Maximize Your Monday: NYC’s Best Things to Do

Published: March 13, 2026
empire state building and the NYC skyline

Whoever decided Mondays were sluggish obviously never spent the start of their week in New York City! In the city that never sleeps, Monday’s anything but dull. Whether you’re a first-timer or a repeat visitor, New York rolls out the red carpet with world-class museums, dazzling views, and offbeat adventures—most just as lively on a Monday as any other day. We’ve cherry-picked the places, experiences, and bites that prove New York knows how to kickstart your week with style. Ready to see a new side of the Big Apple, minus the weekend crowds? Let’s do Monday, NYC-style. 

Our top recommendations for how to spend Monday in New York City include: 

Empire State Building 

MoMA 

The High Line 

Central Park Bike Rental by Unlimited Biking 

American Museum of Natural History 

RiseNY 

Radio City Music Hall Tour Experience 

SoHo Little Italy Chinatown Walking Tour by Experience First 

The Modern (restaurant at MoMA) 

SPYSCAPE 

Empire State Building 

Mondays in NYC call for a sky-high start, and nothing delivers like the Empire State Building. This Art Deco masterpiece offers a city view you simply can’t find anywhere else, especially once you step out onto the breezy open-air observatory. What makes the experience on Monday special? The lines tend to be shorter, so you’ll have extra breathing room—and more time to snap those envy-inducing photos. With a new interactive museum and historical exhibits in the lobby, you’ll get a real sense of the building’s role in NYC life, past and present. The atmosphere balances old-school glamour with 21st-century buzz, and the feeling you get when the city’s grid unfolds in every direction? Utterly electric. Whether you’re checking this off your bucket list or revisiting your favorite view, the Empire State Building is a Monday win. 

MoMA 

Kick off the week in the most cultured way possible at the Museum of Modern Art. MoMA bursts with boundary-pushing masterpieces—from Warhol’s soup cans to Van Gogh’s swirling Starry Night. Mondays offer a golden window when the galleries feel refreshingly unhurried. You can pause in front of bold works by Monet or marvel at contemporary installations without ever feeling rushed. There’s an energy here that’s both intellectual and playful; inspiration’s always around the next corner. The architectural design makes wandering addictive, and the serene sculpture garden is a relaxing space to pause with a coffee. MoMA’s also famously photo-friendly—bring your camera for those memory-making shots surrounded by color and creativity. 

The High Line 

Get your Monday off the ground—literally—by strolling along the High Line. This repurposed elevated railway-turned-urban-park is a living, breathing piece of New York’s modern story. Whether it’s wildflowers in bloom, art installations or the ever-shifting cityscape, the High Line offers something new each season. On Mondays, you’ll dodge the busy weekend crowds and find pockets of tranquility overlooking the Hudson, or settle on a sun-drenched lounge chair and watch the world go by. Guided tours and pop-up food stands often operate even early in the week, and with Chelsea Market and top galleries nearby, the adventure continues just steps away. 

Central Park Bike Rental by Unlimited Biking

Nothing beats exploring Central Park on two wheels. Unlimited Biking’s Monday morning rentals are perfect for breezing past iconic sights—from Bow Bridge to Strawberry Fields, even the Central Park Zoo. Wide, shaded trails make cycling here one of the city’s simplest pleasures, and Monday mornings are blissfully peaceful. You’ll share the loop with local joggers, artists sketching under towering elms, and the occasional dog walker, making for prime people-watching. Biking gives you the freedom to spot hidden waterfalls, secret gardens, and quirky sculptures that are easy to miss on foot. Finish with a lakeside picnic, and you might just start a new Monday tradition. 

American Museum of Natural History 

Welcome to Jurassic Park, New York edition. The American Museum of Natural History transforms a Monday from mundane to monumental, especially for curious minds, dinosaur fans, and intrepid explorers. You’ll journey from enormous blue whales overhead to Egyptian artifacts and dazzling gems. The hallways echo with excitement—there’s just something special about roaming these displays at the week’s start, especially as school groups and locals fill the place with energy, not just tourists. Whether you’re mesmerized by towering T. rex skeletons or tracing your ancestry in the Hall of Human Origins, this museum mixes awe and fun effortlessly. Bonus: it’s located right by leafy Central Park, so you can pair your science lesson with a nature break. 

