16 Fun Activities in NYC For Adults (You Haven’t Tried Yet)

How would you feel about becoming Sherlock Holmes’ coworker for the day?  Well this experience involves just that.

You and your friends will navigate the intriguing streets of Chelsea, solving riddles and sniffing out clues to unravel the story behind a sinister, but fictional, crime.

The experience is totally self-guided and combines the thrill of detective work with the excitement of exploring one of New York City's vibrant neighborhoods, making it a perfect outing for adults seeking a blend of adventure and mystery.

Here’s a thought: if you’re trying to find fun activities in NYC for adults that take a leaf out of Marty McFly’s book, why not indulge in a bit of (safe) time travel?

No, there’s no need to get into any weird machines for this one. Instead, all you have to do is step back in time by visiting the Morris-Jumel Mansion, the oldest house in Manhattan.

Steeped in colonial history, this historic home not only offers a glimpse into New York’s past but also tells the stories of its various inhabitants, from revolutionary war heroes to wealthy socialites.

The house itself is open to visitors from Thursday through Sunday, but you can always pay a visit to nearby Roger Morris Park, open daily from 10am to 5pm.

If you’re looking for fun activities in NYC for adults that indulge your critical thinking, keep reading.

Ever looked up in NYC and thought: "What is that doing there?" or "What was going on here before all this arrived?"

Scavenger hunts like these will give you the answers and so much more besides.

Through answering cleverly thought-out puzzles and solving riddles sent to your phones, you'll navigate NYC's bustling streets, discover historic buildings, and discover the city's rich heritage.

PSST: You can make it competitive if you want to go head-to-head!

Vehicles are surely the best example of how adults are just big kids at heart - and if you know someone whose heart beats for the smell of gas and the whirr of an engine, listen up.

Located in a decommissioned subway station, the New York Transit Museum is an awesome treasure trove that offers a unique glimpse into the vehicles that have kept NYC moving for over a century. 

From vintage subway cars to historic buses, the museum provides a unique perspective on the city's transportation history, making it an ideal destination for those who love technology, engineering, and urban exploration.

Take a moment to picture your group of friends or coworkers: if they were on Jeopardy, what would their specialist subjects be? 

No matter our interests, everybody has something to contribute. Whether that’s an eye for detail, an adventurous and “go-get-’em” attitude, or a quick-witted mind that can unravel any riddle in a matter of seconds. And luckily, you need all kinds of expertise to get to the bottom of these outdoor escape room games. 

These outdoor escape room games take you through the less-traveled paths of New York City, revealing its hidden history and plenty of mysteries.

Through the power of teamwork, you’ll crack open the lid on NYC’s intriguing stories, hidden secrets and - best of all - enjoy some much-needed time outdoors in one of the world’s most fascinating cities.

Woah there, are we really suggesting there are fun activities in NYC for adults that aren’t your typical tourist activities? Absolutely we are!

We’re biased, but there’s no better place to dip your toes into something you (and your friends) have never done before. Like, eating pizza in a former church, tracking down the birthplace of Scrabble, or visiting a museum entirely dedicated to Man’s Best Friend (and yes, that last one is a real place).

Who knew that Astoria was home to one of the best museums in New York City? Well, I did. And now so do you!

You don’t have to be a total movie buff to know that movies leave a big imprint on our lives. From childhood memories of waiting up to watch particular shows to sharing favorites among friends and family, the magic of the screen is something that unites pretty much all of us.

No matter your age, this awesome museum is where all those incredible little details that make TV shows and movies come alive go to retire. Go behind the scenes to explore the process of filmmaking, special effects, and the evolution of the moving image, engage with interactive exhibits and historical artifacts, and don’t be afraid to really geek out – it’s part of the fun!

PSST: You can also watch movies here that you won’t find in many other places. Screenings include all genres and interests, from Greek movie Sundays (yeah, Greek movies are shown every Sunday!) to Classic Warner Bros cartoons and everything in between. Check out their listings here. 

If you’re looking for fun activities in NYC for adults that work for bad planners, budding explorers, history enthusiasts or all of the above, consider going on a self-guided walking tour. 

Whether you call The Big Apple “home” or you’re just visiting, you’ll have realized by now that there is too much going on at any one time to truly know the city inside and out. 

Self-guided walking tours like these allow you to explore NYC at your own pace, without needing to consult a guide or wait around for tour groups to get organized - and don’t worry, it’s not all about history either. Uncover hidden gems, find something new and exciting and tick off your daily exercise routine disguised as a great day out with your pals!

Personal recommendation: What if I asked you what Ghostbusters HQ and an Ancient Chinese philosopher had in common? Any guesses? Well, I’ll give you a clue: take a look here.

If your idea of a fun activity for adults in NYC is getting your heart racing and getting some great views as a bonus, plan a walk around the Alpine Lookout. 

