top tourist destinations new york city

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 .

More on New York

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:

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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.

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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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The 31 best things to do in New York City

By Melissa Liebling-Goldberg and Alex Erdekian

One of the 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 more quickly it changes before your eyes. People can live here for 100 years and never run out of places to go or people to meet; deciding what to do first in New York is daunting, which is why we're narrowing your options. Whether you're a local itching to get out of your neighbourhood or an out-of-towner who doesn't know The Met from the Mets, these new and classic activities will dazzle you. From wandering Central Park to slurping soup dumplings in Chinatown, these are a few of our very favourite things to do in New York City, from Midtown to Brooklyn .

Central Park

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 realise 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, and 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 is one of those neighbourhoods 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

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

A spring or summer day spent cheering at a 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.

The Morgan Library & Museum

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 artefacts, paintings, and books, some dating back to 4000 BC, 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

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 up for sightseeing purposes can enter for $5 admission. Special tours are offered depending on the day of the week.

Summit One Vanderbilt

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 .

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 of over 200,000 pieces, 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.

Connor Sturges

Juliet Kinsman

Bemelmans Bar

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. And after going dark during the pandemic, Broadway is back. Exalt in the return of live performances with acclaimed shows like Six and Hadestown.

New York Botanical Garden

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 of 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 neighbourhood, make stops at the New York Transit Museum , the Sardinian Trattoria River Deli , and the old-time dive bar Montero .

Grand Central Terminal

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

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

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

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, contextualised backdrop in which to view the art.

Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

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

Countless careers have been made, and stars have passed through this world-famous, legendary Apollo Theater in Harlem – 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

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, a zoo, and a 3.35-mile loop for runners and bikers (they’re fast – watch out!). While there, make a trip to the adjacent Brooklyn Botanic Garden , particularly lovely during cherry blossom season.

Bedford Avenue, Williamsburg

Sip iced coffee in McCarren Park, catch an indie show at Baby's All Right, and 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 characterise the area, like Catbird (ethereal, vintage-inspired jewellery), Spoonbill & Sugartown Books (poetry, special design and cookbooks, cards), and Awoke Vintage (best-known for their genuine denim often from the ‘90s.)

Dover Street Market New York

Dover Street is more than just a luxury department store; it’s a fashion-meets-art exhibition space. Featured designers configure their own display areas, allowing the shopper to interact with the clothes in a holistic manner that takes you inside the designer’s world – as opposed to just picking through dresses hanging on a metal rack. Also, don’t miss the ground-floor café, Rose Bakery.

Coney Island

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.

Washington Square Park

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, honouring 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 neighbourhood.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

For nearly a century and a half, the Met has remained the cultural epicentre 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 moves to and fro – and you’ll feel the overwhelming sense of possibility and discovery that lies 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

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 8pm and 10.30pm, and on Friday and Saturday nights, it has a late-night series at 12.30am, 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

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

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

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 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

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

With its towering stacks, filled with more than 2.5 million titles, this 94-year-old bookstore is less neighbourhood haunt and more globally recognised 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.

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 travelling 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're looking for a quiet and meditative way to spend a few hours, skip it. But if you want to blow the minds of a bunch of kids, you can do no better.

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The best New York tourist attractions that locals love

From historical sites to lush gardens and art museums, these are the New York tourist attractions that locals also adore

Gothamites may loathe having to constantly dodge slow-moving tourists on the streets, but in the end, we love many of the same New York tourist attractions that sightseers do (admit it). We compiled our top must-visit spots below, and the good news is there are so many great things to do in NYC today that there’s plenty of the city to go around. And don’t worry, we can still keep the best art shows and best restaurants  to ourselves…maybe.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best New York attractions

An email you’ll actually love

Best New York tourist attractions

1.  Empire State Building

• Monuments and memorials
• Midtown West

2.  Central Park

• Parks and gardens
• Central Park

3.  The Statue of Liberty

• Liberty Island

4.  One World Observatory

• Towers and viewpoints
• Financial District

5.  Chrysler Building

• Civic buildings
• Midtown East

6.  The High Line

7.  Rockefeller Center

• Things to do

You’ll find plenty of iconic New York sites in this multiblock complex: The ground level is home to the Rock's famed ice-skating rink, the bronze Atlas statue and the Today show plaza. Higher up, Top of the Rock rivals the Empire State Building in panoramic city views, and you can inspect the Art Deco murals that appear in several buildings. Don’t miss the triptych above the outdoor entrance to 5 Rockefeller Center or the rinkside Prometheus statue; both purportedly contain secret Freemason symbols. 

8.  Bronx Zoo Wildlife Conservation Society

• Zoo and aquariums

9.  New York Botanical Garden

10.  Flushing Meadows–Corona Park

Looking for more things to do in nyc.

Check out the 101 best things to do in NYC

Discover the best things to do in NYC with the ultimate insider's guide to restaurants, bars, clubs, museums and more

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » New York (NY) » 55 Best Things to Do in New York City (New York)

55 Best Things to Do in New York City (New York)

New York is at the vanguard of western art, entertainment, food trends, fashion and finance. Now, you could get cute and obscure when you compile a guide like this.

But truth be told, 55 things isn’t enough for a city like New York, which is why our list is packed shamelessly with big-hitters, from the Statue of Liberty to Central Park, Ellis Island, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Empire State, Broadway and the Brooklyn Bridge.

These things are non-negotiable if you want to do New York justice, even if you’ll be accompanied by a few thousand tourists.

We’ve got a breathless ride through a city seared in the minds of people around the world, immortalised in television and movies, and able to inspire wonder, awe, quiet reflection and joy in even the most cynical travellers.

Let’s explore the best things to do in NYC :

1. The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Backing onto Central on Fifth Avenue, the immense Metropolitan Museum of Art charts 5,000 years of applied and fine arts from all ends of the earth.

At the largest gallery in the United States you can chase your sense of curiosity down any number of rabbit-holes, marvelling at Sumerian cuneiform tablets, Chinese calligraphy, Classical sculpture, Egyptian mummies, Old Masters, Moorish textiles, Rococo fashion, armour worn by European monarchs, invaluable musical instruments, and that’s just to get started.

You could spend a whole day at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and leave knowing that there was more to see.

But a few of the indispensible exhibits are the transposed Egyptian Temple of Dendur (15BC), Raphael’s altar painting of Madonna and Child (1504), Rembrandt’s Aristotle with a Bust of Homer (1653), Washington Crossing the Delaware by Emanuel Leutze (1851) and van Gogh’s Self Portrait with Straw Hat (1887).

Skip the line : Metropolitan Museum of Art Skip-the-Line Ticket

2. Central Park

New York’s population doubled in the 30 years up to 1855, by which time the burgeoning city was in desperate need of more green space.

The answer was to cut a giant strip from the middle of Manhattan’s grid system, from 5th to 8th Avenue, and from 59th to 110th Street.

On 843 acres, this captivating landscape was drawn up by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux and officially completed in 1873. Within Central Park’s boundaries are ponds, a central lake, a reservoir, public art, schist outcrops, almost 50 fountains, 21 playgrounds, complete sports facilities, more than 25,000 trees and dozens of interesting landmarks like the stately Bethesda Terrace.

The list of things to do is almost endless, and includes a zoo, boating, yoga classes, outdoor theatre and horse-drawn carriage tours.

Such is the size of Central Park, two wheels might be a better way to get around than two feet, and you can hire a bike via GetYourGuide.com .

3. National 9/11 Memorial and Museum

Sombre but necessary, the National 9/11 Memorial and Museum is on the site of the World Trade Centre.

The National September 11 Memorial is a jarring tribute to the 2,977 people killed in the attacks in 2001, as well as the six who died in the 1993 bombing.

There are twin reflecting pools here, an acre in size, marking out the exact footprints of the Twin Towers and walled with the largest man-made waterfalls in North America.

The bronze panels on parapets surrounding these pools are inscribed with the names of every person who died in the two attacks.

The Memorial Museum recalls the events of 9/11, the weeks leading up to the attack, and its aftermath, but also goes into depth on the lives of those who perished.

Among the exhibits are the monumental Last Column, fragments from the aircraft and a damaged fire truck.

Suggested tour : The 9/11 Tribute Museum & Memorial Walking Tour

4. Empire State Building

It’s a sign of New York’s sheer ambition in the 20s and 30s that nearly 90 years after it was topped off, the timeless Empire State Building is still the 44th tallest skyscraper in the world.

The roof of this Art Deco tower is 380 metres over the Midtown streets, and the highest visitable point in the city from 2001 until the One World Trade Center Observatory opened in 2011. The Main Deck on the 86th floor is open until 02:00 for a late-night perspective of the city that never sleeps, while in clear weather by day the panoramas scroll out for 80 miles, as far as Pennsylvania and Massachusetts.

Further up there’s an indoor observatory on the 102nd floor, once part of a docking station for airships, and accessed with an upgrade.

Make sure to soak up the Art Deco opulence of the Lobby on Fifth Avenue, with marble floors and the unmistakeable image of the tower behind the main desk.

Skip the line : Empire State Building General & Express Ticket Options

5. Statue of Liberty

From 1886, immigrants making the voyage to New York for a new life would be greeted by this inspiring symbol of freedom, conceived by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and with a metal framework built by Gustave Eiffel.

The 93-metre Statue of Liberty depicts the Roman goddess Libertas, striding free of the shackles at her feet, holding aloft a torch in her right hand and carrying a tablet in her left hand bearing the date of the Declaration of Independence, “JULY IV MDCCLXXVI” (1776). New York’s main point of departure for Liberty Island is Battery Park.

The queues for the ferry and new Statue of Liberty Museum on Liberty Island can be long and slow, which is why it’s well worth getting “skip the line” Priority or Flexible Statue of Liberty Tickets with GetYourGuide.com, which include a complimentary audio guide and optional access to the pedestal.

Trips to the top of the crown are highly coveted, so you have to book well in advance.

Recommended tour : Statue of Liberty: Pedestal Express and Ellis Island

6. The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

Some of the modern age’s most celebrated art is on show at the world-famous MoMA, one of the largest and most important museums for modern and contemporary art in the world.

The collection runs to 150,000 pieces, comprising a good many masterpieces.

Among them are The Starry Night by van Gogh, Picasso’ s Les Demoiselles d’Avignon, Dalí’s The Persistence of Memory, The Dance by Matisse, Painting 1946 by Francis Bacon and a triptych from Monet’s Water Lilies series.

This incredible reserve is matched with high-profile temporary exhibitions: The work of Degas, Jackson Pollock, Picasso, Gilbert & George, Miró has starred in solo shows in the last few years, along with many more enlightening survey shows and transformative installations.

All year round, MoMA throws open its doors for free on Friday nights from 16:00 to 20:00.

Book online : Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Skip-the-Line Tickets

7. Rockefeller Center

The proportions of this vertical complex in Midtown are astonishing, especially when you remember that it was built throughout the Great Depression.

The Rockefeller Center is made up of 19 buildings (14 Art Deco, five International Style), broken by a sunken central plaza, all commissioned by the Rockefeller family, who first made their money in the oil industry.

We’ll talk about the Top of the Rock observatory and Radio City below, but there’s much at street level at the Rockefeller Center that you’ll have seen many times before in movies.

You’ve got the Atlas statue (1936) facing St Patrick’s Cathedral across Fifth Avenue, Prometheus (1934) on the west side of the famous sunken plaza and a majestic accompaniment to the much-loved skating rink and Christmas tree.

8. Brooklyn Bridge

Yet another landmark that makes New York, well… New York, the Brooklyn Bridge links Manhattan to Brooklyn across the East River and became the world’s first steel wire suspension bridge when it was completed in 1883. At that time it was also the first permanent crossing on the East River.

In 1884 the showman P.T. Barnum led a parade of 21 elephants across the bridge to allay doubts about its structural integrity.

The structure’s sense of drama comes from its two neo-Gothic towers, composed of limestone and granite and rising to 84 metres, and anchoring the intricate cable system.

The Brooklyn Bridge is best crossed as a pedestrian on the elevated walkway above the road and through the very centre of the towers, for satisfying vistas of New York’s silhouette and the cables overhead.

9. Broadway

A byword for New York’s theatre district, and even musical theatre in general, Broadway has more than 41 venues with 500 seats or more.

Most of these are on or within a few blocks of Times Square, and helped to turn New York into the cultural capital of the West in the 20th century.

Broadway’s eye-catching signs go back as far as 1910, when theatre owners realised it was safer and cheaper to advertise their venues with electric lights.

White bulbs took longer to burn out, and so Broadway became known as the “Great White Way”. For many generations of visitors to New York, catching a musical has been an essential ritual, and attendances continue to rise, driven by appearances from Hollywood stars (Bryan Cranston, Adam Driver, Keri Russell and Daniel Radcliffe in 2019). The three ever-present productions are Phantom of the Opera (1988) at the Majestic, Chicago (1996) at the Ambassador, and the Lion King (1997) at the Minskoff Theatre, while Hamilton and the Book of Mormon are more recent sensations.

Tip: Available shows on Broadway

10. One World Trade Center Observatory

Over almost a decade of construction between 2006 and 2015, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere took its place on the northwest corner of the World Trade Center site.

“One World Trade Center” comes from the north skyscraper of the Twin Towers and as of 2019 is the sixth tallest building in the world at 541.3 metres.

The height in feet is 1776, referring to the year the Declaration of Independence was signed, and you’ll rocket up 102 storeys in just 47 seconds.

The Observatory grants a 360° view, which at this end of Manhattan means you can look down on the Upper New York Bay and the Statue of Liberty, as well as the Brooklyn Bridge and up to the cluster of Midtown skyscrapers.

Come just before sunset to watch the city lighting up.

Book online: One World Observatory Ticket: Skip-the-Ticket-Line

11. High Line

This railway viaduct, cutting down the west side of Midtown Manhattan, belongs to the West Side Line but had been effectively abandoned from 1980 until it was turned into an elevated linear park, 1.45 miles long.

Taking cues from the Coulée verte René-Dumont in Paris the High Line opened in 2009 and threads through Chelsea, with occasional views across the Hudson River at the south, and to the towers of the slick new Hudson Yards development in the north.

The gardens were designed by Dutch landscape architect Piet Oudolf, and have a continuous pebble-dash concrete walkway flanked by beds growing the hardy plant species that sprouted in the gravel on the disused line, like coneflowers, blazing stars and a variety of grasses and trees.

Unveiled in June 2019, the Plinth at 10th Avenue and 30th Street is a space devoted to a rotating series of monumental, contemporary art commissions, kicking off with Simone Leigh’s Brick House.

Combo tour : High Line and Greenwich Village Combo Tour

12. Staten Island Ferry

One of the great free things to do in New York, the Staten Island Ferry zips across the Upper New York Bay 25 hours a day, seven days a week.

This crossing is one of the last survivors of a whole system of ferries that shuttled people over the city’s waterways before the bridges were constructed.

The service, between Whitehall Street and St George on Staten Island, is used by 22 million a year, and the five mile crossing takes about 25 minutes.

As a visitor, the reason to make the trip will become clear as you pull away from Manhattan, taking in perfect views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, as well as the skyscrapers and bridges of Lower Manhattan.

13. Times Square

Broadway’s theatre district coalesces around Times Square, a bowtie shaped plaza where Broadway and Seventh Avenue meet, in an urban ravine walled by dazzling electronic billboards.

It’s something you have to see, especially if you’re a first-timer.

On busy days more than 460,000 people pass through Times Square, and up to a million come to ring in the New Year at the ball drop, a tradition going back to 1907. In 2016, to keep things a bit more orderly, the city set up designated areas for the many street performers, and drew up paths to help you navigate the crowds.

As everybody knows, Times Square wasn’t always as clean and glossy.

From the 1960s to the early-90s, this was one of the grimiest blocks, lined with peep shows and sex shops, and a symbol for a city struggling with violent crime.

In 1984 there were 2,300 recorded crimes on and around the square, 460 of which were serious.

14. Grand Central Terminal

Much more than a simple transportation hub, the Grand Central Terminal (1913) is a Beaux-Arts wonder, with amazing proportions, exceptional workmanship in its architecture and fittings, and more than 60 shops and 35 places to eat.

This cavernous building, an enduring meeting point for New Yorkers, has 44 platforms, more than any other train station in the world, and has shown up time and again in movies and television.

On the palatial Main Concourse tilt your head back to see the mural of night sky constellations from 1912 by Paul César Helleu, and the ten Beaux-Arts chandeliers, each weighing 360kg and holding 110 bulbs.

Most emblematic is the information booth, crowned with a clock, each face of which is made from mesmerising opalescent glass.

15. Top of the Rock

The 1930s Art Deco skyscraper at 30 Rockefeller Plaza may have the best view of the Manhattan skyline from its outdoor observation deck at just below 260 metres over the Midtown streets.

Dubbed Top of the Rock, this sophisticated space was designed like the deck of an ocean liner.

Despite being 60 metres lower than the Empire State, many people prefer this experience.

There’s a timed entry system, which combined with the larger observation deck makes for shorter queues.

Naturally, the views encompass the Empire State in all its glory, as well as the Midtown and downtown skyscrapers, but also a big sweep of Central Park.

Book online:  Top of the Rock Observation Deck Ticket

16. 5.5-Hour New York City Tour

If time is of the essence you can condense the city into a half-day odyssey, weaving past nearly all of New York’s main sights from the comfort of a bus.

Starting at Central Park West and ending on Herald Square in Midtown, the trip will be narrated and make regular pauses for photos, and nine stops to step out for a better look.

You’ll get to see the Upper West Side, Harlem, much of Fifth Avenue, Midtown, Little Italy, China Town, Brooklyn, Wall Street and the Meatpacking District, before stopping for lunch at the Chelsea Market.

The highly-rated 5.5-Hour New York City Tour can be found on GetYourGuide.Com and can be conducted in English, Spanish, Italian or German.

17. Guggenheim Museum

A celebrated museum of course, but also an epoch-making work of 20th-century architecture, the Guggenheim Museum is essential for its dumbfounding design, collection of Impressionist and early modern art, and for its world-class temporary exhibitions.

Frank Lloyd Wright’s building is yet another icon, tearing up the museum script by inviting visitors to catch an elevator to the top and then make their way down the ramp that coils around the atrium.

This opened in 1959, but the collection, enriched with names like Chagall, Kandinsky, Mondrian, Kirchner, Franz Marc, Fernand Léger and Cézanne, goes back more than eight decades and continues to grow.

18. New York Public Library

Like so many of the entries on this list the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, the main branch of the New York Public Library, is a landmark that you’ll recognise in an instant.

This is a holdover from the first age of philanthropy at the turn of the 20th century, and belongs to the second largest public library system in the country, and the third largest in the world.

The marble Beaux-Arts facade in Midtown on Fifth Avenue has pairs of Corinthian columns, topped by a frieze and giving way to barrel vaults.

Flanking the steps there’s a pair of lions, which are an emblem for the whole library system.

This monument holds world-renowned collections in the humanities, fine arts and social sciences, and schedules free guided tours Monday to Saturday at 11:00 and 14:00. Also visit for a special exhibition; for example, in spring 2019 there was a display exploring some of the inspirations for Walt Whitman’s work, and a show to mark the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, which helped pave the way for the gay liberation movement.

19. Bryant Park

Bounded to the east by the New York Public Library Main Branch, Bryant Park is actually set on top of the library’s stacks, after an underground level was built during a restoration in the 1980s.

The park’s current layout is from that time, and became a symbol for the revival of New York’s image in the 1990s, shedding its reputation for prostitution and drug dealing.

More than 30 years later Bryant Park is adored for its sense of calm, and is held up as a piece of urban regeneration.

