Madison Square Garden, also known as “The Garden,” is a world-renowned sports and entertainment venue located in the heart of New York City. With its central location and endless entertainment options, there is no shortage of things to do and see in the area. Here are the top five things to do near Madison Square Garden, with visiting Mustang Harry’s as the number one activity:
Visit Mustang Harry’s
Mustang Harry’s is a popular bar and restaurant located just a few blocks from Madison Square Garden. It’s the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat and a drink before or after a game or show at The Garden. The menu features classic American pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and wings, as well as a wide selection of beers and cocktails. With its friendly atmosphere and lively vibe, Mustang Harry’s is a must-visit for anyone in the area. But what sets Mustang Harry’s apart from other bars and restaurants in the area? For starters, it has a rich history. The building that now houses Mustang Harry’s was completed in 1923 in Midtown South, boasting a design by John H. Knubel. Located at the border between Chelsea and the Garment District, the building benefits from an excellent Midtown location, steps away from a plethora of public transportation options, and it has since undergone several renovations and transformations to become the beloved bar and restaurant it is today.
In addition to its fascinating history, Mustang Harry’s is known for its delicious food and drinks. The menu features a wide range of options to suit any taste or craving, from classic burgers and sandwiches to more unique offerings like the Charred Lamb Lollipops or the “Harry’s Burger”, a custom blend burger topped with blue cheese, caramelized onion, sweet pickles, tomato, market greens, crispy onion, Mustang sauce, smoked bacon. For those looking for something lighter, there are also salads and vegetarian options available.
But the real star of the show at Mustang Harry’s is the drinks menu. In addition to an extensive selection of beers on tap and in bottles and cans, the bar also offers a variety of cocktails and mixed drinks. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cocktail like an Old Fashioned or a Margarita, or something more unique like the “Blue Berry Bramble” (made with Drumshanbo Gunpowder Gin, lemon juice, baking spices, blueberry puree), Mustang Harry’s has something for every taste.
Another reason to visit Mustang Harry’s is the atmosphere. The bar has a lively and energetic vibe that makes it the perfect place to kick off or end a night out in New York City. Whether you’re coming in for a quick drink before a game or show at The Garden, or staying for the whole evening to watch the game on one of the bar’s many TVs, Mustang Harry’s is always a good time.
Also, Mustang Harry’s is known for its friendly and welcoming staff. The bartenders and servers are always ready with a smile and a recommendation, whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor. They’ll make you feel right at home and ensure you have a great experience at the bar.
Overall, visiting Mustang Harry’s should definitely be at the top of your list of things to do near Madison Square Garden. With its delicious food, refreshing drinks, and lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to kick off or end a night out in New York City.
Explore the High Line
The High Line is a unique public park built on an elevated freight rail line that runs through the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan. It’s a great place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy stunning views of the city, as well as visit art installations, food vendors, and other attractions along the way. The High Line is just a short walk from Madison Square Garden, making it an easy and enjoyable activity to add to your itinerary.
The High Line is a true New York City treasure. It’s a place where nature and the city intersect, where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the streets below and take in the sights and sounds of the city from a different perspective. The park is built on an abandoned elevated railway, and it winds its way through the Chelsea neighborhood, offering sweeping views of the city’s iconic skyline.
As you walk along the High Line, you’ll encounter a variety of art installations and public spaces. There are benches where you can sit and take in the views, and there are areas where you can relax and read a book or just soak up the sun. There are also food vendors and restaurants along the way, so you can grab a bite to eat or a drink while you’re exploring.
One of the highlights of the High Line is the art installations. The park has a rotating selection of temporary exhibits, so there is always something new and interesting to see. You might encounter a large-scale sculpture, a colorful mural, or an interactive installation. No matter what you find, you’re sure to be inspired and entertained.
Visit the Empire State Building
The iconic Empire State Building is a must-see attraction for any visitor to New York City. Located just a few blocks from Madison Square Garden, it offers breathtaking views of the city from its observatory on the 86th floor. Whether you visit during the day or at night, the views from the Empire State Building are truly unforgettable.
The Empire State Building was completed in 1931 and was the tallest building in the world until 1970. It’s an iconic symbol of New York City and a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year. The building’s observatory, located on the 86th floor, offers 360-degree views of the city and beyond.
One of the best things about visiting the Empire State Building is that you can tailor your experience to your interests and preferences. If you’re a history buff, you can take a guided tour of the building and learn about its construction and architectural features. If you’re more interested in the views, you can simply purchase a ticket to the observatory and take in the sights at your own pace.
One thing to keep in mind when visiting the Empire State Building is that it can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist season. If you want to avoid long lines and crowds, it’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance and try to visit at a less busy time of day. You can also consider purchasing a skip-the-line ticket, which allows you to bypass the general admission line and go straight to the front of the line.
Shop at the Chelsea Market
The Chelsea Market is a popular indoor food hall and shopping destination located just a few blocks from Madison Square Garden. It’s the perfect place to browse local artisanal goods, grab a quick bite to eat, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere. With its wide variety of restaurants, shops, and other attractions, the Chelsea Market is a great place to spend a few hours while in the area.
The Chelsea Market is housed in a historic building that was once the site of the National Biscuit Company (also known as Nabisco). Today, the market is home to a variety of food vendors, retailers, and other businesses, offering something for everyone. You’ll find everything from artisanal cheeses and meats to handmade crafts and clothing.
One of the highlights of the Chelsea Market is its food offerings. With a wide variety of cuisines represented, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste. Whether you’re in the mood for a sit-down meal or just want to grab a quick snack, the Chelsea Market has something for you. Some popular options include seafood from the Lobster Place, pizza from Artichoke Basille’s, and handmade chocolates from Li-Lac Chocolates.
In addition to its food and shopping options, the Chelsea Market also offers a variety of events and activities throughout the year. From cooking classes and tastings to live music and art exhibitions, there’s always something going on at the market. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the Chelsea Market is a must-visit destination while in the area.
Visit the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
The Museum of Modern Art is one of the most renowned museums in the world, featuring a vast collection of modern and contemporary art. Located just a few blocks from Madison Square Garden, it’s the perfect place to learn about and appreciate the art of the 20th and 21st centuries. From iconic paintings and sculptures to cutting-edge installations and multimedia works, the MoMA has something for everyone.
The MoMA was founded in 1929 and has been a leading institution in the art world ever since. It’s home to an impressive collection of works by artists like Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Jackson Pollock, as well as more contemporary artists like Cindy Sherman and Ai Weiwei. In addition to its permanent collection, the MoMA also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions and special events throughout the year.
One of the highlights of the MoMA is its emphasis on interactive and immersive experiences. In addition to traditional art exhibits, the museum also features interactive installations, film screenings, and other interactive programming. This makes it a great destination for people of all ages, and it’s a great way to engage with art in a meaningful and fun way.
If you’re planning a visit to the MoMA, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the museum can get very crowded, especially on weekends and during peak tourist season. If you want to avoid long lines and crowds, it’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance and try to visit during the week or at off-peak times. You can also consider purchasing a skip-the-line ticket, which allows you to bypass the general admission line and go straight to the front of the line.
Another thing to consider is the museum’s admission policy. The MoMA is a pay-what-you-wish museum, which means that visitors can pay whatever amount they choose for admission. This policy is in place to make the museum accessible to people of all income levels, but it does mean that you’ll need to have cash or a credit card on hand to pay for your admission.
No matter what you choose to do while in the area, visiting Mustang Harry’s should definitely be at the top of your list. With its delicious food, refreshing drinks, and lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to kick off or end a night out in New York City.
Featured photo credit: ajay_suresh
