10 Things to do on President’s Day in New York

President's Day in New York often means special events are going on at the city's best museums, art galleries, and more. Check out our guide and make a plan for the holiday.

By Go City Expert
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Presidents Day New york

President’s Day was originally designed to celebrate George Washington’s birthday. It’s a federal holiday held on the third Monday of February. These days, it’s meant to celebrate the birthdays of both Washington and Lincoln. But, it's often seen as a way to celebrate every U.S. president. So, if you want to know how to celebrate, here are 10 of the best things to do on President’s Day in New York. Including...

  • Intrepid
  • Statue of Liberty
  • Brooklyn Bike Rental
  • Carnegie Hall
  • and more!

Staten Island Children’s Museum

President's Day coincides with the start of the mid-winter break for public schools in the city. So, there's a lot going on for families. The Staten Island Children's Museum has two exhibits worth checking out. The first, 'Superpowered Metropolis: Early Learning City', is an interactive exhibit that invites viewers into a comic-book-inspired New York, guided by a trio of pigeons. It's focused on early learning brain skills. The other is called "Inside Art," and it features larger-than-life sculptures and installations for visitors to interact with.

 

The Intrepid

Next, it’s Kids Week at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, which is offering more than 120 family-friendly events centered around STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Families can check out maker spaces, live shows, a pop-up planetarium, animal shows, and more. On President’s Day itself, families can catch a performance by the Gazillion Bubble Show, hear author Drew Brockington (CatStronauts), and watch a presentation by the Stamford Museum & Nature Center.

Monday Night Magic

Every Monday evening, the Players Theatre presents Monday Night Magic, with a special President’s Day show on February 17. Monday Night Magic (MNM) is New York’s longest-running Off-Broadway show; it’s been on the scene for more than 20 years.

The show is characterized by its lack of Las Vegas-style frills—this is magic, pure and simple. Each show features four performers on stage; during the intermission, at least two magicians present close-up magic throughout the theatre. How does this tie into President’s Day? No idea. We imagine there's a little sleight of hand in there somewhere.

 

Brooklyn Bridge Bike Rental

If you were just thinking, ”I really need to get out more,” and by “out,” you mean an invigorating bike ride across the Brooklyn Bridge, you’re in luck. Brooklyn Bridge Bike Tours & Rentals offers both self-guided and guided bike tours, so grab yourself a set of wheels and go! The Brooklyn Bridge is iconic, and riding a bike across it must be one of the best things to do on President's Day. Open in 1883, it’s now a national historic landmark with incredible views and was once called the Eighth Wonder of the World. 

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

President’s Day is a great day to reflect on this country’s history—and no better place to do it than Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. The former was once the entry point into New York; more than a third of all Americans can trace their ancestry to someone who arrived at Ellis Island. It’s now a historical museum with plenty of interactive exhibits. The Statue of Liberty is, well, the Statue of Liberty. Inspired by Libertas, the Roman god of freedom, Lady Liberty was a gift from France to the U.S. and is a symbol of democracy and freedom from oppression.

 

Kingston Restaurant & Bar

Looking for a more unconventional way to celebrate President’s Day? How about one with lots of Mimosas? Every holiday Monday, The Alumni Group offers Mimosa Mondays to close out the holiday weekend. For an extra $20, patrons can add an hour and a half of cocktails including mimosas, to their brunch entrees at Kingston Restaurant & Bar. Specializing in Caribbean and jerk food (think pineapple mango salsa, jerk chicken, curry shrimp), it’s a great end to a cold winter weekend in New York.

Carnegie Hall

The adage says that the best way to get to Carnegie Hall is to practise, but you can also attend Who Are the Brave, a program of patriotic and original works by American composers and conductors, including Chichester Psalms by Leonard Bernstein. The Distinguished Concert Orchestra and Conductors perform; student and senior discount tickets are available at the box office.

 

Musicals

Seeing a show must be one of the best ways to celebrate Presidents' Day. Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s revolutionary Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat has been running for over 50 years, while Hamilton, the smash-hit saga that tells the story of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton and the American Revolution, is set to a rousing musical score including jazz and hip-hop.

BAM Oscar Movies

And finally, missed some of the Oscar-nominated movies? BAM, the Brooklyn Academy of Music, is offering you a chance to catch up on some of the nominees this President’s Day.

