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22 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New York City

Written by Lana Law Updated Mar 18, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

One of the greatest cities in the world , New York is always a whirlwind of activity, with famous sights at every turn and never enough time to see them all.

Some people come here to enjoy the Broadway shows; others come specifically to shop; and many come simply to see the tourist attractions: the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park, historic neighborhoods, and world-famous museums . As someone who visits regularly, I like to come with friends, try new restaurants, and discover new experiences.

Many of the best places to visit in New York are within walking distance of each other, or just a short ride away, making this city a delight for sightseeing. If you have plenty of time and enjoy the water, touring New York City using the NYC Ferry System offers a unique way to see the sights.

Any time of year and any time of day or night there are an endless array of things to see and do in New York.

See also: Where to Stay in New York City

1. Statue of Liberty

2. central park, 3. rockefeller center & top of the rock observation deck, 4. metropolitan museum of art, 5. broadway and the theater district, 6. empire state building, 7. 9/11 memorial and museum, 8. american museum of natural history, 9. high line, 10. times square, 11. brooklyn bridge, 12. fifth avenue, 13. grand central terminal, 14. lincoln center, 15. one world observatory, 16. the frick collection (frick madison), 17. new york public library, 18. wall street, 19. radio city music hall, 20. st. patrick's cathedral, 21. carnegie hall, 22. bryant park, where to stay in new york city for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to new york, map of tourist attractions in new york city, best time to visit new york, ny.

America's most iconic sight, the Statue of Liberty is at the top of every first-time visitor's list of things to do in New York. It was France's gift to America. Built in 1886, it remains a world symbol of freedom and is one of the top attractions in America .

It is one of the world's largest statues, standing just under 152 feet tall from the base to the torch, and weighing approximately 450,000 pounds. You can see the statue from land, with particularly good views from Battery Park , on the southern tip of Manhattan.

To truly appreciate the Statue of Liberty, the best thing to do is to take a short boat trip to Liberty Island and see it up close. Take a pleasant stroll around the base, and if you have reservations, enter the pedestal or the crown. The crown is open for tours, but book well in advance if you want to enjoy this special experience.

On a tour of the Statue of Liberty, you have the option to stop at Ellis Island and explore the Immigration Museum . This fantastic museum is located in the historic immigration station complex, where thousands of immigrants were processed before entering the United States.

Displays focus on the process, the experiences, and the stories of the people who came through here on their journey to the United States. You can even search the on-site computer database to see a record of immigrants who came through here.

Tickets to go inside the statue sell out. Pre-purchasing tickets is a must during the high season and a good idea at any time of year. The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour takes you to both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. This tour allows reserved access to board the ferry and includes access to the Museum at Ellis Island.

Author's Tip: Buying tickets near the ferry can be tricky, with hawkers swarming you as you exit the subway claiming to be "official representatives" and trying to sell you more expensive tickets before you can find the ticket booth. Be sure to buy in advance at the link above or ignore the hawkers until you reach the booth in Castle Clinton in Battery Park.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in New York State

An oasis of green amongst New York's concrete canyons, Central Park is a sanctuary of peace and quiet for visitors and locals alike.

A walk, pedal, or carriage ride through the crisscrossing pathways of Central Park is a must-do on anyone's New York City itinerary. In winter, you can even lace up your skates and glide across Wollman Rink . This huge park in the city center, a half-mile wide and 2.5 miles long, is one of the things that makes New York such a beautiful and livable city.

Besides being a great place to experience a little nature, Central Park has many attractions within its borders, and most of them are free, making it one of the few cheap things to do in NYC. Some of the most popular places to visit include the Belvedere Castle , Strawberry Fields , the Central Park Zoo , and the Lake . If you are exploring the park on your own, start by picking up a map at one of the visitor centers and plot your route.

Central Park also offers activities throughout the year, from 5km runs and yoga classes to penguin feeding at the Central Park Zoo. Have a look at the park's events schedule for details on what's happening during your visit.

If you're visiting during the summer months, you may want to catch a performance of Shakespeare in the Park at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park. This is a relaxing way to spend an evening in New York City and performances are free.

Read More: Best Parks in New York City

When it comes to New York attractions, Rockefeller Center is on almost all tourists' itineraries. This vast entertainment and shopping complex in the middle of Manhattan is home to NBC-TV and other media, but the centerpiece is the 70-story 30 Rockefeller Plaza , an Art Deco skyscraper that offers awesome views over Manhattan from the famous Top of the Rock Observation Deck .

The "deck," as it's known, includes three floors, located on the 67th, 69th, and 70th floors. Indoor and outdoor viewing spaces offer spectacular views by day or night. You can buy a Top of the Rock Observation Deck Ticket in advance. These tickets come with a flexible voucher redemption policy, so you can change the date if your plans change or the weather doesn't cooperate.

Skating on the outdoor skating rink at the base of the tower is one of the most popular things to do in winter in New York City and a fun activity for families and couples. The rink is typically open from October to April. If you aren't a strong skater, don't worry, the rink is tiny, and for many people, this is their first time on skates, so the skill level is pretty low.

After Thanksgiving, a huge Christmas tree is erected in front of the skating rink, lighting up the complex for the holiday season. Many people visit New York in December just to see this site.

Another point of interest in this area is the famous bronze sculpture of Atlas in front of the International Building. It's a popular subject for photographers.

Address: 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, New York

Read More: Best Places to Go for Christmas

The Metropolitan Museum of Art , or the Met, as it is commonly known, was founded in 1870, and is one of the most famous museums in the United States. The permanent collection of The Met contains more than two million works of art, spanning a period of 5,000 years.

Although the museum has three sites, the centerpiece is The Met Fifth Avenue . Highlights of this collection include American decorative arts, arms and armor, costumes, Egyptian art, musical instruments, photographs, and much more.

Always-changing exhibitions bring some of the world's most famous works to the public.

The Met Cloisters , located in Fort Tryon Park in northern Manhattan, is another extremely popular New York museum. This branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, housed in an outstanding structure, built around medieval cloisters, chapels, and halls, focuses on the medieval art and architecture of Europe.

Address: 1000 5th Avenue, New York, New York

Read More: Top-Rated Museums in New York City

Attending a Broadway show is one of the top things to do in New York City. Considered the pinnacle of American theater, this is the place to see the latest shows and the long-running classics.

Broadway usually refers simply to Broadway theater, which encompasses a large number of theater venues in the Theater District and along the street of Broadway. For the most popular shows , tickets should be purchased well in advance from the website.

Shubert Alley is a famous pedestrian-only alley in the Theater District and home to two well-known playhouses: the Shubert on 221 West 44th Street and the Booth at 22 West 45th Street. Historically, aspiring actors would frequent Shubert Alley looking for opportunities to perform in a play sponsored by theater baron, Sam S. Shubert.

A Chorus Line played at The Shubert for a record 6,137 shows. The musical Oklahoma debuted in 1941 at the St. James playhouse just down the street. Other legendary places include Sardi's restaurant, where many famous actors met, and the Music Box Theater, where Irving Berlin staged The Music Box Revue in 1921.

The Empire State Building is one of New York's most famous landmark buildings and key tourist attractions. The 381-meter-tall, 102-story building was the tallest in the world until the 1 World Trade Center tower rose higher, 41 years later. Topped with a mooring mast for airships, the Empire State Building immediately became a landmark and a symbol for NYC when it opened in 1931.

There are actually two observatories atop the Empire State Building , both offering astounding views. On clear days, you can see up to 80 miles, looking into the neighboring states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Massachusetts.

The 86th Floor Observatory (1,050 feet) is the city's highest open-air observation deck, and what most people are expecting to find when they go up the Empire State Building. If it feels familiar, it's because this area has been featured in countless movies and TV shows.

Reached by high-speed, automatic elevators, it has both a glass-enclosed area, which is heated in winter and cooled in summer, and spacious outdoor promenades on all four sides of the building. The views are incredible. The Top Deck on the 102nd Floor stands 1,250 feet above the bustling streets below. While you are 16 stories higher, the viewing area here is enclosed.

The line to go up the Empire State Building is almost always long; moves slowly; and during peak times, it can be ridiculous, making the whole experience more frustrating than it needs to be. Be aware you can easily burn up half your touring day just at this one attraction.

It's well worth buying the Empire State Building Ticket – Observatory and Optional Skip the Line Ticket that lets you bypass the lines .

The World Trade Center's twin 110-story towers once dominated the Manhattan skyline but were destroyed by suicide-piloted jetliners on September 11, 2001, with a tragic loss of life. Where the two towers of the World Trade Center once stood, now stand two square reflecting pools, each one acre in size.

Known as the National September 11 Memorial , this area is a moving tribute to the almost 3,000 people killed as a result of attacks on September 11, 2001, and also the six people killed in the earlier World Trade Center bombing in February 1993.

Surrounded by trees and grass, the pools are recessed, with water cascading over the sides and flowing into a seemingly bottomless square. These are the largest manmade waterfalls in North America . Around the pools are bronze panels with the names of all those who were killed in the attacks.

The 9/11 Memorial Museum is located in an architecturally stunning, curving glass building, between the two pools. It features displays that include artifacts, photos, and videos, presenting the story of 9/11, as well as the aftermath and impacts.

The building is constructed around the remnants of the World Trade Center and incorporates the old structures within the extraordinary new museum building. The memorial and the museum are located on the south side of One World Trade Centre, on Greenwich Street.

Also worth seeing in this area, on the opposite side of Greenwich Street, is the eye-catching Westfield World Trade Center , which contains Oculus Plaza . You can't miss this building with its white fins and spaceship-like appearance. This is a public building with shops and high-end stores, but it's worth popping in for a quick look at the architecture.

Tickets to the 9/11 Museum must be purchased online or at the window in advance. This is one of New York's most popular things to do, so booking ahead is essential to avoid disappointment. If you are traveling as a family, be sure to book the discounted family rate for up to five.

When purchasing your tickets, you will have the ability to select a time to visit, and you must make your time slot. On Mondays, museum entry is free from 3:30 to 5pm, but tickets still need to be booked in advance, starting at 7am, and are limited to four per person.

Address: 180 Greenwich St, New York, New York

One of New York City's best museums for a family outing, the American Museum of Natural History has always been an important institution, but now it's even more exciting.

One of the newest additions to the New York City attraction scene is the recent opening of the Richard Gilder Center for Science , in May of 2023. This impressive renovation and expansion is quickly becoming one of the city's top things to see, with a design reminiscent of the imaginative style of Antonio Gaudi.

The stunning four-story wing features flowing concrete in intriguing formations. Once inside, you can explore the brand-new insectarium, butterfly conservatory, research library, and a wealth of educational opportunities. It's an exciting addition to the city's cultural landscape that is sure to inspire visitors of all ages.

The museum's permanent exhibit halls showcase all that's interesting about the natural environment of our planet, from science and the environment to animals and fossils. It also hosts special exhibits that run for a set block of time.

Some of the current exhibits that are well worth seeing include one on sharks, featuring models of these amazing creatures that you can actually touch. Another fascinating display is the rare 22-carat Okavango Blue Diamond.

Address: 200 Central Park West, New York, New York

An exciting, and recently expanded, attraction in New York City, the High Line is a former rail line that has been transformed into an urban walking trail above the city streets.

This unique linear public park has been planted with a variety of plants and trees, many of which are native species. In spring many of these come into bloom. The park is lined with glass railings in most areas, giving it a natural feel, while still offering outstanding views of the city.

This oasis on Manhattan's West Side runs from Gansevoort Street at the south end (just south of West 13th Street) to West 34th Street at the north end, running parallel to 10th Ave most of the way. You can access it at various points along the route, some of which offer stair access only, and others with elevator access.

Although the High Line is only about two to three stories above street level, the views of the city's architecture and the lookouts over the streets offer a whole new perspective. Along the route are art installations and benches , and near the south end is a sitting area with bleacher-style seating and a glass wall looking out onto the city . The trail is heavily used, and on weekends it can be extremely busy, but without the surrounding traffic, it's still a peaceful retreat.

One of the highlights of the High Line is the Hudson Yards overlook, called The Vessel, near 34th Street. This is a stunning multilevel structure.

You'll find other interesting places to visit just off the High Line. The south section runs through the Meatpacking District , with plenty of trendy restaurants and fine dining. The southernmost access point is adjacent to the Whitney Museum of American Art, which is also worth a visit.

If you hop off the High Line at the 16th Street access (elevator access), it's just a short stroll to the popular Chelsea Market , located in a former Nabisco factory, where you'll find restaurants and unique shops.

In the spring of 2023, a new extension called the High Line — Moynihan Connector opened to much fanfare. This extension adds new access points, public spaces, and transit connections via the Moynihan train station. The new additions consist of two new 600-foot-long bridges, one made of steel and one made of wood.

Tours of the High Line are offered year-round and trace the history of the attraction from its industrial beginnings through to the structure it is today. Tours are free and are 90 minutes long in the spring, summer, and fall, and 45 minutes long in the winter.

Although a late-night stroll on the High Line on a hot summer's night or after a concert or Broadway show may sound enticing, the High Line closes at 10pm.

Location: Manhattan West Side

Lined with huge, brilliantly lit billboards and screens, Times Square is the place to go in New York in the evening, but still exciting at any time of day. This is the location of New York's New Year's Eve Celebrations and the famous "ball drop" at midnight, when the square and surrounding streets are filled with people.

Times Square is busy and perpetually crowded but has its own unique appeal. Bleachers set up at one end are a great place to take a break and appreciate the scene.

Formerly Longacre Square, Times Square was named in 1904 after the New York Times tower. The newspaper first posted current headlines along its moving sign, the first of its kind in the world, in 1928.

If you've had your fill of sitting on the bleachers and are looking for something fun to do either as a group or a couple, stroll over to Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum . The eerily life-like wax figurines feature NYC icons like Jimmy Fallon and the set of The Tonight Show , Broadway cast members, and shows where you actually get to dress up and participate. The building's glass dome protrudes over Times Square for awesome views.

Address: Broadway and 7th Avenue, New York, New York

The Brooklyn Bridge, with its Gothic-shaped arches and suspension cables, is one of the city's most recognizable landmarks and has inspired generations of poets, songwriters, and painters. This historic bridge, spanning the East River from Manhattan to Brooklyn, was completed in 1883 and was the world's first steel suspension bridge .

You can see it from many of the ferries, or the east side of Manhattan, but the best way to experience this icon is to take an hour and walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. A wood plank walkway, only open to pedestrians and cyclists , runs above the lanes of traffic. If you are not up for walking the whole distance, at least go as far as the first pillar, where there is a viewing platform, and you can see one of the granite towers up close.

From the bridge are beautiful views over Manhattan, the East River, and beyond to the Statue of Liberty. Biking over the bridge is another option, but pedestrian traffic is often very heavy, and cycling can be slow and challenging on busy days. Be aware that the access to the bridge begins well back from the water's edge.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Brooklyn

One of the most famous shopping streets in America, Fifth Avenue is New York's premier shopping area , where many top designers have their flagship stores. Cartier, Tiffany, Bergdorf-Goodman, the famous Apple Store Fifth Avenue, and of course, Saks Fifth Avenue, as well as many others, line this posh avenue.

Even non-shoppers can enjoy a walk along Fifth Avenue. The best area runs from approximately the south end of Central Park to the New York Public Library, or more specifically, between 60th Street and 40th Street.

Grand Central Terminal , often called Grand Central Station, is a fantastic Beaux Arts building, and it's definitely worth popping in to take a look at this famous landmark. The building first opened in 1913 as a terminal for the subway and train stations.

Outside, the 42nd Street colonnaded faces and the statuary on top are some of the key highlights. Inside, you can't miss the Grand Staircase , where you can stop to gaze out over the concourse. The beautifully restored ceiling here shows a celestial scene.

One of the most iconic sights within Grand Central Terminal is the Main Concourse Information Booth Clock. This four-sided clock has been the site of countless meet-ups (and even a marriage proposal or two) and has been featured in many famous movies including The Godfather , Men in Black , and Midnight Run .

You'll also find an extensive selection of retail shops and restaurants inside the terminal.

Address: 89 E 42nd St, New York, New York

If you plan on taking in one of the performing arts such as ballet, symphony, or opera, it's likely that your plans will involve an evening or afternoon at the Lincoln Center . Musicians, dancers, and performers of all kinds dream of gracing one of the 30 indoor and outdoor stages spread throughout the center.

Throughout the summer from mid-June through to mid-August Lincoln Center is one of New York's cheapest cultural hotspots with hundreds of free events during their Summer for the City series . All kinds of entertainment for all ages are on offer.

The Lincoln Center is home to the New York City Ballet, the New York Philharmonic, the Metropolitan Opera, the Juilliard School of Music, the Lincoln Center Theater, and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, and it's almost a certainty that some sort of event will be taking place during your time in town.

In addition to live performances, Film at Lincoln Center showcases innovative movies on a daily basis.

Location: 70 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, New York

At the top of the newly constructed One World Trade Center building , One World Observatory is the highest observation deck in the city offering outstanding views from floors 100, 101, and 102, 1,776 feet above the ground. The elevator to the top is part of the attraction. As you ascend, the surrounding panels show New York as it transformed over the years, from a rural landscape to the metropolis you see today.

This glass building, which can be seen from all over the city, is a unique structure on the Manhattan skyline, with angles that give it a very distinct appearance. If you stand near the base and look straight up, the tower appears pyramidal.

If you want to go up and see the view, you can buy an NYC One World Observatory Skip-the-Line Ticket to save you some time, but note, you will still need to clear security.

Address: One World Trade Center, 285 Fulton Street, New York, New York

For ambience, the Frick Collection tops the list when it comes to New York City museums. Housed in an early 1900s mansion, the building and the original collection were donated by Henry Clay Frick, who had the mansion built to display his art collection.

However, the original mansion is currently closed for a massive renovation and will be for several more years. A decision was made to move elements of the Frick Collection to the former site of the Whitney Museum. The temporary home is known as Frick Madison .

A visit is still worthwhile — the most notable artwork, which includes a mix of paintings, porcelain, and furniture, are on display, as are works by Monet, Rembrandt, Bellini, El Greco , and many other famous artists.

Temporary Address: 945 Madison Avenue at 75th Street

The New York Public Library's main branch was designed by architects, Carrere & Hastings, in the Beaux Arts style. The library, with its impressive rooms, is a prominent city attraction that has been featured in many movies and TV shows over the years.

Although colloquially known as the main branch, the proper name is actually the Stephen A. Schwarzman building . It opened in 1911 to immediate acclaim. An enormous library, the Main Reading Room alone stretches two city blocks, and the Periodicals Room holds 10,000 current magazines. The collection at this location is vast, to say the least.

Location: Fifth Avenue at 42nd Street, New York, New York

Stretching for eight city blocks from Broadway to South Street is the world-famous Wall Street. This street and the surrounding area are home to some of the most important exchanges in the world, including the New York Stock Exchange, the NASDAQ, and the New York Mercantile Exchange.

Also located nearby are the impressive Trinity Church and Federal Hall . Look for the bronze statue of Charging Bull at Bowling Green, on Broadway. This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Financial District and a popular photo opportunity for visitors.

Lying in the shadow of Rockefeller Center is Radio City Music Hall , a famous entertainment venue and a designated city landmark. This 1932 Art Deco theater offers musical extravaganzas and films and is the home of the dance company, The Rockettes .

The building was built and financed by the Rockefellers during the 1930s and contained the largest indoor theater in the world at the time. Today, the venue frequently hosts major events, including the Grammy Awards and Tony Awards. Its prominent marquee is hard to miss as it curves around the building and stretches down the block.

Address: 1260 6th Avenue, New York, New York

St. Patrick's Cathedral is one of New York's finest examples of Gothic Revival, with its massive bronze doors, white marble façade, 330-foot spires, the Great Organ, rose window, bronze baldachin, 2,400 seating capacity, and the statue of Pieta at the side of the Lady Chapel. With millions of visitors annually, the cathedral is a major destination for believers and tourists alike.

The building was erected in 1879 and has been carefully restored and maintained throughout its existence, including a $200-million renovation that was completed in 2016.

Location: 5th Avenue, between 50th and 51st Streets, New York, New York

Carnegie Hall opened in 1891 as New York's first great concert hall. Musicians from Tchaikovsky, who conducted on opening night, to Leonard Bernstein and The Beatles have filled the hall. It is said to have some of the best acoustics in the world.

While the best way to enjoy the hall is to take in a performance, one of the best ways to learn about it is on a guided tour . The tour offers a comprehensive look at the hall, insight into the construction, and discusses some of the artists who have taken to the stage. Tours end at the Rose Museum.

Address: 881 7th Ave, New York, New York

On a summer's day, it's hard to beat a leisurely afternoon at Bryant Park . The grounds feature monuments and gardens, and "Le Carrousel," a popular carousel. A games area makes available chess boards, checkers, and backgammon boards for a small fee.

Bryant Park was a seedy area known for crime and a hangout for undesirables until 1989, when the city reclaimed it and turned it into a beautiful urban oasis. Locals have embraced this park, and today, it's a pleasure to walk through. If you don't want to play a game, it is still interesting to watch others playing.

When the snow flies and the temperature drops, an outdoor skating rink emerges at Bryant Park. This small rink is free to use, unlike the one at Central Park. Bring your own skates or rent a pair at the concession stand. Don't know how to skate? No problem. Skating aids, similar to walkers that elderly people use, are available to rent. If you can, try to visit on Tuesdays or Thursdays. At 12:40pm, artistic skating performances by the Ice Theater of New York take place.

The park is located adjacent to the New York Public Library.

Location: Between W 40th Street and W 42nd Street, at 6th Ave, New York, New York

The best way to truly experience New York is to stay in Manhattan, rather than trying to commute from the suburbs, which can be time-consuming and a little tiring. The hotels mentioned below are all centrally located in Manhattan and close to many of the major attractions.

Luxury Hotels:

• Known for impeccable service The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park is a New York landmark. The hotel has recently been renovated and upgraded, and now the 253 rooms have all the latest modern features the discerning traveler requires and demands.
• The Mandarin Oriental is an outstanding luxury property with a great location near the south end of Central Park.
• Farther south, near Bryant Park, the New York Public Library, and Grand Central Terminal, the posh 60-story Langham Place, Fifth Avenue is another reliable five-star hotel.
• One of the hot new arrivals on New York's hotel scene is the Crowne Plaza HY36 Midtown Manhattan . This four-star property offers affordable luxury and is located within walking distance to the High Line, Penn Station, and Times Square.
• In a similar price range, near Times Square, is the boutique Casablanca Hotel by Library Hotel Collection .

Mid-Range Hotels:

• With a prime location, within walking distance of Times Square, Central Park, and Rockefeller Center, The Pearl Hotel is at the higher end of the mid-range. It offers quality rooms, great service, and very reasonable rates.
• Another noteworthy mid-range hotel in a good location includes the Kasa, The Duffy Times Square . This small hotel has a B&B-style feel with only 22 rooms and as the name indicates, is close to Times Square.
• The Hilton Garden Inn New York/West 35th Street is located in a great position near the Empire State Building.

Budget Hotels:

• Hotel rates vary considerably depending on the season, but it's usually possible to find a few quality budget hotels offering reasonable rates. Some popular, modestly-priced hotel options include the Econo Lodge Times Square , just north of Times Square.
• Near Seaton Hotel is the more modern and affordable Pod 39 Hotel , with funky, compact rooms featuring en-suite bathrooms, and sociable common areas.

With so much to see and do in New York, purchasing a couple of tours can really help cover all the main attractions and make sightseeing easy and enjoyable. Walking everywhere can be tiring, and figuring out the subway isn't for everyone. There are many tours to choose from, but the following offer a good mix of attractions and experiences, and they are all guaranteed lowest prices.

