The best things to do in Manhattan

45 things to do we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

Browse another shelf: all of Manhattan’s best · Restaurants · Shopping · Beauty · Nightlife · Bakeries & Sweets · Antiques, Thrift, & Vintage · Arts & Culture · Health & Wellness · Cafes · Hobbies, Books, & Crafts · Home & Garden · Parks & Outdoors · Pets · Sporting Goods · Services

Pinned in Manhattan today

This spot is open today.

Two pinned places a day in Manhattan — $10 here, $25 adds the newsletter. List your business →

Paid placements are always marked.

Entertainment · 45 places · showing the latest additions first

Skip the weather drama and swing year-round at Rodeo Plaza Screen Golf, a relaxed, super clean spot with nine climate-controlled private…

225 Broad Ave #101 (Palisades Park)

Skip the weather drama and swing year-round at Rodeo Plaza Screen Golf, a relaxed, super clean spot with nine climate-controlled private rooms that fit up to four players. Fire up their Golfzon simulators and play more than 190 courses worldwide... perfect for off-season tune-ups or friendly bragging rights.

Website ↗

Edge Golf

Entertainment

Edge Golf is a high-tech, clean indoor spot with golf simulators for practice or virtual rounds, a putting green, and coffee to keep the…

US, 18 Edgewater Town Center (Edgewater)

Edge Golf is a high-tech, clean indoor spot with golf simulators for practice or virtual rounds, a putting green, and coffee to keep the session rolling. Perfect when the weather stinks or you just want focused reps without the hike to 18.

From the Bergen County newsletter, September 2, 2026

Website ↗

Homey cinema space with popcorn plus special events and an old-world vibe.

1 Park Ave (Fort Lee)

Homey cinema space with popcorn plus special events and an old-world vibe.

Website ↗

Chuck E. Cheese

Entertainment

Kid-friendly chain known for its arcade games, pizza parties & play zones.

8101 Tonnelle Ave (North Bergen)

Kid-friendly chain known for its arcade games, pizza parties & play zones.

Website ↗
Run a Manhattan business? Two pinned spots a day — $10 here, $25 adds the newsletter. Advertise →

Chuck E. Cheese

Entertainment

Kid-friendly chain known for its arcade games, pizza parties & play zones.

162 Fulton Ave (Hempstead)

Kid-friendly chain known for its arcade games, pizza parties & play zones.

Website ↗

Skip the trek, Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment serves live harness and thoroughbred thrills, wagering, and legit eats like Victory…

1 Racetrack Drive (East Rutherford)

Skip the trek, Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment serves live harness and thoroughbred thrills, wagering, and legit eats like Victory Terrace, Backyard Grill, Pink, plus watch parties and the FanDuel Sportsbook to keep the buzz going. Bonus: they’re celebrating 50 years on September 12, 2026.

From the Fair Lawn newsletter, September 4, 2026

Website ↗

Bronx Zoo

Entertainment

Metropolitan zoo with 265 acres that harbors 10,000 animals in replicas of their native habitats.

2300 Southern Blvd (Bronx)

Metropolitan zoo with 265 acres that harbors 10,000 animals in replicas of their native habitats.

Website ↗

Golf club with a pool and kid-friendly area, serving a variety of foods.

60 Front St (Hempstead)

Golf club with a pool and kid-friendly area, serving a variety of foods.

Website ↗

MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM

Entertainment

Swap your doomscroll for sprinkles at Museum of Ice Cream in SoHo. Expect 14+ immersive rooms, a sweet subway, the world-famous Sprinkle…

558 Broadway (New York)

Swap your doomscroll for sprinkles at Museum of Ice Cream in SoHo. Expect 14+ immersive rooms, a sweet subway, the world-famous Sprinkle Pool, NYC’s longest indoor pink slide, and unlimited ice cream tastings that turn a random Tuesday into a mini vacation for you and your favorite people.