You can even catch up on lesser-known films like Cane River, which was lost in 1982; the negative was recovered in 2013. The film tells the story of African Americans fighting class and racial tension in Louisiana. Pick and choose, or see them all!

 

 

And that’s our guide to making Presidents’ Day in NYC a memorable one! With a wealth of suggestions, you’re sure to find something that takes your fancy. And, if you like the above, why not check out these restaurants or grab a cheeky drink!  

 

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the best things to do near intrepid in new york city
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Pier Perfection: What To Do Near the Intrepid NYC

Landing on the flight deck of the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum feels like NYC’s ultimate power move. But the adventure doesn’t end there—step off ship and you’re at the gateway to Midtown West, a neighborhood loaded with waterfront strolls, rooftop hangouts, top-tier food, epic skyline views, and even a touch of Broadway magic. This slice of the city rolls history, culture, and fun together just steps from the Hudson. Ready to chart your day from the deck to the lively streets? Here are our top picks for soaking up every second near the Intrepid.    Our favorite things to do near the Intrepid include:  The Beast Speedboat Ride  Landmark Cruise by Circle Line  Hudson River Park  Edge at Hudson Yards  High Line  Hudson Yards Dining  Madame Tussauds  DeWitt Clinton Park  Landmark Cruise by Circle Line: Classic Views, Relaxed Vibes  If you’d rather take things at a gentler pace, Circle Line’s Landmark Cruise is a New York classic. Departing right next to the Intrepid, this sightseeing boat glides along the city’s edges, serving up stellar views of the Empire State, Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty and more—complete with live narration that’s equal parts history and local sass. There’s a bar on board (grab a drink and park yourself on the deck), plus plenty of spots for photo ops. Bonus: it’s a great way to beat the crowds, rest your feet, and get your bearings.  Hudson River Park: Outdoor Chill Zone  The West Side waterfront from Battery Park up past the Intrepid is stitched together by Hudson River Park—a ribbon of green space, riverside paths, playgrounds, skateparks, and sundecks made for summer lounging. Rent a bike from a nearby stand and cruise down to Little Island, join the joggers catching a breeze, or just stretch out in the grass with an iced coffee and people-watch. There are piers with mini golf, kayaks, pop-up markets, and often live music in warmer months. The effect? Utter relaxation, just minutes from Midtown’s bustle.  The High Line: Stroll Above the City  Switch gears and head inland—within a fifteen-minute stroll, you can step onto the High Line, New York’s game-changing elevated park. Built on a disused train track, it’s now a patchwork of wildflowers, art installations, sculpture, and intriguing city views. The crowd is always eclectic: locals on lunch break, artists scouting inspiration, travelers grazing food trucks below. Along your walk, expect plenty of surprises (maybe even open-air performers or pop-up art). The High Line is a playground for people-watching, plant-browsing, and urban daydreaming.  Hudson Yards Dining: Feast with a View  Before or after your Edge adventure (or High Line walk), treat yourself to some of NYC’s newest hotspots in Hudson Yards. Mercado Little Spain is a food lover’s dream, overflowing with tapas and churros, or sample everything from sushi to artisanal burgers in the sleekly designed food halls. The restaurant scene here runs from fast-casual to white-tablecloth chic, with interiors almost as stunning as the cityscape just outside. It’s a breeze to grab a snack for a riverside picnic or settle in for a memorable dinner with panoramic city views.  Madame Tussauds: Share the Spotlight  Feeling starstruck? Wander inland to Madame Tussauds—Times Square’s shrine to pop culture legends, sports heroes, and Hollywood royalty. Strike a pose for selfies with everyone from Taylor Swift to The Rock in eerily lifelike wax, or test your Marvel hero skills in the 4D adventure experience. The vibe is unapologetically touristy, but kids and eager grown-ups alike have way too much fun. It’s all about playful energy and letting your inner celebrity loose.  DeWitt Clinton Park: Local Vibes & Urban Green  Sometimes you just want a place to pause and catch your breath. DeWitt Clinton Park, a block from the piers between 52nd and 54th, is a classic NYC pocket park—basketball courts, dog runs, flower beds, and a slice of everyday New York life. Locals picnic here, kids play, and there’s always a friendly, laid-back vibe. Grab takeout from a Hell's Kitchen spot and enjoy your lunch with skyline glimpses in tranquil surroundings.    The Intrepid’s neighborhood brings together everything that makes New York special—river views, delicious food, artsy escapes, adrenaline rushes, and eclectic crowds. All it takes is a little curiosity to turn your museum visit into a full-on city adventure. So grab your walking shoes, keep your camera handy, and get ready to make your own Midwestern Manhattan story just steps from the deck!    Enjoyed this? Check out our NYC’s best observation decks, and see the city’s best bits in a day!    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!      
players trying to find the exit of an escape room, stylised
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Secretly Awesome: Free Things To Do Near SPYSCAPE NYC

