30 Best Things To Do In New York, USA - Updated 2024

Catherine
Catherine 
Updated
| 13 min read

It’s obvious New York’s nickname, The Empire State, fits perfectly. With a premium of awesome things to see and do, New York reigns supreme when it comes to a large array of exciting and fun diversions. From the brilliance of New York City to the natural beauty of Upstate New York to oceanside amusement park romps at Coney Island, it’s easy to understand why this East Coast region of the United States possesses one of the most prominent state profiles and makes every traveler feel like anything is possible. If you want your next adventure to really expand your horizons with fun-filled sights, then you must scroll down to see this ultimate list of things to do in New York, USA.

1. Check out the exhibits at Mid Hudson Children's Museum


You’ll be a rock star to your kids if you take them to the Mid Hudson Children’s Museum. This award-winning museum offers exciting activities and stimulating interactive exhibits geared toward educating and entertaining youngsters. Watch their minds expand and imaginations run wild when exposed to exhibits that focus on every subject from math and science to art and music. The standout exhibit is the immersive Wonderdome and the engaging Link, Lift, Launching in The Science Center section of the museum.

Mid Hudson Children's Museum

Address: 75 N Water St, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601

Website: Mid Hudson Children’s Museum

Opening hours: Sun: 11am - 5pm; Mon - Sat: 9:30am - 5pm

Price: 10 USD

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2. Enjoy a panoramic view from One World Observatory (from USD 43.55)

things to do in new york state | enjoy a panoramic view from one world observatory

A cut above when it comes to phenomenal views of New York City, One World Observatory is a lookout situated on floors 100 - 102 of One World Trade Center - also known as The Freedom Tower. The tallest building in the Western Hemisphere at 1,776 feet (541.3 meters) high, your knees may buckle seeing the fabulous 360-degree views from this overwhelming vantage point. If you’re a shutterbug, this is the place to snap away. This observation tower is equipped with superb technology that adds to the attraction’s appeal. Intriguing exhibits and tasty restaurants can also be found at this locale.

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New York One World Observatory: Skip-the-Line Ticket Options

9482 reviews

3. Listen to radio shows at Radio City Music Hall


The biggest indoor theater on the globe, Radio City Music Hall is a landmark attraction on New York City’s cityscape. Considered the heart and soul of The Big Apple, this beloved venue was constructed in 1932 and it underwent a complete renovation in 1999, with updated sound systems, expert lighting, and HDTV capabilities. Radio City Music Hall hosts many contemporary big-name musical talents but the “Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes” is a festive holiday tradition that this music hall is best known for.

Radio City Music Hall

Address: 1260 6th Ave, New York, NY 10020

Website: Radio City Music Hall

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4. Go picnicking at Historic Huguenot Street

Bevier House on Huguenot Street Historic District in New Paltz New York USA
Source: Photo by user Swampyank used under CC BY 3.0

Historic Huguenot Street consists of seven stone houses constructed by Huguenot settlers in the 1700s. In a wonderful pastoral setting, Historic Huguenot Street is a splendid place to enjoy an afternoon picnic. This cluster of historic houses showcases early American-settler history. Other items worth exploring include a restored French church, a Huguenot cemetery, and a neat reproduction of a wigwam from a Native American tribe called Esopus Munsee. A shaded grove on the premises is ideal for picnicking and a nearby bakery is a tasty spot to pick up fresh sandwiches and a few sweet goodies.

Historic Huguenot Street

Address: 81 Huguenot St, New Paltz, NY 12561

Website: Historic Huguenot Street

Opening hours: Thu - Tue: 10am - 5pm (closed on Wed)

Price: 12 USD

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5. Admire the beauty of nature at Cornell Botanic Gardens

Nevin Welcome Center at the Cornell Botanic Gardens
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Kenneth C. Zirkel used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Possessing 25 acres (10.1 hectares) of eye-popping botanical gardens, Cornell Botanic Gardens is a nature lover’s paradise. A blooming oasis filled with tall trees, colorful flowers, and an array of distinct plant species from the region, this botanical garden is an artfully maintained display of The United States’ magnificent East Coast flora beauty. The pretty sights and fragrant smells of Cornell Botanic Gardens will make it difficult to want to leave this bit of heaven on earth.

