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Midtown Manhattan has endless skyscrapers, full sidewalks, and the streets are filled with honking and bicyclists swerving in and out of traffic. This part of the city attracts countless tourists daily to New York City’s most famous landmarks and unique attractions such as the Empire State Building, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt and the Chrysler Building.

People are drawn to the bright lights of Times Square and are easily inspired by the energizing aura of the city. Exploring Midtown is on every to-do list for the New York City vacationer. Fifth Avenue is arguably the most popular shopping street which is filled with tourists and locals every day. Don’t be surprised if you run into a celebrity as well.

What you need to do, see and eat in Midtown Manhattan, I’ll tell you in my ultimate Midtown Manhattan Guide!

By the way: If you don’t have that much time check out this amazing New York in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour.

My TOP 5 Things to do in Midtown Manhattan

You won’t be able to explore all of Midtown in one day. There’s simply too much to experience and a lot of it can be time-consuming. Below are the absolute things to do in this part of the city.

• Empire State Building by Night
• Bryant Park
• Shopping at 5th Avenue
• Enjoy breath-taking views from SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
• Visit the bright lights of Times Square

Where is Midtown Manhattan located?

Don’t let the term midtown confuse you! Midtown Manhattan describes on the one hand the whole area from 14th Street to 59th Street (at Central Park) and includes more than 10 neighborhoods like Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, the Theatre District and the Flatiron District. Below Midtown Manhattan begins Downtown Manhattan, with Uptown Manhattan bordering it to the north.

At the same time, Midtown is also a neighborhood within the Midtown Manhattan area.

Here you find a map of Midtown Manhattan

How to Get To Midtown Manhattan

This is our COMPLETE GUIDE that includes 25+ neighborhood guides for every part of the city with New York’s newest attractions like SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, Edge Hudson Yards & Little Island, our best-of lists, budget tips and the best things to do and see!

Check out our preview here.

The 29 Best Things To Do in Midtown Manhattan

There are so many things to do in Midtown Manhattan that it would be impossible for someone to go through all the attractions in just one day. With so many NYC attractions, tours, and sights, it would take multiple days and maybe even multiple visits to the city. With that being said, it’s ok if you don’t get to experience everything.

What is Midtown Manhattan known for?

Midtown Manhattan and Lower Manhattan are the main areas of NYC where tourists visit. Everything is there, from attractions, tours all the way to your shopping experience. In Midtown NYC you can find the Empire State Building, Grand Central Station, the world-renown Macy’s department store, and more. Because there are so many things to do in this part of New York City, we wanted to filter out all of the noise so your trip is easier to navigate and you can focus on the best of the best.

Best Attractions in Midtown Manhattan

Many of New York’s major New York attractions are located in this part of Manhattan so make sure to add them to you travel itinerary. Below are a few more attractions and museums in Midtown Manhattan we recommend.