There’s a movie night on Mondays in the summer, and by day you’ll see people playing chess, ping-pong or pétanque, and taking part in free classes in anything from yoga to tai chi and juggling.

There are promenades hemmed by London planes, and several places to grab coffee, a pastry or something more substantial.

The Reading Room is a Depression-era relic, reopened as a literary destination in 2003, and in the build-up to Christmas the Bank of America Winter Village brings a rink and a sprinkle of seasonal magic to the park.

20. The Met Cloisters

Posted on a hill up in Fort Tryon Park is a museum for European Medieval art and architecture, managed by the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

The museum was established in 1938, in a haunting neo-Romanesque building designed by Charles Collens, built from European limestone and granite.

Inside are some 5,000 pieces, from the early days of the Byzantine Empire to the beginning of the Renaissance.

The showpiece on the south side are the Cuxa cloisters, dating from the 11th and 12th centuries and brought from the Abbey of Saint-Michel-de-Cuxa.

All of the columns and intricately carved capitals here are original.

The Saint-Guilhem (800s-1600s), Bonnefont (1100s) and Trie (1400s and 1500s) cloisters are also breathtaking.

Inside marvellous architectural stonework, stained glass, effigies and frescoes await at the Gothic Chapel, Fuentidueña chapel, Langon Chapel and Romanesque Hall.

The Treasury Room contains smaller delights, like illuminated manuscripts, fine enamel, a 13th-century French reliquary and a deck of cards from the 1400s.

21. Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration

The point of arrival for 12 million immigrants to the United States between 1892 and 1954, Ellis Island is a short boat trip via Statue Cruises at Battery Park.

To give you an idea of the importance of this site, the descendants of these immigrants account for nearly half of the entire population of the United States.

Dating to 1900, the main building of the immigration station complex houses the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration.

Just outside, the Wall of Honour lists some of the people to have been processed here.

Within the Renaissance Revival building there’s a wealth of information panels, artefacts, photographs, videos, oral histories and interactive stations.

The audio tour has more than 120 hours worth of content, going into detail on what it was like to pass through Ellis Island, how America was populated in the 19th and 20th centuries, and immigration in the present day.

Included in : Statue of Liberty Pedestal, Ellis Island and Pre-Ferry Tour

22. Fifth Avenue

Just like Broadway is synonymous with musical theatre, Fifth Avenue means luxury and prestige.

New York’s most refined artery is the eastern boundary to Central Park and cuts past a staggering amount of things on this list, be it the Empire State Building or the Frick Collection.

There are specific stretches that demand a visit, like the park-side blocks between 59th and 96th Street.

By the dawn of the 20th century this strip was known as Millionaire’s Row, and has some of the most opulent residences in the city.

From 82nd to 105th Streets is Museum Mile, loaded with nine prestigious museums almost side by side, including The Met and the Guggenheim.

And further down, between 49th and 60th Street, Fifth Avenue is given over to flagship luxury emporia for Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Prada and the like.

Included in : New York City Day Tour with One World Observatory

23. Metropolitan Opera House

New York lays claim to the largest repertory opera house in the world.

Part of the Lincoln Center, the Met, for short, seats around 3,800 at an extraordinary Modernist building raised in the mid-1960s.

This is one of the most advanced opera venues in the world, with a system of hydraulic elevators and motorised stages able to put on four different operas a week, including epic productions like Wagner’s Der Ring des Nibelungen and Verdi’s Aida.

The auditorium’s ceiling is coated with more than 4,000 squares of gold leaf in a petal motif, suspending 21 crystal chandeliers.

The opera season runs from autumn to spring, and Porgy & Bess, Madama Butterfly, La Bohème, The Flying Dutchman and The Magic Flute were a few of the 2019-20 season highlights.

Following on, the American Ballet Theatre then has an eight-week spring season at the Met.

24. Tenement Museum

Between 1863 and 2011 some 15,000 people from more than 20 nations lived at the two tenement buildings at 97 and 103 Orchard Street on the Lower East Side.

The Tenement Museum lifts the lid on their lives and the wider immigration experience.

No. 97 has barely changed since 1935. Up to that time, plumbing, gas, electricity and running water had been added, but rather than make further changes to bring the building up to code, the landlord evicted all the residents from the upper storeys, sealing these floors up until they were rediscovered in 1988. You can visit 97 and 103 on a variety of guided tours, making your way through recreated apartments, learning intimate details about the families who arrived here hoping to make their way in a new country.

25. Brooklyn Heights

Known for its leafy streets and dignified brownstone rowhouses, Brooklyn Heights is the upmarket neighbourhood south of the Brooklyn Bridge.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by Manhattan’s skyscrapers you can idle here among the low-rise buildings, home to celebrities now and in the mid-20th century when Marilyn Monroe and Truman Capote were residents.

Amble along the Brooklyn Promenade, which has a view across the East River to match any in the city, encompassing Liberty Island, the Brooklyn Bridge and cityscape of Lower Manhattan.

This walkway was conceived as a buffer to the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway, which arrived on the waterfront in 1950. You can make a day of it in Brooklyn Heights at the riveting New York Transit Museum on Schermerhorn Street, and continue up to the brand new Brooklyn Bridge Park.

Available tour : Brooklyn Bridge, Brooklyn Heights, NYC Sightseeing Bike Tour

26. Coney Island

This former barrier island in the south-western corner of Brooklyn became a peninsula at the turn of the 20th century.

For decades before that time, Coney Island has been a seaside escape for New Yorkers.

And although the waterfront had a prolonged downturn from the 1960s onwards, it has been revitalised today, while keeping some of its scruffy appeal.

A real stalwart here is the Coney Island Cyclone, now at the Luna Park.

This is one of the oldest functioning wooden rollercoasters, first opened in 1927, and hitting speeds of 60 mph after the first 26-metre climb.

Another abiding attraction is the Wonder Wheel at Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park, standing since 1920, and giving you clear views of the Manhattan skyline, Brooklyn’s beaches and east along the Rockaway Peninsula.

27. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

The aircraft carrier USS Intrepid (1943), which served in the Pacific during the Second World War, surviving five kamikaze attacks, was rescued from scrapping in 1978 and in 1982 found a permanent home at Pier 86 off 46th Street.

This is the centrepiece of a museum for US military and maritime history, allowing you to pore over the inner workings of a WWII-era aircraft carrier, but also view a serious collection of other vessels and aircraft.

One of the highlights, the USS Growler (1958) is the only American guided missile submarine open to the public, while the BA Concorde at Pier 86 broke the Concorde’s transatlantic crossing record in 1996. In the Space Shuttle Pavilion you can view the Enterprise, the prototype Space Shuttle orbiter, rolled out in 1976.

Book online: Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum: Priority Access Tickets

28. Prospect Park

Brooklyn’s 526-acre Prospect Park is a beautiful place to get lost, dotted with historic buildings, little attractions and sports facilities, all on a hilly terminal moraine from the last Ice Age.

Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, the men behind Central Park, Prospect Park took shape during the 1860s, and has a ceremonious entrance to the north, on the Grand Army Plaza, via the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Arch (1892). New buildings were being added well into the early 20th century.

One of these is the elegant Boathouse on the Lullwater (1905), a channel of the park’s lake.

Smaller visitors will be besotted with the farmyard animals, red pandas, otters and tamarins at the 130-year-old Prospect Park Zoo, while the park’s carousel has been turning since 1912. The Ravine is a beautiful piece of 19th-century landscaping, resembling the wilderness of the Adirondacks, while the Long Meadow is a mile-long strip of undulating greenery for picnics and a little peace.

29. Battery Park

This small-ish park at the southern tip of Manhattan looks out over the Upper New York Bay, and is one of the best places in the city to watch the sun go down.

The Staten Island Ferry departs just next door and you can make the voyage to Ellis Island and Liberty Island here, or just sit and gaze at the Statue of Liberty by day or in lights.

Battery Park gets its name from the coastal gun emplacements that used to be on this spot, and among the flowerbeds, lawns, ornamental shrubs and an urban farm there are a few monuments to pique your curiosity.

One is the Netherland Monument, raised in 1926 to mark the tercentenary of New Amsterdam.

Another is the Sphere, a 1971 sculpture by Fritz Koenig that stood in the middle of the plaza of the World Trade Centre, and was relocated here in its damaged state in 2002. The Hope Garden remembers the victims of the AIDS crisis, while a few paces north on the Bowling Green is Wall Street’s famous Charging Bull.

30. Greenwich Village

This neighbourhood of 19th century townhouses on tree-lined streets spent much of the last century diverting from the mainstream.

Then Greenwich Village’s bars and cafes harboured the city’s beatniks and then hippies, and its nascent LBGTQ community.

Café Society, the first racially integrated nightclub in the United States, opened here in 1938. Just the name Greenwich Village recalls beat writers like Jack Kerouac and William S.

Burroughs, but also other literary heavyweights like James Baldwin and Dylan Thomas, who died in 1953 soon after a drinking session in the White Horse Tavern.

Sky-high real estate prices have put an end to Greenwich Village’s bohemian days, but make the pilgrimage to a place that gave a start to Bob Dylan and the Velvet Underground.

Suggested tour : New York City: Greenwich Village 2-Hour Tour

31. Whitney Museum of American Art

In 2014 the foremost museum for 20th-century and contemporary art in the United States relocated to a Renzo Piano-designed building in the West Village/Meat Packing District.

The Whitney Museum of American Art’s collection runs to more than 20,000 works, by hundreds of renowned artists, among them Alexander Calder, Georgia O’Keefe, Jackson Pollock, Andy Warhol, Edward Hopper and Helen Frankenthaler.

In 1932, the museum’s founder, Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney launched the Whitney Biennial.

Almost 90 years later, this is still a landmark event in the United States’ cultural scene, introducing new talent and mapping the latest developments in American contemporary art.

Book online: Whitney Museum of American Art: Day Ticket

32. Flatiron Building

On Fifth Avenue at the downtown end of Madison Square is one of those New York sights etched into the world’s consciousness.

This wedge-shaped Renaissance Revival skyscraper, named for its resemblance to a clothes iron, was one of the tallest buildings in the city when it was completed in 1902. The Flatiron Building stands just shy of 87 metres and sits neatly on a triangular block caused by Broadway.

As well as being a sight to kindle some Manhattan romance, the Flatiron Building has a small gallery, the Flatiron Prow Artspace.

This is run by the ground floor tenant, Sprint, and hosts exhibitions centred on sustainability and eco-friendly technology.

A few steps away is the capacious indoor market/dining destination, Eataly Flatiron, an ode to Italian cuisine

Suggested tour : Flatiron Food, History & Architecture Tour

33. Union Square

The name, Union Square, has nothing to do with the Civil War, as you might think, but comes from the location, where the thoroughfares Broadway and Bowery Road (now Fourth Avenue) are united.

Given its central position, Union Square has been a gathering point for protests and demonstration since it was laid out in the 1830s.

On the south side is the massive public art installation, Metronome, with LED clock, while among the park’s monuments are Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi sculpture of Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette for the Centennial in 1876, and imposing statues of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln by Henry Kirke Brown.

The Union Square Greenmarket, served by regional farmers, trades here on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 08:00 to 18:00 all year.

This is one of the best places to get fresh produce in New York, while you can come for Christmas handicrafts at the Holiday Market from the end of November.

34. Frick Collection

As soon as he made his fortune the Pittsburgh coke and steel industrialist Henry Clay Frick (1849-1919) started investing in art, amassing an exceptional assortment of Old Masters and high-quality decorative arts.

This collection, along with a sprawling Neoclassical mansion built in 1913, was bequeathed as a public museum when he passed away.

The residence was adapted into a museum by feted architect John Russell Pope, and at its heart is the refined Garden Court, framed by pairs of Ionic columns and symmetrical bedding.

There’s extraordinary painting, by Vermeer, Fragonard, Velázquez, Turner, Goya, Titian, Rembrandt, El Greco and Hans Holbein the Younger, as well as Limoges enamel, Oriental rugs, porcelain, silverware sculpture and 18th-century French furniture.

35. American Museum of Natural History

Expertly curated, and constantly finding creative and engaging ways to display its vast inventory of specimens, the American Museum of Natural History is on a jaw-dropping scale.

On four floors there are 45 permanent exhibition halls in 28 interconnected buildings.

Many of the collections are the largest in the world in their fields, so you can indulge your interest in even the most obscure subcategories of zoology, botany, geology, mineralogy and anthropology.

Children will be transfixed by the Fossil Halls, particularly the Koch Dinosaur Wing, displaying just a tantalising fraction of the museum’s collections but staggering all the same.

In the Millstein Family Hall of Ocean Life you’ll be met by a life-sized replica of a blue whale, swooping from the ceiling and almost 30 metres long.

The Rose Center for Earth and Space holds the Hayden Planetarium in an enormous sphere, while the museum’s own IMAX theater presents eye-popping 2D and 3D films.

Get tickets : American Museum of Natural History Tickets

36. Washington Square Park

At the very bottom of Fifth Avenue and fringed by New York University, the youthful Washington Square Park is somewhere to forget the city for a while.

In the 1950s and 60s beatniks and hippies would gather here, often to the chagrin of Greenwich Village’s working class residents and the New York City Police Department.

That bohemian spirit endures today in the park’s line-up of talented street performers and buskers.

In the south-west corner you can watch some intense chess matches (Stanley Kubrick was a regular in his youth), while the triumphal Washington Square Arch at the end of Fifth Avenue was put up in 1892 to mark the centenary of George Washington’s inauguration.

37. New York City Helicopter Tour

No matter how high the observation deck, you may come away feeling like there’s a patch of Manhattan that you wanted to see from above but could not.

There might not be a cityscape more suited to a helicopter tour than New York, so it’s little wonder that there’s an abundance of options with GetYourGuide.com .

To single out one, the New York City Deluxe Helicopter Tour affords the ultimate views of the Hudson River, the Chrysler Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island, The Statue of Liberty, the New York Harbour and USS Intrepid.

Taking off from the heliport at Pier 6, this flight lasts 15-30 minutes but will give you memories to last a lifetime.

38. Madison Square Garden

Dubbed the World’s Most Famous Arena, Madison Square Garden is the home of the New York Knicks and New York Rangers, and still finds time to be the second busiest arena in the world in terms of concert sales.

The Garden has recently completed its second renovation, costing an eye-watering $1bn and taking place across three off seasons.

At the time of writing in 2019 the Knicks were at their nadir, slumping to the very bottom of the Eastern Conference, but you may be keen to relive the 90s when Patrick Ewing was in his prime and the team reached two finals.

Or you might just want to find out about how this ultramodern arena works on the new All Access Tour.

This departs every half-hour (limited hours on Knicks days), and a knowledgeable guide will lead you on a 75-minute journey around all the nooks and crannies.

Recommended tour : Madison Square Garden All Access Tour Ticket

39. Radio City Music Hall

Part of the Rockefeller Center is this iconic Art Deco live entertainment venue that opened in 1932, hosting major concerts, awards ceremonies and live broadcasts of TV shows.

From the outside the Radio City Music Hall is unmistakeable for its long marquee sign on the corner of 6th Avenue and 50th street, and the seven-storey signs on 6th Avenue.

It might be enough to stop by and grab a photo of these signs, but if you want to walk the halls of the “Showplace of the Nation” the Madison Square Garden Group gives tours, revealing the history of the famed Great Stage, getting you up close to exquisite Art Deco details and maybe giving you a chance to meet a member of the resident dance troupe, the Rockettes.

40. St Patrick’s Cathedral

Occupying an entire city block, this neo-Gothic wonder was visited by Pope Francis in 2015 after coming through a three-year, $177m restoration.

St Patrick’s Cathedral (1878) is in the Decorated Gothic style and composed of brick clad with radiant Tuckahoe marble.

The twin spires facing Fifth Avenue are just over 100 metres tall, while the combined nave and choir measures 101.2 metres between the two avenues.

You can enter for free, taking in the opulent statuary in the many side chapels, as well as the St Michael and St Louis altars (by Tiffany & Co.), the enormous Pietà, the magnificent rose window, the ribbed vaulting and the spectacular wood casing of the Gallery Organ, dedicated in 1930.

Once upon a time, SoHo, meaning “South of Houston Street”, was a working class area of factories and tenements.

In the 1970s artists moved into the lofts of old factories, at a time when these manufacturing spaces weren’t zoned as residences and lacked many of the basic amenities of homes.

SoHo’s time as a quarter of studios and galleries didn’t last, as the historic architecture, cobblestone streets and gritty charm soon attracted the ultra-rich, and the neighbourhood is now more about boutiques, fine dining and snazzy bars.

SoHo’s story defined the gentrification template, as the “SoHo Effect”. Pay a visit for the finer things, and to admire the largest array of cast-iron buildings in the world, dating from 1840 to 1880.

Recommended tour: SoHo, Little Italy, and Chinatown 2-Hour Guided Walk

42. Chelsea

What used to be in Greenwich Village and SoHo can currently be found among the tenements, townhouses, rowhouses and converted factories of Chelsea on Manhattan’s West Side.

Gentrification is squeezing this neighbourhood too, but there are still hundreds of cutting-edge galleries and a sizeable LBTGQ community.

Chelsea is one of the best places to go out in Manhattan, with loads of bars and clubs, especially in the Meatpacking District.

For yet more fresh and daring culture there’s a helping of Off-Broadway theatres in Chelsea, while the neighbourhood is a fashion-forward shopper’s idea of heaven.

Make the pilgrimage to the Chelsea Hotel, reopened after long-term renovations in 2019, and made famous by its countless mentions in popular culture and the scores of cultural figures who have stayed here.

43. United Nations Headquarters

After a plot had been chosen by the East River for the headquarters of the newly founded United Nations, an international dream team of design consultants was put together, among them Oscar Niemeyer and Le Corbusier.

Wallace Harrison’s final design was a blend of Le Corbusier and Niemeyer’s plans, and has been integral to the Manhattan cityscape since 1952. All of the main organs of the UN are seated here, including the Security Council and 193-nation General Assembly, except for the Hague’s International Court of Justice.

The Visitor Centre is open every day of the week, although guided tours are only given Monday to Friday.

These last an hour and, depending on the schedule, take you into the famed General Assembly, Security Council and Economic and Social Council, while showing some of the many artworks gifted to the UN like the Norman Rockwell Mosaic and the Zanetti Mural.

44. Cooper-Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum

America’s design museum can be found by Central Park on the Museum Mile.

This institution goes back to 1897, and in 1970 moved into its current venue, the Georgian-style Andrew Carnegie Mansion (1902). The tycoon and philanthropist resided here until his death in 1919, while his wife Louise would remain until she passed away in 1946. A seven-year upgrade, completed in 2015, has elevated the Cooper-Hewitt to must-see status.

Complementing the museum’s extensive collections in decorative arts and the broader concept design are creative interactive features.

At the start you’ll be given a kind of electronic stylus, so you can mark anything that catches your eye, saving it to a personalised website.

The Immersion Room meanwhile gives you digital access to the museum’s vast inventory of wallpaper, and allows you to come up with your own designs to be projected on the walls.

45. Brooklyn Bridge Park

As of 2019 this park project, revitalising 1.3 miles of Brooklyn’s post-industrial waterfront, is pretty much completed and a fitting end to a trek across the Brooklyn Bridge.

The Brooklyn Bridge Park has been more than a decade in the making, transforming Brooklyn Piers 1-6 and reclaiming land on the East River with soil from the construction of the new World Trade Center.

There are multiple sports facilities, playgrounds for children and loads of places to eat, both in the park and nearby.