RiseNY 

Get swept up in New York’s larger-than-life spirit at RiseNY—a multisensory attraction where you’ll not only learn the city’s story, but actually feel it. The experience begins with a short film that dives into the city’s role as America’s cultural pulse, then launches you on a thrilling simulated flight over the five boroughs. The sensation of swooping over skyscrapers and soaring past the Statue of Liberty is pure giddiness. With interactive galleries focused on everything from TV and fashion to finance, it’s an all-ages hit. On Mondays, the experience feels even more exclusive, letting you immerse yourself in NYC’s story, at your own pace. 

Radio City Music Hall Tour Experience

Step behind the scenes at the legendary Radio City Music Hall. This tour peels back the stage curtain on one of the world’s most storied venues, famous for its high-kicking Rockettes and show-stopping concerts. On Mondays, guides share lesser-known tidbits about the Art Deco architecture, secret corridors, and celebrity stories that make Radio City magical. The mood feels extra intimate at the week’s start, so you can soak in the velvet and gold glamour without fighting massive tour groups. A brush with New York’s entertainment history makes any Monday memorable. 

SoHo Little Italy Chinatown Walking Tour by Experience First 

Why settle for one NYC neighborhood when you can wander through three? This expertly guided walking tour takes you from the cobblestone charm of SoHo, through aromatic Little Italy, and straight into the kaleidoscopic energy of Chinatown. Mondays bring a local buzz: shopkeepers setting up, pastry chefs crafting cannoli, and chefs prepping for lunch. Along the way, your guide will weave together stories of immigrants, architecture, and culinary legend, plus recommend street eats (hello, hand-pulled noodles) unique to each area. You’ll discover street art, secret speakeasies, and food spots that locals keep to themselves—a serious neighborhood deep-dive. 

The Modern (at MoMA) 

Elevate your Monday lunch at The Modern, the two-Michelin-starred restaurant at the Museum of Modern Art. Sunlight pours through floor-to-ceiling windows, framing the MoMA sculpture garden while you savor artfully plated dishes. Even a weekday lunch feels like an event here. Expect dishes like slow-poached eggs with parmesan foam or a take on duck that’s meltingly tender. The modern-yet-cozy vibe and impeccable service make you feel like NYC royalty, and the inventive cocktails (try the gin-based ‘Modern Martini’) are reason enough to linger over dessert. It’s a culinary experience as creative as the artwork next door. 

SPYSCAPE 

Step into a world of codes, mysteries, and secret missions at SPYSCAPE, Midtown’s thrilling spy museum and experience center. Mondays often give you the run of clever, interactive exhibits, from decoding spy messages to testing your skills in a laser maze. You’ll uncover the real stories behind history’s most fascinating espionage tales—and maybe learn if you’ve got what it takes to live undercover. The minimalist, mysterious vibe is part CIA headquarters, part playground for your inner James Bond. Bring friends to see who cracks the clues first! 

Wrapping Up: Make Monday Your NYC Secret 

While the world might think Monday’s made for slow starts, New York proves otherwise. With a blend of world-renowned sights, inspiring art, garden strolls, and meals worth lingering over, Monday in NYC holds its own magic—often without the weekend’s rush. Dive into neighborhoods rich with history, savor food markets and parks flooded by local life, and let each experience fill you with fresh Big Apple energy. There’s no better way to start the week than here, where every Monday comes packed with possibility. 

Ready to jumpstart your NYC trip? Don’t let Monday go to waste—it just might surprise you as the highlight of your adventure. 

 

Enjoyed this? Check out our picks of the best musical attractions in the city, and a deep dive into NYC’s top green spaces. 

