New York City Travelers Recommend

Spring in New York City is the ideal time to get out and about and explore, with colorful flowers blooming across city parks and gardens and warmer temperatures promising plenty of fresh-air fun. If you’re planning a trip to NYC this spring, here are a few must-dos.

• Hop on the saddle for a bike tour of Central Park.

• View blossoming spring blooms at the New York Botanical Garden.

• See the Manhattan skyline on a sightseeing cruise.

• Visit the open-air observation deck of the Empire State Building.

• Check off highlights such as the National September 11 Memorial, the American Museum of Natural History, and One World Trade Center with a multi-attraction sightseeing pass.

• Treat your taste buds to a gourmet food tour.

• View must-see attractions from the top deck of a hop-on hop-off tour bus.

• Ride the ferry to two legendary landmarks: Liberty and Ellis islands.

• Embark on a day trip to Washington DC or an overnight tour to Niagara Falls.

New York is a totally different city if you visit with someone you love, and the city offers some romantic outings that couples shouldn't miss. From dinner cruises and ice skating to carriage rides in the park, here’s what you need to know to have a romantic time in New York.

Take in the Skyline Views

There's nothing quite like a bird's-eye view of New York City. Grab your favorite person and enjoy views of the city's skyscrapers, parks, and waterfront on a helicopter tour. For a more modestly priced option, catch the lights of the big city from One World Observatory or the Empire State Building Observation Deck—both offer fantastic views across Manhattan.

Cruise New York Harbor

Nothing says romance like a cruise. Head out for an evening sightseeing sail to marvel at the city's sparkling skyline, or try a dinner cruise to enjoy a meal with the best views in town. Most cruises offer drinks for purchase, so you can sail in luxury with a glass of wine in hand.

Explore Central Park

Central Park is one of the most celebrated New York landmarks, and its picturesque walking paths, meadows, and historic attractions shouldn't be missed. For a fantastic couples experience, skip a regular tour of the park and opt for a romantic carriage ride, complete with the timeless clip-cop of a horse's hooves. If you're visiting in the winter, strap on ice skates for a few laps around Wollman Rink, with the park draped in snow. 

See a Broadway Show

For the best theater experience money can buy, don't miss a Broadway musical. With dozens of new productions and classic revivals staged each season, you're sure to find something spectacular. Remember to book tickets in advance to secure great seats at one of New York's historic theaters, since popular shows tend to sell out.

Enjoy a Night on the Town

Dinner and dancing is a classic date, and New York offers nearly limitless options for both. For a real VIP experience, book a limo to chauffeur you around town, and head to a rooftop lounge for cocktails with a view. End your night with a dinner cruise or Harlem jazz show to turn the evening into a truly special occasion. 

Washington DC, the US’ monument-rich capital, makes for an easy excursion from New York City. Dive into US history and politics at the White House, Library of Congress, Lincoln Memorial, and more. Here’s how to make your NYC-to-DC trip happen. 

Guided Tours

Get a comprehensive overview of Washington’s many United States monuments and memorials with a guided tour. Options from New York City include group bus tours and private excursions that include a personal vehicle and tour guide who can tailor the itinerary to your interests. You can see even more with an overnight tour to DC that also visits key sites in the Northeast—such as the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia and Amish country in rural Pennsylvania—along the way. 

Independent Tours by Train

See famous landmarks such as the Potomac River, the Vietnam War Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the Arlington National Cemetery at your own pace on an independent tour that travels by train between New York City and the nation’s capital. The one-way trip takes about 3.5 hours, leaving you time to go sightseeing before your evening return. An easy, efficient way to get around DC is a hop-on hop-off bus tour, which gives you the flexibility to disembark at any stop to explore a sight in depth.

Things to Know

• It takes about 3.5 hours by train to travel the 230 miles (370 kilometers) between New York’s Penn Station in Manhattan and Washington DC’s Union Square, and about four hours by car or bus.

• Once in DC, you can walk or take a shuttle between major attractions on the National Mall. Use the well-maintained subway system to get around the city and its surroundings.

