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New York City
31 Must-Visit Places and Things to Do in New York City
New York City or NYC also referred to by many people as The City That Never Sleeps, The Big Apple, Gotham, The Concrete Jungle, The Melting Pot, Empire City, or The Capital Of The World but I call it ‘’My Third Home‘’ as I spent a few years of my life studying working and living in this beautiful city, and today I’m very happy to share with you some of the travel tips and hopefully, help you to plan your trip.
New York City, is known for its iconic skyline, urban vibrancy, cultural diversity, world-class attractions, unique neighborhoods, and culinary adventures, offering endless experiences and unforgettable memories for all types of visitors.
On average, tourists typically spend around 3 to 5 days in New York City, however, the length of stay can vary depending on individual interests and travel plans.
What You May Not Know About New York City
New York City’s history began with the arrival of Italian explorer Giovanni Verrazzano in 1524, followed by Henry Hudson in 1609. In 1624 Dutch established a settlement on Manhattan Island, naming it New Amsterdam. In 1664 the British seized New Amsterdam and renamed it New York.
New York City played a crucial role during the Revolutionary War and, it became the first capital of the United States between 1785 to 1790 and was the site of George Washington’s inauguration as the first president in 1789. In the early 20th century, the consolidation of the five boroughs, of Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, The Bronx, and Staten Island formed the modern city of New York. Today it is often considered both ‘’The Capital of the World‘’ and ‘’The Financial Capital of the World‘’ receiving over 60 million tourists annually.
Here’s your guide to explore and experience the best of New York City.
1. American Museum of Natural History
Established in 1869, the American Museum of Natural History is one of the most popular institutions in New York City, visiting this museum is like a journey through time, space, and the natural world.
Some of the most impressive exhibits include life-sized reconstructions and fossils of Dinosaurs, The Rose Center for Earth and Space, explaining complex astronomical phenomena in an engaging manner, Displays of more than 1.500 specimens and models representing biodiversity and the variety of life forms on Earth, interactive displays of human origins, development, and evolutionary journey of early hominids and the emergence of Homo sapiens, Ocean Life, the hall that showcases the incredible diversity of marine life, and much more.
2. Central Park: The Heart of New York City
This iconic urban park is not just a green space but a cultural landmark, an oasis of tranquility and natural beauty, it is an integral part of New York City’s identity. There are so many things you can do and see in Central Park, it has a vast varied landscape, interests, and activities.
Open green spaces such as The Great Lawn and Sheep Meadow offer fantastic views of Manhattan skyscrapers and can be great places for picnics and sunbathing. Beautiful lakes with iconic bridges such as Baw Bridge are a must-visit, offering a picturesque backdrop for photography. I also like to stop at Wollman Rink, there is a nice cafe with outside seatings to take a break and enjoy snacks, and appreciate the Manhattan skyline on the back, if you feel like doing some sports you can practice pickleball here in summer and do some ice skating in winter.
Other important places you should visit in Central Park are Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, Belvedere Castle, Turtle Pond, Shakespeare Garden, Delacorte Theater, The Obelisk, Conservatory Water, and Alice in Wonderland.
3. Solomon Guggenheim Museum
This remarkable museum itself is a work of art, it has an innovative design, characterized by its unique spiral ramp that ascends around a central rotunda and breaks away from traditional museum layouts. This distinctive structure allows visitors to view the evolution of art in a continuous flow, and experience every piece of art within the context of its surroundings.
The museum’s collections include significant collections of modern and contemporary art, including masterpieces by legendary artists such as Pablo Picasso, Vincent Van Gogh, Édouard Manet, and many others.
4. Metropolitan Museum of Art
Located on the picturesque stretch of Fifth Avenue known as Museum Mile, the Metropolitan Museum of Art stands as one of the most renowned and visited museums in the world. The museum comprehensives the journey through 5,000 years of art history, some of the must-see collections include the collection of Egyptian Art, simulating the ambiance of the temples and the river Nile, extensive collections of paintings from European artists, as well as some of the most significant medieval, Asian and American paintings.
