New York City is one of the most popular cities with tourists in the United States. If you are traveling to NYC alone, or if you find yourself without a sightseeing companion for a day, you will find plenty of activities to keep you busy, active and entertained in the city.
Central Park
Situated in the middle of Manhattan, Central Park was designed as a much-needed wilderness respite for New Yorkers. The park covers 843 acres, and you can easily spend hours exploring the different corners of the park. Be sure to find the Bethesda Terrace, the Imagine mosaic and the Central Park Zoo.
On weekends in the summer, you can watch roller-skating dancers performing routines, and you might even catch a Shakespeare in the Park performance or an impromptu concert. Pack a book and a snack and rest in the sunshine on one of the many open hillsides.
Indoor Activities
On rainy days, or on days when you prefer a quieter, more contemplative NYC experience, head to one of the city's many museums. Contemplate art at your own pace in the Museum of Modern Art or the Guggenheim, or head to the Museum of Natural History to marvel at natural wonders.
Book lovers should head to the main branch New York Public Library to wander the stacks and climb staircases. For spectacular views of the city, head up the Empire State Building for good photo opportunities.
Get Lost
One of the most fun ways to spend a day alone in NYC is to simply get lost. Take the subway to any point in Manhattan and start walking. Make time to explore interesting side streets, follow a unique-looking person, or wander into a store you wouldn't ordinarily enter; in doing so, you are likely to stumble upon unexpected places and experiences. Wear sturdy walking shoes to protect your feet, and keep your wits about you to avoid wandering into a dangerous area.
NYC Like a Local
If you are a runner, set out to see the city from a New Yorker's point of view. Lace up your shoes and head out into the city. For the best running routes, pick a path along the water, such as the Westside Highway on the Hudson River.
You also can head for a run in Central Park, the Hudson River Park or Prospect Park in Brooklyn. For a windy and scenic route, run across the Brooklyn Bridge. If you prefer, rent a bicycle and pedal around the city; watch out for aggressive NYC drivers.
Theater
If you've never been to a theater performance by yourself, New York is the place to do it. Join the crowds of people waiting in line at the Times Square TKTS booth for discount tickets, or submit your name for a last-minute lottery.
Choose the show you'd most like to see, and revel in the fact that you do not have to take into consideration anyone else's preferences. At the theater alone, you will be able to take in the show without the interference of a companion's reactions or comments.
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