But it’s the river and views (the sunset is amazing) that make the Brooklyn Bridge Park, with a continuous promenade from Pier 1 to 6, hemmed by smart landscaping, as well as salt marsh and tidepools to attract wildlife.

46. Morningside Heights

North-west of Central Park and bordering on Harlem, Morningside Heights is a neighbourhood of striking monuments and big academic, religious and cultural institutions.

The most august of these has to be Columbia University, founded in 1754 and the fifth-oldest institution of higher education in the United States.

Since 1902 the university has administered the Pulitzer Prize.

Make a detour to check out the dome and Ionic columns of the Neoclassical Butler Library.

Elsewhere, Riverside Park holds Grant’s Tomb, the final resting place of 18th President Ulysses S.

Grant (1822-1885), while Sakura Park is so-called for its thousands of cherry trees (blooming in April), donated in 1912 by the Committee of Japanese Residents of New York.

Lastly, the Cathedral of Saint John the Divine is the fifth largest Christian church in the world, at more than 180 metres long and 70 metres wide.

Work began in 1892 but this monument is still unfinished.

47. New York Botanical Garden

In lush parkland over 250 acres, the New York Botanical Garden grows more than a million individual plants in 50 different spaces and collections.

This is a leading botanical institution, conducting research and conservation programmes that employ 600 staff.

For visitors there are lots of delights, like a tract of the old growth forest that covered all of New York before it was settled by Europeans in the 17th century.

Never logged, this grows white ash, birch, tulip, cherry and American beech trees.

A sight to behold is the beautiful Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, built with a wrought iron frame in the 1890s and hosting a glorious orchid show every spring.

You can saunter around a Japanese Rock Garden, 37 acres of conifers, wetlands, a herb garden and the magical Peggy Rockefeller Rose Garden.

Book online : New York Botanical Garden: All-Garden Pass Ticket

48. Chrysler Building

An Art Deco tower of startling and delicate beauty, the Chrysler Building (1930) has an allure that sets it apart from New York’s other skyscrapers.

For 11 months until the Empire State Building was topped off, this was the tallest building in the world, standing at 319 metres.

It was ordered by the automobile tycoon Walter Chrysler, and was the career apogee of architect William van Alen.

The tower is iconic for the tiered arches and triangular windows of its lustrous stainless steel crown, above eagle motif gargoyles on the 61st floor.

The best way to see the crown is to scale the Empire State Building, but there are clear lines of sight along Lexington Avenue, from the foot of the tower on 42 Street down to Gramercy Park on 21st.

If you’re feeling bold go in to take a peek at the sumptuous lobby, with floors made of travertine from Siena, granite from Africa on the walls and regal Art Deco light fittings.

See it from above : New York City Deluxe Helicopter Tour

49. Yankee Stadium

The old Yankee Stadium may be dead and gone, but its $2.3bn replacement, unveiled in 2009, has revived many classic design features and gives you pristine views from every seat.

The facade is bare Indiana limestone, which was painted over at the old stadium, while the roof of the new venue is adorned with the iconic frieze present from 1923 to 1973. If you’re in town between April and October you’ll have ample opportunity to catch a ballgame at Yankee stadium as the there are 81 home games in a MLB regular season, and general seating tickets go for as little as $14. Be prepared to fork out a lot more for a dog or pretzel though! In the stadium’s concourse, between the exterior wall and the arena, is the Great Hall, with ceiling seven storeys high and giant sporting Yankee greats like Babe Ruth, Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Mantle.

Arrive early to visit the stadium’s open-air museum at Monument Park, crackling with 120 years of history.

50. Chelsea Market

If you had to narrow down New York’s cornucopia of food halls to just one, you could do worse than Chelsea Market.

For starters, food history has already been made at this former Nabisco factory (1895), as the Oreo cookie was invented right here.

With a selection of speciality food shops and a high-end supermarket with deli counter and butcher, Chelsea Market is a place to shop, but it’s the eateries that draw the crowds.

There are upwards of 35 vendors, like Los Tacos No. 1, aptly named because it makes the best tacos in the city, Chelsea Creamline for American classics, Num Pang preparing Cambodian-style sandwiches or the crêperie Bar Suzette.

The Lobster Place is a wholesale seafood market with its own sushi bar, also operating the Cull & Pistol for oysters and lobster.

Available tour: New York City High Line and Chelsea Market Walking Tour

51. Bronx Zoo

A great partner to the New York Botanical Garden, the Bronx Zoo is the largest urban zoo in the country, spread out over 265 acres and keeping some 5,000 animals.

Like the best 21st-century zoos, the Bronx Zoo is conservation-oriented, but animal protection is this attraction’s DNA, as the first director William Temple Hornaday strove to save the American Bison from extinction in the early 20th century.

At more than a century old, there’s some lovely old architecture at the Bronx Zoo, like the Beaux-Arts Zoo Center (1908), housing monitor lizards, and with outdoor enclosures for white rhinos, komodo dragons and giant tortoises.

General admission will grant you access to a host of exhibits, like Tiger Mountain, the Sea Lion Pool, Congo Gorilla Forest, Baboon Reserve and a whole load more.

Some special exhibits and attractions require an extra fee, like a Butterfly Garden, 4D Theater, Zoo Shuttle and Wild Asia Monorail.

52. Chinatown

One enclave still going strong in the face of gentrification is Chinatown.

Seriously, if you didn’t know better, the gridlock, sudden bustle, cadence of Cantonese conversation, and street signs and awnings with Chinese characters might make you think you’re on a different continent entirely.

Manhattan’s Chinatown, ringed by TriBeCa, the former Little Italy, the Lower East Side and Civic Center, is no longer the largest Chinese enclave in New York, as that honour has gone to Flushing Chinatown in Queens.

But it has the highest concentration of Chinese people in the Western Hemisphere and is a dumbfounding change of pace in Lower Manhattan.

The fishmongers and greengrocers around Canal Street, East Broadway, Mott Street and Mulberry Street are perpetually eye-opening.

Recommended tour : SoHo, Little Italy, and Chinatown 2-Hour Guided Walk

53. South Street Seaport

Just down from the Brooklyn Bridge on the Manhattan side is a an area that has witnessed a lot of recent change, even by New York’s dizzying standards.

In the 17th century this was New York’s original port, where the city’s early economy first flourished and where the city’s clippers docked in the 19th century.

The Seaport is a designated historic district, home to some of downtown Manhattan’s oldest buildings in a little cobblestone grid made up of Fulton Street, Front Street and Water Street.

Take Fulton Street’s Schermerhorn Row Block, a terrace of Federal style houses dating from 1811-12. The South Street Seaport Museum here tracks the growth of New York into a port for the world with collections of nauticalia, and a small fleet of sailboats out front, like the Lettie G.

Howard schooner from 1893. South Street Seaport’s heritage has been protected, and is joined by new architecture like Pier 17 redeveloped as a culinary and retail centre, hosting big outdoor events.

54. Smorgasburg

From April to November, the largest weekly food market in America pulls in as many as 30,000 people to Brooklyn every weekend.

The main trading spots are at the East River Park in Williamsburg on Saturdays, and Breeze Hill in Prospect Park on Sundays.

There’s also a smaller fair every Friday at the World Trade Center’s Oculus Plaza, from 11:30 to 19:00. With more than 100 vendors at the two Brooklyn locations, it would be impossible to sum up all the discoveries you could make.

But to tickle the tastebuds, there’s Maine lobster fresh off the grill on a bed of noodles (Lobsterdamus), Brooklyn-style poutine (Duck Season), the famed spaghetti donut (Pop Pasta), blueberry crumble ice cream sandwiches (Good Batch) or deep-fried cookie dough (Big Mozz). Bring cash as most of the vendors don’t take cards.

55. New York Harbour and Statue of Liberty Evening Cruise

Downtown New York is stunning from the water by day, but the sight of the harbour and skyline at night is one of those experiences that will stay with you long after you’ve gone home.

GetYourGuide.com has an hour-long cruise after sunset, with running commentary imparting titbits you might not have known.

The cruise departs from Pier 16 at South Street Seaport, and arcs around Lower Manhattan to take in the Statue of Liberty, the forest of skyscrapers including the likes of One World Trade Center, and then under the Brooklyn Bridge and up as far as the Empire State Building.

55 Best Things to Do in New York City (New York):

• The Metropolitan Museum of Art
• Central Park
• National 9/11 Memorial and Museum
• Empire State Building
• Statue of Liberty
• The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
• Rockefeller Center
• Brooklyn Bridge
• One World Trade Center Observatory
• Staten Island Ferry
• Times Square
• Grand Central Terminal
• Top of the Rock
• 5.5-Hour New York City Tour
• Guggenheim Museum
• New York Public Library
• Bryant Park
• The Met Cloisters
• Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration
• Fifth Avenue
• Metropolitan Opera House
• Tenement Museum
• Brooklyn Heights
• Coney Island
• Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
• Prospect Park
• Battery Park
• Greenwich Village
• Whitney Museum of American Art
• Flatiron Building
• Union Square
• Frick Collection
• American Museum of Natural History
• Washington Square Park
• New York City Helicopter Tour
• Madison Square Garden
• Radio City Music Hall
• St Patrick's Cathedral
• United Nations Headquarters
• Cooper-Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum
• Brooklyn Bridge Park
• Morningside Heights
• New York Botanical Garden
• Chrysler Building
• Yankee Stadium
• Chelsea Market
• South Street Seaport
• Smorgasburg
• New York Harbour and Statue of Liberty Evening Cruise

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NYC Attractions & Landmarks

13 Top New York City Attractions

Amanda Hall/robertharding/Getty Images

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.

Watch Now: 7 Must-See Landmarks in New York City

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

TripSavvy / Brakethrough Media

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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25 Top Tourist Attractions in New York City

The Big Apple is the biggest city in the U.S. and one of the world’s leading hubs for business, art, entertainment, and more. In a single lifetime, you couldn’t experience all of it. With so much to choose from, what would you pick if you could visit just 25 attractions in the City That Never Sleeps?

These 25 locations in New York City stand out for their fame, historical importance, and the distinct experiences they provide. Each spot, from Central Park’s natural beauty to the Chrysler Building’s architectural elegance, captures a unique aspect of the city’s character. They highlight the variety and energy of New York, making them essential visits to truly understand what makes the Big Apple so special.

1. Central Park

Central Park is a green oasis right in the heart of Manhattan. Its 843 acres provide a refuge from the bustle of the city, and admission is free.

Fun Fact: Central Park has its own zoo, the Central Park Zoo, which became famous through the animated movie “Madagascar.”

2. The National 9/11 Memorial & Museum

9/11 was one of America’s darkest days. At this site, commemorations, exhibitions, and educational programs mark the day and honor its victims, survivors, and heroes.

Fun Fact: The Survivor Tree at the 9/11 Memorial is a Callery pear tree that survived the 9/11 attacks and was nursed back to health, symbolizing resilience and rebirth.

3. The Metropolitan Museum of Art

New York City’s most-visited museum and attraction is one of the top art museums in the world. Its exhibits feature works from all over the globe spanning more than 5,000 years.

Fun Fact: The Met has over two million works of art, meaning if you spent one minute looking at each piece, it would take you almost four years to see everything!

4. The Empire State Building

For a long time, this was the tallest building in the world, and it was the first building ever to have more than 100 floors. It’s still an iconic landmark, and the view from the top is amazing.

Fun Fact: The Empire State Building has its own zip code, 10118, due to its large size and the volume of mail it receives.

5. The High Line

This is an elevated railway that was turned into a lush public park. From it, there are excellent views of the Hudson River and the skyline of Manhattan’s West Side.

Fun Fact: The High Line was inspired by the Promenade Plantée in Paris, a similarly elevated park built on an old railway viaduct.

6. Broadway

One of the world’s most famous theater districts, Broadway sits in midtown Manhattan. Seeing a show on Broadway is a quintessential part of the New York experience.

Fun Fact: The longest-running Broadway show was “The Phantom of the Opera,” which opened in 1988 and ran until April, 2023.

7. Top of the Rock

You’ll get panoramic views of the city from this 3-tiered observation deck on Floors 67, 69, and 70 of 30 Rockefeller Plaza. It’s open from 8 a.m. until midnight, and the last elevators go up at 11 p.m.

Fun Fact: The Rockefeller Center’s “Top of the Rock” observation deck was originally designed to look like the deck of a 1930s ocean liner, complete with deck chairs.

8. The Brooklyn Bridge

A unique architectural feat, the Brooklyn Bridge connects Brooklyn and Manhattan. It’s open to motorists, rail passengers, bicyclists, and pedestrians.

Fun Fact: The Brooklyn Bridge was the world’s first steel-wire suspension bridge and took 14 years to complete.

9. The Statue of Liberty

A worldwide symbol of freedom and friendship, Lady Liberty has kept her perch since 1886. Close by is historic Ellis Island, once the U.S.A.’s busiest immigration point.

Fun Fact: The Statue of Liberty’s full name is “Liberty Enlightening the World,” and it was a gift from France to the United States.

10. Grand Central Terminal

Opened to the public in 1913, Grand Central is a world-famous landmark and a marvel of engineering. It’s still one of the busiest train stations on the planet, with over 750,000 visitors a day.

Fun Fact: There’s a whispering gallery in Grand Central; if two people stand at diagonal arches in the dining concourse, they can hear each other’s whispers perfectly.

11. The Manhattan Skyline

This iconic stretch of buildings is home to some of the world’s tallest and most legendary skyscrapers. One of the best ways to appreciate it is from the Staten Island Ferry.

Fun Fact: The term “skyscraper” was first used in the 1880s, describing the tall buildings sprouting up in New York City.

12. Times Square

Site of the annual Ball Drop to welcome the New Year, Times Square is an experience like no other. It’s a central area packed with shops, restaurants, office buildings, and flashing billboards all around it.

Fun Fact: Times Square is named after The New York Times; it was originally called Longacre Square until the newspaper moved there in 1904.

13. Coney Island

Like seeing a show on Broadway, having a hot dog at Coney Island is a must-do NYC activity. If hot dogs aren’t your thing, you can still enjoy the beach and ride the famous Cyclone roller coaster.

Fun Fact: Coney Island was one of the largest amusement areas in the United States in the early 20th century, earning it the nickname “America’s Playground.”

14. The Chrysler Building

At one time, the Chrysler Building was the world’s tallest building. It’s still one of the most beautiful and recognizable.

Fun Fact: The Chrysler Building was built in a record time of 20 months and was the world’s tallest building for 11 months before the Empire State Building surpassed it.

15. The Rockefeller Center

Here, you’ll find one of New York’s biggest entertainment hubs. Top attractions include Radio City Music Hall and NBC Studios. It’s also where you access the Top of the Rock.

Fun Fact: The annual Christmas tree lighting at Rockefeller Center has been a tradition since 1933.

16. Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Prospect Park is home to this 52-acre escape from the busy streets. Don’t-miss sights include the Cranford Rose Garden, the Japanese Hill and Pond Garden, and the Steinhardt Conservatory.

Fun Fact: The Brooklyn Botanic Garden features a cherry esplanade that blooms with over 200 cherry trees in spring, creating a stunning pink canopy.

17. Greenwich Village

“The Village” is one of the city’s most legendary neighborhoods. It’s home to some well-known jazz venues and plenty of unique boutiques and restaurants.

Fun Fact: Greenwich Village was once known as “Little Bohemia” due to its large population of artists, writers, and musicians in the early 20th century.

18. Chelsea Market

Among the most popular spots in the city, the food hall here is a place to sample a vast array of international dishes. Local art galleries and unique souvenirs are also top attractions.

Fun Fact: Chelsea Market is built inside the former National Biscuit Company factory, where the Oreo cookie was invented and first produced.

Another famous neighborhood, SoHo is perhaps best-known for vintage shops and specialty boutiques. However, it also has many art galleries and historic buildings.

Fun Fact: SoHo is short for “South of Houston Street,” and its iron-cast buildings are among the oldest and most extensive in the world.

Short for North of Little Italy, Nolita is, in fact, part of Little Italy. Top things to do are visiting the catacombs of the St. Basilica Church and enjoying a slice of what many consider to be the world’s best pizza.

Fun Fact: Nolita hosts a festival every September to celebrate San Gennaro, the Patron Saint of Naples, complete with parades, food stands, and carnival games, reflecting its Italian heritage.

21. African Burial Ground Mound National Monument

Around 15,000 free and enslaved Africans and African-Americans were interred in an unmarked cemetery here. Now the National Park Service manages this site that serves as a tribute to them.

Did You Know? The African Burial Ground National Monument is the oldest and largest known excavated burial ground in North America for both free and enslaved Africans.

22. Brooklyn Heights Promenade

Also called the Esplanade, this park originally was intended to connect an expressway through Brooklyn and Queens. Today, it’s filled with lush greenery, and it’s perfect for a stroll or just spending some quiet time on a park bench.

Fun Fact: The Brooklyn Heights Promenade offers one of the most famous and photographed views of the Manhattan skyline, particularly beautiful at sunset.

23. The Bronx Zoo

Open since 1899, the Bronx Zoo is one of the oldest and largest in the country today. It provides habitat for over 4,000 animals, many of which are rare or endangered.

Fun Fact: The Bronx Zoo played a pivotal role in saving the American bison from extinction. In the early 20th century, it bred bison in captivity and later sent them to western states to repopulate the species.

24. One World Trade Center

Finished in 2014 and soaring 1,776’ into the New York sky, this is now the Western Hemisphere’s tallest building and the 7th-tallest in the world. In tribute to the original World Trade Center, its roof height matches the 1,368’ of the original, and its 200’ X 200’ matches that of each of the Twin Towers as well. Partly because the height equals the year America declared its independence from Britain, it’s also called the Freedom Tower.

Fun Fact: One World Trade Center’s Observatory has an installation called “See Forever™ Theater,” which presents a time-lapse visual journey of New York City’s skyline from the 1500s to present day.

25. The Steinway Tower

At 1,428’, this is the 3rd-tallest building in New York. What sets it apart, though, is that it’s the world’s most slender skyscraper.

Fun Fact: The Steinway Tower is not only known for its height but also for incorporating the historic Steinway Hall into its design, blending New York’s musical heritage with modern skyscraper architecture.

Texas Swagger: Unraveling the Lone Star State’s Unapologetic Pride

If you’ve ever been to Texas, you’ll notice, besides all the pickup trucks and the cowboy hats, that Texans take a lot of pride in their home state. There are other places in the country that have a strong sense of regional or local pride, but Texas seems to top them all. In fact, for some Texans, the only thing bigger than Texas is their love of the Lone Star State.

The World’s Most Beautiful Mountain Ranges

For as long as humans have existed, mountains have inspired and daunted us. They’re the basis for countless legends, and although they can be deadly, they have an irresistible pull on us, drawing millions of sightseers, hikers, climbers, skiers, and other outdoor enthusiasts every year. Making a definitive list of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the world is subjective, but the ones here are certainly strong contenders.

Featured Image Credit: oneinchpunch/Shutterstock

Robert Sihler

Robert Sihler is an educator, freelance writer, and rock climbing guide and instructor living with his family in Driftwood, Texas. In his spare time, he enjoys reading fiction, streaming films, completing crossword puzzles, and rock climbing. When he goes on vacation, he likes to visit the mountains of the West and climb remote, obscure peaks that have seen few or no prior ascents.

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to New York City – Best Things To Do, See & Enjoy!

