New York City is a famous city to travel to. New York Travel will amaze you with the best places in NYC. Here are so many things to do in New York City. New York City is always a whirlwind of activity, with famous sights everywhere.
People visit here for different reasons. Some come to watch Broadway shows. Others come to shop and eat. Many visit famous places like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park, historic neighborhoods, and some popular museums.
Here you can find many of the best places in New York City within walking distance of each other or just a short ride away. It makes this city a delight for sightseeing. While visiting the places, you must visit the best restaurants in New York City.
Any time of the year or any time of day or night, New York has endless things to see and do. It can be Inbound Tourism for the American people. Before planning the trip choose the best seasons to visit in New York City.
Are you ready to start? So, check out the best places in New York City and start planning your next tour! And also don’t forget to check the best hotels in New York City.
- Central Park
- Grand Central Terminal
- Bryant Park
- Statue of Liberty
- Brooklyn Bridge
- Brooklyn Botanic Garden
- New York Hall Of Science
- Greenwich Village
- Rockefeller Center
- Top of the Rock Observation Deck
- Union Square
- Metropolitan Opera
- New York Aquarium
- Carnegie Hall
- Children’s Museum Of Manhattan
- Luna Park on Coney Island
- American Museum of Natural History
- Empire State Building
- Metropolitan Museum of Art
- Times Square
- The High Line
- Wall Street
1. Central Park
Central Park is a massive park in the center of Manhattan. It is one of the best places in New York City. You can see beautiful gardens and lakes there. It’s a great place to enjoy walking, biking, and boating.
There are countless things to do in Central Park:
- Turtle Lake,
- Central Park Zoo
- Check out Shakespeare in the Park
- Snap some selfies at the architecturally brilliant Bethesda Terrace and Fountains, or
- Grab a cheeky souvenir or a hot dog
- A simple bike ride around one of the pathways
- Takes in endless beautiful sights of the city skyline.
Most people love the park, but everyone has a different experience and suggests different things to do. There are so many things to see here, like hidden gems, over 20 playgrounds, 48 fountains, sculptures, monuments, and 30 bridges. Here’s a shortlist for you:
- Alice in Wonderland
- Bethesda Fountain
- Conservatory Garden
- Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir
- Loeb Boathouse
- Strawberry Fields
- Wollman Rink
2. Grand Central Terminal
You can shop, dine, or enjoy the scenery at this stunning train station. Take photos of the beautiful exterior architecture before going inside. The main concourse has marble floors, chandeliers, and a sky-themed ceiling.
Don’t miss the Information Booth clock, the Whispering Gallery, and the Grand Central Market, where you can find gourmet food and treats. There are various dining options, from upscale to legendary to fast and easy.
The train station also has shopping, but it can be pricey. For train-themed souvenirs, visit The New York Transit Museum Store. Travelers love this iconic station for walking, eating, and people-watching. Grand Central Terminal is located in midtown Manhattan and can be reached by several train lines.
Don’t forget to look up and appreciate the ceiling filled with constellations—it’s amazing!
3. Bryant Park
Bryant Park is a green oasis in the center of Midtown Manhattan. It’s a favorite place for locals and tourists to relax, take a break, and people-watch.
The park used to be a parking lot but has been transformed into a beautiful space. You’ll find shady picnic spots, comfortable benches with Wi-Fi, ping-pong tables, art installations, and more.
If you’re not sure where to begin, check out the park’s restaurants: Bryant Park Grill and Bryant Park Café. People who recently visited say that taking a walk in this park is a wonderful break from the bustling city, and they also mention that the park is well-maintained.
During winter, it turns into a festive wonderland with an ice skating rink, a Christmas market, and a big tree. You can enjoy outdoor movie screenings, free concerts, and street performers in the summer.
4. Statue of Liberty
It is another one of the best places in New York City. The Statue of Liberty is a famous symbol, representing both America and immigrants who came to the United States for a better life. It is one of the most famous landmarks in New York.
Visitors can go up to the crown of the Statue of Liberty, but they have to climb 162 stairs as there is no elevator. People with limited mobility, fear of heights or tight spaces, and certain medical conditions are discouraged from climbing.
If you’re short on time, you can still see the statue from Battery Park or the High Line. A guided or boat tour around the figure is another convenient option.