Museum Mile gathers a few other significant museums, if you have time you might consider visiting them as well, some of them are The African Center, El Museo del Barrio, Museum of the City of New York, Cooper-Hewitt, National Academy Museum, Neue Galerie, Jewish Museum, and Goethe House.
5. Bethesda Terrace and Fountain
Bethesda Terrace and Fountain is known as the ”heart of Central Park,” the fountain is crowned by the Angel of the Waters statue and symbolizes purity and healing of fresh water system in New York City. Bethesda Terrace overlooks the Lake and offers a great view of surrounding landscape, and the Arcade is notable for its ceiling, decorated with Minton tiles, one of the largest installations of these tiles in the world. The acoustics here make it a popular spot for musicians. This place have been featured in numerous movies, and TV shows making it recognizable iconic symbol of Central Park and New York City.
Other important places you should visit lower side of Central Park are Strawberry Fields, The Mall and Literary Walk, Woman’s Rights Pioneers Monument, Indian Hunter Monument, Christopher Columbus Statue, Shakespeare Statue, Balto, The Pond, Gapstow Bridge, Central Park Zoo, and Umpire Rock for more impressive Manhattan skyline photography.
6. Columbus Circle
Columbus Circle is a very interesting place to admire New York City’s architecture and ambiance, it is located at the southwestern entrance of Central Park, and right in the middle of it, you can see the monument of Christopher Columbus itself, to commemorate the explorer, ‘s achievements.
The Circle is more than just a traffic hub, here you can visit many of New York City’s iconic attractions such as Jazz at Lincoln Center, dedicated to the performance, preservation, and preservation of jazz music, Deutsch Bank Center for luxury shops, high-end restaurants, and whole food markets, and contemporary art museum on the southwest corner of the Circle, the Museum of Arts and Design.
My favorite is the stainless steel Globe sculpture, with its modern sleek design that combines both art and geography.
7. Times Square
Times Square is an iconic symbol of New York City, it is a commercial and entertainment hub with dazzling lights and a bustling atmosphere that emphasizes the energy and excitement that define New York City. The best time to visit is after sunset to enjoy the world’s most innovative digital art installations that take over electronic billboards, displays showcase videos from artists around the globe. It is also a hub for customer characters and street performers that add to the lively atmosphere of Times Square. Sit for a minute on the red glass staircase, it is a famous landmark for photographers and for people watching. Times Square is also very famous for the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop, and if you are not here for New Year’s Eve, you can still see the crystal ball as it is on display year-round.
Times Square is synonymous with Broadway Shows, there are 41 theatres in the Broadway district and I strongly recommend you check out at least one of these world-class performances, you can purchase same-day tickets at the TKTS booth here on the square.
8. Radio City Music Hall
Radio City Music Hall is New York’s entertainment landscape, it is different from Broadway show theatres and perhaps it is best known for its annual Christmas Spectacular, which runs from November to January, and features world-famous Rockettes, this precision dance was established in 1925 and combines elaborate sets, stunning costumes and jaw-dropping choreography, it also hosts a diverse range of events throughout the year.
The exterior of the Radio City Music Hall is a prime example of Art Deco architecture, with its neon lights and prominent signage making a great photo opportunity, specifically at night when the lights are shining brightly.
9. Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center was designed by John D. Rockefeller Jr. during the Great Depression, its construction was completed in 1939 and became a historic landmark, it is the iconic building of New York City and a must-visit for everyone. The Rockefeller Plaza is a beautiful complex with a bustling hub of activity year-round, in the summer the Plaza hosts many outdoor events, and in the winter it transformed into a winter wonderland with its famous ice-skating rink, and the Christmas tree, the most iconic and beautiful Christmas tree in New York City and the whole country.
I highly recommend you go to the Top of the Rock for the most breathtaking views of New York City.
10. St. Patrick’s Cathedral
This iconic Gothic Revival Cathedral is one of the most beautiful cathedrals in New York City, the exterior is constructed from white marble and its impressive facade features twin spires that rise 100 meters (330 feet) into the air and contrast beautifully with the surrounding skyscrapers. The interior of the cathedral is equally impressive, and the most remarkable feature is its collection of stained glass windows that depict various biblical scenes and saints in colorful details.