Christy Rodriguez

Travel & Finance Content Contributor

87 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 36 U.S. States Visited: 31

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A Brief History to New York City (NYC)

Nyc fact file, john f. kennedy international airport (jfk), newark liberty international airport (ewr), laguardia airport (lga), getting around nyc, top 10 neighborhoods to visit in nyc, top 10 nyc attractions, 10 unique & quirky things to do in nyc, top 10 iconic views in nyc, top 10 restaurants to try in nyc, 5 coffee shops to get your caffeine fix in nyc, top 5 bars to grab a drink in nyc, top 10 sweet treats in nyc, 10 nyc travel hacks, 10 fun facts about nyc, how to stay safe in nyc, final thoughts.

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No matter where you’re from, New York City is probably pretty high on your list of places to visit. And no matter the season, there are always magical things to experience.

If you’re planning a trip to NYC, you can definitely count on having a great time. There is never a dull or quiet moment — which is why New York is known as the city that never sleeps! But with all the things NYC has to offer, who would ever want to?

There’s a reason New York City is one of the most popular tourist cities in the world. Millions of people visit the Big Apple every year, and knowing the best places to see and eat will help you more fully experience the city. That’s precisely why we compiled this comprehensive guide to visiting New York City. We hope it helps you plan your next big adventure!

Before modern-day New York City, the Lenape people were the original inhabitants of the places we call Manhattan, Westchester, northern New Jersey, and western Long Island.

Fur trading changed the lifestyles of the Lenape well before any permanent European settlers stepped foot in this region.

In 1524, the Italian navigator  Giovanni da Verrazzano was the first European to enter the harbor, but the first attempt to settle came in 1624 with a group of settlers sent by the Dutch West India Company. Most of them proceeded upriver to present-day Albany, but a few settlers remained on Manhattan.

Fort Amsterdam was built to protect the little colony. With the Dutch settlement, the Lenape entered into various land deals, effectively “selling” them the land of Manhattan.

Only the third largest American port at the time of the American Revolution, New York gradually achieved trade domination and handled more than half of the country’s commercial trade by the mid-1800s.

After 1900, New York was the world’s busiest port, a distinction it held until the 1950s.

Soaring labor costs shifted business to the New Jersey side of the river after the 1960s, but at the beginning of the 21st century the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey still dominated water trade of the northeastern United States.

For the past 2 centuries, New York has been the largest and wealthiest American city. More than half the people and goods that ever entered the United States came through its port, and that stream of commerce has made change a constant presence in city life.

New York always meant possibility. Once the capital of both its state and the country, New York surpassed such status to become a global city in commerce and culture, and home to the most famous skyline on earth.

It also became a target for international terrorism — most notably the destruction of the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001.

Did you know that 1 in every 38 people who live in the United States call New York City home? Here are some more useful facts and figures to prepare you before your trip:

Population:  8.62 million

Area (including land and water):  468,484 square kilometers

Official Language:  English

Primary Religions:  Christianity & Judaism

Time Zone:  Eastern Standard Time (EST)

Currency:  U.S. Dollar (USD)

Country Dialing Code Prefix:  +1

Emergency Numbers:  911

Michelin Stars:  72

Getting to NYC

New York City is served by 3 main airports: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), and LaGuardia Airport (LGA). Sometimes you don’t have a choice which airport you fly into.

For example, JFK serves as a hub for both  American Airlines  and  Delta Air Lines , and it’s the primary operating base for  JetBlue Airways . If you do have an option, read on for the best airport to fly into based on where you’re headed in the city.

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is located in Queens, 6 miles southeast of Midtown Manhattan. If you’re flying from outside of the United States to New York City, you will likely land at JFK.

This is also a good airport to arrive at if your destination is Park Slope, Brooklyn Heights, Fort Greene, or pretty much any other neighborhood in the borough.

The following airlines service JFK:

Aer Lingus, Aeroflot, Aerolíneas Argentinas, Aeromexico, Aeroméxico Connect, Air China, Air Europa, Air France , Air India, Air Italy, Air Serbia, Alaska Airlines , All Nippon Airways, American Airlines , American Eagle, Asiana Airlines , Austrian Airlines, Avianca, Avianca Brazil, Avianca Costa Rica, Avianca El Salvador, Azerbaijan Airlines, British Airways , Brussels Airlines, Caribbean Airlines, Cathay Pacific , Cayman Airways, China Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Copa Airlines, Delta Air Lines , Delta Connection, Egypt Air, El Al, Emirates , Etihad Airways , Eurowings, EVA Air,  FinnAir, Fly Jamaica Airways, Hainan Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines , Iberia , Icelandair, Interjet, Japan Airlines , JetBlue Airways , Kenya Airways, KLM, Korean Air , Kuwait Airways, LATAM Brasil, LATAM Chile, LATAM Ecuador, LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa , Norwegian Air Shuttles, Philippine Airlines, Qantas , Qatar Airlines, Royal Air Maroc, Royal Jordanian, Saudia, Singapore Airlines , South African Airways, Sun Country Airlines, Swiss International Air Lines, TAME, TAP Air Portugal, Turkish Airlines , Ukraine International Airlines, Uzbekistan Airways, Virgin Atlantic , VivaAerobus, Volaris, Volaris Costa Rica, WestJet, XiamenAir, XL Airways France.

Traveling From the Airport to the City

Once you’ve landed at JFK, you have a few options on how to get into the city.

The cost is $52.50 flat fare (non-metered), plus a potential $4.50 for peak fare travel and added gratuity. It generally takes 30-60 minutes to reach Midtown Manhattan, depending on traffic and road conditions. For more information, call 212-NYC-TAXI or visit the  Taxi and Limousine Commission website .

AirTrain JFK & Subway

The cost is $7.75 ($5 AirTrain fee plus $2.75 MTA subway fare), but children under 5 are free. This generally takes 50-75 minutes, depending on destination. AirTrain links the airport to the subway and Long Island Rail Road. AirTrain also offers free service between points in the airport. For more information, visit  the AirTrain website .

There are many routes to take depending on your final destination. To plan your route and get details on pricing, visit  the City Bus website .

Shuttle Bus

NYC Airporter ,  Go Airlink NYC , and  SuperShuttle  are all options for shuttle service. If you book in advance, tickets can be found for as low as $17/person, but the reviews of all companies are less than stellar. Depending on the number of people in your party, a taxi may be a better use of your time and money.

Note: There are also opportunities to hire a private car service or rent a car, but these are much more expensive options. The  JFK airport website  has tons of great information as well regarding travel from the airport.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is located 15 miles southwest of New York City. If you’re flying United, you will be arriving at EWR — in fact, over 65% of passengers flying through EWR are United customers. If you have a choice, this is the best airport to fly into if you’re traveling to Manhattan.

The following airlines service EWR:

Aer Lingus, Air Canada, Air Canada Express, Air China, Air India, Alaska Airlines , Allegiant, American Airlines, American Eagle, Austrian Airlines, Avianca El Salvador, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Delta Air Lines, Delta Connection, El Al, Elite Airways, Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines, Icelandair, JetBlue Airways, La Compagnie, LEVEL, LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, Norwegian Air Shuttles , OpenSkies, Porter Airlines, Primera Air, Scandinavian Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines , Swiss International Air Lines, TAP Air Portugal, United Airlines, United Express, Vacation Express, Virgin Atlantic, VivaAerobus

Once you’ve landed in EWR, you have a few options on how to get into the city.

This will be a metered fare of approximately $50-$75, plus bridge and tunnel tolls and gratuity. The journey typically takes 45-60 minutes to Midtown Manhattan.

During weekday rush hours (6-9am and 4-7pm) and on weekends (Saturday-Sunday, 12-8pm), there is a $5 surcharge for travel anywhere in New York State except Staten Island.

AirTrain Newark

Costs vary by destination. AirTrain links to the airport via NJ Transit and Amtrak’s Newark (or EWR) train station. The journey typically takes 45-90 minutes to Midtown Manhattan, requiring a transfer from the AirTrain line to Amtrak or the  NJ Transit  line (be sure to keep your ticket after using it to exit the AirTrain station, as it is also used for the NJ Transit fare).

NYC Airporter ,  Go Airlink NYC ,  Olympia Airport Express , and  SuperShuttle  are all options. Prices vary, but are lowest when booked in advance on their websites.

LaGuardia Airport (LGA) is located in Northern Queens and is the third largest airport serving NYC. There is no border control facility at LGA, so this airport only has domestic service and international service for countries with pre-clearance. This is a good airport to arrive at if your destination is Long Island City, Astoria, Williamsburg, or Manhattan’s East Side.

The following airlines service LGA:

Air Canada, Air Canada Express, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, American Eagle, Delta Air Lines, Delta Connection, Frontier Airlines , JetBlue Airways, Rectrix Shuttle, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, United Airlines, United Express, WestJet.

Once you’ve landed in LGA, you have a few options on how to get into the city.

There isn’t a flat fee, but the ride will cost you approximately $29-$37 (metered fare), plus bridge and tunnel tolls and gratuity. It will typically take 20-25 minutes to get to Midtown Manhattan. For more information, visit the  Taxi and Limousine Commission website .

Two express buses serve LaGuardia: the M60 and Q70. The Q70 goes nonstop to Jackson Heights/Roosevelt Avenue, a major subway hub in Queens with 5 lines. The M60 runs to Harlem and connects to all the major subway lines in Manhattan. For details, visit  the City Bus website .

Similar to the advice above for JFK, shuttles are available but not recommended. The main companies are NYC Airporter ,  Go Airlink NYC , and  SuperShuttle .

Private Car Service & Car Rental

Many private car services and rental options are also available; prices will vary.

Hot Tip: Check out how one of our writers used points and miles to plan a weekend trip to New York City .

With 34 lines and 469 stops, the New York City subway system is one of the largest urban mass transportation systems in the world. Traveling to every single stop (without leaving the transit system) would take you almost 24 hours! Of course, the iconic yellow taxis are also a popular option. Here’s how to get around the city once you’ve arrived.

By Public Transportation (Subways & Buses)

If you can’t walk to your destination, mass transit is the next-best way to get around. The city’s rail and bus system is run by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and known as  MTA New York City Transit . It’s inexpensive, environmentally friendly, and a great way to see sights throughout the 5 boroughs — plus it operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The easiest option is purchasing a MetroCard, which you can do at subway stations from either automated machines or booth attendants. When you use a pay-per-ride MetroCard, a single subway or bus ride costs $2.75, and you don’t have to pay for transfers unless you exit the turnstiles.

Subway lines sometimes change routes or temporarily stop running — especially during weekends and late nights on weekdays — so be sure to check for up-to-date MTA service information at  mta.info .

The City’s fleet of yellow taxicabs and green Boro Taxis are licensed and regulated by the NYC Taxi & Limousine Commission. Grabbing a cab can be ideal when tired feet, heavy luggage, or shopping bags weigh you down. Hail taxis whose numbers are lit up on top; that means they’re on duty.

The minimum metered fare is $2.50, which increases 50 cents every 1/5 of a mile or every minute, depending on how fast you’re traveling. There is also an MTA state surcharge of 50 cents per ride and a 30-cent improvement surcharge.

An additional $1 surcharge is added to the meter Monday through Friday, 4–8pm (excluding holidays), and a 50-cent surcharge is added at night (8pm–6am). All taxis accept cash, credit, debit, and prepaid cards…and don’t forget to tip!

If you’re planning to drive around the City, use  Google Maps  to help you navigate New York City roads. Parking is the biggest concern, so make sure you know where there might be a spot for you. You may want to use an app like  SpotHero to compare parking rates and locations. Parking fees can add up fast, so plan accordingly!

If you’re planning on renting a car, check out our guide to help you save some money.

New York City is made up of 5 boroughs, but as a visitor, you’ll most likely be exploring Manhattan and Brooklyn. When planning a trip to the city, it can be overwhelming because the city is huge and spread out.

In our guide, we mainly focus on the areas you’ll visit as a tourist, but there are clearly unlimited options when it comes to great places to stay all throughout NYC on your second or third visit.

Soho is where to stay in New York City if you want to be in one of the most happening, upscale, and artsy neighborhoods. The area is littered with high-end boutiques, designer chain stores, and some of the trendiest spots in NYC. There are countless retail options, including Alexander Wang, A.P.C., Rag & Bone, James Perse, Suitsupply, Oliver Peoples, Film Forum, and Apple’s flagship store.

Also check out galleries including The New York Earth Room and The Leslie-Lohman Museum of Gay and Lesbian Art.

Where to Stay:

• Soho Grand Hotel

2. Greenwich Village

Greenwich Village is where to stay in New York City if you want to experience one of the most desired and charming neighborhoods. The Village is famous for shows like Sex in the City and Friends.

Greenwich Village is young and hip with a great nightlife, and is considered one of the most delicious foodie neighborhoods in the city! Nearby attractions include Washington Square Park, Bleecker Street Records, the famous Comedy Cellar, NYU, and tons of restaurants in the area.

• The Marlton
• The Greenwich Hotel
• Washington Square Hotel

3. Chelsea/Gramercy

Stay in Chelsea if you want to be in one of the city’s cultural hubs known for its art galleries, foodie scene, incredible location, and gorgeous brick apartment buildings. As this is one of the most desired places to live in NYC, staying here will increase your chance of bumping into celebrities.

If you want to explore other parts of NYC, it’s only a 20-minute subway ride to just about everywhere else in Manhattan.

• The New York EDITION
• The Gramercy Park Hotel
• Selina Chelsea NYC

Just across the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges lies this trendy neighborhood. You can’t help but fall in love with this area filled with independent boutiques, restaurants, trendy cafes, and killer views. Sadly, there aren’t a lot of options here for hotels, which make the available choices pretty pricey.

Nearby attractions include the famous Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge, Brooklyn Bridge Park, Jane’s Carousel, and amazing views of Manhattan’s skyline.

• 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
• Wythe Hotel
• Hampton Inn Brooklyn Downtown

Tribeca is where to stay if you’re here on business and don’t necessarily want to be in the heart of the Financial District. This is also a great spot if you want to be in one of the coolest parts in the city while still in a convenient location for getting almost everywhere in Manhattan. It’s also an easy commute to Brooklyn from here.

Nearby attractions include the World Trade Center, Oculus, City Hall, Hook & Ladder Company 8 (think Ghostbusters!), and Hudson River Park.

• Sheraton Tribeca
• Hilton Garden Inn New York/Tribeca

6. Upper East Side

This is where to stay in New York City if you are a luxury traveler who wants to be in the heart of Manhattan with easy access to the rest of the city.

Nearby attractions include designer shopping along Madison Avenue, Museum Mile (including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim, and El Museo del Barrio), and of course Central Park.

• The Sherry Netherland
• Courtyard New York Manhattan/Upper East Side

7. Upper West Side

The Upper West Side is for the general traveler who is a lover of culture and arts. It’s home to the Lincoln Center and the Natural History Museum as well as conveniently located next to Central Park. With beautiful brownstones and manicured streets filled with adorable cafes and nice shops, this is another lovely neighborhood to pick in New York City.

• Mandarin Oriental
• Arthouse Hotel
• La Quinta Inn & Suites New York Central Park

8. Meatpacking District

The Meatpacking District is another great option for where to stay in New York City if you want access to some of the best shopping and nightlife. Once home to the city’s slaughterhouses and packaging plants, this is now a cool neighborhood filled with great restaurants, upscale shopping, and bars.

Nearby attractions include half of the High Line, the Samsung Experience, the Whitney Museum of Art, Chelsea Market, Gansevoort Market, and the West Village.

• Gansevoort Meatpacking
• The Standard, High Line
• The High Line Hotel

9. Financial District

Stay here if you’re a business traveler. This is also a great place to be in lower Manhattan that is easily accessible to Brooklyn, Staten Island, and the rest of the city.

Nearby attractions include Wall Street, the Charging Bull and Fearless Girl statues, the Statue of Liberty, Battery Park, Staten Island Ferry, the World Trade Center, 9/11 Memorial, and Chinatown.

• The Beekman
• The Wagner Hotel
• Doubletree by Hilton NYC Financial District

10. Midtown

Midtown is where the tourists stay in New York City, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing! Besides Times Square, Broadway, and Rockefeller Center, Midtown also boasts quick access to Grand Central Terminal, Radio City, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Top of the Rock.

Midtown is especially recommended for anyone who is coming on a short trip, since you’re centrally located with easy access many of the city’s tourist hot spots.

• The Knickerbocker
• JW Marriott Essex House

You won’t see everything in a single trip, so it’s definitely important to prioritize your wish list in a place like New York City. Here are a few of our favorite “must-see” attractions!

1. Walk the High Line

There are few places more pleasant than a sunny afternoon on the High Line . NYC’s only elevated park is one of Manhattan’s most popular destinations, and it’s easy to see why.

Formerly a rail track that went out of use in 1980, the High Line was resurrected as a 1.45-mile green space in 2009, running from Hudson Yards to the northern edge of Chelsea. Today it’s a break from the concrete jungle planted with wildflowers and grass.

Visit: No admission fee. The Highline is open from 7am all year round. Closing times depend on the season.

Get There: Mostly located in Chelsea, but check their  website for details on how to best access the area.

You don’t have to be an art lover to appreciate the Museum of Modern Art; this museum is a shrine of pop culture and 20th-century history. Some of the most significant contemporary artists have multiple works hanging on the walls, including Picasso, Warhol, Van Gogh, Dali, and Monet. There is also an attached cinema, a sculpture garden with works by Picasso and Rodin, and a high-end restaurant and bar that are worth a stop as well.

Visit: Admission is $25 for adults, free for kids 16 and younger. Open Saturday-Thursday from 10:30am-5:30pm and Fridays from 10:30am-8pm. Admission is free on Friday evenings.

Get There:  11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019

Hot Tip: The MoMA is one of the museums you can access for free when you register for a free Cultivist membership that is available with any Capital One credit card through June 22, 2024.

3. 9/11 Memorial

The 9/11 Memorial honors the victims of the September 11th attacks, and is a solemn but important stop on any trip to New York. One World Trade, a gleaming 104-story building, is located on the former site of the Twin Towers. One World Observatory is next door and offers 360-degree views of the City.

Visit: Open to the public from 7:30am-9pm every day, no ticket necessary. However, you will need a ticket to get into the accompanying  9/11 museum , and these can be reserved up to 6 months in advance.

Get There: 180 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10007

4. Afternoon Tea at the Plaza

The Plaza Hotel  is iconic, and the afternoon tea served inside the Palm Court is considered a quintessential New York experience. While definitely a splurge at $90/person, the luxury can’t be beat. There is a preset menu of tea, sandwiches, scones, and sweets with a glass of champagne to wash it all down. Be sure to make reservations in advance, especially if you’re visiting around the holidays.

Visit: Head to  their website  to make reservations and see the current menu selection.

Get There: 768 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019

5. Central Park

In pretty much all seasons, this vast expanse of open green space calls out to anyone eager to spread out a blanket for a picnic, catch a concert or play, or just stroll through the various landscapes for a soul-soothing break from the grind. If you’re visiting Manhattan with kids , Central Park is a must!

You can’t really go wrong choosing a Central Park entrance, from bustling Columbus Circle to the much quieter, tree-lined Central Park West or Fifth Avenue.

Aim to see some of the architectural highlights like Bethesda Terrace, Strawberry Fields, the Conservatory Garden, and the Loeb Boathouse.

Visit:  No admission fee. The park unofficially closes at 1am.

Get There:  Visit the Central Park website for the best way to get there.

6. Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island

With her impressive 305-foot stature, Lady Liberty is one of the most recognized symbols of America. She also looks pretty great in a selfie! Take a ferry to go see her up close and personal. If you have a relative who was one of over 12 million immigrants who passed through Ellis Island , this is especially meaningful. Tickets to Ellis Island Immigration Museum are included in the ticket price.

Visit:  Tickets start at $18.50 for adults and $9 for kids, but upgraded tickets are available as well. Check the website for departure times.