So, you’ve just decoded your last cipher at SPYSCAPE and blended into the Midtown crowds, but you’re itching for more adventure—without any covert wallet-draining. Good news! The neighborhood surrounding SPYSCAPE is packed with free attractions perfect for travelers on a mission to explore NYC’s vibrant culture, historic corners, and urban energy. We’re about to reveal our favorite totally free things to do near SPYSCAPE: think lush parks, creative art, legendary architecture, and people-watching fit for spies of every rank. Grab your curiosity (and maybe your best trench coat) for an unforgettable day of New York discoveries!  Our fave free things to do near SPYSCAPE include:  Bryant Park  The New York Public Library (Stephen A. Schwarzman Building)  Times Square  Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) PS1 Courtyard and Art Lab  The High Line  Central Park’s Southern End  Rockefeller Center Public Spaces  6 ½ Avenue Pedestrian Arcade  Grand Central Terminal  The Paley Center for Media’s Public Spaces  Bryant Park  A hop, skip, and a magnifying-glass glance from SPYSCAPE sits Bryant Park, one of Manhattan’s favorite “backyard” escapes. What makes Bryant Park so appealing? Picture yourself unwinding at lush lawn tables, surrounded by gardens, towering sycamores, ping pong tables, and a giant open-air reading room—totally free and perfect for an after-spy-mission breather. The park hums with energy: locals gather for chess, jugglers practice their skills, and the sound of soft jazz often drifts in from pop-up performers.  Every season brings something to see. Summer transforms Bryant Park into a festival haven, with free movie nights on the grass (bring a blanket!) and free games for everyone. In the chillier months, the ice skating rink sparkles—and even if you don’t lace up, you can enjoy watching the skaters glide by. Pick up a book from the park’s own outdoor library, leap into a free yoga class if you like, or simply absorb the buzz from a shaded bench. Bryant Park captures that essential New York vibe—a perfect place for people-watching, reading, or making friends with the city’s quirkiest characters.  The New York Public Library (Stephen A. Schwarzman Building)  You don’t need a detective’s nose for intrigue to sense the magic of the New York Public Library’s main branch—just a few blocks from SPYSCAPE. From the moment you climb the steps flanked by the legendary lion statues (their names are Patience and Fortitude, by the way), you’re entering a palace devoted to stories. Entry is free, and you’ll walk through awe-inspiring marble halls, grand staircases, and ornate reading rooms worthy of a Sherlock Holmes set.  Inside, the Rose Main Reading Room stretches almost a city block, illuminated by massive arched windows and the soft hush of turning pages. You can pop in for architectural tours, browse ever-changing free exhibitions on everything from fashion to famous NYC mysteries, or just soak in the time-travel atmosphere. The library’s lobby boasts rare treasures, like the original Winnie-the-Pooh toys and vintage maps dating back centuries. SPYSCAPE fans will especially appreciate the aura of research and intrigue: every visit makes you feel like you could stumble on a secret code tucked into one of those endless encyclopedia stacks.  Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) PS1 Courtyard and Art Lab  While MoMA itself charges for entry, its sister space—MoMA PS1—offers a taste of the city’s edgy creative scene with several free-access perks, especially in summer. The outdoor courtyard often features public installations and performances open to everyone, plus the “Art Lab” offers hands-on creative activities for all ages without the need for tickets.  Wander through vibrant murals and interact with quirky sculptures designed to spark your imagination. Gather with locals and young artists for lively discussions or sketch your own masterpiece in a shady corner of the courtyard. MoMA PS1’s free spaces make you feel connected to New York’s ever-evolving culture and remind you that inspiration here is found both in—and outside—the gallery walls.  The High Line  Spy missions need secret walkways, right? Enter: The High Line, an elevated park built atop a retired rail track, offering lush gardens, contemporary sculptures, murals, and epic NYC views. Stroll this unique urban oasis, which starts not far from SPYSCAPE, and you’ll feel like a city insider.  