From the Manhattan newsletter, August 29, 2026

Website ↗

Yankee Stadium

Entertainment

Yankee Stadium is more than just pinstripes, with the New York Yankees Museum, Lobel's, and the kind of energy that makes Tuesday feel like…

1 E 161st St (Bronx)

Yankee Stadium is more than just pinstripes, with the New York Yankees Museum, Lobel's, and the kind of energy that makes Tuesday feel like October. Catch a game, book a tour, or check out MLS, then flex your fandom with the MLB Ballpark app this week.

From the The Bronx newsletter, August 30, 2026

Website ↗

21 Golf Range Powered by Toptracer has 54 heated bays with ball-tracking on every shot, an auto-tee that saves your back, a free putting…

1 US-46 W (Palisades Park)

21 Golf Range Powered by Toptracer has 54 heated bays with ball-tracking on every shot, an auto-tee that saves your back, a free putting green, Golfzon simulators, and Korean street food delivered to your bay. Perfect for quick reps close to home or a low-key hang with friends.

Website ↗

If your week needs a fun cardio fix, New Jersey Badminton Club Dream has 21 brand new courts, pro coaching with former national team…

225 Meadowlands Pkwy (Secaucus)

If your week needs a fun cardio fix, New Jersey Badminton Club Dream has 21 brand new courts, pro coaching with former national team players, and both adult and junior training. Reserve a court, tune up your strings at the pro shop, then rally until the grin sticks.

From the North Jersey newsletter, August 24, 2026

Website ↗

Bow Bridge

Entertainment

When you need a low-effort, high-reward stroll, Bow Bridge delivers with its graceful, Victorian-era curve, decorative banister, and…

Central Park, Bow Bridge (New York)

When you need a low-effort, high-reward stroll, Bow Bridge delivers with its graceful, Victorian-era curve, decorative banister, and expansive views of the Lake. It links the Ramble and the path toward Bethesda Terrace, and it's one of Central Park’s most photographed, proposal-friendly spots.

From the North Bergen newsletter, September 8, 2026

Website ↗

Whether you want open-air breeze on the 86th floor or sky-high wow on the 102nd, Empire State Building mixes classic Art Deco drama with…

20 W 34th St. (New York)

Whether you want open-air breeze on the 86th floor or sky-high wow on the 102nd, Empire State Building mixes classic Art Deco drama with museum-quality exhibits, from construction history to an interactive Kong moment, plus 360° skyline views that stretch across multiple states.

Website ↗

Skip the range rut and sneak in a quick round at Flushing Meadows Pitch & Putt, an 18-hole, fully lit short course with regulation…

Flushing Meadows Corona Park, 100 (Flushing)

Skip the range rut and sneak in a quick round at Flushing Meadows Pitch & Putt, an 18-hole, fully lit short course with regulation bent-grass greens, plus a modern, night-lit mini-golf setup with waterfalls and bridges. Under two hours start to finish, with rentals and balls ready to go.

From the Queens newsletter, August 30, 2026

Website ↗

Swingers NoMad

Entertainment

Swap the same-old bar hang for playful competition at Swingers NoMad, where multiple nine-hole courses meet legit cocktails and craveable…

35 W 29th St (New York) · ✓ checked Aug 12

Swap the same-old bar hang for playful competition at Swingers NoMad, where multiple nine-hole courses meet legit cocktails and craveable street food from Emmy Squared Pizza and a taqueria by chef Roberto Santibañez. Perfect for date night, group chaos, or just flexing that short game.

From the Manhattan newsletter, September 12, 2026

Website ↗

The Greene Space

Entertainment

New York Public Radio venue where visitors can watch a variety of live broadcasts & tapings.

44 Charlton St (New York)

New York Public Radio venue where visitors can watch a variety of live broadcasts & tapings.

Website ↗

Indoor golf facility featuring Trackman simulators, private bays, and a bar.

108 W 39th St Rm 310 (New York)

Indoor golf facility featuring Trackman simulators, private bays, and a bar.