Cornell Botanic Gardens

Address: 124 Comstock Knoll Dr, Ithaca, NY 14850

Website: Cornell Botanic Gardens

Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 9am - 5pm; Fri - Sat: 9am - 6pm

Price: Free

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6. Catch a live concert or exciting basketball game at Madison Square Garden (from USD 46.0)

things to do in new york state | catch a live concert or exciting basketball game at madison square garden

Whether you’re in the mood to let loose at a live concert or enjoy fastbreak action at a basketball game there’s no better place than Madison Square Garden. This granddaddy of New York City entertainment venues has been around since 1879 and has become the gold standard for music and sporting events. Madison Square Garden is the home arena for the New York Knicks basketball organization and the New York Rangers hockey team. And when it comes to hosting music’s top headliners, this coveted garden is permanently in the spotlight.

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New York City: Madison Square Garden Guided Arena Tour

Duration: 1.0 hour

490 reviews

7. Visit the iconic Empire State Building (from USD 47.91)

things to do in new york state | visit the iconic empire state building

The Empire State Building is a brilliant display of art deco beauty and a quintessential part of New York City’s skyline. Tourists flock to this attraction simply because of its long-standing and high-profile history - remember King Kong scaled the structure. Head to the observatory decks of this landmark building to enjoy unmatched views of the city. Two viewing platforms are available. The more affordable and popular space on the 86th floor gives you plenty of arresting sights. However, the more expensive ticket affords you access to the 102nd floor: the top deck where there are expansive views up to 80 miles (128.7 kilometers) away!

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NYC: Empire State Building Tickets & Skip-the-Line

Duration: 45.0 to 1.0 minute

12469 reviews

8. Stroll in the beautiful New York Botanical Garden (from USD 35.0)

things to do in new york state | stroll in the beautiful new york botanical garden

If you want to escape New York City’s “concrete jungle” for a few hours then take an unforgettable walk at the New York Botanical Garden in the neighboring Bronx borough. One of the top attractions in the area for good reason, New York Botanical Garden boasts a sumptuous 50-acre (20.2-hectare) forest, a divine palace designed after Spain’s breathtaking Alhambra, a stellar rose garden, a nifty observatory, and, best of all, lots of private niches for the perfect hideaway from all the big-city bustle.

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NYC: New York Botanical All-Garden Pass Entry ticket

Duration: 2.0 hour

220 reviews

9. Tour the unique Antique Boat Museum

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Antique Boat Museum on Wednesday, May 19, 2021

Located on the tranquil St Lawrence River, the Antique Boat Museum in the tiny town of Clayton is a go-to site for any serious boat enthusiast. Showcasing the biggest collection of classic and antique boats on the North American continent, this museum is a surefire crowdpleaser. Admire everything from adept racing crafts to a vintage 1903 houseboat. If that isn’t enough, this riverside attraction also offers exhilarating seasonal skiff and speedboat rides! If you want a top-notch memento of your time here, visit the gift shop where there’s a great selection of seafaring gifts and souvenirs.

Antique Boat Museum

Address: 750 Mary St, Clayton, NY 13624

Website: Antique Boat Museum

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 14 - 38 USD

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10. Head to the enthralling Cave of the Winds (from USD 57.0)

Without a doubt, you’ll spend a memorable day at Cave of the Winds. This stupendous tourist attraction provides secure wooden walkways and supplies participants with a protective poncho and a pair of sandals for an intimate and soaking view of Bridal Veil Falls - the smallest of the three beautiful waterfalls that comprise the mighty Niagara Falls. An accomplished guide takes visitors to Hurricane Deck - a spot less than 20 feet (6.09 meters) from the Bridal Veil Falls’ downpour. On the deck, you won’t be able to escape getting drenched by the heavy spray from the cascading waters!

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Niagara Falls Tour, Skip-the-Line Cave of the Winds Admission

Duration: 2 hours

232 reviews

11. Visit the remarkable National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum


Do you live for opening day at the ballpark? Do you keep track of all the statistics of your favorite baseball players? Then you’re a baseball-loving fanatic and the only place to go is the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. This comprehensive baseball museum is dedicated to exploring baseball’s rich past. The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum offers intriguing exhibits and over 38,000 fine artifacts, as well as a handsome Hall of Fame bronze plaque gallery commemorating the best who have played the game, like Babe Ruth, Jackie Robinson, Sandy Koufax, and many more.

