Things to Do in New York (2025)

Walk guided apartment and neighborhood tours that bring immigrant New York to life. Frequently highlighted by The New York Times and the National Park Service, it’s a powerful, place-based history lesson—book ahead; tours sell out.

Explore the Hunterfly Road Houses and exhibits honoring one of the nation’s largest pre–Civil War free Black communities. Recent restoration work has been covered by The Art Newspaper and The Guardian; tours operate with advance booking.

The city’s legendary spoken‑word institution continues with off‑site slams and open mics during a city‑backed renovation. Look for monthly programs at partner venues; widely covered by Gothamist and NYC Cultural Affairs, with collaborations citywide.

Red Hook’s intimate hub for folk, bluegrass, klezmer, and roots traditions—plus classes and a record imprint. Celebrated by Brooklyn Magazine and local critics, Jalopy nurtures community through nightly shows and festivals that feel authentically New York.

A tiny Williamsburg museum devoted to everyday NYC artifacts—think subway tokens, neon, and neighborhood ephemera. Profiled by NPR and The New York Times, it’s open Thursday–Sunday and hosts delightful community‑curated exhibits.

After decades afloat, the beloved chamber series now presents free weekend concerts at the Pier 5 Boathouse, with programming regularly noted by The New York Times and WQXR. Expect intimate performances with postcard harbor views.

Since 1935, this Greenwich Village basement has defined jazz in New York. Nightly sets at 8 and 10 include legends and rising stars; Mondays feature the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra. Universally praised by critics and musicians alike.

NYC’s nonprofit shrine to cinema showcases first‑run indies, restorations, and repertory with filmmaker Q&As. A longtime critical favorite, it’s where the city’s film culture convenes—check the calendar for premieres and retrospectives.

A Gowanus listening‑led venue with a stellar sound room, plant‑forward restaurant, and all‑day cafe. Lauded by The Infatuation and Resident Advisor, its eclectic programming spans live sets, vinyl‑driven lounges, and community events.

Tour a working rooftop farm with skyline views, seasonal dinners, and yoga. Frequently featured by National Geographic and travel editors, the Grange shows urban agriculture in action—public tours run spring through fall.

Independent guides lead excellent small‑group walks through the Navy Yard’s past and present industry, made in partnership with the Yard itself. Praised by local travel writers, it’s a smart, engaging way to understand working‑waterfront NYC.

A third‑generation Lower East Side stalwart since 1937—part shop, part time capsule. Featured by Eater New York and Time Out New York, it’s perfect after a Tenement Museum tour; expect thousands of classic and international sweets.