Website ↗

Sunnyside Mural

Entertainment

Remember that postcard-style wall everyone secretly loves? Sunnyside Mural is the OG 2010 piece that sparked a collab on NBC’s Sunnyside…

45-60 40th St (Sunnyside)

Remember that postcard-style wall everyone secretly loves? Sunnyside Mural is the OG 2010 piece that sparked a collab on NBC’s Sunnyside key art, and it still delivers neighborhood joy, local pride, and the perfect excuse to pause on your next walk and feel very Queens for a minute.

From the Queens newsletter, August 15, 2026

Website ↗

Five Iron Golf

Entertainment

Indoor golf center with 10 simulators, a sports bar, and other diversions.

22 Stone St (New York)

Indoor golf center with 10 simulators, a sports bar, and other diversions.

Website ↗

Puttery

Entertainment

Indoor mini golf, with two courses, offers drinks and snacks. The themed course features digital scoring.

446 W 14th St (New York)

Indoor mini golf, with two courses, offers drinks and snacks. The themed course features digital scoring.

Website ↗

SVA Theatre

Entertainment

Skip the algorithm and catch the real thing at SVA Theatre, a Chelsea cultural hub where curated screenings meet lively Q&As and fresh…

333 W 23rd St (New York)

Skip the algorithm and catch the real thing at SVA Theatre, a Chelsea cultural hub where curated screenings meet lively Q&As and fresh premieres. It’s the smarter move this week when the group chat needs plans that feel artsy without the pretension, just good films and conversations.

From the The Bronx newsletter, August 20, 2026

Website ↗

Roxy Cinema New York keeps the reels spinning with indie standouts, foreign finds, and 35mm treats, including a 2006 series featuring The…

2 6th Avenue Cellar Level (New York)

Roxy Cinema New York keeps the reels spinning with indie standouts, foreign finds, and 35mm treats, including a 2006 series featuring The Departed and A Scanner Darkly, plus frequent filmmaker Q&As. When the algorithm feels stale, let a projectionist make the choices for you this week.

From the Brooklyn newsletter, August 25, 2026

Website ↗

Regal Union Square

Entertainment

Theater complex with multiple screens featuring new release films, plush seating & concession stand.

850 Broadway (New York)

Theater complex with multiple screens featuring new release films, plush seating & concession stand.

Website ↗

Washington Square Fountain has anchored the foot of Fifth Avenue since 1852, a 50-foot-wide circle that turns everyday hangs into a little…

Washington Square N (New York)

Washington Square Fountain has anchored the foot of Fifth Avenue since 1852, a 50-foot-wide circle that turns everyday hangs into a little moment. Swing by midweek for a quick reset, then stroll the park feeling like you just unlocked a calmer version of the city.

From the Staten Island newsletter, August 28, 2026

Website ↗

Swap delivery for a night of actually fun chopping at Taste Buds Kitchen in Chelsea, where adult classes and date nights walk you through…

109 W 27th St (New York)

Swap delivery for a night of actually fun chopping at Taste Buds Kitchen in Chelsea, where adult classes and date nights walk you through scratch-made menus, while kid-friendly camps and parties keep the littles busy. Fresh ingredients, a nut-free facility, and gluten-free menus mean everyone eats happily.

From the New York City newsletter, August 15, 2026

Website ↗

Skip the stuffy country-club vibe and book a round at Overpeck Golf Course, part of Bergen County Golf with an all-new clubhouse and two…

273 E Cedar Ln (Teaneck)

Skip the stuffy country-club vibe and book a round at Overpeck Golf Course, part of Bergen County Golf with an all-new clubhouse and two simulator bays for rainy days. Easy online tee times, plus county-run lessons and junior programs if your swing needs a reset.

From the The Bronx newsletter, August 13, 2026

Website ↗

Craving actual dinner with your plot twist? Nitehawk Cinema Williamsburg brings global fare and craft cocktails straight to your seat while…

136 Metropolitan Ave (Brooklyn)

Craving actual dinner with your plot twist? Nitehawk Cinema Williamsburg brings global fare and craft cocktails straight to your seat while the movie plays, so you can ditch the pre-show scramble and roll through the credits blissfully snack-happy.