At every turn, the High Line surprises—you might catch a street musician fiddling under the trees, walk past larger-than-life installations, or join a free public tour that dishes on the park’s hidden features and neighborhood tidbits. The benches are prime for relaxing or people-watching, while the views of the Hudson, Chelsea art galleries, and landmark buildings create a perfect backdrop for selfies. The experience of moving above the city bustle, flanked by wildflowers and architecture, feels both peaceful and exhilarating—an essential free NYC adventure.  Central Park’s Southern End  Manhattan’s beloved Central Park sprawls just north of SPYSCAPE and offers endless opportunities for free exploration. We recommend focusing on the southern end for easy access and maximum variety: wind your way past scenic bridges, tranquil ponds, and the historic Central Park Carousel (watch for free as kids whirl in delight).  Find the Gapstow Bridge for a picture-perfect skyline view reflected in the pond, or follow the paths to “The Mall”—a breezy, tree-lined promenade framed by American elms and classic NYC street musicians. During warm weather, free performances and dance parties are a common sight on weekends. This corner of Central Park packs an enormous punch and reminds us there’s no better place to recharge from Midtown’s energy.  6 ½ Avenue Pedestrian Arcade  If you’ve ever wanted to feel “in the know” in Midtown, hunt down the 6 ½ Avenue Pedestrian Arcade—a secret passage that slices through the normally grid-locked busy-ness of Midtown Manhattan. Spanning between 51st and 57th streets, this corridor links up plazas, covered walkways, and tranquil mid-block shortcuts.  It’s the ultimate spy move: dodge the crowds, discover pocket gardens, and enjoy nooks for an impromptu picnic or reading break. Art installations and curious architectural details make the journey quirky and memorable (be on the lookout for mirrored walls and impromptu performances). Walking this hidden vein feels a bit like discovering New York’s best-kept secret—a bonus adventure for those who crave a quieter Midtown.  Grand Central Terminal  You don’t need a train ticket or a secret mission to explore Grand Central Terminal—it’s a true New York marvel that’s steps from SPYSCAPE and entirely free to wander. Step inside and you’re hit with that cinematic energy: glittering chandeliers, soaring celestial ceilings, and the vibrant hum of travelers, commuters, and wide-eyed visitors soaking it all in.  Why visit? For one, the architecture stuns. Look up to find constellations hand-painted in gold leaf across the vaulted main concourse ceiling, or spot the famous four-faced opal clock that has become a classic NYC rendezvous spot. There are whispering corners beneath grand stone arches, where you and a friend can test out the famous “Whispering Gallery” near the Oyster Bar—even soft words bounce in magical ways.  The Paley Center for Media’s Public Spaces  Just a short walk from SPYSCAPE, The Paley Center for Media’s public areas offer TV and pop culture fans a low-key, free adventure. Even if you don’t dive into the paid exhibits, the center’s public lobby, artful facade, and media installations are striking. Sometimes, special events or media screenings spill into the entrance area, where visitors are welcome to linger and take in highlights from decades of broadcasting brilliance.  Stand in the atrium and people-watch, or catch exhibit teasers spotlighting everything from newsreels to comedy classics. Paley’s exterior, with its unique modernist glass and concrete design, stands out on the avenue and attracts curious strollers to peek inside. You might hear interviews and panel discussions piped through the speakers—so even a quick drop-in can give you a dash of media magic. On select days, kids’ programming and free community pop-ups add extra fun, so it’s worth checking their events calendar in advance.    With these wallet-friendly finds, your NYC itinerary near SPYSCAPE turns into a whirlwind day of discovery—art, gardens, culture, and city buzz, all without a price tag. Whether you’re fueling your inner agent on secret walkways or basking in the city’s legendary parks and public spaces, Midtown Manhattan serves up adventure for every type of traveler. Now, where to next? (Psst—no codes required!)    Enjoyed this? Check out our picks of the best parks in NYC, and uncover the city’s best hidden gems.  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! 
the high line in nyc and all the best things to do near it
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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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