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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What to do on Thanksgiving

When the turkey has been eaten and the last piece of pie has been fought over, what is there to do on Thanksgiving in New York? Plenty, as it turns out. We’ve got the scoop on what to do on Thanksgiving post-feasting, below. Radio City Rockettes The rest of us may be chowing down on turkey on Thanksgiving Day, but The Rockettes are still Rockette-ing--and several times, too. Seeing them is a great way to kick off (ha ha) the holiday season—there is almost nothing quite as festive. All dancing, all singing and plenty of special effects, this is the show that will charm your whole family. (Even cynical teens have been known to crack a smile or two.) It’s what to do on Thanksgiving! (And also check out the Rockefeller Tree lighting at Rockefeller Center with the New York Pass! Holiday Markets When the turkey has been eaten, it’s time to start holiday shopping! Or at least browsing. This is a good day to head to one of the holiday markets that spring up across the city. Especially if you’re traveling, a great one to check out is the Grand Central Terminal holiday market. (You can get something both coming and going!) This market focuses on American made products; it’s the place to get toys, accessories, and home goods—plus it’s indoors. While you’re there, don’t forget to gaze at the glorious station interior—an added plus. Central Park Zoo If it’s a nice day, a brisk walk in Central Park with the zoo as your destination should be high on your list. The small zoo is the perfect size to see in an afternoon or morning. At 6.5 acres, it encompasses four different sections—Polar (including penguins, always a favorite); Tropics (the rainforest area) the Central Garden (Sea lions) and Temperate (Red Pandas!). If you’ve got wee ones with you, don’t forget the Children’s Zoo. And make sure to watch at least one animal feeding—you can’t go wrong with the sea lions. Staten Island Ferry Looking for something that won’t set you back money-wise on Thanksgiving? How does free sound? The Staten Island Ferry is one of the last vestiges of a ferry system that predates most bridges in the city—and it’s free. Seventy thousand people a day (not including weekends) take the ferry--and you can join the masses. You’ll get a fun (if cold) ride, a great view of the city and the harbor, and a chance to burn off some of those pie and stuffing calories. [caption id="attachment_3202" align="alignnone" width="1250"] Photo Courtesy Trevor Gherardi[/caption] Empire State Building While many tourist attractions close down on major holidays, The Empire State Building, the art deco masterpiece that dates back to 1931, isn’t one of them. (It’s actually open every day of the year.) You can choose from a variety of packages (and makes sure to go only if the weather is good and there's no fog--you want those stellar views.) If you were wondering, the building is 1454 feet tall. Make sure to check out the Observation Deck, and see everything that’s offered at the Visitor’s Center. Want the scoop on the Rockettes’ holiday show? Check this out!
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woman in a winter coat looking out at the nighttime NYC skyline
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Winter Wonders: What To Do in NYC This January

