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Things to do in New York City, New York (NY): The Best Cultural Events
Conquering New York in one visit is impossible. Instead, hit the must-sees – the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, the Metropolitan Museum of Art – and then explore off the beaten path with visits to The Cloisters or one of the city’s libraries. Indulge in the bohemian shops of the West Village or the fine dining of the Upper West Side. The bustling marketplace inside of Grand Central Station gives you a literal taste of the best the city has to offer.
Restaurants in New York City
1. Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 203 reviews
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is about as American as apple pie and has become a Thanksgiving Day tradition for millions since 1924. The parade runs up Central Park West and 6th Ave in New York City and features an impressive display of floats, marching bands, musical acts, and iconic oversized balloons of famed pop culture characters like Snoopy, Kermit, and Bugs Bunny. Other notable moments include performances from original Broadway casts and an impressive lineup of high school marching bands from around the country. All of the sights, sounds, and glamour of New York City in one holiday extravaganza.
Reviewed By lucylucy706 - Pembrokeshire, United Kingdom
The Macy's Parade is incredible, and is the warm friendly American atmosphere at it's very best. Don't listen to the haters who have written poor reviews, if you are well-prepared this will be a great experience. Being a UK resident, I'm probably only ever going to see the Macy's Parade once in my life but what a memory this one-time visit will leave me with. We visited for Thanksgiving Weekend 2019. We were staying down on 42nd Street, and having done some extensive research, we made a 5am wake-up call for Thanksgiving day. We strolled up to the Upper West Side for 6am, and chose a spot on the side of the street (facing Central Park) two or three blocks up from Columbus Circle. We stuck in our spot and slowly people joined us. Police were patrolling the street and moving people along. As time went by, the police started closing off blocks as they were filling up which was actually great to see, as it meant that nowhere seemed to crowded. We made conversation with those around us including the police and everyone was in great spirits. It was cold so wrap up warm, but it was actually surprising how quickly the three hours before the parade started went. The Parade itself was mind-blowing. Massive balloons all professionally controlled and steered along the street path, even in high winds. Everyone was respectful, clapping and cheering along the performers. We were lucky with clear blue skies and a dry day, with winds being the only thing of concern. There isn't too much of a wait between balloons/performers so the couple of hours the parade took actually went fairly quickly too. Huge thank you and a massive respect for the police and official persons here, they were all happy, friendly and informative. I even saw them reunite a man with his wife and daughter who were stuck a couple of blocks apart. After the parade finished, everyone calmly dispersed the site. We even managed to somehow find a table for four in a nearby diner where we ate a much-needed brunch. If, like me, this is likely to be a once in a lifetime activity for you, do it. With preparation, it can be a stress-free fun day for all.
2. Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 374 reviews
Reviewed By chasingdestinyy - New York City, United States
Rockefeller is a staple of course because of the beautiful tree above a beautiful ice skating rink. Also, right around the corner is the classic Saks Fith Ave light display which is absolutely beautiful. It can get crowded, of course. Take a walk down the block to Bryant Park for another tree and skating rink, as well as the cutest little holiday market.
3. Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,813 reviews
You never forget the memories you make at the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes. From the moment you walk into Radio City Music Hall to the very last dazzling dance number, experience the magic that only Rockettes can create. Bring your family for a one-of-a-kind tradition, where wooden soldiers dance, ice skaters glide, snowflakes swirl—and the unmistakable spirit of Christmas in New York City comes alive.
Reviewed By SimonTillybird - Toronto, Canada
Didn’t know what to expect other than the Rockettes and the toy soldiers falling (as I’d once seen a video clip about it). A wonderfully family friendly Christmas spectacular it is! Beautiful transitions, highly engaging music, dancing, Singing, Santa narrates a story that includes a Nativity pageant with exquisite costumes, live animals and phenomenal live orchestra. Don’t miss this show! It truly is spectacular!
4. St. Patrick’s Day Parade New York City
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 35 reviews
Go Green for St. Patty's Day! Celebrated in early spring, the St. Patrick's Day Parade takes over New York's 5th Ave., between 44th and 79th street. Floats, bagpipers, dancers, and more take to the streets in the thousands to celebrate the Patron Saint of Ireland-- with plenty of Irish music to set pace! The city itself erupts into celebration, with bars and pubs filled to the nines with people wearing green and orange. Whether you take to the outdoors to watch the parade as it passes by iconic New York locations, from Central Park to St. Patrick's Cathedral, or watch it from the television of a nearby bar or restaurant, you're sure to get swept up in the high-energy of the event.
Reviewed By D_W_10017 - New York City, United States
This is a great experience if you happen to be in New York on Saint Patrick's Day. The parade is wonderful to see, and there are plenty of places to enjoy yourself.
5. Times Square Countdown
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 57 reviews
Millions of revelers come to New York City from around the world and brave the cold for this legendary celebration to ring in the New Year. As crowds gather in Times Square on December 31st, people tune in from all over the world to watch the famous ball drop. At the exact stroke of midnight, the city lights up with a dazzling display of fireworks overhead. Somehow, New York’s most famous neighborhood shines even brighter on this special night.
