10 Amazing Activities Around The Empire State Building

As one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, the Empire State Building is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to New York City. But did you know that there are a plethora of incredible activities to indulge in just a stone's throw away from this towering structure? From scenic helicopter rides and sumptuous Michelin-starred dining, to underground speakeasies and rooftop bars with stunning views, the area around the Empire State Building is a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences. Here are 10 amazing activities that will take your trip to new heights.

Observation Deck at Empire State Building

If you're planning a trip to the Empire State Building, make sure you take the time to visit the observation deck. This is one of the most iconic spots in the city, offering stunning views of the city skyline and beyond. Here are just a few things you can do when you visit the observation deck at the Empire State Building:

Take in the views

The main draw of the observation deck is, of course, the views. From 86 stories up, you can see for miles in every direction. On a clear day, you can even see all the way to the Atlantic Ocean. Make sure to take your time and soak in the scenery from all angles.

Learn about the building's history

As you explore the observation deck, you'll find plenty of exhibits and displays that detail the history of the Empire State Building. Learn about the building's construction, the famous people who have visited, and how it has been used throughout history.

Feel the thrill of being up high

If you're not afraid of heights, the observation deck at the Empire State Building is one of the most thrilling experiences you can have in New York City. The feeling of being so high up is exhilarating, and you'll feel a sense of accomplishment just for making it to the top.

Take some amazing photos

Of course, one of the main reasons people come to the observation deck is to take photos. With the city spread out below you, there are endless photo opportunities. Whether you're taking selfies or trying to capture the perfect shot of the city skyline, you won't be disappointed.

Grab a snack or a drink

If you're feeling thirsty or hungry after your climb to the top, there's a snack bar on the observation deck where you can grab a drink or a quick snack. This is a great place to take a break and recharge before continuing your exploration of the Empire State Building.

In conclusion, the observation deck at the Empire State Building is a must-visit when you're in New York City. From the stunning views to the historical exhibits, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Just make sure to bring your camera and your sense of adventure!

New York Public Library

If you're looking for something to do around the Empire State Building, one must-see destination is the New York Public Library. Located just a few blocks north of the famous skyscraper, this iconic institution is one of the most impressive landmarks in New York City.

The New York Public Library is one of the largest public library systems in the world, housing millions of books, manuscripts, artifacts, and other treasures. Its main building, located on 5th Avenue and 42nd Street, is a Beaux-Arts masterpiece that was completed in 1911. The building's stunning marble facade, grand staircase, and soaring, cathedral-like reading room have made it a beloved destination for visitors from around the world.

Whether you're a bibliophile or simply appreciate beautiful architecture, the New York Public Library is a must-visit destination. Here are a few highlights to consider:

• Explore the reading room. The library's Rose Main Reading Room is one of the most impressive public spaces in the world. Stretching nearly 300 feet in length, it boasts 52-foot-high ceilings, intricate plasterwork, and countless rows of shelves filled with books. Visitors are welcome to enter the room and admire its splendor, though it's worth noting that books are not available for check-out here.
• See the collections. The library's collections are vast and varied, covering everything from rare manuscripts and historic maps to contemporary novels and academic journals. While many of the books are kept in storage and can only be accessed by researchers and scholars, there are numerous rotating exhibits and displays that showcase highlights from the library's holdings.
• Take a tour. The library offers free daily tours that cover the building's history, architecture, and collections. Led by knowledgeable librarians, these tours are a great way to learn more about the institution and its legacy.
• Attend an event. The library hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, including talks, lectures, readings, and film screenings. Some events require advance registration or a fee, so be sure to check the library's website for details.

Overall, the New York Public Library is a true gem of New York City and a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the area around the Empire State Building. Be sure to add it to your itinerary and take some time to soak in the history, beauty, and knowledge that this incredible institution has to offer.

Bryant Park

First, take a walk around the park and explore its lush greenery. Bryant Park features over 1.1 acres of lawn space, making it the perfect spot for sunbathing, picnicking, and perhaps even catching a game of frisbee. The park also has numerous gardens that are always in bloom, including the iconic "Reading Room" garden where visitors can enjoy a good book or simply bask in the beauty of the flowers.