The ferry from Battery Park is accessible via the Bowling Green subway stop, and it operates every day except December 25th.
5. Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge is a famous landmark in New York City and a top attraction. It’s a perfect spot to take stunning photos that might make others jealous.
The Brooklyn Bridge is an impressive engineering marvel from the 19th century. It achieved many notable firsts, like being the first suspension bridge to utilize steel for its cable wire. It also pioneered using explosives in an underwater device called a caisson.
Some visitors skip the bridge for other attractions. However, if you’re short on money, this truly is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the city and get a unique view of each borough at no cost.
6. Brooklyn Botanic Garden
As you stroll along Washington Avenue in Brooklyn, you’ll find a sprawling 52-acre park you can’t miss. One of the main attractions is the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, featuring beautiful wooden bridges and Japanese maples.
If you visit in late April, you’ll witness the Cherry Esplanade (Sakura Matsuri) when cherry blossoms burst. Don’t miss the Shakespeare Garden, which has over 80 plants mentioned in the playwright’s works.
With 13 gardens and five conservatories, there’s plenty to explore. The garden hosts exhibits and events throughout the year, including children’s gardening workshops and a wintertime lights display called Lightscape. After enjoying the park, consider visiting nearby attractions like Prospect Park and the Brooklyn Museum.
The garden is open from Tuesday to Sunday, and you can reach it easily by taking the train to the Eastern Parkway-Brooklyn Museum or Franklin Avenue stations. Admission costs $18 for adults, $12 for students and seniors, and children under 12 are free.
7. New York Hall Of Science
The New York Hall of Science is a large, interactive science museum in Queens. It’s perfect for families and anyone curious about biology, space, the environment, and technology.
With over 450 exhibits, you can participate hands-on, control robotic arms, explore virtual reality, dig for fossils, and have fun at the nation’s largest outdoor science playground.
The museum also offers temporary shows, classes, and workshops. Located in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, you can easily visit the Queens Zoo and the New York Mets stadium nearby.
The only hands-on science and technology center in New York City has over 400 exhibits. You can experience unique displays that play with perspective, enjoy the country’s largest outdoor science playground, and attend special events like the World Maker Faire.
8. Greenwich Village
Greenwich Village is a lively and unique neighborhood in New York City. It has historic buildings, art galleries, trendy places to eat and drink, lovely parks, and a vibrant music scene. There’s something for everyone to enjoy in this hip neighborhood.
Exploring Greenwich Village alone or on a guided tour is an exciting experience. The streets are filled with interesting surprises and hidden gems, making every moment unpredictable.
Washington Square Park, located next to NYU, is a popular gathering place with lively street performers and musicians. The neighborhood’s cobblestone streets and charming Brownstone buildings glimpse its fascinating history. Additionally, the Off-Broadway Theaters in the area host affordable and thrilling evening shows for entertainment.
9. Rockefeller Center
It is an awe-inspiring New York City landmark that should not be missed.
This Midtown complex is a feast for the eyes and stomach, with Radio City Music Hall, the GE Building (where you’ll see spectacular views from Top of the Rock), art galleries, high-end shopping, and some of the best restaurants in the city. You can’t go wrong with Magnolia Bakery for cheesecake.
You can get free tickets to Saturday Night Live live tapings if you’re a fan of entertainment!
During the winter, the Center morphs into a winter wonderland complete with ice skating rinks and dazzling Christmas trees!
10. Top of the Rock Observation Deck
If you’re looking for an excellent place to see New York City’s spectacular skyline, check out the Top of the Rock Observation Deck at 30 Rockefeller Plaza.
Manhattan’s postcard-worthy landmarks are from 70 floors up in the GE Building. You can see Central Park to the north, Harlem to the south, Times Square to the west, Broadway to the east, and the Hudson River to the west. You can also see the Empire State and Chrysler Buildings in the south toward Lower Manhattan!
When you arrive about an hour before sundown, you’ll be able to catch the glowing sunset as the orange hues reflect off the cityscape. It’s an unforgettable experience (made all the more enjoyable by a fresh cocktail at Bar Sixty-Five!). The experience is truly magical.
