Things to Do in NYC Under 21 on Vacation

By Casey Makovich
Published: May 16, 2024

For anyone that’s ever seen a movie or TV show based in New York City, one of the coolest things about “The City That Never Sleeps” seems to be the legendary nightlife, but don't be fooled; there's plenty of things to do under 21 in NYC.

10 Amazing Things to Do in NYC Under 21 on Vacation

What are you supposed to do if you want to have the full NYC tourist experience but you’re under 21? Luckily, New York City is a culturally diverse and welcoming city with fun for tourists and visitors of all ages. So while it may seem like you have to miss out on some of the nightlife action, there’s plenty for you to see and do in the city, you won't even miss it!

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.

1. Big Bus New York

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There are few better ways to get to know the city of New York than with the fully guided, comprehensive sightseeing Big Bus New York Hop-On Hop-Off Tour! This is the perfect start to any trip to The Big Apple because you’ll have access to all of the tops sights and iconic landmarks throughout the city. Your friendly and knowledgeable tour guide will be there to fill you in on all the rich history of NYC and make sure you’re ready to get out and explore. Getting in: Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour tickets are included with The New York Pass.

2. Central Park Bike Tours

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Central Park is one of the true jewels of NYC and home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the US. This expansive park has lakes, sculptures, food, live performers and more. So what’s the best way to explore it all? On a bike of course! Choose from a comprehensive guided bike tour or rent a bike for yourself and head out on your own little adventure. Either way, you’re sure to marvel at all the different sights and sounds. Getting in: Central Park Bike Tour tickets and rentals are included with The New York Pass.

3. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Immigration Museum

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Visit one of the most recognizable and beloved landmarks in the US with a trip out to Ellis Island. The Statue of Liberty has represented freedom and hope for millions of Americans for decades and is one sight that shouldn't be missed on your trip to NYC. With breathtaking sights and a rich history that will leave you full of hope and awe, this iconic New York City tourist stop will be one to remember. Getting in: Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Immigration Museum and ferry tickets are included on The New York Pass. Please note: tickets for access to the pedestal and crown levels in the Statue of Liberty are sold separately and require advanced reservations. You will not be granted admission with The New York Pass.

4. American Museum of Natural History

This is one of the largest and most interesting natural history museums in the country, if not the world! With a gigantic collection of artifacts and exhibits that will transport you to new worlds, it’s easy to spend an entire day hanging out and learning at the American Museum of Natural History. Whether you’re into animals, plants or different time periods in human history –this museum has it all. Getting in: American Museum of Natural History tickets are included on The New York Pass.

5. New York Transit Museum

Have you ever wondered just how New York City’s famous underground mass transit system was developed? Take a trip to Brooklyn Heights to get a closer look at just how the NYC subway was planned and built. With a series of interactive exhibitions and installations, you can see just how the Metropolitan Transit Authority has grown over the years and get a first-hand look at how the trains work. Getting in: New York Transit Museum tickets are included on The New York Pass.

6. The Empire State Building

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Take in one of the most breathtaking views of New York City from the observation deck of the iconic and historic Empire State Building. With 360 degree panoramic views of the city, you can get an up-close look at the most famous landmarks in the state and take plenty of snaps of the skyline too! Getting in: Empire State Building tickets are included on the New York Pass.

7. Madame Tussauds New York

Who doesn’t want to take a few selfies with their favorite Hollywood stars in NYC? While you may be able to spot a few famous faces in Manhattan, the best place to get a great snap with your favorite stars is at Madame Tussauds New York. This fun and interactive museum is located in the heart of Times Square and is a guaranteed good time for all. Getting in: Madame Tussauds New York tickets are included with The New York Pass.

8. Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

If you’re interested in modern art, then the Guggenheim Museum is one stop that you have to make during your trip to NYC. Featuring some of the 20th century’s finest art pieces and collections, you’ll love spending an afternoon exploring here. In fact, this museum is beautiful inside and out, making it a great spot for a photo op! Getting in: Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum tickets are included with The New York Pass (plus Fast Track Entry!).

9. Brooklyn Bridge Walking Tour

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While New York City has plenty of iconic landmarks, one of the most interesting and beautiful has to be the Brooklyn Bridge. With a rich history and gorgeous design, this tour is sure to keep you enthralled from beginning to end. Highlights of this tour include the Brooklyn Bridge, unique views of the Statue of Liberty, and the New York Stock Exchange. Getting in: Brooklyn Bridge Walking Tour tickets are included with The New York Pass.