Get There:  From Manhattan, the ferry leaves from Battery Park. There is a ferry that departs from New Jersey as well.

7. American Museum of Natural History

This museum is a great activity for the whole family! The Rose Center for Earth and Space is a favorite exhibit, but you should also plan on visiting the dinosaurs, the Hall of the Universe, and the Butterfly Conservatory. There are approximately 32 million artifacts inside spread across 4 city blocks, 25 buildings, and 45 exhibition halls…so don’t even try to see everything in 1 day!

Visit:  While there isn’t a set admission fee, the “suggested” admission price is $22 for adults, $17 for seniors and students with an ID, and $12.50 for children ages 2-12. Open daily from 10am-5:45pm.

Get There: Central Park West & 79th St, New York, NY 10024

8. Chinatown

Mott and Grand Streets are lined with stands selling exotic foods like live eels, square watermelons, and hairy rambutans, while Canal Street glitters with jewelry stores and gift shops. Remember to come hungry! Here you’ll find some of the best restaurants in NYC representing the cuisine of virtually every province of mainland China and Hong Kong, as well as Indonesian, Malaysian, Thai, and Vietnamese eateries and shops.

Wander past steamy windows with hanging Peking ducks, street carts vending drinkable coconuts in the summer, and countless restaurants serving up a variety of delicious Chinese cuisine. From delicious dumplings to dim sum, you’ll definitely leave stuffed!

Visit:  Open all the time with no admission fee

Get There:  Chinatown is an area in Lower Manhattan bordered by the Lower East Side to its east, Little Italy to its north, Civic Center to its south, and Tribeca to its west.

9. Top of the Rock

Want to get a bird’s eye view of the city? Skip the Empire State Building and head to Top of the Rock. The view of NYC from the Top of the Rock is awesome and allows you to get the Empire State Building  in  your photos! Rockefeller Plaza is famous for its  Today Show  tapings (often accompanied by free concerts in the summer), as well as its enormous Christmas tree and skating rink in the colder months.

You have a few options on how to visit. If you don’t want to pay $37 plus tax for the 70th-floor observatory, go to the bar at the Rainbow Room’s Bar SixtyFive, where a $20 cocktail gets you similar views just 5 floors below. Plus, this way you get to drink!

Visit:  The elevator is open from 8am-12:30am (the last ride up is at 11:55pm).

Get There: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112

10. Brooklyn Bridge

Constructed over a span of 14 years in the late 19th century, this massive suspension bridge was a much-needed alternative to ferrying between Manhattan and Brooklyn. At the time, it was the tallest structure in the Western hemisphere! Ideally, try to walk from Brooklyn to Manhattan so you’re facing the skyline.

To avoid crowds (and get the best pictures), head across in the early morning hours and avoid sunset. Nerd out on engineering trivia and read the plaques detailing the bridge’s fascinating history along the way.

Visit:  No admission fee. The walk takes about 45 minutes with stops for pictures and reading.

Get There: This will vary depending on the direction you want to walk, but your best bet is to take the subway.

Hot Tip:  For more ideas, check out our dedicated post: The 15 Best Tours and Activities in New York City .

This incredible city is so much more than just the Empire State Building or the Statue of Liberty! There are tons of offbeat options to help you explore the city more deeply. So while this is a great list to look at if you’ve explored all of the “must-sees,” it’s also great to help you develop an itinerary that’s a bit different from everyone else’s.

1. The Gold Vault

Want to feel a bit like Scrooge McDuck? Beneath the New York Federal Reserve Bank, you will find the largest concentration of gold in human history. It contains a government-operated vault built in bedrock that includes deposits from central banks around the world.

In total, there are about 7,000 tons of gold bars, or 5% of all gold ever mined! Surprisingly, anyone can tour the vault with the Federal Reserve Bank, but visitors must register 30 days in advance of the  tour .

Visit: 44 Maiden Ln, New York, NY 10038. Admission is free, with tours Monday-Friday at 10am.

2. Touch the Berlin Wall

After the fall of the Berlin Wall, parts of the wall were distributed around the globe, with 5 pieces ending up across New York City. The concrete hunks include artwork from artist Thierry Noir, who began painting the west side of the Berlin Wall in the 1980s to make it seem less threatening. Make a day of it and try to locate them all!

Visit: 5 locations throughout the city are open 24 hours a day

3. Tenement Museum

New York City has always been a magnet for immigrants looking for a better life. Per their website, the  Tenement Museum , located on the Lower East Side, “enhances appreciation for the profound role immigration has played and continues to play in shaping America’s evolving national identity.”

This historical museum takes visitors back in time to give them a glimpse of what it was like to be an immigrant in New York in the late 19th-early 20th centuries. Housed in a 5-story brick building, it is estimated that about 7,000 people from over 20 countries lived in this historic site.

Visit: 103 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002. Tickets start at $25 for adults. The museum is open from 10am-6:30pm Friday-Wednesday and 10am-8:30pm on Thursdays.

4. Dirt Room

It’s hard to believe 280,000 pounds of soil hides in a random New York room, but that’s exactly what can be found in one spacious Soho loft. The art installation, known as the “ New York Earth Room ,” was created by Walter De Maria in 1977…and the same dirt the artist installed 35 years ago remains today.

The Earth room contains a 22-inch deep layer of dirt spread across the 3,600-square-foot gallery. So if you need a bit of nature in the concrete jungle, you know where to go!

Visit: 141 Wooster St, New York, NY 10012. Admission is free, open Wednesday-Sunday 12-6 pm (closed from 3-3:30 pm).

5. The Cloisters

This quiet spot in northern Manhattan offers a welcome respite from the hectic pace of NYC.  The Cloisters , a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, house the museum’s extensive collection of art and architecture from Medieval Europe.

Same-day entrance is included here when you buy a ticket for the Met. To save time and skip the big line at the museum, it is recommended to buy your tickets online.

Visit: 99 Margaret Corbin Dr, New York, NY 10040. Open 10am-5:15pm daily.

6. Coney Island

Whatever kind of offbeat adventure you’re looking for, you’ll find it on Coney Island . It’s the perfect dreamlike summer escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. From Nathan’s Famous hot-dog eating contest and P.T. Barnum’s infamous “Feejee Mermaid” to an authentic circus sideshow, there are plenty of quirky attractions to be found.

Visit:  Traveling to Coney Island is easy: just take the D, Q, N, or F train to Stillwell Avenue

7. Explore Abandoned Subway Stations

New York’s subway system is one of the oldest in the world, so many of its former stations have been closed or abandoned. The most famous of them all is the City Hall station, which you can visit by joining this tour . You can also get a glimpse of the City Hall station and 2 other abandoned stops from one of the trains by staying on the 6 train while it turns around.

Visit:  The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and costs $35. It meets on the north side of the Jacob Mould Fountain, facing City

8. Kayak the Hudson River

Looking for a way to be active in the city? Try kayaking on the Hudson River! The  Manhattan Community Boathouse  is a nonprofit organization that offers free kayaks to use during summer, so this activity is even friendly on your pocketbook (though donations are accepted). Kayaks are offered on a first-come first-served basis, so show up early to ensure your spot.

Visit: 56th Street in Hudson River Park. Hours vary with the seasons:

• May 26-October 7: Saturday-Sunday 10am–6pm
• June 4-August 29: Monday-Wednesday 5:30pm-7:30pm

9. Brooklyn Flea Market

This has been ranked as one of the top markets in the United States! The  Brooklyn Flea  features over a hundred vendors selling furniture, vintage clothing, antiques, jewelry, and much more. If you are looking for a perfect and unique souvenir from your trip, you’ll probably find it here!

Visit: Open every weekend from April-October, 10am-5pm, with 2 locations:

• Saturdays: 241 37th St., in Industry City
• Sundays: 80 Pearl St., in DUMBO at the Manhattan Bridge Archway

10. Ellen’s Stardust Diner

One of the most popular things to do when coming to NYC is to go to a Broadway show. Luckily you can experience Broadway without the Broadway ticket prices! Ellen’s Stardust Diner is home to the world-famous singing waitstaff and located in Times Square.

Known as a halfway house to Broadway, the talent level in this place is insane, and the turnover rate is high due to the waitstaff getting discovered for Broadway roles. There is ALWAYS a line, so be prepared to wait.

Visit: 1650 Broadway, New York, NY 10019. Open daily from 7-midnight, so you can drop by anytime!

NYC led the pack in 2017 as the most-Instagrammed city in the world. There is clearly no shortage of iconic sights, but here are a few to fill your Instagram feed with.

1. Top of the Standard

Located on the rooftop of the Standard High Line hotel, this restaurant boasts some of the most iconic views in NYC. They serve tea and drinks in the afternoon, and in the evening they offer a small-plate menu and specialty cocktails with live jazz music. Reservations recommended.

Visit: The Standard, High Line, 848 Washington St, New York, NY 10014

2. Manhattanhenge

Twice a year, the setting sun aligns perfectly with New York City’s grid streets, creating a sunset framed by concrete and glass skyscrapers that you’ve definitely seen pop up on your feed. You can still get a great photo of the centered sun for a few days on either side of official Manhattenhenge if the crowds are too much to bear.

Visit:  The best cross-streets are 14th, 34th, 42nd, and 57th (they’re wide streets framed with architecturally beautiful buildings). Check the local news for best dates to catch it!

3. Wall Street

Home to the financial district of NYC, you’ll find world-famous landmarks and beautiful architecture here. Don’t miss the New York Stock Exchange or the Charging Bull and Fearless Girl statues. The statues tend to get incredibly busy during the day, so go early if you want a good photo!

Visit: Wall Street, New York, NY 10005

4. Brooklyn Heights Promenade

Head to the promenade for some incredible views of Lower Manhattan’s skyline and the New York harbor. This would be a great place to watch the sunset or just experience a different view of the city.

Visit: Montague St & Pierrepont Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11201

5. The Oculus

The Oculus is actually the main transportation hub for the World Trade Center, but it’s also one of the most popular sights in NYC. Head to the top floor and take a picture of the stunning skylight, and then over to the 9/11 Memorial to make a day of it.

Visit: Church St, New York, NY 10006

6. Flatiron Building

The Flatiron Building has become such an iconic landmark of Lower Manhattan that the entire area is now referred to as the Flatiron District. For over 100 years, the Flatiron Building has been an architectural icon and an international tourist attraction. It’s still a private office building, but that doesn’t detract from the wonder it stirs up when you see it for the first time.

Visit:  175 5th Ave, New York, NY 10010

7. Top Floor of the Mandarin Oriental

Head to the top floor of the Mandarin Oriental for a stunning view of the city, including wonderful views of Central Park. It’s the perfect place to have a drink, and you can visit their Asiate restaurant for brunch with a view.

Visit: 80 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10023

8. Times Square

Surrounded by energetic, buzzing crowds and the bright lights of digital billboards, there’s no more iconic view than that of Times Square. Head there at night for some truly Insta-worthy photos, but don’t expect to get the place to yourself. It is definitely one of “the” spots to go for tourists in NYC.

Visit: Manhattan, NY 10036

9. Empire State Building

If you actually want pictures OF the Empire State Building, then Top of the Rock may be a better bet…but there is definitely something special about seeing the building up close. The 102-story art deco skyscraper located in Midtown is a cultural icon, and it stood as the world’s tallest building for nearly 40 years.

Visit: 350 5th Ave, New York, NY 10118

10. Rooftop at Hotel Hugo

For beautiful views over the Hudson River, Freedom Tower, and Statue of Liberty, check out the 20th floor of Hotel Hugo in Soho. They have an incredible rooftop bar that has to make any list of the most Instagrammable places in NYC! Don’t leave early — there are some stunning views at sunset.

Visit: 525 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10013

New York City is one of the best places in the world for foodies. Here are 10 restaurants that won’t let you down!

1. Joe’s Pizza

This is your spot for a quintessential, cheap, classic New York slice. The original Bleecker Street location has been shut down since 2005, but the Carmine Street location continues to serve hot, gooey slices of flawless, foldable pizza until long after the local bars close. It’s a pretty simple shop with only a few menu options, but the price (under $3) and ambiance can’t be beat.

Visit: 7 Carmine St, New York, NY 10014. Open daily from 10am-4am or 5am depending on the day.

Get There:  Check out their website  for more details. There are countless subway stations within walking distance, so your best bet is to plug it into Google from your current destination.

2. Jack’s Wife Freda

This restaurant is a Mediterranean-inspired cafe with delicious cocktails in a couple of cute NYC neighborhoods (Soho was the original). Their brunch and late-night offerings are the most popular. If you want my ideal order, it would be the grilled haloumi, peri-peri chicken with chopped salad, or cheeseburger with fries, finished off with a fruit crisp. Yum!

Visit: The original is 224 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012. Open from 8:30am-late. Reservations are accepted for groups of 6 or more. For details about their second location, see their website .

Get There:  The closest station is Spring Street, and can be accessed by the 4, 6, or 6X train.

3. Momofuku Noodle Bar

Momofuku has the original pork bun that spurred a million copycats. By now, most people are familiar with David Chang’s culinary empire (or at least his Netflix show). New York City offers many Momofuku-associated venues offering cocktails, pastries, and fine-dining, but we like this option because of the ramen. Chang jump-started the NYC ramen craze in 2004, and any variety you choose will be one of the best you’ve ever had.

Visit: 171 1st Ave, New York, NY 10003. Open daily from noon-4 or 4:30pm. Reopens from 5:30pm-11pm (1am on weekends). Check their website for the menu.

Get There:  The closest station is at 1st Ave, taking the L.

4. Katz Delicatessen

There’s no more “New York” meal than the towering hand-carved pastrami on rye at this Lower East Side institution. Katz’s is a living portrait of frenetic customers clutching loaves of golden rye, butchers in blood-soaked aprons, and a study in the best pastrami sandwich in the city (and perhaps the world). With 4 stars and almost 10,000 reviews on Yelp, this is a pretty safe bet.

Visit: 205 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002. On weekdays, they open at 8am and close around 10:45. On weekends they’re open 24 hours.

Get There:  The F train at 2nd Ave is the closest station.

5. Russ & Daughters

This 100-year-old shop is still the place to go for the city’s finest Jewish fare. You can’t go wrong with the timeless combo cut by expert fish slicers: sesame bagel, schmear, and smoked salmon. There is always a line (welcome to New York), but it’s worth it for this classic taste of the city.

Visit:  The original shop is at 179 E Houston Street, New York, New York, 10002. Open most days from 8am-6pm.

They also have a cafe at 27 Orchard Street, New York, New York, 10002. Open from Monday-Friday from 9am-10pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 8am-10pm.

Get There:  This will be based on your preferred destination, so check their website for more details.

6. Mercer Kitchen

The in-house eatery at the Mercer Hotel showcases local ingredients in a Mediterranean fusion menu that changes with the seasons. Sample dishes might include sashimi and horseradish pizza, butternut squash soup served in an individual kettle, and salmon glazed with kaffir and lime. The atmosphere is relaxed and lively, and there’s a lovely brunch and a fun bar scene to boot.

Visit:  Located in The Mercer hotel at 99 Prince St, New York, NY 10012. Open daily from 7am-late.

Get There:  The closest station is at Prince St, access by the N & R.

7. The Butcher’s Daughter

Visit:  Nolita, West Village, and Williamsburg all have a location. Hours vary, but all 3 locations open at 8am.

Get There: Check their website for specifics based on your desired location.

8. Luke’s Lobster

The best lobster roll in NYC. The sauce is light, delicious, and not too overbearing. Luke’s gets shipments from Maine delivered daily, so you know it’s always fresh. They opened their first location in the East Village in 2009, but now have multiple across the city, in addition to a food truck!

Visit: There are 20 locations throughout the U.S. now, but 13 are in the NYC area. Check   their website  for address and hours.

Get There:  Since there are so many locations, Google is your best friend here!

This dining option with 3 Michelin stars is one of the fanciest places in NYC, but getting a table isn’t the only hard part to stomach. The tasting menu runs over $300/person (not including drinks), so you and your wallet should be prepared! That being said, you will come away fully satisfied from your 3-hour multi-course dinner. It’s an event not to be missed, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion in the Big Apple.

Visit: 10 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10019. Open daily for dinner from 5:30-11:30pm. Open Friday-Sunday for lunch from 12-1pm.

Get There:  The closest station is 59th St–Columbus Circle, which can be accessed by the 1, 2, A, B, C, & D trains.

10. Eleven Madison Park

Also on the fancier end, Eleven Madison Park was rated the World’s Best Restaurant in 2017, and they serve “European food with a New York twist.” There is a tasting menu (similar to Per Se), and some of the dishes include honey lavender roasted duck, celery root cooked in a pig’s bladder, and honey-glazed duck with turnips and huckleberries. See their website to secure reservations.

Visit: 11 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10010. Open daily for dinner from 5:30 pm. Open Friday-Sunday for lunch from 12-1pm.

Get There:  The closest station is 23rd St, which can be accessed by 7 different trains.

New Yorkers drink 7 TIMES more coffee than people in other cities, so you know there are bound to be plenty of great cafes and shops to grab your daily (or twice daily…or more) cup. Hey, you have to fit in, right?

1. Paper Coffee

This beautifully designed cafe inside the MADE Hotel is backed by Brooklyn’s Devocion Roasters, who lend a hand to a standard menu of espresso-milk drinks, plus a few specialty items like a matcha lemonade and the Vietnamese (a layered macchiato with condensed milk, espresso, and milk foam). Pastries come from Patisserie Chanson, and the black sesame kouign-amann is especially delicious.

Visit: 44 W 29th St, New York, NY 10001. Open daily from 7am-5pm.

2. Saltwater Coffee

This East Village neighborhood cafe has quickly claimed a large fan base despite its tiny size. Head to Saltwater Coffee for an expertly pulled espresso, flat white, or seasonal special like ube and charcoal vanilla chai made with Australian-style coffee. Baristas dose higher than most coffee shops and run their shots shorter, so customers get a sweeter, fuller-bodied taste with minimal acidity.

Visit: 345 E 12th St, New York, NY 10003. Open Monday to Friday from 7am-7pm, and weekends from 8am-7pm.

3. Blue Bottle

This California company uses sustainably-sourced beans from developing coffee regions all over the world, and offers seasonal menus of tasty bites like olive oil shortbread, cookies, liege waffles, pastries, and more. The Bella Donovan blend coffee and Hayes Valley Espresso are among its most popular brews. Blue Bottle is influenced by the Japanese-style small shops that serve coffees prepared carefully 1 at a time.

Visit:  There are currently 11 cafes all over New York with more on the way. Hours also vary, but most open up around 6:30am. Check their website for specifics.

4. Daily Provisions

Daily Provisions provides an atmosphere that is equal parts cozy, energizing, and intimate. Opened in February 2017, it quickly became the cafe of choice for those in the neighborhood, serving up JOE Coffee and its famous crullers (maple is their signature), plus gougéres, sandwiches, and breads. They also have a hearty evening menu if you feel like making a return trip!

Visit: 103 E 19th St, New York, NY 10003. Open Monday-Friday from 7am-9pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 8am-9pm.

5. La Colombe

Popular among New York’s pretty people, La Colombe is famous for its draft lattes. This East Coast coffee roaster from Philly comes out with various seasonal draft lattes in addition to its core draft latte menu (Black and Tan, Pure Black, and Draft Lattes). This summer it’s the Honeysuckle Latte made with natural honeysuckle extract.

Visit:  There are 8 locations throughout NYC; see their website for the location nearest to you.