• DC weather tends to be slightly warmer than New York City—expect heat and humidity in summer and milder but possibly snowy winters. Dressing in layers is recommended for adjusting to temperature changes both indoors and outside.

• Spend time at one or more of the Smithsonian Institution museums, which have superb collections dedicated to history, art, and science. The National Zoo and National Air and Space Museum are popular choices among families, and there are plenty of large public parks and botanical gardens with room for kids to roam.

Escape the crowds of New York City and check out the most powerful falls in North America on a tour to Niagara Falls. Options include full-day tours by air and multi-day trips through upstate New York and even Toronto. Here's everything you need to know.

Full-Day Tours

If you're strapped for time, you can experience Niagara Falls in a single day on an excursion from New York City. Fly to the falls in the morning to save time and enjoy guided tours on both the American and Canadian sides, depending on the option chosen, as well as a boat tour to the edge of the falls. After a long day of exploring this North American icon, you'll make it back to New York City in the evening.

Multi-Day Tours

Multi-day tours allow for more time spent exploring the falls and the surrounding area, and include round-trip transportation either by road or by air. Book a two-day tour by air for an in-depth Niagara experience that includes a guided tour, a boat cruise, free time to explore the area, and evening fireworks over the falls. Or, travel by coach to enjoy the scenery and experience the Finger Lakes region of New York along the way. Three-day tours by road typically include stops in the Finger Lakes, the Thousands Islands, and Toronto in Canada, all in addition to Niagara Falls.

Things to Know

• Niagara Falls is set about 400 miles (645 kilometers) northwest of New York City, a journey about 6.5 hours by road and one hour by air.

• Fireworks shows over the falls take place on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday evenings, weather permitting.

• Accommodation is typically included in the price of multi-day tours.

• Don't forget to bring your passport to visit the Canadian side of Niagara Falls.

If you live in New York City, it can be easy to forget about the amazing sites sitting in your own backyard. Whether you have company in town or just want to play tourist for a day, here are a few ways to experience your city from a different perspective.

• Book skip-the-line ticketsfor theEmpire State Building and enjoy 360-degree views from the 86th-floor observatory.

• Take in the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline by night on a dinner cruise around New York Harbor.

• Admire the works of modern artists such as Jackson Pollock, Andy Warhol, and Jasper Johns at the Museum of Modern Art, then head over to Long Island to see the contemporary art collection at MoMa PS1.

• Join a small-group tour to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island for pedestal access and entrance to the Immigration Museum.

• Take in a Broadway musical such as The Lion King or The Phantom of the Opera.

• Give visiting guests an overview of all the city's best attractions in one day on a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing boat cruise.

• Step back in time to the 1960s by taking a Mad Men -inspired walking tour.

• Visit 50 different gardens and collections at the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx.

In a city as big as New York, it can be hard to choose the best way to celebrate New Year's Eve. To help you plan the perfect night, we're counting down the top 10 ways to ring in the New Year in NYC. Read on to find out what experience comes in at #1.

10. City Bus Tour

Crisscross your way through New York on a hop-on, hop-off tour to see how various neighborhoods prepare for the New Year. You’ll see top sights including the Empire State Building and Rockefeller Center on one of the biggest nights in NYC.

9. One World Observatory

The city may be bustling on New Year's Eve, but you can rise above the crowds at the One World Observatory. Nab this coveted ticket to end the year on a high note with sweeping cityscape views from the 102nd story of the Western Hemisphere's tallest building.

8. Private Carriage Ride in Central Park

Before the partying begins, enjoy a moment with your sweetheart, friends, or family on an intimate Central Park carriage ride. Cozy up under a blanket and enjoy the park's beautiful scenery and famous sights for a memorable way to close out the year.

7. Exclusive Nightclub Experience

This holiday is one big party, so where better to celebrate than at the city's hottest nightclubs? Skip the lines and head straight to the VIP sections of premier clubs like Lavo and Pasha to dance your way into the New Year.

6. New York City Helicopter Tour

Treat yourself to a unique year-end memory on a helicopter ride over the city. Fly high above the tallest skyscrapers and see the Big Apple from a perspective you can't get anywhere else.