National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum

Address: 25 Main St, Cooperstown, NY 13326

Website: National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum

Opening hours: 9am - 9pm (daily)

Price: 25 USD

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12. Tour the neo-Georgian style Kykuit

KYKUIT The Rockfeller Estate
Source: Photo by Flickr user Shinya Suzuki used under CC BY 2.0

The majestic dwelling of four generations of the Rockefeller clan, Kykuit is a grand manor with extensive river views. Replete with a stately neo-Georgian-style exterior, Kykuit is reflective of oil tycoon, philanthropist, and patriarch John D. Rockefeller’s great success and lavish tastes. Several immensely entertaining tours are available. Take the Classic Tour and you’ll explore the mansion’s main floor with its opulent interiors or go for the Landmark Tour where you can view the compound’s expansive and elegant gardens.

Kykuit

Address: 381 N Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, NY

Website: Kykuit

Price: 15 - 40 USD

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13. Pay tribute at the National September 11 Memorial and Museum


Located on the site of the former World Trade Center is the National September 11 Memorial and Museum. This striking memorial offers a solemn and heartfelt tribute to those killed in the 2001 and 1993 terrorist attacks. The simple and large open plaza with serene pools and exhibits in Lower Manhattan honors the nearly 3,000 citizens lost on September 11, 2001, and the 6 residents lost in 1993’s World Trade Center bombing. The memorial is free to visit and paid admission to the museum offers interactive technology, important archives, compelling narratives, and a collection of precious artifacts.

National September 11 Memorial and Museum

Address: 180 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10007

Website: National September 11 Memorial and Museum

Opening hours: 9am - 8pm (daily)

Price: 26 - 46 USD

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14. Visit the Greek Revival-style Edward Hopper Birthplace and Boyhood Home

Edward Hopper House
Source: Photo by user Alexisrael used under CC BY-SA 3.0

A true delight for any art fan is a visit to the Edward Hopper Birthplace and Boyhood Home. Opening its doors in 1971, this charming Greek Revival-style abode displays an in-depth examination of the artist’s work and legacy. The ground floor offers a brilliant gallery featuring top-notch exhibitions of the 20th century and contemporary art along with some of Hopper’s early work. There’s also great memorabilia and rotating exhibits pertaining to Edward Hopper.

Edward Hopper Birthplace and Boyhood Home

Address: 82 N Broadway, Nyack, NY 10960

Website: Edward Hopper Birthplace and Boyhood Home

Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed on Mon & Tue)

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15. Watch the glass-blowing demonstration at Hudson Beach Glass


Residing in a renovated former firehouse, Hudson Beach Glass is an extraordinary establishment in the lively artist community of Beacon. The beautiful display of glassworks is impressive but rather pricey. But the true highlight of Hudson Beach Glass is the attached garage adjacent to the main store where there’s a fully operational open-air-glass-blowing-demonstration studio. If you’re inspired after witnessing the demonstration then sign up for a fun-filled glass-blowing session. No worries about knowing zilch about glass blowing because an expert instructor guides you every step of the way.

Hudson Beach Glass

Address: 162 Main St, Beacon, NY 12508

Website: Hudson Beach Glass

Opening hours: Sun: 11am - 6pm; Mon - Sat: 10am - 6pm

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16. Check out the art collection at Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum


Come for the attention-grabbing architecture as well as the fabulous artwork at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum. Boasting an exterior that’s eclectic and offbeat, Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum is a concrete circular structure in direct contrast to all other buildings in the area. Given the circular shape on the outside, the interior is surprisingly spacious with the main ramp corkscrewing upward and outward from one floor to the next. A large glass dome bathes the space in bright sunlight. This museum’s exquisite collection includes works from such world-famous painters as Picasso, Klee, and Kandinsky.

Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

Address: 1071 5th Ave, New York, NY 10128

Website: Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

Opening hours: Sun - Mon: 10am - 5:30pm; Tue: 10am - 9pm; Wed - Fri: 10am - 5:30pm; Sat: 10am - 8pm

Price: 25 USD

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17. Be amazed at Madame Tussauds New York (from USD 47.0)

Pose for great souvenir selfies at the popular tourist spot, Madame Tussauds New York. Located in the heart of Times Square, this exciting attraction features a large selection of life-size wax replicas: historical figures, sports legends, movie stars, famous musicians, and more. Stand next to former US president Barack Obama. Take a seat behind the talk-show desk with Jimmy Fallon. Step in the ring with boxing great Muhammad Ali. Sip tea with Queen Elizabeth II. Any photo op is possible at Madame Tussauds New York.

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Madame Tussauds NYC Famous Wax Museum Admission Ticket

Duration: 1 hour

574 reviews

18. Tour the exceptional Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

The House of Roosevelt at Sagamore Hill
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Jesse Lee Tucker used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Residing on 83 acres (33.5 hectares) of pleasant rural land, Sagamore Hill National Historic Site is the former dwelling of the 26th President of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt. The house is a lovely Queen Anne-style architectural structure and this historical site features equally amazing grounds that offer scenic nature trails, an inviting beach, and an informative visitor center. You must have an appointment to tour the interior of the home, however, the visitor’s center is equipped with a tiny museum furnished with interesting Roosevelt family artifacts.

Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

Address: 20 Sagamore Hill Rd, Oyster Bay, NY 11771

Website: Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 9am - 5pm (closed on Mon & Tue)

Price: 10 USD

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19. Enjoy a live concert at Forest Hill Stadium


Erected in 1923, Forest Hill Stadium possesses an illustrious past. This legendary outdoor stadium saw its height in popularity during the 1960s and 1970s when acts such as The Beatles, Bob Dylan, and The Rolling Stones took center stage. Today, Forest Hill Stadium continues its history of providing excellent entertainment with a broad collection of diverse musical acts and contemporary headliners. In 2013, Forest Hill Stadium underwent extensive remodeling: equipping the stadium with new seating, top-notch amenities, and a stellar state-of-the-art stage.

Forest Hill Stadium

Address: 1 Tennis Pl, Forest Hills, NY 11375

Website: Forest Hill Stadium

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20. Wander around the gleaming Broadway area (from USD 39.0)

If you’re going to walk around the Broadway area why not do it with a trained guide - or better yet an experienced Broadway performer! Enjoy a wonderful tour of one of New York City’s world-famous entertainment venues and get the tantalizing behind-the-scenes scoop on the past history and current happenings of this acclaimed theater district. Participants will also visit the famed Sardi’s Italian restaurant: the go-to spot for a meal before or after a Broadway show. Caricatures of movie stars adorning the walls of this landmark establishment only enhance the dining experience.

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Broadway Theaters and Times Square with a Theater Professional

Duration: 2 hours

435 reviews

21. Marvel at the wonderful Farmers' Museum


If you want to discover what life was like in a rural farming locale in New York State during the 19th century, then head to Farmers’ Museum. A serene setting on the shores of shimmering Otsego Lake, Farmers’ Museum boasts a parcel of land featuring 24 original and quaint historic buildings and a handsome stone barn. A range of fantastic re-enactments of village life is demonstrated like blacksmithing and printing. Also featured are family-friendly items like a pretty hand-carved 1943 carousel and exciting horse-drawn wagon rides.

Farmers' Museum

Address: 5775 NY-80, Cooperstown, NY 13326

Website: Farmers’ Museum

Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 12 USD

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22. Take a walk on the beloved Brooklyn Bridge


One stroll you should not miss when visiting New York City is a walk across the elevated pedestrian walkway on Brooklyn Bridge. Constructed in 1883 with a distinct stone-and-steel design, the Brooklyn Bridge extends across the East River and connects the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn. It has become a recognizable characteristic of the New York City skyline and making your way over this iconic bridge gives you a genuine sense of freedom and exhilaration. The site is very popular among tourists because you get incomparable views that’ll stay with you forever.

Brooklyn Bridge

Address: New York City, New York

Website: Brooklyn Bridge

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

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23. View the fanciful sculptures at Central Park (from USD 44.0)

Central Park has so much to see and do and one simple treasure is uncovering the delightful sculptures at this sprawling urban park. These 29 outdoor statues, busts, and other works of art add a sense of whimsy to Central Park and parkgoers who don’t want to pay admission to a museum can find their own art exhibition throughout the park. Subjects of these works include famed authors and poets, important American figures, and many descriptive scenes. Don’t forget to seek out classic sculptures like Balto the sled dog and Alice in Wonderland.

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Central Park Bike Tour

Duration: 2 hours

323 reviews

24. Explore the ravishing grounds of Old Westbury Gardens


The former estate of a US steel magnate, Old Westbury Gardens is an ornate Charles II-style manor furnished with fine art and antiques. But it is the 200 acres (81 hectares) of beautifully manicured grounds that will take your breath away. This site is a feast for the eyes in absolutely every direction. Admire the beauty of the Colonnade and Reflecting Pool. Savor a stroll along the fragrant Lilac Walk. Be mesmerized by the East Lake and the Thatched Cottage area. This enchanting property is filled with so many gorgeous gardens, peaceful ponds, green woodlands, and outstanding orchards, it will make your head spin.