Explore the City :

• For getting your bearings, seeing the sights, and learning a little history, there is no beating the traditional open-top sightseeing bus. Take a Big Bus New York Hop-on Hop-off Tour to cover all the top sights and save yourself a whole lot of walking, so you will still have some energy to take in dinner or a show in the evening.
• If you are spending several days in the city and plan on sightseeing each day, you can save yourself money and hassle by picking up a New York CityPASS , which covers five major attractions and will allow you to bypass the lines. The pass is good for nine days.

See the Sights from the Water :

• Take a Manhattan Island Cruise to see the city skyline and city landmarks from the water, along with the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. These are 2.5-hour cruises that run in the morning and afternoon and include a live guided narration.

Get an Aerial Perspective :

• Indulge yourself with a Manhattan Helicopter Tour and fly over one of the most amazing cities in the world. These 15-minute shared-occupancy flights take you past the landmark buildings in downtown, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island. This tour will give you a whole new appreciation for the density of the buildings and the size of Central Park.

No matter the season, New York City shines, and there is truly no wrong time to visit this bustling metropolis. The best time to go to New York City depends on what you want your vacation to be. If your idea of New York stems from movies like When Harry Met Sally and You've Got Mail , with idyllic strolls through Central Park as colorful leaves gently fall on your shoulders, autumn is an ideal time.

If seeing the Rockettes after a day of skating under the Rockefeller Christmas Tree and admiring holiday window displays is what you've always dreamed of, winter is a magical time to be in the Big Apple.

But if you are looking for a quieter and more budget-friendly getaway, with perfect weather, spring is your best bet. Locals, happy to be shedding their winter armor, have a spring in their step as they make their way to outdoor dining spots and markets on sidewalks carpeted with spring blossoms.

Summer is hot and humid, but if the balmy months are the only time you can travel with your family, you can still enjoy New York City's many attractions.

High season in New York is from June to August and November to December during the holidays, when you can expect to pay high prices for accommodations and flights. March to May and September to early November are considered shoulder seasons, and you will experience pleasant weather and relatively low prices. Low season is during January and February when it's chilly, but you will get cheap deals.

An ideal New York City vacation involves mild weather and fewer travelers, and the times that have both are spring and fall. Visit the city anytime between April to early June, or around September to early November, when the kids are in school and people aren't swarming major attractions.

Flights and hotels are also less expensive than the summer months and during the holidays in December. Take advantage of the nice weather to walk the streets, have a picnic in a park, and catch sports games.

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The Boroughs of New York City: If you have time to tour areas outside of Manhattan, you'll be pleasantly surprised at what you find. Take a trip on the Staten Island Ferry and discover the sights of Staten Island . Hop on the subway and explore the attractions of Queens . Walk or bike over the Brooklyn Bridge and enjoy the numerous attractions in Brooklyn . Lastly, home to the Yankee Stadium and the largest zoo in the United States, it's worth taking some time to visit the Bronx

Where to Go near New York City: If you want a quick break from New York, have a look at our top day trips from New York City or our best weekend getaways . In summer, you might even want to consider heading out to explore the best beaches on Long Island .

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The 37 Best Things to Do in New York City

By Melissa Liebling-Goldberg and Alex Erdekian

One of the most mysterious things about New York City is that the closer you look—even at something as minor as a street corner—the more you see. And the longer you look, the faster it changes before your eyes. People can live here for 100 years and never run out of places to go or people to meet, so deciding the best things to do in New York is daunting; which is why we're narrowing your options. Whether you're a local itching to get out of your neighborhood or an out-of-towner who doesn't know The Met from the Mets, these new and classic activities alike will dazzle you. From wandering Central Park to slurping soup dumplings in Chinatown , these are a few of our very favorite things to do in New York City, from Midtown to Brooklyn.

Read our complete New York City travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

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To get that Nora Ephron New York experience, you have no choice but to take a stroll through Central Park while in the city. As you step off the crowded sidewalks of 59th Street into a mass of green, you’ll hardly realize what lies before you: 693 acres of man-made gardens, meadows, forests, and  hillsides. If you ambled down every one of Central Park’s pathways, you would walk 58 miles. Along the way, you pass sculptures, bridges, and arches, plus 21 playgrounds, a winter ice-skating rink, even a zoo . But you’d hardly notice the four major crosstown thoroughfares, which cleverly disappear into foliage-covered tunnels. Map your park route to stop at classic Central Park landmarks, like the Bethesda Fountain, Bow Bridge, Belvedere Castle, and the Strawberry Fields John Lennon Memorial.

Chinatown Arrow

 Chinatown is one of the neighborhoods that makes lower Manhattan vibrant and unforgettable. After surfacing from the steps of the Canal Street subway station onto the sidewalk, meandering past thick crowds, neon light shops, and vendors peddling fake designer bags, you’ll find yourself in the narrow streets of Chinatown, where there are bright heaps of produce, succulent ducks hanging in windows, and restaurants old and new. Touching Tribeca, SoHo, Little Italy, and the Lower East Side, Chinatown has a rich history and began being populated by Chinese immigrants as early as the 1850s. You can visit in whichever way makes sense for you. Whether you spend an hour devouring a box of roast pork or duck from street-style Wah Fung No. 1 before you have to proceed elsewhere, or you spend half a day shopping for produce, dining out, and paying a visit to the Museum of Chinese in America , everyone will gain something from a visit to Chinatown.

Whitney Museum of American Art Arrow

The Whitney got a major upgrade when it relocated from the Upper East Side to its vastly-expanded Meatpacking headquarters in 2015. It houses 50,000 square feet of indoor galleries with works by Jean Michel Basquiat, Richard Avedon, and Alexander Calder, four outdoor exhibition spaces and terraces, and a ground-floor restaurant and top-floor bar, both by Danny Meyer, one of the town’s best-known restaurateurs. The floors are connected by two artist-designed elevators (albeit slow-moving, crowded ones). If mobility isn’t an issue, take the stairs instead, which offer uninterrupted views of the Hudson river. The upper floors and sculpture terraces are also connected by a series of exterior staircases, with great views of the downtown skyline, and a rare opportunity to experience art en plein aire.

Yankee Stadium Arrow

A spring or summer day spent cheering at an NYC ballpark is a classic activity for a reason. Located in the Bronx, Yankee Stadium is the home field of New York’s 27-time World Champions. It’s a half-hour subway ride from Penn Station and approximately a 20-minute subway ride from Grand Central Terminal, making it easily accessible from Manhattan. It replaced the 1923 original in 2009 and cost $1.5 billion to build, making it one of the world’s most expensive stadiums. It seats 50,287 fans. New York Yankees games, obviously, are the main event here, but you can also attend concerts, college football, and soccer matches.

CNT Editors

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

The Morgan Library & Museum Arrow

The Morgan is like a multi-hyphenate millennial—only instead of actress/model/influencer/whatever, it’s museum/library/landmark/historic site/music venue. Inside the multimillionaire’s personal library, expanded into a must-see museum and cultural space, you'll find rare artifacts, paintings, and books, some dating back to 4000 B.C. that are worth more than your house. In particular the museum is home to one of 23 copies of the original Declaration of Independence; Mozart's handwritten score of the Haffner Symphony; the collected works of African American poet Phillis Wheatley; the only extant manuscript of Milton's  Paradise Lost ; and Charles Dickens’s manuscript of  A Christmas Carol . Swoon.

The Cathedral of St. John the Divine Arrow

The Cathedral of St. John the Divine on 112th and Amsterdam in Upper Manhattan’s Morningside Heights is the largest cathedral in the world and the sixth-largest church by area. Hundreds of thousands of visitors walk through these doors annually for a reason. The cathedral itself—and its remarkable Gothic architecture, story-telling stained glass windows, and 17th century tapestries—is already worth visiting. But there is artwork that is especially meaningful to New York City here as well, including Keith Haring's white gold and bronze altarpiece and a 9/11 memorial sculpture by Meredith Bergmann, which holds debris of the towers in it.  The cathedral holds daily and Sunday worship services, which welcome all. There is no charge to pray, meditate, or contemplate in the cathedral. Visitors who show for sightseeing purposes can enter for $5 admission. Special tours are offered depending on the day of the week. 

Summit One Vanderbilt Arrow

There’s no shortage of jaw-dropping views found throughout the city, but the team behind Summit One Vanderbilt has assembled a bunch of big names to bring together a full experience where you could easily spend a few hours. It starts with the elevator, a light- and sound-filled ride that whooshes visitors up to the 91st floor. There, you’re greeted by a massive, mirrored room that looks out over New York City. Additionally, there are rotating art installations from Kenzo Digital, as well as two special features: Levitation, a glass skybox that lets you feel as if you’re floating one-thousand feet above Madison Avenue; and Ascent, a separate glass elevator that brings you up even higher to gaze over downtown Manhattan. Inside, a Snøhetta-designed Nordic-inspired space serves food and drinks from Danny Meyer’s Union Square Events, including pastrami-stuffed pretzels and ricotta toast; there’s also a wrap-around outdoor terrace that feels like the city's most exciting rooftop bar.

MoMA PS1 Arrow

The sister institution to MoMA   is no ordinary art museum. Located in a striking Renaissance Revival former public school building in Long Island City, Queens, MoMA PS1’s setting is just as interesting as its collection. All manner of cutting-edge contemporary art is shown here, with a collection over 200,000 pieces strong, from the likes of James Turrell and Ai Weiwei. The people-watching can be just as good as the art, as creative types from around the city come here to find inspiration.

Bemelmans Bar Arrow

At Bemelmans, Ludwig Bemelman's illustrations—you might remember them from the Madeline books—adorn the walls. In one panel, a bunny smokes a cigar in Central Park ; in another, a man hands a boy a clutch of balloons. This is a bar where gawking is permissible. The cocktails here very much depend on who’s making them: an Old Fashioned might be a bit watery, a whiskey sour too tart. But often a dirty gin Martini is just perfectly executed. Everything is expensive—it’s clear why you’re here—so take the edge off that sensation by digging into the free, hearty snacks that float your way.

For locals and first-time visitors alike, seeing a Broadway show is a special experience, and one that is exclusive to New York City. Times Square is ordinarily a drag, but when you’re moseying into Midtown Manhattan for a show the bright billboards and lights don’t flash in your face—they dazzle in your eyes. A Broadway show's costumes, sets, songs, and stories are the stuff of dreams. In November, anticipated Spamalot— (parodying Monty Python and the Holy Grail) —and Harmony —a performance telling the true story of the Comedian Harmonists—take the stage.

New York Botanical Garden Arrow

The New York Botanical Garden has carefully manicured flower gardens, lush fields, winding hikes, and impeccable greenhouses. There are spaces that feel deeply intimate, as if you're truly separated from the world, and there are vast expanses where it's hard to believe you're still in the Bronx . In winter, the greenhouses host an annual train show recreating all of New York City in miniature; the warmer months bring every floral delight imaginable, from cherry trees to peonies. Plan to spend at least half a day here and pack a picnic.

Brooklyn Heights Promenade

It’s one thing to be in the midst of Manhattan, on the ground; it’s quite another to look upon it from across the river. In Brooklyn Heights, a couple subway stops away from lower Manhattan, the city’s image looms large before you. Arguably the best view of the skyline in the city, the Brooklyn Heights promenade hovers above the Brooklyn-Queen Expressway. Underlying the peaceful, tree-lined walkway, traffic rumbles below. The promenade stretches from Remsen Street at the south end to Middagh Street at the north. Around the corner, pedestrians can discretely cross a basketball court to access a suspended footbridge that zigzags down to the piers of Brooklyn Bridge Park. While in the picturesque neighborhood, make stops at the New York Transit Museum, the Sardinian trattoria River Deli, and the old-time dive bar Montero.

Grand Central Terminal Arrow

Grand Central Terminal is more than just one of the busiest train stations in the world—it's a window into old New York and into a time when train travel was the ultimate luxury for the wealthy and a necessity for the working man. If you aren't commuting in or out of the city, avoid coming during rush hour, and take your time admiring the landmark architecture and checking out the top-notch dining and shopping.

9/11 Memorial and Museum Arrow

Every American should visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum at least once. As you enter the museum, you descend from the street to bedrock level—the foundation of the former Twin Towers—and are placed in a meditative mindset, forced to recall where you were on that fateful day. The museum itself is a masterful balance: It's grand in scale, contemplative in its construction, and personal in its execution. It pays homage to the enormity of the loss, both physical and spiritual. 

Brooklyn Bridge Arrow

When the Brooklyn Bridge was constructed in 1883—extending 1,595 feet across the East River, connecting lower Manhattan to Brooklyn Heights—it was the longest suspension bridge in the world. Now, it’s a historic staple of the New York City skyline, transporting commuter car traffic underneath and touristic foot traffic above . Standing before arches and rectangles with city skyscrapers rising in the distance, will at once inspire a sense of grandiosity and slightness.

The Cloisters Arrow

Located on four acres in northern Manhattan's Fort Tryon Park, the Met Cloisters is a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and is America’s only museum dedicated exclusively to the art and architecture of the Middle Ages. The building overlooks the Hudson River and actually incorporates five medieval-inspired cloisters into a modern museum structure, creating a historic, contextualized backdrop in which to view the art.

Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Arrow

Located in Midtown Manhattan, the MoMA is larger than it appears as you approach it from the street below. One of the world’s most influential museums—displaying the works of important artists like Van Gogh, Monet, Picasso, Matisse, Rothko, Frida Kahlo, Salvador Dali, and Diane Arbus—it has 630,000 square feet of space and attracts more than a million visitors a year. While making a beeline for the fifth-floor Collection Galleries to take in The Starry Night and Monet’s Water Lilies is understandable, don’t miss the exhibitions, which tell new stories and can only be experienced in a limited time frame. Allocate time to spend pouring over the remarkable books and objects in the famous gift shop, too—an NYC must-visit in its own right.

Apollo Theater Arrow

Countless careers have been made and stars have passed through this world famous, legendary Harlem theater—Duke Ellington, Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, Ella Fitzgerald, Diana Ross, Lauryn Hill, and D’Angelo to name a few. The venue—which began as a white-only burlesque destination until 1934, when under new ownership it began welcoming and becoming central to the Black community—has been active for 88 years, with swing, blues, jazz, R&B, and comedy acts taking the stage. Today, visitors can attend events like Amateur Night at the Apollo, one of the city’s most long-standing, fame-making live shows. Capacity is 1,500, with three levels of seating, and contrary to the way it appears on 'Showtime at the Apollo,' is intimate without much legroom.

Prospect Park Arrow

Prospect Park is in many ways the Central Park of Brooklyn; in fact, it was designed shortly after by the same team of architects, Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, and has many of the same features: sprawling meadows, walking trails, and picturesque bodies of water. In feeling though, it’s more rambling and less manicured than its touristed Manhattan counterpart. Prospect Park Woodlands is Brooklyn’s last remaining forest, with 250 acres of trees, turtles, chipmunks, 200 species of birds, and other fauna and flora. There's also basketball and tennis courts, a carousel, playgrounds, zoo, and a 3.35-mile loop for runners and bikers (they’re fast —watch out!). While there, make a trip to adjacent Brooklyn Botanic Garden , particularly lovely during cherry blossom season.

Bedford Avenue, Williamsburg Arrow

Sip iced coffee in McCarren Park, catch an indie show at Baby's All Right, walk two blocks over to some of the city's most-coveted Italian at Lilia (with a month-in-advance res, of course.) This is the busiest thoroughfare in hip Williamsburg: Bedford Avenue—and the L train that feeds it—might as well be North Brooklyn’s own personal people-watching catwalk. Pedestrians with voluminous pants, dogs with miniature rain boots, and high-speed scooters will swish past you. As you make your way south from the subway station, likely en route from the East Village, you’ll pass local businesses that characterize the area, like Catbird (ethereal, vintage-inspired jewelry), Spoonbill & Sugartown Books (poetry, special design and cookbooks, cards), and Awoke Vintage (best-known for their genuine denim often from the ‘90s.)

Coney Island Arrow

Coney Island has a reputation as a circus-worthy tourist trap, which is exactly what it is. But you may be surprised by the old-timey charms of this beachfront American town. You’ll definitely be impressed by the food and drinks—Totonno's Pizza, Gargiulo's and Coney Island Brewery in particular. Locals and tourists hang out on the beach, eat ice cream cones on the promenade, and stand in line for the famed Cyclone roller coaster. The beach and boardwalk along with spots like Nathan’s are open year-round. The amusement park itself is seasonal. Events like the annual Mermaid Parade (crowded as they may be) are worth watching for the audacity and theatrics you can’t find anywhere else in the world but Coney Island.

Lincoln Center Arrow

World-renowned performing arts center Lincoln Center is always worth visiting when the opportunity arises, and in October 2022, David Geffen Hall, home to the New York Philharmonic, reopened after a major renovation that improved the venue’s acoustics and spiffed it up with a modern look. The sprawling Upper West Side complex is also home to the Metropolitan Opera, the New York City Ballet, the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, and Juilliard. All kinds of music, dance, theater, and films show here; Some highlights from the upcoming calendar include the New York Film Festival, the operas like The Life and Times of Malcom X and La Boheme , and ballets like The Nutcracker . Whether you’re on a special date or reconnecting with old friend when you’re in town, seeing a live performance at Lincoln Center will always make for an elegant and memorable night out.

Washington Square Park Arrow

If people-watching is your sport, Washington Square Park is your place. Entertainment is a given in this intimate, not-quite 10-acre space, filled with career chess players, musicians, performers, students, sunbathers, strollers, and general throngs of Greenwich Villagers, desperate for a bit of fresh air. Take your time as you go through: Pause beneath Washington Arch, honoring our country’s first president (for whom the Park is named), and observe the laurel wreaths and intricate motifs that extend from the base to the keystones, atop which twin eagles perch like constant watchmen. Washington Square Park is the beating heart of this vibrant New York neighborhood.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art Arrow

For nearly a century and a half, the Met has remained the cultural epicenter of New York City, thanks to forward-thinking exhibits and an extensive permanent collection. With its Gothic-Revival-style building, iconic tiered steps, and Central Park location, the building is a sight to be seen. But step inside its Great Hall—as a ceaseless parade of museumgoers move to-and-fro—and you’ll feel the overwhelming sense of possibility and discovery that lays beyond. If you've got limited time or compatriots with limited attention spans, start with the Temple of Dendur, a 2,000-year-old soaring Egyptian temple (the only complete one in the Western Hemisphere)

Blue Note Jazz Club Arrow

Blue Note has been one of the best jazz clubs in New York, and the world, since the 1980s. It offers music every night at 8 p.m. and 10:30, and on Friday and Saturday nights has a late night series at 12:30 a.m., which showcases emerging talent. If you're looking to get a taste of jazz in NYC, you can do no better. Over the years, legendary musicians including Sarah Vaughan, Dizzy Gillespie, and Ray Charles have performed on the Blue Note Stage, as well as contemporary jazz acts such as Wynton Marsalis, Keith Jarrett, and Chris Botti. Tables are intimate, close-set, and all-ages (with the bar being 21-plus).

Union Square Greenmarket Arrow

Union Square is a place of the people, not unlike the agoras of ancient Athens—and no offering of Union Square showcases this quality quite like the bustling Greenmarket. From upstate New York, the Berkshires , New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, vendors sell artisan bread, honey, fresh-cut flowers, heritage meats, pastries, seasonal fruits and vegetables both common and uncommon, and much more. Don't miss the free events, like book signings and more: Cooking demos take place at the Market Information tent daily, beer and spirits pop-ups show seasonally, and the education station offers tours and tastings.

Rockefeller Center Arrow

Rockefeller Center sits in the heart of midtown Manhattan, both in terms of its physical location and its prominent place in the city's folklore and culture. Whether you want to check out a performance on the plaza outside the TODAY show, visit the Christmas tree, or practice your best moves on the ice skating rink, you're in for an iconic, family-friendly experience. If you buy a ticket to Top of the Rock, you'll enjoy spectacular views of the city below. No matter where you are, you're bound to be constantly pointing and shouting “hey, look at that!”

Comedy Cellar Arrow

None of the promoters on MacDougal Street shouting “stand-up comedy tonight!” are trying to get you into the Comedy Cellar, where the show is already sold out. Blockbuster stars like Jerry Seinfeld and Eddie Murphy made their names at the Cellar; if you're lucky, one may show up the night you're there. Seating is intimate and close together, and there is a two-item minimum on food or drinks. It's 21-plus and vaccine-mandatory; be prepared to surrender your phone at the door, too. There's no bad seat in the house, but sit in the front at your own risk of getting (playfully) heckled by the host or a comic.

American Museum of Natural History Arrow

Truly one of the world's great natural history museums, the American Museum of Natural History spans four city blocks just across from Central Park . All aspects of the natural world are represented here, from a vast collection of taxidermy mammals, to depictions of the life of Native American tribes, to an entire hall dedicated to marine life—including a life-size model of a blue whale. The crown jewel is the dinosaur floor, with an imposing Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton that dominates the room. The newest attraction comes in the form of the long-awaited Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation , which opened in May of 2023 and, among many other things, boasts a comprehensive insectarium and vivarium. Breathtaking architecture from New York-based Jeanne Gang doesn't hurt, either.

The Strand Book Store Arrow

With its towering stacks, filled with more than 2.5 million titles, this 94-year-old bookstore is less neighborhood haunt and more globally recognized institution. You could call the Strand's employees tour guides, considering their deft ability to find the exact title you're looking for and recommend a book you may not have otherwise plucked from the shelves. The store will make you question why you don’t read more; and chances are you won’t leave empty-handed.

Bronx Zoo Arrow

With more than 700 different animal species spread across 265 acres of parkland thoughtfully designed to mimic natural habitats, the Bronx Zoo is a great place to escape from Manhattan for the day, especially if you're traveling with kids. Don't miss the giraffe building, the Congo gorilla forest, the house of reptiles, the flamingos in the sea bird aviary, and the sea lions, who always make for an exciting show. If you want to blow the minds of a bunch of kids, you can do no better.

Governors Island Arrow

Located in New York Harbor, only 800 yards from Manhattan and 400 yards from Brooklyn, walking onto quirky, car-free, brick-covered, 173-acre Governors Island feels like being transported to an alternate universe from the city—but in reality it's a quick, affordable ferry ride away. One-way fare is $4 and boats are serviced from Lower Manhattan’s Battery Maritime Building every day, as well as from Brooklyn Bridge Park and Atlantic Basin in Red Hook on the weekends. In the past couple of years, Governors Island has become an even more popular city destination, and has welcomed a slew of new luxury businesses. One is special in particular: Collective, the only place you can stay overnight on the island. Collective is a glamping experience, offering plush beds inside the tents, morning yoga, sunset cocktails, and iconic skyline views—Lady Liberty included, herself. Which is all to say, you’re by no means roughing it here. On the menu at their restaurant, you’ll find grilled seafood, gorgeous spreads of pastries, and more. Another luxury experience new to the island is QC NY Spa, with top-grade saunas and a skyline view-filled pool.

McCarren Park Arrow

Fashion and dogs; dogs and fashion. At McCarren Park, these wonders abound. Located smack between Williamsburg and Greenpoint and bound by Nassau Avenue, Bayard Street, Lorimer Street, and North 12th Street, McCarren is one of North Brooklyn’s best gathering places and community hubs. Activities on offer include softball, volleyball, soccer, handball, and more, but you’ll also see Brooklynites running on the track, rollerblading around the park’s perimeter, and hoisting each other up in acroyoga poses on the grass. Shopping and dining opportunities fringe the park and make for a bustling atmosphere—including the Greenmarket on Saturdays, a thrift market bursting with vintage clothes on the weekends, Awoke Vintage, Forma Pasta, Bernie’s, Frankels, and more.

Elsewhere Arrow

Located in Brooklyn on a hip stretch of Bushwick’s Jefferson Avenue, Elsewhere—a vast, three-story nightclub and live music venue with multiple dance floors, stages, and a rooftop—has become one of the city’s best nightlife destinations. Spinning disco balls and kaleidoscopic lights set the scene. A somewhat recent staple in the city’s nightlife scene, Elsewhere is a converted warehouse that opened in 2017. Blocks away from similar venues like Avant Gardener and House of Yes, Elsewhere stands out for its inclusivity, its intimate vibe in spite of its size, and for lifting up smaller, up-and-coming acts.