If you're looking for something more active, there are plenty of things to do in Bryant Park. During the summer months, the park hosts outdoor yoga, pilates, and tai chi classes that are free of charge. In the winter, the park transforms into an ice rink where visitors can skate the day or night away.

One of the highlights of Bryant Park is its impressive array of food options. The park boasts a number of seasonal food kiosks as well as restaurants and cafes that are perfect for a quick bite or a sit-down meal. One of the park's most popular spots is the Bryant Park Grill, which offers outdoor seating and stunning views of the Empire State Building.

Finally, if you're looking for entertainment, be sure to check out some of the events that take place in Bryant Park throughout the year. During the summer months, the park hosts an outdoor movie series, which screens popular films under the stars. The park also features a number of live music and theater performances, as well as family-friendly activities that are perfect for all ages.

So whether you're looking for a peaceful oasis in the heart of Manhattan or a vibrant space to explore, Bryant Park is the perfect place to visit after checking out the Empire State Building. With its stunning gardens, diverse food options, and exciting events, there's something for everyone in this beloved park.

Museum of Sex

If you're looking for something uniquely New York to do while you're around the Empire State Building, consider a visit to the Museum of Sex.

Located just a few blocks south of the iconic skyscraper, the Museum of Sex is a fascinating destination that explores human sexuality in all its various forms. Featuring a wide range of exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays, the Museum of Sex is the type of place that's both entertaining and educational.

One of the most popular exhibits at the Museum of Sex is "Jump for Joy," which is a giant bouncy castle that's filled with rubber versions of human genitalia. Visitors can jump and play in the castle while learning about the anatomy and function of both male and female reproductive organs.

Other exhibits include "Stag Films," which showcases vintage pornography from the 1920s and 1930s; "The Sex Lives of Animals," which explores sexuality in the animal kingdom; and "Fetish: Fashion, Sex, and Power," which looks at the relationship between sexuality and fashion.

There are also a number of temporary exhibits that rotate through the Museum of Sex, so be sure to check their website to see what's currently on display. And if you're in the market for a risqué souvenir, the Museum of Sex has a gift shop that's filled with all sorts of adult toys, clothing, and accessories.

Overall, if you're interested in exploring the fascinating and complex world of human sexuality, the Museum of Sex is definitely worth a visit while you're in the area around the Empire State Building.

Madame Tussauds

Located just a few blocks away from the Empire State Building, Madame Tussauds Wax Museum is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting New York City. The museum, which features lifelike wax figures of famous people from history, entertainment, and sports, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, drawing in millions of visitors each year.

Upon entering Madame Tussauds, visitors are immediately transported into a world of celebrity and glamour. From movie stars like Marilyn Monroe and Johnny Depp, to music icons like Beyoncé and Elvis Presley, the museum features wax figures of some of the biggest names in entertainment. Visitors can snap selfies with their favorite celebrities, pose with sports legends like Michael Jordan and Serena Williams, and even travel back in time to meet historical figures like Abraham Lincoln and George Washington.

Of course, no visit to Madame Tussauds would be complete without a trip to the Marvel Superheroes 4D Experience, where visitors can come face-to-face with their favorite Marvel characters like Spider-Man, Iron Man, and Captain America in a thrilling 4D experience complete with special effects like wind, water, and smoke.

In addition to its wax figures, Madame Tussauds also features a number of interactive exhibits, including a fashion runway where visitors can strut their stuff like a supermodel, and a "Behind the Scenes" exhibit that offers a glimpse into the process of creating the museum's lifelike figures.

Whether you're a history buff, a sports fan, or just a lover of all things celebrity, Madame Tussauds is a must-visit destination when exploring the area around the Empire State Building. With so much to see and do, it's no wonder the museum has become one of New York City's top attractions.

Times Square

One of the most iconic landmarks in New York City is the Empire State Building. Located in Midtown Manhattan, it towers over the city at 1,454 feet tall. If you're planning on visiting the Empire State Building, there are plenty of things to do in the surrounding area. In this article, we'll focus on Times Square, which is just a few blocks away from the Empire State Building.