Old Westbury Gardens

Address: 71 Old Westbury Rd, Old Westbury, NY 11568

Website: Old Westbury Gardens

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 8pm (closed on Tue)

Price: 12 USD

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25. Go to the historic Top of the Rock Observation Deck (from USD 43.55)

go to the historic top of the rock observation deck

Situated atop Rockefeller Center, Top of the Rock Observation Deck is an absolute must if you’re looking for a fantastic perch to view New York City. This cool observation deck allows almost entirely unobstructed views of Central Park - a sight not afforded by other viewing platforms in the city. Another keen feature is you can enjoy a picture-perfect view of the Empire State Building with the prominent Manhattan skyline as a backdrop. In fact, Top of the Rock Observation Deck’s central locale makes spotting many of New York City’s well-known landmarks easy.

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NYC: Top of the Rock Observation Deck Ticket

7993 reviews

26. Visit the world-renowned Statue of Liberty (from USD 25.0)

visit the world-renowned statue of liberty

No trip to New York is complete without an exploration of the Statue of Liberty. Welcoming immigrants for over 100 years to America’s freedom-loving shores, Lady Liberty - as she is nicknamed - is an imposing figure made of copper and resides on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. A gift of friendship from the people of France, The Statue of Liberty is a worldwide symbol of freedom and democracy and a must-see tourist attraction when visiting New York City. If you take the opportunity to climb to the Crown, you’re rewarded with dramatic views of the city’s skyline and harbor!

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NYC: Statue of Liberty Priority or Standard Ticket

Duration: 4 to 6 hour

5132 reviews

27. Marvel at the art in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (from USD 25.0)

marvel at the art in the metropolitan museum of art

Metropolitan Museum of Art, or The Met, is the cultural heart of New York City. Founded in 1870, this museum possesses oodles of progressive exhibits and a permanent collection offering every great artist from Cezanne to Vermeer. Housed in an amazing Gothic-Revival-style building, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is the ultimate delight for serious museum-goers. With so much to see, it can easily be overwhelming. However, do yourself a favor and begin with the fascinating Temple of Dendur - a 2,000-year-old towering Egyptian temple!

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NYC: Metropolitan Museum of Art Entry Ticket

869 reviews

28. Learn the history of film and photography at George Eastman Museum (from USD 15.0)

Housed in a marvelous Colonial Revival mansion that was once the estate of American entrepreneur George Eastman, the George Eastman Museum offers a prized display of unparalleled photography and film collections. The world’s oldest photography museum and boasting one of the earliest film archives, this museum is committed to engaging, educating, and entertaining the public about photography and film. To that end, one of the activities this museum offers is enticing events like rare film screenings. Movie buffs are sure to appreciate this first-rate foundation.

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George Eastman Museum Admission

Duration: 1 to 5 hours

1 review

29. Discover the bonsai garden at Brooklyn Botanical Garden (from USD 15.0)

Brooklyn Botanic Garden 6
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Gryffindor used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Relish a bit of Japanese influence in Brooklyn when you check out the alluring bonsai garden section at the Brooklyn Botanical Garden. A slice of heaven on earth, this botanical garden was created in 1910 and it spans 52 acres (21 hectares) of seductive flora sights from seasonal cherry blossoms to a kid-friendly discovery garden. The absolute standout is the beautiful Japanese Garden and even more intriguing is the Bonsai Museum that boasts a collection of about 350 bonsai trees! Brooklyn Botanical Garden is a premier arboretum that shouldn’t be missed!

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Brooklyn Botanic Garden Admission Ticket

30. Have fun on Coney Island (from USD 60.0)

Coney Island #9
Source: Photo by Flickr user David Reilly used under CC BY 2.0

A beachfront playground that’s impossible to resist, Coney Island is a wondrous reminder of a bygone time. Located in the Brooklyn borough, this amusement park features vintage rides like the Wonder Wheel Ferris Wheel and the wooden Cyclone rollercoaster. Visitors can also enjoy exciting boardwalk games, fast-moving go-kart rides, a lovely aquarium, live entertainment, and so much more. Coney Island is also home to the original Nathan’s Famous - the famed hotdog stand that holds an annual hotdog-eating contest every Fourth of July.

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New York City Coney Island Tour

Never a dull moment in New York

If traveling to New York means only exploring Manhattan and the other four boroughs then you’re cheating yourself out of an unforgettable East Coast adventure. While New York State is blessed to have New York City, it is crucial to know that there’s much more beyond the city limit. Luckily, this list of outrageously fun attractions will help you create some unbelievable memories to recount forever.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Catherine has written professionally for over 10 years, and a sizable amount has been travel writing. Her desire to see the world was sparked at a very young age. Growing up, there were many family...Read more

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