5. Viator Exclusive at the Empire State Building

Available only on Viator, this ticket includes skip-the-line entry to both the 86th-floor observatory and the Top Deck on the 102nd floor. Soak up views of the city below, then make your way to the STATE Grill and Bar for a gourmet meal fit for New Year's Eve.

4. Radio City Music Hall

The long-running Radio City Christmas Spectacular delights audiences of all ages with its high-kicking choreography and sparkling seasonal decor. This world-famous show is the perfect way to cap off the holiday season—and the year.

3. Viator VIP: Rockefeller Center Ice Skating and Top of the Rock

Glide your way into the New Year on the rink at Rockefeller Center, where you'll be treated to hot chocolate and cookies at a heated VIP chalet. When you're done skating, head to the Top of the Rock for 360-degree views of New York from 70 stories up.

2. Viator VIP: Exclusive NYC New Year's Eve Luxury Dinner Cruise

Board a luxury yacht at Chelsea Piers and set sail for an unforgettable cruise. Enjoy a gourmet meal, open bar, and live DJ—then head to the deck for panoramic views of the fireworks over the Statue of Liberty.

1. Times Square Ball Drop Party

You've seen it on TV, now see it in real life. This exclusive ticket offers access to a luxury suite overlooking Times Square, plus dinner, drinks, dancing, and a champagne-and-confetti-filled view of the ball drop from above.

Most New Yorkers love to get out of their tiny apartments and take advantage of the warm weather in June, July, and August. The city buzzes with activity, and visitors can enjoy everything from dinner cruises and walking tours to Central Park bike rides. Here’s how to make the most of summer in the Big Apple.

• Feel the Hudson River breeze on your face and take in views of the Statue of Liberty on a sightseeing New York Harbor cruise or a hop-on hop-off cruise.
• Rent a bike and zip around Manhattan’s verdant Central Park, or join a sightseeing bike tour.
• Visit some of Long Island’s scenic beach towns on a shopping day trip to the Hamptons.
• Taste your way around New York City on a guided foodie walking tour.
• See the best of Downtown Manhattan’s historic neighborhoods on a walking tour through SoHo, Little Italy, and Chinatown.
• Marvel at the sparkling New York City skyline on a party boat cruise or nighttime sightseeing cruise.
• Treat yourself to a luxurious dining experience on a dinner cruise, complete with live music and skyline views.
• Savor waterfront views and cross the iconic Brooklyn Bridge on a guided biking excursion.

The melodies of gospel, a music genre with a deep connection to African-American religious and cultural traditions, fill the Sunday air in New York City areas like Harlem. Here are a few activities you might experience on one of NYC's gospel tours.

Highlights

• Combine a stirring visit to Harlem for a gospel church service with a tasty soul-food brunch at a local eatery.

• Discover Harlem's political, artistic, and cultural legacy as told through historic landmarks like the Apollo Theater, the Cotton Club, and Hotel Theresa.

• Admire the elegant architecture of Harlem's stately brownstone apartments and the spires of its numerous churches.

• Learn about iconic Harlem figures including Malcolm X, Martin Luther King Jr., and Duke Ellington.

• Join a lifelong Harlem resident for a multimedia-based walking tour of the vibrant neighborhood.

• Compare the New York gospel scenes in Harlem and Brooklyn during a tour visiting the Brooklyn Tabernacle and Plymouth Church.

Whether you're spending Christmas or New Year's Eve in New York with friends, family, or your sweetheart, there are a variety of ways to get into the holiday spirit in this festive city. Here are our top ideas for seasonal things to do in NYC.

See the City Illuminated

In the city that never sleeps, holiday lights are a major event, so book a night tour to check out famous sights such as the Radio City Music Hall and Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and ice skating rink all lit up for the season. Choose a tour that combines stops to see the holiday lights with visits to famous movie locations, particularly in Central Park, for an entertaining twist that shows you recognizable locations from "Elf," "Home Alone 2," "Miracle on 34th Street," and more.