• Central Park in WinterCentral Park should not be missing from any Things to Do in New York in winter! The green lung of the city turns into a true winter wonderland during the cold season. It is therefore also a popular destination for New Yorkers. Stroll through the park under snow-covered trees and let yourself be enchanted by the play of lights on the frozen water surfaces in the evening.Walking through Central Park in the cold is magical! If there’s snow, it’s even more amazing.If you want to be more adventurous, start in Harlem and walk down Central Park towards Midtown. Too often we catch ourselves starting on Fifth Avenue at the Plaza Hotel in Central Park. There is so much more to explore than just that part of Central Park.
• Bryant ParkBryant Park is located right in central Manhattan and is a quiet oasis between 40th and 42nd Street. Bryant Park is right in the cetner of Midtown Manhattan between 40th and 42nd Street, yet it still lends you the peace and quiet you need to get away for a few moments from the bustling city. Withg many small cafés dotted throughout the park this is the perfect place to unwind or relax when the weather is nice.
• Bryant Park Film FestivalOne of the best things to do in July in New York is visiting the free Bryant Park Film Festival and picnic performances in Bryant Park. In the heart of Manhattan, people gather in the summer months with blankets and chairs they’ve brought themselves to relax at the outdoor movie theater and concerts by the New York Philharmonics. Bryant Park is just under a 5 minute walk from Times Square, surrounded by tall trees, so it’s a bit secluded from the rest, but you’re still in the middle of it all: Awesome!
• Chelsea PiersAll sports fans should definitely go to the Chelsea Piers – these include Piers 59, 60 and 61 between 17th and 23rd Street. The complex consists of bowling alleys, climbing walls, fitness studios, basketball courts, an ice skating and skating rink and an indoor swimming pool.
• Chrysler Building Observation DeckIt was discussed for a long time and now it has finally become reality: The Chrysler Building is to get an observation deck! This is to be built on the 61st floor and transform the current north and south terrace into an observation deck with a view over Midtown, the East River and One Vanderbilt Summit.
• Empire State BuildingThe Empire State Building is the most famous attraction in New York City. When most people think of NYC, this landmark is usually the first thing that pops into their head. It’s an iconic skyscraper and has been arguably the face of the city. It should definitely be a part of every trip to the city since it features two observation decks! Here’s a fun fact: The Empire State Building even has its own zip code! (NY 10118)
• Flatiron BuildingThe Flatiron Building is one of the most popular, beautiful and iconic buildings in NYC. The triangle shaped building likens the shape of a iron, hence the name. As one of the most photogenic spots in NYC this is definitely worth the visit for every tourist.
• Flipper’s At The RinkNew York has a new attraction to offer: Flipper’s at The Rink! It’s a roller skating rink at Rockefeller Center that you can visit from April to October. This means that Rockefeller Plaza now has something to offer all year round, in addition to its famous Rockefeller Ice Rink.
• Fotografiska New YorkFotografiska New York is a wonderful museum in NYC for all art and especially photo art enthusiasts. Originally founded in Stockholm in 2010, the museum also exists in Tallinn (Estonia) and since 2019 in New York. It is located in a beautiful building from 1892 and extends over 6 floors. In addition to changing exhibitions, there is a restaurant and cocktail bar to round out your visit.
• Free Fridays at MoMAThe Museum of Modern Art in NYC, commonly known as the MoMA, is one of the largest and most influential modern and contemporary art museums in the world. Since it houses an extensive collection of over 150,000 works of art, ranging from painting and sculpture to photography, design, and film, the MoMA is a popular destination for art enthusiasts and offers a unique experience for those who want to explore the world of modern and contemporary art.Every day from 4:00 PM to close there is a “Pay-what-you-wish” admission which means that visitors can pay what they can afford for admission to the museum.However, that’s not all! In addition to the Pay-what-you-wish policy the MoMA is free for all visitors on Fridays from 4 pm to 8 pm.Please note that the Free Fridays & Pay-what-you-wish policy only apply to New York State residents!
• Gramercy ParkThis green idyll is a park surrounded by expensive brownstone houses. Access is only granted with a key, which is only given to residents living directly at the park. But it is still worthwhile to look over or through the fence. The park is simply enchanting and beautiful.

Best Guided Tours in Midtown Manhattan

Most tours in NYC start right here in Midtown Manhattan, which makes sense of course since a lot of the attractions are in the vicinity. These range from Hop-on Hop-off bus tours, going up to NYC observation decks to touring buildings such as Radio City Music Hall or Madison Square Garden. You’ll have numerous amounts of options so it really depends on your time and schedule.

Here are our favorite tours below.

