perfect excuse to indulge in Irish classics you won’t soon forget (don’t skip that shepherd’s pie or Irish coffee).  Enjoy city views: NYC’s skyline, parks, and riverfront never disappoint—especially when reflected in festive green.    Here’s wishing you a happy and unforgettable St. Patrick’s Day in New York—may mischief, music, and memories await around every corner! Sláinte!  Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to the city’s best places of worship, and burn some St. Paddy’s calories on these walking tours.   Step up your sightseeing with The New York Pass®    We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.   See more, do more, and experience more with The New York Pass® – just choose a pass to get started! 
Central Park in colorful fall foliage
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Things to do in New York City for the Elderly

Golden oldies will be in clover in NYC, where an embarrassment of awesome adult activities awaits. Our expert guide for older folks visiting the Big Apple includes Broadway musicals, botanical gardens, Central Park strolls, world-class art museums and a peep inside hornblower Louis Armstrong’s old crib.
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Stuart Bak
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NYC With Babies: Top Spots for Little Ones and Parents

New York City isn't just for art lovers, foodies, and skyscraper spotters. It’s also a playground for families with babies in tow. So, if you’re thinking Manhattan might be a challenge with little ones, we’re here to tell you: NYC rolls out the red carpet for pint-sized visitors and their grownups. From peaceful park strolls and nap-friendly museums to hands-on play zones and cozy cafés with diaper-changing tables, you’ll find baby-friendly adventures in every borough. Ready to plan a trip where everyone gets a slice of the action? Let’s dive into our favorite things to do with babies in New York City!  Our favorite baby-friendly adventures in NYC include:  Central Park  American Museum of Natural History  New York Botanical Garden  The High Line  SEA LIFE Aquarium New Jersey  Brooklyn Children’s Museum  Madame Tussauds  Ferries to Governors Island  Babyccino at Bryant Park  Brooklyn Botanic Garden  American Museum of Natural History: Dinos, Butterflies, and Space for Strollers  Rainy or sunny, the American Museum of Natural History is a must for baby-friendly NYC fun. While newborns love the soothing lights and gentle hum of the exhibits, bigger babies delight in the towering dinos, glittering minerals, and slow-moving whales overhead. We especially love the Discovery Room—staffed, interactive, and set up for small hands to touch, crawl, and explore. There’s plenty of room to maneuver strollers (elevators are abundant), and nursing is welcome throughout the museum. The Hall of Mammals, with its animal dioramas, is always a hit for pointing and babbling. Changing stations are available in family restrooms, and friendly staff are happy to offer tips for navigating the museum with little ones. If you need a break, the café has plenty of high chairs and snacks. The museum vibe is relaxed, so don’t stress if your baby gets vocal—here, giggles and giggles are always in good company.  New York Botanical Garden: Nature’s Playground  Babies love a breeze, some sun, and the chance to spot colorful flowers; the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx is tailor-made for this. Sprawling, stroller-friendly paths wind through themed gardens, from the lush Rose Garden to the enchanting Native Plant Garden. As you explore, the gentle sounds and vibrant sights make for a sensory experience that soothes even the grumpiest nap refuser. The Everett Children’s Adventure Garden, with its interactive exhibits, is a particular hit for toddlers, but infants also benefit from a leisurely stroll among shaded trails and bubbling fountains. Staff welcome families and can point out the best nap spots or spots for kid-friendly snacks. When the weather’s warm, picnic blankets and crawling on the grass are totally encouraged. For parents, it’s the rare chance to feel worlds away from the city—without ever actually leaving it.  The High Line: An Urban Adventure with Views  If you want baby to see the city from a whole new angle (and let’s face it, you deserve a treat too), head for the High Line. This elevated park, transformed from a historic railway, floats above Chelsea and the Meatpacking District. Wide ramps and elevators make strollers a breeze. Meander past art installations and greenery while street musicians provide the background soundtrack. Kids tend to love watching the city bustle below, while shady seating areas give you plenty of opportunities for snacks and bottle breaks. Highlight: Stop at the 10th Avenue Square for a free mini-show at the amphitheater-style seating, where little ones can people-watch and take in peekaboo skyline views. The High Line’s energy shifts throughout the day—come early for quiet morning naps, or stroll at sunset for twinkling city lights. Best of all, you’re steps away from family-friendly eateries in Chelsea Market if hunger strikes.  