Rockaway Beach Arrow

One of the best public beaches you can visit in New York City proper, Rockaway is a sandy, sprawling stretch of surf located in Queens on the Atlantic Ocean, complete with a 5.5-mile boardwalk of delicious concessions. A summery way to get there in style? Take the ferry from Wall Street or Sunset Park, Brooklyn, and let the wind blow through your hair as you take in the city views, sailing under the Verrazano Bridge and past Coney Island on the way. From just about everywhere else in the city, you can also get there via the A train. Each stretch has a different crowd and personality: Beach 90-106 is the busiest section, with the most food and drink options; Beaches 67-69 as well as 90-92 are the surfing zones; between Beach 153 and Beach 169 you’ll find Jacob Riis Park, which is popular with young people and is a summer gathering place for the city’s LGBTQ+ community.

Metrograph Arrow

Located on Ludlow Street in the Lower East Side, Metrograph is an independent movie house and a New York City cinema destination. When you walk in, you’ll notice that the decor is trendy, artsy, and has almost nothing in common with an AMC. You might overhear film buffs opining on French directors you never heard of, but hey, it’s all part of the charm. It shows a curated roster of films that includes exclusive archival screenings, special premiers, and Q&As with notable filmmakers; a few of the films playing on the current lineup in November include The Wall , a 1990 documentary about the Berlin Wall with vérité-style footage; Bill Cunningham New York on 35mm film, introduced by director Richard Press and producer Philip Gefter; and the classic Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf , starring Elizabeth Taylor. Seats are assigned and booked online—to purchase in person, tickets go on sale a half hour before showtime. Seats are red-velvet-cushioned, and pretty comfortable.

Bonus: The legitimate restaurant on site called the Metrograph Commissary serving brunch and dinner, where movie-goers can extend their outing with a meal or a round of drinks. You won’t find your typical movie theater slushies here—espresso martinis, steak tartare, and duck with rosemary are on the menu.

Chelsea's Art Galleries Arrow

If you’ve done the Met and the MoMA a million times but have yet to explore the city’s art gallery scene, get thee to Chelsea. The West Side neighborhood is one of the city’s best-known for art and is home to some of the world’s most respected contemporary art galleries, like David Zwirner —representing legends like Yayoi Kusama, Alice Neel, and William Eggleston—and Gagosian —Damien Hirst, Richard Avedon, Takashi Murakami, and Anna Weyant, whose star is rising. These spaces feel exclusive and glamorous, and you feel special upon walking inside and experiencing their treasures. (And unless you’re an heiress, you’re only window shopping.) The Chelsea gallery scene exemplifies one of New York City’s greatest strengths: walkability. We’d recommend mapping out the spots you want to hit and making half a day out of it—West 24th Street between Tenth and Eleventh Avenues is a prime route.

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The 21 best attractions in Manhattan

From the Statue of Liberty to the High Line, these are the best Manhattan attractions in NYC

If you’re planning on making a visit to New York City, it would be ridiculous not to start with Manhattan and its attractions. Though in point of fact neither the biggest borough (that’s Queens !) nor the most densely-populated (that’s  Brooklyn! ), it is the center of the city: historically, geographically, and culturally.

Dominated by some of the world’s most iconic skyscrapers, here you’ll find globally famous attractions like the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, and Central Park. You’ve got some of the best restaurants in New York . And all the biggest and best  Broadway shows  are here because Broadway is literally in Manhattan. Whether you’re just visiting the Big Apple for the weekend or you’re a lifelong New Yorker looking for something new to do, these attractions in Manhattan are essential additions to your bucket list.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best New York attractions   RECOMMENDED: The best non-touristy things to do in NYC

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click  here .

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Best Manhattan attractions

1.  One World Observatory

• Towers and viewpoints
• Financial District

The current tallest building in the United State, the One World Observatory at World Trade Center lets visitors experience panoramic views of NYC on levels 100, 101, and 102. The tour begins with a thrilling trip in the Sky Pod elevators (some of the fastest in the world) which lead to a two-minute video presentation of gorgeous city images on floor 102. Check out City Pulse on the 100th floor, which shows HD videos featuring notable NYC landmarks and neighborhoods. Then it’s time to brave the Sky Portal, where a 14-foot wide circular disc gives you a view of real-time, high-definition footage of the streets below.

2.  Empire State Building

• Monuments and memorials
• Midtown West

Finished in 1931 at the height of the Great Depression, this 1,454-foot Art Deco skyscraper was the tallest building in the world for almost four decades and has long stood as a symbol of American innovation and ambition. Still looming large as ever in New York’s skyline (where it’s still the seventh-tallest building), the Empire State remains one of the most visited attractions in the city. Taking in those awe-inspiring panoramic views from the open-air observation deck on the 86th floor remains a huge draw (reservations are required), but a recent $165m upgrade has added even more appeal. Make sure you also check out the newly revitalized galleries on the second and 80th floors; the sight of King Kong’s clutches coming through the walls really is something. 

3.  The Statue of Liberty

• Liberty Island

In a city where almost everything is iconic, Lady Liberty could just edge it as the icon of icons – certainly where tourists are concerned (New Yorkers famously avoid it like the plague). Our tip is to avoid the foam-crown-sporting masses and pre-book a combo cruise-and-tour ticket . A climb to the crown – and why wouldn’t you? – affords a panoramic view of New York Harbor and the chance to see the literal nuts and bolts of Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi’s creation, which was given to the people of America by the people of France in 1886. We thoroughly recommend stopping in the museum on Liberty Island, if only to marvel at the initial ambivalence of 19th-century New Yorkers when they were asked to fund the construction of the pedestal. 

4.  The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Occupying 13 acres of Central Park, the Met, which opened in 1880, is impressive in terms both of quality and scale: there are some two million items in its permanent collection, from classical antiquity to modern American design. Added in 1895 by McKim, Mead, and White, the neoclassical facade is daunting. But despite its grandeur and vastness, the museum is surprisingly easy to negotiate, particularly if you come early on a weekday and avoid the crowds.

5.  Central Park

• Things to do
• Walks and tours

Surely the world’s most famous public park, the still startlingly enormous Central Park is one of the most beloved attractions in New York City, and an iconic fixture of numerous films, TV shows, and songs. It’s surprisingly easy to forget you’re in Manhattan once you penetrate the idyllic, 843-acre plot, which was first brought to life in the mid-nineteenth century by urban visionaries Frederick Law Olmstead and Calvert Vaux. Their thoughtful design reflects a harmonious balance of scenic elements that live on today: pastoral (the open, picnic-ready lawn of the Sheep Meadow), formal (the liner, tree-lined Mall), and picturesque (the densely wooded paths of the Ramble).

Rent a bike in Central Park.

6.  Chrysler Building

• Civic buildings
• Midtown East

If you want to call this magnificent pinnacle of Art Deco architecture NYC’s most eye-popping skyscraper then we’re not going to argue with you. Triangle-shaped windows in its crown are lined with lights, creating a beautiful effect come nighttime. Oozing a moneyed sophistication oft identified with old New York, you can’t actually go up it as a tourist – it’s still in use as offices – but the go-ahead has been given for a new observation deck, and in the meantime, the magnificent art deco lobby is open to the public.

7.  The High Line

Though it’s spawned many imitators, t here’s something uniquely New York about this wonderful aerial walk, built on an abandoned railway track, an ultra-smart move-in footage-starved Manhattan. What we like best is how the pathway rises above the city while keeping you rooted in urban life: where else can you walk through a field of wildflowers as cabs zip along the street beneath you?

8.  Theater District

When it’s running at full capacity – understandably, things have been pretty patchy since March 2020 – then more than 13 million locals and tourists take in Broadway shows every year. Most of NYC’s 41 Broadway venues – that is to say, professional theaters with a capacity of over 500 – are located in the Theater District. Roughly speaking, that’s 41st Street to 52nd Street between Sixth Avenue and Eighth Avenue. Each season brings a new wave of mega-musicals, plays, and star-driven revivals. Tickets don’t tend to be cheap – although discounts are often available – but you would be crazy to leave New York City without taking in one of the season's best shows.

Get spooked on a haunted Broadway theater tour.

9.  Harbor helicopter tour

For generations, the architects who have worked in Manhattan have known one thing: the only way is up. Take their lead and view the area’s iconic buildings, bridges, parks and statues from the air. Ideal for when your feet need time off from earth-bound site-seeing, a helicopter tour will sweep you up and around the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Empire State Building and so forth, including giving you a view of Central Park normally reserved for the birds. Head to Pier Six on the East River and, well, prepare for lift off.

10.  National September 11 Memorial & Museum

On the former site of the Twin Towers, stand North America’s largest man-made waterfalls. Designed by Michael Arad, its twin reflecting pools bear the names of the 3,000 victims of the 9/11 attacks and serve as a solemn reminder of all that was lost on both September 11, 2001, and the World Trade Center bombing in 1993. For those who wish to learn more about the events, the museum offers first-hand accounts of survivors, picture and video footage of the attacks, and recovered objects such as a wrecked recovery vehicle and the 30-foot National 9/11 Flag.

11.  Rockefeller Center

Built by the fabulously wealthy businessmen John D Rockefeller, the construction of this enormous complex employed over 40,000 workers over nine years. Nowadays, more than 350,000 visitors make their way to the historic landmark every year, starting early in the morning with folks hoping to spot celebrities or appear in the background of the Today Show. Always in demand is the NBC studio tour, which covers the network’s history and sites in 30 Rock. The busiest time to visit, of course, is December when the enormous, 70-foot Christmas Tree stands proudly above the plaza ice rink. 

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12.  Grand Central Terminal

• Historic buildings and sites

This iconic transit hub, which opened in 1913, is used by thousands upon thousands of commuters each day. And it’s also a destination in its own right: its majestic Beaux-Arts architecture is an awesome marriage of form and function. Famous features include the vaulted, constellation-adorned ceiling and the four-faced opal clock topping the main information booth. They’re both located in the Grand Concourse. Meanwhile, ornamentation above the 42nd Street entrance includes a likeness of Mercury, the god of travel (naturally), and an ornate Tiffany-glass timepiece.

13.  Whitney Museum of American Art

• Art and design
• Meatpacking District
• price 2 of 4

In 2015 the Whitney Museum said bye-bye to its Marcel-Breur-designed home of nearly 50 years on Madison Avenue and decamped to a brand new building in the Meatpacking District, conceived by international starchitect Renzo Piano. Right at the foot of the High Line, the all-new Whitney has some 63,000 square feet of both indoor and outdoor exhibition space. Its collection – which is based around American artists of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries – holds about 15,000 pieces by nearly 2,000 artists, including Alexander Calder, Willem de Kooning, Jasper Johns, Louise Nevelson, and the entire estate of Edward Hopper.

Save on the best NYC attractions.

14.  New-York Historical Society

• Upper West Side

One of America’s first cultural and educational institutions, the New-York Historical Society was founded way back in 1804. Instead of the niche view of NYC’s past that some other attractions offer, it offers a comprehensive look at the New York of yesteryear. Exhibits here are wide-ranging, covering all aspects of city life, and the museum’s permanent holdings—you can see a lot of them in the open-storage galleries on the fourth floor—offer a glimpse into daily city life in NYC past, with items such as vintage clothing, toys, and furniture on display.

15.  The Guggenheim Museum

Built in 1959 by Frank Lloyd Wright to house the eponymous philanthropist’s collection, nowadays the iconic concrete spiral is considered as much a work of art as the paintings within it. Alongside great works by European masters such as Manet, Picasso, and Chagall, the institution holds the most Kandinskys in the US, as well as one of the largest collections of Mapplethorpe's in the world. And yes, there really is a correct way to see the exhibits: Wright’s intent was for you to begin at the bottom and work your way around to the top.

16.  Times Square

The heart of Manhattan was once a global byword for seediness and sin, packed to the gills with sex shops and drug dealers. In recent decades, however, its notorious reputation has almost totally evaporated: nowadays the area can feel like a tourist-clogged shopping mall. If you must go – and frankly, it’s pretty hard to totally avoid it – then changes such as the stairs above the TKTS booth and a pedestrian plaza along Broadway have improved the sightseeing experience…somewhat. 

See Times Square on a walking tour.

17.  Chelsea Market

• Markets and fairs

More than six million people a year visit this former biscuit factory turned food hall: a fact that’s unlikely to surprise anyone who has ever braved the epic line for Los Tacos No. 1. In addition to 35-plus eateries, Chelsea Market is home to the rotating boutique selection of Artists & Fleas, plus a selection of other local boutiques. The fact Google snapped the space up for a cool $2.4 billion a few years back only goes to show how iconic it really is.

Explore Chelsea Market and The Highline.

18.  Flatiron Building

When it debuted in 1902, critics thought the Flatiron Building wouldn’t last: they worried that a strong wind might topple the long, thin, pyramidal structure. Fortunately, architect Daniel Burnham’s smart solution to the problem of a triangular lot has proven nothing if not enduring, and the unique architecture is still very much in place. Following the departure of its main tenant Macmillian, the building is empty while a lavish extensive renovation is carried out, due for completion no earlier than 2022.

19.  American Museum of Natural History

• Science and technology

If the American Museum of Natural History only contained the 94-foot blue whale model in the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life and the 122-foot cast of the Titanosaur fossil in the Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Orientation Center, then it would be worth visiting on those grounds alone. What’s that, you want more ? Fair enough: you can also consider the vast collection of taxidermied animals, check out the dazzling Hall of Gems and explore the heavens in the awe-inspiring Hayden Planetarium during your visit.

20.  Macy’s Herald Square

• Department stores

Though it’s no longer the biggest department store in the world, the original Macy’s location is no slouch, covering a prodigious 2.2 million square feet. You could spend days shopping in this 11-floor building, but buying stuff isn’t the only draw. Visit in the spring to peep the extravagant Macy’s Flower Show, or wait until after Thanksgiving to take in the festive holiday windows and drop off your Christmas list to Old Saint Nick himself.

21.  New York Public Library, Stephen A. Schwarzman Building

• Libraries, archives and foundations

Catch a glimpse of this monumental library’s Beaux-Arts facade and you’ll see why it took nine years and $9 million to construct (when $9 million was a lot of money). The grand columns, Tennessee marble lions dubbed Patience and Fortitude and spectacular Rose Main Reading Room make the library one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. The contents aren’t too bad either: bibliophiles shouldn’t pass up the chance to look through the vast collection of books and literary ephemera, including the original Winnie-the-Pooh bear and first folio editions of William Shakespeare's Comedies, Histories, and Tragedies .

Looking for more things to do?

The best bike tours in NYC

For those looking to experience the city like a locals, hop on two wheels and join of the best bike tours NYC has to offer

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The 41 Absolute Best New York Attractions In 2024

What to do in new york we've got you covered.

With famous New York landmarks like the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center or the Brooklyn Bridge around every corner, it can be hard picking the attractions that you want to see on your trip to NYC.

Below you will find a list of our favorite attractions that we think you have to see in New York City. In addition to that, I’ve included really beautiful and unique places that you should definitely visit! Further down, you will find the 👉 best New York attractions on a map .

TOP Attractions in New York

New York has so much to offer! If you don’t have much time, you should visit these eight TOP attractions in New York:

• Summit One Vanderbilt
• Edge Hudson Yards

Central Park

Brooklyn bridge, times square.

• Statue of Liberty
• The 9/11 Memorial
• High Line Park

You can easily do these in two days. My list of the best sights in New York below in the article is ideal for a visit of 5 days to a week.

Buy New York sightseeing tickets online

New York City is just as busy as it was before the pandemic – in fact, it feels a little busier now that many are taking their postponed New York trips. Many of New York’s attractions require you to book time slots in order to visit them. Therefore, you should buy your ticket online in advance! These are the most visited attractions in NYC:

My budget tip: many attractions are included in the New York sightseeing passes – so you can save a lot of money on tickets. Which New York Pass is the best for you, I show you in my New York Pass comparison .

New York Attractions Map

Our tips for visiting the top New York attractions on a budget!

If you are on a family holiday, or visiting the city with a group of friends and need to book 4 tickets for each attraction, or are alone but just have a tight budget set for your trip, we have something really special for you. NYC sells discount attraction passes which allow you to visit all of the must-see NYC attractions for less while giving you the flexibility of deciding what you want to see once you get there!

Offering discounts of up to 70% on many sights, tours, and attractions  New York City sightseeing passes  are the ultimate way to save money. Find out which one will save you the most based on the attractions you want to see here:

Try Our Savings Calculator

These are my favorite NYC attractions

While the mention of NYC undoubtedly brings to mind many of its famous buildings and attractions, it can be very difficult picking which ones you want to visit during your trip. Our list below of the best attractions in New York is in no particular order and is based on our experiences with each attraction as well as what we think makes for a good trip to the Big Apple!

The Edge Observation Deck

The Hudson Yards observation deck called Edge is New York’s newest and highest open observation deck. It opened in March 2020 and we were there – the view from up here is just sensational, and through the glass floor you can see over 100 floors straight down!

Are you looking for the ultimate thrill? Then check out the Edge City Climb !

Empire State Building

The first of our must-see New York attractions is the world-renowned Empire State Building . The view from the observation platform of the Empire State Building will take your breath away and is a sight that you won’t soon forget. An absolute must-see during a visit to New York! We have compiled everything you need to know about the Empire State Building, including our tips & tricks, important info regarding ticket options, and whether going to the 102nd floor is really worth it.

OUR TIP: EITHER GO REALLY EARLY OR VERY LATE AT NIGHT!

That’s when queues are not as long. Even better –   Tickets with Fast Lane access are available here  – or get one of the New York discounts passes that includes tickets to the Empire State Building !

An official city landmark and the second of our must-see New York attractions: the Brooklyn Bridge. Be sure to walk across the bridge to enjoy the fabulous views onto the city skyline, especially in the early evening hours! The view from Brooklyn across the East River is also spectacular and is definitely a must-see. New tours are available that take you across the bridge into Brooklyn and these are quite popular.  You can find the most popular tours on this page .

Our tip: Make a day out of it! We recommend you check out the beautiful Brooklyn Bridge Park and spend the afternoon walking around DUMBO if you time it right you can head back across the Brooklyn Bridge at sunset when the views are especially beautiful. If you get hungry, don’t pass on pizza at Juliana’s, the line may be long but this is definitely some of the best pizza you can get in NYC!

Top of the Rock

The next activity on our list of must-see New York attractions is the observation platform on the top of the Rockefeller Center. The Top of the Rock observation deck will give you fantastic outdoor views of New York and is one of our favorite places to view the city from above.

The best thing about this observation deck is that you have a great view of downtown Manhattan, the Empire State Building as well as Central Park in the other direction. This attraction ranks high among our top 10 things to do as this is where most iconic pictures of the Empire State Building are shot from. If you’re in town during the holiday, make sure to check out Rockefeller Plaza and the famous Christmas tree in NYC.

OUR TIP: GO IN THE LATE AFTERNOON!

The Top of the Rock observation platform is also less crowded than the Empire State Building making the view much more enjoyable.  Tickets for the observation platform are available here – or get one of the New York discount passes that include a ticket to the Top of the Rock!

9/11 Memorial and Museum

The 9/11 Memorial Museum is located at the 9/11 National Memorial and is probably one of the most emotional museums in New York. It is mostly located underground and displays debris from the former Twin Towers in addition to many of the personal belongings of those buried. Among them are fire trucks deformed by heat, a part of the antenna of the North Tower, a scorched elevator motor, the saving stone staircase (Survivor’s Staircase) as well as remains of sidewalks, street signs, bicycles and baby carriages that were in front of the World Trade Center.

Get personal tips & tricks, specifically tailored to your trip!

We will provide you with individual tips & tricks as you prepare for your trip. How to plan, save money and make sure you experience the most of NYC are only some of the topics covered!

Specify dates

One World Observatory

One of the newest activities in this list of top 10 New York attractions is the observation platform on top of the One World Trade Center.  The OWTC is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and is close to where the Twin Towers once stood.

OUR TIP: GO FIRST THING IN THE MORNING OR IN THE EVENING!

With a height of 1,776 feet (541 meters), the One World Observatory gives you amazing views of Manhattan and the surrounding boroughs. The 9/11 Memorial and Museum is also one of the best New York attractions that we highly recommend visiting. You can order tickets online here !

There are few parks as unique as the High Line. The elevated freight rail line was repurposed as a public green space that opened in 2009 and now offers amazing views of the city, as well as a place to relax and unwind. Its plant life is based directly off what was growing there while it was abandoned, giving this park a unique and interesting atmosphere! The High Line stretches from The Meatpacking District all the way to Hudson Yards-34th Street.

There is no doubt that you cannot miss this must-see New York attraction. Times Square always has something going on and is packed with people at all times of the day. Being in the middle of the buzz and watch the thousands of people and cars go by is definitely an experience.

The best of Times Square has to offer, however, is at night. That’s when the LED screens light up the whole square as if it were broad daylight! There is also a pedestrian zone where you can sit down and relax or several rooftop bars right around the corner that offer sensational views!

Staten Island Ferry

Manhattan’s Wall Street is home to the New York Stock Exchange and the headquarters of numerous banks. It is definitely one of the most popular 10 things to fo in NYC on this list, as it has been featured in countless movies and tv shows. One icon of Wall Street is the Charging Bull statue, which is located near the Stock Exchange.

It is at its current location in the plaza at Bowling Green in an act of “guerrilla art”. Guided tours through the Financial District as well as the Wall Street Insider Tour are hugely popular.

Central Park spans from Midtown Manhattan all the way up to Harlem. There are about 340 hectares of land and is a popular meeting place for New Yorkers. With about 35 million visitors per year, the man-made park is an attraction not only for tourists. New Yorkers love Central Park and its tranquility. Many events are held here such as the NYC Marathon. There are also tons of green spaces, walking lanes, and bike lanes. Central Park is home to Sheep’s Meadow, Bow Bridge, Bethesda Terrace, Central Park Zoo, and many other things as well.

Bryant Park

Bryant Park is located right in central Manhattan and is a quiet oasis between 40th and 42nd Street. Bryant Park is right in the cetner of Midtown Manhattan between 40th and 42nd Street, yet it still lends you the peace and quiet you need to get away for a few moments from the bustling city. Withg many small cafés dotted throughout the park this is the perfect place to unwind or relax when the weather is nice.

Brooklyn Bridge Park

You will find the beginning of Brooklyn Bridge Park just below Brooklyn Bridge. With amazing views of the skyline across the water and some great places to sit and enjoy the view, this park is a must-visit! For those of you who like running, this is an amazing place to do so, especially with the amazing Manhattan skyline view. There are also tons of green spaces, basketball, volleyball courts, and soccer fields.

The Vessel Hudson Yards

The Vessel is an attraction in the Hudson Yards – and it’s free! Designed by British Thomas Heatherwick (designer of the “Rolling Bridge and UK Pavilion at Expo 2010), “The Vessel” offers around 2,500 steps to climb up and down. The symmetrical steel structure, connected by 154 interwoven stair segments, attracts tourists from all over the world to climb the vertical distance of about one mile!

Note: The Vessel is unfortunately still closed at the moment. You can only enter at the bottom, the stairs are still closed and it is not known if and when they will be open to the public again.

One Vanderbilt The Summit

The New York City skyline is one of the most famous and recognizable skylines in the world. It’s a city filled with skyscrapers and tall buildings. In most recent years, it has been expanding which made way for new observation decks. The newest observation deck is located at the top of the One Vanderbilt Building and is called The Summit. This deck is the second-highest outdoor deck in NYC which follows the Edge and has been open since October 2021.

Flatiron Building

The Flatiron Building is one of the most popular, beautiful and iconic buildings in NYC. The triangle shaped building likens the shape of a iron, hence the name. As one of the most photogenic spots in NYC this is definitely worth the visit for every tourist.

