Explore Top 10 Attractions in New York City

10 Must-See Places in New York City

1. Statue of Liberty

When you think about the top 10 attractions in New York, the Statue of Liberty is certainly one of the first things that pops into your mind. It stands as a symbol of freedom, representing both New York City and the United States.

The Statue of Liberty was a gift from France to the United States. Designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the statue was constructed in collaboration with engineer Gustave Eiffel, famously associated with the Eiffel Tower.

Today, the Statue of Liberty remains a must-see attraction in New York City. While visiting Liberty Island is a classic way to experience the statue, seeing it from the water provides a different perspective.

You can jump on the ferry from Lower Manhattan to Staten Island, which is completely free. Alternatively, you can join a boat tour and admire New York from the water. Check out options like this one, or explore more tours here.

2. Times Square

Times Square is the real beating heart of the city and one of the iconic NYC must-see places. Known worldwide as “The Crossroads of the World,” it represents the city’s energy, diversity, and creativity. In Times Square, the unexpected becomes a reality, and the city’s spirit truly comes alive.

With its towering digital billboards, neon lights, and a constant stream of visitors from across the globe, Times Square offers a dynamic atmosphere. Each year, millions gather here to experience its electric energy, making it one of the best attractions in New York.

Located in Midtown Manhattan, Times Square is surrounded by some of New York’s top tourist attractions and legendary landmarks. Just steps away, you’ll find world-famous theaters hosting legendary musicals and plays.

The area is also home to quirky shops, flagship stores, and even pop-ups that change frequently, adding to the excitement. Truly, a lifetime wouldn’t be enough to explore every corner, café, bar, and restaurant in this area.

The red TKTS steps at Father Duffy Square are a prime spot for people-watching and taking in the city’s energy. From here, you can admire the dazzling lights and nonstop movement that make Times Square so unique.

3. Central Park

Central Park is like a city within the city! Whether it’s your first trip to the Big Apple or your tenth, the timeless charm of Central Park offers something new to discover in every season.

The park isn’t just a green space—it’s also home to some of New York’s most famous landmarks. For example, Bethesda Terrace and Bethesda Fountain have become some of the most-photographed locations in the city, thanks to their unique architecture and beauty.

The Bow Bridge, with its elegant cast-iron design, offers stunning views and a romantic atmosphere, while the Gapstow Bridge, often framed by trees and reflected in the pond, feels like something out of a painting. Belvedere Castle is another must-visit place in Central Park.

Your Central Park experience is not complete without visiting the iconic Mall & Literary Walk. Considering the massive size of Central Park, there are a lot of places to see. If you want to know more about it, please read the best things to do in Central Park.

4. Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge is one of New York’s most iconic landmarks. Walking across it, you’ll get incredible views of Manhattan, the East River, and the bridge’s impressive architecture. Bring your camera as this is one of the best photo spots in NYC.

Completed in 1883, the Brooklyn Bridge was the longest suspension bridge in the world, stretching over 1,595 feet (486 meters) from tower to tower. Also, the bridge’s steel cable design was a groundbreaking innovation at the time.

I am sure you have seen Brooklyn Bridge in countless movies, so adding Brooklyn Bridge to your New York itinerary is an absolute must. However, considering the popularity of this place, be prepared for the crowds! Or plan an early sunrise mission instead.

The pedestrian walkway is above the vehicle lanes and can be accessed from Living Memorial Grove on the Manhattan side or from Tillary Street on the Brooklyn side. The walkway is accessible at any time of the day, and there is no entrance fee.

5. Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is probably the most famous skyscraper in the city (trust me, the list of skyscrapers in NY is very long!) and one of the top places to visit in New York. 

Completed in 1931 in classic Art Deco style, it was the tallest building in the world until 1970 and still holds a special place in the hearts of New Yorkers. Recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, the building is a symbol of American ambition and style.

This skyscraper has inspired countless people over the decades. It’s even celebrated in pop culture with songs like Empire State of Mind, which perfectly captures the energy, dreams, and contradictions that New York represents.

Each year, over four million visitors come to the Empire State Building to take in breathtaking city views from the observation decks, making it one of the top attractions in NYC. If you want to visit the observation deck of the Empire State Building, purchase your tickets here.

6. Rockefeller Center

When visiting New York City, the Rockefeller Center is one of NYC’s most famous landmarks and a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the city. This iconic complex in Midtown Manhattan is a center of art, architecture, shopping, and entertainment. 

Originally completed in the 1930s, it’s a prime example of Art Deco design and has played a significant role in the city’s cultural and social life for decades.

At the heart of Rockefeller Center is the legendary Top of the Rock Observation Deck, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the New York skyline, including the Empire State Building and Central Park. It’s one of the best spots to capture NYC views.

Another highlight is Rockefeller Plaza, famous for its seasonal transformations. In winter, it becomes home to the world-famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and Ice Skating Rink. The area is lively in warmer months, with outdoor dining and public art installations.

