There’s no shortage of things to do in New York City — but what if you could enjoy the city and give back at the same time? From haunted pub crawls led by a veteran-owned business, to scenic runs that support the families of fallen first responders, to animal centers changing lives in SoHo, these experiences let you explore NYC with heart.
Whether you’re honoring heroes, helping animals, or supporting local businesses that serve a bigger mission, these three unique activities let you experience the city in a way that truly matters.
1. Get Spooked (and Support a Veteran-Owned Business)
Yes, you can chase ghosts and support a good cause! U.S. Ghost Adventures is a veteran-owned business and offers both daytime and haunted tours of the Big Apple, along with locations all over the U.S. We opted for the NYC Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl, which took us through the heart of Greenwich Village. I had never really explored this side of the city before, but it’s full of charm, character, and history you don’t see elsewhere… and the haunted stories make it even better.
You’ll sip alcholic drinks of your choice (I tried a Pickletini — yes, a pickle martini — and it was surprisingly very good) while hearing chilling tales of centuries-old secrets. At our first stop, we learned that Aaron Burr, then Attorney General of New York during the 1790s, once housed his coach and horses at 17 Barrow Street — a carriage house that’s now one of NYC’s most romantic restaurants: One if by Land, Two if by Sea.
I won’t spoil the whole tour, but if you love ghosts, cocktails, and a good dose of New York history, this is a must. We made two pub stops along the way, which was the perfect way to break up the walk and take in the vibe. Book your adventure now at U.S. Ghost Adventures here — and bring your curiosity (and maybe an appetite for a Pickletini).
2. Visit the Best Friends Animal Society Lifesaving Center
Looking to give back in a more hands-on (and furry) way? Head to Best Friends Animal Society’s Lifesaving Center in SoHo. Best Friends is a nonprofit headquartered in Kanab, Utah, with locations across the country — all dedicated to saving homeless pets from overcrowded shelters. As a national leader of the no-kill movement, Best Friends runs adoption programs, spay/neuter initiatives, and provides training and support for animal shelters and rescue groups across the U.S. They also empower community members to advocate for pets in need — and yes, that includes you!
You can stop into their NYC location at 307 W. Broadway to:
- Play with adoptable cats and dogs
- Volunteer to help clean, feed, or socialize animals
- Take photos or videos to help promote adoptable pets online
- Or even consider adopting or fostering yourself!
The staff and volunteers at Best Friends are incredibly welcoming, and your time — whether it’s 30 minutes or a few hours — truly makes a difference. As shelters across the country (including NYC) face a growing overcrowding crisis, even the smallest act of kindness can go a long way in giving a homeless pet a second chance. Learn more about the Best Friends Lifesaving Center on their website.
3. Run, Walk or Climb for a Cause with Tunnel to Towers
The Tunnel to Towers (T2T) Foundation, started by Chairman/CEO Frank Siller, honors FDNY firefighter Stephen Siller (Frank’s brother), who ran through the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel to the Twin Towers on 9/11 carrying 60 pounds of gear. Each year, thousands retrace his final steps to honor fallen first responders and raise funds for the organization during their annual Tunnel to Towers 5k Walk & Run. Additionally, T2T hosts a climb up the One World Trade Center, which means you climb up to 2,226 steps to get to the 102nd floor.
I’ve done the Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk a few times now, and each one has been truly unforgettable. There’s nothing like the feeling of running the same path that FDNY firefighter Stephen Siller took — surrounded by flags, families, service members, and strangers cheering you on — all united for a common cause. Crossing the finish line near One World Trade Center is powerful and surreal every single time.
While these are the most popular events for T2T, you can take part in their National Run, Walk and Climb in a city near you (learn more here). Don’t have one near where you live? You can also start one! By joining or supporting these events, you’re contributing to a foundation that builds mortgage-free smart homes for injured veterans and first responders, pays off the homes of Gold Star families, and continues to serve communities in need. It’s one of the most meaningful ways to give back and honor those lost on Sept. 11, 2001, and beyond. Learn more at t2t.org. Also, don’t forget to visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum — they do an outstanding job perserving the memories of our fallen and can use your donations to keep them alive.
What else can we add to the list?
We know there are more places in NYC that give back while offering exclusive experiences! We’d love to hear more from you to add to our list. Comment below or email us at [email protected].
I absolutely love this idea of combining travel with giving back — it adds so much meaning to the experience. I’ve been to NYC several times, but never knew about these kinds of activities. The Tunnel to Towers 5k and the Best Friends Lifesaving Center both sound incredibly impactful. I’m definitely adding these to my next NYC trip — exploring the city while supporting great causes is such a win-win!
Hi Agnes! Thank you so much for reading! It’s always a special treat to throw ourselves into the communities we visit and see where we can help or bring recognition to things. I’m so glad you found this interesting! The Tunnel to Towers 5k is so surreal – hope you can do it next year!!!