The St. Patrick’s Cathedral is open to visitors of all faiths, it also hosts numerous events and special services throughout the year, including Christmas and Easter masses and concerts.
11. MoMA-The Museum of Modern Art
Another must-visit museum dedicated to modern and contemporary art is MoMa, The Museum of Modern Art, as you wander through museum galleries you’ll encounter iconic works by renowned artists such as Vincent Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and others. The museum hosts many impressive temporary exhibitions of emerging trends by famous influential figures, including shows on contemporary photography, digital art, and global design.
The recent museum’s expansion in 2019 integrated its indoor and outdoor areas, including the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Sculpture Graden, the museum also boasts several restaurants and cafes, including a two-Michelin-Starred restaurant overlooking the garden.
Consider visiting MoMa to admire its world-class collection, innovative exhibitions, and inviting spaces, for an unforgettable journey through the art of our time.
12. Grand Central Terminal
Grand Central is more than just a stain station, it is an iconic urban design where travelers would feel a sense of admiration for New York City, it is one of the busiest train stations in the United States, handling about one million visitors daily. Grand Central Terminal played an important role in popular culture, featuring in many films, TV shows, and literature. The most iconic thing to see here is the four-faced opal clock on top of the information booth in the middle of the concourse, and the astronomical ceiling featuring a mural of the zodiac.
The terminal also houses a variety of stores and restaurants as well as specialty boutiques where you can get unique souvenirs.
13. Chrysler Building
The Chrysler Building is another iconic landmark of New York City, it is a beautiful architectural masterpiece completed in 1930. It was the tallest building in the world for a short period, the building is adorned with lavish materials, including marble and chrome which was considered a luxurious design of the era, and its spire is a prominent feature of the New York City skyline, especially when illuminated at night makes the favorite subject for tourists and photographers.
The Crysler Building observatory desk has been closed for decades, and although plans have been announced for its reopening currently it is not possible to visit it, but I highly recommend you to check out the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt modern architectural building which is a few steps away from the Chrysler Building, its amazing observatory desk offers breathtaking views of New York City.
14. Bryant Park
Bryant Park is a dynamic green oasis in the middle of Manhattan, it was designed and opened as a public park in the 19th Century and was named after the famous poet and editor of the New York Evening Post, William Cullen Bryant. The park maintains colorful displays of flowers and plants that change with the seasons, and the central lawn is perfect for picnics, sunbathing, or simply relaxing with a good book, during the summer the lawn hosts free movie nights and attracts crowds for an outdoor cinematic experience. Bryant Park offers numerous attractions and activities such as Carrousel, ping pong, chess games, and numerous dining options. In the winter park hosts an ice skating rink, many holiday shops, and festive food stalls.
15. New York City Public Library
Home to over 50 million items, the New York City Library boasts one of the most comprehensive collections in the world, including rare manuscripts, first editions, and ancient texts. Notable items include a Gutenberg Bible, original manuscripts by Shakespeare, and letters from historic figures like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. The library also houses an impressive collection of maps and photographs, it is also a great place to read, study, or do some online work. Guided tours are available for those who want to fully appreciate the library’s rich history and architectural beauty.
16. Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is rising majestically in the middle of Manhattan, it is the most iconic building in New York City and its name derives from New York’s nickname, “The Empire State,” symbolizing the city’s ambition and innovation spirit.
The Empire State Building’s construction started in March 1930 and remarkably was finished just 410 days later, it is a stunning example of Art Deco architecture.
The Empire State Building is a must-see landmark, inside you can visit exhibitions that narrate building planning, construction, and opening, featuring original documents, photographs, and construction notes, it also offers two main observatory decks providing breathtaking views of New York City.
17. Macy’s
When you visit New York City you must do some shopping, and the best place to go is Macy’s Herald Square in Manhattan, located on Broadway between 35th and 34th streets, it is often referred to as the “World’s Largest Store,” and a famous landmark of New York City. Here visitors can find everything from clothing and accessories to home goods and beauty products, electronics, restaurants, and dining options, as well as plenty of travel-related products and souvenirs.
