Culture & History in Manhattan

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Most recommended in Manhattan, Culture & History
Empire State Building: Express Entry
Empire State Building: Express Entry

A trip to New York wouldn't be complete without two things: pizza and a trip to the top of the Empire State Building. Skip the line to Manhattan's most famous skyscraper and bypass all queues inside. Check out the second-floor exhibits, the newly renovated 80th floor, and the 86th-floor observatory. See from above what makes New York the greatest city on the planet!

Madame Tussauds New York: Entry Ticket
Madame Tussauds New York: Entry Ticket

Walk into a world of wax at Madame Tussauds New York. Slay center stage and mix, mingle and marvel with the stars. Grab your guest seat on the Tonight Show and jabber on with Jimmy Fallon. And, make those celebrity selfies sparkle next to Audrey Hepburn, Lady Gaga, Brad Pitt and the Kardashians. Fashion Week invites you to a front row seat or better yet, a stroll down the runway. Times Square’s #1 attraction materializes those magical New York moments! Upgrade to the All Inclusive Package and receive additional fun, including Clown Chaos 7D Game, Custom Wax Hands, Souvenir Guidebook and a Digital Photo Pass.

RiseNY: Entry Ticket
RiseNY: Entry Ticket

Experience all of NYC in a New York minute with tickets to a 4D ride at RiseNY! All five boroughs of the Big Apple, all four seasons of Central Park, and ring in the New Year at Times Square no matter the time of year! Embark on a journey that lifts and connects you to NYC’s most famous sites and moments. Experience an immersive film by award-winning documentarian Ric Burns, explore museum-style galleries that transport you through the city’s expansive pop culture evolution, and fly over the iconic skyline on a soaring ride that suspends you 30 feet in the air! Get ready to fall in love with New York all over again – or for the first time – with tickets for RiseNY.

New York: The Beast Speedboat Ride Ticket
New York: The Beast Speedboat Ride Ticket

If you're looking for a leisurely punt down the river, you're on the wrong page. Thrill-seekers – this one's for you. The Beast is the only jet-powered speedboat experience in New York. Buckle up, hold on to your hats (seriously), and prepare yourself for a 45mph ride to the Statue of Liberty on the back of this bright-green river monster.

Museum of the City of New York: Entry Ticket
Museum of the City of New York: Entry Ticket

The world's most famous metropolis comes under the spotlight at the Museum of the City of New York, which celebrates the city's vibrant past, present, and future. Learn about its famous residents, like Jay-Z, Walt Whitman, and J.P. Morgan, and discover stories of innovation and struggle which are a part of the Big Apple's fabric. How do _you_ relate to the vision of generations of immigrants, politicians, tycoons, dreamers, builders, and ordinary New Yorkers?

New York Historical Society: Entry Ticket
New York Historical Society: Entry Ticket

The New York Historical Society, the city's first museum, showcases over 400 years of American history. Its top-tier collection includes art, documents, and artifacts. Explore its innovative exhibitions. Visit the DiMenna Children’s History Museum, where history sleuths of all ages are welcome. Watch _New York Story,_ a 20-minute panoramic film. Enjoy free tours with your admission, and don't miss the replica of the Oval Office.

American Museum of Natural History (AMNH): Plus One Ticket
American Museum of Natural History (AMNH): Pl...

Go on an expedition to a Pacific Island, to the deep-sea floor, back to the age of the dinosaurs, or out to the edge of the Milky Way Galaxy – all without leaving New York! Book your American Museum of Natural History tickets in advance and open up a world of discovery. You'll be able to choose from the latest special exhibits on arrival! It's one of the largest museums on Earth and is filled with the plants, animals, and minerals that make up our planet (and solar system, and galaxy). If you want to start big, go to the Rose Center for Earth and Space. It explores the 13-billion-year history of the universe and cosmic evolution.

American Museum of Natural History (AMNH): All Ticketed Exhibitions
American Museum of Natural History (AMNH): Al...

