Are you planning a birthday celebration in New York City? The Big Apple is a fantastic destination to mark your special day, with endless possibilities to create memories that will last a lifetime. From lavish rooftop parties to intimate dinners, there is no shortage of birthday ideas in NYC. In this article, we will explore some of the best birthday ideas in NYC and things to do in NYC to celebrate that special day.
Birthday Ideas in NYC
- View the skyline from a NYC rooftop bar
- View the skyline from observation deck
- Book a New York City private tour (professional photoshoot included!)
- DIY – Capture the special memories at popular NYC photoshoot locations
- Celebrate your birthday party on a sailboat
- Go on a city scavenger hunt
- Enjoy New York sunset view
- Take a NYC helicopter tour
- Sing your lungs out at one of the many karaoke spots in NYC
Free things to do in NYC for a birthday
1. View the skyline from a NYC rooftop bar
Rooftop parties are a popular option for birthday celebrations in NYC. Viewing the NYC skyline from atop a rooftop bar as people give you a birthday toast is an experience in its own class.
230 Fifth Rooftop Bar is famous for its stunning panoramic view of the city skyline, which includes famous landmarks such as the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building. It’s one of the largest rooftop bars in New York City and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The bar also offers a variety of cocktails, beer, and wine, as well as a food menu featuring American-style cuisine.
The iconic skyline also looks particularly beautiful from a rooftop bar such as The Press Lounge, The Rooftop at The Standard or the Roof at Park South. With breathtaking views of the skyline, you and your guests can enjoy a night of dancing, cocktails, and mingling.
2. View the skyline from observation deck
Viewing the New York City skyline is no doubt one of the most special things to do in NYC for birthday.
Empire State Building Observatory is one of the most iconic buildings in the world, and its observation deck offers one of the best views of the New York City skyline. The observation deck is located on the 86th floor of the building and offers a 360-degree view of New York City. You can also go up to the 102nd floor for an even more spectacular view.
Located in the Financial District of Manhattan, the One World Observatory is one of the most popular observation decks in NYC. The deck is situated on the 100th floor of the One World Trade Center and offers a 360-degree view of the city’s skyline. You can enjoy the view from the indoor observation deck or step out onto the outdoor Sky Portal, which is a glass-bottomed platform that gives a unique perspective of the city below and truly a unique way to celebrate your birthday.
The Edge is a new observation deck located in the Hudson Yards development in Manhattan. The deck extends out 80 feet from the 100th floor of the building, making it the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere. With the 360-degree view of the city skyline, including a unique view of the Empire State Building, this spot makes a great spot to capture memories of your birthday in NYC.
3. Book a New York City private tour (professional photoshoot included!)
If you are looking to explore NYC without worrying about the logistics, a NYC private tour could be just what you’re looking for! PhotoTrek Tours offers NYC private tour packages that you can choose from that combines a professional photographer and licensed tour guide. This unique combination allows you to receive dozens of priceless,professional quality photos, as well as insights, that will be memorable for your birthday.
Whether you are celebrating your special day as a couple or a trip to NYC with the larger family, our NYC private tours will make your birthday in New York a memorable one.
4. DIY – Capture the special memories at popular NYC photoshoot locations
One of the best things about New York City is just how popping its backgrounds are. There are few cities in the world that make for more memorable photographs, and you should take full advantage of that on your birthday! Whether you’ve lived here all your life, or are just visiting with friends, a birthday is the perfect opportunity to take tons of fabulous pictures. All you need to do is grab a bunch of funky and goofy props (think wigs, silly face masks, tiaras and scepters), and then visit these best NYC photoshoot locations that will give you stunning backdrops as well as memories to last a lifetime!
5. Celebrate your birthday party on a sailboat
Who said a birthday in New York absolutely had to be raucous? If you and your group of friends are not the noisy type, you might leave the busy streets of Manhattan for a pleasant drift on a sailboat along the Hudson River. Hire a classic schooner or a genuine tall ship, and float along the harbor serenaded by the entertainment of your own choice. The best part? These boat rides usually come paired with any combination of sushi, hors d’oeuvres, wine tastings, craft beer, live music and lobster. And of course, gorgeous sunsets and sights are a given!