Don’t forget to see Macy’s unique and charming wooden escalators, these historic escalators are not only functional but also serve as a nostalgic reminder of the early 20th century, it was originally installed in the 1920s, and is made with oak and ash. They are some of the oldest working escalators in the world and riding these escalators is like stepping back in time.
Another hidden gem of the store is the Backstage, go to Macy’s famous backstage located on the 8th floor which offers a wide range of brands and products at significantly reduced prices.
18. Flatiron Building
The Flatiron building was completed in 1902 and quickly became a cultural icon, featured in numerous photographs, postcards, and films, it is New York City’s most recognizable and beloved landmark, and the building’s unique shape was dictated by the triangular plot of land that it occupies.
The Flatiron building is located in the Flatiron District, one of the most beautiful neighborhoods of Manhattan, there are plenty of things you can do and visit in the area, including beautiful cafes with terraces and dining options, like the original Shake Shack or the Eataly, as well as several rooftop bars with spectacular views of Manhattan skyline like 230 Fifth Avenue rooftop bar, also many interesting museums such as National Museum of Mathematics, The Museum of Sex, Rubin Museum of Art and others. The area is known for its many boutique shops and stores for shopping enthusiasts, and Madison Square Park here is a beautiful green space that is worth exploring. Flatiron Building continues to captivate the hearts of millions, do not miss an opportunity to explore the area and its surroundings for unforgettable experiences.
Union Square is a few blocks away from here, you might need to consider visiting this historic and lively square with a bustling farmer’s market and vibrant street performances.
19. Hudson Yards
Head to the west side of Manhattan to explore New York City’s newest and most ambitious development, Hudson Yards. This futuristic neighborhood offers a blend of luxury, innovation, and culture, making it a must-visit destination for travelers and locals, home to more than 100 diverse shops and culinary experiences, as well as some of the most dynamic cultural institutions including The Shed, the dynamic space that hosts a variety of performances, exhibition, and events, from contemporary art and theatre to dance and music, the Vessel that stands at the heart of Hudson Yards, an extraordinary, honeycomb-like structure that consists of 154 interconnected flights of stairs, and it is now one of the most favorite places for photographers. The plaza in front of the Vessel offers outdoor entertainment including live concerts, outdoor movie performances, and beautiful views over the Hudson River. For more breathtaking photo opportunities and views you must consider visiting the Edge, its observation deck, located on the 100th floor, is the highest sky deck in the Western Hemisphere, its glass floor allows visitors to look straight down to the city below, providing spectacular views of New York City.
20. High Line
On Manhattan’s West Side, near the Hudson Yards, from 34th Street to all the way down to the Meatpacking District’s Gansevoort Street lies the High Line, the elevated park, built on a historic rail line that offers a beautiful and peaceful escape from the city’s bustling streets. It was originally constructed in 1930, and recently in 2009, these abandoned tracks were transformed into a public park.
Stroll through its beautifully renovated landscaped gardens to explore different species of trees and plants, enjoy views over Manhattan’s skyline and the Hudson River, and its rotating public art installation, sculptures, and murals. It is a beautiful place worth spending time visiting. I also recommend you visit some of the interesting places nearby such as the Chelsea Market, Whitney Museum, or the Gansevoort Market on 14th Street.
One of the High Line’s hidden spots is the High Line Observation Deck, also called 10th Avenue Square, it is a popular place to sit and overlook the Chelsea Market Passage.
21. Little Island
This floating Little Island was opened recently in 2021, it has a very unique, modern design that will instantly cough your eyes, it stands out with its distinctive tulip-shaped concrete pilings that rise from the water. It is a very beautiful place that deserves a visit, expect to encounter events and performances that take place here creating a beautiful ambiance along the views that it provides to the city and the Hudson River. This innovative floating island is New York City’s latest marvel that shows the city’s creative spirit.
22. Washington Square Park
One of my favorites and another great green oasis in New York City, Washington Square Park was opened in 1871 to commemorate 100 years of George Washington’s inauguration as president. This grand Marble Arch is a popular spot for photos that provide background of the park’s bustling activities.
Washington Square Park has been a hub of cultural and political movements throughout the 20th century and today it continues to be a melting pot of creativity and activism, it is always full of street performers, musicians, and artists.