New York Public Library

The New York Public Library is one of the most famous buildings in NYC. Having featured in countless films and photographs, this is one of the best public libraries in the United Sates. The New York Public Library is not only a place for students, professors, and bookworms but also a must visit for toruists of the Big Apple.

Grand Central Terminal

You can’t visit New York City and not have a peek of the stunning Grand Central Station . The Grand Central Station is the largest train station in the world and is the busiest building in New York City in terms of visitors.

Did you know: the painting on the ceiling (image of the sky) was painted in its mirror image. The painter accidentally held the image upside down! The official reason, of course, is that this effect was by design. The painter claimed that the image reflects God’s view of the sky from the celestial sphere, i.e., from above, and not from below. It’s a must-see and absolutely worth going.

Roosevelt Island Tramway

This is one of my favorite things to do in New York City and should be on your list if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a few hours. Most NYC visitors don’t know that we actually have a tramway leaving from Manhattan, the Roosevelt Island Tramway . The final destination is Roosevelt Island , which is a small island between Manhattan and Queens. While riding the tramway is already an attraction on its own, Roosevelt Island is worth exploring as well.

American Museum of Natural History

The American Museum of Natural History is one of the more popular museums in NYC. If the name sounds recognizable it’s because the museum was the center of attention in the movie, Night at the Museum featuring Ben Stiller. Regardless of it’s Hollywood fame, the Natural History Museum is a huge institution that features numerous exhibits. This is a great place for families with kids so they can learn about the world’s geography, plants, different animal species and many other things.

The American Museum of Natural History is located in the Upper West Side in Manhattan and is the largest natural history museum in the world.

Domino Park

This beautiful park opened up in Williamsburg in 2018. It’s called Domino park because the former Domino Sugar factory was located at that very spot. Now, it’s filled with greenery, food vendors and a playground for kids. It is located directly on the East River and you have a great view of the city from here. The park invites you to play volleyball or have a picnic.

Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

The Museum of Modern Art houses a variety of contemporary artworks ranging from architecture and design to photography, paintings, and sculptures. Designed by Yoshio Taniguchi, the Museum of Modern Art reopened after renovations. Coinciding with MoMA’s seventy-fifth anniversary, the museum opened its redesigned space for exhibitions, education, and scholarly research. It is a must-do if you’re into art. Especially after their reopening, it is really worth it going.

MoMA has a reputation for displaying the world’s finest collection of modern and contemporary art. The MoMA reopening will bring new galleries and spaces for performances and events to the visitors. Visitors can expect a bigger, more diverse MoMA after the reopening. Masterpieces have been cleaned and touched up; galleries are completely reorganized. Read more about what has changed at the MoMA in New York City  here.

Guggenheim Museum

First off, The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum is an architectural masterpiece. Second, but most importantly, it is the permanent home of a large collection of art named after its founder. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright the bizarrely shaped building is one of the most famous in NYC. Not only is the outside spectacular, but it is constantly expanding its permanent collection. Also, many special exhibitions are showcased here throughout the years. It is definitely worth a visit!

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island (Ferry & Stop)

The fact that the Statue of Liberty is missing from the top 10 list is not an accident. It is always too busy and crowded and you can take much better pictures of the Statue from further away. Instead, we recommend you take a boat tour around Manhattan that makes a brief loop around the Statue of Liberty giving you a good photo opportunity, or take a ride on the Staten Island Ferry!

Just recently, there is a new museum, the Statue of Liberty Museum , that opened on Liberty Island. It tells you everything about the history of the Statue of Liberty. First-timers often visit the Statue of Liberty. Be aware though that it will take away at least 4-6 hours of your day if you want to see everything from the Statue of Liberty to the Immigration Museum.

A beautiful places to visit in NYC: Grand Banks

Water, a great view of Manhattan and a great atmosphere – the location is simply the best. You are sitting on a historic ship called F/V Sherman Zwicker on the Hudson River and can enjoy New York from the water when the weather is fine. The place also serves great drinks and seafood.

Governors Island

When the weather is beautiful in New York City and you want to escape for a moment from the noise, the hustle and bustle, then a trip to Governors Island is something to consider. The Governors Island Ferry will take you across the East River for $4.

Since 2021 Governors Island is open all year round!

Jane's Carousel

In the middle of the Brooklyn Bridge Park there is a beautiful carousel for young and old all year round. From there you can also enjoy the great view of the Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan Bridge.

Pier 54 - Little Island

Not far from the Meatpacking District and the High Line, Little Island is one of the newest attractions in New York and is something very special: a park on 132 beautiful tulip-shaped concrete stilts in the Hudson River!

So beautiful: Gallow Green Rooftop

Gallow Green is a unique rooftop bar located above McKittrick Hotel. What makes it so special is its quaint and green atmosphere. The whole bar is overgrown with foliage and certainly does its name justice: It looks like a garden! Not to be forgotten are the delicious drinks that are served there. It’s even listed in our Rooftop Bar Guide as one of the 43 Best Rooftop Bars in New York .

This is one of the NYC attractions that you definitely shouldn’t miss! All you need is a subway ticket to take the cable car across the East River at heights of over 200ft. The views from the cable car are amazing and equally as impressive from Roosevelt Island!

One of the most instagrammed places in NYC: DUMBO

Don’t forget to capture the most famous photo on Washington Street in Dumbo: With the Manhattan Bridge and the tiny Empire State Building in the background, the street is popular with all tourists to take the perfect photo. Manhattan Bridge is the second famous bridge in Dumbo. If you like, you can also cross it on foot and enjoy the great view of the skyline as well as the Brooklyn Bridge from there.

Wall Street

Manhattan’s Wall Street is home to the New York Stock Exchange and the headquarters of numerous banks. It is definitely one of the most popular things to do in NYC on this list, as it has been featured in countless movies and tv shows. One icon of Wall Street is the Charging Bull statue, which is located near the Stock Exchange.

It is at its current location in the plaza at Bowling Green in an act of “guerrilla art”. Guided tours through the Financial District as well as the Wall Street Insider Tour  are hugely popular.

Washington Square Park

Washington Square Park, centrally located in the Village, extends over almost 4 hectares. Close to New York University with its distinctive Washington Square Arch, a triumphal arch inaugurated in 1895, the park is a popular place to be when the weather is fine. Through the Arch you have a wonderful view along 5th Avenue to the top of the Empire State Building. 

If you are lucky, you can even enjoy a free jazz concert from the many jazz artists of the Village. Here, friends and family meet to relax, play chess, or just in general have a good time.

A park with a waterfall at Rockefeller Center: The Paley Park

The entrance to the park, which is only 390 square metres in size, is at 53rd Street – and what immediately catches the eye: the 6-metre high waterfall. During the day in summer the waterfall’s spray mist is wonderfully cooling. And: it “swallows” all surrounding sounds and the park is such a spot with a really fascinating atmosphere! Midtown’s Paley Park is one of those secret places in New York that almost nobody knows about. A normal tourist doesn’t even consider the existence of such a park, but a New Yorker doesn’t either. The fact is that it is an oasis that radiates an aura of peace in the middle of the New York hustle and bustle.

Enjoy the sunset at Brooklyn Crab (Redhook)

Brooklyn Crab is a real insider spot, which you can reach within 20 minutes from Manhattan on the IKEA Ferry. The seafood is sensational, you can sit indoors or outdoors and if you stay long enough you can enjoy the sunset over the Statue of Liberty.

Radio City Music Hall: So beautiful a night!

The Radio City Music Hall is a very famous theater building in the middle of New York. It is part of the Rockefeller Center and is located in close proximity to the Top of The Rock and the Museum of Modern Art. When you see the Radio City Music Hall from the outside, it will seem like a journey 80 years into the past. In many movies you can see the old neon sign and therefore it is really famous.

Don't miss the Honorable William Wall on your next New York visit

The Honorable William Wall, affectionately called “Willy Wall”, is the floating clubhouse of the Manhattan Yacht Club. The clubhouse is anchored in New York Harbor north of Ellis Island from May to October. What is so special about it? It’s definitely an insider’s spot, which not only gives you a great view of Ellis Island and of course the Statue of Liberty – you can also enjoy the sunset from here.

My favorite New York neighborhoods

Each neighborhood of New York has its own unique character and is worth exploring. However, if I had to limit myself to the most important neighborhoods that best showcase the city’s diversity, it’s these:

Soho New York

Now known for their many excellent restaurants, shops and tourism, Manhattan’s SoHo, Little Italy and Chinatown neighborhoods offer the most varied stories of New York City. Take a 2-hour tour with a local guide and discover hidden gems and 19th century buildings.

DUMBO & Brooklyn Heights

Home to many wealthy families and business people is the beautiful area in Brooklyn Heights and Dumbo. In this neighborhood you’ll find tree-lined streets, historic brownstone houses, breathtaking views of Lower Manhattan and super stylish lofts in abandoned industrial areas at the foot of the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges. This mixture gives this area of Brooklyn its special charm.

East Village

Originally a part of the Lower East Side, the East Village in New York developed in the 1960s into an exciting identity of its own due to its multicultural influences and thus became its own quarter in the so-called “Village” of New York City.

Meatpacking District

Go on a fun adventure in New York’s only park above street level- the Highline. Experience the Chelsea neighborhood from a whole new vantage point and find out more about the history of the famous Meatpacking District including how it developed into one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in the world.

In 2010, Eataly was opened in New York by master chef Mario Batali. The pizza is very remeniscent of pizza and the wine selection is huge. You will also find a large selection of ecellent pasta, salads, and sandwiches. In terms of price, it has to be said in advance that a pizza starts at $15 and can cost $25. Nevertheless, this Italian food market is for me one of the most beautiful and best in the city!

Astoria Park

One of the most beautiful spots in Astoria, Queens is Astoria Park. This popular park on the East River is a popular retreat for New Yorkers, especially in the summer. On hot summer days, they jump into New York’s oldest public pool to cool off. This is a rare sight, by the way, because you hardly find any outdoor pools in New York. Astoria Park just recently went under renovation as well and has revamped its track and field. 

Not only do you have a beautiful view of Manhattan, but you’re also right under the RFK Bridge and have a direct view of Hells Gate Bridge.

Williamsburg

Brooklyn is famous for its bold and bright street art, but it’s not easy to know where to find these creative works. With this walking tour of the Bushwick neighborhood, take in the diversity and culture of the neighborhood’s urban street artists. Check out massive murals and intricate designs as you take to the streets to learn how Brooklyn’s best can turn anything with a surface into a stunning work of public art.

The best attractions of New York on a map

A map with all attractions of New York City with a View can be found here – just click on “FULL MAP” if you want to see more. You can click on each attraction on the map to find out everything you need to know!

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide . Also check out my hotel finder for New York !

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13 Top New York City Attractions

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If it's your first or second trip to New York City, it can be pretty overwhelming when you try to choose among all the enticing attractions beckoning you to check them out. It's not called the Big Apple for nothing: New York City the center of the worlds of finance, fashion, music, art, theater, literature, and architecture. And it is the scene of lots of history as a bonus. You just can't see it all in one trip, and what's open that time of year .

To get a feel for the city, start with this list of its top attractions and landmarks. Many of the attractions on this list are iconic NYC institutions and could very well be on your bucket list. So get ready to check a few off and get a feel for one of the greatest cities on the planet. These picks are in no particular order; they're all top-of-the-list spots.

If you have some time after visiting these landmarks, check out Greenwich Village and Washington Square Park, shop on Fifth Avenue, ride to the top of One World Observatory, take a walk on the High Line, and go bar-hopping in the Meatpacking District.

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Statue of liberty.

TripSavvy / Kelsea Watkins 

The Statue of Liberty was a gift to the United States in 1886 from France in honor of the friendship established between the newly minted United States of America and France during the French Revolution. It has become an American symbol of freedom and welcome to the immigrants who come to the United States looking for a better life. 

Only visitors who are in good health and plan in advance visit the crown of the Statue of Liberty  because tickets are limited to allow roughly 240 people per day crown access. Even if you can't visit the crown, a visit to Liberty Island can be very rewarding. It's amazing to see the statue from Liberty Island and realize just how large it is. Ranger-led tours of the island are free and offer a great deal of information about the Statue of Liberty and its history.

Staten Island Ferry

Of its approximately 22 million annual riders, roughly 1.5 million of the Staten Island Ferry passengers are tourists who take the free ride for the iconic New York views. Commuters and tourists get a view of New York Harbor and the Statue of Liberty during this hour-long ride between lower Manhattan and St. George, Staten Island. 

Empire State Building

TripSavvy / Donghee Eim

The  Empire State Building  is the most iconic and recognized symbol of New York City, and a visit to this legendary structure and its observation deck is a must. This classic New York City attraction gives millions of visitors each year spectacular views of New York City and the surrounding area from its 86th- and 102nd-floor observatories. The Empire State Building, which opened during the Great Depression in 1931, reflects its Art Deco era in its architecture and lobby. Buying tickets to the observation decks in advance cuts waiting time and is especially important if you're in New York City during high vacation season.

Metropolitan Museum of Art

More than 2 million works of art from around the world and throughout history are housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art,  the No. 1 art museum in the United States. If you're an art lover, the Met is well worth a visit to its vast and diverse collection. There's no way to see everything this museum offers in a single day, but just a few hours give you a taste of its most important gems. 

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

TripSavvy / Brakethrough Media 

Founded in 1929 as the first museum dedicated entirely to contemporary art, the Museum of Modern Art is home to an impressive collection of modern works of art. From painting and sculpture to film and architecture, MoMA's diverse collection has something for just about everyone. Don't miss its gift shop, where you can buy classy souvenirs of your trip. 

American Museum of Natural History

Since opening to the public in 1869, the American Museum of Natural History has evolved and grown. In addition to the Rose Center planetarium and permanent displays, the museum hosts a revolving series of temporary exhibitions.

This is a great place for kids, with IMAX shows and a Discovery Center that is full of hands-on activities for children. The food court and several cafes offer visitors a variety of different dining options and a chance to refuel during an extended visit.

Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Terminal is both an essential New York City transit hub and an authentic example of Beaux-Arts architecture. 

Renovations since its opening in 1913 have turned Grand Central into more than just a hub for transportation. You can shop, eat, have a drink, and just marvel at this architectural landmark of New York City. Its  special spots , including the Campbell, Whisper Gallery outside of the Oyster Bar, and the Main Concourse Information Booth Clock, make this a particularly special destination, and it's all free. 

Central Park

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Central Park's  843 acres have offered a welcome escape from the concrete jungle of New York City since the mid-19th century, and 42 million people visit this green oasis every year. New Yorkers and visitors alike come to Central Park year-round to exercise, relax, and explore.

One of the reasons that Central Park is such a magical place is that no matter how many times you visit, there's always something new to discover or explore. Visitors might enjoy a picnic in Central Park, watching a SummerStage concert or even taking a free walking tour offered by the ​ Central Park Conservancy .

Central Park was the first major landscaped public park in the United States and was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux. The pair also designed  Brooklyn's Prospect Park , somewhat smaller but also beautiful to behold and a star attraction in Brooklyn.

Rockefeller Center

Rockefeller Center is a great destination for visitors any time of year, but it's an especially big draw during the holiday season, with its famous Christmas tree and ice skating rink.  Built during the Great Depression , the complex's Art Deco architecture and works of art make it destination-worthy, even without all the shops, restaurants, and activities happening.

Besides its Christmas tree and ice skating rink , the midtown Manhattan landmark also offers visitors the wonderful Top of the Rock Observation Deck , where you can enjoy a great view of Manhattan from 850 feet above street level, and Radio City Music Hall , which hosts concerts, shows, and performances year-round.

Brooklyn Bridge and Lower Manhattan

TripSavvy / Winifred Lao 

A walk across the Brooklyn Bridge from Lower Manhattan to Brooklyn Heights, across the East River, is such an authentic New York experience that it's often dramatized in movies and TV shows to set the scene. It's free and magnificent. Walk along the Brooklyn Heights Promenade on the Brooklyn side for spectacular views of Lower Manhattan and grab a hot dog from a street vendor on the Manhattan side of the bridge , just across from City Hall Park.

Broadway and the Theater District

Broadway, the Great White Way, is yet another NYC legend. The Theater District goes from West 41st to West 54th streets and from Sixth to Eighth avenues. It's home to 39 Broadway theaters, and for many visitors to New York City, this is a prime reason for going. Dinner and the theater is an authentic New York experience, and this is where you find it.

Times Square

Times Square, with its gaudy lights and legendary status, draws more than 400,000 people daily. It's one busy place, quintessential New York City for many visitors. The neighborhood has become more pedestrian-friendly with reduced traffic and more plazas with seating and tables for relaxing and people watching, as well as food carts where you can get a snack and drink to fuel up. 

Times Square is most impressive after dark when the glow of billboards and street signs make it hard to believe that it's nighttime. 

9/11 Memorial

 TripSavvy / Winifred Lao 

The 9/11 Memorial and Museum needs no introduction or explanation. The twin reflecting pools are in the footprint of the World Trade Center's Twin Towers that were attacked on September 11, 2001, and the names of all the victims of the attacks of that day, at the Twin Towers, in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, and at the Pentagon, along with the six who died in the 1993 bombing at the World Trade Center, are on bronze panels that form the edges of the two pools. 

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The Top NYC Attractions: Your New York City Bucketlist

Welcome to New York City, where each attraction is an essential piece of the famous skyline. As you gear up to explore this metropolis, we’re here to guide you through the bucket list items that define the Big Apple. So, buckle up, put on your walking shoes, and let’s delve into what makes these iconic spots worth the hype.   

Times Square

No visit to Manhattan is complete without stepping into the heart of the city’s vibrant energy at Times Square. Neon lights, towering billboards, and a bustling atmosphere characterize this iconic intersection. Whether you’re catching a Broadway show, shopping for souvenirs, or simply soaking in the electrifying ambiance, Time Square is a quintessential New York experience. 

Insider tip: hit up Times Square at twilight, when the transition from day to night transforms it into a mesmerizing dreamscape. Make sure to be aware of your surroundings, and don’t accept mixtapes from strangers.  

For aficionados of the performing arts, Broadway is a magnetic force . From timeless classics to cutting-edge productions, the Theater District’s dazzling marquees invite you to immerse yourself in the magic of the stage. Catch a world-class performance and see for yourself why Broadway remains the beating heart of the global theatre scene. 

Feeling lucky? Broadway shows can be prohibitively pricey, so you may want to consider gambling on rush tickets. The day of the show, the theater’s box office will have a number of tickets available at significantly discounted costs. They’re first-come first-served, so the more popular the show, the earlier in the morning you’ll want to arrive.

Statue of Liberty

A symbol synonymous with the Big Apple, the Statue of Liberty stands tall at the entrance to New York Harbor. Accessible by ferry, a visit to Lady Liberty offers a chance to marvel at the iconic statue as well as the panoramic views of the city skyline. Don’t forget to explore the Immigration Museum on Ellis Island, a poignant tribute to the millions who passed through seeking a new life.

All ferry tickets include access to the Statue of Liberty Museum and the Ellis Island Museum of Immigration. If your visit to the statue includes a trip to her pedestal or crown, we recommend making a separate reservation ahead of time.   

Empire State Building

For a bird’s-eye view of the city, ascend to the top of the Empire State Building. While it no longer can claim the title of the tallest skyscraper in the world, it’s still one of the most recognizable. The observation deck offers a 360-degree panorama showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks. From this lofty perch, you can bear witness to the city’s ever-changing landscape and appreciate the architectural innovations that continue to shape the New York City skyline.

Millions of people visit the top of the Empire State Building every year, so make sure to buy tickets in advance.  

One Vanderbilt

Though a newcomer to the city’s skyline, One Vanderbilt is quickly becoming a tourist destination to rival some other famous tall buildings we can think of. Located in Midtown Manhattan, this soaring skyscraper offers an observation deck like no other. Known as SUMMIT, the multi-story kaleidoscope of refractive glass is part modern art installation, part interactive thrill ride, and offers an unbeatable view of the city laid out below.

Purchase your tickets online in advance, especially if you plan to visit One Vanderbilt on a weekend, during the summer, or over a holiday. The views are especially breathtaking at sunset but keep in mind sunset tickets sell out the fastest.

Central Park

A sprawling green expanse in the heart of Manhattan, Central Park offers a retreat into nature for city-dwellers. Its winding paths, picturesque lakes, and iconic landmarks like Bethesda Terrace and the Bow Bridge make it an oasis of tranquility. Stroll down its meandering trails, row a boat on the lake, or simply relax amid the lush greenery.

Central Park is over 750 acres large, so consider hopping on a Citi Bike to ride through the park, and make sure you bring a map. Once you get tired of walking or biking, head to the Loeb Boathouse, ideally at Happy Hour.

Coney Island

Famous for its historic boardwalk, amusement park, and iconic Cyclone roller coaster, Coney Island is a nostalgic seaside retreat that’s just a Subway ride away. Grab a hot dog from Nathan’s Famous, take a spin on the Wonder Wheel, and allow yourself to get lost in a time capsule of seaside revelry.

You can buy an all-day wristband with unlimited rides for $60, or buy tickets for rides one by one. Don’t worry about buying tickets in advance unless you find a discount or are going on a particularly busy day.  

The Brooklyn Bridge

Even for locals, walking across the Brooklyn Bridge connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn never gets old. Take a leisurely walk across its iconic promenade, capturing postcard-perfect views of the skyline and the Statue of Liberty as you go. 

Start on the Manhattan side, and you’ll end up in the trendy Brooklyn neighborhood of DUMBO, an area worth exploring if you want to step outside Manhattan. Try to arrive on the earlier side, and watch out for the bike lane.  

Rockefeller Center

A study in Art Deco and a cultural hub, Rockefeller Center is home to Radio City Music Hall and the Top of the Rock Observation Deck. And come winter, of course, it also hosts the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and skating rink. Explore the historic structures, enjoy a live performance, and during the holidays, witness the tree lighting ceremony.

If you’re visiting during the holiday season, expect unbelievable decorations and unbelievable crowds. Consider getting reservations for ice skating in advance, and avoid the weekends and mid-day if at all possible.  

One of the city’s recent triumphs as far as green space goes, the High Line was transformed from an abandoned railway into an elevated park. Here, you can stroll along the landscaped gardens and modern art installations as you enjoy a peaceful respite above the city streets. Wander through this botanical wonderland, and let the city’s relentless pulse fade into a serene hum.

Start your walk at 34th Street in Hudson Yards, and finish at Chelsea Market for the most comprehensive experience.  

Chelsea Market

Situated in the Meatpacking District, Chelsea Market is a paradise for both food lovers and creatives. Begin by exploring the manifold eateries, making sure to leave room for a superb fresh-baked pastry. Then, walk off some of your eats in the cavernous Artists & Fleas market as you browse handmade and vintage goods from clothing to custom license plates.

The Market will be the least busy during the morning hours. If you’re allergic to lines, consider taking a food tour to skip the queues.

Museum Mile

Embark on an educational odyssey along Museum Mile , the stretch of Fifth Avenue home to New York’s most-visited, world-class museums. From the Metropolitan Museum of Art to the Guggenheim, each institution on Museum Mile offers a unique perspective on art, history, and culture. 

The Met and the Guggenheim are within blocks of each other, so it’s entirely possible to view both of these iconic museums in one day. Or, mix and match with other museums on the avenue, like the Neue Galerie, the Cooper Hewitt, and the Africa Center.

Amanda Hampton

Amanda Hampton is the resident Queens authority at NewYork.Com. She has lived in Ridgewood since graduating from Emerson College in Boston, and loves helping people love the area as much as she does. Previously, she was the Editor in Chief of Your Magazine, an Emerson campus publication. She is currently working as a freelance writer and assistant talent manager. Some of her favorite things are live music, Victorian furniture, and soup, and as such, she loves finding new music and arts venues, antique shops, and ramen spots.