From the Queens newsletter, August 21, 2026

Website ↗

Cozymeal Cooking Classes NYC lines up hands-on cooking classes in NYC suited for date nights, groups, and beginners. When you want…

136 Madison Ave (New York)

Cozymeal Cooking Classes NYC lines up hands-on cooking classes in NYC suited for date nights, groups, and beginners. When you want something fun after work that doesn’t involve another packed bar, this is a solid move... good food energy, and maybe a little flour on your sleeves.

From the Manhattan newsletter, September 16, 2026

Website ↗

Movie theater screening first-run films on wall-to-wall screens & offering standard concessions.

650 Plaza Dr (Secaucus)

Movie theater screening first-run films on wall-to-wall screens & offering standard concessions.

Website ↗

Quackade: Arcade & Party Games in Long Island City packs premium VR for ages 8+, rhythm hits like Maimai DX and Taiko no Tatsujin,…

44-47 23rd St (Long Island City)

Quackade: Arcade & Party Games in Long Island City packs premium VR for ages 8+, rhythm hits like Maimai DX and Taiko no Tatsujin, skill-hungry claw machines, and party rooms that actually feel fun. Rack tickets, then raid the Gift Center for Gundam, Godzilla, even a Nintendo Switch 2.

From the Queens newsletter, August 18, 2026

Website ↗

Crush Wine Experiences leads sommelier-led day trips to New York wine country, with luxury transportation from Midtown Manhattan to top…

720 Greenwich St (New York)

Crush Wine Experiences leads sommelier-led day trips to New York wine country, with luxury transportation from Midtown Manhattan to top vineyards in the North Fork or Hudson Valley. Great for a low-effort, high-fun Saturday, they also host local tastings and virtual sessions when your couch is calling.

From the Freeport newsletter, September 9, 2026

Website ↗

Lucky Strike Queens

Entertainment

Lucky Strike Queens brings 35 state-of-the-art lanes, a high-energy arcade, and a solid food-and-cocktail lineup to Woodside, perfect for…

69-10 34th Ave (Woodside)

Lucky Strike Queens brings 35 state-of-the-art lanes, a high-energy arcade, and a solid food-and-cocktail lineup to Woodside, perfect for birthday bashes or a casual night with friends, plus sports-bar vibes for catching the game when your spare turns into ordering another round.

From the Queens newsletter, September 1, 2026

Website ↗

Low Cinema

Entertainment

Ridgewood’s own Low Cinema keeps it delightfully low-key with screenings, series, and even rentals if you’re itching to host your own…

70-11 60th St (Ridgewood)

Ridgewood’s own Low Cinema keeps it delightfully low-key with screenings, series, and even rentals if you’re itching to host your own big-screen moment. Skip the algorithms, let a real human curate your week and make a night of it close to home.

From the Queens newsletter, August 27, 2026

Website ↗

Quad Cinema

Entertainment

Quad Cinema keeps cinephiles fed with four screens devoted to independent, foreign, and documentary gems, plus smart retrospectives and the…

34 W 13th St (New York)

Quad Cinema keeps cinephiles fed with four screens devoted to independent, foreign, and documentary gems, plus smart retrospectives and the occasional Rocky Horror live shadow cast. Expect filmmaker Q&As, carefully curated programs, and the Quad Bar for pre or post show chatter.

From the The Bronx newsletter, September 2, 2026

Website ↗

IPIC Theaters

Entertainment

Upscale cinema chain with plush seating, gourmet light bites & cocktails, plus in-theater service.

2023 Hudson St (Fort Lee)

Upscale cinema chain with plush seating, gourmet light bites & cocktails, plus in-theater service.

Website ↗

Konnectgolf

Entertainment

Konnectgolf gives North Bergen golfers an easy excuse to keep the sticks warm with Trackman simulators, a comfy bar and lounge, and PGA pro…

590 5th Ave Fl 2 (New York)

Konnectgolf gives North Bergen golfers an easy excuse to keep the sticks warm with Trackman simulators, a comfy bar and lounge, and PGA pro lessons in eight studios. Jump into weekly challenges or book a lesson, then play the world’s best courses without braving the Hudson winds.