From here you can continue to explore some of New York city’s interesting neighborhoods like Greenwich Village, Soho, Little Italy, or Chinatown.
23. One World Trade Center
One World Trade Center is an impressive skyscraper, often referred to as the Freedom Tower, it is a modern architecture that symbolizes the freedom of the United States and also tributes the resilience, strength, and perseverance of New York City. It is highly recommended to visit its observatory deck which offers 360-degree spectacular panoramic views of NYC.
Here you will also visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, a tribute to the victims of the September 11, 2001 attacks, the memorial features two reflecting pools set in the footprints of the original Twin Towers, surrounded by the names of those who lost their lives. The Oculus building is a striking transportation hub and shopping center, its unique wing-like design structure offers great opportunities for photos and contrasts beautifully with surrounding skyscrapers.
St. Paul’s Chapel is just a short walk from One World Trade Center, it is the oldest surviving church building in Manhattan, and it played a crucial role during the 9/11 aftermath as a place to rest and refuge for recovery workers.
For a better shopping and dining experience here I would recommend you to visit Brookfield Place, it has very nice views of the Hudson River and it can be a great place to relax and for a quick break.
24. Statue of Liberty
Stroll along the Hudson River to head south to Battery Park, it is a vibrant and historic green space that is worth exploring, and enjoy some of the best views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
Another free way to see the Statue of Liberty and perhaps to take a closer look is by taking a ferry here that goes to Staten Island.
For the most memorable and best experience, you should definitely consider taking a Statue of Liberty ferry, it is recommended to book tickets in advance to avoid long waiting lines, options include the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island visit, and also there is an option to book with Statue of Liberty Crown Access for most epic panoramic views and experience in New York City.
Standing tall on Liberty Island, the Lady Liberty is instantly recognizable with her torch held high, symbolizing enlightenment and Liberty, welcoming tourists and immigrants arriving in the United States since its dedication in 1886. Visitors can learn and explore the statue’s history and its significance.
Ellis Island is right next to Liberty Island, it is a symbol of immigrant heritage, this historic site served as the primary immigration station for the United States, welcoming more than 12 million immigrants in search of new opportunities. The museum here features artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that show powerful immigrants’ experiences and stories.
25. National Museum of American Indian
The National Museum of American Indian is a must-visit for all, it is a great opportunity to learn and understand the rich and varied cultures of Native American peoples. The museum houses an extensive collection of Native American artifacts, including art, historical objects, and cultural items from various Indigenous tribes across the Americas. There is also always something new at the museum, its rotating special exhibitions showcase different aspects of Native American life, art, and history. The museum also makes a great effort to educate the public and preserve these important traditions.
26. Trinity Church
Trinity Church is a historical treasure that offers a unique blend of spirituality, history, and architecture. The church’s exterior is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture, with intricate stone carvings, pointed arches, and a magical spire that reaches 85 meters (281 feet) into the sky, and the interior features stained glass windows, a grand organ, and elegant woodwork.
To learn more about New York City’s History, I also recommend you visit the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church which is also located in the financial district, just 5 minutes walking distance from the Trinity Church, this beautiful church continues the legacy of the original St. Nicholas Church which was built in 1628 by the Dutch settlers and it has the distinction of being first established church in New York City.
27. Charging Bull
This famous bronze sculpture is a must-visit landmark in New York City, it was installed in 1989 and stands as a powerful symbol of strength, resilience, energy, determination, and financial optimism of the American people, and it perfectly fits surrounding financial institutions.
One of the unique and somewhat humorous aspects of the Charging Bull’s fame is the belief that touching certain parts of the statue can bring good luck, specifically rubbing the bull’s nose, horns, and even its testicles is thought to bring prosperity and success.
28. Wall Street
Wall Street is the beating heart of New York City’s financial institutions, it is the epicenter of global finance. It gets its name from a wall built by the Dutch settlers in the 17th century to protect New Amsterdam from potential invaders. In 1792 on 68 Wall Street, an agreement was made to create a structured securities market and regulate the commissions, a financial institution that is well known today as the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). It is the largest stock exchange globally by market capitalization and a must-see for visitors.
