Things to Do Near the Empire State Building

By Go City Expert

One of the iconic destinations for travelers is a trip to the Empire State Building (ESB), a historic landmark in the city. Make the most of your time at this NYC landmark by adding some of these things to do near the Empire State Building to your itinerary before and after your visit. The building itself is close to some other terrific attractions that you can visit with the New York Pass to help you make the most of your trip whether it's for a week or a weekend. If visiting New York and looking for other fun things to do near the Empire State Building, be sure to check out these other landmarks and attractions located nearby. They include:

  • Central Park
  • Rockefeller Center
  • Madame Tussauds
  • Times Square
  • Greenwich Village
  • and more!

Free Entry with The New York Pass®

Free entry to many of these popular New York attractions and activities are included on The New York Pass®. Used by over 3.5 million travelers, the New York Pass is the ultimate sightseeing pass, which includes admission to 90+ attractions, Fast Track Entry at select attractions, a free guidebook, & much more. Learn more about the New York Pass benefits & how to save up to 70% off attractions.

Here's a closer look at attractions near the Empire State Building and why you may want to include them on your trip to New York City.

Empire State Building

Of course, if you're looking for things to do near the Empire State Building, visiting the Empire State Building itself should be at the top of your list. Taking in the views from the building's 86th floor observation deck is an iconic New York City experience. You'll get 360-degree views of the surrounding cityscape from 1,050 feet above ground and learn all about the buildings history and significance as you make your way to the top and pass through the exhibits on disply. Admission: Empire State Building tickets are included with the New York Pass.

Rockefeller Center

A trip to “The Top of the Rock” at Rockefeller Center provides stunning views of the New York City skyline, Manhattan Island, and Central Park. The art deco style building soars 800 feet above ground level and offers an amazing three stories of indoor and outdoor observatory space. Even the ride to the top is a light-show filled adventure that the kids will love. A trip to Rockefeller Center should also include a visit through the building and the exceptional neighborhood surrounding it. Admission: Top of the Rock observation deck tickets and guided Rockefeller Center Tour tickets are included with The New York Pass.

Central Park

Activities in the 843 acre Central Park can keep you busy for days! Rent some bicycles and take a bike tour in the park. Alternatively, you can visit the Central Park Zoo, and see sites where famous TV shows and movies were filmed. Partake in a walking tour or hop on an unforgettable horse and buggy or pedicab ride. No trip to New York City would be complete without at least a stroll through Central Park. Admission: Central Park is free and open to the public; certain activities and things to do within the park such as guided Central Park Bike Rentals and Tour tickets, or if you prefer to explore by foot the Central Park Sightseeing Walking Tour tickets, or if you want to get to know the Central Park you recognize from blockbuster hits the Central Park TV & Movie Sites Walking Tour tickets are all included with The New York Pass.

Museum of Modern Art (MoMa)

A visit to the Museum of Modern Art gives you an opportunity to see works by Van Gogh, Claude Monet, Andy Warhol, and Pablo Picasso up close and personal. Impressive works of art abound around every corner and MoMA visitors are welcome to stop in the museum's garden to relax while you take in the world-class art that is on display here. Admission: Museum of Modern Art tickets are included with The New York Pass.

St. Patrick's Cathedral

A visit to New York's St. Patrick's Cathedral is an awe-inspiring experience that celebrates the human spirit. It is also an incredible example of Neo-Gothic architecture. The cornerstone for the cathedral was laid in 1858 but it didn't open its doors until 21 years later in 1879. Today, the ornate structure stands proudly among soaring skyscrapers, providing an almost surreal setting for the structure. Admission: guided public tours are offered depending on volunteer availability - check availability online - and though not required, a donation of $5 is requested to support "America's Parish Church."

Times Square

If your only reference to Times Square is New Year's Eve on television, you have yet to really appreciate what this area of Manhattan has to offer. A visit to Times Square is one of the most exciting things to do near the Empire State Building - the energy from the crowds is palpable and its larger-than-life billboards are a NYC landmark. One of the best ways to see Times Square is through a variety of bus and walking tours that are available. Of course, if you want to be dazzled, visit Times Square after dark. Admission: admission to Times Square is free and open to the public; some activities and attractions, like Madame Tussauds Times Square tickets or the NFL Experience tickets are available with The New York Pass.