• High Line and Chelsea Small Group TourThis is the most popular walking tour along the High Line, starting in the Meatpacking District at the Whitney Museum, running through Chelsea and ending at Hudson Yards. The High Line is my personal favorite park in NYC and always worth a visit. I find the High Line and Chelsea Small Group Tour really exciting because you get told the history and significance to New York. Your guide will tell you many secrets that the High Line, the Chelsea Market and the Meatpacking District has to offer.For me personally, this tour is one of the best walking tours in NYC ever, because you see a lot of the old and the new New York City. That’s what makes this district so interesting for me!
• Flatiron Food, Architecture, and History TourThe Flatiron Building is one of the most photographed buildings in the city. But there is much more to discover in the direct neighbourhood. Thanks to the organization “Flatiron 23rd Street Partnership” you will be guided through the district every Sunday by a free guide. Meeting point is the southwest corner of Madison Square Park.
• Food on Foot ToursThis is one of the best ways to discover the culinary highlights of NYC! Taking you around the city to explore the best of the best in terms of food, this award winning tour is an excellent way to explore the taste of different areas of NYC.
• Grand Central Terminal TourFrom hidden tennis courts to the world’s largest Tiffany clock, Grand Central Terminal has a few tricks up its sleeve. If you want to take a tour of Grand Central Terminal and learn the little-known facts that even New Yorkers don’t know, check out the Grand Central Terminal tours.
• Grand Central: Open Sesame Bagel Tour

If guided tours interest you, be sure to check out the Best Walking Tours NYC!

Get personal tips & tricks, specifically tailored to your trip!

We will provide you with individual tips & tricks as you prepare for your trip. How to plan, save money and make sure you experience the most of NYC are only some of the topics covered!

Best Restaurants in Midtown Manhattan

Midtown restaurants, bars, and cafes can be found on pretty much every corner of the neighborhood. Because so many tourists come here, it would only make sense to have food establishments set up. However, you should be aware that prices for food tend to be on the more expensive side in this part of the city. With that being said we love places like 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar, Ellen’s Stardust Diner for tourists, and if you’re looking for an NYC food hall, check out Urbanspace Vanderbilt.

• AñejoAñejo is a classy yet fun and casual Mexican restaurant with modern small plates and innovative cocktails. This restaurant was created by the Top Chef season 7 contestant, Angelo Sosa. So, it’s no surprise Añejo is a culinary work of art and is even Michelin recommended for the best Mezcal bars in NYC. You must try the unique ‘Traviesa Montelobos’ with Mezcal, fresh grapefruit, lime, Fresno infused agave, Aperol, and spicy salt when visiting.  Each small plate is a flavorful culinary experience, but their top dishes include the tender and smoky ‘octopus plate’ and the ‘Drunken Lamb Barbacoa.’ These plates are modern but include elements of Mexican food that bring your taste buds for a ride.
• ANA Bar & EateryANA’s at Hudson Yards offers something for everyone. You can have a delicious breakfast including fresh coffee and pastries or enjoy a nice lunch meal with farm-to-table foods or pizza.At 4:00 PM the place turns into a perfect happy hour spot for everyone who likes signature cocktails, wine, craft beers on tap and pizza.This year ANA Bar & Eatery hosts a Super Bowl watch party where you can treat yourself at the unique market buffet of buffalo wings, Mac & cheese bites and other tasty food.
• AquavitSpice up your Thanksgiving dinner in NYC by visiting Aquavit, a two Michelin-starred restaurant offering a takeout meal that feeds four for $495. The meal is served with fennel and caraway spiced turkey breast, smoked turkey leg as main courses, and sides that include Truffle mac and cheese, sweet potato puree, pumpkin sourdough bread, and Danish rye loaf with butter. Then you’ll finish off the delicious meal with pecan pie and vanilla custard for dessert. Place your order by November 17 for pick up on November 24.
• Artichoke Basille’s PizzaArtichoke Basille’s Pizza was founded in 2008 and serves big slices with creamy toppings.

Best Bars in Midtown Manhattan

After a long day exploring Midtown Manhattan, one of the best things to do is to grab drinks at one of the many bars in the area. One of the most popular spots in Midtown is 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar. It has outdoor seating and the Empire State Building is literally staring right next to you. It arguably has one of the best views of the city.