Opposite the NYSE is Federal Hall, where George Washington took his oath of office as the first President of the United States in 1789. The building now serves as a museum, offering exhibits on the early history of the United States and its government. The statue of George Washington standing on the front steps is a striking reminder of the nation’s founding.
Take a walk to a cobblestone-paved Broad Street to not miss the opportunity to see the famous “Fearless Girl” statue which was moved here recently in 2018, and for more cobblestone streets continue to visit Stone Steet, it is one of the oldest streets in New York City, today full of many nice restaurants, cafes, and shops.
29. South Street Seaport
This is one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods and in the 19th century became a bustling port and commercial hub. Today is one of the most visited places in New York City, you can still admire 19th-century buildings and its original cobblestone streets, and get a sense of the atmosphere of the port where back in the day it was alive with the sounds of sailors and merchants. The port is transformed into a modern and vibrant area with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, pier 17 stands as a centerpiece, and its rooftop offers breathtaking views of the Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan skyline.
The Seaport Museum here is a must-visit, it features fascinating exhibits on the maritime history of New York and a beautiful Titanic Memorial Lighthouse in front of the museum that stands as a silent testament to one of the most tragic maritime disasters in history.
30. Brooklyn Bridge
Brooklyn Bridge was completed in the 19th century and it was the world’s longest suspension bridge at the time and still remains one of New York City’s beloved landmarks. The bridge features a unique design with Gothic-style stone towers and steel cables that create a striking visual spectacle. Walk across the bridge and enjoy stunning panoramic vistas of New York City’s skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the East River below. The bridge is always very busy with tourists and it’s also popular with local cyclists and joggers, throughout the year, the bridge and its surrounding areas host events, pop-up markets, concerts, and street performances.
Walk on the Brooklyn Bridge is a must-do for all visitors.
31. Dumbo
To better appreciate the Brooklyn Bridge and New York City’s skyline I recommend you visit Brooklyn Bridge Park in Dumbo, and Pebble Beach which offer the most beautiful view of Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan skyline together, from here you can also take beautiful pictures of the Manhattan Bridge.
Dumbo is a trendy neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, art galleries, rooftops bars, and outdoor activities, one of the most iconic places to visit here is the Manhattan Bridge view on Washington Street, this vintage point became a very popular place for photographers, and tourists looking the unique perspective to capture the Manhattan Bridge with the Empire State Building in the background. This spot is also very popular because it appeared in many famous movies and TV shows such as Friends, The Great Gatsby, Spider-Man, and many others, for me it has a special significance for its appearance in one of my favorite movies “Once Upon a Time in America.”
There is always more to see and do in New York City…
Some of the additional must-visit places include one of the largest metropolitan zoos in the world, the Bronx Zoo with its incredible array of wildlife exhibits, and the Arthur Avenue in The Bronx, often referred to as the “real Little Italy,” where you can explore authentic markets, bakeries, and restaurants. For more Mediterranean cuisine head to Astoria in Queens, known for its vibrant Greek community, from there you can enjoy stunning views of the East River and Manhattan skyline. One of my favorite parks in New York City is Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens, it is home to the iconic Unisphere, the Queens Museum, and the New York Hall of Science. It’s also the site of the U.S. Open Tennis Championship, held annually at the Arthur Ashe Stadium. In Brooklyn, you must visit Coney Island, famous for its amusement park and Nathan’s Famous hot dogs. Another place to visit in Brooklyn is Prospect Park, designed by the same landscape architects as Central Park. Just a free ferry ride from Manhattan you can visit New York’s other neighborhood, Staten Island, you can explore St. George’s neighborhood that offers beautiful views of New York City, visit Staten Island Museum, the Staten Island September 11 Memorial, and do some shopping in Empire Outlets shopping complex.
New York City’s public transportation system is very efficient, The Subway offers 24-hour service that will take you all over the places around the city if you are looking for a fast and affordable way to travel, it is also Bike friendly city, you can rent a City Bike in almost every street through its CityBike App.
The adventure in New York City is never-ending. Happy travels!
*Important note: Please remember to check for the restrictions or any other changes while planning your trip.
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions.