When visiting NYC, it’s essential to embrace the wildness of the art scene, take in the unique architecture, delve into the history, and enjoy the community-minded nature of the locals that love to show off their city.
New York City is undoubtedly one of the most iconic locations in the world. This list of must-see attractions on your visit to New York is just scratching the surface of all the city has to offer to both residents and tourists. There are so many places to explore and famous views to take in while visiting the Big Apple that you are likely to run out of time.
We have compiled this list of the most iconic and can’t miss destinations in New York City to help you plan your next trip. New York is famously known as the city that never sleeps, and if you want to see everything on this list, you better get yourself a supply of coffee to keep you going.
When visiting NYC, it’s essential to embrace the wildness of the art scene, take in the unique architecture, delve into the history, and enjoy the community-minded nature of the locals that love to show off their city. Whether you love to eat, view fine art, or want to visit some important historical sites, New York has it all. Let’s take a look at just a few of the must-see attractions in New York City.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met)
Nestled at the edge of Central Park on 5th Avenue sits the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This beautiful museum houses more than 5,000 pieces of sculpture, paintings, rare artifacts, and jewelry. If you have a day to spend in the Met, you still will only be able to scratch the surface of what this fine institution has to offer. If you have limited time, don’t spend it wasted standing in line for a ticket; purchase online so that you can fill your hours seeing the exhibits of fine royal jewels, priceless Roman artifacts, and famed artwork by the Masters.
911 Memorial
We all remember where we were when we heard about the attacks on New York on September 11, 2001. After years of demolition and consideration of the site, the city has created a somber, yet celebratory monument to the lives lost in this unforgettable tragedy. Take a few moments to sit next to the reflecting pools of the 9/11 memorial that cover the precise footprint of the original two towers. Visit the adjoining museum that holds the treasures and tragedies of the day that changed the world forever.
Central Park
Covering nearly 850 acres, New York’s Central Park is a beautiful place to spend a day in the city while enjoying the splendors of the outdoors. Along with acres of native flora and fauna, Central Park is home to a complete sports center, several ponds, the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, countless art installations, a zoo, and a maze of walking and biking paths. You can rent a bicycle to help you cover more ground and explore all the wonders of this creative outdoor space on your visit to Central Park.
Empire State Building
Take the art deco elevators to the 86th floor of the iconic Empire State Building to get a view of the city that is unparalleled. Built-in the 1920s and 30s, this recognizable part of the New York skyline is a visual treat for visitors who take the time to tour the opulent lobby and museum.
Statue of Liberty
For over 100 years, immigrants looking to make a new life in the U.S. have been greeted by this towering monument to freedom and acceptance. A visit to the Statue of Liberty is a must for any travelers to the city. Take a trip to the top of the crown of the statue for an epic view of Battery Park and the Manhattan skyline.
Times Square
On a busy day, nearly half a million visitors move through Times Square. First-time visitors can’t miss this epicenter of the New York entertainment and theatre district. You will have to crane your neck to take in the dazzling display of electronic billboards and attractions.
Grand Central Station
You don’t have to have a train ticket to visit the abundant and wondrous space inside the Grand Central Station. This marvel of architectural engineering has been amazing visitors for over a century. There are over 90 shops and restaurants to visit in the terminal, or you can spend your time taking in the craftsmanship and artistry of this incredible urban space.
Coney Island
A former barrier island and resort for the rich and powerful in the early 1900s, this corner of Brooklyn was turned into the Coney Island that we know today. After two decades of revitalization efforts by private donors and the city council, the Coney Island attractions have been renewed for modern visitors. Take a ride on the Coney Island Cyclone, one of the oldest operating roller coasters in the world, and wander the boardwalk filled with shops and cafes.
Greenwich Village
This small section of Manhattan has always been ahead of its time. With classic urban architecture, these narrow city streets have traditionally been home to artists and vanguards. Home to Cafe Society, the first fully integrated bar and restaurant in the country back in 1928, the area of Greenwich Village has always been a progressive escape for those in the city.
Radio City Music Hall
The Radio Music Hall marquee on the corner of 6th Avenue is an iconic New York attraction. As part of the Rockefeller Center, this entertainment venue has been home to countless concerts, events, and ceremonies since it opened in 1932. Visitors can tour the facility, learn about the rich entertainment history, and enjoy the fine examples of Art Deco architecture.
There is never enough time to take in everything that New York has to offer. Other famous destinations, including the Guggenheim Museum, Battery Park, the Brooklyn Bridge, and 5th Avenue, are all worthy of being added to any NYC travel itinerary. When you visit the Big Apple, take advantage of the easy-to-use transit system and subway trains. It’s an advantage to make a list of the attractions that you want to see and buy your tickets in advance online so you won’t waste time standing in endless lines. Take in all the action and don’t miss these famous attractions on your next visit to New York City.