The complex is also a cultural destination, home to Radio City Music Hall, known for its stunning interiors and world-class performances, including the Rockettes. By joining a guided studio tour, you can also explore NBC Studios, where popular TV shows like Saturday Night Live are filmed.

7. New York Public Library

If you love books and architecture, The New York Public Library is one of the best places to go in New York City. This historical place holds a special place in the heart of the locals, and over the years, it has become one of the must-see places in New York.

Located on Fifth Avenue next to the beautiful Bryant Park, this historic library has been a beloved gathering place since it opened in 1911. With its grand Beaux-Arts architecture, it’s one of the most beautiful buildings in the city.

Inside, the library is home to thousands of books, manuscripts, and rare collections, including priceless works and documents from throughout history. Its Rose Main Reading Room is especially beautiful, with its soaring ceilings and stunning chandeliers.

The New York Public Library offers free admission and daily guided tours, which allow you to learn more about the history, architecture, and secrets of the New York Public Library.

You can visit the New York Public Library for free. Even the guided tour to visit the Rose Main Reading Room is free. It is open from Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm and on Sundays from 1 pm to 5 pm.

Extra tip! Visit the little sister of New York Public Library – Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library (SNFL), which is located just around the corner. It offers a fantastic terrace with beautiful New York views completely for free.

8. The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, known as “The Met,” is one of the most famous cultural institutions in the world and a must-visit destination in New York City. Located along the iconic Fifth Avenue on the eastern edge of Central Park, The Met is one of the largest art museums in the world.

It was founded in 1870, with a vast collection spanning over 5,000 years of history, with more than two million works of art from all over the world. From ancient Egyptian artifacts and Greek sculptures to masterpieces by European artists like Van Gogh, Monet, and Rembrandt.

One of the highlights is the Temple of Dendur, a fully reconstructed ancient Egyptian temple set within a light-filled atrium that offers a contrast to the busy city outside. Art lovers also will love the Impressionist and Modern Art galleries.

Beyond its permanent collections, The Met is known for its rotating special exhibitions. It is common to find everything from contemporary art to historical fashion. You can also enjoy guided tours, workshops, and events throughout the year.

During the warmer months, The Met’s Rooftop Garden is a wonderful oasis of peace and beauty with spectacular views of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline

🎟 The adult ticket costs 30 USD. All tickets include exhibitions and same-day entry to both Met locations for the date on your ticket.

9. Grand Central Terminal

This beautiful train station is also one of the top-rated New York attractions due to its impressive architecture and design. Located in the heart of Manhattan, it is one of the largest stations in the world, with 67 platforms.

The Main Concourse, with its 125-foot high ceiling, is the heart of the station and one of the most Instagrammable places in New York. The Main Concourse with its 125-foot high ceiling painted with constellations is the heart of the terminal.

The concourse is also home to the terminal’s iconic four-faced opal clock, which stands atop the information booth in the center of the space. The clock’s faces are made of opal, and the structure itself is valued at millions of dollars, so make sure you stop by.

Don’t miss the Whispering Gallery, located near the Oyster Bar, which offers a fun acoustic trick where a whisper can be heard from across the arch. Another hidden gem is the Campbell Apartment, a former private office turned cocktail bar located on the upper level of the terminal.

You can visit the main hall for free, and it doesn’t require a ticket. The train station is open from 5.15 am to 2 am. However, shops and cafes inside the train station have different working hours.

10. 9/11 Memorial & Museum

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is a place to remember and honor those who lost their lives in the tragic events of September 11, 2001.

The memorial consists of two reflecting pools set into the footprints of the original Twin Towers, each with a waterfall cascading into it. The names of all 2,977 victims are inscribed on bronze panels surrounding the pools.

The museum is located beneath the memorial plaza and features artifacts from the attacks, including steel beams, photographs, and personal belongings of the victims.

Here are some of the highlights of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum:

• The Tribute in Light, a twin-beam light installation that illuminates the night sky from September 11 through October 11 each year.
• The Survivor Tree, a sycamore tree that was salvaged from the rubble of the World Trade Center is now planted in the memorial plaza.
• The Building Foundation Gallery, which displays artifacts from the original World Trade Center, including steel beams, photographs, and personal belongings of the victims.
• The Memorial Theater, which presents a multimedia show about the September 11 attacks and their aftermath.

It’s a top NYC attraction due to its historical significance, architectural beauty, educational value, and emotional impact. The museum offers a comprehensive look at the events of 9/11, the impact on the world, and the ongoing efforts to promote peace and unity.

🎟 You can visit 9/11 Memorial for free, but an adult museum ticket costs 33 USD. Purchase your ticket here.

In conclusion…

This is the end of the top 10 attractions in New York and I am sure you now have a complete list of must-visit places for your next trip to NYC.

I would love to hear your thoughts, so if you have any feedback or additional tips, leave a comment below. Also, check out my Instagram for regular travel videos and travel inspiration. Or explore other destinations on this travel blog.

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