Greenwich Village

To get a real feel of what New York City is about, take a trip to Greenwich Village (you can read about a fun, guided walking tour of the neighborhood here), home of the lively Washington Square Park. Here, you'll find some of New York's best dining and entertainment options. This is the home of New York's cultural revolution in the 1960's and of New York University. This is the artistic capital of the Big Apple and serves as a Bohemian Capital that is always interesting. Discover the area on your own or take advantage of one of the area's organized tours. Admission: admission to Greenwich Village and Washington Square Park is free; guided Greenwich Village Walking Tour tickets are included with The New York Pass.

Madame Tussauds Times Square

Located in the heart of Times Square, get up close and personal with wax figures of the most famous people on the planet. You'll find figures ranging from the world of entertainment, sports, and politics. Madame Tussauds is the ultimate “selfie” destination and you'll want to share every one! Pose next to Lady Gaga, Morgan Freeman, and more. You'll be amazed at the detail of the figures inside. Especially once you know that each takes about six months to create using over 2,000 lbs of wax. Enjoy the Marvel 4D and Ghostbusters Experience, Kong: Skull Island, and more! Admission: Madame Tussauds Times Square tickets are included with The New York Pass.

Remember to Save on Attraction Admission

Plus, the Empire State Building is surrounded by many of NYC's greatest landmarks. There is so much to see and do and you know friends and family will want to know what you saw. That's why you'll want to make the most of each of your adventures while in the Big Apple. If you're interested in visiting the Empire State Building during your trip to NYC then get your New York Pass today! The pass will allow grant you access to over 90 of New York's most popular attractions and guided tours. Click here for more information.

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Explore Midtown Manhattan with New Big Bus Loop

Big Bus at Flatiron Building | Photo by Noel Y. C. In 2017, Big Bus has added a brand new bus route to accommodate the heavily trafficked Midtown Manhattan. The new Midtown Loop starts at stop 17, M&M's World, then makes its way through Times Square to Pier 83, where it stops right in front of Circle Line Cruises. After a loop around Javits Center and Hudson Yards, the bus continues to Madison Square Garden, Korea Town, up Madison Avenue to Grand Central Terminal then all the way to the East side to the United Nations Headquarters, after which it returns to Times Square, stopping at Rockefeller Center on the way. List of stops: M&M's World Times Square Circle Line Sightseeing Modell's Grand Central Terminal United Nations Building The Waldorf Astoria Rockefeller Center The first bus on the Midtown loop departs M&M's World (Stop 17) at 8:30 am and the last one departs at 5 pm. For a full timetable and updates on the Midtown Loop, please visit the Big Bus Website. New York Pass includes a free ticket for 1 day with a 1 day pass, and 2 days with any multi-day pass and includes the Downtown Loop, the Uptown Loop and the new Midtown Loop. To get your free Big Bus tickets, please visit one of the Big Bus locations with your New York Pass or your redemption voucher. Your bus ticket will be active from the time of printing. Big Bus Midtown Loop Map
Go City Expert
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Valentine’s Day Itinerary