From the Smithtown newsletter, September 6, 2026

Website ↗

Step into Eternal Nature at Arte Museum New York, where crashing waterfalls, endless blossoms, and ocean whispers surround you in light,…

61 Chelsea Piers (New York)

Step into Eternal Nature at Arte Museum New York, where crashing waterfalls, endless blossoms, and ocean whispers surround you in light, sound, and bespoke fragrance. The Musée d’Orsay collaboration reimagines Monet, Van Gogh and more through epic digital scenes, plus playful moments like Tornado and Live Sketchbook.

From the North Bergen newsletter, August 26, 2026

Website ↗

From lucky cats and koi to a sly Fung Wah cameo and a nod to Nom Wah, the Greetings From Chinatown Mural packs Brooklyn-adjacent nostalgia…

1 Allen St (New York)

From lucky cats and koi to a sly Fung Wah cameo and a nod to Nom Wah, the Greetings From Chinatown Mural packs Brooklyn-adjacent nostalgia into postcard-style letters. It’s the original spark of the Greetings Tour, worth a quick color-drenched detour when your week needs a lift.

From the Brooklyn newsletter, August 27, 2026

Website ↗

The Cinemas NYC

Entertainment

The Cinemas NYC retired in-seat service for an elevated food and beverage setup that keeps the picture the star, so no clinking plates…

11 Fulton St (New York)

The Cinemas NYC retired in-seat service for an elevated food and beverage setup that keeps the picture the star, so no clinking plates mid-scene. Slide in for their August Encore Series... think The Goonies, GoodFellas, The Truman Show, even Clueless, all looking fresh on a giant screen.

From the Brooklyn newsletter, August 18, 2026

Website ↗

Settle into signature lounge chairs with wireless headphones and Empire State Building views while Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown rolls out…

60 W 37th St 3rd Floor (New York)

Settle into signature lounge chairs with wireless headphones and Empire State Building views while Rooftop Cinema Club Midtown rolls out newer releases, cult favorites, drag nights, queer cinema, and family matinees.

From the The Bronx newsletter, August 24, 2026

Website ↗

Big Screen Plaza

Entertainment

When your next milestone, offsite, or viewing party needs serious visual punch, Big Screen Plaza delivers a 30-foot HD canvas inside…

851 6th Ave (New York)

When your next milestone, offsite, or viewing party needs serious visual punch, Big Screen Plaza delivers a 30-foot HD canvas inside private event spaces, perfect for montage reveals, branding loops, photobooth feeds, or live gaming, with rotating art from local and international artists keeping the vibe creative and…

From the Islip newsletter, September 5, 2026

Website ↗

When you need low stakes competition with a view, Pier 25 Mini Golf & Volleyball delivers. Walk-in mini golf, beach volleyball rentals and…

225 West St (New York)

When you need low stakes competition with a view, Pier 25 Mini Golf & Volleyball delivers. Walk-in mini golf, beach volleyball rentals and leagues, a playground for the kids, and a laid-back snack bar, all on a breezy Hudson River pier that actually stretches out over the water.

From the Brooklyn newsletter, September 2, 2026

Website ↗

Cinema Village

Entertainment

Longtime West Village theater known for showing offbeat & foreign movies, plus documentaries.

22 E 12th St (New York)

Longtime West Village theater known for showing offbeat & foreign movies, plus documentaries.

Website ↗

Golfzon Social is Brooklyn’s lounge-style golf spot where you can book a bay, play courses on next‑level simulators, and actually hang with…

15 Hoyt St (Brooklyn)

Golfzon Social is Brooklyn’s lounge-style golf spot where you can book a bay, play courses on next‑level simulators, and actually hang with friends. Drop in for leagues, lessons, or just hit while you eat and watch the game with great food and drinks.

From the Brooklyn newsletter, August 13, 2026

Website ↗

Listed here?

You’ve earned the mark — get the BaseLocal’s Best badge for your site →. Want in? List your business →