6. Go on a city scavenger hunt
You or your friends could plan out a hunt for yourselves, but it would be a lot easier to hire a service to do it for you! A scavenger hunt in NYC is one of those simple but brilliant ideas, what with the maze of subways and sidewalks and streets that spans Manhattan. When it comes to creative and outrageous birthday concepts, this one definitely takes the cake!
7. Enjoy New York sunset view
Image credit to Florian Wehde
Take in the stunning views of the city skyline as the sun sets over the Hudson River. There are many companies that offer sunset cruises with drinks and light bites. This is the perfect way to celebrate your birthday with friends and family while enjoying the beautiful sights of the city.
8. Take a NYC helicopter tour
Get a bird’s eye view of the city with a NYC helicopter tour. You’ll get to see iconic NYC landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the Empire State Building from a unique perspective. This is a great way to celebrate your birthday while creating unforgettable memories.
9. Sing your lungs out at one of the many karaoke spots in NYC
Karaoke is a popular activity for both locals and tourists in New York City. It is also a great way to let loose and have fun with friends especially if you are celebrating a birthday in NYC. There are many karaoke bars in NYC, but not all of them are created equal. Here are few top picks as birthday idea in NYC specially for karaoke lovers:
Free things to do in NYC for a birthday
Celebrating a birthday in New York City can be a memorable experience. However, finding the right activities that fit into a tight budget can be a challenging task. Fortunately, New York City is home to many free attractions and activities that can make your birthday a fun and memorable one. Here are some ideas for free things to do in NYC for a birthday.
10. Visit Central Park
Central Park is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in NYC, making it the perfect spot for a birthday stroll. There are also many benches and picnic areas to relax and enjoy the views. You can rent a bike or take a leisurely walk around the park’s many trails and paths. While you are there, do remember to capture some memories at these best photo locations in Central Park or maybe even rent a rowboat in Central Park to add on to your list of birthday idea in NYC.
11. Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge
Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is one of the things to do in NYC. It’s a free and enjoyable way to see the city skyline and take stunning photos. The Brooklyn Bridge connects Manhattan to Brooklyn and offers beautiful views of both boroughs. You can start your walk at the Brooklyn Bridge Park or the City Hall Park in Manhattan.
Alternatively, you can sign up for a SoHo and Brooklyn private tour inclusive of professional photoshoots where you will be taken on a 2-hours journey through the rich history and diverse culture of Brooklyn and fascinating stories behind Lower Manhattan’s iconic landmarks.
12. Visit a free museum
New York City is home to some of the world’s most famous museums and galleries. Many museums offer special exhibits or events for birthdays, making this a great way to celebrate while learning something new. Here are some recommended museums with free admission to visit for things to do in NYC for your birthday.
The American Museum of Natural History is one of the most iconic museums in NYC. It is home to a vast collection of artifacts and specimens, including the famous T. rex skeleton. While admission is technically “pay-what-you-wish,” it is recommended to give a donation of at least $23 per adult.
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is another must-visit museum in NYC. It is home to an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso, Warhol, and Pollock. Admission is free every Friday from 4-8pm.
Located in the Bronx, The Bronx Museum of the Arts is dedicated to showcasing contemporary art by artists of African, Asian, and Latin American descent, as well as artists from the Bronx. Admission is free all year round.
13. See the city from above
One of the great ways to celebrate your birthday in NYC is through taking in the best views of NYC. Many of these observation decks come with a hefty price tag but fortunately, there are several observation decks or spots in New York City that are free of charge.
The High Line is an elevated park built on an abandoned railway track. It stretches from Gansevoort Street to 34th Street and offers a unique perspective on the city. The park is free to visit and provides a great view of the Hudson River and the city’s architecture.
The Top of the Rock observation deck offers stunning views of the city, but it comes with a price tag. However, you can still enjoy great views of the city from the lobby, which features a stunning chandelier and an art deco ceiling.
The Oculus is a transit hub located in Lower Manhattan. You can enjoy stunning views of New York City from the upper floors of the Oculus, which are free to access.
In conclusion, New York City offers a wide range of activities for people looking to celebrate birthday in NYC. From rooftop bars to museums and iconic landmarks, there is something for everyone. Whether you prefer a low-key celebration or an extravagant party, NYC has got you covered. So, whether you are a local or a visitor, make sure to check out these best things to do in NYC for your next birthday celebration.