Go Christmas Shopping

Picking out Christmas gifts at Manhattan's department stores is a favorite tradition, as is admiring the holiday window displays in Midtown. Saks Fifth Avenue, Macy's, Bloomingdale's, Tiffany & Co., Bergdorf Goodman, and other shops go all out year after year to create the most impressive street-view scenes. Be sure to also check out the Union Square Holiday Market to browse gifts in an outdoor setting.

Enjoy an Evening Cruise

One of the best vantage points for watching the New Year's Eve fireworks in the Big Apple is from the water. On a nighttime cruise, you'll glide along the Hudson River or East River and into New York Harbor to admire the illuminated city skyline and take in views of the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge. Some cruises include dinner before the fireworks, while others feature a DJ for dancing and most offer drinks. Cruises typically last three to four hours.

Watch the Ball Drop

Manhattan's iconic New Year's Eve celebration—the Times Square ball drop—is watched by millions each year, and you can be part of the excitement yourself by booking a ticket to a party near Times Square (where Broadway meets Seventh Avenue). These gatherings typically include an open bar, hors d'oeuvres, dinner, and dancing at a location where you can stay warm while those on the street deal with the cold. Depending on the party you choose, you can either watch the ball drop on TV or head outside to watch in person.

New York draws year-round crowds with its iconic skyline and world-class museums, so it's no secret that tickets to top sites sell out fast. To ensure you don't miss out on any must-sees, here are our top 5 picks for NYC experiences to book early.

• Get VIP access to three top sites in one day: the Empire State Building, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, and the Statue of Liberty.

• Fly over the city in a helicopter for an incredible bird's-eye view.

• Treat yourself to an early-access tour of the Metropolitan Museum without the crowds.

• See a hit musical on Broadway.

• Visit the mighty Niagara Falls on a day trip by plane.

New York City is paradise for food lovers: whether you're hungry for bagels or Buffalo mozzarella, NYC-style pizza or Burmese noodles, you're sure to find it in this capital of cuisine. Here's how to maximize every bite you take in the Big Apple.

Must-Try Dishes

Any New York City food experience worth its salt needs to start with the classic NYC food trinity: New York–style pizza, bagels, and hot dogs, all great grab-and-go snacks that are widely available all around town. Italian cuisine is another local favorite, so be sure to track down some cannoli or a meatball in neighborhoods like Little Italy and the Upper West Side. And for those looking for a quick taste of New York's diverse ethnic eats, look for one of the city's many curb-side food carts, which dole out everything from Middle Eastern falafel to Belgian waffles. Other foodstuffs like knishes (a dough-filled pastry) and soup dumplings also offer tasty samples of the city's rich Jewish and Chinese heritages.

Must-Do Experiences

• Walk the streets of Manhattan's Little Italy on a food tour, sampling Italian favorites like cannoli, fresh pasta, espresso, meatballs, and more.

• Savor the bohemian history of NYC on a Greenwich Village tour while snacking on local pizza and chocolate.

• Dig into a plate of Harlem's legendary soul food before heading to a happening nightspot for some live jazz or hip-hop music.

• Try some of the city's tastiest slices during an in-depth tour of NYC's best pizza spots.

• Explore the culture of New York's Russian community during a three-course lunch or dinner at the elegant Russian Tea Room.

• Escape Manhattan and discover the burgeoning food scene in Brooklyn, where you can sample everything from Polish pierogi to hipster-style, cold-brew coffee.

During a visit to fast-paced New York City, experience a simpler way of life on a trip to Pennsylvania's Amish Country. Here's how to discover the delicious food, rural lifestyle, traditional activities, and beautiful crafts of the Amish community.

Full-Day Tours

Full-day excursions from New York City to Amish Country in Pennsylvania's Lancaster County are a convenient way to get a sense of this unique community. You'll experience Amish activities like a buggy ride in a horse-drawn carriage, shop for crafts like handmade quilts, and have time to learn about Amish farming practices. Many day trips also make a stop in Philadelphia to check out highlights including the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Those hoping to get an even deeper look at Amish traditions should consider booking a private outing led by an Amish Mennonite tour guide.

