Things to see and do in New York

If you were to imagine a city, New York would likely come to mind instinctively. The Statue of Liberty, the skyline of skyscrapers, the multi-colored screens of Fifth Avenue, the beautiful Central Park, and the subway corridors are all part of our visual and emotional memory thanks to film and literature. Who hasn't dreamed of visiting them at least once? If you're also planning to stay in a hotel in New York, we recommend the 45 Times Square Hotel, located in a prime area close to all these iconic attractions.

The most dynamic and energetic city in the world also offers an unrivalled cultural scene: the MoMA, the MET, Broadway theaters, Soho galleries, and baseball or NBA games. And if you have enough time, we recommend setting aside a few days to explore beyond Manhattan, with stunning places like the Finger Lakes region and Niagara Falls, a real natural spectacle. 

Central Park is a must-visit for anyone passing through New York. This vast park, covering more than three square kilometers of meadows, ponds, and woods, is the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful walk in a green space away from the hustle and bustle of the city. And the landscape changes with the seasons. In spring it blooms with bright colors, in fall the foliage turns golden and in winter you can ice skate at the Wollman Rink. 

Its winding paths are filled with walkers, runners, students, and couples enjoying a romantic picnic. Among the must-see activities are strolling through the Mall, boating on the central pond, relaxing among the flowers in the Conservatory Garden, visiting the zoo, or exploring the park by bike or on rollerblades. Other essential stops include the famous Bow Bridge, the sculpture of Alice in Wonderland, and Strawberry Fields, a tribute to John Lennon. 

Going to Broadway to see a musical is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in New York's stage culture and feel the city's energy. Attending a musical is a spectacle in itself: neon lights, sidewalks packed with curious onlookers, spectacular choreography, dazzling costumes, and impressive voices. Among the classics that attract audiences from around the world year after year are The Lion King, Aladdin, Chicago, Wicked and Moulin Rouge. Check the schedule as there are options for all tastes and ages. Let yourself be enchanted by the magic of Broadway and enjoy an unforgettable night with your partner or family!

The High Line is an urban park built on an old railway track, extending for over a mile along the west side of Manhattan. Resulting from a collaboration between James Corner and Piet Oudolf, this green space is an example of how New York City can reclaim unused industrial spaces for the enjoyment of its citizens. During your walk, you can admire gardens, contemporary art exhibitions, and participate in events organized by neighborhood associations. It also offers spectacular views of the Hudson River and the city's skyscrapers. The sun loungers at 14th Street, overlooking the river, are particularly popular. If you want to take a break, the revamped Chelsea Market, with its extraordinary food offerings, is just a few meters away. 

If you're a sports fan, attending a live NBA game is an awesome experience: elite players, light shows, music, dance performances, kiss cams... The atmosphere in the stadium is unforgettable! The city has two professional league teams: the New York Knicks, who play at the iconic Madison Square Garden, and the Brooklyn Nets, based at the Barclays Center. There’s also a women's NBA team, the New York Liberty. 

In New York, NBA tickets go on sale months in advance and usually sell out quickly, especially for the most anticipated games. Therefore, we recommend purchasing them online from official websites as soon as you have your travel dates. 

If you have enough time to leave Manhattan and explore the surrounding area, we recommend visiting the beautiful Finger Lakes region, about four hours by car from New York City. This destination is popular for its stunning natural scenery and famous vineyards and wineries. 

There are different routes to choose from: nature trails, culinary tours, history and art routes, or eco tours. You can also book a trip to Watkins Glen State Park, with its spectacular waterfalls, or enjoy outdoor activities at Seneca and Cayuga Lakes, the largest in the region. 

Finally, if you have several days, Niagara Falls are a natural wonder you shouldn’t miss. Located on the border between the United States and Canada, this impressive tourist complex offers a wide range of activities for all ages throughout the year. Major attractions include the Maid of the Mist cruise, which takes you to the base of the falls, and the Cave of the Winds, where you can feel the force of the water from a platform located right next to the waterfall. Visiting in winter is equally spectacular. Below-freezing temperatures create ice formations around the falls, and visitors can admire the snowy landscape from the viewing platforms. To make the most of your visit, we recommend checking the activity schedules and booking tickets in advance. 

One of the largest libraries in the world, the New York Public Library is an architectural and cultural gem. Located in the heart of Manhattan, it not only houses millions of books and historical documents but also fascinating exhibitions. Its Main Reading Room, with its high ceilings and iconic lamps, is a perfect place to take a break and immerse yourself in a tranquil atmosphere amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.

Located in the Bronx, the New York Botanical Garden offers 250 acres of themed gardens, including an impressive greenhouse with tropical and exotic plants. It's the perfect escape from urban bustle and an opportunity to enjoy natural beauty in any season. It's the ideal plan for families, nature lovers, or anyone looking for a breath of fresh air in the city.