11. Union Square
Union Square is a popular public square in New York City. It has a beautiful park, upscale shopping, and great restaurants nearby. The Square is always bustling with activity and features various street performers.
You can relax on a park bench and enjoy a picnic lunch away from the busy crowds. Sit back and watch people as you eat. Don’t forget to visit the George Washington Statue or explore the shops surrounding the Square.
Make sure to visit the beloved Union Square Greenmarket! It’s open all year round on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Over 140 local farmers, fishers, and bakers sell fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, homemade jams, and freshly baked bread. It’s an excellent opportunity to get delicious and seasonal food!
12. Metropolitan Opera
The Metropolitan Opera House is a dream come true for classical music enthusiasts. The grandeur of the building, with its beautiful limestone architecture and a dazzling chandelier in the lobby, is a sight to behold. The concert hall’s acoustics enhance the musical experience and add to the overall splendor.
Travelers call this opera house a feast for the eyes and ears. Performing arts tickets can be expensive. But sticker shock quickly fades away if you’re a fan. You can score a same-day ticket at a discounted rate, plus older citizens get discounts.
The Metropolitan Opera House hosts spring performances by the American Ballet Theatre and fall and winter performances by the Met Opera Company. Showtimes and ticket prices differ depending on the performance and seating, so visit the Met Opera’s website for more information.
13. New York Aquarium
The New York Aquarium on Coney Island’s boardwalk has been popular since 1896. It offers enjoyment for families of all ages. This is also another best places in New York City.
The New York Aquarium has a variety of marine animals, fish, plants, and exhibits. You can explore the pathways, enjoy touch tanks, walk through ocean tunnels, and witness live feedings.
At the New York Aquarium, you can see a remarkable collection of sharks, including over 18 different kinds of sharks and rays in Ocean Wonders: Sharks! At Conservation Hall, you can also attend penguin demonstrations and learn about oceanic conservation and the environment.
If your little ones want a more interactive experience, don’t miss the VIP Animal Encounters. Here, kids and adults can meet furry and scaly residents up close and personal.
14. Carnegie Hall
Carnegie Hall is a world-famous concert venue in Midtown Manhattan. It opened in 1891 and is located on 7th Ave, near Central Park. It has hosted legendary performers like Tchaikovsky, Frank Zappa, and Judy Garland, showcasing various music genres, including classical, jazz, and pop.
Even now, thousands of people visit Carnegie Hall yearly for its diverse lineup of over 200 shows. The program primarily includes jazz and classical performances, so watch what’s happening during your visit.
If you’re interested in Carnegie Hall and want to enhance your experience or skip buying a concert ticket, join a guided tour. You’ll learn about its history and get to explore behind the scenes. Don’t forget to visit the free Rose Museum while you’re there.
15. Children’s Museum Of Manhattan
The Children’s Museum of Manhattan is a popular cultural institution for kids and families in NYC. It offers interactive exhibits on science, history, art, culture, and more, along with play areas.
They also have small-group classes like Gross Biology. It’s located on the Upper West Side and is great for a rainy day or afternoon outing with kids.
If the weather is nice, you can have a picnic in Central Park afterward. It is the best places in New York City for children.
16. Luna Park on Coney Island
Coney Island has been a popular summer vacation spot for New Yorkers since the late 1800s. At the heart of it is Luna Park, the city’s most famous amusement park and a top family-friendly attraction in New York City. It is one of the best places in New York City to have fun.
Luna Park is open for three seasons each year, excluding winter. The park offers over 30 thrilling rides, including exciting roller coasters. You can also enjoy classic arcades and indulge in traditional carnival food.
For thrill-seekers, enjoy exciting roller coasters like the Cyclone, Zenobio, or Soarin’ Eagle. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, ride on the carousel. Don’t forget to try your luck at the midway games. The best part is entry to the park is free—you only pay for the rides and treats you choose.
17. American Museum of Natural History
Visitors adore the American Museum of Natural History near Central Park West. You can explore interactive exhibits on land, sea, and outer space. User reviews consistently describe the museum as incredible. Don’t miss out on the noteworthy cafeteria and gift shop.
The American Museum of Natural History has over 34 million artifacts spread across a large area. It’s impossible to see everything in one day, so plan accordingly. The Rose Center for Earth and Space is highly recommended.