Go on an expedition to a Pacific Island, to the deep-sea floor, back to the age of the dinosaurs, or out to the edge of the Milky Way Galaxy – all without leaving New York! Book your American Museum of Natural History tickets in advance and open up a world of discovery. You'll be able to choose from the latest special exhibits on arrival! It's one of the largest museums on Earth and is filled with the plants, animals, and minerals that make up our planet (and solar system, and galaxy). If you want to start big, go to the Rose Center for Earth and Space. It explores the 13-billion-year history of the universe and cosmic evolution.

MoMA PS1: Entry Ticket
MoMA PS1: Entry Ticket

MoMA PS1 focuses on artists and the community, embracing new ideas and experimental art. For nearly 50 years, it has been a place where people can discover and engage with new art and perspectives. Its programs are dedicated to supporting artists' visions and exploring how creativity can bring people together.

Society of Illustrators: Entry Ticket
Society of Illustrators: Entry Ticket

The Society of Illustrators has been championing pencil-wielding magicians since 1901. A hidden gem in NYC, the society's historic museum provides a unique experience for anyone interested in curated illustrations, comics and cartoon art exhibits. With four galleries and 2,500 pieces in the permanent collection, as well as a rotating schedule of events and exhibitions, illustration enthusiasts will find endless inspiration in this unique New York museum.

Things to do in Manhattan

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Attractions in Manhattan

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Best Manhattan Culture & History

Explore the depth of Manhattan's rich tapestry with engaging self-guided audio tours. Discover iconic landmarks and hidden gems.

Grand Central Terminal: Walking In-App Audio Tour made by a Local

What is it?
An immersive walking audio tour experience focused on one of NYC's architectural marvels.
Why you should go?
Embark on a journey through the splendor of Grand Central Terminal, not just as a travel hub but as a monument to Manhattan's culture & history. This tour, crafted by a local expert named Linda, offers insights into the station beyond the common knowledge of commuters and history buffs alike. As one of the top culture & history in Manhattan experiences, participants will delve into stories and spaces often unseen by the public. Spanning approximately one hour, the tour comprises around 15 stops, each unraveling the grandeur of one of the largest train stations in the world. From its Beaux-Arts architecture to the celestial ceiling and hidden corners, this audio guide illuminates secrets of the past and present, celebrating the best Manhattan culture & history has to offer. Do not miss the chance to encounter Grand Central as never before; secure your spot on this unique tour today.

TOP-1 most rated Culture & History in Manhattan

  • Grand Central Terminal: Walking In-App Audio Tour made by a Local - Immerse yourself in the opulence of the Grand Terminal with this local-led audio tour. Admire the Beaux-Arts design, explore exclusive locations, and uncover the hidden charms of one of the largest stations globally. A favorite among culture & history enthusiasts seeking the best Manhattan has to offer.

TOP-1 new Culture & History in Manhattan for experienced tourists

  • Grand Central Terminal: Walking In-App Audio Tour made by a Local - Seasoned travelers can revel in the architectural splendor and historical anecdotes of one of New York's grandest spaces. This fresh tour, led by a local connoisseur named Linda, transcends the common narrative, unveiling the mystique of Grand Central. It's the latest exploration that seasoned tourists are eager to experience.

FAQ

The best Manhattan Culture & History experiences span iconic venues like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, historical neighborhoods such as Harlem, and landmarks including the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The diversity of Manhattan's cultural landscape is reflected in its vast array of museums, theaters, and historic districts, offering a rich exploration into the cultural heartbeat of New York City.
Beyond culture & history, Manhattan boasts incredible skyscrapers like the Empire State Building, green spaces such as Central Park, engaging experiences like Broadway shows, and bustling marketplaces including Times Square. Visitors can also enjoy culinary tours, river cruises, and shopping in trend-setting boutiques throughout the island.
The duration of cultural and historical experiences in Manhattan can vary significantly, ranging from quick visits of an hour or two to comprehensive tours or museum visits that take up the better part of a day. Allocating a few hours for each attraction is recommended to truly appreciate the depth of Manhattan's cultural offerings.
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