February 5, 2020 Ah, Valentine’s Day. The holiday actually began as a Western Christian Feast Day in honor of two saints named Valentinus. It became associated with romantic love in the 14th century—although no one is really sure where that association came from, or why. Today, there's a lot of pressure surrounding the holiday. It needs to be perfect! Or at least, very, very good. It needs to be incredibly romantic! Yet, effortlessly casual. It needs to be quintessentially New York! Well, that part we can help with. We’ve got the Valentine’s Day itinerary that ticks all the boxes. The romance part of it is up to you. Tartine Start off your day with a lovely breakfast/brunch. The West Village has all the right vibes, and many places there actually serve breakfast, as opposed to brunch, where patrons often can't actually eat until around the time the rest of would call lunch.. You might consider heading to Tartine (their website says they thrive on love, so there you go.) Go traditional, with Eggs Benedict, or maybe French toast with homemade brioche and smoked bacon. The more adventurous might want to try the Tunisian breakfast, with poached eggs, wilted spinach, chickpeas and Sriracha, or perhaps just a latte and croissant. Mais oui! Top of the Rock After that, why not a stroll uptown? (OK, it’s February, so perhaps a very brisk stroll.) The Top of the Rock Observation Deck is the perfect place to take in New York from on high. They have indoor and outdoor viewing decks and unbelievable views of the city. On a clear day, you can see, you know. It's quintessntially New York, and a perfect part of your Valentine's Day itinerary. The Rink at Brookfield Place From there, take advantage of one of New York’s great outdoor winter activities--ice skating! (It is winter, after all.) Head to the Rink at Brookfield Place, with plenty of public skating sessions and spectacular city (and Jersey) views. Plus it’s small-ish (and thus cozy.) You can also dip inside Brookfield Place itself for refueling. Maybe Blue Ribbon Sushi? Or the For Five Café—the coffee is from a micro-roasting facility in Queens. Yes, Queens. For more of a scene, check out the rink at the Winter Village at Bryant Park. It’s louder, more crowded, and quite fun, plus you can always run into the glorious main branch of the Public Library on Fifth Avenue if you get cold. Photo courtesy The Rink at Brookfield Place Museum of Sex If you’re feeling frisky, perhaps head to the Museum of Sex as part of your Valentine's Day itinerary? The museum actually presents a wide array of exhibitions designed to look at the history, evolution, and culture of human sexuality, such as a current interactive exhibit that charts the history of the carnival. Courtesy of Museum of Sex Central Park Zoo If it’s not too cold, you can head to the Central Park Zoo. There’s nothing more romantic that gazing at a red panda. (No, seriously, there’s a high aww factor.) Make sure to watch one of the animal feedings, and pose for some pics with your faves. It’s a beautiful spot in its own right, with more than six acres and a panorama of the city spread out around it. Did you know that the zoo's precursor was first open in 1864, and was the first public zoo in New York City? It’s also appeared in countless books and films, like Madagascar. Just some trivia in case a quiet moment stretches on too long. Central Park Carousel As long as you’re in the park, why not head to the carousel? No matter your age, it’s hard not to be charmed by this iconic landmark, which has been around for almost 150 years. Four carousels have been on the site since 1871; this one was built by a Brooklyn firm in 1908. It too has appeared in literature and films, like the classic Catcher in the Rye. And at $3 (yes, $3) a ride, it’s arguably one of the city’s best deals. Romantic and thrifty—a winning combination. One if by Land, Two if By Sea If you’re lagging, and the day is waning, it’s time to briefly part and reunite for dinner. You can go old school at One if By Land, Two if By Sea, a beautiful restaurant as well known for proposals as it is for the food and the ambience. It’s got the ambience and the candlelight and the classic white tablecloths, and it's supposedly haunted by the ghost of former owner Aaron Burr. (Yes, that Aaron Burr.) They have a special Valentine’s Day menu (both lunch and dinner), with such choices as lobster gnocchi, pan-seared scallops, and Beef Wellington. We told you it was old school. Looking for something less traditional? Try the incredibly cool Llama San, known for its mix of Peruvian and Japanese food known as Nikkei. (The menu is so minimalist that it basically contains no information at all.) The food combinations are often unusual and unexpected—think aged duck over cilantro rice, with a banana slice and nasturtium leaf. Yes, that is an actual dish. And finally, wind down your evening with a nightcap. Depending on where you are, you might check out the underground speakeasy-style Little Branch in the West Village. It's too cool for a website, but you can’t go wrong with the classics, or you can try a winter-perfect Penicillin, with scotch, ginger, honey, and lemon. It’s a drink and a cough drop! Photo courtesy One if by Land, Two if by Sea With this array of choices, your Valentine’s Day itinerary has a lot going for it. And if it doesn’t work out the way you planned, well, as the ballplayers say, there’s always next year.
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The Best Way To Experience New York