Staten Island Children’s Museum: Playtime for Littlest Learners  This beloved Staten Island spot lays on hands-on fun for even the tiniest visitors. In the ‘Totally Tots’ section, babies ages 0-5 can crawl, splash, climb, and experiment with water, shapes, and musical instruments—no big kids allowed. Stroller parking areas, a nursing nook, and family restrooms with changing tables keep things convenient for caregivers. Friendly staff often lead storytime sessions or interactive music play, and the atmosphere is joyful (and gloriously forgiving of the occasional baby meltdown). When older siblings come along, everybody can meet reptiles and insects, explore a child-sized city, and create colorful crafts. The museum vibe? Celebratory, curious, and specifically designed to make parents and little ones feel welcome and inspired.  Madame Tussauds: Snap Silly Photos with Celebs  You might not think of Madame Tussauds first for babies, but trust us: this is a winner for parents who want a shareable NYC family photo without the pressure of posing for strangers. Wide galleries mean easy stroller maneuvering, and the wax figures—ranging from superheroes to musicians—make for playful, sensory-rich sightseeing. Babies often react with curious giggles (or suspicious side-eye) at the lifelike displays. Best of all, no need to hush little voices or keep still—this spot is all about having fun, so selfie sticks and silly grins are encouraged. Family restrooms and plenty of seating areas make it a surprisingly accommodating destination for families with young children.  Ferries to Governors Island: Breezy Rides and Big Lawns  A quick ferry trip (stroller-friendly and oh-so-exciting for little ones) brings you to car-free Governors Island—a paradise for parents craving city views and a break from the Manhattan buzz. Wide, shady paths lead to rolling lawns perfect for baby picnics, nap time under trees, or the chance to sway gently in a hammock. There are little play fountains, castle ruins to peek at, and even lavender fields if you visit in summer. Food trucks serve everything from gourmet ice cream to lobster rolls, with plenty of snacks to keep hungry families smiling. The whole vibe is relaxed, green, and made for a no-rush kind of day—perfect with a snoozy, happy  baby in tow. The ferry ride itself is part of the adventure—stand at the railings and feel the breeze, point out the Statue of Liberty, and enjoy some peaceful distance from city traffic. Changing facilities and clean, accessible bathrooms are scattered around the island, making this a worry-free excursion for even the youngest explorers. Governors Island combines gentle adventure, picnic potential, and big New York views as a winning combination for both babies and their grownups.  Babyccino at Bryant Park: Coffee Breaks and Carousel Fun  Bryant Park is more than just a Midtown green space—it’s an oasis of calm nestled among the skyscrapers, with plenty to offer the baby-on-board crowd. The lawn is perfect for a picnic or tummy time, and shady reading corners let you cozy up with a board book. Need a pick-me-up? Head for Bryant Park’s kiosks and cafés, where parents can sip a cappuccino (or its foam-topped cousin, a “babyccino”), while little ones snack on mini pastries. At the Le Carrousel, the delightfully Parisian-style merry-go-round with gentle music is a big hit for young children—even lap-sitting infants can enjoy a slow ride with a grown-up. Bathrooms with changing tables, plentiful seating, and stroller-friendly paths make Bryant Park a stress-free spot for a mid-city break. Throughout the warmer months, you’ll often find free storytimes or pop-up music sessions—check the park’s calendar for family-friendly events.    There you have it—your baby-friendly NYC adventure awaits! Whether you spend your days among dino bones and blossoms or sipping babyccinos at a city park, New York welcomes even its smallest visitors with open arms (and cushy changing tables). Just remember: in the city that never sleeps, nap schedules might get creative—but the memories will be absolutely worth it.    Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to sightseeing cruises, and a tour of NYC’s neighborhoods.    Step up your sightseeing with The New York Pass®  We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.     See more, do more, and experience more with The New York Pass® – just choose a pass to get started!  
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