There are plenty of things to do in your own city that aren’t big tourist attractions. Explore local markets, photo ops and pop ups!
Take an early morning walk to see your town wake up or go somewhere for a golden hour view. Or visit a museum! Free tours are a fun and educational way to experience your city.
1. Take a Walk
Many cities have canal systems that are ideal for walking. You can stroll along the towpaths and be surrounded by nature, a little like a walk through the countryside.
Or you can choose to walk through a lively neighborhood. Pittsburgh’s Lawrenceville neighborhood is a great example with a fun mix of old-style grocers, coffee shops and restaurants. It’s also a good spot to people watch.
2. Visit a Museum
A great way to spend a day is to visit a museum. You can find out a lot about your city’s history, and you will also be able to view some of the world’s most famous paintings.
Museums are becoming more than collections of artifacts; they bring people together to create a sense of community. Some museums even host yoga classes and rock band summer camps!
3. Ride a Bike
Try riding a bike on your own or go on a tour. Taking your time and practicing will help you get better at it. Be sure to wear a helmet to protect your head. Also, make sure to keep 2-3 feet of space (an arm’s length) between you and parked cars so that you have room to adjust if someone opens a door in your path.
4. Take a Tour
If friends or family ever visit, take them on a tour of your city. Explore local museums, botanical gardens and parks. Try a ghost tour or walking history tour for a new perspective.
A free tour can show you a part of your city that you may not know much about. Or, get a new perspective by climbing the tallest building in your city.
5. Go to a Concert
Music fans love to get together and listen to their favorite artists. Depending on the band and venue, they may even have a meet and greet after the concert.
Call your friends and determine a meeting place that is centrally located for carpooling. It will save everyone money on gas and parking fees. Set a mutually agreed upon time to meet for the concert.
6. Go to a Festival
If you’re going to a music festival alone, make sure to explore different stages. Doing this will help you feel out the vibes and meet other people that share your interests!
When you find someone that you connect with, strike up a convo! Talking about what artists they’re excited to see, if they’ve been before, or even about the weather is always fun.
7. Go to a Game
If you don’t mind eavesdropping on other people’s complaints about the starting pitcher, go to a baseball game by yourself. You’ll feel free to move around and find a perfect vantage point for the next inning.
Put a kooky page in your NYC scrapbook at Madame Tussauds. This wax museum goes all out with immersive, interactive special effects. This is one of the most fun things to do in NYC!
8. Go to a Concert
There’s nothing like a live concert. If you’re planning to attend a concert alone, be sure you know where the venue is located and what is allowed.
Some concerts have fan bases that like to tailgate (a huge parking lot party before the show). Ask if this is expected for the specific show you’re attending. Also, plan on bringing food and beverage.
9. Go to a Movie
If you want to put a kooky page in your NYC scrapbook, you can’t go wrong with Madame Tussauds. It’s a wax museum with immersive and interactive special effects.
A successful movie-going experience requires a little forethought. Read the synopsis, have sufficient snacks and choose seats that suit your vision needs. Avoid talking or commenting during the film to ensure that you get the most out of it.
10. Go to a Restaurant
Choosing the right restaurant is one of the most intimidating aspects of dining alone. By choosing your dinner spot ahead of time, you can remove one choice from the equation and make it a more stress-free experience.
Originally a junkyard, Hudson Yards has been transformed into an urban wonder. Visit this unique destination for an out-of-this-world experience that will be sure to impress your friends and family back home.