New York City   Travel Guide

34 Best Things to Do in NYC

There are countless reasons to be mesmerized by New York, from its skyscrapers and monuments to its vibrant art, food, fashion and nightlife. Across the city, fresh perspectives are yours to be found; go for a stroll in Central Park or along the High

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Central Park Central Park free

This part-park, part-museum, part-concert hall swallows central Manhattan, and many of the city's most notable attractions are situated next to it or within its limits ( the Guggenheim , the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the American Museum of Natural History , to name a few). But travelers insist that you shouldn't just pass through Central Park on your way to another place. This 843-acre green space is a favorite of New Yorkers and tourists; you can come here to exercise, dine, go to the zoo and more.

Almost everyone has a positive impression of the park, but no one has quite the same experience or recommends that you do quite the same thing. There's an almost impossible amount of sights to see here (hidden treasures, indeed), including more than 20 playgrounds, 48 fountains, monuments or sculptures, and 30 bridges. Here's a shortlist:

National September 11 Memorial & Museum National September 11 Memorial & Museum

The National September 11 Memorial & Museum serves as the primary tribute to the nearly 3,000 victims of the 2001 terrorist attacks, as well as the six lost in the 1993 bombing. The memorial's twin reflecting pools and human-made waterfalls rest as eerie footprints where the World Trade Center's twin towers once stood. The 1-acre pools are enclosed in bronze panels on which the names of every victim are inscribed. The museum spans across 110,000 square feet and relays the narrative of the attacks through a series of multimedia displays, real-time recordings, authentic artifacts and an interactive table.

Recent visitors cited the overall atmosphere of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum as sobering and moving. Many travelers say they were impressed with the site as a whole, noting its respectful and informational displays. Reviewers say you won't want to rush your time here, with some recommending that you budget three to four hours to see all of the exhibits.

Empire State Building Empire State Building

U.S. News Insider Tip: Watch out for "sunset peak" pricing, which adds an extra $10 per ticket for two hours around sunset each evening. But on a clear day, it just might be worth it. – Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

New York City Tourist 101 dictates that you must swing by this landmark structure in midtown Manhattan. And despite the hefty admission fees, the crowds and the long lines, recent visitors insist that you won't be sorry. In fact, taking a trip to the top of the Empire State Building is either the perfect way to begin or end your Big Apple excursion – on a clear day you'll be able to the see the city's major highlights some 1,250 feet beneath you. 

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No museum in the United States is as celebrated as the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Spilling over with masterpieces from all over the world, including notable collections from ancient Egypt and classical antiquity, "the Met" is an art experience unlike any other, and like much in New York, it's impossible to see all the museum has to offer in one day (or even two days, for that matter). 

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Statue of Liberty is at the top of many travelers’ must-see lists. A feat of 19th-century technical engineering and a beacon for immigrants arriving at Ellis Island, the statue can be admired from several different vantage points around Manhattan, including Battery Park and the High Line . But to truly appreciate its size and significance, you’ll want to visit the statue and Ellis Island while on your NYC vacation.

The only way to access the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is by using the official National Park Service ferry operator, Statue City Cruises. If you’re departing from the New York side, you’ll hop on a ferry at Battery Park in lower Manhattan. If you’re departing from the New Jersey side, you’ll depart from Liberty State Park in Jersey City. The ferry ride takes approximately 15 minutes.

Brooklyn Bridge Brooklyn Bridge free

One of many signature landmarks of New York City, the Brooklyn Bridge is also one of the oldest suspension bridges in the country and a National Historic Landmark. Its six lanes (and one pedestrian and bicycle walkway) span the East River, connecting Manhattan to Brooklyn. Walking across the bridge remains a tourist pastime.

Some visitors decide to skip the bridge in favor of other attractions, but if you're short on money, this truly is one of the best ways to experience the city and to get a unique view of either borough at no cost. Several reviewers warn that since there is no shade along the bridge, it can get quite hot in the summertime (though there are vendors selling bottles of water). Many also warned that it can get quite crowded, and advised visiting in the morning before 9 a.m. if you don't want to maneuver around crowds.

The High Line The High Line free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning or on a weekday to avoid crowds. If you walk from north to south, add on a visit to The Standard Biergarten or the vibrant Chelsea Market for great people-watching, food and drink. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

Set on an abandoned rail track on Manhattan's West Side, this sprawling, nearly 1½-mile-long landscaped park stretches over three of the city's most lively neighborhoods: the Meatpacking District, West Chelsea and Hell's Kitchen. Standing 30 feet above street level, the High Line offers sweeping views of the Hudson River and Manhattan's cityscape. But the vista isn't the only reason visitors and Manhattanites flock to this manicured green space. Here, you'll find continually changing public art installations, a handful of food vendors and a sprawling picnic and sunbathing area (known as the 23rd Street Lawn).

NYC Food Tours NYC Food Tours

Known for everything from cheap eats to authentic international fare to Michelin-starred restaurants, New York City is a culinary hot spot and undoubtedly one of the best foodie cities in America . However, chances are you won't have time to experience everything the city has to offer in just one trip. One way to get a taste of New York's excellent cuisine across a variety of neighborhoods is to take a food tour.

Whether you want to explore a particular borough or neighborhood, or even a specific cuisine or dish, you'll find a tour to appease your taste buds. Relying on traveler reviews and expert analysis, U.S. News rounded up the best food tours in New York City . Though tours vary in length and price, they all receive rave reviews from past travelers, who applauded the variety of food and the expert knowledge of the guides.

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Washington Square Park Washington Square Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Finding an empty bench in Washington Square Park after visiting one of the neighborhood's independent bookstores – from The Strand to Three Lives & Company to Left Bank Books – is a true lower Manhattan pleasure. – Jessica Colley Clarke

The central gathering place of Greenwich Village is Washington Square Park, an almost 10-acre green space known for its downtown buzz. Here, kids splash in the fountain, musicians perform to a crowd, artists sell sketches or photographs, and chess enthusiasts gather to challenge each other to a game. What was historically a cemetery and later a bohemian hot spot is now a neighborhood institution that draws locals and visitors alike with its kids' playground, sizable dog run and ample shady space for picnics. An arch dedicated to George Washington is the dominant architectural feature of the park. 

Broadway Broadway

U.S. News Insider Tip: Start your day with a stop at the TKTS booth in Times Square or at the Lincoln Center location to snag discounted same-day tickets for an array of Broadway and off-Broadway shows. – Catriona Kendall, Associate Editor

Some out-of-towners spend their entire New York trip at one show or another on the Broadway circuit. And if you like plays and musicals, this is where you should be: "The Great White Way" represents the heart and soul of American theater. Considering that nearby Times Square is a dizzying maze of sights and sounds with no real starting point, some visitors suggest you can see all you need to of that neighborhood just by trundling back and forth between shows. 

One World Observatory One World Observatory

Formerly known as Freedom Tower, One World Trade Center is the main building of the rebuilt World Trade Center complex in lower Manhattan. This observatory sits atop the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and the highest point in the city. You'll find it adjacent to the 9/11 Memorial . At more than 125,000 square feet, the three-level observatory is located on the 100th, 101st and 102nd floors of this office skyscraper. Travelers enjoy the panoramic, 360-degree views, up to 45 miles in every direction on clear days. 

Visitors reach the observatory by direct express elevators known as SkyPods. The trip upward includes a visual presentation showing how New York has changed over the decades, from open land to smaller buildings to skyscrapers. The trip takes less than a minute. Expect a multimedia presentation at the top before stunning views are revealed. A restaurant and bar on the 101st floor are open to guests who have purchased tickets to the observatory. 

Grand Central Terminal Grand Central Terminal free

At this beautiful train station, you can eat some lunch or shop till you drop, but recent travelers most enjoyed just taking in the scenery. Before you enter, be sure to snap a few shots of the exterior's ornate beaux-arts neoclassical architecture. Inside the celebrated main concourse, you're treated to glimmering marble floors, gold and nickel-plated chandeliers and a sky-themed ceiling. Other must-sees include the Information Booth clock, the Whispering Gallery and Grand Central Market, a European-style food market that sells produce, gourmet ingredients and treats. Food options range from the upscale (Cipriani Dolci and The Campbell Bar) to the legendary (the Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant) to the fast and easy (Shake Shack). As mentioned, there are also plenty of shopping options, though most travelers suggest you leave most of Grand Central's pricey merchandise in the store. If you want a train-themed souvenir, visit The New York Transit Museum Store in the shuttle passage.

Travelers call the train station "iconic" and say it's a beautiful space to walk through or to grab a meal and people-watch.

Bryant Park Bryant Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: This Midtown park draws crowds for two seasonal events: summer movie nights under the stars and a holiday market complete with ice skating. For summer picnics or winter shopping sprees, Bryant Park delivers year-round. – Jessica Colley Clarke

Sprawling across nearly 10 acres, Bryant Park sits just south of Times Square – though it feels a world away. Though its lush green space has existed for more than 150 years, Bryant Park was a revitalization project of the 1990s that made it a sanctuary for locals and tourists alike. This is the preferred place for midtown Manhattan professionals to eat lunch, for fashionistas to strut during fashion week and for performers to showcase their talents during annual events like Broadway in Bryant Park and Piano in Bryant Park. If you're interested in learning more about the park's history, consider joining one of its free tours. Tours, which last 45 minutes, are free and offered every other Wednesday, year-round. 

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Staten Island Ferry Staten Island Ferry free

Perhaps the most famous ferry service in the United States, the Staten Island Ferry runs daily between the Whitehall Ferry Terminal in lower Manhattan and St. George Ferry Terminal on Staten Island. The city has been operating the ferry service since 1905 and transports some 70,000 passengers across New York Harbor every day. It’s one of the last remaining vestiges of an entire ferry system that served New York City residents before the construction of any bridges.  

But the Staten Island Ferry is more than a transportation service; it’s an attraction, drawing tens of thousands of out-of-town visitors a year for a free ride across the harbor (that’s right, no charge; the service is provided by the City of New York). The 5-mile ride lasts about 25 minutes. Passengers must disembark and then reboard to make the return trip to Manhattan. Travelers remark about the views of the Statue of Liberty , Ellis Island, Manhattan skyscrapers and the bridges of lower Manhattan. 

Museum of Modern Art Museum of Modern Art

You don't have to be an art lover to appreciate the Museum of Modern Art; this airy midtown gallery also doubles as a shrine of pop culture and 20th century history. Some of the most significant contemporary pieces hang on its walls, including Picasso's "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon," Warhol's "Campbell's Soup Cans," Van Gogh's "Starry Night," Dalí's "The Persistence of Memory," Monet's "Water Lilies," and the list goes on and on. In October 2019, the museum reopened after completing an expansion project that added more than 40,000 square feet of gallery space, as well as a performance studio that features live programming.

Recent travelers were impressed by the extensive art collection and loved being able to see the museum's famous paintings. The $30 entry fee for adults ($17 for students; $22 for seniors; free for kids 16 and younger) can be hard to stomach for some, but reviewers insist you won't regret the money spent. A few travelers express disappointment with the crowds (which are most common on rainy days), but suggest getting some fresh air at the museum's Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Sculpture Garden.

New York Public Library New York Public Library free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If you love all things book-related, consider visiting The Morgan Library & Museum nearby, which features J.P. Morgan's stunning 1906 library. The museum offers free admisson (and live jazz music) on Fridays from 5 to 7 p.m. – Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

This main branch, officially called the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, attracts plenty of book lovers, history junkies and architecture aficionados. Most people swing by the Bryant Park landmark to say hello to Patience and Fortitude (the famous marble lions guarding the entrance) and to admire the lovely beaux-arts design.

American Museum of Natural History American Museum of Natural History

Visitors love the American Museum of Natural History off Central Park West. Whether you're exploring the interactive exhibits on the land, the sea or outer space; user reviews take on a common theme. This museum is incredible. Even the cafeteria and gift shop are worth your notice.

There are more than 34 million artifacts inside, spread across four city blocks, 26 buildings and through 45 exhibition halls, so don't plan on seeing everything in one day. The Rose Center for Earth and Space is a particular favorite, but you should also plan on visiting the dinosaurs, the Dorothy and Lewis B. Cullman Hall of the Universe and the Butterfly Conservatory (accessible November through May), which houses nearly 500 butterflies. Local experts say the institution is one of the city's can't-miss museums , especially for families.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Wander along Brooklyn's Washington Avenue, and you can't avoid stumbling upon this verdant 52-acre park. A main highlight here is the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, punctuated by wooden bridges and Japanese maples. And if you arrive at the end of April, you can't miss the Cherry Esplanade ( Sakura Matsuri ) when rosy cherry blossoms burst into bloom. Another standout: the Shakespeare Garden, which contains more than 80 plants described in the playwright's works.

Thanks to the garden's extensive collection, which includes 13 gardens and five conservatories, there's plenty of scenery to soak up here. Plus, you can take advantage of year-round exhibits and events, such as children's gardening workshops and Lightscape, the annual wintertime lights display. After you've taken respite in Brooklyn's cherished green space, recent visitors suggest moseying over to two staples located down the street: Prospect Park and the Brooklyn Museum.

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Brooklyn Bridge Park Brooklyn Bridge Park free

Located on the Brooklyn side of the East River, Brooklyn Bridge Park is an 85-acre oasis at the foot of the famous bridge connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn. The park stretches 1.3 miles along Brooklyn’s waterfront, connecting Columbia Heights and Dumbo, an acronym for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, an eclectic neighborhood of boutiques, trendy cafes and restaurants. Travelers rave about the views of the lower Manhattan skyline, the New York Harbor and the bridge.

Among the city’s newest parks, Brooklyn Bridge Park was once an industrial district and home to a transportation terminal that served as an entry point for immigrants. Today, the park features rolling hills, promenades, playgrounds, basketball courts, sports fields, a roller skating rink, gardens, and more among six piers and the riverfront. What’s more, the park is home to more than 12,000 species of plants and wildlife. It also hosts a variety of events and programs throughout the year, such as sunset yoga and stargazing.

The Guggenheim The Guggenheim

The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, or simply, "The Guggenheim," is one of the most well-known art museums in the country, and it's just as renowned for its cutting-edge design as it is for its pieces. The coiled building (designed by Frank Lloyd Wright) stands out on Fifth Avenue at 89th Street. Inside, the halls are chock full of works from the likes of Picasso, Cézanne, Degas, Manet and Van Gogh, among others.

Visitors loved the building's design and architecture, but offered more mixed reviews for the art on display. Some raved about the permanent collection and the special exhibitions, while others felt the cost of entrance tickets was overpriced for the amount of art displayed. Reviewers recommended the Museum of Modern Art over the Guggenheim if you're short on time. 

Off-Broadway Shows Off-Broadway Shows

Off-Broadway may not have the glitter of the Great White Way , but these smaller theaters and their productions are often innovative and are no less engaging. Unlike Broadway, these theaters are not centered around Times Square , but scattered all over Manhattan and generally seat fewer people (between 100 to 499 audience members). Smaller venues provide a more intimate experience for plays, musicals and revues. Many of New York’s most famous productions found their start off-Broadway, such as “Hair,” “Rent” and “In the Heights.”

Tickets also are more affordable, generally between $20 and $75 per person. Look for innovative productions at places like the Public Theater, Cherry Lane Theatre or Playwrights Horizons. The Signature Theatre showcases revivals and new plays.

Rockefeller Center and Top of the Rock Observation Deck Rockefeller Center and Top of the Rock Observation Deck

This iconic plaza has it all – beautiful sculptures, an enormous skating rink, a fishbowl view of NBC Studios, plus a plethora of stores and restaurants. Though undoubtedly there will be intense crowds, this is an experience that's worth having at least once. During the wintertime holidays, the plaza sparkles with an illuminated Christmas tree and skaters gliding across the ice rink. But don't fret if your New York adventure doesn't take place during the cold months. There's plenty to do year-round. If you plan ahead, you can spend a morning watching a taping of the "Today" show, an afternoon admiring the city from the Top of the Rock Observation Deck and an evening catching a performance at Radio City Music Hall .

Travelers say the Top of the Rock offers some of the best views of Manhattan and say the experience is worth every penny. Visitors recommend booking the Rock Pass ticket that includes a tour of the building and observation deck access.

Little Island Little Island free

New Yorkers have long needed to get creative to maximize space on the island of Manhattan, where space is limited. But with the opening of Little Island in 2021, that creativity stretched beyond the island's borders and into the water. Little Island is an artificial island located on the west side of Manhattan in the Hudson River. This public park, which is free to visit, offers a new space for locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in nature, art, free events like concerts and one of the most memorable locations in New York City to catch the sunset.

Most recent visitors praised Little Island for its peaceful atmosphere, splash of greenery and views of the Hudson River and beyond. Some recent visitors recommend planning a visit on a weekday rather than a weekend, when this attraction can be crowded with people picnicking, especially during the golden sunset hours. Regardless of what time of day visitors stop by, almost everyone is left with a positive impression of the park and note its sculptures, family-friendly vibe, impressive variety of plants and free concerts.

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St. Patrick's Cathedral St. Patrick's Cathedral free

This sprawling cathedral sits amid the hustle and distinctively secular bustle of Rockefeller Center . But that doesn't take away from its otherworldly vibe. Whether you're religious or just making an architectural pilgrimage, you can't help but be impressed by St. Patrick's. Opened in 1879, the neo-Gothic cathedral spans the length of an entire city block and features 330-foot spires. Its interior is just as impressive thanks to its numerous altars, stained-glass windows, organs and imposing 9,000-pound bronze doors. The church welcomes more than 5 million visitors annually.  

Travelers love the historical church's beauty and stained-glass windows, but say you don't have to carve out too much time to see it. Previous vacationers also suggest visiting at Christmastime to really see the church in all its glory. 

Little Italy Little Italy free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Taste the best of Little Italy at C. Di Palo Wine Bar. With connections to the fine foods store serving this neighborhood for more than a century, this wine bar serves Italian cheeses, meats and wines in a comfortable, modern environment. – Jessica Colley Clarke

Once a thriving enclave of Italian immigrants, Little Italy is now a popular tourist destination (though remnants of the past remain). Restaurants serving classic Italian dishes on red-and-white checkered tablecloths can still be found in the neighborhood. Among the neighborhood staples is Lombardi’s, a restaurant that has been tossing pizzas since 1905 and claims to be the first pizzeria in the United States. Ferrara Bakery & Cafe, another famous Little Italy eatery best known for its cannolis and espresso, has been around since 1892. 

Times Square Times Square free

Some say that Times Square is like a five-block metaphor for New York City itself – it's exciting, colorful and always jumping. Others describe this area of midtown Manhattan as artless, overpriced and congested. Perhaps this commercial stretch from West 42nd to West 47th streets is a little of both, and though locals would advise you to avoid it, you should at least catch a glimpse of its neon lights. Most travelers recommend visiting the area after dark to see the marquee displays. Many add checking out Times Square before or after a Broadway show is the perfect time to fit it into your schedule. However, if you're not a fan of crowds, reviewers suggest you avoid this area altogether.

Times Square's biggest tourist draw is the annual New Year's Eve ball drop. Revelers crowd the area to see New York's famous Waterford crystal ball descend 77 feet from a pole on the One Times Square building. If you're feeling brave, take a trip to New York and Times Square at this time of year and watch the ball drop for free! Just plan on coming in the early morning and staying all day, and note that the area is super crowded, even by New York standards.

Fifth Avenue Fifth Avenue free

It's fitting that St. Patrick's Cathedral would be on the same street as stores like Bergdorf Goodman, Tiffany & Co. and Van Cleef & Arpels. That's because for many people, shopping is a religious experience, and here between 34th and 59th streets you'll find the holy grail. 

Even if you're not planning to put your credit card to work at high-end stores, travelers say a stroll along Fifth Avenue is a must. It's one of the top places to shop in the city, according to local experts. Plus, during the winter holidays, the street is decked out in festive decor.

Bronx Zoo Bronx Zoo

According to travelers, these 265 acres sheltering more than 10,000 animals should be near the top of every young family's itinerary in New York. And if you're an older visitor, the Bronx Zoo could be a great way to escape the nonstop activity in Manhattan. This zoo's claim to fame is that it's one of the largest metropolitan animal parks in the country. It's also one of the best zoos in the U.S . Originally opened at 1899, the zoo also houses several famous landmarks, including the Rainey Memorial Gates, the Rockefeller Fountain and the historic Zoo Center, which was constructed to look like a palace.

Among the zoo's popular exhibits is JungleWorld, which aims to recreate the jungles of Asia with animals like white-cheeked gibbons, gharials, tapirs, fruit bats and more. There's also the Wild Asia Monorail, a seasonal outdoor monorail that allows visitors to observe animals like rhinos, tigers and red pandas roaming freely in the outdoor habitat. Other star attractions include the Congo Gorilla Forest, the seasonal butterfly garden, Tiger Mountain and the Children's Zoo. Along with the animals, there are also several rides and experiences, such as a carousel and sea lion feedings.

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Apollo Theater Apollo Theater

U.S. News Insider Tip: Go to BLVD Bistro on 116th St. before or after your visit to the Apollo. They serve breakfast all day and literally have the best grits and pancakes I have ever had in my life. It is also Black-owned! – Lawrence Phillips, founder and CEO of Green Book Global

One of the most famous music halls in the United States, "the Apollo" started as a burlesque theater in 1914. By the 1930s, it transformed into a concert hall that helped launch the career of several black musicians. A then-unknown Ella Fitzgerald, Michael Jackson (with the Jackson 5) and Stevie Wonder all performed on the Apollo stage during an Amateur Night competition. If you're in Harlem on a Wednesday you can still go to Amateur Night, an experience some previous travelers highly recommend.

Metropolitan Opera House Metropolitan Opera House

Stroll through the courtyard of the Metropolitan Opera House even if you're not going inside for a performance. Every element of this opulent building – from the limestone architecture, to the lobby's glittering chandelier, to the acoustics in the concert hall – is gorgeous. Travelers call this opera house a feast for the eyes and ears. Tickets are notoriously expensive (as much as several hundred dollars for the best seats), but the sticker shock evaporates quickly if you're into performing arts. You can try to score a same-day ticket at a discounted rate, plus there are discounts for senior citizens.

The Metropolitan Opera House features spring performances by the American Ballet Theatre and fall and winter performances by the Met Opera Company. Showtimes and ticket prices vary by performance and seating, so check the Met Opera's website for additional details. You'll find the opera house at Lincoln Center Plaza on Manhattan's Upper West Side – take the 1 train to 66th Street.

Radio City Music Hall Radio City Music Hall

It's where Ella Fitzgerald pined for the man she loved, the Rolling Stones couldn't get no satisfaction and Lady Gaga had a "Bad Romance." Among performers, there's no New York concert venue that's quite like Radio City Music Hall. Not only is it the largest indoor theater in the world, its marquee spans a full city block. Opened in 1932, the theater is a New York City Landmark. Today, the theater welcomes musical performers like Ben Platt and Lil Nas X, as well as comedians like Chris Rock.

If you're in town any dates between November and January, consider attending the famous Radio City Christmas Spectacular, which stars the Rockettes. According to recent visitors who attended a show, there's not a bad seat in the house. If you're not able to attend a performance, consider signing up for the hourlong Radio City Stage Door Tour. The guided tour includes stops at areas of the historic venue not typically seen by the public, such as Radio City’s secret apartment, The Roxy Suite. You'll also an enjoy an in-depth history lesson about the stage and its iconic art deco design. The tour concludes with a meet-and-greet with a Radio City Rockette. Tours are offered daily starting at 9:30 a.m.; tickets cost $42 per adult and $38 per kid 12 and younger.  

The Battery The Battery free

Also known as The Battery, this 25-ace park sits at the very southern tip of Manhattan Island, and offers a green respite from the steel and concrete of lower Manhattan. The park, named after artillery batteries that protected the settlement in the 17th century, is popular with visitors because of its views of the harbor and the Statue of Liberty . 

The park is home to perennial gardens, bike paths, grand lawns, an urban farm and a unique carousel, known as the SeaGlass Carousel. On the carousel, riders sit within iridescent fish and glide through a 360-degree aquatic adventure. The carousel’s bioluminescent design honors the waterfront site as well as another landmark, the Castle Clinton, one of the country’s earliest aquariums. 