Multi-Day Tours

A multi-day trip to Amish Country includes many of the benefits of a full-day tour, plus visits to nearby destinations like Washington DC. Spend day one checking out top Philly sights like the Betsy Ross House, the Liberty Bell, and more before heading to Amish Country to shop for traditional crafts and learn about the Amish way of life. Then spend day two exploring the nation's capital at landmarks such as the Jefferson Memorial, Capitol Hill, and the White House.

Things to Know

• Amish Country is set roughly 150 miles (241 kilometers) west of New York City.

• Bring comfortable shoes, as most excursions combine walking in urban neighborhoods with explorations of more rural areas.

• Bring some extra cash to purchase Amish Country souvenirs like handmade quilts and farm-fresh food products.

• Many trips include free WiFi onboard the bus.

Most New York visits focus on Manhattan, home to many of the city's top attractions. But NYC is a city of five distinct boroughs, each with its own personality and charm and all well worth a visit. Here's your guide to exploring all five.

Manhattan

The island of Manhattan is what most New York visitors picture when they think of the Big Apple. Home to famous areas including Harlem, Chinatown, Times Square, Little Italy, and Greenwich Village, Manhattan also houses many of the city's top museums, such as The Met, the American Museum of Natural History, and the Museum of Modern Art. Manhattan is also known for its towering Midtown skyscrapers and its crown jewel: Central Park. 

Brooklyn

With a population large enough to be named the third-largest city in America, Brooklyn is New York City's biggest borough. The area is known for its extremely hip neighborhoods, including Williamsburg, Greenpoint, and Dumbo, each home to a number of eateries and shops. But beyond the hip 'hoods, Brooklyn offers a wealth of history and culture. Prospect Park, the area's answer to Central Park, is a great place for a stroll or bike ride, as is the famous Brooklyn Bridge. Many travelers head to the Navy Yard, a former naval base and shipbuilding site dating back to the Revolutionary War, to learn about the borough's industrial past.

Queens

Just north of Brooklyn and across the river from Manhattan is Queens. Queens is a melting pot of languages and culture, with nearly half of its residents having been foreign born. A food tour exploring areas like Flushing's Chinatown or the Indian American community of Jackson Heights is a great way to learn more about the borough's cultures, while sports fans should make the trip out to Citi Field, home of the MLB's Mets, or check out the National Tennis Center, which hosts the annual US Open Tournament.

The Bronx

The Bronx may not receive the same attention as hot spots like Manhattan or Brooklyn, but visitors who make the trip know it's a borough with plenty to offer. Home to the famous Yankee Stadium, the borough is a well-known a mecca for baseball fans. Meanwhile, anyone looking to enjoy nature in the city should head to the Bronx's New York Botanical Garden or the Bronx Zoo. Those hungry for culture can take a hip hop tour to learn about the Bronx's role in the origins of the music genre, or visit the Italian eateries along Arthur Avenue.

Staten Island

For one of New York's best free sightseeing experiences, hop on the Staten Island Ferry to this lesser-known borough, which punches well above its weight in cultural attractions and history. Staten Island's Historic Richmond Town offers unique insight into American colonial life, while the St. George neighborhood is home to range of arts and culture institutions including the Staten Island Institute of Arts and Sciences and the National Lighthouse Museum.

If New York City had an official food, it would be pizza. From grab-and-go slice joints to upscale pizzerias, the city has countless crust, sauce, cheese, and toppings options. So how to choose? See below for tips on finding the best pizza in NYC.

Highlights

• Celebrate a slice of NYC history at old-school Brooklyn pizza joints like Grimaldi's, L&B Spumoni Gardens, and Di Fara Pizza.

• Visit Lombardi's, the first pizzeria in America, which still makes its pies the old fashioned way: in coal-fired ovens.

• Get a taste for Brooklyn's new wave of gourmet pizzerias at trend-setting establishments like Roberta's.

• Learn the difference between Neopolitan and Sicilian styles on a pizza-themed walking and tasting tour.

• Tour Manhattan's best pizza shops during a private trip with transportation in a vintage New York City taxi.

• Try your hand at making some pies of your own during a pizza cooking class.

