Best Things To Do in Manhattan

There is no list long enough to put together the best things to do in Manhattan. From the classic Central Park boat rides and MET visits to aurora readings in Chinatown and a show-stopping Broadway performance, this is why you booked your trip to New York City! The shining lights of Times Square and the side streets of Little Italy offer a different experience that you can’t miss out on. This guide is the best, not just the touristy spots, but local spots that can give you a little glimpse of New York City if you’re only here for a short amount of time.

The Best of Manhattan: Food Edition

1. Boqueria: You’re going to think I’m crazy, but after traveling to Spain and even living there for months, no place tops this one, and I’m really lucky that it’s in New York City. Presenting Boqueria,  a restaurant that will make your mouth melt, have you craving jamón iberico on a daily basis, and dreaming of the corner table in the bar with an order of paella on the way. Boqueria is a more upscale restaurant that is perfect for first dates, meeting the family, celebrations, and just a night out in the town. Everything on the menu tastes delicious, and coming from someone who lived in Spain, you’re going to want to trust me. Head on over there and see what it’s all about.
2. La Lanterna: Known for its exquisite lasagna flights and eye-catching interior, this spot is a hidden gem, and the delicious food hits the spot. This family-owned business is the epitome of the American dream, emigrating from Italy and running not only one, but two successful businesses. They pour their heart and soul into the experience. From the mood lighting and backyard ambiance to the tasty lasagna and outstanding service, this spot has so much charm and is worth a visit https://www.lalanterna.nyc/private-events/.
3. W Suhsi: Finding an affordable and delicious Omakase spot is quite literally like hitting the jackpot! Their Lunch Omakase is $38 and includes such a fun experience of trying 10 Nigiris & 2 Handrolls timed perfectly so you can really enjoy each one. The menu changes based on the best fish available for the day, and it did not disappoint. If you’re looking for a luxe experience without breaking the bank, go here!

The Best Things To Do In Manhattan

1. Central Park Boats: Easily one of the best parts of the city, even for me, is enjoying a peaceful boat ride looking at some of NYC’s most iconic skyscrapers in the distance. For only $25, which can fit up to 4 people per boat, this is an affordable and unforgettable way to experience NYC.
2. Chinatown: Chinatown is such a fun spot to explore in NYC. There are so many hidden gems in this tiny section of Manhattan that are 1000% worth checking out. One of the best times to celebrate Chinese culture is during the Lunar New Year. From cultural celebrations to local eateries and alleyways with hidden gems, Chinatown deserves a whole day to explore. My favorite experiences are getting my aura read in Chinatown to eating at the local WoHop and Jing Fong restaurants, and later grabbing a drink at Apotheke. For the full guide, check it out here. https://thebrooklyniteabroad.com/things-to-do-in-chinatown/
3. Seaglass Carousel: This hidden gem is perfect for kids and families as an end-of-the-night activity to wind down after a busy day of sightseeing. The glowing fishes and LED color-changing lights make you feel like you’re underwater and will have the kids talking for days. A perfect spot and incredibly affordable at $6.
4. Ellis Island: It is more important now than ever to remember that our country was and still is built on the backs of hardworking immigrants. Known for helping 12 million immigrants with a chance at the American dream, travel back in time and see what immigrants’ experiences were for a shot at a better life. Look through the archival records of immigrants and see if any of your families are on the list. It’s an incredible tribute and an eye-opening museum you must visit. There’s no place like it. 

Best of Manhattan: Museums

1. Museum of Natural History: Dating back to the 1800s, this museum has so much history and has become an iconic spot. With four floors of endless exhibits like Ocean Life, where you can see the big whale, to prehistoric dinosaurs and an up-close butterfly exhibit, you can quite literally get lost here. What is so impressive is that they are always putting together new exhibits for the NYC community, who have gone several times before. I’m excited to share that the Night at the Museum, Overnight Experience is back! Open for kids aged 6-12, monthly sleepover experiences allow you to see the museum after after-hours. No, it isn’t like the movie, “Night at the Museum”, but you can definitely see for yourself! From guided flashlight tours and epic scavenger hunts, sleep under the big whale and have the adventure of a lifetime! Can attest, I did this when I was younger, and it was an unforgettable experience.
2. The Metropolitan Museum (MET): This museum truly never gets old and will always be a favorite of mine. They carefully curate exhibits with fascinating artwork, which is why I personally keep going back. From the ancient Egyptian exhibits to the Napoleon apartments and Grecian art, find yourself easily here for hours. Did you know that the Met has date nights? Every Friday and Saturday from 5-9 pm, explore the museum at night with wine and live music. If you go during the day, there’s an artist at the Met who creates incredible work and sells it, too. It makes for a great souvenir! Check him out (Dwight Deworgé, @manofthemet), and head to the Met! 
3. Tenement Museum: On the same topic of immigrants, this immersive experience brings you firsthand to the lives of immigrants and their living conditions. The challenges and hardships they faced, and a glimpse into their lives, are something that a YouTube channel or a blog post cannot showcase like being there in person. Get a close look at historical artifacts with special events at Holiday Tours, Walking Tours, School Field Trips, and other events that you should take advantage of. This museum has a humbling history and will open your eyes and remind you to be grateful for what you have. The immigrants in this area have come a long way and have gone through a lot before even touching the success of future generations. This museum is about preserving and remembering pivotal NYC history.

Best Places to Go Dancing in Manhattan

1. Papatzul: My all-time favorite dancing club is a Latin bar in Soho called Papatzul. It’s a Mexican brunch spot by day and a hidden reggaeton paradise by night. You can tell a lot of locals love this spot just from the energy and down-to-earth vibes. The DJ plays a great mix of your favorite reggaeton songs with some original mixes that get you all in the groove. 100% recommend this spot.
2. Slate: They play some of the best music, hands down. There are multiple floors, so if you’d rather play arcade games, dance, or just lounge, there’s a spot for you. In terms of the music, I’m talking 2000s throwbacks to today’s hits to reggaetón. The most viral part of this spot is that they have an actual slide that goes to the bottom lounge arcade floor.
3. Hotel Chantelle: This place is a classic for a nice night out, and they play a variety of music, rap, electronic & bits of pop. I love that they have different floors you can check out.

Best Speakeasies in Manhattan

1. The Bathtub Gin: As a certified gin girly, it only makes sense to make this my number one spot. The Bathtub Gin is a “coffee shop” but inside one of the coolest bars I have ever been to. It reminds me of the Renaissance or Victorian ages, both periods of time I would love to time-travel to. Pro Tips: Get there right when they open at 5 if you don’t have reservations, and coat check is free, so if it’s cold, wear your big puffer jacket if it means staying warm!
2. The Back Room: This speakeasy is one of the original still-standing speakeasies from the time of prohibition, making it not only an incredible place to check out, but a chance to experience NYC history. They have live music that you can check out on their social media pages and serve their cups in teacups to stay on theme with the prohibition vibes. If you like private parties, check out this spot – the party is behind a mysterious bookcase.

For the full list of the best bars, check it out here, Best Bars in NYC

There You Have It

This honestly doesn’t even begin to cover all of the adventures you can have in Manhattan, but this list is a great start and is where I’d personally go if I had only a weekend in the city. Where are you most excited to visit? Matter of fact, start adding these places to the list and get going!!

Veronica

Hi everyone! My name is Veronica, but you can also call me Vee! I grew up in the iconic city of Brooklyn, NY, the cultural hub of the world, and hence learned about so many different cultures. It was those experiences that inspired me to travel and from then on, I had learned the power of travel. In return, I want to give others that same experience, to help inspire others to unleash their inner travel enthusiast no matter the trip.

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