Coney Island Coney Island

Known as the "the People's Playground," this famous amusement area in Brooklyn has witnessed an illustrious past. In the early 1900s, Coney Island enticed New Yorkers to visit with its bathing pavilions, seaside resorts and amusement park. The Great Depression took its toll on the fun-loving spot, causing many attractions to close. But after years of economic instability, Coney Island has reclaimed its place on the Brooklyn map, with a fresh roster of eateries and entertainment (including a July Fourth hot dog-eating contest and an annual Mermaid Parade ) found along the boardwalk. Coney Island now features several separate amusement parks, as well as a museum, which hosts a variety of exhibits and shows.

According to recent visitors, Coney Island is a worthwhile trip in the summer if you have the time and are traveling with young kids who would enjoy the rides. If you're not up for indulging your inner thrill-seeker, you can also walk along the beach, which spans nearly 3 miles and features several sports courts, as well as playgrounds. A walk along the iconic Riegelmann Boardwalk is just as memorable, according to recent visitors.

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Chrysler Building Chrysler Building free

Technically, the Chrysler Building is an office building open Monday through Friday, but you don't need to go inside to appreciate its aesthetic appeal. Recent visitors praised the building's unique architectural style (though a few wished you could still go inside to admire its intricate lobby and elevators).

Built in 1930, the Chrysler had a short-lived run as the tallest building in the city, before it was usurped of its title by the Empire State Building . Nevertheless, this 1,046-foot-high skyscraper remains a favorite among New Yorkers for its classic art deco style. And unlike the Empire State, at this site you won't need an expensive entry ticket, a strong stomach to stand soaring heights or patience for long lines to see what all the fuss is about. You can behold the building's menacing gargoyles and triangular openings from many spots in Manhattan. Though the lobby is currently closed to visitors, there have been talks of building an observation deck, though none is available at this time.

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Top 35 Tourist Attractions: Sight Seeing in New York City

Sea the City

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New York City is one of the most dynamic and exciting cities in the world, offering tourists a wide and diverse range of attractions to explore. From architectural wonders such as Grand Central Terminal and the Chrysler Building to bustling neighborhoods like SoHo and DUMBO, there’s something for everyone.

Here are 35 of the top places to visit in New York that you don’t want to miss:

Iconic new york tourist attractions.

You may have seen them in movies or on TV, but seeing them in person is an entirely different experience.

1. The Statue of Liberty

One of the most iconic landmarks in the United States, the Statue of Liberty , has stood proudly in New York’s harbor since 1886. The towering landmark is a gift from France and is a symbol of freedom around the world. Ellis Island, another hot attraction, is nearby if you wanted to catch it while you’re in the area.

2. Times Square

Times Square is one of the best places to go in NYC. Located in Midtown Manhattan, this electrifying intersection is one of the most visited places in the world. Times Square is home to many theaters, retail stores and electronic billboards, making it an exciting place to explore. You can also catch a Broadway show here.

3. Coney Island

Coney Island is one of the top tourist attractions in New York, and it is synonymous with fun when summertime rolls around. Located in Brooklyn, this amusement park is home to world-famous attractions such as the Coney Island Cyclone roller coaster and the Parachute Jump Tower ride. If you are in NYC during July, the annual Hot Dog Eating Contest should not be missed!

4. Central Park

Of course, no trip to NYC is complete without visiting Central Park. This 843-acre park is one of the most picturesque spots in Brooklyn. You can visit Strawberry Fields, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.

Architectural Wonders

The Big Apple is home to some of the best architecture in the world. Check out these world-renowned examples for an unforgettable experience.

5. Grand Central Terminal

Opened in 1913, this Beaux-Arts-style railway station in midtown Manhattan is one of New York’s most recognizable landmarks and transports over 750,000 commuters daily. It is worth seeing for its impressive design and artwork alone. Inside, you’ll find a grand main concourse with its striking clock and constellations on the ceiling.

6. The Brooklyn Bridge

Among our NYC famous places list is the Brooklyn Bridge . This popular tourist attraction is a stupendous feat of architecture that offers breathtaking views of New York City. Spanning 1,595 feet across the East River, this bridge connects the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn. Every day, 30,000 pedestrians and 116,000 vehicles travel over its span.

7. The Empire State Building

In 2022, this building was named the number one attraction in the US by the TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Awards. Located in Midtown Manhattan, the Empire State Building is a must-see for New York tourists. Completed in 1931 and standing 1,454 feet tall, it was the tallest building in the world until 1972.

8. Chrysler Building

This iconic Art Deco-style skyscraper located in Midtown Manhattan was once the world’s tallest building until it was surpassed by the Empire State Building in 1931. The Chrysler Building’s impressive structure is still one of New York’s most recognizable skyscrapers and is worth visiting. It features a stunning lobby adorned with aluminum, marble and granite.

9. Rockefeller Center

Located in Midtown Manhattan, this complex is home to many of New York City’s most iconic entertainment centers, such as Radio City Music Hall and NBC Studios. Also, the Top of the Rock Observatory is on top of the Rockefeller Center, and it offers some of the best views of the city.

What to do in New York when it rains

Sightseeing in New York City

New York sightseeing opportunities are beyond compare. From strolling through parks and gardens to cycling through hip neighborhoods, New York City has many ways to explore the city. 

10. See NYC With a Bike Tour

Uniquely experience NYC with a bike tour . You can take guided tours of Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge or Harlem. Or, if you’re feeling more adventurous, cycle through the city on your own with rental companies like Citi Bike, Ofo and Jump. If you don’t know where to bike in NYC , here are some recommendations .

11. Get Lost in Brooklyn Botanic Garden

This 52-acre urban oasis in Prospect Park offers visitors a chance to experience nature right in the heart of Brooklyn. Explore the Japanese Hill and Pond Garden, the Cranford Rose Garden and the Steinhardt Conservatory.

12. Stroll Through the High Line

One of the most unique experiences in New York City is High Line Park . This elevated park runs along a disused railroad track in Manhattan’s West Side. It is perfect for those who want to explore NYC at their own pace while taking in the city’s skyline and river views. Visitors can explore art installations, gardens, food vendors and more while walking along the High Line.

13. Walk Along the Museum Mile

This famous stretch of Fifth Avenue houses some of the most iconic museums in NYC to visit . A walk along Museum Mile lets you visit the Guggenheim, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Cooper Hewitt and nine other amazing museums. Another nice treat is the tree-lined walkway that runs down the side of Central Park.

Best Places to Visit in New York

The five boroughs each have their own unique flavor and character, making it easy to find fun activities to do all over New York City. Try these on for size.

14. Greenwich Village

Known as “The Village” for short, this quaint neighborhood is full of character and is a great place to uncover some of the Big Apple’s hidden gems. You can stroll to Washington Square Park or visit unique boutiques and restaurants on Bleeker Street. On the other hand, jazz fans can take in legendary jazz venues there, like the Village Vanguard and Blue Note .

15. Chelsea Market

This food hall in the Meatpacking District is one of the most popular spots in the city. Sample a variety of international cuisines, explore local art galleries or pick up some unique souvenirs from these Chelsea shops .

16. SoHo Shopping

Shopping in SoHo is a must-do when visiting NYC. This chic neighborhood offers unique stores, specialty boutiques and trendy vintage shops. To make your shopping experience even more special, be sure to check out the area’s many art galleries and artist studios, as well as its historic cast-iron buildings.

Nicknamed for its location “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass,” DUMBO’s cobblestone streets are lined with galleries, cafes and boutiques. During your visit, be sure to visit the iconic Jane’s Carousel and Empire Stores, or just take in the stunning views of both Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges.

The area of Nolita is a part of Little Italy, and the name even stands for “North of Little Italy.” The neighborhood has become quite popular in recent years because of all the fantastic points of interest it offers. But the real highlight of this area is the St. Basilica Chruch and its Catacombs. When you’re done touring them, you can grab a bite at one of the nearby top-rated pizzerias.

Unique New York City Experiences

The Big Apple has many unique experiences you can explore. The following will help you experience the city’s richness and diversity from varying perspectives.

19. Sea The City Jet Ski & Hot Tub Boat Tours

Sea The City’s jet skis or hot tub boat tours let you enjoy an exciting and unique experience on the Hudson. You can cruise around Liberty Island, Ellis Island, Governors Island, and other NYC landmarks while taking in breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. In fact, you’ll cruise around many of the landmarks and colorful places on this list! Both tours can be booked online and include all the necessary safety gear.

20. Food Crawls

New York City is home to some of the best restaurants in the world, so why not explore them all? Take a food crawl tour and experience the many flavors that NYC has to offer. A few that stand out include the Taste of Tribeca , The NYC Chinatown and Little Italy Food Tour and the Midtown Manhattan Street Food Walking Tour .

21. The Great Gatsby’s Gold Coast Mansions

Located on the North Shore of Long Island, these opulent, historic mansions have a unique charm that is only found here. Many were built in the early 20th century and are open for tours year-round. They are often featured as the backdrop to Hollywood movies such as The Great Gatsby.

22. Street Art Murals in Bushwick

Bushwick is one of NYC’s most vibrant neighborhoods, and it has been slowly growing. It’s also home to some lesser-known gems, like the largest concentration of street art murals in NYC . It has a thriving street art scene, with graffiti-covered walls, murals and other outdoor art installations, which can be found around the area.

Historical Sites in New York

What’s a visit to New York without a bit of history? The following lets you visit some of the city’s most iconic and historical sites.

23. African Burial Mound Ground National Monument

This memorial pays tribute to the estimated 15,000 free Africans and African-American slaves who were interred in an unmarked cemetery in Lower Manhattan. It is the largest and oldest known excavated burial ground for free and enslaved Africans in North America. The National Park Service manages the site and offers a variety of educational programs, events and tours to honor these forgotten lives.

24. Brooklyn Heights Promenade

Also known as the Esplanade, this park’s beginnings go all the way back to WWII. Started as a way to connect an expressway through Queens and Brooklyn, the historic site is now one of the most frequented spots in Gotham. Filled with lush parkland and spectacular views of the NYC skyline that you can view from one of its many benches or a stroll-by, this is definitely one place that’s for the books.

25. 9/11 Memorial and Museum

Honor those who were lost on September 11th at this memorial site located at the former World Trade Center site. The museum features artifacts from that day, a survivor tree and interactive exhibits that bring visitors closer to the events of 9/11. Pay your respects at this solemn site and learn more about the tragedy and its impact on our nation.

26. Governors Island

Located in New York Harbor just south of Manhattan, Governors Island offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of NYC. Visitors can explore the island’s many attractions, such as Fort Jay, Castle Williams, The Hills and Victorian Gardens. During the summer, outdoor concerts, art installations, festivals and food vendors are also available.

27. Bronx Zoo

One of the largest metropolitan zoos in the U.S., the Bronx Zoo has proudly welcomed visitors since 1899. The zoo is home to over 4,000 animals from around the world and offers a range of interactive experiences for visitors of all ages. It also has an Aquarium and Conservation Hall that houses some endangered species.

28. Ellis Island

Ellis Island is where nearly 12 million immigrants first set foot in America between 1892 and 1954. The island is now a national monument and museum where visitors can explore its rich history and learn more about the immigrants who shaped America. In addition to interactive exhibits, there are also guided tours of the site available.

Upstate New York Tourist Attractions

When you finish with the hustle and bustle of the New York City attractions, you can book a BNB and head out to gorgeous Upstate New York to relax. The area consists of the Catskill Mountains and Hudson Valley, which offer some glorious scenery and stellar places for sightseeing. 

These places to visit near New York pull out all the stops!

If you want to immerse yourself in some culture, the Woodstock Artists Association & Museum , or WAAM, is an art museum dedicated to preserving the legacy of Woodstock, NY and its vibrant music scene. It features rotating exhibits from some of the most iconic musicians who have graced the stage at this legendary venue.

30. Lake George

Lake George is one of New York’s most popular vacation spots, with plenty to offer visitors. From its pristine waters to the nearby Saratoga Springs and Lake Placid, there are plenty of things to do and discover in this area.

31. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is one of the most breathtaking places to visit in Upstate New York, which is why it’s no wonder that it is one of the natural wonders of the world. Along with its mesmerizing views and thunderous roar, you can explore nearby attractions , such as the Niagara Aerospace Museum, Niagara Sky Wheel, Goat Island and Whirlpool State Park.

32. Adirondack Park

The Adirondack Mountains are a stunning area located in North-Eastern New York that’s filled with lush forests, crystal clear lakes and gorgeous mountain views. It’s great for camping, hiking and other outdoor activities, as well as sightseeing.

33. The Catskill Mountain House

Built in 1823, the Catskill Mountain House is a landmark that stands atop South Mountain – the highest of seven peaks in the region. It offers breathtaking views of the Hudson Valley and surrounding mountains, as well as a variety of activities such as hiking, fishing, skiing and snowshoeing.

34. Kaaterskill Falls

Kaaterskill Falls is a two-tiered waterfall located in Greene County at the eastern edge of the Catskills. It is one of the most famous waterfalls in New York State and has been featured in numerous paintings and photographs throughout history. The falls are accessible via a short hike on a marked trail.

35. The Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes are a group of 11 long, narrow glacial lakes in western Upstate New York. The area is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing and kayaking. It’s an ideal getaway spot that’s filled with resorts, hotels and bed & breakfasts. Don’t miss out on visiting many of the local wineries – the region is one of the top wine-producing regions in the country. Be sure not to miss the many sights and landmarks along the Hudson River . that can be viewed by boat or jet ski.

Check out Sea the City in New York

Whether you want to go jet skiing with your favorite person in the world or prefer to have a hot tub party with 20 of your closest friends, we’ve got a tour that is perfect for you. Go ahead and  book your celebration today  and get ready to enjoy a unique NYC experience that you won’t find anywhere on land.

Our Jet Ski Tours Launch Just 10 Minutes from Manhattan.

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27 Underrated Tourist Attractions To Add To Your NYC Itinerary

A city unlike any other in the United States, New York is a top destination for domestic and international tourists for so many reasons. The numbers back this up, and before the pandemic, the city welcomed more than 66 million visitors in one year. Why do they come? For starters, there are the globally recognized buildings old and new, icons unto themselves that just yearn to be seen — the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, the Flatiron Building, the Freedom Tower, and St. Patrick's Cathedral, to name just a handful. 

This is where to find tons of world-class museums that will keep visitors entertained for days on end, from the Museum of Modern Art to the Met, and much more. And then there are the ambitious public areas that are a quintessential part of any New York experience, from Central Park to Washington Square Park, from Grand Central Terminal to the Oculus at the World Trade Center. And yet, sticking to these marquee attractions does the rest of the city's riches a grand disservice, because there really is so much to see beyond the tried and tested. For every Bryant Park or High Line , there is a lesser-known slice of urban wonder elsewhere in the city that is just as rewarding, even if it's not high on the public radar. Here are some of the best ones worth looking out for.

Bush Terminal Piers Park

Part of a former port area, this public park opened in 2014 after an extensive overhaul. It sits on the edge of an industrial part of Brooklyn, Sunset Park, and that history is evident from the old factory/warehouse that runs alongside one section of the park, near the soccer and baseball fields. 

The best part of a visit here is that it lets travelers appreciate how connected the city is to the water, with rocky stretches that push out toward Bay Ridge Channel and create small tidal pools. There's always a mix of people here, and you might see locals walking their dogs, flying kites, sitting down and taking in the breeze, or admiring the sweeping views of Downtown Manhattan that really are spectacular.

City Island

Wander past seafood restaurants and small local businesses at this Bronx island, and you won't believe you are in NYC. A small slip of an isle that sits just off the main chunk of the Bronx, one of the city's five boroughs, and linked to it by a bridge, this destination feels like a true escape from the Big Apple. Stroll down City Island Avenue, the main drag, and you'll notice the lack of apparent urbanism, causing it to feel like you have arrived at a small New England village.

Independent boutiques mingle with yacht clubs and restaurants that extol their amazing seafood, and the general ambiance here is laid-back, a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of the rest of NYC. Early June and September are great times to visit, especially when a weekend arts fair fills the sidewalks with stalls and entertainment.

Concrete Plant Park

What almost appears as a repository for oversized sculptures of industrial equipment was actually a former concrete manufacturing facility. This stretch of urban renewal sits close to Bruckner Boulevard, one of the busiest commercial strips of the Bronx, populated by warehouses and auto repair shops, but it is a realm of peace that hugs that Bronx River. 

The giant pieces here, painted the color of chocolate or rust, depending on what a visitor wishes to see, were once functioning hoppers and silos for the company Transit-Mix Corporation, a cement manufacturer that operated a facility here from 1945-1987. After the operations ceased, the plant fell into disrepair, a common urban tale of decay exacerbated by dangerous materials left behind and a general sense of despair about the future of the site. But, after concerted community efforts and cooperation by the NYC Parks Department, the plot was reinvented, opening in 2009 with chess tables, pedestrian and bicycle paths, and shaded seating, all of which are great spots to take in this unheralded gem on a sunny day.

Dyckman Farmhouse Museum

This historic farmhouse is the last remaining Dutch farmstead in Manhattan and is home to a museum that traces its storied past. Restored in the early 1900s by the children of one of its earlier owners, it has fascinating period interiors, with fireplaces, old wooden chairs, tables, desks with drop leaves, and paintings that really make visitors feel as though when they enter, they have stepped back in time. 

Travelers that come here to the northern part of Manhattan should definitely make time to wander around the gardens, with their pretty wildflowers, planter beds, and sense of urban escape in the middle of what is now a concrete jungle.

El Museo del Barrio

A stretch of the Upper East Side, the posh neighborhood in Manhattan that sits east of Central Park, is where to find the Museum Mile . Along here, some of the city's finest institutions can be found, such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, the Museum of the City of New York, and the Cooper Hewitt. At the northern cusp of this ribbon, visitors will find the often-overlooked El Museo del Barrio , which celebrates the heritage of Puerto Ricans in the United States, as well as other Latino achievements. 

Exhibitions take a distinctive, in-depth, and unexpected look at the experience of Puerto Ricans, and other Latins, including recent waves of Mexicans and Dominicans that have immigrated to New York, presenting art in creative, groundbreaking ways.

Fort Wadsworth

This former military outpost on Staten Island is one of the oldest in the country. It sits right under the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, a grand span that connects Brooklyn and Staten Island, and offers views of the bridge that many don't get to see. Spread out over more than 200 acres along a coastal patch of the island, the fort isn't just an interesting part of the city's history, but it also enables visitors to get striking views of the harbor, bridge, and Manhattan skyline in the distance from its overlook. 

The complex was started in the 1800s as part of a string of coastal strongholds aimed at repelling any foreign invasions. Originally constructed from sandstone, it later used granite and brick as its main materials, rebuilt in the middle 1800s, and it continued to serve a military purpose before it was folded into the National Park Service in 1994.

Fulton Fish Market

Named for the street in Downtown Manhattan where it once stood, this fish market , in a large commercial food terminus in the Bronx, is a hive of activity, a noisy, smelly, slice of New York that most tourists will never witness. But catching the action requires a little effort, and visitors will need to get here early in the morning to see all the drama unfold. The original fish market was a short distance from Wall Street in Manhattan, first debuting in 1807, and it sold not only fish but other items as well.

Fifteen years later, the market moved to new premises on South Street, not far away, and more than a century later it was the commercial nexus for one-quarter of all the seafood sold in the country. The whole operation moved to the Bronx in 2005, into a 400,000-square-foot home that cost more than $80 million to build, and while much of the business done daily is wholesale, representatives of some of the city's finest restaurants can be found here in the wee hours snapping up snappers and other fresh finds.

The Ganesh Temple of Queens

This popular temple in Queens has an ornate "gopuram" (tower by its entry), and is a bedrock in its neighborhood of Flushing, Queens, one of the most ethnically diverse parts of New York City. This site was home to a small house of worship from 1970, but the current temple was finished in 1977 and has been drawing religious followers ever since. 

Dedicated to the Hindu god Ganesh, a remover of obstacles, this temple is a place of great tranquility and spiritual power, welcome even to nonfollowers of Hinduism. What is even more alluring is its proximity to the Queens' Botanical Garden, and its fantastic temple canteen, which serves up delicious, reasonably priced, super-fresh, South Indian delights, open from 8.30 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

Jacques Marchais Museum Tibetan Art

This building in Staten Island was made to look resemble the rustic form of a Tibetan monastery, the perfect stage for the trove of items here. It is located on a hill, close to a golf course and cemetery, and has views of New York waterways like Lower Bay and Raritan Bay. The collection here, not all of which is displayed, is vast, with thousands of works from northern China, Mongolia, and Tibet, some more than 500 years old. 

Open from Thursday through Sunday, and only in the afternoons, it showcases a range of artistic mediums, from sculpture to religious reliquaries, from musical instruments to paintings artfully captured on scrolls, and a visit here feels like making a trip to another continent.

Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

Not far from JFK Airport, this wilderness area, incorporating land and water, teems with avian life. With an area of 9,000 acres, the tranquil, natural arena comprises broad bays, marshes, woods, fields, and flats of tidal mud where shorebirds like to scavenge. For birdwatchers, this is paradise in the city, and more than 3,000 bird species (about half of those that live in the Northeast of the United States) have stopped by in the last three decades. 

What can one see? Sightings of snow geese, ducks, swans, hawks, and falcons are commonplace, and beyond the abundant bird population here, the refuge is just a gorgeous place to reconnect with the environment and a way to escape into the wilds while still being in the city.

Kosciuszko Bridge

Linking Queens and Brooklyn, and tastefully lit at night, this bridge is actually not much to see per se, and it is frequently choked with traffic (it forms part of one of the city's most busy expressways, and is close to the entry point to another, the Long Island Expressway). And yet, by dint of its location, it has views over Newton Creek and onto the Manhattan skyline that are stunning. 

A cycle and walking path on the west side of the bridge, which is cable-stayed and has two sections that are separated in the middle, allows visitors to look across over Calvary Cemetery, along the winding creek that adds another visual element to the panorama, and to soaring towers across the East River. While the views are breathtaking during the day, at night the whole scene becomes even more spectacular. After dark, the skyline is lit, appearing like a series of glinting gems, while the bridge's cables, bathed in deep, pastel hues, look like they belong to a spaceship about to land.

Louis Valentino Jr., Park and Pier

The views of waterways and the Statue of Liberty are worth the trip out to this part of Brooklyn, which played an important role in the city's shipping past, while still being linked to it. In fact, this compact patch of greenery with a long pier that reaches out into Buttermilk Channel sits a short distance from the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal. 

Travelers can take to the water during the summer months with kayaking trips operated by local outfitters Red Hook Boaters from the park, while there are free film screenings here during the warmer months, courtesy of Red Hook Flicks, making it a hang-out that's popular with locals.

Newton Creek Nature Walk

Near a shiny wastewater treatment plant, and along the waterway that separates parts of Brooklyn and Queens, this walk feels both urban and not. Extending about one-half mile along the water, near the water facility and along Newton Creek, it first debuted in 2007, though was added to in 2021 following the opening of a new section. 

It aims to draw a link between water and life, done not only through the location of the walk — by a waterway and the wastewater plant — but also through features like the entry gates that are shaped like waves, and sculpted sections that resemble a boat. Along the route, visitors will encounter native plants like swamp white oak and eastern red cedar.

Noguchi Museum

For fans of art, the name Isamu Noguchi will immediately strike a chord. The sculptor, half-American and half-Japanese, and raised in the United States and Japan, is known for this vast oeuvre of sculpted works, pieces that inhabited different genres, from large outdoor pieces to ceramics, from lighting to stage sets. He also worked across materials, and works were made using steel, marble, iron, wood, granite, and even water. 

You can peruse a huge selection of pieces by this seminal artist, including models, sculptures, and drawings, both indoors and outside, at this museum in the Long Island City part of Queens. The large, industrial building sits across from the location of Noguchi's studio, a fitting homage to this artistic great who spent many of his years in the city (he died here in 1988).