New York has a roster of bars that are second to none. Depending on your preference for old-world charm, fantastic rooftop bars, or something a bit more unique, you will have no problem finding some first-class cocktails. Here are our picks for the best bars in NYC.

1. The Campbell

One of the classic New York drinking establishments, the Campbell is located inside Grand Central Terminal. It was formerly home to the offices of American financier John W. Campbell; after his death in 1957, it served as a storage closet for decades before the grand space was restored to its former glory. It now houses a chic cocktail bar that serves all the classics with light food.

Visit: 15 Vanderbilt Ave, New York, NY 10017. Open daily from noon-2am.

2. Bar SixtyFive

Set atop 30 Rockefeller Plaza, Bar SixtyFive is the lounge component of the recently reopened Rainbow Room. Modern furnishings sit beneath a geometric ceiling, and a wraparound terrace provides excellent views from the Empire State Building to Central Park…what you’re really paying for are the views! It’s best to reserve your spot in advance, and note the $65 minimum per person for the rooftop terrace.

Visit: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, 65th Floor, New York, NY 10112. Open Monday-Friday 5pm-12am and Sundays 4-9pm. Closed Saturdays.

3. Mother of Pearl

This lively tiki bar brings Hawaiian flair to the Big Apple. Owned and designed by East Village restaurateur Ravi DeRossi, it features a white-and-green tiled bar, vintage-looking tropical upholstery, and banana-leaf wallpaper. The drinks are true to the tiki theme with punchbowls and assorted fruity cocktails. For dinner, there is tuna poke, Kahlua pork belly with ginger glaze, and pineapple kimchi to choose from.

Visit: 95 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009. Open Monday-Wednesday 5pm-1am, Thursday and Friday 5pm-2am, and weekends 3pm-2am.

4. The Library Bar

The NoMad Hotel’s 2-level library, with its custom furnishings and an extensive book collection, is a unique haven for cocktail and literature lovers. Located in the heart of the Flatiron District, only guests of the NoMad Hotel are granted access to the bar after 4pm (meaning it’s rarely busy). Try the pineapple juleps, hot apple cider cocktail, or one of their other unique creations.

Visit: 1170 Broadway, New York, NY 10001. Open Monday and Tuesday from 5pm-12am and Wednesday-Saturday from 5pm-2am. Closed Sundays.

5. Ophelia Lounge NYC

There is a great 1920’s aesthetic at this bar atop the landmark Beekman Tower. Think arched glass panels restored from the original rooftop and vintage artifacts on display. Cocktails are creative, the price point is reasonable, seating is ample, service is top-notch, and advanced reservations are available online . And then, of course, there are those 360-degree views of the East River and Manhattan skyline.

Visit: 3 Mitchell Pl 26th floor, New York, NY 10017. Open Monday-Thursday 5pm-2am, Friday and Saturday 5pm-4am, and Sundays 12pm-2am.

If you’re a sucker for sweet treats and looking for something new to try, then look no further than these spots in New York City!

1. Magnolia Bakery

Magnolia Bakery  has been serving up legendary cupcakes for as long as we can remember, but they really hit the jackpot with the banana bread pudding. The classic banana flavor never disappoints, and if you’re feeling adventurous you can try out their chocolate bread pudding or rotating flavors of cupcakes.

Visit:  There are 6 locations in NYC; see their website for locations and hours.

2. Serendipity 3

Serendipity 3  has been doing dessert right since 1954. Their frozen hot chocolate is perfect for sharing, making this luxurious drink not just a cool treat but a social experience. It’s more than a milkshake — it tastes like a liquefied fudge brownie. You have to try it at least once in your life!

Visit: 225 E 60th St, New York, NY 10022. Open daily from 10am-1am.

3. Levain Bakery

Perfectly photogenic, these chocolate chip cookies are anything but boring.  Levain Bakery  has grown famous for the melty, gooey inside of their chocolate chip cookies. There are numerous cookie types to try, as well as scones, sticky buns, and freshly-baked breads to choose from.

Visit: 167 West 74th Street, New York, NY 10023 is the original location. Open Monday-Saturday from 8am-7pm and Sunday from 9am-7pm. Check their website for details of their other 3 locations.

4. Black Tap

These outrageous milkshakes have been trending on every social media channel there is.  Black Tap  is building the sugar-lover’s dream dessert fully loaded with toppings like M&Ms, cotton candy, rock candy, and chocolate chip cookies. They also serve gourmet burgers and fries, which of course make the perfect starter to a milkshake.

Visit: 529 Broome St, New York, NY 10013. Open Sunday-Thursday from 11am-12am, Friday and Saturday from 11am-1am.

5. Dominique Ansel

Dominique Ansel Bakery is a must-try on your trip to NYC. They are known for their cronut, but have plenty of other tasty treats if you don’t feel like waiting in a line for hours to try this particular pastry. Their Milk and Cookie shot is completed by pouring cool milk into a baked cookie glass right before your eyes. This dessert isn’t just a treat: it’s an experience. They also have seasonal dishes like their Hawaiian malasadas with lilikoi curd, frozen smores, and the summer strawberry tart.

Visit: 189 Spring St, New York, NY 10012. Open Monday-Thursday 8am-7pm, Friday and Saturday 8am-8pm, and Sundays 8am-7pm.

6. Squish Marshmallow

At Squish Marshmallow you can satisfy your sweet tooth with unique creations like Marshmallow Ice Cream Cones, Marshmallow Donuts, and a Dessert Bacon Egg and Cheese. For the less adventurous foodies, there are homemade marshmallows available in flavors like Apple Pie, Rocky Road, Banana Pudding, and traditional S’mores…all of which can be roasted right in front of you with a blowtorch. They’re most famous for their chocolate marshmallow tacos.

Visit: 120 Saint Marks Place Store 1, New York, NY 10009. Open Monday-Saturday from noon-10pm and Sunday from noon-9pm.

7. La Bella Ferrara Bakery

With secret recipes that span 3 centuries, this fifth-generation family-owned bakery continues to handcraft Italian desserts from the same location in NYC’s Little Italy since 1892. Ferrara’s specialty tiramisu and made-from-scratch cannoli should be a requirement for every visitor to Manhattan.

Visit: 195 Grand St, New York, NY 10013. Open daily from 9am-12am.

Have you ever wanted to eat raw cookie dough and not make yourself sick? Enter DŌ. The shop offers scoops of 13 classic cookie flavors (including fluffernutter), as well as seasonal confections like cannoli and lemonade. They have gluten-free and vegan options as well. The dough is made with pasteurized eggs and heat-treated flour, making it safe to eat raw but also engineered for baking. It can also be frozen for up to 30 days.

Visit: 550 LaGuardia Pl, New York, NY 10012. Closed Monday. Open Tuesday, Wednesday & Sunday from 10am-9pm. Open Thursday and Friday from 10am-10pm.

9. Big Gay Ice Cream Shop

This shop started as an ice cream truck in June 2009, became an East Village shop in November 2011, and now has 2 other locations in NYC. They take ice cream to a whole new level, offering treats such as The Salty Pimp (vanilla ice cream, dulce de leche, sea salt, and chocolate dip), The Ben Arthur (vanilla ice cream, dulce de leche, and crushed Nilla wafers), and The American Globs (vanilla ice cream, pretzels, sea salt, and chocolate dip).

Visit:  Check the website for details on all 3 NYC locations. You can also find pints in local grocery stores!

10. Emack & Bolio’s

Unlike most ice cream and froyo places, Emack & Bolio’s uses live cultures and nonfat milk to make their frozen yogurt. They have some unique flavors like Space Cake, S’moreo, Caramel Moose Prints, or Cosmic Punch. They’re most known for their outrageous cones, such as one covered in Rice Krispies, marshmallows, and Fruit Loops.

Visit:  There are 3 locations in NYC; see their website for addresses and hours.

1. Staten Island Ferry

The  Staten Island Ferry  is a public passenger ferry service that’s totally free to ride and runs 5 miles through New York Harbor. Skip the pricey harbor cruises and hop on the ferry instead to enjoy beautiful views of the city skyline, the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty.

2. Restaurant Week(s)

Restaurant Week  happens in New York twice a year (January/February and July/August). While they say it’s a week, it’s really more like 3 weeks so you have time to take advantage. Get 3-course meals at some of New York’s hottest restaurants at a fraction of the regular price!

3. Bryant Park NOT Rockefeller Center

If you are dying to go ice skating in New York in the Wintertime, head to  Bryant Park’s Winter Village . They offer free admission to the rink, so bring your own skates. If you don’t have any, you can rent theirs for a fee…even if you do, it’s still significantly cheaper than other (more famous) skating options.

4. Brooklyn Brewery

Brooklyn Brewery offers  free brewery tours  on the weekends with a sample at the end. The tour is for all ages, but the sample at the end is 21 and up.

5. TV Show Tapings

There are tons of great shows taped in New York City, and you can request tickets to attend a taping. Tickets are free but limited. Some shows have standby tickets to fill extra seats, so if you miss tickets give that a shot! Here are a few shows you can try:  The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon ,  The Daily Show ,  The Dr. Oz Show ,  Good Morning America ,  Late Night with Seth Myers ,  The Late Show with Stephen Colbert ,  The Rachael Ray Show , and more!

Yes, public transit in NYC is plentiful…but New York City is a great walking city too! There are so many cute boutiques, eateries, little art galleries, and neighborhood bars. You will see so much if you walk where you need to go.

7. Free Museum Days

New York is home to some of the most famous museums in the world, like The Met, The Guggenheim, MoMA, and the Museum of Natural History. Admission to some of them is over $20, but they all offer free or “pay what you wish” days each week. Save a trip to the museum for these days if you happen to be in town then.

Read our comprehensive guide to to discover the best museums in New York .

8. Happy Hours

Dining and drinking in New York are really expensive, with dinner being the priciest meal by far. If you’re up for eating early, hit up restaurant happy hours. You can get great deals on food and drinks and save big.

9. Broadway for Less

If seeing a Broadway show is on your NYC bucket list but you’re not picky about which one, the  TKTS Booth  is a great choice. Visit one of 3 locations  for same-day discounted tickets to Broadway shows. Some pros recommend hitting the Times Square booth around 5 p.m. — apparently, that’s when theaters might pop out additional tickets.

10. Taxi Payment on the Go

Just a bit of a time-saving tip: you don’t have to wait until the end of the ride to swipe your card. NYC taxis let riders swipe at any point during the ride, so you can get to the action quicker!

1. A U.S. Capital?

In 1789 it became the first capital of the United States for 1 year. Interestingly enough, New York City isn’t even the capital of New York — that’s Albany!

2. Many Millionaires

One out of every 21 New Yorkers is a millionaire. So maybe try to make a friend or 2 during your trip!

3. The Big Apple

Although many people considered the origin of the term “Big Apple” to be a mystery, researchers at Missouri University of Science and Technology managed to determine the probable origin. “Apple” referred to many of the big horse racing courses around NYC. The first known usage was by John J. FitzGerald in The New York Morning Telegraph when he mentioned going to the “Big Apple” to mean getting big money at the races.

4. Illegal Honking

Except for emergencies, honking your car horn is actually illegal in New York City. And yes, we know…everybody does it anyway.

5. A True Melting Pot

Over 37% of New Yorkers were born in another country, so it’s unsurprising that the city’s residents speak a wide range of languages (over 800 in fact)! Plus, some of the languages — like Quechua or Garifuna — are extremely rare or dying out even in their countries of origin.

6. What, How Much?

It can cost nearly $300,000 to operate a hot dog stand around Central Park!

7. Pizza  Tradition

Pizza is probably the food most frequently associated with New York City. Italian immigrants introduced the delicious, cheesy snack to the city all the way back in 1905, and New Yorkers have never looked back. Today, there are approximately 1,600 pizza restaurants in the city.

8. Moving Day

From colonial times through the beginning of the 20th century, May 1 was Moving Day in NYC…nearly everyone who needed to move apartments did so on that day. The custom caused chaos and traffic jams as the streets became clogged with horse-drawn moving vans and furniture. Fortunately, this odd practice began to die down in the 1920s, and of course modern New Yorkers can move whenever they want.

9. Foodie Roots

The ice cream cone, pasta primavera, and eggs benedict were all invented in New York City.

10. Densely Populated

New York City has more people than 39 of the 50 states in the U.S.

Despite having a population of more than 8 million people, New York City consistently ranks in the top 10 safest large cities (those with more than 500,000 people) in the United States. Violent crimes in New York City have dropped by over 50% in the last decade as well.

However, visitors should be aware that many swindlers and thieves are skilled at identifying “out of towners” and folks who may seem disoriented or confused to prey upon. While this shouldn’t scare you away from New York City, using common sense should keep you safe.

Emergency Contacts in New York City

• If you have an emergency of any kind, call  911 .
• If you need to contact the police about a non-emergency (including information), call 311 .
• If you left your property on any form of public transit, you need to direct your call to the appropriate agency. Here is a link that contains most of them.

Stay Safe in the City

• Pickpockets and thieves operate all over the world; be aware of your surroundings.
• If you are walking along the street, keep valuables on your other side. Thieves have been known to grab purses and bags as they pass by in cars or motorcycles.
• Never accept drinks from strangers, and always keep yours with you in crowded bars.
• Avoid deserted areas, especially at night. This includes popular tourist destinations like Central Park.
• If you feel uncomfortable or lost, approach a police officer or a friendly store owner to get your bearings or directions.

Public Transit Safety Tips

• Only ride in marked taxi cabs.
• When in doubt of your destination or the safety of a neighborhood, take a cab (especially late at night).
• Many business districts are desolate at night — keep this in mind when deciding whether to walk or take a cab.
• During peak times, the subway can be very crowded. If you can’t avoid travel during these times, be aware of your bags at all times.
• If taking the subway late at night, stand near the “During off hours trains stop here” sign or in view of the MetroCard booth. Ride in cars with more people and preferably in the conductor’s car (you will see him look out the window of the train when it stops).

At Your Hotel

• Always keep your valuables in a locked room safe if available.
• Hotels are open to the public, and security may not be able to screen everyone entering. Always lock your room door. Don’t assume that once inside your hotel you’re automatically safe.

Emergency Alerts

Just as important as being prepared for an emergency is staying informed, and New York City offers a variety of ways to receive emergency information.

Notify NYC is the city’s source of information about emergency events. Notify NYC is available through email, text, telephone, RSS, Twitter, and in many cases American Sign Language videos. To register for Notify NYC, call 311, 212-639-9675, or 711 for Video Relay.

Wireless Emergency Alerts are alerts sent to wireless phones by authorized governmental officials (such as Amber Alerts). You don’t need to register for these; as long as you have cell service, they will automatically be sent to you based on your location.

New York City is a huge place with a lot to do, and this list barely scratches the surface. We know we mainly stuck to Manhattan in this guide, and didn’t even really touch on all the amazing things to do in the boroughs like Queens and Brooklyn. Guess you’ll just have to make a few more trips!

So, have you traveled to New York City before? What tips do you have to guarantee a great trip to the city?

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the best places to eat in new york city.

You can’t go wrong with New York staples like Joe’s Pizza, Katz Deli, or if you’re feeling fancy, Eleven Madison Park.

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About Christy Rodriguez

After having “non-rev” privileges with Southwest Airlines, Christy dove into the world of points and miles so she could continue traveling for free. Her other passion is personal finance, and is a certified CPA.

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The Best Things to Do in New York City With the Whole Family

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The one tip that nearly everyone on our team mentioned: Don't just hang out in Times Square. "It's calmer, cleaner and so much fun in other parts of Manhattan and other boroughs like Brooklyn and Queens," said one editor. After you see a Broadway show or two, head uptown or downtown to explore under-the-radar gems and popular tourist stops that are legit awesome. (Did you know there's a waterfall in NYC?)

The subway is the most cost-effective way to get around — and city kids often take it by themselves by the time they're in middle school. Buy each family member a $34 New York Metro Card that's good for unlimited rides for a week. Use Google Maps to help you navigate stops and stations; it's often pretty accurate about train times too. We hope to see you in NYC real soon!

Central Park

Location: Manhattan

You could visit Central Park every day on your NYC vacay, and still not see it all. The 843-acre oasis spans over 50 blocks. It's surrounded by skyscrapers and boasts 21 playgrounds, a zoo and a Swedish Cottage with Marionette shows. Wollman Rink is typically the go-to for ice skating, but for the summer, it has been transformed into a giant pickleball installation with 14 courts. Since it's easier to come and go to the park as you please if you stay in a nearby hotel, put Thompson Central Park New York , winner of a 2024 Good Housekeeping Family Travel Award , on your radar when you're booking your trip.

Museum of the Moving Image

Location: Astoria, Queens

Another staff favorite, the Jim Henson exhibit at the Museum of the Moving Image appeals to kids of all ages. "Younger kids can decorate a Muppet body with eyes and hair," says a Good Housekeeping editor. Meanwhile, older kids will enjoy the interactive stations where they can try their hand at ADR, foley effects, music cues or stop-motion animation. You might even luck out and go on a day when there's a kid-friendly screening.

American Girl Place

Location: Midtown Manhattan

Kids will love taking their dolls out to dinner at American Girl Place New York , which provides doll-size booster seats that attach to the table and a mini place setting so your child's doll can eat with the family. Dolls dine for free while a fun four-course menu is $27 per person — downright inexpensive by NYC standards. The experience is best for kids ages 3-12.

Broadway Shows

Location: Times Square

Broadway shows live up to the hype, so add one (or more!) to your list of must-dos if you have kids in elementary school or older. (While younger kids can attend, they may not be able to sit still for two-plus hours.) Wicked and Hamilton are wonderful all-around picks that please multiple generations. For something more edgy with teens and college-age kids, a Good Housekeeping team member highly recommends Sweeney Todd . "Bring your Playbill to the stage door after most Broadway shows and some of the cast will autograph it," she suggests.

Museum of Broadway

Book tickets to this fun, new attraction for before or after your Broadway performance. The Museum of Broadway is packed with famous costumes, props and other memorabilia from shows, including a retrospective of Broadway's longest-running show, Chicago . If you want to continue with the Broadway theme, have lunch or dinner at Gayle's Broadway Rose. The wait staff sings show tunes and the food is pretty good too!

Bryant Park

Bryant Park sits right outside the main branch of the New York Public Library, and its famous carousel only costs $4 to ride while the one in Central Park will set you back $10, noted one Good Housekeeping staff member. Depending on when you visit, you might run into jugglers or other entertainers in the park. From October to December, Bryant Park hosts a holiday market packed with fun food and handmade gifts for everyone on your list. And don't forget to pop into the library to see its amazing architecture. Tours are free, but space is limited, so be sure to register online . Stop for lunch at Bstro38 —a family-friendly restaurant that serves up American favorites in a casual atmosphere.

Governors Island

Location: A five-minute ferry ride away from the bottom of Manhattan

"Governors Island is the best picnic spot ever!" raved a Good Housekeeping staffer who has a 7-year-old. You can also rent bikes, climb a huge man-made hill, swing in a hammock grove or play on gigantic slides. In the winter, Governors Island also offers ice skating.

Statue of Liberty

Location: Liberty Island

You have a handful of options for seeing Lady Liberty on your trip. If you're in lower Manhattan, hop on the free 24-hour Staten Island Ferry (you don't even need a ticket) and on the way to Staten Island, you'll pass right by the statue. You can turn right around and come back if you want — expect the total trip to be 60 to 90 minutes. Or you could combine a boat ride to see the statue with dinner and book a memorable trip with City Experiences . "It's really magical at sunset," said one of our testers. If you want to climb up the Statue, take a ferry from Battery Park in Lower Manhattan to Liberty Island. While you don't need an advance ticket to go inside the statue, you will need one to access the crown. Keep in mind that kids need to be at least 42 inches tall to visit the crown.

