There’s an undeniable allure that follows New York. The city that never sleeps is home to legendary artists, a cultural hub for a diverse range of communities, and an overall forward-moving environment that has inspired legendary movements in:
- Artistic
- Financial
- Sports history
Whatever interests or hobbies you’ve gathered thus far on your journey, there are plenty of things to do in NYC and something we can all learn from a visit to the Big Apple.
If you and your girls are considering a New York girl’s trip, I can personally attest that this is a vacation worth taking. No matter the time of year, the city is buzzing with energy at all hours and there are always things to do in NYC…
NYC Girls’ Trip Ideas
1. Boozy Brunch
The only thing that can make brunch any better is a boozy brunch shared with your closest gal pals. Thankfully, New York’s got plenty of options to choose from. If your group is interested in day drinking in New York, it only makes sense to start the party with your first meal of the day. Tour companies offer a variety of walking bar crawls that you and the ladies can follow along with, if you’d prefer to leave the planning to the professionals.
After all, you can’t drink all day if you don’t start in the morning…
2. Visit Times Square at Night
Photo: Sarena
When visiting the city that never sleeps, you just have to set some time aside to visit Times Square after the sun sets. See how the city comes to life under bright neon billboard signs encircled by whizzing car lights. One of the most notable and visited sightseeing locations in New York, there’s electricity coursing through the crowds that can’t be compared to anywhere else on Earth.
3. Drinks and Apps at Chelsea Market
Photo: Crystal Jo
Chelsea Market is tucked away on a street corner in the heart of the Meatpacking District. In the two-story 40,500 sq foot marketplace, you can find:
- Small food stands
- Bars
- Sit-down restaurants
- A variety of artisan markets
- Artists selling unique trinkets and treats
If you time out your stop here around happy hour, you can catch some deals at different restaurants to make the most of the visit and hop around trying bits from different spots throughout the market.
4. Visit Little Island
Photo: Coco Tan
One of the newer additions to New York is the Little Island, an entirely man-made floating park. A short walk from the 14th Street and 8th Avenue subway stop, it’s one of our favorite free things to do in NYC on a sunny day. It can get a little busier on weekends and for events, so just make sure to do your research before heading over. If you work up an appetite after all the walking, Chelsea Market is just a quick walk down the street!
5. Walk the High Line
Photo: Elizabeth Villalta
Another one of our top free, outdoor things to do in NYC is to walk along the High Line. This landmark is a walkable greenway above the Meatpacking District that was formerly a track for freight trains delivering food to Manhattan. The coolest part is seeing bits of the train tracks that are left from the original line built in the mid-1800s.
6. See a Broadway Show
Photo: Sudan Ouyang
You don’t have to be a theater kid to enjoy the experience of a Broadway show. See where the greats like Ariana Grande, Viola Davis, and Morgan Freeman began their legendary show business careers. A few shows to consider for a night with a bit of (good) drama are:
- The Lion King
- Hamilton
- Westside Story
- Hadestown
7. Central Park
Photo: Jermaine Ee
Take a walk through Central Park for a cinematic moment with your ladies. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, whether you decide to:
- Reserve an Insta-worthy picnic
- Go for a paddle boat ride
- Catch a concert in the park
8. Comedy Club
Photo: Sarena
Looking for things to do in NYC at night? For a more low-key night on the town with lots of laughs, grab your girls and head out to a comedy club. There are a few free comedy clubs scattered throughout the city, but prices are relatively affordable for this nighttime activity. Acts vary from local up-and-coming stand-up comedians to world-famous performers so you’re able to choose the kind of night you want to have.
9. Bridges
Photo: Redd F
Did you know that there are over 27 major bridges in New York? Connecting in multiple points of the city they’re a distinguishing trait that are part of what gives this East Coast destination its character. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge, drive along the Manhattan Bridge, or bike across The Williamsburg Bridge.
10. Check out the Museums
Photo: Sarena
Depending on when you and your girl group plan your trip, you may want to have a few indoor things to do in NYC on your itinerary. Thankfully, there’s a plethora of museums to choose from that are waiting to be explored. We’d definitely suggest looking into museum schedules to figure out which locations offer free admission on different days of the week.
Here are a few popular options to help get you started:
11. Catch Some Views at An Observation Deck
Photo: Sarena
While you might not need to get a bird’s eye view of the city to enjoy it, I’d highly suggest investing a bit of time and energy in finding an observation deck for a jaw-dropping perspective of New York. After visiting Summit ONE Vanderbilt during a recent girls’ trip myself, I can honestly say it’s worth the money and will make for a memorable moment and photo op.
12. Street Food
Photo: Sarena
If you’ve also been sucked into Netflix’s new Street Food series, I’m sure you’re well aware that New York City is one of the best places to visit for street eats. A simple (and tasty) way to connect with the local culture is by checking out and supporting local vendors.
Whichever borough you’re in, you’ll be sure to find:
- A bodega with a decent chopped cheese
- A deli with quality bagels
- A food cart with legendary slices of ‘za or hot dogs
13. Rooftop Bar
Photo: Tammy Chan
There’s nothing quite like summer in New York; thanks to Ms. Carrie Bradshaw and her girls, it’s safe to say I’m guilty of also romanticizing the experience myself. If your girl's trip just so happens to land during the warmer months, a visit to at least one of the rooftop bars in New York is a must. Catch a peachy sunset overlooking the East River from the heights of the Panorama Room on Roosevelt Island.
14. Get Dolled Up for Dinner & Drinks
Photo: Sarena
To commemorate a successful girl’s trip that made it out of the group chat, treat yourselves to a special dining experience that’s unique to New York. This destination is arguably the #1 foodie city in the world, thanks to the eclectic gastronomical offerings and price ranges that can be accommodated for.
Do you and your girls drool over fresh fish and sushi? Consider planning a night at Studio 151 for some jazz, hand-crafted sushi, and cocktails. Or if you’re feeling in the mood for Mediterranean food, Cafe Mogador in Brooklyn comes highly recommended for its calm interior and flavorful menu items. No matter what you’re craving, we can guarantee there will be somewhere ready to satisfy and celebrate the occasion.
Start Planning Your New York Girls' Trip
There’s no doubt that a New York Girl’s Trip is a bucket list adventure for many. And what makes this destination extra special is how personalized you can make the experience.
If your girl group is ready to take the city by storm and dance the night away, New York has something for you. If your posse is more keen on exploring the arts this electric city has to offer, New York also has something for you. Or if maybe you and your ladies are interested in immersing yourselves in history, there are endless educational opportunities in store.
Does this sound like a place you'd like to explore? When you book with Celebration Wishes Travel, you can rest assured that every single detail of your trip will be handled with care. Fill out our interest form to learn more today!