So you’ve picked January to visit New York City. Smart move! The holiday crowds have thinned, the streets dazzle with winter’s glow, and the city’s cafés and cultural gems offer the kind of warmth only NYC can provide. Whether you’re bundled up gazing over frosty skyscrapers or sipping decadent hot chocolate after a museum adventure, you’ll discover January is an underrated gem for jaw-dropping views, unforgettable shows, and crowd-free sightseeing. Ready to dive in? Let’s uncover the fun and frosty secrets of the city that never sleeps—even in the snow.  Our favorite things to do in January in NYC include:  Empire State Building  The American Museum of Natural History  Central Park  MoMA  Broadway and Times Square Tour  One World Observatory  Harlem Gospel Concert  See 30+ Top New York Sights Walking Tour  Cozy Cafés in Greenwich Village  Edge  Empire State Building: Classic Views with a Wintery Twist  Blizzards and brisk winds might dominate the forecast, but nothing compares to standing atop the Empire State Building in January. Trust us, this is as close as you’ll get to feeling like NYC royalty. The observatory deck offers panoramic views of glittering city lights, with Central Park and the skyline dusted in snow—truly magical. Early mornings and twilight hours especially deliver picture-perfect vistas, and you’ll appreciate shorter lines and quieter crowds during the post-holiday lull. Indoors, fascinating exhibits tell the story of the building’s storied past, from its Art Deco architecture to its starring role in Hollywood films. Head up, zip your coat, and experience NYC’s signature statement in peace—you’ll feel on top of the world, literally and metaphorically.  Central Park: Snowy Strolls and Hot Chocolate Detours  Central Park is a year-round wonderland, but January gives it that special “secret garden” touch. Snow transforms the landscape into a dreamy, peaceful oasis—ideal for brisk winter walks, sledding near Pilgrim Hill, or simply snapping pics of Bow Bridge dusted with frost. The city’s horse-drawn carriages and skating rink at Wollman Rink bring old-school charm, while cafes along the park’s fringes dish out warm drinks and treats to refuel chilly fingers. For something different, rent a bike (weather permitting!) or take a guided walking tour—every cold breath feels invigorating when you’re surrounded by nature and classic skyline views. On snowy days, the park quiets down, making it feel like your own personal movie set.  MoMA: Get Lost in Modern Art (and the Gift Shop)  When the cold really bites, surround yourself with creativity at The Museum of Modern Art. Step off the busy Midtown streets and straight into masterpieces like Van Gogh’s Starry Night, Monet’s water lilies, and a rotating cast of modern icons. The galleries elegantly transition from classic to contemporary, so you can hop from Andy Warhol to immersive installations in minutes. What makes MoMA extra delightful in January? You’ll find more room to savor each work, staff ready to dish out fun anecdotes, and a gallery café serving top-notch coffee and pastries. Don’t skip the design shop on your way out—treat yourself to a poster or quirky NYC gadget, just because.  Broadway and Times Square Tour: Lights, Legends, and Winter Excitement  Love the buzz of Broadway but not the chaotic crowds? January is a fantastic time to discover the magic of Times Square with fewer elbows in the way. On a guided Broadway and Times Square tour, you’ll dash through hidden passageways, peek into legendary theaters, and hear juicy backstage tales—all while the famous neon lights bounce off the occasional winter flurry. Guides add color and character, bringing theater history to life and delivering pro tips for scoring same-day tickets to the season’s hottest shows. Afterward, warm up at a classic diner or tick off a bucket-list show with seats that are suddenly easier to snag. There’s no place quite like Broadway under the winter glow.  One World Observatory: City Views Above the Snow  High above the bustle of Lower Manhattan, One World Observatory gives you a true sense of the city’s scale—especially dramatic in January when frosted rooftops stretch to the horizon. Ride the sky pod elevator (it’s an immersive experience in itself!) and step out onto sprawling glass panels with 360-degree views. There’s something soothing about gazing at the snowy cityscape, the Statue of Liberty standing tall, and the rivers shimmering in the winter sunlight. Inside, interactive exhibits provide a fascinating look at NYC’s history and culture, and if hunger hits, the café lets you nibble and sip with a view you won’t soon forget. It’s a winter perch you’ll be talking about all year.  See 30+ Top New York Sights Walking Tour: Pack in the Pageantry  If you’re eager to experience as much of NYC as you can in one hit, the “See 30+ Top New York Sights” walking tour is your best bet. Guided in small, friendly groups, you’ll tick off everything from the Flatiron Building and Grand Central to secret alleyways and awe-inspiring architectural gems. In January, your guide will tailor the pace for brisk weather and share insider tips for the best winter eats and cozy photo stops. Expect loads of quirky stories, fun facts, and helpful recommendations for further exploring—plus plenty of opportunities to duck inside for coffee or a bite along the route. It’s the ultimate winter sampler of New York’s greatest hits.  Cozy Cafés in Greenwich Village: Warm Up Like a Local  January is café season in NYC, and nowhere does cozy quite like Greenwich Village. Tucked among brownstones and tree-lined streets, you’ll find quirky coffee shops like Caffè Reggio—where the original cappuccino machine gleams behind the counter, and boho décor transports you straight to 1920s New York. For something more modern, Partners Coffee serves up rich lattes perfect for sipping solo or with friends. Chocolaterie MarieBelle tempts with thick, European-style hot chocolate and dreamy pastries, all savored from plush armchairs in a jewel-box setting. Whether you’re craving a tranquil nook to journal or just want to recharge between sights, the Village’s café culture delivers on charm and warmth.  Edge: Thrills, Heights, and Skyline Selfies  Looking for adventure with a view? Edge in Hudson Yards lifts you to the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. The triangular glass floor lets you look down on the city streets, while the open-air terrace frames the skyline in all its snow-dusted glory. Even the bravest selfie-takers get a jolt of excitement here—those transparent walls deliver unobstructed panoramas (and just a little bit of vertigo). Indoors, you’ll find stylish lounges serving snacks and drinks that make it easy to linger longer. Visiting Edge in January means fewer folks crowding the best spots—even the wind feels exhilarating, rather than biting, when you’re grinning ear-to-ear at the city at your feet.    That’s our deep-dive guide to January in NYC—whether you’re chasing snowy vistas, world-class art, or a steaming mug of cocoa, there’s something here to thrill every winter wanderer. January rewards the curious with a quieter, more intimate side of the city—and plenty of opportunities to make new memories without wrestling the crowds.    Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to the best musical attractions in the city, and explore NYC’s best green spaces.  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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Fall in New York City: Take a Tour