Pizza Walking Tours

The classic New York City slice is designed to be eaten while standing or on the move. That's why a pizza walking tour is the perfect way to sample a slice of the city's legendary pizza culture. You'll cover lots of ground as you walk, taste, and explore this famous food. You might focus your walking trip on the mix of old and new pizzerias in Brooklyn, or head to Manhattan, which is home to one of the oldest pizzerias in the United States. If you're still hungry for more, many walking tours offer pizza tastings paired with samples of other foods like dumplings, falafels, and gelato.

Pizza Cooking Classes

A cooking class is a great way to take your love for all things pizza to the next level. You'll learn how to shape the dough, apply just the right amount of marinara sauce, and layer the perfect blend of cheese and toppings. Pizza-focused cooking lessons are also a great way to learn about the main differences between New York– and Chicago–style pies.

New York City is perfect for two things: walking and eating. That's why a food-focused walking tour is a great way to get an in-depth look at some of the city's top foodie neighborhoods and eateries. Bonus: You'll burn some calories as you walk.

Neighborhood Walking Tours

A food-focused walking tour is an excellent way to get to know NYC's vibrant neighborhoods, and to simplify your exploration of the city's overwhelming range of dining options. You might head to Manhattan areas like the Lower East Side to sample the best knishes and tacos, or to Greenwich Village or Little Italy to snack on chocolate, pizza, and various Italian specialties. There's also lots to eat, see, and explore in Hell's Kitchen, where tours offer opportunities to sample everything from Middle Eastern fare to Indonesian and Cajun cuisine.

Dessert Walking Tours

Anyone hoping to satisfy their sweet tooth should consider a special dessert-focused food walking tour. Visitors interested in New York City's famous cupcake scene can savor treats from purveyors like Crumbs Bake Shop and Magnolia Bakery before sampling fresh-baked goods from Milk & Cookies or gelato from Amorino.

Broadway theater is a New York City cultural institution, and with roughly 30 shows running at any given time, it can be tough to decide which one to see. To help you choose which will suit the interests of your group, see our suggestions below.

Good for Kids

Remakes of Disney classics like The Lion King, Aladdin, and Frozen are family favorites, as well as School of Rock, based on the 2003 Jack Black movie, and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

Out with Friends

For an entertaining night out with friends in Manhattan, choose a buzzed-about, not-suitable-for-children show like The Book of Mormon, by the creators of South Park ; Kinky Boots, with music and lyrics by Cyndi Lauper; or Avenue Q, known for its use of puppets dealing with adult themes.

Date Night

Dinner and a show with your sweetheart is the quintessential New York City date. Check out Amélie, a musical based on the 2001 French film; Bandstand, set amid the post-war swing-music scene of 1945; or A Bronx Tale, the story of a man from the Bronx caught up in the mafia in the 1960s, based on the film of the same name and directed by Robert De Niro.

Longest Running

Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera opened on Broadway in 1988, making it the longest-running show and still a must-see for theater buffs. Cats, Chicago, and Wicked are other always-popular musicals on every classic Broadway list.

Revivals

Having spent 10 years on Broadway from 1991, Miss Saigon, set during the last days of American occupation in Saigon during the Vietnam War, is back in for a revival. Hello, Dolly! with Bette Midler is another hot revival.

Movie Remakes

Fans of cult movies Groundhog Day, starring Bill Murray, and Waitress, starring Keri Russell, won't want to miss these two remakes on the Broadway stage.

Whether you're a longtime theater fan or a first-timer seeking true NYC experiences, don't leave the city without seeing a Broadway show. From the classic Phantom of the Opera to new favorites like Wicked, here are the top-rated tickets on Viator.

Manhattan was a beloved fifth character on Sex and the City, where Carrie, Samantha, Miranda, and Charlotte lived in style for six seasons. The show was known for filming in NYC, so there are many locations to see. Here's what to know about tours.

Highlights

• Tours range from two to four hours, so it won't take up a full day.

• If you know the significance of the words "rabbit," "Scout," "Tiffany," and "Magnolia Bakery" in the context of the HBO show, you'll enjoy a themed city hot spots tour.