Greenacre Park

Location: Midtown Manhatten

A 25-foot waterfall in the middle of NYC? No way! Yes, it's real! "Almost always shady and cool, the park's cafe is a perfect place to grab a bite with the kids," says Beckman. You'll find this hidden gem at 51st Street between 2nd and 3rd Avenues.

Harry Potter New York

Location: Flatiron District

Get a taste of the Wizarding World right in NYC! The Harry Potter store sells butterbeer, themed treats (chocolate frogs, here you come!) and tons of magical merch in a new-ish store near Madison Square Park. "We got our butter beer to go and drank it in the park," says an editor.

Nearby, you may also want to check out Eataly , an Italian marketplace with pizza, homemade pasta and gelato. If you're visiting on a weekend, stop by Chelsea Flea to check out the vintage clothes. "This area of Manhattan is also a great home base because it's far less crowded than Times Square and still has a lot of fun things to do," says one editor.

The Kimpton Hotel Eventi is a good pick, especially if you're traveling with your pet. In fact, in May, the hotel will offer a Moms & Mutts a "barkuterie board" with canine treats and a playdate with with Liza, the hotel's 20-pound Boston Terrier.

Major League Baseball Game

Location: The Bronx (Yankees) or Queens (Mets)

Take the kids out to the ballgame. At Citi Field, home of the New York Mets, kids can practice taking a swing at a mini baseball diamond behind the scoreboard in center field. Yankee Stadium also offers a play area for mini fans. Its Kids Clubhouse — filled with baseball-themed climbing structures — is located on the 300 level in centerfield. At both ballparks, you'll find some incredible food offerings like towering Grand Slam milkshakes at Yankee Stadium and fried chicken sandwiches that use glazed donuts as the bun at Citi Field.

The Elevated Acre

Location: Lower Manhattan

If you're walking around the Wall Street area with the kids (perhaps to see the 9/11 Memorial Museum) and need to find a quiet spot, head over to the Elevated Acre on 55 Water Street. Nestled on the terrace of a giant office building, it features a large lawn, amphitheater seating, a few winding tree-lined paths and spectacular views of the East River, Brooklyn and the Brooklyn Bridge. "You can easily miss it," warns Beckman. "There is a small sign but it’s quite inconspicuous, and the escalators don’t look like they are for public usage. Look for the outdoor escalators set back from the sidewalk."

American Museum of Natural History

Location: Upper West Side of Manhattan

Dinosaur fans may never want to leave this incredible museum, which recently won a 2023 Good Housekeeping Family Travel Award . The dino exhibit, which takes up an entire hall on the fourth floor, features 100 specimens and is mesmerizing. The American Museum of Natural History still requires timed-entry reservations to visit; book the earliest slot for the best chance at seeing the dinos without a lot of crowds. If you're planning to visit several NYC attractions on your trip, look into purchasing CityPASS , a Good Housekeeping 2024 Family Travel Awards winner. This bundled offering will save you money over buying individual admissions.

Todd Otterness Silver Towers Playground

Location: Hell's Kitchen neighborhood of Manhattan

A sculpture actually doubles as a jungle gym at Todd Otterness Silver Towers Playground . Shaped like a seated human, it has slides for legs, seats for hands and arms that extend as climbing apparatuses. "It's a huge hit with kids as well as their art-loving parents," says Beckman. You'll find it on 41st Street between 11th and 12th Avenues; it's a great place to stop if you're walking back from the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum to Times Square.

Cornelia Street

Location: West Village

The Swifties in your family will want to walk by 23 Cornelia Street, a townhouse where the pop superstar lived in 2016, three years before releasing the song "Cornelia Street." Other spots mentioned in her songs include The High Line and Coney Island.

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21 best free things to do in New York City

Mar 23, 2024 • 9 min read

No filler. No fee. This is the best of New York City for free © Pedro Merino / Stocksy

New York City evokes both high-rise luxury and savvy deals. But the best offer in town? The number of free attractions the Big Apple has to enjoy.

You could spend a lifetime here ticking off the best things to do  – but have you seen the rental prices? It's better to squeeze in a concert, museum or tour that's absolutely free.

Want to make the most of your dollars? Save our guide to visiting New York City on a budget .

1. See one of the world's loveliest final-resting places at Green-Wood Cemetery

Once the nation's most visited tourist attraction outside Niagara Falls, the gorgeous Green-Wood Cemetery was built in 1838 and today is the eternal home to some 600,000 souls. The 478-acre cemetery is leafy and lovely and features Brooklyn's highest point, Battle Hill – named after a skirmish during the Revolutionary War and now marked with a seven-foot statue of the Roman goddess of wisdom, Minerva.

Planning tip:  Watch for the squawking green parakeets at the cemetery's Gothic-style entrance pavilion; according to local legend, these non-native birds arrived after a mishap at JFK Airport in the 1980s and have called the cemetery home ever since.

2. Visit the moving African Burial Ground National Monument

In 1991, construction workers uncovered a burial ground filled with more than 400 caskets containing the bodies of enslaved Africans from the 17th and 18th centuries – an age when New York had more people in bondage than any American city outside Charleston, South Carolina. Today, tucked among downtown skyscrapers, the  African Burial Ground National Monument  offers a space for visitors to contemplate the past and learn about the history of the African American community in early New York City.

3. Discover unsung talent at the American Folk Art Museum

With objects ranging from photographs and quilts to weather vanes in its collection, the American Folk Art Museum is devoted to the appreciation and expressions of self-taught artists, spanning all eras. And perhaps appropriately for an institution devoted to the work of creators from outside the canon, admission is always free.

Keep museum-hopping at these institutions and galleries in NYC .

4. Hear sizzling live jazz at Barbès

Having helped to launch the careers of legendary jazz artists like Dizzy Gillespie and Thelonious Monk, New York City's club scene is enshrined into the pages of jazz history, and seeing a live show here is an essential NYC experience for music lovers. Iconic venues like the Village Vanguard and the Blue Note may be way out of your price range, but head across the bridge to Barbès in Brooklyn, and you can enjoy stellar nightly performances for free (tips for the band are always greatly appreciated).

5. Pay your respects at Grant's Tomb

This imposing granite structure holds the remains of the Civil War hero and 18th president and his wife, Julia. Built after a major fundraising campaign in the late 19th century, the General Ulysses S Grant National Memorial  is the largest mausoleum in the USA and was inspired by Mausolus' tomb at Halicarnassus , one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.  

6. See haute stuff at the Fashion Institute of Technology Museum

It's always Fashion Week at the FIT Museum , which features rotating exhibits by students and engaging exhibitions that draw on a collection of 50,000 garments dating from the 18th century to the present.

7. Admire the Bushwick Collective's curated street art in Brooklyn

Curated by Bushwick native Joe Ficalora, the Bushwick Collective  is an unofficial graffiti museum that brings together top street artists from all around the world. Spanning multiple buildings over several blocks, the art you'll see is all temporary, legal and a worthy rival to anything you'll see in a museum with four walls.

Planning tip:  The Bushwick Collective organizes a free block party every June that brings the whole community together to dance and listen to an incredible lineup of artists. Definitely worth a visit if you're spending a summer in the city.

8. Get a culture fix in the Boogie Down at the Bronx Museum of the Arts 

A scrappy and vibrant institution on the historic Grand Concourse, the Bronx Museum of the Arts' mission is to promote cross-cultural dialogue and make art accessible for diverse urban audiences. Founded in 1971 in New York's northernmost borough , the museum collects and exhibits pieces of contemporary and 20th-century art spanning all mediums. The museum became free in 2012.

9. Savor each of Central Park's 843 acres

Even though the real estate surrounding this famous urban oasis is some of the most expensive in the world, access to Central Park is gloriously free for New Yorkers and visitors of all means. Since Frederick Law Olmsted's layout of the park was intended to be pleasantly disorienting, we recommend spending a few hours wandering aimlessly through its alluring paths, lush groves and delightful water features.

You probably won't want to miss the Imagine mosaic at Strawberry Fields , just steps in from where John Lennon was shot in 1980. You can also retrace the steps of  The Catcher in the Rye  protagonist  Holden Caulfield  by checking out the ducks in the Pond at the park's southeastern corner.

Explore Central Park's best hidden corners on one of these detours.

10. Gallery-hop in West Chelsea

New York's most concentrated area for a gallery crawl is in Chelsea, in the West 20s between 10th and 11th Avenues. From small start-ups to established institutions like Pace and David Zwirner , all galleries are free to enter, with no pressure to buy. Check out the Art Dealers Association of America's gallery guide , which has a comprehensive list of current shows, and create your own arty adventure.

Planning tip:  Plan your tour for a Thursday evening, when most wine-and-cheese openings take place.

11. Hop on a boat to bike around Governors Island

The ferry to Governors Island is free on Saturdays and Sundays before noon (usually a $3 round trip). Entry to the 172-acre island, now open year-round, costs nothing either. An eclectic range of attractions includes a 2.2-mile bike path, artificial hills offering splendid harbor views, a program of live events and rotating art installations, plus former military sites such as the Admiral's House and Fort Jay.

Planning tip:  Frequent (and free) guided tours depart from the Soissons Landing Welcome Center.

12. Admire Lady Liberty from the Staten Island Ferry

The Statue of Liberty is a must-see, but ferry tours to Liberty Island start at $18 for adults. Enter the Staten Island Ferry , which plies New York Harbor 24 hours a day, seven days a week, offering a stellar view of this iconic monument at no cost at all. Having been in service since 1905, the ferry shuttles some 19 million visitors and commuters back and forth across the harbor each year. 

13. See how the magic happens during a Brooklyn Brewery tour

Free tours of Williamsburg's Brooklyn Brewery run Saturday and Sunday every half hour starting at 1pm, with the last tour offered at 6pm. Linger a while after in the tasting room.

14. Catch a cool show at BRIC House and Celebrate Brooklyn!

In a part of Brooklyn humming with cultural activity,  BRIC House  is a leading presenter of no-cost multimedia programming, with free admission to two performance spaces and a gallery. In the summer, the organization curates the Celebrate Brooklyn! series in Prospect Park , with a majority of the concerts and performances – which in the past have sets from Chaka Khan, Janelle Monáe, the dancers of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and many others – free of charge, with no ticket necessary.

15. Promenade on the High Line

Technically a public park, the High Line has the feel of a runway, where New Yorkers and tourists (sometimes a lot of them) sashay for a stroll. Part of the slow, ongoing re-green-ification of Manhattan, this 1.5-mile-long elevated park, standing some 30 feet in the air, was created from an abandoned stretch of elevated railroad track.

Connecting the Meatpacking District with Chelsea's galleries before ending at gleaming Hudson Yards , it costs nothing to take a wander up here. En route, wonderful views open up of the Hudson River to the west and of pedestrians on the sidewalks below. 

Planning tip: Hudson Yards has free movie screenings every Friday night in the public square.

16. Explore Native American culture at the National Museum of the American Indian

Situated in the spectacular Alexander Hamilton U.S. Customs House (1907), the National Museum of the American Indian , a branch of the Smithsonian , offers one of the country's finest arrays of Native American art. The focus of its million-item-strong collection, as well as its programs, is on culture rather than history – prepare for a visual feast.

17. Get inspired at the New York Public Library

New York's most famous library  (today known as the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building) is situated in a grand, world-famous Beaux-Arts icon east of Times Square. Guarded by marble lions named Patience and Fortitude, it's a jaw-dropper to walk through – particularly the Rose Main Reading Room, with space for 500 patrons to pore over tomes under the library's original Carrère and Hastings-designed lamps.

Exhibitions showcase the institution's astonishing holdings, which include a copy of the original Declaration of Independence, a Gutenberg Bible and some 431,000 old maps. Free tours  of the building and the Rose Main Reading Room take place throughout the week.

18. Attend a Shakespeare play

You can try your luck to win free tickets to Shakespeare in the Park, presented each summer in Central Park's Delacorte Theater by the  Public Theater , via the digital lottery and standby lines. You can also get your fix of the Bard – with some awfully romantic lighting – at Shakespeare at Sunset, produced by New York Classical Theatre at non-traditional public venues across the city, including Brooklyn Bridge Park . 

19. See a work of art made from 140 tons of dirt

No frame would be big enough for this. The Earth Room , Walter De Maria's 1977 installation, is a single room in a nondescript SoHo building filled with 280,000 pounds of dirt, combining the familiar confines of an urban space with the scent of a wet forest. Strange? A little. Memorable? Definitely.

20. Interact with the art at Socrates Sculpture Park

Overlooking Roosevelt Island and the Upper East Side on the East River, the site of a former landfill now hosts  Socrates Sculpture Park , a playful and free outdoor museum and public park with large-scale interactive sculptures and multimedia art installations. On Wednesdays in the summer, free movie screenings take place, with an emphasis on foreign films, preceded by corresponding music and cultural performances.

21. Admire the world's first LGBTIQ+ dedicated art space, the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Gay & Lesbian Art

Featuring works by US and international artists, the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Gay & Lesbian Art is the first museum in the world dedicated to LGBTIQ+ themes. As well as rotating exhibitions and regular retrospectives, most of the art on show is from the gallery's vast collection. Lectures, performances and film screenings are also held here regularly. It's free, but donations are welcome.

Save our ultimate guide to LGBTIQ+ travel in NYC .

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This article was first published August 2019 and updated March 2024

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14 Tourist Trap Restaurants in NYC That Are Actually Good

Worth the time for visitors and locals

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Folks traveling to New York often want to live like a local for a few days, visiting the restaurants and bars where they can just blend in and avoid anything too touristy. But plenty of places across the boroughs blur the line between tourist trap and local safe haven.

The places on this map fill up regularly during primetime with tourists, but locals in the know will sneak in, too. Here now, a list of some of the biggest tourist destinations in New York that are worth a visit. Consider them the next time family or friends come to visit.

Health experts consider dining out to be a high-risk activity for the unvaccinated; it may pose a risk for the vaccinated, especially in areas with substantial COVID transmission.

Arthur Avenue Retail Market

This food hall and retail market has been open in the Bronx’s Little Italy since 1940, focused on classic Italian-American goods. Food runs from fresh mozzarella to overstuffed heroes, but Eater critic Robert Sietsema most highly recommends eating at charming Sicilian counter Café al Mercato for some focaccia sandwiches, tripe soup, baked pastas, and other hot entrees. Beyond food, find freshly rolled cigars, tons of dried pasta, craft beer, and even gardening supplies. To make the stop a full tour of the neighborhood, follow Sietsema’s walking guide .

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Open since 1962, Sylvia’s is a Harlem tradition — an essential restaurant, period, for classics like ribs, cornbread, fried chicken, and collards. What started as a luncheonette has expanded to over 200 seats with catering and remains a go-to for politicians and celebrities. Since founder Sylvia Woods died in 2012, the family has been running the business.

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Gray's Papaya

The dogs at Gray’s , on the Upper West Side and open 24/7, have been widely loved for decades, particularly as a popular drunken stop for locals. With its Recession Special still going strong — two franks and a medium drink for $6.95 — it’s little wonder why.

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Magnolia Bakery

Magnolia has a reputation for cupcakes after Sex and the City made it famous. But that’s the rookie move — instead, go for the decadent banana pudding or an airy icebox cake.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Magnolia Bakery (@magnoliabakery) on Apr 4, 2019 at 11:43am PDT

The Halal Guys

Lines snake down the block constantly at this chicken and rice phenom . Its flagship cart sits on West 53rd Street off Sixth Avenue, prime location for tourists going to the Museum of Modern Art and the Midtown lunch crowd. Get the combo platter, and get the sauces.

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Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant

This oyster bar has reigned inside Grand Central’s subterranean space since 1913, and it welcomes commuters just as much as tourists daily. The smart move is to sit at the bar with a plate of raw oysters during the late lunch hour. Order the love-it-or-hate-it  oyster pan roast , and decide which side to choose.

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Chelsea Market

An anchor of West Chelsea for more than 20 years, Chelsea Market is one of the city’s best food courts . It’s always a mob scene and it’s hard to find seating. But it’s a market that locals actually use, for both its stellar restaurant vendors — Ayada, Los Tacos No. 1, and Miznon rise above — and market stands.

John's of 12th Street

This red-sauce spot opened in 1908 and remains a restaurant from another era that we’re happy to revisit in real life and on TV (by way of “the Sopranos” and “Boardwalk Empire ” ). This onetime speakeasy made wine and booze in the basement and today pays homage to Italian American items like pasta fagioli, clams oreganata, chicken parm, or spaghetti and meatballs. It’s also a super vegan friendly menu.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by John's of 12th Street (@johnsof12thstreet)

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Veniero's Pastry

This Italian pastry shop has been going strong since 1894, where cannoli, tiramisu, sfogliatelle, and gelato are all required orders. Devotees of the bakery know to grab a table under the stained glass ceiling just before Veniero’s closes (midnight during the week, and 1 a.m. on weekends).

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Dominique Ansel Bakery

Ever heard of a little pastry called the Cronut? Suckers line up at 6 a.m. for the croissant-doughnut hybrid that took the world by storm — but locals know to go later in the day for pastry chef Dominique Ansel’s stellar kouign amann , frozen s’mores, or any of the other pastries in the case, really.

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This behemoth French brasserie from restaurateur Keith McNally has had a huge influence on the NYC dining scene. Its red leather banquettes, soft lighting, and bistro fare keep it serving one million meals every year . Rather than sit down for a full meal, head to the bar for some steak tartare and frites, wash it down with Champagne, and drink in the Balthazar experience.

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Russ & Daughters

Four generations of family ownership and over one hundred years of business give this place a certain sense of gravitas, but it’s the quality that keeps people coming back. Consider the Classic, a bagel with cream cheese and smoked salmon (maybe with tomato, capers, and onion, too). Take a peek behind the long counter as staff assembles your order. And if you want to try and pass for a local, don’t order your bagel toasted.

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Katz's Delicatessen

Few sandwiches are as famous as a pastrami from Katz’s, and perhaps none have had quite the Hollywood treatment. Sure, it fills up to the brim in here daily, but New Yorkers know to file in near closing time, 11 p.m. most weekdays, midnight on Friday, or any time of night on Saturday (the only night it’s open 24 hours). Katz’s also serves one of the city’s best hot dogs, properly topped with sauerkraut and mustard.

Nathan's Famous

It’s a fact that the dogs served at the original Nathan’s are superior to any from its many franchise locations. They are also better than many of the other hot dogs found in New York. Go on any day that isn’t the Fourth of July.

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14 Most Beautiful Places To See In New York City

• New York City offers a vibrant and diverse experience with its famous streets, iconic buildings, and beautiful parks and gardens.
• The High Line is a must-visit urban oasis with lush greenery, gardens, and stunning views of the cityscape and Hudson River.
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Washington Square Park, and Central Park are some of the most beautiful and culturally significant places to see in New York City.

New York City is one of the most vibrant destinations on the East Coast. Whether walking down its famous streets, visiting its iconic buildings, or discovering the beauty of New York City's parks and gardens - the city will have anything but a dull moment. New York City is one of the most diverse cities in the world, and people from all over the world visit to immerse themselves in all that it has to offer.

With some of the most delicious world cuisine ( including some authentic Italian restaurants ), museums, a raging art and music scene, shopping, entertainment, and more - New York is the epitome of city life. Experiencing the city's hustle and bustle will be a lifetime trip. This city is home to some of the most beautiful and historical places in the United States. Choosing which sites to add to one's bucket list may be challenging with all the options. Here are ten of the most beautiful places to see in New York City.