• 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar230 Fifth is arguably the most famous rooftop bar in New York City. It is well known for its stunning views of the Empire State Building great cocktails and large outside seating area. Whether in summer or winter, the 230 Fifth is always a good idea. The sunset is always enchanting and in the winter cuddled under blankets and heated mushrooms has also something to sit.
• BAR 54 RooftopOne of the most popular rooftop bars in Times Square is Bar 54, located on the roof of the Hyatt Times Square Hotel New York, on the 54th floor (hence the name), where you can enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city. The Bar 54 is also a lounge, so you can go there even if the weather is not so good.
• Bathtub GinA great bar with a great selection of cocktails and gins. On the menu you will find small dishes like crispy calamari, grilled chicken or burrata.
• Bill’s Bar and BurgerThis bar is one of the places that are one of our little highlights in NYC. As the name suggests, you can get tasty burgers and excellent beer here. The list of beers that are drafted or bottled is as long as the list of burgers. And all this at a fair price.

Best Cafes in Midtown Manhattan

If you’re looking for a quick break then you can always check out some Midtown cafes. There are artisanal tea and coffee shops and bakeries throughout the neighborhood and are great places to relax and recuperate from all the sightseeing.

• Bibble & SipBibble & Sip is a bakery café located in Midtown Manhattan. It’s a great place to grab a coffee and some of the cutest desserts in the city.
• Blank Slate NYC Coffee + KitchenCoffee Shop with excellent cuisine in Midtown
• Gotham Coffee RoastersThe coffee is fantastic, the service is great and the location invites you to stay. Be sure to try a croissant with your hot drink. These are particularly delicious.
• Grace StreetAffectionately considered to be one of the top Korean dessert cafes in K-Town, Grace Street has something to satisfy anyone’s sweet tooth. From coffee to Korean doughnuts, shaved ice to mochi waffles, this cafe truly offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience. The open seating area is incredibly inviting and the wait staff is warm and hospitable. After a long day walking around NYC, you definitely deserve one of the sweets from Grace Street.
• Junior’sJunior’s is a chain restaurant and bakery that is famous for its New York-style cheesecake.

Shopping in Midtown

Shopping in New York can be overwhelming as there are tons of stores in this city. Times Square has some big stores such as H&M, Uniqlo, and Levis. Then you have Herald Square and 34th Street which is home to the most store in the US, Macy’s Department Store. For high-end luxury shopping, then shopping on Fifth Avenue would be your best bet. This street is home to designer stores such as Gucci, Tiffany’s, Coach, and many more. Fifth Avenue is also home to the Apple Store which reopened in 2019 from renovations.

Where to shop in Midtown Manhattan

• Macy’s Herald Square Other Shopping

  From 34th to 35th Street between Broadway and 7th Avenue is the legendary and huge department store, Macy’s. The building is 11 floors high – including a café, McDonald’s, and Starbucks. Macy’s at Herald Square is one of the most famous department stores in the world and is definitely the biggest. A number of brands such as Michael Kors, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Tommy Hilfiger, Burberry, and many more extend on the seemingly endless sales area.Macy’s is filled with jewelry, handbags, jeans, dresses, household goods, a large well-stocked cosmetics department, and a complete floor full of shoes. In order to avoid the huge crowd that visits the department stores daily, we recommend you come early and during the week. Be sure to head up the ancient escalator to the 11th floor, which has been in operation since its opening in 1901. Macy’s at Herald Square is an icon you do not want to miss.

• Apple Store 5th Ave Electronic Store

  The Fifth Avenue Apple Store is the most popular Apple Store in the city. You won’t miss the store because the store entrance is this huge and beautifully-made glass cube. It’s also right across from The Plaza Hotel and Central Park. As you enter the store, you’re greeted with a lot of greenery giving the store a clean aesthetic. You’re also greeted with this amazing spiral staircase that takes you down to the store floor.

• M&M’s World Other Shopping

  The M & M’s Store in Times Square is a real hot spot that you should definitely check out. Since 2006, tourists have come here to fill their bags with M & M’s. This is a personal paradise for someone that has a sweet tooth. In addition to chocolate, there are also many souvenirs from New York, for example, a Statue of Liberty in M & M’s style. So come by and choose between all the colors and different sorts of treats.

• FAO Schwarz in New York Other Shopping

  You’ll probably recognize their old store location in movies such as “Big”, “Heart & Soul” and “Chopsticks”. FAO Schwarz’s interior was the inspiration for Duncan’s Toy Chest in the movie “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York”. Aside from its film features, this toy store in NYC moved their store location to Rockefeller Center and is perfect for kids. It’s a hot-spot during the holiday season as well.

• Nordstrom Flagship Store NYC Other Shopping

  The Nordstrom Flagship store in NYC opened in 2019 and is the first Nordstrom for women in the city. It was a big move because the area is already saturated with multiple department stores but it also shows how successful Nordstrom is becoming. Nordstrom Men’s store is located right across the street.

Shopping on Fifth Avenue NYC

Staying in Midtown has many advantages. For one, you’re right in the middle of the action and everything you’ll ever need will be around you. There are train stations everywhere so getting to locations won’t be a problem at all. Also, if you stay on the higher floors of the hotel, you’ll have a gorgeous view of the Manhattan skyline. Some of the best hotels are Hotel Novotel, The Row NYC, YOTEL Times Square, and many more.

If you decide to stay in the neighborhood please check out these amazing hotels:

• Ace Hotel New York
• Andaz 5th AvenueAs the name suggests, it is located on the famous 5th Avenue in Midtown Manhattan. This means that many sights such as Central Park, Times Square, Bryant Park, Summit One Vanderbilt and the Empire State Building are within easy walking distance.The boutique hotel itself has everything that a 5-star hotel in New York has to offer: large rooms, luxurious furnishings, friendly and competent staff, and a stylish bar.
• Archer Hotel
• Arlo NoMad
• Baccarat Hotel and Residences New YorkEven the lobby is stunning, and the rooms and suites are equally opulent and classically decorated.In addition, there is a first-class spa with wellness area and bar, an excellent restaurant and bar.
• Broadway Plaza Hotel
• Broken ShakerIf you’ve had the pleasure of traveling around the U.S., you may already be familiar with Broken Shaker from their locations in Los Angeles, Miami, and Chicago. Well, their New York bar more than holds its own with some of the city’s best views!

Recommended article: The 32 Best Hotels in Midtown Manhattan.

Neighborhoods Nearby

Midtown is the epicenter of tourism in NYC. It’s definitely the go-to location when it comes to places to visit in Manhattan. It’s definitely an area that tourists should check out. Once you’re finished with Midtown make sure to swing by the nearby neighborhoods below.

Neighborhoods that are Similar to Midtown Manhattan

If you enjoyed Midtown, below are similar neighborhoods that we think you’ll enjoy.

There are a lot of neighborhoods in Manhattan worth visiting. We highly recommend Midtown and SoHo. There’s a lot of things to do in New York City and those surrounding areas have a similar vibe to the Flatiron District.

Our Perfect Day in Midtown Manhattan

• Have breakfast at Blank Slate NYC – This small cafe which has a sit-in section and caters to take-out as well is located on the border of Midtown and the Flatiron District. Their items are very good and one thing you’ll notice is that their ingredients are of high-quality and nutritious.  (121 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016)
• Visit an observation deck – Either visit the Empire State Building, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt or Top of the Rock to see great views of Manhattan. That’s the reason you came here right?
• Shop on Fifth Avenue – This street is filled with many high-end stores as well as your favorite mainstream shopping stores. You’ll find jewelry, clothing, and even electronics along this street. (Fifth Avenue – 42nd Street to 59th Street)
• Lunch at Black Tap NYC – Black Tap NYC is an amazing burger spot but is also famous for its crazy milkshakes. One of their key items on the menu is their Bam Bam Milkshake which is loaded with Fruity Pebbles along with your classic strawberry milkshake. You can either go to the one on 35th Street or 55th Street.  (45 W 35th St, New York, NY 10001, 136 W 55th St, New York, NY 10019)

• Visit the Museum of Modern Art – The MoMA is one of Manhattan’s most popular museums. It’s also the mecca for art and has been open since the 1920s. (11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019)
• Coffee and pastries at Bluestone Lane Coffee – A quick coffee break is always needed. It gives you that time to rest and re-energize yourself for whatever it is you need to do. We recommend visiting one of the Bluestone Lane Coffee locations especially next to Bryant Park. (1120 6th Ave, New York, NY 10036)
• Enjoy a cocktail and amazing views at 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar – This is probably the most popular rooftop bar in all of NYC. The views are amazing and the rooftop is big enough to fit a good amount of people. In the winter, the rooftop bar installs heated “igloos” so you can enjoy the outdoors. (230 5th Ave, New York, NY)

Midtown is the area between 34th Street and 59th Street. You can find The Empire State Building and Macy’s on 34th Street. 59th Street is home to the southern part of Central Park, The Apple Store and The Plaza Hotel (which is famous for the movie Home Alone 2).

Is Midtown Manhattan safe?

Midtown Manhattan in general is safe. It’s perfect for tourists, but it’s also a prime spot for scams. Like in any other big city, make sure to be aware of your surroundings.

Is Midtown Manhattan expensive?

NYC is generally a little bit more expensive compared to other American cities. Living in Midtown can be quite expensive as well. People live in very small spaces but pay a premium price. Also, restaurants are on the pricier side because of rent and the flock of tourists that come to the city. If you’re looking for cheaper, but still great quality food, make sure to check out Queens or Brooklyn.

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reviewed 1 week ago by DAN_REHMAN

excellent views from the Brooklyn Bridge and Empire State Building. if you get nice clear day, get the boat to SOL

reviewed 2 days ago by cornwall666

An incredible building with amazing acoustics; we were lucky enough for the organ to be playing when we visited — a must visit.

reviewed 2 weeks ago by MichHerondale

This park is really nice to walk around, it has a lot of beautiful spots and the view is stunning! You get to see a cool angle of the Empire State and of the NY skyscrapers

The building is amazing and the contents on free public display absolutely awesome. From Winnie the Pooh to the Declaration of independence, it’s all in here. Easily the best value place to visit in NYC and the best bit of our short trip.

«We are in love!»

reviewed yesterday by greivy21

Very rarely do I find a restaurant that has it all and satisfies the palettes of my whole family ( specially my kids )
From cocktails to dessert we enjoyed everything in pure delight. Not only is the staff caring and attentive but the ambiance is a dream. Can’t wait to return with more friends and family.

«Good flavor, fast casual»

reviewed 6 days ago by brmusicman

reviewed 6 days ago by Erik G

«Sumptuous Feast, No Less!»

reviewed 1 week ago by LeopoldsFriend

«Best sandwich ever»

reviewed 3 days ago by Christian B

Without a doubt the best sandwich I have ever tasted. The sizes are generous and the price are affordable. I see no reason to not come back!

reviewed 2 days ago by leia1920

«Great deal, excellent new hotel»

reviewed 6 days ago by Pam J

«Luma in the Theater District»

reviewed 2 days ago by C T

Wonderful stay for 3 nights/4 days for our first NYC trip. Located within easy walking distance to the theater district. Our room was a two-king view room on the 17th floor. The room was spotless and nicely decorated. Super comfortable beds and plenty of pillows!

«Amazing service and location»

reviewed 2 days ago by 590caseyr

reviewed yesterday by wrldtrav

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Frequently Asked Questions about Midtown hotels

• What are the best Midtown hotels near Manhattan Skyline?Some of the more popular Midtown hotels near Manhattan Skyline include:
• Do any Midtown hotels in New York City have a pool?Popular Midtown hotels in New York City that have a pool include:
• What are the best Midtown hotels in New York City?Some of the best Midtown hotels in New York City are:
• Which Midtown hotels in New York City offer a gym?
• Which Midtown hotels in New York City have rooms with a private balcony?
• Which Midtown hotels in New York City have rooms with great views?These Midtown hotels in New York City have great views and are well-liked by travellers:
• Which Midtown hotels in New York City are romantic?These Midtown hotels in New York City have been described as romantic by other travellers:
• Which Midtown hotels in New York City are good for families?
• Which Midtown hotels in New York City allow pets?These Midtown hotels in New York City generally allow pets:

  It is always best to call ahead and confirm specific pet policies before your stay.

• Do any Midtown hotels in New York City offer free breakfast?