new york tourist attractions top 7

22 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New York City

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

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

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

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

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

See also: Where to Stay in New York City

1. Statue of Liberty

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Best Parks in New York City

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, New York

Read More: Best Places to Go for Christmas

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Museums in New York City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 180 Greenwich St, New York, New York

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Location: Manhattan West Side

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Temporary Address: 945 Madison Avenue at 75th Street

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury Hotels:

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

Mid-Range Hotels:

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

Budget Hotels:

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

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

Explore the City :

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

See the Sights from the Water :

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

Get an Aerial Perspective :

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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34 Best Things to Do in NYC

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

• All Things To Do
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Central Park Central Park free

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

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

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

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

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

Empire State Building Empire State Building

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

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

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Metropolitan Museum of Art Metropolitan Museum of Art

U.S. News Insider Tip: Come for the art, stay for the rooftop cocktails. A seasonal rooftop garden bar offers views over Central Park, which is especially coveted at sunset. The roof garden stays open into the evening on Friday and Saturday. – Jessica Colley Clarke

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

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

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

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

Brooklyn Bridge Brooklyn Bridge free

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

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

The High Line The High Line free

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

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

NYC Food Tours NYC Food Tours

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

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

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Washington Square Park Washington Square Park free

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

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

Broadway Broadway

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

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

One World Observatory One World Observatory

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

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

Grand Central Terminal Grand Central Terminal free

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

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

Bryant Park Bryant Park free

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

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

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Staten Island Ferry Staten Island Ferry free

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

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

Museum of Modern Art Museum of Modern Art

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

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

New York Public Library New York Public Library free

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

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

American Museum of Natural History American Museum of Natural History

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

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

Brooklyn Botanic Garden Brooklyn Botanic Garden

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

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

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Brooklyn Bridge Park Brooklyn Bridge Park free

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

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

The Guggenheim The Guggenheim

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

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

Off-Broadway Shows Off-Broadway Shows

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

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

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

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

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

Little Island Little Island free

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

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

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

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

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

Little Italy Little Italy free

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

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

Times Square Times Square free

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

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

Fifth Avenue Fifth Avenue free

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

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

Bronx Zoo Bronx Zoo

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

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

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Apollo Theater Apollo Theater

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

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

Metropolitan Opera House Metropolitan Opera House

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

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

Radio City Music Hall Radio City Music Hall

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

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

The Battery The Battery free

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

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

Coney Island Coney Island

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

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

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Chrysler Building Chrysler Building free

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

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

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The 21 best attractions in Manhattan

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

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

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

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

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Best Manhattan attractions

1.  One World Observatory

• Towers and viewpoints
• Financial District

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

2.  Empire State Building

• Monuments and memorials
• Midtown West

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

3.  The Statue of Liberty

• Liberty Island

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

4.  The Metropolitan Museum of Art

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

5.  Central Park

• Things to do
• Walks and tours

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

Rent a bike in Central Park.

6.  Chrysler Building

• Civic buildings
• Midtown East

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

7.  The High Line

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

8.  Theater District

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

Get spooked on a haunted Broadway theater tour.

9.  Harbor helicopter tour

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

10.  National September 11 Memorial & Museum

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

11.  Rockefeller Center

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

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12.  Grand Central Terminal

• Historic buildings and sites

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

13.  Whitney Museum of American Art

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

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

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14.  New-York Historical Society

• Upper West Side

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

15.  The Guggenheim Museum

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

16.  Times Square

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

See Times Square on a walking tour.

17.  Chelsea Market

• Markets and fairs

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

Explore Chelsea Market and The Highline.

18.  Flatiron Building

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

19.  American Museum of Natural History

• Science and technology

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

20.  Macy’s Herald Square

• Department stores

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

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

• Libraries, archives and foundations

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

Looking for more things to do?

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The 37 Best Things to Do in New York City

By Melissa Liebling-Goldberg and Alex Erdekian

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

Read our complete New York City travel guide here .

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

Central Park Arrow

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

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

Whitney Museum of American Art Arrow

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

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

Laura Kiniry

Stacey Lastoe

Jemima Sissons

The Morgan Library & Museum Arrow

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

The Cathedral of St. John the Divine Arrow

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

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

MoMA PS1 Arrow

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

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

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

New York Botanical Garden Arrow

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

Brooklyn Heights Promenade

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

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

9/11 Memorial and Museum Arrow

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

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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.

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

Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Arrow

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

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

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

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

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

Lincoln Center Arrow

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

Washington Square Park Arrow

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

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

Blue Note Jazz Club Arrow

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

Union Square Greenmarket Arrow

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

Rockefeller Center Arrow

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

Comedy Cellar Arrow

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

American Museum of Natural History Arrow

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

The Strand Book Store Arrow

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

Bronx Zoo Arrow

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

Governors Island Arrow

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

McCarren Park Arrow

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

Elsewhere Arrow

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

Rockaway Beach Arrow

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

Metrograph Arrow

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

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

Chelsea's Art Galleries Arrow

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

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Plain2Plane

The Top 7 New York City Tourist Attractions (For Your First Time)

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With so much to do in New York City, we’ve narrowed down the top 7 tourist attractions that you need to visit especially if it’s your first time in the city. NYC is an incredible city, there is a reason that there are so many songs written about it. Speaking of which, there are around 161 songs sung about the city making it the most in the world!

If you’ve found this article then you are probably thinking “what should I do on my first trip to New York?” If you’re a first timer to NYC then you need to be prepared that it is a very quick paced, busy city. You will need to spend a minimum of 4 days in NYC to visit just some of the attractions.

You will easily get wrapped up in the hustle and bustle of New York in no time. You need the patience of a Saint for crossing the roads too! As a couple from the UK, we are not used to having to wait at pedestrian crossings. In the UK, we just cross over the road the second there are no cars whereas in NYC you definitely need to wait, the drivers are very impatient. It’s true what you see on TV with all the yellow cabs beeping their horns impatiently trying to get through the chaos of traffic.

The one thing you need to know about visiting any tourist attraction in New York City is to be prepared for long wait times. There are so many cool experiences in NYC that you want to be able to take advantage of as many as possible. The best thing to do is to plan in advance as much as possible. We purchased Go City passes which enabled us to visit a number of attractions over the course of 4 days and keep our trip to New York City on a budget . They were such a good idea to save money as we totalled up the prices of all the attractions we went to and we would have spent far more if we hadn’t got the Go City Passes. Some of the attractions also include a skip the queue as well so we found that we also saved time using them!

Table of Contents

Located in Hudson Yard, you will find a super stylish shopping mall. On the top of this sits an outside sky deck, The Edge, where you can get beautiful views across the city. You will be able to look down through a glass floor and see the world moving below you. You will ride an elevator up 100 stories and be able to get some amazing Instagram photos of the city’s skyline. This is one of the best things to do in New York! There are a lot of different places to visit where you can get city views but this was by far our favourite one!

Whilst you’re waiting to ascend to the top, you will be taken through an informative museum explaining more about the area and the history behind Hudson Yard. We won’t leave any spoilers but the Edge is really worth the visit and you will be in the perfect location to explore Hudson Yard’s vessel. The architecture of this will absolutely blow you away especially after you learn more about it at the Edge.

If you’re feeling brave enough, you can also organise a climb up the skyscraper for $185. This also includes a complimentary video of you scaling the building and a medal to celebrate your incredible achievement of making it to the top!

We were really glad that we purchased the Go City 4 Day Pass because when we arrived, we were put in a fast track queue so this saved us a lot of time. This then enabled us more time to fit in an extra attraction this day. If you are planning to visit The Edge but have not purchased the Go City passes then make sure that you book this online. The prices are more expensive if you pay for the experience at the attraction and you also won’t be able to guarantee a timeslot either. If you’re visiting during sunset then you will expect to pay an extra $10 on ticket price during this time period.

Adult (online) – $40 / Child (online) – $35 / Senior (online) – $38

Adult (on site) – $42 / Child (on site) – $37 / Senior (on site) – $40

Opening Times

Open between 10:00am – 10:00pm everyday. You will find that the last elevator ride up to The Edge is 50 minutes before closing.

Located on Level 4 of The Shops & Restaurants at Hudson Yards

Find more information here.

Central Park

Central Park is easily one of the most famous areas of New York City and you could spend all day here! If you’re wanting to escape the concrete jungle then Central Park is the perfect place to immerse yourself into a bit of nature again. The park is underestimated for how large it really is so before you visit, make sure that you check out which areas of the park you’d like to visit. We done our own version of a Gossip Girl tour so we headed to a few of the locations to see some of the sights.

There are plenty of maps that you can find on Central Park’s website which will show you all the different areas that you can visit.

The park hosts a number of events throughout the year so make sure that you check their calendar before visiting so that you don’t miss anything! There are so many different areas of Central Park that have been used for filming in popular films and TV Shows and even used for inspiration too. You may be familiar with the popular children’s film Madagascar.

Even though no actual filming took place within the park, the films reiterates many times that it is set within Central Park Zoo. That’s right, if you didn’t know, the park even has its very own zoo! Other popular films that have been filmed in the park include Maid in Manhattan, Ghostbusters, When Harry Met Sally, The Avengers, 27 Dresses, Enchanted and not to forget popular TV show Gossip Girl!

There is plenty to do within Central Park and you can easily dedicate more than a whole day here! No matter what time of year you’re visiting, you will find plenty of things to do. Planning to visit during the winter? Read the best things to do in Central Park during the winter here.

If you are planning a trip to Central Park, as tempting as it may be, please don’t pay for the horse and carriage rides. The horses are treated terribly and by paying for this experience you will be helping to endorse and continue this treatment. We never really thought about it before we visited Central Park but once we arrived, you could see how depressed the horses looked. After quick research online, it is very clear that they are not treated well at all and its very sad to see. Don’t let this dishearten you though because the park is very beautiful and there is so much to do.

06:00am – 01:00am

Central Park stretches from 59th Street to 110th Street, between Fifth Avenue and Central Park West.

Times Square

How can you visit New York without going to Times Square? It is one of the most iconic places in the city and perfect for getting those Instagrammable shots. Like everywhere else in New York, you will find that it is very busy so learning to take photographs with lots of people walking past is an absolute must!

Times Square is one of the most popular places to spend New Years Eve . This is not something we actually experienced ourselves as after researching online we found that we didn’t want to be in the street standing all evening. However, it is where you go to see the ball drop and you will find that the atmosphere is absolutely buzzing!

Around the square, you will also find plenty of street performers, people dressed up as famous characters like The Avengers, Mickey Mouse and Batman. There is a charge to take a photo with any of the characters so just be mindful if you’re not expecting to pay any money for something like this. The street performers are awesome to watch but make sure that you leave them a tip at the end!

Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds isn’t something that either of us expected to enjoy. We’ve both been to London a number of times and never really had any desire to visit the museum there. However, as the attraction was included in our Go City Pass , we decided to give it a go. It was one of the latest opening attractions on the pass and we wanted to do something late in the evening so we thought why not?! It ended up being one of our best experiences in New York City.

We absolutely loved it! We had such a good laugh posing and taking photos with all the different waxworks that we really would recommend. This was easily one of our favourite activities to do in NYC as a couple !

To avoid crowds, we would suggest that it is better to do the same as us and visit late in the evening when everyone has gone to have dinner. This way you will avoid any large crowds and be able to take some awesome photos for IG!

It really is incredible how much detail goes into the waxworks and how lifelike they are! Also included with our pass was the Marvel’s Universe 4D movie which was a really unique experience. As we are both Marvel fans this was definitely a highlight for us. Liam enjoyed wandering around taking photos with all the different Marvel characters. Amy absolutely loved the horror section getting some creepy videos of Annabelle and IT! It is a good laugh and great fun for families in particular too!

Admission + Marvel Universe 4D + Carnival Carnage 7D + Digital Photo Pass – $49.99

Admission + Marvel Universe 4D – $43.99

All Inclusive Package – $64.99

Monday – Thursday & Sunday – 10am – 8pm

Friday & Saturday – 10am – 10pm

234 W. 42nd Street New York, NY 10036

Top of the Rock

This is another incredible viewpoint in the Rockefeller Centre with panoramic views across the city. You will take an elevator 70 floors up to experience beautiful views across the city’s skyline. If you’re visiting more than one observation deck then we would recommend visiting one during the day and another later at night so that you can see the city all lit up!

There are 3 different observation decks including an indoor section on the 67 th floor and then an outdoor terrace. You can then climb up further to the 70 th floor to get even better view from the open-air deck. The best part about the 70 th floor is that it is unobstructed from glass enclosures too so you won’t need to worry about any glare or streak marks on your photos.

We absolutely love this observation deck! Especially when you walk in you will marvel at the beauty of the building. There is a beautiful chandelier that sets the aesthetic for the building. Like all attractions within New York, make sure that you book in advance and try to avoid peak times!

General Admission (Adult) – $40 / (Child) – $34 / (Senior) – $38

Express Pass – $85

VIP Tour – $125

Daily between 9am – 11pm. The last elevator goes up at 10:10pm.

30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112, Enter on 50th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, 212.698.2000

Find more information here .

Statue of Liberty

One of the most popular attractions to visit in New York is of course the Statue of Liberty. The statue is a figure that represents US culture and was actually a gift from the people of France. It symbolises the declaration of independence and an icon of freedom. The statue is on Liberty Island so you will be able to take a ferry to the island to see it up close. When you are taking the ferry to the island, you can also visit Ellis Island too. Both of these have museums on the island too and no additional ticket is required to visit them. Make sure that you head up to the Liberty Vista above the Statue of Liberty museum to get some amazing views of the statue and the harbour. Not to mention that you’ll get some great photos of the Statue of Liberty for Instagram !

As you can imagine, this is a very popular attraction so prepare for it to be busy with a lot of queues. This is a must do if it is your first time in New York. It is also another attraction that is included with the Go City Pass too which will definitely help save you some money.

To get the ferry to the islands, you will need to get yourself to Battery Park. You can reach the park by subway, car or bus. You can purchase the ferry tickets from Statue City Cruises. Do not buy tickets from any other company as they will not be valid. Alternatively, you can purchase tickets at the booths in Battery Park. However, it is always worth trying to purchase these in advance to prevent waiting in long queues to buy tickets.

It is one of the best things you need to do when visiting New York City as it is one of the biggest symbols of the city!

Ticket prices can vary depending on time of year, date and time of day. They also offer a variety of admission tickets including general admission, pedestal reserve, Ellis Island hard hat tour and Crown Reserve. They all have different features and upgrades. You can check availability and the type of access you would like by visiting Statue City Cruises’ website here!

Times can vary depending on the season. Always double check the website before making any plans to visit the Statue of Liberty. Generally the first ferry departs from the mainland at 9am. The last ferry usually departs from the mainland at 3:30pm and the last ferry leaves Ellis Island at 5:15pm.

Access the ferry to Liberty Island and Ellis Island from Battery Park or Liberty State Park in Jersey City.

-Battery Park – Liberty Island, New York, NY 10004, United States

-1 Audrey Zapp Dr, Jersey City, NJ 07305, United States

Empire State Building

This is another incredibly iconic part of New York City. You can see the Empire State Building very easily as it towers above all the rest of the buildings. It is a 102-storey skyscraper in Midtown Manhattan and is one of the first 100+ storey buildings in the world. There are so many amazing things to do in Manhattan and the Empire State Building is just one of them. The architecture of the building is absolutely phenomenal that you can’t help but marvel at its grandeur.

This is of course a very busy attraction so you will need to plan ahead and book in advance. We made the mistake of not checking the weather before visiting! Our views from the building were not the best and yet the queues were still ridiculous. You will walk through a museum about the building and there is even a ride to help you understand what it was like during the construction of the building.

The building is not only famous for its size and creation. It is also famous because of how frequently it is shown in different films and TV shows. It has been in over 250 films alone and is often used to represent romanticism. One of the most popular films that the Empire State Building is featured in is of course King Kong. You can even take pictures and videos with King Kong’s hands reaching through as you wander the museum.

86th Floor – Adult -$44 / Child – $38 / Senior – $42

86th and 102nd Floor – Adult – $79 / Child – $73 / Senior – $77

Daily between 11am – 10pm

Empire State Building, 20 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001, United States

What are you waiting for?

New York is an absolutely incredible city with so much to do. It can be quite expensive at times. This is something that you can expect when you’re visiting one of the most famous cities in the world. We’ve mentioned quite a few times about purchasing Go City passes in advance . This was an absolute game-changer for us because we were able to save quite a lot of money. This enabled us to visit all of the major attractions for a fraction of the cost. We would really recommend purchasing one of these passes before you go as they are great value!

When you’re visiting the city, make sure that you’re not just visiting the most popular tourist attractions but also stepping off the beaten track. There are so many things that you can do that are a little bit more unique!

If you’re visiting New York City to tick off some bucket list items then why not check out other bucket list experiences in the USA ? There are plenty of amazing things you can do in America so you will find plenty of inspiration.

Have the most amazing time in New York City and we hope that a breakdown of the top 7 tourist attractions will help you plan your trip. It is truly an incredible city with so much to do. You will find yourself walking down the street and there will be a surprise around every corner.

If you’re planning a trip to New York soon then don’t forget to check out our packing checklists . This will help you get prepared for your trip! Don’t forget to subscribe to receive your FREE downloadable New York City Bucket List . Comment below if we have missed any other major tourist attractions that should be on the list for best things to do in NYC for 2024!

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Amy & Liam are part-time travel bloggers alongside their full-time jobs. After spending too much time wishing for a better life and wanting to make the most of the time that they have on this planet, it was time to show others how to explore more too. They are budget couple travellers that are looking to see more together on a budget and show others how to do the same.

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Top 35 Tourist Attractions: Sight Seeing in New York City

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

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

Iconic new york tourist attractions.

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

1. The Statue of Liberty

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

2. Times Square

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

3. Coney Island

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

4. Central Park

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

Architectural Wonders

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

5. Grand Central Terminal

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

6. The Brooklyn Bridge

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

7. The Empire State Building

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

8. Chrysler Building

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

9. Rockefeller Center

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

What to do in New York when it rains

Sightseeing in New York City

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

10. See NYC With a Bike Tour

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

11. Get Lost in Brooklyn Botanic Garden

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

12. Stroll Through the High Line

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

13. Walk Along the Museum Mile

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

Best Places to Visit in New York

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

14. Greenwich Village

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

15. Chelsea Market

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

16. SoHo Shopping

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

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

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

Unique New York City Experiences

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

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

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

20. Food Crawls

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

21. The Great Gatsby’s Gold Coast Mansions

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

22. Street Art Murals in Bushwick

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

Historical Sites in New York

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

23. African Burial Mound Ground National Monument

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

24. Brooklyn Heights Promenade

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

25. 9/11 Memorial and Museum

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

26. Governors Island

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

27. Bronx Zoo

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

28. Ellis Island

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

Upstate New York Tourist Attractions

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

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

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

30. Lake George

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

31. Niagara Falls

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

32. Adirondack Park

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

33. The Catskill Mountain House

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

34. Kaaterskill Falls

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

35. The Finger Lakes

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

Check out Sea the City in New York

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

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13 Top New York City Attractions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rockefeller Center

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

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

Brooklyn Bridge and Lower Manhattan

TripSavvy / Winifred Lao 

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

Broadway and the Theater District

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

Times Square

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

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

9/11 Memorial

 TripSavvy / Winifred Lao 

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

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27 Top Tourist Attractions in New York City

The largest and most populated city in the USA, New York City is often called the “city that never sleeps” because it is constantly buzzing with activity. Full of arts, culture, endless restaurants and a night sky where the stars are replaced by bright skyscrapers, New York is a magical place. Loud, boisterous and impatient, Manhattan especially, is a high energy place. Events don’t just happen here, they happen with a bang.

With so much to see and do in the city, it can be overwhelming to a New York novice. This comprehensive list outlines the top tourist attractions in New York City that travelers won’t find anywhere else. From Broadway to One World Trade Center, we’ve got them all here.

Map of New York City

27. Chelsea Market

After making history as the place where the Oreo cookie was invented, the Chelsea Market has become one of the most popular food halls in New York City. The old Nabisco Factory has made way for a collection of high-end supermarkets, delis and specialty stores.

While the market is a great place to shop and stock up on produce, the various eateries are the real attraction. There are over 30 food vendors selling delicious eats at the Chelsea Market. Some of the popular places you should check out include the Chelsea Creamline, Num Pang for Cambodian and the amazing tacos at Los Tacos No. 1.

26. Madison Square Garden

Arguably the world’s most iconic stadium, Madison Square Garden, has a storied past that continues to evolve into the modern day. MSG remains an incredibly busy stadium hosting both the New York Knicks of the NBA and the NHL’s New York Rangers. In-between all of that, they still have time to be the second-busiest venue for concert sales on earth.

Experiencing a sporting event or a concert at Madison Square Garden is sure to be an unforgettable experience. But the stadium also provides an exceptional behind-the-scenes tour that allows you to explore the locker rooms and step out onto the court.

25. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

For history and military enthusiasts and anyone that would love to set foot inside a submarine, you must visit the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. Featuring a spectacular collection of aircraft and amazing views of downtown Manhattan, the museum is a memorable experience from the get-go.

The major part of the museum is the USS Intrepid. This aircraft survived several close battles over the Pacific in World War II and has enjoyed a permanent home at the museum since the early 1980s. Along with this fighter plane, you can also explore a guided missile submarine, the only one available to the public in the country.

24. Chrysler Building

Since its opening in 1930, the Chrysler Building has held an important position in the famed skyline of Manhattan. Its stunning art deco design makes it easy to spot, even in a city full of amazing skyscrapers. For almost a year, the Chrysler Building, with its tiered arches and steel crown, was the tallest building in the world. Until the Empire State came along.

You can view the Chrysler Building from several spots around the city, including a glorious spot in Gramercy Park. But nothing tops exploring the elegant lobby, complete with an interior sourced from countries all around the world.

23. Coney Island

For the longest time, Coney Island was a seaside escape for New Yorkers seeking some sun, sand and a bit of fun. Although technically no longer an island thanks to a landfill that connected it to the rest of Long Island, Coney Island has kept its appeal among residents.

Today you can escape downtown on the train and explore the “island’s” many attractions. One of those being the Coney Island Cyclone, a classic wooden rollercoaster that began operating in 1927 and can reach speeds of up to 60 miles per hour.

22. Frick Collection

Henry Clay Frick made his name in the 1800s as an influential player in Pittsburgh’s coke and steel industries. But he quickly got out once he made his fortune to pursue his genuine passion, art. Until his passing in 1919, Frick collected an amazing amount of exceptional decorative pieces and work from prominent luminaries who existed well before his time.

Six years before he passed, his collection was turned into a museum. The Frick Collection has since become a must-see New York City gallery. The highlights are pieces by Rembrandt, Fragonard and Vermeer.

21. Greenwich Village

Once a literary haven for such prominent writers as James Baldwin, Jack Kerouac and William S Burroughs, Greenwich remains a great neighborhood to explore. This despite sky rocketing rental costs. The leafy streets lined with 19th century brownstone homes are the real attraction. The beautiful neighborhood vibe allows you to get lost in its streets as you wander along the footpaths.

Greenwich Village’s many cafes and bars, which were once home to our favorite authors and even Bob Dylan, are still inviting. While the first integrated nightclub in the US, Cafe Society, may have closed, Greenwich Village continues to provide some of New York City’s best nightlife.

20. Broadway

Such is the importance of Broadway in everyday culture that this stretch of road has become known across the world. A visit to New York is not complete without catching a live show on Broadway. In fact, it remains a rite of passage for all New Yorkers. All told, Broadway has 41 venues, each with over 500 seats.

New acts such as Hamilton and the Book of Mormon have taken Broadway by storm in recent years. But the famous theater street is still well-served by classic shows, such as the Phantom of the Opera which has been running since 1988.

19. New York Public Library

In a city full of iconic attractions, the New York City Library stands out as one that many would instantly recognize. The library is a part of the third largest public library system on earth, giving readers and researchers an envious amount of access to literature, science, humanities and fine arts.

The building’s interior is stunning, however, it is the library’s entrance that is most likely to keep your camera busy. With a marble facade and a pair of large Corinthian beams, the New York Public Library is a masterpiece.

18. Museum of Modern Art

MoMA, as many would know it, is home to some of the most famous pieces of modern art. The Museum of Modern Art has a collection of 150,000 pieces. Some of the more renowned include Starry Night by Vincent van Gogh, the Dance by Matisse and Picasso’s iconic Les Demoiselles d’Avignon.

Along with their permanent exhibitions, MoMA puts on consistent short-term exhibitions. Including collections from ‘old masters’ and even solo shows from world renowned artists.

17. St. Patrick’s Cathedral

With a wondrous neo-Gothic design, the St Patrick’s Cathedral is a sight to behold. The original building opened in 1878, covering an entire block of Manhattan. The cathedral recently underwent a $177m restoration that returned it to its former glory.

Visiting the beautiful cathedral is free, and it is just as stunning from the inside. Walk through and admire the several side chapels and the two altars. The St Louis altar was designed by Tiffany and Co. Most memorable, however, is the Pieta, the rose window and the Gallery Organ which was added to St Patrick’s Cathedral in 1930.

16. American Museum of Natural History

Comprising four floors and 45 permanent exhibits across 28 connected buildings, the Museum of Natural History holds claim to being the best museum in New York City. The massive museum is incredibly captivating and has a way of guiding you through otherwise complex information. You could spend hours walking through and still not see everything.

With dozens of categories from anthropology to zoology, amazing fossils, and even a replica of a 95ft blue whale, there isn’t much the American Museum of Natural History doesn’t cover.

15. One World Observatory

Standing at 1776 ft (541m) representing the same year the USA became a country, One World Trade Center stands in place of the north building of the Twin Towers. The building took almost ten years to complete and upon opening, was the tallest building in the western hemisphere and the sixth tallest on earth.

Aside from admiring the sheer size of the building from afar, one of the best activities to do here is to head up to the One World Observatory. From the observation area you will have 360-degree views towards all of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty.

14. Staten Island Ferry

Before the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge, among others, ferries shuttled residents of New York City across the harbor and the Hudson River. One of the last remaining ferries is the one to Staten Island, and it is one of the best free things to do in New York. Running 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

While you may not be overly interested in exploring Staten Island, the trip itself is more than worth it. As you pull out of Manhattan, you will enjoy an amazing view of the city and the Statue of Liberty that you can’t get anywhere else for free.

13. Ellis Island

For over six decades since opening in the 1890s, Ellis Island was the point of arrival for over 10 million immigrants. The importance of this immigration is played out in real time, with half of the current US population having a connection with this historic island.

The place to visit here is the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration. Take the audio tour with hours’ worth of fascinating information and learn about the history of immigration in the USA.

12. Bryant Park

If you have visited the New York Public Library, you may be interested to know that it is in Bryant Park, a popular urban oasis. This beautiful green space helped revitalize the city and provides the perfect place to kick back with a coffee and enjoy some light reading.

During the summer, you will find movie nights held each week, while the chess tables are always busy alongside yoga on the grass. During the winter, Bryant Park also offers a rink and is a magical place to ice skate in front of many skyscrapers.

11. Metropolitan Museum of Art

The largest gallery in America is found in New York. The vast Metropolitan Museum of Art presents art and artifacts dating back centuries and from all corners of the globe. There are dozens of different sections of the museum that house everything from Egyptian mummies to old European armor and classical sculptures.

Popular parts of the museum that are not to be missed, however, include Rembrandt’s Aristotle, Van Gogh’s self portrait, and the Egyptian Temple of Dendur dated to 15BC.

10. September 11 Memorial

The National September 11 Memorial has been constructed in honor to those who were killed in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The names of those who died are engraved in two bronze panels flanking the Memorial pools. The pools are each nearly an acre in size and mark the footprints of the Twin Towers that once stood on that site.

The National September 11 Memorial Museum serves to educate the public on the implications of the attacks through multimedia displays, archives, narratives and a collection of artifacts.

9. High Line

The High Line is a public park built on a historic freight rail line elevated above Manhattan’s West Side. The park is maintained and operated by Friends of the High Line, which fought for the preservation and transformation of the rail line into green space.

Every month there are new fun and diverse activities for visitors. These include stargazing, tree tours and art tours along with season specific events such as the Haunted High Line Halloween in October.

Some of the park’s attractions include naturalized plantings and splendid views of the Hudson River. The High Line also integrates cultural attractions into its design with architecture and art installations.

8. Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Terminal has been dubbed the “world’s loveliest station” and is one of the top tourist attractions in New York City. The cavernous Main Concourse is home to the impressive clock made of pearly opal glass.

Visitors are also treated to the elaborate astronomical ceiling decorations originally conceived in 1912. The lower level, home to the dining concourse and train tracks, offer diverse dining options including the Oyster Bar.

Vanderbilt Hall just off the main concourse, which was originally constructed as a waiting room, now hosts the annual Christmas market and special exhibitions. The elegantly restored Campbell Apartment was meant to replicate a 13th-century Florentine palace, but now hosts tourists and commuters in its cocktail lounge.

7. Rockefeller Center

A tour of Rockefeller Center, a complex of 19 buildings built by the Rockefeller family, offers a behind-the-scenes look at some of New York City’s greatest treasures. These buildings have housed many major corporations over the years including General Electric and are home to the NBC studios.

At 70 stories high, the Top of the Rock observation deck gives visitors an unobstructed 360 degree views of New York City. The NBC Studios tour gives visitors the chance to glimpse the sets of their favorite NBC shows or sit behind a news desk.

Rockefeller Center is also home to Radio City Music Hall, which was restored to reflect its 1930s glamor. Rockefeller Center transforms during the holiday season with the impressive Christmas tree overlooking the skating rink and Radio City Christmas Spectacular.

6. Fifth Avenue

Ranked as one of the most expensive shopping streets in the world, Fifth Avenue is a prime destination for visitors with a taste for luxury. The section of Fifth that crosses Midtown Manhattan between 49th and 60th Streets is lined with high-end shops including designer showrooms and prestigious department stores.

The section of Fifth Avenue between 82nd to 105th streets on the Upper East Side is referred to as the Museum Mile. Nine museums are situated along this stretch of Fifth including the Guggenheim and The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

5. Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge, built between 1869 and 1883, is one of the oldest and most recognizable suspension bridges in the world. It spans 5,989 feet and connects Manhattan to Brooklyn across the East River. More than 120,000 vehicles, 4,000 pedestrians and 2,600 bicyclists cross the bridge every day.

Visitors to the bridge can walk, drive, or bike across this famous New York City landmark. There is a pedestrian walkway situated above the traffic, where visitors can take in views of the harbor and both boroughs. The 2 km (1.3 mile) stroll across the bridge offers plenty of opportunities for admiring the New York skyline.

4. Times Square

With over 39 million visitors annually, Times Square is the world’s most visited tourist attraction. The bright lights and big city feel of this commercial intersection have iconified this spot as “The Crossroad of the World.” Today, Times Square is a major center of the world’s entertainment industry.

The annual New Year’s Eve ball drop, which began in 1907, has been a staple of the square’s allure. The shopping, entertainment and plethora of restaurants offer many activities and options for every type of visitor. It’s an area not to be missed on a trip to New York City.

3. Central Park

Located in the center of Manhattan, Central Park is a sprawling 840 acres and home to Belvedere Castle, the Central Park Zoo among many other attractions. For naturalists looking to take a break from the big city, relaxing in the Great Lawn or a walk along the extensive paths throughout the park can offer a much needed respite.

There are also plenty of outdoor activities to entertain visitors including catch and release fishing at the Dana Discovery Center, rowboat rentals from the Loeb Boathouse. The park boasts six miles of paved roads open only to joggers, bicyclists as well as skateboarders and inline skaters. Central Park is also especially friendly for families with playgrounds and the Tisch Children’s Zoo.

2. Empire State Building

The iconic Empire State Building soars over a quarter of a mile above Manhattan and offers expansive views to the millions of visitors it attracts every year. On a clear day, visitors can see New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts and Pennsylvania.

There are two observations decks in the tower, on the 86th floor and 102nd floor. Both offer impressive views and interesting facts about the building’s extensive history and importance. The Empire State Building has made appearances in over 250 films and was named “America’s Favorite Architecture.” It is open daily from 9:30am until midnight and tickets can be purchased at the counter or online.

1. Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty, a gift from France to the United States, has welcomed new arrivals to the shores of America for over a hundred years. Lady Liberty on her pedestal stands at an impressive 93 meters (305 feet), which visitors can climb for views of Brooklyn and Gustave Eiffel’s supportive framework.

For those who choose not to climb the 154 steps to the crown, the pedestal offers panoramic views of the harbor and downtown New York City. Guided tours of Liberty Island are offered throughout the day by Park Rangers and a self-guided audio, offered in nine languages, tour is included with a ferry ticket to the island.

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Reader interactions.

July 18, 2014 at 3:44 am

Thanks..Nice post. Also enjoy there Festivals & Events like New York Fashion Week, a global extravaganza that happens twice a year in February and September, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in November and New Year’s Eve At Times Square

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New York Tourist Attractions: 20 Things to Do and Travel Tips

Do you know that famous song describing New York City? It is described as a concrete jungle where dreams are made, which is true. New York City is a place where history meets modernity. It has been a global icon of culture, entertainment, and diversity. In this article, we will discuss several New York tourist attractions we visited, from the historic Statue of Liberty to the Top of the Rock overlooking the beautiful Manhattan skyline. We will also share important travel tips to make your experience seamless and things to do in the Big Apple. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you will be enchanted by this city’s endless wonders. So, welcome to New York City!

New York Tourist Attractions

• American National Museum of Natural History (AMNH)
• Central Park
• Apple Store Fifth Avenue
• St. Patrick’s Cathedral
• Top of the Rock
• Times Square
• Grand Central Terminal
• Empire State Building
• Hudson Yards and The Vessel
• Washington State Park
• Oculus Center
• 9/11 Memorial and Museum
• Charging Bull in Financial District
• Brooklyn Bridge
• Castle Clinton National Monument
• Ellis Island
• Statue of Liberty
• Best of NYC Cruise

Would you like to add this list on your smartphone through Google Maps? Just tap or click the photo or link below: https://maps.app.goo.gl/HE7CbUuKstApQmpu8

1. Travel through time at the American Museum of Natural History.

One of the things to see in NYC (New York City) is the American Museum of Natural History. The museum was founded in 1869 and boasts a wondrous display of human history, science, and nature. Travelers worldwide visit this museum for its towering collections of dinosaur fossils, outstanding dioramas, and captivating exhibitions. The museum has recently opened the new Gilder Center, a marvelous atrium with a unique architectural design connecting all galleries in the museum. The new center also houses the butterfly vivarium, which children will surely love.

In addition, the American Museum of Natural History also has a planetarium covering topics of space exploration. Nevertheless, spending time in this place is a must, and it’s worth it! The museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM and is located at 200 Central Park West. They are closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

Travel Tip: Plan and make reservations before visiting the American Museum of Natural History. You can purchase timed-entry admission tickets online through this link: https://www.amnh.org/plan-your-visit .

2. Take a walk in Central Park.

Central Park is a verdant oasis nestled at the heart of New York City. The park boasts 843 acres of green landscapes, winding trails, and exciting structures. It’s a pleasant tourist attraction in New York wherein visitors can have a leisurely walk while enjoying the tranquil atmosphere it provides. Other activities you can do include boating in the lake, seeing animals at the Central Park Zoo, or having a picnic with friends on the Great Lawn. It is a timeless escape and offers a peaceful respite from the city’s hustle and bustle.

3. Visit the iconic Apple Store on Fifth Avenue.

Another place to see in New York is the iconic Apple Store on Fifth Avenue. What’s special about this retail store is its glass cube design, unique among the high-end stores along Fifth Avenue. According to Apple , the store has received more than 57 million visitors since it opened in 2006. Whether you want to snap a photo or purchase their latest product, Apple Store Fifth Avenue should be part of your New York bucket list.

4. Pray at St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Tourists seeking both cultural and spiritual enrichment can visit the historic St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Midtown Manhattan. Visitors will be stunned by its towering spires, intricate stained glass windows, and beautiful marble cladding. You can visit or attend their daily services and bask in its peaceful ambiance.

5. Enjoy the view on Top of the Rock.

Top of the Rock is one of the best observation decks in New York City. It sits on top of the 70 floors of 30 Rockefeller Plaza and provides an astonishing 360-degree view of New York City. You will see the amazing scale of Central Park on the northern side of the observation deck. Whereas facing the south, you will witness the gorgeous Lower Manhattan skyline with the Empire State Building perfectly positioned in the middle. The place is open daily from 9 AM until midnight and accepts visitors until 11:10 PM.

Travel Tip: Aside from making reservations online for a seamless experience, you can also save money by purchasing a  CityPass ticket. Purchasing a CityPass ticket includes admission to five different tourist attractions of your choice and is valid for nine days. My friends and I availed a CityPass, saving up to 40% compared to making individual reservations. You can check CityPass now through this link: https://www.citypass.com/new-york .

6. Feel the energy of Times Square.

Times Square is absolutely one of the New York tourist attractions you should not miss. This place is known for dazzling Broadway shows, vibrant shops, diverse restaurants, mesmerizing digital billboards, and incredible street performances. It is a hub of entertainment and excitement. Interestingly, this is where the people celebrate the ball drop during New Year’s Eve. You will never run out of things to see or do in this iconic place.

7. Marvel the Beauty of Grand Central Terminal

Another historic place to explore in New York is the Grand Central Terminal at 89 E 42nd St. The station opened in February of 1913, providing connections to different parts of the city. Tourists can admire the architectural design of the Main Concourse, indulge in different dining options, shop for gifts, and immerse in the busy atmosphere of this iconic transportation hub. Witnessing the beauty of the Grand Central Terminal is a must for every tourist visiting New York City.

8. Get on top of the Empire State Building.

The Empire State Building is an iconic and historical landmark offering another perspective of New York City. Awaiting on top of the building is the majestic panorama of the city. In addition, tourists can enjoy a fresh cup of coffee served by Starbucks Reserve while mesmerizing the sunrise on top of the Empire State Building. However, a reservation is required to avail yourself of this unique experience. 

What I like about this observation deck is the feeling of traveling through time as you pass through the exhibits and learn about its history before being rewarded with the wonderful views of the city. Every new visitor to New York must see this number-one attraction in the city. The observation deck is open daily from 10 AM to 11 PM.

Travel Tip: I recommend visiting these Observation Decks in the morning or before sunset. As a photo hobbyist, I prefer taking photos during these times of the day because of the vibrant colors and gradients (the golden hour effect). Plus, it’s less crowded whenever you visit early in the morning.

9. Explore the Hudson Yards

One of the new attractions to see in New York is the Hudson Yards. It is a new cultural and entertainment hub on the west side of Manhattan. Tourists can shop around the mall, dine at different restaurants, and explore attractions on this side of the city.

Outside the mall, you will find a new public landmark called the Vessel. It’s an interactive eccentric structure made with spiral staircases. Visitors can enter the base of this artwork, but climbing the staircases is prohibited due to safety concerns. Aside from the Vessel, you will find the Shed, an entertainment venue with an artistic design and shape. The Shed has a telescoping shell that can expand and provide a platform for large-scale performances. With all these extraordinary features, tourists should visit this new spot in the city.

10. Experience the Edge

After visiting the attractions in Hudson Yards, it’s time to go up to the highest viewing deck in the western hemisphere of Manhattan. Of all the observation decks we visited, the Edge is my favorite. Aside from the all-around view of New York City, you can experience an adrenaline rush by looking 100 floors down from their transparent floor.

Another unique thing about this viewing deck is its angled glass walls, providing a better view of the New York Skyline. To get things more exciting, the Edge also offers a thrilling adventure through their City Climb, wherein visitors can walk at the 1200-foot deck, offering the highest outdoor platform in the city. Include this attraction on your travel list; you will experience New York City like never before.

Travel Tip: The Edge is not part of CityPass tourist attractions. You need to make a reservation online before visiting this place. Please visit this website to make an online reservation: https://www.edgenyc.com/

11. People watch at the Washington Square Park.

If you are looking for a place to people-watch besides Central Park, Washington Square Park is a great place for you. Tourists can admire the stately arch with the Empire State Building beautifully framed in the middle and witness various street performances. You can also relax in the shade of century-old trees, interact with the locals, or just read a book while enjoying its atmosphere.

12. Stop by at the Oculus Center

Tourists visiting the One World Trade Center will surely stop by the Oculus transportation hub. This massive structure houses several subway stations leading to different places in New York City. In fact, it is the fifth busiest station in the city! The Oculus features a unique rib-like structure, making it a famous New York tourist attraction. Surprisingly, this place is also the most expensive station, costing $4 billion in construction. Aside from its enormous design, the Oculus also has stores to shop around.

Travel Tip: Be like the locals. New York is one of the most accessible cities in the United States. Thanks to their subway system, tourists can experience the convenience and reliability of traveling to different parts of the city. Make sure to use one form of payment in the New York Subway for the entire visit. In my experience, I used my iPhone through Tap to Pay with OMNY to pay for my rides in the subway. Pay for 12 rides with the same card or device in a week, and additional rides within the week are free! Check this website for more info about NYC Transit Fares: https://new.mta.info/fares .

13.  Commemorate 9/11

The whole world was shaken because of the tragic events of 9/11. We visited the 9/11 Memorial and Museum to commemorate and learn about the devastating event of the September 11 attacks. The place has two memorial pools, which are remnants of the World Trade Center towers. Visitors can pay their respects at these pools, and each pool is inscribed with the names of nearly 3,000 victims of the 2001 attacks.

On the other hand, the museum exhibits artifacts from the old towers, photographs, and personal stories from victims and their families. The museum provides a moving, profound understanding and a deeper appreciation for resilience and unity. It’s a solemn yet powerful experience that will truly leave a mark on every visitor to New York.

14. Take a photo with the Charging Bull

Weighing over 7,000 pounds (3,000 kilos), this mighty bronze statue in the Financial District became an instant tourist attraction from 1989 until today. The charging bull symbolizes the financial optimism and resilience of Wall Street. Some tourists visiting the statue consider it a symbol of luck, prosperity, and financial success. Nevertheless, it is quite a tourist spot, and it is a must for you to have a photo with this behemoth.

15.  Visit Dumbo

Dumbo, also known as the “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass,” is a vibrant neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York. It is a trendy New York tourist attraction, and visitors come to this place to experience its thriving art scene and gourmet cuisine from local eateries. But the best part is to be captivated by the fantastic views of the Manhattan Skyline framed by the historic Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridge.

16. Stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge

Another tourist attraction close to Dumbo is the Brooklyn Bridge. This bridge’s marvelous architectural design offers a good view of Lower Manhattan. You can stroll or bike across the bridge while learning about its rich history and admiring its beauty. Don’t forget to capture photos in this stunning tourist spot and create memories that last a lifetime.

17. Learn the History of Castle Clinton National Monument

Castle Clinton National Monument is one of the oldest structures built in New York City, located at the southern tip of Lower Manhattan. It was built to fortify the city and prevent the British Invasion in 1812. Today, this structure is a national monument that welcomes tourists worldwide. This is an excellent addition to your New York City vacation, especially for history buffs out there.

18. Find connections at Ellis Island.

As economic instabilities and problems arose in European countries during the 1800s, many immigrants entered the United States to hope for a better future. Ellis Island opened on January 1, 1892, as an immigration station accepting newcomers worldwide. Since its opening, Ellis Island has processed over 12 million immigrants, making this tourist spot a poignant reminder of America’s immigrant heritage.

Today, visitors can explore the museum filled with exhibits of photographs, artifacts, and stories of success and heartbreaks. It is a moving experience and allows tourists to connect with their ancestors through their records and archives. Interestingly, I found out that my earliest ancestor set foot in the United States during the 1930s. This made me think of my family heritage and allowed me to reconnect to my past. Ellis Island is an important New York tourist attraction that you shouldn’t miss.

Travel Tip: Making a reservation before your trip is crucial! My friends and I purchased a ticket online through the Statue City Cruises . We availed the New York Pedestal Reserve, and this trip includes admission tickets to the Statue of Liberty, its pedestal, and Ellis Island, and a roundtrip boat ride from Lower Manhattan to Liberty and Ellis Island. If you are coming from the New Jersey side, you must purchase the New Jersey Pedestal Reserve tickets. For more information, you can visit this website: https://www.cityexperiences.com/new-york/city-cruises/statue/ .

19. Be inspired by the Statue of Liberty.

Your trip to New York City will only be complete with visiting the Statue of Liberty. This monumental statue is a symbol of freedom, hope, and inspiration. Millions of tourists visit this structure annually to witness its history and understand its profound message for all. Aside from the statue, you can also explore the island and enjoy its greenspace and museum.

The museum houses different artifacts, interactive exhibits, and various statue replicas. In addition, there’s an option to go inside the pedestal and see the world as the Statue of Liberty sees it. Your visit to the Statue of Liberty and museum is a tribute to the ideals of liberty and the diverse tapestry of America’s past and present.

20. Take a cruise around Manhattan.

Last but not least is to experience the Best of NYC cruise! The cruise takes over 2 hours and will travel around Manhattan Island, voyaging the Hudson, East, and Harlem Rivers. The cruise will pass by Liberty Island and under different bridges connecting Manhattan to other boroughs and New Jersey. This is a convenient and enjoyable way to see many of New York City’s top attractions while relaxing on the water.

Travel Tip: Best of NYC Cruise is part of the CityPass tourist attractions. After purchasing a ticket through CityPass, select the Best of NYC Cruise option and make reservations.

Conclusion: New York Tourist Attractions

So there you have it! Our list encompasses the most essential tourist spots in New York City. Whether you’re gazing upon the city from the Empire State Building or strolling around the tranquil paths of Central Park, this city is a tapestry of cultures, histories, and dreams. From the dazzling lights of Times Square to the solemn 9/11 Memorial, New York Tourist Attractions offer diverse experiences that will surely leave an indelible mark on the hearts of travelers. You will return home with unforgettable memories and a heart filled with vibrant energy and a joyful spirit.

Like our list? You can add this helpful New York Tourist Spots list on your smartphone through Google Maps by tapping or clicking the photo or link below: https://maps.app.goo.gl/HE7CbUuKstApQmpu8

If you also need help writing your itinerary for your trip, we created the ultimate travel guide to New York City. Check our article here.

You might also like:

New york itinerary: ultimate travel guide.

Top of the Rock Observation Deck New York: Travel Guide

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The Ultimate New York Travel Guide 2024

Our new york travel tips for first time visitors.

Are you traveling to New York for the first time and want to get an overview of what you should pay attention to? Here, I show you step by step the most important information you need to know for your New York trip. There’s a lot to see and do in New York, from world-famous landmarks like the Empire State Building to a wide selection of unique museums and New York-style foods that you should definitely try.

You may also like:

Where in new york should you stay.

• The 33 Absolute Best New York Attractions
• New York on a Budget

Now, sit back and enjoy our New York Travel Guide to help you have a wonderful time in New York City!

By the way, we now have over 1,600 spots in the city on our site. So, if you’re looking for suitable tours, bars, restaurants, and awesome spots to visit, then you’re in the right place!

Everything you need!

Hello you 👋 Here you will find everything you need for your New York trip!

These are our best New York Travel Tips for first time visitors:

Table of Contents

New York at a Glance

Best time to travel to new york.

Visiting New York is worthwhile at any time of year, but I personally like the warm months best. Summer in New York can be very hot and humid. So, for many, the best times to visit New York is April and June, and September and October.

Spending Christmas in New York or enjoying the pre-Christmas season in New York City is also a wonderful experience.  The ice rinks are open, the city is beautifully decorated, and, if it snows, the dream vacation at wintertime is perfect!

Paying in New York

You can pay for almost everything with your credit card, even the smallest amounts. Credit cards are accepted in hotels, stores, restaurants, and bars. Don’t have one yet? Then, check out the best credit card to have in the USA here.

New York for First Time Visitors: Everything You Need to Know for Your Trip (70+ pages)

Best Way to Travel in New York

Finding your way around New York is quite easy, even if it doesn’t look like it at first. The streets’ checkerboard pattern makes finding your way around easy. These are the best ways to get around New York:

Metro / Subway: If you have longer distances ahead of you, then the Subway is your friend, because here you can travel really cheap. It’s easy to use! The MetroCard is available at every Subway station. You can buy single rides or the popular MetroCard for 7 days; that way you can travel for a week in New York at a fixed price. You can learn more about using the  Metrocard in New York here.

Taxi:  In New York, you can choose between the Yellow Cab and Uber. You can check out our tips and all the information you need to know in our following blog:  Taxi in New York City .

By bike: With many of the New York sightseeing passes (you can find out more about this budget tip in my New York Pass comparison ), the bike rental is included. We ourselves really love using New York’s Citi Bikes. This city bike program has over 1,000 stations throughout New York City, and it’s super-cheap. We’ll show you how it works in the Citi Bike New York article.

On Foot: You’ll be surprised how much walking you’ll do in New York. After all, there’s something to see on every corner. So be sure to bring comfortable shoes!

Where to Stay in New York?

Which neighborhood is best for you depends on several things: your interests, how close you want to be to the attractions and what your travel budget is. In the image below, I’ve drawn you my favorite neighborhoods of New York including the main attractions nearby.

And, on the subject of safety: In all of Manhattan, the Bronx , Brooklyn, and large parts of Queens, you don’t have to worry about being out and about in the evening. New York City is one of the safest cities in the world!

More than 100 hotels and over 70 neighborhoods to choose from –and after just 4 quick questions, I’ll show you which hotels in New York are best suited for you!

Where Should you Stay in New York?

Manhattan – it doesn’t get more central than this: Manhattan is the most famous borough of them all. Plus, it contains 95% of all the attractions New York is known for. Everything is within easy reach, and you are right in the middle of it all. On the other hand, the hotels are a bit more expensive than in Brooklyn or Queens .

Here, you can find my 33 hotel tips for Manhattan .

Brooklyn – urban and relaxed: For a long time, Brooklyn was the insider’s tip: now it’s “completely” normal neighborhoods. However, you’ll quickly notice one thing: life is much more normal, because it’s more of a residential area. It’s super relaxed, pleasant, and just as diverse as Manhattan. Above all, you can enjoy the Manhattan skyline from here!

Here, you can find my 20 hotel tips for Brooklyn .

Queens – the new trendy neighborhood: Queens is a bit more “normal” than Brooklyn is, but, lately, we’ve noticed that it is getting more and more gentrified. The hotels in Long Island City (not to be confused with Long Island!) are especially popular because they are cheaper compared to Manhattan—and they have a perfect connection to the Subway, which makes Queens a great alternative to Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Here, you can find my 20 hotel tips for Queens .

What to See in New York?

One thing to know in advance: just because there is so much to see in New York, a little planning makes absolute sense. For highlights like the Empire State Building ( here ), the Edge Hudson Yards observation deck ( here ) or the One World Observatory ( here ), I recommend buying the tickets online in advance. This will not only save you waiting time on site, but you can also be sure that you will actually be able to visit your desired sights.

👉 These are our 33 best attractions in New York .

These are my tips after more than 20 visits to New York:

• Observation decks:  New York City has no less than five (!) major observation decks to offer, and each one is a dream in itself. My two favorites are The Edge Hudson Yards and the One World Observatory , because from here you have a sensational view of New York from above and you can see the Empire State Building . From the end of 2021, another cool option will be added with the glass One Vanderbilt . One more thing about the Empire State Building: It’s the most visited observation deck in New York, so it’s always busy. Avoid the crowds in the morning – and if you really want to go to the Empire State Building in the evening, choose Thursday, Friday or Saturday. During those times, a saxophonist plays on the observation deck. Important: book the Skip-the-Line-Tickets (you can do that here). Then, you can easily save 1-2 hours of waiting time!
• Visit the Statue of Liberty : The trip from Battery Park to the Statue of Liberty is super-popular. To save yourself long waiting times, make sure you take the first ferry of the day. Here, you can find the best Statue of Liberty Cruises right now.
• Definitely take a boat tour , because seeing New York from the water is like being on vacation. Choices range from the free Staten Island Ferry or the NYC Ferry ($2.90 each way) to sailing tours (gorgeous) and the classic sightseeing tours that are included with all major New York passes.
• Walk along the High Line from the Meatpacking District to Hudson Yards .
• Visit Times Square in the evening – that’s when it’s at its most impressive.
• Relax in Central Park or Bryant Park .
• Plan a maximum of three attractions per day . After all, you don’t want any sightseeing stress.

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The 9 best observation decks in new york city, new york budget tip.

With the right New York sightseeing pass , you can easily save a lot of money on up to 100 tours and attractions. To find out if a New York Pass is worth it (or not), check out our free New York Pass Advisor to find out which New York Pass is best for you.

And on this page you’ll find our New York Pass comparison .

Itineraries in New York

You don’t know where to start? Then let us inspire you! We have some suggestions for you. By the way, the most popular is the 1 week New York itinerary .

The Perfect Itinerary For Your New York Trip

This itinerary contains over 50 spots and highlights of the city, including a map that shows you the best way to travel each day, taking you to or past the many big attractions. In addition, we‘ve added our favorite places, from great breakfast spots to start your day right to small bars and restaurants and hidden insider spots.

What awaits you here now is the perfect New York week, because this is what my itinerary would look like if I were visiting the Big Apple for the first or second time right now!

What to Do in New York?

For me, an unforgettable New York trip includes the following things in addition to visiting the main sights:

Go Shopping

New York is also really good for shopping. There are many small shopping spots and addresses, but also the big brands can often be found with flagship stores. If that’s not enough, you can go shopping in one of the outlets and flea markets of New York.

The best shopping areas in New York are Broadway, SoHo , Chelsea, the Meatpacking District, and Williamsburg in Brooklyn. And, of course, 5th Avenue!

Avoid Times Square for shopping!

A real tourist trap are the stores around Times Square – they are not only overpriced, but also the quality is not right in most cases!

Here you can find our Guide to Shopping in New York  with everything you need to know!

Shopping in New York: The Ultimate Guide 2024

The Best Outlets in NYC – The Ultimate Guide for 2024

The 15 Best Flea Markets in NYC – Shop Vintage and Rare to Find Items

Shopping in SoHo NYC: The 25 Best Stores Right Now

Visit a rooftop bar.

I love the rooftop bars of New York . You can sit and relax, enjoy a sensational view of the city and listen to relaxing music. All this mixes with the so-typical sounds of the city in the background, and if you have something delicious to drink or eat on top of that, it can’t get any better! You can see where we like to go in our article on the 43 best rooftop bars in New York .

By the way, if you want to experience the view of New York when you get up early in the morning, check out my list of the 26 best New York hotels with a view !

Visit a Broadway Show

New York is known for its many musicals and Broadway shows – most of which are performed in the Theatre District around Times Square. Here are our tips on the  best Broadway Shows in New York . If you already know which Broadway show you want to see, I recommend ordering the tickets in advance ( here ). If you’re still flexible, you can buy leftover tickets at TKTS in Times Square, for example.

Attend a Parade or Special Event

OK, hotel is booked, attractions are on the list, the myNY itinerary is ready, shopping spots are sighted and the first restaurants and bars are also noted. Now comes the last step on the list to the perfect travel planning for New York: the events, parades, and holidays.

They are the icing on the cake of every New York vacation and, therefore, could not be missed in our New York Travel Guide! Just check out our monthly specials that are relevant to you:  January , February , March , April , May , June , July , August , September , October , November and December .

Enjoying the Gastro Scene (in the Evening)

Now comes one of my favorite parts of planning our New York trips: the city’s many bars, restaurants, rooftop bars, and food markets. In our travel guide and insider guides on the website, we put a lot of emphasis on finding the best gastro spots and rooftop bars. So, feel free to browse through them, and if you like something, just add it to your myNY itinerary. Just click on the heart symbol, and you’re done!

The 24 Most Beautiful Bars in NYC Right Now

The 12 Best Food Markets in NYC

The 23 Best Waterfront Restaurants & Bars in New York Right Now

The Best Burger in New York City

Marvel at grand central station.

Be sure to take the time to see Grand Central Station . Not only is it the setting for many series and movies set in New York, it’s also very impressive and has a fantastic ceiling!

The 50 Absolute Best Things to Do in New York (90+ pages)

Walking through DUMBO and Soho

The neighborhoods of DUMBO in Brooklyn and Soho in Manhattan are among the most iconic neighborhoods in the city and are fascinating for their combination of old New York with new New York.

Things to Do in DUMBO

The 15 Best Things to Do in SoHo NYC – The Complete Guide 2024

What to eat in new york.

What should I start with first? With the New York pizza slice, the New York cheesecake, the wonderful pastrami sandwiches at Katz’ Delicatessen, or at the Pastrami Queen? In addition, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse and Luger are two really good steak restaurants waiting for you and if you want to eat really good burgers: go to J.G. Melon, the hidden Burger Joint or Shake Shack!

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

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

Specify dates

I hope my New York Travel Guide helped you plan your first trip to New York. Was there anything missing? Feel free to write it in the comments!

I wish you a wonderful time in New York City!

New York on a Budget: The 19 Best Money-Saving Tips for 2024

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 !

Get exclusive content, real insider tips, and the best deals in NYC for FREE!

Start of your trip: We will remind you with current events when you are in NYC!

New York City tourist attractions Top 7 : Answers

This is where I thought interesting to compile all the links that may help your navigation through the game. You Will find in this topic the answers of Top 7 for the following solved theme : New York City tourist attractions .

Top 7 New York City tourist attractions Answers :

• STATUE OF LIBERTY
• CENTRAL PARK
• EMPIRE STATE BUILDING
• TIMES SQUARE
• GROUND ZERO
• ROCKEFELLER CENTER
• ELLIS ISLAND

For the same game, I would also like to add additional and more info here: Occasions to wear a suit Top 7 I try to take care of every tiny detail to ensure that eveybody find its needs here, and love to be a part of it. I tried to cover as much as I could but if you still have a question in your mind feel free to give a comment before to go to sleep.

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One week in New York: The best 7 days itinerary

7 days in new york: the best one week itinerary + where to stay.

You’re planning to spend one week in New York  and you’re looking for the best itinerary?

You’re in the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you this 7-day itinerary in New York.

During your trip, you will discover all must-see attractions of the city  such as the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Central Park, the district of Brooklyn and a lot more.

In addition to the best places to visit and activities for each stage of your itinerary, I will also give you all my best tips and accommodation suggestions depending on your budget.

So,  how to spend 1 week in New York? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. The New York Go City Explorer Pass

2. fast track tickets for new york’s best tourist attractions, one last tip for a perfect 7-day stay in new york, a. central park, b. visit 1 or 2 must-see museums, c. fifth avenue, d. st. patrick’s cathedral, e. top of the rock, f. times square, a. brooklyn district and dumbo, b. brooklyn bridge, c. ferry to the statue of liberty and ellis island, d. financial district / wall street / new york stock exchange / charging bull, e. 9/11 memorial and museum, f. one world observatory, g. dinner in little italy or chinatown, a. intrepid sea, air, and space museum, b. circle line sightseeing cruise, c. madame tussauds new york, d. new york public library / grand central terminal / chrysler building / united nation headquarters, e. empire state building, f. see a musical on broadway, a. greenwich village, b. luch break at chelsea market, c. the high line, d. the vessel – hudson yard, e. edge observation deck, f. rooftop bars in new york, b. summit one vanderbilt, c. shopping in new york, d. speakeasy or michelin-starred restaurants, day 6: exploring staten island, option 1: coney island, option 2: visit harlem district / gospel concert, where to stay in new york, one week in new york with your family, more ideas of things to do during your 7-day stay in new york, map of your 7-day itinerary in new york, flight prices to new york, you’re traveling in the us these articles will help you, how to avoid waiting in line (and save a lot of time) at new york’s tourist attractions.

With more than 56 million tourists every year, New York is one of the top tourist destinations in the world.

Everyone wants to discover its skyscrapers as all the amazing museums and activities New York has to offer.

Unfortunately, this means  huge waiting lines  (and a lot of time wasted!)  at all must-see attractions  like the Empire State Building or the Rockefeller Center.

It’s as crowded as the  Colosseum in  Rome or the Burj Khalifa in Dubai .

But don’t worry: I have  2 solutions that will allow you to save a lot of time during your one week trip to New York.

One of the best solutions to avoid queuing for your one week itinerary in New York is to buy the “New York Go City Explorer Pass”.

With this pass, you will have  access to 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 10 attractions .

If you have already visited other cities with a City Pass, you should note that the New York Explorer pass  works according to the number of activities,  and not in terms of duration (no 24h/48h/72h limit, like most other City Pass).

And you know what: there are about 90 activities offered!

Of course, all the most famous attractions such as the Empire State Building , the ferry for the Statue of Liberty or the top of the Rock observation deck are included!

To book it, it’s very simple:  you just need to click on the green button located a bit below. 

Once you have ordered your New York Explorer Pass, you will receive your pass by email.

The email also contains a digital guide with a lot of useful information to organize your visits to the attractions: opening hours, directions … as well as if you need to  book a time slot (which is the case for the majority of New York’s sites).

Here is a summary of the most popular attractions included in the New York Explorer pass :

• Empire State Building
• The Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island Ferry
• Top of the Rock
• 9/11 Museum and Memorial
• American Museum of Natural History
• One World Observatory
• Madame Tussauds
• Circle Line Sightseeing
• St Patrick’s Cathedral Tour
• And many many more…

For a week in New York, you should book the New York Explorer Pass for 10 attractions as you will do a lot of activities and visits.

To  purchase  your  New York Explorer Pass , simply click on the following green button:

There is another pass available to visit New York: the New York City Pass . But I don’t recommend it for 7 days as it only includes 5 attractions.

For a one week trip in New York, the New York Explorer Pass with 10 attractions is definitely the best one!

If you don’t want to buy the New York Explorer Pass to visit New York in 1 week , you can also  buy skip-the-line tickets for each attraction  separately.

You can purchase skip the line tickets for all the best places to visit and activities for New York.

You can also  book all your guided visits in advance .

If you book your tickets and activities through the links I give you in this guide, you will  avoid a lot of unnecessary waiting and save money .

Here is the list of the best skip-the-line tickets for your one-week stay in New York:

•   Central Park Zoo
• A private tour in Central Park in a horse-drawn carriage
• A pedicab tour in Central Park – choose between the 1 or 2 hours tour version
• Guggenheim Museum
• Metropolitan Museum of Art
• St. Patrick’s Cathedral
• National 9/11 Memorial & Museum
• Wall street guided tour
• Helicopter tour over New York
• Statue of Liberty
• Cruise around the Statue of Liberty
• Walking guided tour in Brooklyn
• Broadway show
• Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum
• Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises
• Madame Tussauds New York
• Edge Observation Deck
• SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
• Harlem guided tour
• Greenwich Village guided tour
• Luna Park in Coney Island

If you want to book other activities in New York, you should always use these 2 reliable and safe websites:

• GetYourGuide: Official entrance tickets and activities in New York .
• Tiqets: Skip the line tickets in New York

If you already know your travel dates (or as soon as you will have them!) , you should really book your accommodation.

As New York is one of the most touristic cities in the world , the hotels offering the best value for money are often fully booked months in advance.

As a seasoned traveler, I can assure you that it’s always by planning as far in advance as possible that I’ve found the best hotels or apartments deals.

You agree that it would be a shame to somewhat ruin your stay in New York by ending up in a not-so-great hotel that costed you a fortune, right? 😅

So your best bet is to take 5 minutes now to have a look at  traveler’s favorite hotels in New York.

And if you like one of the hotels you find, book it!

It’s fast, it’s easy and most accommodation offer free cancellation. That’s the best way to protect yourself from the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the best hotels deals in New York, simply click on the green button below:

After securing your dream stay, it’s time to continue reading this guide!

New York in 1 week: the best itinerary

Let’s now start your  7-day New York itinerary.

For each day, I will tell you  everything you need to know about the places you will visit  +  give you a map  that will help you visualize the itinerary a bit better.

I’m assuming  you will be staying in New York for a full week , and that you have bought the New York Explorer Pass  or  Skip-the-Line Tickets .

It’s  the best way to save time  and see as many tourist attractions as possible during your one week stay!

If you still have questions after reading this guide  (or need help organizing your holiday), don’t hesitate to  ask me in the comments section  located at the very end of this article.

So, what are the best places to visit in New York in 7 days?

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Manhattan

Day 1 visits:

A. Central Park B. Museums C. Fifth Avenue D. St Patrick’s Cathedral E. Top of the Rock F. Times Square

Start your one-week itinerary in New York with a visit to the city’s famous Central Park.

This vast urban oasis is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a scenic walk amidst the city’s bustling pace.

Make sure to check out The Mall and Literary Walk , a beautifully lined path known for its row of statues of literary figures.

Also, pay a visit to Bethesda Terrace and Fountain – it’s one of the most photographed spots in the park , and for good reason!

You should also pass by:

• The   Strawberry Fields memorial dedicated to John Lennon
• The Belvedere Castle
• Central Park Zoo
• Shakespeare Garden
• The Bow Bridge
• Alice in Wonderland Statue

To reach Central Park, you can take the subway to 72 Street Station, 81 Street Station or 86 Street Station.

If you want a change from the classic walking tour of Central Park, you can also choose to:

• Rent a bike
• Take a horse-drawn carriage ride
• Take a pedicab tour

Close to Central Park, you’ll find some of the world’s most renowned museums.

Depending on your preferences, you can choose to visit the American Museum of Natural History , the Metropolitan Museum of Art , or the Guggenheim Museum .

Each museum offers a unique experience.

The American Museum of Natural History is perfect for science enthusiasts, while the Metropolitan Museum of Art showcases a vast collection of art from around the world.

If modern and contemporary art is your preference, then head straight to the Guggenheim Museum .

Both the American Museum and the Guggenheim are included with the  New York Explorer Pass.

Entrance ticket for the MET has to be purchased on the official website   and the guided tour by clicking here!

If you don’t have the pass , you need to book your tickets in advance by clicking on the button below:

• The American Museum of Natural History:

If you’re spending these 7 days in New York with your family , you can be sure that everyone will love that visit!

• The Guggenheim Museum:

Next, stroll down the iconic Fifth Avenue.

Known for its high-end boutiques and historic landmarks, it’s a great place to shop or just enjoy some window-shopping.

Your next stop during your one week trip to New York will be the St. Patrick’s Cathedral , a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture.

Entry to St. Patrick’s Cathedral is included in the New York Explorer Pass,   which give you the perfect occasion to see the inside of the cathedral and the beautiful stained glass. 

Without the pass , you can directly buy your ticket by clicking here:

To get an awe-inspiring view of the city, head to the Top of the Rock .

Located at the top of the Rockefeller Center , this observation deck offers a 360-degree panoramic view of New York City. Make sure to look out for the Empire State Building and Central Park – they look particularly majestic from here.

Entrance to Top of the Rock is included with the New York Go City Explorer Pass.

If you don’t have the pass, you have to buy your skip the line ticket here:

Finish your first day in New York at Times Square .

This iconic square , filled with bright billboards, is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

Day 2: Discovering Brooklyn and Downtown Manhattan

Day 2 visits:

A. Brooklyn district and DUMBO B. Brooklyn Bridge C. Statue of Liberty D. Financial district E. 9/11 Memorial and museum F. One World Observatory G. Little Italy and Chinatown

On the 2nd day of your one week trip to New York, wake up early and get ready to discover Brooklyn, one of New York’s most vibrant boroughs.

Start your day in the trendy neighborhood of DUMBO (short for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass).

While in DUMBO, take the chance to snap that iconic picture with the Manhattan Bridge in the background.

If you want to visit the district with a local guide and learn everything about Brooklyn , you should book this walking tour (click here)

To get to Brooklyn, take the subway to York Street station.

Next on your itinerary during your 7 days in New York is a stroll on the iconic Brooklyn Bridge.

This stunning piece of architecture has stood tall since 1883, connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn over the East River. With its gothic arches and web-like cables, it’s one of the best photo spots in NYC.

As you walk the 1.3-mile span , you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the Freedom Tower.

Did you know the Brooklyn Bridge was t he world’s first steel-wire suspension bridge?

It was also the longest suspension bridge in the world when it opened.

Make your way to Battery Park (if you want to take the subway, you can get off at Whitehall station or Bowling Green) and hop on a ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

You have the choice to set foot on the islands or enjoy a one-hour cruise around them.

The New York Explorer Pass includes round trip ferry ticket for the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

If you haven’t bought the pass and you want to disembark on the island, you need to book your tickets here:

If you prefer to take the one-hour cruise, click here:

For an other epic experience during your week in New York, you need to take an helicopter tour above the city!

The tour departs from Battery Park 200 metres away , which is very convenient. You can take your helicopter tour before or after going to the Statue of Liberty.

You’ll have the choice between the classic tour ( click here for more info and booked it !) or the sensational version with the door open! 

To book this incredible activity to do in one week in New York, you just have to click on the button below:

Back on the mainland, make your way to the Financial District , the heart of New York’s commerce.

Take a stroll down Wall Street and visit the New York Stock Exchange .

And don’t forget to rub the nose (or on the other side, the private parts 😅) of the Charging Bull for good luck. You never know, it might just bring you some Wall Street fortune!

Then, it’s time for a moment of reflection at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum .

The two large pools , located where t he Twin Towers once stood, serve as a powerful reminder of the tragic events of September 11, 2001.

You can also visit the museum to learn more about that day and the aftermath.

Entrance to the National 9/11 memorial and museum is free with the  New York Go City Explorer Pass.

A 90-minute guided walking tour around Ground Zero and the 9/11 Memorial is also available. You can book it here!

Otherwise skip the line tickets are available here:

Finally, end your day with a visit to the One World Observatory .

Located at the top of the One World Trade Center, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, it offers breathtaking views of the city.

And the ride in the elevator is an experience itself as you can see a short film showing the transformation of New York city over the years.

Entrance to One World Observatory is free with the New York Go City Explorer Pass .

Simply click on the green button to book your tickets if you don’t have a pass:

By now, you must be starving. So, why not treat yourself to an authentic meal in Little Italy or Chinatown ?

From delicious pasta to dim sum, these neighborhoods offer some of the best food in town. Bon appétit, or should I say, buon appetito!

In Little Italy, don’t miss the chance to try cannoli, a delicious Sicilian dessert.

And in Chinatown, go for the Peking Duck. They’re my personal favorites!

That concludes your second day in the city of dreams. You are doing great exploring New York in one week .

But remember, the city never sleeps, and there are still five more exciting days to come! Stay tuned for more of your 7 days in New York journey.

Day 3: What to do in New York?

Day 3 visits:

A. Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum B. Circle line Sightseeing cruise C. Madame Tussauds D. New York Public Library / Grand Central Terminal / Chrysler Building / United Nation Headquarters E. Empire State Building F. See a musical on Broadway

Start your third day on your  one week itinerary in New York  at the Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum .

It’s not every day you get to tour a legendary aircraft carrier!

The museum houses a wide range of exhibits, including the space shuttle Enterprise. If you are a fan of history or technology, you’ll love this place.

Free access to Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum with the New York Explorer Pass.

Without it, you need to book your ticket in advance by clicking here:

The nearest underground station to the museum is 50 Street Station, a 15-minute walk away.

Next, take a Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise for a refreshing perspective of New York.

You can soak in iconic sights like the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the breathtaking skyline.

Even if you’ve already done the cruise around the Statue of Liberty, this one is much more complete and allows you to see other places as well.

And as it’s included in the New York Explorer Pass , it won’t cost you a thing.

If you don’t have a pass but want to take this cruise during your week in New York, you’ll need to book it in advance here:

Ever dreamt of rubbing shoulders with celebrities? Well, at Madame Tussauds New York , you can do just that.

Okay, they might just be wax figures , but who’s checking?

Pose next to your favorite stars, and make your friends green with envy after posting pictures with Brad Pitt, Rihanna, Beyoncé or Georges Clooney.

And again: free entrance to Madame Tussauds is included with the New York Go City Explorer Pass.

If you don’t have the explorer pass, don’t panic, you can buy your tickets for Madame Tussauds here:

After that, make your way to a cluster of iconic landmarks.

Visit the New York Public Library to witness the stunning architecture and soak up some wisdom.

Stop by the Grand Central Terminal to admire its grandeur.

Take a quick look at the art deco Chrysler Building , and round off the sightseeing with the United Nation Headquarters .

As the evening sets in , it’s time to head to the Empire State Building .

Trust me, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to see New York light up from the 102nd floor. 

To visit the Empire State Building, you need to book your tickets in advance here:

But don’t forget that it’s already included with the New York Explorer Pass.

Finally, cap off the day with a musical on Broadway.

Whether you’re a theater aficionado or a casual fan, there’s something magical about seeing a story unfold on the Broadway stage.

Remember to book your Broadway tickets in advance. Some of the popular shows as the Lion King for example, sell out quickly.

You can see all Broadway shows tickets and book them by clicking here!

And just like that, your third day of your one week in New York comes to an end. Get a good night’s sleep because there’s much more to discover in your 7 days in New York adventure!

Day 4: Exploring Artistic Corners + The Best Rooftops of NYC

Day 4 visits:

A. Greenwich Village B. Chelsea Market C. High Line D. The Vessel E. The Edge F. Rooftop bars

On day four, brace yourself to dive into the hip and artistic side of the city.

Your first stop is Greenwich Village , where creative culture meets historical charm.

You can stroll around the leafy streets , find quirky shops , or even stop by a trendy cafe for a caffeine fix.

And if you don’t want to miss anything in Greenwich Village , you should book this 2-hour guided tour.

Fans of the famous TV series Friends will also be able to:

• Pass by the iconic Friends apartment building (adress: on the corner of Grove Street and Bedford Street)
• Visit the “Friend Experience” where you can take photos of yourself in the flats of Monica, Phoebe, Ross… It is essential to book your tickets well in advance as they go very quickly. Click here to book!

When the hunger pangs kick in, head to Chelsea Market .

With over 35 vendors selling cuisines from all over the world , you can embark on a global culinary journey.

After your culinary escapade, walk it off at The High Line . A little stroll is the perfect way to digest your meal!

It’s an elevated park built on a former railway track.

You’ll get fantastic views of the city and the Hudson River.

Next on your list is The Vessel at Hudson Yard .

It’s an interactive sculpture where you can climb 154 interconnecting flights of stairs. That’s around 2,500 steps. Who needs a gym, right?

As you ascend, make sure to take in the mesmerizing views.

As you continue your exciting one week in New York , your next stop is the newest kid on the block among New York’s observation decks – the Edge.

Standing proudly at an elevation of 1,131 feet, Edge is the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere!

Even the city’s skyscrapers will look like Lego blocks from up there.

Upon reaching the Edge, you’ll find yourself on a spacious outdoor viewing area , boasting 360-degree views of New York City’s skyline, the surrounding waters, and landmarks near and far.

But the real show-stopper here is the glass floor! A 225-square-foot portion of the deck has a see-through floor that allows you to look straight down to the streets below. 

Good news: visit the Edge for free with the New York Go City Explorer Pass (if you don’t have it, book your tickets here! ).

As the day nears its end, it’s time for a well-deserved drink.

New York City is known for its fantastic rooftop bars. I’ve got a few personal favorites – the 230 FIFTH Rooftop Bar NYC offers incredible Empire State Building views.

At Westlight in The William Vale, you get a panoramic view of Manhattan and Brooklyn.

The Rooftop at The Standard, High Line and The Press Lounge also offer splendid city views and exquisite drinks.

These rooftop bars can get crowded, especially during sunset hours. Try to go early to secure a spot with the best view or book in advance if that’s possible.

Day 5: More places to visit in New York

Day 5 visits:

A. MoMA B. Summit One Vanderbilt C. Shopping in New York D. Speakeasy or Michelin-starred restaurants

Day five of your one week in New York starts at the iconic Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) .

This is the place to be if you’re a lover of modern and contemporary art. Or even if you’re not, you might just become one after this.

From Van Gogh’s Starry Night to Warhol’s Campbell’s Soup Cans , you’ll see it all.

Entry to the MoMA is included in the New York Explorer Pass.

Alternatively, you can buy your tickets here:

After your artsy morning, make your way to SUMMIT One Vanderbilt .

This place takes observation decks to a whole new level, literally and figuratively.

The glass floor terraces and mirrored rooms will give you a unique perspective of the city.

As this visit is not included in a pass now, you have to book your skip the line directly by clicking here: 

It’s now time for a different kind of art – the art of shopping!

Whether it’s the luxurious 5th Avenue or the trendy boutiques of Soho , New York has got you covered.

Don’t forget to swing by the iconic Macy’s. Who knows? You might find that perfect New York souvenir. Or an entire new wardrobe, no judgment here.

As the day winds down, why not take a step back in time with a drink in a speakeasy?

These secret bars will transport you to the 1920s, minus the prohibition part.

Here’s a list of some popular speakeasies in New York City:

• Please Don’t Tell (PDT) – Situated in the East Village
• Employees Only – Found in the West Village
• The Back Room – Tucked away on the Lower East Side
• Attaboy – Located in the Lower East Side,

Or, if you’re feeling fancy, treat yourself to a meal in a Michelin-starred restaurant . After all, you’re in the culinary capital of the world. You might as well eat like it!

On day six, it’s time to venture out of Manhattan and explore Staten Island .

This often-overlooked borough is a gem just waiting to be discovered. But first, how do you get there?

The easiest way to reach Staten Island is via the Staten Island Ferry . It’s free, it operates 24/7, and it offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. Not bad for a commute, right?

Once on Staten Island, you can visit the beautiful Snug Harbor Cultural Center , the intriguing Staten Island Museum , the Botanical garden or take a leisurely stroll in the Staten Island Greenbelt .

And if you didn’t do enough shopping the day before, head to the Empire Outlet.

I recommend timing your ferry ride back at sunset. The view of the Statue of Liberty with the sun setting behind the skyline is a sight you won’t forget.

Day 7: Coney Island or Harlem? Tough Choice!

Finally, the seventh day of your one week in New York has arrived.

But no tears, please. We’ve got a whole day of fun ahead.

And here’s the best part: you get to choose your own adventure for the day! So, what’s it going to be – the vibrant vibes of Coney Island or the soulful energy of Harlem? Let’s see what each option has to offer.

A trip to Coney Island if you are visiting New York in 7 days with kids.

This iconic amusement park on the southern tip of Brooklyn is home to the famous Cyclone roller coaster, the Wonder Wheel , and of course, Nathan’s Famous hot dogs.

You can also take a dip in the ocean , or just kick back on the beach.

If you’re looking to let loose and have some good old-fashioned fun on your last day in New York, Coney Island is the place to be.

Remember, Coney Island is seasonal . It’s at its best from late spring to early fall. So, plan accordingly.

You need to buy your tickets for Luna Park in Coney Island here.

On the other hand, if you’re more in the mood for a cultural experience, consider heading up north to Harlem.

This historic neighborhood is the heart of African-American culture in New York.

Visit the Apollo Theater, take a stroll along Malcolm X Boulevard, and enjoy some soul food at a local restaurant.

And the cherry on top? A gospel concert. The powerful voices and infectious energy will leave you moved and inspired.

To attend the concert, the easiest is to book a Harlem tour. The best one includes:

• Pickup and drop off from Times Square
• Exploring the best places to visit in Harlem with your guide
• The highlight of the tour: the gospel concert!

The tour takes place only 2 days a week . You need to book the Wednesday tour by clicking here , and the Sunday tour by clicking there.

Now that you know everything about the best things to do in New York in 7 days , there is just one thing left to do: booking your hotel!

There are hundreds of hotels in New York, and choosing the best for your stay can be a bit complicated.

In order to help you out, I have selected for you  the best hotels in New York depending on your budget.

As always, to get the best prices, you should  book your hotel as early as possible!

Here is my selection of the best hotels to stay when visiting New York in one week (around Times Square / Empire State Building / Central Park).

• HI New York City Hostel : Youth hostel located right next to Central Park. Dormitory beds from €50 per night. An excellent choice for cheap accommodation in New York City Center!
• Club Wyndham Midtown 45: Located next to Grand Central Station. Bright and spacious double room from €200 per night. Strong Points: the rooftop and the location.
• Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott New York Manhattan/Times Square South: Located 1 km from Times Square. Cosy, comfortable double rooms from €330 per night, including breakfast. Strong points: friendly staff, view, peace and quiet.
• Hyatt Place New York City/Times Square: Located next to Madame Tussauds. Double room with impeccable cleanliness and comfortable bedding from €350, breakfast included. Strong points: central location for visiting New York on foot, very generous breakfast, very friendly staff.
• The Iroquois New York: Located less than 500 metres from Times Square, this 5-star hotel offers superb rooms with very chic decor, from €410 including breakfast. Strong points: ideal, quiet location, attentive staff.
• Riu Plaza Manhattan Times Square: Located next to the Rockfeller Center. Very comfortable, noise-isolated room from €450, breakfast €23. Strong points: very professional staff, varied breakfast, very easy to visit the centre of New York on foot.
• Hard Rock Hotel New York: Located next to the Rockfeller Center, this luxury hotel offers elegant, contemporary rooms from €500, breakfast €47. Strong points: the rooftop, the comfort, the classy design. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in New York!

If you don’t mind being a bit further from the centre (don’t worry, it’s still very easily accessible by public transport), here is my list of the best hotels in Wall Street.

It’s a bit quieter than the hotels in Times Square and also slightly less expensive for equivalent quality.

• Hilton Garden Inn NYC Financial Center/Manhattan Downtown: Located 160 metres from Battery Park. Comfortable, modern rooms from €225, breakfast €23. Strong points: the location close to the metro, very comfortable, practical for going to the Statue of Liberty and Staten Island.
• The Washington by LuxUrban: Located 200 metres from the 9/11 Memorial and museum. Stylish rooms from €240, breakfast included. Strong points: metro stations right next to the hotel – perfect for sightseeing, view of the One World Trade Center, quality of bedding, peace and quiet.
• Club Quarters Hotel World Trade Center: Located next to Ground Zero. Spacious and cosy double room from €330. Strong points: location next to several metro stations, views from the rooftop and some rooms, free unlimited water and coffee/tea, in-room fridge.

To help you find the perfect accommodation, I have also written a guide of the best areas and places to stay in New York depending on your budget.

You can find it here: Where to stay in New York?

You can easily do this suggested  one week itinerary in New York  with your kids.

You can take the metro to move around and walk.

Here are some fun and family-friendly activities that should definitely be on your itinerary for a kid-approved one week in New York:

• Central Park Zoo: from snow leopards to grizzly bears, this zoo is brimming with creatures that will keep the little ones entertained for hours.
• American Museum of Natural History: d inosaur fossils, a giant blue whale model, a planetarium – your kids won’t know where to look first.
• The iconic toy store, FAO Schwarz , is an absolute must-visit. With its giant floor piano and aisles overflowing with toys, it’s sure to bring out the inner child in everyone. 
• Pass by the M&M and Disney’s stores in Times Square and the Lego’s store on Fifth Avenue
• Take a Ferry to the Statue of Liberty
• Visit Coney Island
• Broadway Show: many shows like ‘The Lion King’, ‘Frozen’, and ‘Aladdin’ are perfect for kids.

With so many kid-friendly activities, your one week in New York will be a blast for the whole family.

The New York Explorer Pass are available for children (prices depends on their age).

To get even more information about the best places to visit in New York you should also read my other article: The 57 best things to do in New York.

To help you visualize your  daily itineraries during your 7 days in New York,  I have created this map with  all the places to visit day by day . You can view the map’s legend by clicking on the top left button, the one with a little arrow.

You can thus see the suggested itineraries for each day.

As always, you should book your plane tickets as early as possible to get the best prices.

To check the rates and schedules for flights to New York, you can use our flight comparator, in partnership with Skyscanner:

You need help to plan your 7-day trip to New York? Don’t hesitate to ask me in the comment section located below!

Discover all my articles about USA : All my articles to help you plan your trip to USA are listed there.

• New York: Top 57 best things to do
• 2 Days in New York – The best itinerary to visit the Big Apple in 48h
• 3 Days in New York – All the best places to visit + Detailed itinerary

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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"Suffs" star Hannah Cruz

Hannah Cruz is making her Broadway debut in the new musical SUFFS , playing the role of the famed American suffragist Inez Milholland. The show is set in 1913, a year when the women’s movement in the United States was in full swing.

Below, Cruz shares her top attractions and spots in New York.

Where do you live in the city?

Financial District.

What is your favorite neighborhood in New York and why?

Does Brooklyn count? I love Dumbo. I love being by the water, I love the pizza, I love the cobblestones. It immediately makes me happier just being there.

Can you share some of your favorite spots in the Theater District and what makes them so great?

St. Kilda Coffee is a godsend. They’re usually open later so you can go between shows on a two-show day. They have great coffee for a coffee snob like me and amazing vegan and gluten free pastries.

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I also love New World plaza. It’s a great public space to read a book and eat your lunch. The baby and dog watching is also prime.

Where is the best place for a pre-or post-theater meal and why? What are go-to dishes at each?

I am pretty obsessed with Green Symphony on 43rd. I’ve been going there since maybe 2011 back when it was just a true bodega. The girls working there are also so so sweet and kind, and I love that they remember me when I come in. All their breakfast items are delish, and their acai bowls are great. They also have an amazing selection of grab and go snacks, which is perfect for long rehearsal days.

Post show I go right home, so best meal is a bag of Skinny Pop on my couch.

What is the best Theater District watering hole and the drink to get?

All the mocktails I’m seeing pop up on these menus are very fun for me. They have a mocktail at La Grande Boucherie called PJ Breeze with pineapple, lavender, lemon, and mint that is divine.

Please share your insider tips for enjoying a Broadway show. Anything to make the experience better as an audience member?

Fully turn off your phone. All the way off. Let yourself be fully transported and immersed in the story. We so rarely allow ourselves to unplug, and I believe that’s why theater has become more important than ever. I think the theater is one of the last places that requires us to unplug and focus on what’s right in front of us.

What’s the New York City theater you love to go to and why?

The St. James is my favorite theater on Broadway. I imagine it’s because that’s where I saw Patti LuPone in “Gypsy,” and that was the show that really changed my life.

What other Broadway shows are on your radar right now?

I want to see “Stereophonic” so badly. I’ve heard nothing but gorgeous things. They have Monday shows so it can actually happen for me, so I’m thrilled.

Share your insider New York gems.

Right now, my fiancé and I are really into the Tin Building and the Seaport in general. It’s so beautiful. Great food, there’s games down there (this place called Lawn club), a great iPic movie theater…you can spend an entire day!

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10 Best Family Hotels in New York City

W hen it comes to family vacation spots , New York City is at the top of the list. From Times Square and the Empire State Building to Broadway and the Central Park Zoo, the Big Apple is a wonderland for visitors of all ages. And while New York may be the City That Never Sleeps, the hotel where you choose to stay the night is among the most important decisions you can make on your NYC vacation. Fortunately, in a city that’s so big, so busy, and so packed with tourist attractions , there’s no shortage of great family hotels in New York City to choose from.

As a seasoned family traveler and longtime New York resident who’s visited all of the best family hotels in NYC, I can tell you that location matters— a lot . It will impact almost every aspect of your visit. From the hectic heart of Midtown to residential Washington Heights, here are my picks for the top family hotels in every New York neighborhood, giving you the option to stay in the center of the action or to live more like a local, whichever your family prefers.

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1. The Gardens Sonesta ES Suites

215 east 64th street, upper east side, new york.

The Upper East Side is one of Manhattan’s most exclusive residential neighborhoods, and when you stay at The Gardens Sonesta ES Suites  you can live like a local family at one of the best family hotels in New York City. Located on a tree-lined street, the hotel’s apartment-style suites have full kitchens, a separate bedroom, and a sleeper sofa in the living room. Pack-and-play cribs are available, as is additional baby gear such as strollers , bottle sterilizers, and sound machines.

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What’s nearby: The Gardens Sonesta ES Suites is a short walk to the Central Park Zoo and the cultural riches NYC’s Museum Mile , a 22-block stretch on 5th Avenue that’s home to some of the city’s most popular museums.

2. Crowne Plaza HY36 Midtown Manhattan

320 west 36th street, hudson yards, new york.

Hudson Yards is Manhattan’s newest neighborhood. Nestled in among shiny skyscrapers, Crowne Plaza HY36  is a sleek New York family hotel with spacious rooms that come with a separate bedroom, a living room with a pull-out couch, and a mini fridge. If you’re traveling with a baby or toddler, ask for a crib or bassinet , which are available upon request. When hunger strikes, adjoining restaurant Burgerology answers the call with over-the-top milkshakes, burgers, and tacos, plus a dedicated kid’s menu.

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What’s nearby: Among the most family-friendly hotels in NYC, Crowne Plaza HY36 Midtown Manhattan is a stone’s throw from  Edge , the highest sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. It’s also an easy walk to the  Circle Line  sightseeing boat. 

3. Radio Hotel

2420 amsterdam avenue, washington heights, new york.

If you’re willing to stray a little from the tourist path for one of the best family hotels in New York City, the fabulous Radio Hotel  will be your reward. Located in Upper Manhattan’s residential Washington Heights neighborhood, this boutique NYC hotel reflects the neighborhood’s Dominican heritage with brightly colored masks, fun feather accents, and vibrant murals.

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Guest rooms with bunk beds are just right for kids. When you’re ready to sightsee, the A train can bring you to Midtown in approximately 20 minutes. And the onsite restaurant,  Jalao NYC , is a second location of the popular Santo Domingo restaurant of the same name, with great food, entertainment, and the all-important high chair for little ones.

What’s nearby: Radio Hotel is not far from the colorful unicorn tapestries that decorated the walls of the Met Cloisters . Of note to baseball fans, this hotel is about a mile from Yankee Stadium.

4. Park Hyatt New York

153 west 57th street, midtown, new york.

A luxury hotel in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, Park Hyatt ‘s family-friendly rooms and suites have natural stone flooring and soaking tubs made of marble. Some also have views of Central Park. Connecting rooms provide space for families to spread out. Kids can enjoy mini-bathrobes, slippers, and bath toys, plus an in-room teepee for an extra charge. Cribs are complimentary. 

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What’s nearby: Centrally located, Park Hyatt is just two blocks from NYC’s Central Park and across the street from Carnegie Hall . 

5. Aloft Harlem

2296 frederick douglass boulevard, harlem, new york.

Located in the heart of Harlem,  Aloft Harlem  is one of the best hotels for families who want to explore a dynamic Manhattan neighborhood that has long been the center of NYC’s Black community. Rooms present clean lines and high-tech amenities. Public spaces are inviting and include a 24-hour grab-and-go cafe. Hop on the 2 or 3 subway line and you’ll be in Times Square in 20 minutes. 

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What’s nearby: From this family-friendly New York hotel it’s an easy stroll to the historic  Apollo Theater , with its famous Amateur Night that has launched the careers of artists from Ella Fitzgerald to Machine Gun Kelly. 

6. The Rockaway Hotel

108-10 rockaway beach drive, rockaway beach, queens, new york.

When the weather gets hot, New Yorkers flock to Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk in Queens to jump the Atlantic waves—and the family-friendly Rockaway Hotel  is steps from the sand. A popular staycation hotel choice for local families as well as one of the best family hotels in New York City for visitors, The Rockaway Hotel rocks a coastal vibe with blond wood furnishings and pops of sea blue and sunny yellow. A swimming pool, rooftop deck, board games, and seasonal programming for kids enrich the experience. 

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What’s nearby: Manhattan’s urban charms are accessible in an hour via subway or scenic ferry, so you can enjoy a late afternoon ocean swim after a day of sightseeing. Borrow the hotel’s beach cruisers to pedal Rockaway’s wooden boardwalk. 

7. The Chatwal New York City

130 west 44 street, theater district, new york.

Located in a landmark building built in 1905,  The Chatwal  puts you right in the heart of Broadway’s Theater District. It’s a swanky (but very kid-friendly) family hotel with butler service and a concierge. Each of its 76 rooms and suites are suitable for children, with in-room amenities such as a record player with classic Broadway albums and a puppet theatre that allows kids to unleash their dramatic flair. The hotel partners with premium stroller brand Uppababy , offering tiny guests a quality stroller for cruising around the city.  

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What’s nearby: What isn’t nearby? It’s one of the top family hotels in New York City if you’ve got tickets to a Broadway show, want to explore Times Square, or simply catch a hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus.

8. Hotel Beacon

2130 broadway, upper west side, new york.

Located in New York’s Upper West Side and sandwiched between Central Park and Riverside Park, Hotel Beacon  has multi-bedroom suites with kitchenettes that feel homey. It’s perfectly situated for a kid-friendly family vacation with plenty of walkable attractions just outside the door.

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What’s nearby: It’s a quick walk to the  American Museum of Natural History and other cultural attractions from Hotel Beacon. For an authentic taste of NYC fast food, go three blocks south to no-frills  Gray’s Papaya  and order the “Recession Special,” two snappy hot dogs served with tropical fruit juice. 

9. InterContinental New York Times Square

300 west 44 street, times square, new york.

In the heart of Times Square, the  InterContinental New York Times Square wows guests of all ages with floor-to-ceiling windows and panoramic views of the cityscape. Suites have pull out sofas; rollaway beds are available upon request. The helpful concierge can recommend kid-friendly attractions in the area and beyond, and a large fitness center makes it possible for parents to stick to an exercise routine. 

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What’s nearby: When you’re staying in Times Square, everything’s nearby. Notably, however, this kid-friendly NYC hotel offers a package that includes admission to the famous wax museum  Madame Tussauds just a few blocks away.

10. The Hoxton Williamsburg

97 wythe ave., williamsburg, brooklyn, new york.

A boutique hotel in a transformed factory in Williamsburg, one of Brooklyn’s hippest neighborhoods, The Hoxton ‘s industrial-chic aesthetic might not seem kid-friendly at first glance. But this family-friendly NYC hotel fully embraces tiny travelers with its Tiny Hox program , providing essentials to make an overnight stay with kids a breeze. Perks include cribs with an organic mattress, bottle-warmers, diaper wipes, and a tote bag filled with coloring books. 

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What’s nearby: Let the kids run around the playground at Brooklyn’s Domino Park . If you’re traveling with a fashion-forward tween or teen, hit the vintage clothing stores. And you can all ride the subway or ferry to Manhattan in a jiffy. 

More from FamilyVacationist:

• 13 New York Family Vacations Beyond the Big Apple  
• 10 All-Inclusive Family Resorts Even Teenagers Will Love
• 17 Best Flight Booking Sites for Cheap Airfares

The post 10 Best Family Hotels in New York City appeared first on FamilyVacationist .

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Your favorite, beloved Stanley tumbler just received a beautiful springtime upgrade.

For the first time ever, the brand’s signature drinkware is flanking a fabulous floral design, just in time for Mother’s Day . This exclusive new drop hit the market on April 11 at 10:00 a.m., and we don’t anticipate it being in stock for very long.

Three new colorways are available to add to your cart before the masses add it to their carts in droves: Sorbet Tropic, Frost Tropic and Blue Spruce Tropic, the pink, white and navy trifecta that all comes stamped with an eye-catching floral design. Availability for these newly minted colorways depends on the item.

RELATED : Best Amazon Mother’s Day gifts

What’s more, the noteworthy Quencher Tumbler is available in both 30-ounce and 40-ounce sizes, available for $35 and $45, respectively. It’s the ideal treat-yourself gift to encourage your loved one (or yourself) to up their water intake in the most stylish way possible. Better yet, it’ll keep your drinks ice-cold for at least 24 hours.

Stanley The Mother’s Day Quencher H2.0 40-Ounce Flowstate Tumbler

From mom’s morning walks to the office, the Mother’s Day Quencher H2.0 40-Ounce Flowstate Tumbler is the ideal gift idea for less than $50. Thanks to its double-wall vacuum insulation, it’ll keep your drink incredibly cold. Plus, its stainless steel construction makes sipping sustainable.

As far as the Stanley Quencher goes, its well-made exterior and excellent temperature preservation make it a win-win in my book. Its quality lid and straw are nice features as well, both of which are easy to clean. While it’s quite heavy when completely filled — a surefire weapon, to say the least — it’s worth the buy if you’re looking for a tumbler with a large capacity.

Many of the new collection’s items have already sold out, so we recommend sprinting to your cart ASAP. It’s one of our favorite pieces of drinkware — built with a straw lid to easily sip at your leisure — and the brand’s exterior design is one we can’t stop glossing over.

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Map: 4.8-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes New Jersey

By William B. Davis ,  Madison Dong ,  Judson Jones ,  John Keefe ,  Bea Malsky and Lazaro Gamio

Shake intensity

A light, 4.8-magnitude earthquake struck in New Jersey on Friday, according to the United States Geological Survey. The quake was felt across the New York City metropolitan area, and from Philadelphia to Boston.

The temblor happened at 10:23 a.m. Eastern about 4 miles north of Whitehouse Station, N.J., data from the agency shows.

As seismologists review available data, they may revise the earthquake's reported magnitude. Additional information collected about the earthquake may also prompt U.S.G.S. scientists to update the shake-severity map.

Aftershocks in the region

At 5:59 p.m. Eastern on Friday, a light aftershock with a magnitude of 3.8 struck near Gladstone, New Jersey, according to U.S.G.S. (The agency initially gave the quake a preliminary magnitude of 4.0.)

An aftershock is usually a smaller earthquake that follows a larger one in the same general area. Aftershocks are typically minor adjustments along the portion of a fault that slipped at the time of the initial earthquake.

Quakes and aftershocks within 100 miles

Aftershocks can occur days, weeks or even years after the first earthquake. These events can be of equal or larger magnitude to the initial earthquake, and they can continue to affect already damaged locations.

How this quake compares

The U.S.G.S. has logged 188 earthquakes with a magnitude of 2.5 or greater within a 250-mile radius of New York City since 1957. In that timeframe, only seven have had a magnitude at or above 4.5. Today’s quake had the third-highest magnitude in the available data.

Today’s earthquake

Magnitude 4.8

250-mile radius

from New York City

Source: U. S.G.S.

By Lazaro Gamio

Source: United States Geological Survey | Notes: Shaking categories are based on the Modified Mercalli Intensity scale. When aftershock data is available, the corresponding maps and charts include earthquakes within 100 miles and seven days of the initial quake. All times above are Eastern. Shake data is as of Friday, April 5 at 10:44 a.m. Eastern. Aftershocks data is as of Thursday, April 11 at 10:08 p.m. Eastern.

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Earthquake shakes U.S. East Coast

An earthquake struck the East Coast of the United States on Friday morning, according to the U.S. Geological Survey, causing buildings to shake and rattling nerves from Maryland to Maine.

The USGS measured the quake as a 4.8 temblor with its epicenter near Lebanon, New Jersey. It struck a little before 10:30 a.m. ET. An aftershock of magnitude-4.0 hit right around 6 p.m. ET.

The morning earthquake was the strongest recorded in the Northeast in more than a decade, according to USGS records .

There were no immediate reports of major destruction or any fatalities. Local and regional officials from cities in the earthquake zone said inspections had been launched to ensure that buildings, bridges and other infrastructure were not damaged.

Follow here for live updates on the earthquake.

James Pittinger, mayor of Lebanon, New Jersey, called the earthquake “the craziest thing I’ve ever experienced.”  In an interview with MSNBC , he said he had not received reports of any significant damage so far, but added that the shaking caused his dog to run for cover and objects to fall off his shelves.

While a 4.8-magnitude temblor is not considered a major earthquake, even minor shaking can cause damage on the East Coast, which does not take similar precautions as other earthquake hot spots around the world.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said the quake was felt across the state.

“My team is assessing impacts and any damage that may have occurred, and we will update the public throughout the day,” she wrote on X .

New York City Mayor Eric Adams said in an afternoon news briefing that no major injuries or impacts to infrastructure were reported, and that people in the city should “go about their normal day.”

Ground stops were temporarily issued at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey and John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City, according to the Federal Aviation Administration's website. Flight disruptions at the Newark airport continued into the afternoon .

The Port Authority Transit Corp., which operates a rapid transit route between Pennsylvania and New Jersey, suspended service in the aftermath of the quake.

“Crews will inspect the integrity of the line out of an abundance of caution,” PATCO said in an update on X . “Once inspection is complete, service will resume. No timeframe. Updates to follow.”

New York’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority said that there had been no impact to its service but that teams will be inspecting train lines. New Jersey Transit alerted riders of 20-minute delays due to bridge inspections following the earthquake.

While earthquakes in the northeast U.S. are rare, Buffalo, New York, was struck by a 3.8-magnitude quake in February 2023 — the strongest recorded in the area in 40 years.

A 4.1-magnitude earthquake struck the tri-state area in 2017, centered near Little Creek, Delaware,  according to the U.S. Geological Survey . And before that, a 5.8-magnitude quake  shook central Virginia in 2011,  and was felt across much of the East Coast, forcing hundreds of thousands people to evacuate buildings in New York, Washington and other cities.

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said in a post on X that the state has activated its emergency operations center and asked the public not to call 911 unless they are experiencing an emergency.

Frederik J. Simons, a professor of geosciences at Princeton University, told NBC News that the earthquake occurred on a shallow fault system in New Jersey and lasted about 35 seconds.

“The shallower or the closer it is, the more we feel it as humans,” he said.

The quake originated at a depth of less than 3 miles,  according to the USGS . 

Earthquakes on the East Coast can be felt at a great distance and can cause more pronounced shaking in comparison to those on the West Coast because rocks in the region are often older, harder and more dense.  

“These are competent rocks that transmit energy well,” Simons said.

The earthquake ruptured within a fault zone known as the Ramapo system, Simons said. It’s a zone in relatively ancient rock that contains old faults and cracks from ancient tectonic processes. These old faults slowly accumulate stress and occasionally something slips, Simons said.

“There are cracks in it and now and then a little motion accumulates, the stress keeps growing, at very slow rates,” he said. “It’s like an old house creaking and groaning.”

Simons said this was one of the largest earthquakes in New Jersey in recent history. The last notable one was a magnitude-3.1 temblor in Freehold Township in September 2020. 

“I’m on campus at Princeton University for the biggest one I’ve felt in a lifetime,” he said. “This shaking was violent, strong and long.”

Some videos captured the moment of the earthquake, including one from a coffee shop in New Jersey.

The East Coast quake struck two days after a powerful 7.4-magnitude temblor shook the island of Taiwan, killing at least 12 people and injuring more than 1,000 others. The two incidents are not thought to be related, said Dara Goldberg, a USGS geophysicist.

“We’re much too far of a distance for the stress on the fault of Taiwan to affect New York,” she said.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Evan Bush is a science reporter for NBC News. He can be reached at [email protected].

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Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality

Thinking of taking a last-minute drive to see the eclipse here's what to know.

Geoff Brumfiel

RV traffic sits at a standstill along a two-lane road near Madras, Ore., a few days before the 2017 total solar eclipse. Experts say traffic could be heavy, but eclipse watchers shouldn't necessarily be deterred. AFP Contributor/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

RV traffic sits at a standstill along a two-lane road near Madras, Ore., a few days before the 2017 total solar eclipse. Experts say traffic could be heavy, but eclipse watchers shouldn't necessarily be deterred.

NASA says that roughly 31.6 million people live in the path of this year's total solar eclipse, and a little under half of the U.S. population lives within 200 miles driving distance of the path of totality .

That could mean many millions of Americans will hit the road to get a better view on April 8. If you're still pondering whether or not you want to make the journey, here's what to consider.

Have some destinations in mind, and check the weather and cloud cover forecasts in advance

It's a good idea to scout out one or more locations within driving distance, so that you have some flexibility if traffic or weather is threatening your plans, says Jonathan Upchurch, a professor emeritus of civil engineering at Arizona State University who has studied travel around solar eclipses.

There are several interactive tools that show the path of totality, including Eclipse2024.org and the National Solar Observatory . You can use them to figure out what sites might work best for you.

In terms of weather, check not just the weather forecast, but also the cloud cover forecast. Some websites, such as Windy.com will predict cloud cover ahead of time, giving you a sense of whether you'll actually be able to see the eclipse in all its glory.

Everything you need to know about solar eclipse glasses before April 8

During the total solar eclipse in 2017, Upchurch says he chose to go to Idaho "because there were some great chances of having sunny skies, and I had the opportunity to be nimble and relocate if I wanted to."

Before driving into the path of totality, make sure your gas tank is full and that you've got everything you need

During the last total solar eclipse in 2017, it's estimated some 5 million people took to the roads, and those numbers will potentially be much higher this year.

Given all that, Upchurch says it's important to make sure you're taking what you need into the path of totality. You should make sure your car is gassed or charged up, and that you have plenty of snacks and water with you in case you get stranded for a while, especially when trying to leave.

Solar Eclipse 2024: Totality stretches from Texas to Maine

Simple tips to safely photograph the eclipse with your cellphone.

Also don't forget to bring eclipse glasses, which must be worn anytime you're looking at the sun, except for the few minutes when it is completely blocked by the moon.

Some state emergency planners also recommend bringing a paper map or road atlas in case cellular networks become overloaded with visitors seeking directions from their phones.

Don't forget your eclipse glasses everyone! Erika Goldring/FilmMagic hide caption

Don't forget your eclipse glasses everyone!

Arrive early and stay late

Once you figure out where you're going to watch the eclipse, and you've got your supplies, try to get there early. Although traffic is likely to be heavier than normal on the morning of eclipse day, it still should be possible to reach many destinations without too much hassle, says Upchurch.

"Leaving is definitely going to be more of a problem," he says. As the eclipse concludes, people will take to the roads all at once to try and get home as fast as they can. In 2017, that led to traffic jams that lasted many hours in some areas. If possible, Upchurch says, people should stay put for a while to try and avoid the worst of the post-eclipse rush, which in 2017 stretched even into the following day in some parts of the country.

Here's what time the eclipse will be visible in your region

And one more thing: If you do find yourself on the move near the time of the eclipse, state officials stress that you should not simply pull over to the side of the road or highway you're driving on. It's important to be parked legally and safely at the moment of totality.

If you're already in the path of totality: Relax and enjoy!

Several major metropolitan areas including Dallas, Indianapolis, Cleveland and Buffalo are already inside the path of totality, so there's no need to seek a better view, Upchurch says. You'll probably have the most fun simply staying where you are.

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Watching a solar eclipse without the right filters can cause eye damage. here's why.

If you're on the edge of the path of totality, however, you might consider making a short trip to get closer to the center of the eclipse's path.

"If you're within about 40 miles of the center line, you'll have two-and-a-half minutes or more" of complete totality, Upchurch says. It's up to you to decide whether it's worth making the trip to a more central location.

Despite studying the potential hassles of traveling extensively, Upchurch says he's still looking forward to seeing the 2024 eclipse, which he plans to watch from Texas.

"Totality is absolutely spectacular," he says. "If you have a chance to witness it, I would do it."

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