Things to do in NYC as a solo traveller

Discover the top sights, spots to stay and must-do solo activities in the Big Apple:

• Explore iconic parks – relax and people-watch in Central Park, Bryant Park and Washington Square Park

• Take a ferry ride – the Staten Island Ferry or NYC Ferry offers budget-friendly views of the NYC skyline and landmarks

• Visit world-class museums and watch Broadway shows – discover art, history and science at The Met, MoMA and the American Museum of Natural History or catch a world-famous performance on Broadway

New York City is a fantastic choice for solo travellers because it offers endless opportunities for adventure, exploration and personal discovery. Whether you’re strolling through Central Park, admiring world-class art at the Met or savouring global cuisines at hidden gems, the city has something for everyone. With its walkability and extensive public transport, it’s easy to explore and feel at home – wherever you are. Let’s take a look at some of the best experiences for solo travellers in ‘the city that never sleeps’.

Central Park

New York City is home to one of the most celebrated parks in the world, Central Park. With its sprawling 843 acres, this legendary green space offers endless opportunities to find a quiet spot and observe the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you choose to sit by the Bethesda Fountain or take a leisurely stroll through the Ramble, you're sure to find solace here.

Bryant Park

Another fabulous spot for people-watching is Bryant Park, located in Midtown Manhattan. This small but beautiful park is a hub of activity, with events ranging from outdoor movie nights to seasonal markets. Grab a coffee from one of the nearby cafés and find a seat at one of the park's many tables to watch the world go by. 

Washington Square Park

Heading to Greenwich Village? Then Washington Square Park is another great choice for solo travellers. Known for its iconic arch and lively atmosphere, Washington Square Park is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. Street performers, chess players and NYU students create a dynamic environment that's perfect for people-watching.

Exploring NYC on the water offers a fresh perspective of the city’s skyline and landmarks. The best part? It’s budget-friendly and perfect for solo travellers.

Staten Island Ferry

Hop on the Staten Island Ferry for unbeatable views of the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan. The 25-minute ride is free, making it one of the best solo activities in NYC. Whether you're on a solo trip to NYC or looking for things to do in New York alone, this ferry ride offers a relaxing way to take in the city’s skyline. Pack your camera and enjoy the views of Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.

NYC Ferry

For just a few dollars, the NYC Ferry takes you to various boroughs like DUMBO, Long Island City and Rockaway Beach. The affordable price and scenic views make it an essential part of any solo trip to New York. Whether you're an art lover exploring DUMBO’s galleries or a beach enthusiast heading to Rockaway Beach, the ferry opens up exciting possibilities for solo travellers who want to explore neighbourhoods that are slightly off the beaten path.

Circle Line Cruise

If you want a more structured solo activity in NYC, the Circle Line Cruise offers a guided tour of the city’s waterfront. With options like full island tours or sunset cruises, it's a great way to see the city solo while learning about its history and landmarks. This cruise is ideal for solo travellers looking for educational, scenic and relaxed things to do alone in NYC. It’s a wonderful experience for anyone interested in history and architecture or simply enjoying beautiful views of the city.

No trip to NYC is complete without seeing Lady Liberty up close. This iconic landmark is a must for solo travellers looking to soak in some history and spectacular views. Whether you're on a solo birthday trip or a New York solo trip, visiting the Statue of Liberty and nearby Ellis Island offers a reflective experience for anyone exploring the city's history. These cultural landmarks are perfect for solo travellers seeking both adventure and introspection.

Liberty Island

A ticket to the Statue of Liberty includes a ferry ride to Liberty Island, where you can walk around and visit the museum. If you book in advance, you can even climb to the crown for panoramic views, making it an unforgettable part of your solo trip to NYC. This is a top choice for solo activities in NYC, as you can fully immerse yourself in the history of the statue and its significance. The ferry ride alone offers fantastic photo opportunities, so have your camera ready. The views of the Statue of Liberty against the backdrop of Lower Manhattan are iconic and create a memorable snapshot of your solo adventure in NYC. Whether you're documenting your solo trip or sharing on social media, this visit is a photographer’s dream.

Ellis Island

Pair your visit with a stop at Ellis Island to learn about the millions of immigrants who arrived in the US. This experience offers excellent opportunities for reflection and discovery, perfect for anyone on a solo trip to New York. If you're interested in your own family’s history, you can even search for family names in the immigration records at the museum, making it one of the most meaningful things to do in New York alone.

NYC is home to some of the best museums in the world, and exploring them solo allows you to move at your own pace and dive deep into what interests you most. Whether you're into art, science or history, the city's museums offer a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for those travelling alone. Museums are a fantastic way to spend your day in NYC, especially when you can fully immerse yourself in the exhibits without the pressure of keeping up with others. Each visit offers something unique, from ancient artefacts to cutting-edge contemporary creations.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met)

Housing over two million works, The Met is a must-visit for any solo traveller with an appreciation for art and history. The museum spans over 5,000 years of history, showcasing everything from ancient Egyptian artefacts to European Renaissance masterpieces and contemporary works. Whether you’re into classical art or more modern collections, you’ll find plenty to captivate you. A solo visit to The Met offers the freedom to explore rooms at your own pace, soaking in the art without distractions. 

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

The MoMA is a haven for both modern and contemporary art lovers, making it a top choice for solo travellers interested in exploring artistic creativity. The museum features masterpieces like Van Gogh’s Starry Night, Warhol’s Campbell’s Soup Cans and a wealth of contemporary installations. MoMA's spacious galleries and thought-provoking exhibitions make it easy to get lost in the art, making it a perfect place for solo activities in NYC. Whether you want to dive deep into the world of modern art or just marvel at the beauty of a single piece, MoMA provides an unforgettable solo museum experience.

The American Museum of Natural History

If history and science fascinate you, a solo trip to the American Museum of Natural History is a must. The museum is home to awe-inspiring exhibits like dinosaur fossils, meteorites and the impressive Hall of Biodiversity. Exploring this world-class museum by yourself allows you to take your time marvelling at each exhibit and reading all the informative plaques. Whether you’re captivated by the planetarium’s starry displays or the fascinating anthropology exhibits, the American Museum of Natural History offers one of the most enriching solo experiences in NYC.

Seeing a Broadway show solo is an extraordinary experience. New York’s theatre scene is world-renowned, and there’s nothing quite like immersing yourself in the magic of a live performance on your own. When you’re on a solo trip to NYC, attending a Broadway show lets you focus entirely on the spectacle, from the storyline to the captivating performances. You don’t need to coordinate with anyone else – simply pick the show you’re excited about and enjoy it on your terms.

Experience iconic productions

Broadway shows are an essential part of New York’s cultural fabric. If you're wondering what to do alone in NYC, attending a show on Broadway is an experience you’ll never forget. With the lights dimming and the curtain rising, there’s a thrill that comes from being in the audience, all on your own, fully immersed in the magic of the performance.

Explore Off-Broadway gems

While Broadway productions like Hamilton and The Lion King are spectacular, Off-Broadway shows offer a more intimate and often more experimental experience. For solo travellers seeking something different, Off-Broadway productions frequently push boundaries and provide innovative performances that you won’t find in traditional theatres. From avant-garde plays to captivating musicals, Off-Broadway offers a unique side of NYC's theatre world that's ideal for anyone exploring solo date ideas in NYC.

Dining alone in NYC can be an enriching experience. With its diverse culinary scene, the city offers countless solo-friendly dining options, whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a lavish multi-course meal. Embrace the freedom of dining by yourself, where you can enjoy your food at your own pace, indulge in your favourite dishes and explore new flavours. NYC's food tours, restaurants and cafés are welcoming to solo diners, so there’s no need to feel awkward or out of place.

Cosy up at a café

New York is filled with charming cafés perfect for a solo dining experience. Whether you're enjoying a rich cappuccino at Devoción or savouring a delicate Viennese pastry at Café Sabarsky, these spots offer a cosy atmosphere to unwind and people-watch. Grab a book, sip your drink and enjoy the city’s energy as you sit back and relax at one of these welcoming locales.

Sit at the bar

Many top restaurants in NYC, like Gramercy Tavern or The NoMad, feature bar seating, offering solo diners an excellent opportunity to enjoy a meal without feeling like you're getting in the way. Whether you’re indulging in a perfectly crafted cocktail or savouring a gourmet meal, the bar setting encourages conversation with the bartender or fellow diners, making it an ideal environment for solo travellers. For solo date ideas, the NYC style of sitting at the bar offers the perfect blend of great food, ambience and casual socialising.

Try a food market

For those craving variety, NYC’s food markets, like Chelsea Market or Smorgasburg, offer a wide range of dishes from around the world. These bustling markets are great for solo travellers because you can sample everything from tacos to artisanal doughnuts while enjoying the lively atmosphere. Wander through the stalls, take your time to choose the best bites and indulge in a solo dining experience that’s as much about the people-watching as it is about the food. It's a fun way to explore the city’s diverse culinary offerings.

New York City is known as ‘the city that never sleeps’, and it truly comes alive after dark. For solo travellers, the city offers a range of exciting and safe activities to enjoy at night. Whether you’re looking to unwind with stunning views, seek adventure or dive into the city’s vibrant nightlife, there’s something for everyone after the sun sets. With the streets lit up and the energy of the city heightened, exploring NYC at night is one of the most exhilarating things to do in NYC alone.

Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge

Take a nighttime walk across the Brooklyn Bridge for jaw-dropping views of the city’s skyline and the East River. The bridge’s lights and the city’s glowing skyline create a romantic and serene atmosphere, perfect for a solo nighttime adventure. This walk is an iconic experience that provides fantastic photo opportunities and a peaceful moment of reflection in the heart of the city.

Experience rooftop bars

Rooftop bars like Westlight in Williamsburg or The Press Lounge in Midtown offer some of the best views of NYC, making them a must-visit for solo travellers seeking a relaxed yet stylish night out. Enjoy a drink, take in the views of the skyline and unwind as the city’s lights sparkle beneath you. With a cool breeze and a cocktail in hand, rooftop bars are ideal for anyone looking for a quiet spot to enjoy the night solo or meet fellow travellers. They offer a chic yet comfortable setting for solo activities at night.

Join a night tour

From ghost tours to jazz club crawls, NYC has plenty of nighttime experiences designed specifically for solo travellers. A night tour offers a fun way to experience the city while learning about its history and culture. If you’re on a solo trip to New York and want to discover something new at night, these guided tours allow you to meet fellow explorers while enjoying a unique perspective of the city after dark.

Tips for navigating NYC solo

• Use public transport – the subway is the fastest and most affordable way to get around NYC. Download a transport app for easy navigation, and don’t be afraid to ask locals for directions if you get lost. It’s one of the best things to do in NYC alone if you want to travel around quickly.

• Stay in a central area – to make the most of your solo trip to NYC, book accommodation in Midtown, SoHo or the Upper West Side, which offer easy access to iconic attractions.

• Be mindful of your belongings – always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like Times Square or the subway. Keep your bag secure, especially when wandering solo.

• Join a group tour – if you're keen to meet people, consider joining a group walking or food tour. It's a great way to socialise while exploring.

• Embrace spontaneity – some of the best NYC experiences happen when you allow yourself to wander off the beaten path. Don’t be afraid to get lost and discover hidden gems along the way!

Note: Booking.com does not endorse any specific activity or Attractions provider mentioned in this article. The recommendations are general suggestions for activities that visitors can typically expect at these locations.