UPDATE: 2023/09/28 22:43 EST BY LUANA FERREIRA

More Beautiful Places To Visit In New York

New York is one of the world's biggest cities, and there are countless beautiful places that locals and tourists should visit. Therefore, this list has been expanded to include places such as the High Line, the Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, the Washington Square Park, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Have fun!

RELATED: 10 Things To Do In The Bronx: Complete Guide To NYC's Northernmost Borough

The High Line

The High Line in New York City is an urban oasis suspended above the bustling streets of Manhattan, and its tranquil ambiance and architectural ingenuity make it a must-visit destination, providing both locals and tourists a respite in the heart of the metropolis.

This elevated linear park, repurposed from a historic railway track, offers a serene escape amidst the city's hustle and bustle.

Lush greenery, vibrant gardens, and public art installations adorn the path, creating a harmonious blend of nature and urbanity. The High Line provides stunning views of the cityscape and Hudson River, offering a unique perspective of New York.

• Address : New York, NY 10011, United States
• Open hours: From 9 am to 10 pm

DUMBO, Brooklyn

DUMBO, short for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, is a famous neighborhood in Brooklyn. Nestled along the East River, it boasts a distinctive blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy, thanks to its cobblestone streets, converted warehouses, and stunning views of the Manhattan skyline characterize this waterfront enclave.

DUMBO is a hub for art, culture, and innovation, hosting numerous galleries, boutiques, and tech startups. Visitors can revel in the enchanting scenery of the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges, enjoy a scenic stroll along the waterfront, and savor culinary delights at trendy eateries. DUMBO encapsulates Brooklyn's dynamic spirit, making it a compelling destination to explore.

It's possible to reach DUMBO by crossing the Brooklyn Bridge walking or by bike

Washington Square Park

Locals and tourists looking for an urban oasis amidst America's most populous city can find it at Washington Square Park. The place is a cultural crossroads, offering a serene respite, captivating ambiance, and a front-row seat to the lively spirit of Greenwich Village.

Located in Manhattan, the Washington Square Park features the iconic Washington Arch, a historic landmark. Trees, gardens, and a central fountain surround visitors. The park's bohemian atmosphere, abuzz with musicians, artists, and locals, lends it a dynamic character. The stunning arch frames views of the surrounding cityscape, adding to its allure.

• Address : Washington Square, New York, NY 10012, United States

Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is often referred to as "The Met" (Yes, the same place that hosts the famous Met Gala). The museum is an architectural and cultural masterpiece in New York City thanks to its grand Beaux-Arts façade.

Beyond its architecture, the Met features a worldwide collection representing 5,000 years of history. Visitors admire over two million works, from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces. The museum's diverse exhibits, including European paintings, Egyptian antiquities, and Asian art, offer a global journey through artistic expression.

• Address : 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028, USA
• Admission fees: $30 for adults, $22 for seniors, $17 for students
• Open hours: From Sunday to Thursday - 10 am to 5 pm; Friday and Sunday from 10 am to 9 pm

Central Park

Central Park is one of New York's most iconic attractions. People from all over the world visit to admire its beauty, and the best part - is that Central Park is free, and there are many ways to spend time there . This park is famous for its landscape design and is one of the city's most beautiful places. The park offers many things to do and see, where visitors can spend hours discovering different areas with some of the most picturesque views.

• The Central Park has 843 acres

Old City Hall Subway Station

With some of the most beautiful places in New York - Old City Hall Subway Station is a must-see when visiting the city. Initially opening in 1904, this hidden subway station has a mesmerizing architectural build and is a beautiful way to see New York's historical public transportation system. It is located at the end of the six-train line, and tours are available for guests who want to visit the old subway station.

• Admission fees: Between $35 and $50

Related: New York City's Springtime Waterways: Exploring The City's Rivers & Harbors On Boat Tours

Statue Of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is a historical attraction in the city - a neoclassical structure that offers some of the most beautiful views in the city. People worldwide visit to witness the statue and all its beauty. With some of the prettiest parts of New York one can explore , a trip to the Statue of Liberty will show visitors the rich history of New York City. This is one of the best locations to take amazing pictures!

• Ferry fees: $12 (Children), $24.50 (Adult), $18 (Senior)
• Pedestal access: $12.30 (Children), $24.80 (Adult), $18.30 (Senior)

Prospect Park

New York City has some of the most beautiful parks, not just Central Park. Prospect Park is in Brooklyn, New York, and is home to a breathtaking green space in the city. From excellent trails, a botanical garden, waterfalls, and a zoo - Prospect Park is a must-visit when discovering beautiful areas in New York City. Whether walking in the park or having a picnic with family and friends, it's a lovely way to spend some time in the city's gorgeous outdoors.

• Famous events: Evening Under the Sphere, FallFur Picnic, Harvest Moon Circle

Brooklyn Bridge

Take a trip to Brooklyn Bridge to see one of the most iconic bridges in New York. Visiting New York's beautiful and historic attractions is one of the best parts of traveling in the city. Brooklyn Bridge’s stunning architectural build shows the city's vast history. It's a beautiful way to walk along the bridge, with many opportunities to take pictures and view the city's skyline.

It's possible to cross the Brooklyn Bridge using the pedestrian walkway.

Edge Observation Deck

Edge Observation Deck is an attraction in New York City that offers some of the most mesmerizing views of the city. It is 100 stories high and is a beautiful way to immerse in the city's beauty. It is one of the best ways to see the city's beauty from a high point. A trip to the Edge will be the experience of a lifetime with its glass floors, breathtaking 360-degree views of the city, and a bar for enjoyment.

• Address: 30 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001, United States

Related: Flavors Of New York State: Discovering 10 Must-Try Cuisines In New York City

New York is home to some of the most iconic neighborhoods. SoHo is a neighborhood worth visiting for those who want to experience New York's beautiful streets and breathtaking buildings. From art galleries, shops, street vendors, restaurants, a nightlife scene, and so much more - there is much to see and discover in this beautiful neighborhood in New York City.

• Things to do: Museum of Ice Cream, The Museum of Modern Art, Housing Works Bookstore

Madison Square Park

Home to some of the most beautiful parks - Madison Square Park is high on the list of New York's mesmerizing outdoor spaces. It is a fantastic place to visit to walk and enjoy New York in the spring. For nature lovers, the park offers various greenery to escape the busy city life. Whether taking a small snack or enjoying time with family or friends, it will be a beautiful and relaxing experience in the city.

• Address : 11 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10010, United States

Times Square

Times Square is one of the most popular destinations in New York City. People worldwide travel to see its iconic lights, billboards, buildings, and so much more. It is a must-visit when touring the city to see the town's beauty and all it is known for. Offering many shops and restaurants, the area has much to do and see, with many opportunities for pictures. Times Square is one of New York's most busy and thrilling areas and is worth experiencing for those traveling to the city!

The most common and convenient way to reach Times Square is by subway. Multiple subway lines, including the 1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, and S lines, serve the Times Square-42nd Street station.

Related: 10 Top-Rated Museums In New York City That Should Be On Your List

New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building

Visit the New York City Public Library to get views of its stunning architecture and immerse in the city's history. This extensive library is a charming destination to discover New York's diverse beauty and experience all the city's spaces. With a fantastic collection of books and areas to discover inside and outside the library, it is one of the most beautiful places to visit in New York City.

• Address: 476 Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street

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Vote for your favorite summer travel destination!

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Whether you're hitting the road with the family or embarking on a solo adventure, summer is the peak season for travel in the United States. There are so many endlessly compelling sights to see and things to do throughout this country's millions of square miles, from picturesque national parks to sleepy mountain towns to breathtakingly beautiful beaches. An expert panel has nominated their 20 must-see places for a summer vacation, and we need your help to crown the best of the best. Which summer travel destination is your favorite spot? Vote once per day until voting ends on Monday, May 13 at noon ET. The 10 winners will be announced on Wednesday, May 22.  Read the official Readers' Choice rules .

Whether you're hitting the road with the family or embarking on a solo adventure, summer is the peak season for travel in the United States. There are so many endlessly compelling sights to see and things to do...   Read More

Best Summer Travel Destination Nominees

Photo courtesy of The Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce

Bar Harbor, Maine

Located on Mount Desert Island, this quaint small town is known as a gateway to iconic Acadia National Park and is a popular cruise stop. During a visit, be sure to spend time in Bar Harbor's idyllic downtown, which is home to a plethora of top-tier eateries, small boutiques, and art galleries.

Photo courtesy of Melanie LeDuc / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Black Hills & Badlands, South Dakota

Situated in South Dakota, set about 70 miles apart, the Black Hills and Badlands offer an experience full of history, geological wonders, and stunning views. The area is home to the famous Mt. Rushmore, which receives more than 2 million visitors a year.

Photo courtesy of pabradyphoto / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Capitol Reef Country, Utah

Nestled in southern Utah, Capitol Reef Country incorporates Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Arches national parks. Because of their proximity to each other, this makes for an excellent road trip adventure where you’ll get to see the striking geologic strata that makes this area unique. 

Photo courtesy of Jasper Chamber / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Catalina Island, California

Catalina Island, which stretches 22 miles, is an ideal coastal destination in California. Historically significant because it’s been the filming location for more than 500 films, TV shows, and commercials over the past 90 years, this family-friendly destination is also well-known for its pristine beaches, outdoor activities, and sumptuous seafood. 

Photo courtesy of Cody Yellowstone

Cody, Wyoming

This rugged mountain town is the gateway to Yellowstone National Park, and it's known as the "Rodeo Capital of the World," offering you a glimpse into the Wild West. Named after Buffalo Bill Cody, Cody, Wyoming, features sweeping views, hearty and authentic cowboy fare, and many opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Photo courtesy of Dan Eggert/Destination Door County

Door County, Wisconsin

For an unexpected lakeside vacation spot, it’s hard to beat Wisconsin’s Door County, home to 300 miles of shoreline along Lake Michigan and every water sport you can imagine. Paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, water skiing, and even scuba diving around shipwrecks are all among the aquatic activities available throughout this Midwestern destination. For those who prefer staying on land, there’s also a solid beer and wine scene, art galleries to explore, plus hiking, biking, and more at their five state parks. 

Photo courtesy of UpdogDesigns / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Finger Lakes, New York

New York's Finger Lakes region comprises 11 lakes in upstate New York, offering an ideal summer getaway by the water. The area is well-recognized for its rieslings, so you’ll want to book a wine tasting at one of the many wineries while visiting. And if you have little ones in tow, visit the Seabreeze Amusement Park, where you can enjoy a number of rides and attractions. 

Photo courtesy of Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama

Alabama's Gulf Coast offers 32 miles of pristine white sand beaches and cerulean blue waters, and it's home to an amazing restaurant scene. This spot is popular with families because of the many outdoor activities available for all ages. Whether you want to relax on the beach, head out on a kayaking expedition, or venture to an amusement park, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. 

Photo courtesy of Jody O for Travel Juneau

Juneau, Alaska

Juneau is an eclectic mountain town boasting over 250 miles of hiking trails, as well as a walkable, charming downtown. Situated on Gastineau Channel, the city offers plenty of opportunities to get on the water. It's also home to diverse wildlife, rich in Indigenous history, and full of lovely accommodations. You’ll find this one of Alaska’s ultimate gems, especially in the summer.

Photo courtesy of Alex Byers

Laurel Highlands, Pennsylvania

If you love the great outdoors, you’ll be smitten with Laurel Highlands, which sits in southwestern Pennsylvania. It’s approximately 3,000 square miles and includes three counties: Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland. Visit Fallingwater, which is recognized as a National Historic Landmark and one of architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s most acclaimed works. For thrill-seekers, book a white-water rafting excursion in Ohiopyle State Park. The park also offers numerous challenging hikes where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views.

Photo courtesy of Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, you’ll find Mackinac Island, where you’ll ride on horse-drawn carriages along car-free roads, observe fudge being made (and then sample it), and tour the historic Fort Mackinac. This Lake Huron-based continental island is also home to Mackinac Island State Park, where you can hike, bike, kayak, and take photos of the local natural beauty, including the stunning limestone Arch Rock.

Photo courtesy of Ocean City, MD Tourism

Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City, Maryland, is the quintessential beach town, offering laid-back vibes, old-fashioned boardwalk treats, and beautiful sandy beaches. Head over to a bustling arcade, get in line for a thrill at Trimper Rides, or simply sit back with a good book and dig your feet into the sand.

Photo courtesy of Ocean City Chamber of Commerce

Ocean City, New Jersey

This family-friendly vacation spot on the Jersey Shore is known for its exciting boardwalk, with shops and eateries galore, views of the Atlantic, plus vintage amusement parks. Playland’s Castaway Cove is one such park, with go-karts, thrill rides including roller coasters, a fun house, and mini golf. And if parks aren’t your thing, there’s miles and miles of relaxing beaches on which to get in some sun and swimming.

Photo courtesy of Katie Jones via San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau

San Juan Islands, Washington

While there are some 176 islands and reefs that make up the San Juan Islands, the main four — San Juan, Orcas, Lopez, and Shaw — are serviced by the state ferry system and offer accommodations for tourists. While these islands are diverse and offer different experiences, they all feature spectacular vistas of the Salish Sea, with plenty of water and land activities to keep everyone busy. Accommodations range from hotels and resorts to small inns, vacation rentals, and camping sites.

Photo courtesy of Shores & Islands Ohio

Sandusky, Ohio

Home to Cedar Point amusement park, which has over 150 rides and attractions, Sandusky is an ideal family-friendly vacation spot. The town is also home to a picturesque downtown with art galleries, boutiques, and a thriving culinary scene. Visit the Maritime Museum of Sandusky for a look at the city’s history, or head to the Sandusky State Theatre and take in a performance. 

Photo courtesy of Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism

Sevier County, Tennessee

Sevier County, Tennessee, is widely known as a gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the most visited national parks in the United States. Three towns are ideal spots for setting up base camp while visiting the region: Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg. Offering everything from picture-perfect scenery to Dollywood to the state’s only ski resort, there's plenty to see and do in the area.

Photo courtesy of NPS Photo/J. Baird

South Rim - Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Probably the exact location you're picturing when you think of the Grand Canyon, the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park is an iconic American destination worthy of many a bucket list. Check out Grand Canyon Village during a visit, which offers a range of attractions and accommodations. It’s also the site of the Grand Canyon Railway Depot, which is still in service today and takes visitors on a scenic ride, where you might spot wildlife such as elk, deer, and mountain lions.

Photo courtesy of Space Coast Office of Tourism

Space Coast, Florida

Situated on Florida’s Atlantic shore, the Space Coast area is recognized as the home of the Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, where Apollo 11 lifted off for its moon landing mission. The region is also a hub of activities, including water sports, cruise excursions, fishing, and golfing. It's also a great spot for lazy beach days.

Photo courtesy of Swain County NC Chamber of Commerce

Swain County, North Carolina

Swain County, home to charming Bryson City, is a gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The area is overflowing with hiking trails, scenic waterfalls, golfing, and water activities. You'll find opportunities for tubing, as well as white-water rafting, with the Nantahala Outdoor Center offering 500 acres of adventure.

Photo courtesy of OKRAD / E+ Getty Images

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach’s 3-mile long boardwalk is a major draw for those that visit this town, known for its maritime history and family-friendly appeal. It comprises three beach areas: Virginia Beach, Chesapeake Bay, and Sandbridge Beach, which stretches for 35 miles, making it the world’s longest pleasure beach in the world. With a flourishing downtown and amazing restaurants, Virginia Beach makes for a great summer escape.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Chelle koster walton.

Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for...   Read More

Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for Naples, Florida and the Caribbean — has been covering the destination for 30 years. Her top-selling  Sarasota, Sanibel Island, and Naples  guidebook (Countryman Press) is in its sixth edition. She was contributing editor for  Caribbean Travel & Life  for 12 years and has written guidebooks on the Bahamas. A veteran travel writer, Chelle has published thousands of articles for  Miami Herald, USA TODAY, Latitudes;  has written/contributed to a dozen guidebooks, and produces travel shows for the local PBS station.

Chez Chesak

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50...   Read More

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50 countries, many of them with her children in tow. She loves visiting everything from theme parks to ancient ruins and packs strictly carry-on-only. Jamie can be reached at [email protected].

Jenny Peters

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los...   Read More

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los Angeles-based freelance journalist, editor and party columnist specializing in travel, entertainment, film, food, wine, fashion and the other good things in life. She is a founding/voting member of the Critics Choice Association, who present the Critics’ Choice Awards every January. Her favorite places to be are on the beach in Southern California playing volleyball, scuba diving with the sharks in warm tropical waters or strolling the streets and soaking in the atmosphere of one of the world's great cities (New Orleans and Florence are her favorites).

Meg St-Esprit

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh...   Read More

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh who covers family travel, lifestyle, education, and parenting. With their four kids in tow, she and her husband love to travel anywhere and everywhere — but have a soft spot for camping and outdoor adventures. In fact, her kids are well on their way to achieving their goal of visiting all 124 state parks in Pennsylvania. Meg believes travel doesn’t need to be luxurious or costly to be valuable, and aims to share that with her audience. Meg’s work has appeared in publications such as  The New York Times, Thrillist, The Washington Post, Fodor’s, Yahoo, Good Housekeeping, Romper , and more. Follow Meg on Instagram and Twitter at @megstesprit or check out her work on  https://megstesprit.com/

Melanie Reffes

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in...   Read More

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

Molly O'Brien

Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance...   Read More

Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance travel journalist, who writes and edits for a variety of international travel and lifestyle outlets including Fodor’s Travel, Travel + Leisure, and Business Insider among others. She's lived on both coasts from Massachusetts to California and has so far made Greater Boston, the San Francisco Bay Area, San Luis Obispo, Barcelona, and Los Angeles her home.  Molly earned her journalism degree at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo on the Central Coast of California and since then has worked professionally in the fields of hospitality and travel PR and most recently, as a freelance travel writer and editor. Molly especially enjoys covering feature profiles about interesting people doing interesting things such as chocolate making, beekeeping, wing-walking, and interesting destinations like under-the-radar wine spots, the best brewery towns, and lesser-known ski destinations.  She also loves to write about a boutique hotel with a good story. When she's not writing, Molly enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring new coffee shops and breweries, and of course, traveling.  Her favorite city in the world (so far) is Barcelona, Spain, but she loves traveling anywhere that offers sunny weather and ample hiking opportunities. She loves spending time in the mountains, enjoys connecting with nature through camping and glamping adventures, and is always up for learning about the world through fun, immersive experiences (and then sharing those stories!).  You can connect with Molly here:  Instagram: @metropolitanmolly Twitter: @Molly_A_OBrien Facebook: @MetropolitanMolly LinkedIn: @mollyannobrien www.metropolitanmolly.com

Rob Taylor is the author of  The Road Trip Survival...   Read More

Rob Taylor is the author of  The Road Trip Survival Guide  (being released May 25, 2021) and  the founder of 2TravelDads , the original LGBT Family Travel blog. Focusing on ecotourism and education, 2TravelDads inspires LGBT families (and traditional families also) to go beyond their usual getaways and use travel to learn about and be part of a bigger world. 2TravelDads blazes the way for other two-dad and two-mom families to travel to previously overlooked destinations or places we as gay people would normally avoid. We share the struggles we've faced and the surprising gems and welcomes we've had along the way. Traveling as a family is one thing, traveling as an LGBT family is completely something else.

Tamara Gane

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best...   Read More

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. She's based in Reno/Lake Tahoe and in addition to USA Today 10Best, her work has been published in Travel & Leisure, Fodor's Travel, The Washington Post, SF Gate, Houston Chronicle, Lonely Planet, and more.

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.