10. Rockefeller Center Tour

Get to know the history behind one of the city’s most beloved landmarks and enjoy some insight into the mind of John D. Rockefeller Jr. with this fun and interesting guided tour. Get to know the historic Rockefeller Center as well as the surrounding streets to get a feel for one little piece about what life in NYC is all about. Getting in: Rockefeller Center Tour tickets are included with The New York Pass.

Fall in Love with New York City at Any Age

While you may not be able to head out to the city’s hottest nightclubs during your visit if you’re under 21, that doesn’t mean that you can’t have an amazing time getting to know The Big Apple a little better. With great museums, amazing food and so many wonderful landmarks to explore, there are tons of things to do in NYC under 21. Don’t let being underage keep you from enjoying a fabulous and memorable trip to New York City! Instead, take the city by storm and be sure to check out one or more of these fun activities.

Remember To Save On Attraction Admission

Lots of the fun things to do in NYC under 21 on vacation are included on The New York Pass. Whether you’re interested in sightseeing, taking a tour or enjoying art at a museum, an NYC sightseeing vacation is easy to plan with The New York Pass. If you plan on visiting multiple attractions, consider using the New York Pass which grants you free entry to over 90 attractions in New York City. That way you can do more when you sightsee and make the most of your time in New York City. For more information on the New York Pass, click here.

To visit the above attractions all on one pass choose a New York Pass. The more you do, the more you save!

Casey Makovich
New York Travel Expert

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Times Square Unlocked: Explore Near Madame Tussauds

You’ve partied with pop icons, grinned with superheroes, and maybe even out-posed a few presidents at Madame Tussauds New York. But the fun doesn’t stop when you step back onto West 42nd Street! Step into the neon heart of Times Square and you’ll find even more ways to make your NYC trip sensational—think sky-high views, secret speakeasies, world-class shows, and snacks worth a standing ovation. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or flying solo, the area around Madame Tussauds puts you at the center of the city’s biggest excitement. Here’s your must-do list for making every Midtown moment count.    Our fave things to do near Madame Tussauds:  Top of the Rock  Broadway and Times Square Tour by Experience First  RiseNY  The Museum of Broadway  Bryant Park  Ellen’s Stardust Diner  The Beast Speedboat Ride  The New York Public Library  Koreatown Eats  Radio City Music Hall Tour Experience  Top of the Rock: Take Your Selfies Sky-High  If you loved photos with the stars at Madame Tussauds, just wait until you’re 70 floors up at Top of the Rock! This legendary observation deck at Rockefeller Center offers show-stopping, 360-degree views—Central Park’s greenery to the north, a glowing Empire State Building to the south, and Manhattan’s hustle humming far below.  The vibe is pure “main character” energy: wedding proposals, happy reunions, legs dangling off the edge for the ultimate photo. There’s room to soak it all in, with indoor and outdoor viewing decks and plenty of space for that envy-inducing skyline selfie. Sunset is especially dazzling, so time your visit for golden hour if possible.  RiseNY: NYC’s Ultimate Flying Theater Experience  Right around the corner, RiseNY delivers thrills (without standing in line for a rollercoaster). This immersive attraction starts with a museum of New York’s most iconic pop culture moments before strapping you in for a soaring, flight simulation over the city’s sights.  You’ll hang above the city in front of a soaring screen—wind, mist, scents, and music included. It’s part inspiring, part “how did they do that?!” and 100% unique to the Big Apple. Come for a rush that rivals any blockbuster; leave with a fresh dose of city pride.  The Museum of Broadway: The Backstage Pass You Always Wanted  For anyone who’s ever imagined themselves under the marquee lights, The Museum of Broadway is pure joy. Dive into the shows, stories, and costume closets of New York’s legendary theater scene, from historic icons to modern-day hits.  The crowd is always buzzing—from superfans to visitors discovering Broadway’s magic for the first time—and the interactive exhibits practically beg for photos and singalongs. Original set pieces, famous costumes, and playful photo ops make this a must for musical lovers and anyone craving a bit of glitz and glam.  Bryant Park: Midtown’s Outdoor Playground  Just a few blocks east, Bryant Park offers a leafy oasis in the city’s concrete core. You’ll find office workers reclining in chairs, chess matches under the trees, and seasonal surprises—think winter skating or summer movie nights.  Grab a gelato, snag a table, and soak up the relaxed pace. Bonus: Bryant Park surrounds the stunning New York Public Library (worth a quick peek for those Insta-ready marble lions). It’s the perfect way to hit pause before the bright lights pull you back in.  Ellen’s Stardust Diner: Singing, Dancing, and Serious Sandwiches  If your crew is hungry and in show-tune mode, Ellen’s Stardust Diner is half diner, half Broadway audition. Singing waitstaff belt favorite hits between milkshakes and meatloaf, and the vibe is pure joy. Expect big crowds, big voices, and even bigger portions.  Order a classic burger, a sky-high stack of pancakes, or their legendary mac and cheese. There’s nothing subtle about it—just entertainment and NYC kitsch, bite after bite.  The New York Public Library: A Historic, Instagram-Famous Haven  It’s not just a library—it’s a grand, marble-palace creation that’s starred as the backdrop for everything from movies to wedding shoots. Duck inside to cool off, explore vast reading rooms, and snap a photo with the famous lions, Patience and Fortitude.  The library offers a calm, inspiring retreat—and often houses fascinating free exhibits on NYC history and culture. There’s a quiet buzz that feels worlds away from Times Square, but it’s only a short stroll from Madame Tussauds’ door.  Koreatown Eats: Sizzle, Snacks, and Sweet Treats  A ten-minute walk south drops you in Koreatown: Midtown’s 24-hour culinary playground. Hop from BBQ hotspots with table grills to bubble tea shops, late-night bakeries, and karaoke dens. Try crispy fried chicken at Pelicana or classic bibimbap at BCD Tofu House, then wind down with “snow ice” or mochi donuts at one of the neighborhood’s dessert caves.  The mood is always lively, with groups of friends, families, and after-work crowds devouring spicy, sizzling feasts. Go hungry—and stay for a nightcap and some people-watching.  Radio City Music Hall Tour Experience: Legendary Lights, Real Magic  Finish your Midtown adventure with backstage wonder at Radio City Music Hall. This Art Deco temple is just a pleasant stroll north, and the guided tour is the ultimate pass to New York’s showbiz secrets. You’ll see grand lobbies, historic murals, and, if luck is on your side, a Rockette or two rehearsing those perfect kicks.  The décor is jaw-dropping; the history, endlessly fascinating. If you’re a fan of glamour, music, or jaw-dropping stages, it’s a can’t-miss finale before you dive back into the neon.    From Midtown’s wild energy to its hidden cozy corners, there’s so much more to discover right outside Madame Tussauds. Whether you’re chasing Broadway dreams, bites, or skyline scenes, staying a little longer means turning a wax museum visit into an epic NYC day you’ll never forget!    Enjoyed this? Check out the top music spots in the city, or make the most of your visit to Brooklyn!    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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The High Line and What’s Next: Chelsea’s Coolest Finds

You’ve wandered the gardens, nabbed the skyline photos, and soaked in street art on the High Line. But don’t stop there—the world below this elevated park bursts with buzzing markets, world-class galleries, tempting bakeries, and surprises on every block. Whether you’re an art lover, a foodie, or just in it for the city’s most colorful strolls, Chelsea invites you to turn your High Line adventure into a full-on New York experience. Ready to keep the buzz going? Here’s our cheat sheet for the best things to do near the High Line.    Our favorite things to do near The High Line include:  Whitney Museum of American Art  Chelsea Market  Vessel at Hudson Yards  ARTECHOUSE New York  Chelsea Galleries (art walk)  Little Island  Rubin Museum of Art  Gallow Green Rooftop  Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tour  Empire State Building  Whitney Museum of American Art: Modern Creativity Unleashed  Walk straight off the southern tip of the High Line and step into the Whitney—a light-filled temple to American art. This museum’s airy galleries showcase everything from edgy installations and contemporary photography to works by Hopper, O'Keeffe, Basquiat, and Kusama. The vibe is creative but approachable, and rotating special exhibitions guarantee something new every visit.  Don’t miss the outdoor terraces for killer downtown views and even more sculpture. Families will find interactive activities for kids, while art buffs can get happily lost for hours. The café's pastries and people-watching are a bonus. The Whitney radiates that buzzy, creative Chelsea energy—making it the perfect first stop after your park walk.  Chelsea Market: Foodie Wonderland  No NYC adventure is complete without a pit stop at Chelsea Market. This indoor food hall—just underneath the High Line—brings together everything from Brooklyn-style pizza to buttery lobster rolls, tacos, ramen, and the city’s most swoon-worthy doughnuts. It’s a feast for both your taste buds and Instagram feed.  The atmosphere is all hustle and local color: neon signage, bustling lunch crowds, and the enticing aroma of fresh-baked bread. Beyond eating, shop indie boutiques, browse pop-up stands, and marvel at the building's quirky industrial bones. Whether you want a fast bite or a full-on snack safari, Chelsea Market serves up New York flavor, no reservations required.  Vessel at Hudson Yards: Sculpture, Stairs, and Selfies  A short walk north from the High Line, Vessel looms like a beehive made for city explorers. While access to climb may fluctuate, the structure is worth seeing up close—its copper-colored spirals and staircases make it a magnet for photographers and future TikTok stars.  Plaza benches and water features surround the site, and you’re in the heart of Hudson Yards’ modern marvels—plenty to catch your eye, even if you stay earthbound. Stick around for nearby luxury shops, splashy public art, and skyline views that rival any rooftop bar.  Chelsea Galleries Art Walk: Contemporary Art, Free and Fierce  Art lovers, rejoice—Chelsea has the city’s highest density of contemporary galleries outside of Midtown. West 20s streets, especially between 10th and 11th Avenues, are dotted with pop-in free spaces. You’ll spot the blue-chip stars (think Gagosian, David Zwirner) but also plenty of indie newcomers.  The mood is welcoming, with gallery staff often happy to chat about what’s on view. Stroll with a coffee and take in everything from bold paintings and avant-garde installations to sculpture, video, and even performance art. No tickets, no pressure—just pure NYC creative spirit.  Little Island: Floating Park Fun  A few blocks south, Little Island rises from the Hudson on tulip-shaped columns. This whimsical new park is a garden in the air, with winding paths, live performances, and grassy hills begging for a picnic. There’s nothing quite like it for kids and adults alike.  You’ll find snack vendors, artful landscaping, and panoramic boardwalk views over the water. The mood is playful and innovative, and during summer the tiny amphitheater offers everything from jazz to family theater. For urban nature with a twist, Little Island is a fresh favorite.  Rubin Museum of Art: Serenity, Spirit, and Himalayan Treasures  Need a break from the buzzy city pace? The Rubin Museum, a 10-minute walk inland, offers a quiet treasure trove of Himalayan and Tibetan art. Rotating exhibits explore themes of mindfulness, mythology, and creativity in ways that inspire both seasoned art fans and total newbies.  The building’s spiral staircase, peaceful galleries, and meditative nooks set a calm mood. Pop in for an oasis of zen before diving back into Chelsea’s whirlwind energy.  Gallow Green Rooftop: Drinks on the Garden  For a little altitude with your adventure, head to Gallow Green at the McKittrick Hotel. This rooftop bar feels like a hidden garden in the clouds—think fairy lights, lush greenery, and creative cocktails that match the whimsical setting.  Afternoons are laid-back, but evenings buzz as friends gather for drinks, dinner, and urban sunsets. House specials like the “Sleep No More” cocktail add theatrical flair (appropriate, given the immersive theater inside). It’s the perfect post-High Line toast, whether you’re winding down or ramping up your Chelsea night.  Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tour: See the City from the Streets  Want to check even more NYC boxes after your High Line stroll? Hop on a Big Bus and take an open-air loop of downtown, uptown, and beyond. There’s a stop near Hudson Yards—just west of the High Line’s end—so you can catch a bus without hassle.  It’s all lively commentary, city trivia, and photo ops galore as you glide past neighborhoods old and new. Great if you want a break for your feet or a speedy way to get your bearings.    Walking the High Line is just the beginning. With world-class art, foodie favorites, secret gardens, and sky-high experiences, Chelsea and the neighborhoods around the High Line are where the city’s creative and culinary spirits truly shine. However you wander, every step off the elevated park is a new chapter in your New York story.    Enjoyed this? Why not check out some fun facts about the Empire State Building, or get the local lowdown on the Big Apple?    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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