New York is often referred to as New York City to distinguish it from the state of New York. New York City is the most populous city in the USA with a 2020 population of just over 8.8 million. The city offers a diverse array of attractions, from the iconic Statue of Liberty and Times Square to the world-renowned museums, Broadway shows, and exquisite dining experiences.
Official tourism website: https://www.nyctourism.com
Google map of New York City
The Best Things to Do in New York
#1 Empire State Building
The Empire Estate Building is one of the most iconic buildings in the world. It stands at 1,454 feet tall and was completed in 1931. Visitors can take an elevator to the 86th floor observation deck for a breathtaking view of the city. There is also an observation deck on the 102nd floor for an even higher view.
Official website: https://www.esbnyc.com
Google map 4.7/5
#2 Central Park
Central Park is an urban oasis in the heart of Manhattan. It covers 843 acres and features lakes, gardens, and wooded areas. Visitors can take a stroll or bike ride through the park, have a picnic, or even take a horse-drawn carriage ride. The park is also home to many attractions, such as the Central Park Zoo, the Bethesda Fountain, and the Central Park Conservatory Garden.
Official website:
https://www.centralparknyc.org
Google map 4.8/5
#3 Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is a symbol of freedom and democracy in the United States. It was a gift from France to the United States and stands on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. The statue is over 150 feet tall and was dedicated in 1886. Visitors can take a ferry to the island to see the statue up close, and can also climb to the top of the pedestal for a great view of the city.
Official website: https://www.nps.gov/stli/
Google map 4.7/5
#4 Fifth Avenue
Fifth Avenue is one of the most famous streets in New York City, known for its high-end shops, luxury boutiques, and cultural landmarks. It runs from Washington Square Park in Greenwich Village to the Harlem River, passing through several iconic neighborhoods such as Midtown, the Upper East Side, and Harlem. Fifth Avenue is home to many of the world’s most prestigious brands, such as Tiffany & Co., Saks Fifth Avenue, and Bergdorf Goodman, as well as famous cultural institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Guggenheim Museum.
Google map 4.8/5
#5 Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the largest and most comprehensive art museums in the world. It has over 2 million works of art spanning 5,000 years of history. Visitors can see everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary art exhibits.
Official website:
https://www.metmuseum.org
Google map 4.8/5
#6 Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge is an iconic landmark that connects Manhattan and Brooklyn. It was completed in 1883 and was the longest suspension bridge in the world at the time. Visitors can walk or bike across the bridge for a stunning view of the city skyline.
Official website:
https://www.nyc.gov/
Google map 4.8/5
#7 9/11 Memorial
The 9/11 Memorial & Museum in New York City honors the victims of the September 11, 2001, and 1993 World Trade Center attacks. The Memorial features two reflecting pools within the Twin Towers’ footprints, surrounded by the victims’ names. The Museum provides exhibits detailing the events, personal stories, and the global impact of the tragedy. Located at the World Trade Center site, it serves as a place for reflection, remembrance, and education.
Official website: https://www.911memorial.org
Google map 4.8/5
#8 Rockefeller Center
The Rockefeller Center is a landmark complex of 19 buildings located in Midtown Manhattan. It was built in the 1930s by the Rockefeller family and features Art Deco architecture and design. The complex includes famous attractions such as the Top of the Rock observation deck, the iconic skating rink, and the famous Christmas tree. It is also home to many businesses, shops, restaurants, and cultural institutions, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Official website: https://www.rockefellercenter.com
Google map 4.7/5
#9 Times Square
Times Square is known as “The Crossroads of the World” and is a hub of activity in New York City. It is famous for its bright lights, billboards, and entertainment. Visitors can see a Broadway show, shop, eat, or simply people-watch in this bustling area.
Official website:
https://www.timessquarenyc.org
Google map 4.7/5
#10 Broadway and the Theater District
Broadway and the Theater District in New York City are synonymous with world-class live performances. Located in Midtown Manhattan, this area features over 40 theaters showcasing musicals, plays, and innovative productions. Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, Broadway is the pinnacle of American theater, attracting audiences from around the globe. The district also includes Times Square, adding to its lively charm. It remains a cornerstone of New York’s cultural and entertainment identity.
Google map Broadway Theater 4.7/5
#11 One World Observatory
One World Observatory, located atop One World Trade Center, offers panoramic views of New York City and beyond from its 100th to 102nd floors. Opened in 2015, the observatory features interactive exhibits and a high-speed elevator showcasing the city’s transformation over time. The Sky Portal provides a unique perspective with a glass floor overlooking the streets below. As part of the rebuilt World Trade Center complex, it symbolizes resilience and innovation.
Official website: https://www.oneworldobservatory.com
Google map 4.7/5
#12 High Line
The High Line is a unique park built on an abandoned elevated railroad track on Manhattan’s West Side. It is a green oasis in the middle of the city and features gardens, art installations, and great views of the city.
Official website: https://www.thehighline.org
Google map 4.7/5
#13 St. Patrick’s Cathedral
St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City is an iconic representation of Gothic Revival architecture. Constructed from 1858-1878 under Archbishop Hughes, it features characteristic pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses. Renowned for its grandeur, the cathedral houses stunning stained-glass windows, a massive organ, and intricate marble altars. As the seat of the Archbishop of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York, it remains a significant spiritual and cultural landmark in the city.
Official website: https://www.saintpatrickscathedral.org
Google map 4.8/5
#14 American Museum of Natural History
The American Museum of Natural History is a museum of natural history and science, featuring collections of exhibits on dinosaurs, animals, and human culture. It is also home to the Rose Center for Earth and Space, which includes a planetarium.
Official website:
https://www.amnh.org
Google map 4.6/5
#15 Museum of Modern Art
The Museum of Modern Art is one of the most important art museums in the world, with a collection of more than 200,000 works of modern and contemporary art. It features works by famous artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Andy Warhol, as well as many lesser-known artists.
Official website: https://www.moma.org
Google map 4.6/5
#16 Grand Central Terminal
The Grand Central Terminal is a historic train station located in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. It opened in 1913 and is known for its stunning Beaux-Arts architecture, including a grand main concourse with a large celestial ceiling. The terminal is a major transportation hub, with connections to several subway lines, commuter rail lines, and Amtrak trains. It is also home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and other businesses, and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Official website: https://grandcentralterminal.com
Google map 4.8/5
#17 Coney Island
Coney Island is a classic New York City attraction, known for its amusement park rides, hot dogs, and boardwalk. Visitors can ride the famous Cyclone roller coaster, enjoy a Nathan’s Famous hot dog, or simply relax on the beach.
Official website: https://www.nycgovparks.org/
Google map 4.5/5
#18 Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
The Guggenheim Museum is a modern and contemporary art museum located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. It is known for its unique spiral design, which was created by architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The museum features a collection of art from the 20th and 21st centuries, including works by Jackson Pollock, Pablo Picasso, and Marc Chagall.
Official website: https://www.guggenheim.org
Google map 4.4/5