This post originally appeared in World Within Her a travel blog focused on sustainable travel and a vegan lifestyle. "New York is a cosmopolitan city, full of wonder and culture, but when you’re visiting for such a short time, what’s the best way to see the city and cram in as much as you can while not spending a fortune?" THE NEW YORK PASS This is where the New York Pass came in handy. We picked them on our first day there. The pass allows you to get into 90+ major attractions, and, yes, we are talking about the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, The Met, The Whitney, along with walking tours of the different neighbourhoods. The price varies, depending on how many days you want the pass for; for one day it’s $109, if you buy the three-day pass it works out as $80 a day. I hear you say it sounds a lot, but most attractions in New York have about a $35 entrance fee. Needless to say I took full advantage of seeing the major museums; The Moma, The Met and The Guggenheim along with Top of the Rock, the Empire State Building and the New York City bus tour. These were all incredible to say the least, as you can see in some of my photos below. What I really enjoyed doing were the walking tours, which were included in the pass. I did the meatpacking district tour, which I recommend highly to learn about its history and why Samantha from Sex and the City that made it so popular. I also did the Soho, Little Italy and China town tours. It’s such a great way to find out how the city has evolved and why the neighbourhoods are so charming. TWO BOOTS Right now, let’s talk about good vegan food.We all know that when you come to New York, it’s inevitable that you will gorge on food, because the food here is SO GOOD! Pizza is high on the agenda. I went to Two Boots in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. It’s a well-known pizza place among the locals; they offer vegan and non-vegan pizza and, my gosh, the vegan pizza is incredible. It didn’t feel like I was missing out and it certainly tasted better than any vegan pizza I’ve had in London. I’ll even go as far as saying better than those in Rome! I’ve been told it’s due to the New York water... The crust is like no other. BY CHLOE By Chloe is one of the most talked about vegan restaurants in New York, so naturally on our second night, we headed on over to the one on Bleeker Street. Like any hot spot in New York, it was packed with a massive queue when we arrived there were no tables available, so I do recommend going at non-peak times otherwise you will struggle to find a seat. We waited 15 minutes until two seats became available, it was great to see so many healthy options on the menu. I went for the Kale Cesar salad, which came with shiitake bacon, avocado, maple wheat croutons and a Cesar dressing. It was a generous sized portion, which was to my liking it had a lot and tasted great, the shiitake bacon tasted scrumptious and it didn’t leave me wanting the meatier bacon. My friend had the quac burger, which entailed black bean quinoa, sweet potato patty, corn salad, quac tortilla strips, chipotle, aioli with a whole grain bun. Before I could blink she had eaten it, it was bursting with flavour with a lot of juiciness to tuck into. I can certainly see why By Chloe was put on the map! B&H [caption id="attachment_988" align="alignright" width="980"] Photo Credit B&H[/caption] Photography lovers you would have heard of the B&H flagship store in Manhattan, I can only describe it as being a kid in a candy store. We were very lucky to be given the grand tour by Jonah, who showed us the four floors, packed with photography and film equipment, computers, drones and printers and a hell of a lot more! From this tour I got a really good sense of how important every customer is to B&H, Jonah talks about the different process that are in place to make a customer have a good experience, from the above the head electronic baskets and the big demo stations to the knowledgeable staff available. The staff in store do not work on commission, so are free in selling you a cheaper product if is indeed better performance wise than its more expensive neighbour. They have a used section, if you so want to head over and get yourself a bargain, I myself own a few secondhand lenses. B&H also have events, seminars and workshops in store along with offering street photography tours led by professional photographers. My friend and I were very lucky to have a private street photography tour organised by B&H, portrait and street photographer Derek Fahsbender. He took us to Brooklyn for the street tour to commence, we walked around Bushwick and Williamsburg, which is highly recommended for the street art and the trendy hipsters, along with some colourful characters. People here have more time to stop and talk unlike the hustle of Manhattan. We ended up talking to a lot of the people we photographed, getting to know them and finding out what they would recommend from a local perspective to a tourist. Below are some of the photos taken on the day. Enjoy. All Photo Credit: Nyla Sammons
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