Don’t miss the dinosaurs, the Dorothy and Lewis B. Cullman Hall of the Universe, and the Butterfly Conservatory. The Butterfly Conservatory is open from November to May and has nearly 500 butterflies.
Experts say this museum is a must-visit, especially for families. The American Museum of Natural History is usually crowded, but weekdays in late winter or spring have fewer crowds. It’s open every day from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
18. Empire State Building
Once upon a time, it was the tallest in the world. Ensure you don’t miss the Empire State Building—the fourth-tallest building in NYC. If you can’t find it, look towards midtown Manhattan at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and West 34th Street.
Looking up at the Empire State Building from the ground is breathtaking, especially when it’s illuminated at night. Since 1976, the tower lights have been changing color to celebrate different occasions and organizations. In 2012, the lighting system was upgraded to a dynamic system with over 16 million colors and various effects. Now, it can create limitless combinations of colors and captivating displays.
To enjoy the view from the Empire State Building, you can visit either the 86th or 102nd-floor observatories. Both options provide access to exhibits on the second and 80th floors. These exhibits cover the building’s construction and its significance in modern pop culture. To avoid large crowds, visiting in the morning or after 10 p.m. at night is best.
19. Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art is a famous and massive art institution. A guided tour is recommended to fully enjoy your visit and avoid getting lost in the museum’s vastness. It may cost a little more, but it’s worth it for a better experience.
It has collections from all over the world, from ancient Egypt to contemporary American art. This museum also has an extensive library and research facilities. With such diverse exhibits, anyone can find something they’ll enjoy, regardless of age or artistic preference.
General admission to the Metropolitan Museum of Art is suggested, making it accessible even on a tight budget. While some exhibitions may have an entrance fee, you can still explore the museum without breaking the bank.
Additionally, the museum’s central location on the Upper East Side, near the eastern side of Central Park, and its easy accessibility by subway make it convenient to visit. So, there’s no reason not to plan a trip!
20. Times Square
Times Square is an incredibly famous and busy location in the world. With its towering billboards and lively costumed characters, you’ll instantly know you’re in the heart of New York City.
For newcomers, Times Square can be overwhelming, but an undeniable energy electrifies the atmosphere. Whether you want to see a show or simply soak in the vibrant surroundings, this is the place to be.
To enjoy an evening of entertainment, visit the TKTS booth for discounted Broadway tickets. If you’re with your family, there are plenty of attractions, such as Madame Tussauds, M&M World, and Ripley’s Believe it or Not.
21. The High Line
The High Line is a special park that goes through the Manhattan Meatpacking District and Chelsea neighborhoods.
Since it opened in 2009, the High Line has become a highly popular attraction in NYC. It offers a mix of art installations, gardens, viewpoints, and trendy dining options.
The High Line offers stunning views along its 30-block stretch, including The Standard High Line’s rooftop bar. It’s perfect for a stroll with friends or a romantic date. Take your time and enjoy the beautiful vistas of the Hudson River.
Visitors suggest taking a break from the city’s busyness and enjoying the High Line. It’s considered one of the best ways to appreciate Manhattan’s views, especially on sunny days. People describe it as an “urban oasis.”
22. Wall Street
Lower Manhattan’s Wall Street is a bustling place, home to the New York Stock Exchange. It’s surrounded by tall skyscrapers, churches, and historic buildings like the Federal Hall, built in 1842 with a Greek Revival style.
If you’re interested in business and finance, join a guided Wall Street tour to explore the history of famous institutions like JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo, and Bank of America. You’ll also learn about the New York Stock Exchange and gain insights into how everything operates in this unique part of NYC.
Although it can feel overwhelming and busy during business hours, there’s an undeniable sense of awe when you stand on the iconic Street representing American capitalism.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best places in New York City offer many incredible attractions and experiences that cater to all interests and preferences. Exploring the best places in New York City is a journey that guarantees unforgettable moments and lasting memories.
From iconic landmarks like Times Square and the Empire State Building to world-class museums such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the American Museum of Natural History, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
The city’s diverse neighborhoods, such as the trendy High Line and the historic Wall Street, provide unique and memorable experiences. Whether you’re a food lover, art enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking the city’s vibrant energy, New York City has it all.