When does fall start? Fall officially starts September 23rd, 2019. There are exactly 12 hours of dark and 12 hours of light on this day. The word "fall" gradually overtook use of the word "autumn" in the U.S. in the 1600s, influenced by poetry and literature describing the "fall of the leaves". When does fall end? December 22, 2019, when the U.S. enters the winter solstice. The seasons may have changed, but that won't stop New York from being one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. And with the crowds thinning out and weather cooling, this could be the best time see this iconic city. This list of New York City fall tours will make sure you see the best sights in town. When visiting NYC in the fall, wrap up in a light knit and jacket and a scarf; pack an umbrella in case the skies open. Then grab a steaming coffee and kick through the leaves on an outdoor walking tour. Fall Walking Tours Central Park Sightseeing Walking Tour Take an adventure through the United States' 1st major landscaped park and discover 843 acres of beautiful scenery. The orange leaves falling from the trees make for a memorable 2-hour tour in Central Park. Greenwich Village Walking Tour Explore the bohemian capital of New York City, Greenwich Village. You'll get a chance to stroll through Washington Square Park and pass some of the city's most interesting dining options. Why not find out what seasonal options they have on the menu? High Line-Chelsea-Meatpacking Tour Get a new view of New York City as you walk on the High Line, which is an elevated park/walkway stretching throughout Manhattan's Midtown section. This walking tour also takes you to key areas in Chelsea, showcasing the history of the Meatpacking district. Fashion Windows Walking Tour Tour the city in style as you venture to some of New York's most famous and iconic storefronts. You'll get a first-hand look at high-class fashion on 5th Avenue in the "Fashion Mecca of the Eastern Hemisphere". Perhaps you are interested in a bicycle tour. There are many bike tours as well as bicycle rentals that can give you a front-row seat to New York's gorgeous fall scenery. Fall Biking Tours Central Park Sightseeing Bike Tours & Rentals Similar to the walking tour, Central Park Sightseeing Bike Tour is a 2-hour excursion in New York City's Central Park. This tour allows you to enjoy the outdoors and explore an iconic landmark. If you're looking for the perfect spot to get a picture or two, head over to the area known as Pond at Central Park South between 5th & 6th Avenues. Gapstow Bridge there lights up with colors making it a favorite fall spot for photographers. Hudson River Sightseeing Bike Rentals Take your time enjoying the sights of New York City in the fall with a 24-hour bicycle rental. Experience picture-perfect autumnal landscapes and stunning undisturbed views across to Manhattan - the perfect photo taking opportunity. Experience Chinese dining and decorations in Chinatown at its best. And visit Time Square: one of the brightest and most popular areas in the world. Blazing Saddles Bike Rentals & Tours Choose between a full-day bicycle rental and a 2-hour guided tour of Brooklyn Bridge with Blazing Saddles Bike Rentals & Tours. Indulge in the scenery of the city while riding to the Statue of Liberty, set against the gorgeous skylines of Brooklyn and Manhattan. As you can see, there are many great opportunities for sightseeing in New York City during the Fall Season. Whether you prefer to tour the city by bike or on foot, the New York Pass makes it easy for you to visit your favorite destinations and plan out your itinerary. For more ideas on attractions and tours in New York City, click here and view a full list of tours offered on The New York Pass.
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