• Choose a dedicated SATC–only tour to see dozens of sites you'll recognize from the TV show, from Central Park to the Meatpacking District.

• Locations typically include recognizable spots such as where Carrie Bradshaw lived, Steve and Aidan's bar, and the Boathouse where Carrie met Mr. Big and fell in the lake.

• Tour that visit film sites from many TV shows and movies in addition to those from Sex and the City are also available if you're interested in other pop culture.

With open-air ice rinks, twinkling lights, festive window displays, and seasonal markets—as well as a plethora of heated indoor attractions to take shelter in—New York City in winter is an out-and-out delight. For travelers visiting NYC during the colder months, here are a few of the best things to do.

• Browse handmade crafts and one-of-a-kind gifts at Christmas markets.

• See the city decked out in its festive finest with Christmas lights walking tours.

• Get tickets for the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall.

• Toast the holiday season aboard a sightseeing cruise.

• See the year out with a bang at a New Year’s Eve party.

• Listen to soulful singers on a gospel tour of Harlem.

• Glide around the ice at an open-air rink.

Central Park is a giant green oasis in the middle of Manhattan. While you could explore on foot, you can cover a lot more ground with wheels. Rent your own bike or join a guided bike tour to make the most of your time—here are your options.

Highlights

• Opt for a guided tour for insight from a tour guide, or a bike rental to traverse the park on your own.

• Explore more than 47 miles (75 kilometers) of bike-friendly paths in the park.

• See notable attractions such as the Conservatory Garden, Belvedere Castle, the Central Park Zoo, the Imagine Mosaic, Strawberry Fields, Cleopatra's Needle, and the Central Park Carousel.

• Enjoy views of the New York City skyline and the Hudson River.

• Visit the Jackie Kennedy Onassis Reservoir and the Dakota, where John Lennon lived.

Guided Central Park Bike Tours

Follow a guide around the park to see all the best spots while pedaling yourself, or let someone else do the work as you relax on a 1- or 2-hour pedicab tour. Join a small-group tour to meet new people, or opt for a private tour for undivided attention from your tour guide. Some longer tours also visit the Hudson River Greenway on Manhattan's west side.

Independent Bike Rentals

Explore Central Park on your own and at your own pace with an independent bike rental. With a helmet, map, basket, and lock included in the price, you can rent a bike for anywhere from an hour to two days. Choose from hybrid, comfort, mountain, or children's bikes, and pedal around Central Park and beyond at your leisure.

The roots of hip-hop run deep in New York City, where the fast-paced mix of poetry, beats, swagger, and style originated back in the 1970s before dominating the music world. Here are some of the best ways to explore the genre's rich history in NYC.

Highlights

• Discover the early days of hip-hop by making a pilgrimage to explore its origins in the Bronx.

• Learn about hip-hop pioneers like DJ Red Alert, Grandmaster Caz, Kurtis Blow, the Sugarhill Gang, and Public Enemy.

• See how Harlem's music scene helped inspire future hip-hop innovators at venues like the Apollo Theater and Lenox Lounge.

• Travel to Brooklyn to see where local hip-hop figureheads like Notorious B.I.G., Jay-Z, Busta Rhymes, Lil' Kim, and more got their start.

• Explore the intersections of hip-hop and other New York City cultural movements like graffiti, B-Boy crews, and breakdancing.

The roots of jazz run deep in Harlem, a historically black Manhattan neighborhood that has played host to musical greats like Thelonious Monk, Charlie Parker, and Dizzy Gillespie, among others. Here are some ways to explore Harlem's jazz scene.

• Take a jazz tour to discover Harlem hot spots of the past and present, including Minton's Playhouse, the Cotton Club, the Apollo Theater, and the Savoy Ballroom.

• Put Harlem's jazz scene into context on a culture-themed walking tour exploring the Harlem Renaissance and the Civil Rights Movement.

• Combine great music and delicious food on an excursion offering a family-style, soul-food dinner followed by a live jazz performance.