Paley Center for Media

Formerly known as the Museum of Television and Radio, the Paley Center For Media  is a great place for anyone fascinated by the history of TV and radio, with more than 150,000 programs that look back over a century of these mediums. It's also close to the cultural behemoth, the Museum of Modern Art, which sits one block to the north, and can be easily combined with a visit there — assuming you have the energy. 

Visitors to Paley can pore over an archive that contains news, sports, documentaries, comedy, and even old advertisements for anyone that is nostalgic for jingles and ditties from their youth. It's like an encyclopedia for the broadcast arts, with the archive available at each viewing station; large consoles can be watched by up to four people, ideal for a family. The center also holds debates on the rapid changes in media, and film and television screenings.

Pelham Bay Park

This sprawling park in the Bronx — the largest park in New York City — has plenty of things to do, and large swathes of green space that will let visitors leave the city behind. It's split into two parts, separated by the Hutchinson River, and visitors will pass through it en route to City Island (mentioned above). 

There are a number of parts of it not to miss. The Kazimiroff Nature Trail, named for a historian born in the Bronx, showcases the towering spruce and pine trees here (and the owls that live in them), as well as some large rocks that were used in rituals by local Native Americans prior to European conquest. Elsewhere in the park, visitors will find monuments, grand sculptures, sections of forest, and even a broad, curling, sandy beach that gets busy during the summer.

Queens Museum

Unless they are lucky enough to be on the correct side of a plane, and flying the appropriate route, travelers are unlikely to see that sweeping overview of the city, the kind that appears on postcards or movies and TV shows set in NYC. But visit the Queens Museum, located in Flushing Meadows Corona Park (where the U.S. Open tennis tournament is played), and you'll be able to see the entire expanse of the city — or at least a model of it. 

The Panorama of New York City is one of the museum's permanent exhibitions and is not to be missed. First constructed for the 1964-1965 World Fair, it took three years to complete, and covers almost 10,000 square feet of exhibition space (it has undergone renovations to keep it current). Standing next to it, visitors will be able to get a real grasp of the layout of the city, with models scaled 1:1200 (so one inch is the equivalent of 100 feet), and will be able to make out lesser known landmarks like the Newton Creek Wastewater Plant, as well as the more familiar bridges, buildings, and stadiums.

Renwick Smallpox Hospital

This former hospital , on Roosevelt Island, might be surrounded by iron-rail fences which prohibit access, but it's still an eerie sight. Its genesis dates to 1856 when it was opened as a hospital specifically aimed at tackling the problem of smallpox. Over the decades, it changed to become a nursing school and later fell into disrepair. Despite the unrelenting action of the elements and the environment which both contribute to the building's slow decay, it was designated as a National Landmark by the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. 

Today, a nonprofit group called Friends of the Ruin aims to restore the building in parts to make it a memorial that all can safely visit. That said, even from beyond the fences around it, it is a haunting piece of architecture that will long stay with any visitor.

The Rockaways

A great beach getaway at the end of Queens, and south of Jamaica Bay, this part of the city was greatly affected by Hurricane Sandy in 2012. The strong winds and surging seas wreaked havoc on homes and the boardwalk, a winding piece of seaside history that had been open since 1931. After Sandy, the city stepped in with a rehabilitation plan, and in the summer of 2017, the restored boardwalk was opened, with wide concrete paths and places to sit. 

The beach itself is broad and topped in soft sand, fronting the Atlantic Ocean and accessible by both subway and water ferry that departs from Wall Street in Manhattan, and Sunset Park in Brooklyn.

Seaside Wildlife Nature Park

This swathe of greenery in the southeast of Staten Island is a treasure chest of flora and fauna. With grassy expanses ceding to the salt marsh on Great Kills Harbor, this is where the intrepid traveler will find more than 60 species of birds — among them cormorants and ospreys — as well as those nomads of the seafront, the horseshoe crab. Among the greenery are pine trees, white oaks, mulberry bushes, and pretty milkweed plants. 

But, what makes this part of the city most popular with visitors is the playground, themed with a nautical overview as a nod to the location and the tradition of seafaring in the area, and a place of wild entertainment for neighborhood kids, and those from further afield that make the trek out here.

Shakespeare Steps

Watchers of the movie "Joker" will understand why Joaquin Phoenix won an Oscar in 2020 for his role of the title character — his portrayal was heart-wrenching, moving, unnerving, and terrifying, a remarkable tour de force by the talented actor. One of the most famous scenes in the film takes place when his character wiggles and dances down a long, vertiginous set of stairs, a watershed moment when he finally feels comfortable in his skin. 

That iconic scene was filmed in the Bronx, on a set of steps that descends from Anderson Avenue, a little north of Yankee Stadium. Come for a visit, it's close to the 4 Train stop at 167 Street, and you can re-enact the scene, though you are not likely to be alone — these, after all, are a functioning set of city steps that serve a very practical purpose.

Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden

It's hard to pin a label on this destination on Staten Island, there is so much variety and so much to see. This is where to find the Newhouse Center of Contemporary Art , the leading repository of modern art on the island, with 15,000 square feet of space open for exhibitions. Another space in the center is home to a maritime collection, while there is also a Children's Museum and an institution that looks at the history of Staten Island. 

Many come here to wander around the numerous gardens, which include a rose garden, a butterfly garden, and even a Chinese Scholar's Garden, where buildings have sweeping rooflines that transport visitors to Asia.

Socrates Sculpture Park

A short walk away from another great realm of sculpture, the Noguchi Museum, this waterfront outdoor arts park in Long Island City, Queens, is a wonderful excursion. There are always new exhibitions on show here, and a recent one featured a complex structure of scaffolding that reflects the city's skyline, while pieces of vegetation dotted up high in the scaffolds represent the fragility of the coast and its ecology. 

Yet the park isn't just about art, and there are many other events that draw visitors, from musical performances (including opera), workshops on nature, meditation sessions at sunset, and morning yoga.

Sylvan Terrace

Here is an instance of a blink-and-you-will-miss-it site. A short, single block in Upper Manhattan, and set right by Morris-Jumel Mansion , the oldest house in Manhattan, this stretch of houses seems to belong to another era. Sylvan Terrace was once just a driveway without homes, a road that carriages plied from the mansion as they headed out to the city, and you can almost picture this since the center of Sylvan Terrace is still paved with cobblestones. 

The houses were added in the late 1800s, made of wood, and notable for their vibrant yellow and brown paintwork, and bright green shutters. Tucked among apartment buildings, this block really is an arresting sight, and one that will have you gaping in wonder.

Ukrainian Museum

How many places in the United States can lay claim to a museum celebrating the traditions of this country currently under siege? Located in the East Village, which for many years had a strong cadre of residents from Ukraine, and that is home to an area called Little Ukraine, this small museum is a fabulous way to learn more about this Eastern European country. 

Drop by, and you might see pretty pieces of folk art, tokens that are perceived as good luck charms, made from leather, wood, and eggs, as well as artfully embroidered items of clothing, and also paintings by leading Ukrainian artists.

Van Cortlandt Park

A huge park in the north of the Bronx that bleeds into Westchester, the county above New York City, this is an amazing expanse of nature. It's larger than Central Park and is a fascinating window into the geological past of this part of the world. Thousands of years ago, the city sat under giant glaciers, and when these hunks of ice retreated, they left behind a wildly varied landscape, and Van Cortlandt Park is evidence of this. 

Visitors will stumble upon broad flat fields, gentle inclines, steep ridges, and plenty of rocks, with dolomite and schist prevalent. Adventurers can explore miles of hiking trails that shuffle through trees, and wander around wetlands, woods, and deep areas of forest. You'll truly forget you are in New York City.

Another example of green goodness in the Bronx, this 28-acre site is beautifully landscaped, and perfect for photos. Wave Hill describes itself as an open-air museum, but most visitors will see it as a botanical wonder, where thousands of trees, plants, vines, shrubs, and flora, appear both in finely manicured form and also gorgeously wild. 

Guests will be able to marvel at the plants in greenhouses, the beautiful forms and shapes in the gardens, and even get lost in a wood. The park is open most days of the week, but visitors on a budget should plan to come on a Thursday when entry is free, something that is never underrated.

21 Most Beautiful Places in New York City That Are a Must-Visit

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 17/02/2024

New York is a bustling city with more things to discover than you may think are possible. The sprawling parks and hidden cafes are just a few of the things that make this city an unforgettable destination.

New York is a diverse city with culture, history, and beauty to boot. But where are the most beautiful places in New York City? Let me take you on a journey from the majestic Statue of Liberty to the quiet space of Elevated Acre.

You’ll quickly forget time exists as you wander through the streets and discover some of the best historical places in New York . Whether you live in the Big Apple or are planning the ultimate holiday, here are some of the most beautiful places in New York City.

21 Most Beautiful Places in New York City

Once you’re all set, I’ll dive straight into the most beautiful place in New York City that you simply have to visit.

1. Statue of Liberty

Image by The Digital Artist on Pixabay

I’m fairly certain you know about the Statue of Liberty, so it’s a no-brainer that it would feature on this list. Given to the U.S. as a gift from France at the end of the American Civil War, this magnificent sculpture dominates the New York landscape.

It rests on Liberty Island, which itself is a breathtaking part of the city. The glorious park of oak trees helps the Statue of Liberty pop. If you want to get up close to this iconic monument, you’ll need to join a 15-minute ferry ride to Liberty Island.

The Statue of Liberty consists of copper, which has rusted to the turquoise colour it is today. This sculpture represents freedom within the U.S., and when a mesmerizing sunset lights it up, it’s not hard to see why.

Top Tip: You can also join a four-hour Statue of Liberty tour with a local guide.

2. Central Park

Image by Leonhard Niederwimmer on Pixabay

For a walk within a landscaping masterpiece, look no further than Central Park. This bustling oasis of nature is four km long and 0.8 km wide, and you can easily go from one side to another in just over an hour.

You can consider Central Park as the city’s lungs, where everyone goes to relax and breathe in fresh air. Here are some unique aspects of the park that make it one of the best in the world.

• Belvedere Castle
• Bethesda Fountain and Terrace
• Conservatory Garden
• The Mall and Literary Walk
• Harlem Meer

Each section of the park offers something extraordinary, and you’ll have plenty of fantastic photo opportunities. I highly recommend joining a Central Park walking tour to see all these beautiful sights.

3. Old City Hall Subway Station

Image by Charlotte May on Pexels

Few people associate beauty with a subway station, but the Old City Hall has the prettiest one you’ll ever see. Picture stained glass windows and arches that emit a golden hue from the sun.

Since its closure in the early 20th century, this space has become more bespoke with age. It isn’t easy to see, as it is closed for most of the year, but you can catch a glimpse of it if you take the 6 Train from downtown to uptown.

As it sits below the magnificent Old City Hall Municipal Building, it’s hard to get to. Occasionally the MTA Transit Museum hosts walking tours through the station. I suggest checking for tours before your trip to New York City.

4. The High Line

Image by Elizabeth Villalta on Unsplash 

The High Line in the Chelsea District is one of the trendiest parts of the city. The park and communal area are built on an old elevated rail line and provide a truly unique perspective of West Side Manhattan.

You can explore 15 diverse gardens in the High Line, each showing off a distinct part of the city and nature. Some top gardens you should visit include the Hudson River Overlook, the Wildflower Field, and the Radial Planting garden.

With regular occurrences of public art and live performances across the 2.3 km rail line, you’ll never fall short of breathtaking things to see. There is a wide variety of places to eat, like Shake Shack, so you can enjoy every moment at the High Line.

Top Tip: There is a free guided tour of the High Line on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10:00 to 11:30 and Tuesdays from 17:00 to 18:30.

5. Madison Square Park

Image by Meghan Crown on Unsplash

Hidden away in the heart of New York City is a pristine two-acre square park with a lot of history. Its name comes from the fourth president of the United States – James Madison – one of the founding fathers of America.

Despite its small size, the park lies at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Broadway. There are also some fantastic things to see here, from the Roscoe Conkling Statue to the Reflecting Pool. The lush trees and towering buildings make the Reflecting Pool great for a photo shoot.

What makes this such a beautiful space? Well, for starters, it’s one of the places to visit if you want an authentic New York experience. A stunning array of statues, like the Chester Alan Arthur Monument , also make this one of the most picturesque parts of the city.

6. Brooklyn Bridge Park

Image by Sven Becker on Unsplash

Another iconic part of this vibrant city is Brooklyn Bridge, and the best place for sweeping views of this landmark is Brooklyn Bridge Park. Across 85 acres of waterfront, you can enjoy rolling vistas, spacious promenades, and diverse garden features.

The park sits on the east side of the East River and is accessible from the entire Brooklyn Borough region. You can explore six different piers, each offering a unique perspective of the Brooklyn Bridge. One of the top places to visit in the park is Dumbo Point, at the edge of Pier 2.

Top Tip : If you want to see all that this breathtaking park offers, consider joining a Waterfront biking tour .

7. Prospect Park

Image by Tyler Goodell on Unsplash

This list is not short of breathtaking outdoor spaces, but one of the most expansive you can visit is Prospect Park. There is an abundance of beauty to appreciate across the 215 acres.

This lush region of forest and lake calls the Brooklyn Borough home and is particularly pretty during fall. You can admire the colourful display of red and orange leaves dancing in the wind throughout the park.

The Prospect Park Zoo offers a breathtaking adventure past indigenous and exotic animals. Another one of the top sights in the park is Meadowport Arch, which offers the perfect photo opportunity.

Top Tip : There is a wide variety of things to see here. I recommend joining a Prospect Park walking tour to see all the best bits.

8. Times Square

Image by Andreas Kruck on Unsplash

Times Square’s beauty is unique compared to the city’s plethora of parks. With a dazzling light display from billboards, buildings, and cars, this commercial intersection is the city’s hub.

It’s the junction between Broadway, 42nd Street, and Seventh Avenue in Midtown Manhattan . This is one of the city’s brightest and most brilliant spaces, so it’s no wonder tourists love visiting.

During the day, you can experience the fast-paced New York lifestyle. At night you can admire the rich display of dancing lights that make this such a photogenic part of the city.

Top Tip : Times Square is also known as the city’s entertainment hub, so be sure to explore Broadway, which is nearby and any live street performances.

Image by Vlada Karpovich on Pexels

Architecture is a big part of New York’s make-up, and SoHo is one of the best areas to admire the city’s buildings. SoHo is in Lower Manhattan, and its buildings are unique, to say the least.

For starters, over 200 cast-iron buildings make up this trendy neighbourhood. It has a lovely combination of Renaissance, Italianate, and Federal architecture that shows off old grandeur.

Inside these buildings, you’ll find upmarket restaurants, shops, and bars that make this such a trendy area. Although the architecture takes centre stage, the cobblestone sidewalks and vibey nightlife mean you’ll have plenty of breathtaking photo opportunities.

Top Tip : Visit the JIMMY rooftop bar around sunset for some of the best views of the New York skyline.

10. Wall Street

Image by Aditya Vyas on Unsplash

At first glance, this financial district in Lower Manhattan isn’t your typical idea of a pretty neighbourhood. But the more time you spend here, the more its charms kick in.

Neoclassical architecture creates a powerful environment with its large columns and arches. Aside from the architecture, the charging bull sculpture is one of the top sights you can visit along the cobblestone streets of Wall Street.

But possibly the best part of Wall Street is Battery Park – the southernmost point of Manhattan. It provides unforgettable views of Liberty Island, and you can see an old sandstone war fort at Castle Clinton.

Top Tip : You can learn all about its history and see the breathtaking attractions on a Wall Street walking tour .

11. Saint Patrick’s Cathedral

Image by Dana Andreea Gheorghe on Unsplash

Pay a visit to Saint Patrick’s Cathedral for a journey into the beauty of Catholic architecture. You’ll find the cathedral in the Midtown Manhattan region, and it’s quite easily the prettiest cathedral in New York.

For starters, the building’s facade is magical. It’s the largest Catholic Gothic cathedral in North America, and the intricate design is gorgeous. You can access Saint Patrick’s Cathedral from Madison Avenue. Keep in mind that the church is still in use to this day, so religious ceremonies still occur.

During a self-guided audio tour , you’ll see large columns, ordained relief sculptures, and beautiful wooden seats. The high ceilings and stained glass windows create an awe-inspiring feeling when walking through the building.

Top Tip : If you’re a big architecture fan, read my post on the most famous cathedrals in New York City .

12. Bryant Park

Image by Krisztina Papp on Unsplash

I don’t think you’ll find a more dramatic setting for a park in New York than Bryant Park. This 9.6-acre space in Midtown Manhattan is glorious. Picture the high-rising New York skyline overhead with trees lining a large open lawn.

It hasn’t always been a serene space in the city’s heart, with drugs and crime dominating the park in the 1970s. Now, the park is a beautiful open space for all to enjoy, thanks to the renovations done between 1988 and 1992.

It’s easy to see why this space with a dark past is considered a public miracle. Aside from admiring the jaw-dropping scenery in and around this small park, you can also join the free public tours every Wednesday.

13. Socrates Sculpture Park

Image by Socrates Sculpture Park on Facebook

The outdoor spaces keep coming, and the Socrates Sculpture Park is one of the most distinct. As the name suggests, you can walk amongst large-scale sculptures and take in the views of Lighthouse Park in the centre of the East River.

In 1986, under the leadership of artist Mark di Suvero, this space had a drastic transformation from a landfill to a beautiful sculpture park. You can access the park along Vernon Boulevard in the Queens District, and admission is always free.

New sculptures fill the park annually, so you’ll have a new experience each time you visit. That, coupled with the breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline, make this one of the most beautiful places in New York City.

14.The Elevated Acre

Image by Edmond Malin on Facebook

Over the years, the Elevated Acre has become a lesser-known gem in comparison to the famous High Line. This is an elevated one-acre garden above the streets of Lower Manhattan near Wall Street.

With a lawn, beer garden, and amphitheatre, the Elevated Acre is an oasis within the urban jungle that is Manhattan. You spend hours strolling through the winding path of Brazilian Hardwood forests and taking in the views of Brooklyn.

Grab a bite to eat from one of the lovely food trucks nearby, like Souvlaki GR Food Truck, and head to this rooftop garden for a relaxing afternoon. As it’s not as popular as the High Line, you can relax in this quiet, secluded park space.

15.Bannerman Castle

Image by Clay Banks on Unsplash

Believe it or not, this buzzing urban city contains some remnants of medieval times. Enjoy a short one-hour and 30-minute drive along the Palisades Interstate Parkway to the Hudson’s Highlands State Park.

Once here, you’ll witness captivating views of the Bannerman Castle on Pollepel Island. Built in 1901, this mesmerising castle dominates a portion of the Hudson River landscape. Simply put, it’s an ode to ancient Scottish castles and the ancestry of the Bannerman family.

Today, you can join walking tours, cruises, and kayaking tours of this iconic castle or simply admire it from Hudson’s Highland State Park.

16. New York Public Library

Image by Patrick Robert Doyle on Unsplash

You may wonder how a library makes it onto this list, but trust me when I say it’s breathtaking. The New York Public Library at the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building is one of the prettiest places in this city.

Not only can you enjoy some much-needed silence, but the architecture here is also extraordinary. You’ll find this building on W 40th and W 42nd Street next to Bryant Park.

The large open spaces have massive arched windows that allow light to flood into the rooms. The ceilings all have beautiful paintings, and the Rose Main Reading Room is particularly magnificent.

Top Tip : You can join a guided tour of the building from Mondays to Saturdays at either 11:00 or 14:00.

17. Empire State Building

Image by Kit Suman on Unsplash 

Nothing defines the New York skyline more than the Empire State Building. You can find this 102-storey building between 4th and 5th Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, and put simply, it’s mesmerising.

The Empire State Building was the first 100-storey building ever built back in 1931, and its impressive size is still easy to see. The art-deco building is mainly the home of many businesses like LinkedIn.

There are observatories and exhibition spaces on the 82nd and 102nd floors. With an Empire State Building ticket , you can visit the 102nd floor and admire the breathtaking views of New York City from above.

Top Tip: Learn more about the famous landmarks in the U.S . and why the Empire State Building is one of them.

18. Broadway and the Theatre District

Image by Denis Nevozhai on Unsplash

Broadway is a lovely part of the city, teeming with drama – quite literally – and an authentic city vibe. The neighbourhood falls between Central Park to the north and Hell’s Kitchen to the west.

Most Broadway theatres are between 41st and 51st Street and 8th and 6th Avenues. The only exception is the Vivian Beaumont Theatre at Lincoln Centre. In this area, you’ll see the iconic Broadway lights that shine at night.

It is very close and similar to Times Square, but this part of town offers the grandeur of original musicals. You can see everything here, from The Lion King to The Phantom of The Opera .

19. Top of the Rock Observation Deck

Image by Tom Ridson on Unsplash

For unforgettable views of New York City, the Top of the Rock Observation Deck at the Rockefeller Centre is a must-visit. You can find the Rockefeller Centre on the corner of W 50th Street and 5th Avenue.

From the 70th floor of the building, you’ll have unparalleled 360-degree views of the entire city. Admire Central Park to the north, Brooklyn to the east, the Empire State Building to the south, and The Heights to the west.

A Top of the Rock Observation Deck ticket provides flexible dates so that you can plan your visit and have the best weather possible.

Top Tip : Before heading up to the top, go to The Channel Gardens and enjoy the beautiful landscape area.

20. Silver Lake

Image by Marta Wave on Pexels

Stepping away from Manhattan and into Staten Island, you’ll find the gorgeous Silver Lake Park. You can enjoy the simple pleasures of the outdoors in this 209-acre park.

One of the park’s top attractions is the Monarch Butterfly migration which takes place in September. There’s a high chance you’ll see these majestic creatures resting on the butterfly bushes. 

Aside from this, Silver Lake is another breathtaking part of the park that you have to admire in person.

21. Fort Tryon Park and the Met Cloisters

Image by Artem XCX on Unsplash

You can find Fort Tryon Park in the Fort George neighbourhood of Upper Manhattan. The park is blessed with lovely views of the Hudson River and some of the prettiest gardens in the city.

One of the top gardens I highly recommend you walk through is the Heather Garden, with a beautiful array of colourful flowers. But the park’s main feature is the Met Cloisters, a large museum dedicated to depicting Medieval art.

The Met Cloisters derive from iconic medieval buildings like the Bonnefont-en-Comminges. Besides walking through the cloisters, you can admire them from afar, with the park’s lush greenery making them pop beautifully.

Final Thoughts on the Most Beautiful Places in New York City

When I first went to New York City, I wasn’t expecting such a wide variety of beautiful spaces. But if there is one thing I learnt about this city, it will always surprise you in one way or another.

I hope you can take some inspiration from the list of the most beautiful places in New York City for your next trip to this iconic part of the world. But if you want more, read my other post about New Yorks off the beaten path attractions for an unforgettable city experience.

While you’re in New York State you might also enjoy reading about:

Sunflower Fields in Long Island

Best beaches in Montauk Long Island

How to see Niagara Falls from the US side

Beautiful Waterfalls in Rochester

Best Parks in Rochester

Places to go Kayaking near Rochester New York

Best Views of NYC

N ew York’s Covered Bridges

I covered all of the costs involved in the writing of this post on the most beautiful places in new york city. However, this post includes affiliate links. That means if you click through and end up making a purchase I will receive a small commission. I wanted to make sure you were aware of this.

Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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35 Best Places to Visit in New York | 2024 (with Photos)

Marvellous Oyebanjo - Travel Writer

Last Updated: January 4, 2024

Hey there! I'm Marvellous, and I'm delighted to share with you the 35 best places to visit in New York in 2024, accompanied by captivating photos. Get ready to explore the Big Apple and make unforgettable memories in the most incredible destinations this city has to offer!

Get ready to explore the awe-inspiring sights and attractions of New York City, the city that never sleeps. In this article, we'll uncover the top 35 places to visit in New York, from the majestic Brooklyn Bridge to the towering Empire State Building.

