Things to Do in NYC This Weekend: Must-See Spots

New York City is one of the world’s most dynamic and exciting cities. The Big Apple is always buzzing with excitement. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time local, the city always has something new to offer. Looking for things to do in NYC this weekend? You’re in the right place. From Broadway performances to outdoor adventures, NYC has something for everyone. Here’s your guide to the best activities and events this weekend.

1. Catch a Broadway Show: A Must-Do in NYC

Broadway is the heartbeat of New York’s entertainment scene, and it’s a must for anyone visiting the city. This weekend, several must-see shows will leave you awe-struck:

• The Lion King: This iconic Disney musical is a spectacle of music, dance, and storytelling that will transport you into the heart of Africa.
• Hamilton: Lin-Manuel Miranda’s revolutionary musical continues to dominate the Broadway scene. If you haven’t seen it yet, this is your chance!
• Mamma Mia!: For a lighthearted, feel-good musical, Mamma Mia! offers catchy tunes and an uplifting storyline.

No matter your taste in theater, there’s a show that will suit your interests. Broadway is known for its world-class performances, so it’s no surprise that many visitors prioritize catching a show while in the city. You can explore ticket options and showtimes on Broadway.com.

Tips:

• Book your tickets early to ensure you get a good seat.
• Consider checking out discounted tickets through TKTS for last-minute deals.

2. Explore the Best Museums in NYC

New York City is a cultural mecca with some of the best museums in the world. Whether you’re into fine art, history, or science, you’ll find a museum that piques your interest. Here are a few to check out this weekend:

• The Metropolitan Museum of Art: Often referred to as the Met, this museum boasts over two million works of art spanning 5,000 years. Explore everything from ancient Egyptian relics to Renaissance masterpieces. Visit the Met
• Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): Home to some of the most influential works in modern and contemporary art, including pieces by Picasso, Van Gogh, and Andy Warhol. Explore MoMA
• American Museum of Natural History: Perfect for families, this museum is filled with fascinating exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to space exploration. Don’t miss the T-Rex skeleton! Learn more here

Whether you’re an art lover or just looking for a place to spend a few hours in awe, these museums are sure to enrich your NYC weekend experience.

Fun Fact:

Did you know that the Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the largest and most visited museums in the world, attracting over six million visitors annually?

3. St. Patrick’s Day Parade: A NYC Tradition

Celebrate NYC’s Irish heritage with the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, one of the world’s oldest and largest parades. The parade marches along Fifth Avenue, showcasing Irish pride through colorful floats, bagpipe music, Irish dancers, and much more. It’s a fun and festive way to kick off your weekend.

• Date: March 17th
• Time: Starts at 11:00 AM and runs until 5:00 PM.
  The parade is free to watch, and it’s one of the biggest celebrations in the city, with thousands of people coming together to honor the culture and history of Ireland.

You can find more details about the parade at Travel New York Now.

Tips:

• Arrive early to secure a good spot along Fifth Avenue.
• Dress warmly—parades can be long, and NYC weather in March can be chilly.

4. Relax at the New York Botanical Garden’s Orchid Show

If you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx for their stunning Orchid Show. This annual event showcases thousands of orchids in an array of colors and species, providing a peaceful escape into nature.

• Special Events: Attend Orchid Nights for a fun evening with live music, cocktails, and beautiful floral displays.
• Family-Friendly: The show is perfect for families with children, and you can even participate in hands-on workshops.

Get your tickets at the NY Botanical Garden.

Did You Know?

The New York Botanical Garden is a 250-acre garden and is one of the largest and most comprehensive botanical gardens in the world.

5. Visit the Squid Game: The Experience

For fans of the hit Netflix show Squid Game, don’t miss out on Squid Game: The Experience. This immersive event lets you step into the world of the show, where you can participate in interactive games like the iconic Red Light, and Green Light challenge. It’s an exciting way to experience the world of Squid Game first-hand.

• Location: Manhattan Mall
• Duration: Approximately 90 minutes

Get tickets through Secret NYC.

Pro Tip:

Be prepared for some friendly competition! The experience is designed to be challenging, so come ready to have fun.

6. Stroll Through Central Park

One of the best ways to enjoy a weekend in NYC is by visiting Central Park. This iconic park offers something for everyone:

• Boating on the Lake: Rent a rowboat for a scenic ride.
• The Central Park Zoo: Home to a variety of animals, including polar bears and penguins.
• Strawberry Fields: A memorial to John Lennon, located near his former apartment building.

Central Park also hosts a variety of events and outdoor performances, so be sure to check the calendar for any live shows or concerts. For more information, visit Central Park.

7. Discover Hidden Gems in the Lower East Side

If you’re looking to explore a more eclectic part of NYC, the Lower East Side offers a mix of quirky shops, vibrant street art, and delicious food spots. Some highlights include:

• The Tenement Museum: Take a guided tour to learn about the immigrant experience in NYC.
• Katz’s Delicatessen: Famous for its mouthwatering pastrami sandwiches, this deli has been serving up delicious meals since 1888.

For more on the Lower East Side, check out Daily Telegraph.

Insider Tip:

The Lower East Side is home to many hidden bars and secret speakeasies, so be sure to ask locals for recommendations.

8. Flamenco Festival: Experience Spanish Culture

This weekend, the Flamenco Festival brings the passionate music and dance of Spain to NYC. With performances from world-renowned flamenco artists, it’s an opportunity to experience this dynamic art form live.

• Where: Various venues throughout the city
• When: All weekend, with multiple shows

Check out the full schedule on TodayTix.

Fun Fact:

Flamenco has been declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO!

9. Take a Ferry Ride to Staten Island

Looking for a cheap and scenic way to see NYC from the water? The Staten Island Ferry offers free rides between Manhattan and Staten Island, giving you stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the city skyline. It’s an easy, relaxing trip with breathtaking photo opportunities.

For more details, visit Staten Island Ferry.

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Conclusion: Make the Most of Your Weekend in NYC

No matter what you’re interested in, there’s no shortage of amazing things to do in NYC this weekend. From cultural experiences and outdoor adventures to live performances and unique events, the city offers endless opportunities to create lasting memories. Whether you’re looking to relax or explore, NYC has everything you need for a perfect weekend getaway.

What’s your favorite way to spend a weekend in NYC? Let us know in the comments below – we’d love to hear about your top activities! Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more travel tips and weekend getaway ideas straight to your inbox.