So the Alpine Lookout itself might be located in NJ, but it’s well worth making the 20 or so mile trip from the city to see NYC from a different angle. This scenic spot offers panoramic vistas of Yonkers and the surrounding areas of Westchester, so it's a rewarding destination for hikers and nature lovers alike.

Once there, you can follow a few other trails leading to lookout points or just take your time drinking in the view of the Hudson River and the cityscape that isn’t as familiar as your typical NYC skyline. 

New York City’s buzz is kept alive by its current residents, but the sleeping stories of its former dwellers can still be heard - as long as you know where to go.

If you’re planning some activities to do with adults in NYC that involve history and a tiny dose of the supernatural, I’d recommend taking a look around some of the city’s fascinating cemeteries. 

After all, 200 or so years ago New Yorkers treated cemeteries as modern day people use parks - as a place for a stroll, a picnic and a place to hang out! While we don’t recommend you do that (I mean, you can if you want?) they are great places to explore family history or seek out legends. 

PSST: If you’re into magic, check out Harry Houdini’s grave in the Jewish Machpelah Cemetery in Queens. Woodlawn Cemetery in the Bronx is where you’ll find the jazz musician and legend Duke Ellington, as well as the author of Moby Dick, Herman Melville. Those interested in Revolutionary War history should head to Trinity Church Cemetery in Downtown Manhattan - this is where you’ll find the graves of Alexander Hamilton and other American Revolutionary War veterans.

Well, you asked for fun activities in NYC for adults, and that’s just what you’ll get at this premier NYC comedy club.

For an unforgettable night of laughs, head to The Comedy Cellar.

Renowned for showcasing top-tier comedic talent, this iconic venue is a staple in the NYC comedy scene. This place ticks all the boxes: an intimate setting, an unbeatable lineup and a genuine New York comedy experience that promises to leave you with aching cheeks and happy memories. 

PSST: Just so you know, The Comedy Cellar is in multiple locations. The Comedy Cellar on MacDougal Street is my favorite, but take a look to see what events are happening around the city ahead of time. 

Yes, it’s another historic house - but this one is possibly even more important in uncovering New York’s murky past.

King Manor Museum offers a fascinating look into the life and times of Rufus King, one of the signers of the United States Constitution and anti-slavery campaigners. Located in Jamaica, Queens, this historic house museum showcases the family's contributions to American history and the abolitionist movement, and an inside look into the lives of 18th and 19th century New Yorkers.

PSST: This place is totally free to visit and often hosts festivals and crafts for you to wander around after you’ve taken a good look around at the exhibits!

Hey there, fellow bibliophiles! You’re probably well aware that some of the world’s greatest literature was written by or inspired by New Yorkers and their city, but it’s also an awesome place to stock up on some new - and even old - books, perfect for a day out with your book club buddies! 

For fun activities in NYC for adults that will appeal to lovers of literature, take a trip around the city visiting a few of the coolest and most eclectic bookstores in the world. Here are my recommendations: 

Start your literary adventure at The Strand near Union Square, a staple and literary landmark store where 18 miles of books await to capture your imagination. Next, dive into the intriguing world of crime and mystery at The Mysterious Bookshop in Tribeca, the oldest mystery-themed bookstore in America - perfect for Agatha Christie fans and lovers of all books dark and dangerous. For a touch of the rare and antique, visit Argosy Book Store, known for its vast collection of antiquarian books and fine prints. And lastly, don't miss Books Are Magic in Brooklyn, a charming shop that fosters a community of readers with its curated selection and frequent author events. 

Take it from me, few things feel more quintessentially NYC than sipping a cocktail with the city skyline as your backdrop.

Whether you’re at Westlight in Williamsburg with its stunning waterfront views or 230 Fifth enjoying heated igloos in winter, NYC’s rooftop bars bring a touch of glam to any night out. Perfect for date nights, birthdays, or just because you deserve a fancy drink with a view.

In case you missed it, the name of this place is totally a pun on the Brooklyn accent. Who axed you?

Anyway, if throwing axes at a giant wooden target while sipping on a beer or cocktail sounds like your kind of thing, this is for you.

At Kick Axe Throwing, you can channel your inner Viking in a cozy, lodge-style setting (think plaid, woodsy decor, and an energy that feels like a mix between a friendly competition and an action movie training montage).

It’s great for anyone who’s ever been frustrated at work and wants to hurl something at a target (safely, of course) and, we've all been there. Right?

Well, maybe not. But there’s something incredibly satisfying about the thunk of an axe landing dead center.

If you’re the kind of person who loves technology, creativity, and a bit of a surreal, otherworldly experience, this is the perfect spot.

At ARTECHOUSE, you don’t just see the art—you become part of it.

This high-tech digital art space is packed with interactive installations that respond to your movement, sound, and even temperature, making each visit unique. Whether it’s walking through a neon dreamscape, triggering animations with a wave of your hand, or getting lost in a futuristic city made of light, this is art at its most immersive and Instagram-worthy.

PSST: Looking for more immersive experiences? Check out our guide to Immersive Experiences in NYC for inspiration!