• Retrace the history of legendary artists such as Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, and Duke Ellington and learn about their influence on New York City jazz culture.

• Get a glimpse of Harlem's present-day arts scene with an intimate jazz performance held inside a historic neighborhood brownstone.

• Learn about African American musical heritage beyond jazz during a gospel-themed visit to a Harlem church.

New York City is a global arts hub, known for its world-renowned galleries and longstanding art museums. Advance museums tickets typically include skip-the-line access, while guided tours are a great way to find the best arts spaces in town. See below for noteworthy cultural experiences that no art lover should miss.

Metropolitan Museum of Art—From the Ancient to the Contemporary

Perhaps New York's most celebrated museum, the encyclopedic Metropolitan Museum of Art is a must-see arts institution. It's easy to get overwhelmed by the vast collection, showcasing artistic styles from Dutch genre painting to abstract expressionism. Choose a tour to see the collection highlights, and enjoy access to the Met's three locations with your ticket.

Guggenheim Museum—Modern Art in a World-Renowned Building

Located across from Central Park on New York's iconic Museum Mile, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum is a beacon of modern art, offering numerous exhibitions annually in a building designed by renowned American architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Stop by after a tour of Central Park, and be sure to purchase tickets in advance to beat the lines at this tourist hot spot.

Whitney Museum—Showcasing Outstanding American Art

The Whitney is a standout museum in New York City devoted exclusively to showing American art, primarily from living artists. Visitors find a robust collection of modern and contemporary art, several floors of galleries, and a café offering fantastic views of the city skyline. Be sure to purchase tickets with special exhibition access, since the museum is known for its temporary exhibits.

Museum of Modern Art—Premier Modern and Contemporary Works

There's bound to be something happening at the always popular Museum of Modern Art. Visitors can get lost in the permanent collection—featuring standout drip paintings from Jackson Pollock and Vincent Van Gogh's The Starry Night —but shouldn't miss the temporary shows and sculpture garden. Avoid weekend crowds with a skip-the-line ticket, and get access to the museum's contemporary art center, MoMA PS1, included in the price.

Chelsea Art Galleries—A Neighborhood Immersed in Art

The Chelsea neighborhood is home to numerous world-class art galleries, as well as public art installations on the High Line elevated park. Visitors find most galleries from 20th to 29th streets, between 9th and 10th avenues. To avoid getting lost in Chelsea's maze of galleries, guided walking tours and High Line tours are ideal, since most cover the must-see art spaces.

Manhattan may get most of the attention from foodies, but these days it's Brooklyn that's earning the hearts (and stomachs) of discerning eaters, thanks to a growing collection of craft breweries, diverse ethnic eats, and farm-to-table eateries. Here's how to experience the Brooklyn food scene.

Must-Try Dishes

For a taste of Brooklyn's immigrant roots, sample some pierogis or kielbasa in the Polish enclave of Greenpoint, or head to historically Italian areas like Carroll Gardens for some cannoli or pizza. And anyone hoping to get a taste for Brooklyn's cutting-edge culinary scene should visit a farm-to-table restaurant in a hip area like Williamsburg, where a wide range of locally sourced, seasonal, organic cuisine is available.

Beer has long been Brooklyn's signature beverage, dating back to the early 20th century when several dozen brewers crowded the streets. Today, you can sample Brooklyn's resurgent brewing traditions at one of its numerous craft beer breweries and theas the famous Brooklyn Brewery.

Must-Do Experiences

• Savor some gourmet bonbons at a high-end factory in the Dumbo neighborhood before soaking up great views of the New York skyline at Brooklyn Bridge Park.

• See what's brewing at one of Brooklyn's numerous craft beer makers by stopping by for a fun-filled beer tasting session.

• Tuck into some tasty, local, farm-to-table fare at a neighborhood eatery in an area like Williamsburg, Fort Greene, or Park Slope.

• Marvel at the diverse range of Italian eateries, Middle Eastern bakeries, retro soda fountain shops, and more in Carroll Gardens.

• Hang with the hipsters and trendsetters by booking a dinner reservation in Bushwick, one of Brooklyn's most happening 'hoods.