• Visit the Times Square Ball: Every year on New Year's Eve, the Times Square Ball drops at midnight to mark the beginning of the new year. But you can see the ball up close all year round at the Times Square Visitor Center. The Visitor Center also has interactive exhibits and multimedia displays that tell the story of Times Square.
• Walk along Broadway: Broadway is the heart of the theater district in New York City. There are numerous theaters that host popular shows, including Hamilton, The Lion King, and Wicked. Even if you don't plan on seeing a show, it's worth walking along Broadway to take in the energy of the neighborhood.
• Shop in Times Square: There are plenty of shops in and around Times Square, ranging from flagship stores like the Disney Store and the Hershey's Chocolate World Store, to trendy clothing stores like H&M and Forever 21. You can also find souvenir shops that offer New York-themed gifts and memorabilia.
• Eat in Times Square: Times Square has an abundance of restaurants catering to all tastes and budgets. From fast-food chains like McDonald's and Subway, to gourmet restaurants like Guy Fieri's American Kitchen and Bar and Carmine's Italian Restaurant, there's something for everyone.
• Visit Madame Tussauds: If you're a fan of celebrity culture or pop culture, you'll enjoy Madame Tussauds New York. The museum is home to lifelike wax figures of celebrities and historical figures. You can take selfies with your favorite stars, including Beyoncé, Katy Perry, and President Obama.

Overall, Times Square is a vibrant and exciting area that's perfect for tourists. If you're visiting the Empire State Building, be sure to take the short walk over to Times Square to explore all that the neighborhood has to offer.

Broadway Shows

If you're visiting the Empire State Building, you're already in one of the most exciting areas of New York City. The building itself is an iconic landmark, but there is plenty more to see and do in the area. One of the best things to do is seeing a Broadway show.

Broadway theaters are located just a few blocks away from the Empire State Building, making it easy to catch a show before or after your visit to the top. The area's main street, Broadway, is also home to a variety of theaters, so there's something for everyone.

Some of the most popular shows include:

Hamilton - This award-winning musical has taken Broadway by storm. Written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, it tells the story of the American founding father Alexander Hamilton and his rise to power through rap and hip-hop music. Tickets are hard to come by, but it's definitely worth trying to catch this show.

Wicked - This magical musical is based on the book by Gregory Maguire and tells the untold story of the witches from the Wizard of Oz. It's a fun and upbeat show that's perfect for families.

The Phantom of the Opera - This classic musical has been running on Broadway for over 30 years and is considered one of the best shows of all time. It tells the story of a mysterious figure who haunts the Paris Opera House and falls in love with a young soprano.

The Lion King - This Disney favorite is a must-see for all ages. The show features incredible costumes and puppetry, bringing to life the animals of the African savanna.

If you're looking for something a little different, there are plenty of other shows to choose from as well. From drama to comedy to musicals, there is something to suit every taste.

To make the most of your Broadway experience, it's important to book tickets in advance. You can do this online or by visiting the box office of the theater. There are also a variety of ticket booths located throughout the area, where you can often find discounted tickets for same-day shows.

After the show, why not grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants in the area? From casual diners to fine dining, there is something for every budget. Alternatively, take a stroll through the bustling streets and take in the bright lights of Times Square.

In summary, if you're visiting the Empire State Building, make sure you include a Broadway show in your itinerary. It's a great way to experience some of the best entertainment the city has to offer. Just make sure you book your tickets in advance and leave plenty of time to explore the area!

Central Park Walking Tour

When visiting the Empire State Building, there are plenty of things to do in the surrounding area. One of the best options is to take a Central Park walking tour. This is a great way to see some of the city's most iconic landmarks and enjoy the natural beauty of one of the world's most famous parks.

Some of the highlights of a Central Park walking tour include the Bethesda Fountain, Bow Bridge, and the Central Park Zoo. You can also explore the park's beautiful gardens, lakes, and bridges while learning about the history of the park and its many statues and monuments.

If you're interested in art and culture, you can also visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art, which is located just a few blocks away from the park. The museum is home to an impressive collection of art from around the world, including Ancient Egyptian artifacts, paintings by famous artists, and a vast collection of armor and weapons.

To make the most of your Central Park walking tour, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water and sunscreen. You can also pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in one of the park's many shady spots.

Overall, a Central Park walking tour is a great way to see some of the best sights and attractions in New York City. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour is sure to be a memorable experience. So why not add it to your itinerary when visiting the Empire State Building?

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

If you're looking for things to do around the Empire State Building, then you need to check out the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. This museum is home to three decommissioned military vessels, the USS Intrepid aircraft carrier, the USS Growler submarine, and the USS Edson destroyer. The museum also features an extensive collection of aircraft, spacecraft, and armaments.

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is an exciting destination for history buffs, aviation enthusiasts, and families. Visitors will be awe-struck at the sheer size of the military vessels on display, which are themselves marvels of engineering. The USS Intrepid aircraft carrier is a whopping 911 feet long and served in World War II and the Vietnam War. It was also used in NASA's early space program as a recovery vessel for astronauts returning to Earth. Visitors can explore the hangar deck, officer's quarters, and the flight deck, which holds 30 aircraft.

The USS Growler submarine is an imposing piece of machinery that provides a glimpse into the cramped and claustrophobic conditions faced by submariners. Visitors can explore the interior of the submarine and see where the sailors slept, ate, and worked. The tour includes a simulated launch of a nuclear missile and a visit to the control room, where a periscope provides views of New York City's skyline.

The USS Edson destroyer is another impressive vessel that served in the Vietnam War and was involved in the Tonkin Gulf Incident. Visitors can explore the lower deck, get a sense of the firepower of the destroyer, and see a gunnery trainer that was used to train sailors in operation and safety of the ship's armaments.

The space shuttle Enterprise is another highlight of the museum's collection. This spacecraft never flew in space but was used in early testing and engineering experiments. Visitors can walk underneath and around the Enterprise, getting an up-close look at the heat shields, thrusters, and other hardware that allowed the shuttle to operate in the hostile environment of space.

In addition to the numerous exhibits, the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum offers hands-on activities like flight simulators, knot-tying lessons, and demonstrations of naval gnarling (rope-making). The museum's educators also offer talks and workshops on aviation, naval history, and space exploration.

In conclusion, the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is an exciting and educational destination that is not to be missed. Visitors will experience the thrill of exploration and discovery as they explore the military vessels, aircraft, and spacecraft that are on display here. Whether you're a history buff, an aviation enthusiast, or a family looking for a fun and educational experience, the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum has something for you.

MoMA PS1

If you're looking for things to do around the Empire State Building, one highly recommended destination is MoMA PS1. Located in Long Island City, MoMA PS1 is one of the largest nonprofit contemporary art institutions in America.

Originally founded in 1976 as the Institute for Art and Urban Resources Inc., the organization has been dedicated to the promotion of innovative contemporary art ever since. In 2000, it became affiliated with the Museum of Modern Art in Manhattan, further enhancing its reputation as a leading cultural destination.

One of the biggest draws of MoMA PS1 is its ever-changing roster of exhibitions, which showcase the work of both established and up-and-coming artists from around the world. From paintings, sculptures, and photographs to immersive installations and interactive multimedia experiences, there's something for everyone at MoMA PS1.

In addition to its galleries, MoMA PS1 is also renowned for its cutting-edge music and performance programs. Each summer, the museum hosts the popular Warm Up series, which brings together today's most exciting DJs and musicians for outdoor dance parties. Other events throughout the year include film screenings, lectures, and family programs.

Beyond its cultural offerings, MoMA PS1 is also noteworthy for its unique architecture. The museum is housed in a converted public school building, and its gritty industrial aesthetic perfectly complements the contemporary art it showcases. Visitors can explore the various classrooms, staircases, and outdoor spaces that have been repurposed for artistic use, creating a truly immersive experience.

With its diverse and ever-changing exhibitions, innovative music and performance programs, and stunning architecture, MoMA PS1 is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for things to do around the Empire State Building. So why not immerse yourself in the world of contemporary art and discover all that this world-class museum has to offer?

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