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New Yorkers 1st Choice
the US' best

Must-see movie spots

Certain stories leave a mark that stays long after the credits roll.

Based on 579 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Winter Garden Theatre image 1
Winter Garden Theatre image 2
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Performing arts theater

Intricate designs and an intimate layout create a gorgeous, cozy atmosphere that feels like stepping into another era. Comfortable seats and great acoustics enhance the experience, while state-of-the-art stage equipment brings shows vividly to life. The space combines a hometown charm with a classy, luxurious feel.

The show captures the comedy of the original movie with an energetic cast and impressive costumes and sets. Scenes like the DeLorean flying towards the audience bring you right into the movie experience.

People are saying

"I found the theater to be beautiful with lovely decor."

"This show is a total blast and so much fun!"

"It's a beautiful historical place with classic architectural details."

Good to know

1

Be early or on time to avoid missing the show.

2

The men's restroom is hard to access for those with stair issues.

3

The air-conditioning is very cold; dress warmly.

02
Times Square image 1

Plaza buzzes with bright lights and massive digital billboards that create a unique vibe day and night. Crowds gather around live street performances and entertainers, filling the space with constant energy and diverse languages. A large staircase offers a spot to rest and take in the vibrant scene.

People are saying

"It's so lively with all the bright lights and hustle and bustle."

"The nighttime lights and screens create an impressive, memorable view."

"It's so moody and atmospheric when the neon signs light up at night."

Good to know

1

Expect large crowds during the New Year's celebration in Times Square.

2

Avoid visiting Times Square on weekends due to heavy foot traffic.

3

Be cautious of costumed characters asking for money after taking photos.

03
Museum of the City of New York image 1
Local history museum

Museum combines Georgian Colonial-Revival architecture with modern interactive exhibits and immersive film experiences. Atmosphere blends sophisticated NYC vibe with technology-enhanced displays and occasional live performances. Visitors find spacious, accessible design with breathtaking park views and relaxing outdoor areas.

An immersive movie experience on the third floor stands out, featuring films about New York City including dance, music, street art, and protests. The film installation creates a strong sense of pride and connection to the city.

People are saying

"The exhibits here are really interesting and informative about the city's history."

"The movies here really make you feel like you went back in time."

"I found the exhibits to be modern, visually engaging, and interactive."

Good to know

1

Through July 2024, there is an interesting exhibit about New York in art and pop culture.

2

Wednesday has free entrance to the Movie in the Basement.

3

Tickets are $20 for adults, and CUNY college students have free admission.

04
Al Hirschfeld Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Theater showcases 1920s art deco design with intimate seating and great acoustics that highlight performances. Atmosphere feels cozy and beautiful, enhanced by spectacular stage and lighting. Audience enjoys clear sound and comfortable views from all rows.

Performances include singing of current and legendary songs from movies. Shows often surpass the original films in quality, like with Moulin Rouge. Movies shown are consistently excellent.

People are saying

"The performing arts here are spectacular and unforgettable."

"The scenic views from all seats here are great."

"It's a beautiful and intimate venue, perfect for shows."

Good to know

1

Doors open at 6:20 PM for a 7 PM show.

2

You can buy tickets for the same day of the performance at a discount at the Times Square kiosk.

3

Make sure you have your tickets ready for scanning and your bags ready for inspection.

05
American Museum of Natural History image 1

Natural history museum showcases magnificent architecture and iconic taxidermy displays that create a majestic atmosphere. Crowds and noise from school groups often fill the large, well-organized spaces. Interactive exhibits and a planetarium with space simulations add engaging elements to the experience.

Space films play on a huge domed cinema screen in the planetarium, featuring NASA footage of the moon and planets. The Turtle Odyssey film stands out as a captivating watch, and the location also served as a filming site for the movie Night at the Museum.

People are saying

"The dinosaur exhibits at the Museums are breathtaking, especially the T. rex."

"It's like walking through eras at these historical sites."

"The planetarium movie was incredible."

Good to know

1

Buying tickets ahead of time saves a lot of time.

2

You have to reserve a time to enter the museum.

3

Entry to the museum is free during the last hour.

06
Bow Bridge image 1
Tourist attraction

Cast iron bridge with ornate neoclassical design offers stunning views of the city skyline and park. It is a must-see spot for natural charm and tranquility. Known as an iconic film location, it feels like stepping into a Hollywood scene.

People are saying

"This park feels like a quiet, romantic fairytale moment."

"I found the view from the bridge to be enchanting and iconic."

"It's a cool place for taking atmospheric photos."

Good to know

1

Visiting the place is free.

2

The iconic place within Central Park is closed for maintenance until 2024.

3

You can rent boats at the boathouse for $15.00 per hour (cash only).

07
Tenement Museum image 1
History museum

Five-story tenement buildings from the 1800s showcase preserved architecture and authentic interiors with well-researched props. Tours feel like immersive guided discussions that bring immigrant family stories to life in cramped, atmospheric spaces.

Introductory movie plays before tours and offers a solid overview of NYC history and the museum's background. These films are consistently very good and worth watching if you arrive early.

People are saying

"These historical sites bring immigrant families' stories to life."

"The museum tours here are so engaging and informative."

"I highly recommend this museum as your first stop."

Good to know

1

A guided tour is required to visit the museum.

2

Tours can sell out quickly, so itโ€™s recommended to book in advance.

3

The tour lasts almost two hours and provides extensive information about tenement living.

08
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant immerses diners in a Forrest Gump theme with playful decor and interactive dining elements like trivia and signal signs to call servers. The atmosphere combines lively energy with views of Times Square, creating a unique and engaging experience.

Decorated tables and walls bring the movie to life. The atmosphere follows the movie theme closely, with quizzes about the film adding to the experience.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fun, with decor inspired by the Forrest Gump movie."

"I loved the nice view of Times Square from my window seat."

"They had the Forrest Gump movie playing on loop."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for New Year's Eve to secure a spot.

2

Expect long wait times even with a reservation on New Year's Eve.

3

The restaurant offers a great view of the ball drop in Times Square.

09
Katz's Delicatessen image 1

Rustic deli with tight seating and a nostalgic 70s decor creates a crowded, lively atmosphere. Meat carvers serve as a focal point, offering tastings that engage diners. Walls display celebrity portraits, adding to the historic vibe.

The spot has a very American movie style atmosphere that feels just like scenes from films. You can even sit in the seat from the film, and sometimes it hosts actual movie shoots.

People are saying

"The pastrami sandwich here is piled high and melt-in-your-mouth tender."

"The historical sites here are piled high and ridiculously good."

"The matzo ball soup here is amazing, truly a dream."

Good to know

1

The wait for the Katz Pastrami Sandwich can be an hour long.

2

You can only pay with cash at the front of the restaurant.

3

Do not lose your tickets even if you haven't used them to order anything.

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