Delve into the literary treasures at the New York Public Library, shop til you drop on Fifth Avenue, or unwind in the serene Bryant Park. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply searching for adventure, New York City has something for everyone.

So, let's embark on a thrilling journey through the city's most iconic landmarks and hidden gems.

Most Recommended Thing to Do

• Central Park

Top Choice Hotel

The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park

Our Top Choice Restaurant

Eleven Madison Park

Our Top Choice Bar for Nightlife

Best Time to Visit

Spring or fall for mild weather and fewer tourists.

Average Temperature

Mild in spring, hot in summer, cool in fall.

Transportation Options

Subway, bus, taxi, bike, walking, ferry, rideshare, car

Average Cost ($, $$, $$$)

My Top Recommendation

New York City is an incredible destination with boundless opportunities for exploration and discovery. One of my top recommendations for spending time in the Big Apple is to take a leisurely stroll through Central Park. This iconic urban oasis offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city streets, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. From picnicking on Sheep Meadow to rowing across the picturesque lake, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to visit the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, a historic landmark that showcases stunning architecture and provides a backdrop for beautiful photos. As you wander through the park, you'll come across various vibrant street performers, artists, and musicians, adding to the magical atmosphere. Central Park truly captures the essence of New York City, offering a peaceful respite in the heart of the metropolis.

Another must-visit spot is the High Line. This unique elevated park is built on a disused railway track, providing a one-of-a-kind perspective of Manhattan's urban landscape. As you stroll along the pathway, you'll be enthralled by the innovative greenery, contemporary art installations, and breathtaking views of the city skyline. The High Line offers an excellent opportunity to soak up the atmosphere and feel like a true New Yorker. Don't forget to stop by the food vendors along the way, where you can indulge in delicious treats while taking in the vibrant surroundings. Whether it's watching the sunset over the Hudson River or marveling at the architectural marvels like the Standard Hotel, the High Line offers an unforgettable experience that perfectly encapsulates the urban charm and innovation of New York City.

What You'll Need to Bring

Comfortable walking shoes

Weather-appropriate clothing (layers in winter, light and breathable in summer)

Map or navigation app on your phone

Travel guide or brochure

Camera or smartphone with a good camera

Cash and/or credit card

Portable charger for your electronic devices

Travel-sized toiletries and personal care items

Travel insurance documentation, if applicable

Any necessary medication or prescription

A sense of adventure and curiosity.

What Not to Miss

• Times Square
• Statue of Liberty
• Empire State Building
• Brooklyn Bridge
• Metropolitan Museum of Art
• Broadway shows
• High Line Park
• 9/11 Memorial and Museum
• One World Observatory

What to Avoid

Crowded tourist attractions, high-end restaurants and stores, overpriced taxi rides, staying in Times Square area, and visiting during peak tourist seasons.

To make your travel content appear more personal, try exploring hidden gems and local neighborhoods, trying street food and local cuisine, using public transportation or walking, staying in less touristy areas like Brooklyn or Queens, and visiting during off-peak seasons.

Table of Contents

1. Visit the Iconic World Trade Center Memorial

Experience the power and significance of New York's iconic World Trade Center , a symbol of resilience and unity in the heart of the city.

At the base of this architectural marvel, take a moment to pay tribute at the poignant 9/11 Memorial , where twin reflecting pools bear the names of those who lost their lives in the tragic attacks.

Feel the pulse of lower Manhattan as you explore the surrounding area, home to the historic Wall Street financial district and the New York Stock Exchange. Discover more about the city's rich history as you stroll along the narrow streets, and visit the nearby South Street Seaport.

2. Stroll Through Central Park

Take a break from the bustling city streets and find tranquility in the verdant embrace of Central Park . As a sprawling 843-acre urban haven, this captivating oasis presents picturesque landscapes, winding pathways, and enchanting locations like Bethesda Terrace and Bow Bridge.

Lose yourself in strolls, and delightful picnics, or embark on a captivating visit to the Central Park Zoo for an unforgettable day amid the vibrant heart of New York City.

Central Park is a treasure trove of attractions, encompassing the whimsical Alice in Wonderland statue , the serene Conservatory Garden , and the majestic Bethesda Fountain . Admire the lush flora, marvel at the park's various sculptures and monuments, or attend an open-air concert to experience the true essence of Central Park.

With its perfect blend of natural beauty, artistic charm, and recreational opportunities, Central Park has something to offer everyone, from couples seeking a romantic stroll to families looking to create cherished memories.

So, step into this green paradise and let the soothing sights and sounds of Central Park transport you to a world of serenity amidst the hustle and bustle of New York City.

3. Admire Art at the Metropolitan Museum

Be captivated by the artistic treasures at the Metropolitan Museum , the largest art museum in the United States. Explore its extensive permanent collection, showcasing over two million works of art spanning 5,000 years of history.

When you visit the Metropolitan Museum, you can discover masterpieces of European painting, ancient Egyptian artifacts, and contemporary art exhibits in this world-renowned institution.

Besides its vast and diverse collection , the Met also hosts engaging special exhibitions, educational programs, and events that cater to various interests. Don't forget to visit the rooftop garden of the Metropolitan Museum, which offers spectacular views of Central Park and the New York City skyline.

4. Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge

Experience the breathtaking views and architectural beauty of the iconic Brooklyn Bridge as you stroll across this historic New York City landmark. Connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn over the East River, the bridge offers unparalleled views of the skyline, Statue of Liberty, and New York Harbor.

As you walk the 1.1-mile-long pedestrian path , you'll not only marvel at the bridge's intricate cable design but also the captivating surroundings that make this a favorite among tourists and locals alike.

After reaching Brooklyn, explore the vibrant neighborhoods of DUMBO and Brooklyn Heights for unique shops, restaurants, and parks.

5. Observe Wildlife at Central Park Zoo

Discover an array of exotic and local wildlife at the Central Park Zoo , a family-friendly attraction nestled within the park. Encounter penguins, snow leopards, and red pandas, and participate in educational programs for an unforgettable experience amidst New York's urban jungle.

In addition to the fascinating animal exhibits, the Zoo in Central Park features a variety of habitats such as the Tropic Zone, Temperate Territory, and Polar Circle . With the commitment of Central Park to conservation and education, the zoo provides an inspiring and enjoyable outing for visitors of all ages.

Don't miss the daily sea lion feedings and the 4-D Theater for a truly immersive wildlife adventure. With the commitment of the Zoo in Central Park to conservation, education, and inspiring a connection to nature, the zoo provides an enjoyable and enlightening outing for visitors of all ages.

6. Attend a Show at Radio City Music Hall

Immerse yourself in the world's entertainment industry by attending a live performance at the legendary Radio City Music Hall . From concerts to famous Rockettes, this historic venue in midtown Manhattan is sure to dazzle and delight.

As an iconic part of New York City's theater district, Radio City Music Hall hosts various events, including the renowned Christmas Spectacular and various award ceremonies.

The stunning Art Deco architecture in the theater district, exquisite murals, and luxurious interior design make this New York City landmark an unforgettable experience. Don't miss the opportunity to take a guided tour and explore the secrets behind this beloved entertainment venue.

7. Marvel at the Empire State Building

Stand in awe of the Empire State Building , a quintessential New York City landmark that has captivated the imagination of visitors and locals alike. Ascend to the observation deck for breathtaking views of the city skyline and beyond.

As one of the most recognizable symbols of the city, the Empire State Building boasts an impressive 102-story height , with two observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors . Learn about the history and construction of this Art Deco masterpiece at the interactive exhibits and museum located within the building.

Be sure to visit the Empire State Building at night when it's illuminated with vibrant lights, creating a mesmerizing display that reflects the city's dynamic energy.

8. Ascend One World Trade Center

Journey to the top of One World Trade Center , where the One World Observatory offers panoramic views of the New York City skyline, the Hudson River, and landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

The One World Observatory provides a unique perspective of the New York skyline. As one of the tallest buildings in the Western Hemisphere, One World Trade Center stands as a symbol of hope and renewal, commemorating the events of September 11, 2001.

Explore the interactive exhibits at the observatory that detail the history of the site and the construction of the new World Trade Center complex.

9. Explore Liberty Island

Embark on a journey to Liberty Island , home to the iconic Statue of Liberty , a symbol of freedom and democracy that has welcomed millions of immigrants to America's shores.

Enjoy a scenic boat ride through New York Harbor, taking in views of the city's impressive skyline, historic landmarks, New York Harbour, and the stunning Bay of New York.

Upon arriving on the island, explore the statue's museum, learn about its history, and marvel at this awe-inspiring beacon of hope . 

Make sure to reserve your tickets in advance and consider a guided tour to gain an in-depth understanding of the monument and its significance to the nation's past and present.

10. Browse Books at the New York Public Library

Immerse yourself in a world of knowledge at the New York Public Library , a magnificent architectural gem in midtown Manhattan. Housing millions of books, manuscripts, and rare artifacts, this treasured institution offers a quiet retreat from the bustling city streets.

Admire the grand Beaux-Arts architecture, stroll through the majestic Rose Main Reading Room , and discover a wealth of information at your fingertips.

The library's extensive collections and enlightening exhibitions cater to a wide range of interests, making it an essential stop for bibliophiles, history buffs, and curious visitors alike.

11. Enjoy Views of the East River

Take in the captivating views of the East River , a vital waterway that separates Manhattan from Brooklyn and Queens.

Stroll along the scenic waterfront promenades , visit the historic South Street Seaport, or board a ferry for a leisurely cruise along the river. Witness the iconic skyline of New York City from a unique vantage point as you enjoy the sights and sounds of this bustling waterway.

Experience the East River's beauty at sunset, when the city's glittering lights and vibrant colors create an unforgettable atmosphere for locals and tourists alike.

12. Shop on Fifth Avenue

Indulge in a luxurious shopping experience on Fifth Avenue , New York City's premier shopping destination. Lined with world-renowned designer boutiques, iconic department stores, and elegant flagship locations, this famous thoroughfare in midtown Manhattan offers a wealth of retail delights.

From high-end fashion to exclusive jewelry, Fifth Avenue caters to those seeking the finest shopping experiences in the heart of the city.

Be sure to visit landmarks such as Tiffany & Co., Bergdorf Goodman, and Saks Fifth Avenue , as well as explore the many side streets that offer hidden gems and unique finds for discerning shoppers.

13. Relax in Bryant Park

Escape the city's hustle and bustle at Bryant Park , a serene urban oasis in midtown Manhattan. With its lush green lawns, beautiful gardens, and majestic fountains, Bryant Park offers a tranquil retreat amidst the city's skyscrapers.

Enjoy strolls, outdoor events, and seasonal attractions like the Winter Village ice rink or summertime outdoor movies , making Bryant Park a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.

14. Learn about Immigration at Ellis Island

Step back in time and explore the history of immigration to America at Ellis Island , the gateway for over 12 million immigrants seeking a new life in the United States.

Located in Upper New York Bay, this historic site houses the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration , showcasing interactive exhibits, personal stories, and artifacts that provide a fascinating insight into the immigrant experience.

15. Appreciate Modern Art at MoMA

Experience the world of modern and contemporary art at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City.

With an extensive collection of groundbreaking works by artists such as Picasso, Van Gogh, and Warhol, MoMA is an essential destination for art enthusiasts.

Explore thought-provoking exhibitions, participate in guided tours , and attend engaging events at this world-class cultural institution.

16. Discover the Rockefeller Center

Immerse yourself in the captivating history and architectural splendor of Rockefeller Center , a quintessential New York tourist attraction that stretches across 22 acres in the heart of midtown Manhattan.

Rockefeller Center is home to the renowned Rock observation deck in the legendary Radio City Music Hall . It is also home to the striking Prometheus statue.

Rockefeller Center is a treasure trove of art deco architecture, boasting several iconic buildings like the NBC Studios, the International Building, and 30 Rockefeller Plaza.

Stroll through the center's bustling plazas, admire its dazzling murals and sculptures, and witness the timeless beauty that has made Rockefeller Center a must-see destination for millions of visitors each year.

17. Tour Grand Central Terminal

Step into the awe-inspiring Grand Central Station , an emblematic New York City tourist attraction nestled in bustling midtown Manhattan.

As you wander through this historic transportation nexus, admire the intricate Beaux-Arts architecture , featuring grand arches, marble staircases, and ornate chandeliers. Look up to witness the mesmerizing celestial ceiling mural, which has captivated visitors for over a century.

Grand Central Terminal is more than just a transit hub; it's a vibrant destination brimming with history, art, and culture. Discover the storied past of this New York City icon with a guided tour or visit the intriguing Whispering Gallery to uncover its unique acoustic secrets.

Satisfy your culinary cravings at the legendary Oyster Bar , one of the many restaurants and eateries within the terminal, or shop for souvenirs and gifts at its array of charming boutiques. In addition to its stunning design and rich history, Grand Central Terminal plays a vital role in connecting people from all walks of life.

Immerse yourself in the grandeur and bustling atmosphere of Grand Central Terminal, and experience first-hand why this magnificent landmark remains a symbol of New York City's enduring allure and resilience.

18. Experience Times Square

Experience the exhilarating energy of Times Square , the vibrant gem of New York City, and an epicenter of the world's entertainment industry. This bustling crossroads in midtown Manhattan is renowned for its iconic billboards , dazzling lights, and the famous New Year's Eve ball drop.

Times Square offers a wealth of tourist attractions, including the Broadway Theater District , where you can catch a show and immerse yourself in the city's rich performing arts culture. At the heart of Times Square lies the city center, where you can find numerous art galleries, shops, and restaurants catering to a wide range of tastes.

Make sure to explore the vast array of shopping options in Times Square, such as the unique boutiques along Madison Square Garden or the popular retail destinations of the New York City Skyline.

Stroll along the lively city streets to discover the many art installations and outdoor sculptures that define the character of this dynamic urban landscape. Take a moment to appreciate the George Washington statue or simply watch the fascinating street performers who bring life and color to Times Square.

19. Cruise the Hudson River

Embark on a memorable Hudson River cruise to experience breathtaking views of the New York City skyline, historic landmarks, and the natural beauty of the region.

Glide past iconic sights like the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the George Washington Bridge while taking in the stunning Manhattan shoreline.

Whether you opt for a leisurely daytime cruise or a romantic sunset sail , a Hudson River cruise is a must for any visitor to New York City.

20. Visit the Financial District

Explore the bustling Financial District and Wall Street at the southern tip of Manhattan, where world finance and history converge. Wander through the winding streets lined with historic buildings, towering skyscrapers, and modern art installations.

Discover key attractions like the New York Stock Exchange , Wall Street, and the Charging Bull, as well as the poignant 9/11 Memorial and the striking World Trade Center.

21. Delve into the American Museum of Natural History

Uncover the mysteries of the natural world at the American Museum of Natural History , an iconic New York City institution located on the Upper West Side . It is one of the most famous tourist attractions in New York City.

With over 45 permanent exhibition halls, the American Museum of Natural History features an incredible collection of artifacts, specimens, and dioramas that span the realms of anthropology, zoology, and astronomy.

From dinosaur fossils to the vast expanse of the universe, the American Museum of Natural History offers a fascinating journey of discovery for visitors in the Upper West Side of New York.

22. Wander through Greenwich Village

Discover the charm and allure of Greenwich Village , a historic and culturally rich neighborhood in lower Manhattan.

Renowned for its bohemian vibe, picturesque streets, and vibrant arts scene, Greenwich Village has long been a hub of creativity and progressive thought.

Stroll through Washington Square Park , explore the numerous shops, galleries, and eateries, or catch a live performance at one of the many legendary music venues that have shaped the sounds of New York City.

23. Ride the Staten Island Ferry

Hop aboard the Staten Island Ferry for a quintessential New York City experience. This free , 25-minute ride offers unparalleled views of the iconic Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the stunning Manhattan skyline.

Departing from the southern tip of Manhattan, the ferry provides a relaxing escape from the bustling city streets and a unique perspective on New York Harbor, making it a must-do activity for visitors and locals alike.

24. See Tourist Attractions Around New York City Bay

Discover the wealth of tourist attractions that surround New York City Bay , an expansive body of water at the mouth of the Hudson River.

From the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island to the skyscrapers of lower Manhattan , this vibrant harbor area offers something for everyone.

Explore the many parks, museums, and historical sites, or simply take in the breathtaking views of the city skyline and the Upper New York Bay from various vantage points along the waterfront.

25. Unwind in Fort Tryon Park

Escape the urban hustle and find tranquility in Fort Tryon Park , an oasis of greenery located in Upper Manhattan.

This picturesque park offers stunning views of the Hudson River and the Palisades , as well as an array of walking trails, gardens, and recreational areas.

Visit the park's crowning jewel, the Cloisters , a branch of the Metropolitan Museum dedicated to the art and architecture of medieval Europe.

With its serene atmosphere and rich history, the park provides a peaceful retreat from the city's busy streets.

26. Experience Contemporary Art at the Whitney Museum

Immerse yourself in contemporary American art at the Whitney Museum of American Art , a cutting-edge cultural institution located in Manhattan's vibrant Meatpacking District.

The museum boasts an extensive permanent collection, including works by renowned artists such as Edward Hopper, Georgia O'Keeffe, and Jackson Pollock.

Explore thought-provoking temporary exhibitions, take part in engaging programs, and enjoy stunning views of the city from the museum's outdoor terraces.

Visiting the Whitney Museum is a must for any art enthusiast exploring New York City.

27. Stroll Through Battery Park

Take a stroll through Battery Park , a lush, waterfront oasis situated at the southern tip of New York City.

This historic park offers breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island . Discover the numerous monuments and sculptures scattered throughout the park, including the iconic Charging Bull and the poignant American Merchant Mariners' Memorial.

Battery Park serves as a perfect starting point for a visit to Liberty Island or a relaxing break from exploring the busy streets of Lower Manhattan.

28. Admire St. Patrick's Cathedral

Marvel at the architectural grandeur of St. Patrick's Cathedral , a stunning neo-Gothic Roman Catholic church located in Midtown Manhattan.

This New York City tourist attraction, with its soaring spires and ornate stained-glass windows , provides a peaceful sanctuary amidst the bustling city streets.

Whether you're attending a service, exploring the rich history of the cathedral, or simply appreciating its awe-inspiring beauty, St. Patrick's Cathedral is a must-visit destination for travelers in New York.

29. Enjoy Brooklyn Bridge Park

Unwind in the picturesque Brooklyn Bridge Park , a waterfront haven boasting stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the iconic Brooklyn Bridge.

Spanning 85 acres along the East River, the park offers a diverse array of recreational activities , from playgrounds and sports fields to lush lawns and tranquil gardens.

With its breathtaking vistas, cultural events, and unique attractions, Brooklyn Bridge Park is the perfect destination for a leisurely day of exploration and relaxation.

30. Explore Lower Manhattan

Discover the diverse array of attractions that await you in Lower Manhattan , the historic birthplace of New York City.

From the bustling streets of the Financial District and the powerful 9/11 Memorial and Museum to the lively S outh Street Seaport and the stunning waterfront views of Battery Park , Lower Manhattan offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and entertainment.

Whether you're exploring the storied streets of Wall Street or wandering the scenic pathways of the Hudson River Park, there's something for everyone in this captivating corner of New York City.

31. Have Fun at Coney Island

Experience the nostalgic charm and excitement of Coney Island , an iconic seaside amusement district in Brooklyn New York City.

Home to the historic Luna Park and the legendary Cyclone roller coaster , Coney Island offers thrilling rides, lively arcades, and delicious boardwalk fare for visitors of all ages.

Take a dip in the Atlantic Ocean, stroll along the famous boardwalk, or catch a Brooklyn Cyclones baseball game to complete your fun-filled day at this beloved Coney Island.

32. People-Watch in Washington Square Park

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Washington Square Park , a bustling social hub located in the heart of Greenwich Village in New York City.

This lively New York City park, centered around the famous Washington Square Arch , offers a perfect vantage point for people-watching, with street performers, musicians, artists, and a diverse array of locals and tourists converging daily.

Relax by the park's central fountain , strike up a conversation with a fellow visitor, or simply soak in the eclectic energy that makes Washington Square Park a favorite spot for New Yorkers and tourists alike.

33. Broadway

When in New York City, it is essential that you take a walk along Broadway . This diagonal street cuts through the rigid blocks of New York City and provides a vibrant, unique look at the city's most bustling area.

You can see a Broadway show , dine at Ellen's Stardust Diner, where the servers will perform Broadway classics while you enjoy your meal, and shop at the various big retail brands in the area. Broadway is the heartbeat of New York City.

34. Shop and Dine at Chelsea Market

Explore the culinary delights and unique shopping opportunities at Chelsea Market in New York City, an indoor food hall and shopping destination located in the trendy Meatpacking District.

Housed within a historic factory building, Chelsea Market offers a curated selection of artisanal food vendors, specialty shops, and gourmet restaurants.

From fresh seafood and gourmet cheeses to handcrafted jewelry and eclectic home goods, you'll find a treasure trove of distinctive New York City items to suit your tastes at Chelsea Market.

35. Walk the High Line Park

Discover the innovative High Line Park , a beautifully landscaped, elevated park built on a former railroad trestle in Manhattan's West Side.

This unique urban oasis offers a peaceful escape above the bustling streets and features lush gardens, art installations, and stunning views of the Hudson River and New York City skyline .

Stroll along the 1.45-mile High Line path, relax on one of its many seating areas, and experience an extraordinary blend of nature, art, and architecture in the heart of the city.

FAQs Regarding Places to Visit in New York

Now we are going to cover some of the most frequently asked questions about places to visit in New York City.

What are the top five places to visit in New York?

The top five places to visit in New York, featuring some of the city's most iconic landmarks, are Central Park, a lush urban oasis where you can explore picturesque landscapes, and visit the Zoo in Central Park.

The Empire State Building is an architectural marvel that offers breathtaking views of the New York City skyline.

The Statue of Liberty on Liberty Island is a symbol of freedom and democracy in the New York Harbor.

Times Square, the heart of the city's entertainment industry; and the Metropolitan Museum, the largest art museum in the United States, showcasing a wealth of artistic treasures.

What is the most visited place in NY?

The most visited place in New York City is undoubtedly Times Square, a bustling and vibrant hub of the city's entertainment industry, located in the heart of Manhattan.

Times Square is famous for its dazzling billboards, neon lights, and larger-than-life digital displays that create an electrifying atmosphere, day and night.

With its world-class theaters, including the renowned Broadway district, Times Square has become synonymous with New York City's rich theatrical history and serves as a magnet for millions of tourists and locals alike each year.

Times Square also offers an endless array of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

What is the number 1 tourist attraction in NYC?

The number 1 tourist attraction in New York City is the Statue of Liberty on Liberty Island, a symbol of freedom and democracy that has welcomed millions of immigrants to America's shores. This iconic New York City tourist attraction is a must-see for anyone visiting the city.

Where should I go if I go to New York?

If you go to New York, you should explore Central Park, marvel at the architectural wonders of the Empire State Building and Brooklyn Bridge, immerse yourself in the artistic treasures of the Metropolitan Museum, and take a stroll down Fifth Avenue for a luxurious shopping experience.

Additionally, don't miss out on visiting landmarks like the New York Public Library, Rockefeller Center, and the American Museum of Natural History to fully experience the diverse attractions New York City has to offer.

Summing Up: Best Places to Visit in New York City

In sum, New York City offers a plethora of unforgettable experiences, from the architectural marvels of the Brooklyn Bridge and Empire State Building to the cultural hubs of the New York Public Library and Rockefeller Center.

Take in breathtaking views from the Staten Island Ferry, marvel at the masterpieces of modern art, or simply immerse yourself in the city's unique atmosphere.

With so many tourist attractions to choose from, there's never a dull moment in this bustling metropolis. So, what are you waiting for?

Book your trip to New York City today and start creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Visit the Iconic World Trade Center Memorial

Stroll Through Central Park

Admire Art at the Metropolitan Museum

Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge

Attend a Show at Radio City Music Hall

Marvel at the Empire State Building

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